Hard Work Live: First-Impressions From Day One
The day one game slate allows teams and players to settle in, maybe get a game under their belt. That said, some wasted no time leaping into consciousness with eye-popping performances. Here are the noteworthy first-impressions from Hard Work Live.
Minnesota Fury – 16U: Fury sidestepped Joliet Spurs in their Friday debut, solidifying themselves as a Platinum Bracket contender. They planted their foot in the opening minutes of today’s game through repetition in their post feeds, as they dished it to 6’8 Zach Wenthe who would ultimately score 10 of their first 12 points. As Joliet adjusted, or at least attempted to, Fury countered with back-to-back Ben Giles triples. Their depth of scoring and their variation at each position was a glaring positive for them all game and an obvious takeaway from Friday’s afternoon slate.
Dontay Horshaw, MN Comets – 15U: MN Comets were a roster built on scoring threats, none more prevalent in their first game than Horshaw. He thrived when defenses were vulnerable, whether that be shifting in help or transition, as his instinct would aid him in finding avenues to finish. Horshaw rarely settled in the half-court, attacking the paint relentlessly and drawing contact from slower defenders. What set him over the edge was his willingness to shoot the three when left open, making him unguardable when paired with their other, capable guards.
Griffin Elite Guards (14U) – Griffin Elite would cruise past a bigger and more athletic Indiana Dawgz team Friday afternoon solely with guard play.
6’1, Daniel Campbell: Campbell impressed with his savvy as a bigger backcourt player. He was able to excel on the wing and in the trenches, scoring in whatever look the defense gave him.
5’9, Carter Krohman: Krohman was the most complete scorer in their three-headed backcourt. He was a crafty finisher around the hoop and shot the ball with the utmost confidence from outside.
5’6, Landen Hamilton: Hamilton has carved out his niche as a ball handler. The guard could beat his man off the dribble while also complementing that with a smooth outside shot.