What We Learned: Kentucky Sweet Sixteen 1st Round Games
We are hours removed from Kentucky’s ‘Sweet Sixteen’ first round games. Prep Hoops Kentucky takes a look at what we learned from the first two days.
Scott County is Really, Really Good
With an overall record that now stands at 31-5 (with their only in-state loss coming to Lexington Catholic – a loss they avenged in the 11th Region Tournament Final), the Cardinals look the part of a championship favorite going forward. Scott County took down Pulaski County (who is no push over) 83-54. It was the second time in tournament play Scott County forced a running clock against an opponent, this time with just about three minutes still left to play. Four of the Cardinals five starters scored 13 points or more. Scott County was led by junior guard Cooper Robb, who scored 19 points, dished out 6 assists, and grabbed 7 rebounds. Sophomore star Michael Moreno continued to do his thing, scoring 15 points and grabbing 11 boards.
Jake Ohmer (Scott High School, Not Scoutt County) is a Baller
The University of Cumberlands commit scorched Harlan County for 41 points and tore up the boards with 17 rebounds. More importantly, those numbers came with a win. Ohmer joined elite company, now part of a group of 20 players in 100 years to score 40 or more points at Kentucky’s Sweet Sixteen. His 41 points were the most scored at the state tournament since 2000.
Damon Tobler is Super Athletic, and Caught a Body
Photo Credit: Josh Moore, Herald-Leader
Collins High School Came to Compete
Collins came in as a perceived underdog in this thing. Having lost their district title game to the same team they ended up defeating in the regional final by 1-pt (Anderson County), the Titans sort of underwhelmed people at the idea of winning a few games here. Not only that, in 2015 Collins had a sub-par showing against eventual champion Owensboro, losing 38-55.
Now here they are, defeating Elliot County (who had just punched their third straight ticket to the state tournament) in overtime to set up a showdown against Cooper in the ‘Elite 8’.
Don’t Sleep on Cooper’s Adam Kunkel
The junior guard has offers from a number of small D-1 schools, but a good showing here at the Sweet Sixteen may be cause for more attention. Kunkel led Cooper with 16 points and 7 rebounds last night in their win against Meade County. Not only that, Kunkel showed he had some ‘sneaky hops’, slamming down a dunk in transition.
You ARE NOT Going To Want To Miss Ballard vs. Fern Creek
Last night the Bruins steamrolled Taylor County 69-33, but have lost to Fern Creek three times this season already. Fern Creek, new to the dance, may be favored – but Ballard has been here before.
Fern Creek defeated Hopkinsville 81-64 in their first round game.