Rival's Sam Dowden Was Exceptional In Championship The NEER Junior Elite Tournament was filled with 15u talent this weekend, but it was the Mass Rivals who came up on top with a 79 - 61 vitory over a talented Connecticut Select team. The Rivals were led by Sam Dowden (Andover) and Dimitri Floras (Merrimack, NH) who had 21 points apiece in the victory.
Dowden used the three early to spark the Rivals who built a quick double digit lead. After earning respect from his defender, Dowden showed his ability to put the ball to the floor, consistently getting to rim and finishing. The 6'4" small forward also was aggressive on the boards and tallied double digit rebounds.
Floras, on the other hand, was a the floor general leading transition and making his teammates better. Floras also showed his ability to get to the rim and finish in traffic, hit the pull-up jumpshot, and make the long ball.
Others who played well included Derek Collins (North Andover) who showed he is one of the best at getting into the middle and finding the open man. Alec Brennan (Weston) had another promising showing as he consecutive big time rebounds and a nice finish at the rim. Mike Auger (Hopkinton, NH) showed again that his body and athleticism makes him a player to wreken with.
