AJC > Sports > Highschools > Blog > Archives > 2007 > February > 05 > Entry

Tough choice for Mr. Georgia Basketball

This is the last full week of the regular season, and then teams begin qualifying for state.

Which player had the best regular season?

Several come to mind, like Chris Allen of Meadowcreek, J.J. Hickson of Wheeler, Gani Lawal of Norcross, Jeremy Price of Columbia, just to name a few. These players’ teams have been in the spotlight and have some national television and publication exposure.

Senario Hillman of Wilkinson County has the Warriors looking like champions. Cedar Shoals’ Cris Kuperts is one of the best scorers in the state, and has the Jaguars No. 1 in AAAA.

The process of selecting Mr. Basketball is only a few weeks away, and some tough decisions must be made. The aforementioned names are definitely strong candidates for the annual award.

However, there are some other senior players in the metro area who are flying under the radar.

Dunwoody hasn’t missed a beat with Zac Swansey’s elevated performances. Terrell Bell has Stone Mountain among the top teams in Class AAAA.

Chattahoochee is a dangerous team with Trevor Gaskins. While we are in North Fulton, don’t underestimate the job that Connor Nolte has done for Milton. Zach Graham has Peachtree Ridge among the state’s elite in AAAAA. Charles Corbin has Griffin peaking at the right time.

What player out there needs to be shown some love?

Permalink | Comments (49) | Post your comment | Categories: Fastbreak

Comments

By Lawrence

February 5, 2007 02:18 PM | Link to this

Derrick Favors of South Atlanta High School. He’s a sophomore and is averaging more than 20 points, 16.5 rebounds and five steals per game. Is there anyone else with numbers like that?

By james

February 5, 2007 02:54 PM | Link to this

I have seen a lot of high school basketball talent and Chris Allen of Meadowcreek High School is the best all around player I have seen. He takes the challenge of guarding the best player on the opposite team and continue playing on the offense of end to high levels. What I witnessed this past Saturday against Central Gwinnett was a leader playing against several odds and a determination to will his team to victory. He is a true team player and knows when to turn it up when needed. Thank you.

By SD

February 5, 2007 03:26 PM | Link to this

The “Chris Allen show” is the best thing for $5. If you haven’t seen this kid play, you might want to check him out before he leaves the south. The kid is the total package. He plays defense, can shot the ball, pass, and can get to the rack. He gets his team involved in the game, by thinking pass first. He is probably the best shooter since D.A. Layne of Wheeler High School. If Allen doesn’t win, there is something wrong with the voters and the voting system.

By NYCballa15

February 5, 2007 03:54 PM | Link to this

CHRIS ALLEN SHOULD WIN! THERE IS NO QUESTION. HE IS THE BEST ALL AROUND PLAYER IN GEORGIA. EVERYONE SHOULD TRY TO GO SEE HIM AT LEAST ONCE BEFORE HE LEAVES TO GO TO MICHIGAN STATE. HE CAN SHOOT, PASS, DRIVE, FINISH, AND GET HIS TEAM PUMPED UP SO THEY PLAY BETTER. THIS IS EVERYTHING THAT A COACH NEEDS.

By Snellville Stirl

February 5, 2007 03:59 PM | Link to this

Chris Allen is a beast I have watched his game progress for 3 years as a sophmore he was just a wild scorer as a junior he became a scorer and a team player, this year as a senior he has remained a scorer, he has remained a team player, but now he has become a leader of a talented team but not a deep team. This kid will be a star at Michigan State barring injury. I have seen almost all of the other contenders for Mr. Basketball, and he is with out question the best in the state of Georgia in 2007. With strong consideration for Gani and J.J.

By Sportio

February 5, 2007 08:54 PM | Link to this

When you talk about players in this state there is noway you can leave out the name BJ Frazier. He can play every position on the floor including PG, He makes everyone on his team better. Stephenson has posted a 18-5 record 9-3 in region play, when it was said that they woudnt even be contenders. This kid has place this team on his shoulders an ran with them. Lets stop all the politics just because He didnt start his basketball career here an had to make a name for himself give him his props. He doesnt drop 40 every nite like some players, but he causes the players around him to play better, triple and double teams come at him nightly and because the 6’7” 225 stud has handles and passing skills like a PG He gives coaches in region 2AAAAA headaches. Hey and dont forget he’s got a jumper to go with all that too.

By m

February 6, 2007 09:39 AM | Link to this

allen shouldnt win if he doesnt win a championship which he wont so assuming norcross wins again GANI should be crowned Mr. Ga BAsketball

By justin young

February 6, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Daniel Brown of Mundy’s Mill is definently the most underated guard in the state of GA. He has size , can shoot, and is a proven winner

By GA Buckeye

February 6, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

I haven’t seen everyone you mentioned, but what I have read says Chris Allen is the guy because he makes everyone around him better, which to me, defines a superstar at this level. Not to take away anything from the other top notch players in the state because there are some outstanding talents, but I like to see Superstars that are Team players be acknowledged and rewarding. I have to get out and see this kid play.

By azcat225

February 6, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

I’ve watched JJ the last two years and the progress he’s made from last year to this is almost phenomenal. He is much smoother, goes to the bucket much better, and has stopped trying to run the fast break for the Cats. Having said that, based on what I saw watching Chris Allen last year in the playoffs (against Norcross, if recollection serves), based on his play this year, and also based on the fact that Tom Izzo wanted him and got him (quality coach, quality program), I would have to give my vote to Chris, particularly if he’s taking on the other team’s toughest player as his defensive assignment night in and night out. As to the comment that only a player from a state champion can be Mr. Basketball, I can only shake my head.

By lazyboy

February 6, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

This should be the easiest vote for Mr. Basketball since Loius Williams. Chris Allen should have won it last year and yes i saw Javaris Crittendon play. There is no kid on par in georgia. He is virtually unguardable. Unlimited shooing range,exceptional ball handling skills,and can also pass extremely well.If anyone saw the play he made against Norcross with the whole team trying to guard him they would still be shaking head in amazement.If he does’nt win state championship don’t penalize the kid. Eric Berry still got his Mr. Football.

By lazyboy

February 6, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

ONE MORE THING I AGREE WITH THE GUYS WHO SAID “YOU HAVE GOT TO SEE THIS KID PLAY”. WILL BE THE BEST 5 BUCKS YOU WILL EVER SPEND.

By dwalk

February 6, 2007 02:18 PM | Link to this

Anyone that has ever seen Senario Hillman play will have no reason to doubt that he is the best player in GA. I’m from Atlanta and I saw him play whitfield and he is by far the most complete player around.

By Mack

February 6, 2007 03:06 PM | Link to this

Please show C.J Davis some love.C.J is a senior at SouthSide High School in Atlanta.He is averaging 27.5ppg and 11 apg while leading SouthSide High school to the #3 ranking in the state 5-AAA Region.He is a transfer from Tennessee.Southside hadn’t won a total of 9 games in two years before C.J Davis showed up there.He has totally dominated South Atlanta and Derrick Favors in the same region.He had 34 points on South Atlanta H.S and Southside won convincibly by 22 points. GO Check Him Out!The kid is real.Nebraska,Iowa,Illinois,Oregan,East Tenn St and Cincinatti have all been in to check him out.

By Mack

February 6, 2007 03:07 PM | Link to this

Please show C.J Davis some love.C.J is a senior at SouthSide High School in Atlanta.He is averaging 27.5ppg and 11 apg while leading SouthSide High school to the #3 ranking in the state 5-AAA Region.He is a transfer from Tennessee.Southside hadn’t won a total of 9 games in two years before C.J Davis showed up there.He has totally dominated South Atlanta and Derrick Favors in the same region.He had 34 points on South Atlanta H.S and Southside won convincibly by 22 points. GO Check Him Out!The kid is real.Nebraska,Iowa,Illinois,Oregan,East Tenn St and Cincinatti have all been in to check him out.

By KSShake

February 6, 2007 03:56 PM | Link to this

Chris Allen, hands down! Hillman is good too, but he’s not playing against near the competition. Chris Allen is similar to Louis Williams and Vincent Banks. Without the supporting class of Louis or the bad decisions and bagage of Vincent. And Mack is right about this kid C.J. Davis the boy is legit. Just for the fact of how he’s impacted and significantly improved the team. By th way Favors averages 6.5 blocks not steals.

By MD

February 6, 2007 04:28 PM | Link to this

I haven’t seen all of the top players play, but my vote would go to a junior, Al Farouq Aminu. At 6’8”, this kid can play 20’ away from the basket and in. He handles the ball well and is one of the most ferocious rebounders I have seen. He runs the floor like a guard and doesn’t rest on defense.

By Derrick Mahone

February 6, 2007 05:04 PM | Link to this

I see Chris Allen has a big fan club. He has really taken this Meadowcreek team on his shoulders. I also like Teondre Williams. When I saw the Mustangs play this season, he has had some big second halves. Gani Lawal has really taken his game up over the last couple years. I’ve had a chance to see Senario the last couple summers and in the state tournament. When they played Whitefield last month, he is unbelievable. One player that will not get talked about much, but is certainly a big contributor in more than stats is Lance Storrs of Columbia. I just like this guys poise. The other amazing thing is that he is only a junior age wise. Saw B.J. Frazier play last season as a junior and was impressed with his skills and unselfishness. Hopefully, I will get another look at him this season. Headed over to Southside and South Atlanta battle.

By m

February 6, 2007 05:22 PM | Link to this

yall need to stop with all the chris allen BS and go back a find a tape of the norcross oak hill game a see gani dominate the top program in the country. it shouldnt be hard to find a copy since it was on ESPN. after you watch the game go back and watch C. Allen put up 40 points on teams like shiloh, central gwinnett, brookwood! im not impressed! if gani was a one man show he’d put up 40 every night. im sorry meadowcreek isnt good enough to give c. allen a little rest!

By scribe

February 6, 2007 09:47 PM | Link to this

I think Maya Moore should be both Mr. and Ms. Basketball in Georgia. What she has done in terms of domination will never be duplicated.

By GA Buckeye

February 6, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

I saw a great game tonight and while I’m not saying this kid deserves to be GA Player of the Year, but I just saw Andrew Goudelock go for 38 points tonight in a huge 4AAAA game against Tucker. He was unstoppable, going to the basket, or pulling up for a 3 off the dribble. It was truly an amazing performance and this kid deserves recognition. It’s easy to understand after watching him why he is Dekalb County’s leading scorer.

By come on now

February 7, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Thomasville is undefeated with a guard in Ladirus Hall and Jamar Moore 6’4 that average 20 a piece and they avearage 87 a game against anybody.

By priscilla johnson

February 7, 2007 08:33 AM | Link to this

Jeremy Simmons a senior @ Tucker HighSchool should also be in running especially after that hurting he put on Stone Mountain @ last nights game. I will suggest also the # 3 guard at Stone Mountain.

By ted richardson

February 7, 2007 08:49 AM | Link to this

Jeremy Simmons of Tucker High. I have had my eye on this kid a long time and he in my opinion is untapped talent. His strokes are that of an NBA player. The first time a saw him play at GA Hoops classic a few yrs ago. I could not believe that he was not playing for one the top AAU teams in GA. This kid is the most unselfish player I’ve seen in a long time, especially as a highschool player. I believe he is really going to surprise alot of people once he enters college. He is definitely a sleeper

By evan

February 7, 2007 08:58 AM | Link to this

I was @ a game last night between Tucker high School and Stone Mountain. I was really impressed with Jeremy Simmons. He had an excellent game. He plays hard the entire game. He plays defense like its his last game. This kid has been a sleeper for a while. He has such pose and present about himself. All I can say is untapped talent. I believe once he enters college he become a fully developed player. A very coachable kid.

By Skillman Jones

February 7, 2007 09:08 AM | Link to this

Stone Mountain’s guard Andrew Goudelock is GA’s bes kept secret. He dropped 39 against tucker and leads the Dekalb County in scoring. He is a prolific scorer and has superior baskeball intelligence. He one of the state’s most complete players and should seriously be considered for Mr. Basketball.

By mykal

February 7, 2007 09:08 AM | Link to this

Jeremy Simmons of Tucker Highschool.It depends on what you think Mr.Basketball should represent. If you are looking for a complete player. a player that will give you great defense night after night. He’s had to play the bigman position for 3yrs and play in the shadow of Cameron Tatum. In my opinion, I don’t think that coach really knows what he has over there. He should be working with this guy on offense more often. untapped talent.

By Ms. Eye on the BALL

February 7, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Andrew Goudelock of Stone Mountain High School is definitely under the radar as a great player. He scored 39 points against tucker last night. He is unstoppable and creates great shots for himself. He has one of the greatest shots I’ve seen. And his three point shot is awesome. He is one of the most complete players I’ve seen and should seriously be considered for Mr. Basketball.

By basketball21

February 7, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

I think there are 3 sleepers that could be considered for Mr.Basketball. Jeremy Simmons who is averaging a double-double. A very complete player. Marshon Brooks who is averaging 20pts and 5 assists. Also Andrew Goudelock who leads dekalb county in scoring with 25ppg.

By Keep it Real

February 7, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

I have seen a lot of high school basketball talent and Andrew Goudelock of Stone Mountain High School is the best all around player I have seen. What I witnessed last night against Tucker was a leader playing against several odds and a determination to will his team to victory. He is a true team player and knows when to turn up the heat. Andrew is averaging more than 25 ppg. The kid is the total package. He plays defense, can shoot the ball, pass, and can get to the rack. He does a great job of getting his team involved in the game. He is probably the best shooter I’ve ever seen. Andrew Goudelock is a beast. He has grown to become a great scorer and an even better team player. He has also become a leader of a talented team. This kid will be a star at whichever colleges he chooses to attend. I have seen almost all of the other contenders for Mr. Basketball, and he is with out question the best in the state of Georgia in 2007. With strong consideration for Chris Allen.

Thank you.

By Obvious Lee

February 7, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Andrew Goudelock is the TRUTH… He is a phenomenal talent who was previously overshadowed and underappreciated. Today is his day to escape the darkness as he leads the dekalb county in scoring and ranks top 10 in three other categories. He is a deadly shooter and complet player whom deserves to legimate consideration for Mr. Basketball.

By DawgFan26

February 7, 2007 03:12 PM | Link to this

Chris Allen HANDS DOWN.

Seriously, everyone put your hands down. I’m not kidding. The kid’s that good. The best Georgia produced guard since Louis IMHO and I’ve seen a ton of Georgia prep ball over the last 10 years.

Chris can do it all and kid has no ego. Just the consumate teamate and leader. He’s as deserving as it gets.

By estrobridge

February 7, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

Tony Mitchell at Swainsboro High School Home of the Mighty Tigers is by far the best player in the state. He is a junior that puts on a dunking fest for his spectators game after game. Need I say more!

By BB2B11

February 7, 2007 05:05 PM | Link to this

You got to give junior Chris Singleton some love. The kid is averaging 19 ppg, 11 rpg, and 3 steals per game. He is 6’8” and has given every team in AAAA nightmares. Look for Singleton in the state playoffs. He plays for Cherokee High School. They are currently 23-2, 15-1 in region play. Singleton is one of the most underrated players in the state.

By Andrew Goudelock

February 7, 2007 06:51 PM | Link to this

Okay thanks guys. I’m good….but I’m not that good. Get off my jock a little. It’s like saying that Ben Gordon is the best player in the NBA. He’s good, but he’s not that good and to suggest that he is, is ridiculous and it dimishes him as a player.

By Ryan

February 7, 2007 07:17 PM | Link to this

Lorenzo Brown out of Centennial High School. He has carried that team averaging 2-4 dunks a game and 22points per game. He is also ranked 20th in the Nation for the class of 2009 in high school hoops magazine.

By DawgyDawg

February 7, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

In case some of you don’t know this, Mr. GA Basketball means the whole state not just metro Atlanta. Look at some of the kids down state like at Wilkinson County High School. They may just be the best team in the state with two really good players that should be considered for this award. It may not be the popular vote but it might just be the right one. Oh, I forgot Metro Atlanta only cares when it comes down to these kids deciding whether or not to attend UGA or Tech. By then the attention they get may be too late to change their minds. With that said, my vote would go to Aminu at Norcross.

By cmurda

February 8, 2007 07:43 AM | Link to this

Are you guys serious? Chris Allen without question is the best baller in Ga. He could easily average 40 a game if he was more selfish and that’s with constant double teams. Has beyond NBA range, and And 1 handles, and gets to the rim at will. All u Norcross Haters u should win with the recruiting over there. Call me when Gani ca hit 2 free throws in a row. P.s. If you are 6’8 and the guy guarding you is 6’2 you should get 20 rebounds.

By old jeezy

February 8, 2007 08:07 AM | Link to this

Chris Allen should win Mr Basketball. No disrespect to the other contenders but his game is much more advanced than all the kids ive seen in Ga. I don’t know how they come up with these rankings. The kid has NBA range, exceptional ballhandling skills, gets to the rack at will, and passes very well.To the Norcross people hating on him, You guys reccruit like college so you should win. Oh yeah if you are 6’8 and the guy guarding you is 6’2 you should get 20 boards.Call m when Gani ca make some free throws.

By Don't hate on Andrew Goudelock

February 8, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

I know Andrew Goudelock personally and he would NEVER write such BULL** about himself as “Okay thanks guys. I’m good….but I’m not that good. Get off my jock a little. It’s like saying that Ben Gordon is the best player in the NBA. He’s good, but he’s not that good and to suggest that he is, is ridiculous and it dimishes him as a player.” Whoever wrote this pretending to be Andrew needs to get a life and a hobby, maybe even a soul mate. Everyone is entitled to their opinions but to pose as an someone and make such absurd remarks is ridiculous and stupid. Whoever you are get a life and fast. Don’t hate. Find something better to do with your time.

By KSShake

February 8, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

I still say Chris Allen. But I just got to see Andrew Goudelock, C.J. Davis, and both of them are serious Ballers. Jeremy Simmons is good but, folks sleep on point guard Marshon Brooks, I just like that kids game. But, Chris Allen is the “Man”. Now, Gani Lawal, Aminu, and Farrouq and all of the rest of the “Recruited, Transfer, Move-in Norcoss Traveling All-Stars”, are all good players but, a team that deep no one really has to shoulder being the man for a stretch. Not to mention Meadowcreek hasn’t ever had anything or anyone get ANY recognition. They’re pretty much the county doormate in every other sport. This is the best thing to happen to Meadowcreek. I would love it if they or Tri-Cities were able to knock of Norcross or Wheeler and win a state title.

By Stephanie a Signle Mom

February 8, 2007 01:42 PM | Link to this

Greg “SHOWTIME” Wilson from North Clayton High School

By jmoney

February 8, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

what would Mr.GA Basketball be without GANI LAWAL. not only is he an amazing baller with potential, energy, and class, but he’s a well-rounded down2earth guy and you cant help but love him after a conversation with him. (and no im not jus saying this because i go to school with the guy!) Al-Farouq Aminu—-definately if they go with an underclassman for the title this kid deserves it! watch out for these boys in the up and coming years, they have talent up to the top of their 6’9 heads! you just cant beat that. GO NORCROSS—all the way to state again. good luck to all teams

By jmoney

February 8, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

GANI LAWAL you cant help but love this kid. he’s got talent, a love for the sport, and dont forget the fact that he’s humble, well rounded, high GPA…the compliments could go on and on and on. cant wait to see him play with tech. By the way KSShake aminu and al-farouq are the same kid! but the way he plays he deserves double recognition. a nationally top ranked junior and a sweetheart off the court could win this title for him anyday. he is the truth! and i cant wait to see where his career leads him in the future. how can so much talent come from one family—al-farouq and adale (i believe thats how you spell it- plays for tech…) but im down for Mr. GA Basketball being LAWAL OR AMINU Go Norcross—all the way to state again. and good luck to all the other teams too! 2007 is our year!

By thomas ville

February 9, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

how about me. Thomasville may hve the best basketball player in the state. Must we wait til the season is over. they are no.1. the reason is the transfer from 1aaaa. Mr Ga Basketball the player that transfered.

By Denzel

February 10, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Centennial’s Lorenzo Brown is one of the most talented player the state of Georgia has ever seen. He’s averaging 21.8 points a game as a sophomore and his presence on the court alone, makes him a game changer. He makes the most fluent passes I ever seen and he makes the game look so easy.

By rainsupreme

February 10, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Goudelock rides again. Well Well Andrew Goudelock rides again draining 11 3 pointers in a single game against Lakeside. With 47 points in a single game Friday night #3 distinguishes himself from the rest. Make no mistake, He is Mr. Basketball…

By blaque

February 12, 2007 08:08 AM | Link to this

Jared Riley of Druid Hill is Mr Triple double. Capable of putting up 16 points 10 rebounds and 10 blocks a night. best players without all hype from AAU coaches, dekalb recruiters ooh coaches, and dekalb officials. Even AJC fail to recognize him.

By noneya

February 12, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Wow, can someone send me Chris Allen’s schedule this week. Based on this message board I have to see him. My vote is JJ Hickson, he seems unstoppable in the paint and can even step out and shoot the J.

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