The third game of Phenom Hoops' MLK Showcase took place between two of the top teams throughout North Carolina in Victory Christian and Liberty Heights. Although the Kings opened the game on a 9-2 run, Liberty Heights quickly regained their footing, made a 9-2 run of their own, and tied things up at 11-11 to end the first quarter. In the second quarter, Liberty Heights continued to extend their lead and went into halftime with a 27-21 advantage. Following the break, Liberty Heights rattled off a strong 16-4 run and did an excellent job defensively of containing the Kings. Victory Christian trailed throughout the third quarter but gradually started mounting their comeback in the final period of play. However, Liberty Heights regrouped and put themselves in a winning position going into crunch time. All in all, Liberty Heights secured a 60-51 win over Victory Christian.'
Liberty Heights:
6'9 '21 Isaac Farah
Arguably the best player on the floor for majority of this contest, Farah continues to showcase the makings of a very useful Division I prospect. While his recruitment doesn't match his ability, college coaches will eventually become wise to the appeal of a mobile, fluid 6-foot-9 power forward with athleticism, rebounding instincts, and floor-spacing instincts. He blocks shots, runs the floor, and fills in the gaps as needed on either side of the ball. Expect Farah's recruitment to rise over these next few months.
6'4 '21 Jeremy Baker
After being one of the only returning players from last year's squad, Baker's value has only seemed to increase from being a veteran leader. He's a smart, strong, versatile two-way guard/wing prospect with toughness and the ability to actively toggle between various roles. Baker can handle the ball and create for himself and others or find opportunities as an off-ball cutter. He's a nice rebounder for his position and simply knows how to fill in the gaps on both ends of the floor. Baker should be a useful addition at the next level.
Victory Christian:
6'2 '21 Demar Anderson
In many ways, Anderson was the main leader for Victory Christian throughout this contest. He's a strong, physical scoring guard prospect with the ability to set up the offense or assert himself as a scorer from all three levels. Anderson moved effectively without the ball, defended his assignment well, and did a great job of finding production throughout this contest.
5'11 '21 Caleb Coleman
Although he might not as much attention as most, Coleman certainly has what it takes to advance and succeed at the next level. There's nothing flashy, only effective and purposeful play on both ends of the floor. Coleman does everything at a solid level while operating within his role and rarely forcing the action. He is capable of setting up others, knocking down shots, creating off the bounce, and defending his assignment. Coleman should have opportunities going forward.