Peach Jam: Oklahoma Report Day 3
Play opened up for Oklahoma prospects at noon with Team Griffin taking on MOKAN Elite for a spot in the 16U Elite 8. Griffin had played MOKAN Elite earlier in the Spring falling by four. This time it appeared as…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingPlay opened up for Oklahoma prospects at noon with Team Griffin taking on MOKAN Elite for a spot in the 16U Elite 8. Griffin had played MOKAN Elite earlier in the Spring falling by four.
This time it appeared as if things might be different as Griffin jumped out to an early double-digit lead. Bench play was very key in the opening half as JJ White turned in several key baskets. It just so happens it was his birthday and boy did he play like it. DJ Freeman brought a huge energy boost in the paint for Griffin using his 6’5 frame with superman hops to make plays down low. Freeman not only grabbed big boards the defensive presence he brought blocking shots was clutch.
Daimion Collins was a monster on the boards bringing great intensity. The non-stop pressure he put on the opposing team down low was vital.
MOKAN Elite started the second half on fire led by their Point Guard, Stevie Strong. The MOKAN charge was continued by Bryce Hopkins. The go-to guy all day long was Hopkins as he scored it well from mid-range and inside. Also, be prepared for him to hit a few three-point shots every now and then.
For as good as Griffin played early on MOKAN Elite out played them in the second half tying the game with 1:30 left. The ball fell in the hands of Jaxson Robinson with an opportunity to respond from distance. After tensing up the day before Robinson was ready for this big moment.
Splash. Robinson lifted Griffin back on top and they would never relinquish the lead for the rest of the game. Several times MOKAN Elite put the pressure on Griffin to make key free-throws. The pressure of a loss ending the season increased by the fact Griffin had key free-throw misses the day before had the gym on pens and needles. Trey Alexander stepped up to the line four times down the stretch knocking down 7 out of 8 free-throws to seal the victory.
This is the first time Team Griffin has ever qualified for the Elite 8 as a program at Nike Peach Jam. They have clinched a spot on the Nike EYBL next year, but feel there is more work to be done.
Griffin will play tomorrow at 9AM for a spot in the Final Four.
Rondel Walker and the Texas Titans continue to roll undefeated into the Elite 8. Walker is averaging 14.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4 assists. The Texas Titans play Team Why Not on Saturday.