Familiar Faces and a Newcomer Help Hayes Run Past CK 69-48

              With all the internet chatter these days about the two newly eligible big men on Cardinal Hayes' basketball team it may surprise some observers to learn that a trio of familiar faces lead the way for the Cardinal as they sped past Christ the King 69-48 last night.

              Both Nathan Ekwu, a 6'8" senior, and Akintoye Ojo, a 6'9" junior both showed terrific athleticism and quickness for their size.  And Ekwu  was terrific as he and senior holdover Chris Robinson picked up in the second half where Shavar Newkirk and Mustafa Jones left off in the first two quarters. The two seniors, who are headed to St. Joe's and Central Connecticut respectively, triggered an efficient transition game for Hayes. And while CTK was hurt by the absence of Andre Walker due to a suspension and committed many turnovers, Cardinal Hayes deserves great credit for taking advantage of nearly every mistake. Jones' emphatic transition slam as the second quarter ended gave Hayes a 34-24 halftime advantage and was indicative of how the whole  half had gone for his team.  When Robinson scored two quick baskets to open the second half, the Cardinal were never  challenged.

              Jones will likely turn out to be a terrific player in the Northeast Conference and a great get for Central  Connecticut. After a fine junior season that saw him as a skilled but reed thin forward he is now wiry strong and where he sometimes  had trouble finishing in transition last year everything in this game was a strong take to the rim, including that thunderous dunk.

              Ekwu showed a strong frame terrific hands and good footwork on the defensive end, including the ability to guard guys facing the basket or in the post. CK's center  Adonis Delarosa was held nearly completely in check thanks to Ekwu's good work. He tied Newkirk and Jones for team high scoring honors with 14 points. Rawlie Alkins led CK with 18

              In a game that featured two of the CHSAA's top teams Hayes won the first round decisively but the Royals will change once  Walker and soph  Jarred Rivers return to the lineup. The Cardinal, with their strong  core plus talented additions appear to be the team to beat. for now at least.