High School PG’s Rashawn Browne & Yoann Folquet, Top Of Their Game
ORANGEVILLE, ON–The pre-season does not determine how good a team will be by championships roll around in March, but it does give a good indication of which teams have a head start. Athlete Institute Academy’s tournament has brought together a strong crop of some of the best talent from Ontario and Quebec for some high level competition. Teams such as Bill Crothers and Alma Academy, led by a strong guard rotation, are ahead of the pack in terms of chemistry and defining roles, and will likely meet in the semifinals. Quarter-finals will tip off at 9:45 and championship game is at 3:30 today at Athlete Institute Academy.
9:45 am
Alma Prep vs Clarkson
Bill Crothers vs Alma CEGEP
11:30
Athlete Institute HS vs Athelte Institute Prep
Thornlea vs Alma HS
1:15
Semifinals
3:00
Finals
Rashawn Browne picked up where he started off in the summer and has been the most consistent player in pre-season. An athletic, high IQ guard that brings a load of excitement; from dunks in the fast break, steals leading to buckets and timely three point shots. While matching up against NPH top 20 guards in this tournament, he gave them a minimum of 15 points and locked down his man. Browne is solidifying himself as one of leaders for the Bill Crothers Colts.
The combination of a high speed offense and defensive team mentality compliment his game. Browne is interchangeable at the 1 or 2, and produces at both positions. He rises to the occasion time and time again when games came down to the wire. He and Trae Bell-Haynes are in charge of the backcourt, both doing a great job putting their teammates in good scoring position. On the defensive end they have not stopped keeping pressure on the opposing teams ball handlers.
Alma Academy did not make the trip empty handed. Yoann Folquet was a handful for most defenders, close to unguardable at times. Simply put, Folquet was the most complete guard on the scene. The 6’1 PG is an exciting player to watch because of his quickness and athleticism.
His ability to create space and beat his man off the dribble end up in a finish at the rim or a dish off for the easy basket once the defense has collapsed.
If Alma Academy and Bill Crothers meet in the semis that will be the game of the tournament. So far, there is no team that has been able to out rebound Alma as a result of their size and athleticism.
There are at least 25 next level players in this tournament (most with only interest), yet there have only been two CIS coaches in attendance; talk about being under recruited. Those who are in the gym on championship day will undoubtedly reap the benefits.
