On Tuesday, the NCHSAA 2A Classification played their semifinal games to determine who will ultimately make the championship contest. Corvian Community and Southern Wake Academy each advanced and will now battle for it all in the title game. Although they’ve been here before, Corvian’s utter dominance against Queen’s Grant was largely unforeseen and unexpected. Predicting the Cardinals to win would’ve been normal, but a 30-point thwarting (and 20-point first half lead) was likely not how most expected things to unfold. On the other side, the Lions took care of business and won by 14 against a highly competitive Washington County squad. Who will separate themselves?
Honestly, these two teams are quite different in structure and approach. In looking at Corvian, they have the most electric, explosive offensive weapon on either team in RJ Moore. Anyone who watched their previous game (or Moore in basically any setting) should clearly understand his capabilities as a focal point. Malachi McCutcheon is quietly one of the most underrated players in the state given his unselfish approach, versatile identity, and general leadership on both ends of the floor. Guys like Andre Jackson, Demarkus Milton, Josiah Rucks, Adrian Scott, and Mike Olsen provide meaningful minutes for his group. Furthermore, this is a battle-tested squad who suffered defeat in the state championship just one year ago. It feels like they are more than prepared.
Last week, we wrote extensively about Southern Wake Academy, their depth of talent, and overall likelihood to win it all. Everything stated then still rings true. They have clearly defined roles across the board. Seung Surmons burdens a heavy scoring load, Bryan Epperson is a long, athletic forward who naturally fills in the gaps, Ira Wilson is a versatile forward who can do a little bit of everything, and Kobe Plata is a true point guard who sets the tone as an unselfish leader by example on both ends of the floor. Additionally, Jeremiah Henson and William Knight possess college-level ability and understand how to produce within the flow of the action. There is certainly no lack of talent with the Lions, so it’ll be interesting to see how things shake out. Expect an absolute battle between the two best teams in 2A.