ATL Live provides players a D-Free platform

ATL Live provides players a D-Free platform

By Robert Alfonso Jr. 

DOUGLASVILLE, Ga – Every year during the NCAA Live Period there are players still looking for an opportunity to play at the next level. This is where players jump at the opportunity to play in front of college coaches, which is what ATL Live provides the platform to do so every year.

The annual event took place at Douglas High where several Division 2, Division 3, NAIA, Junior College, and a slew of other programs were in attendance. There was a handful of players, who made the best of the chance to showcase their skills in front of college programs.

Here are some of the players who made an impression.

When it comes to available post players with size Corey Thomas is a name coaches will immediately notice. He is a 6-foot-10 player with skills to play inside ad out. During the showcase, the Middle Georgia Prep product just worked every post and showed the skills, which have improved a year removed from high school. The touch around the rim, perimeter jumper, and motor helps separate him from other interior players. 

Mark Vance was an active post player on both ends of the floor. The Central Georgia Tech College sophomore played big. He moved well for a 6-foot-7 post, who muscled his way through contact. There were moments of him showing off a soft fluid jumper from outside of the lane. A good asset in today’s game.

Kendon Peebles was easily the most outstanding of the camp. The 6-foot-5 wing was a non-stop player on the open floor. He pulled down athletic rebounds at either end. This Virginia Beach native, who attends Catholic High, is an unsigned senior. He did not waste any time making an impact. The lefty knocks down shots.

The consistent play of Ja Mills is always impressive. This Middle Georgia Prep guard is a relentless defender, who doesn’t back down from any challenge. He is explosive on the offensive end of the floor with a solid mid-range game.

Ryan Landers is a former University of North Georgia player. The 6-foot-3 combo guard has a good understanding of the game. He can shoot the ball well and gets inside finishing through traffic.

Brandon Howard is a player with a game that translates to the next level. The Snead State freshman is a consistent sharpshooter. His range was impressive as it rained down from every corner of the gym. This 6-foot-4 sniper’s shot slices through the net with ease. He is available and will bring the jumper with him. 

Samuel Olajuwon came from North of the Border with plenty of energy. The 6-foot-4 wing was an athletic freak during the showcase. He made plays on both ends of the floor to disrupt the offense and ignite the defense. On the other end of the floor, he has the ability to finish at all three levels.