Five Takeaways: Tampa Catholic vs. Berkeley Prep
On Friday night, Tampa Catholic beat Berkeley Prep 64-44 to capture the Class 5A-District 9 title.
The Buccaneers took down Tampa Catholic in the two regular season meetings, but it was the Crusaders who got it done the third time.
Here are five takeaways from the game.
Alijah Harrison is reliable
Part of the deep 2020 class at Tampa Catholic, Alijah Harrison has been a reliable presence for his side. He netted a game-high 15 points in this one which included 12 points in the opening half. A 6’4″ forward, Harrison is sound inside and can make things happen off a quick pass.
Kobe Knox is coming together
Growing up before our eyes, Kobe Knox is coming into his own this season. He scored nine of his 14 points in the second half alone as he hit from outside and went to the basket. A 6’2″ guard, Knox is only getting better from this juncture.
Kegan Karnes is a pure basketball player
Only a sophomore, 5’10” guard Kegan Karnes may be undersized, but he can flat out shoot the basketball. Karnes has gotten better from freshman year to this season and he should be able to continue to improve his game. He’s a fan favorite with his jumper who led his team with nine points.
Tim Carter can lead an offense
Senior guard Tim Carter scored eight of his 10 points in the third quarter. That included a putback slam that got his bench up off their feet. The 6’2″ 2018 guard was pushing the tempo all night long and played well on both ends. Carter
Quick look at both teams
Tampa Catholic – A team with a deep sophomore class that includes Knox, Harrison, Isaiah Elmore and Marcellus Crutchfield. Seniors Carter, Messiah Turner and Darren Robinson and junior Austin White all bring a lot to this group. The Crusaders have a solid bench and can keep up with teams in transition.
Berkeley Prep – Kaleb Karnes, Zach Mathis and Mayan Ahanotu are the seniors on this group who set the tone. Juniors Chase Barrs, Zion Carter and Josh Youngblood and sophomore Karnes round out the talent. Under head coach Renaldo Garcia, Berkeley Prep will always play hard.