Five Takeaways: I95 Finale Showcase Game
SPRINGFIELD, VA — DC Premier and Team Richmond squared off in the 17U Showcase Game at the I95 Finale on Friday night. Premier took an early lead and did not look back as they won by a final score of…
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Continue ReadingSPRINGFIELD, VA — DC Premier and Team Richmond squared off in the 17U Showcase Game at the I95 Finale on Friday night. Premier took an early lead and did not look back as they won by a final score of 78-73. Here are five takeaways from this contest.
Big Game James Comes to Play
Right from the opening tip, James Gross Jr. James Gross Jr. 6'3" | CG Rock Creek Christian | 2021 State MD collected the ball and the needle with a solid bounce pass for an assist to an open teammate. That was the first of many positive plays he had in this game. Gross popped off for 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists while playing with controlled aggression for each minute he was on the court.
Samb’s Versatility Flourishes
Abdou Samb Abdou Samb 6'8" | C Frederick Douglass | 2021 State MD was a two-way impact player throughout this game. Before we move forward, let’s not forget to mention how vocal he was on the court. Samb was often heard communicating clearly to his teammates from the back-line. His mobility and help defense stood out as he was disruptive on every ball screen. Samb was also a forceful presence around the rim because of his shot-blocking prowess. As a bonus, he stepped out and did something we’ve seen him do before and hit a trey ball. Samb’s development is coming along nicely and it seems like his best playing days are ahead of him.
Lilly and Waters lead perimeter assault
Premier had a huge edge in three-point shooting, and Kino Lilly Jr. Kino Lilly Jr. 6'0" | CG Landon | 2021 State MD was a huge reason for this. The Brown commit feasted from downtown and was a constant threat from the perimeter. Day’sJuan Waters Day’sJuan Waters 6'3" | SF Good Counsel | 2021 State MD also came in and knocked in a couple of treys while scoring 13 efficient points. Sharpshooting forward Caleb Furr Caleb Furr 6'6" | PF Bishop Walsh | 2022 VA added a trey ball as well.
Kenney Continues to Impress
Production is a key indicator of success at the next level. Caleb Kenney Caleb Kenney 6'6" | PF Douglas Freeman | 2021 State VA has produced each time we’ve seen him hit the floor this summer, and tonight was no different. The athletic southpaw went off for 17 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks. What more does Kenney have to do to attract legitimate division one looks?
Team Richmond’s 2022 Prospects Show Potential
James Patterson James Patterson 6'2" | SG Meadowbrook | 2021 VA and Cam Gregory are two very intriguing prospects to monitor form the class of 2022. Patterson was assertive and looked for easy scoring opportunities in transition. The tall wing was active on the glass and shot the ball with confidence. Gregory is a tall guard with a smooth game. He has a quick first step and showcases good touch when finishing high off the glass. Gregory should continue to improve as he gets stronger, gains more high-level playing experience, and tightens his handle.