2018 Geico Nationals: Montverde captures the title in win over University

Montverde not only won its fourth national title, but the Eagles did it while capturing a perfect season at 35-0. On Saturday afternoon, Montverde proved to be too much for University (36-2) in a 76-58 at New York Christ The King School in the Geico National title. Senior Duke commit RJ Barrett led all scorers in this game with 25 points. Here are the top performers from the championship. RJ Barrett (Montverde) When you think RJ Barrett is having a so-so game, he turns it around and brings the intensity. The future Duke Blue Devil had nine points in the first half but in the second half, Barrett tacked on 16 more points. The ball was in hands more often than not as a shooter or a rebounder (game-high 15 rebounds). His 3-point shot is improving and he could be deadly if he makes it a true strength. Scottie Barnes (University) Following up his missed shots with rebounds, it seemed as if Scottie Barnes was crashing the boards for the entire 32 minutes. The sophomore forward recorded a team-best 24 points along with 10 rebounds. The lengthy forward/point man had 15 of his points in the second half alone. Barnes is only hitting the surface of his potential. Michael Devoe (Montverde) A reliable shooter, senior Georgia Tech commit Michael Devoe was sensational in this game, netting 21 points on 8-of-10 shooting from the field. Devoe made 5-of-7 shots from outside including four in the second half alone. Devoe is a smart passer and floor leader. Vernon Carey Jr./Drue Drinnon (University) For much of the game, Drue Drinnon was the next best thing for the Sharks. The senior New Mexico commit had 10 points, six rebounds and three assists in his final high school game. Junior center Vernon Carey Jr. still managed a double double with 12 points and 10 rebounds despite a tough first half and a swarming Montverde defense. Andrew Nembhard (Montverde) Watching Andrew Nembhard play basketball is a pleasure. The senior Florida commit has elite vision and ballhandling skills. He scored eight points while recording 13 assists and three steals. Nembhard makes passes that you have no clue are coming when watching, but his teammates are always in sync. Filip Petrusev/Balsa Koprivica (Montverde) Headed to Gonzaga this fall, senior forward Filip Petrusev did his part, scoring 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting from the field. Junior forward Balsa Koprivica was tasked with making life tough for his former teammate Carey Jr. Koprivica did just that with two points, nine rebounds and two blocks as he was a defensive nightmare for University.