The Lemon Street Classic is always one of the go-to holiday events every season, and this year's field is another very good one. Here are some notes from the opening day:
The 2025 guards absolutely shined today, taking away three of the top performances of the day:
Pope PG Zach Bleshoy went for 27 points in a win over South Paulding. He was very good getting to the rim and finishing as well as showing his athleticism in the open floor and his ability to make shots from three and in the midrange. With his physical abilities combined with his skill set, he's definitely one of Georgia's top guards in 2025.
Clarke Central guard Marcus Gillespie got cooking early against North Cobb Christian and didn't look back, finishing with 32 points and doing it every way possible. He was able to make shots from all over the floor, but shined off the dribble and finishing with physicality at the rim. He's a natural bucket getter and one of the best scorers in the Peach.
Cherokee PG Lawrence Sanford has earned the reputation as one of Georgia's best scorers, but today it was his vision and passing ability that was on display. He was faced with traps and double teams for a majority of the game against Dutchtown, but showed a willingness and ability to make the right reads and get the ball where it needed to go. He finished with 14 points and 8 assists, continuing to show his well-roundedness as a lead guard.
North Cobb Christian 2027 wing Brock Bass-Bonner showed why he's so highly regarded in Georgia's freshman class. He has elite physical tools at a strong 6-foot-6 with great athleticism to match. He scored 19 points in a win over Clarke Central, showing his range as well as his ability to finish at the rim. He's a guy you will hear a lot from in the coming years.
Millbrook (NC) came down to Georgia and looked like they were on a mission, nearly going over the 100-point mark in a win over Riverwood. 2025 6-foot-7 lefty forward Colt Langdon scored 22 points and has a very versatile skill set, showing why he's one of he better players in North Carolina's 2025 class. Alex Olander and Kyrie Heredia also provided a huge boost scoring the ball in the win.
Dutchtown earned a hard fought win over Cherokee, and senior wing Joah Chappelle showed his versatility with one of the top performances of the day. He scored 20 points, grabbed 15 boards and looked impressive making plays off the dribble and also imposing his will on the defensive side. He's a true five-tool guy and one college coaches need to know.
Berkmar got a win over Wesleyan behind their 2025 duo Mekhi Ragland & Eddie Cooke III. The first half belonged to Ragland, who showed his size, skill level, and shot making ability. He dominated the paint and the Wolves had no answer for him. Cooke owned the second half with a couple of huge dunks, a couple perimeter shots, and an and-one on the offensive glass. The Patriots have looked like one of the state's best teams this season.
Comments