I recently posted an approach trying to win against overwhelming talent. Bishop Fenwick, the longest of long shots faced off against St. Mary's. In two previous matches this season, St. Mary's won 71-45 and 76-39. SM features a pair of D1 commits and three 1,000 point scorers.
Northeastern commit Yirsy Queliz leads the SM band.
Kellyn Pereira, another 1,000 point scorer wins in transition. Stopping transition was a key to possible victory for BF.
The transition game won again for SM with Queliz on the floater.
SM switches the high ball screen and Cecilia Kay finds the mismatch over the top.
BOB concept with attempted baseline overload depending on bottom defender to vacate space.
Rebounding can be an issue for zone defenses. SM capitalizes here with a three for Queliz.
One defensive theme is "no easy baskets" and SM capitalizes on slow conversion with a transition score. SM's athleticism favors them in the speed game. Stopping transition is critical in a game decided by so few possessions.
Fourth quarter, key first possession. SM sets up a horns-like PnR which is defended, but the corner lifts and SM respaces and Niya Morgen (another 1,000 point scorer) scores off the dribble.
The second possession is equally important as Queliz gets a paint touch and ball reversal for a Morgen three after a missed layup at the other end. A five point swing in seconds. This forced BF to play "uphill" valiantly.
Cecilia Kay's variety of finishes allowed her to average 22 points per game this season.
Queliz shows great individual skill finishing around Kay.
Extending range is vital in modern basketball. Kay hit 2 of 5 threes in the title game. This narrowed the lead to one possession late.
SM ices the game here with an offensive rebound and putback with Kay out with a leg cramp.
Enduring lessons:
- Every possession matters in a two possession game.
- Fenwick kept the game close by playing a controlled tempo.
- St. Mary's superior athleticism allowed them to score more easy baskets in transition, despite Fenwick sending only two to the glass.
- St. Mary’s more than held their own on the glass, limiting second chance points.
