COLUMBUS, Ohio -- COVID was not stopping this game not again. The last time the Warhawks and Cardinals were scheduled to play each other, it was in the regional semifinals last year before the pandemic shook the 2019-2020 season to its core.

While the stakes weren’t as high for Tuesday’s regular season contest, each team returned a vast majority of talent from their district championship rosters as both are contending for another deep March run. Westerville Central was able to claim victory in the pseudo-rematch on Tuesday night, winning 53-48.

Westerville Central took control and set the tone initially, through an all-around zoned in effort from the entire starting five.  Quincy Clark made his presence felt early on both ends, scoring five first quarter points and forcing three Cardinals turnovers. 

Not to be pushed over easily, the Cardinals responded swiftly in the second.  After struggling to get going in the opening period, Thomas Worthington lead guard and Kent State commit Jalen Sullinger led an aggressive charge, having his most productive quarter with a nice balance between scoring and finding open teammates.  

The quarter ended with a bang, as Sullinger received an outlet pass from sophomore Joey Zalewski, sped down the court and zipped a direct pass to a wide open senior Tyrese Hughey for an easy bucket at the buzzer, tying the game at halftime.

The Cardinals momentum carried into the third quarter, as they took an early four-point lead, forcing a quick Warhawks timeout. That timeout proved to be a smart decision by Westerville head coach Kevin Martin as it unleashed Tasos Cook.

The senior guard went off in the third quarter, making an array of shots and strong finishes underneath.  Cook inflicted serious damage from the top of the key, including two from beyond the arc and one just inside.  Cook’s 12-point quarter put the Warhawks back in the lead heading into the fourth.

By then it was Quincy Clark’s turn, who already was having a very productive game, but saved his best for last.  The senior guard, who briefly spent time at Elevation Prep before returning to the Warhawks, added a majority of his 15 second-half points when it mattered the most.  Clark was scoring from all levels, while also being an active leader on defense. 

The Cardinals struggled with turnovers and consistent scoring in the fourth quarter and allowed the Warhawks lead to extend up to nine at one point in the final frame.

Jalen Sullinger finished with 11 points and although he did not have his best night, he did achieve a significant career milestone.  Going into halftime, the four-year varsity guard surpassed 1,000 career points, an impressive achievement for one of the area’s best players.

The Warhawks remain undefeated, led by the duo of Tasos Cook and Quincy Clark.  If no one has established the Cook & Clark law firm, it’s official now, as these seniors are serious business. The scouting report will share more individually, but Cook and Clark are two of the area’s best unsigned guards. The last two years, we have seen deserving last-minute Division I offers for current Wofford players Morgan Safford (Bishop Hartley, ‘19) and Keaton Turner (Dublin Coffman, ‘20). Both Cook and Clark display similar scholarship level talent and are deserving of more offers. Tonight’s game had several college scouts on hand.

Cook, Clark and the Warhawks are back in action next Tuesday against Pickerington North.

Thomas Worthington has some time off until they play at Hilliard Darby on January 8th.

Tasos Cook (6'1 WG / Westerville Central / 2021) - The senior guard once again showed off his impressive long-range shooting, making multiple three-pointers and having exceptional comfort at the top of the key.  Cook is also strong and physical, as he displayed no fear getting into the paint. One of his more impressive plays was out jumping three Worthington players for an offensive rebound, keeping the possession alive. Along with an impressive passing game that included four assists, Cook looks the part of a scholarship guard.  He’s strong, has bounce and can shoot the rock. 

Landon Tillman (5'11 WG / Westerville Central / 2021) - While his teammates may receive more accolades and headlines, Tillman was once again a vital contributor to a Warhawks victory. Taking the primary role of defending Sullinger, Tillman did a phenomenal job, limiting Sullinger well below his scoring average. The senior guard was a flat out thief, causing multiple pick-pocket steals, including two pivotal turnovers in the fourth quarter.  He also added five points, two assists and will continue to frustrate opposing teams point guards all season long.

Donovan Hunter (6'7 WF / Westerville Central / 2023) - Although he only scored two points, Hunter played the role his team needed of him tonight.  The talented sophomore has serious potential and already holds two Division I offers from George Washington and Ohio, much credit to his size and ability to stretch the floor.   However, the Warhawks are a talented team led by seniors that are aiming for a big postseason run and ready to win now.  While surrounded by teammates who can score, Hunter can best contribute to this year’s team by strong defense in the paint and work on the glass.   Hunter was posed with a tough challenge versus Worthington’s Tyrese Hughey, but responded well.  He was physical, had four rebounds, a block and didn’t look at all intimated.  If Hunter continues to grow on this type of performance, the Warhawks have one of the more complete starting-fives.

Quincy Clark (6'1 PG / Westerville Central / 2021) - A three-level scorer, Clark is a smart, disciplined player, making a presence on almost every possession of the game.   Tonight, Clark showed accuracy from deep, while also making crafty mid-range jumpers and drives to the hoop.   Clark has good size, takes care of the ball and forces other teams to turnover.   There’s a certain maturity to Clark’s approach that should give Warhawks fans confidence for another crack at a District title.

Tyrese Hughey (6’7 PF / Thomas Worthington / 2021) - The senior big played perhaps his best all around game of the season tonight, co-leading the Cardinals in scoring (12 points) while also adding seven rebounds, three assists, a block and a steal.  Hughey was dialed in from the beginning period, altering shots in the paint and avoiding foul trouble. Beyond the interior, Hughey is a gifted passer and we saw some impressive dishes once again tonight. His athleticism is elite, highlighted tonight by an impressive tip slam.  Hughey is a really unique player and when he’s playing at his potential, he can seriously impact any game.

Joey Zalewski (6’3 WG / Thomas Worthington / 2023) - On a team filled with seniors, the sophomore Zalewski continues to be one of the Cardinals best players each game. Tonight, he flirted with a double-double, co-leading with 12 points and leading with 8 rebounds. Zalewski does the dirty work, always to be found under the glass, including a couple offensive put-backs at critical moments. While it’s not as much needed right now, if he continues to develop an outside shot, Zalewski will be one of the area’s more intriguing 2023 prospects.