One of the aims of the Ohio Valley Hoops Classic is to create matchups that will be entertaining for fans. The Blanchester versus Beechwood game on Dec. 1 should provide just that, according a press release from the OVHC.
The two schools from opposite sides of the river are about the same in size, but more importantly both teams have a highly regarded sophomore star. The teams will play 3:20 p.m. Saturday at Hillsboro High School.
For Blanchester it is 6-3 Brayden Sipple. Sipple poured in 22.8 points per game in his freshman season last year for the Wildcats. And, after a very successful AAU campaign this summer, he is receiving college interest from Division I schools.
Beechwood counters with Scotty Draud. Draud, also 6-3, blistered the nets at a 20.6 clip in his freshman season for the Tigers. He is a consensus top 5 sophomore in Kentucky and, like Sipple, is receiving interest from Division I colleges. Draud’s father, Scott Draud, was a star at Vanderbilt in the late 1980s.
Blanchester is looking to get back on track after an 8-15 season a year ago. Coach Adam Weber’s ‘Cats may have the talent to do just that. In addition to Sipple, Blanchester welcomes back 6-3 Jacksson Waialae. The athletic wing scored six points a game a year ago, but could have a big year for the Wildcats. Guards Ian Heeg and Tanner Creager return along with 6-5 post Hunter Bare giving the Wildcats athleticism and size.
The Tigers are coming off a very successful season. They finished 18-13 and advanced to the Elite 8 in the All-A Classic in Kentucky (the small school state tournament). In addition to Draud, Beechwood returns 6-2 junior C.J. Brannen who averaged 10.8 points a game, along with 6-0 Zach Deathridge who hit for 6.3 points a game last season.
This game should provide many opportunities for the two stars to go head-to-head as they are both similar in size and skill set and fill a similar role for their respective teams. And, that should provide some excellent entertainment for the fans.
Complete information on the Ohio Valley Hoops Classic is available online at: www.ohiovalleyhoopsclassic.com
