Two days after being defeated by their rival Magen David 57-48 in overtime in the Yeshiva League final, the Flatbush Falcons wasted no time hitting the practice court. They've been grinding hard, gearing up for a shot at redemption in the 2024 Red Sarachek tournament. That quest begins against the reigning Tier II champions, Fuchs Mizrachi Mayhem in the opening tilt of Thursday's tournament play.
The Yeshiva League runner-ups, Flatbush Falcons will begin their redemption tour against reigning Tier II champions Fuchs Mizrachi Mayhem on Thursday. Photo Credit: (Photo Credit: Jacob Sherman/JacobSherman07 on IG)
Last year, the Ohio boys clinched their highest Sarachek trophy honor, defeating DRS to win Tier II. However, this year, they're grappling with a different core group after losing six seniors, leaving them with a younger roster. Their strategy remains grounded in simplicity, relying on a traditional man-to-zone defense.
The stifling defensive approach will be tested against the relentless Falcons, who excel in transition and ball pressure. Spearheading the Mayhem's offensive threat is Nate Jacobs, Ohio's third-highest high school scorer, who has had a stellar year with 28.3 points and 15 rebounds per game. Jacobs has also developed into a sharpshooter, shooting 40% from beyond the arc.
However, Fuchs Mizrachi Mayhem's main issue this season has been inconsistency, particularly on the defensive end. This issue could prove costly against the Falcons, who make their opponents pay for every mistake they make.
The Falcons boast a versatile lineup and can beat you in various ways. They’ll have 6’3” star Beni Keda dominating inside, sharpshooter Isaac Cooper draining threes, and point guard Jacob Haddad orchestrating the offense precisely.
With an intense 10 AM tip-off on the horizon, anticipation mounts for what promises to be an exhilarating showdown between two powerhouse teams. The game will broadcasted on MacsLive by YU ice hockey assistant captain and roller hockey star Ariel Greenberg and picks panel member Ari Schopf.
Last year was not the Mayhem's first Sarachek trophy. Mizrachi has won tiers III and IV before. Last year was their first Tier II title though.