Renowned KC Select Program Headed To Chicagoland TOC



Few programs can match the longevity, or the level of consistent success, that has been the trademark of the KC Select club out of Kansas City.

“This isn’t a ‘fly by night’ organization. We have been doing what we do for over two decades now,” said Coach Earnest Jones, who has been a part of that success from the beginning. “We have had several McDonald’s All-Americans, and a number of our players have go on to play in the pro’s. When you have accomplished those things, that helps draw quality players to your program.”
Quality, focused coaches are another thing that draw players to a program, and Jones is one of those mentors.
“I’m a hard nose guy, and I teach the game and the fundamentals. That’s what the parents are looking for, and that is what we have been doing for a long time,” he explained.
The current members of KC Select will be looking to continue their tradition of excellence at the upcoming Chicagoland Tournament of Champions. The event, which will feature many of the top clubs in the Midwest, will be played at Bolingbrook High School from Sept. 27-28.
KC Select has enjoyed tremendous success with it’s top team this summer, and Jones is equally excited about the future of the program.
“Our 2015 kids, I really think they have shown that they are one of the best teams in the country,” the coach said. “But, I also think our 2016 Class has a lot of talent. I could just go on and on with the talented players in that group.”
Among the most notable up-and-coming prospects for KC Select are Ryan Wilkins (2016, 5-7, PG), Daejah Bernard (2016, 5-7, G) and Sydney Paialii (2016, 5-7, G). In addition to those 2016’s, Jones is high on Ashley Dotson (2017, 6-3, P) and Morgan Smith (2017, 6-2, P).
“That is a very, very good group,” Jones said. “We have some outstanding athletes on the perimeter, and  then a couple of big, strong players inside. They are all working and improving, and they have very bright futures.”