2009 Hoop Summit Recap

For the first time since Dirk was raining J's on the Americans in '98, the international (or "World") team was victorious at the Nike Hoop Summit. The USA team lead after the first, second and third quarters but the World team used a 14-3 run to pull away for a 97-89 victory in front of a crowd of over 11,000 in Portland. The game showcased some of the States best young talent, including top point guard prospect John Wall. Wall was not allowed to participate in the McDonald's All-American game, so he was eager to impress last night. Despite scoring just 13 points, he looked like the best player in game yesterday. A lightning quick first step, incredible athleticism and a great court savvy made college coaches and NBA scouts drool. Wall had 11 assists and is complete in every aspect of the game. Xavier Henry another top recruit, scored 22 points, but on six threes, he didn't show any willingness to drive the ball to the basket. Avery Bradley (Texas), the #1 player by ESPN had 21, and displayed a much more balanced offensive arsenal. The big men for US team did not show much. John Henson (UNC) made some really athletic plays, but for all the size that US had, they where out rebounded 48-29. It was obvious that this class of High Schoolers had superior athletic ability, but they where missing some fundamental skills. The World team, played as a team, so despite being less talented they where able to come away with a victory.