Key Players From McGuinness vs. NW Classen
The matchup between Bishop McGuinness and Northwest Classen always turns out to be entertaining, and on Friday, this matchup didn’t disappoint. While Bishop were short their two best players and fell behind by as many as 19 points against NW…
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Continue ReadingThe matchup between Bishop McGuinness and Northwest Classen always turns out to be entertaining, and on Friday, this matchup didn’t disappoint. While Bishop were short their two best players and fell behind by as many as 19 points against NW Classen, they fought back and nearly erased the Knights’ entire lead, only losing by four, 72-68.
Northwest Classen just cracked the top 20 in Class 6A, while McGuinness is in the thick of a competitive 5A, ranked seventh, but without their best players and NW Classen’s spectacular guard play and stifling defense made this game a level playing field.
However, there were a couple of players for McGuinness that stepped up to make this a competitive game and a couple for NW Classen who willed them to victory.
Matthew Williams, 2021 (McGuinness)
Williams has been a force all season, but he was more impactful on Friday night. From the tip, he was assertive in his play and established himself as a force in the paint early in the game. His first few buckets came around the rim. Williams led Bishop with 21 points while also serving as the vocal leader of the team on the court.
Mike Taffe, 2023 (McGuinness)
Taffe’s stout frame and athleticism negated the fact that he’s only 5-foot-11. He isn’t a high-flier, He isn’t the best shooter, but he was the hardest working player on the court coming off the bench. Taffe instantly impacted the game positively for McGuinness from when he checked into the game with his brute strength and hustle.
Cyrus (Northwest Classen)
We couldn’t get this kid’s first name, but that won’t be an issue soon because he’ll be a household name in the state soon. Finishing with 16 points, he was the quickest player on the court, having no problem getting to the rim with his quick first step and no problem getting to his spot defensively while getting the stop.
Moore (Northwest Classen)
Moore’s full name wasn’t provided, but his impact was just as significant and Cyrus’s. When I mentioned Northwest Classen’s guard play, Moore and Cyrus were who I was talking about. Moore was crafty in getting his buckets and did a great job getting t the free-throw line.