Last night, the third round of NCHSAA high school playoffs took place. While multiple outcomes were expected, there were several close, highly competitive games on display. Regardless, we have the last eight teams remaining in the 4A playoffs:
West
(#5) North Meck vs. (#1) Myers Park
(#2) Lake Norman vs. (#11) Chambers
East
(#3) Green Level vs. (#2) Richmond
(#1) New Hanover vs. (#12) Panther Creek
Although this classification is loaded every year, it feels like this grouping is as talented as we’ve seen in recent seasons. Let’s take a brief look at each squad, starting with the West…
North Meck
It probably goes without saying, but the Vikings consistently have one of the most talented rosters on a yearly basis—and this squad is no exception. Isaiah Evans is a one-man wrecking crew, but the likes of Chad Traylor, Ashton Pierce, Carson Evans, Greg Murray each make this team an incredibly difficult matchup for opponents. Their upcoming opponent will undoubtedly be the biggest challenge of the season.
Myers Park
After not having a single men’s basketball title prior to last season, Myers Park is looking to do the highly improbable and be the first 4A team to win back-to-back championships since 2000-02. Between their coaching staff and incredibly talented cast of players, this shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. This group has gone 55-6 while playing an extremely challenging schedule and in several national events over the last two seasons. Their core of Bishop Boswell, Sir Mohammed, Sadiq White, Ashton King, and Jacob Paraison continues to shine.
Lake Norman
Currently enjoying their best season in a decade, the Wildcats have shown the makings of a state-title level squad. They might have the deepest group remaining, given the fact they probably have nearly a dozen guys who could play in college. Their core grouping of Trent Steinour, Tre McKinnon, Santana Lynch, Josh Yates, Nick Arnold garners a lot of attention, but guys like Will Googins and Grant Dryden also play critical roles.
Chambers
The lowest remaining seed, Chambers, is possibly the most talented eleventh seed ever. Tarris Bouie just went for 40 points in a third-round playoff game, but he’s also surrounding by a ton of noteworthy pieces. In addition to Bouie, their core of Maurio Hanson, Markus Kerr, Jordan Patton, Jaydon Terrell, Malik McCotter, and Cameron Thompson has proven their ability to go toe-to-toe with any opponent in the state.
