LBI Preview Before the Game

Flushing vs. Midland Dow

Tuesday December 8th 2015

Flushing High School

The first week of the 2015-16 season featured some very exciting games. This week will be no different, and one of the most exciting games will be between the Flushing Raiders and the Midland Dow Chargers. These two teams feature some of the top Division 1 talent in the state as well as some very talented hidden gems that will soon be getting recruiting calls. Flushing (0-1) is looking to rebound from a tough 36-27 loss against Saginaw Heritage. Midland Dow (1-1) is also looking to bounce back after losing to Detroit Country Day this past Saturday 68-64. Both teams are state championship contenders and will possibly have to square off again in the regionals to make it there. Although March is a few months away, this game gives us a great preview of what to look for in those regional matchups. Either way we’re in for a treat Tuesday night at Flushing High school.

Midland Dow’s Ellie Taylor, who has scored 66 points in two games, will look to continue her sharp shooting from behind the arc. Kaylee Wasco is also off to a good start and will continue to be a match up problem with her ability to post up and shoot the long range shot. Flushing’s balanced attack makes them hard to prepare for. Lauren Newman and Kamryn Chappell are going to bring it on both ends of the court for the Raiders to have a chance to win. Win or lose, these kids will sleep well after the game because it’s going to be a battle till the end.

Keys to Victory

Midland Dow:

• Force Flushing’s post players to play away from the basket. Don’t give up inside shots.

• Win the rebound game. Everyone has to crash the boards hard.

• Execute on offense. Make sure key contributors touch the ball often.

• Control the tempo of the game.

• Pressure the Flushing guards. Make it difficult for them to get into their sets.

Flushing:

• Keep a hand in Ellie Taylor’s face. They can’t allow her any uncontested shots.

• Force turnovers. Apply tons of pressure on Midland Dow’s young backcourt.

• Feed the ball inside. Take advantage of the physical dominance of Clair Glowniak and the athletically dominate Bre Perry.

• Cut down on turnovers. 13 is the magic number. If the Raiders can keep the turnovers at 13 and under, they will have a chance to win.

• Guards have to be efficient. Assist to turnover ratio must be kept low.

Both teams have lost close games to very good teams. Experience from those losses will show in this game. Both teams have the ability to score in the high 50’s however it will come down to who can defend. Both teams have struggled in the 3rd quarter. Whoever plays the best in the 3rd will have the greatest chance to win. I’m going with Midland Dow for the win.

Score: 49 – 40 Midland Dow

**Follow Nate Brown on Twitter @LBI_Nate**