Maurice Dixon
@WriturRece | mobasketball27@gmail.com
…FOR THE FIRST TIME BUT WHO HAS ALREADY BEEN IMPRESSING YOU.
I remember seeing Greater Atlanta Christian senior center Eddie Page (21) play against Sandy Creek in December of 2020 but not like he did against the same opponent on January 25. The Patriots had players just as tall or nearly as tall as the 6-9 Page but there was no denying Page three offensive rebounds which he turned into three strong two-handed flushes along with three more offensive boards for three layups on his way to 16 points, 14 rebounds and two blocks.
Then late in game when fatigue can start to set in, Page still couldn’t be boxed out, and even when he was, his ability to jump straight up and possess the ball without drawing an over-the-back violation was put on display. During a timeout late in the fourth quarter, Sandy Creek coach Jon-Michael Nickerson was on the court demonstrating to his big men to box out Page like a lineman blocks a defensive end in football since the traditional method was not working against the relentless Page.
Sandy Creek junior guard Vic Newsom’s shot was so on point against Greater Atlanta Christian it had me wondering does he ever miss? Of course every player misses shots but Newsom (1) rarely misfired on his way to a game-high 24 points, including five 3-pointers. Newsom showcased his ability to shoot off the catch, off the dribble and from deep with precision. I was surprised when he missed an acrobatic layup that would’ve been worthy of a replay.
Unless he’s just having an off night, Newsom is definitely one of those shooters opponents regret leaving open or giving space because everyone realizes his shot has a high chance of going in.