“I wanted it more than y’all”
Tonight the Somerset Canyons Cougars hosted The King’s Academy Lions in the FHSAA 2A District 11 title game. In a game like this, where securing a post season bid is at the utmost importance, a take over is needed. You need a man to shoulder the entire weight of his squad with a smile on his face, and no matter how tired he may be; he continues to rise to the occasion.
You need a superstar. While those unfamiliar may say a star was born tonight, those around the Somerset Canyons program say it was another day in the office for Mr. DaVontey Oliver.
When I walked onto the field tonight, and made my rounds saying hello to players and coaches on both sidelines as I normally do, DaVontey gave me a fist bump and said “Coach you know I’d give you a hug, but I got a fever last night and I don’t want to get you sick.”
I replied to DaVontey and said: “You wear 23 for a reason, have an MJ Flu Game” in reference to Micheal Jordan’s 38 point, 7 rebound, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block performance in Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals.
I can assure you- DaVontey Oliver had his flu game. Defensively- it was another night under the lights for the 3-Star Eastern Michigan commit, who recorded 7 tackles, 3 Pass Breakups and 1 Forced Fumble in snaps lined up at corner and safety.
While these numbers on at DB could certainly get DaVontey nominated for weekly Defensive Player of the Week Honors, I’d like to present some numbers to boost Oliver’s stock to MVP candidacy.
The Cougar offense found themselves in an early 7-0 hole and desperately needed a spark. Somerset flipped their offensive game plan on its head, and threw DaVontey under center to run the Wildcat (or WildCougar) scheme. In doing so, Somerset Head Coach Alex Gonzalez ignited a lot more than just a small spark- he set off a fireworks show.
DaVontey Oliver’s stardom shined even brighter offensively than on defense, as he recorded 158 yards from scrimmage alongside two rushing touchdowns to propel the Set to their first District Title in program history.
Following the historic night, DaVontey reflected on his performance and had this to say:
“I’m feeling absolutely great…We executed, we knew what we had to do and we executed.” Oliver stated. “I did what my team needed me to do…I gave it all for my team and I’d do it again tomorrow.”
I then followed up with Somerset HC Alex Gonzalez, who had this to say about his star corner:
“DaVontey is a hard worker, he’s the heart and soul of our team overall…He does everything that we need him to do..He’s passionate, he’s a true leader.” Coach Gonzo shared. “I’m so proud of him man, yeah he was sick all day, but he came in here and was ready to go.”
The Somerset Canyons Cougars have officially punched their ticket to the FHSAA Post Season, but the job is far from over. Next week, the Set will hit the road and travel down to Miami to face True North Classical Academy on Thursday, October 17.
Cover Photo Credits: Alex Muniz, NewEraPrep
