Sincere Carry (2018) is back: Six observations from Solon’s impressive win over Elyria
The Solon Comets continue to play like a well-oiled machine as they didn’t miss a beat nor very many shots in running Elyria out of the gym, 94-66 on Jan. 26.
The Comets connected on 23 3-pointers in the win as they improved to 13-0 and 10-0 Great Cleveland Conference. They are currently ranked No. 2-in the state in the latest Associated Press Division-I rankings. Even though they are undersized (they don’t play a guy over 6’3″) their ability to run past opponents, make outside shots and smother teams with a withering defense makes them very tough to beat.
“It’s not their offense, it’s their defense,” said an Elyria assistant coach. “We couldn’t get a shot off against them.”
As opposed to recent years, Solon can get half-court stops and rebound on the defensive glass this season. An inability to do so hurt them in a tournament loss to Mentor a year ago. They average 15 made 3s a game.
Here are some other takeaways:
Sincere Carry (2018) appears to be back to full health
The Comet point guard has started since his freshman year but has been plagued by leg injuries in recent seasons. He appears to be healthy this season. He’s a great playmaker with outstanding handle who can fly down the floor with the ball and either continue to the hoop, dish off or drain the jump shot. He makes the Comets go. Scored 13 points, connected on three 3s in Elyria win and played hard every minute.
Michael Bekelja (2019) keys fast start
The Fairmont-state commit was all over the floor in the first-half as he scored 15 points and helped the Comets build a big lead. The 6’0″ Bejelka can really shoot it as evidenced by his three first-quarter 3s. Plays with a high level of fire and energy on both ends of floor.
Watch out for Williams
Junior guard Trent Williams displayed an ability to knock down an open jump shot and defend as he scored 13 points. Ryan Bergen (2018) plays the role of a glue guy. Scored 7 points and does all the little things. Can really stroke the 3-pointer.
Big night for the big guy
David Marbury (2019) at 6’3” give the Comets some muscle and size. He’s just rounding into shape after suffering a leg injury during football season. He scored 24 points in the win over Elyria knocking down a very impressive 8 threes. He loves to hang out in the corner and bomb triples but can mix it up underneath with his wide frame. Division I football prospect.
Justin Koepp makes his return
Koepp (2018), was the biggest player on the floor at 6’7”. He was playing in his first game after missing three with concussion-like symptoms. He finished the night with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Displayed an ability to finish inside, rebound and play with intelligence. Moves very well and can pass it, too.
MarSuan Robinson impressive as frosh
Elyria’s freshman 5’9” point guard Robinson showed off some solid handle while playing against arguably the best point guard in the state in Carry. He needs to get in the weight room and work on his jumper, but the youngster showed heart an ability to get to the rack.