On Saturday, Phenom Hoops traveled out to High Point Christian in High Point, North Carolina for another quality matchup between a pair of talented opponents. The Cougars entered this game as slight underdogs, but both teams came in with something to prove. On the other side, the Storm of Lake Norman Christian has found some consistency within their overall structure. The stage was set, and these two squads certainly didn’t disappoint…
Things kicked off in complete favor of High Point Christian, as KJ Garrett reassumed his position as their leader and quickly asserted an early lead. The Cougars held their 18-15 advantage at the end of the first quarter. However, after regrouping, it was easy to see what made the Storm more talented on paper. Their balance and sheer depth of talent is downright overwhelming, but the Cougars continued to battle and only trailed 34-29 at halftime. Following the break, Lake Norman Christian simply began to take control and dominate. They cleared their bench and seemingly never looked back after outscoring the Cougars 25-9 in the third period, ultimately securing 75-54 victory over High Point Christian.
Lake Norman Christian:
6’8 ’21 AJ Allenspach (Army signee)
Arguably the best player on the floor for multiple stretches throughout this contest, Allenspach’s fundamental, straightforward approach is so impressive. Although he’s built like a forward, Allenspach possesses the necessary fluidity and versatility to absolutely destroy opponents from multiple different positions. He can legitimately alter his approach on every single possession, which forces the defense to constantly adapt and center their game plan around him. Allenspach rarely had plays called for him, but simply puts himself in positions to succeed. As impressive as his IQ and all-around offensive skillset are, his defensive instincts and sheer nose for the ball are arguably his most appealing qualities. Army easily secured one of the best steals in the entire region. Final stats: 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
5’10 ’23 Trey Green
At this point, anyone who doesn’t realize Green’s value simply hasn’t been watching the Storm. His balance as a floor general is such a necessary constant and steady two-way presence. Green is slightly undersized but possesses IQ, playmaking instincts, and three-level scoring ability. He’s able to consistently take what the defense gives him and make them immediately regret their decisions. Size aside, Green has no real weaknesses. He’s an efficient floor general with great defensive understanding and the ability to truly dominate his assignment on both ends of the floor. While still early, Green is worthy of attention from various types of Division I coaches. Final stats: 16 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals.
6’2 ’23 Mikey Williams
After somewhat of a calm first half, Williams began to highlight some of the tools that make him a nationally regarded prospect. His ability to generate and convert difficult shots is well-documented, but his playmaking and defensive instincts were arguably his most appealing qualities from this showing. He rebounded, dictated the offensive action for stretches, and overwhelmed his assignment in a variety of different ways. Final stats: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists, 4 steals, and 1 block.
6’1 ’21 Clayton Robinson
Despite so much talent on this roster, it’s easy to see why Robinson starts for the Storm. His defensive prowess alone makes him an absolute pest and problem for opposing guard. He single-handedly changed the outcome of this game upon switching onto the best opposing player and harassing him for three straight quarters. His energy and toughness were incredibly valuable. Final stats: 8 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists.
High Point Christian:
6’1 ’21 KJ Garrett
It should come as no surprise to see Garrett as the Cougars’ top performer. Ethan Smith didn’t shoot at his normal percentage, Isaiah Sanders didn’t get going until late, and Thomas McIntosh’s double-double wasn’t enough to propel them forward in this contest. That being said, Garrett continually set the floor, attacked the basket, and set up others whenever possible. He made a slew of defensive plays by forcing turnovers and successfully pushing transition play. Garrett is quick, smart, and touches the paint with regularity. College coaches should still be vying for his services. Final stats: 22 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals.