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First off, let me say congratulations to Varina for winning back to back Class 4 Championships. They definitely earned it.

Now to the main point of this post... if you didn't know the name O'maundre Harris before last night, you do now! Those of us that have been lucky enough to see Dre play all year knew he was one of the best players in Class 4. But, after last night, it's safe to say that he was the best player in all of Class 4 this year. He dominated on the biggest stage. Again, congratulations to the Varina community on another championship.

Final in VHSL Class 3 Girls State Basketball Championship - Carroll County 78, Brentsville District 41.

Carroll closes out at 27-1 overall, winning its last six playoff games by an average of 39.3 PPG to win their second straight state title.

The two best teams in 5A will play Sat. Gonna be a heck of a game. PH may have played in a weak region but they aren’t weak. Woodside should be favored bht PH can ball.

What a day State Championship Thursday was at the Siegel Center for the 2023 VHSL State Basketball Tournament. We saw four outstanding individual performances - two in defeat with Azzy Hammons of Eastside and O'Maundre Harris of E.C. Glass and two in victory with George Mason commit Kennedy Harris of Hampton and Lancaster sophomore Troy Henderson - as four Champions were crowned. Rappahannock County and Hampton Girls took home titles as did the Varina Boys - who repeated - and Lancaster, which completed an undefeated season.

Friday will crown four more Champions, including a couple that try to repeat with Hayfield Boys and Carroll County Girls. Our Keys and Predictions below...


CLASS 3 GIRLS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Carroll County Cavaliers (26-1) vs. Brentsville District Tigers (21-6)

Carroll County Keys to Victory:
#1 - Feed Ervin:
#2 - Keep Yergey Off the Line:
#3 - Stay on the Attach

Brentsville District Keys to Victory:
#1 - Limit Live Ball Turnovers
#2 - Box Out
#3 - Get Back in Transition


Hat's Pick - Carroll County 72-48



CLASS 3 BOYS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Northside Vikings (28-1) vs. Hopewell Blue Devils (24-3)

Northside Keys to Victory:
#1 - Stay Unselfish: What has made Northside so successful not only this season, but over the years under Pope is how they share the basketball, performing within the framework of his system and the team concept. It may not seem like much that their top eight performers put up 14.3 assists per game collectively, but they turn it over just 8.9 times a game. They make the extra pass and it translated to the efficiency and balance they've displayed during this 28-1 run. Bottom line, it doesn't matter who scores as long as they get the end result they're seeking.

#2 - Limit Open 3's: On the year, the Blue Devils have made 150 3's out of 451 attempts for 33%. It's not like they are a team that will look to drain upwards of double-digit 3's, but when they win that area of the game, it usually leads to Hopewell prevailing. When Northside suffered its lone loss of the season to Cave Spring, the Knights drained 10 3's. It's no coincidence that amount was cut in half to five when the Vikings avenged that defeat in the last round. The Blue Devils are so difficult to defend off the bounce, and their forwards in Long and James command attention, that it's important Northside doesn't help off those drives to the rim and leave uncontested shooters.

#3 - Bench Production: In addition to the likes of Cole, Harvey, Smith, Hardy, Anthony and Crawford who were outlined earlier, the Vikings have gotten plenty of valuable contributions off the bench. In particular, the likes of Kai Logan, a 5'10" junior guard, and 5'10" junior wing David Via have provided lifts at various times throughout the season. It doesn't have to always be in the scoring column either. Draw a key charge, get a deflection, a steal, make a pass that leads to the pass that turns into a score, and hustle for loose balls. Those intangible things equate to winning plays on the Championship stage.


Hopewell Keys to Victory:
#1 - Protect the Paint: Northside has multiple ball-handlers and drives that are so clever and crafty. Hardy and Cole are two of their better guys in terms of attacking and getting downhill. What they do in creating is not only get into the painted area and score a bevy of points that way, but it often collapses the defense and opens up the floor for shooters to quality, high-percentage looks. The Hopewell defense must do a good job of protecting the paint and avoid foul trouble at the same time. The Blue Devils aren't a big-time shot-blocking team, so they have to stay sound when Northside gets near the cup.

#2 - Get Second Chance Points: When Hopewell suffered a 57-55 heart-breaking loss to Highland Springs on the road in the regular season finale, it not only halted a 16-game winning streak, but showed an area they needed to correct before the playoffs began. That was defensive rebounding in the sense that the Springers feasted on 17 offensive rebounds. They've been much better in that area in the postseason, never more crucial than in the region semis vs. Petersburg when they out-rebounded the Crimson Wave 42-28. Long had 14 boards that night. Against Skyline, he and James each grabbed eight boards, and even the guards in Hunter and Mise had six apiece.

#3 - Let Defense Fuel Offense: As noted earlier, Northside doesn't beat themselves a lot with self-inflicted miscues. That being said, Hopewell had to turn to its full-court pressure in the Region 3A Finals vs. Lake Taylor to win and avoid facing unbeaten Skyline in the quarterfinal round of the State Semis. They erased that double-digit deficit by generating steals and then turning them into points off turnovers. Northside is too smart to press or trap at will and pounce that way, but if they can pick their spots for double-teams and come up with a few steals that lead to buckets, that would go a long way towards coming out on top.


Hat's Pick - Northside 68-62



CLASS 6 GIRLS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Madison Warhawks (24-4) vs. Manchester Lancers (22-5)

Manchester Keys to Victory:
#1 - Go Through Mia
#2 - Maximize the Foul Line
#3 - Disrupt the Dribbler

Madison Keys to Victory:
#1 - Dictate Tempo
#2 - Deny Woolfolk
#3 - Manufacture Points


Hat's Pick - Manchester 51-49 (OT)



CLASS 6 BOYS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Hayfield Hawks (29-1) vs. Patriot Pioneers (27-3)

Hayfield Keys to Victory:
#1 - Perimeter Defense: In that first meeting, the Pioneers never got hot from three-point distance, converting on 3-of-14 field goal attempts from behind the arc. The Hayfield defense has the athleticism and the bodies on the wing and at the guard spot, with Jones able to check a post or shooter at his size, to get them off their spots to catch and let it fly with ease. Strong close outs on the Patriot shooters and making them have to re-locate and work longer in the possession should be part of the strategy.

#2 - Fun on the Break: Hayfield is one of the most fun, exciting teams to watch in the state because they are dynamic in transition. They need to score in transition and maybe more than the 14 fast-break points they produced in their 67-47 win over Battlefield for last year's Class 6 crown, where they pulled away in large part due to a 23-4 advantage in points off turnovers. Patriot probably won't turn it over as much, but even after a make, the Hawks need to look to push it with Holloway, Bass-Briscoe, Awoke, Jackson and company.

#3 - Stay Connected: The Hawks didn't get here playing one-on-one iso ball. They've done it by being connected where the sum of the parts are greater than the individuals alone. Even though they had only nine assists in last year's title game they saw four players score in double-figures. It's a deeper bench than a season ago with subs like 6'2" senior shooting guard Braelen Cage (5.2 PPG) and 6'4" junior wing Andy Ramirez (4.4 PPG). Make them a factor and keep everyone involved. Don't lose sight of the prize.


Patriot Keys to Victory:
#1 - Clean the Glass: In the first encounter, Hayfield finished with a rebounding edge of roughly 34-22. Patriot never was able to control the backboards, yet they are capable of doing so with Randall and Vick both good-sized bodies on the front-line that have given athletic teams that attack the boards fits. King came up with nine offensive rebounds the last time, so sealing him off and making sure they have multiple bodies box him out so he doesn't sneak his way in there for those put-backs because he tracks the ball so well is vital here.

#2 - Value the 3 Ball: One of the aspects that probably gets forgotten about with Patriot is how well they can buckle down defensively, which they not only showed in their State Tournament quarterfinal win over Landstown, but in the 47-39 triumph over Oscar Smith in the State Semis in which they limited the Tigers to 15 second half points. The Tigers can get hot from 3, but Patriot didn't allow that to happen. Additionally, Patriot values the 3-point shot and it was really evident in their February 8th win over Battlefield by a count of 70-55 when they secured the Cedar Run District's top seed for the tourney thanks to 10-of-17 shooting from long range. Wilcox dropped 11 off the bench in that one. A flurry of 3's in this one can make a big difference.

#3 - Account for King: Edison was able to shut down King and keep him to no field goals and only six points in the Occoquan Region 6C title game when Jones erupted to help them prevail 69-66. However, in the State Semis, King broke loose with a team-best 28 points, 18 before half-time, as they turned a 36-35 lead on South Lakes at the break into a 71-59 victory. Hayfield is so balanced offensively, but he can carry them to the finish line if the Pioneers allow him. He's got over 500 career rebounds, so containing him better this go around is critical.


Hat's Pick - Hayfield 75-74

1. Lancaster
2. George Wythe
3. Auburn
4. Altavista
5. Franklin
6. Middlesex
7. Twin Springs
8. Honaker
9. Northampton
10. Eastside

Class 4 Region A girls championship: Hampton leads King's Fork 18-7 after a quarter

It's VHSL State Basketball Championship Thursday on this March 9, 2023. Four games at the VCU Siegel Center in Richmond features only one team with a chance to repeat from a season ago and that is Varina in Class 4 Boys. We provide Keys to Victory with each game below...

So how did the State Playoff Picks do for the semifinal round? Here's a review below...

Class 6 = 2-0
Class 5 = 2-0
Class 4 = 1-1 (missed on Varina/King's Fork)
Class 3 = 2-0
Class 2 = 2-0
Class 1 = 2-0

Hat's 2023 VHSL Semifinal Total = 11-1 (91.7%)
Hat's 2023 VHSL State Tournament Total = 33-3 (91.7%)
Hat's 2023 Playoff Record = 186-42 (81.6%)


CLASS 1 GIRLS STATE FINALS – Rappahannock County Panthers (21-7) vs. Eastside Spartans (24-5)

Rappahannock County Keys to Victory:

#1 – Turn Eastside Over: Eastside committed 18 turnovers vs. J.I. Burton in the State Semis. Rappahannock thrived with a lot of steals in the State Tournament quarterfinal triumph over King & Queen. Being able to turn the opposition over and score off those miscues is becoming a staple in year six at the helm for Coach Jeff Atkins and his team.

#2 – Stop Dribble Penetration: Sophomore 5’7” guard Azzy Hammons (20.7 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.5 SPG, 2.6 APG) and 5’6” junior guard Taylor Clay (14.7 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 3.5 SPG) make the Spartans go. Both are so lethal as Hammons has already scored over 1000 points, including 23 in the State Semis. Clay went off for 38 points, 13 boards, two assists and a couple of steals in the 71-49 win over Fort Chiswell in the State Tournament quarterfinals. They have to keep them from getting to the rim on drives, especially Clay.

#3 – Capitalize on Free-Throws: This was a troublesome area in their 47-36 win that the Panthers had over Franklin in the regional quarterfinals. In a game like this that could go right down to the wire, converting at the foul line with their main pieces – such as lone senior Savannah Loving, 5’9” center Chloe Jenkins (who scored the go-ahead hoop vs Buffalo Gap in the State Semis and had 18 vs. King & Queen in the State Quarters) and sophomore Summer Shackleford (13 vs. King & Queen) – is paramount.


Eastside Keys to Victory:

#1 – Second Chance Points: The Spartans, who suffered three of their five losses in a tourney in North Carolina, out-rebounded Burton 43-31 in the State Semis. That enabled them to get a hard-fought 53-52 win, reversing the outcome from their 49-41 loss in the Region 1D Championship. Particularly influential in this effort should be 5’11” junior forward Reagan McCoy, who collected 11 rebounds in the last round.

#2 – Play with Pace: In order to get Hammons clean looks and allow Clay to operate freely on the drive, it’s critical that Eastside plays at a nice pace and is able to operate in an up-tempo setting against Rappahannock County’s defense. The more transition opportunities, the better their chances are to get a lead and then settle in as the game moves along into the second half becomes more of a half-court chess match.

#3 – Finish Strong: Eastside led Burton by 12 in the second quarter of the State Semis, but got outscored 23-15 in the fourth period and had to hold on late. In some earlier playoff wins – by 22 over Fort Chiswell in the State Quarters as well as by 22 over Grundy and by 14 over Twin Valley in regionals – this was not an issue. Rappahannock County was down 12 early in the fourth quarter before a 17-4 run turned into a thrilling 42-41 win over Buffalo Gap in the State Semis, so the Panthers will fight to the end.


Hat's Pick – Eastside 50-44



CLASS 1 BOYS STATE FINALS – Lancaster Red Devils (28-0) vs. George Wythe Maroons (26-3)

Lancaster Keys to Victory:

#1 - Fast and Furious: When you watch Lancaster play, you wouldn't think they are a Class 1 team. Sure, in size perhaps, but not at the rate of speed in which they operate, constantly fast and furious - - like a Vin Diesel movie. Just go back to the State Semis vs. Altavista, where they quickly turned an 8-2 deficit into a 17-12 lead after one quarter of play. This team plays a track meet better than anyone else at this level. Since regionals started, they're putting up 69.2 PPG and they don't just get to the rim at will, they're able to dial it up from distance, as illustrated when they drained 12 3's in the Region 1A Final vs. Middlesex.

#2 - Apply Pressure: Part of how Lancaster plays its pedal to the medal style is because of a suffocating full-court pressure defense. Against whoever, whenever and wherever, they don't mind going to its 2-2-1 early in games and trying to get the opposition unglued with a four-guard, sometimes even five-guard, lineup. In the regional semis vs. Essex, a game they cruised to a 62-32 win, the Red Devils forced the Trojans into 18 turnovers. Jumping out to a double-digit lead before the first period is over is what they want

#3 - Stay Out of Foul Trouble: Because Lancaster plays so aggressive on defense, it lends itself to foul issues. That was seen vs. Altavista the last time out, where the Red Devils were called for their eighth team foul with 6:10 to go in the second quarter. Their tenth team foul, putting the Colonels in the double bonus, came with 1:14 before half-time. Now, Lancaster led comfortably 37-22 at the half in that one, but they don't want to give Wythe - a team that gets to the foul line 16 times a contest - free trips to the charity stripe.


George Wythe Keys to Victory:

#1 - Be Proficient from 3: A season ago, the Maroons were 154-of-537 (28.7%) from three-point range. This season it is even better, to the tune of 258-for-700 (36.9%) from behind the arc. That includes a riveting 16-of-22 three-point shooting display in the State Tournament quarterfinal win over a Twin Springs team known for its perimeter snipers in Bradley Owens and Connor Lane. Kirtner and Goode have 127 makes from deep between them, but this is going to come down to being efficient and proficient on their triple tries. A showing like the 4-of-18 from 3 vs. Auburn the last time out probably won't be enough to prevail.

#2 - Control the Backboards: Lancaster isn't known to be a great rebounding team. After all, the Red Devils are guard heavy with only one player taller than 6-foot-3 and that is 6'5" reserve forward Kelvin Davis, a senior. On the flip side, Wythe isn't the biggest of teams either, sporting just two bodies - 6'4" junior forward T.J. Pulliam and 6'4" sophomore forward Conley Martin - over 6-foot-2. As a team, Wythe has grabbed 789 rebounds, an average of 27.2 per contest. Rainey is their top board guy at 4.8 per contest. He along with Campbell and 6'2" sophomore forward Rex Delp are the three guys on the roster with 100-plus rebounds on the season.

#3 - Stay Balanced Offensively: As outlined earlier, Wythe is known for balanced scoring. That must continue in this spot to keep pace with a high-octane opponent like Lancaster. If Wythe tries to get someone to go for 30 and carry the scoring load, it's probably not going to end with the outcome they want. Keeping all five on the court involved so that the Lancaster defense has to account for everyone, rather than go to double teams or trapping, will be a big deal, too. The goal is to get more than three players in double-figures, which is what happened in each of their three losses to date.

Hat’s Pick – Lancaster 68-60



CLASS 4 GIRLS STATE FINALS – Hampton Lady Crabbers (24-3) vs. Pulaski County Lady Cougars (26-3)

Hampton Keys to Victory:

#1 – Work Inside-Out: Coach Shanda Bailey’s team needs to establish the inside game before finding the touch from three-point land. They don’t want to fall in love with three-pointer. Certainly their go-to playmaker is George Mason signee Kennedy Harris, who put up 27 points per game as a junior en route to Peninsula District Player of the Year honors and has been even better this season in posting 31.4 PPG during the regular season. The more the defense collapses on her in the paint and sends a second defender, that should open perimeter opportunities as the game progresses.

#2 – Find Complementary Scoring: As great as Harris is, putting up 31.9 PPG through the team’s first nine games, no one else was averaging more than 9.6 PPG during that span. There are some capable options, especially 6’1” sophomore forward Kaliya Perry (15 points, 15 rebounds, 5 blocks vs. Heritage on Feb. 10), 5’2” junior point guard Breyanna Foster, and 5’10” junior power forward Jaiden Hunter. Perry, who holds offers already from Delaware State and Coppin State, hit a huge three-pointer at the third quarter horn to cut King’s Fork’s lead to 36-32 in their 55-49 comeback win. Foster later hit a game-tying three-pointer and made 4-of-4 at the foul line late.

#3 – Make Pulaski One-Dimensional: Either take away the three-point shot or the paint touches. Or, the Lady Crabbers can try to keep them out of transition. Whatever they do, it’s vital they make them depend one aspect. Hampton’s versatility can be the difference in this game. They have the athleticism at the necessary positions to switch their defenses up and keep Pulaski off balanced effectively.


Pulaski Keys to Victory:

#1 – Weather the Storm: It’s crucial for Coach Scott Ratcliff and his Lady Cougars that they don’t get behind early by multiple possessions and start to get antsy against a team that can score in bunches like Hampton. Pulaski trailed by 10 at the half in its 54-53 comeback win over Tuscarora in the State Semis. Fall behind double-digits vs. Hampton with its weaponry and a dynamic scorer like Harris could be their demise, even though this is a Pulaski outfit that has yet to lose to another Class 4 opponent.

#2 – Neutralize Harris: Stopping Harris seems unlikely. How do they go about neutralizing or off-setting her impact on the game? By having their own D-1 talent, Indiana State commit Keslyn Secrist (21.5 PPG), step up and play one of her best games. Secrist has raised her play since the regular season when she was putting up 15.5 PPG and 7.9 RPG. Besides the River Ridge District Player of the Year, this Pulaski team brought back four starters, including First Team All-District junior forward Hannah Keefer (15 PPG) and Second Team All-District selection Jaden Lawson.

#3 – Get Huff Clean Looks: Hampton can stymie opponents with its in your face, aggressive defense. An x-factor in this game can definitely be 5’7” senior guard Paige Huff, who exploded for 26 points on 6-of-8 shooting from three-point territory in their 66-52 triumph over Louisa in the Region 4D Championship. The Hampton defense is likely to zero in on Secrist, so chances to do damage from there may be deep for this Pulaski sniper.


Hat’s Pick – Hampton 56-45



CLASS 4 BOYS STATE FINALS – Varina Blue Devils (22-4) vs. E.C. Glass Hilltoppers (25-2)

Varina Keys to Victory:

#1 - Sharp Start: The struggles were real for Varina offensively, both in the Region 4B title game vs. Matoaca when they fell behind 14-1 and in the State Tournament semis against King's Fork, where they scored more points in the fourth period - 21 - than in the previous three quarters combined (19). Glass is too potent in putting up 65.6 points per game while being a low turnover team and having the ability to do damage both inside and beyond the arc, where they've connected on 122 3's. Too potent in that if they get behind double-figures, Varina will be playing with fire and likely get burned. Coming out of the blocks strong is essential.

#2 - Control Harris: It's no secret that Harris is the straw that stirs the drink for Glass. Not only did he pour in a career-high 40 points vs. rival Heritage-Lynchburg late in the season during a 74-40 win, but he went off for 32 points and nine steals in the State Tournament quarters, then lit up Tusky for 34 points in the State Semis. On the year, he's scored 680 points, leads them in both rebounding and assists along with steals, plus shots it from all areas at an efficient rate: 78% from the foul line (146-of-186), 66% from 2-point distance (184-of-279) and 36% on 3's (32-of-90).

#3 - Beat the Press: On the year, Glass has generated 280 steals, an average of 10.4 per contest. Six players have 23 or more steals. They don't turn it over that much themselves with just 191 giveaways, equating to 7.1 a contest. But they sure did make Handley cough it up a lot, 22 times in fact, in their State Tournament quarterfinal tilt. It's important that Varina not only beats the press, but does so and gets buckets out of it before the Hilltoppers can get organized and set up their defense in the half-court.


E.C. Glass Keys to Victory:

#1 - Get Harris Help: As great as Harris is, he will need some help to slay the dragon that is reigning State Champ Varina, oozing with confidence after their fiery comeback win over a King's Fork team many - myself included - felt was the favorite, especially in the '804' area code where they are sure to be plenty of boisterous fans of the Blue Devils in attendance at the Siegel Center. Most dependable from that supporting cast are Treacy and Knox. Varina is known for its comebacks, and they don't want Harris to get worn out trying to do too much. Handley went from down 19 to within five with 5:06 to go two rounds ago against the Hilltoppers. They need their marquee guy fresh for the finish.

#2 - Second Half Surge: In both of their State Tournament wins, Glass had enormous surges in the second half, particularly that third quarter after Best re-groups with his guys in the locker room at half-time. Against Handley, they used a 13-0 run to open the third period to gain separation in a game they led 31-25 at the half. At the break vs. Tusky, the advantage was only three at 30-27 before they went on a 34-12 binge to put the deficit at 25 with under four minutes to play.

#3 - Points in the Paint: The rim protector for Varina is the 6'8" Hughes and there are other physical bodies to bang around in there with him like Derricott from the football team and Cosby, who is no pushover on the baseline either. This Glass team can convert from three-point land, but their bread and butter is getting to the basket as they shoot 62% on 2's in the form of 447-of-720. By comparison, they're hitting 29% of their 419 three-point attempts. Finding ways to score in the paint will be critical to dethroning the Blue Devils.

Hat’s Pick – Varina 62-58

Girls Tennis matches needed for Warwick High School, NN. Contact Coach Starks at starks78@gmail.com.

Class 1 Hoops State Finals Preview - Lancaster vs. George Wythe​

Matthew Hatfield • VirginiaPreps
Publisher
@hatfieldsports

The 2023 Virginia High School League Basketball Tournament reaches its conclusion for Class 1 with the Region A Champion Lancaster Red Devils (28-0) taking on the Region C runner-up George Wythe Maroons (26-3) at 2:30 PM EST on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at the VCU Siegel Center in Richmond.
Below, we break down the matchup with links to the playoff brackets...
2023 VHSL Playoff Brackets Here
Watch Class 1 Final on NFHS Network Here

Lancaster (28-0) vs. George Wythe (26-3)​

Gerrion Owens brings shooting touch from the outside for a Red Devils team that is no stranger to scoring 80 or more points - even 90-plus points - in a game this season (Matthew Hatfield, VirginiaPreps.com)
The Lancaster Red Devils have been pointing to this moment ever since last season when they were knocked off by Washington & Lee - now known as Westmoreland - by a count of 59-57 in the State Semis. That same team they had beaten four previous times, including 74-42 in the Region 1A Championship.
While that Red Devils team finished 24-2 overall in Dwayne Pinn's first season as Head Coach, this one has blown through opponents by an even wide margin and enters this matchup for the Class 1 crown not only undefeated, but beating its playoff opponents by an average of 23 points per game. Sophomore 5-foot-8 guard Troy Henderson (22.7 PPG, 4.2 APG in regular season) - twice named Northern Neck District Player of the Year and Region 1A Player of the Year - is the catalyst for a high octane attack putting up over 69 points per contest in the postseason.
Troy Henderson has already eclipsed 1000 career points and more than 100 made 's. He scored 24 points in both the regional semis vs. Essex and regional title game against Middlesex. His older brother, 5-foot-10 senior forward Tyson Henderson (20.1 PPG, 5.3 APG, 5.2 RPG, 3.7 SPG in regular season), was also chosen 1st Team All-Region and scored 22 points in the Region 1A title game. Pinn plays a deep rotation with the likes of 5'11" senior guard Gerrion Owens, 6'2" senior forward X'Zaveion Owens and 5'9" junior forward Daveon Smith and 5'7" senior forward Darius Smith playing significant roles as well.
While Lancaster is looking for its third state title to accompany the ones they captured in 2018 and 2012 under Tim Rice, the Maroons of George Wythe are looking to win just their second one ever and first since 2008. Wythe finished runner-up to Radford in the 2017 1A Final and to Martinsville in the 1985 Group AA title game. Fourth-year Head Coach Tony Dunford has a squad that likes to function in the open court, averaging 72.4 points per game.
Two of Wythe's three losses were to last year's Class 1 State Champ in Auburn, including 65-55 in the Region 1C Final. However, they avenged that defeat with a 45-42 triumph over the Eagles in the State Semis, marking their fourth win in the head-to-head series on the season. That came on the heels of an 85-55 rout of Twin Springs in the State Tournament quarterfinal. The only other loss was to Class 2 finalist Radford.
The Maroons have a host of weapons with five players averaging between 8.4 points and 13.6 rebounds per game. Sophomore 6'2" forward Reed Kirtner (13.6 PPG) leads them in 3's made with 65. Junior 5'11" guard Ty Campbell (11.5 PPG, 2.1 SPG) has scored over 20 points on 13 occasions this season, all wins. Freshman 5'10" forward David Goode (11.5 PPG) is second to Kirtner in 3's made with 62. They also get steady contributions from 5'11" sophomore forward Trevon Rainey (11.5 PPG) and 5'9" sophomore guard Shane Huff (8.4 PPG).

Lancaster Keys to Victory:​

Troy Henderson has made over 100 three-pointers in his career with the Red Devils, quickly cementing himself among the state's best players regardless of classification (Matthew Hatfield, VirginiaPreps.com)
#1 - Fast and Furious: When you watch Lancaster play, you wouldn't think they are a Class 1 team. Sure, in size perhaps, but not at the rate of speed in which they operate, constantly fast and furious - - like a Vin Diesel movie. Just go back to the State Semis vs. Altavista, where they quickly turned an 8-2 deficit into a 17-12 lead after one quarter of play. This team plays a track meet better than anyone else at this level. Since regionals started, they're putting up 69.2 PPG and they don't just get to the rim at will, they're able to dial it up from distance, as illustrated when they drained 12 3's in the Region 1A Final vs. Middlesex.
#2 - Apply Pressure: Part of how Lancaster plays its pedal to the medal style is because of a suffocating full-court pressure defense. Against whoever, whenever and wherever, they don't mind going to its 2-2-1 early in games and trying to get the opposition unglued with a four-guard, sometimes even five-guard, lineup. In the regional semis vs. Essex, a game they cruised to a 62-32 win, the Red Devils forced the Trojans into 18 turnovers. Jumping out to a double-digit lead before the first period is over is what they want
#3 - Stay Out of Foul Trouble: Because Lancaster plays so aggressive on defense, it lends itself to foul issues. That was seen vs. Altavista the last time out, where the Red Devils were called for their eighth team foul with 6:10 to go in the second quarter. Their tenth team foul, putting the Colonels in the double bonus, came with 1:14 before half-time. Now, Lancaster led comfortably 37-22 at the half in that one, but they don't want to give Wythe - a team that gets to the foul line 16 times a contest - free trips to the charity stripe.

George Wythe Keys to Victory:​

George Wythe is a perfect 13-0 when Ty Campbell scores 20 or more points this season in a game (Big Shots)
#1 - Be Proficient from 3: A season ago, the Maroons were 154-of-537 (28.7%) from three-point range. This season it is even better, to the tune of 258-for-700 (36.9%) from behind the arc. That includes a riveting 16-of-22 three-point shooting display in the State Tournament quarterfinal win over a Twin Springs team known for its perimeter snipers in Bradley Owens and Connor Lane. Kirtner and Goode have 127 makes from deep between them, but this is going to come down to being efficient and proficient on their triple tries. A showing like the 4-of-18 from 3 vs. Auburn the last time out probably won't be enough to prevail.
#2 - Control the Backboards: Lancaster isn't known to be a great rebounding team. After all, the Red Devils are guard heavy with only one player taller than 6-foot-3 and that is 6'5" reserve forward Kelvin Davis, a senior. On the flip side, Wythe isn't the biggest of teams either, sporting just two bodies - 6'4" junior forward T.J. Pulliam and 6'4" sophomore forward Conley Martin - over 6-foot-2. As a team, Wythe has grabbed 789 rebounds, an average of 27.2 per contest. Rainey is their top board guy at 4.8 per contest. He along with Campbell and 6'2" sophomore forward Rex Delp are the three guys on the roster with 100-plus rebounds on the season.
#3 - Stay Balanced Offensively: As outlined earlier, Wythe is known for balanced scoring. That must continue in this spot to keep pace with a high-octane opponent like Lancaster. If Wythe tries to get someone to go for 30 and carry the scoring load, it's probably not going to end with the outcome they want. Keeping all five on the court involved so that the Lancaster defense has to account for everyone, rather than go to double teams or trapping, will be a big deal, too. The goal is to get more than three players in double-figures, which is what happened in each of their three losses to date.

Prediction:​

Hat's State Semis Record: 11-1 (91.7%)
Hat's VHSL State Tournament Record: 33-3 (91.7%)
Hat's 2023 Playoff Record: 186-42 (81.6%)
Hat's Call - Lancaster 68, George Wythe 60. This matchup is interesting for a variety of reasons. Above them all to me is both teams prefer this to be a high-scoring game played in the 70's or greater. If each plays to its capability offensively and knock down 3's at a high rate as they've often done, this can turn out to be the best of the six title games, believe it or not.
Lancaster has been simply mowing down opponents all year lone by double-digits, seldom ever getting a battle or test. Even their wins over Cape Henry and Life Christian, a couple of private schools with next-level talent on their rosters, didn't exactly go down to the wire. They beat a Class 2 Bruton comfortably late in January, 81-46, where the Henderson brothers shined. Troy had 23 points with four made 3's in that one to go with five assists and five steals. His brother Tyson added 17 points on 8-of-9 shooting to go with seven boards, seven assists and five steals.
Wythe badly needs the three-point shot to go down to spring what some would view as an upset. Now, they won't look at it that way because they've already beaten the defending State Champ four times this season. But Lancaster, which recently won its eight region title in school history, comes in on a mission from finishing a game short of last year's expectation and practically that entire team came back. Meanwhile, Wythe boasts only one senior on its roster who seldom sees the floor. It feels as if they are better built to capture the crown in the years to come, whereas Lancaster is built for this moment and their recent history - 4-0 vs. SW VA teams in the State's since 2012 - should only add to their high level confidence.

Girls Tennis matches needed for Warwick High School, NN. Contact Coach Starks at starks78@gmail.com

We’re down to the Final Four round for all six classifications in VHSL Basketball for the 2022-23 campaign. On the boys side, there are three re-matches from a year ago in the State Semis with King’s Fork/Varina in Class 4, Northside/Cave Spring in Class 3 and Hayfield/South Lakes in Class 6.

Furthermore, there are quite a few re-matches from earlier in this season here in the State Semis on both the boys and girls side, none more frequent than the Class 2 girls showdown with Gate City and Central-Wise squaring off for the sixth time and sixth encounter with Auburn and George Wythe in Class 1.

All of the winners move on to VCU for the State Finals, set for March 9-11.

So how did the State Playoff Picks do for the quarterfinal round? Here's a review below...

Class 6 = 4-0
Class 5 = 4-0
Class 4 = 3-1 (missed on Tuscarora/Western Albemarle)
Class 3 = 3-1 (missed on Skyline/Lake Taylor)
Class 2 = 4-0
Class 1 = 4-0

Hat's 2023 VHSL Quarterfinal Total = 22-2 (91.7%)
Hat's 2023 Playoff Record = 175-41 (81%)

Hatfield's 2022 State Final Picks: 11-1 (91.7%)

Hatfield's 2022 Boys State Tournament Total: 34-8 (81%)

Hatfield's 2022 Girls State Tournament Total: 32-10 (76.2%)

Hatfield's 2022 Region Playoff Total: 156-45 (77.6%)

Hatfield's 2021 Region Playoff Record: 109-24 (82%)
Hatfield's 2020 Postseason Record: 207-60 (77.5%)
Hatfield's 2019 Region Playoff Record: 139-56 (71.3%)

Hatfield’s 2021 State Playoff Record: 12-6 (67%)
Hatfield’s 2021 State Finals Record: 3-3 (50%)
Hatfield’s 2021 State Semis Record: 9-3 (75%)


VHSL State Semifinals - Monday 3/6/23:

BOYS:

Class 6:
Region B #1 Patriot (26-3) vs. Region A #1 Oscar Smith (25-1) at Gainesville

Hat's Pick – Patriot 63-58


Region D #1 South Lakes (25-3) vs. Region C #1 Hayfield (28-1) at Westfield

Hat's Pick – Hayfield 77-67


State Final Pick - Hayfield over Patriot


Class 5:
Region B #1 Woodside (21-5) vs. Region B #2 Maury (22-6; 20-5) at Heritage High-NN

Hat's Pick – Woodside 60-48


Region D #1 Patrick Henry-Roanoke (28-2) vs. Region C #1 Highland Springs (20-6) at Fleming

Hat’s Pick – Patrick Henry-Roanoke 72-66


State Final Pick - Patrick Henry-Roanoke over Woodside


Class 4:
Region B #1 Varina (21-4) vs. Region A #1 King's Fork (22-3) at Highland Springs

Hat's Pick – King's Fork 74-67


Region D #1 E.C. Glass (24-2) vs. Region C #1 Tuscarora (24-4) at Heritage-Lynchburg

Hat's Pick – E.C. Glass 75-70


State Final Pick - King's Fork over E.C. Glass


Class 3:
Region B #1 Skyline (26-0) vs. Region A #1 Hopewell (22-3) at Warren County

Hat's Pick – Hopewell 57-51


Region D #1 Cave Spring (23-5) vs. Region D #2 Northside (27-1) at Hidden Valley

Hat's Pick – Northside 65-64


Revised State Final Pick - Northside over Hopewell


Class 2:
Region A #2 Brunswick (20-6) vs. Region A #1 John Marshall (26-0) at Huguenot

Hat's Pick – John Marshall 100-58


Region C #2 Floyd County (21-5) vs. Region C #1 Radford (22-4) at Radford University

Hat's Pick – Radford 52-49


State Final Pick - John Marshall over Radford


Class 1:
Region B #1 Altavista (21-4) vs. Region A #1 Lancaster (27-0) at Heritage-Lynchburg

Hat's Pick – Lancaster 69-61

Region C #2 George Wythe (25-3) vs. Region C #1 Auburn (23-6) at Floyd County

Hat's Pick – George Wythe 65-63


State Final Pick - Lancaster over George Wythe

WA vs Glass for the Region D Championship this Friday 7pm @ECG...

You couldn't find a bigger contrast in rosters. Every player for WA is over 6ft tall including four guys that are 6'6" or taller! Glass has two guys that are 6'2" but everyone else is under 6ft tall.

Who wins and why?

After 1 qtr- Floyd 13 radford 10

End of 1st quarter Pulaski County Girls 20 Tuscarora Girls 12

With the passing of Coach Hicks, I got to wondering what you old heads would say was the best game between the two rivals?

I don't start baseball until after March Madness, but I was trying to keep up with this one on Game Changer, but it froze up between the top and bottom half of the 6th. Riverheads was leading 3-1, so the odds would be that they held on to win, but if anyone knows, please post a final score.

As always, just my opinion. I'd love to hear how everyone else thinks it'll play out

Region A Champion Lancaster vs Region B Runner Up Franklin. This was a game that many folks thought would be played in the state semifinals. However, Altavista had other plans as they knocked off Franklin in the Region B championship. This game will be between 2 great defenses and I think it would favor Franklin if they could keep the score in the 50s. Lancaster has tremendous guard play and can really shoot it. If Franklin can use their length to cause turnovers and easy baskets, then they can pull out the win. If Lancaster handles that defense, I could see them pulling away. Prediction: Lancaster 67 Franklin 55

Region B Champion Altavista vs Region A Runner Up Middlesex. Middlesex has lost 3 games this season, all to Lancaster. Altavista, while being a top 5 team most of the season has quietly gone about their business. But the Colonels are no strangers to the state tournament and are playing exceptionally well. If they control the tempo lead by Hunt, Clay, Paul and others, then they could run away with this. But obviously Middlesex is talented too and I look for their leader Itchi Layne to have a good game and they'll also need a big game out of Jaquan Griffin and Monterl Oakley on both ends as well. Prediction: Altavista 71 Middlesex 59

Region C Champion Auburn vs Region D Runner Up Honaker. The Eagles look to defend their state title and first up is Honaker. Auburn, led by Nick Millirons, Bryce Gill and others were expected to be in contention when the season started. While a talented bunch, probably not many pegged Honaker as a state tournament team. But after a slow start, they got things going once Aidan Boyd returned from a football injury. Boyd is the straw that stirs the drink, but Honaker has plenty of others who are capable of leading them on any given night. Prediction. Auburn 55 Honaker 47

Region D Champion Twin Springs vs Region C Runner Up GeorgeWythe. This game has a chance to be a real barn burner. Twin Springs was a state semifinalist last season and are still lead by the dynamic duo of Connor Lane and Bradley Owens. The key for them might be Ryan Horne, as he gives them a third go to guy. George Wythe has about 5 or 6 guys who could lead them in scoring on any given night. That makes it hard to focus in on one particular player. Prediction: George Wythe 65 Twin Springs 55

State Semifinals: Lancaster vs Altavista. These two played back in mid January and Lancaster won by 15. I'm sure Altavista learned something from that game and I'm sure they won't be intimidated, especially being that if this matchup does happen, the Colonels will have "homecourt" advantage. This was the point where Lancaster was upset last year, when many thought they were on their way to a state title. How will they respond to that and playing in a hostile environment? Prediction: Lancaster 85 Altavista 71

State Semifinals: Auburn vs George Wythe. If this matchup happens, these two definitely won't be strangers. This would be the sixth matchup of the year between the two, with GW holding a 3-2 advantage. Auburn came back in the Region C championship behind their defense. Look for another tight game between these two rivals. Prediction: George Wythe 60 Auburn 57

State Championship: Lancaster vs George Wythe. GW has the athletes to compete with Lancaster and as mentioned before are extremely balanced. Lancaster is also balanced, but in Troy Henderson and Tyson Henderson they have two guys who can takeover a game at any time. Only a sophomore, look for Troy to come up when it matters most. Prediction: Lancaster 76 George Wythe 61

At the half
@BDHSTigersGBB
trails Meridian 23-18

End of 1st: Hopewell 27 Skyline 18

Deep Run High School, located in Glen Allen, Virginia (just outside of Richmond), is in search of multiple coaches to add to our staff. We are in the process of rebuilding our program and need people invested in helping establish what Deep Run Football will be moving forward as we move up to Region 6A in 2023. We are seeking skill position coaches specifically but are open to conversations with all interested candidates. Teaching positions in Exceptional Education, Math, and Science are available for the 2023-2024 school year currently with more openings possible in the weeks ahead.

If interested, email Head Football Coach Joe Mullinax at jemullinax@henrico.k12.va.us. Please include a resume if available.

Deep Run High School, located in Glen Allen, Virginia (just outside of Richmond), is in search of multiple coaches to add to our staff. We are in the process of rebuilding our program and need people invested in helping establish what Deep Run Football will be moving forward as we move up to Region 6A in 2023. We are seeking skill position coaches specifically but are open to conversations with all interested candidates. Teaching positions in Exceptional Education, Math, and Science are available for the 2023-2024 school year currently with more openings possible in the weeks ahead.

If interested, email Head Football Coach Joe Mullinax at jemullinax@henrico.k12.va.us. Please include a resume if available.

Deep Run High School, located in Glen Allen, Virginia (just outside of Richmond), is in search of multiple coaches to add to our staff. We are in the process of rebuilding our program and need people invested in helping establish what Deep Run Football will be moving forward as we move up to Region 6A in 2023. We are seeking skill position coaches specifically but are open to conversations with all interested candidates. Teaching positions in Exceptional Education, Math, and Science are available for the 2023-2024 school year currently with more openings possible in the weeks ahead.

If interested, email Head Football Coach Joe Mullinax at jemullinax@henrico.k12.va.us. Please include a resume if available.