Northland Vs. East: Five Takeaways
On Thursday night, Northland defeated East 71-61 in overtime, but It didn’t come easy. After the first quarter, East found themselves holding onto a 18-13 lead. And down just three at the half 33-30. The first half was very physical,…
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Continue ReadingOn Thursday night, Northland defeated East 71-61 in overtime, but It didn’t come easy.
After the first quarter, East found themselves holding onto a 18-13 lead. And down just three at the half 33-30. The first half was very physical, both teams forcing countless turnovers. Cedric Norvett scores 11 of his 15 points in the first half for the East Tigers, to keep it close.
After three quarters, Northland held on to a 47-43 lead. Senior Armon Mackey with eight points in the period, to once again keep it close.
In the final period, things got interesting. East was able to get a two point lead, but it wouldn’t get any bigger. As Northland, was able to answer any move the Tigers made. Northland was unable to score at the buzzer, so the game head to overtime tied at 58 all.
Overtime was more like the N’Keeley Elmore takeover, the Senior went OFF. Scoring 13 of his career high 39 points in the overtime period. Elmore was a factor all around, as you’ll read more about below.
The Vikings of Northland improved to 14-5. Also, a win tomorrow night will garner them another City League-North title.
The Columbus East Tigers fell to 7-11 on the season, but despite a very tough played game tonight, they came up just a bit short.
Five Game Takeaways:
1. N’Keeley Elmore Is One Of The Best Guards Around: One of the best single game outings I have seen this year, Elmore absolutely went off. With a clutch factor, the tough guard was a bucket whenever his team needed one. Netting a career high 39 points, the Senior did most of his damage at the rim. Also, never shying away from contact, Elmore is looking to finish tough every time. Also, swiping five steals on the night, the quick Elmore often was off and running in transition. However, a career night for the stud Viking, and what a two-way outing it was.
2. Isaiah Ingle Has The Physical Traits To Be A Force In The Middle: At 6’8, just the Juniors presence down low makes a difference. With a couple blocks tonight, Ingle was about to deter shots and make it tough on willing scorers. Snatching 13 rebounds, the lengthy Viking uses his size to his advantage, beating the opposing team on the glass. Maybe a late bloomer, but, Ingle has a chance to be real good his Senior year with a tough offseason.
3. Northland Will Take Home Another City League-North Title This Year: Now, at 14-5 overall and 11-2 in conference play, Northland has a chance to take the North Friday night. After defeating Beechcroft in their last matchup, the Vikings set ahead by a half game. Taking care of business this year in the big games, is exactly what Northland has done. A battle with Centennial on Friday night will be a tough one, but with N’Keeley Elmore on their side, they should feel good. Also, Northland will play in the City League title game with a win.
4. Devan White Showed He Was A Tough Defender: All night long, White was the toughest on-ball defender for either team. Staying up in the ball handlers face, making it tough for them to get any offense going. Also, the Junior was able to cut off the drive multiple times, forcing the pass. Recording three steals, White was a big time difference maker on the defensive side. Also, getting loose balls, doing all the small things, exactly what coaches like.
5. East Is Led By Solid Upper-Class Play: East may not have the most skilled players, but they are led by a trio of upper class men, who can get a bucket. Cedric Norvett, Armon Mackey and Ty’lei Tate combined for 49 points on the night. Responsible for most of the production, the trio was able to score at a high level. Often getting timely baskets to go was the name of the game for them, as they kept the game close all night. These three players really stood out, in carrying the Tigers.