Stars emerge at the Big State Flava Jam
PHOTO GALLERY: Big State Flava Jam
You can always expect Texas-sized performances at the Big State Flava Jam in Dallas and the first full day of pool play didn't disappoint. Here are the players who caught our attention:
2013
Jada Terry -- 6-3 forward, DFW T-Jack Elite
There is no need to debate: Jada Terry is the top 2013 post player in the state of Texas and she should be in the national conversation. Terry has toned up her college-ready body and has continued to expand her game, which gives DFW T-Jack another inside threat to go along with Brianna Turner. Terry showed the ability to face up and attack the basket, has a quick and confident spin move and even knocked down a few 15-footers. With more improvement, she could be dominant in the paint.
Imani Wright -- 6-0 guard, Arkansas Mavericks Durham
Wright's shot wasn't falling Friday, but she can light it up -- and among other things she brought to the table, she can help her team win with aggressive defense. Wright has the ability to jump in the passing lane and pick off the ball, and that's exactly what she did in a close opening victory in the Marques Jackson division. She has added the step back since the last time I saw her, which will create even more problems for defenders.
2014
Meashell Crosby -- 5-4 point guard, Houston Insiders 2014
This athletic and acrobatic player for the Houston Insiders made a surprise return to the lineup after injuring her finger more than a month ago. Crosby brings energy at both ends of the court and fears no one -- nor is she afraid to take the big shot, which is what she did down the stretch as she nailed a three to clinch an Insider victory.
Sydney Wiese -- 6-0 point guard, GSB Elite
The breakout performance of the day was Sidney Wiese. The 6-0 point guard unleashed a double crossover to stun one defender and then spun on another for a layup. The lefty has impressive ballhandling skills and can score in a variety of ways.
2015
Sydni Brandon -- 5-7 guard, New Mexico Select 2013
It would be easier to list the things Sydni Brandon didn’t do for her New Mexico Select 2014 team, but we have to mention she too was not afraid to take the big shot. She attacks the basket and defends well but her biggest asset may be the fact that she understands the game and knew who and where to get the ball to at the right time.
2017
Bria Powell -- DFW Elite 2016
One of my sayings is that it’s not what you do it’s who you do it against, and for Powell, this was certainly the case. To say she impressed me would be an understatement, as she gets to the hole any time she wants and her four separate trips to the foul line in less than a minute shows she causes major problems defensively. Good speed and handles places her ahead of the game and even though her shot needs a little more time, this kid is going to explode. What impressed me more than anything is she handled her business playing up on the DFW 2016 team.
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About Simmie Colson: Simmie has been involved on the girl’s basketball for over 10 years as a coach, scout and writer. You can find more from him at www.girlzprepreport.com.
