OHSAA Division I semifinals Standouts
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The OHSAA Division I semifinals saw Saint Ignatius win a thriller over Delaware Hayes and Centerville roll past Toledo Whitmer. In this article we’ll break down the standout performers from Saturday night’s action. Damon Friery OH #4 PF #2 HEIGHT…
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Continue ReadingThe OHSAA Division I semifinals saw Saint Ignatius win a thriller over Delaware Hayes and Centerville roll past Toledo Whitmer. In this article we’ll break down the standout performers from Saturday night’s action.
Friery came out the gates firing with nine points on perfect 4/4 shooting in the first quarter. With his length and long strides, Friery was able to get to the paint and finish over the smaller Hayes frontcourt. Knocking down an early 3-pointer and banking in another, Friery’s floor spacing was crucial as he led the Wildcats with 16 points. Continuing to get better each time I watch him play, I expect high majors to continue to prioritize Friery during the summer on the 3SSB circuit.
Coming off the bench, Ellis provided instant offense with the ability to get places off the dribble. Attacking closeouts, getting downhill and finishing at the rim, Ellis scored a quick seven points that also included a 3-pointer. The other bench players who appeared in the game scored a combined two points while Ellis scored seven himself, a key X-factor in the game.
When Delaware Hayes went on a big run in the third quarter, it was Vanderwalker at the center of it. Scoring off second chance points in the paint, running out in transition and creating fast break chances with steals, Vanderwalker got going and the Pacer crowd was going nuts after they took the lead. The highlight of the game was a Vanderwalker steal and slam dunk going off his right foot to bring the house down. When Vanderwalker is rebounding the ball, using his strength to score around the rim and running the floor, he’s efficient from the field and gets to the foul line. Delaware Hayes does graduate two starters, but with Vanderwalker and a solid 2026 core, the Pacers will be a threat to return to UD Arena next season.
Highlights
Balanced scoring was the recipe for success as Centerville dominated Whitmer to once again advance to the state championship game. Greenberg led the way with 19 points and was as aggressive as I’ve ever seen him as a scorer on Saturday night. Getting downhill and attacking the Whitmer defense when they were on their heels, Greenberg did a nice job getting to the paint and finishing off two feet. Also showing confidence as a 3-point shooter, Greenberg shot the ball at a high clip from 3-point range as well. The title game Vs Saint Ignatius is a rematch of a regular season contest where Greenberg scored a season-high 28 points. For the Elks to win this one, they’ll need another strong effort out of Greenberg.