8 Players to Watch on Wednesday at the Sweet 16 (Evening Session)
The Sweet Sixteen kicks off on Wednesday afternoon at Rupp Arena. The marquee game of the opening day is Trinity taking on on Scott County at 130 but there are plenty of talented kids that will take the floor on Wednesday evening, including 2 Division 1 signees. Here’s a look at some names to watch:
Skyelar Potter, Warren Central – The best player in the 4th region, Potter is signed to Wright State. Potter is capable of scoring buckets on anyone and from anywhere on the floor. Potter has gotten in foul trouble more than once this season. If that happens on Wednesday, the Dragons could be very susceptible to an upset.
Jordan Cousin, Warren Central – The difference between losing to Southwestern and making a Final 4 run could be Cousin. The senior dropped 48 against Bowling Green a couple weeks ago against Bowling Green. If he gets on fire from deep, watch out!
Hunter Stevens, Southwestern – The little point guard for the Warriors has scored 35 or more points on several occasions this season. Southwestern is capable of knocking Warren Central off and advancing. In order for them to pull it off, they need a big performance from Stevens.
Jonathon Gallagher, Southwestern – The post player for Southwestern, Gallagher is averaging 13 points and 7 rebounds per game on the season. He shoots 49% from the field for the season but is no threat from 3, where he shot just 0-2 on the season.
Wyatt Battaille, Pikeville – The best player in the 15th region and a potential Division 1 college player, Battaille is a dynamic offensive player who can score on anyone. Wyatt is good enough athletically that he could start for any team in the state, including Trinity and Scott County. If Pikeville can pull a big upset over John Hardin, Battaille will be a huge part of it.
Mickey Pearson, John Hardin – The best player in the 5th region and committed to Saint Louis University, the 6’8″ Wing forward will need to continue being the best player on the floor for a few more games to give the Bulldogs a chance to make a run at Rupp Arena.
Malik Wright, John Hardin – The X factor for John Hardin. When Malik is good, John Hardin is very tough to beat. When Malik is mediocre, John is very susceptible to losing to anyone. If Wright is focused and locked in, John Hardin may be in the Final 4 on Saturday evening. If Wright is not productive, they could lose to Pikeville.
Alex Matthews, John Hardin – Matthews is a warrior and the glue guy for John Hardin. Consistently putting up double digit points and rebounds, Alex does all the little things for Coach McCurry’s team. The opposite of Wright, John Hardin knows exactly what they will get from Alex Matthews on a nightly basis.