Shining Stars: Booker T Washington vs Douglass

Thursday saw the tip off for two of the most prestigious programs in Oklahoma, with match up that has been rare in recent years. The back to back Class 4A champs Douglass Trojans played host to cross-state rival and Class 5A runner ups Booker T Washington. The uptempo style of the game took a ding when Douglass star guard Landy Ballard suffered an injury setback on a knee issue, that had flared up a couple weeks at a scrimmage in Broken Arrow. With Ballard limited to only a few minutes of action other Douglass players stepped into bigger roles and produced, while Booker T Washington's five returning starters all found their moments to contribute. Eventually leading to a double digit lead in the second half, and then holding off a fierce Douglass charge in the final frame.    The surging junior was locked in from beyond the arc, hitting at least four three pointers. When Douglass close outs ran him off the line, Sanders also got active in the mid-range with smooth pull up jumpers. This month Sanders has made his case as one of the elite shooters in Oklahoma.   In a star studded game, it was the junior who was the best player on the floor. It's pick your poison in trying to slow down the Booker T Washington starting five. And based on Thursday night, good luck to teams trying to silence the sniper from deep.     The recent Missouri Western State commitment was Douglass' main scoring threat on the night. Barely needs space to pull from three or mid-range, hitting contested looks. A headstrong driver, plays fast and tough when getting downhill. Will be interesting to see how his dribbling and on ball responsibilities develop if his teammate's injury proves to be a long term issue.     Another key facet in Booker T Washington's win was Matulis' all around play. Got loose for a backdoor slam early, hit jumpers when called upon, while also doing all the little things in-between. Has a knack for good verticality to challenge shots at the rim without committing fouls. High points rebounds, then immediately pitching them ahead to create transition opportunities. Even saved a possession for Booker T Washington by racing to a loose ball headed out of bounds and knocking it off an opposing player. All around hooper, who will have louder scorer nights but will almost always impact winning.     The sophomore is clearly ready for a bigger role, as he hit big jumpers throughout the night. Had more ball handling responsibilities, which was a bit of a baptism by fire against the quick and aggressive Booker T Washington defense. Which he handled well. Still clearly growing into his body and maturing physically.   House Jr along with quick Trevor Snell were a pair of Trojan sophomores who stepped into bigger roles and did not back down on Thursday night. Will be huge pieces for the Trojans in their quest for a three-peat.     A connector for Douglass on offense. Played in the high post operating as a passer, or hard cuts to the rim where he was a tough finisher. Brought energy on both ends of the floor, including hitting the glass. Good addition for the Trojans, who's athleticism, energy produces results.     A quieter game at times, Simpson had two of the biggest scores late to help Booker T Washington close the door. He had a pair of tough, next level type finishes at the rim in the closing moments of the fourth. When his motor and effort level are up, the athletic senior is one of the most impactful players in Oklahoma. The points and big nights will come as long as the effort and tenacity stays dialed up.

Thursday saw the tip off for two of the most prestigious programs in Oklahoma, with match up that has been rare in recent years. The back to back Class 4A champs Douglass Trojans played host to cross-state rival and Class 5A runner ups Booker T Washington. The uptempo style of the game took a ding when Douglass star guard Landy Ballard suffered an injury setback on a knee issue, that had flared up a couple weeks at a scrimmage in Broken Arrow. With Ballard limited to only a few minutes of action other Douglass players stepped into bigger roles and produced, while Booker T Washington's five returning starters all found their moments to contribute. Eventually leading to a double digit lead in the second half, and then holding off a fierce Douglass charge in the final frame.