This past summer will be one that Cameron McCaffrey won't soon forget. The sneaky 6-foot-1, 160-pound point guard from Century High School in Hillsboro not only got a chance to play some elite AAU basketball against some of the top players in the country, he held his own as well. And while the month of July unfortunately didn't go as well for McCaffrey from a team perspective, he did enough to prove to college programs that he'll be worth watching closely his senior season.
"I thought I played pretty solid when I could. I showed the ability to be a true point guard instead of just a combo guard."
Team Jones did play one more tournament after Las Vegas, the Best of Summer Tournament in Los Angeles, but McCaffrey instead went with his high school team to Gonzaga team camp where he helped the Jags finish in second place.
"Recruiting is going pretty good - I've gotten some more guys who have jumped on board," McCaffrey said. "Navy is probably the number one school right now in how interested they are - they kind of came out of nowhere. Also, Pacific in Stockton (California) is coming on stronger now as is American on the East Coast. With Navy I've started talking to them about a visit and with Colgate too."
McCaffrey definitely appreciates the increased interest and is open with all of his options. With the Midshipmen really coming on strong, he's started thinking about the possibility of going the military school route. "I kind of want to be an officer when I'm done playing and they told me that they'd make me one," McCaffrey said. "I would like that, but I just don't want to sit on a boat for four years."
As recruiting starts to heat up, McCaffrey believes that he'll stick to his original plan of signing in the spring as opposed to the fall. "I think I'm going to wait," McCaffrey said. "I don't want to rush into anything."
8.19.2008
8.15.2008
TAYLOR BRAUN
Team Jones suffered some personnel losses and had some injury setbacks this summer, but the positive out of those situations is allowed others to step up. Taylor Braun, the all-around 6-foot-7, 185-pound from Newberg High school rose to the occasion in July. His never-ending motor and increased production caught the eyes of some college coaches and Braun has a positive outlook on the recruiting possibilities for him this season.
"I just got back from L.A. a week ago and I did pretty well out there," Braun said. "I had about eight points a game and probably played 15-to-20 minutes a game. I came in aggressive and helped pick up the intensity and I helped lock people down on defense."
In essense, Braun was able to play his game and put more numbers on the board because of more playing time. College coaches have noticed and now Braun has garnered some recruiting interest. "I've got a couple of schools looking at me right now," Braun said. "I've talked to the University of Denver, Montana, Santa Clara, Portland, Portland State, and Idaho, as well as a couple of D-II schools. They all say that they want to see how I do in high school. They didn't get to see me this summer as a scorer, so they want me to do that in high school."
Braun knows he can score - after all, he averaged a team-high 15.7 points last season for Newberg. Now it's just a matter of doing it enough to earn a scholarship from the right school, of which he currently has two favorites. "I like Santa Clara and Montana right now," Braun said. "I went down to a Santa Clara camp at the end of June and that was pretty fun. I didn't get to play much because I was injured but they have some interest in me. Overall, the atmosphere there is pretty nice."
"Montana - they're going in the right direction toward the top of the conference," Braun continued. "It's kind of an isolated place so you can stay focused there, so I like that."
Until that right offer comes, Braun is keeping open with his options with a couple of key things in mind. "I just want to be in a stable program, one that won't be changing coaches every year," Braun said. "I feel like I've got a pretty good chance at going Division I, so I'll probably wait (until the spring) to decide."
"I just got back from L.A. a week ago and I did pretty well out there," Braun said. "I had about eight points a game and probably played 15-to-20 minutes a game. I came in aggressive and helped pick up the intensity and I helped lock people down on defense."
In essense, Braun was able to play his game and put more numbers on the board because of more playing time. College coaches have noticed and now Braun has garnered some recruiting interest. "I've got a couple of schools looking at me right now," Braun said. "I've talked to the University of Denver, Montana, Santa Clara, Portland, Portland State, and Idaho, as well as a couple of D-II schools. They all say that they want to see how I do in high school. They didn't get to see me this summer as a scorer, so they want me to do that in high school."
Braun knows he can score - after all, he averaged a team-high 15.7 points last season for Newberg. Now it's just a matter of doing it enough to earn a scholarship from the right school, of which he currently has two favorites. "I like Santa Clara and Montana right now," Braun said. "I went down to a Santa Clara camp at the end of June and that was pretty fun. I didn't get to play much because I was injured but they have some interest in me. Overall, the atmosphere there is pretty nice."
"Montana - they're going in the right direction toward the top of the conference," Braun continued. "It's kind of an isolated place so you can stay focused there, so I like that."
Until that right offer comes, Braun is keeping open with his options with a couple of key things in mind. "I just want to be in a stable program, one that won't be changing coaches every year," Braun said. "I feel like I've got a pretty good chance at going Division I, so I'll probably wait (until the spring) to decide."
7.18.2008
COLLEGES ARE STARTING TO TAKE NOTICE OF JORDAN RAILY
In recent years, every class has had a talented big man and in Oregon's Class of 2010 Jordan Railey could be the top dog. The still-growing 6-foot-10, 215-pound post from Beaverton High School has made rapid progress in his body and game in recent years, and that development has continued this off-season. Railey is making strides with the Team Jones AAU program, having plenty of fun and picking up college interest in the process - including his first college scholarship offers.
"It's been better for me compared to how Beaverton went since we didn't have such a great season," Railey said. "I enjoy playing with these guys and I know Garrett (Jackson) and Hayes (Garrity) from playing against them during the season. It's fun for me hooking up with guys from different schools."
Railey has been the man in the middle for the Team Jones 16U squad, providing the team with plenty of rebounding and shot-blocking down low. Offensively, he's shown signs as well with his soft touch and footwork, and he continues to work on improving himself on a daily basis.
"My game has gotten better over the last year," Railey said. "There are still things to improve on obviously, but I've come a long ways. Mostly I've been working on getting bigger and heavier, and I've been working on my vertical so I can dunk a little more with ease."
After spending the month of June back with Beaverton HS, Railey was going to have time off during the first half of the July evaluation period since Team Jones 16U was not playing in any tournaments. Instead, he got clearance to suit up with the Portland Hoop Kings in two FinalScore.tv Invitationals in Vancouver and Seattle and now he's received his first full ride scholarship tenders.
"I've gotten a couple of offers from Utah State and Portland," Railey said. "I wasn't expecting it at all, but I feel good about it. When the coach from Utah State called I didn't even know that they had been looking at me and then he told me that they were offering. And Portland called me last night. They like my poise in the post and how I'm patient with the ball, and when I get the ball and I'm double-teamed, I don't rush. They say that I'm a pretty good passer (out of the double-team) and when I'm not doubled, I can score. They like my defensive game too."
Prior to getting those calls, Railey had barely received any recruiting attention so he is definitely excited about the possibilities at either program. "I like them both," Railey said. "I looked up Utah State online because I didn't know much about them and I like how they try to do things down there. And with U of P, I've been to a couple of their games and I like how they've got a young team. I like their coach too."
Railey not ready to do anything with his recruitment just yet, but does enjoy how things are progressing. He hopes to keep the momentum going as he rejoins Team Jones 16U next week at the Main Event in Las Vegas.
"It's been better for me compared to how Beaverton went since we didn't have such a great season," Railey said. "I enjoy playing with these guys and I know Garrett (Jackson) and Hayes (Garrity) from playing against them during the season. It's fun for me hooking up with guys from different schools."
Railey has been the man in the middle for the Team Jones 16U squad, providing the team with plenty of rebounding and shot-blocking down low. Offensively, he's shown signs as well with his soft touch and footwork, and he continues to work on improving himself on a daily basis.
"My game has gotten better over the last year," Railey said. "There are still things to improve on obviously, but I've come a long ways. Mostly I've been working on getting bigger and heavier, and I've been working on my vertical so I can dunk a little more with ease."
After spending the month of June back with Beaverton HS, Railey was going to have time off during the first half of the July evaluation period since Team Jones 16U was not playing in any tournaments. Instead, he got clearance to suit up with the Portland Hoop Kings in two FinalScore.tv Invitationals in Vancouver and Seattle and now he's received his first full ride scholarship tenders.
"I've gotten a couple of offers from Utah State and Portland," Railey said. "I wasn't expecting it at all, but I feel good about it. When the coach from Utah State called I didn't even know that they had been looking at me and then he told me that they were offering. And Portland called me last night. They like my poise in the post and how I'm patient with the ball, and when I get the ball and I'm double-teamed, I don't rush. They say that I'm a pretty good passer (out of the double-team) and when I'm not doubled, I can score. They like my defensive game too."
Prior to getting those calls, Railey had barely received any recruiting attention so he is definitely excited about the possibilities at either program. "I like them both," Railey said. "I looked up Utah State online because I didn't know much about them and I like how they try to do things down there. And with U of P, I've been to a couple of their games and I like how they've got a young team. I like their coach too."
Railey not ready to do anything with his recruitment just yet, but does enjoy how things are progressing. He hopes to keep the momentum going as he rejoins Team Jones 16U next week at the Main Event in Las Vegas.
7.15.2008
PEACH JAM - News & Updates Day #4
scout.com
Terrance Ross, SG, Team Jones – Some coaches like Ross, others are more impressed with his teammate, Terrance Jones. On Monday, against the Illinois Warriors it was Ross that stepped up his game. A high level athlete with what seems to be a tremendous upside, Ross is also a solid spot-up shooter, especially when he has time to get his feet set.
Terrance Ross, SG, Team Jones – Some coaches like Ross, others are more impressed with his teammate, Terrance Jones. On Monday, against the Illinois Warriors it was Ross that stepped up his game. A high level athlete with what seems to be a tremendous upside, Ross is also a solid spot-up shooter, especially when he has time to get his feet set.
7.13.2008
PEACH JAM - News & Updates Day #3
scout.com
E.J. Singler, SF, Team Jones – This guy has a lot on his plate. He guards four men and plays offense on the perimeter. His basketball IQ is strong. Why more Pac-10’s aren’t stepping up seems a bit strange given his style of play and overall ability.
Tony Bennett was front and center at the game watching Singler's every move.
E.J. Singler, SF, Team Jones – This guy has a lot on his plate. He guards four men and plays offense on the perimeter. His basketball IQ is strong. Why more Pac-10’s aren’t stepping up seems a bit strange given his style of play and overall ability.
Tony Bennett was front and center at the game watching Singler's every move.
PEACH JAM - News & Updates Day #2
rivals.com
Team Jones out of Portland, Oregon might as well be called Team Terrence. Class of 2010 prospects Terrence Jones and Terrence Ross are impressive prospects.
Jones, a 6-foot-8 point forward type of player, scored 19 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in a tough loss to the Houston Hoops. He's an athletic and hard-working prospect around the basket and in the open floor.
Ross, a 6-foot-5 wing, had a difficult time with his shot due to an injury to his hand early in the game but prior to the mishap, the rising junior showed enough on his stroke to get the feeling that he can let it fly from the wing.
Team Jones out of Portland, Oregon might as well be called Team Terrence. Class of 2010 prospects Terrence Jones and Terrence Ross are impressive prospects.
Jones, a 6-foot-8 point forward type of player, scored 19 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in a tough loss to the Houston Hoops. He's an athletic and hard-working prospect around the basket and in the open floor.
Ross, a 6-foot-5 wing, had a difficult time with his shot due to an injury to his hand early in the game but prior to the mishap, the rising junior showed enough on his stroke to get the feeling that he can let it fly from the wing.
PEACH JAM - News & Updates Day #1
scout.com
E.J. Singler, PF/SF – Team Jones – With Terrance Jones and Terrence Ross struggling from the field, Singler did his best to keep Team Jones in the mix. The 6-foot-6, 200-pound face up four man is skilled and capable of dropping in hooks inside or stepping out for mid-range or deep jumpers.
E.J. Singler said the main schools involved in his recruitment are Washington State, Stanford and Oregon. He said Washington State is the only one of the three has offered.
E.J. Singler, PF/SF – Team Jones – With Terrance Jones and Terrence Ross struggling from the field, Singler did his best to keep Team Jones in the mix. The 6-foot-6, 200-pound face up four man is skilled and capable of dropping in hooks inside or stepping out for mid-range or deep jumpers.
E.J. Singler said the main schools involved in his recruitment are Washington State, Stanford and Oregon. He said Washington State is the only one of the three has offered.
7.10.2008
Jackson On The Recruiting Radar
There are some future hoop stars in Oregon's Class of 2010 - and they're not all named Terrence. After serving as a role player to the seniors at Westview High School during the high school season, Garrett Jackson has started to elevate his status on the AAU circuit. The versatile 6-foot-6, 185-pound forward has emerged as a leading man with the Team Jones 16U squad - enough to raise plenty of eyebrows and recently earn his first scholarship offer just as the summer evaluation period has started.
This past weekend, Jackson opened the month of July playing at the FinalScore.tv Invitational held in Vancouver. "I'm with Team Jones, but since we're not doing anything these first couple of weeks (in July) I'm helping out the Hoop Kings since they're short a few guys," Jackson said. "It's been going well - really well, actually. This last tournament went well for me individually. I was knocking down shots, getting rebounds, and getting a lot of baskets."
Jackson was absolutely dominant on the court at times. In his very first game, he tallied 32 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, four steals, and two blocked shots, and in one of the team's later games, he put together 27 points and ten rebounds. As a sophomore he played the four at Westview, but in AAU ball he's been playing at the three and the two, and as each tournament passes, Jackson has shown improved perimeter skills especially with his outside shot.
Several Division I college coaches were on hand at the tournament and Jackson's play really caught the eye of one of them. "Before the tournament, I'd been recruited by the University of Portland and I took a trip there a couple of weeks ago and it was really nice," Jackson said. "When I played in this tournament, (assistant) Coach (Mike) Wolf was there and the next thing I know,(Univ. of Portland) was offering me a scholarship."
Picking up his first D-I scholarship offer is something Jackson is definitely excited about - in particular from the Pilots program. "It's a really nice school and I was really impressed when I visited there," Jackson said. "I've never really visited a college campus before, and I like the small school feel."
While Jackson definitely likes Portland, it's still very early in the process and more schools may come calling. Programs such as Stanford, Rice, and Utah State have also sent correspondence and Jackson is feeling everything out for now. "I'm just trying to work hard and hopefully I'll have some decisions to make," Jackson said. "It's a little overwhelming, but it's a really exciting process. I want to see what some bigger schools are like and I'm waiting to see what my options are, but Portland is cool."
Jackson will play with Team Jones 16U squad in Las Vegas for the Main Event. His expectations are high. "I want to win in Vegas with Team Jones and I just want to try and get as many looks as possible," Jackson said. "I want to play well at the highest stage."
7.03.2008
2010 - Top 50 Rankings (All Positions) Scout.com
Terrance Jones (Pictured) and Terrance Ross both cracked Scout.com Top 50 players in the country. Terrance Jones moved up the rankings after a sensational performance at the NIKE Hoop Jamboree in St Louis. Terrance Jones is ranked #20 and Terrance Ross is ranked #35.
Position-Rank-Name
PF 1 Tristan Thompson
C 2 Jared Sullinger
C 3 Josh Smith
C 4 Jeremy Tyler
PG 5 Brandon Knight
SF 6 Harrison Barnes
SG 7 Reggie Bullock
SF 8 DeShaun Thomas
PF 9 Dominique Ferguson
PG 10 Josh Selby
SF 11 Jereme Richmond
SG 12 Crandall Head
C 13 Evan Anderson
PF 14 C.J. Leslie
SF 15 Roscoe Smith
SG 16 Doron Lamb
SG 17 Daniel Bejarano
SG 18 Andre Dawkins
PG 19 Kendall Marshall
SF 20 Terrance Jones
PG 21 Joe Jackson
C 22 Adreian Payne
PF 23 Perry Jones
PF 24 Josh Hairston
PF 25 C.J. Fair
SG 26 Anthony Johnson
SG 27 Will Barton
SG 28 Jelan Kendrick
SF 29 Justin Martin
SF 30 Mychal Parker
SG 31 Keith Appling
SG 32 Dion Waiters
PG 33 Phil Pressey
PF 34 Okaro White
SG 35 Terrance Ross
6.30.2008
17's ROSTER
2008
#2 Dustin Jones 6'3 SG
Barlow High School
2009
#10 Cameron McCaffrey 6'1 PG
Century High School
#11 Taylor Dunn 6'4 SG
Mountain View High School
#25 EJ Singler 6'7 SG/SF
South Medford High School
#32 Steven Bjornstad 6'10 C
Columbia River High School
#33 Taylor Braun 6'7 SF
Newberg High School
Aaron Dotson 6'4 SG
Rainier Beach High School
2010
#1 Terrance Jones 6'8 PG/SF
Jefferson High School
#23 Terrance Ross 6'6 SG/SF
Jefferson High School
#2 Dustin Jones 6'3 SG
Barlow High School
2009
#10 Cameron McCaffrey 6'1 PG
Century High School
#11 Taylor Dunn 6'4 SG
Mountain View High School
#25 EJ Singler 6'7 SG/SF
South Medford High School
#32 Steven Bjornstad 6'10 C
Columbia River High School
#33 Taylor Braun 6'7 SF
Newberg High School
Aaron Dotson 6'4 SG
Rainier Beach High School
2010
#1 Terrance Jones 6'8 PG/SF
Jefferson High School
#23 Terrance Ross 6'6 SG/SF
Jefferson High School
16's ROSTER
2010
Kenneth Acker 6'1 PG
Grant High School
Michael Leunen 6'7 Post
Redmond High School
Hayes Garrity 6'2 Wing
Westview High School
Antione Hosley 6'1 PG
Evergreen High School
Trevor Ritchie 6'2 Wing
Wilson High School
Noah Kone 6'8 Post
Jefferson High School
Garrett Jackson 6'6 Wing
Westview High School
Jordan Raily 6'9 Post
Beaverton High School
Kelvin Cain 6'5 Wing
Grant High School
Jalen Caoile 6'0 PG
Tigard High School
Alex Johnson 6'2 Wing
Jefferson High School
15's ROSTER
2011
Anthony Penny 5'11
Grant High School
Mischael Mangum 5'11
Jefferson High School
Travionte Riley 5'11
Grant High School
Andrew Andrews 6'1
Benson High School
Robert Lazenby 6'1
Wilson High School
Davonte Jacobs 6'2
Grant High School
Jamarvin Coleman 6'3
Parkrose High School
Andrew Roundtree 6'3
Jefferson High School
Kyle Milligan 6'4
Jesuit High School
Josh Hall 6'7
Hockinson High School
Tyler Sonnemaker 6'8
Central Catholic High School
Anthony Penny 5'11
Grant High School
Mischael Mangum 5'11
Jefferson High School
Travionte Riley 5'11
Grant High School
Andrew Andrews 6'1
Benson High School
Robert Lazenby 6'1
Wilson High School
Davonte Jacobs 6'2
Grant High School
Jamarvin Coleman 6'3
Parkrose High School
Andrew Roundtree 6'3
Jefferson High School
Kyle Milligan 6'4
Jesuit High School
Josh Hall 6'7
Hockinson High School
Tyler Sonnemaker 6'8
Central Catholic High School
6.27.2008
2010 - Top 100 Rankings (All Positions)
Terrance Ross (Pictured) and Terrance Jones both cracked Rivals Top 100 players in the country. They were the only two players in the state of Oregon that were selected. Terrance Ross is ranked #27 and Terrance Jones is ranked #31.
Rivals.com
1 Jeremy Tyler
2 Tristan Thompson
3 Jared Sullinger
4 Josh Smith
5 Josh Selby
6 Harrison Barnes
7 DeShaun Thomas
8 Brandon Knight
9 Reggie Bullock
10 Joe Jackson
11 Crandall Head
12 Andre Dawkins
13 Dominique Ferguson
14 Adreian Payne
15 Joshua Hairston
16 Roscoe Smith
17 Daniel Bejarano
18 Dion Waiters
19 Perry Jones
20 Jason Morris
21 Evan Anderson
22 Dwayne Polee
23 Kendall Marshall
24 Will Barton
25 Ralston Turner
26 Markel Starks
27 Terrence Ross
28 Doron Lamb
29 Vander Blue
30 Nate Lubick
31 Terrence Jones
PAC-10 Offers Singler
June may be a month off for many basketball players, but try and tell that to E.J. Singler. The all-around 6-foot-6, 200-pound forward from South Medford High School has been busy playing with Team Jones, his high school team, and working out daily on his own. The month was to possibly end with a camp and unofficial visit, but even though Singler instead used this past weekend to rest up he still saw a major change in his recruitment.
The original schedule included a trip up to Pullman for Washington State's elite camp this past weekend, but Singler didn't make it up. "I just decided to stay at home," Singler said. "It was pretty much the only weekend I had off, so I just worked out on my own and get ready for July."
Wazzu has been one of Singler's favorites for quite some time, so he was a little disappointed that he didn't participate. While he didn't make it to Cougs camp, he did get an important phone call from the WSU coaches once their event concluded.
"Yesterday (Monday), Washington State offered," Singler said. "I loved it. Coach (Tony) Bennett is a very successul coach and I really like him. They've always said that they wanted me but didn't know if they had a scholarship. But after camp they decided and they called me."
According to Singler, the coaching staff had been looking at going with a big man for their scholarship, but after getting a closer look at their top targets in elite camp, decided on offering the South Medford star instead.
Obviously, Singler is happy about receiving his first Pac-10 offer and would like to get a closer look at Pullman soon. "I definitely want to make it up there sometime," Singler said. "That's the biggest offer so far and it's very exciting."
6.23.2008
Schools Come Calling on the Terrances
OregonPreps
For the past year rising juniors Terrance Jones and Terrance Ross have been developing quite the national reputation with Jefferson and Team Jones and have quickly become two of the more highly coveted players in the 2010 class. When college coaches were permitted to contact the two directly at the end of the school year, they each heard from a "who's who" of college coaches.
Jones, a 6-foot-7, 200 pound versatile perimeter player, said he received phone calls from UCLA, Washington, Kansas, Georgetown, Texas, Florida and Oklahoma over the first weekend of the contact period.
Ross stands 6-foot-5 and is an extremely athletic, dead-eye shooter from the perimeter and has shown this spring an improved ability and aggressiveness attacking the rim. Pat Strickland, who coaches both Jones and Ross at Jefferson and with Team Jones, said Ross had a long list of schools calling to show their interest.
"Texas, Maryland, Oklahoma, Indiana, Washington, Oregon State, Oregon, Cal, Arizona State, Baylor and Kansas all called for Ross this past weekend," Strickland said.
The two also acknowledged that they have plans of attending the same school.
The pair was scheduled to attend the Nike Hoop Jamboree in St. Louis. And while Ross stayed in Portland and played with Team Jones in the Rose City Showcase, Jones more than held his own against some of the nation's top underclassmen.
"I played thought I played well," Jones said following the camp. "I had a lot of other guards on my team so I was forced to play out on the wing. I just had to make plays from the wing and move without the ball in order to be effective, and I did that. It just allowed me to show my versatility."
Jones said he played with the same team-first attitude that he uses with his Jefferson and Team Jones squads while at the camp, a trait that according to Jones wasn't matched by many of the camp's other participants.
"Most of the other guys there were looking to go one-on-one and look out for themselves," Jones said. "I was trying to help everyone on the team get involved and trying to get a win."
It's that same mentality that has placed Team Jones deep into most of their tournaments and allowed for the Terrances to gain more exposure. And they realize that as they get into the final month of the AAU season, playing as a unit will only benefit them individually.
"We're getting our name out there as a team," Jones said. "As we continue to show that we are a really good team, each of us will continue to get recognition."
For the past year rising juniors Terrance Jones and Terrance Ross have been developing quite the national reputation with Jefferson and Team Jones and have quickly become two of the more highly coveted players in the 2010 class. When college coaches were permitted to contact the two directly at the end of the school year, they each heard from a "who's who" of college coaches.
Jones, a 6-foot-7, 200 pound versatile perimeter player, said he received phone calls from UCLA, Washington, Kansas, Georgetown, Texas, Florida and Oklahoma over the first weekend of the contact period.
Ross stands 6-foot-5 and is an extremely athletic, dead-eye shooter from the perimeter and has shown this spring an improved ability and aggressiveness attacking the rim. Pat Strickland, who coaches both Jones and Ross at Jefferson and with Team Jones, said Ross had a long list of schools calling to show their interest.
"Texas, Maryland, Oklahoma, Indiana, Washington, Oregon State, Oregon, Cal, Arizona State, Baylor and Kansas all called for Ross this past weekend," Strickland said.
The two also acknowledged that they have plans of attending the same school.
The pair was scheduled to attend the Nike Hoop Jamboree in St. Louis. And while Ross stayed in Portland and played with Team Jones in the Rose City Showcase, Jones more than held his own against some of the nation's top underclassmen.
"I played thought I played well," Jones said following the camp. "I had a lot of other guards on my team so I was forced to play out on the wing. I just had to make plays from the wing and move without the ball in order to be effective, and I did that. It just allowed me to show my versatility."
Jones said he played with the same team-first attitude that he uses with his Jefferson and Team Jones squads while at the camp, a trait that according to Jones wasn't matched by many of the camp's other participants.
"Most of the other guys there were looking to go one-on-one and look out for themselves," Jones said. "I was trying to help everyone on the team get involved and trying to get a win."
It's that same mentality that has placed Team Jones deep into most of their tournaments and allowed for the Terrances to gain more exposure. And they realize that as they get into the final month of the AAU season, playing as a unit will only benefit them individually.
"We're getting our name out there as a team," Jones said. "As we continue to show that we are a really good team, each of us will continue to get recognition."
6.18.2008
Interest Picks Up For Terrance Jones
Evan Daniels
scout.com
From the opening tip of the Nike Hoop Jamboree, it was clear that Terrance Jones had brought the “A” game to St. Louis (Mo.).
Whether it was during a team practice, 3-on-3 or 5-on-5, Jones went hard and made an impact for his team. The 6-foot-7 wing attacks the basket well, is a terrific passer, shoots it well from deep.
“I liked our team,” Jones said of the Hoop Jamboree. “We had lots of guys that could do different things. We all got used to each other and did our roles real good and that’s why we won a lot of games.”
“I did everything I could and tried to move with out the ball because the ball wasn’t getting passed that much, so I was just getting rebounds,” he continued. “When I did get the ball I tried to look for open people and I thought I did alright when I looked to score.”
The underclassmen camp was loaded from top to bottom with talent and Jones thought he more than held his own.
“I think I was one of the best dudes there,” Jones said. “I just liked how the games went and how I did.”
Prior to the Hoop Jamboree, Jones teamed with Team Jones and had a number of strong showings during the spring. They came in second at Kingwood, won the Texas Showcase and lost in the quarterfinals at the Cactus Classic.
Terrance Jones is a hot commodity among college coaches and after a big time effort at the Nike Hoop Jamboree schools are beginning to offer the talented wing scholarships.
Since the spring he’s heard from a number of schools including Texas, Kansas, Florida, Oregon, Oregon State, Washington, Washington State, California, Arizona and Arizona State. He said Oregon State, Cal and ASU are the only schools that have offered.
Since Sunday, when college coaches could begin contacting 2010 prospects, Jones received calls from John Thompson, Billy Donovan, Rick Barnes and Herb Sendek.
“I’m just taking my time and just waiting,” Jones, of Jefferson (Ore.) High, said about his recruitment. “I’m just thinking about trying to get better as a AAU team. I want to play with Terrence [Ross] in college.”
“We are real tight,” he said of his relationship with Ross. “We probably stay the night with each other at least once a week and we hang out at least once a day.”
According to Jones, a collegiate decision won’t come anytime soon. Jones, who hasn’t taken any unofficial visits, is more focused on getting better and playing with his AAU team, than his recruitment.
Jones will close out the summer with trips to the Nike Peach Jam, the Main Event and then the LA Best of Summer. He’s also hoping for an invitation to the LeBron James Skills Academy.
6.16.2008
Singler Narrowing Down Choices
As Team Jones moves on from their successful spring on the AAU circuit and head into the heavy evaluation month of July, E.J. Singler, their 6-foot-6 do-it-all forward won't necessarily be looking to add more schools to his list, but instead try to sway the minds of the staffs already looking at him.
His Team Jones squad is competing at the 8th annual Rose City Showcase, and following an 80-64 first round win over Portland Legends, the South Medford rising senior took time to give his thoughts on Washington State, Oregon and Stanford- the three schools sitting atop his list.
"The main thing that I like about Washington State is their coaching staff," Singler said. "They have a terrific young staff and I really like the way that they play. Their offense is really good and they play terrific defense, too. But also, their coaching staff gets the players to play with an underdog mentality, which is appealing to me."
In discussions with Wazzu head coach Tony Bennett and his staff, Singler noted that talks have started including a scholarship offer.
"Right now they're trying to evaluate and see whether or not they need to try and get a post player," Singler said. "If not, they said that I'm their number one guy. So hopefully an offer could be coming soon.
He had originally planned on making a trip up to Pullman to visit the campus and attend the Cougars' elite camp, but Singler has decided to wait until later on in the summer to trip to the Washington State campus.
"The facilities down in Eugene are obviously top of the line and they really look after their student-athletes," Singler said when discussing the University of Oregon. "I also have a lot of connections with the university and the program. Not only is it an in-state school, but also I have a good friend in (assistant coach) Josh Jamieson and (former Team Jones teammate) Garrett Sim is going to be down there next year."
"Obviously they have great education at Stanford," Singler said. "Really that's what the school is known for. I don't really know the new staff at Stanford except for the head coach Johnny Dawkins, but they said they'll run stuff pretty similar to what was run at Duke. But it's a great place to be at; they have a great campus, beautiful weather, and good facilities."
While EJ noted that he's only talked to Dawkins once since he took over at Stanford, his heavily recruited older brother, Kyle, has had nothing but glowing remarks about the former Duke assistant.
While Singler will be playing the waiting game in anticipation of receiving a scholarship offer, he'll be staying plenty busy for the remainder of the summer.
"I just competed in the Nike football combine in Eugene last weekend, which went real well," Singler said. "When July hits we have a busy summer with basketball and then August is the start of high school football for me."
With such a busy schedule of both football and basketball events, Singler said that he hasn't made a definite decision to which sport he'll be playing collegiately, but did say he's leaning towards basketball.
It just changes from month-to-month and day-to-day," Singler said. "Until I start getting some higher level offers, I can't really pick."
His Team Jones squad is competing at the 8th annual Rose City Showcase, and following an 80-64 first round win over Portland Legends, the South Medford rising senior took time to give his thoughts on Washington State, Oregon and Stanford- the three schools sitting atop his list.
"The main thing that I like about Washington State is their coaching staff," Singler said. "They have a terrific young staff and I really like the way that they play. Their offense is really good and they play terrific defense, too. But also, their coaching staff gets the players to play with an underdog mentality, which is appealing to me."
In discussions with Wazzu head coach Tony Bennett and his staff, Singler noted that talks have started including a scholarship offer.
"Right now they're trying to evaluate and see whether or not they need to try and get a post player," Singler said. "If not, they said that I'm their number one guy. So hopefully an offer could be coming soon.
He had originally planned on making a trip up to Pullman to visit the campus and attend the Cougars' elite camp, but Singler has decided to wait until later on in the summer to trip to the Washington State campus.
"The facilities down in Eugene are obviously top of the line and they really look after their student-athletes," Singler said when discussing the University of Oregon. "I also have a lot of connections with the university and the program. Not only is it an in-state school, but also I have a good friend in (assistant coach) Josh Jamieson and (former Team Jones teammate) Garrett Sim is going to be down there next year."
"Obviously they have great education at Stanford," Singler said. "Really that's what the school is known for. I don't really know the new staff at Stanford except for the head coach Johnny Dawkins, but they said they'll run stuff pretty similar to what was run at Duke. But it's a great place to be at; they have a great campus, beautiful weather, and good facilities."
While EJ noted that he's only talked to Dawkins once since he took over at Stanford, his heavily recruited older brother, Kyle, has had nothing but glowing remarks about the former Duke assistant.
While Singler will be playing the waiting game in anticipation of receiving a scholarship offer, he'll be staying plenty busy for the remainder of the summer.
"I just competed in the Nike football combine in Eugene last weekend, which went real well," Singler said. "When July hits we have a busy summer with basketball and then August is the start of high school football for me."
With such a busy schedule of both football and basketball events, Singler said that he hasn't made a definite decision to which sport he'll be playing collegiately, but did say he's leaning towards basketball.
It just changes from month-to-month and day-to-day," Singler said. "Until I start getting some higher level offers, I can't really pick."
6.12.2008
Singler In No Hurry
Scout.com
E.J. Singler, 6-5 JR SF Medford (Ore.) South Medford, had a very good showing in the spring evaluation period. He has an excellent feel for the game and he’s constantly involved in the action. His overall skill level is good, he plays with toughness and he’s a very good competitor.
I spoke with Singler recently and asked about the programs that have been involved with him.
“The main three right now are Washington State, Oregon and Stanford,” said Singler. “Two schools that have offered so far are St. Louis and Pepperdine.”
Singler talked a little about the issues important to him in choosing a school.
“Definitely how I interact with the coaches and the players,” said Singler. “Also, the environment, the campus and whether I feel comfortable there. I don’t really care about the East Coast or West Coast – I’ll go with whoever wants me the most.”
Singler has been to the Oregon campus several times and said both Washington State and Stanford want to have him visit.
“I don’t know if I’ll be able to take unofficial visits because my schedule is very busy with football and basketball right now,” said Singler. “I’ll probably just play through the summer and then take official visits in the fall.”
Singler Ranked #7 Wing
EJ Singler is considered the 7th best wing prospect on the west coast according to scout.com
1) Tyler Honeycutt, 6-7, Sylmar (Calif.) High
2) Hollis Thompson, 6-6, Los Angeles (Calif.) Loyola Georgetown
3) Mike Moser, 6-6, Portland (Ore.) Grant
4) Solomon Hill, 6-5, Los Angeles (Calif.) Fairfax
5) C.J. Wilcox, 6-5, Pleasant Grove (Utah) High Washington
6) Aaron Dotson, 6-4, Seattle (Wash.) Rainier Beach
7) E.J. Singler, 6-5, Medford (Ore.) South Medford
8) Chad Adams, 6-5, Albuquerque (New Mex.) Highland New Mexico
9) Garrett Johnson, 6-5, Pomona (Calif.) Diamond
1) Tyler Honeycutt, 6-7, Sylmar (Calif.) High
2) Hollis Thompson, 6-6, Los Angeles (Calif.) Loyola Georgetown
3) Mike Moser, 6-6, Portland (Ore.) Grant
4) Solomon Hill, 6-5, Los Angeles (Calif.) Fairfax
5) C.J. Wilcox, 6-5, Pleasant Grove (Utah) High Washington
6) Aaron Dotson, 6-4, Seattle (Wash.) Rainier Beach
7) E.J. Singler, 6-5, Medford (Ore.) South Medford
8) Chad Adams, 6-5, Albuquerque (New Mex.) Highland New Mexico
9) Garrett Johnson, 6-5, Pomona (Calif.) Diamond
Bjornstad Ranked #4 Post
Steven Bjornstad is ranked the 4th best post prospect on the west coast according to scout.com.
1) Renardo Sidney, 6-9, Los Angeles (Calif.) Fairfax
2) Greg Smith, 6-8, Vallejo (Calif.) Bethel
3) Anthony Stover, 6-9, La Canada (Calif.) Renaissance Academy
4) Steven Bjornstad, 6-10, Vancouver (Wash.) Columbia River
5) Eric Hutchinson, 6-9, Longview (Wash.) Mark Morris
6) Chris Cunningham, 6-7, Pomona (Calif.) Diamond Ranch
7) Trevor Williams, 6-9, Denver (Col.) Denver Lutheran
8) Chris Manressa, 6-7, Rancho Santa Margarita
1) Renardo Sidney, 6-9, Los Angeles (Calif.) Fairfax
2) Greg Smith, 6-8, Vallejo (Calif.) Bethel
3) Anthony Stover, 6-9, La Canada (Calif.) Renaissance Academy
4) Steven Bjornstad, 6-10, Vancouver (Wash.) Columbia River
5) Eric Hutchinson, 6-9, Longview (Wash.) Mark Morris
6) Chris Cunningham, 6-7, Pomona (Calif.) Diamond Ranch
7) Trevor Williams, 6-9, Denver (Col.) Denver Lutheran
8) Chris Manressa, 6-7, Rancho Santa Margarita
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