It was the final game on Monday night, with two familiar opponents battling each other out once again in Combine Academy and Moravian Prep. We knew the energy was going to be high in this one and it certainly was, led by their coaches. Moravian Prep came out a little heat and a chip on their shoulders, as they really played hard and looked to be physical on both sides of the floor, which helped them secure an 18-11 first quarter lead. Moravian continued that intensity on both ends throughout the second quarter, eventually creating a 17-point lead. They played physical and Combine struggled to find consistent offense for much of the first half.
Moravian held that double-digit lead throughout the third quarter as well but both teams really stepped up their energy, as neither wanted to come away with a loss. BJ Freeman led the charge for Moravian and it was a tough day shooting for Combine, but you have to give credit to Moravian's defense as well.
Heading into the fourth quarter, Moravian held a 50-37 lead and was able to make enough plays to hold that double-digit lead for much of the fourth. Combine tried to make a late comeback but shots just didn't fall and Moravian came away with the 68-57 victory.
Stats:
Moravian Prep:
BJ Freeman 21 points
Raekwon Horton 12 points
Ray Bellamy 11 points
Combine:
Robert Dillingham 11 points
AJ Smith 10 points
Omarion Bodrick 9 points
Standouts:
2021 BJ Freeman (Moravian Prep): Freeman played with a chip on his shoulder, with something to prove, and simply was unstoppable for much of the game. He played on a high level, maybe one of his best games we have seen. He used his size and frame incredibly well, along skill to score inside, taking defenders off the dribble and then making them pay from outside as well. Freeman also played really well in handling the pressure and being a primary ball-handler as well.
2021 Raekwon Horton (Moravian Prep): Horton plays with such a nice blend of skill and physical play on the court, as he can be used in so many ways, whether it is stepping out, using his frame to get to the rim, or battle down in the paint. Even gave us a big-time strong dunk towards the end of the game
2021 Omarion Bodrick (Combine Academy): This young man is an absolute monster sometimes on the court, finishing high above the rim, blocking shots, rebounding, and be just extremely active all around the basket on both sides. He plays so hard and with a ton of emotion. It is hard not to love what he brings to the floor.
