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Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Take 10: Top playmakers still in the state boys basketball tournament
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
With the semifinals starting this evening, we know many of you are excited as we are. But at Take Ten, we like to help the downtrodden amongst us. That’s just the way we are. And we know many of you lost your favorite team earlier in the playoffs and, with guys like South Atlanta’s Derrick Favors and Berkmar’s Wesley Witherspoon gone, you’re wondering where to turn for the most exciting players to watch these next few days. Well, here it is — your list of the top 10 playmakers still on the court this week.
10. David Buchannon, Portal
Buchannon was nearly unstoppable when he wanted to drive to the basket in the quarters against Terrell County, and his driving layup at the buzzer sent the Panthers to the semis. He’s athletic and has a great feel for getting inside.
9. Mfon Udofia, Miller Grove
He’ll find a way to get his points. He might seem to sleep for a quarter or two, then explode for 20 points in the third. He’s fearless going to the basket, and he’s as smart a player as you’ll see anywhere.
8. Raymond Willis, Westlake
He’s a beast down the stretch of games, seemingly getting stronger in the fourth quarter. He has amazing talent and will to win. He won’t disappoint, especially in a close one.
7. Chris Singleton, Dunwoody
On a team this talented, Singleton doesn’t always have to score a ton of points to get a win, but he knows how to fill up a stat sheet like few others. He averaged a double-double (points and rebounds) during the season, and it’s not unusual to see him approach double figures in blocks or assists.
6. Noel Johnson, Fayette County
He can score with just about anyone in the state. He can do just about anything with the ball in his hands, he’s 6-foot-7 and he’s only a junior. He’ll be among the early favorites for Mr. Basketball next year.
5. Delwan Graham, Dunwoody
Like Singleton, it’s easy for Graham to blend in on this team. But he has a tendency to stand out on the court, where his motor never slows down. He gets after the ball at all times, grabs rebounds and can score in bunches.
4. Howard Thompkins, Wesleyan
These top four are pretty much all interchangeable. Give him half a chance, and Thompkins will drop 35 or 40 on you. He’s a terror in the open court, and he’ll find his points wherever he can get them.
3. Dequan Jones, Wheeler
One of the most electric players in the state, he can always find his way to the basket. He’s relentless going up and down the floor, and he’s constantly one play away from bringing the crowd to its feet with an amazing dunk.
2. Travis Leslie, Columbia
His dunks have been legendary in DeKalb County for at least three years now. This is his last chance to put another state title on his mantle, and I’m betting there will be at least one more dunk added to his high school highlight reel.
1. Al-Farouq Aminu, Norcross
He’s very long, can get up in a hurry and has an immense feel for the game. He scores seemingly with ease and often makes dominating a game look much easier than it is. Any of these top four could have been in this spot, but his all-around game places him here.
Go on. Take Ten. Who are your top playmakers on the court this week? Who would you stick in the No. 1 spot? Plug your favorite player right here.
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