Scouting Report: More Duos and Backcourts

Many teams have back courts or duos that can carry teams to a successful season. With the playoffs right under two weeks away, we will take a look at some more duos and backcourts in the Boot. With the chips on the line, some of these pairs will be ones teams do not want to see when the playoff come around. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="765913" first="Brandon" last="Harton"] & <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/jaden-shelvin/">[player_tooltip player_id="781853" first="John-Paul" last="Ricks"]</a> (Jehovah-Jireh) While there is a pair at St. Thomas More who can possibly go four for four on state titles, Harton and Ricks can complete the same feat this year. Each one has taken a turn at being championship game MVP and Ricks is the reigning class C Most Outstanding Player. Harton is an undersized post who has wing skills and Ricks is the best point guard in the 2022 class. They have played almost everyone in north and south Louisiana and have come out victorious more times that not. Look for these two to play their best in the Division V playoffs begin. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="765934" first="Deonte" last="Edwards"] & [player_tooltip player_id="765912" first="Randarius" last="Jones"] (Carroll) Not many teams have one skilled big man let alone two. However, that is what Coach Cooper has a Carroll with Jones and Edwards. Jones is returning after healing from his knee injury last season. His return has freed up Edwards to be more active on the glass and in the paint. With these two working together from the high and the low post, Carroll has been propelled to the 3rd ranked team in 3A. A 6’7" Jones and a 6’6" Edwards are hard to game plan for and are a key reason why Carroll will be a real threat for the 3A crown. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="765923" first="Daniel" last="Ortiz"] & [player_tooltip player_id="781860" first="Labree" last="Williams"] (Calvary Baptist) While this duo will only be together for one season, it sure will be a record setting one of the Cavs. They have earned a district title and will be a top four seed as they attempt to return the the Division IV state title game. Both players can place pressure on defenses from inside or behind the arc. Each player has embraced defense more which has aided in their team’s success. Williams has especially taken the mantle of defending as he is the Cavaliers only paint defender. With these two playing off one another, no team is safe. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="970111" first="Jamaria" last="Clark"] & <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/jaden-shelvin/">[player_tooltip player_id="981498" first="Jamari" last="Markray"]</a> (Doyline) This Doyline backcourt has been the most productive backcourt in any classification this season. [player_tooltip player_id="970111" first="Jamaria" last="Clark"] started off the season with a 40 point performance and has been applying pressure ever since. Markray has literally applied defensive pressure and led the team in steals on several occassions. Both guards average over 25 points while trying to defend the title they helped earn last season. Class B is always a tough class with the likes of Zwolle, Simsboro, and Anacoco. However, these two are willing to prove they are the best in the class. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="765903" first="Jamond" last="Vincent"] & [player_tooltip player_id="931319" first="Bennie" last="Amos"] (L.B. Landry) When one thinks of scoring duos, Amos and Vincent should be high up there. Either player can put up 30 or 40 points against any team and have done so this season. Amos has developed into more than just a shooter as he has been more aggressive going to the cup. Vincent is a highwire act and punishes the rim any chance he gets. Both are above average defenders as well which makes them dangerous on both ends of the floor. As the postseason approaches, these two will be a hard duo to contain for anyone they play. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="977253" first="Brian" last="Stewart"] & [player_tooltip player_id="970139" first="Chris" last="Carpenter"] (Woodlawn-Shreveport) This is probably the smallest backcourt of any contending team throughout all of the Louisiana classifications. No one plays with more heart than these two though. The all-lefty duo are both cat quick driving to the rim but are just as apt to let it go from three. Both are penchant for stealing the rock from whomever they are defending and converting it into two points. Teams think they are going to take advantage of their lack of height but often come up on the short end of the stick. Woodlawn has won 22 in a row and these two are a large reason why. Other duos and backcourts: <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="977260" first="Lorenzo" last="Caldwell"] & [player_tooltip player_id="977259" first="Cooper" last="Rachow"] (Slidell) Sllidell is a top 10 team this season and these two are the driving force behind that. Rachow can let it go from behind the arc but is comfortable taking it to the hole and Caldwell is one of the better all-around players in Louisiana. As they go, the team goes. If they make a run to Lake Charles, it will be largely because of them. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="1051631" first="J’Michael" last="Gray"] & [player_tooltip player_id="1123507" first="Travis" last="Zeno"] (Franklin) The Franklin backcourt is as talented as they get. Gray was the district MVP last season and Zeno could very well be it this year. They are both quick as a hiccup and can get to the paint without hesitation. If Gray and Zeno get going, opposing guards will have a long night facing them. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="931055" first="Bryce" last="Roberts"] & [player_tooltip player_id="1123176" first="Traevian" last="Ware"] (Parkway) These are two of the more gifted shooters that we have in Louisiana. They do not need much daylight to put it up and have range past the college three point line. Roberts put up 36 against Rayville and can put up big numbers at anytime. When they are both on, they are a very tough out. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="977263" first="Johnny" last="Nelson"] & [player_tooltip player_id="981598" first="Car’tracus" last="Mitchell"] (Rapides) Rapides is having an excellent season in class 2A and Mitchell and Nelson are the main cogs in that success. Nelson is the more aggressive one and does not mind trying to get to the rim. Mitchell is a scorer and can get his points from anywhere on the court. When both guys have it going, Rapides is tough to beat. <a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prephoops.com/player/carter-domingue/"><img class=" ls-is-cached lazyloaded" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" data-src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2020/08/IMG_4707-150x150.jpg" /></a>[player_tooltip player_id="1127380" first="Braiden" last="Wagner"] & [player_tooltip player_id="1123572" first="Zytarious" last="Mortle"] (Peabody) Mortle and Wagner embody the Warhorse way of defending on the perimeter. They close space defensively and make it hard for the opposition to score. Offensively, Mortle can bully his way through defenders to the rim while Wagner is more apt to shoot the three. Providing these two can control both ends of the floor, Peabody may have yet another long postseason run. The playoffs will be a great avenue for duos and backcourts to showcase what they are about on the hardwood. Watch for any of the duos and backcourts mentioned to be in the mix as their teams via for a state championship at their chosen classification.

Many teams have back courts or duos that can carry teams to a successful season. With the playoffs right under two weeks away, we will take a look at some more duos and backcourts in the Boot. With the chips on the line, some of these pairs will be ones teams do not want to see when the playoff come around.

Brandon Harton Brandon Harton 6'4" | SF Jehovah-Jireh | 2021 State LA & John-Paul Ricks John-Paul Ricks 6'0" | PG Jehovah-Jireh | 2022 State #206 Nation LA (Jehovah-Jireh)

While there is a pair at St. Thomas More who can possibly go four for four on state titles, Harton and Ricks can complete the same feat this year. Each one has taken a turn at being championship game MVP and Ricks is the reigning class C Most Outstanding Player. Harton is an undersized post who has wing skills and Ricks is the best point guard in the 2022 class. They have played almost everyone in north and south Louisiana and have come out victorious more times that not. Look for these two to play their best in the Division V playoffs begin.

Deonte Edwards Deonte Edwards 6'6" | PF Carroll | 2021 State LA & Randarius Jones Randarius Jones 6'7" | PF Carroll | 2021 State LA (Carroll)

Not many teams have one skilled big man let alone two. However, that is what Coach Cooper has a Carroll with Jones and Edwards. Jones is returning after healing from his knee injury last season. His return has freed up Edwards to be more active on the glass and in the paint. With these two working together from the high and the low post, Carroll has been propelled to the 3rd ranked team in 3A. A 6’7" Jones and a 6’6" Edwards are hard to game plan for and are a key reason why Carroll will be a real threat for the 3A crown.

Daniel Ortiz Daniel Ortiz 6'1" | CG Calvary Baptist | 2021 State LA & Labree Williams Labree Williams 6'6" | SF Calvary Baptist | 2023 #186 Nation FL (Calvary Baptist)

While this duo will only be together for one season, it sure will be a record setting one of the Cavs. They have earned a district title and will be a top four seed as they attempt to return the the Division IV state title game. Both players can place pressure on defenses from inside or behind the arc. Each player has embraced defense more which has aided in their team’s success. Williams has especially taken the mantle of defending as he is the Cavaliers only paint defender. With these two playing off one another, no team is safe.

Jamaria Clark Jamaria Clark 6'2" | CG Doyline | 2023 State LA & Jamari Markray Jamari Markray 6'2" | SG Doyline | 2022 State LA (Doyline)

This Doyline backcourt has been the most productive backcourt in any classification this season. Jamaria Clark Jamaria Clark 6'2" | CG Doyline | 2023 State LA started off the season with a 40 point performance and has been applying pressure ever since. Markray has literally applied defensive pressure and led the team in steals on several occassions. Both guards average over 25 points while trying to defend the title they helped earn last season. Class B is always a tough class with the likes of Zwolle, Simsboro, and Anacoco. However, these two are willing to prove they are the best in the class.

Jamond Vincent Jamond Vincent 6'2" | SG Landry-Walker | 2021 State LA & Bennie Amos Bennie Amos 6'0" | CG Landry-Walker | 2021 State LA (L.B. Landry)

When one thinks of scoring duos, Amos and Vincent should be high up there. Either player can put up 30 or 40 points against any team and have done so this season. Amos has developed into more than just a shooter as he has been more aggressive going to the cup. Vincent is a highwire act and punishes the rim any chance he gets. Both are above average defenders as well which makes them dangerous on both ends of the floor. As the postseason approaches, these two will be a hard duo to contain for anyone they play.

Brian Stewart Brian Stewart 5'8" | PG Woodlwan-S'port | 2021 State LA & Chris Carpenter Chris Carpenter 5'9" | PG Huntington | 2023 State LA (Woodlawn-Shreveport)

This is probably the smallest backcourt of any contending team throughout all of the Louisiana classifications. No one plays with more heart than these two though. The all-lefty duo are both cat quick driving to the rim but are just as apt to let it go from three. Both are penchant for stealing the rock from whomever they are defending and converting it into two points. Teams think they are going to take advantage of their lack of height but often come up on the short end of the stick. Woodlawn has won 22 in a row and these two are a large reason why.

Other duos and backcourts:

Lorenzo Caldwell Lorenzo Caldwell 6'5" | SF Slidell | 2021 State LA & Cooper Rachow Cooper Rachow 6'3" | SG Slidell | 2021 State LA (Slidell)

Sllidell is a top 10 team this season and these two are the driving force behind that. Rachow can let it go from behind the arc but is comfortable taking it to the hole and Caldwell is one of the better all-around players in Louisiana. As they go, the team goes. If they make a run to Lake Charles, it will be largely because of them.

J’Michael Gray J’Michael Gray 6'0" | PG Franklin | 2022 State LA & Travis Zeno Travis Zeno 5'10" | PG Franklin | 2021 State LA (Franklin)

The Franklin backcourt is as talented as they get. Gray was the district MVP last season and Zeno could very well be it this year. They are both quick as a hiccup and can get to the paint without hesitation. If Gray and Zeno get going, opposing guards will have a long night facing them.

Bryce Roberts Bryce Roberts 6'1" | CG Parkway | 2021 State LA & Traevian Ware Traevian Ware 6'0" | PG Parkway | 2021 State LA (Parkway)

These are two of the more gifted shooters that we have in Louisiana. They do not need much daylight to put it up and have range past the college three point line. Roberts put up 36 against Rayville and can put up big numbers at anytime. When they are both on, they are a very tough out.

Johnny Nelson Johnny Nelson 6'2" | SG Rapides | 2021 State LA & Car’tracus Mitchell Car’tracus Mitchell 6'2" | CG Rapides | 2022 State LA (Rapides)

Rapides is having an excellent season in class 2A and Mitchell and Nelson are the main cogs in that success. Nelson is the more aggressive one and does not mind trying to get to the rim. Mitchell is a scorer and can get his points from anywhere on the court. When both guys have it going, Rapides is tough to beat.

Braiden Wagner Braiden Wagner 6'3" | CG Peabody Magnet | 2022 State LA & Zytarious Mortle Zytarious Mortle 6'3" | PG Peabody | 2021 State LA (Peabody)

Mortle and Wagner embody the Warhorse way of defending on the perimeter. They close space defensively and make it hard for the opposition to score. Offensively, Mortle can bully his way through defenders to the rim while Wagner is more apt to shoot the three. Providing these two can control both ends of the floor, Peabody may have yet another long postseason run.

The playoffs will be a great avenue for duos and backcourts to showcase what they are about on the hardwood. Watch for any of the duos and backcourts mentioned to be in the mix as their teams via for a state championship at their chosen classification.