Justin Jackson, Marcus Ottey Impress, YAAACE Advances to #PittJamFest Sweet 16

PITTSBURGH, PA–The #5-ranked U15 team in North America is Canadian, and YAAACE out of Toronto, has now advanced to the sweet 16 of the Pitt Jam Fest, after defeating a strong VCC Ohio Warriors team 68-55.

VCC jumped all over YAAACE to open the game and took a 10-0 lead, while  controlling the entire first half. Seth Towns (2016 6’6 Wing) who some consider as the top freshman in the state of Ohio controlled the pace while showing a diverse skill set.

“Our boys strolled into this game thinking it was the second round and that we were going to have an easy game…and that’s not the case,” YAAACE Head Coach, Jordan McFarlane told NPH.

However Justin Jackson, NPH #1-ranked Canadian prospect took on the challenge and locked in defensively, while coming up big in the second half on both ends. Jackson posted a game-high 24 points, nine assists and four blocks.

Marcus Ottey, who many of you know for his MONSTER jam at NPH Platform, was also very impressive, efficient on both ends of the floor and chipping in with 18 points and five steals.

“They have to have that maturity and self-discipline within themselves to play the same way every game, despite the opponent,” continued McFarlane.

Although Jackson and Ottey carried the team, it was a collective effort with good contributions from Jordan Holness [nailing triples], Nolan Narain  [offensive rebounding] as well.

Ohio State was in attendance to watch the performance.

With the victory, YAAACE moves into the sweet 16 of the #PittJamFest likely taking on DC Assault, the #1-ranked 15U team in America.

This will be a big time match up…stay tuned and follow along @Tariq_ NPH and @NorthPoleHoops