Game Recap: Memphis Knights 15u vs. Kentucky Elite Mentality Gold 15u

AthElite had a chance to check in on two of our favorites in Paducah at the Easter Showcase on Friday night. The Memphis Knights out of Tennessee and the hometown Kentucky Elite Mentality squared off in the 5:30 game. Both teams showed a lot of progress since we saw them last in 2021 but maintained the same core values of gritty defense, high-level coaching, and hard work on both ends of the floor. KEM pulled away late to win 46-39. Here are a few top performers who stood out.

Memphis Knights:

#15 Bj Carter - Long and athletic, blocked shot off the backboard early, good handle for size, gets to rim at will, very good at controlling body when driving. Very good and starting breaks and triggering offenses. Active on offensive boards. Threw down a big time left handed dunk late in the half. So crafty and can score on all three levels.

#10 K. Parnell- Parnell had a bold charge attempt early in the half that set the tone defensively for the Knights early. He plays with a ton of heart and emotion. Finishes strong around the rim with both hands. Was great at staying engaged on the bench when it wasn’t his turn and contributed from start to finish.

#1 Cody McGhee - Nice lead guard at the 15u level. Very good at turning ball handlers when he’s on the ball and has a smooth pull up game when he gets a step on defenders. Provided a huge spark for the Knights. Got to the rim with ease and was great at playing off two feet.

#5 Kobe Milan - Milan was the glue guy for the Knights throughout the first half. Did lots of little things that others at this age level don’t want to do. Rebounded at a high rate, did a nice job of staying planted in the paint, and worked hard on both ends. Very bouncy with nice touch around the rim.

#13 C. Carpenter - Carpenter is a solid guard who was impressive gettin