Overland Summer League: Week 1 Highlights
The Overland summer league kicked into gear Wednesday night, with high school teams competing for the first time since the season ended in March.
Though there was still saw clear rust as players shook off cobwebs and rediscovered chemistry, there was an impressive amount of tenacity on opening night during a combined six games played by Cherokee Trail, Rangeview, ThunderRidge, Overland, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Smoky Hill.
Here were a few highlights from the first night:
George Washington vs. Smoky Hill
The calendar is only flipping to June, but it’s not to early to say that both of these teams will be considered for deep 5A playoff runs during the 2017-18 season. The Buffs emerged with a hard-fought, one-point win after sophomore-to-be Quentin Rock hit a 3-pointer with Smoky down four, then helped get the ball to Mue Muwwakkil for the winning bucket after Kyle Cabs came up with a steal on the following possession.
There were a number of players who came up with big performances, but a couple of under-the-radar ones stood out. Devin Carter, who played in 11 games for G-Dub as a freshman last season, scored eight points in the span of about 90 seconds Wednesday, hitting two 3-pointers and then getting a layup in transition. He seemed to always be moving and making plays. He could be a big piece for the Patriots next season as they replace backcourt stalwarts Calvin Fugett Jr. and Jervay Green.
For the Buffs, Cabs continues to emerge as a playmaker. His one of the state’s more versatile defenders, always interchanging between being a wall on the perimeter and making plays inside. His offensive game is also showing steady improvement, particularly his ability to make a decisive move to the basket and finish.
.@SmokyHillHoops and @gdubhoops opened @OHShoopSquad Summer League like it was March! Ending to an intense game: pic.twitter.com/yXEMXGtDlR
— Prep Hoops Colorado (@PrepHoopsCO) June 1, 2017
Tucson Redding
The 6-foot-2 guard has been one of the state’s best-kept secrets and it’s clear to see why. The rising senior point guard has clearly worked his tail off in the weight room and has a college-ready frame. Overland coach Danny Fisher has applauded the work Redding has put into improving his game, and received Division I offers this spring from Portland State and Idaho.
Outside of the obvious physical gains Redding has made since this time last season, he’s really grown his feel for the game. Most notably he is running things at a measured pace, not being too sped up. Redding is a great example of a player who has worked hard when few — including us, we admit — were noticing his game, and he has risen it to another level.
Other Notes
After four years with Jaizec Lottie running the show as one of Cherokee Trail will be under new guidance at point guard. On Wednesday, rising senior Deon Barfield occupied that spot for much of the game. He has the athleticism to score anyone, and against ThunderRidge he demonstrated a strong crossover dribble in transition and improved overall handling. Tyson Rogers, another player who has clearly put work into his frame and is strong at 5-8, also showed strong moments.
Speaking of point guards, Tyson Cruickshank continues his growth as the point guard for ThunderRidge. He shows poise with the ball in his hands and consistently opts for the smart pass at the expense of risky ones.