PCI: Semifinal Standouts
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Both semifinal games at the Putnam City Invitational were hard fought contest that came down to the final moments. Lawton took an early lead over Norman, but the Tigers’ size advantage was too much in the second half as Norman…
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Continue ReadingBoth semifinal games at the Putnam City Invitational were hard fought contest that came down to the final moments. Lawton took an early lead over Norman, but the Tigers’ size advantage was too much in the second half as Norman rallied. Then it was a close out block by Matthew Willenborg in the closing seconds that sealed the victory.
The surging Jaguars of Westmoore then weathered a fierce comeback attempt from hosts Putnam City West. What separated the Jaguars in the final moments was back to back big threes from a pair of sophomores. Grant and Garrett Loper Garrett Loper 6'2" | SG Westmoore | 2025 State OK both knocked down daggers to rebuild the lead and close the door on the Patriots’ comeback attempt.
Pene Vaisagote
Pene Vaisagote
Every time the Wolverines come to the 405, the sophomore guard continues to prove he’s one of the more undervalued prospects in Oklahoma. Vaisagote first caught the eye as a good shooter from beyond the arc at last month’s Sick of Sickle Cell Showcase. He capped that appearance with a nasty put-back dunk, showing he’s the depth to his game. When Lawton built their first half lead, it was once again the athletic scoring guard catching fire from beyond the arc. In a sophomore class with many new names emerging, Vaisagote has shot to the front of prospect to keep tabs on.
Putnam City West’s rep as one of the best defensive teams is well earned and Barber wasn’t as efficient as the night before from three. But he was just as impactful, working more in the midrange and playing the role of floor general. Last year when watching Westmoore, they were at times overly reliant on Barber and Hays for their offensive production. Now they are filled shooters around them, and Barber was able to help his teammates succeed by taking advantage of the extra attention paid to him. This has especially stood out with the UCO signee’s improved vision. Most players tend to “look away” after passing to create a “no look” aspect for highlight videos. That is not the case with Barber, as in this tournament he is making a habit of legitimate no look passes that manipulate defenders and create high quality looks for his teammates.
Highlights
One of the highest upset prospects in the state, Rayfield is now 6’8 with an even bigger wingspan. In the first half he floated a bit too much, and even though he did hit a triple, he needed to find a better balance between his perimeter skills and playing around the rim. The second half, he played with more fire and used his height and athletic advantage to help West rally. Rayfield excelled as a cutter to the basket and rebounding with more intensity. Adding more “easy scoring opportunities” in the paint, would be a key development in the 2025 hybrid forward’s all around game.