Harvard Westlake 86, Loyola 81
Jerome Green
January 12, 2009
Harvard Westlake survived a game of attrition. The game, while having moments of being as symbolic representation of an apple turnover, also had some very bright moments. It was really a pleasure for me to watch the players really pour their hearts and soul in the game. I know several players, who have played at Hoop Masters at one time or another, so I got to cheer all night.
Harvard Westlake (11-5, 3-0) took a 16-point lead in the second quarter, and looked like they were going to run away with the game. Loyola kept chipping away at the lead and fighting back to bring it within 6. Then Loyola (10-5, 3-1) fought back again in the fourth quarter and Harvard Westlake had to hold on for a 5 point win.
The game showcased an emerging star in Miles Cartwright, 30 points on 16 straight from the line until he missed 2 in a row down the stretch. Austin Kelly had another standout performance for Harvard Westlake with 29 points.
There were also a few emerging players that made the difference for Harvard Westlake-sophomore point guard Nick Firestone and combo guard Chris Barnum. The 5’8” Nick Firestone was hell on wheels. He dribbles low to the ground and uses his football skills to “man-size” his opponent. His leadership in the game, especially the second half, was key to the Harvard Westlake win. It was only after he fouled out, that Loyola was able to make their final run. A makes here or there for Loyola and the final score might have gone in their favor. Harvard Westlake, Junior, Chris Barnum, also had his stock increase by dogging Miles Cartwright all over the court and chipping in with 13 points, 5 steals and 4 rebounds. I have seen very few High School players who move laterally on the court as well as Barnum does.
Carl Hoffman, senior, Loyola, continues to do the blue-collar work under the boards. He ended up with 19 points, and a lot of bumps and bruises.
I was also impressed with the Loyola Freshman point guard Justin Childress. He is a star of the future for the Cubs and provides quality minutes for his team. He had a couple of turnovers tonight, but he also forced the Harvard Westlake players to turn the ball over a half-dozen times.
Damien Cain and Swope do most of the dirty work for Harvard Westlake on the boards.
The rematch on Friday night, January 30 at 7:30 should be a thrill ride.
Leading scorers
Harvard Westlake- Kelly 29, Barnum 13, Swope 11 and Cain 10
Loyola, Cartwright 30, Hoffman 19, Gathers and Oliver 7.