In a surprising twist at the Georgia Elite 8, Newton had to dig deep to secure a comeback win over McEachern. Despite missing standout player Ace Bailey, McEachern delivered a team-oriented, cohesive performance that kept them competitive and forced Newton to rally late to clinch the victory.
Standout Performers
Keep an eye on 2027 guard Chase Lumpkin (6’3”), who emerged as a standout for McEachern. Lumpkin’s growth over the past few years has been impressive, and his evolving skillset and court presence make him a bright prospect for Georgia basketball. His offensive confidence combined with defensive IQ was on display throughout the game, making him one of the top guards to watch in his class. McEachern’s collective approach on both ends of the floor promises they’ll be a formidable opponent in every matchup this season.
Newton Shakes Off Early Rust
Newton showed some early rust, typical for a first game, but managed to settle in as the game progressed. Key players for Newton include Marcus Smith (2025), a skilled 6’0” point guard, and versatile wings Davin Neal (2025, 6’6”) and Bryce Jackson (2026, 6’4”). Newton’s size and defensive intensity are strengths that should make them a serious contender in Georgia’s newly classified 6A division this season.
Looking Forward
With both teams showing early-season promise, McEachern’s disciplined, team-first approach and Newton’s depth and defensive potential set the stage for exciting seasons ahead. Newton’s resilience in their comeback hints at the potential for a deep playoff run, while McEachern’s depth and emerging stars like Lumpkin could spell trouble for any team that underestimates them.
