The 7th Grade division had no shortage of action on Saturday as teams continued to jockey for position during the third and final session of the South Winter Circuit before championship weekend. With little room left for error, urgency was evident across the floor as teams looked to stack wins and build momentum. Some programs reinforced their status as top contenders, while others showed their ready for the big stage, putting together complete performances at a critical time.
Saturday Storylines
LivOn and Houston Hoops Hicks Faced Off In An Intense Matchup
In a matchup between two of the top teams in the division, LivOn and Houston Hoops Hicks delivered a high energy, back and forth battle. Both teams traded scores early while playing strong defense and capitalizing on opportunities, but LivOn caught fire late in the first half, turning fast break chances into a big lead. Houston Hoops continued to scratch and climb in the second half, cutting it to single digits, though LivOn’s constant pressure ultimately proved to be the difference.
Rashard Lewis Academy Jr. P32 Makes Their Debut
Rashard Lewis Academy Jr. P32 made a strong statement in their first appearance on the circuit, playing with confidence, energy, and passion throughout the game. They knocked down a mix of tough contested shots and open looks while maintaining control for most of the contest. Their poise and competitiveness stood out for a team making its debut, and they showed the potential to disrupt the current landscape of the 7th grade division as the circuit continues.
JL3 Elite Jr EYBL Looked Just About Elite
JL3 had a dominant 2-0 showing on Saturday, winning decisively in both matchups with victories of 61-21 and 85-32. Their relentless full court pressure set the tone, as an intense and physical press consistently forced turnovers and rushed decisions. With a combination of skilled players, size, and depth, JL3 overwhelmed opponents on both ends of the floor and firmly positioned themselves as one of the top teams in the 7th grade division heading into the final day.
Saturday Superlatives
A Bucket – Ca’liel Brown, Houston Hoops Hicks
Brown was scoring in any way possible for his team, knocking down tough jumpers and attacking the lane to finish through contact. His slick moves and ability to break down defenders made him a consistent scoring threat.
Scrappy – Dominic Mitchell, JL3 Elite Jr EYBL
A strong and physical guard, Mitchell made his presence felt on both ends of the floor, using his strong base to disrupt ball handlers on defense. Offensively, he wasn’t afraid to use his body to create space and finish through contact.
Sniper – Jordyn Franklin, JL3 Elite Jr EYBL
Franklin was a constant threat from deep, knocking down catch and shoot, off balance, and off the dribble threes. Opponents quickly learned leaving him open was a dangerous gamble.
Paint Beast – Qua’May Jean, LivOn
Jean dominated the paint on both ends, using smart footwork to score and crashing the boards for second chance opportunities. Defensively, he made it difficult for opponents to operate inside.
