A mainstay on the summer circuit, The Tennessee Tigers have been playing in the Best in State event when it was just a noble concept.
The 16 and under Tigers unfortunately were limited to only two game at this years events due to another squad having to leave early.
The Tigers made some noise and turned some heads in those two games.
Grant Hurst (Cleveland) took over the reigns at the point as the Tigers came together early defeating Team WHBH 75-67. Hurst, a Class of 2021 member, was outstanding from the perimeter, off the dribble and finding thankful teammates. He finished with a team high 17 points in the win.
Floyd Williams (Fayetteville) had an outstanding event dropping 14 in this victory followed by Kavon Blankenship (Station Camp) and D.J. Stacy (Dickson County) with 12.
Williams was straight beast in the second game with 20 markers but the Tigers would come up just short against a solid EAB 2020 squad 77-62. Stacy added 14 in the loss.
The Tigers finished 1-1 with Williams finishing among the top scorers in this age division at 17.0 points per game. Stacy would finish at 13.0 and Hurst at 12.5 for the young Tigers.
The aforementioned Hurst is a fun kid to watch. He has a passion for the game, his IQ is above average especially for his age and he can knock down shots when disrespected offensively. He does have a tendency to play just a bit fast and finds himself in bad situations with the ball. His maturity level will dilute those decisions as he grows as a player.
Williams showed he could score on a high level against good competition. He scored in a variety of ways and always seems to be around the ball. He has good athleticism and can finish around the rim. He is excellent on the glass and works hard for second chances. His game is more inside but his size will force him to work o his perimeter skills, shooting and ball handling.
Stacy joined the Tigers at this event and played with a bit of a chip on his shoulder. The diminutive guard scored well and gave serious effort on the defensive side of the ball. He seemed to have something to prove and he stood out as one of the top scorers in the age bracket. Id like to see more point guard in his game as his size will necessitate such a move. His decision making and getting his teammates more involved will the next step in his maturation as a leader.
Blankenship was an explosive kid who was at his best filling lanes and finishing on the break. He was active on the glass using his length and athletic skills to get second chance buckets and rebounds. He is a capable defender with his length, while his shooting was adequate this could be where he pulls away from the pack with more reps and gym work.
