NCHSAA 3A East Regional Preview
The field for the Regional Round is all set as teams secured their spots on Saturday night with wins. Although there are some teams that we expected to be here, there a few surprise teams so let’s dive right in…
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Continue ReadingThe field for the Regional Round is all set as teams secured their spots on Saturday night with wins. Although there are some teams that we expected to be here, there a few surprise teams so let’s dive right in and take a closer look at the matchups and players.
#1 Westover vs #4 Clayton
Westover has dominated every game they have been in so far, winning games by about an average of 35 points with their starting SG being out in the most recent game due to injury. Clayton has been challenged in the last two games, winning those matchups by three games each but the Comets have a nice group of talent that should be able to compete with the Wolverines.
Players to Watch
Westover HS Junior Guard D’Marco Dunn has been on a mission all season, the 6’4 Guard has averaged just under 21 Points and 7 Rebounds to go along with it this season. He has proven himself as a High Major prospect and the list of colleges that interested are going each and every day.
Clayton HS Junior Forward BJ Freeman comes into this matchup averaging 21 Points & 11 Rebounds and will be looking to lead Clayton to the deepest run they have made since the days of Gary Clark. Freeman is a player that can be physical inside the paint as well as make a nice amount of plays on the perimeter.
Westover HS Senior Forward Traymond Willis-Shaw turned up the intensity for his team in their last matchup with Rocky Mount HS, throwing down dunk after and finishing with 30 Points. When he’s locked in on both ends of the floor, he’s a player that can be dominate and cause all types of problems for opponents.
Clayton HS Junior Guard Mason Rusch comes in as the second leading scorer for the Comets at 13 PPG, he understands how to use his strength to get into the paint and make plays as well as getting other players involved. If the Comets hope to pull off the upset, they will need a huge performance from this young man as Westover has plenty of Guards that can step up and play.
#10 Southern Durham vs #3 Northwood
Neither of the teams were necessarily considered a favorite to win it all but both have shown the ability to win games in various ways which is why they have reached regionals. The unique things about this matchup is that these teams have played already with Northwood getting the 20 point win at Southern Durham. Both teams have grown since then so it will be interesting to see how all of these things play out.
Players to Watch
Southern Durham Senior Guard Ricky Council IV is a name that you already know from not only his older sibling playing on the D1 level but also the constant highlights that he’s appeared on this season. He has outstanding athletic ability but also has proven himself to be a gifted scorer that can get you a bucket when the game is on the line.
Northwood HS Senior Aaron Ross leads the team in multiple stat categories such as points, assist and rebounds even though the Chargers get a nice amount of contribution from multiple players. Not only does he bring consistency on the offensive end, but he also has shown his ability to be just as good on the defensive side of the ball.