10 Bests from Millard West vs Millard South
Friday night, the Wildcats from Millard West visited the Patriots of Millard South, for the annual Battle of Q Street, which is known as one of the most heated rivalries in the state of Nebraska. Both teams had a tough…
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Continue ReadingFriday night, the Wildcats from Millard West visited the Patriots of Millard South, for the annual Battle of Q Street, which is known as one of the most heated rivalries in the state of Nebraska. Both teams had a tough time scoring in the opening minutes, but eventually found their groove. Millard South led throughout the game and eventually extended their lead to double digits going into the fourth quarter, but the Wildcats just wouldn’t go away. Millard West opened the fourth quarter on a 10-2 run to cut the deficit to three, but it was the Patriots who came out on top, 54-48.
MVP
It is undoubtable that the Most Valuable Player from this game was Trevor Albert. The 6’9 senior from Millard South poured in 18 points, which 12 came from outside the arc. Trevor can score from anywhere on the floor, whether it’s back to the basket or 23 feet from the hoop. Not only was he was he a force on the offensive end, but his extremely long frame helped him to 4 blocks on the defensive end and added 5 rebounds as well. Albert may be one of the most improved players in the Metro Conference, as he went from being a Junior Varsity player his junior year, to leading Millard South in scoring this year. Look for this kid to keep improving as we get deeper into the season.
Best Offensive Performance
Dom Humm was able to keep Millard West in the game all night with his offensive performance. Humm is a very good finisher around the rim and can score from all levels. Dom plays the point for the Wildcats, and excels at finding his teammates for open shots, creating open shots for himself, and controlling the offense. He added 17 points on a very efficient night from the field.
Best Defensive Performance
The best defensive performance goes to Millard South junior point guard Blake Stenger. Blake finished with 5 steals and added a block as well. Stenger is used to being the smallest guy on the court but he sure doesn’t play like it. Whether the guy he is guarding is 5’6 or 6’5, he will always harass them and make them as uncomfortable as possible.
Play of the Game
With a couple of minutes left in the fourth quarter, junior wing Michael Harding kicked it out to wide open Trevor Albert in the corner for a huge three. This was so significant because Millard West was in the midst of a comeback and had the game to one possession, but Albert’s shot stopped the run and erased all momentum from the Wildcats.
Best Guy Off the Bench
Millard South senior guard Tre Mungin provided a huge spark off the Patriot bench. What Tre did this game is not something that you can find in a box score. Mungin provided an immediate impact in this one for the Patriots, hitting a three less than a minute after checking in.
Best Intangibles
It is easy to love what Michael Harding brings to the table. The Millard South wing has a constant motor and never takes a possession off. Diving on loose balls, going after every single rebound, and sprinting the floor every single time is in his DNA. Harding filled up the stat sheet with 12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block. He does all the intangibles that any coach could ever ask for, and there’s no doubt he will outwork his opponent.
Best Under-The-Radar Performance
Best Under-The-Radar Performance goes to Millard West guard Ryan Larsen. Larsen is terrific in his role for the Wildcats and will be a huge part in what they do for the rest of the season. He is one of the most confident shooters I have seen this year and has the green light to shoot from anywhere.
Best Underclassmen
Gage Stenger is a sophomore for Millard South, playing in his second season with the Patriots as he got experience as a freshman. Gage still has a lot to learn, but it is obvious he has much room for potential, with great leadership ability and length.
Best Aspect of the Environment
When it comes to the Battle of Q Street, the student sections will always play a huge part. With the two schools being huge rivals, they go back and forth all game and never fail to disappoint.
Best Player Comparison
Millard South’s Trevor Albert reminds me of Kristaps Porzingis. Both are tall, lengthy, and shoot well beyond the arc, but can also score from the post. Both are great at getting blocks and giving the offense a tough time to score in the paint.