Las Lomas v.s. Dublin: Standouts
Another huge matchup took place in the east bay over the weekend as the Las Lomas Knights (29-3) hosted the Dublin Gaels (26-6) in the C.I.F. Regional. With both teams flourishing in the uptempo style, the game featured a bunch of talent that electrified the gym. Here’s a look at some of the performers from that night.
Robert Prince (Las Lomas) 6’2, 2018
The elite floor general for the knights constantly put his teammates in scoring position. His incredible passing vision and quick handle allowed him put constant pressure on the defense. You won’t see many players get more excited for their teammates success than this kid. A tireless defender that wants to spark a fast break with his ability to make the offense uncomfortable. He showed a willingness to score when his teammates weren’t open for opportunities.
Robby Beasley (Dublin) 6’1, 2020
Despite his age, he is already a lethal scorer both inside and out. A relentless work ethic allows him to seemingly go all out for 32 minutes. He uses these skills to make teams pay for sending him to the free throw stripe. The seemingly boundless energy he has drives him to also guard the other teams best player as he plays with a fire that’s hard to cool off. Trouble is coming for the team that gives this kid one open look because he heats up almost instantly.
Jason Holman (Las Lomas) 5’9, 2018
One of the top three point bombers around as displayed with a very high arching shot. Deep range and a quick release make his shot very difficult to block. He has a very tight handle that allows him to attack closeouts and create when needed. He only needs to see one shot go in before the barrage of threes begin to rain on the defense.
Jaden Saunders (Dublin) 5’8, 2020
The young guard has a tremendous handle and confidence about him. A strong change of speed allows him to find cracks in the defense. Beware of his jumpshot which heats up quickly, especially when he goes to his stepback. When he isn’t using his skill set to score or make his teammates better, he is picking up his matchup early with pressure defense. He leverages high I.Q. on both ends to impact the game. He and teammate Robbie Beasley will be one of the best backcourts in the Bay Area when they put it all together.
Nathan Robinson (Las Lomas) 6’4, 2018
The calm and collected scoring machine didn’t disappoint. His shooting ability and patient driving game were on full display as he was never rattled during the course of the game. He shows great pride in preventing the other teams best player from touching the ball. While he is deceptively athletic with an ability to poster opponents, his most underrated ability is his passing vision which makes it tough for teams to lock in on him.
Jack Nielsen (Dublin) 6’7, 2018
This kid could not be defended at all. The lefty showed a nice touch around the rim with either hand as he buried defenders under the rim. As the game progressed, he showcased his midrange shooting prowess and ability to set physical screens. He has a nice feel for the game as a passer and this is a skill that will be developed more at the next level as he looks over the top of defenses before scoring.
Devin Payne (Las Lomas) 6’2, 2018
The energetic dunker used his size and leaping ability to torment the Dublin defense. When he wasn’t above the rim he was either knocking down 3s or abusing the Dublin defenders with an array of post fade away jumpers. His footwork and ability to rebound on both ends were crucial for the team.