8TH GRADE ALL-STAR GAME RECAP
HEAD COACHES: MIKE EARLY (BEECHCROFT), SHAWN RUFFIN (JOHNSON PARK)
HONORARY COACHES: DAN WAGNER (AFRICENTRIC), LB TOWNS (LINDEN McKINLEY), AMANI LYLES (BEECHCROFT)
WHITEHALL, OHIO - This year's 8th grade game was one of the most anticipated events of the season, matching Central Ohio's Elite middle school 8th graders all on one court.
This year's game featured big names from just about every conference in Central Ohio like the MSL's Demarius Adams, the 6'3 Harvest Prep standout who amazed the packed house at Whitehall Rosemore Middle school with an array of amazing dunks. Adams who
was named 2022 8th grade all-star MVP in a tight race is a big-time player that will only continue to blossom under the HP coaching staff.
Jordan Bowens (Reynoldsburg) is one of the most electrifying players in the area and for good reason, he also dazzled the crowd with rim rocking dunks, but also showed a lot of versatility scoring on multiple levels and handling the rock.
The one Player that stuck out in the 8th grade game was Pickerington Lakeview Point Guard Jason Bates Jr who was a flat-out killer, bates who is small in stature but has a heart of a lion did it all in this game.
His ability to control the tempo as well as facilitate and knock down shot after shot earned him several votes for MVP in this highly competitive contest.
Tyreke Ruffin - (Johnson Park) is going to be a good one, the 5'9 guard has great court vision can knock down the three and is a handful when going downhill
Isaac Dukes - (Pick Ridgeview) is a special talent, has incredible athleticism and uses it on both ends of the court.
Brody Fields - (Teays Valley) Can really put it up, the Teays Valley standout was an early crowd favorite after lighting up the board and being named 2022 3-point Champ.
Brody is without question one of the best pure shooters in the Midwest, he also has a great handle and can get to the basket with the best of them.
One of the top guards in the state Levi Davis was on hand but did not participate due to injury but showed a lot of character supporting and cheering on everyone.
Class Of 2022 Rising Stars
Jaren Mock - Reynoldsburg
Caleb Anthony - Cols Boys Prep
Khani Thomas - All Saints Academy
Jonathon Amos - KIPP Columbus)
Jamarcus Jones - (Harvest Prep)
Class Of 2022 Players 2 Watch
Tavyon Wright- (Woodward Park)
Tajuan Barbour - (Reynoldsburg)
Nate Lovinski - (Licking Heights)
Damien Clay - (Glenwood)