March 27-29, 2009 Hoop Magic hosted the 2nd annual Team Takeover Basketball tournament. As expected Keith Steven delivered his stable of teams that recently came under the Team Takeover organization. The tournament also provided an opportunity for other teams and players to test their skills against some of the best players in the country.  One of those teams/organization was Julie Skinners, NRV Elite teams from Roanoke, Virginia that competed in the 16u and 17U divisions. Coach Skinner not only had her teams prepared but they came to showcase their talents. 

One of her players that caught our attention was 6"6 Toles Hartman, a tough inside player that did not back down to the other players on the more high profile teams. What really caught our attention was the game against Team Takeover "A" when he block several shots and stood his ground against against some of the best inside players in the tournament. His old school determination and nose for defending other teams bigger players is what we really like and most of all his competitive nature. We look forward to seeing him and the NRV Elite team this summer. Check out our conversation with Toles by selecting the Class of 2010 link above.

Success is not always measured in victories but how a team competes, how a player plays through the toughest situations. There were many that fit that description, so as teams begin to prepare for July OPEN PERIOD we will be looking for the best of the rest. 

Congratulations to Nike Baltimore Elite and Coach Kyle Locke for capturing the 15 and Under championship.	Championship Game Footage:  Nike Baltimore Elite vs. Petersburg Elite
15 and Under Champions Nike Baltimore Elite
16 and Under Champions National Christian Academy	Championship Game Footage:  National Christian Academy  vs. Team Takeover
17 and Under Champions Team Takeover	Championship Game Footage:  Team Takeover  vs. Team Takeover - Blue