On a day that saw many games across Indiana postponed due to weather, Romulus made it down from the Detroit area. Romulus is a perennial power in Michigan. Cathedral lost in overtime on Friday night to Ben Davis. It was the first loss with Eron Gordon in the lineup.
The first quarter set the tone for the entire game. It was played at a fast pace with both teams making a high percentage of its shots. Kent State signee Jaylin Walker dominated the period with 12 points for Romulus. Walker was aggressive from start to finish. Walker was the story of the game.
Overall it was a fantastic game to watch. Both teams shot over 50% in the first half. Romulus finished the game at 51%. It was a close game throughout with neither team opening up much of a lead until the fourth quarter. Eron Gordon provided the offensive punch early for Cathedral. The Irish had a more balanced attack in the middle quarters. Northwestern football signee Jared Thomas was able to score inside during the second quarter while freshman Emil Ekiyor filled that role in the second half.
For two and half quarters, Walker was the only scoring threat for Romulus. He was so efficient during that span that it did not hurt Romulus. Finally late in the third quarter other players started to step up on the offensive end for Romulus. Cathedral had built a three possession lead in the third quarter, but De'Angleo Hansbro, Ray Mungo and Walker were able to erase that deficit. Hansbro was big in the final quarter and a half.
In the end, the game was won by Jaylin Walker. He was the most aggressive player on the court on both ends of the floor. He seemed to be around every loose ball and every big rebound. Walker finished the game with 44 points and seven rebounds. He was 15 of 21 from floor and 12-12 from the free-throw line. Walker made free-throws late in the game to stop Cathedral's chance for a comeback. It was a special game against a quality opponent for Walker.
Romulus | 19 | 20 | 15 | 24 | 78 |
Cathedral | 17 | 21 | 14 | 21 | 73 |
Romulus: De'Angelo Hansbro 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 assists, Savaan Williams 6 points, Rahsaan Pope 2 points, Ray Mungo 10 points, Jaylin Walker 44 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 5 turnovers, Trey Carter 2 points.
Cathedral: Eron Gordon 25 points, 2 rebounds, 2 turnovers, 1 block, 7-15 FG, 7-9FT, 4-10 3FG, Jared Thomas 14 points, Austin Kendrick 6, Emil Ekiyor 7, Jarran Coleman 2, Jordan Walker 11, Matt Paligraf 3, Tra Landers 5 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists