Melanie Moore

My first highlighted game of the @UANextBHoops National Semifinals was a fierce showdown between @grstormbb 15U and Progery, and this one had everything you could ask for. Progery came out absolutely smokin' hot, raining in three-pointers from what felt like every spot on the floor as seemingly every player who checked into the game joined the barrage. That blistering start helped Progery race out to a 24-15 lead after the opening quarter, but you could already sense the momentum wasn't settled because Storm continued to battle and refused to let the game slip away. Progery carried that hot shooting into the second quarter and built a 43-32 halftime advantage, but the entire feel of the game changed after the half. The Storm started brewing in a big way as shots began falling, the defense tightened up, and crisp ball movement created good looks possession after possession. Momentum completely flipped in the third quarter as Storm surged in front for the first time, closing the period with a commanding 60-51 lead behind relentless defensive pressure and an explosive offensive run. Progery showed resilient heart and refused to go quietly, making one final push in the fourth quarter, but Storm answered every challenge and never gave the lead back, finishing off an impressive 80-70 comeback win. Storm was led by #2 @kellen_paul_, who stuffed the stat sheet with an electric all-around performance of 22 points, 4 threes, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals while making winning plays on both ends of the floor. Teammate #3 @tristinmoore_ made three triples on his way to 17 points and 3 rebounds, providing timely shot-making throughout the comeback. #5 Cortae Towns added 12 points and continued to apply pressure with his aggressive offensive attack. Progery was led by #0 @Jayden.kennedy.29 (IG), who battled until the final buzzer with 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals while doing everything he could to keep his team within striking distance. Teammate #3 @liambazin added 12 points and 5 rebounds, while #2 @CaydenMcCreanor added a strong double-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and a block in the tough loss.