Game 2 on the day brought two powerhouses in Combine Academy and Word of God went at it in what was a HEATED showdown. Both teams came out with energy and looking to make shots; Word of God was led once again early on by '23 Isaiah Coleman while '23 Trentyn Flowers came out strong after his commitment to lead the way. Word of God was able to gain the narrow edge in the first quarter 19-15, but Combine Academy started to find more of their offense and get to the line often. '24 Rakease Passmore and others started to get it going, while Word of God struggled a bit to find easy shots. It is what helped Combine turn a deficit into a five-point lead at halftime, 32-27.
In the second half, Combine continued to play with a lot of energy, as shots started to fall early in the third quarter and their defense made it tough on Word of God. It is what helped them earn the first double-digit lead in the game but Mayar Wol hit some big shots from three to cut into the lead and make this a game going into the fourth.
This one looked to come down to the wire, and it certainly did remain chippy throughout the second half. Though Combine Academy was able to regain its double-digit lead, Word of God never went away. But in the end, Combine was able to create enough space to take home the victory and advance to the championship game.
Final: Combine Academy 75 – Word of God 63
Stats:
Combine: Trentyn Flowers 25, Rakease Passmore 20, Collin Tanner 10
Word: Mayar Wol 19, Isaiah Coleman 16, Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn 16
Standouts:
2023 Trentyn Flowers (Combine): Fresh off committing to Louisville, Flowers played at a high level and led the charge for his team. It seemed like he had an extra gear in his step today, playing in front of his future coaches. Flowers scored all over the court, showcasing his fluid release, his shot-making from all levels, and his assertiveness in finishing at the rim. Loved his energy and motor today.
2023 Isaiah Coleman (Word of God): Coleman has had a very good showing here at the Hoop State Championship, as he has really opened more eyes to his ability to be a creator and an enforcer on the floor. He continues to excel in making plays off the dribble and has the athleticism/touch to finish over defenders. Has been assertive all event long.
2023 Mayar Wol (Word of God): Wol started out slow in this one but came on strong in the second half, displaying his ability to change the game up with his range and shot-making ability at 6'7. Wol shows tremendous range on his shot, and there isn't a shot that he doesn't like. The senior prospect hit big shots in this game to keep his team right there.
204 Rakease Passmore (Combine Academy): Passmore elevated his game in this one, and his team needed him to. Passmore brings such intrigue with his game, and he is way more than just an athlete. He continues to remind everyone of his ability to stretch the court and knock down shots, create and get downhill, and put pressure on the defense.
