Louisiana Top 28: 5A Preview
4. Chalmette vs. 9. Bonnabel
A game so nice, they’re playing it thrice. All terrible jokes aside, this one should be a great one, especially if you enjoy old school big man matchups. But don’t get it twisted, both of these big men, 6’8 Joseph Thompson of Bonnabel and 7’0 Mitchell Robinson of Chalmette, possess a new school flair, and the ability to create from the perimeter. Robinson is coming off a huge quarterfinal game in which he score 39 points. (You can watch the highlights of that game here: https://youtu.be/dcok7AIC2S4) If Joseph Thompson can play Mitchell Robinson to an even matchup, and I realize that’s a big if, then I like Bonnabel’s chances to win best two out of three. However, I can’t iterate enough just how tough it will be for Thompson. I’m putting my money on the future pro.
PHLA Pick: Chalmette
Players to watch
Chalmette:
Mitchell Robinson 2017 F
Glenshaw Amos 2017 G
Carlton Campbell 2017 G
Bonnabel
Joseph Thompson 2017 F
TJ Collins 2018 G
10. West Monroe vs. 22. Landry-Walker
When it comes to playoff time, a lot can be said simply about pedigree, especially in combination with talent. Heading into the season, an obvious title contender would be Landry-Walker. In the school’s first four seasons in existence they had reached the Top 28 three times. They have one of the most talented backcourts in the state, with both backcourt members having received offers to play at the next level. However, for most of the regular season, things never totally came together, and Landry-Walker finished the season 16-12, through an admittedly tough schedule. While the wins might not have come, they steadily improved, and seemed to have hit their stride at the right time. They have gotten upset wins in every single game this playoffs so far, and I don’t see that stopping anytime soon. I’m going with Landry-Walker to make it to the state finals once again.
PHLA Pick: Landry-Walker
Players to watch
Landry-Walker:
Lamont Berzat 2017 G (UNO Commit)
Malik Legania 2017 G
Devonta Jason 2018 F
West Monroe:
Langston Powell 2018 F
Jimmie Orange 2017 G