Reviewing the film again from Friday night, we continue to look at the talent in the eastern part of the state of North Carolina. JH Rose and New Bern were next on our schedule, two teams playing solid basketball the season. It seemed to be a fairly even matchup and it ended up being that way, going into overtime.
JH Rose came out strong led by the strong offensive play of Kevin Hamilton and Alkevion Waller, who scored 16 of the team’s 21 points in the first quarter, helping lead to a double-digit cushion early. But New Bern quickly chipped away and stepped up on the defensive end, as sophomore William Brimmer got going. New Bern was able to completely flip the script, leading 31-28 at halftime.
From then on, it was a back-and-forth affair and staying within a one or two basket lead for either team. Towards the end, both teams had a chance to earn the lead and take home the win but it ended up going into overtime, tied at 53. Waller stepped up for Rose in OT, scoring four big points, including two late free throws to create a five-point lead. New Bern hit a late three and had a chance to actually win or tie the game, but a late turnover sealed the deal and the win for JH Rose, 60-58.
Stats:
JH Rose:
Alkevion Waller: 23 points
Kevin Hamilton: 16 points
Montez Green: 14 points
New Bern:
Daquan Pate: 16 points
William Brimmer: 15 points
Tyriq Hicks: 10 points
Standouts:
2022 Alkevion Waller (JH Rose): Waller was tremendous and the player of the game in this one, scoring 23 big points to lead his team. The small guard is extremely quick with the ball in his hands, shifty and quick decision-making, and understands when to attack the defense or step out and knock down shots from the perimeter. He also gets after it on the defensive end.
2021 Kevin Hamilton (JH Rose): Hamilton got Rose off to a tremendous start. He is a 6’4 prospect that brings an absolute motor to the court, going non-stop, getting on the boards relentlessly, Hamilton was able to get downhill, put the pressure on the defense, and has a quick reaction. Love his effort on the boards as well.
2023 William Brimmer (New Bern): Brimmer is a sophomore to watch, with a 6’4, strong frame and excels in getting downhill and attacking the paint/basket. That is when he was at his best, getting out in transition and staying aggressive. It wasn’t the best shooting night for the young man but still plays strong and was active throughout.
2022 Daquan Pate (New Bern): Pate is a 6’2 junior that plays with a long feel to his game. Plays tough, gets after it, scored in an array of ways on the court. Has a natural feel and led the charge scoring 16 points for his team.