Burger King Classic Standouts

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Burger King Classic is a staple in the Erie Area for over 40 years. As one of the top 4-team tournaments in the country, Erie has played host to countless future pros and college stars over the years. And this year was no exception with plenty of future stars. Neumann-Goretti won this year's tournament with wins over Cathedral Prep the opening night and Lincoln Park in the title game. Niagara Falls High School topped Cathedral Prep in the consultation game.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are five Pennsylvania players who stood out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":[2466501],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eNando Mirarchi solidified his reputation as a top performer with a standout showing, particularly in the game against Neumann-Goretti where he tallied 18 points and 9 rebounds.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMirarchi's development in physicality was on full display. His strength and assertiveness in driving the lane against larger defenders were notable. This newfound physicality, coupled with his speed and agility, made him a versatile threat — and it showed both nights of the tournament.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHis performance in the fast break was a highlight. Mirarchi's excellent court vision allowed him to see the floor well and make smart decisions in transition. He demonstrated a great balance between scoring and facilitating, showcasing his ability to either finish plays himself or set up his teammates for easy baskets.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMirarchi's all-around performance in the Burger King Classic Tournament, highlighted by his impressive stats against Neumann-Goretti, shows why he is a player of high caliber. His combination of shooting ability, physicality, court vision, and basketball intelligence makes him a standout player and one to watch closely in the future. u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["2288500"],"_player_evaluations_1_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_1_player_featured_image":2319172,"_player_evaluations_1_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMichael Thompson delivered a performance in the Burger King Classic that firmly established him as a top performer. His display against Niagara, where he scored 17 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, caught our attention.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eThompson's speed and agility were showcased throughout the tournament. His quick first step set him up to effectively beat defenders when driving to the basket. u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eOne of the most notable aspects of Thompson's performance was his strong pull-up jump shot. This ability was crucial in tight situations, especially when creating scoring opportunities under pressure.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eThompson's passing skills were also on full display. His ability to distribute the ball, ensuring his teammates received it in stride, facilitated easy baskets. His consistent performance from the 3-point range and overall scoring ability were evident in his impressive stats against Niagara.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["991401"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eBrandin Cummings, a Pitt basketball commit, solidified his status as a top performer with an impressive 22-point game against Neumann-Goretti in the Burger King Classic. His performance throughout the tournament showcased his remarkable shooting skills, ball-handling ability, and athleticism.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eCummings' excellence as a shooter was a key factor in his standout performance. He demonstrated a remarkable ability to shoot off the dribble, confidently pulling up from both mid-range and beyond the three-point line. His smooth shooting stroke and quick shot release made him a constant threat, even under tight defensive pressure. u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHis explosive first step allowed him to create space against defenders, either driving to the basket or creating room for his jump shot. This agility, coupled with his impressive athleticism and jumping ability, made him a difficult player to guard.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eOne of Cummings' most impressive abilities is his skill in hitting shots in traffic. Despite facing a tough and physical Neumann-Goretti defense, he was able to maintain composure and accuracy in crowded situations.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_player":["991408"],"_player_evaluations_3_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMeleek Thomas was a dominant force in the Burger King Classic. He exploded for 29 points and 8 rebounds in the title game against Neumann-Goretti, showcasing his full array of skills against top competition.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHe threw down thunderous dunks, and at times, couldn't be stopped. But his game is far more than just athleticism. Thomas showed off a smooth outside shot with deep range, knocking down jumpers off the dribble or in catch-and-shoot situations. His versatility stretched the floor and opened up driving lanes for teammates.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eIn addition to scoring, the uncommitted junior displayed tremendous court vision and unselfishness, firing crisp passes to open shooters when double-teamed. u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eThomas played with fundamentals and footwork beyond his years, excelling in all facets of the game. After his total domination last week, Thomas has caught the eye of every major program in the country. With his strength, skill set, and work ethic, this talented prospect has all the makings of a future star at the next level.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_player":["1187959"],"_player_evaluations_4_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eLarenzo Jerkins was an absolute force in the paint last week, helping to lead the Saints to victory in the title game over Lincoln Park in the Burger King Classic. The towering power forward exploded for 23 points and 17 rebounds.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eWith his imposing 6'5 frame, Jerkins was a true rim protector throughout the tournament, swatting shots with authority with monster blocks. Jerkins' defensive presence created game-changing momentum shifts. He was also tenacious on the perimeter, utilizing his quick hands to generate steals.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eOn offense, Jerkins displayed exceptional vision for a big man, firing crisp passes to open teammates in scoring position. He finished thunderous dunks on the fast break and powered through contact in the post with his sheer strength. Jerkins also flashed some soft hands, gently catching difficult passes in traffic.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":5,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65a0544a8471d"} /-->