Week Eleven Previews and Predictions
Another week of important conference games with some quality non-conference match-ups in the Cincinnati area. And while coaches will be focused on getting their squads ready for this week’s games, they will also have an eye toward Sunday as well when tournaments draws are revealed. Let’s look at the week eleven Previews and Predictions.
Last Week: 4-1
Season: 23-9
Woodward (10-7, 5-3) at Withrow (10-8, 8-3), Tuesday 7:30pm: While not the rivalry that it once was, it is still a very quality non-conference game. The interesting thing of note in this game will be the matchup between C Abba Lawal (2019 PHO #11) and F Terry Durham (2018 PHO #88). Will the length of Lawal (6’11) be a problem for the athleticism and strength of Durham (6’5)? Woodward is also coming off a very good win on the road against Summit Country on Monday, a win at the ‘Row will give the Bulldogs two quality road wins in a row.
Prediction: Woodward
Deer Park (17-0, 11-0) at Madeira (7-3, 10-6), Tuesday 7:30pm: This is an important week for the Wildcats if they hope to finish the regular season undefeated. Madeira gave Deer Park their toughest game of the season in a 52-48 loss back on January 5th, which was also DP lowest point output of the season. Can the Mustangs pull off the home upset?
Prediction: Deer Park
Moeller (15-3, 4-0) at St. Xavier (13-5, 2-2), Friday 7:30pm: Time is running out if teams in the GCL-South hope to stop Moeller from a 2nd straight undefeated conference record. And when looking at the remaining of their conference schedule, this might be the best opportunity for that loss to happen. But…. the Crusaders won the January 13th meeting by 23.
Prediction: Moeller
Deer Park (17-0, 11-0) at Indian Hill (13-4, 9-2), Friday 7:30pm: A win by the Wildcats will give them the Cincinnati Hills League crown, there first one since the 2008 season. And to get it they must travel to face a tough Braves team lead by 2018 G Colin Shaw (PHO #94), who averages 17.6ppg. If Coach Gentry squad can control the pace from the opening tip, it will be a long night for Indian Hill.
Prediction: Deer Park
Walnut Hills (14-4, 10-1) at St. Xavier (13-5, 2-2), Saturday 7:30pm: Another quality non-conference match-up, and a possible playoff preview. St. X is one of the taller teams in the city and it will be interesting to see how the Eagles deal with the size. And it is because of this that the front-court tandem of 2018 C Zubi Nwankwo (7’1) and 2020 F Nick Smith (PHO #76) must stay on the floor if the Eagles hope to walk away with a victory.
Prediction: St. Xavier