BeeGraphix slams Union Cleaners to even record
By JOSE NEGRON
jnegron@yourmvi.com
After being forced to forfeit due to a lack of players on opening night Tuesday, BeeGraphix coach Tim Tyree wanted to see what type of message his team would send in its first official game.
The defending champions didn’t disappoint, proving they have the pieces to once again contend with a 92-70 victory over Union Cleaners in Mon Valley Independent Summer Basketball League boys action Thursday at Marx’s Court Time Sports Center.
“Being the defending champs, we kinda wanted to come out and flex our muscles a little bit, so not having enough guys on opening night was disappointing,” Tyree said. “Tonight was kinda like our opening night. We had most of our heavy hitters and they proved why they’re some of the best athletes in the state and nationally.”
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher III and Belle Vernon Area’s Quinton Martin helped lead a balanced scoring attack for BeeGraphix (1-1). Gallagher, the reigning player of the year in the boys division, poured in a team-high 25 points, while Martin added 21.
Three of BeeGraphix’s newest additions played big roles, too, as five total players finished in double figures.
North Allegheny’s Anthony Sciote hit three 3-pointers en route to a 15-point effort, while Savion Stroud of Chartiers Valley also finished with 15. Jayden Pratt, another Laurel Highlands star who was selected in the first round of this year’s draft, added 12 points in the win.
“I’ve been really impressed with Savion Stroud as somebody I’ve been able to work with in the past,” Tyree said. “He’s really working on his game a ton. Jayden Pratt is a high-level athlete, too. I’m really excited to see his growth as a multi-sport star.
“Sciote is another kid I’ve gotten to work with over the years and I think he’s going to be a stud. He’s gonna be a household name in the WPIAL as the years go on.”
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