Saturday afternoon the iBall Radio Game of the Week heads to Montgomery Academy as the defending 3A state champions host the #1 team in 7A, Huntsville High. Last year’s matchup in Huntsville was competitive before the Panthers eventually pulled away — and with both teams returning major pieces, this one has real intrigue.
MA enters at 2–2, still finding rhythm but boasting one of the most talented Big 3s in 3A basketball. Huntsville High comes in 8–1, rolling, deep, and playing with the confidence of a team expecting to compete for a state title.
This one isn’t a rivalry — but it is a measuring-stick game for both sides.
Head Coach: Jeremy Arant
MA applies full-court pressure for most of the game, looking to speed opponents up and create mistakes. In the half court, they sit in a tough man-to-man.
Offensively, they run motion principles, mixing 5-out and 4-out/1-in depending on matchups. They want spacing, movement, and flow.
• Braden Gordon (2027, SG) – A big, physical guard who plays with football toughness. Can shoot it from outside and uses his frame to bully smaller wings. A national-level football recruit who brings real presence.
• Jarrett Friendly (2027, SF) – Long, athletic, and versatile. The definition of a Swiss Army knife. Scores, defends, rebounds, facilitates — whatever’s needed, he provides it.
• Mason Ellis (2028, PG) – A scoring point guard who can explode for huge nights. Dropped 35 in the season opener and followed with 21 vs Trinity. Dynamic and fearless.
• Rob McGaughey (2027, SG) – Missed last night’s game vs Trinity but had 25 the previous outing vs Pike Road. Another reliable perimeter scorer.
Head Coach: Christian Schweers (Montgomery native)
Pressure. Pressure. Pressure.
Huntsville presses from the moment you get off the bus until the final buzzer. They rotate lineups constantly to stay fresh, and their pace never slows.
Offensively, they:
• Evan Toms (2027, PF) – Arguably the #1 player in Alabama’s 2027 class. Dominant around the basket, efficient, skilled, and capable of stepping out to hit the three. A matchup nightmare.
• Hudson Gossett (2027, CG) – One of the best shooters in the state — regardless of class. Deep range, off the dribble or catch, and a certified dagger-thrower.
• Tyson Bobik (2028, PG) – Transfer from Oklahoma. Ultra-efficient floor general who controls pace, creates for teammates, and knocks down threes with ease. Strong finisher with his left hand despite being a righty.
This game showcases 3A pedigree vs. 7A firepower.
MA has the championship experience, tough guards, and defensive versatility to compete. But Huntsville’s depth, shooting, and pressure are unlike anything MA sees in 3A play.
If MA handles the press and keeps this game in the half court, they can make this interesting. If Huntsville turns it into a track meet, MA is in trouble.
Vegas-Style Line: Huntsville High -10
DWill’s Pick: Huntsville High
Score Prediction: 72–58
Montgomery Academy is tough, disciplined, and experienced — but Huntsville’s combination of shooting, pace, and depth is special. Expect MA to compete, but the Panthers are the #1 team in 7A for a reason.
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