Day 2 of the Carmel Tip Off started on Saturday, as Asheville School and Grace Christian traveled to square off early in the day. Both teams brought intriguing talent to the court, as this was a back-and-forth battle throughout the first half. Both teams were tied at 13 at the end of the first, and neither team could break away from each other in the second quarter as well. The guard play was strong for both, as 2024 Steven McLeod led the way early on, along with 2026 Michael Phillips II for Grace Christian and 2025 Cedric Kenan and 2025 Miki Gacic got things going for Asheville School. Both teams were looking to find that edge, as we were all tied up at 22 at halftime.
The battle continued throughout the second half, as each team was able to make small runs and timely baskets. It wasn’t until the fourth quarter that we had a small lead by Grace Christian, as Phillips and McLeod continued to lead the way, but players like 2024 Dylan Couse also stepped up big. With a narrow lead late, Grace Christian was ultimately able to seal the deal at the free throw line, earning the 49-44 hard-fought victory.
Final: Grace Christian 49 – Asheville School 44
Stats:
Grace Christian: Steven McLeod 17pts/ Michael Phillips 11pts/ Dylan Couse 13pts
Asheville: Cedric Kenan 13pts/ Brady Donlon 11pts/ Miki Gacic 8pts
Re-Watch the Game: https://sapphire.maestro.io/hoopstate/carmel-tipoff-game4