Elite HS Invitational Open Runs Update
Sunday was the last open run, organized by Denver-based coach and trainer Mychal Martinez, for the year as players will be heading off to their high school team for the season. The open runs are elite girls basketball pick-up games, and provide a way for players to come and compete against one another without any coaches and parents.
Martinez put together a mixtape of the action from the most recent open run. Check it out here.
Part of the development process is players applying moves that they have learned or have been experimenting with. There is no better way to develop specific skills than just going out and playing pick up games. Theses open runs are pick-up games where the players have the control of the score, are responsible for calling their own fouls and pick their own teams.
Elaina MartinezThe goal is to create a free play environment for the girls at the middle school, high school, and college/pro (during the summer for that group) levels, and parents are not allowed to spectate and no coaching and/or solicitation of programs of any kind is permitted, which the players have been enjoying a great deal. Players will also be free from any recruitment by any program/organization at these pick ups. There will never be a flyer handed out or marketing email list created from these sessions.
Play, have fun, no pressure of any kind.
“The improvement I’ve seen from these girls is incredible,” Martinez said. “They’re learning organically and figuring things out for themselves by playing with their peers and managing themselves. Just like us adults did as kids. Players are over-coached and under-taught these days.”
Creating an invite-only list with the top players in Colorado has been creating a buzz with other elite players. There will be more organized open runs coming this spring after players are done with their season. By summertime, you can expect to see college/high school invite only runs.
“I honestly love the open gyms. Now and days you never get the chance to run with just girls. It’s a great way to just play with no worries. It’s all fun and you’re honestly just competing and getting better. The open gyms have helped me with my decision making. Playing with people you’ve never played before makes it a nice challenge to learn their ways and what they like to do. It’s a great way to increase your IQ. Also, it’s a great way to get even in more shape for season. When I came to my first one, I was coming back from being in a boot and these helped me get back in shape. The runs & competitiveness was amazing.” Said Jada Moore who recently signed her National Letter of Intent to Kansas State
Here is a list of players that were in attendance:
Jada MooreJada Moore– Regis Jesuit, 2020, committed to Kansas State
Tomia Johnson– Grandview, 2020, committed to FGCU
Payton Sterk– Doherty, 2022
Abby Wrede– Cherry Creek, 2021
Grace Talbot– Chatfield, 2022
Jessica Bollwahn- Columbine, 2022
Lily Najmulski- Denver East, 2022
Marya Hudgins- Grandview, 2022
Seneca Hackley– St. Mary’s, 2020, committed to FGCU
Charley GordonCharley Gordon- Cherry Creek, 2022
Rylie McMullen- Pine Creek, 2022
Kaylie Whidden- Class of 2024
Hannah Somorin- Class of 2024
Elaina Martinez- Mullen, 2021
Brooke Murrell– Thomas Jefferson, 2023
Shelby Foster- Grandview, 2021
Dasiya Jones- Grandview, 2021
Mia Collins- Cherokee Trail, 2021
Olivia Waufle– Horizon, 2020
D’Nae WilsonBreelyn Robinson- Grandview, 2021
Mattie Stevens– Peak to Peak, 2022
Brooklyn Seymour- Ralston Valley, 2021
D’nae Wilson– Sierra, 2020
Brianna Linnear- Rangeview, 2021
Briasia Johnson– Denver South, 2023
Juliette Fillion– Lakewood, 2022
Gianna Principato– Highlands Ranch, 2021