McMinn Central vs Gatlinburg-Pittman: Game Recap (12/8)
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In a rematch of the 1st round of last year’s AA state tournament, McMinn Central traveled to GP. In a fantastic back and forth game. McMcinn Central pulled it out 59-54, but had to climb out of a 5 point…
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Continue ReadingIn a rematch of the 1st round of last year’s AA state tournament, McMinn Central traveled to GP. In a fantastic back and forth game. McMcinn Central pulled it out 59-54, but had to climb out of a 5 point hole with 4:00 minutes left. Lots of college players on both sides of the floor here.
Bystry only had 12 points (down from her usual 19), but she still managed to do what she always does–win. Down, 1 point with 1:00 left, Bystry pulled down an offensive board, put it in for a 1 point lead. Then up 3 with :30 seconds left, Bystry pulled another offensive rebound, put it in, and gave Central a 5 point lead to seal the win. Bystry is absolutely of the best scoring ’25s in the state, she’s one of the best rebounding guards and winners, regardless of class.
Having Bystry and Masingale together as a scoring duo is what makes Central the favorites to win the state crown. On a night that Bystry couldn’t get rolling, Masingale still scored 23 (above her season average of 22.5), and managed to carry the scoring load when Central needed big buckets.
Mayfield finished with 10 big points, and Central needed every one of them. Mayfield is perhaps Central’s most important defender in their press, and defensively Mayfield was everywhere on both ends of the ball tonight. I still say Mayfield could be a college basketball player if she wanted–but she’s busy winning state championships in track.
Highlights
Malea Masingale Malea Masingale 5'10" | SF McMinn Central | 2027 TN
Malea Masingale Malea Masingale 5'10" | SF McMinn Central | 2027 TN
Masingale provided some valuable minutes and 5 clutch points. The freshman, and Molly’s sister, will continue to be an offensive X factor all season long.
Newman did everything in her power to help lead GP to victory, leading her team (and all scorers with 25). Newman was really impressive, and showed off her diverse skill set, as she carried the GP offense which struggled to score. Newman is one of the most efficient scorers in the state, and due to Central’s lack of size, just not a good matchup for them.
Stinnett’s name sometimes get lost in the mix…..but people forget how good she is. She was 3rd amongst all scorers with 16, and without Flores, KC needed her big time.