Capitol City Classic Day 3: Top Performers

Contributed by Albert Lee Day three of the Capitol City Classic things got interesting with marquee matchups all across the board trickled, as the final loom over the horizon. Rancho Christian (CA) took on Sherwood in what was a David versus Goliath match-up, however, Sherwood refused to back down in front of a large turn out. Jamison Guerra and Asher Krausel combined for 35 points, as they chipped away at Rancho Christian’s interior defense. The Eagle’s fast style of play was troublesome for the Bowmen, as they applied a full court press and advanced the ball with no hesitation. Rancho Christian had five players in double digits as they showed those in attendance at Williamette University why they are a top 25 team nationally, even without the talents of top prospect in the nation, Evan Mobley. Rancho Christian took this one, 101-68. The following game was an intriguing match-up between two teams of different play styles, the South Salem Saxons and the Tigard Tigers. South Salem was incredibly physical, as soon as Tigard crossed the half-court line they made it difficult for them to even set up their offense. However, Drew Carter, football and basketball star for the Tigers, was poised and collected as he was the focal point for their offense. The first half was a close battle, as the two teams had yet to figure one another out, with South Salem up 27-21. In the second half, the deadly trio of Trey Galbraith, Nick Zuro, and Emorej Lynk was far too cohesive as the three helped the Saxons run away with it 62-48. Top performers from yesterday’s action at Williamette University: Dominick Harris (2020 Rancho Christian HS): the athletic, quick guard could’ve probably scored anyplace, any time he wanted to, but impressed with his ability to make the right play at the right time. He commanded his point guard role perfectly, setting up the half-court offense for the Eagles, dribble penetrating for either an easy score or kick out. Harris showed reason as to why Gonzaga fans should be excited, as he played a complete game, helping his team out in every way imaginable. He contributed 17 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals. Luke Turner (2020 Rancho Christian HS): the 6’7” forward for Rancho Christian was Mr. Versatile, as he showed his ability to score, play defense, and help his team-out in different ways. His most impactful offensive weapon is the three-point shot, but he is nifty around the basket as well. Turner even played point forward at times for the Eagles when they needed an aggressor when he was at the top of the key. He is a great rebounder by size, has good passing skills, as well as confronts players at the rim. Turner was a stat-stuffer, with his 19 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Jamison Guerra (2020 Sherwood HS): the senior guard for Sherwood refused to go down without a fight, staying tough with the ball and not letting up to the Eagle’s pressure. Guerra was a more than capable scorer, sinking three three-pointers in association with mid-range jumpers and found his way to the rim. He also found his shooters at their spots and gave up the ball when it was necessary. He scored 21 points with 6 assists in an excellent effort. Asher Krauel (2021 Sherwood HS): Krauel was part of the Sherwood offense that would not be intimidated, finding ways to score to keep his team in the game. He was a willing defender and rebounder and his overall tenacity was apparent on the floor. His scrappiness fit the overall blue collar composure of the team as he set an example for his teammates to follow. Krauel chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds for the Bowmen, finding his way around the basket and even extending his range outside. Drew Carter (2021 Tigard HS): the multi-talented dual sport athlete was poised and at a walking tempo all night despite constant pressure from the Saxon’s defense. Upon being pressed at full court, Carter made his way to the basket to either score himself or find an open defender. Drew was also active defensively, picking up steals and advancing the ball up the court to try to catch South Salem off guard. He showed his calm demeanor at all times, as he broke the defense down for easy finishes and made open jumpers when his team needed him to do so. Drew was impactful all across the board, finishing with 18 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. Trey Galbraith (2020 South Salem HS): despite having a troubling shooting night, Trey found other ways to help his team out. Pushing the tempo and finding open teammates was his forte of the night. As soon as he distributed the ball elsewhere and kept the defense at home was when he began scoring for himself. The quick guard is also a menace on defense as he was on top of his assignment at all times. He contributed 10 points, 8 assists, and 4 steals for the Saxons. Nick Zuro (2021 South Salem HS): the out of state transfer who recently came back to Oregon looked all the bit at home, as he was running the floor for the Saxons and crafty all night around the basket. He knew his way around the basket and did not give up upon missing the first shot. Zuro was active on the offensive boards and was equally relevant on defense as his 6’7” frame proved to be a difficulty for the Tigers. Zuro paced South Salem with 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks.