NHR Scout: LaX Classic, Maple Grove/Riverside
Two teams that we saw at the Timberwolves Shootout earlier this month reshuffle and face off here in La Crosse. Tywhon and Taron Pickford (cousins) are both out with injuries, leaving big holes for Maple Grove. In a scary moment,…
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Continue ReadingTwo teams that we saw at the Timberwolves Shootout earlier this month reshuffle and face off here in La Crosse. Tywhon and Taron Pickford (cousins) are both out with injuries, leaving big holes for Maple Grove. In a scary moment, Davison turned his ankle but remained in the game after a brief break. Reed Nikko sustained a hard hit to the face, too, so it was a string of bad luck for the Crimson. Luckily both stayed in and helped MG battle to a 30-30 tie with Riverside at half.
A Nikko dunk to make it 49-39 with 10 minutes left caused Riverside to call a timeout. Further scoring efforts from Davison (at one point 7 straight FG makes) pushed the lead over 15 points and locked in the W. Maple Grove cruises.
Player Notes
Brad Davison, Maple Grove — Lamont Paris (Wisconsin assistant) came to watch Brad and Riverside sophomore Carlos Curtis, and the junior Crimson guard showed much of what he usually shows: grit, communication, tough takes to the rack. A fadeaway 3 in the corner was especially sharp. As the game wore on, it became clear just how big of a game Brad was having, especially when he nailed seven straight FGs. Some free throws at the end put him at 39 for the night, which passes Matt Thomas (Iowa State, formerly of Onalaska) for the single-game scoring record at this event.
Reed Nikko, Maple Grove — Tough matchup for Riverside as George Dixon is too short (6-4) to compete with Nikko and Justin Wofford is far too thin. Nikko took up space in the paint and capitalized for several dunks. Czar has him down for 17 points and 7 rebounds (thank you, stat man).
Jack Hutchinson, Maple Grove — One thing I noticed today was that Hutch is a very reliable ball handler. He hardly gives the ball up and plays intelligently, even when under pressure. Hutch hit a few midrange, had a nice baseline floater, cashed at least one 3.
Zion Allen, Maple Grove — With several injuries affecting the Crimson rotation, Zion got some time today and played well. Certainly serviceable in the rotation and will get good time next year.
Ryan Bredensteiner, Maple Grove — Junior who started in place of Tywhon Pickford. Another kid, like Zion, who I expect to full enter the rotation next season. A bit thin, could definitely bulk up.