The Blue Chip Early Exposure Showcase was held this past the weekend at the Mid America Sports Center in Louisville Kentucky. Tournament director Fred Hale and his staff did a good job at assembling some promising talent from around the nation. Thanks to Mr. Hale for having us.
The 17u division was competitive. The Derek Smith All Stars, The Kentucky Gators, Clarksville Hoopers, Knoxville Kings and a solid team out of Detroit all have the makings of quality teams.
One of the best games on Sunday featured the Kentucky Gators and the Clarksville Hoopers. This game had two of the better point guard prospects that I have seen all summer in 5'9 Telvin James (Hooper's above right) and 6'2 Richard Kennedy (Gators above left). The Hooper's were able to keep it close early behind the stellar play of James and forward Greg Magee. However, the athletic abilities of Kennedy and versatile forward Orlando Rutledge posed match up problems for the Hooper's all game long. With about five minutes remaining the frantic pace finally caught up with the Hooper's and the Gator's were able to come away with a 78-67 win. Rutledge posted a tournament high 35 points and 15 rebounds. Kennedy finished with 18 points, 6, rebounds and 6 assists.
The Gators went on to beat the Derek Smith All Stars in the semi finals, moving on to close out a game Baylor Basketball team in the final 69-61. Rutledge was phenomenal once again posting 23 points and 12 rebounds in the contest. Kennedy added 13 points and 5 assists. Southern High, (KY) senior to be Chris Richard chipped in with 10 clutch points.
Congratulations to coach Travis Durham and the Kentucky Gators! More on James, Magee, Kennedy, and Rutledge soon. For more information on Fred Hale's basketball camps please visit midamericasportscenter.com
The Kentucky Gators Win The 09' Blue Chip Showcase
| Chris Richard, Clarksville Hoopers, Greg Magee, Kentucky Gators, Orlando Rutledge, Richard Kennedy, Telvin James
