2024 Gotham Hoops Classic Preview: Day 2 (Feb 4th)

Bronx, NY — The 2024 Gotham Hoops Classic is just around the corner. In this post, we breakdown the games scheduled for Day 2 of the event on Sunday, February 4th.

Game 1: Shots with Patience (NY) vs. Our Saviour Lutheran - Regional (NY)

Day two starts with an ultra-competitive matchup between a couple of local programs. Shots with Patience is led by Leiton Woods, a 6’3” guard committed to the College of Staten Island. Woods, a graduate of Queens HS of Teaching, has been showcasing stellar play throughout the season, taking full advantage of his post-graduate year. The team, Shots with Patience, features a unique roster blending local and international talent, promising competition from start to finish.

Although Our Saviour Lutheran is a regular at the Gotham Hoops Classic, this marks the first time their Regional squad takes part in the event. Senior Jeremiah Peoples is the driving force for the team against SWP, presenting a solid matchup against the aforementioned Woods.

Game 2: King’s Christian Academy (MD) vs. Louis Brandeis HS (NY)

Another out-of-state contest in the Classic, King’s Christian plays their second game in as many days against a formidable local opponent. Standout senior guard Diallo Long aims to double down on his PRIME performance from last year’s Classic to help lead KCA to another victory in the event.

Louis Brandeis makes their Classic debut this weekend. Despite losing one of their top players to a mid-season transfer, the team continues to perform exceptionally well, leading the PSAL AAA Manhattan division with an impressive 11-3 record. While junior Christian Straughter leads the team in scoring with 16.3 PPG, senior Alexis Ramirez serves as the team’s engine, posting averages of 13 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game.

Game 3: Paterson Eastside (NJ) vs. Wings Academy (NY)

Paterson makes a quick trip to NYC for their first-ever Classic appearance. Led by first-year head coach Jayon James, the team has had a solid start with a 13-7 overall record and 7-1 in conference play. A consortium of players, including freshman Jariel Garcia and sophomore sharpshooter Caleb Williams, collectively leads the team in scoring.

Wings Academy, returning to the court Sunday after playing the day prior, has another shot at a solid win late in the season. The team, under the guidance of first-year head coach Michael Salvatore, is led by a trio of juniors in Rushawn Greene (20 PPG), Mohamed Bah (11.6 PPG), and Justin Genao (12.5 PPG).

Game 4: Charlotte Basketball Academy (NC) vs. Bridgeport Prep (CT)

As both teams hit the hardwood on back-to-back days, we have a unique matchup here at the Classic. CBA is powered by senior Michale Jordan, a 6’ guard who has been a two-way standout for the Tigers throughout the season, making his presence felt on both ends of the floor.

For Bridgeport Prep, we highlighted their front-court duo in our Day 1 Preview, but it’s senior guard PJ James who helps lead the ship for the Connecticut program. James, 5’11”, is a steady lead guard who’s already garnered D1 interest and offers with his play on the court. A James vs. Jordan battle is set up to be a great one come Sunday.

Game 5: Redemption Christian Academy (NY) vs. Earl Monroe School (NY)

In this anticipated NY vs. NY matchup at the Classic, fans can expect a hard-fought battle between two competitive teams. RCA, led by senior standout Yeison Liberato, boasts a strong scoring force. Keep an eye on the promising class of 2026 prospect, Jared Smith, who has the opportunity to make a name for himself against the formidable NYC opponent.

Similar to their counterparts, Earl Monroe is facing back-to-back games, showcasing their roster depth for competition against high-level opponents throughout the weekend. After featuring one of their standout players in yesterday's preview, the spotlight shifts to juniors Dajon Green and Devin James, who aim to make a significant impact in this matchup.

Game 6: Brooklyn Collegiate (NY) vs. James Monroe (NY)

In a field of competitive matchups at this year's Classic, none arguably shine brighter than this PSAL AAAA battle between two of the city's basketball powerhouses.

Brooklyn Collegiate is led by their senior double-double duo, Tyler Edore (13/16) and Tori Babs (12/15), anchoring the front-court with prowess as elite shot-blockers. Complementing their dominance is the dynamic guard play from juniors Flavio Jean and Jalen Walters, averaging 5 and 2.5 assists, respectively.

On the opposing side, James Monroe boasts a roster as balanced as they come, with four players averaging double-digits: Alhasan Jallow (14 PPG), Karifala Conde (13.5 PPG), Mohammed Rashid (11.7 PPG), and Steven Ceballo (10.3 PPG). The standout prospect, however, may well be junior big man Harvin Guerra, exhibiting unparalleled skills as a playmaker with impeccable footwork around the rim and a soft touch from beyond the arc.

Anticipate an electrifying NYC battle as these formidable teams meet on the court.

Game 7: Baldwin (NY) vs. Thurgood Marshall Academy (NY)

This matchup marks a highly anticipated rematch from the iconic Classic game in 2020, where Baldwin defeated Thurgood Marshall Academy in an overtime thriller. The two local teams make a return to the event four years later for an exhilarating part two.

Baldwin, characterized by a balanced group, is spearheaded by the backcourt prowess of junior Chase Timberlake and freshman Peyton Howell. Throughout the season, this dynamic duo has been causing havoc for opponents on Long Island.

Thurgood Marshall Academy showcases its own talented backcourt, featuring junior Ahmad Torrence and senior Terrell Hood. Torrence, a transfer from Hudson Catholic (NJ), has made an immediate impact, posting impressive averages of 18 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. Meanwhile, Hood, a skilled lefty, aids Torrence’s attack with 15.6 points per game of his own.

Game 8: Abraham Lincoln (NY) vs. Adlai Stevenson (NY)

In a pivotal clash, Abraham Lincoln steps onto the Classic stage for their inaugural game against host Stevenson, who plays their second game of the showcase. The Railsplitters currently hold the second spot in their division (PSAL AAAA -- Brooklyn/Staten Island- II), propelled by the stellar performance of senior AJ Solomon. The aggressive playmaker not only leads the team in scoring with an average of 17.4 points per game but also contributes 4.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists.

Stevenson, their PSAL AAAA opponent, is led by seniors Ahmed Cisse and Tristan Burth, who lead the team in points and rebounds, respectively. The collective efforts of these key players, along with other integral team members, have propelled the Ambassadors to a commendable third place in their division, AAAA -- Manhattan/Bronx.

This concluding matchup not only determines PSAL bragging rights but also carries significant implications for playoff seeding. The court is set for an intense showdown, promising a thrilling close to the event.

—

Gotham Hoops Classic day one preview can be found, here.

2024 Gotham Hoops Classic Preview: Day 1 (Feb 3rd)

Bronx, NY — The 2024 Gotham Hoops Classic is just around the corner. In this post, we breakdown the games scheduled for Day 1 of the event on Saturday, February 3rd.

Game 1: WHEELS (NY) vs. South Bronx Prep (NY)

The two-day showcase starts out with a bang in this PSAL matchup. WHEELS (4A) is powered by their junior guard Sincere Henderson. His skill-set has been on display all season long, posting a versatile statline of 16/5/5. He savvy floor general leads the Wolves in points and assists.

South Bronx Prep (AA) is led by the city’s leading scorer in senior guard Sirpatrick Livingston. The 6’4” standout is pouring in 33.5 points per game in his final high school campaign. This one is bound to be a highly-competitive, back-and-forth affair.

Game 2: Earl Monroe School (NY) vs. Rothesay Netherwood School (NY)

It’s a New York City vs. New Brunswick matchup, this is what the event is all about. With the Earl Monroe School, you have an upstart program that’s already making waves in the high school basketball scene here in the city. They’re off to a terrific start this season, led by junior guard Raymond Kinnard, and look to finish strong down the stretch.

Their counterparts, RNS of the competitive National Preparatory Association in Canada, is returning for the third time to the Classic. With some of their top alumni currently playing for NCAA Division I teams, they look to showcase their current talent highlighted by junior standout Titus Heron.

Game 3: HS for Construction (NY) vs. King’s Christian Academy (MD)

In another out-of-state contest at this year’s Classic with a couple formidable programs battling it out. Local Contrusction is led by their dynamic senior guard, Darnell “Bam” Childs. He leads them in both points (24.3) and assists (3.4) per game.

KCA is powered by their lead guard as well in Diallo Long. A PRIME Performer at the 2023 Gotham Hoops Classic, Long (6’4”) returns to New York City for a shot at another standout showing in the event.

Game 4: Bridgeport Prep (CT) vs. Life Center Academy (NJ)

One of day one’s premier matchups, this Connecticut vs. New Jersey bout features a bevy of big time prospects across both programs. For Bridgeport Prep, they have a front-court tandem that’s been making noise all season long. Senior big men Isaac Munkadi (6’10”) and Stefano Rodriguez (7’) are poised to continue their hot play over the weekend.

On the other end are a couple underclassmen ready for the challenge. LCA’s Al’Tariq Reevey ‘26 and Mekhi Robertson ‘27 have been making their presence felt and garnering Division I interest and offers along the way. The duo are poised to make a statement in the Big Apple.

Game 5: Redemption Christian Academy (NY) vs. Elevate Academy (CAN)

Another intercontinental contest at the Classic! Returning for their second appearance in the showcase after participating in the Inaugural Classic in 2018, the RCA Lions are spearheaded by their 6’4” lead guard, Yeison Liberato. The brute senior has been making it difficult for NEPSAC AAA (and non-league) opponents all season long.

A first-time Classic participant, Elevate makes the trip from Montreal to compete against some of the best in the area. The Canadian program is led by a tandem of junior guards in Geraldo Xavier (6’4”) and Gilan Mavoungou (6’3”) who hope to make a splash in their NYC debut.

Game 6: Covenant College Prep (NJ) vs. Charlotte Basketball Academy (NC)

A repeat performer at the showcase, Covenant College Prep is led by their uber athletic guard, Sutan Fitzpatrick. The 6’ point guard is making the most of his post-graduate year, including a MVP performance at the Difference Makers Showcase in December.

CBA returns after initially competing in 2018. Boasting a talented roster, it’s a newcomer that’s certainly one to watch for over the weekend for the Charlotte-based program. 6’10” Center Mor Mboup recently joined the team and comes with high praise from the coaching staff. Let’s see what the newcomer from Ghana brings to the table over the weekend.

Game 7: Our Saviour Lutheran Prep (NY) vs. Rothesay Netherwood School (CAN)

OSL Prep returns to this year’s Classic after a dominating performance last year. Former PRIME Performer Mo Diaby (Thurgood Marshall Academy ‘23) is one of several catalysts for the local program who are also led by the stellar play of guard Naceiar Kirksey and big man Ziyade Ndancky.

RNS plays their second game of the day, a testament to their heart and hustle. A couple prospects who will have to rise to the occasion against their strong prep opponent include juniors John Ikpotokin, an athletic wing with a versatile skill-set and Greg Dorsey, a 6’7” post player with a capable mid-range game.

Game 8: Wings Academy (NY) vs. Forest Hills (NY)

A pair of exciting PSAL matchups conclude day one, beginning with a Bronx vs. Queens battle. As Wings flies into a phase of their program, guard Rushawn Greene is making his presence felt on AAAA opponents, pouring in a team-high 20 points per game. The junior is also dishing out a team-high six assists per game.

Forest Hills makes their Classic debut on Saturday. They are a well-balanced group with several players averaging double figures, led by sharpshooters Jaydin Sanchez ‘24 and Keiji Clifton ‘26. The latter leads the team in scoring with 18.8 points per game. Clifton is certainly a prospect to watch in the Classic.

Game 9: Benjamin Cardozo (NY) vs. Adlai Stevenson (NY)

Arguably one of the best games of the event concludes day one of the Classic. The Judges of Cardozo are currently undefeated (13-0) heading into this bout. He’s garnered recognized for his play this season so far, and deservingly so, but Jordin Walker remains one of the city’s best kept secrets. The senior guard leads his team in scoring (21.8) and assists (6.1). He also hauls in 5.5 rebounds per game, good enough for second on the team.

For Stevenson, they play hosts in the Classic for the second year in a row. They look to make a statement win heading into PSAL playoffs against a formidable opponent. Stevenson (10-4) is led by senior duo Tristan Burth and Ahmed Cisse. Burth, a tough post player, is putting up big numbers this season with averages of 14 points and 13.8 rebounds per game. Cisse, a southpaw lead guard, leads the team in both points (14.6) and assists (3.4) per game.

—

Gotham Hoops Classic day two preview will be published tomorrow, Friday, February 2nd.