The senior guard has one of the better mid-range games in Oklahoma, with a reliable turn around in the 8-12 feet that often leaves defenders guessing.  He leaned into that in the second half and consistently hit big buckets that kept the Cyclones challenging the Class 6A Antlers.  Buckingham’s finishing around the basket and against contact could’ve been better. But he was a consistent battler, who showed some pop when high pointing rebounds on both ends of the court.  His ability to grab it and push it, where he has sneaky good vision is a great transition trait.

Usually with players, it’s a tale of two halves. For the senior, it was a tale of the first 28 minutes and the final 4 minutes. The early notes when watching the stream involved poor shooting and the occasional turnover. There were some flashes, but it largely looked it would be a forgettable game for Buckingham.

McGuinness went up 61-38 with 3:45 left. 15 seconds later Buckingham hit a three, a few seconds after that he scooped up a loose ball and scored a transition layup. Then he made a play in the backcourt, scored again and was fouled. After the free throw, Buckingham had scored 8 points in 15 seconds and suddenly the momentum was flowing the Cyclones’ way. The one man show continued for the next 30 seconds, as he would score 5 more points for a total of 13 points in basically a minute. Which turned what looked like a blowout, into a competitive game down the stretch.

While a senior, injuries have hampered his past two seasons of high school basketball development. And before coming to Casady for his final year, he was never the primary offensive weapon for his high school team.  Watching back a game where he fought through adversity, to finish strongly was a great indicator going forward. As Buckingham showed great flashes of individual skill as a scorer this past summer, and now must fully unlock his game as teams scheme and gameplan against him this winter.

A newcomer to Casady, Buckingham looked impressive throughout every viewing this spring and summer. He looks ready to be a complete scorer, with one of the more skilled games in the small school ranks. What’s possibly been then the most impressive aspect of Buckingham’s strong rise over recent months is the improved explosiveness he’s had when attacking the rim. A healthy senior season will lead to big things for Buckingham for his first year as a Cyclone, and the Cyclones’ first season in the OSSAA.

With improving athleticism and confidence, Buckingham has been putting up impressive scoring numbers in every viewing this spring. Monday was no different as he made his living in the mid-range with quality pull ups and even getting to the basket. He has a textbook looking jumper, and now is getting great separation when stopping and hitting from 10-15 feet. The new Cyclone is one of the more improved players in the state this spring and looks ready for a huge senior season at Casady.

Buckingham had it going from distance in an afternoon victory. Including a couple makes from well beyond the arc. But it was more than just long range bombing that made him stand out. The 2024 lead guard has looked more comfortable off the dribble, especially when getting to his spots and hitting in the mid-range.