He'll likely be guarded by junior forward Keith Gallon, a 6-9, 300-pound prospect ranked No. 22 in the country on scout.com for the class of 2009 and No. 37 on rivals.com. The Gaels will try to use Sims' quickness to gain an advantage against Gallon.
"We don't want to make it a track meet, but at the same time, we think Henry can run on him," Gaels coach Pat Clatchey said. "I think if Henry gets out on the break, we might be able to create a numbers advantage."
Sims is no stranger to facing top prospects this season. He played 7-foot, Wake Forest-bound center Ty Walker of New Hanover (Wilmington, N.C.) at the Leon Brogden tournament at New Hanover on Dec. 28. The Gaels defeated New Hanover, 64-58, in overtime.
Sims outscored Walker 17-9, Mount St. Joseph won the tournament and Sims was named tournament Most Valuable Player. Gallon will be another tough opponent for him.
"This will be a good test for Henry against some good big guys in Oak Hill," Meyer said. "With his frame and mentality, he can play with anybody. If [Mount St. Joseph] can control the inside game and keep Jennings under control, they can win."
Win or lose, the Gaels plan on using this game to help prepare them for the competition of the Baltimore Catholic League and the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association A Conference.
"Anywhere you go, you say you're playing Oak Hill and everyone knows who you're talking about," Sims said. "Playing them will help us. When we come back to Baltimore, we'll have no fear of anybody."
stefen.lovelace@baltsun.com
