3 Takeaways: East St. Louis vs. Mount Vernon

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>There's nothing like a playoff game between two teams who have a history against each other. That's exactly what we got on Wednesday at Triad between East St. Louis and Mount Vernon. This game went from an early staredown and slow pace to fast paced very quickly. It was a physical contest that allowed talent to shine. In the end, Mount Vernon took home the win and advanced. Below are 3 takeaways!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Unsigned senior [player_tooltip player_id='1761128' first='Navontae' last='Nesbit'] shines.</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It was apparent early on that Nesbit didn't want his career to end on this night. He played lights out and finished the contest with 24 points. His speed and raw athletic ability was obvious. A player who uses his floater game to make shots over taller defenders. He simply makes plays around the basket and in transition. A fearless driver of the basketball. Anytime this team needed a play or had their backs against the wall, Nesbit made a play. His leadership and poise was truly a catalyst in this win. Having a senior who's playing the best basketball of their career during this time can be the reason for a deep playoff run. Currently unsigned, Nesbit is a standout on the football field as well. He's a player who can help a program at the next level!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A promising frontcourt of the future at Mt. Vernon.&nbsp;</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cale Maurer (2026) and [player_tooltip player_id='2455403' first='David' last='Barnes'] Jr. (2027) are two players that will be impact guys for years to come at Mt. Vernon. Maurer is a high upside player at 6'5 with shooting ability and versatility on the defensive end. He had a number of strong takes and transition leakouts in the first half. They also used him as a playmaker on the perimeter. He was strong with the ball and showed ability as a passer. Barnes on the other hand is a physical, undersized post at 6'5. While this is his current role and he plays it well, the freshman showed some upside. He's quick and plays through contact in transition. A rugged slasher that has a smooth stroke at the FT line. He took on the defensive assignment of [player_tooltip player_id='1750704' first='Davis' last='Bynum'] and performed very well. Lots to like with this 2027 prospect.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Montreal Stacker shows signs of being the man for East St. Louis next season.&nbsp;</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Stacker was the best player on the floor for ESL on this night. His ability to get in the lane, make tough shots, and create easy offense was noticeable. Only a junior, he's a player they can build around moving forward. He's a combo guard by nature but is someone that can run the show. Stacker was simply impressive in all categories of the game. He had an explosive second half scoring the basketball before fouling out. Keep an eye out for this 2025 prospect.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->