New Orleans Elite vs. Elfrid Payton Elite (Carnival HoopFest 17U Pool Play): Video Highlights
Carnival HoopFest welcomed teams from California to Florida this weekend at Xavier University’s Convocation Center and St. Mary’s High School in New Orleans, Louisiana. One of the premier matchups of the tournament in the 17U division featured two of the state’s top grassroots programs in New Orleans Elite and Elfrid Payton Elite.
While the matchup wasn’t as high scoring as some expected, the contest was still competitive as both teams battled for bragging rights in the state. NOE made a push in the second half that gave them a 36-29 lead and held on down the stretch for a 45-42 win in pool play.
Despite his miniature size, NOE/Landry-Walker 2017 point guard Lamont Berzat imposed his will on the game with impressive play on both sides of the ball. The 5-foot-6 UNO commit repeatedly used his quickness to get in the paint and create opportunities for himself or others and was constantly engaged defensively keeping opposing point guards in check.
Berzat had what turned out to be the game-winning assist to Curtis 2017 Kai Morgan and Brooks Debartolo (FL) 2017 guard Josh Humphries also showed he was capable of scoring in a variety of ways while still finding teammates for open shots.
EPE got strong performances from several players including Devante Jones and Brandon Rachal, who helped EPE capture the Carnival HoopFest 17U title with a win over NOE in a rematch on Sunday. Check back later for highlights on the championship game and here’s a look at the pool play matchup from Saturday: