Atherton, CA-Fans of high scoring, offensive basketball had plenty to enjoy in the Oaks afternoon matchup with visiting Bethesda University. It was all Menlo from the tip thanks to a Nick High layup 40 seconds into the game. What followed was an offensive clinic from coach Rooney's squad. For the game Menlo would shoot 57% from the floor, 39% from three and 72%. On top of an incredibly efficient day from the field 13 different Oaks all recorded at least one bucket and the teams playmaking upside was on full display. By the final buzzer Menlo had 26 assists to only seven turnovers and while forcing 16 Bethesda turnovers. This game should serve as a springboard for the Oaks as they look to keep their winning streak alive through December.
Eric Blackwell Breakout Game
It was one of those days where it felt like no one could miss for the Oaks and junior guard Eric Blackwell put together his best performance in a Menlo uniform. The transfer out of Arizona has been a staple of the second unit but had been looking for his breakout game. Safe to say that today was the breakthrough he had been waiting for as he put together a complete effort on both sides of the floor. Offensively, just like his teammates, Blackwell scored at all three levels efficiently. His 16 points came on a variety of pull up jumpers, three pointers and free throws. Not only was he getting his own shot to fall but he did a great job running the point with a pair of assists and extra passes that took Menlo's shots from "good" to "great". He was also active on the less glamorous side of the court with a pair of steals and five rebounds. Hopefully this performance gets Blackwell rolling as he continues to find his footing inside Haynes-Prim Pavilion.
The Return of Patrick Ryan
Through 10 games of the season team captain Patrick Ryan has been limited to five appearances due to some nagging injuries. Yet, he made his return to the hardwood in dominant fashion as he submitted arguably the most complete statline of the game. While seeing him score a season high 17 points was a site for sore eyes, it was his patented do everything effort that should have Oaks fans excited for his return. He secured a game high eight rebounds with six of them being of the offensive variety. Bethesda had no answer for his physicality around the rim as he simply outmuscled his opponents in the paint all game long. He also handed out a game high four assists to go along with a game high two blocks. Ryan, affectionately referred to as "Patty" is the heart of this Menlo squad. The team operates with an added layer of grit when their Australian teammate is helping lead the way. With conference games fast approaching, Ryan's return couldn't come at a better time!
Everyone Does Their Part
In scoring 112 points it is no surprise that the entire roster found success throughout the game. Landon Seaman once again gave the opposing defense nightmares down in the post. In just 16 minutes of playing time he chipped in 22 points on 75% shooting from the field. Just another day at the office for the big man.
Menlo's freshman class also made some noise today with all four freshmen scoring in today's game. Salim Arikat was the leading scorer amongst the new Oaks with 11 points. He hit 3-5 shots from three while also handing out two assists. At 6 '9 Arikat's ability to space the floor gives coach Rooney a unique weapon to deploy along the perimeter.
The duo of Daniel Mason and Gavin Cox filled in down in the paint and both managed to bring a spark to the frontcourt. Mason was particularly effective in his 10 minutes of playing time. He scored a career high six points to go along with three rebounds as he hit some nice fall away jump shots and hook shots in the post. Cox was his usual energetic self crashing the class hard as he forced Bethesda to constantly worry about his offensive rebounding abilities. For the game he added three points and two rebounds in only eight minutes of action.
Lastly, Austin Ito wasted no time putting points on the board. In seven minutes he proved to be an offensive burst off the bench. He scored seven points to go along with two assists as he generated more than a point per minute in his playing time for the Oaks. As he prepared to check into the game coach Rooney gave him the green light to get shots up. It was fitting that on his first offensive possession he knocked down a three just as his coach had hoped.
Up Next…
The team will be right back to business as the new week roles around. Lincoln University will be coming to Atherton to face the Oaks on December 6th. Having won six straight games and posting a 9-1 record, the team will not rest on their laurels as they look to continue their winning ways with only three more non-conference games remaining on the schedule.
