George Rodgers Clark High, Winchester, KY
This event showcased players vying for this year’s Kentucky Mr. Basketball title. Some made statements, while others took a step back.
Game 1: Louisville Trinity 63 vs. Henry Clay 46
Trinity’s defense stifled Henry Clay’s offense. They held Henry Clay’s senior star, Mr. Basketball hopeful, and Air Force commit Jackson Stephan to 11 points and 9 rebounds. Trinity’s balance attack saw three players in double digits, led by junior 6’3 guard Garrison Gilvin with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Junior Reese Sandifer and sophomore Jaidan Bartlett contributed 15 and 13 points, respectively.
Game 2: Madison Central 87 vs. Green County 57
Green County was outmatched in the first quarter. Coach Feldhaus, a Hall of Fame coach, didn’t need much coaching. Green County’s defense was ineffective, allowing Mr. Basketball favorite senior and Belmont commit Jake Feldhaus to score an easy 17 points and 13 rebounds. He let his teammates carry the bulk of the scoring, with junior Grayson Burton scoring 24 points and senior Luke Asher scoring 21 points. Green County’s senior star guard Eric James Jr. scored an ineffective 15 points.
Game 3: Bryan Station 75 vs. Jeffersontown 66
Bryan Station’s dynamic duo, Amari Owens and Tashawn Adams, led the charge. Owens a Mr. Basketball favorite and EKU commit scored 33 points, capitalizing on his aggressive play style and ability to draw fouls. Adams, a highly efficient scorer, made 34 points look effortless. Despite J-Town’s struggles with contributing players, they remained competitive. Damere Clark scored 21 points, while Dayvonne Harrison added 23 points, though his shooting was inconsistent.
Game 4: Daviess County 64 vs. George Rogers Clark 52
The highly anticipated game failed to deliver. After a brief lead, GRC quickly took control and dominated the rest of the game. Daviess County’s senior big DeAaron Watkins played exceptionally well, scoring 18 points and grabbing 23 rebounds in the post. Jonathan Moss, a favorite for Mr. Basketball, also contributed 19 points and numerous assists. This game raised questions about many of GRC’s deficiencies, despite their status as a state favorite. Junior Montez Gay scored 23 points, but was ineffective.