Centerville Underclassmen Combine for 39pts in Win
Last night, Centerville topped Springfield (63-49) for a second time this season. Without senior big man Mo Njie, Centerville looked to its younger players to step up against an athletic Springfield team. Gabe Cupps, Kebba Njie, and Rich Rolf did…
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Continue ReadingLast night, Centerville topped Springfield (63-49) for a second time this season. Without senior big man Mo Njie, Centerville looked to its younger players to step up against an athletic Springfield team. Gabe Cupps, Kebba Njie, and Rich Rolf did just that.
Springfield started the game off with elite defense. They forced a young Cupps into some early turnovers that they capitalized on, and they also were solid at the rim with two huge blocks from Ray Cole. Springfield’s team consists of football stars and their athleticism was clearly shaking things up early against the young Elk’s team. However, the Elk’s found their rhythm and took control.
The Elk’s ball movement created opportunities inside throughout the entire night. They were too much to control, and it showed. They had many easy bunnies, but the Elk’s were exceptionally strong at the rim and rewarded themselves for it at the charity stripe all night. Collectively, they shot 24-30 from the line.
6’0″ Freshman Gabe Cupps (12pts, 5-6 FT) got an early rest from his coach, who also is his dad. When he came back out on the floor, it was clear that he had shaken off his early turnovers. He was composed and in control of the game from that point on. Gabe is considered an elite shooter, but last night and most of this year his ball-handling and ability to get others involved have been on display. Gabe is a leader and gives off electrifying energy for his team. He is a true competitor.
6’8″ Sophomore Kebba Njie (14pts, 9reb, 4 blk 4-4 FT) had himself a solid showing last night. With his older brother being out with an injury, Kebba had to step up as the big man for Centerville. Kebba is a player that is still growing and does not quite look like he is used to his size yet. If he is not immediately able to take the ball to the rim, he can sometimes look uncomfortable on the ball. However, you can tell he is getting more composed, and the fact that he is still a growing sophomore is a major plus for his game. He is a shot-blocking machine, can finish at the rim, and has a nice stroke at the line. There is no doubt he will have D1 interest, and his work ethic will most likely land him some offers.
6’7″ Sophomore Rich Rolf (13pts, 11 reb 7-9 FT) is a gritty player that isn’t afraid to take the ball at someone inside and draw contact. He has an athletic frame and is efficient at the rim, while also being a solid defender on the other end of the court. As Rich develops a deeper offensive game and continues his gritty play style on both ends of the court, he will be an interesting player to follow. He will be able to play at the next level due to his growing skillset.