5 Takeaways: Nature Coast at Anclote

<p>On Wednesday night, I made the short trip over to Pasco County to see Anclote host Nature Coast.</p> <p>Both teams are nicknamed the Sharks, but it was the home team that ran away with this one early with a height advantage and two senior leaders to win 74-43.</p> <p>Here is a look at five takeaways from the outing.</p> <h3><strong>Hester continues to be tough</strong></h3> <p>Despite some nagging injuries, 2020 6'6" forward <strong>Jakob Hester</strong> continues to generate big scoring nights for Anclote. The Palm Beach Atlantic commit had a game-high 26 points in this game, including 11 in the first quarter alone. Hester simply did whatever he wanted as an attacker and went to the free throw stride often. His size advantage and pure strength made life beyond tough for the Nature Coast defense. Once he gets healthy after the season and in prime shape, the high IQ four man will do wonders at the Division II level.</p> <h3><strong>Cooper is on his way up</strong></h3> <p>Just looking at <strong>Jalen Cooper</strong>, the 2020 6'6" guard/forward passes the eye test. In this game, he was shooting at a high clip from deep and was comfortable in pacing the offense. The Palm Beach Atlantic commit had three high flying dunks that rattled the rim. He can get up and once he adds more upper body strength, he'll be an even better finisher at the point of attack. Cooper had 20 points which included 12 at the break. He will contribute right away in the Sunshine State Conference with his speed, athleticism and hard-working play.</p> <h3><strong>Teague carries the load</strong></h3> <p>Early on, 2020 6'1" guard <strong>Cai Teague</strong> made it clear that he's the alpha for this new look Nature Coast squad. He had five quick points as the Sharks hung around for half of the first quarter before Anclote took a 20-9 lead after the horn. Teague recorded a team-best 16 points, finding success as a slasher and finesse piece. He is fresh off his senior football season and his determination near the basket is evident.</p> <h3><strong>Forrest has different look, same shot</strong></h3> <p>Anyone that has seen <strong>Jacobie Forrest</strong> prior to this season, watched a floppy-haired long range shooter whether that was with Anclote or during the summer with the Tampa BayHawks in AAU ball. Forrest shaved off all his hair, but he's still the same player. The 5'11" guard had 14 points, hitting from deep with confidence and velocity. He's a great third piece for this Anclote team and is someone who creates openings for himself. </p> <h3><strong>Nature Coast is rebuilding</strong></h3> <p>A mainstay in Class 6A the last few seasons (prior to moving to 4A this season), Nature Coast made a state semifinal run this past year. However, the Sharks lost its top three scorers, two to graduation (Robert Gomez and Brandon Clarke) and one to transfer (2020 forward Orien Adams to Kathleen). That trio accounted for nearly 73 percent of the team's scoring a year ago. Outside of Teague, there are a few role players (2020 guard Phil Scalise - 8 points and 2020 guard Maleek Harris - 6 points). Scalise is a shooter while Harris is a blazing fast guard. Regardless, Nature Coast is still 8-6 and doing as much as it can despite the shuffle at the top. </p>