(#5) North Meck vs. (#4) Mount Tabor
Today, the third round of high school basketball playoffs take place. Teams have battled for the last four months in an attempt to make the playoffs and ultimately chase a state championship. While the final contest is typically the only game people will remember, there are seemingly always surprises and unforeseen results on the journey down glory road. Let’s take a closer look at some matchups that’ll undeniably have implications on the final outcome…
Right now, arguably no team has generated more buzz and excitement than North Meck. It obviously starts with Isaiah Evans (regarded as one of the top national prospects across all major outlets) and his ability to consistently dictate the action. His shot-making is especially lethal and allows him to frequently shine as the focal point. In addition to their five-star prospect, the Vikings have a slew of notable pieces. Trey Maxwell poses a major shooting threat and Carson Evans stands out through his toughness and ability to fill in the gaps. Furthermore, Chad Traylor has been a seamless addition, Ashton Pierce continues to trend upward, and Grey Murray produces nicely within his role. While they have other useful players, their core grouping will ultimately decide the outcome of this game.
The hosting Mount Tabor Spartans have the opportunity to surprise a lot of folks, despite being the higher-seeded team. This group has shown the ability to defeat opponents in a variety of different ways, but tonight will undoubtedly be their biggest challenge of the season. Their tough, methodical approach allows guys like Snook Peterkin, Joah Shay, Campbell Scurry, Robert Simmons, Jadon Blair, Will Koonin to each make an impact as difference-makers. Their balance and ability to have different wrinkles based on matchup is a massive part of what makes this group so difficult to beat.
This has all the makings of a terrific game. Two successful coaches, prestigious programs, contrasting styles, and countless noteworthy prospects involved for either side. Ultimately, this contest will boil down to who controls the opening half. While it might sound uncommon initially, the Vikings are averaging 46.6 first-half points to the Spartans’ 30.8. Evans will be the best player on the floor, so it’ll be interesting to see Tabor’s plan of attack for defending him—as hoping and praying hasn’t yet worked for any opponent.
