Game of the Day: Judge Memorial vs. Desert Hills

The #17 Judge Memorial squad travels to St. George to take on #16 Desert Hills. Winner of the game gets #1 Provo, which odly enough, is a tough draw for the #1 seed.   Judge Memorial   Judge Memorail comes into this game with an 8-14 record. With tough losses to Orem, Maple Mountain, Timpanogos, and Layton Christian. With a lengthy roster, Judge could pose problems for Desert Hills.   Top Player   6'3 [player_tooltip player_id='1614839' first='Aymen' last='Ismail']   Ismail is averaging 17 points per game. In his last game, he had a stellar performance, scoring 20 points while also grabbing 5 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists, leading his team to victory against one of the top teams in 4A in the region. He possesses exceptional shooting ability, which creates significant challenges for opponents, and his athleticism allows him to penetrate the paint and facilitate plays. As a future Colorado State Pueblo player, Ismail is undoubtedly a player Desert Hills needs to prioritize in their scouting reports.   Key Player   6'6 [player_tooltip player_id='1926070' first='Massaer' last='Mbodj']   [player_tooltip player_id='1926070' first='Massaer' last='Mbodj'], a transfer from Utah Prep, has quickly made an impact, appearing in just 10 games. Averaging 16 points per game, Mbodj has the potential to be a game-changer on both ends of the court if he can continue to harness his athleticism and improve his rebounding. He can be a defensive stopper and an offensive threat with offensive rebounds. An aggressive defensive approach from him could transform him into a defensive menace.   Role Players   [player_tooltip player_id='3183318' first='Kalou' last='Ruot'], a 6'6" sophomore, has the potential to make a significant impact on the court. His size allows him to excel in rebounding and score easily around the basket. Furthermore, Ruot can use his length to apply pressure to opponents inside the paint.   [player_tooltip player_id='1438933' first='AJ' last='Peek'] provides valuable versatility. While Judge Memorial boasts multiple scoring options, Peek's ability to move the ball effectively and contribute defensively makes him a crucial asset.   Desert Hills   Desert Hills enters this contest with a 9-13 record, boasting a significant victory over Dixie. Beyond that win, their other notable success came against Riverton. The team has shown improvement recently, and their balanced offensive approach makes them a formidable opponent in this opening round.   Top Player   6'1 Ne'a Tauaefa   In the last five games, Ne'a has showcased remarkable basketball skills. His elite athleticism allows him to finish powerfully inside, and his impressive leaping ability makes him an above-the-rim threat. Furthermore, Ne'a's versatility extends to defense, where he effectively applies pressure to opposing players.   Key Player   6'3 [player_tooltip player_id='2446376' first='Tyson' last='Arthur']   Arthur has been contributing in various ways this season, and he will need to continue his all-around performance to help his team move forward.   Role Players   [player_tooltip player_id='3175497' first='Jack' last='Openshaw'] is averaging 10 points per game, but he will need to be strong on the glass, as he will face some bigger opponents.   Kolten Andrus is one of the better rebounding guards in this game and will need to be on his game when it comes to rebounding. If he can limit Judge Memorial to fewer opportunities, keeping them from extra offensive possessions, he could really help his team.

The #17 Judge Memorial squad travels to St. George to take on #16 Desert Hills. Winner of the game gets #1 Provo, which odly enough, is a tough draw for the #1 seed.