Five Key Questions: Paul VI vs. O’Connell
FAIRFAX, VA — In a much anticipated early season contest, Paul VI pulled off an impressive victory at home against Bishop O’Connell. Below we tackle five burning questions after a hotly contested game.
HOW DID PVI’S SENIORS PERFORM?
Miles Latimer, a 6-foot-4+ Stony Brook commit, was arguably the X Factor for the Panthers in this one. The high IQ senior recorded a number of assists and rebounds to go along with 16 points.
Daniel Malinowski, a 6-foot-7+ unsigned senior, came in and provided excellent minutes off the bench for PVI. He had at least one blocked shot, altering several others, and working hard to box out his man.
Jeremy Robinson, a 6-foot-5+ unsigned senior from North Carolina, came in and provided instant offense off the bench during his team’s third quarter run. Robinson scored 7 points in the quarter. He showed that he can finish through contact, and shoot it from long range.
Brandon Slater, a 6-foot-6 Villanova commit, did a bit of everything for the home team. He scored a game-high 23 points, but his defense was exceptional. Both in the paint and on the perimeter.
WHO WAS THE BEST SHOOTER IN THE GYM?
Matt Becht solidified himself as an elite level shooter last night, if he hadn’t done so already. The 6-foot-2 Mount St. Mary’s commit drilled 7 threes despite tight coverage on most of his attempts.
WHICH UNDERCLASSMEN STEPPED UP?
Jahmal Banks, a 6-foot-5 sophomore for Bishop O’Connell, followed up a solid season opener with a decent performance last night in a hostile environment. Banks chipped in with 10 important points for the Knights.
Trevor Keels, a 6-foot-4+ freshman for Paul VI, demonstrated versatility and poise on both ends of the floor. He rebounded, facilitated the offense, and showed that he can put the ball in the basket.
Jeremy Roach, a 6-foot-2 sophomore for Paul VI, had a brilliant first half offensively, where he scored 12 of his 14 points.
WHAT BENCH PLAYER IMPRESSED THE MOST?
Ayan Teel, the backup point guard for Bishop O’Connell, came in and provided instant offense for the Knights. Whether it was scoring from the perimeter, in the paint, or getting his teammates easy looks, the high IQ floor general was up to the task. Teel recorded 13 points and 6 assists in defeat.
HOW WILL THIS GAME IMPACT BOTH TEAMS?
Bishop O’Connell was coming into this game after a huge win over Georgetown Prep. This loss wasn’t the biggest surprise, but all of their young players gained valuable experience in a hostile environment. We wouldn’t be surprised to see them go on a strong run of wins after this game.
This was the season opener for PVI, and they passed the test with flying colors. The Panthers received contributions from so many different players, which is to be expected. They face another tough test on Sunday at the National High School Hoops Festival, but playing a game with this type of atmosphere and emotions was a great way to prepare.