Brebeuf Jesuit sophomore guard PJ Thompson has had better nights shooting the ball, but he showed composure, toughness and leadership last Saturday night during the Marion County basketball championship game where he led the Braves to a 45-31 victory over Lawrence North.
I remember watching PJ play basketball as a 6th and 7th grader and walking away admiring how well he played the game and his high basketball IQ. He showed that same IQ during the championship game. He had only two points in the first three quarters and missed some shots that he normally makes, but he kept his composure and showed leadership as he led his team to a big upset with nine points in the fourth quarter.
Schools like Xavier, IU, Purdue, Notre Dame and Virginia Tech are starting to knock on the door.
Must see games
Dec. 16
Northwest at Broad Ripple
The Rockets are expected to compete for a state championship in 2A and currently have a 3-1 record while the Space Pioneers are currently 2-1 and rebuilding after losing four starters from last year’s team. Broad Ripple is led by IU recruit Ron Patterson and small forward Mo Cross. Northwest is led by Lamar recruit Donnell Minton and freshman guard Harris Brown.
Dec. 17
Hamilton Southeastern at North Central
This game will showcase two of the top candidates for Mr. Basketball in North Central guard and Purdue recruit Ronnie Johnson and Hamilton Southeastern forward and Michigan State recruit Gary Harris. The Royals are 4-0 and will be facing their first real test of the season against North Central. The Panthers are coming off a tough weekend after playing back-to-back games. Tickets for this game will be hard to get so arrive on time.
Dec. 21
Hamilton Southeastern at Lawrence Central
The Gary Harris show will be on the road again against another Mr. Basketball contender and IU recruit Jeremy Hollowell. Both Hollowell and Harris have their eyes set on the state championship medal.
Dec. 23
Michael Clarke Duncan Christmas Tournament at John Marshall
Broad Ripple vs. Louisville Central, 8 p.m.
Arsenal Tech vs. Fort Wayne Northrop, 3:30 p.m.
Northwest vs. Evansville Bosse, 1:45 p.m.
Fort Wayne Leurs vs. Richmond, 5 p.m.
