Key Observations: Helena vs Hartselle
Thanksgiving break means one thing in the state of Alabama: early season basketball tournaments. The 40th annual Sneaky Pete’s Rebel Classic has not disappointed. The Helena vs Hartselle match up was a game of runs and toughness. Lead by top 10 sophomore Brody Peebles, Hartselle came out the gate swinging and took a 18-9 lead. Helena made the adjustments and by half the score was 22-19. The second half was a game of runs, and who could out last the opponent. Lead by Daunte Cave and Caden Pierce, Helena made timely plays and made open threes to come from behind and beat Hartselle 54-43.
Best Player on the Floor:
Hartselle super sophomore Brody Peebles was the most gifted player on the court. Peebles has playmaking ability, showed off a smooth jumper, and attacked the rim. You can see why he is a top 10 talent in the 2021 class. Having said that, Helena’s Caden Pierce had the best performance and was the player of the game. The 5’11 guard hit big time shots, took charges, and played with a relentless toughness. Without Pierce, Helena does not earn the victory.
Attacking the Zone:
Hartselle played in a 1-3-1 trapping zone for the majority of the game. Helena’s Daunte Cave was masterful at avoid traps, penetrating the zone, and finding open players. Jonah Hyde was also a big factor for Helena. The undersized, long athlete slid into low gaps and hit the offensive glass hard to keep possessions alive for Helena.
Runs:
Basketball is a game runs. Early on, Hartselle’s Keondre Swoopes used his athleticism and defensive play to force turnovers and create transition opportunities, which Hartselle capitalized on with a 18-9 first quarter lead. In the fourth quarter, Helena used a 10-0 run lead by Caden Pierce and Nate Andrews to ultimately pull away from Hartselle and control the game.
Play of the Game:
4th quarter. Hartselle cut the Helena lead to 3 (36-33). Peebles was making plays to bring Hartselle back. With their trapping zone Hartselle was creating loose balls, and without hesitation, Caden Pierce picks up a loose ball and drills a 3 for Helena. Helena would not give up the lead from that point on.
Key to the Game:
Toughness. Peebles dove on the ground for loose balls, and he took charges. Helena’s Nate Andrews took charges and grabbed critical rebounds. Daunte Cave stepped up to the line and drilled multiple free throws to keep Helena in control.
No matter the outcome, both coaching staffs should be proud of the way their teams competed. Both teams have teachable moments to grow upon. Hartselle plays Albertville in the loser’s bracket, and Helena plays Lee-Montgomery in the winner’s bracket.