The 11th ranked Frederick Douglass Broncos (5-1) delivered a dominant 77-45 victory over the host Fairdale Bulldogs (6-3) in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Gardner Law King of the Bluegrass tournament, advancing to the semifinals for the first time in program history. Behind a stellar performance from Central Bank Player of the Game DeMarcus Surratt, the Broncos became the first Lexington school to advance to the KOB semifinals since Lafayette accomplished the feat in 2000.
Surratt showcased his dominance with a game-high 23 points and nine rebounds, leading a balanced and efficient offensive attack while anchoring the Broncos’ suffocating defense.
Frederick Douglass started strong, using defensive pressure and fast-break opportunities to take control. Surratt scored eight points in the first quarter, including a powerful dunk that ignited a 10-2 run. Jaunte Jenkins added a three-pointer as the Broncos led 16-10 after the first period.
In the second quarter, the Broncos extended their lead with a relentless defensive effort. Surratt and Tate Robinson combined for 18 points in the quarter, with Robinson sinking two three-pointers during a 14-1 run. The Broncos’ dominance on the boards—out-rebounding Fairdale 20-10 in the first half—allowed them to capitalize on second-chance opportunities and build a commanding 40-21 halftime lead.
The Broncos’ control continued into the third quarter, outscoring the Bulldogs 27-10. Surratt added seven points, while Robinson and Jenkins contributed key baskets. Robinson finished with 14 points, including four three-pointers, while Jenkins tallied 11 points and two assists. The Broncos’ defense held Fairdale to 33.3% shooting in the period, forcing turnovers that led to easy points.
Fairdale’s offensive struggles persisted, despite Kamari Roberts’ team-high 13 points and Mihajila Mandic’s 10-point effort. The Bulldogs committed 21 turnovers and managed just four offensive rebounds, limiting their ability to mount a comeback.
The Broncos slowed the pace in the final quarter, allowing reserves to close out the victory. Surratt capped his stellar performance with two free throws, finishing a perfect 5-for-5 from the line. The Broncos’ defense remained stout, limiting Fairdale to just 14 fourth-quarter points.
Surratt’s 23 points on 9-of-17 shooting, along with nine rebounds and two steals, led the way for the Broncos. Robinson’s sharpshooting and Jenkins’ all-around play highlighted the Broncos’ depth and versatility. Frederick Douglass shot 50% from the field and converted 13 Fairdale turnovers into 30 points, showcasing their efficiency on both ends of the court.
For Fairdale, Roberts and Mandic were bright spots, but the Bulldogs’ inability to counter the Broncos’ size and defensive intensity proved decisive.
No comments:
Post a Comment