Game played in Hawaii as part of the Iolani Classic. Mason County led throughout including a few double digit leads, but couldn't put them away. Kaimuki hit several 3 pointers in the 4th to keep it too darn close.

 

Setty, Gilbert with 14, Black with 16

 

This was a 1st Round game, Royals advance to play the winner of Mt. Vernon, NY and another Hawaii team on Saturday. Mt. Vernon is ranked #14 nationally, so it would be a safe bet who Mason County will play tomorrow night. I believe the start time is around 1am Maysville time.

 

Kaimuke only averages around 45 points a game, has virtually no size. The Hawaii teams usually don't fare well in this tournament.

 

Oak Hill ranked #1 in the country is in this tournament. They played a Hawaii team last night and beat them 108-33. Lexington Catholic plays a team from China in a few hours. If Catholic wins, they would likely take on nationally ranked Montverde from Florida.

 

http://www.iolaniclassic.hawaiihoops.com/schedule/boys-division-i/

Kaimuki was at a distinct height disadvantage with the majority of its players measuring between 5’5″ and 5’9″. The Bulldogs had to rely on 3-point shooting and scrappiness to stay in the game. In addition, the slow pace of the game was more suited to Kaimuki’s style.

 

After trailing 24-14 at halftime, the Bulldogs nailed several 3-pointers in the third quarter to tie the game at 28. However, they couldn’t take the lead. They cut it down to two late in the fourth quarter, but a crucial turnover sealed their fate. Kaimuki finished with nine 3-pointers.

 

Mason County’s Tyler Black led all scorers with 16 points. 6’9″ Southern Illinois commit Treg Setty was visibly frustrated in the first half after an inability to establish post presence and committing multiple turnovers from traveling calls. Setty picked it up in the second half and dominated the paint, finishing with 14 points.

 

http://www.iolaniclassic.hawaiihoops.com/

What is the point of a high school tourney in hawaii. Seems like a recruiting tool.

What is the point of a high school tourney in hawaii. Seems like a recruiting tool.

 

It's no different than any other showcase tournament in this country that gets the top ranked teams. It's a way to showcase those schools, their talent, etc.

 

Anyhoo, Susan Shan, who did the write up on the game I posted above. She was doing Twitter updates for all the games and said this about the Royals faithful.

 

Mason County brought 90 fans to Hawaii with them. Fantastic showing. Kentucky fans always travel well

Go Mason County...win and represent Kentucky well...enjoy the weather...because our weather stinks!!!