KASA defends its casa

Ron Bailey, Publisher

New 1A school beats well established foe.

February 17, 2012 - Going into its last regular season game of the year, KASA, a Baltimore public school recently admitted to the state’s 1A classification was in search of a win, one that could provide momentum not only for the upcoming playoffs but next year as well – the team has no seniors in its heavy rotation. The Eagles did that, beating Southwestern 65-48 on Friday evening.

Maybe it was the multiple defenses employed that drove Kembrough Kelly’s team to so forcibly defend its Southwest Baltimore home gym: they employed 3-2 and 2-3 zones (where trapping was used), as well as a man to man (including some scramble) and even a box and one.

Tyreke Holmes slashes to the cup.

Maybe it was the curious decision by Southwestern’s coaching staff not to allow their charges an opportunity to warm up – explained later as a disciplinary decision - that explained that team's lackluster performance.

Whatever the culprit, KASA took control early, never looking back, leading by over 20 for much of the second half.

Junior guard Javon Bishop led KASA in scoring along with sophomore guard Jared Barnes; both finished with 13 points. Junior Deandre McCormick accounted for nine points, while freshman Tyreke Holmes dropped six points.

Juwan Harrell, a senior guard for Southwestern lead all scorers with 20 points.

Both schools await their playoff seeding.

Recruiting Roundup:

Tyreke Holmes – A slashing, 6’0” KASA freshman, Holmes can also hit spot ups from distance. Must continue to improve his handle, which now limits the ability to create a shot under duress and pat in traffic.

Has no recruiting looks.

Malik Thomas – When your brother is a pro player (DaJuan Summers),there is pressure on a kid to play well, and Thomas feels it. At 6'6" and weighing 235 pounds, Thomas has a physical presence that allows him to rebound and defend, as well as score around the tin. During one sequence, Thomas turned the ball over, yet raced down court and disrupted a Southwestern fast break.

He just has to realize those advantages, consistently; Thomas can't float like he does at times. This summer, footwork should be focused upon, as well as just playing, whether that be open gyms, outside, or under the whistle, particularly against older, bigger players, as Thomas is inexperienced.

Has no recruiting looks.

Juwan Harrell – Standing 5’7” and weighing 160 pounds or so, Harrell is an offensive minded backcourt guy, seemingly more comfortable in the scoring than setup role. When he gets hot, can put up numbers.

Has no recruiting looks.