Zaxby’s Tip Off Classic

Prep Hoops took in the action to start the basketball season here in the Palmetto State.  The Zaxby’s Tip Off Classic kicked off on Friday night here in Summerton at Scott’s Branch HS. Prep Hoops was able to get over here to cover some girls action of course over on (Prep Girls Hoops) and the Boy’s Championship Game.  Sumter HS vs Gray Collegiate (Championship Game)  The War Eagles jumped out to a 27-22 lead at halftime over the Gamecocks. Sumter HS led the War Eagles 37-31 starting the 4th quarter. The Gray Collegiate War Eagles took over in the final frame and outscored the Gamecocks 21-4 in to win 52-41. Gray Collegiate went on 16-2 run to finish out the game and win the Zaxby’s Tip Off Classic.  Several players were missing out this weekend. Football is still a priority in the Palmetto State. Gray Collegiate and Sumter HS both advanced this past weekend in the 2nd round of the football playoffs. Both of teams not at full strengths will both be tough outs down the road with a full roster.  Chase McDuffieChaseMcDuffie6'5" | SGGray Collegiate | 2021StateSC a North Carolina A&T signee finished the game with 17 points for the War Eagles. McDuffie started out quick in the game with some three pointers early on. McDuffie was key down the stretch in the 4th quarter knocking down some shots in transition. McDuffie showed his senior leadership in the victory.  Brandon GardnerBrandonGardner6'7" | SFGray Collegiate | 2023StateSC did all of his damage right around the rim on his way to 12 points on the evening. Gardner finished around the cup just on activity and tip ins including a nice healthy dunk.  Kendal ParkerKendalParker6'4" | SFGray Collegiate | 2022StateSC was crafty all night on his way to scoring 9 points. Parker brings a lot of energy to the lineup and mismatches on the floor. Parker was able to drive the ball or make a pass to a open teammate for a bucket. Parker would come up with a big rebound, steal or take a charge. Parker is the complete team guy with his performance.  Trai WhiteTraiWhite5'11" | PGGray Collegiate | 2023StateSC was a pest all night long against the Gamecocks picking up several steals in the game. White is the floor general for the War Eagles with his ability to penetrate the gaps and find the open man. White was able to connect on some big free throws down the stretch in the win for the War Eagles.  Nakeem IsaacNakeemIsaac6'3" | SFSumter | 2022StateSC did the most he could to help his Sumter HS stay in the game. Isaac finished with 16 points while connecting around the basket or knocking down the open jumper. Isaac was able to bully himself around the paint through contact to score some buckets.  Caleb JenkinsCalebJenkins5'4" | PGSumter | 2024SC just a freshman plays the game with such a fearless attitude for the Gamecocks. Jenkins was all over the floor and was able to connect on some jumpers from perimeter.  The Gray Collegiate War Eagles move to (3-0) on the young season while Sumter HS falls to (2-1).