by Alex Schwartz

There's a new July Live Evaluation period event coming to the area this year, and it will be one of the final chances for Division I coaches to watch prospects play this summer. Held at St. John's University in Queens, New York on July 28, 29, and 31 and co-hosted by New Heights and Team NJABC, Summer in the City will feature many of the premier AAU programs in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region, and beyond. The event is invitation only.

On July 28 and 29, the younger age groups will be on display. Squads playing at the U14, U15, and U16 levels will compete in what is being called "The Future is Now" part of the tournament. This will give DI, and of course DII, DIII, NAIA, and JuCo coaches a chance to see the up-and-coming younger players who will be at the collegiate level soon enough. Teams competing on these days will have a three-game guarantee.

On July 31 it is time for the U17 teams to take the court. Called "Take Your Last Shot" and rightfully so, this will be the final day that rising seniors have to showcase their skills for DI coaches before the high school season. The programs participating in this portion of the event will have a two-game guarantee.

All of the games will be played at St. John's, which has four fantastic courts. Summer in the City has received its NCAA certification, and will have throngs of college coaches in attendance. The goal of New Heights and Team NJABC is to provide an elite tournament experience, with the best officiating, courts, etc, to create an ideal event experience. Thus far, many elite programs, such as the Playaz, Expressions, Team Philly, Team Phenom, NY Panthers, Juice All-Stars, Raising Champions, and Metro Hawks have committed to attend. The field of teams is expected to include other quality programs as well.

Click HERE to be directed to the flier on the New Heights website promoting the event. Again, this is an invitation only event, and all inquiries should be directed toward Kimani Young at 718-974-7110.