Class of 2018 point guard Isaiah Payton and his Moeller Crusaders (27-0) are back in the Final Four. It marks Moeller’s first since the 2009-10 season, where the Crusaders fell to Massillon Jackson, 57-34.
"We play Friday, Moeller against Pick Central," said Payton's father Raymon. "Things have been going well. Win and survive."
Moeller skirted through the Region 4 Bracket with a 60-57 win over Mason and a 38-32 win over Cincinnati La Salle.
In a low-scoring game, Payton recorded 7 points, 2 blocks, three turnovers, one assist, and one steal.
This year Payton is averaging 8.5 ppg, 3.2 apg, and 44.6% 3's. His assist to turnover ratio is 2:1.
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Pickerington Central will be a massive undertaking.
The PC Tigers are lead by two HM prospects in 2017 F Sterling Manley (UNC signee) and 2019 G Jeremiah Francis. Manley averages 15.2 ppg and Francis leads the squad with 15.9 ppg.
Payton will be pressured, but the true test for Moeller will be interior defense.
AAU Plans
Despite his high school successes, Isaiah Payton does not have a firm AAU affiliation.
Last year he played with All-Ohio Red.
"We still have to make that decision," said father Payton.
The AOR season was not really ideal.
"We would really like (him) to run team a little more," said Mr. Payton. "To be a bigger part of the team. Trying to get an opportunity to be a leader on the team."
With Moeller, Payton's role is integral. That is the kind of situation both Isaiah and his father would prefer during AAU season.
Isaiah Payton still has a Liberty offer. Ohio University evaluated a game this year. Back in September several D1 programs watched preseason workouts.
In games Payton starts Moeller is 34-1, dating back to February 6th, 2016. Is there a more telling PG statistic than wins?
