3 Takeaways: Staley vs. University City

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the Missouri vs. Missouri games at the Vashon Shootout featured University City and Staley. Two storied programs that are having winning seasons. It was an exciting game that started slow but finished with glimpses of high level play from a number of players. A very clean game of basketball during the 2nd half. Below are 3 takeaways from the contest!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Staley's balanced attack prevails.&nbsp;</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The two teams looked evenly matched, however, Staley got contributions from many different players and this was a major reason why they pulled away late. [player_tooltip player_id='1419871' first='Xavier' last='Wilson'] is their best prospect at 6'7 and he impacted on both ends. He's a high IQ guy who brings a ton of energy and isn't afraid to fight for a win. His scrappy play ignited the team when they needed a spark. He's a strong passer at the elbow, shows great concentration as a finisher, and had two huge dunks in the second half. Avain Webb had a number of threes during big moments continuing to solidify himself as one of the best shot makers in the class. He's playing a true PG role this season at Staley. Kenveon Stone and Jon Jon Neff are two others that were key in the win. Stone is a powerfully built slasher who plays with a ton of freedom. His creativity is needed with the structure they play under on offense. The senior will be a college running back and has a powerfully built frame. Staley is hitting their stride at the right time.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2116984' first='Kobe' last='Jones'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1424409' first='Jayden' last='Creighton'] give University City a lift.&nbsp;</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The PG and Center duo showed up to play for the Lions. Jones looked very confident and had one of his best games this season. His pass first mentality brings the team together but make no mistake about it, he can score when needed. His assists are well earned. The senior gets in the lane and makes difficult reads consistently. He had a number of drop off assists that led to buckets. His mid-range shooting was on display as well. Creighton played his usual role and did so at a high level. He's a rim runner who plays with an exceptional motor. The 6'6 big effected a handful of shots, made hooks over his left shoulder, and fought on the glass vs. length. He's a 2025 post that can play above the rim and is very good on the defensive end.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Staley's young talent shows promise.</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>There are a number of young players in the rotation for Coach Neff. Among them are [player_tooltip player_id='2114720' first='Kenison' last='Stone'], [player_tooltip player_id='2090503' first='Jakobe' last='Hicks'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2334971' first='Jackson' last='Smith']. Hicks is a true PG who really impressed with his on-ball defensive pressure. Stone is a inside-out forward who flashed during moments in the game. Lastly, Smith is a 2027 that has a solid 6'3 frame and can slice to the rim for easy buckets. All three play hard and are getting much needed experience during this season. It's clear they're being coached well and will be the future of this program in 26' / 27'.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->