How Did They Get Here: Putnam City North
Putnam City North has a 22-5 record and a spot in the state tournament for the second straight year because of a dynamic guard duo and a talented core of role players.
PCN is led by Micah Thomas and Adokiye Iyaye who both have taken over many games this season.
Thomas is a 2019 guard who is a threat whenever he passes half court. He has a small frame but he does a good job of finishing around the rim or finding his shooters. There were many games this season that you would forget Thomas was on the floor then he would score 10 points in a row. He is an explosive scorer who has made his PCN teammates better.
Iyaye was the Transfer of the Year this season as he moved from Piedmont to PCN. The 2018 guard is a bigger guard who is excellent at slashing to the basket and in transition. The 2018 guard is 6’3 and has a great basketball IQ. Iyaye is also a great defender who can guard 1-4 postions. He is the spear head of this Panther defense.
A big difference for PCN this year has been the maturation of Chris Braggs and the addition of Blake Owens.
Braggs is a certified scorer who can get hot and his midrange jumper is automatic. In games against Westmoore and PCW, Braggs was the best player on the floor that night because of his scoring ability in the paint.
Blake Owens was a transfer from Piedmont and at 6’8 he has been a game changer for PCN. Owens is an excellent shot blocker and does a good job of rebounding on both ends. He has helped the Panthers by getting some size to compliment all those guards.
PCN has had a great season so far including a 14 game win streak during this season. The Panthers have played a solid schedule and this young core has some experience from making state last year. PCN will play another young team against Midwest City on Thursday.