Kevin Giltner

Old faithful comes up big making a run that reminded of squads past.

Spirits may have seemed down after their opening pool play loss but inside the competitive juices were boiling, much to the chagrin of those opponenets who would have the audacity to get in their way.

The Tennessee Travelers 17's proceeded to fight, scratch, out-hustle and execute their opposition to the tune of seven straight wins and a spot in the championship game of the elite Hoosier Shootout.

With coaches dotting the sidelines Traveler players stepped up with solid effort and above average gumption led by the most talked about player of the group Quinche Dowdell (Oak Ridge).

The 6-4 would be wing finally showed some perimeter ability knocking down some threes and hitting a sweet mid-range spot showing his versatility. With Dowdell playing his best ball of the summer the cavalcade of Traveler backcourt talent also rose to the occassion.

Kevin Giltner (Harpeth) knocked down several tough threes and showed his mega basketball IQ, Jordan Damron (Maryville) hit big shots in big moments continuing his state tournament icy stature, Ryan Walden (Knoxville Catholic) played aggressive defense and hit timely shots and Tyler Cutter (Seigel) dropped numerous bombs and proved he could handle leading a team from outfront.

Not to be outdone the inside players proved to be a key factor in the Travs rise this week. Tahj Wells (Antioch) showed high major moments much more frequently than in previous events. His upside is off the charts if his consistency comes around. Joe Meady (Knoxville Carter) continues his metioric rise improving his skills every time he steps on the hardwood. Jay Reynolds (Maryville) continues to be a coaches dream, blocking shots, getting timely boards and knowing his role.

A most excellent effort from one of the states premier organizations gets the summer campaign off to a very good start for the potential college players on this roster.

In the 16 and under division the Travelers finished the event 2-2 getting inspired play from steady James Gallman (Knoxville Fulton), Blake Jenkins (Bearden) and Ashlon Adams (Science Hill).

The 15 and under version of the Travelers made short work of their pool play comp finishing unblemsihed but fell in the first bracket game. The usual suspects led the charge Emmanuel Andrews (Shelbyville) and Jalen Steele (Knoxville Fulton).