Explosive 4th quarter leads Benton Harbor past Detroit Douglass

Benton Harbor used a quick start and a fast finish to defeat Detroit Douglass 65-52 on the first night of the Earl Mckee Holiday Classic.

The Tigers jumped out to a 22-7 lead after the first quarter, but went a quarter-plus with only four points scored in the middle of the game. They found their form again in the fourth quarter to seal the win.

Detroit Douglass, one of the best young teams in the state, was down their two best players: freshman Joshua Brooks (6-5), who already has an offer from Butler, and sophomore Kamari Howard (6-3). At full strength they might become a dynasty in Division 4.

Benton Harbor MVP: Jkwon Lewis (6-1)

Lewis has patiently waited his turn for major minutes, and looks ready for a breakout senior season. A solid 3-point shooter and great finisher, Lewis scored a game-high 17 points. He will be a key player for Benton Harbor as this team continues to gel throughout the season. The Tigers lost all five starters from last year’s regional final squad.

Detroit Douglass MVP: Jacodi Nathan (5-8)

Lightning quick and strong getting to the basket, Nathan kept Douglass in the game with his poise and passion. He led the team with 15 points while also splitting point guard duties. Another sophomore, Nathan could be a special guard talent on an up-and-coming team.

Team Analysis:

Benton Harbor

This isn’t a vintage Tigers team, but they have some intriguing parts and can really shoot the rock. Sophomore Kesean Hobbs (6-3) is an electric athlete with a smooth offensive game. He scored 12 points, but also made some careless turnovers. DeSean Mathison (6-3) added 12 points, showcasing a nice inside-out game as an undersized power forward. Off the bench, Myron Rice (6-0) scored a big 13 points and helped lift the Tigers in key moments. This team has a tough district with Edwardsburg and J.J. Frakes’ Berrien Springs also competing for the title, but Benton Harbor will still be a tough out.

Detroit Douglass

Any team down their two best players, including one already with a D1 college offer is tough, but this Douglass team has grit and passion. Dontay Burkes (6-6) has upside as a junior forward with length and skill. Junior Jerimiah Thurmond (6-0) scored in double figures, and freshman Dimauvion Smith-Powe (6-1) has upside.