Hilliard Davidson vs. Olentangy Liberty: 5 Takeaways
Tuesday night at Hilliard Davidson was a classic, as the Wildcats defeated Olentangy Liberty 64-62. A game that went down to the wire, and had its runs. After a quarter, Davidson led Liberty 22-18. ‘19 Gage Keys had 9 of his…
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Continue ReadingTuesday night at Hilliard Davidson was a classic, as the Wildcats defeated Olentangy Liberty 64-62. A game that went down to the wire, and had its runs.
After a quarter, Davidson led Liberty 22-18. ‘19 Gage Keys had 9 of his team-high 17 points in the opening quarter.
Going to half, the Wildcats of Hilliard Davidson held a small marginal lead of 29-26. As it was a slow paced quarter.
In the third, ‘19 Ben Roderick got in a groove for Olentangy Liberty. Scoring nine of his game-high 22 points in the period. However, Davidson still led 44-40 going to the fourth.
In the fourth Davidson got out to a 10 point lead, but Liberty would storm back. With three long range three pointers in the quarter, Joey Thatcher was on fire, exactly what the Patriots needed. After Liberty tied the game with just a few seconds ‘19 WF Jacob Drees went down and drains the fade-away game winner for Davidson. But, with just six-tenths of a second remaining, the Patriots weren’t able to get a shot off.
Five Takeaways:
1. Hilliard Davidson & Olentangy Liberty were about as evenly matched as it gets.
Both coming in with three losses on the season, and Liberty just one more win, these teams were similar. A game where both teams would take their runs, and both teams would go through small droughts. Liberty led by Ben Roderick on the night, doing a lot of damage inside. Also, Davidson led by Gage Keys, doing a lot of the same. However, a game that went down to the final seconds, goes to show how close in competition these two teams are.
2. Hilliard Davidson is an underrated team in Central Ohio.
When you hear of the best teams in central Ohio, you will probably hear Coffman, Bradley and Pick Central, which may be true. But, Hilliard Davidson is definitely in that next line of teams. With a strong senior class, including Jacob Drees, the Wildcats can get it done. A team with capable shooters, and an inside presence, Hilliard can beat you in multiple ways.
3. Ben Roderick is one of the best available players in Ohio.
Ben Roderick is a 6’6 wing-forward who can really play multiple positions on the hardwood. A dynamic scorer in multiple ways, Roderick can really beat you on the low post. Also, a quick shot, where he can pull up over you or beat you off the dribble. A true two way player tonight. Also, playing the passing lanes, coming away with four steals. With a stat-line of 22 points 8 rebounds 4 assists and 4 steals, the Senior did a bit of everything, even tho his team came up just a bit short. The standout Patriot already holds about five D1 offers. But, look for that number to possibly go up, as some high-majors are interested.
4. Nick Nakasian is a key part to the Olentangy Liberty basketball team.
With 16 points on the night, Nakasian was able to do damage from inside and out. A player that gets through the lane rather quickly with nice size. The Senior also showed the ability to be a presence inside on defense, with some heavily contested shots and a block. With six of his 16 points coming in the final quarter, Nick was a key part to the run that kept Olentangy Liberty in the game. Tonight, Nick was a good complement to teammate Ben Roderick, in a big time battle.
5. Gage Keys is another solid multi-sport basketball player.
Also, a D1 prospect in football, Gage Keys is a force on the hardwood. With 17 points and 10 rebounds tonight, the Junior big man was a beast inside. With 14 points in the first half, Keys faced the double-team most of the second half. Also, dunking on a defender for the and-1, was definitely the highlight of the Gage’s night. A big time player in the fall, and winter also.