Ca-STEEL overwhelms Ironwood
Tonight, the #8 ranked Casteel Colts (10-6) traveled to Peoria to face the Ironwood Eagles (4-9). Ironwood, a veteran-led team seeking to gain momentum before region play, would face one of their toughest challenges to date against a young and…
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Continue ReadingTonight, the #8 ranked Casteel Colts (10-6) traveled to Peoria to face the Ironwood Eagles (4-9). Ironwood, a veteran-led team seeking to gain momentum before region play, would face one of their toughest challenges to date against a young and talented Colts squad. In the early stages of the game, both teams battled to establish control and implement their game plans. Ironwood focused on solid half court defense and keeping the ball out of the middle before pushing tempo, while Casteel initially aimed to slow down the game and execute their sets on the offensive end. As the game progressed, Casteel’s offensive discipline and execution began to provide them with a comfortable advantage heading into the third quarter. Starting the fourth quarter, Casteel seeking their chance to pull away for good intensified their full court pressure, ultimately overwhelming Ironwood and securing a decisive victory with a score of 48-21. Looking ahead, Casteel’s next game is a matchup with Sunrise Mountain. Casteel will prepare for a showdown with Williams Field on January 12th.
Standing at 6’0″ with an exceptionally long reach, Ava excels on offense in the 15-foot and in range, where she serves as a very good screener capable of either pick-and-pop for a shot or attacking the basket off the bounce. She demonstrates very good interior passing skills, effectively spotting open teammates along the perimeter and delivering precise passes in high-low situations. I anticipate a significant improvement in her offensive game by the next season, especially in having the ball around the nail area, Ava is poised to keep defenders off balance. They will question whether she will take a shot, execute a shot fake, or drive past them. Ava exhibits a keen court vision and sound decision-making while rim running on offense, and she is a crucial player to box out on the offensive glass. With her impressive size, length, and foot speed, Ava can effectively guard all five positions on the court. Her potential to become a significant force in 5A is evident. Ava is currently averaging 12.1 ppg, 9.5 rpg, and 1.6 bpg.
Highlights
Keeli Duncan
Keeli Duncan
Playing the role of Casteel’s sixth man tonight, Keeli Duncan wasted no time making her presence felt against Ironwood. On the offensive end, Keeli operated most effectively in the middle third of the court, showcasing a nice touch from 15 feet. She is an above-average defender with quick hands, contributing to a number of pass deflections and steals. Keeli also proves to be a very strong rebounder on both ends of the court. As the season progresses, I anticipate Keeli getting a high number of repetitions to further solidify her jump shot. Additionally I see Keeli getting reps to strengthen her power game around the basket, where her strong frame and finishing capabilities can be can become more beneficial. Keeli is currently averaging 7.9 points per game and 7.1 rebounds per game.
Amanda Anderson
Amanda Anderson
Amanda Anderson is the perfect addition to this Casteel team. Standing at 6’0″ and playing a wing/guard position, Amanda brings perhaps the most versatility to Coach Wimbish’s team. Capable of defending multiple positions, Amanda serves as a legitimate floor-stretching perimeter shooter for the Casteel team. Amanda plays with a high basketball IQ, executing smart passes and excelling in the open court. As she returns to the lineup, she will add another weapon for opponents to prepare for when facing Casteel. Amanda is currently averaging 5.1 points per game and 3.1 rebounds per game, these numbers are poised to climb in region play.