The second semifinal Monday is a fresh matchup. These two teams haven’t met this year. DCA escaped a first round double overtime game with the pesky Briarjumpers of Somerset. Southwestern knocked off West Jessamine in a close one in regulation. Now these two teams square off, just two wins away from Rupp.

DCA has long been the front runner in the region, smothering teams defensively and being offensively efficient as possible through Ateny and Boyd. Southwestern has been up and down this year but no doubt has the ability to compete here. They favor a pace much quicker than what DCA allows. If they can get this game into the sixities or above then DCA may be looking at their time running out.

I don’t see anyone in this region getting into the sixties against any of the remaining defenses.  Dumford and Hutchinson do have the ability to get downhill quickly in transition offense.  Simpson can stretch the floor with the 3 ball out of corners (sim. To Grundy from SHS).  I would pick DCA, but wouldn’t be surprised if SW won.  They’re built physically to matchup inside.  I just worry about their shooting.  The whole building will turn for them sim. to Somerset game if it’s close late. 

DCA plays really good aggressive D, but are simple offensively in their approach.  

After watching them the other night, I think they have the best chance to beat DCA. Big kid is physical and can stretch the floor. I really like him. He may the best player in the region that no one talks about. Dumphord is very athletic and, if he plays disciplined and his shot attempts come from inside the lane, he can hurt DCA. Those 2 have the potential to get the DCA bigs in foul trouble. And then Hutchinson is a tall/long kid that can shoot and slash. If those 3 play up to their potential, AND their guards are steady, they have a legit shot at knocking off DCA.
 

It comes down to matchups and they have the roster to match up better than any other team in the 12th this year. I’m pitching Southwestern in an upset. 

If Southwestern guards can handle the pressure they have a legit chance, but that is a big if.