The All-CBL Second team in the 12U division features two unstoppable scoring point guards, arguably the best shooter in the division, a versatile finesse-forward and a rugged rebounding forward from North West London.
Ata Charles had possibly the hardest job in the CBL last season in taking over the point guard duties from OWE CBL MVP Zaire Colbert (the player everyone came out to watch…). In addition he was making the transition across from 2021 finalists, London Elite, which added to the challenge. How did he do? Was he able to find his feet in the new role? 24ppg along with 5 steals per game at a 85.7% winning clip, should answer that question even for the harshest critics. Ata was simply outstanding – all season long. 4 game MVP’s. Lightening quick with a non-stop motor, the young stunner was a walking bucket. He dazzled spectators all season and confused defenders with an array of dribble combo moves that would have made his predecessor Zaire proud. Class.
Gabe Robson went for 5 game MVP’s as the standout player from the Enfield Scorpions last season. Often the youngest player on the floor (with still another year of eligibility left in the division), Gabe stood tall as a fearless scorer with unbelievable range out to deep 3 point territory. Enfield heavily relied on Gabe to lead from the front all season long and he over-delivered on that task, pushing the Scorpions into the playoffs in their most successful U12 season yet.
Quenten McKelvey bagged 3 game MVP’s over the season for the top team in the regular season. Averaging a head-turning 15 points per outing, alongside 7 boards, the versatile wing displayed the most consistent and accurate 3 point stroke in the league and is comfortable with the ball, despite his superior length amongst his peers. He can shoot it. Fundamentally sound with an understated confidence in his game, McKelvey will be a key player to watch in the seasons to come as all early signs point towards continued success for the emerging young star.
Otto Tisne led a resurgent Hackney Jedi’s squad in irrepressible fashion, providing match up nightmares for teams all season long. Surprisingly versatile, East London based forward showed he is capable of playing all positions on the floor and knows how to put the ball in the hole. He wasn’t available for all of Hackney’s CBL games, playing in only half of their fixtures – however they won 80%of the games he appeared in, which demonstrates just how valuable he was to his team. Highly likely he would have made First Team All-CBL if he played in more games, which would have propelled the Jedi’s even further up the final team standings. He averaged a ‘light’ 16/7 without chasing numbers, instead focusing on ways in which he can make his team better.
Kaique Moura had a ‘break out’ year for the 3rd placed (regular season) Brent Panthers. The strong, rugged rebounding forward bossed his way to an impressive ‘double/double’, averaging over 12 points and 10 rebounds per game, with most of his work being done off the glass and in the paint. Displaying a rare tenacity to chase after every rebound, Moura competes on every play and is wired to win. Hard working, energetic and has the ability to impact games with his infectious work ethic and ‘blue collar’ approach to helping his team. Respect earned.
