43 Hoops From Minnesota Heading To Deep South Classic



The journey from the Twin Cities down to North Carolina for the Deep South Classic is a long one, but 43 Hoops program owner Chris Carr is confident the trip with be worth it.

“We’ve sent teams down there before, so this won’t be our first trip,” Carr said. “We have several players who are being recruited by high major schools from the SEC or the ACC or the Big Ten or Big 12, and the exposure will be great for them.

“The Deep South Classic has always had a tremendous reputation, and the other thing is that this event will give us an opportunity to play against some of the very best competition from across the country.”

The 19th Deep South Classic will be played from April 21-24 in Raleigh, N.C., and it will once again be held at the magnificent Raleigh Convention Center. The entire event will be played under one roof, with action flowing on 20 courts.

The most-watched athlete from 43 Hoops will be Carr’s daughter, 6-0 combo guard Christianna Carr, who is currently ranked as the No. 11 recruit in the Class of 2018 by the All Star Girls Report.

“Christian can shoot it, attack the basket, and defend multiple positions,” Coach Carr said. “She has an all-around game, and she has offers from multiple Top 25 programs.”

In addition to Carr, 43 Hoops also boasts talented 2018 prospects in Megan Walstad (6-2, F), Sommer Blakemore (5-7, PG), Haley Moore (6-2, G-F) and Zoey Hardwick (6-3, P). ASGR has Hardwick at No. 224.

“Megan is a versatile player who can defend multiple positions,” Carr said. “Her range extends out to the three-point line, and she is really developing into a high level scorer. Megan has a well-rounded game.

“Sommer is a tough, fierce competitor who is a great floor general. She can also shoot the ball, and she can attack the rim.

“Haley is the Swiss Army knife of our team. She can play anywhere from point guard to post. She is a high IQ player on both ends of the court, and Haley is a very, very good athlete.

“Zoey is a strong player with great size, and she finishes well in the lane with both hands.”

In the Class of 2017, 43 Hoops relies on Allie Pickrain (5-8, CG), Brittany Bongartz (6-2, F), Noelle Tomes (5-8, CG) and Erin Baxter (5-11, F).

“Allie is a deadly three-point shooter, whether she is coming off the dribble or it’s a catch-and-shoot situation,” Carr said. “Brittany is a versatile post player with three-point shooting range. She is highly skilled, both facing the basket and with her back to the basket.

“Noelle is a quick athlete who can score at the rim, and she is a very good shooter. Noelle is also an excellent free throw shooter. Erin shoots the ball very well, and she is a strong finisher inside. She is also a versatile defender.”