Ten Best: Ottawa vs. Topeka West
TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka West 6’3 2018 forward Elliot Mehrens scored underneath the basket as time expired for a game-winning bucket to give the Chargers a 48-46 win over Ottawa on Tuesday in Topeka.
West improved to 3-0 this season with a key game against city rival Highland Park ahead on Friday, while Ottawa falls to 2-1 this season.
Here, Prep Hoops takes a look at several players on both sides who had terrific performances.
MVP: Elliot Mehrens (6’3, F, 2018, Topeka West). Mehrens scored eight points, knocked down a 3, led West with six rebounds, and of course, had the biggest shot of the game as he freed himself under the bucket and scored on a reverse lay-up as time expired for the game-winner.
Best Offensive Player: Elijah Griffin (6’1, F/G, 2018, Topeka West). Griffin has something of a throw back element to his game, able to play inside-out basketball despite being just 6’1. He is comfortable on the wing but is really effective in the post. He led West with 16 points on 7 for 10 shooting despite missing significant time on the court due to foul trouble.
Best Defensive Player: Chris Ellis (6’0, G, 2018, Topeka West). Ellis came off the bench and picked up two charges, a pair of deflections and a steal. Ellis drew a key charge against Ottawa in the final moments of the game.
Best Passer: Kobe Johnson (6’5, F, 2020, Ottawa). Johnson had a couple of careless turnovers, but he showed he is a terrific passer for a big man, throwing several impressive passes from the high post on the perimeter. His playmaking abilities as a passer really helps open things up for the Cyclones.
Best Rebounder: Devion Bethea (5’11, PG, 2018, Ottawa). A solid ball handler and point guard, Bethea was all over the boards from the point guard position on Tuesday as he led the Cyclones with six boards. He also chipped in nine points, including a key 3-pointer in the fourth quarter.
Mr. Versatility: Krys Johnson (6’4, F/G, 2018, Ottawa). Johnson is the epitome of versatility, capable of playing all over the floor. He finished with a game-high 17 points and knocked down a clutch 3 to tie the game with 22 seconds remaining. He is a strong, physical player who can play in the paint or along the baseline, but is skilled enough to play on the perimeter and help the team set up its offense.
Name to Remember: Koriyon Carr (5’11, G, 2018, Topeka West). A talented shooter and scorer, Carr went for 15 points on Tuesday but probably didn’t have his best shooting night, going 5 for 17 from the field. He is capable of getting buckets in bunches and creates his own shot well off the bounce.