Previews and Predictions: Class 5 Sectionals
Prep Hoops Missouri takes a look at the Class 5 Sectionals, with all eight games taking place on Wednesday, starting at 6 p.m. I also have my fearless predictions for the eight sectional games. Jackson (18-10) vs. Mehlville (22-7) at…
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Continue ReadingPrep Hoops Missouri takes a look at the Class 5 Sectionals, with all eight games taking place on Wednesday, starting at 6 p.m. I also have my fearless predictions for the eight sectional games.
Jackson (18-10) vs. Mehlville (22-7) at Jefferson College (Hillsboro)
Jackson pulled off a mild surprise with its victory over top-seeded Poplar Bluff in the District 1 championship game. The Indians got a big game from 6’1″ senior guard Colton Seyer, who has stepped up in a big way after Jackson lost an excellent senior class to graduation. Senior forward Dawson Tollison is a solid post player who had 15 points against Poplar Bluff last Friday night. Mehlville comes in playing good basketball with a full compliment of players after battling injuries all season. The ringleader is 6’5″ junior guard Dylan Branson, who can score it and pass the ball. Junior Davion Bradford is a 7’0″ force in the middle who averages 16 points and 11 rebounds a game while 6’7″ junior Lamontay Daugherty is a skilled and athletic forward.
Prediction: Mehlville
Eureka (16-10) vs. CBC (21-7) at Lindenwood University
Eureka emerged from a very competitive District 3 field to win the championship behind the play of 6’5″ senior forward Avery Taggart, a versatile big wing player who is headed to Southern Illinois to play football and basketball. Junior guard Jhalon Asher-Sanders is an aggressive 5’9″ guard who is strong on the drive. CBC has been impressive in rolling to the Metro Catholic Conference title and a district title to follow up. They are led by 6’3″ junior Caleb Love, who is averaging nearly 20 points a game. Senior power forward Josh Wallace and senior wing player Ari Sanders have been consistent players at both ends of the floor all season. How Eureka handles CBC’s pressure defense will be a big key tonight.
Prediction: CBC
McCluer North (26-3) vs. Hazelwood Central (16-12) at St. Charles West
A battle of old North County rivals will take place tonight in St. Charles County. McCluer North came out of a loaded District 3 after defeating host Webster Groves for the championship.The senior-laden Stars are quick and very athletic with 6’2″ senior A”Tavian Butler and 6’3″ senior Patrick Evans, who play above the rim. Hazelwood Central has done well in a transition year after losing eight seniors from last year’s state quarterfinal team. Senior guard Isaiah Ervin provides a lot of scoring and the ability to get buckets in the clutch. The supporting cast is young, but they have come along nicely during the season. Central won the first matchup this season on a 3-pointer at the buzzer by sophomore forward Jai Graham.
Prediction: McCluer North
Francis Howell (26-2) vs. Battle (20-7) at Maryville University
Francis Howell is coming off one of its most impressive performances in recent years in defeating Fort Zumwalt South 79-44 in the district finals. The Vikings have size, plus there is a quality player at every position. It all starts with 5’7″ senior point guard Daylan Dalton and 6’4″ senior Patrick Schulte, who can both score and defend. Up front, the Vikings have 6’4″ junior matchup problem Matt Schark and 6’9″ sophomore Matt Thompson. Battle is in the sectionals for the third consecutive year. The Spartans are young and probably a year away, but they are making it happen now with 6’2″ junior guard Maricus Grant leading the way. Battle also has good young talent is 6’3″ sophomore Cachao Gianquinto, 6’6″ junior Andi Ibriham, 5’10” junior Zyvaughn Ward and 6’0″ sophomore xx Meny.
Prediction: Francis Howell
Rock Bridge (21-3) vs. Camdenton (22-6) at Sedalia
Rock Bridge is looking for deep tournament run and it got things started right with a 73-35 victory over Ray-Pec in the district finals. They have the state’s most potent perimeter trio in 6’6″ Isiaih Mosley, 6’2″ Dajuan Harris and 6’4″ Jamonta Black. All three can score, pass and handle the ball. Camdenton is making its first appearance in the sectionals in 37 years. The Lakers have a solid group of juniors in Brandon Pasley, T.J. Anderson and Drake Miller.
Prediction: Rock Bridge
Kickapoo (21-6) vs. Republic (22-6) at Drury University
These are two excellent programs that have enjoyed its share of postseason success in recent years. Kickapoo is back in the winner’s circle again after a transition year in 2018. They are led by talented sophomore guard Anton Brookshire, who knocked down the game-winning 3-pointer in the district championship victory over Nixa. Republic is back in the sectionals for the first time since 2014, when they won back to back Class 4 state championships. They are led by versatile 6’4″ wing Broc Smith.
Prediction: Kickapoo
Lee’s Summit North (24-3) vs. Blue Springs South (19-8) at Independence
Lee’s Summit North took home the District 13 championship by defeating a strong Rockhurst team that it had lost to in two previous meetings. The Broncos have one of the top backcourts in the state in seniors Javaunte Hawkins and Michael Henderson along with athletic wing Elijah Smith. Blue Springs South is strong up front with 6’5″ senior Jared Ravencamp and 6’7″ sophomore forward Jaylen McDaniel. Lee’s Summit North won the previous meeting between these two teams 81-71.
Prediction: Lee’s Summit North
William Chrisman (19-8) vs. Park Hill South (18-7)at Independence, 3 p.m.
Park Hill South features one of the state’s top bucket-getters in senior guard Lamel Robinson along with excellent point guard Desi Williams while guard Dawson Owen can shoot it. William Chrisman has put together a strong season with 6’5″ senior forward Dawson Hurl leading the way with his good all-around play. Junior guard Isaiah Jackson is also very productive.
Prediction: Park Hill South