Morgan Park simply couldn’t miss from beyond the arc in an impressive 92-48 Red South win over Vocational on Tuesday in what might be a possible playoff preview.
The Mustangs (14-5, 7-2) sank ten three-pointers in the first half. They also played tenacious defense, creating 13 turnovers (24 total), which were all converted into baskets, en route to a 58-11 half time lead.
The Cavaliers (10-7, 3-6) appeared to get over the initial shock of the first half, but the Mustangs did not let up, and the lead ballooned to 70-23 by the end of the third quarter.
The Mustangs finished the game 17-of-23 from three.
“It was some beautiful basketball,” said Morgan Park coach Nick Irvin, who also indicated that the key for his team was to not underestimate the opponent.
“We wanted to come in and jump on them early,” said Irvin. “Vocational has a good team and they are well coached. We just wanted to keep our intensity up and not give them any reason to think that they could get back in this game.”
Charlie Moore, who led Morgan Park with 25 points, echoed his coach’s sentiments.
“We worked very hard in practice,” said Moore. “We know what we are playing for and the only way to reach that goal is through hard work.”
Marcus Lovett finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and six steals for the Mustangs. Alonzo Chapman and Jarvin Randall scored 12 each for Morgan Park.
The Cavaliers were led in scoring by Jordan Dell with 17 points. Keeshawn Palmer added 12 and Jakobie Barker had 10.
Vocational coach Chris Pickett was amazed at Morgan Park’s shooting.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen shooting like that,” said Pickett. “We could have done a better job closing out at times, but they made the right pass every time.”
