The gym has filled up for the afternoon/evening session of the day. Here’s my ‘second half’ recap.
Final Scores
Game 5:
Northside Christian Academy – 71
Rock Hill High School – 65
Game 6:
Nation Ford – 82
Porter Gaud – 51
Game 7:
Oak Hill Academy – 75
Dorman High School – 59
Game 8:
Oak Hill Academy – 94
Christ School – 45
Some Team Notes
- Northside Christian Academy has some collective gifted athleticism that played a key reason for their impact late in the tightly-played Game 5. Pretty much of all their players did an excellent job of getting in the lane and contesting shots at the rim. Their defense looked really solid in most stretches but I honestly feel they have enough tools to show even more tenacious play.
- Nation Ford showcased really impressive team ball in their victory over the renowned Porter Gaud program. The team shot at an above-average efficiency all game long and stood out more and more on defense as each quarter passed by. Their transition game worked best for them, as they were one of the best teams at advancing the ball up the court quickly. I really liked their coaching staff; kept the players disciplined and held accountable.
- Matched up against basketball-powerhouse, Oak Hill Academy, Dorman High School played a balanced game to create opportunities for their shooters and admirably gave a hard fight on the offensive glass and going after loose balls. The Cavaliers looked best when they executed in a full-court press, as their quickness sped Oak Hill up at times. If they can find more post production, they’ll become even more dangerous in Roebuck, SC.
- The talent on Oak Hill’s roster is undeniable but I feel their frontcourt players can rebound a bit better. Dorman High School didn’t have nearly the height when compared to Oak Hill but finished pretty close in numbers of team rebounds. The Warriors should find even greater success if their bigger guys assert themselves on the glass more. For instance, Cole Anthony grabbed the most rebounds on the night with 12 total. He’s only 6’2.”
Standouts of the Afternoon/Evening
- Zeb Graham ’19 – Nation Ford: The Falcons’ lead guard put on a show with his shot-making ability and on-court swagger. The 6’2 sharpshooter caught fire quickly and ended with a highly efficient 20 points (7/10 from the field, 4/5 from three-point land). Graham has a string on the ball that heavily aids in him getting to wherever he wants on the floor and creating space for his smooth shot. His separation game looked something serious in Game 6. For his efforts, he took home the game MVP trophy.
- Saiveon WIlliams ’20 – Rock Hill:'Playing as a 6’4″ wing, Williams made more finishes through contact than anybody else in Game 5. His athletic frame makes him imposing when facing other opposing perimeter players and his nice vertical leap resulted in him gathering several dunks and rebounds. His ball skills looked solid but he must continue to develop his outside shot. Finished Game 5 with 16 points and six rebounds.
- Glynn Hubbard III ’21 – NSCA:'Hubbard’s a young combo guard that college coaches should absolutely keep on the radar. He got downhill at will and scored with some great craftiness at the rim. Few had tougher finishes than him throughout the day. His hang time in the air definitely helped in this. Hubbard racked up 18 points, four rebounds, and five steals in his team’s victory.
- Cam Thomas ’20 – Oak Hill: Acknowledged as one of the top shooters in Virginia, the four-star prospect had his full offensive arsenal on display in how he knocked down one tough jumper after another. It didn’t matter who Dorman put on him, Thomas always had an answer. He’s developed nicely over the past couple of years in how he now plays with more of an edge of defense, highlighted by his three steals. With teammate Cole Anthony having more of an off-night, Thomas led all scorers in Game 7 with 26 in the contest.
- Josh Green ’19 – IMG Academy: The Arizona commit went on a complete offensive tear as his team completely dominated Game 8 from the start. Green has a three-level game that makes him a threat from anywhere on the floor but especially shot well Saturday night on his way to over 7 triples. Did not receive his official final stats but I’m confident in stating it was a team-high in points. Green took home the MVP trophy for the final game of the event.
Excellent showcase! Thank you to Nation Ford High School for the hospitality!
