North Meck clinches IMECK title against Vance; 4 components that lead Vikings to victory.

Huntersville, NC – Two of the I-MECK’s best took center stage Tuesday night in front of a packed out house at North Meck High School. Security informed us that front doors were closed shortly after 6 p.m., with fans and media alike being turned away from the school’s Senior Night. As many predicted, Vance hung around in the early goings of the contest, finding themselves down by just five as North Meck took a 20-15 lead into the second quarter. However, experience proved to be too much of a factor as North Meck defeated Vance 81-63, capturing a coveted I-MECK title in the process. Here’s four keys that lead to the team’s victory.

1. Defense. North Meck turned up the intensity on defense Tuesday night, creating turnovers and getting out on the break for easy buckets. The Vikings also found a way to chase Vance off the three point line, not allowing the Cougars to get going with its dangerous perimeter shooting.

2. Tristan Maxwell. The 6’3 guard got hot early, scorching Vance with 18 points by halftime before ending the night with a game high 24. Vance head coach Brian Frasier threw several different guards in Maxwell’s direction defensively, however Maxwell was very effective shooting over defenders and did an excellent job utilizing ball screens set by 6’7 teammate Jeremy Gregory at the top of the key. Teammates Shamann Artis and Chris Ford more than held their own as they each had big nights, contributing 21 and 20 respectively.

3. The crowd. At several points in the game, the North Meck crowd was deafening. With fans sitting so close to the floor, communication with teammates becomes difficult. This will become more vital during the playoffs as the Vikings look to make a 4A state title run.

4. Speed. North Meck forced Vance to play at a dizzying pace, pressuring the Cougars to get pulled into the trap of “trading blows”. Playing on its home floor, North Meck thrives in this environment.