Matthew has a high motor defensively, and it showed as he was picking up the length of the floor and defending all game long. He has a high level of quickness that allows him to force opposing ball handlers to change directions multiple times as they work their way up the court. Offensively he was helping to penetrate the opposing zone defense with crisp passes into the lane, but also found success off the dribble. Was able to split the defenders at the top of the zone to get into the lane where he could score with a floater, or kick it back out to the perimeter forcing the defense to shift once again.

Matthew was a huge factor in Maranatha’s balanced scoring attack in the win over St. Cloud Cathedral. He attacked the basket with no fear, maneuvering around any contact, then laying the ball in. He impressed me most with his work in their press on the defensive side of the ball, coming away with numerous steals resulting in easy baskets in transition. He was a pest to opposing ball handlers all game and embraced locking up on defense. He also knocked down a pull up mid-range jumper, finishing the game with 11 points. Bluford and the Mustangs have had a phenomenal season so far and will look to make a run at the state tournament.

Bluford was a menace on the defensive end, particularly in the second half. It seemed like when others were getting tired, Matthew had another flip to switch to take advantage of others’ fatigue. Bluford was picking up full court and forcing turnover after turnover, all while turning those steals into instant points with his quickness to the basket. In the half0court he’s lightning quick with the ball in his hands, able to get into the lane and finish over the top with a floater. Maranatha has a lot of depth this year, and Matthew’s play on both ends could help them make a deep run in the playoffs.