Sykes was on the attack for much of the evening. The junior put together a solid opening quarter performance to help keep his team in the game. Sykes first hit a mid-range pullup after crossing over a defender before hitting four straight from the foul line to give his team an early edge. The Knights trailed by seven at halftime but were able to shave the lead down to a single point to close the third as Sykes cut to the rim and finished. To start the fourth quarter, he again attacked by putting his head down and driving past a perimeter defender, before grabbing a defensive rebound and taking it the distance for another pull-up jumper. Sykes helped to finish the game off by handling pressure with the ball in his hands before consistently hitting his foul shots as Tuttle tried to climb back into it in the fourth quarter.

Fun growing experience for the Knights lead guard. Millwood is one of the few teams in Oklahoma where their guards can match or possibly even exceed his combo of strength and athleticism. Which led to some turnovers and a tough match up, but Sykes still had his shares of wins. Had his usual fair share of havoc causing plays. Looks like a DB with the way he jumps and tips plays in the passing lanes. Hit a tough “old fashion” three point play that put Crossings up late in the third. Keeps on coming, as he plays with a chip on his shoulder. But it’s important he properly toes the line when playing with the chip and keeps his cool even in frustrating moments.

Sykes has two fingers on his right hand tapped up and missed some action right before Christmas. But based on the daggers threes he hit in the fourth quarter, the injury isn’t slowing him down. The threes were a capper to a 16 point and 8 rebound performance. The athletic guard always climbs the ladder to make contested rebounds on both ends of the court. And seemed to be able to get to the rim at will against Jenks. Leading to points for himself or shot creation for his teammates.

Another key part of the Knights’ bounce back win. Applied consistent rim pressure. Had acrobatic scores at the cup and good passes to set up his teammates. Played with his usual high motor playing style by being an outstanding rebounder for a guard. Have seen that rebounding translate at the national level. Because he’s athletic, strong and has good timing to go with his desire to rebound. Most of his damage was done on drives to the rim. But did close out the first quarter with a good pull up three. Tough minded guard, who is continuing to fill out his offensive skillset.

Sykes was all over the court, galvanizing the Knights on both ends. Already a bulldog like guard, he was stronger and with more explosiveness to block shots at the rim on defense. And to powerfully attack the basket. Along with the time in the weight room, he clearly has put in more time as a lead guard. Made smart feeds to cutting teammates and has been empowered to lead his team. Still plays fast and tough. While also looking like the game comes slower to him, leading to being in more control.

Built like a running back, Sykes can do it all on the court. A budding lead guard, he’s always been capable of getting downhill. And now is improving his vision to be a key creator for an unselfish and deep Knight squad. Will also likely always have the top defensive assignment, as he proved this past spring and summer that he can cover top national 2027 guards and wings. An impressive aspect is along with working hard as a primary defender, he still has the grit and energy to make hustle plays for loose balls, taking charges and more.

Hustle player, who can do the dirty work to lock up the opposition. Will grab a tough rebound or be the first to a loose ball. Makes life tough for the opposition with his combination of strength and quickness. Can match up against bigger guards and wings because of those athletic traits and a tough mindset.

Sykes is the type of player who will do whatever is necessary to help the team. Strong and athletic, he often skied into the trees as a rebounder for his smaller squad. There was on sequence on offense where he climbed the ladder twice on the same possession to snatch offensive rebounds. Gives similar effort on the defensive end. While also hitting timely jumpers, helping out with ball handling duties, attacking the rim and continuing to improve his vision and passing. Jack of all trade guards, with a tremendous motor.

Toughness and tenacity can swing games. And that’s what Syke brought to the table in the second half of Friday’s night win for LeGYnds’16u Team. He’s an quick and strong athlete, who’s ability to make hustle plays and pressure the ball on defense was crucial. The dual sport athlete plays bigger than his listed size and his winning impact often goes beyond the box score.

Sykes continues to build off a strong end to his high school season by stepping in and providing what is needed for LEGYNDS’ 16U. When left open, he knocked down triples. Plays with his hair on fire on defense. Trapping and flying around to cause havoc. Which then leads to explosive finishing at the rim in transition. Also is continuing to improve his decision making by keeping the ball moving and being unselfish. Type of prospect who’s impact goes beyond the box score as his energy often does the dirty work for his talented team.