I know its only Tuesday but these two teams lock up on Thursday night in Fort Thomas. Any thoughts or predictions?

 

I think the Birds are should seriously consider slowing it down and working good shots. If they get into a track meet with Holmes it is going to be over real quick. I am looking forward to watching Holmes for the first time this year and without all the stars from last season.

I can't picture a Willie team in a "track meet."

 

Will McGraw play? If so, can HHS' other scorers pick up any slack as a result of the Arrez factor?

 

I look forward to this one.

I can't picture a Willie team in a "track meet."

 

Will McGraw play? If so, can HHS' other scorers pick up any slack as a result of the Arrez factor?

 

I look forward to this one.

 

I can say that they have been more fun to watch this year than in year's past but no I doubt they will try to match their running game.

Outside of this game.....Does anyone have any inside information on how Nic Simpson is recovering. Is he still on schedule to be back at the end of the month?

Outside of this game.....Does anyone have any inside information on how Nic Simpson is recovering. Is he still on schedule to be back at the end of the month?

 

Not sure but I am sure the coaches at NC A*T are just fine with him sitting out the remainder of the season. Highlands folks are wanting a Regional championship and I think Nic is a major key to that. At the same time I dont want to see him rushed back and get re-injured.

Bird's are in a quandry here. Their running game can't match Holmes' and their half court game doesn't match well either. Do they run and get blown out...or slow down and get beat moderately? I hope they "mix it up" and keep Holmes off balance with a mixture of run-slow and various presses...half court/full court...after made free throws...etc. Might be able to catch them on a bad night and pull the upset! Go Blue!

Holmes by 14

 

Will McGraw play?

 

Anyone?

Holmes 62

HHS 52

Well let's look at a few kep match ups first...

 

1. Henderson vs McGraw- Arrez has proved to be one of the best defenders not only in nky but also the state. Don't expect Greg to get his usual 20 point night.

 

2) Highlands offense vs Holmes full court trapping defense- Highlands hasn't seen a defense yet that will trap all game. The way the birds handle the pressure will determine whether or not they keep it a game or get blown out quick. Anyone who has seen Holmes this year knows they're capable of taking a little lead, turning up the press and all of a sudden being up 10 +.

 

3) Holmes depth vs Highlands depth- This is what will be the X factor in the end. Highlands has never been an overly athletic team despite a few players here and there such as McGraw and Simpson (non factor). Like Holmes has done all year, they are going to go 10 deep and try to wear you down, constantly keeping fresh legs out on the floor.

 

4) Kowolonek vs R. Johnson- This match up will be bigger than some realize. Kowolonek has been the catalyst to Greg's success this year in that he takes pressure off him and allows him to get in the lane because of Kowolonek's outside shooting ability.

 

All in all, it will be a game like 2 years ago. Highlands will keep it close on their home court, but in the second half Henderson and company will be too much for the Birds. I like Holmes by 10. I just don't see any team in nky being able able to man for man match up with the Dawgs outside of a healthy CCH team.

Holmes 63-52.

Holmes by 12.

Anyone?

 

Isn't the decision usually a "game time" thing? That said, I expect him to play this one. He's had plenty of time between games...but backs are funny things!

Outside of this game.....Does anyone have any inside information on how Nic Simpson is recovering. Is he still on schedule to be back at the end of the month?

 

Nic is doing very well. I think he is on schedule.

Wow, after reading all of the things in this thread, I think coach Schlarman might just want to have the Birds stay home for fear of getting run out of the gym. This game will be in the single digits either way.