Marquee Matchups: Week 2 in Southern Ohio
Heading into the first full week of high school basketball, we’re taking a look at the top games in Ohio.
Two Saturday night games in Southern Ohio to touch on, one of which is a rematch of the game of the year in 2016-17.
Dec. 9: Trotwood at Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary
The last time these two met on the floor, Jayvon Graves dropped in an improbable buzzer beater to give them an upset victory in the Division II State Semifinal. Since, Graves and a number of other seniors graduated. Basically, this game will hardly resemble that one, as Trotwood junior Amari Davis and STVM freshman Seth Wilson are the top two players.
This will be Trotwood’s second game in as many nights, as they open the season at Fairborn on Friday. Even though they graduated key contributors, expect another fast-paced and high pressure Trotwood team. Besides Davis, sophomore wings Carl Blanton and Sammy Anderson will need to make the most of their increased roles. Senior 6’3” hybrid Myles Belyeu gives them experience, toughness, and defensive flexibility.
Wilson will need to stay calm against the full-court press. Senior Scott Walter, a 6’1” Division III prospect, can provide stability if Wilson struggles. The Irish will likely look to match their speed, making for an exciting, high-scoring game.
Dec. 9: Archbishop Moeller at Purcell Marian
Two 1-0 teams checking in with our top Southern Ohio versus Southern Ohio matchup of the weekend. This game should serve as a measuring stick for Purcell, who will come in as a considerable underdog against Moeller.
Moeller was able to take care of Eastmoor Academy in one of last weekend’s top games in Ohio. Texas commit Jaxson Hayes will be much more than a role player this season, as the 6’10” center finished with 16 points on 6/6 shooting, 6 blocks, and 6 rebounds against EA. Purcell will also have to account for senior point guard Isaiah Payton and forwards Jeremiah Davenport and Alec Pfriem.
Moeller’s well-balanced attack will require Purcell to play a mistake-free game. Junior 6’5” forward AJ Garrett will need to use his athleticism to compete on the boards. Other Purcell prospects to watch are 6’1” guard Javonta Lyons (2019) and 6’3” guard Alex Dotson (2019). This team may be a year away from being special, but their cast of juniors should make for a fun game this Saturday.