Five Takeaways: Norman vs Norman North
In what appeared as if it could be another instant classic as the first matchup of the season was between Norman and Norman North this was quite the opposite. Norman North dominated a Norman squad without Bryce Mooreland 73-44. The 29 point win for Norman North was impressive to say the least. The Timberwolves came out of the locker room at the half on fire outscoring Norman 28-6 in the third. Get a look at the five takeaways from the game.
Smith continues to improve
Shemar Smith had a huge summer elevating him into the top ten of the Oklahoma 2019 Class. He continues to improve each time we scout his game. Tonight, Norman North fed Smith the basketball inside to Smith. He obliged by scoring the basketball very efficiently inside with a variety of Post moves. Smith is projected to the NCAA Division I Low to Mid Major level by Prep Hoops. The biggest difference in his game this year is the strength he has added, which has helped him finish through contact and on the boards. Smith is a prospect NCAA Division I schools at the Low to Mid Major level will want to start taking a strong look at in the 2019 Class. What makes up for Smith being 6’6 is his heart, hustle and toughness.
Best Glue Guys in the state?
Norman North has two of the best glue guys in the state on their roster in Cole Robertson and Drake Stoops. Both are senior Guards at Norman North that are willing to do whatever the team needs to come out on top. Robertson handled the ball and ran the offense like a well-oiled machine against Norman. He does not score a bunch but is constantly making his teammates better with crisp passes to open teammates. Stoops was excellent on defense locking up Norman Wing Jacob Ogle. Despite being much shorter than Stoops Ogle was taken out of the game by Stoops who face-guarded him throughout the game. Stoops also chipped in 16 points scoring the ball best off the dribble drive to the rim. Stoops and Robertson will be very key in Norman North’s pursuit of the Gold Ball.
Mr. Consistent: Jalen Crutchfield
Every championship team needs a player that can consistently provide them with scoring. Crutchfield is the consistent scoring force for Norman North this season. He can go off for big games or can have solid outings like tonight against Norman with an efficient 14 points. The key for Norman North is they are always able to count on him to score the basketball efficiently. This offseason Crutchfield worked hard to improve his ability to drive the basketball and it has made him much tougher to guard. Stetson is getting a Wing that has continued to improve each year in his high school career, which bodes well for his college career.
The Bright Spot: Dayten Holman
Holman was the lone bright spot on the night for Norman. He had a stellar first half with 10 points to open the game. Holman is a very intriguing prospect in the Oklahoma 2020 Class standing at 6’5 running the show at Point Guard. The big hole in his game was his jump shot however that has been his biggest area of improvement this year. Holman is tough to stop when he has his mind set on attacking the rim with his height, quickness, and athleticism that helps him finish at the rim. The vision of Holman and ability to create for others is a promising area in his game. Holman projects to the NCAA Division I Mid Major level.
Next Up
Norman plays at home against Deer Creek on Tuesday night.
Norman North will battle Moore on the road next Tuesday.
For more information email Matt@prephoops.com