The Five: Luther advances to the 2A State Semi-Finals
Luther defeated Ketchum 56-53 in a back and forth ball game to advance to the 2A State Semifinals.
Here are five observations from the intense do or die matchup:
Syrus Grisby is a player to look out for
Grisby is a 6’6 forward who is has an athletic frame and he puts every limb to use. Although, he doesn’t have a set plays called for him he dominated his opportunities.
Luther’s guards were out of control at times and they needed Grisby’s consistent play in the paint to calm things down.
The 2019 forward has a bright future ahead of him. Has to eliminate the technical fouls though.
Hunter Chandler’s big fourth quarter made things interesting
Ketchum was struggling offensively from distance but Chandler hit a huge three in the last five minutes of the game to give Ketchum some momentum.
Grisby of Luther got a big technical and Chandler hit all of his free throws to tie the game.
Players like Jayden Martin was crucial but Chandler’s three made Luther have some real concern.
Jesse Cole enjoys the show
Cole is a shifty guard with quality ball-handling skills and the Luther fans know it. Whenever Cole would catch the ball on the perimeter the Lion fan base would rise with excitement.
Cole’s defense could be more consistent but he ended up with 5+ steals do to his basketball instincts.
Cole is a fan favorite and you tell why when you watch his game.
Things got chippy early
Both teams play a fast physical brand of ball. Both programs want to advance to play another game. The intensity level was high and there were plenty of scuffles going on.
Clapping in the opponents face, stare downs, and a lot of yapping was going on throughout the game.
The extracoricular activities resulted in technicals on both teams.
Luther will have a fun matchup with Wright City in the Semifinals
Wright City plays a totally different style than Ketchum did.
Wright City wants to drive and kick for threes and they have multiple weapons on the outside. They didn’t play up to their standards in round one so I’m sure they will come out quick in the semis.
Luther has the talent and size downlow to make things interesting with the 2A favorites.