Region Preview: 6A Metro
The 6A Metro region should be primarily a two team race between Cesar Chavez and Central, with North a dark horse contender to make some noise. Alhambra, Trevor Browne, and Maryvale round out the region. Central – Central has everything…
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Continue ReadingThe 6A Metro region should be primarily a two team race between Cesar Chavez and Central, with North a dark horse contender to make some noise. Alhambra, Trevor Browne, and Maryvale round out the region.
Central – Central has everything athletically that a team needs. They have athletic size that can dominate the backboards and the paint on both ends, while flying around on the press covering a lot of ground and stealing any floating pass. Buka Mbegbu and Jaquan Butler will be a handful for most teams in the state to handle inside and in the transition game, while Terry Gardner will help provide some perimeter scoring. If Central brings their “A game” and high energy, they will be tough for any team to beat, but they are inconsistent. A lack of perimeter shooting, along with the need for a steady point guard could cost them some close games this season.
Cesar Chavez – The Champions are one of the most talented teams in the state, but have a lot of redundancy. They are very guard heavy outside of Malik Porter and De’Mond Hart, who have good size, but play even bigger due to their exceptional athleticism. Michael Rogers and Artin Quinones are both capable of pouring in 20 points on any random night, and all of that is just the supporting cast. Donald Carter could step in and play at the college level right now, and his physical maturity will show this season as he should overwhelm most opposing point guards. He is the unquestioned leader of this team, and Coach Lee’s coach on the floor. Expect Carter to make a run at an All- State selection.
North – The Mustangs are a solid group with no real standout stars. They have been impressive thus far in fall league play, as they play an up tempo style game and are an excellent passing team. While they have versatile players, they lack size, mainly in the form of girth. Rebounding and rim protection could be two major deficiencies for this team, especially against the big athletes at Central and Chavez.
Predictions
Region Champions: Cesar Chavez
Player of the Year: Donald Carter
Additional Playoff Teams: Central