The season is here and that just means that Phenom Hoops is tuning in and getting out to watch games all throughout the country, as we start off the season with what was a very intriguing matchup between two schools that have produced some terrific talent.
Fork Union PG traveled to Miller School, as both teams brought in some intriguing talent. Starting off the game, FUMA came out strong to take an early lead over Miller led by their outside shooting from Carmel Pacheco and with Don Douglas being active in the paint. But Miller School started to find some rhythm as 2024 Edward Harrison stepped up early off the bench and 2024 Eli Delaurier got going. It was a back-and-forth battle in the second quarter, as FUMA hit a deep three late to give them a 33-32 halftime lead.
Second half though, Miller School started to flex their muscle behind 2023 Austin Ball and Delaurier stepping up even more. They also were able to get after it defensively and make it tough for FUMA in the second half, as Miller School outscored FUMA 35-23, most of that separation coming in the fourth quarter.
In the end, Miller School took home the 67-56 victory, leading by double-digits most of the fourth quarter.
Final Stats:
Miller School: Eli Delaurier 23 points/ Austin Ball 13/ Jaylen Dyer 9/ Will Bonde 9
FUMA: Carmelo Pacheco 14 points/ Don Douglas 11/ Rece D'Alessandro 7/ Russell Branch 7
Miller School:
2024 6'9 Eli Delaurier: Delaurier was quite impressive in this game, as he only continues to get better and develop more of his game. The developing forward showed that he understands how to use his length, attack and be active on the boards, and his ability to be effective around the basket but also stretch the floor with his outside shooting. He brings versatility to the floor, plays with tremendous energy and runs the floor, and can make his presence felt on both ends. He just continues to get better and better each time.
2023 6'6 Austin Ball: The George Mason commit started out slow but came on in the second half. What you have to love about his game is his continued confidence in his shot-making ability. He moves well without the ball, gets to his spots well, and has a quick release with his game but also can finish at the rim.
FUMA:
2023 Carmelo Pacheco: Pacheco is a new name that caught our eye. A 6'4, sturdy guard really showcased how impactful he can be with his shot-making ability from the perimeter. Pacheco has really carved out a name for himself with his three-point shot-making ability, as he gets to his spots and has a confident stroke with range. Has shown it on countless occasions in the past as well.
2023 Don Douglas: I liked what I saw from the 6'10 big man. He was active on the boards, created multiple second-chance opportunities, showed nice touch, and battled in the paint on both ends. He really captured our attention with his presence on the boards but also had glimpses of stepping out for his mid-range shot as well.
