Top 20 2018-19 Must See Metro Atlanta Matchups Pt. 2
Atlana, GA – Every year here in the metro Atlanta area we seem to have some very exciting and killer matchups. Whether it is a region, rivalry, showcase, or tournament matchup, the metro Atlanta area is known for some top and “can’t forget” type games. This year before the season begins I have decided to rank the top 20 must see matchups this season in the metro Atlanta area, below you can check out the 11-15 matchups.
11. On the Radar Showcase (Sat. Nov. 17th)– The Annual On the Radar Showcase hosted by Shun Williams and once again held at Norcross High School is always a great way to tip off the season here in the peach state. This season is loaded once again featuring some of Georgia’s consistent programs. This year programs like Wheeler, Langston Hughes, Southwest Dekalb, Dacula, Cedar Shoals, Grayson, Pebblebrook, Norcross, and more will be competing in this event this year. Top matchups include Grayson-Dacula, Langston Hughes-Shiloh, Cedar Shoals-Pebblebrook, Wheeler-Norcross, and more.
12. Bishop Snyder (FL) v. Norcross (Sat. Nov. 24th)– One of many games at this seasons 5th Annual Holiday Hoopsgiving Classic features a borderline matchup between Florida and Georgia. Bishop Snyder, out of Jacksonville, Florida, will be making the drive to Atlanta during their Thanksgiving holiday to face one of Georgia’s top programs. The Cardinals finished at an overall 16-10 last season and feature one of the nations best 2020 prospects in 2020 W Corey Walker. Walker is a very efficient wing and will be one of the players to watch throughout the Holiday Hoopsgiving. His matchup with 2020 W Brandon Boston Jr. of Norcross highlights this matchup and should be a good one. Other next level prospects will also be showcasing their talents in this one.
13. Jared Cook Classic (Sat. Nov. 17th & Mon-Tues Nov. 19-20th)– Another Annual showcase we have to brag about here Atlanta, the Jared Cook Classic, which will be hosted once again at North Gwinnett High School. This year’s field includes programs like Dacula, Miller Grove, Greater Atlanta Christian, Etowah, Grayson, Lithonia, Meadowcreek, and more. I believe a few under the radar matchups will be played at this event and it is always good to check in.
14. Buford v. Wheeler (Fri. Dec. 14th)– The 2nd Annual Hawks Naismith Classic is expected to tip off Friday night December 14th at Norcross High School and this matchup here will end on what should be a great first night. This is expected on what should be an intriguing matchup. Both programs are one of the best in their respective class, with Buford being in 5A and Wheeler at 7A. It is also another one of my battle for Gatorade Player of the Year matchups where will have 2019 SG Marcus Watson of Buford up against UC-Berkley commit 2019 SG Charles Smith IV of Wheeler. It also brings a great frontcourt matchup between Bucknell commit 2019 F Malachi Rhodes of Wheeler against 2019 F Eric Coleman of Buford. Wheeler defeated Buford in last season’s game at a score of 78-65 at the Holiday Hoopsgiving.
15. Pebblebrook-Westlake rivalry (Fri. Jan. 11th & Tues. Jan. 29th)– Now out of all the rivalries we have here in the state of Georgia, the Pebblebrook against Westlake rivalry have been by far one of the top rivalries year after year. When these two schools meet it is always for bragging rights. Both schools are not too far from each other, plus they are in the same region, which means they are bound to see each other, at least 2-3 times per year. Pebblebrook swept the Lions last season after beating them twice in the regular season and a third in their region tournament. In the last 3 seasons, Westlake owns the series between the two with an overall 6-4 record. Expect a sold out gym when these two meet, especially when Pebblebrook host Westlake on Friday Jan. 11th. It is going to be a good one.