Sapulpa: Cream of the Crop from the Elite 14 Showcase
The Sapulpa Chieftains will look to build up their reputation as a top-tier 6A program in the 2018-2019 season. The Chieftains’ performance at the Elite 14 Showcase in Wichita Falls gave them a good start for the goals they wish to achieve in the upcoming season. For their performance, I named them as one of my “Cream of the Crop” teams from this showcase.
Explosive guard play
With the addition of Camryn Dennis, Sapulpa is one of the most guard-talented teams in the Tulsa, if not the most. The Chieftains add Dennis to an already stacked back-court. Julian Smith, considered one of the best guard in the Tulsa area, enters his senior season with high expectations. This tandem put on a solid performance. Smith, whose role has historically been more reserved as an explosive scorer, was willing to give up some of his own chances in order for Dennis to get the share of the ball he needs to score. But make no mistake, both of these guys are among the top scoring guards in the state. Jacoby Durant adds a much-needed attacking guard who has the pinpoint accuracy necessary to get the ball out to the wings on the run. Durant impressed me with his fearlessness to take the ball to the rack Saturday. I believe his presence and speed on the floor will allow the Chieftains to outlast many opponents this season.
Versatility
Hunter Hoggatt stands out for his ability to do any and everything his team needs to be successful. He’s athletic, strong, quick, can shoot, can drive, and can rebound at a competitive level. His presence is felt in the lane and around the perimeter. I think his window is very high this year and, furthermore, I think his role on this Sapulpa team will be pivotal to its success.
Rise-to-the-occasion
If you haven’t read anything else we’ve written this week, you may have missed Sapulpa’s win over Little Elm (TX), a flagship program led by junior point guard RJ Hampton. Many didn’t expect Sapulpa to hang with Little Elm, but the Chieftains persevered and came out with a win. This was huge in my eyes, not only because of the win itself, but because of the chemistry and energy displayed by the Chieftains in the win. Everybody was getting a share of the ball and everybody was getting buckets and making plays on both ends. I was thoroughly impressed with Sapulpa this weekend.