Game Previews: Top 3 Games Of The Week
After a short break, most teams are back in action this week. The intensity should really ratchet up as we have arrived at conference play. With so many intriguing matchups across the state, it was hard to choose. In this…
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Continue ReadingAfter a short break, most teams are back in action this week. The intensity should really ratchet up as we have arrived at conference play. With so many intriguing matchups across the state, it was hard to choose. In this article, PH takes a look at the top 3 matchups of the week.
(1) Desert Pines at Silverado 1/6/20 6:30 PM – I have been targeting this game since the schedules came out. Two programs with championship goals will measure themselves in this one. In the case of Silverado, they have proven that they can win, however, they are still searching for that signature win on the season. This is a huge weekend for the Skyhawks overall as they face 8-time defending champions, Bishop Gorman, 3 days later. Desert Pines is trying to right the ship as well. After taking home the Eight Division Championship at the Tarkanian Classic, they dropped 3 straight at the Torrey Pines Holiday Tournament before rebounding with a win over Ingraham. Lot of talent on display as Silverado is lead by scoring machine Martell Williams and fabulous freshmen Darnell Fizer. DP counters with the play of standout sophomore Milos Uzan along with rising 2021 stud Dayshawn Wiley.
(2) Bishop Gorman at Durango 1/7/20 6:30 PM – There is nothing better than when two quality teams go at it. Durango has gotten off to a good start this year, already surpassing last season’s win total. In addition to his strategy, execution, and experience, the most valuable thing that new coach Chad Beeten has brought the Trailblazers is confidence. They have played a challenging schedule already and have come out on top more often than not. They have high major talent all across their roster, including Anthony Hunter, Keshon Gilbert, and fabulous freshmen, Sterling Knox, and Sebastian Mack. They will be taking on a Gorman team that received a much-needed rest last week. After playing a brutal schedule that included games against National ranked, Sheldon (CA), Eastside Catholic (Wa) and Corona Centennial (CA), the Gaels are a battle-tested squad. The natural matchup to watch is in the backcourt where the aforementioned Hunter and Gilbert will be going against Zaon Collins and Will McClendon. I, however, will be focused on the frontcourt matchup, as Kendrick Gilbert and Tyson Guild should present a formidable challenge for Gorman’s duo off Christian Bento and Braden Lamar.
(3) Liberty at Coronado 1/8/20 6:30 PM – If you’re looking for high-level talent, then look no further than this game. Julian Strawther and Jaden Hardy are both studs for their respective squads. In addition to those two, the game also features several other talented prospects. The matchup I will be keeping an eye on will be the battle down low between C/O 2022 studs, Jaxon Kholer and Joshua Jefferson. I featured these two early in the year in my preseason top 5 matchup articles. Both are extremely advanced with their footwork, and low post moves. Take it for granted that Hardy and Strawther are going put up big numbers, the key to victory lies in who else can step up for each team.