A Scout’s Take: Chino Hills Vs Pasadena
A Scout’s Take: Chino Hills Vs Pasadena
AZUZA, CA—If there was any doubt who the best player in Southern California was heading into the CIFSS playoffs—that has been answered emphatically by Onyeka Okongwu. The 6-foot-9 junior dominated the game in every conceivable fashion including the following: efficient scoring, rim protection, rebounding, and leadership. The end result was a scintillating 38-point and 18-rebound performance that vaulted the Huskies to a CIFSS Championship.
MVP
Onyeka Okongwu (Chino Hills)
2019, PF, 6-foot-8, 225 pounds
Joel’s Take: What else can be said about the best junior in the West. Not much. Well, if you dive into the archives of outstanding efficient performances—Bill Walton’s 44-point performance on 21-of-22 shooting comes immediately to mind—Okongwu’s above mentioned performance is right up there. When you consider he split double and triple teams utilizing is nifty footwork and dazzling skill set, Okongwu is one of the more dominant performers in recent memory in the So-Cal folklore.
Two-way Stud
Ofure Ujadughele (Chino Hills)
2018, SG, 6-foot-3, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: When you google “motor” on your smart phone or laptop there is likely going to be an image of Ujadughele. Kidding aside, his energy is spellbinding. Whether it be racing up the court for an athletic finish or locking down on the opposing team’s best player, Ujadughele does it all. With his impressive academic resume and skill package, I’m surprised there are not more Division 1 schools knocking on his door.
Scorer’s Mentality
Bryce Hamilton (Pasadena)
2018, SG, 6-foot-4, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: This young cager is yet another example of a “Hamilton” that is quite good at basketball. The youngest of the Hamilton family—albeit he is a cousin of Gary, Jordan, Isaac, and Daniel—can really light up a score board. He wasn’t efficient in this game, but he showed off the different elements of his scoring repertoire. The chiseled lefty can drain the 3-point shot, attack off the dribble, or finish through contact on the break. His shot has a bit of a hitch in it, but with repetition and coaching he should have a fine career at UNLV.
Mr. Versatile
Tavian Percy (Pasadena)
2018, WF, 6-foot-5, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Percy had an electrifying championship game as he slashed his way for some impressive above-the-rim finishes as well as some timely jump shots. However, his biggest impact may have been on the other end of the court where he caused havoc on opposing ball handlers. His ability to guard multiple positions and as well as his evolving skill set should garner some Division 1 interest or at least a stint at the junior college level.
Biggest Sleeper
Omari Moore (Pasadena)
2018, WF, 6-foot-5, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: Moore has that prototypical frame with long arms and overall great length. He too has the ability to guard multiple positions due to his length, lateral quickness, and moxie. He had some impressive finishes in transition and he knocked in a couple of jump shots. Would not surprise to see him on a Division 1 roster a couple of seasons from now.