In the second half of the night, Myers Park hit the road to Butler on the men’s side as well and there was a bunch of storylines coming into this one.
Myers Park Xavier McKelvy started off strong for the Mustangs with eight first-quarter points, while Drake Maye also got in on the action. But Patrick Wessler and company had the answer, as the two teams were tied after one. Wessler though started to really display his overall game and was simply tremendous, helping Butler hold a 29-25 halftime lead.
The two teams battle back and forth, as neither could break away from each other and were tied after three once again. Myers Park defense though started to pick up in the fourth, creating turnovers on defense that eventually led to buckets on the other end. McKelvy was a huge reason why for Myers Park, scoring 13 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter. Butler cut it to six late but there just wasn’t enough time, as Myers Park earned a tough road victory.
Final: Myers Park 62 – Butler 54
Stats:
Myers Park: Xavier McKelvy 25 points/ Drake Maye 18 points/ Jacob Newman 8
points
Butler: Patrick Wessley 22 points/ Moses Payne 7 points/ Carson Evans 9 points
Standouts:
2021 6’0 Xavier McKelvy (Myers Park): Each and every time we watch McKelvy play, we are more impressed with his play. A strong guard on the floor plays with great intensity and such aggressiveness on the court. He can score in an array of ways, getting downhill, stepping out to knock down the three, or getting to the free throw line with his strong play. He showed it tonight.
2022 6’11 Patrick Wessler (Butler): Wessler was simply outstanding and almost unstoppable. He played tough and with a little attitude for his team but he pulled out everything on both ends. Finished with soft hands around the rim, using his length. But also showing his ability to step out for the mid-range jumper and his range from three as well. Defensively, he created havoc blocking shots and attacking on the glass. It was an impressive performance for the big man.
2021 6’5 Drake Maye (Myers Park): Maye’s blend of footwork, speed, IQ, and versatility is tough for any opponent to guard. He has a fantastic motor and such a nice feel for his offensive game. His fadeaway mid-range was tough to stop and with is ability to create off the dribble is impressive. He is a unique player and you can also see that vision he uses on the football field translate really well on the court.
