Hopkinsville/Warren Central (1/9/18) Thoughts & Predictions

[Region2 Hype Man]

This is a possible Sweet 16 matchup between two top programs in WKY.

 

What a difference a year can make. Last season Warren Central was out in the 1st round of district and Hoptown had a Region title with most of the team back. Now it looks like both teams are trending in different directions.

 

I remember Hoptown running WC out of the gym last season, but they had Potter who was very special to watch. It seems like WC may be the favorites in the 4th region? I have not seen them play, but it seems they have a solid resume and have played a good schedule. Maybe some R4 and BG folks can fill me in on WC because I am not too familiar.

 

Hoptown has had transfer, suspensions, appeals, and injuries all take out 6 of their varsity players at one time or another this season. They have made strides, but with one step forward they have had two steps back has been the story all season. I think they are about at full strength body wise, but they are not 100% healthy from their injuries even though they are playing. They will not have their best player in Cager back for another few days either.

 

The key for Hoptown will be the health of Jalen Johnson. With Cager gone, the D1 prospect is the primary scorer and ball handler...they will go as far as he can take them. James Nicolas is the other player to watch.

 

Hard to compare the two based on schedules. Both played and beat Marshall in close games. I'll say that Hoptown still is not ready to beat a talented/well-coached team like this yet. I still think Hoptown can reach the Sweet 16 if they get their full roster...but there are too many if's and maybes right now.

 

WC 78

HHS 62