Thx for posting. AAU is a beast..that's for sure. Overall I don't like it, but in this system it is all about this $$$. I do like some aspects like the exposure it gives a kid, and the potential big name match ups. However, it's way too much coverage now imo. And I really don't like rating services putting a bunch of stock into these AAU games. And I REALLY don't like the idea of covering these kids at age 15/16 either.
Our last player to depart for the NBA is a clear example of what is wrong in my opinion. He pretty much shot up the charts based off a couple good summer's of AAU ball (A seven footer dunking between his legs really impresses people I guess) Yet the 'number one player' out of highschool looks fairly pedestrian in college and falls to pick 24..I think there is a disconnect there. Same thing happened with Crater. He built his rep off AAU at the age of 16. Later in his high school career he slid, but by that time it was too late. His camp already had big heads about who/what he was. I'd rather them not rate 16 year old kids 5 stars, but I follow anyway.
Last week Draft Express had a great interview with the director of USA Basketball Jerry Colangelo in Colorado (site of the U19 USA practices, Turner), on the same subject.
http://www.draftexpress.com/article/...langelo--3271/