Gym Hopping is the term I would describe the staff’s Thursday at Vegas. A couple hours at Bishop Gorman, a few games at Clark HS, premier matchups at Cashman Center, and three more sites later we have completed another day of hoops. Here are our stories from Thursday
Big Man Battle
Sierra Vista HS was the stage for the heavyweight big man matchup of 2018 Efe Odigie (Houston Hoopstars) and 2019 BJ Mack (EOTO) as the clash was a site to see. The two burly, fleshy big men threw their body at each other and both displayed advanced footwork on the block. Efe (18pts) and the Hoopstars edged Mack (18pts) EOTO at the end but this game had all the feeling of watching a heavyweight boxing match.
Nimmer Showcased Versatility
2019 Vernon Carey and Nike Team Florida In the second half were too much for Texas Hardwork but forward 2018 Justin Nimmer exhibited his versatility on both ends. Nimmer was able to switch and guard multiple positions and attacked the rim with either hand. His jumper was off in his a.m. game but Nimmer looked to impact the game in other ways.
Caution Sign Going to the Paint
One thing the TBB staff knows that’ll translate at the next level for 2018 Ousmane Ndim is his shotblocking. The elite rim protector made opposing players think twice before attempting a shot in the lane. He’s one of those players that doesn’t need to attempt a shot to show his presence on the floor and YIIS win vs Mass Rivals showed that.
Stevens, Nzekwesi Lead Triumph Gold to a 2-0 Record
The chemistry on the court 2018 David Nzekwesi and 2019 Isaiah Stevens presented was a large factor in Triumph’s success on Thursday. Nzekwesi was able to find Stevens on quick outlet passes that allowed fast break opportunities and Stevens found Nzekwesi on post ups and when the big man rolled to the basket off a pick. Both are TBB top 50 prospects in their respective class, and we will see how they follow up these performances on Friday.
Petion Influential in YGC36’s Comeback Win
YGC36 faced a big early deficit vs OSA Crusaders and needing a spark to make a rally, 2019 Marvens Petion came off the bench and made use of the opportunity. Knocking down two triples in the second half, Petion biggest impact was using his length to limit OSA’s second shot opportunities by fighting and rebounding in traffic. His perimeter game is coming along, although still a work in progress, but the top 20 prospect continues to be a spark plug for his YGC36 squad.
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