OUT & ABOUT: HOPKINS/ST. PAUL CENTRAL

Tonight's contest featured #2AAAA Hopkins at #4AAAA St. Paul Central. Both teams' strength is on the perimeter. In fact, the #5s for each team combined ended up with three points. The game went back and forth early, but Central took control at 18-10 with 10:42 to go in the first half. After a time out, Hopkins adjusted their defense, and Central rested Angel Robinson. That was the opening Hopkins needed and went on a 19-4 run (29-22). Leading the way for Hopkins was Jillian Schurle with nine of those points, including four points in one possession when she scored and was fouled, missed the free throw, but ended up with put back. That gave Hopkins their first lead (20-18) since 6-5. Things were not going Central's way, but Kiara Buford knocked in three 3s to close the half and cut Hopkins' lead to 30-28.
The second half was tight early with tie scores at 30 and 32, but Hopkins took the lead for good at 34-32. It remained a tight game until 44-42. Central was stuck on 42 for seven straight possessions. During that time Hopkins extended their lead to 50-42. The rest of the game Hopkins made free throws while Central shot 1/8 from the floor.
Hopkins player evaluations:
Abby Greene is a point guard that sets the tempo for both offense and defense. She does not look to create her shot, but feeds her teammates. If not respected she will shoot the three. Central attempted to press and take her out of the decison making process, but Hopkins handled the pressure most of the evening. Her points came late in the game at the line 5/6.
Caitlin Rowland is on the perimeter and can score in (cuts/drives) and from three point land (two 3s). She is heady and understands the game (like all Hopkins players, in fact Hopkins does not beat itself, and is well schooled.)
Jillian Schurle is another perimeter player with a good scoring instincts. She finished with 22 on the night scoring from inside on cuts or drives. Her size on the perimeter bothers most teams on both ends. She is not afraid to mix it up.
Jackie Hiebert is a player that may be unknown to most, but she is a threat. I believe her play will get stronger this year and next. Her scoring can happen in and out. Right now she is a "4" but would probably fit nicely in the perimeter. She scored six of Hopkins' 12 points.
Tiana Wilkinson is the "5" but is not an offensive option. However her value is defense, rebounding and strength. She would need to be a "4" post high school (D3).
The bench was not used very much. They need more seasoning. Hopkins, as stated before, does not beat itself, is well coached/schooled, intelligent, plays strong defense, and does not get rattled.
St. Paul Central player evaluations:
Not much as changed in my opinons after seeing Central twice.
Angel Robinson runs the show, has speed and needs to be on the floor for Central success. She goes to the glass, and can hit the three. She may be faster with the ball than some players without. Robinson ended up with 13 on the night.
Kiara Buford is the other threat for Central. She can score out as evidenced by the three 3s in a row late in the first half. She also can put the ball on the floor, and is not afraid of contact when shooting.
The rest of the team is not up to speed with these two. The young post player, Megan Howard, got into foul trouble and was not a factor on offense. The smurfs on the perimeter are speedy and quick, but no one stood out and dominated. I am sure they will feast on the City teams.

In the trenches: This game features many players that could fit, but I will go with Jillian Schurle of Hopkins.