Takeaways from Mt. St. Joseph’s four-team scrimmage
Today on the campus of Mount Saint Joseph High School, four teams got together to get last minute preseason action in order to tune up for regular season play. The Gaels of Mt. St. Joe, Gonzaga, Bullis and Eleanor Roosevelt all participated. Each team played each other once in a three quarter scrimmage. The first two and a half quarters were dedicated to what should be the regular rotation for each squad, with the last five or so minutes is where the deep bench unit got some time.
I stayed in the main gym (The Smith Center), where the Gaels played all three of their games. I saw Gonzaga, Bullis and Eleanor Roosevelt play once. Based on those games, I gathered some takeaways below.
Mt. St. Joseph
The Gaels had a productive day as they continue to find their identity with a talented roster. James Bishop filled the score sheet up as he usually does, leading his team in all three games. He also displayed continued improvement in his playmaking ability off the dribble. Bishop has progressed significantly in this area since last season and will be pivotal for his team’s chances at a BCL and MIAA title. Ausar Crawley played with poise, controlled the pace and knocked down jumpshots all morning. Tyler Brelsford was aggressive looking to score and had a number of nice plays. If he can continue to play with the confidence he showed today, the Gaels will be tough to beat. Javonte Brown had a couple of nice dunks over defenders from drop-off passes. Jason Edokpavi was another bright spot. Finishing well around the rim, knocking down mid-range shots and running the floor effectively.
Gonzaga
Terrance Williams displayed his versatility on both ends. Scoring from all three levels, anchoring the defense in the paint and guarding pick-and-rolls effectively. Anwar Gill had multiple strong takes to the basket. His jumpshot wasn’t falling in the game that I saw him play, but he adjusted nicely by attacking the rim and drawing fouls.
Bullis
Freshman Rodney Rice had a great showing early on against the Gaels. He knocked down two three’s and finished a challenged shot around the rim. Rice finished with eight points to lead the team, but also displayed nice vision in the open floor. Nendah Tarke struggled to find his shot early on, but used his strong frame to get inside the paint and draw contact. After a slow start to the game, Bullis battled back for a strong ending to the first quarter.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Roosevelt has a loaded roster that should make a case for them being the favorites in the 4A this season. Isaiah Gross impressed today. He led with 12 points in their game against Mt. St. Joe and shot the ball exceptionally well from three, an area that people say his game has lacked in. He was a great communicator defensively in their press. Cam Brown came on at the end and went on a nice mini run by himself. He was passive early on in the game.