Undefeated East Nashville pummels Pearl-Cohn
Faced with a similarly quick, backcourt-driven Pearl-Cohn Firebird team Tuesday night East Nashville (21-0) quite easily won, 68-40.
Though the Pearl-Cohn band blasted their horns and the drums filled the historic gym with cacophonous sounds the visitors actually burst out with more energy. The invested crowd could not summon a fiery Firebird display early.
“They started out in a zone and, we executed pretty good against their zone, so that helped,” said East Nashville Head Coach Jim Fey. “Once they came out of their zone they went man. We do have a good advantage (there). Our kids are generally patient enough to get quality shots.”
The tight score did not immediately convey how crisp the Eagle attack was.
Coach Fey loved his team’s execution early and the Eagle’s 53.3% first-half shooting articulates his point.
After the opening quarter, East Nashville lead 18-15, and indications were generally positive for the Eagles. Unlike the Firebirds, East Nashville players were passing into dangerous areas. Turnovers stayed down and assists climbed in regimented fashion.
Put simply, East Nashville played like a team.
@EastNashvilleBB puts their undefeated season on line. 1Q at @PearlCohnHS https://t.co/sNly06L6ku
— Prep Hoops Tennessee (@PrepHoopsTN) January 24, 2018
The tense first half opened up like a boxer’s eyelid after Jayden Lockett’s multiple three-pointers. Also deadly was the mid-range touch of 2018 F Monte Catlett.
Catlett caught the ball in the middle of the lane, turned around, elevated, and cash. His upraised palms revealed how surprised the senior was to be that open.
For a third option, Catlett truly creates a lot of problems.
In a city largely devoid of traditional big men Catlett’s quick bounce gets him plenty of looks at the basket. Tuesday those looks were even more open than usual.
Catlett finished with 16 points (8-13 FG’s).
Of course, Gene Holmes was steady, if not brilliant.
Once again Holmes recorded a triple-double. Opening night, facing Franklin, Gene stuffed the nets. Patient and capable, Holmes spread the wealth Tuesday.
“These kids are just winners,” said Coach Fey.
The Second Half
Down 16 points at the half, Pearl Cohn gives up the first 5 pts of the 2nd half to @EastNashvilleBB . This could get out of hand fast if PC doesn't find an uncommon fire. 45-24 early 3Q.
— Prep Hoops Tennessee (@PrepHoopsTN) January 24, 2018
And it did get out of hand. East Nashville pressed the issue and after a few challenged jumpers fell the Firebirds wilted. Head Coach Raymond Pratcher implored his guys to finish with class. And they put in the cursory effort in the final stages.
After a quarter of competitive basketball the result was never in doubt.
“It is a rivalry game,” said East Nashville Coach Fey. “Our kids always get up for Pearl and they were ready to go.”
On to the next one.