Another day, another game we checked in for, as Friday night, we got an early glimpse in the center of the state at Green Hope, as Riverside-Durham came into town. Two teams that many not get the most attention, brought us a very competitive game throughout. Green Hope was able to strike first in the first quarter, leading 15-12 led by their senior prospects Broderick Ellis and Bryan Erazo. They were able to maintain that lead into halftime but Riverside-Durham was right there, down 26-22. Junior Keyon Webb continued to play really well in the first and into the second half, being the main offensive threat for Riverside, as the Pirates stayed within striking distance all throughout the second half but were never able to get over the hump. Leading by one at the end of the third quarter, Green Hope was able to string enough offense to create a little distance late and helped secure the 59-46 win but the game was much closer throughout.
Stats:
Green Hope:
Broderick Ellis 22 points
Reese Evans 13 points
Bryan Erazo 8 points
Riverside-Durham:
Keyon Webb 25 points
Jared Merchant 8 points
Idris Bowling 6 points
Standouts:
2021 Broderick Ellis (Green Hope): Ellis was terrific in this game, leading the charge offensively and giving us a glimpse of how versatile he can be on offense, especially with someone that is 6'8. He showed that he can operate on multiple levels, squaring up for his mid-range shot as well as stepping out from three at times. What makes him so tough though is his length, rising over defenders inside and out, but also being disruptive on defense, rebounds well, and has a good motor on the floor.
2021 Reese Evans (Green Hope): Evans started out slow but started to find more success in the second half, scoring 11 of his 13 points in the second half, which ultimately helped create some space between the two teams. He operated and scored well with his 6'4 frame inside the arc and from the line.
2022 Keyon Webb (Riverside-Durham): Webb was the offensive weapon for Riverside, scoring 25 of the team's 46 points. He was aggressive on both ends, creating well off the dribble, getting to the line, but also stepping out with his smooth jumper. Webb was able to show that he can get to the rim and finish in traffic
