The Next Big Thing: Tyler Seguin P.II

Tyler Seguin carried his momentum from the 2010-11 Stanley Cup Playoffs, that's not the only thing he carried, he brought his comparison to Joe Sakic. A great comparison but this time I want to show you how. Here it is:

- Both were similar in terms of size: 5'11'' 190lbs (when Sakic broke into the league) and 6'1'' 182lbs
- Both are strong on there skates and can put in work around the net (as seen in the playoffs and later this year)
- Both lay more finesse games but still have power qualities and move, and can play the power game
- Both were excellent skaters and has great speed and agility
- Both have/had great 2-way potential (Sakic added a defensive game around '91-'92, Tyler Seguin already started)
- Both were high IQ players and excellent passers (Seguin has been improving since reaching the 'L and showed his great passing all through his time in the OHL)
- Both could find open spaces using quick bursts and good hands
- Both execute the give and go to perfection

- Both are more north-south stickhandlers as opposed to east-west danglers (Both had/have great hands but used simple moves, such as standard stickhandling and passes more than complicated Datsyuk/Fedorov/Bure/Mogilny moves)
- Both had/have straight forward games and a trick that is unstoppable (think Staal, Carter, Spezza, Recchi style players, and the trick for Sakic was his great puck control, a burst of speed with a nasty wrister on the end, Seguin ditto)
- Both have great clappers but deadly wristers and are more wrister oriented
- If you compared Seguin's second year (AKA first year with similar playing time to Joe Sakic's rookie year) the point production is fairly similar:
Sakic: 0.33 Goals Per Game, 0.56 Assists Per Game, 0.89 Points Per Game
Seguin: 0.36 Goals Per Game, 0.47 Assists Per Game, 0.83 Points Per Game
- Last but not least, the clutch gene, Sakic was one of the most clutch players ever (nicknamed "Cap'n Clutch") and Seguin lit the lamp on 7 game winners in the regular season and one overtime game winner against the Washington Capitals

Stylistically he is almost identical to Joe Sakic and in my opinion the closest we will see while Joe Sakic is still relevant (which I hope is a long time), I doubt he'll reach the level Sakic produced at but he may hit the 100 point plateau more than once in his career. In my opinion Seguin will be around 80-90 points in his prime, 30+ goals and hit 40 around 4 or 5 times and 50 goals once, not to shabby in my opinion. Seguin is extremely speedy (something that people seem to forget about Sakic), quicker than lighting and he can take games over (he almost seems to be doing it enough to reach the 80 point mark in his third season). Tyler Seguin could already be the number 1 center on many teams, becoming the highest scorer on the reigning Stanley Cup Champs and making his way into becoming the focal point of their offense, in fact he is such a good player that certain B's fans are hoping for the B's to make a Phillyesque trade by trading B's #1 center David Krejci for someone like Bobby Ryan and moving Tyler Seguin to the first line and putting Bobby Ryan on his wing (and giving Anaheim an established regular season and playoff scorer as well as clearing room up for Seguin in a Giroux like situation as the #1 center).

Seguin matured a lot this year, and will only continue to grow as he went from not touching the corners and being pushed around in front of the net to heading to the corners more and trying to get the puck and scoring goals like his hustle goal in which he was pushed down in game 7 of the 2012 Bruins Vs Caps series in the first round, Tyler Seguin is becoming a better all-around player and it's very fun to watch. Seguin has put the puck in the net in a variety of ways, and his play and wrist shot is a little underrated by average fans and I'm thinking by the time he ends his career his wrister will be considered top 5 of all time (next to Markus Naslund and Joe Sakic, a very bold statement but I will stand by it until he proves me wrong). The Bruins compared Seguin to Steven Stamkos as soon as they drafted him, (another solid Sakic comparison, but a better one-timer than either, and they are no one time slouches), and it seems like he may one day be on their levels (I see him more on Modano's level points wise, not goals wise). Seguin can go coast to coast going by defenders with the quickest and slightest of moves, and finishing with his signature wrister from the face-off circle, grabbing points and making goalies rethink their strategies. Tyler Seguin is here to stay and has lit his career on fire in terms of being a shooting star in the NHL, here's to a bright future to someone who will hopefully be an NHL great one day, T-Segs this one's for you.

The Next Big Thing: Nail Yakupov

      Nail Yakupov is the favorite for first overall pick in thee 2012 NHL draft, and with a package that seems like it's a mutation of Pavel Bure (or Alexander Mogilny, can't really decide which yet) and Peter Bondra why wouldn't he be? Yakupov has talent (but until their NHL sophomore year I don't have a solid idea of what type of a player an NHL newcomer will become). Nail Yakupov, the 5'11'' 181lbs, left handed, right winger has that once in a generation talent (That somehow this generation managed to snag more than a couple of: Tyler Seguin, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, possibly Taylor Hall, Kyle Turris if he gets his act together and a couple others). Yakupov has absolutely blistering speed, scorching slap and wrist shots, and last but not least perfect skating!

     Nail has captures the heart of every hockey fan who has seen the future legend hit the ice! Nail get's the comparison to Alexander Ovechkin a lot and in some ways that's true but Yakupov has better vision than Ovechkin (or Kovalchuk or Hall for that matter), is still able to score from anywhere with his lethal shots and wicked one-timer (not expected for his size) and for you people who think the Russians are always coasting (I do too when it comes to hockey most of the time) Yakupov has an amazing work ethic and leaves everything on the ice! Yakupov has the play-making smarts that Peter Bondra lacked, grit that Alexander Mogilny lacked and the defense that Pavel Bure lacked, while still maintaining their speed (They were in a class of speedsters that only Maxim Afinogenov, Teemu Selanne and Sergei Fedorov matched), Nail Yakupov is such a talent he started Fail4Nail (Similar too Suck4Luck) so I guess a ton of teams are wanting his perfected stick-handling and great all around package. Yakupov also has another talent that draws a comparison to Pavel Bure with the fact that he can score goals and make electrifying plays with mediocre teammates. Whoever gets Nail Yakupov will get an immediate talent boost and put fans in the seats... Well the edge of there seats anyways!

The Next Big Thing: Tyler Seguin

Undoubtedly, We witnessed a star in the making during the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Possibly the best finisher and offensive player the bruins have, a good defensive player, a versatile player who can play the wing or center, and the best wrist shot in the NHL! You don't believe me? Check it out for yourself!

Another one?

and possibly the best wrist shot since "Super" Joe Sakic retired!

Seguin unleashes rocket wristers all the time, his team shoots more and a higher percentage when he's on the ice. Seguin is blooming into one of the best players in the league, in fact he is already one of the best young player in the league. Seguin is on pace for 40 goals and 41 assists according to the adjusted stats at http://www.hockey-reference.com, and here at The Sports Boys we think Tyler Seguin can become a 40-50 goal scorer consistently putting up 30+ goal seasons. Seguin fits into a group of young stars dubbed as "The Next  Joe Sakic/Steve Yzerman" but in his case it may happen (being frustrated with Kyle Turris not living up to Sakic comparisons it brings me joy to see that Seguin may actually become the next Sakic). Tyler Seguin is great, and becoming the next NHL star at only 19 years of age! So watch out for Tyler Seguin to be an Art Ross, Hart, Pearson and Rocket Richard trophy candidate for the rest of his NHL prime! Seguin is a budding star and one of The Sports Boys favorites (You know other than Vinsanity_15 whos still mad Seguin and the Boston Bruins murdered the Vancouver Canucks)!

John Way, an up and coming rapper/actor/athlete will be the first of our Next Big Thing (Music Edition) here are his info and FB page so you can learn about him.

Favorite Artist: Soulja Boy.
Location: Lithonia,Georgia.
Why he wants to do music: He wants to be just like his big brother.
Was music his dream as a kid: It's almost every kids dream now days so yes lol.

John's Skills:
-Acting
-Modeling
-Athletic
-Rap
-Charming
-Funny
-Can be serious (At Times!)

John's Experience:
-Music Videos
-Principal Roles in Plays

Random Facts:
ETHNICITY: African-American
HEIGHT: 5'6
SHOE SIZE: 10.5
HAIR COLOR: Black
EYE COLOR: Brown

http://www.facebook.com/ItsJohnWay

John's going to make it big in a few years, and this is the start of John Way's The Next Big Thing!

The Next Big Thing: Daniel Gomis PT1

Daniel Gomis the freshmen at OSU this year will be blocking every shot that comes his way, Daniel Gomis was an elite defender and rebounder who surprised everyone when he committed to Oregon State, considering some were comparing him to a Kevin Garnett type player. Daniel Gomis has also been said to not be a Kevin Garnett type player, In my mind he is determined enough to be a star at any level. Daniel is very quick for someone 6'10'' and 220 lbs, he is the type of player that can run, jump, rebound, block, face up, post up, and do anything else you want him too... Plus he has a defensive intensity and commitment like a Gary Payton or Kevin Garnett, but let's let him speak for himself for a bit and then we'll explain why he's The Next Big Thing again.

1.       Your going into your freshmen season at OSU, are there any big changes you’re waiting for?
ya i'm a freshmen here 

2.       Going into your freshmen season is there anything we can expect from you?
help my team to have a good year

3.       Would you describe your game for us?
i love to play defense block shots dunks

4.       What is your favourite part of basketball?
blocking shots

5.       I’ve heard you being compared to Kevin Garnett is there anyone you compare yourself too?
i love KG's game and Dirk Nowitzki

Will you tell us about living in Senegal?
growing up in senegal was the best thing of my life, it taught me about life though


Was it hard basketball wise being from Senegal?
it was hard in playing in senegal because everyone wants to play overseas or get a free education the game was so competitive


When did your basketball career start?
12 years ago


What made you want to pick up a ball and hit the court?
my sister was playing ball my friends also encouraged me


Who influenced your game the most?
tracy mcgrady


Back to your favorite part, how did it become part of your game?
i get hyped when i start blocking shots


What are your best skills?
i can dribble and pass im still working on my shots


Who are you looking forward to playing with and against the most?
i wanna play the highest competition as possible

Thanks for taking the time out for the interview Daniel and good luck in the future!

Daniel is very long, his handles are amazing for his size, has good footwork, a great release on his jumper all the way out to twenty feet, amazing basketball IQ (especially for his age), excellent defence (Kevin Garnett like even), not to mention he plays way above the rim! I feel Oregon State got a steal when he has the grit and hustle of a Dennis Rodman while the skill set of a Kevin Garnett, plus he seems to have a love for defense. He grew up in Senegal and plays defense, but the season will show us what this young man can do!

The Next Big Thing: Deontae Carter (preview)

Deontae Carter
Height: 6'5''
Weight: 159 lbs
Position: PG
University of Georgia

Deontae Carter a hard nosed point guard from Chicago, Illinois is a raw point guard with enough talent to play Div. 1 basketball. Deontae has talent but his size is a problem, it won't be in college but 159 lbs is not enough to handle an NBA schedule, if Deontae gains weight he will be an excellent talent, his quickness is devastating and when he leaps for a dunk he floats, but his best weapons are his crossover and ball security.

Here's his YouTube account and Facebook page if you want to get to know the hustler! http://www.youtube.com/user/DeontaeVEVO#p/u/3/MuMbvRT4YY8
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Deontae/189665117714697?sk=wall

BTW if you remember this song it's Deontaes friend

The Next Big Thing: Jordan Smith PT2

Jordan Smith showed out this summer when he averaged a 24-8-13 and four steals in Villanova's summer youth tournament, he's also been puttin' in work this summer, improving his range by about three feet. Jordan Smith is taking a Derrick Rose pre-MVP transition, he's had range for awhile now but this summer he's been becoming consistent from deep, Jordan Smith would fit in a number of college's but here are the top three and why:

3. UCLA: Jordan Smiths offensive game is reminiscent of Malcolm Lee's, but better. Jordan can shoot from outside and can pass much better, while he's lacking the size his quickness helps him deteriorate defensive schemes and manoeuvre in and out of lanes like JacQuizz Rodgers on OSUs turf. Jordan's hard nosed defense would help UCLA immensely in back-court defence.

2. Washington: Jordan Smith is a Washington style point guard, he is athletic, can score, and has quickness that they seem to require in their guards. He can penetrate well and can be a great stopper defensively. There is nothing to say about Jordan and UW other than it would be a perfect match.

1. Villanova: Jordan Smith impressed Villanova faculty when he averaged an almost triple-double during Villanova Camp but more than that Jordan Smith is a Villanova boy, he grew up watching them and would do anything to play and stay there. Jordan Smith playing for Villanova would definitely help him reach his potential, not just unlock it but reach it.

All three colleges have chances with Jordan Smith, but Villanova seems to have the edge!

The Next Big Thing: Tyler Sandhu

Tyler Sandhu, a monster with the puck who is just as good without it will fit anywhere needed next year... The Portland Winterhawks got a steal at the 42nd pick in the 2011 draft when they picked up the young but experienced leader, Sandhu was projected top three in the draft before sustaining an MCL injury in a playoff game. Sandhu has an amazing shot, finishes checks and has great vision on the ice, he doesn't get hit very much due to his Sergei Fedorov like skating. Sandhu's wrist shot is very good, and he has shown skills when having plays like this: Sandhu won the face off went around the center through the defenders and scored in less than 6 seconds, I was in the crowd he scored a hat trick on the first shift. Sandhu lost some explosiveness when his MCL was injured but he has fought back and should be showing that his top three draft projection should have been a reality. Tylers 5'11'' 148lbs frame may not be big but his play and talent are. Sandhu is like a Swiss Army Knife when playing and has worked very hard to get where he is, with great character and lots of it. Sandhu has shown leadership and the ability to step up to the plate when he led his team to the provincial playoffs and helped them win games all year before his MCL injury. Sandhus faceoff skills are excellent and his passes are lasers, it probably helps thta his shot can hit anywhere he wants it to from any angles. Tyler Sandhu is destined for greatness, and he deserves every bit of it.

The Next Big Thing: Manroop Clair PT.1

Imagine taking 1000 shots... No making 1000 shots, well to Manroop Clair that's all in a day's work. Manroop makes shot's from all over the court, crazy angled three's, spin jumpers and windmill lay-ups. Before I rant on how good Manroop is check this out:

Well... What do you think? Let us know in the comments below, but finish reading the article first.

Manroop Clair is not only determined but talented, a good combo, he can hit the J from anywhere but also handle and penetrate. Manroop is a gifted scorer who showed it when averaging a cool 30 PPG in the AAU Vegas tourney this summer, he also is a better than average defender, I mean he's not Jared Cunningham or anything but he is capable of slowing down the other team's top scorer, which is good in a world where defenders just jump passing lanes. Manroop should be a threat no matter where in the world he plays, yet because he was a prospect of Canada he was somewhat unknown before his showing this summer... He's now located at La Jolla Prep in California which should help get his name out for college, that and the fact that he's going to be dripping all over the defence. Manroop is thinking ahead, and ready for the college game, he's ready to play any role and as long as he gets to play he'll be happy. Manroop is raw, his shooting and shooting arsenal are polished but his game is raw, that's why he is at La Jolla... By the time Manroop is on his way out he will be one of the best college prospects in Northern America. The biggest thing about Manroop right now is he is already a great player and his upside is huge! When you can beat people off the dribble, shoot from virtually anywhere and drop delicious dimes you won't have very much trouble on offence, and the "Roopster" definitely doesn't have offensive woes. Manroop is a better man to man defender than people credit him for, although stealing the ball isn't his speciality he can and as many know good defence doesn't make highlight reels, the thing Manroop needs to work on is rebounding, as a combo guard it's not the most important thing but it definitely comes in handy. If Manroop continues to ball and improve the way he has been we will see a great talent and an opportunity for Canadians and Indians all over the world.

The Next Big Thing: Jared Cunningham PT2

Jared Cunningham is back on TheSportsBoys... Now that the Pac-10 has changed around Jared Cunningham has a big chance at becoming an NCAA star, every year I go through my favorite team schedules and pick a few games I cannot miss and 11/29/11 is one of them, a chance to see Tony Wroten Jr (another TheSportsBoys favorite) and Jared Cunningham go at each other for 40 minutes. With a package that resembles Jason Richardson's;dunking, Derrick Rose' ballhandling, Rajon Rondo's defense, and Jason Richardson 's shooting stroke you can't dislike him, Bring his sheer talent into the league and you'll have an encyclopedia of different moves and a sensational amount of broken ankles. Jared has been helping OSU become relevant ever since his first day here, when I asked him about it today he had this to say:

"I just want to thank everyone for the support and I'm glad to be a beaver at OSU. This year will be exciting, So we want everyone to represent beaver nation world wide"

Perhaps one of the best descriptions of Jared is a comment by an anonymous reader on Jared Cunningham's first article here: Jared's strength is his athleticism which makes him scary in the passing lanes and open court. He definitely needs to improve on his fundamentals such as ball handling and his passing. But how many NBA players that are being drafted posses these skills already? A very small percentage. Jared is athletic as Westbrook but not as good off the dribble BUT HIS POTENTIAL IS THROUGH THE ROOF AS A RUSSELL WESTBROOK"

Jared has enough speed to be a top notch point guard, and melt opponents off the dribble, if you see him... they just turn soft like melted butter, then they worry about getting crossed the rest off the game and he scores on them like nothing. He attacks the rim like no point since Kevin Johnson and matches the top SG's like T-Mac and Vince in their prime, and again like Jason Richardson has a nice scoring touch, when Jared steps on the court you know he's gonna give his all. He's a pest when you try to play him because he does anything and everything you hate but people seem to sleep on him, when someone has a package that consists of Rajon Rondo,  Derrick Rose, and Jason Richardson people will like him, the question is when will they notice he is a monster... My guess is this is the year Jared Cunningham and the Oregon State Beavers become a force in college hoops, and you know his draft stock becomes at least lottery.
Jared Cunningham you and the Beavers always have TheSportsBoys support.

Follow Jared Cunningham on Twitter at @J1Flight
TheGlove_20 @TheGlove_20
Vinsanity_15 @TheSportsBoy15

The Next Big Thing: Terrence Willams PT2

Terrence Williams, T-WiLL has officially shown us what he can do, his work ethic is unbelievable, his athleticism is off the charts, and his court vision and passing are what you see with great PG's. Now let's talk about why Terrence is ''The Next Big Thing''. Check out Terrence's dunking, his in air body control is Jordanesque, he can draw fouls and he'll also jump clear over you, but his passung is sick too. T-WiLL's vision is unbelievable Terrence Williams, T-WiLL has officially shown us what he can do, his work ethic is unbelievable, his athleticism is off the charts, and his court vision and passing are what you see with great PG's. Now let's talk about why Terrence is ''The Next Big Thing''. Check out Terrence's dunking, his in air body control is Jordanesque, he can draw fouls and he'll also jump clear over you, but his passung is sick too. T-WiLL's vision is unbelievable if he is utilized in a passing role we will see him blossom into his eff you mode self and drop triple doubles when he's bored! I also need to tell you about his work ethic, which this summer has had some light shed on it, he's a workaholic, T-WiLL is full of talent and intangibles, he is great, a little inconsistent but i haven't seen him play in while, his jumper has been gettinf he is utilized in a passing role we will see him blossom into his eff you mode self and drop triple doubles when he's bored! I also need to tell you about his work ethic, which this summer has had some light shed on it, he's a workaholic, T-WiLL is full of talent and intangibles, he is great, a little inconsistent but i haven't seen him play in while, his jumper has been getting better since his 1st day i the league he's been getting more and more consistent and he's never content (in a good way)! T-WiLL is a role model for youth nowadays, he's forgiving, skilled, talented, poor, hungry, and driven T-WiLL has a PHD in Hoops and he's continuing to grow, T-WiLL is like a rollercoaster he's had his ups and downs but at the end its all good!g better since his 1st day i the league he's been getting more and more consistent and he's never content (in a good way)! T-WiLL is a role model for youth nowadays, he's forgiving, skilled, talented, poor, hungry, and driven T-WiLL has a PHD in Hoops and he's continuing to grow, T-WiLL is like a rollercoaster he's had his ups and downs but at the end its all good!

The Next Big Thing: Gary Payton Jr

Rarely do basketball players going into off seasons that can change their career take the time out to talk to 15 year old kids they don't know, and almost none take the time out to get to know that kid, and I bet out of those maybe one told the kid he'd do an interview for him and lived up to that promise, well meet Gary Payton Jr, a kid himself. Gary Payton Jr, has been through a lot this passing summer, where to go, what to do, and why? Well Gary has been dealing with the stress and more than that he's embraced it, Gary's living in the moment and doing it up like his dad "Livin' Legal and Large".


Payton Jr scored points with me when I asked him "Do you think you can have the fire and passion that your dad had playing the game?" He then answered "Yes I do think I can carry the same fire & passion and probably even more; because I'm dedicated to being the best I can be!" 


To have more passion than his dad is unbelievable this kid's the man!


Gary Jr plays like his dad, he's less of a scorer but more of a rebounder, he reminds me of the mature GP from around 03, he makes the simple passes, he can still make flashy plays but chooses the one that helps his team more, he can dunk but uses simple lay-ups GPJR is the perfect fundamentalist in a world where fundamentals are dying out, and he gets his teammates involved instead of scoring himself, he is the next carrier of "The Secret". GP tries as hard as he can and it shows. GP carries himself like a professional and is very kind, he has the swagger to become a fan-favorite and the skills too, so let's see what happened during the interview and then we'll rave about him some more! 


I'm good, feeling more focused than I've ever been. Thanks for asking.

2. How's Your Family?
My family is good were very close so I've just been enjoying the summer with them.

3. Would you mind telling us about your hometown?
Well Chicago is my hometown & where most of my family resides. I love it there, it's just an amazing place. I'm now living in California, it was a big change for me but worth it. Living here has given me better opportunities for myself & my family.

4. How was growing up as "Gary Payton's Son"?
Growing up as Gary Payton's son has it's challenges but the older I get the more I realize I have to be my own person and cast my own shadow. I feel as normal as other kids without famous dads feel. My mom and dad keep me grounded and humbled.

5. Was it ever overwhelming?
At times but I've learn to cope with it, gives me a tougher shell I guess.

6. No one knows what college you are going to, would you care sharing?
 Right now I'm at a JC. [Junior College]

7. Why did you pick Junior College?
One I wanted to raise my GPA and to build my work ethic.  Sometimes you are born with talent but you have to work at building a strong work ethic in order to succeed at a higher level.  And that's part of what the JC is helping me do.

8. When did your Basketball career start?
Wow I've been playing since birth I would say haha but probably around three-four years old I started picking up the ball.

9. What brought you to play Basketball?
Seeing my dad play ball made me want to play too. I've always wanted to be like my dad on the court. Also my mom encouraged me to do something I loved and I found that in basketball.

10. We Know you're a bulls fan, but who are your favorite players and biggest influences? 

Mannn, I have alot haha but off back Jordan and my father are my top two favorite players. I also like Earl Monroe and Oscar Robertson from way back. All of them have had big impact on me and are my biggest influences.

12. How did they affect your game and who you are today?
Seeing the hard work that all of them put into their craft made me want to work harder to  perfect my craft. They've all shaped me into a hard and dedicated worker but mostly my dad from seeing all that he went through and accomplished.

13. What do you feel your best skills are? I would say the best part of my game is my defense. I love defense, without it you wouldn't be able to win. I'm more of a mid-range shooter on offense but I am also deadly from outside. I am also a slasher, so I can get to the rim and create something.  I can honestly say that I'm well on my way to having a well-balanced game. I just have to keep putting in the work.


14. How did those become a part of your game?
Well I felt like the defense was always instilled in me so I just honed in on it. I've always been able to get to the rack being a smaller and quick guess. I've been working on my shooting and dribbling because that's what I need being a point/shooting guard.

15. What do you hope to bring to the college basketball scene?
I want to bring excitement, entertainment, & hard work to the college scene. I'm so fascinated with the older generations of ball players and I feel that's what they bought to the game so I want to revamp that.

16. Is/Are there any player(s) that you want to face or play with?
I want to get a chance to play with Dwayne Wade & Derrick Rose those are to of my favorites; but I would also love to play against them.

17. Do you think you will adjust to the college game quickly?
Yes I do! I feel that I have to because it's what I've been working hard to do!

18. If you could be one athlete who would it be, and why?
Well I wouldn't be any athlete but myself, I think God did a great job with me haha.

19. Is there anything that you want to show people?
No, it's things I want to show myself. I just really want to see what I'm made of.

20. Has basketball ever taught you anything?
I feel that basketball has taught me that I have to work hard and continue to do so if I want to be the best I can be.

21. Coming from a tough area did you ever doubt yourself?
Yes. When I was younger I doubted myself alot. I feel that my family has helped me to build my confidence up. Now nothing can stop me!

22. Growing up if you could only watch one player, who would it be and why?
Ummm probably Michael Jordan because thats who I've come so a costumed to watch being from Chicago.

23. Are any of your brother's playing ball, Julian or Gary II?
Yes we all are playing ball.

24. Are they going to play college ball, well Gary II I know Julian is younger?
Well as far as I know I'm pretty sure they want to play college ball.

25. Is basketball a huge centerpiece in your family?
I feel that it is seeing that my father played so it's only right that we follow it.

26. Do you ever play games with your dad?
Yes and it's very competitive haha.

27. Did Gary take it easy or carry on the Mr.Mean stuff and always play his hardest?

 Oh he always plays his hardest that's the way he is.

28. Is there any type of play you like to run allot?
I like the pick & roll, it works very well if you can read the defense.

29. what's your favorite part of basketball, If you can narrow it down!
My favorite part is defense by far! I love it!

30. How are you so athletic?
It's all God and I think it's in my genes haha.

31. When and where did you learn how to read passes that well? Your too good at this stuff!
Well it's comes with hard work and just being aware. Key people have helped me improve my game throughout the years.

32. you drive to the hoop like a crazed Manu Ginobili, where did that come from? (because many say driving cannot be taught).

 Well I've always been small so I had to learn to maneuver through the defense.

33. Who is the best in your family?

 My dad is still the top dog in the house haha hands down! I think once we can beat him then well see!

34. Do you ever get compared to your dad, and does it get annoying?
Yeaa I do! He's my twin haha but yeaa I do on and off the court! It doesn't annoy me tho!


GP20

Now that you know more about GPJR let's talk about his skills and moves again!

Jr is full of the intangibles, he has length, size, hustle, and passion, not to mention skill, he brings leadership to the table, can handle himself in front of the media and also attacks the rim like he was a bull and it was painted red! Him and his brother are similar styles but different variations, both play like GP but one is more simple 2000's GP and one is more early 90's GP,  If you want 00's GPJR is the way to go.


GP's signature move was the spin, hopefully JR can put it in his game and use it the same way GP did!


GPJR has the confidence of a star and showed it when he mentioned that the only athlete he wants to be is himself, something I find interesting when I thought that the player I wanted to be most was his dad!


 GPJR also mentioned that his favorite part of basketball is defense, do I sense a rival to Jrue Holiday's "Baby Glove" nickname? Or better we can call him "The Mitten"!


GPJR plays his hardest no matter who he's facing, is a tireless worker and made it impossible to tell you anything you don't know about him by reading the article, so let me just tell you he is a talented youngster, the type I would want on my team, he works at everything he does, he's no procrastinator and he can do anything you want him too.


Gary won points with me throughout the whole thing, and every answer brought more understanding of him, I like the way he thinks as it seems like he could be the rebirth of fundamentals and bring some old school ethics back into a material game. Gary Payton Jr made the interview enjoyable, he was right on point and he has skill and passion, to any aspiring athletes reading this, follow in his footsteps and know that you can do it, no matter what "IT" is!


Thanks to Gary Payton Jr for making this possible, and for playing basketball the way it should be played!


TheGlove_20

The Next Big Thing: Tony Wroten Jr.

The unbelievable no-look pass by Tony Wroten Jr. That's what we'll be hearing if Tony and Coach Romar get along. Tony Wroten Jr. a 6'4'' PG from Renton Garfield HS in Seattle, WA, is a future star, if he fills his potential that is. Wroten is full of different skills and could easily be a one-and-done NBA lottery pick but if he stays, in a couple years Wroten could be the number 1 overall pick!

Wroten has the most potential I've seen in a recruit in a while, with work he could end up being the best PG in his class. Wroten has great range and a good jumper, he just needs consistency, his passing belies his age and possibly the age of everyone but Jason Kidd and Steve Nash. Wroten's draft and recruiting grades are featured at the end of the video. Wroten can do anything he wants if he fulfills his potential and he will if him and his team get along. He completes passes that are unbelievable but needs to tighten his grip on the orange, with a better team Wroten should become better in scoring and even lessen his turnover. Check out the video and let us know what you think. He can waste people in the post, destroy off the dribble and defend like Jrue Holiday, his fire to learn and improve his game will lead him to places... That may be the Final Four or that may be a win less season but let me tell you, I'm thinking it'll be the final four!


Check out the video and tell us what you think? Is he the next Gary Payton, Nick Van Exel or the next Troy Bell. You be the judge, many will say only god can decide... but I have confidence that Tony Wroten Jr can force fate!

The Next Big Thing: Rashad Colbert PT.1

Where to start? Well maybe with the fact that he is atleast a Malcolm Lee type and skill level player, but for now let's get to know him shall we?

Rashad Colbert, a 5'11 160 pound PG could end up being All-Conference or even a Top-10 PG, Rashad is a Celtics and Rajon Rondo fan, who works to get what he deserves, the thing is he hasn't gotten it yet. He was seemingly under recruited due to lack of playing time throughout high school, It hasn't put him down though, Rashad plays with a chip on his shoulder that only increases his intensity and potential!


Rashad can ball, he uses his passion for the game as a fuel... It energizes him, Rashad drives, pulls up, spot shoots, and stop and pops with immense accuracy, the thing is he's just getting started. Rashad can move with or without the ball, and according to coach Matt Williams Rashad A.K.A. "Showtime" is a "tireless worker" If Rashad joins a team like UCLA, UCA (Conway), Washington or even Oregon State (not for style but rather to learn from defensive mastermind Jared Cunningham). Rashad can play combo guard if you want him too, but probably works best as a scoring PG, Tim Hardaway like, he can dish but would be best used as a scorer and PG pressure point, He could also be used effectively for steal in low post double teams. Rashad has a work habit and ethics combo that rivals the best of them and will no doubt keep growing, he has shown that as coach Matt Williams has also been quoted saying "When I first met Rashad, he was a talented, but un-coachable athlete.  Over the years I have witnessed his maturation first-hand. Now, he is very respectful of authority and seeks coaching and advice. He loves the game of basketball and everything about it."  Tell me you don't want that kind of guy in your system, and if you do your crazy. Rashad will turn into a star or at the very least Jamal Crawford, so pick him up while you still can, plus the kid's talent and potential are unbelievable.


Rashad should be put in an uptempo style of play, like UCLA, Washington or a dribble drive like many other colleges, coach Romar would create an unstoppable monster out of Rashad, but we'll get into that in PT.2


Getting to know Rashad is probably a good thing, then maybe when your playing him, he won't break your ankles with a cross. Recruiting Rashad is a better idea, then you won't have to deal with him ripping your heart out with daggers, or give you shivers when icing close games!


BTW Div. I is gonna be cake for Rashad!

The Next Big Thing: The Sports Boys

The Sports Boys have started a new theme to go with a new age; Youtube, The Sports Boys are now on YouTube, http://www.youtube.com/user/TheSportsBoys604?feature=mhee
Check it out!

The Next Big Thing: Jordan Smith

Jordan Smith, a 5'11'' 165lbs combo guard from Austin, Texas can ball, he fits in at the PG, SG and SF position and plays all well. He would fit in to a Princeton offence well, and be perfect as the point on a 1-3-1 defense. If you get Jordan the ball on a fast-break you'll have magic, he can do the least with the most and takes advantage of everything he see's. If you want a complete guard Jordan Smith is the way too go and if you want anything else you don't know what you're doing! The Princeton offense the beavers use around Jared Cunningham would probably fit Jordan best as it allows him to open his game, see his teammates, drive or pull-up, when Jordan play in this type of offense it adds a third dimention to his game, one which could be considered Derrick Rose/Stephon Marbury style. If you are someone like Oregon State, Oregon or Washington Jordan Smith would excel in your system. My best fit for Jordan Smith would be Oregon State and here are the reasons why; Jordan would wreak havoc as the point in a 1-3-1 and since Jared Cunningham is already there he could pressure the corners or help in the middle in case of a speedy point, on offense in the Princeton offense him and Cunningham could share reps scoring, spreading the ball and penetrating. The only thing that would worry me about these two is there is a chance of them butting heads as alpha dogs, but Jordan Smith will help if it means getting to the next level and both are great guys.

I don't know if you'll get the right meaning of this, but training wise and playbook wise Jordan Smith will do anything to get to the next level!

And video's are coming soon!

TheGlove_20

The Next Big Thing: JacQuizz Rodgers P.2

JacQuizz Rodgers,

There aren't many 5'5 196lbs runningbacks doing good in the NFL, in fact there aren't many that fit those description's at all, but this one seems different...

Quizz has the ability to break tackles which it seems the rest are missing, the best agility since Barry Sanders         (I'm not saying as good but the best since) and the strength and toughness it takes to get back up after being hammered by an opposing player, but JacQuizz Rodgers has more on the line than to just prove himself; if JacQuizz Rodgers becomes a feature back or even a good returner and 3rd down back it will prove team wrong about Ken Simonton, Yvenson Bernard and every other back that was considered too short. With so many people proving height wrong on the o-line (Jeff Saturday), d-line (John Randle and Dwight Freeney) and wide receiver (Greg Jennings, Steve Smith, Wes Welker, DeSean Jackson and Laveranues Coles) running backs seem to be next...

With the likes of MJD and Ray Rice becoming top backs in the league teams have drawn closer to little stars more than ever, but JacQuizz a small player with first round talent was left until the 5th round, a chip has been placed on his shoulder that will lead to something special. I don't know whether Quizz being left 'til that fifth was bad or good, he always gave 110% but now it looks like h is going to be giving 200% and with the talent he has that can't be a bad thing.Quizz will prove everyone wrong, just ask NFL starting linebackers Clay Matthews, Brian Cushing, and Rey Maualuga they all know what trying to stop Quizz feels like! The
Falcons got lucky picking this stud up in the fifth! Thomas Dimitroff's draft was genius!


Good Luck to the Falcons and Quizz
JacQuizz Rodgers is The Next Big Thing!








P.S. I already had my Jacquizz Rodgers Falcons Jersey made! First one ever!

The Next Big Thing: Jared Cunningham

Ever seen Jared Cunningham fly? Probably not, but thats ok. Cunningham is 6'4'' 182 lbs but plays like he's 6'8'' and 225lbs, he's freakishly athletic and has amazing body control! In the air he controls his body like VC and MJ but with the explosiveness of Dominique Wilkins. Jared kisses the sky every time he goes up, he plays like GP. The similarities between Payton and Cunningham are eerie, both were born in Oakland, CA, both played amazing defense and could put the ball in the hoop, and obviously both went to Oregon State University. Cunningham is an amazing NBA prospect who I think will be amazing when he hits the NBA. He can win a dunk contest on his way to being a top player, quit the dunk contest get serious and win a ring. his handles are tight and precise, and his jump shot is beautiful. Don't believe me? watch these videos and see his sheer talent.
High School Skills
Kiss The Sky
Bay Area's Finest
Allumni Game

Now that you've seen his amazing skills, let's wait together for the day he gets drafted and hope he has the career length of Stockton not Penny. To the future of the NBA!

The Next Big Thing: JacQuizz Rodgers

The Quizz. The Quizz was my player to watch during the 2010-11 season. Quizz is amazingly fast, has great strength and breaks defensive ankles like L.T. in his prime. Quizz Holds onto the ball better than anyone in college. The Quizz' Athleticism is astonishing, his breakaway speed is amazing and if he works on his lateral quickness he will break more ankles and maybe a few records. He makes any game incredibly fun even if they lose. I am hoping the Indianapolis Colts g out and pick him up in the 2011 draft which is unlikely but may happen. I think the Colts having Quizz would be an asset and would add more excitement to the Colts play. At Oregon State Quizz added more to their offense than most of the team combined. The team that drafts Quizz will benefit with lots of off tackle runs, to me this is the best play for JacQuizz.  On most off tackle runs Rodgers somehow make his way to the end zone often breaking 2 or 3 tackles, Now I understand the NFL has better defenses but I believe Quizz will become one of the dominant running backs in the league. He is an exciting tailback who I believe will have success in the NFL. He is only 5'7'' and 193 lbs  but it is all pure heart.
Here is to an exciting memorable career for the Quizz.

Stats Overview	Rushing					Receiving					Fumbles
YEAR	ATT	YDS	AVG	LNG	TD	REC	YDS	AVG	LNG	TD	FUM	LST
2008	259	1253	4.8	33	11	29	247	8.5	41	1	0	0
2009	273	1440	5.3	61	21	78	522	6.7	48	1	0	0
2010	256	1184	4.6	74	14	44	287	6.5	28	3	0	0

The Next Big Thing: Terrence Williams

I know T-WiLL hasn't shown what his full potential is yet, but we have seen glimpses of a future hall of famer if he works at it. When Williams is in Eff You mode he goes out of his way to dunk on opponents, shoot over them and do whatever it takes to embarrass  them. If Gary Payton gets into his head and finally convinces him to show up to practice on time and contribute to his teams I am sure we will have an amazing player who will play like T-WiLL in Eff You mode every minute... And trust me we all want to see that! The one thing I'm praying does not happen is another Vince Carter story I hope is a Gary Payton story slow start but improves every year until BAM! He hits hois peak and its amazing and unforgettable. I know Vince was an exceptional athlete but please did you see his effort? While Chris Bosh, Antonio Davis and Donyell Marshall ran back on defence you could often see vince walking back lulled or just barely jogging behind his opponent. Sorry i was getting a little carried away with Vince his effort or lack of, causes me to go into Eff You mode everytime. So as long as T-WiLL does not go down those roads we will see and exceptional athlete with extreme balance (have you seen the size of his lips? how do you keep from falling over with those on the front of your face?), who leads a team to one or more championships...




 Well atleast I hope so...

TheGlove_20