Donofrio Classic Round One: Difference Makers Elite vs. PA Hoops

The annual Donofrio Classic continued on Wednesday with more first round action featuring some high-level talent taking the floor across both games. Keep reading for a recap of some top performers from Difference Makers Elite's win over PA Hoops.    The only standout scorer in a balanced Difference Makers Elite win, Kretkowski was consistent in his output on his way to 27 points. He was a force with his ability to pressure the rim in a variety of facets, whether attacking off the bounce, crashing the glass, or running ahead of the ball in transition. The junior wing forward showed his explosive finishing ability while also flashing his scoring instincts and midrange shotmaking ability in 1-on-1 situations. His ability to manufacture points without needing plays called for him bodes well for his ability to carry his production forward to the next level, with a variety of higher level D1 programs already on his trail.     Bailey nearly did his part to shoot PA Hoops into the second round by himself in the first half alone, knocking down all five of his 3s and scoring the majority of his 27 points in the opening half. One of the most prolific shooters in the state, Bailey showed he needed only a sliver of space to get his shot off with picture-perfect mechanics and polished footwork to get balanced out of a variety of actions. Once defenders started keying on his shot, he was able to break things down with some impressive dribble combos before flashing his dexterity and functional athleticism as a finisher at the rim. He still needs to improve on being able to create his own shot or make plays for his teammates but a D1 program is sure to find value in Bailey's no-nonsense approach and dynamic shooting ability.     Returning to his native Philly area for his first hometown game since departing for Overtime Elite last fall, Sutton put on an impressive display while running the show for Difference Makers Elite. The sophomore was impossible to contain off the dribble, bobbing and weaving to his spots and making plays for his teammates or finishing strong through traffic around the rim. He was also key in turning up the defensive pressure to help establish momentum after getting out to an early deficit. He's still working on his shooting consistency and getting his wind back after a late-season injury, but the high-major talent is evident whenever Sutton has the ball in his hands.     Playing with several of his Westtown and AAU teammates, Udo was effective on both ends while running the show and helping keep his lesser-talented team in the game down to the final minute. The junior lead guard was effective in ball screens using his slick handle and increasing burst to knife his way downhill, but also showing he could drag defenders out to the arc and knock down deep jumpers off the bounce. He also showed his instincts on the defensive end as a consistent pest on his way to 6 steals. Udo continues to grow into his body and evolve athletically, giving him a higher ceiling to tap into given his established ability to control a game and make his teammates better.     Coming off the bench for a talented Difference Makers Elite group, Jackson was vital toward getting his team back into the game and establishing momentum after a sluggish start. The sophomore guard came in with immediate energy and confidence, showing his ability to be effective both on and off the ball. Jackson was able to create his own shot off the dribble while also spacing the floor reliably as a shooter off the catch, knocking down three timely 3s on his way to 11 points. His game continues to mature as he figures to begin attracting D1 attention in the near future.     Stepping up in a big way to establish first half momentum after a slow start, Myatt gave a big spark with his efficient scoring ability off the bench. The junior guard came right in with an aggressive mindset but stayed under control while attacking within the flow. He used his handle and burgeoning strength to beat his defender downhill before showing his midrange pullup game and shooting range out to the arc. His ability to adapt into a more condensed role after having a good amount of leeway his past two high school seasons was nice to see as it pertains to his translation to college as he sorts through scholarship-level options.

The annual Donofrio Classic continued on Wednesday with more first round action featuring some high-level talent taking the floor across both games. Keep reading for a recap of some top performers from Difference Makers Elite's win over PA Hoops.