Marcus Stroman: True Point Guard, True Leader

In the last post, I shared my opinion about Keenan High School's back court.  This one is all about the point guard of that pair, Marcus Stroman.  I can't say enough about how impressed I am with Stroman as a leader.  He does whatever it takes to win.  And in Saturday's scrimmage he showed that his ability to produce a win for his team includes the ability to score in bunches.  Augusta's basketball community, out in full force to see its defending state champion Laney Wildcats face Stroman's Raiders, was treated to an impressive display in the second half as Stroman led his team back from a 14 point deficit to win interstate bragging rights.

The run that the future South Carolina Gamecock leader ignited began with a crowd pleasing dunk in the second half.  After that moment, Stroman could seemingly do no wrong.  See for yourself in the highlights above!

PS - to my hometown friends: I am as big of a Laney fan as anyone who didn't attend the school can be.  And the highlights of that impressive team's impressive performance in Saturday's scrimmage are coming soon!

Lakeside Middle Defeats Columbia Middle

Lakeside's versatility prevailed against Grovetown's perimeter attack in the second game in as many days for the Columbia County middle school teams.  After trailing early, Lakeside's consistent attacking of the basket wore the Patriots down.  The Panthers established a lead late in the second quarter and never relinquished it, winning 35-30 and improving to 2-0.  Grovetown falls to 1-1.

Lakeside's Artest Banks consistently attacked the basket throughout the game, and the 7th grader seemed to constantly be shooting free throws.  Banks scored 6 of the Panthers first 10 points and kept Lakeside within striking distance early.  Banks finished with 12 points after scoring 9 in Thursday's win over Harlem.

Jump Ball at Lakeside Middle School

But Kre'sean Hall's versatility broke the game open Friday.  Hall led the Panthers, scoring 13 points for the second consecutive game.  After doing most of his damage from three point land Thursday, Hall attacked the basket off the dribble and handled Grovetown's full court man to man pressure with ease Friday.

While Grovetown seemed content to shoot mostly three pointers against Lakeside's 2-3 zone, Lakeside used Grovetown's full court man to man defense to get Hall and Banks the ball in a position to attack, getting easy baskets and free throw opportunities. 

Jelani Shakir scored 12 points to lead Grovetown. Lakeside visits Columbia Middle School Tuesday, while Grovetown will host Greenbrier.