Due to the Buzz Williams hiring and subsequent roster shuffling, it appears we were in neglect by not recognizing VT signee Justin Bibbs excellent performance in Dick's Sporting Goods National High School Tournament, which was played at Madison Square Garden in New York during the first week of April.
Bibbs played all 32 minutes against Oak Hill Academy in the final, facing up against future ACC competition in BJ Stith (UVA) and the Martin brothers (Cody and Caleb, who will both attend NC St). He scored 17 points (on 6-13 shooting) and recorded three assists and three blocks in cementing his spot on the all-tournament team over Ohio State bound teammate D'Angelo Russell.
In Game 1 of the tournament, an 81-63 win over Sagemont (FL), Bibbs tallied 12 points in just half a game (16 minutes). His efforts were stymied by early foul trouble, and the burgeoning lead late as the coach cleared his bench.
In Game 2, vs Huntington Prep (WV) Bibbs hit for 13 points, including making three of the only seven first half shots that were converted by a cold-shooting Montverde team, which triumphed 56-51.In a battle of attrition, which there are plenty of in the ACC, Bibbs proved he could carry a club in a high-leverage situation.
In beating Oak Hill, Montverde won it's second straight Dick's tournament, and was led by a junior big man, Ben Simmons, an Australian who is promised to LSU at this time. They will be a strong favorite to win a third straight Dick's tournament next year, attempting to join Las Vegas's Findlay Prep who has also taken home the trophy three times. This win also meant Montverde was USA Today's #1 high school team nationally.
Finishing 28-0 (with their only loss being reversed due to forfeit), Montverde took on all national challengers, and Bibbs role steadily grew on a team loaded with Division One talent. Oak Hill, located in isolated Mouth of Wilson, VA, has eight national titles, but couldn't get off the mat against Montverde who dominated physically.
Congratulations to Justin on the fine ending to his career. Hopefully he can ride that momentum right into a regular role for VT next fall, as Buzz Williams revives our sleeping giant of a program.
Have a great weekend, Mi Cassell es su Cassell.