Most Intriguing Prospects: Marion Harding Vs. Buckeye Valley
On a cold Thursday night to start the new year, Marion Harding defeated Buckeye Valley in a close MOAC game 53-52. Neither team was able to get a distant lead, as Marion Harding led most of the night. Up 35-33…
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Continue ReadingOn a cold Thursday night to start the new year, Marion Harding defeated Buckeye Valley in a close MOAC game 53-52.
Neither team was able to get a distant lead, as Marion Harding led most of the night. Up 35-33 at the half, the Presidents relied on heavy on-ball defense and solid free throw shooting.
The win of the season thus far for Harding, moving to 3-6 on the season. The Barons of Buckeye Valley fall to 5-4.
Top Prospects:
Tabias Thompson-Reece (6’2 / 2020 CG / Marion Harding): On Thursday night, Tabias Thompson-Reece had the most affect on the game. Handling the ball when needed and tallying 13 points off the bench, the junior combo-guard was best at creating his own shot. With lengthy arms the 6’2 role player is a solid on ball defender as well. Working in the lane most of the game, Tabias can shoot off the dribble, including an effective step back shot.
Dejaun Smith (5’11 / 2019 PG / Marion Harding): Dejaun Smith was every bit of clutch to close out the game. Automatic from the foul line in the final period, totaling eight points, and 11 for the game. The senior guard showed smooth release from deep in the first quarter to add to his arsenal, another one of Harding’s many solid defenders.
Zhamir Anderson (5’9 / 2019 G / Marion Harding): Zhamir was a do-it-all kind of player on Thursday night. Putting up 12 points, seven rebounds and three steals to pace the Presidents. A very athletic player with quickness and jumping ability, Anderson is an above average defender. Most of the 5’9 senior’s offense comes from inside, as he can finish through traffic and plays bigger then himself. The quick guard is a player any coach would like, as he never takes a play off and stays involved.
Mitch Myers (6’2 / 2020 F / Marion Harding): Myers took advantage of the bigger matchup most of the night by moving heavily on the perimeter. A smooth quick release, the forward totaled 10 points and four rebounds. A strong presence inside, who can score a little inside and out on a nightly basis. A high IQ player that every team needs.
Troy Scowden (6’6 / 2022 PF / Buckeye Valley): The 6’6 freshman is the favorite in about any matchup he gets, and that doesn’t happen often for newcomers. Scowden was a force inside, including a transition slam early in the game. With his long frame, the ability to shot block is a natural, with two on the night. Adding more weight and getting stronger over the next four years will be key. The stud freshman could soon be one of the best in the area.
Dylan Herbert (6’1 / 2020 G / Buckeye Valley): Coming into Thursday, Herbert was the Barons leading scorer. A bit of an off night, the quick junior still was effective with 11 points and five rebounds. Putting the ball on a string and strong through traffic, the 6’1 stud has no trouble getting the the rack. Capable scorer from all three levels, and a pesky defender, totaling three steals on the night. Buckeye Valley has a good player in Herbert, as he is one of their leaders.
Max Stokey (6’6 / 2020 F / Buckeye Valley): One of two big-men for the Barons, Max is a physical presence at 6’6. The forward does a solid job of battling in the post and on the boards. Stokey has a nice touch inside that works well when given the opportunity. Clogging up the paint and making it hard for the opposing team is a strength for the junior.
Final Thoughts: With each team having solid, capable players. Look for both to improve going forward. Marion Harding will look to build off this win. Buckeye Valley is a very young, talented team. Starting three freshman and 2 juniors, Buckeye Valley should be a force for years to come as they grow together.