After nearly 20 years of being established, Harrell’s Christian is set to have their winningest season ever. Currently sitting at 20-2 and winning the last seven games, the Crusaders legitimately have the ability to win the remainder of their schedule. What’s been the secret to their success? Between Dashaun McKoy, Zicareian McNeil, Amir Moore, and the clear breakout season from Antonio McKoy, it’s easy to figure out. Let’s take a closer look at each…
Everything starts and ends with Antonio McKoy. Whether his insane production or general leadership by example, he’s the clear undisputed leader. Right now, McKoy is averaging 26.2 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.8 SPG, and 1.2 BPG with 59% FG. He elevated his numbers across the board while visibly making strides as a tone-setter on both ends of the floor. McKoy is a long, physically imposing athlete with creation skills and scoring polish. He’s shown the ability to knock down perimeter jumpers but is clearly at his best in transition or attacking downhill. McKoy rebounds incredibly well for his size and reliably guards multiple positions defensively. It’s difficult to say anything other than positives about what he’s already done, but it’ll also be exciting to see his continued development over the next twelve months.
His brother, Dashaun, is a natural glue-guy who does a little bit of everything on the court. He’s tough, athletic, and capable of operating in various types of roles for this group. McKoy is a great defender and active rebounder with a terrific nose for the ball. He utilizes his strength to overwhelm opponents defensively and force turnovers at a quality rate. Like his brother, McKoy is at his best in transition, cutting without the ball, or attacking the basket. This season, he’s averaging 13.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 2.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, and 1.2 BPG with 57/38/71 splits. Expect him to continue trending upward.
Rounding out their core pieces, McNeil is a scrappy, skilled guard with craftiness and scoring prowess. He’s the lone senior leader on this team who provides a useful presence on both ends of the floor. McNeil defends with energy at the point of attack, initiates the offense as needed, and scores at an efficient rate from all levels. He’s averaging 14.0 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 3.0 APG, and 1.7 SPG with 52/36/60 splits. Meanwhile, Moore is a strong-bodied big man with a sturdy frame and the ability to anchor the paint on either side of the ball. He finishes well around the basket, alters shots defensively, and secures rebounds at a solid rate. Only a sophomore, Moore is averaging 9.4 PPG and 6.0 RPG.