Top Performers: Cleveland Heights vs Bedford

<p>Bedford faced a 29-26 deficit heading into halftime and then [player_tooltip player_id="1078615" first="Chaze" last="Harris"] took control of the game. The Bearcats outscored the Tigers 26-16 in the third quarter to gain a lead heading into the fourth, where they never let up. Malik Simmons and Harris both scored in double figures Tuesday night to help lead the team to its fifth consecutive win.</p> <p>[player_tooltip player_id="918957" first="EJ" last="Farmer"] and Davon Smith-Johnson each poured in 13 points for Cleveland Heights during the loss, dropping the team’s record to 6-10. The Bearcats controlled the entire second half, making things difficult for the Tigers to get any offensive rhythm through their press and zone defense. Here are some of the game’s top performers. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Top Performers:</span></p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="1078615" first="Chaze" last="Harris"] | 6-4 Sr | Bedford</strong></p> <p>No player was more effective with the ball in his hands than senior forward [player_tooltip player_id="1078615" first="Chaze" last="Harris"]. He ended the night with a game-high 31 points, including 11 in the third quarter alone to help lift the Bearcats in control of the game. Several times throughout the first half, Harris was able to push the ball down the floor to set up teammates Raymell Hester and Malik Simmons for easy fastbreak points. </p> <p>When he’s given the space, he’s also capable of knocking down 3-pointers. Most of his damage, however, comes from near the rim. He’s quick, explosive and capable of reeling in some highlight dunks as well. Harris also runs the floor extremely well and thrives leading the way for his team. One of the most improved players I’ve seen as a senior. </p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="918989" first="Davon" last="Smith Johnson"] | 6-6 Sr | Cleveland Heights</strong></p> <p>There weren't many bright spots for Cleveland Heights during the 70-58 loss to Bedford, but Davon Smith-Johnson proved to be an impactful player for his team. An avid defender, he blocked at least four shots and really chases the ball down well for a player at his length. He doesn't have much of an outside game but can really dominate other teams' post players with his physicality. The senior can defend multiple positions as well. </p> <p><strong>Malik Simmons | 6-3 Sr | Bedford</strong></p> <p>The most active player on the glass all game was Bedford's Malik Simmons. He ended the game with 16 points and 12 rebounds, with second-chance points being the priority of his night. The senior just bullied smaller players for the ball constantly and impressed me with the way he's able to track down loose balls. Can finish with the best of them through contact as well and seems to embrace the physicality. With Harris doing most of the scoring for Bedford, look for Simmons to continue to play an imperative part on the offensive side of the ball, especially with the way he's able to continue offensive possessions after one or two different looks.</p>