By Mike Helfgot
Seven-feet tall is impossible to teach and almost as difficult to defend.
Throw in a heavy dose of athleticism, and Robinson -- not Hales -- is a 2A state finalist.
Towering Illinois-bound center Meyers Leonard had 19 points and 17 rebounds to lead Robinson to a stunning 64-61 victory over Hales in the 2A state semifinals Friday night at the Peoria Civic Center.
Ben Jones had 21 points and hit three key free throws for Robinson (26-5) after a pair of foul shots by Leonard tied it at 60 with 2 minutes, 12 seconds remaining.
Patrick Miller scored a game-high 22 points for Hales (28-3), the final three coming from downtown to bring the Spartans within three with .6 seconds left.
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I was really impressed with Meyers, first time I've ever seen him. He struts a bit, but that's probably because no one is within 5" of him most of the time.
I also like this Jones kid. I wish UIC would recruit him. You rarely see UIC mentioned in recruiting Illinois kids.
Hales has unbelievable athleticism. It's surprising they lost. Just goes to show what an impact Leonard had.