Philly Finest vs Philly Elite

Heading into tonight there were 6 teams remaining. The winners advance to the Final 4. 

Philly Finest advanced by defeating Urban Sports Rescue. Philly Elite looking to bounce back after a loss to Philly Hoop Group on Winners Wednesday.

Key Matchups

This game would be a battle of styles. Philly Finest pressure defense and quick strike offense versus the size and strength of Philly Elite. 

Turning Points

Philly Elite started the game on a 10-0 run. They established an inside presence and showed outside shooting.  The frontcourt combo of Amaya Stewart and #21 impacted both ends by challenging shots defensively and finishing at the basket on offense.  

Trailing in the 2nd half Philly Finest did make run to tie the game at 37 off a steal by Mouse and found #13 Saniyah Washington for a 3 pointer.

#22 Amaya Stewart- Philly Elite played the closer by responding with a bucket and foul. Preserving the W.

Standouts

• #22 Amaya Stewart, Philly Elite – consistent impact on both ends of the floor. Rebounded well and showed footwork that led to finishes. 
• 13 Saniyah Washington, Philly Finest – Made timely plays. Whether it was knocking down big time 3 point shots or applying the pressure defensively. 
• #1 Amaya Scott, Philly Finest – Provided the spark to get her team going. Finished plays in the paint. In the 2nd half impacted the game with her passing and defense.
• ##23 Anye Washington, Philly Elite – Played a steady game. Shot the 3 with confidence when given space. Showed poise versus the pressure. Canceled the hopes of a PE comeback with key buckets at the basket.

NNN vs SPUGY

NNN entered the game by defeating Hunting Park. SPUGY was looking to respond after losing to Purpose on Winner’s Wednesday.

Key Matchup

#23 Gabby Casey, NNN vs #0 Shayla Smith, SPUGY – Two of the top scorers in the area going bucket for bucket as they tried to lead their teams to the Semis.  They both had scoring explosions that changed the game.

Turning Point

Late In the first half with the SPUGY leading 16-14, Shaylah Smith scored 4 straight baskets to stretch the lead to 24-16. Catch and shoot game is looking very mature for such a young player.

Down 40-29 Gabby Casey came alive and sparked a run closing the gap to 45-40.  The highlight of the game came off a twee-cross-stepback 3 from deep. 

Standouts:

• #0 Shayla Smith, SPUGY – Not only scored in bunches to finish with 21 but was more aggressive in rebounding on both ends. 
• #23 Gabby Casey, NNN – Scored a game high 29. Made six 3 pointers. Impressive quick release jumper off the catch and off the bounce.
• #32 Quanirah Cherry-Montague, SPUGY – Her most complete game so far at the Chosen League. Using her 6-4 frame to get position in the paint and finish.  Also had several block shots to make her presence felt.
• #1 Dallas Pierce, SPUGY – Smooth score came to play. She picked her spots. Showed a physical midrange game and was comfortable shooting with defenders in her space.