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2024 Gotham Hoops Classic Recap
The 5th Annual Gotham Hoops Classic showcased a weekend of intense competition with over 25 high school and prep teams battling it out in The Bronx.
The 5th Annual Gotham Hoops Classic showcased a weekend of intense competition with over 25 high school and prep teams battling it out in The Bronx.
Here's a detailed game-by-game breakdown of the showcase:
Day 1 - SATURDAY, February 3rd
Game 1: WHEELS (NY) 56 def. South Bronx Prep (NY) 54
In a PSAL 4A vs. 2A clash, WHEELS secured a narrow victory. Despite a game-high 24 points from senior Sirpatrick Livingston, South Bronx Prep fell short at the end. WHEELS, led by junior Sincere Henderson and senior Camry Perez with 12 points each, emerged victorious.
Game 2: Rothesay Netherwood (CAN) 64 def. Earl Monroe School (NY) 56
New Brunswick-based Rothesay Netherwood controlled the game throughout. Junior big man Greg Dorsey dominated the paint with 19 points and eight rebounds. Junior guard Raymond Kinnard led Earl Monroe School with 20 points.
Game 3: HS for Construction (NY) 78 def. King’s Christian Academy (MD) 62
Despite a slow start, HS for Construction secured a victory against the Maryland visitors. Senior guard Darnell “Bam” Childs dazzled with a 31-point performance. Junior Jalen Waller Jr. posted 17 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.
Game 4: Bridgeport Prep (CT) 84 def. Life Center Academy (NJ) 72
Bridgeport Prep led from start to finish, with five players scoring in double figures. Senior big men Isaac Munkadi (18 points, eight rebounds) and Stefano Rodriguez (16 points, 11 rebounds) led the charge. Junior guard Elijah Brown poured in a game-high 22 points in the loss.
Game 5: Redemption Christian Academy (NY) 64 def. Broome St. Academy (NY) 60
RCA stormed out to an early lead, and despite a comeback attempt by local BSA, they fell short. Senior guard Yeison Liberato's 23-point performance led RCA. Junior Jalan Johnson contributed with 17 points in the win. BSA was led by Andre Wright Jr.’s game-high 27 points in the hard-fought loss.
Game 6: Carolina Basketball Academy (NC) 63 def. Covenant College Prep (NJ) 60
A back-and-forth battle throughout the first half ended with CBA opening up a double-digit lead in the final quarter, eventually holding on for a narrow 63-60 win. Junior Martain Rusev led CBA with 17 points, while standout senior guard Sutan Fitzpatrick paced CCP with a game-high 23 points in the loss.
Game 7: Our Saviour Lutheran - Prep (NY) 62 def. Rothesay Netherwood School (CAN) 47
Local OSL jumped out early and never looked back against their foe from the North. Despite a late comeback attempt by RNS, OSL secured a 62-47 victory. Ten players scored for OSL, led by 15 points from senior big man Ziyade Ndancky. Junior John Ikpotokin had a solid day, finishing the team’s second bout with a game-high 18 points.
Game 8: Forest Hills (NY) 83 def. Wings Academy (NY) 76
Sophomore star Keiji Clifton's stellar performance anchored Forest Hills’ hard-fought win over PSAL opponent Wings Academy. Clifton scored a game-high 26 points, and teammates Chancellor Tillman (22) and Pregnon Titi (18) combined for another 40 points in the victory. Wings were led by their dynamic junior Mohamed Bah’s 21-point outing.
Game 9: Benjamin Cardozo (NY) 64 def. Adlai Stevenson (NY) 62
Cardozo narrowly held on in this nail-biter against the host school. Despite Stevenson's early lead powered by Dishon Herrea’s 13 first-quarter points, Cardozo stormed back in the second half. Senior guard Jordin Walker made big plays down the stretch, scoring seven of his team-high 22 points in the fourth quarter. Senior Joseph Ching contributed 12 points in the second half, finishing with 17 total, aiding Walker’s attack.
Day 2 - Sunday, February 4th
Game 10: Our Saviour Lutheran - Regional (NY) 59 def. Shots with Patience (NY) 55
A fiercely competitive game saw OSL Regional secure a hard-fought victory. Despite a seven-point advantage late in the fourth quarter, SWP came back to tie it up only to fall short at the final buzzer. Latrell Mark led OSL with 16 points, while College of Staten Island-commit Leiton Woods scored 20 in the closely contested match.
Game 11: Louis Brandeis (NY) 52 def. King’s Christian Academy (MD) 49
In another nail-biting contest, Louis Brandeis clinched a hard-fought victory against King’s Christian Academy. Star senior Alexis Ramirez emerged as the hero, scoring 11 crucial points in the final quarter, including a game-winning and-one basket that sealed the win. Ramirez's stellar play, combined with junior Christian Straughter’s 13 points, played a pivotal role in securing Brandeis's first-ever Classic win. For King’s Christian Academy, senior guard Diallo Long led the charge with a 12-point performance.
Game 12: Paterson Eastside (NJ) 55 def. Wings Academy (NJ) 37
Paterson Eastside handled Wings Academy in a dominating performance, with Nyreek Clyburn leading the way with 14 points. All six of Eastside's scorers contributed seven points or more. It was quite the Classic debut for the Ghosts.
Game 13: Bridgeport Prep (CT) 70 def. Carolina Basketball Academy (NC) 64
After both teams won their first Classic games a day prior, this one was a dogfight to see who would leave the weekend undefeated. Although Bridgeport Prep held on for the win, CBA didn’t go down without a fight. A huge third quarter from CBA, led by senior Mor Mboup’s eight points, helped get them back in the game. Bridgeport Prep senior and NYC-native, Kalifa Outtara, made the most of his homecoming, netting a game-high 18 points in the win.
Game 14: Redemption Christian Academy (CAN) 83 def. Earl Monroe School (NY) 70
This was a tight game throughout until junior guard Jalan Johnson exploded for 22 points in the second half en route to a game-high 31-point performance. Earl Monroe was paced by junior backcourt Devin James (18 points) and Raymond Kennard (16 points) in the loss.
Game 15: Brooklyn Collegiate (NY) 57 def. James Monroe (NY) 47
In arguably the most anticipated game of this year’s Classic, this PSAL 4A battle didn’t disappoint. James Monroe quickly jumped out to the lead, but Collegiate clawed back and dominated the second half on their way to a double-digit victory. Point guard Flavio Jean cemented himself as one of the premier prospects in the area with an emphatic 23-point outing where he connected on four three-pointers. Monroe was led by Moe Rashid and Kari Conde’s 10 points, apiece.
Game 16: Thurgood Marshall (NY) 66 def. Baldwin (NY) 64
In a rematch of an overtime thriller between these two teams in the 2020 Classic, this one did not disappoint. TMA saw their lead balloon up to 20 points late in the first half. From that point though, it was the Chase Timberlake show. The star junior put on an absolute performance, scoring 22 of his game-high 41 points in the final two quarters. TMA’s Terrell Hood (25 points) and Ahmad Torrence (17 points) continued their hot offensive stretch to hold on to the eventual victory.
Game 17: Abraham Lincoln (NY) 75 def. Adlai Stevenson (NY) 72
Another finale, another heartbreak for host Stevenson. This time, it was Lincoln who defeated them in emphatic fashion. This one was back-and-forth the entire game until the fourth quarter when Stevenson gained a 10 point advantage. The visiting Railsplitters quickly erased that deficit. There were several and-1 baskets by both teams down the stretch but none bigger than AJ Soloman’s full-court dash and lay-in plus the foul in the games final moments, giving Lincoln the three-point win. Junior Ethan Ostane led a well-balanced Lincoln attack with 12 points. Stevenson’s senior big man Tristan Burth posted a dominant 27 point-performance in the hard-fought loss.
This year’s Gotham Hoops Classic was electrifying from start to finish. Stay tuned for more updates.
2024 Gotham Hoops Classic Preview: Day 1 (Feb 3rd)
From local face-offs to international contests, the event promises a comprehensive showcase of talent.
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.
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Gotham Hoops Classic day two preview will be published tomorrow, Friday, February 2nd.
Top Performers: 2023 Gotham Hoops Classic
Many prospects impressed at the 2023 Gotham Hoops Classic. Top performers included up-and-coming underclassmen to standouts seniors.
The 2023 Gotham Hoops Classic presented by PRIME hosted 17 boy’s high school and prep teams across five different states. This list highlights over 30 top performers from this year’s showcase:
(in no order)
Ejay Greer, Rocktop Academy (PA) ‘23
The 6’7” playmaker displayed a polished offensive skill set in three showcase games. Greer’s smooth jumper extended well beyond the three-point line as his slick handle allowed him to get past defenders and rise for his patented pull-up J. Greer remains one of the top uncommitted post-grads in the nation.
Quentin Duncan, Notre Dame Prep (CT) ‘24
Duncan finished with one of the best performances in this year’s Classic. The 6’5” guard proved to be a high-level scorer, finishing with 35 points in a hard fought win over Rocktop Academy (PA). Duncan scored at all three levels while shooting a high percentage from the floor. He’s a prospect to keep an eye on.
Ryan Leonardo, John F. Kennedy HS (NY) ‘23
The 6’6” forward was dominant in his team’s win over South Bronx Prep (NY). Leonardo poured in 33 points while showcasing a versatile offensive game. He shot well from deep and finished inside with contact. The southpaw made a case as one of NYC’s best unsigned seniors.
Isaiah Wright, Benjamin Cardozo HS (NY) ‘23
The senior guard was highly efficient in Dozo’s two showcase wins. Wright was superb in the paint, finishing around the rim in-traffic and with contact. He scored early and often but also rebounded the ball well and got teammates involved.
Matthew Herbert, King’s Christian Academy (MD) ‘24
Herbert proved to be one of the best three-point shooters in the showcase. Despite his team’s 0-2 record on the weekend, Herbert’s offensive game was on full display. His size at 6’5” and smooth shooting stroke make him an intriguing prospect in the class of ‘24.
Charlie Onana Awana, The Stony Brook School (NY) ‘23
The uber athletic, 6’7” forward played above the rim in his team’s win over Seward Park HS (NY). The senior had several impressive dunks but truly made his presence felt on the defensive end. His six emphatic blocked shots helped spearhead a strong defensive outing for SBS. Onana Awana remains one of the area’s top uncommitted prospects.
Tyler Edore, Brooklyn Collegiate (NY) ‘24
The junior played well in a tough loss to Wings Academy (NY). Edore, 6’7”, proved he can score in various fashions, finishing in the paint with ease while showcasing a formidable mid-range jumper. Edore also made an impact on defense, using his superior length and timing to alter opponents’ shot attempts around the rim.
Mohamed Diaby ‘23
Mohamed Diaby, Thurgood Marshall Academy (NY) ‘23
Diaby’s supreme athleticism was evident in his team’s two showcase games. The 6’7” forward controlled the paint on both ends of the floor. Diaby finished several imposing dunks while protecting the rim defensively. His superb play solidified him as one of NY’s top unsigned seniors.
Ryan Archey, Rocktop Academy (PA) ‘23
The 6’2” guard was terrific offensively in Rocktop’s three showcase games. Archey attacked the rim with ease and finished with either hand. His craftiness in the half court was on full display, breaking down defenders and creating scoring opportunities for himself and teammates. He also shot the ball well from 3PT range.
SirPatrick Livingston, South Bronx Prep (NY) ‘24
Despite the loss, Livingston put his team on his back against John F. Kennedy (NY). The 6’3” scoring guard was aggressive early and often, finishing with contact throughout the contest. Livingston’s strong ball-handling skills were on full display as he utilized change of speed, change of direction to get to the rim.
Bryce Simmons, Wings Academy (NY) ‘24
The 6’2” guard helped his team go 1-1 in the showcase, including an impressive victory over Brooklyn Collegiate (NY). Simmons was incredibly effective with the ball in his hands, scoring in various fashions throughout the two games. He demonstrated an innate ability to score both off-the-dribble and off-the-catch.
Walt Andrews Jr., Notre Dame Prep (CT) ‘24
Andrews impressed as one of the best defenders in the showcase. He was all over the ball in his team’s win over Rocktop Academy (PA). The 6’3” guard forced several turnovers and turned defense into easy scoring opportunities for himself and teammates. In the half court, Andrews used his elusiveness and quickness to finish around the basket.
Francisco Demers, Adlai Stevenson HS (NY) ‘23
Demers sparked Stevenson’s offense in a hard fought win over The Knox School (NY). His four three-pointers lifted his team to a two-point victory. The 6’4” forward has a quick release from long range that was on full-display all game.
Seydou Traore, Our Saviour Lutheran Prep (NY) ‘23
The 6’6” forward made his presence felt on both ends of the floor in OSL’s tough win over Rocktop Academy (PA). Traore was effective in the paint both ends of the floor. He used his athleticism to score with ease and alter opponents’ shots.
Ejay Greer ‘23
Isaac Munkadi, Bridgeport Prep (CT) ‘24
The 6’10” junior used his athleticism and physicality to impose his will against a tough opponent in Rocktop Academy (PA). Despite the loss, Munkadi impressed with his ability to impact the game on both ends. Offensively, he scored inside-and-out while finding open teammates. His length was also a factor defensively.
Malik Fields, Adlai Stevenson HS (NY) ‘26
Fields demonstrated why he’s one of NYC’s best up-and-coming prospects in Stevenson’s win over The Knox School (NY). The 6’2” guard handles the ball well and orchestrates an offense like an upperclassmen. Additionally, his range extends well beyond the 3-point line.
Elijah Hernandez, Our Saviour Lutheran Prep (NY) ‘23
The 6’3” guard was electric with the ball in his hands in a win over Pennsylvania’s Rocktop Academy. Hernandez attacked the defense with relative ease, creating scoring opportunities for himself and teammates throughout the game. His shiftiness was on full-display, breaking down opposing defenders left and right.
Andre Josiah, Benjamin Cardozo (NY) ‘24
Josiah, a left-handed playmaker, was a maestro with the ball in his hands in two showcase games. He played at his own pace and was effective in both the half court and on the break. Josiah shot well from outside but was at his best attacking the defense and finishing at the basket.
Orlando Morris, The Stony Brook School (NY) ‘26
The freshman guard stood out in his team’s win over Seward Park HS (NY). Morris made three three-pointers and shot a high percentage from the floor. The lefty utilized his perimeter prowess to aid his attacking game, putting the ball on the floor and finishing at the rim.
William Lodico, Campus Magnet HS (NY) ‘23
The senior guard played an integral role in Campus Magnet’s come from behind victory over PSAL ‘AA’ foe Thurgood Marshall Academy (NY). Lodico scored timely baskets and provided a strong defense presence down the stretch to help secure the hard fought win.
Mohamed Diarrisso, John F. Kennedy (NY) ‘24
Diarrisso’s athleticism and versatility were on full display in a pair of showcase games. The junior forward made his presence felt inside the paint on both ends. Diarrisso finished with either hand and used excellent timing to challenge opponents’ shot attempts at the rim.
Elijah Hernandez ‘23
Mathok Majok, Bridgeport Prep (CT) ‘24
Majok’s 7’3” stature was undoubtedly a factor on the court. His extreme length resulted in several blocks while altering even more shot attempts around the rim. The junior is a solid athlete that runs the floor. He has an incredibly high ceiling.
Skyler Winick, Our Saviour Lutheran Prep (NY) ‘23
Winick came in clutch down the stretch for OSL in their narrow win over Rocktop Academy (PA). The senior guard knocked down several key three-pointers in the second half. He shot 4/5 (80%) from beyond the arc in the victory.
Nate Small, The Stony Brook School (NY) ‘24
Small’s impact on both ends of the floor helped guide SBS to a win over Seward Park HS (NY). The junior guard scored inside-and-out, used his superb court vision to find open teammates and rebounded the ball well in this one.
Diallo Long, King’s Christian Academy (MD) ‘24
Despite the 0-2 record on the weekend, Long joined Herbert as KCA standouts. Long, a 6’3” guard, showcased a sharp handle and scoring repertoire. He was effective off-the-dribble, utilizing his shiftiness to maneuver past defenders and score inside the paint. Long proved capable of pulling up from three and finishing above the rim with ease.
Jordin Walker, Benjamin Cardozo HS (NY) ‘24
The junior handled the ball well and helped lead Dozo’s offense to wins over PSAL ‘AA’ programs Wings Academy (NY) and John F. Kennedy HS (NY). Walker’s size and build at the point guard position helped disrupt opposing defenses. The 6’2” guard was able to force his way to the paint en route to easy lay-ins and assists.
Anas Rezk, Springfield Commonwealth Academy (MA) ‘25
Rezk showcased a versatile skillset as the 6’5” sophomore attacked the rim from the wing and finished with either hand with ease. The guard/forward also helped spearhead a strong defensive effort in the win over King’s Christian Academy (MD).
Diallo Long ‘24
Messiah Rodriguez, Wings Academy (NY) ‘23
The senior guard made his presence felt offensively throughout the showcase. In two games, Rodriguez was effective both inside and out. He used his speed to blow past defenders and finished with either hand at the rim. Rodriguez also kept defenders honest with his 3PT shot.
Yderrick Gonzales, Springfield Commonwealth Academy Regional (MA) ‘26
The freshman provided one of the best performances in the showcase in a win over King’s Christian Academy (MD). The 5’10” guard shot the ball incredibly well from long-range and also created scoring opportunities for teammates. Gonazeles’ shot-making ability and overall offensive game make him a prospect to watch.
Bryce Williams, Campus Magnet HS (NY) ‘23
Williams left it all out on the court in an impressive win against local Thurgood Marshall Academy (NY). The 6’1” senior used his quick hands to turn defense into offense to help engineer an impressive comeback. Williams consistently got teammates involved offensively and he also finished strong around the rim.
Quentin Richardson, John F. Kennedy HS (NY) ‘24
Richardson helped run the show for JFK during their two showcase games. The junior facilitated the ball well for the Knights, slicing passes through the defense in both the half court and fast break. Richardson proved to be a capable scorer, displaying a solid 3PT shot and ability to finish at the rim in-traffic.
Denym Leslie, Benjamin Cardozo (NY) ‘23
The senior forward is a versatile prospect with his combination of size (6’5”) and skill. Leslie proved to be a legitimate scorer from all three levels, making it difficult for defenders to stay in front of him. He also showcased a strong handle.
Elijah Mitchell, Seward Park HS (NY) ‘24
Mitchell proved to be a bright spot for Seward Park despite their loss to The Stony Brook School (NY). The junior guard finished around the rim well and hit pull-up jump shots with relative ease.
Maksim Vukcevic, The Knox School (NY) ‘24
The 6’3” guard was a gritty competitor for Knox in a tough loss to Stevenson HS. The senior connected on several 3PT shots during the game while using his quick hands to help turn defense into easy baskets on the offensive end.
All 12 showcase games are now available on the Gotham Hoops YouTube Channel (watch here).