Democracy For All: Blue Knights Capture The 2A Crown
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The 2A State Championship Game featured a re- re-re- Rematch. Meadows and Democracy had met 3 times previously, with the Mustangs winning all three matchups. They would meet one more time, this time at the Thomas and Mack, with the…
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The 2A State Championship Game featured a re- re-re- Rematch. Meadows and Democracy had met 3 times previously, with the Mustangs winning all three matchups. They would meet one more time, this time at the Thomas and Mack, with the state title on the line. Democracy Prep used its trademark press, to harass the Mustangs in the first half, forcing several turnovers, and allowing the athletic Blue Knights to take a lead going into halftime. The Mustangs mounted a furious rally in the second half, but the Blue Knights responded, using their trademark pressure defense and some clutch baskets to keep the defending champions at bay. In the fourth, the game became increasingly tight, with Meadows getting stops and forcing some turnovers. In the end, the Blue Knights, a team that faced a myriad of adversity, including the passing of one of their assistant coaches during the season, did the only thing they knew how to do, they responded, eventually closing out the game at the line winning 64-58. Democracy Prep is your boy’s 2A State Champion.
Most Impactful
Was a problem on both ends. The freshman played like a vet all weekend. In the biggest game of his career, he was at his best. Stroughter showed off his athleticism, getting a steal and dunk that ignited the Blue Knight faithful. He came into the game being known as an athletic, slashing combo, however he impressed with his ballhandling and playmaking skills, looking like a true Point Guard prospect.
Best Offensive Player
Coleman left it all on the court. The PG played an inspired game complete with midwest grit. In the biggest game of his career, he showed exceptional skill, displaying several COD’s including a sick spin move that led to a layup. His mid range was on point, and he captitalized off the Blue Knights turnovers, converting them into layups on the other end.
Highlights
Best Defensive Player
Coleman has always been known as a tough on ball defender, today he played with remarkable defensive IQ and instincts. Coleman made it tough on the Mustangs, desguising his looks like a NFL safety. He picked up several steals, playing the passing lanes flawlessley, picking off several passes and converting them on the opposite end.
Biggest Sleeper
He looks the part, so it’s easy to target him as a sleeper, what impressed was his skill. The power guard displayed a knack for dropping off smooth dimes, passing the ball both in stationary situations as well as on the move.
Best High Motor Guy
Toby is always going to be a canidate for this list. The junior guard brings it every game and it was no different in the State Championship. His willingness to make extra effort plays, and fight for interior rebounds was automatic, and provided the Mustangs with a spark during their third quater run.
Best Glue Guy
Got minutes in the State Title game. The sophomore guard provided Meadows with defense and energy. His scrappyness led to a few turnoves, and easy transition baskets for the Mustangs.
Most Upside
I’ve been really impressed with Hutchinson’s development the last 12 months. Thought primarily as a post player, he has made the transition into a true wing. He’s improved his outside shooting touch as well as his ball skills. With his combination of size, skill and athleticism, the sophomore has put himself squarely on the recruiting radar.