Based on the success Ohio-based teams had the entire spring and summer, it comes as no surprise to us that 2 teams from the Buckeye State would make some noise at the Division II 9U/3rd Grade Boys’ AAU Nationals in Orlando, Florida.
Both the newly formed Phenoms United and Columbus Monarchs finished undefeated in pool play before hooking up in the championship game on Thursday. Although the scrappy Monarchs would put up a gallant fight, Phenom United would pull ahead for good in the second half to secure the win and the World Championship.
For the sake of full disclosure, although Phenom United played together for the first time at the event, they really should have competed in Division I! There is a back story as to why this happened, but we understand people really don’t want to hear it.
With that being said, the Columbus Monarchs deserve all the credit in the world for competing at a high level, while demonstrating that they deserve a lot more respect nationally. Bottom line, in terms of basketball, Ohio is talent rich, and both teams represented the state of Ohio well. All of the kids, coaches and parents should be proud of their accomplishments!
