Five Takeaways: A look at Hallsville
Prep Hoops Missouri was in attendance at the semifinals of the Southern Boone Classic on Thursday night in Ashland. We got our first look at Hallsville, who is currently 19-1 and ranked No. 4 in the latest Class 3 state rankings. The Indians looked impressive in defeating Harrisburg 78-59 to advance to Saturday night’s championship game against host Southern Boone.
Here are Five Takeaways from our first look at Hallsville:
*The Indians can really score
Hallsville is very entertaining to watch play basketball. They are not very big, but they have a lot of kids who can pass, catch and shoot the basketball. They share the ball and display excellent teamwork, which leads to many easy baskets. So far, the Indians have scored at least 70 points in a game 14 times, they have eclipsed 80 points three times and surpassed the 90-point mark on three occasions.
*Plenty of firepower on the perimeter
A prime example of Hallsville’s firepower was in their victory over Harrisburg on Thursday night. The Indians were without one of their big guns in 6’3″ junior Luke Hicks, who was at home sick. They didn’t seem to miss a beat as they rolled up 78 points and kept the transition game going strong. Providing the perimeter fireworks were 6’2″ 2018 guard Ethan Thompson, bullish 6’2″ 2018 guard Graham Moser and 5’10” 2018 guard Alex Wimer. They combined to score 53 points against Harrisburg. All three are capable of knocking down 3-pointers.
*The role players are solid and dependable
Every successful team needs those complimentary players who are very good in their role. The Indians have a couple of really good ones in 6’2″ 2018 forward Malachi Jackson and 6’3″ 2018 forward B.J. Fischer. Jackson is an athletic wing who plays excellent defense and does a nice job on the boards, especially on the offensive end. Fischer is a strong athlete who can rebound and block shots. Both players did a nice job of slowing down Harrisburg standout Cade Combs as they took turns face-guarding him in a box and one defense.
*Defense leads to offense
The Indians can put up points in bunches, a lot of their offense is created by an aggressive defense that can cause turnovers and propel their transition game. They were constantly hawking the ball, which led to many strip steals and transition opportunities. When a team is scoring in the 80’s and 90’s, the defense has to play a part in the action.
*Indians are motivated
Hallsville enjoyed an excellent season in 2017 with a 21-7 record, but their bid for a Class 3 district championship was stopped by Monroe City in the finals. The Indians are bounded and determined to finish the job this year, but the task will be difficult as Monroe City and Clark County are also loaded and having banner seasons. It will be one of the most compelling district tournaments around.