Thoughts from the Weekend: Westside

Westside began its season with a convincing victory over Lakeside at home.  The 26 points from 6'5" senior guard Frank Booker is hardly surprising.  Because of his sweet stroke, his wide array of skills, his size, his experience, and his competitiveness, Booker will score a lot of points this season.  Of this I am confident.  And 6'3" guard Rashon Taylor is also a very capable scorer.  Guard Zach Johnson, who played a role in last year's AAA state playoff run, will add experience and stability.

The unexpected performance from Friday that may be a promising sign for the Patriots was the play of 6'3" sophomore Quentin Phillips, who scored 24 points.  Phillips plays with a lot of energy.  He scores in transition, on the offensive glass, and driving to the basket.  Last year's offensive attack was centered around Westside's guards.  It most likely will be this year as well.  But production from Phillips, who is able to impact the game without having the ball in his hands constantly, may make the Patriots even better than expected.  Because of all of the great guard play and the traditional strength of the programs involved, the class AA sub region that features Westside, Laney, and Josey should be very exciting to watch this season!