Seattle Prep vs. O'Dea

A great way to kick off the high school basketball season is a Seattle Prep - O'Dea game. These are a couple of talented teams that put on a good show, with Seattle Prep getting the win. Lots of athletes on the court for this one, these two teams showed they will be very competitive this season. Seattle Prep took the early lead and held it through most of the game. Home court certainly helped but team defense was the key, they play pressure man to man and they have the athletes to do it. Both teams were deep with talent and could go to there bench when needed, it was a very evenly matched game. In the second half O'Dea went on a run and tied the game at 41 late in the 3rd quarter (maybe early in the fourth). Prep responded with some big put backs off of offensive rebounds, another key to there victory.

After watching this game and two NWAACC tournaments, I really think the NWAACC is down this year as far as talent, they have always been at a disadvantage to the bigger JUCO's that offer scholarships and housing but I think this year is particularly weak. I haven't seen all the teams yet but for now that's how I see it.



Here are some player observations:



Seattle Prep

#25 - Patrick Nyeko -6-6 SR Most potential on the court but wasn't the best player tonight. Struggled a bit offensively, particularly with putting the ball in the hole. He really attacked the basket well but didn't finished strong, he did find his way to the foul line which I liked. This kid is a big wing, and yes he can play on the perimeter. I did not see him shoot but for a 6-6 guy he can really put the ball on the floor and get to the basket - quickly and with both hands! If he has a jump shot he will be a very good college player. Reminds me of Linton Johnson who was at Tulane when I was a manager there, Linton actually didn't start most of his senior year but because of his 6-8 athletic frame and his work ethic ended up in the NBA. I don't think Nyeko is quite that good but he should be a good college player if he works hard. My favorite thing about him was his perimeter defense, he got his long arms in the passing lanes and did not let his man get the ball, lots of deflections and at least one steal. He should be low to mid DI.



#3 - Jon Humphrie -6-1 SR Most aggressive player for Seattle Prep, really wanted to score. Fairly quick and ok leaping ability, not a high-flyer. Strong with the ball and can handle it well. Did not finish well at the basket, forced some shots. JC/DII/DIII



#24 - Sam Howell -6-2 SR Really liked this kid, reminds me Jordan Hayter, a 6-3 guard we had my first year in Alaska who was the Oregon 3A player of the year his senior year. Sam is a smart tough player. Could be stronger but makes up for lack of size with hustle. He dived on the floor for at least two balls and took charges. Can shoot 3's, quick release. Can dribble and pass well. Sets screens and uses them. Plays hard D, good away from the ball. DII

#21 - Mitch Brewe -6-4 FR Could have commented on more players but wanted to at least mention this kid. Didn't look like a freshmen, scored inside and grabbed rebounds. Has a lot of growing to do, feet will get better with time. Should be a good player in years to come.



O'Dea

#20 - Sean Jones -6-5 SR Was the best player in this game, really played well in the second half. Big athletic wing, another big perimeter guard. Finished inside and had a nice short to mid-range jumper. Made a great spin move on the low block for a reverse layup on Nyeko. He did make a key mistake when he went up for a two handed dunk of both feet in the 4th quarter and launched it off the back rim. That dunk might have kept them in the game, instead it gave Jon Humphrie an easy layup on the other end. Either way this kid was good. He is very quick, very athletic, and can handle the ball and shoot (only 3 he took was out of the corner with a hand in his face and nothing but net). Low DI

#24 - Jordan Suther -6-2 SR (JR?) Solid wing, big arms and shoulders. Knows how to sneak into gaps and get open on the weak side for 3's. Not a really quick release but deadly when open. Had a quiet 16pts. Not really quick put played under control and played within his role. JC/DII/DIII

#23 - Dominic Ballard -6-3 JR Has potential, great physical body but may not get bigger. Lefty but can go right or left. Ok shot but needs work, forced some plays, tried to dribble through too many people. Very strong with the ball, good ball handler. Could be a good sized pg in college if he works on his creating. Plenty of athleticism. Low DI.