The Breakdown: Mannford vs Metro Christian
Mannford and Metro Christian played a game down to the wire earlier in the year. This game was not type of game. Mannford took control from the beginning. They jumped out to a comfortable double-digit lead and it was not until late in the third quarter to early in the fourth quarter when it looked like Metro might get back in the game. Metro closed the lead to 6, but in the end could not complete the comeback as Mannford got revenge for their lone loss of the season.
Are Mannford legitimate contenders?
Mannford has only lost one game this season after playing a fairly light schedule. Tonight they got revenge of their one loss by blowing out the #7 ranked team in the state. If a state title were won by effort on the court, Mannford would hands down be the favorites to win. No team in the state lays their body on the line quite like the Mannford Pirates. They are after every 50/50 ball and getting on the deck when the ball is spilled. Mannford has talent on their roster, it’s just whether or not their talent can handle the pressures of the big games.
Daniel Keizor 2019 Mannford Wing/Forward
Keizor had his way tonight with the Patriots. He was a matchup nightmare for Metro. When he had a mismatch in size he was smart and went down low. When they put a big guy on him, he stepped out and hit shots from the perimeter. Keizor was the best player for Mannford offensively on the night. Keizor wore his heart on his sleeve throughout the whole game as he played with great emotion. He wanted the win in this Top-10 matchup and everyone in the gym knew it. Keizor finished with a game-high 21 points.
Jake Banfield 2019 Mannford Guard
Banfield is the heart and soul of this Mannford team. He is one of the best floor generals in the state with his leadership abilities. He hypes up his team throughout the game and no matter the score he is always coaching and cheering on his teammates. Banfield does not have to play the starring role every night, as he is comfortable to play in the background and set up his teammates. Banfield is quick off the dribble making it to the rim and breaking the press with his ability and quickness off the dribble. Banfield finished with 7 points on the night.
Caden Hale Metro Christian Guard
Hale was quiet for the first half as was most of the Metro Christian team. However, Hale started to hit shots from the perimeter as the Patriots were chipping away at a huge Mannford lead. Hale ended up hitting four 3-pointers on the night, with three of them coming in the fourth quarter. Hale will be vital if Metro wants to make it deep into the postseason. The Patriots will need him to be more consistent throughout games from behind the arc. Hale finished with 12 points.