Scouting the State: Staring in their Role
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Who are some of the players that will be unsung heroes during their teams’ potential playoff runs? From scrappy forwards who play bigger than their height, to an unselfish point guard, here’s a spotlight of the players who have done…
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Continue ReadingWho are some of the players that will be unsung heroes during their teams’ potential playoff runs? From scrappy forwards who play bigger than their height, to an unselfish point guard, here’s a spotlight of the players who have done the dirty work in recent contests.
Games covered
OCS vs Millwood
Crossings Christian vs Carl Albert
Community Christian vs Riverside Indian School – Skordle Stream
Pocola vs Idabell – Youtube Stream
Kyler Brown
Kyler Brown
The Saints are anchored by a well known senior duo, but in a recent win over Millwood the importance of the senior lead guard was felt. Millwood is loaded with quick guards who apply ball pressure and other aggressive defensive tactics, Brown did a fantastic job of weathering the storm of pressure. And even making them pay a handful of times. This included splitting double teams and setting up his teammates with easy scores. He even showed some solid quickness getting downhill to make defenders pay when they overplayed their positioning. His ability to handle pressure and provide a release valve to fellow seniors Gray and Jones, will be crucial for OCS to achieve their lofty ambitions of winning Class 3A.
When Riverside pulled away in the second half of their game vs Community Christian, a key part of their success was the senior playing bigger than his height. He’s bouncy and relentless when rebounding on both ends of the court. Bobo seems to embrace his role as a high motor glass cleaner. Which also included a nice steal and score late, while also making a heads up drive and kick to a shooter. The Indians look to have quality guard play throughout, with the quick off his feet Bobo providing a much need presence around the rim.
The freshman has had some strong games this year, but his performance was a little more muted in the contest watched. He already has a great feel for the game, as he didn’t force bad looks. He was strong off the bounce, able to use ball fakes and patience to get open when defenders bit on his moves. The lefty also has to be accounted from deep. While in the game his role as more as a support player, bigger games are likely on the horizon as Riverside starts their playoff run.
Bradshaw seems to be peaking at the right time, to provide a valuable and versatile inside presence for the 3A contender Falcons. He got a bit of a baptism by fire in the game viewed against OCS, but he also had moments of holding his own. The freshman looked very comfortable in catch and shoot situations, connecting on a three and a mid-range jumper. If that becomes a trend, it could help with floor spacing that will allow Millwood’s guards to get down hill and thrive at the rim. With long arms and a good activity level, he also has flashes as a shot blocker and rebounder.
Highlights
Brayden Hardwick
Brayden Hardwick
In a tough game against Idabel, Hardwick’s presence was felt all over the court. He has none stop energy on the defensive end, still fighting for loose balls late into the game. Including one moment where his hustle got him to the ball first and he still had the presence of mind while going out of bounds to bounce it off the defender. Which earned his team an extra possession. The sophomore’s impact included more than just gritty play, he was consistent in knocking down threes. With the focus that will often be paid to Pocola’s top two players, Hardwick stepping up as a floor stretching shooter will be crucial as the chase a return trip the Big House.
Brandon Rodges
Brandon Rodges
The Titans have a strong history of football standouts helping out and elevating their basketball team. After a “Swiss Army Knife” like performance vs Crossings, the sophomore football standout looks set to be next up in that regard. It started on the defensive end in the second half, as he was tasked with slowing down the opposition’s star point guard. Which the combination of Rodgers’ size, strength and defensive principles did wonders in disrupting the Knights’ usually potent offensive attack. But he wasn’t limited to defensive impact. During their second half rally, he got on the offensive glass a couple time and was unselfish as a passer. He even banged in a corner three in the first half. It’s the little things that Rodgers already adds to the Titans, and he’s just a sophomore.