Rise Above soars over Lion Hearted

July 22, 2022

Rise Above huddles around Coach Brendan Carter during a timeout. Photo by Jay Jones/Hoop Central 508

Fitchburg, MA | On a sunny July day, we ventured over to the brand new, state-of-the-art Game-On venue to cover the Rise Above Basketball AAU program in their BasketBull Summer Championships contest against an athletic Lion-Hearted team from New Jersey.

Game Summary

After an even spar in the first half, Rise Above would secure the lead 26-25 in a battle of playing styles. Lion-Hearted was clearly the more athletic, isolation based team, with two dynamic guards in the backcourt. Rise Above fought back by spacing the floor, sharing the ball, and displaying an inside-out game. The second half was spearheaded by Collin Johnson's 16 points (finishing with 20 points) and Matt Draheim's 9 points (finishing with 13 points). This dog fight would eventually head into overtime after a Lion-Hearted buzzer beater three over Jake Peterson, who would fire back with a three of his own and win the game for RAB.

Standout Performers

#30 Collin Johnson 6'6 | 2023 | Tabor Academy

At 6’6 with a solid frame, Collin played bully ball against Lion-Hearted. Johnson isn’t shy about bulldozing athletic defenders in the post and clearing out the lane for offensive rebounds and put-backs. He also has some sneaky agility to him, utilizing nifty footwork in transition. Lastly, Johnson is a great finisher and was big for his team at the free throw line going 6/8.

#3 Matt Draheim 6'0 | 2023 | Boston College High School

BC High has another scrappy and tough lefty on their hands. Matt Draheim is truly a three level scorer who isn’t afraid to post up smaller defenders, attack the basket, and shoot from the perimeter. Draheim finished the game with 13 points, burying a couple of threes and getting to the basket for tough finishes. Matt plays with zero fear and any college coach could tell that this young man plays the game with energy and confidence.

#22 Jake Peterson 6'5 | 2023 | Hanover High School

Jake Peterson is a sharpshooting specialist, hitting the game winning three for his team in overtime and finishing with three triples in total. At 6’5 he is able to get his jump shot off with ease over athletic defenders. So much potential is within Jake's game if he can develop a back-to-the-basket post arsenal!

#20 Nomar Tejada 6'1 | 2023 | Brooks School

Nomar Tejeda is a poised, patient player that knows the essence of being a true point guard. He has a knack for getting into the lane and creating for himself and others. While having to deal with taller, more athletic Lion-Hearted guards, he found his way to the charity strike and has a sweet stroke from the outside. Nomar does a good job at making the right play in traffic, which is crucial for an inspiring college guard!

#10 Logan Murphy 6'4 | 2024 | Tabor Academy

Logan Murphy is the unsung hero of this Fab-5 group. He is a constant paint presence on the boards and does all the dirty work. If you need a glass cleaner he is your man. Logan finished with 9 points and at 6’4 he is able to use his athleticism to leap over his defenders to create havoc on the boards.

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Bruce Marchand Jr. | @coach_bruce1114

HoopCentral508 writer, talent evaluator and scout.

Quinsigamond Community College Assistant Coach

Worcester Majors Advisor

Jay Jones | @protegebasketball

HoopCentral508 founder, videographer, media manager.