Electrifying Day 1 performers at the McGuinness Classic

The Wolves rolled in the night cap with multiple players in double figures. It was also their first viewing of their new addition, Hopgood. The transfer from Bristow immediately made his presence known around the rim on the defensive end. Swatting multiple shots during his first stint in the first half. Even had one stretch where he recorded a block, then ran down the floor and scored on the other end. Was effective around the basket, by getting deep position and making himself available to his teammates. His shooting touch was a bit off compared to other viewings where he had shown promise in the mid-range. Eager to watch Hopgood shake off the rust and continue to develop as part of the Wolves' exciting sophomore core.     After a slow start, it was Valentine who sparked a rally and eventual double digit lead. Looked a different player from last week's Mustang tournament. Keyed the Choctaw press with steals and other harassing plays. Was smoother and more confident in his jumper and handle. The late developer is still growing height wise, giving him some of the growing pains often associated with younger players. But if Valentine is able to find the form he started the year with, the Yellowjackets will be a very tough out in 6A.     The sharpshooter continues to provide a huge scoring boost. When Edmond Memorial cut into Choctaw's lead in the fourth quarter, it was Thompson who answered. Drilled back to back threes which halted the run and put Choctaw back into a comfortable lead. Even dropped an opponent with a nice dribble move before hitting one of those threes. With the focus often on the Yellowjackets who can beat opponents off the dribble, expect Thompson to have more clutch moments as a momentum swinging shooter.     Breakout junior season for the sharpshooter, who has stepped into an expanded role. Hit his customary crucial three pointers in the second half of the win, while also being more of an offensive engine. Is more nimble and dangerous off the bounce, using good footwork and a stout frame to knife into the heart of the defense. Has a tough test tonight vs Santa Fe, but the development of his game over the last year is already quite impressive.     Blackwolf electrifies with the pride he plays with. Scored 28 points and clearly the emotional heartbeat of the Eagles. He is an outstanding finisher for his size, as Crossings has taller players but Blackwolf is burly and unflappable. He's a hard nose future D1 football player who makes watching basketball in Oklahoma that much more fun. He's one of the most varsity experienced Eagles. As his teammates continue to grow beside him, expect them to shake off this recent rough patch and be squarely in the mix to the make 5A State Title game come March.     The second part of DC's tough duo that helped them force overtime against one off the best teams in the state. Starting to be a true rim rocker when given the lane in transition to explode for highlight reel dunks. He often creates those opportunities with his relentless effort as a defender and running the floor. Brings similar pace, quickness and toughness as a half court slasher. Has improved his jumper a bit. Continuing to develop there will be crucial for Del City's chances of success this season.