The Vikings didn't take long to impose their will on 21st, as they got out to an early 10-4 lead and didn't look back. Junior forward Mason Jones, led a balanced attack for the Vikings that had 8 guys get in the books. 21st stuggled with Valpo's defense, and rarely went to senior big man Eric Price (6'10) in the post. When they did, he scored it. This was a good test for both squads, but it didn't really live up to the hype coming in as you never really felt like Valparaiso was going to lose control.  Western Michigan, Valparaiso, and PFW were all in for this one.

  • Mason Jones was the one to watch in this one, and he didn't disappoint. Although he did sit quite a bit in the middle frames with foul trouble, he was the man when on the floor as his entire repertoire was on full display. Can do it all. Showed his outside shooting, floor running, ball handling, finishing, and D and rebounding. Really was able to do whatever he wanted in this one. Has really improved his game over the last two seasons. Gotten stronger as well. Can see why D1s were in to watch.
  • Fellow junior DJ Moss is who was solid for 21st. The 6'5 wing had 5 blocks to go with his 16 points, which was a fairly quiet 16. He is strong and can shoot it from outside. Finished in the paint a few times and on the break. Is a player to keep an eye on going forward, as his size and shooting are his assets.
  • Sticking with 21st, junior guard Ashton Williamson was at one point seen by some as the top player in the 2022 class. He is long, athletic, energetic, and bouncy. He's at his best when he can get downhill and the paint isn't packed. Valpo prevented both of these things 95% of the time as Ashton was only able to get to the rim in transition a few times, and in the half court just a couple, as the D would collapse on him. He did do a nice job of finding the open teammate when this happened and didn't force shots. Hit a couple from outside but also missed a few. In the right system at the next level he can be a high level player who can fill stat sheets.
  • Quintin Floyd is another sophomore from this game that has been on radars. The 6'4 wing is long and can get to the rim. Didn't stand out too much in this one like he is capable of. Valpo D took him out of the game and seemed to get him frustrated. Tons of upside, but just couldn't get it going. Thrives in transition and finishing at the basket. Capable rebounder.
  • Senior big man for 21st, Eric Price, after receiving an NAIA offer and standing out last weekend in Brownsburg, was used sparingly in this one. Didn't get a post touch until the 2nd quarter. When he finally did, he was able to find great position and finish. Good hands and feet. Both of which you love to see from a big of his size. Upside is there for sure and I can see him at the NAIA level, if not, D3 for sure.
  • Senior Valpo guard Blaine Dalton (6'1) was so solid in this one. Reliable with the ball. Tough on D. Shooter who can also finish at the rim. Showed great emotion and got his team hyped up. Be a great glue guy for a D3 who could make a difference.
  • Valpo freshman guard Jack Smiley was tough as nails. Didn't waiver under the pressure or spotlight. Showed out in the second quarter after Jones went to the bench in foul trouble. Love his motor and he is heady. Kept himself under control and didn't put himself in positions to fail. Solid passer and shooter. Will be the next player people talk about at Valpo, and will help this team moving forward this season and next.
  • Valpo senior Breece Walls is Mr. Dependable. Solid lead guard that I have discussed a number of times in the past. Have been told he will attend IU in the fall as a student.

NEXT UP:

VALPARAISO vs. Elkhart - Saturday, 12/18

GARY 21ST @ Webster Grove, MO vs. TBD - Saturday, 12/18

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