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Carolina Challenge Blog - February 1st, 2012:

The most important thing you can do as a high school player in North Carolina right now is to finish your season strong. Nothing can replace the pursuit of a championship. It's time to lock in on what your coach is saying, lock out the extraneous voices in your ear and enjoy the ride that the next few weeks can provide.

 

The second most important thing you can do is to turn in your registration for the 2012 Carolina Challenge. This year is a little different. The 2013 class in our state is deep and laced with numerous DI players. In fact, we've invited more 2013 kids than any other class in the history of The Challenge. The thinking is these kids have earned the right to compete for scholarships. Because of that, for the first time in the event's history, I've invited more players than we have spots for. That means the first 80 invitees to turn in their paperwork will lock in spots. Consider this your first foray into earning a scholarship. Take the responsibility head on, get your paperwork turned in and go out and win a state championship!

 

On March 24, 80 of the best players in North Carolina will gather where McDonald's All-Americans, Jordan Game participants and John Wall, the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, once played. No other state in the country has a day like March 24 where the best of the best are invited to compete. Get registered, get ready and be prepared to learn about your strengths, weaknesses and where you stack up against the kids you're competing against for scholarships.

 

Carolina Challenge Blog - January 25th:

Invitations went out this week to the event. So far, we've invited 71 players meaning there's still time to earn your invitation. League titles and state championships aren't the only thing on the line in February and March. We'll be out making sure our roster includes the best of the best and the only way to earn and invitation is to play your way into one.

Over 15 percent of the entire ACC, by next fall, will have played in the Carolina Challenge so the scope of the event is unmatched anywhere in the country. For one day, the eyes of the entire basketball nation will be on North Carolina. This is your day! Last year, Tyler Lewis (2012) captivated the hearts and eyes of those in attendance. Quincy Miller dominated on the court and continued to raise the bar for his 2011 classmates. Terry Whisnant was the best shooter at the event and weeks later, the Florida State Seminoles offered him a scholarship!

 

Carolina Challenge Blog - March 21st:

We are thrilled to announce that Norm Roberts, former St. John's head coach, will address the campers next weekend at the Carolina Challenge. Norm recently finished a 6-year stint at St. John's. Aside from being an outstanding head coach and one of the best assistants of the last decade, Norm sports a well-earned reputation as one of the game's best recruiters and classiest people. It's a unique opportunity for our campers to have a chance to listen to someone with Norm's basketball expertise.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 19th:

The Carolina Challenge is just around the corner. Congrats to the state champions from last weekend's public school finals. Alums Paul Larsen and Reggie Price were magnificent in leading Lake Norman past alum Chris Wilson and Terry Sanford. Props to Wilson for mustering the effort after getting hit with the stomach bug the day before the game.

Reggie Bullock ended his career with 2,001 points and another state title. Tashawn Mabry completed a ridiculous post-season run with his Rocky Mount title. He beat Jaquise Moore and Concord for the championship belt.

Next weekend's event has the makings of a special day. You know the headliners -- Quincy Miller, P.J. Hairston, Marquis Rankin, Anthony Gill, Marshall Plumlee, Dez Wills -- but do you know the sleepers? Most of the state will get its introduction to New Hanover's Freddie Jackson (2011) and Montrezl Harrell (2012) of North Edgecombe.

I'd like to thank everyone who called or emailed with potential recruits. The single most difficult task with this event is formulating the list of 80 players. Each year we make an honest effort to assemble the 80 most worthy candidates. Sometimes we miss on guys. For the guys who don't get selected and are Division I prospects, its my job to make sure eventually you receive the recruiting attention you deserve. Thanks for your patience.

If you're one of the 80 coming next Saturday, here's my advice: come prepared. Get a good night's rest. It's a long day and we plan on challenging you physically and mentally. Everyone always asks: "What do I need to do to make a splash?" You need to play your game. Don't come to the Challenge  clicking off 3s if you're not a shooter. If you can't dunk, don't try it next Saturday. In the past, the guys who look the best have come with an overall approach to the game. Share the ball, show your hoops IQ and makes the most of your chances to score. The best overall player at the Carolina Challenge has NEVER led the event in scoring. Never.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 22nd:

Sorry it's taken me so long to update the blog, but I've been busy! The first order of business that we're now located at CarolinaChallenge.com. A guy in Virginia sold me the rights to the site so you can still use CarolinaChallenge.net or the new .com address. It's the little things in life!

As for the basketball, I've been grinding on the road lately. My wife's been on me about taking care of myself (my back's in bad shape) but I'm addicted to seeing as many of you as I can before the Challenge. BTW, invitations to 81 players went out. It's important to get yours turned in to guarantee you'll be part of the day. After the deadline, we're going to the waiting list and I can tell you, there are good players presently without an invite.

There are a few guys who earned invites this month. A friend tipped me off about 2013 power forward Isaiah Hicks of Oxford Webb and all he did was record a triple-double when I saw him! He's in! Sophomore Xavier Griffin of Oakwood punched his ticket. I went to the I-MECK conference tourney and all I can say is the state will be excited to see 2012 wing Shawn Lester. Ditto for 2011 Aaron Roundtree who is presently trying to get over the hump against Kinston. Speaking of Kinston, Mike Tyson (no, not that Mike Tyson) is getting better and better. Freshman sensation Rodney Purvis closed his season with some big scoring efforts. Butler's Marcus Burtoon dropped a playoff clinching shot that made headlines in Charlotte. James Milliken of Jordan Matthews impressed director Denny Kuiper and punched his ticket.

Kudos to alujms Reggie Bullock (4 conference titles), J.T. Terrell (scoring spree and conference title), Chris Wilson (hasn't lost since the state title game and is 26-0), Tyler Lewis (double-digit assist vs Oak Hill). It's looking like Bullock, Leslie and Ian Miller are in the running for Gatorade POY! Both Bullock and Leslie made the McDonald's team and Miller made the cut for the final 50.

March 27 is the most important date on my calendar. Trust me when I tell you that NO OTHER STATE in America comes together for one day like ours does. This is your day. If your an alum, come back and support. If you didn't get the call this year, come see what its like. If your the parent of an invited player, spend the day with your son and attend our parent conference on academics and recruiting.

This year's theme: Compete. Respect. Return.

And finally, for the 4th year in a row, I've been asked to provide color commentary for TIme Warner Cable during the state championships. This year I'll have the call of the 2-A and 4-A state title games. I'll be at Reynolds Coliseum for the games. Who's joining me? Good luck in the playoffs.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - January 29th:

Our first wave of camp invitations has yielded a series of confirmations already. The very first player to reach out was Winston-Salem prep freshman Greg McClinton.

This week we've already heard from super soph Tyler Lewis, juniors Tyquan Roberts, Jackson Simmons, Keynan Pittman, Jordan Robertson, Jaleel Roberts and South Carolina pledge Anthony Gill. Durham's finest, sophomore T.J. Warren is in as well as Raleighwood sleeper guard Josh Newkirk.

On Thursday night, we ventured out to see sophomore power forward Montrezl Harrell of North Edgecombe. Word of the street was Harrell is a walking triple-double. Well, we had to see it for ourself and guess what?  TRIPLE-DOUBLE! Harrell had 27 points, 16 rebounds and 10 blocks. He'll be there March 27 as well.

Finally, Paul Shugar of the Fayetteville News & Observer updated a story on Damontre Harris and previewed this year's Fayetteville-area invitees.

http://www.fayobserver.com/Articles/2010/01/29/971949
 
DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - January 27th:

Three-time Carolina Challenge alum Tashawn Mabry is in the record books.  Move over Phil Ford. Mabry is now Rocky Mount's all-time scoring leader.

On Tuesday, Mabry passed Ford with 2,093 career points.

Congrats to Lakeem Jackson as South Carolina knocked off No. 1 Kentucky. The game featured three Challenge alums in Jackson, UK's John Wall and USC director of basketball operations L.J. Hepp. Formally of Panther Creek High, Hepp is in his first season in Columbia. The entire Christ School team which includes 2010 invitees Demarcus Harrison, Marshall Plumlee and Tony Kimbro was in attendance for the game.
 
DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - January 22nd:

Over the weekend, 78 invitations were sent out to the players we've identified as Carolina Challenge material. What does that mean? It means there's still a chance to earn an invitation and we're still on the grind looking for the best of the best.

In setting up this year's Challenge, we took a look at the first three camps. Since 2007, we've been hosting the event. In three years, the Carolina Challenge has sent an estimated 90 players onto college! During that time, 19 players from the event have gone on to play in the ACC.  Understand this: there are 126 players in the ACC. That means 15% of the entire league participated in our camp!

Appalachian State (6), as of next fall, will have the most alums on its roster. Congrats to Griffin Shaw, a 2009 participant, for becoming a preferred walk-on with a shot at a future scholarship. Ten players matriculated to the Southern Conference in our first three years.

This event is for our state, consisting of guys from our state. It's not my event, its our state's event. We want to pack the stands at Cary Academy this year. We're going to have some supreme matchups. Where else can you see Quincy Miller vs Anthony Gill? Marquis Rankin vs. Chris Wilson or Anthony Stitt? How about Tyler Lewis, the guy everyone likes to live vicariously through? You'll see the dunks of Deuce and Bishop plus witness the rise of Braxton Ogbueze. You'll be able to see P.J. Hairston rain 30-footers ala J.T. Terrell.

We'll also have a guy named Montrezl Harrell. Never heard of him? You will. Ditto for Kennedy Meeks.

"I can't wait, I love the Carolina Challenge," said Michael Telep, the event's four-year old ambassador and chief hydration specialist. You need a drink of water, Michael Telep will be there in an instant. He's fired up. Are you?
 
DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - January 7th:

The next few weeks will be dedicated toward tightening up our list for the Carolina Challenge. Some guys have punched their ticket, others are still being evaluated.
 
During the Christmas break, we laid eyes on West Charlotte power forward Kennedy Meeks and he was offered and accepted his invitation on the spot. He's got a bright future. So far, we've found nearly 10 freshmen for the Challenge.
 
Right now, the state's deepest class appears to be the 2011 group. We may have more juniors at the event than even before, thus making each invitation and selection very difficult. Our state has well over 40 Division I prospects in that class. One new name to watch is Charlotte Christian forward Worth Smith, a recent invitee to the Challenge.
 
At the GSK, Challenge alum Ian Miller was THE MAN. He's elevated his play to the point where he's under consideration for the McDonald's AA game. If he were to make it, the state of North Carolina could wind up with three burger game participants: Miller, Reggie Bullock and C.J. Leslie. Combined the trio played in seven Carolina Challenges!.
 
DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - November 4th:

In just a few days, high schools around the state will tip off their scrimmage schedule. That means we'll be out in full force
watching the next generation. On Nov. 7, our travels take us to Terry Sanford for a scrimmage featuring a host of underclassmen, including 2009 camper Chris Wilson. Later in the day we'll be at Word of God for C.J. Leslie as he squares off against young buck forward Jacob Lawson!

Here's a name we've been impressed with so far: Josh Newkirk. Don' t know him? That's because he hasn't played a varsity game yet. However, this SE Raleigh point guard from the 2012 class is shaping up to be a player.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 26th:

It's almost here. The 3rd Carolina Challenge tips at 9:30 a.m., Saturday at Cary Academy. Players, you guys can begin to check in at 7:30 am and everyone participating should be there no later than 8:45 am. 

 

Wow, there are some dynamite matchups! How about starting the day on Court #1 with a Reggie Bullock/P.J. Hairston tilt? The last time these two played, they combined for 57 points. But, you might want to watch a half of that one and skip over to Gym #2 where Deuce Bello and Devince Boykins are lacing them up.

 

At 10:40 am, Wake Forest sniper J.T. Terrell and future Seminole Ian Miller lock up in what could be a game of the day scenario if you like scoring! Over on Court #2 at the same time you could see Melvin Tabb and forward Jackson Simmons with a load of wings like Bishop Daniels, Brian Richardson, Reco McCarter, Reggie Dillard, Jay Canty and Terry Whisnant on the floor.

 

After lunch, it's up and coming bigs John Cannon and Marshall Plumlee on Court #1 with Reggie Bullock and Co. At the same time on Court #2 you can see two of the top sophs duel as Bello and Hairston collide.

 

Like big men? How about a little 2:30 tilt featuring CJ Leslie and Melvin Tabb? Terrell will be next door trying to get buckets against Brian Richardson.

 

At 4:20 on Court #2 its Jarell Eddie's club against up and comer Quincy Miller. 
 
And finally to close it down at 5:20 it's a Wake Fan's special. Terrell vs. Tabb plus a matchup featuring point guards Brennan Wyatt and Poobie Chapman. Meanwhile, on the #2 court, sophs Marquis Rankin and Anthony Stitt get to see who leaves with bragging rights and returns to the Queen City!

 

All this and more, Saturday at the Carolina Challenge! 

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 19th:

The registration process ended this week and now its time to get down to playing basketball. The third edition of the Carolina Challenge is set. The participants are now listed on the site.  Click here for the list 

 

This year, the night before the Carolina Challenge there will be a coach's clinic at Panther Creek. Darrin Horn, South Carolina's first-year head coach, is the featured speaker. N.C. State assistant Pete Strickland and at least one more assistant coach will address a growing contingent of coaches from across the state! 

 

We're thrilled that former campers John Wall and Brandyn Curry are coming back and spending the day with us. They'll be on the benches serving as mentors to the guys hoping to one day take their places. Wall is undecided and Curry will play basketball at Harvard. 

 

March 28 is the Challenge. Player check-in begins at 7:30 am and runs until 8:45. The guys will get together for a brief practice and then we tip at 9 a.m. Admission is free and strong crowds are expected so we encourage friends, family and fans to come early! 

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 16th:

C.J. Harris, Mike Grace and Josh Hicks are state champions BUT Terry Sanford made them earn it! What a game as Tabor staved off a huge rally from Terry Sanford. <p> There are two big names that emerged during the state finals. The first, Sanford's Chris Wilson. A sophomore point guard, we expect Wilson to be a breakout player at the Carolina Challenge and one of the event's most competitive players. 

 

Bishop McGuinness captured the 1-A state championship behind high-scoring junior guard Aaron Toomey. Both Wilson and Toomey should be hungry for the competition and each punched their entrance into the Carolina Challenge by virtue of huge state tournament runs. <p> Props to Carolina Challenge alums Eric Mayo of Shelby and Jonathan Frye and Jacob Lawson of Northern Guilford. Each earned a state championship ring this week. 
 
Later this week we'll release the full Carolina Challenge roster. We're also pleased to announce that this year there will be a coach's clinic the night before the Carolina Challenge. It'll take place at Panther Creek High March 27. For more information, coaches should contact L.J. Hepp via email at ljhepp@yahoo.com

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 11th:

We are days away from championship Saturday. Two former Carolina Challenge campers (C.J. Harris and Mike Grace) lace them up against Terry Sanford in the 4-A championship game. Tabor edged a previously undefeated Hopewell squad and won the right to play for the title.

 

The 1-A title game has 2009 camper Aaron Toomey's Bishop McGuinness team matched against Weldon. Toomey earned his invitation with a big year and tremendous play down the stretch for McGuinness. He's what the Carolina Challenge is all about: a chance to measure yourself against the best!

 

Eric Mayo, a Challenge alum, will play his final high school game against Northwood in the 2-A championship. 

 

Kudos to Northern Guilford. Stan Kowaleski's burgeoning 3-A power defeated Dudley twice and Kinston this year. For his efforts, he'll match against Forestview for the title. NG will send wing Jonathan Frye and power forward Jacob Lawson to the Challenge. 

 

In case you missed it, last week's eastern 3-A semifinal was, in my eyes, the game of the year. Kinston edged Dudley as the teams stars played to the best of their abilities. Reggie Bullock finished with 28 points and Dudley's PJ Hairston netted 29, including an en fuego second quarter in which he scored 20 points! Do you think we might see this matchup again on March 28? There's a good bet! 

 

Speaking of match ups. How about CJ Leslie against Luke Cothron? Deuce Bello against Hairston? Ah, the possibilities are endless. Mix in some under the radar guys and you've got the makings for a huge day. Stay tuned as we announce participants and potential matchups in the next week! <p> And finally, please remember to remind those parents who plan on coming about the academic seminar for friends and family!.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 26th:

Two years, two crushing, season ending losses. Vance had Mount Tabor's number in the 4-A playoffs until Wednesday night. Former campers Mike Grace and C.J. Harris combined with senior Josh Hicks to help Tabor throttle Vance. 
 
In a game that had no less than seven DI prospects (all guards), big men were not needed. Carolina Challenge invitees Jacoby Davis, Marquis Rankin and Braxton Ogbueze couldn't thwart the senior laden Tabor trio. Vance junior Daryl Traynham did not play. 

 

Next Up: Concord @ Lake Norman on Friday and the private school playoffs in Charlotte!

 

Almost forgot a pair of new 1,000 scorers. Dudley's P.J. Hairston and Hopewell's Alex Godette are now card carrying members of the 1,000 point club. Hairston's a soph, Godette is a senior headed to Army.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 24th:

Welcome back, Anthony Stitt. The Butler sophomore point guard was ruled eligible just in time for his team's playoff run. Stitt & Co. knocked off West Meck and sophomore Terrence Williams in the first round. 

 

Stitt's re-emergence lends further credence to the thought that the state's Class of 2011 may be one of the best years in the last quarter century. This group is loaded! Colleges are dive bombing the state behind the scenes. One college coach told me this week he thinks the state's Class of 2011 could be one of the three strongest states in the entire country! BIG TIME! A record 33 sophomores have been invited to the Carolina Challenge!

 

Props to Ryan Kelly (Ravenscroft) and Wakefield Ellison (Asheville) for toppling the 2,000 point mark. On his way to the milestone is Panther Creek star Earnest Ross. Brandyn Curry, a player of the year candidate for undefeated Hopewell, recently scored his 1,000 point. 

 

This is a big week. Caught a game Monday night in Charlotte, plan to be at the Vance/Mount Tabor game with an eye on Lake Norman and Concord Friday night should both win. In the meantime, we'll be taking in some private school games Friday and Saturday!

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 20th:

Fellas, it's winning time. All year long you play AAU ball, high school and everything in between. Please realize the importance of competing hard and play with urgency in the closing weeks. WINNING is what defines the elite players. WINNING is what drives LeBron James. It's not the cash, it's the rings. Go get yourself one!

 

The McDonald's Game announced that two former Carolina Challenge campers made the roster. Ryan Kelly (Duke) and Mason Plumlee (Duke) are in! Big time congrats! 

John Wall, the nation's best point guard, sadly did not make the game and it had nothing to do with talent. Wall was deemed a 5th year player and ruled ineligible to participate. That's a shame since he's been essentially a member of this class and a high-profile one at that. My beef is simple: age-wise, John Wall is younger than Mayo and Hansbrough -- to name two -- and they made the game. I know rules are rules, but this is a tough pill to swallow. To his credit, John's handled it like a pro and he's been named to the Jordan Brand Classic where he'll reunite with Plumlee!
 

Had a chance to attend senior night at D.H. Conley last week. Jaron Lane, Conley's talented senior wing, made the winning plays down the stretch and locked it down for Conley of South Central. Asheville is getting a tremendous player! Lane had 20 and 14 rebounds! Jaron Lane is one of the real success stories to come out of the Carolina Challenge! JL, congrats!

 

Thursday night was tough for junior Jarrick Brown. The Millbrook guard went up for a shot, landed on his left wrist and broke it. Brown had surgery the same night/morning and is for at least a month. A 2010er with Ivy League interest, Jarrick participated in the first two Carolina Challenge events and will be with us again in some capacity. Maybe as an assistant coach?

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 11th:

Around the Telep House this week, the name Devince Boykins has come up a few times. For starters, he's a good player and a sophomore. He's also from Forest City, my wife's hometown! 

Boykins is what the Challenge is all about. In his area, his reputation is growing. Across our state, few know much about him. Mike Talbott, a N.C.-based scout should get credit for being ahead of the curve!

Anyway, Boykins (East Rutherford High) will be at the Carolina Challenge which works out well for me on multiple fronts. It's Valentines week and I was able to tell my wife, who checks in all the players once they arrive for camp, that her hometown would finally be represented! 

Last Friday, in Charlotte, two rivals clashed as Vance outlasted North Meck on the Vikings home court. Current and future Challenge participants dotted both rosters. 

Vance sophomore Jacoby Davis came up big, so did his buddy Marquis Rankin who stroked a pair of key 3s. Daryl Tranyham, as always, got after it on defense. Unsigned senior Andre Marhold shot 18 free throws for North Meck. 

A few days later, Vance fell to Hopewell. Senior Brandyn Curry, who in my opinion, is one of the best leaders in high school basketball, set the tone. The state playoffs, especially on the western side, will be must-see! 

BTW, Word of God is 3-0 against Flora MacDonald BUT Luke Cothron's eyes light up when he sees the Holy Rams. Last Saturday, Cothron went for 41 and 19 rebounds! 

Registrations are flowing in for the Carolina Challenge! March 9th is the deadline. 

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 4th:

If you went to the Word of God/Ravenscroft game you were lucky. Lucky to get in AND fortunate to see two of the best players EVER from Raleigh! John Wall was amazing, one of his finest performances. Kelly didn't have it that night. Both are all-americans in my book as is Christ's Mason Plumlee. Each of them played in two Carolina Challenges apiece. 

After the game, David Glenn of the ACC Sports Journal and Doreen Kelly of Ravenscroft addressed a group of Carolina Challenge volunteers and sponsors! If you'd like to be a sponsor or make a donation, please visit our Sponsors & Donors page on this site! 

Registrations are coming in at a great pace. Here's a sneak preview. Mount Zion's giant Chris Coleman (2011) is in! Ditto for Smoky Mountain standout Jackson Simmons (2011). Dezmine Wells (2011), Word of God's high flyer and Hopewell standout Jordan Downing (2010) are registered along with a bevy of other talented players like Cannon's sweet shooting Keith Bellfield (2011). 

In putting together the initial invite list, I think there are a few surprises. Heard of Tony Menton (2011)? You will. Ditto for Jacquise Moore (2011), Terrence Williams (2011) and Keynan Pittman (2011).

BTW, congrats to Tom Tankelewicz (Charleston Southern), Josh Hicks (Old Dominion) and Zach Faircloth (Presbyterian). None played in the Carolina Challenge but that's my fault, not theirs.

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - January 22nd:

This week was big for the Carolina Challenge. Invitations to top players from the around the state went out. This is a particularly special year because for players like Reggie Bullock, C.J. Leslie, J.T. Terrell, Jarell Eddie, Tayshawn Mabry, Anthony Thomas, Jay Canty, Tevin Friday, Corey Raley-Ross, Jon Rice, Poobie Chapman, Jarrick Brown and a host of others, 2009 marks their third and final season at the Challenge.

If you received an invitation, please remember that the deadline for registration is March 9! It'll come up fast so get your registration forms in ASAP. After the 9th, we can't guarantee your spot.

In previous Challenges, we've had some serious players. This group, however, is slated to be our deepest. With invitations on the way to emerging standouts like Luke Cothron and Quincy Miller, we think our third Carolina Challenge is considerably deeper than our previous two. There's always star power here and guys like Bullock and Leslie should be prepared to take on all comers!

One neat aspect of the Carolina Challenge for me, is finding some hidden gems. Friends across the state help identify "under the radar prospects." For example, James Carlton was a big name to emerge from last year. Ditto for Jaron Lane (UNC-Asheville). This year is no different as sleepers turn into stars right before your eyes!

By the way, graduates of the Carolina Challenge are doing well in college. Remember Seth Curry? Well, the Liberty freshman is the nation's leading freshman scorer! 

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - November 18th:

The day after signing day I hit the road and began catching games. 

Welcome back! Just a reminder: the 2009 Carolina Challenge is March 28, 2009! We’re shooting for a big time speaker who I’m sure you’ll recognize instantly!

Right out of the box, two-time Challenge camper Earnest Ross, dropped 24 on Sanderson. Earnest inked with Auburn last week.

Props to Stan Okoye of Knightdale. He dumped 43 in his opener. The points are great but what’s more important is his confidence is sky high. He’s going to make someone a very good spring signee in April. 

Jarell Eddie looked good both nights at the Cannon Classic. However, it was N.C. newcomer Luke Cothron and Flora MacDonald who won Cannon’s event. Cothron is a fast-riser!

Last Saturday I caught Deuce Bello a few days after he sprained his wrist. Bello’s one of the best athletes in the country. Later that night Wayne Country Day’s Reco McCarter had 15 & 12 in a loss to C.J. Harris and Mike Grace of Mount Tabor. 

Melvin Tabb had 31 in his second game and is becoming a priority target for a lot of teams. 

The season’s begun and we’ll be out watching for new campers each step of the way!

Sometime To Think About? Have you done anything lately to help someone on your team who not as talented have a better game? What kind of teammate are you? 

DT 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - April 17th, By Lindsay Priester:

The weekend started with two-year-old Michael Telep pulling the fire alarm. The resulting sound was unbearable; volunteer workers fled the gym, hands over ears. The firemen arrived, laughing at the situation. They even gave little Michael a tour of the fire truck. Paige, Michael’s mom, was horrified and apologized continuously. Dave, Michael’s father, tried to teach his son that pulling the fire alarm was “bad.” Meanwhile, Michael sported a fireman’s hat atop his head and enjoyed the attention of the firemen. From that point on the tone for the weekend was set – Dave Telep’s Carolina Challenge would definitely be a family affair. 
 

The family ties, however, ran deeper than the Telep family; they were also evident on the basketball court. Followers of the ACC have heard of Duke recruit Mason Plumlee, a junior from Christ School in Arden. Fewer have heard of freshman Marshall, his younger brother. The Plumlee family, in fact, extends further into the basketball world with older brother Miles, who will be playing for Stanford next year. One of the delights of the day was watching Mason and Marshall square up against each other in one of the Carolina Challenge’s match-ups. Prior to the game the two horsed around during warm-ups, as only brothers could do. When the game began, it was a different story. Mason showed off the skills that have gotten him attention from schools like Duke, while Marshall surprised many with his explosiveness and aggressiveness in the post. It seems Marshall has taken advantage of his family situation and has learned a great deal from his older brothers.
 

While the games continued all day in the two gyms of Cary Academy, volunteer Doreen Kelly was scurrying around helping wherever she could. From selling concessions to leading a recruiting seminar for players and their families, Doreen was willing and eager to help. Her daughter Erin chipped in too (albeit after being bribed with M & M’s), helping in concessions and with the cleanup process. 
 

“Have you gotten a chance to see Ryan play?” a fellow volunteer asked Doreen. 
 

“A little bit, but not too much,” Doreen responded. 
  

Many of the volunteers were too busy to watch much basketball at the Carolina Challenge and Doreen was no different. Then again, none of the other volunteers had a son participating in the Challenge. While Doreen sold candy bars and talked about the finer points of the NCAA Clearinghouse, Ryan Kelly was busy gaining position inside. Ryan, a junior from Raleigh’s Ravenscroft, is receiving increased national recruiting attention after bulking up over the last year. Mom, son, and daughter all added to the success of the Carolina Challenge in their own way. 
 

The family atmosphere was also apparent in the packed stands as parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins cheered on their favorite players. Earnest Ross’ mother was just one of many vocal and enthusiastic supporters present. She delighted in conversing with other fans and volunteers and watching the Panther Creek junior perform. 
While the slogan “Are You Recruitable?” was the day’s official theme, the unofficial one of family seemed to appear again and again. Telep chose UNC-Charlotte’s senior guard Leemire Goldwire as the day’s featured speaker. Many commented that for someone who knows numerous famous basketball players, Goldwire seemed a strange choice.
 

Telep disagreed. “There wasn’t a better guy to talk to those 80 kids that day than Leemire Goldwire.”
 

Goldwire, one of the top twenty scorers in Charlotte’s history, is also a dedicated husband and father. The example he sets personifies what Telep wants these young players to emulate in their own journeys.
 

Finally, even after over nine hours of intense basketball competition, players and their families seemed hesitant to leave. As participants and their loved ones lingered, new friendships were formed. It was obvious the theme of family had resonated yet again at Dave Telep’s Second Annual Carolina Challenge. 

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - April 8th, By Dave Telep

Wow! 

First of all, let me thank the dozens of volunteers, coaches, friends, family and parents that helped make the 2nd Carolina Challenge a smashing success! Without your time, counsel and commitment to excellence we couldn’t have done it.  Also, many thanks to Ben Sherman from Scout.com.

As for the basketball itself, I’m so proud of the kids in our state for their approach and execution that day. Plus, Leemire Goldwire really reached a great number of participants and his message was awesome: work hard, stay focused and be smart about your decisions.

Lakeem Jackson couldn’t have played any harder than he did. He was relentless in his attacks at the basket. John Wall, well, when your name is on the marquee and everyone wants a piece of you, it can be overwhelming. Not for him though. Wall’s thunderous dunk in transition was one of the day’s highlights. 

There were so many outstanding performances, I won’t even try and mention them all. I will say that Julius Brooks (led the event in scoring) and freshman Marshall Plumlee learned a lot about themselves on March 29. For both the trick will be taking the confidence they gained and replicating the performances they turned in.

The Carolina Challenge, at its core, is designed to be a celebration of talent from our state and a platform to deliver the message: it’s never too early to begin getting yourself prepared to play in college.

Over the next few weeks we’ll add photos and keep blogging. Check back for videos and photo galleries in the month of April!!
 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 24th, By Dave Telep

 

It's Monday and I'm in the airport. I was about to get on a plane when Greg Echenique committed to Rutgers (big pickup for the Knights!). Anyway, I'm heading to the McDonald's All-American game to see the best our country has to offer. 

What a week. I get back Thursday at noon and get to move from the best in the nation to the best in North Carolina! If you can't tell, the juices are flowing. My 2-year old son asked me "can I go to the Carolina Challenge?" That was big time. BTW, he's coming! 

Saturday's a big day for our family. My dad keeps score, the in-laws assist with hospitality, registration and babysitting! We've got a lot of friends and family in town and our volunteers are outstanding. In short, everyone is excited! 

I want to give a special shout out to Karen Priester. This special lady approached me months ago and wanted to get involved. She's taken on a prominent role in the advertising and promotion of this event. Not to mention, she's been instrumental in getting sponsors which has helped reduce the cost for the campers by $20 from last year! Karen, thanks a million! 

With all 80 campers signed up and registered, the next few days are devoted to monitoring the injury wire. We're hearing Reggie Bullock should be OK. However, freshman sensation Bernard Sullivan is not. Per doctors orders he's on the shelf for a few weeks but he's coming to spend the day with his peers. Give him a lot of credit, it'll be tough sitting there and not playing but he'll have two more cracks at the Challenge! 

Leemire Goldwire, one of the best shooters in the history of 49er basketball is our speaker on Saturday. He's going to come talk to the kids. Lee's a great story. He bypassed BCS conference schools, picked Charlotte and had a great career. I hope the guys listen to him about picking a school where you fit. BTW, Lee's also a father and husband. He's a big time kid and I'm psyched he's coming to spend the day with us!
 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 21st, By Dave Telep

 

Next Saturday the biggest names in North Carolina high school basketball will lace them up. The Walls, Bullocks and Plumlees of the world are household names (or at least should be). 

The Carolina Challenge is about opportunity and seeing who can raise their game and in turn their profile. Here are 5 kids to watch next weekend and why we think they could emerge in a big way.

Jay Canty, 2010 – While the bigger names steal the headlines, Canty has quietly gone about getting bigger and better. A versatile wing, he’s got all the tools to be a high level player.

Brandyn Curry, 2009 – Aside from John Wall, the junior crop of points isn’t deep in the state. Curry was the conference POY and already has a big rep in Charlotte. Look for him to go statewide.

Jacob Lawson, 2011 – An explosive player, he’s a tad undersized but makes up for it with his athleticism and leaping ability. This guy is going to sneak up on people.

Ian Miller, 2010 – Again, the Queen City is all over him and the rest of the state is slow to catch on. Could the Challenge be his breakout event? 

K.J. Sherrill, 2009 – This could be the mid-level frontcourt player to emerge. He hails from a perennial state power program at West Rowan and now with a chance to drop the hammer on the kids from the bigger cities will he seize the chance?
 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 18th, By Dave Telep

 

I got a chance to call the state championship game with my friend Mike Solarte. We had a blast. East Meck deserved the title after the murderous slate of teams it defeated along the way. Jason Grube’s team won its last 5 games by 62 points.

Challenge alums Reggie Bullock and Bo Ingram led Kinston to the 3-A title. Ingram excelled throughout the playoff run. Bullock turned an ankle in the finals so we hope he’s healed up for the Carolina Challenge.

Big man Reggie Johnson broke the state record for rebounds in a title game with 23. His Winston-Salem Prep team won the 1-A title in a blowout. Alum Marcus Wright was terrific as well.

Now, it’s time to get ready for the Carolina Challenge. We’ll release the teams before the event but for now, we’ll name drop and let the names of the 80 campers out of the bag!
 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 7th, By Dave Telep

 

Major props go out to Damier Pitts (Carolina Challenge alum) and Dee Bost (2007 state champion, Concord H.S). The two friends combined to lead Hargrave Military Academy to the prep school national championship. Bost, the MVP of last year's state football and basketball championships, earned the honor at the prep tournament. Pitts, who is headed to Marshall, continues a long run of successes. The Thundering head may have a future all-league floor general on its hands. The two best 2008 point guards at last year's Challenge own rings. In addition to Pitts, lead man Andre Cornelius captained Victory Christian to the 2-A private schools state title last month. A few seasons from now when Pitts and Cornelius take their teams to the NCAA Tournament the hope is more kids in the state realize there's good ball played beyond the confines of the ACC!

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - March 5th, By Dave Telep

 

Aside from watching the top prospects in the state of North Carolina test each other head-to-head, the most rewarding facet of the Carolina Challenge is knowing the kid’s individual stories.

Take Jaron Lane for instance. The 6-foot-4 D.H. Conley small forward is a junior and a good player. His squad got bounced after giving Dudley all it could handle in the 3-A eastern semifinals. 

Conley, which is 10 minutes from East Carolina’s campus, doesn’t get a lot of attention and Lane is deserving of Division I looks. A good student, he hung 26 on Dudley and I’d be shocked if he’s ever gotten a recruiting letter. Kids like Lane will always be what the Carolina Challenge is about. 

He’s coming on March 29th. Of the 80 kids there, he may be the least recognizable but likely the one young man with the most to gain. You can bet he’ll empty his tank that day, force everyone else to play hard and when it’s all over, maybe a few more folks might become familiar with his story. 

On Tuesday night I sat next to scout Mike Talbot and Carolina Crusaders coach Needham Cheely. When it comes to the eastern part of the state and identifying under the radar players, Cheely’s pretty darn solid. His AAU team won’t have the high profile, national level kids but he’ll always have guys who can play. 

Kinston and Dudley are going to play for the right to do battle against the best from the west in the state finals. This one is a total pick-em game. Kinston sophomore Reggie Bullock and senior wing Bo Ingram combined for 42 points and 18 rebounds against Northern Vance. Props to Northern Vance who finished the season 24-2. Carolina Challenge alum Nick Jefferson fouled out in the final high school game of his career.

Dudley got all it could handle from Lane and Conley. Carolina Challenge campers Brennan Wyatt and P.J. Hairston are big factors for Dudley. Hairston banged knees in the second half and was limited. Wyatt, another name to watch for on March 29, handed out 7 assists. By the way, can someone give rapidly improving senior sharpshooter Marcus Heath a scholarship?

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 24th, By Dave Telep

The private school state championships are over. Congrats to Word of God, Victory Christian and Christ School. Each was paced by Carolina Challenge alum.  John Wall led the Rams to 30 wins. Teammate C.J. Leslie was an all-stater and freshman workhorse Dezmine Wells debuts at his first Challenge.  2-A went the way of Victory Christian. At last year’s Carolina Challenge point guard Andre Cornelius had the best day of any senior-to-be guard. He’ll be a dynamo at George Mason next year. 

Greensboro Day made a game of it but Christ School was the best 3-A team all season long and despite surgery on his finger, Miles Plumlee ended his high school career with a state title. Challenge campers Mason Plumlee and Lakeem Jackson also earned all-state honors. Freshman Marshall Plumlee (yes, he’s the last Plumlee in the pipeline!) will be one of 5 Christ School invitees to the Challenge. 

Almost forgot about last week’s trip to the ME-CA7 Conference tourney in Charlotte. Man, that league is laced with good underclassmen. Vance won the league title over Hopewell. D.C. import Daryl Traynham was the unofficial MVP for Vance. Junior Brandyn Curry was the driving force for Hopewell as he saved them from a semifinal upset. Loads of prospects from the conference will be at the Challenge. I have the honor of broadcasting the state title game and there’s a good chance I’ll get to see a team from that league again. 

Public schools state playoffs tip this week. Can New Hanover retain its title? Can a freshman lead Dudley back to prominence? Who is this year’s Petey Hausley? <p>
If you’re like me, settling on which game to see in the first round is hard. I know my week will end in New Orleans for the Hornets-Jazz game. Chris Paul and Deron Williams starts my March!

Final Thought: I’ve been thinking about some potential Carolina Challenge matchups. Here’s a few to ponder: Mason Plumlee against Ryan Kelly? How about P.J. Hairston versus Bernard Sullivan in 2011? I know I’d like to see Reggie Bullock and J.T. Terrell check each other! Who will step up to John Wall’s challenge? Brandyn Curry? Stay tuned!

 


Carolina Challenge Blog - February 19th, By Dave Telep

We’re a little over a month away and registration has been going exceptionally well. The neat thing about the process is that some guys have played their way into invitations. For instance, South Meck’s Ian Miller, a sophomore, turned in the kind of year worthy of an invite (and he got one!).

I’m excited about the playoffs this week in particular, the conference tournament involving North Meck, Vance and Hopewell. Last year Vance was a state playoff team and sent Anthony McClenny to the Carolina Challenge. This time around freshmen Marquise Rankin and Jacoby Davis are coming. Plus, Vance has a newcomer in Daryl Traynham out of D.C.!  North Meck has multiple invitees, as does Hopewell led by outstanding guard Brandyn Curry.

 

I can’t emphasize enough to the guys that have been invited how important it is to get your registration and waiver in. We invited 87 kids for 80 spots and so far have received great feedback! 

 

It looks like this year we’ll be joined by Charlotte 49ers senior guard Leemire Goldwire, one of the top scorers in the history of their program. Goldwire has a cool story to tell. He was that recruit that could have signed with one of the 4 big conferences but wanted more immediate playing time and the result was a storied career in the A-10!


WALKER IMPRESSIVE AGAINST THE BEST (Charlotte Observer)   /   Click here for more

OBSERVATIONS (Charlotte Observer)   /   Click here for more

4 LOCAL ATHLETES TRY TO PROVE THEMSELVES (Charlotte Observer)   /   Click here for more

THE CAROLINA CHALLENGE (Wilmington Star-News)   /   Click here for more

CAROLINA CHALLENGE RECAP (Scout.com)   /   Click here for more

TOP 10 PLAYERS AT CAROLINA CHALLENGE (Charlotte Observer)   /   Click here for more

THE BASKETBALL BLOG: CAROLINA CHALLENGE (Wilmington Star-News)   /   Click here for more

CAROLINA CHALLENGE PREVIEW (Scout.com)   /   Click here for more

CARY HOSTS TOP HOOPSTERS (Raleigh News & Observer)   /   Click here for more

IMPRESSING AT THE CAROLINA CHALLENGE (TriangleHoops.com)   /   Click here for more

 

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