Talented PF Stars Looking Toward Virginia Beach Classic



The Philly Freedom Stars have always put strong teams on the court, but the summer of 2017 could be a special time for the organization.

“We have a lot of talented kids returning, and I’m really excited about the season,” said Coach Ryan Garner. “On our top team, our 17U team, everybody is going to be fast, athletic and competitive. I can’t wait to see what that group can accomplish on the court.”

That group will have a chance to make an early statement at the 2017 Virginia Beach Classic. The tournament will be played on April 28-30, with the entire event held under one roof at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

The Convention Center is located just minutes away from the beach, and the venue should be loaded with college coaches from all levels. The area will be hosting the Virginia Beach Classic and the Nike Boo Williams will be 30 minutes away that weekend, and expectations are that over 600 coaches will be scouting the events.

Among the standouts for the Freedom Stars will be Faith Bonett (6-0, F, 2018), Myasia Jackson (5-8, G, 2019), Cherelle Washington (5-9, PG, 2018) and Ciara Brannon (6-2, F, 2020). Jackson began the summer rated as the No. 191 recruit nationally in her class according to the All Star Girls Report.

“Faith has a great motor, and she is very athletic and quick,” Garner said. “She cleans the glass and does all the little things for us. College coaches love her motor and her mentality. She is constantly working and producing, and she is a fearless defender.

“Myasia is a point guard with size and strength. She shoots the three well, and she knows how to create space with that body and then get to the basket. She also has great court vision, so if the defense sends help she will find the open player.

“Cherelle is from Florida and she is new to our program. She is very athletic and aggressive, and she has great ball handling skills. She goes to the hoop well and she has a good jump shot. Cherelle also puts a lot of pressure on her opponents on the defensive end.

“Ciara is super quick and super athletic. She is very aggressive and physical, and she is our rim protector. Ciara’s offensive game is really developing well, and she plays every minute with a high motor.”