Battle in Miami: Central vs Norland
Seemed like just another Wednesday night for girls basketball in South Florida. If you happened to drive to Miami Norland last night, the moment you set foot in that gym, the atmosphere and energy was crazy. I, myself have not seen a packed, energetic crowd for girls basketball other than a playoff game in a long time. You knew it was special when you see Coach Gabriel Lazo, from Stony Brook who rushed directly from the airport to the gym to catch some of the action.
The fan support from both teams gave me energy and excitement by spectating, I can only imagine how it made the players feel. It was a battle between the teams indeed. The game went neck and neck for the majority of the game. By the end of the third quarter Norland led Central by 8 points. Central continued to fight, but Norland would sustain their lead and finish the game out with a final score of 56 – 47.
Here are the Top Performers from the game:
Miami Norland
Jaiyah Harris-Smith – 5’6 Guard 2021
The floor general for Norland tallied 23 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists to help her team. She’s a natural at the point guard position, makes great decisions and can be your coach on the court. Her skill level plus her basketball IQ gives her an advantage over other players. She is definitely one of the top players in the tri county area.
Ronaltha Marc – 6’0 Wing 2020
She provided the inside presence and leadership needed for the Vikings. Coming back for her first game this season, she chipped in 13 points and 10 rebounds. Her length alone causes problems for opponents. Watching her play you can tell that she missed being out there and helping her team compete.
Miami Central
Dana Thompson – 6’0 Forward 2020
Scored 18 points for the Rockets. She’s also the co captain of the team. Does a great job keeping the Rockets in games and contributing to her team in all aspects. She provides a spark and can make her team go.
Kayla Clark – 6’1 Forward 2021
Dropped 16 points last night. This kid has a knack for scoring and her athleticism is unbelievable. She can definitely do a lot with her size. She made her way to the free throw line very frequently last night, it shows the aggressiveness she has getting to the basket and trying to score, That also shows the attention that defenders have to give her because she can score. Coaches definitely put her on your watch list, she will be one of the top players in the county.