Game Notes: Valencia vs Capital
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Two highly competitive teams went at each other last week, Valencia (10-7) versus Capital (11-5), resulting in a 53-48 win over Capital. Two fairly evenly matched programs, although Capital’s backcourt duo of Elijah Rodriguez-Montano and Santiago Bencomo were too much…
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Continue ReadingTwo highly competitive teams went at each other last week, Valencia (10-7) versus Capital (11-5), resulting in a 53-48 win over Capital. Two fairly evenly matched programs, although Capital’s backcourt duo of Elijah Rodriguez-Montano and Santiago Bencomo were too much to overcome. Both groups are talented within their classes, although Valencia as a 4A has shown they are a highly competitive program.
Capital
Elijah Rodriguez-Montano
Elijah Rodriguez-Montano
Rodriguez-Montano stayed aggressive attacking the rim with urgency, seeking contact or pushing all the way when open lanes appeared. Capable making quick decisions on the attack, Rodriguez-Montano found ways to either facilitate shooters or attack the rim with pace. Active making two-handed chest passes or one-armed slings, the guard was adept hitting teammates with dimes from a wide variety of situations. While off-ball, he consistently sought out scoring opportunities at the rim from cuts.
Santiago Bencomo
Santiago Bencomo
Active contributing shots from beyond the arc, particularly off the catch, Bencomo remained a steady scoring threat all game. Particularly quick thinking with the ball, the senior is among a group of high IQ backcourt playmakers on this 11-5 Capital team. Effective putting one-handed passes on target to cutters and rollers, Bencomo did well putting pressure on the rim and taking advantage of extra passing lanes if available. Particularly quick accelerating to the rim, he is a thorn in the side for opposing defenses.
Nathanael Ortiz
Nathanael Ortiz
Ortiz constantly sought rebonuds on the offensive end, active outmuscling a smaller interior defense. His willingness to grab rebounds created quite a few free throw opportunities. Ortiz consistently looked to attack the opponents downhill, most efficient with the left hand in traffic .
Jude Torres
Jude Torres
Torres stayed ready for threes from the corners, actively spacing the floor when provided the space. This collective group’s spacing has made them a dangerous offensive unit. Certainly a name to follow, already contributing very early on.
Valencia
The physical guard has been powering Valencia’s offense throughout the whole season. A skilled shotmaker from all three levels, the guard has found ways to create space on pull-up jumpers, getting to a dribble move to free up space. Effective off the catch, he can space the floor with ease in transition or from a standstill. His high release point is difficult to block, paired with immense confidence is a recipe for disaster with opposing defenses. Another area has been his rebounding volume, among the best in 5A per game.
Highlights
Porter is another complementary shotmaker, effective spacing and shooting while off-ball. Comfortable taking shots with incoming contests, he has been a steady contributor behind the arc all season. He hit a wild moving three to end the 2nd quarter, certainly providing a look at the guard’s above average touch on shot attempts. Porter’s soft touch was on display multiple times at the rim, capable finishing through hard contests.
Highlights
Zuniga stays ready to let shots fly, possessing a compact release on shot attempts. Comfortable battling for rebounds down low, his presence secured multiple rebounds throughout this matchup.