Championship Sunday, it doesn’t get any better than this on what has been a terrific event in Rock Hill. In the Silver division, it provided fans of two programs some may have not seen around the region but they came in ready to battle, and that they did, as Rocktop Academy and TLAP went toe-to-toe throughout this game.
In the first half, both teams were trading blows and both teams were showcasing their offense, getting up and down the court and knocking down jumpers. Rocktop was able to get the halftime lead, leading 42-39 behind the play of Bernie Blunt and AJ Burnett. Blunt found success in multiple spots on the court with 13 first-half points, while Daniel Akitoby and AJ Burnett used their size and battled around the rim.
Second half though, TLAP continued to find their offense and knock down shots, whether it was from outside or using their versatile size to attack the paint. Matthew Smith was terrific in both halves, scoring 29 points, while Nygell Verdier and Jordan Jefferson scored the ball effectively in the second half. This game was close almost throughout the entire game until late when TLAP was able to create the separation needed and secure the 88-77 win.
Stats:
TLAP:
Matthew Smith 29 points
Jordan Jefferson 20 points
Nygell Verdier 14 points
Rocktop Academy National:
Bernie Blunt 21 points
Daniel Akitoby 11 points
AJ Burnett 11 points