Fabian brought excellent energy for Middle Tyger (Byrnes) against Hammett Bridge (Riverside). These are two teams that are very familiar with each other, so it’s often on the x-factors like McClintock to step up in those games, even in a fall league setting. That is exactly what he did, going for 24 points. When Fabian is a positive, the entire team feeds on it, and they often play at their best. He is clearly putting in work to improve his three-point shot with four makes on the night, but his defensive energy and transition presence are very important as well.

Another crucial piece for Byrnes who has shown highs and lows throughout his career is McClintock. Fabian had some excellent plays at practice on Monday – many of them coming against Sanders in open play – and would have had a case for the best player on the day if he finished around the rim more consistently. He was active on both sides of the glass, pushed the pass and made good decisions in transition, flashed some ability as a passer, and played well through contact. It will be interesting to see how these two bigs fit together this year, but don’t count out the existing chemistry between Fowler and McClintock as a key factor of the Byrnes offense this season.

McClintock is efficient scoring the ball at all three levels. He handles it well and plays with strong control, allowing him to get to the rim with ease. Once there, he finishes effectively through contact or around defenders on both sides of the rim. He also creates separation for pull-up jumpers in the midrange. From the perimeter, he can knock down shots when given space. He shows the skill and poise of a player who can produce at the next level and is one to watch this summer and throughout his senior year.

Another 2027 Forward who made noise in Columbia was Fabian. He fits in perfectly with the speed of the Runnin’ Rebels offense, always putting an emphasis on winning the loose balls, running the floor in transition, and finding open spaces around the rim. McClintock had tons of production on the glass, racking up 7 rebounds, and even protected the rim well with the 3 blocks, despite not having a major size or athleticism advantage.

Fabian was a pleasant surprise for the Running Rebels in Franklin Springs. He was very much a product of their fast-paced offense and the playmaking of Fowler, but give credit to McClintock for his effort, positioning, and finishing ability. He ran the floor all game long, found gaps in the paint and the dunker spot, and favored a power dribble when working for buckets. Fabian was also relentless on the glass and had a couple of second-chance scores too. He finished with 16 Points and 5 Rebounds in the win.