The 2009 Kentucky Hoop Fest once again lived up to the billing as one of the finest summer events in the nation. I would like to thank Eddie Ford and his staff for their time and dedication to the game.

The 17u Gold division was dominated by Team Takeover Canada. This team out-manned most of the competition throughout the tournament and they were able to close out the Shining Stars, 61-48 in the final. Kadeem Green (pictured) showed that he is an excellent prospect. Green should see his stock rise, after turning in multiple stellar outings, including posting 13 clutch points in the final. In my opinion Green was the tournaments M.O.P. Melvin Ejim is a bouncy forward with a strong frame and slightly rugged game. Maurice Walker is a 6'10 center that is exceptionally good with his back to the basket in one on one situations. The steady play of point guard Ashton Khan and combo guard Taevaunn Prince was also impressive.

Full Court Preps writer David Money was able to catch up with Kadeem Green.

F.C.P- Could you tell us what you have been working on as an individual so far this summer?

Green- I have been working on my jump shot, my post game, trying to gain weight, and my handles.

F.C.P.- Could you talk about how you did last season individually?

Green- Individually I did well. I got my name known. Coaches came out to watch me a lot and I played real good for the season.

F.C.P.- How did your high school team finish?

Green- We did well. We won the state championship.

F.C.P.- What colleges are showing interest at this point?

Green- Iowa State, George Washington, George Mason, VCU, Wake Forest, Oklahoma,

F.C.P.- Do you have any offers?

Green- Yeah from Iowa State, VCU, George Washington, and George Mason

F.C.P.- Do you plan on going on any visits soon?

Green- Yeah after the summer I am going to go on all 5 visits.

F.C.P.- Do you have a favorite or any time table for a decision?

Green- No, not at this time

Congratulations to Team Takeover 17u for winning the senior gold division of the 09' Kentucky Hoop Fest!

Coaches:

Mike George
Derek Boyce
Kenroy George
Dwayne Ramage

Roster:

Steven Ali
Kofi Ankoma
Peter Boatang
Jordan Clennon
Pat Donnelly
Melvin Ejim
Kadeem Green
Matthew Johnson
Ashton Khan
Jabbs Newby
Taevaunn Prince
Manny Sahota
Rohan Stephens
Maurice Walker

According to Evan Daniels of scout.com Johnson has decided not to attend USC. Before committing to USC in September of 08' Johnson's list of schools included UCLA, N.C. State, Miami, Wake Forest, UNLV, Texas and Indiana. We had the privilege of watching this young man play in the 09' Derby Classic, where he posted 10 points, 1 rebound, one steal and an assist in about 15 minutes of play.

Below is an article that we wrote awhile back about Johnson's impressive childhood.

As a freshman at Lovejoy High, Johnson was tabbed as one of the top prospects in the state. Now the senior from Fayette County high is one of the top prospects in the nation. However the grounded Johnson keeps everything in the right perspective:

“I just look at myself as just another individual that plays basketball.”

Noel’s family and support system has always had him involved in athletics. Johnson’s father was a star at Wichita State and played one season for the Golden State Warriors. Johnson has inherited his fathers athletic ability to go along with his 6′7, 180 pound frame. The kid has developed the ability to aggressively attack the rim and sports an improved jumper.

Johnson lists his parents as the biggest role models in his life:

“Both of my parents ‘cause they want me to strive to be the best at everything I do.”

Johnson’s father has had Noel mentored and tutored by some of the classiest people associated with the game:

-Xavier McDaniel is Johnson’s godfather.

-Nate “Tiny” Archibald, teaches Johnson ball handling ,court vision and awareness drills.

-Former Hawk Mike Glenn teaches him shooting and helps to mold him into a well rounded student/athlete (Johnson carries a respectable B average)

-The first ever African American to sign a scholarship at UNC, Charlie Scott helps Johnson with offensive consistency.

In December of 2007, while playing in front of a packed gym, including Rick Pitino. Johnson burned Mctinosh Ga, for 42 points and 14 boards. In March of 08′ it was more of the same. Johnson’s late three pointer closed the game out against #7 ranked Miller Grove in the state 3-A semifinals game. Johnson finished the game with 29 points. Johnson finished his junior campaign averaging 29 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists per contest. The quick rising junior had this to say after his clutch performance:

“We knew they were not going to get rattled,” Johnson said. “We just had to keep our composure.”

Mfon Udofia, who led Miller Grove to its first trip to the semifinals, finished with a game-high 30 points. Johnson went on to be named to the State AAA first team along with Mfon Udofia.

When Johnson was asked what was looking for in a program and coach he added:

“(I’m looking for) A coach that enjoys the game as much as I do but at the same time wants to help each and every player reach the next level.”

“I’m looking at how important the school takes education. Also, I’m looking at how the school takes care of their alumni.”

Photo courtesy of here.