Previews and Predictions: Class 3 Final Four
Prep Hoops Missouri takes a look at the upcoming Final Four of the Class 3 state tournament, which will take place on Thursday and Friday at the JQH Arena on the campus of Missouri State University in Springfield. This year’s…
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Continue ReadingPrep Hoops Missouri takes a look at the upcoming Final Four of the Class 3 state tournament, which will take place on Thursday and Friday at the JQH Arena on the campus of Missouri State University in Springfield. This year’s Final Four features four quality teams and some star power tradition. Of course, along with the preview comes my fearless predictions:
State Semifinals, Thursday, March 7
Vashon (24-5) vs. Charleston (20-10), 3:30 p.m.
A battle between two of the most storied programs in the state of Missouri. Vashon is making its 21st appearance in the Final while this is Charleston’s 22nd Final Four berth. Both programs are synonymous with winning championships. Vashon is bringing a loaded team to Springfield with several Division I prospects, including Mizzou recruit Mario McKinney, 6’7″ junior Cam’Ron Fletcher and 6’0″ guard Phillip Russell. The Wolverines scored impressive victories over Cardinal Ritter and Trinity during the postseason. Charleston was a Class 3 state finalists last year, but had to retool after losing its dynamic duo of Demarcus Sharp and Mardareyon Clark to graduation. The Bluejays have replaced them with an all-around team approach, led by 6’5″ junior post Blessin Kimble, guard Terridean Bogan, junior shooter Samuel Bledsoe and a complete cast. On paper, Vashon has the edge in talent, but Charleston is a team that will not back down and will come after the Wolverines. It should be a high-scoring game.
Prediction Vashon
Springfield Catholic (28-3) vs. St. Paul Lutheran (27-1), 5:10 p.m.
Another excellent matchup between two terrific teams having stellar seasons. Springfield Catholic is playing in familiar territory having played a number of games at the JQH Arena, including three games in the prestigious Bass Pro Tournament of Champions in January. Senior guard Jake Branham is a talented guard who is averaging nearly 20 points a game while fellow seniors Charlie O’Reilly and Michael Manzardo provide more firepower on the perimeter. St. Paul’s route to the Final Four was a dramatic one as they rallied from a 15-point deficit to stun St. Michael’s on an off-balance 3-pointer by sophomore Justin Griffith as time expired. The Saints have a good blend of veterans and talented underclassmen. They have a balanced scoring attack, led by senior shooting guard Eljah Muehler and senior forward Dobrivoj Andrejic. This should be an exciting one.
Prediction: Springfield Catholic
Third Place, Friday, 11 a.m.
Prediction: Charleston over St. Paul Lutheran
Championship Game, Friday,
Prediction: Vashon over Springfield Catholic