Two of the top teams in California matched up on Friday night, as Sierra Canyon certainly brought a ton of talent to the court even without Bronny James not on the floor while Notre Dame gave us another view of our guy Caleb Foster.
Both teams came out strong, with Notre Dame finding early success from behind the arc with multiple threes in the first quarter. It is what helped them to gain a 20-15 edge after the first quarter, with Foster having two of those threes, while Dusty Stromer let it fly as well. Stromer continued to knock down shots in the second quarter, as Notre Dame was able to build an early double-digit lead but Sierra Canyon was able to find success late to cut the lead before halftime, with Notre Dame leading 31-29.
Start of the third quarter, Notre Dame came out strong again led by Stromer once again, as he was lighting it up again. Notre Dame was able to build its lead back up to double digits late and hold a 54-45 lead at the end of three. Notre Dame was able to maintain its lead for much of the fourth quarter, eventually leading by eight with a few minutes remaining. But credit to Sierra Canyon, as they did not give in and started to cut into the lead late. Eventually getting it down to just two points with 39 seconds to go. But 2026 Zachary White came up with a big bucket late to ultimately seal the win for Notre Dame.
Final: Notre Dame 66 – Sierra Canyon 62
ND: Dusty Stromer 22pts/ Dante Ogbu 16pts/ Mercy Miller 13pts/ Caleb Foster 11pts
SC: Noah Williams 16pts/ Dylan Metoyer 10pts/ Jimmy Oladokun 10pts
Thoughts/Takeaways:
2023 Caleb Foster (Notre Dame): It was great to see our guy on the court out in California. Foster has been on the Phenom Hoops platform for some time now, and getting a chance to watch the NC native was fun. Watching him again, Foster looks to have a bright future when he heads to Duke. Why' It is because of his overall impact on the court; his size, his feel and IQ, his pace and vision, and his true understanding of how to get everyone involved are impressive as a point guard. But he also looks stronger and bigger, and he can fill it up when he needs to.
2023 Dusty Stromer (Notre Dame): Stromer was fun to watch for sure, as the 6'6 prospect who is committed to Gonzaga really showed his ability and confidence in hitting shots. Can see why he is one of the top shooters in the class, as he was lighting it up from behind the arc with ease and in rhythm, but also knocked down shots from other levels as well. Has such a free feel and the green light with his ability to knock down shots; Zags got a good one coming their way.
2024 Isaiah Elohim (Sierra Canyon): Each time we have watched Sierra Canyon this year, Elohim has been the name that has popped off the charts. He did have to battle injuries today, but when on the floor, you can see how effective he can be as a scorer. Strong, sturdy, physical prospect that can create and get downhill, but also showed his ability to knock down shots off the dribble as well.
2023 Jimmy Oladokun (Sierra Canyon): Watching the big man who is committed to San Diego, I continue to love what he brings to the court for his team. He is a long forward that moves well on both sides, brings tremendous length, is a rim protector, and plays hard on the boards. But he also brings a nice presence offensively, stays active, finishes around the basket, and again showcases his motor.
2024 Noah Williams (Sierra Canyon) played extremely well, stepping up for his team. Great size, fluid, skilled, and can be effective with a versatile skill set. 2026 Zachary White (Notre Dame) stepped up big as a freshman, including the game-sealing bucket. One to watch.
