Best of the Midwest: Saturday’s Top Performers (Part 2)
Saturday wrapped up pool play action and began bracket play here in Grand Rapids. Some teams only had one game today while others played multiple. There were plenty big name coaches and players in attendance such as John Beilein, Miles Bridges, Jaren Jackson and Cassius Winston. Here are some of my top performers from Saturday’s action in Grand Rapids:
Here’s part 2 of Saturday’s Top Performers:
Brandon Wade (1Nation 17u) – Wade’s performance was definitely overshadowed by teammate Norman’s 30-point game, but it should not be overlooked. He would finish with 17 points from all three levels per usual. He also handed out a few assists, showing he can be a scorer or a playmaker depending on the situation. What was most impressive about this game was Wade’s defense. He was matched up with Justin Fischer, a very talented guard who has been playing great all weekend. Wade limited Fischer to single digit points, multiple turnovers and, most importantly, secured the win for his team.
Mikale Stephens (1Nation 16u) – Stephens had himself a great game in his team’s victory over Parallel 45. He showed great handles that he used to create offense for himself and his teammates. When he got in the paint, he finished well in traffic. What was most impressive about Stephens’ performance in this game was his play down the stretch; Stephens was clutch down the stretch, handling pressure and taking care of the ball. When they started fouling, he knocked down multiple free throws to seal the game for his team. If that wasn’t enough, he also had two steals in the final minute of the game to really put the dagger in his opponents.
Chase Wasilk (North Oakland Wolfpack 17u) – Waslik had a super tough matchup in his team’s game against The Family 17u, as he was guarding/being guarded by wings such as Setric Millner and Tray Jackson. Wasilk didn’t fold, displaying great toughness on defense and on the glass. Offensively, he was aggressive, making plays from all over the floor. He made a couple threes, hit a couple midrange pullups, finished around the rim as well as knocked down a couple free throws. He was his team’s only source of offense at times and he did a good job of producing when called upon.
Mike Demagus (Rise Athletics 16u) – Demagus, playing for Rise Athletics out of Toronto, Canada, looked really good in his team’s matchup with Elite Nation. He did everything for his team, from scoring to rebounding to defending to playmaking. He was dominant in the paint – he controlled the glass on both ends of the floor and he got multiple buckets at the rim, including a couple double clutch layups in traffic. He also made a couple threes, displaying a nice ability to shoot. He defended well, tallying a couple steals and blocks. Demagus made plays off the dribble for both his team and teammates when he wasn’t scoring. Despite the loss, he did everything he could to carry his team against a more talented Elite Nation squad.