It's been a while since we've updated any news on the spring and summer events which are planned to occur in 2002, but we just received word a couple of days ago from Jan Bryant that several events are now "locked-in" and will be taking place, whether or not NCAA D-I coaches will be present or absent.  And right now, it's looking more and more like D-I coaches won't be permitted to be at any spring recruiting events.  In fact, unless something changes, we think it's a definite "no-go" for all Division I coaches.

But Division I coaches in the room isn't the only reason to be playing basketball.  In fact if it were the only reason, we probably wouldn't be writing this.....There is a whole world of opportunity for players at not only the D-I level, but also at D-II, D-III, NAIA, JUCO, and other college levels, and even if D-I coaches can't attend the spring events, there will be other means by which they learn about who the top players are, who's hot and who's not. (e.g., video and film, and reports from scouts and other levels. . . .  Let's put it this way:  If the NCAA thinks that D-II and D-III coaches won't be sharing what they know with their D-I colleagues, these people in Kansas are loonier than we already think they are.   Likewise, if they think D-I coaches won't be getting deluged with video, well, think again.  The events will go on, the balls will bounce, and the players will play.....Count on it.

So what's on the agenda?   Here's the schedule for the period from March through July, 2002:

1.  March 16-17, 2002:   Double Pump HS "Pump Discovery Shootout" @ Lynwood HS, Lynwood, CA

These shootouts are for both traveling teams and for individuals, and generally players who sign up individually will be placed on teams composed of similar individual entrants.  Lynwood has three courts, side-by-side, so there will be plenty of action.

2.  April 5-7, 2002:   Double Pump HS "Pump N Run Easter Tournament" @ Lynwood HS, Lynwood, CA

This tournament has always been among the best spring events and attracts the top teams from all over California and the West.  It is for teams only (sorry, no individual entrants for this one).  Will run from Friday afternoon, until Sunday afternoon.  Plenty of scouts, and again, in the event D-I coaches aren't present, there will likely be other options available to keep them posted about how a player has performed.

3.  July 7-10, 2002:   Double Pump West Coast All Star Camp, Session 1-- @ Location TBA

4.  July 11-14, 2002:   Double Pump West Coast All Star Camp, Session 2--@ Location TBA

These two camps, always well-attended by NCAA coaches at all levels (the summer is a different story from the spring and fall, and D-I coaches will be out in full-force at these camps), are tradtionally held at Cal State Dominguez Hills.  However, as a result of some construction and some potential commitments arising as a result of the Olympics, the location is not yet certain.  Wherever the camps are held though, they will present some of the best players from all over the country playing against each other in a great environment.

5.  July, 2002:   JC Men's Pump Discovery Shootout--@ Location TBA

Two years ago this event was at Cal State Northridge, and last year, as a result of the confusion in the changes to the summer recruiting schedule, it wasn't held.  However, this year, with the summer calendar being settled earlier in the year, the Pumps have decided to do the JUCO Camp again this year.  Where is unknown, but if you are a JC player looking to play at a four year college, there will be a ton of coaches ready to scout you at this event.

6.  July 22-26, 2002:   adidas Big Time Tournament  @ Las Vegas, NV (various gyms in and around LV).

While the "Big Time" is not, strictly speaking, a "Pump" event,  Larry McKay does work closely with David and Dana. Please note though:  If you need information about the Big Time, DO NOT call Double Pump.  Please call Larry McKay, the tournament director, who can be reached at (702) 799-5454.  Simply and plainly, there is nothing bigger than the Big Time, and there is nothing better in terms of bringing the greatest number of players and college coaches all together for five days.

7.  July 27-31, 2002:   Double Pump "Best of Summer" Tournament  @ Loyola Marymount University

The Best of Summer isn't as big as the Big Time, but its close.  Last year there were more than 125 teams, and it's certainly the next biggest tournament in the country after the Big Time.  Tons of coaches, lots of great players.  And LMU is a great location, close to the freeway, hotels, the airport, and great weather with excellent facilities.

For information about any of these events OTHER THAN THE BIG TIME contact Jan or Phil Bryant at Double Pump's Westwood, CA office (NorCal) at 530-256-2862, fax 530-256-2863.    Again, do not contact them about the Big Time (contact Larry McKay instead for that info).

 
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