SCHENECTADY, N.Y.—Hosted by the Albany Capitals, approximately 50 college coaches were courtside to watch 70 teams compete in the 2013 Classic Invitational. Each witnessed not only some very competitive games over the 3 day period but were well entertained by some long time AAU coaches battling it out for bragging rights as they fine-tuned their teams for a upcoming very busy July. The host Albany Capitals “Capitalized” their play with all five age groups going undefeated over the course of the weekend. Given the competition it wasn’t a feat easily accomplished but well earned by the long time capital district program.
Ten Thoughts From The Classic Invitational
For the Albany Capital’s Kiana Patterson and Nicole Riddick were an inside – outside combo that got it done in the paint as well as hit the shot from the deep outside.
Olivia Conrad of the Bay State Magic is a forward who uses the hook and takes advantage of knowing where she is on the court to maneuver and score.
The Crystal City Stars also had a guard forward punch to watch as Jontay Walton connected with Amanda Schiefen time and again for the finish and score..
The Connecticut Blazers were well represented by Kayla Coswell who, on many occasions, drove to the hoop and kicked it out to teammate Taylor Williams who called on a step back move to hit the “3”.
Jen Shelp from the Elmira Lady Express kept her defender busy using the hesitation drive- dish off, while teammate Alyssa Mullings took total advantage of her own penetration to finish or pull up when picked up. She also altered her share of shots on defense with good timing after collecting a few blocked shots.
John Riley’s Hudson Valley Elite has a deep squad and was well represented by Kristen Mclaughlin and Izzy Mcmahon. The two teamed up to break down defenses and keep opponents honest by hitting the “3”.
At 6’4 Shannon Ryan dominated the paint for the Lake Champlain Lakers while Noel Hodges controlled the action getting into the paint to either score or share it with teammates having better options.
The Rhode Island Breaker’s Karli O’Driscoll hustled as always playing with heart and passion. Her “turnaround to score” had many defenders scratching their heads.
In the 15U Division, the Albany Capital’s Gabby Giacone and Jenna Giacone, a sister combination, broke down many a defense in multiple ways.
Also in the 15U bracket, the Connecticut Spirit’s Rachel Menze caught the coach’s eyes as well as every pass that came her way leading to quality finishes with contact.
