Sagemont Prep vs Mater Academy

Game Recap

Sagemont Prep vs Mater Academy
Varsity Division
Final Score: Sagemont Prep 60, Mater Academy 39

Sagemont Prep opened their preseason slate with an impressive 60 to 39 win over Mater Academy at Somerset Pines. The Lions controlled the game on both ends, showing poise, communication, and a defensive identity that stood out from the opening minutes.

Mater Academy attacked early with pace and physicality, trying to generate quick offense and pressure Sagemont’s young rotation. Sagemont responded with patience and discipline, slowing the game down and forcing Mater into tough, contested attempts.

Midway through the second quarter Sagemont’s defense elevated the intensity. Sharp rotations, active hands, and strong closeouts pushed Mater Academy out of rhythm. Once Sagemont established their defensive pace, the momentum shifted heavily in their favor.

Offensively, the Lions found their scoring stride through balanced movement and smart reads. Branden Sharpe #3 led the way with 17 points, finishing in transition, knocking down jumpers, and doing the little things that keep the offense flowing.

A major piece of Sagemont’s success came from Obinna Ekufu, better known as Obi, wearing number 4. At 6 foot 6 with a 7 foot 2 wingspan, Obi has already made a name for himself as one of the top two way players in Europe. His defensive presence changed the tone of the game. Obi protected the paint, disrupted drives, altered shots, and anchored the Lions defensive schemes. His ability to guard multiple positions while still contributing offensively adds a valuable dimension to this young roster.

Mater Academy battled hard, showing flashes of strong guard play and second chance scoring opportunities, but Sagemont’s defensive pressure and length made it difficult to sustain momentum.

With several new additions and an extremely young team, Sagemont’s chemistry and toughness were encouraging signs. This win sets a strong foundation as they continue building toward the regular season.

“For us, this season is going to be fun. In the past we had teams full of guys who could fill it up with ease, so there were times we did not have to do much coaching. This year is different. We have a lot of new faces and we are extremely young, so there will be a learning curve. We will take our lumps, but every game is an opportunity to grow. What excites me is that this group defends at a level I have not seen since I arrived here. We have about seven guys who can really sit down and guard. We have length, we have energy, and we have players who actually take pride in getting stops. No matter how young we are, the standard does not change. Winning a state championship is always the goal, and this group has the tools to chase it.” -Andre "AJ" Braziel