By Thomas Grant, Jr.
When it comes to scheduling games, Cardinal Newman boys basketball coach Phillip Deter is willing to play “anybody, anywhere, anytime.”
The latest opponent to accept the Cardinals’ challenge was Class 4A school South Florence. George Glymph Arena on the campus of Eau Claire High School was the site of the matchup in the MLK Bash.
Playing before an audience that included Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney and basketball coaches from the University of South Carolina, South Carolina State, Francis Marion and Newberry, Cardinal Newman fell 76-48.
“It’s supposed to help us get better,” he said. “It’s supposed to give you a chance to get some exposure playing in front of different people, play against different talent. You know, events like this attract college coaches, which is always a good thing. But you’ve got to show to play. We got some work to do.”
The Bruins (9-9, 2-1) jumped out to a 23-13 lead at the end of the first quarter. Player of the Game Jamarie Brown led the charge en route to a game-high 23 points and Ziyon Gamble added 12 as both players made four, 3-pointers.
Forward Amare Adams, who’s verbally committed to Clemson finished with six points in front of his future coaches.
Cardinal Newman’s defense held the Bruins to five points in the second quarter to cut the deficit to 28-22. South Florence caught fire in the second half, making eight 3-pointers to extend its lead as many as 28 points.
Josiah Peeples tried to keep Cardinal Newman competitive. He finished with a team-high 16 points, but the Cardinals shot 10-24 in the second half.
“South Florence is a good team,” Deter said. “Well-coached. So, we got to see him close and personal. Their guards can shoot the ball and can play at a high level. They got size and, at the end of the day, coach Harris does a great job.”
Cardinal Newman (9-13, 1-1) hopes to learn from Monday’s loss when it returns to action Tuesday at Augusta Christian in Region 1-4A play.
