Cincinnati Sectional Predictions
It’s time to put the regular season records and performances to the side, because it’s playoff time in Ohio!! And when one look at the brackets in the Cincinnati area, you see the potential for some outstanding post-season matchups. We start our playoff outlook with previews and predictions of the sectional brackets.
Division I
Oak Hills vs. St. Xavier- The Bombers are coming off there most successful basketball season in over 5 seasons, but it could come to an end here if they cannot stop Christian Brothers commit G Nick Deifel. The Highlanders senior leads the team in scoring at 14.4ppg and can hot in an instant. Can St. X get enough production from there front-court, in particular F Brandon Gilbert (2018 PHO #95), will be another major question in this contest.
Prediction: St. Xavier
Princeton vs. West Clermont- The Wolves got a boost for the playoffs a few games ago with the return of 2020 C Jackson Ames (PHO #26), but it might be too little too late for this contest. Princeton has the size, athleticism and depth that can contend with about any team in the state.
Prediction: Princeton
Lakota East vs. Hamilton- These two teams are very familiar with each other, as they split their season series in the Greater Miami Conference. The funny thing about this is that if my prediction holds up, this will be a home game for Hamilton as they host districts this year.
Prediction: Hamilton
Withrow vs. Moeller- This game will feature a match-up that many across the state and country will be interested in, Texas commit F/C Jaxson Hayes (2018 PHO #8) and 2019 C Abba Lawal (PHO 2019 #11). Lawal will need to come up huge if the Tigers hope to pull-off the upset against the 2nd ranked team in the state.
Prediction: Moeller
Mason vs. Walnut Hills- This district was a tough one to pick as Walnut might play Winton Woods in a tough second round game. The name to remember for this match will be Walnut 2020 F Nick Smith (PHO #76). He must be the player to provide some scoring punch beside senior G Kameron Gibson if Walnut hopes to advance.
Prediction: Mason
Division II
Wyoming vs. Hughes- How will the Cowboys handle Hughes size and versatility will be a major factor in this contest. Everyone in the Big Red starting five can initiate offense off the defensive boards while all being sound decision makers. This will be a tough match-up for Coach Tim Edmonds squad.
Prediction: Hughes
Taft vs. Indian Hill- The Senators have been one of the best teams in the city since there roster became whole mid-way through January. And it is because of this depth that Taft’s pressing defensive style is so effective. If the Braves cannot limit the turnovers, it might get ugly early for the Indian Hill.
Prediction: Taft
Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Enquirer