Route 66 Kickoff: Missouri Flight open strong
TULSA — The Missouri Flight showed off its 2016 squad as former Missouri State Bear Dale Lamberth brought his squad back to his home state this weekend to compete in the Route 66 Kickoff in Tulsa.
The Flight is led by Bolivar 2017 big man Brandon Emmert, a strong 6-foot-6 post player with a soft touch around the basket and a nice feel for scoring on the block. He led the squad with 30 points in an opening-round win on Friday in Owasso, Okla.
Lamberth said the squad was missing three players, but still was able to run away for a 74-59 win on Friday.
Brandon Emmert, 6-6, F, 2017, Bolivar
Will enter his senior season at Bolivar as the premier post player in southwest Missouri. On Friday, he showed off the skills that also make him a college prospect as a tight end, hauling in deep passes against one-on-one coverage, then scoring at will in the paint against a smaller squad. Emmert left several point on the board with some missed chip shots and free throws, but once he gets in legs under him, he’ll be a load on the grassroots circuit.
Isaac Blakeslee, 6-2, G, 2017, Kickapoo
Got overshadowed somewhat at Kickapoo with all the guard depth the Chiefs possessed, but Blakeslee can play. He is a left hander that can really stroke the 3 and has a knack for putting points on the board. Was the Flight’s second leading scorer on Friday with 12 points.
JT Brown, 6-2, G, 2017, Parkview
A point guard with some size, Brown has a smooth game and stays within himself and under control. Averaged 8.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists this season for the Vikings.
Kenny Chambers, 6-1, G, 2017, Willard
Is a competitor that really gets after it at both ends of the floor, bringing hustle and energy to the court. Can shoot the 3 a little from the outside and can get in the paint and attack the basket.
Shahn Clark, 6-1, G, 2017, Hillcrest
One of southwest Missouri’s most talented guards, Clark is terrific at attacking the basket off the bounce. He is a solid ball handler and can stick perimeter jumpers. He could start to draw the attention of college coaches with a strong summer.
Jack Ehrhardt, 6-0, G, 2017, Lebanon
Wasn’t in attendance on Friday as he stayed behind in Missouri to compete in a spring sport. Ehrhardt is a strong guard who is at his best attacking the basket off the dribble. Was expected to be back with the squad on Saturday.
Conley Garrison, 5-11, G, 2017, Bolivar
Is among the premier perimeter shooters in southwest Missouri with the ability to really dial it up from long distance, but is also a strong athlete with the ability to get to the basket and make plays for teammates off the dribble. Is a strong ball handler with an a solid feel for running the point.
Treydon Rackley, 6-2, G, 2017, Republic
A strong athlete who is at his best in transition and attacking the basket. Had a terrific 2015-16 season for the Republic Tigers, helping the squad to a 20-win season.
Keaton Larimore, 6-5, F, 2016, Bolivar
Strong, physical post player saw time in reserve behind Emmert on Friday and hauled in a host of offensive rebounds.
Not in attendance: Kameron Bundy (6-6, F, 2017, Nixa), Julius Walker (6-3, G/F, 2017, Greenwood).