Phenom Hoops was on deck for an intriguing matchup between North Meck and Hopewell. The Vikings have been tough all season long and they hoped to continue that success being back at home, while Hopewell was hoping to make a statement.
In the beginning, it was Christian Foy who was dominating on the floor for North Meck, scoring all over the court and going for 11 points in the first quarter alone. It is what helped North Meck retain a 20-13, though Hopewell started out well from behind the arc. 2024 Isaiah Evans started to join the part, showing just how tough of a matchup he can be with his length and scoring ability. Add him, along with 2026 Ashton Pierce and company, North Meck expanded its lead to 38-26.
Second half, North Meck was continuing to be able to use a balanced attack with their guard play and play style, never giving up their double-digit lead and eventually expanding it to 19 points by the end of the third quarter. With the game looking to be in hand, Trey Maxwell and company continued to knock down shots to help secure the home victory against Hopewell, earning a 78-56 victory.
Final: North Meck 78 ' Hopewell 56
Stats:
North Meck: Trey Maxwell 18pts, Isaiah Evans 15pts, Christian Foy 16pts, Ashton Pierce 17pts
Hopewell: Quay Watson 20pts, Kamari Cooke 10pts
Standouts:
2023 Christian Foy (North Meck): Foy came out strong and played well throughout the game, as the 6'6 forward brings versatility, can stretch the court, use his body to operate on the boards, and has a nice skillset for his position. He led the way early for his team to get off to a strong start.
2024 Isaiah Evans (North Meck): Evans is such an intriguing prospect; with his frame and length, he can get whatever shot he wants as he has the ability to score right over defenders and hit tough shots as well as show touch around the basket.' He plays with a ton of confidence and does so with ease at times. AN absolute matchup nightmare on the court.
2024 Quay Watson (Hopewell): Watson is an underrated guard in the class of 2024, but I do believe that schools can use some like him, especially with his scoring capability. Watson is shifty, creates his own shot, and has terrific range and confidence from three as well. Natural scorer that can fill it up.
Note: Was also impressed with the confidence and shot-making from 2024 Trey Maxwell, as you can see that he has improved his overall feel for the game and is showing how strong of a weapon he can be offensively. Also, 2026 Ashton Pierce is big time; love his feel and playmaking ability, his ability to be effective from multiple levels, and looks smooth in operating on the court. Going to be a big name in 2026.