Neuqua Valley's High-Scoring Showdown at Hoops 4 Healing Tournament
Mason Martin torched his former teammates from West Aurora with an explosive performance of 41 points, including 11 three-pointers. The junior phenom was unstoppable, shooting 11 of 19 from beyond the arc in Neuqua Valley's decisive 88-60 win.
Martin's fireworks display came just a day after his sophomore season was highlighted as one of the state's breakout moments last year. His growth and development have been remarkable, earning him recognition over the summer. The 17-year-old sensation proved that he has what it takes to be a game-changer in the state, saying "It's a big morale booster, being able to come out and show everyone what we've been working super hard towards."
Martin wasn't alone in putting on an exhibition. Cole Kelly, who had a breakout season as a freshman last year, continued to improve his skills, scoring 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds. However, it's the emergence of junior Darlin Aghomi that has many scouts taking notice.
The towering 6-foot-10 center only started playing basketball when he was 12 and grew seven inches in one year. Despite being a newcomer to the team last season, Aghomi has shown significant improvement, saying "Every day is a work in progress." He brings a unique skillset to the court, showcasing his ability to post up and see kickouts from teammates.
Neuqua Valley's dominant performance was highlighted by their shooting efficiency. The Wildcats were lights out anytime they had an open look, according to West Aurora coach Michael Fowler. "They were lights out anytime they had an open look, and we lost track of guys that could put the ball in the basket," he said.
The Blackhawks, meanwhile, struggled to find their footing against Neuqua Valley's high-powered offense. Junior guard Travis Brown led the way with 24 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit. The team will need to clean up some defensive issues and learn to contain opposing scorers if they want to become a top contender in the state.
The victory marked Neuqua Valley's first win of the season, and coach Todd Sutton expressed pride in his team's performance. "Every day is a work in progress," he said. "I've seen some really great things."
As the Wildcats continue their journey, fans can expect to see more fireworks from Martin, Kelly, and Aghomi. The trio has already shown that they have what it takes to be game-changers in the state.
Mason Martin torched his former teammates from West Aurora with an explosive performance of 41 points, including 11 three-pointers. The junior phenom was unstoppable, shooting 11 of 19 from beyond the arc in Neuqua Valley's decisive 88-60 win.
Martin's fireworks display came just a day after his sophomore season was highlighted as one of the state's breakout moments last year. His growth and development have been remarkable, earning him recognition over the summer. The 17-year-old sensation proved that he has what it takes to be a game-changer in the state, saying "It's a big morale booster, being able to come out and show everyone what we've been working super hard towards."
Martin wasn't alone in putting on an exhibition. Cole Kelly, who had a breakout season as a freshman last year, continued to improve his skills, scoring 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds. However, it's the emergence of junior Darlin Aghomi that has many scouts taking notice.
The towering 6-foot-10 center only started playing basketball when he was 12 and grew seven inches in one year. Despite being a newcomer to the team last season, Aghomi has shown significant improvement, saying "Every day is a work in progress." He brings a unique skillset to the court, showcasing his ability to post up and see kickouts from teammates.
Neuqua Valley's dominant performance was highlighted by their shooting efficiency. The Wildcats were lights out anytime they had an open look, according to West Aurora coach Michael Fowler. "They were lights out anytime they had an open look, and we lost track of guys that could put the ball in the basket," he said.
The Blackhawks, meanwhile, struggled to find their footing against Neuqua Valley's high-powered offense. Junior guard Travis Brown led the way with 24 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit. The team will need to clean up some defensive issues and learn to contain opposing scorers if they want to become a top contender in the state.
The victory marked Neuqua Valley's first win of the season, and coach Todd Sutton expressed pride in his team's performance. "Every day is a work in progress," he said. "I've seen some really great things."
As the Wildcats continue their journey, fans can expect to see more fireworks from Martin, Kelly, and Aghomi. The trio has already shown that they have what it takes to be game-changers in the state.
and I'm literally crying laughing right now. I mean, can you even? It's like the pup is all "I got this!" and then it just flops around on the ground. Anyway, back to hoops... I gotta say, Cole Kelly looks like a total beast out there 
. And that Darlin Aghomi dude is TALL 
!
41 pts & 11 3pters in one game? thats insane!!! 
and Cole Kelly isnt bad 2o pts & 9 reb? but lets be real Darlin Aghomi is the dark horse here 
growing from 12 to 6'10 in one year is unheard of 
! Mason Martin's 11 three-pointers were straight fire 
. As someone who's all about living a balanced life, it's amazing to see these athletes pouring their hearts out on the court and inspiring others with their passion and dedication 
. Bring on the rest of the season! 
I'm loving the way Mason Martin is taking over on the court rn! He's like a rocket ship 
, shooting threes left and right and leaving defenders in the dust. It's crazy how far he's come since last year - his game just seems to be getting better and better with every passing day. And Cole Kelly and Darlin Aghomi are not too shabby either! 
. But let's talk about Darlin Aghomi... that kid's growth is MIND-BLOWING 
. Neuqua Valley's got the talent and the chemistry to take on anyone in the state. Bring it on! 