Two new teams entered the Holiday Classic, as Rabun Gap and Greenville looked to make a statement on the Saturday afternoon. Both teams were looking to get a feel for themselves, trading baskets for much of the first quarter before Greenville was able to create a four-point lead at the end of one. Greenville was able to maintain that four-point lead throughout the second quarter, as Pro Franklin led the way for Greenville and Nate Brafford and N’Fari Benjamin fueled the charge for Rabun Gap. This was a back and for affair in the second half though, as Rabun Gap eventually tied it and the lead was traded on multiple occasions. One of the best games we had on the day, it ultimately came down to the end. Greenville had chance to tie or to win it but ultimately came up just short and Rabun Gap secured the 72-68 win.
Greenville:
DJ Johnson 14 points
Pro Franklin 15 points
JQ Jones 10 points
Rabun Gap:
Nate Brafford 16 points
N’Fari Benjamin 18 points
John Tastinger 9 points
Standouts:
2021 JQ Jones (Greenville): There is something about a player that works hard, is a leader for his team, and plays smart on the floor. That is what Jones does for this team. He is that veteran leader that bullies his way to the rim and finishes through contact well.
2022 Nate Brafford (Rabun Gap): Brafford is just a natural scorer with his length, rising over and finishing over defenders. He did his work a lot around the rim, getting on the boards and finishing well but also continued to show that pull-up jumper that can be so deadly.
2021 DJ Johnson (Greenville): He is a pesky guard that is super quick in the open floor. Plays with a good pace and change of speed, knowing when to attack and try to get to the rim or to dish out to his teammates. Tough little guard that played really well.
2021 N’Fari Benjamin (Rabun Gap): He can be a blur on the court, really setting the tone for his team and looking to take advantage of opportunities. When he attacked he was able to create contact for himself but also play off the ball, get to his spots, and knock down shots.