5 Players that Impressed: Day 1 Virginapreps.com Classic
# 32 Jr. Sascha Stafford- Smithfield High school Sascha was the steady hand for the Packers throughout the game and had an impactful performance on both ends of the court. Offensively he showed a strong face up game working…
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# 32 Jr. Sascha Stafford- Smithfield High school
Sascha was the steady hand for the Packers throughout the game and had an impactful performance on both ends of the court. Offensively he showed a strong face up game working out of the high post against Kellam’s variation of a run and jump zone. By constantly finding openings in the defense he was able to release the pressure on the guards with his ability to turn and knock down the 15 footer. He looked good in a few high pick and roll situations as he opened to the ball well and was able to get some easy shots around the basket. On the other end of the floor Stafford consistently attacked the glass and collected 13 boards on the night. He proved to have rim protecting ability blocking 2 shots on the night and making his presence felt in the paint.
Key Stats: 18 points 12 rebounds
# 34 Jr. Jalen Craig- Kellam High School
Jalen’s game against Smithfield was the epitome of efficiency. In only 20 minutes of play, Kellam’s big man had 11 points on 5 of 5 shooting from the floor and 6 rebounds. He managed to make it into every statistical category with limited time on the floor. Jalen found most of his scoring opportunities by rotating the front of the rim on drives by the Knight’s guards. He used some strong ball fakes and a soft touch to finish in traffic. Defensively, he was able to use his length to his advantage and altered many of Smithfield’s shot attempts in the lane.
Key stats: 11 points 6 rebounds
#11 Sr. Adam Grant – Norfolk Collegiate
Adam played one his most complete games in one of the most meaningful games of the year. He finished the night with a game high 19 points and added 9 boards. The athletic guard showed the ability and willingness to lead this team to victory. In the half-court game, he was able to penetrate off of the dribble and weave through traffic for some tough finishes over the bigs. He also found confidence in his jumper as the game proceeded and hit some clutch shots from outside. In the transition game, whether he was running the lanes or pushing the ball, his decision making led to quality shots. Most importantly, as the lead traded hands and the crowd grew louder, he showed poise and composure. This leadership helped his team remain calm and continue to make smart plays as the clock wound down.
Key stats: 19 points 9 rebounds 6 assists 2 steals
# 3 De’Shaun Wade- Green Run High School
De’Shaun stepped up big to provide some much needed scoring as Collegiate’s stingy zone neutralized the Stallions normally potent front court. The combo guard effectively used his size and strength to put defenders on his hip, allowing him to make his way to the basket on multiple occasions. He also showed off a steady jumper from mid-range and mixed in a few pull-ups when he was unable to get into the paint. The deeper shots didn’t fall as much as he would have liked, but it was still evident he could knock them down as he swished 2 with a hand in his face. Defensively, he displayed good anticipation and quick hands to come away with 3 steals on the game.
Key stats: 19 points 4 rebounds
#12 Sr. Connor Campbell- Kellam High school
Connor didn’t have the biggest statistical game, but his gritty and physical play was paramount to his team’s success. Throughout the contest, he handled the Packers ball pressure well and attacked the seams any time there was an opening. By constantly penetrating, he opened the floor and created many scoring opportunities for his teammates. His high motor and aggressive mentality kept the defense constantly guessing and made him a threat every time the ball was in his hands. On defense, he hounded Smithfield’s perimeter players and forced them into uncomfortable shots.
Key stats: 6 points 5 assists