Eric Hampford:
Future150 GM / Senior National Analyst. Covering high and middle school basketball.
Pocono Summitt, PA (Future150) -- Since opening its doors in 2002, Pocono Mountain West High School (PA) has been no stranger to success on the hardwood.
In its 11 years of existence, the Panthers program has dominated the Mountain Valley Conference.
Before this season, PM West players have been named MVP of the league four times, 33 players have been named all-league in the seven team conference, and the Panthers have won conference titles five times.
Last season, for the first time in school history, the school won a District XI AAAA title behind the strong play of six seniors. This year, there wasn't much expected of the Panthers, whose roster was gutted by graduation.
Enter point guard Eric Vick. The senior was the only returning starter from last years team, and his primary job last season was to distribute to West's senior stars.
Well, his role certainly changed this year. The 5'7" guard had a scoring explosion this season, averaging 17 points per game to go along with five assists and five rebounds.
He has helped his team shock eastern Pennsylvania basketball observers, leading the Panthers to a 20-4 record, another Mountain Valley Conference title, and a #1 District XI seed.
While his team has reaped the benefits of having Eric turn into their main scorer this season, his strong individual play hasn't been ignored by coaches or media members.
He was named 2013 MVC Player of the Year and First Team All-League. He set the single season three-point record at his high school with over 65 bombs this year as well.
In their 50-45 win over Pleasant Valley in the conference championship game last week, he led the way, scoring 22 points for the Panthers.
With their third league title in three years wrapped up, now Vick and West have their sights set on repeating on District XI champions.
The journey starts today against Stroudsburg High School, a Mountain Valley foe. Stay tuned to Future150 on how Pocono Mountain West and their new star fare on their journey to a title.
Comments:
Be the first to post. Just use the form below.