It was a battle of the titans that always get the high school basketball season started for Phenom Hoops. Oak Hill and Hargrave battled it out at Rise Indoor Sports Facility, bringing some of the top talents in the country on the court.
In the first half, both teams were starting to feel each other out with Hargrave taking the early lead. They were able to stay aggressive, attacking the rim but also showing their ability to knock down outside shots. But Oak Hill started to settle down behind their leaders Caleb Foster and Judah Mintz. But it stayed a two or three-possession game for much of the first half, with Oak Hill holding the narrow edge 52-49 at halftime.
With the score resetting in the second half, Oak Hill continued to lead most of the half behind the stellar play of Foster. He couldn’t be stopped on the floor, as he was knocking down three’s and dissecting the defense. Hargrave though was able to keep the second half in single digits, staying within striking distance all throughout. At the end though of the second half, Oak Hill won the half 67-56.
Oak Hill: 52 – 67: 119
Hargrave: 49 – 56: 105
Stats:
Oak Hill: Caleb Foster 37 points (9 3-pointers)/ Judah Mintz 27/ Devin Ree 13
Hargrave: Keon Thompson 29 points/ Elijah Hulsewe 20/ Madison Durr 19
Standouts:
Oak Hill:
2022 Judah Mintz: We saw what Oak Hill was like without Mintz last week but with him back on the floor, Mintz gives this team just another big-time weapon. He really showcased his ability to create for himself, breaking down defenders and getting around to attack the basket. Finished several tough baskets and was able to get to the line. Mintz did a great job in being aggressive and attacking the basket.
2023 Caleb Foster: In the class of 2023, there might not be a better point guard in the country than Foster and when watching this game, it is easy to see why. Such a smooth operating point guard, an incredibly fluid shot-maker from outside or with his mid-range game, and just plays under control on the floor. Foster just understands how to control the game in so many ways and has a terrific IQ/feel for the game, especially finding his teammates. I don’t see many other point guards that are better than Foster in the country.
2022 Jeremy Gregory: Gregory continues to produce and play a vital role for this Oak Hill team. The one thing that you have to absolutely love about his game is his relentless pursuit of the basketball and never giving up down low. Gregory just seems to have a knack for the ball and he uses his hands extremely well, whether on the boards, scoring the basketball around the bucket or with his mid-range game, or just creating second-chance opportunities for his team.
Hargrave:
2022 Keon Thompson: Thompson played incredibly well on the floor Wednesday night, giving us a glimpse of a little bit of everything in his arsenal. Whether it was knocking down shots with his jumper, using his speed in transition, embracing contact and finishing strong, and also at a great pace and seeing the floor, waiting for his opportunity. With his physical style of play, he is one tough guard to slow down.
2022 Elijah Hulsewe: Hulsewe is a big man that coaches need to be on more, especially with what he is able to provide as a 7-footer. Not overly athletic, Hulsewe shows a polished feel and touch around the basket. He can score over either shoulder, had such a soft touch around the basket, plays with a great understanding of how to be a big and cover the paint defensively, and is active on the boards. Love his skill level and his defensive presence.