The Burlington School:
6’8 ’25 Kaden Hammond
While each of their contributors was vital, the Spartans simply could not win this game without Hammond. Due to his efficiency, he probably could’ve taken more shots, but it’s still easy to recognize his patience, vision, and physicality on the block. Hammond battled relentlessly for position, moved well to get open as a cutter, and consistently capitalized on his touches. He’s a great passer who (despite tallying only one assist) made several terrific reads out of the post. Hammond blocked shots and positioned himself for steals. Although he’s had higher production and flashier numbers in other showings, this was one of the best games of his high school career. Hammond’s reliable two-way interior presence proved to be a massive asset for the Spartans. Final stats: 13 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 steals, and 1 assist.
6’2 ’25 Cam Flippen
Similar to his cohort above, the Spartans have no chance to compete without Flippen and his silent, steady approach to the game. Per usual, he set the tone with his toughness, defensive prowess, and balance between scoring and initiation. Flippen was as reliable defensively as anyone on the floor. After entering halftime with only three points, he was excellent in the second half and was undeniably important down the stretch. Flippen forced turnovers and consistently applied pressure in transition, where he drew several fouls and converted at a perfect rate at the line. Final stats: 13 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals.
6’0 ’27 Asante Phillip
From the start of the season until now, Phillip has made visible strides to become a meaningful contributor for the Spartans. In this contest, he had multiple and-one buckets (including four huge points in the closing minutes), defended with nonstop energy, and ran the offense as needed. Phillip was very important throughout this contest. Final stats: 10 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal.
5’9 ’27 Jamyr Coleman
After being added midseason, Coleman quickly became a difference-maker for this group. His combination of defense and perimeter shooting allows him to consistently make plays within the flow of the action. Coleman clearly knows his role and made one massive three-pointer after another. Final stats: 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists.
Harrells Christian:
6’5 ’26 Antonio McKoy
It’s pretty clear that McKoy was the undisputed leader of this squad—both in terms of production and the way he carries himself on the court. Although he had a pretty strong shot volume, he did a great job of knowing how and when to assert himself. McKoy consistently looked to attack, only taking three three-point attempts, and found quality success. He’s a terrific athlete who utilizes his burst, length, and body control to finish at a high percentage. Even when he misses, McKoy tracks the ball extremely well to secure his own rebound and convert. He’s a great two-way rebounder for his size/position. McKoy is also an engaged defender with the instincts and physical tools to cause problems for opponents. He should appeal to various types of Division I programs. Final stats: 20 points, 11 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 assist.
6’0 ’25 Zicareian McNeil
Despite the outcome, McNeil stood out as a key piece for the Crusaders. He’s a quick, heady guard who creates well and scores the ball in a variety of ways. McNeil is comfortable creating for himself or others and attacking all levels as a scoring threat. He’s also a scrappy defender and nice rebounder for his size. McNeil has the ability to play in college. Final stats: 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists.