The Skinny:
This game was an absolute electric factory from start to finish, one of the most entertaining atmosphere’s I’ve ever been a part of for a high school basketball game/event. The first half was super tight throughout, 6’5 2019 Louisville Commit Josh Nickelberry was lights out in the 1st Half, scoring 18 points and keeping his team in it throughout the 1st half. Carmel Christian was led by a lineage of talent, including but not limited to App St Commit Donovan Gregory, UNCW Commit Jake Boggs, Liberty Commit Marten Maide, and College of Charleston Commit Deangelo Epps. That Carmel team is simply way too much to handle for most teams, so incredibly deep with talent at every position, it’s easy to see why Ballislife has them ranked as the 23rd best team in America. They’ve earned that reputation. The 2nd half was total domination, it was tied at 35 entering the 3rd, but then Carmel got into their press and it was a wrap. They ended up winning by 25+, as they prepare for a young talented Cannon team tomorrow, and Northwood will look to bounce back against a very special Liberty Heights group.
3 Stars Of The Game:
6’4 2019 Donovan Gregory: Carmel Christian (App State Commit)
App State should be forever thankful that they landed a player as talented as Gregory, the kid is more than capable of playing at a high major program in my opinion. He is one of the most powerful wing guards in America, showcasing brute force, vertical explosiveness, and touch from all areas of the court. This kid is simply to the total package. He finished with 29 points and a handful of memorable dunks that turned the energy in the gym up to 11. I’m already looking forward to watching him tomorrow.
6’5 2019 Josh Nickelberry: Northwood Temple (Louisville Commit)
I just want to start out by saying that Josh is one of the best pure scorers I’ve ever seen at the high school level. He belongs in the conversation with the likes of Jalen Cone, Chris Clemons, and Coby White’s of the world, he really is that good at scoring the ball. He finished with 31 in this one, knocking down some jaw dropping shots, and keeping his teammates involved when he was on the ball. He’s simply a joy to watch, and he should have another huge performance tomorrow against Liberty Heights.
6’7 Jake Boggs: Carmel Christian (UNCW Commit)
Picking a 3rd star in this game was tough, Carmel had so many guys contribute, but I ultimately went with Boggs because of the way he came off the bench and had an immediate impact on the game. He’s a super complete player that knows his game, never taking a bad shot, consistently playing the game the right way. He can shoot it from distance, but doesn’t rely on that shot like a lot of kids with his ability, he understands the talent he has surrounding him, using it to his advantage, capitalizing on mismatches, playing winning basketball. UNCW got another gem.
