Saturday, December 21, 2024

2024 Gardner Law King of the Bluegrass Semifinals: Tale of the Tape

Tonight, the 2024 Gardner Law King of the Bluegrass Holiday Classic enters its semifinals, showcasing elite matchups between Frederick Douglass and Saint Xavier, and North Oldham and Bryant (AR). Each team has dominated the competition thus far, earning their place in the Final Four.


Frederick Douglass Broncos (5-1)

Team Stats (Per Game):

  • Points Scored: 74.5
  • Points Allowed: 54.5
  • Field Goal %: 47.6%
  • Rebounds: 35% offensive, 71% defensive

The Broncos are riding high, powered by their relentless defense and standout performances from DeMarcus Surratt and Jaunte Jenkins. Surratt is averaging 17.5 points and 7 rebounds per game, while Jenkins leads in steals (3 per game). Their ball movement has been clinical, with 26 assists in the tournament so far, showcasing their ability to create open looks. Expect a strong showing from their bench, which has contributed 41 points in the tournament.


Saint Xavier Tigers (7-0)

Team Stats (Per Game):

  • Points Scored: 68.0
  • Points Allowed: 59.5
  • Field Goal %: 48.1%
  • Rebounds: 39% offensive, 66% defensive

Saint Xavier thrives on balance and grit. Led by Chief Cameron, who averages 18.5 points per game, and Jeremiah Jackson, the team has found success with aggressive rebounding and a solid defensive scheme. Their free-throw shooting (81.5%) has been pivotal in close games, and with 18 steals across two games, their pressure defense could stymie the Broncos’ offensive rhythm.


North Oldham Mustangs (6-2)

Team Stats (Per Game):

  • Points Scored: 69.0
  • Points Allowed: 57.0
  • Field Goal %: 53.9%
  • Rebounds: 36% offensive, 66% defensive

North Oldham enters the semifinals as one of the tournament’s sharpest shooting teams, hitting 24 three-pointers over two games. Brooks Cargould has been a standout, averaging 21 points, 5.5 assists, and 11 rebounds per game. Alongside Tommy Gregg’s hot hand from beyond the arc (4/5 in their last game), the Mustangs are a potent offensive threat. Their high productivity rating (142) speaks to their efficiency in key moments.


Bryant (AR) Hornets (7-4)

Team Stats (Per Game):

  • Points Scored: 72.0
  • Points Allowed: 59.0
  • Field Goal %: 56.4%
  • Rebounds: 40% offensive, 73% defensive

The Hornets have been relentless on both ends of the floor, boasting the second-best field goal percentage in the tournament. RJ Young has been their driving force, averaging a tournament-best 29.5 points per game, while Camarion Bead adds a robust 20.5 points and 12 rebounds. With their aggressive style, Bryant has forced nine steals and six blocks, showing their ability to disrupt opponents’ game plans.


Key Matchups:

Frederick Douglass vs. Saint Xavier
This game pits Saint Xavier’s balanced attack against Frederick Douglass’s lockdown defense. Look for DeMarcus Surratt and Chief Cameron to lead their respective teams in a battle of star power and strategy.

North Oldham vs. Bryant
Bryant’s RJ Young and North Oldham’s Brooks Cargould are two of the tournament’s top performers. North Oldham’s three-point shooting will be crucial to counter Bryant’s dominance in the paint.


The road to the championship continues tonight. Which two teams will punch their ticket to the finals? Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying night of basketball.

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