DC's Tip-Off Recap: Day 2
There's absolutely nothing better than watching high-level basketball on a Saturday. The energy is different; the games are more competitive, and I must say day two of the Tip-Off did not disappoint.
Quick-Takes
If you haven’t noticed, the Georgia Stars EYBL team has completely taken over this event since their arrival. These guys have been applying pressure all weekend from the 17u squad down to the 15u and have yet to take a loss.
What I admire most about this organization is their drive to compete each time they step on the floor, playing multiple games with little to no rest but still bringing it every time. Another remarkable thing is allowing their younger guys to play up a class to get better but watching those guys play; one wouldn’t even notice because they are that good.
This has definitely been one of the best teams to watch so far, and I am looking forward to seeing how much better these guys can get over the summer.
Game of the Day
One of the games I had pinned on my calendar was the matchup between the 17U AOT (HSA) and the Alabama Fusion EYBL team.
AOT is loaded with talent, and the way they get up and down the floor is truly amazing. This team has great shooters, and their trap defense is something fierce.
I was very familiar with the group of guys apart of the Alabama Fusion, so I was very intrigued to see how some of the most talented players in Alabama would coexist.
AOT came out with a lot of intensity and relied heavily upon that trap defense, and in the first half, it seemed that they would be a bit too much for the Alabama fusion to handle.
After a quick reset, the Fusion came back clicking on all cylinders, and Kerrington Kiel, who led with 17 points, would keep this team afloat as they put up an impressive comeback.
With only a few seconds to go, AOT’s defense would lead to a quick basket giving them a one-point edge. 6-foot-7 guard Zach Gray who added 7 points, snatched the win for the Fusion with a game-winning three from deep, taking the game 61-59.
AOT’s Flo Tencbey was locked in as he finished with 21 points.
Top Performance
6-foot-6 Forward Kerrington Kiel continues to amaze me with his incredible play. He loves to compete and does just about everything on the floor to make sure his team gets the win.
On top of being an excellent shooter, Kiel has improved a lot on his attacks to the rack. He can create space for his shot as well as use his size to score over smaller guards in the post.
Kiel is just an all-around great talent and is one of the guys I suggest coaches watch during the live period.
