2023 Jamboree Thoughts

I took in 5 rounds at the CDH Jamboree and then 5 halves of action at the Spring Lake Park Jamboree.  That included Osseo in both events and 18 others teams.  Some thoughts from what I saw.

General Observations

1) Lack of awareness of the shot clock.  As I expected, most possessions didn't have it as a factor.  But when it came into play, most players were unaware that it was running out.  I expected more bench countdowns to address this.  Overall I saw about 10 shot clock violations between the 2 scrimmages and in almost every case, it was a player holding the ball unaware. 

2) Transition defense.  Simply put, just disgusting.  Teams just don't understand getting back, plugging gaps, finding shooters etc.  Its mostly just buddy running.  Way too many easy buckets.

Notable Players

Miami commit Isaiah Johnson-Arigu of Totino-Grace stood out for his play in the CDH Jamboree.  Well rounded moving the ball, attacking the basket and making a defensive impact.  

Owen Waldoch carried Forest Lake in the SLP Jamboree with 25 of 30 Rangers points in about 13 minutes of time.  Hit open shots and made plays inside plus he swatted away a shot or 2.

Brock Remme went toe to toe with Waldoch in that half as Spring Lake Park controlled the half and won.  He attacked the basket and showed range with his lefty jumper.  Has a chance to be a high stock raiser this season.

Jaymeson Travis of Osseo was a revelation to me.  Good feet and mobility for the forward to go with Aaron Smith on the front line and their slew of guards.  Yet another big man that has come up thru the program that they just plug in to replace graduation losses.

A Few Specific Team Thoughts
One doesn't want to read too much into these as they are short scrimmages but here are some quick hitters.

Minneapolis South beating De La Salle in a 10 minute half and playing them tough in another half was more than expected considering some significant losses there.

De La Salle will be undersized, but with their defense and shooting, still an elite squad.  Their guards vs Columbia Heights guards will be extremely entertaining.

Spring Lake Park handled Forest Lake who's expected to be a section contender in 7AAAA.

Benilde-St. Margaret's extending their defense on make or miss makes sense for their athletes.  That will generate a few points.  Though against the tough schedule that may backfire.  They may need those points as they look totally lost on offense.  No concepts and struggled to get into basic pick and roll or weave action.  It will be interesting to see them play in the half court when they can't get easy transition hoops.  That will be especially true vs zone.

Once again coach Ogorek at Coon Rapids keeps the 1-3-1 in his pocket and goes man for the evening.  One of these days I'll figure it out.