Metro State Team Camp: Title Game Analysis
After three days and double-digit victories between them, Overland and Grandview met Sunday evening in the Metro State Team Camp championship game.
For two teams that had already multiple games Sunday, the energy level and desire was impressive in the title game. That was especially true of the Trailblazers, who came away with a 42-30 victory to finish an 8-0 run through the tournament with a championship.
Here’s a closer look at how the Blazers got it done:
MVP: Tucson Redding, Overland
The 6-2 point guard led all scorers with 15 points, and that was after he left the game early following a collision with the basket stanchion. He scored eight points in the opening few minutes to stake Overland to an 11-2 lead, including a pair of 3-pointers. He was aggressive in attacking the basket within the framework of Overland’s offense. The rising senior, with Division I offers in hand from Portland State and Idaho, is primed for a big July with The Force.
Defensive Player of the Game: Stephen Hayes, Overland
The 6-2 shooting guard keyed a 7-0 run to start the second half by setting the tone with harassing ball pressure. He picked up two quick steals, delivering a beautiful bounce pass to Daijon Smith for a layup after one of them and finishing on his own after the other steal. He forced several other turnovers with his pressure.
Offensive Player of the Game: Davon Walker, Grandview
The rising junior point guard, who spent his first two high school seasons at Douglas County, did his best to keep the Wolves in the game with an aggressive mentality. He finished with a team-high 12 points, most of which came from attacking the rim and either finishing or getting to the line — where he shot 4-of-5. He’ll be a strong addition for Grandview as they aim to replace the production of standout point guard LeChaun Duhart.
X-Factor: Lalou Oke, Overland
The 6-5 forward, who plays taller because of a massive wingspan, used his length to his advantage. He deflected several entry passes that became steals for Overland, and his length kept Grandview from getting many clean looks. Oke’s athleticism and length allow him to be a versatile defensive weapon for the Blazers.
Unsung Hero: Alex Pena, Overland
After an impressive steal and dunk from Dayne Prim midway through the second half cut a 15-point lead to 31-25, Pena helped Overland stem the tide. He collected an offensive rebound and went up strong, drawing a foul and knocking down two free throws. On Overland’s next possession, Pena was again on the offensive glass. This time he turned the rebound into a bucket of his own. After a Redding layup on the next possession, Overland had extended the lead back to 12 points and led by double digits the rest of the way.