Tournament of Champions Holiday Classic hosted the “Battle of the State Champions”
Alexander (Douglasville, GA) and Wheeler (Marietta, GA) put on one of the most exciting and anticipating match-ups at the Tournament of Champions Holiday Classic. Both teams entered the contest undefeated, and as reigning 2023 State Champions; Alexander 6A Champions and Wheeler 7A Champions. Alexander earned the 71-59 victory over Wheeler lead by sophomore point guard Pops Gregory, and senior forwards Allen Stoddard and Brandon Lue.
Gregory “Pops” Dunson 2026 I 6’2 PG I Alexander (GA)
Pop’s Dunson can flat out shoot the ball. He knocked down some big three’s against Wheeler’s zone defense. Dunson played with poise and did a good job controlling the pace of the game. Dunson made the big plays that his team needed, whether it was shooting the ball or finding open teammates.
Dunson is a tough competitor, that has a tight handle, and high game IQ. He finished with 16 pts, 4 ast, 2 stl, and 2 rebs. Dunson recently received an offer from Kennesaw State.
Braedan Lue 2024 I 6’8″ C I Alexander
Braedan Lue started the game off big with a few big dunks. Lue had a number of huge buckets down the stretch which sealed the deal for Alexander. He showed he can put the ball on the floor to get to his spots and hit the mid-range pull up jumper. Lue even knocked down an open three.
Lue is very athletic and strong. He finished with a double double 21 pts, 12 rebs, and 3 blk. Lue is committed to Kennesaw State
Allen Stoddard 2024 I 6’6″ W I Alexander
Stoddard was active on the boards and a good help side defender. He is an athletic, long wingman and that can shoot off the catch. This kid is will be extremely important in Alexander seeking back to back state titles. Stoddard finished with 16 pts, 4 rebs, and 3 huge blocks vs Wheeler.
Ricky McKenzie 2024 I 6’5″ SG I Wheeler
McKenzie shot the ball well from deep for Wheeler. He knows how to move without the ball and how to get open for his teammates to find him. McKenzie has a nice stroke from deep, with good rotation, and range. Mckenzie was also a strong defender. He applied continuously pressure to Alexander’s offense.
Mckenzie is committed to Kennesaw State.
Josh Hill 2024 I 6’11” F I Wheeler
Josh Hill displayed a nice inside/out game and great movement without the ball. He is a long, stretch forward, that has a nice touch around the basket and can score on all 3 levels. He brings a lot of passion and energy to the young Wheeler squad. Hill is committed to Arkansas State University.