As we get closer to the playoffs, there’s no better time to take a closer look at what teams are shaping up to contend or emerge as darkhorse candidates. One could argue that this year has some of the most loaded private school classifications ever. Each classification has its own grouping of teams that would’ve been odds-on favorites in years past. However, 1A is more open than ever before. Right now, only four 1A teams (per Maxpreps) have reached a strength of schedule above 0.0…and only two of those four have winning records. Entering the final stretch of the regular season, it feels like Crossroads Christian has the pieces to deliver a title…
Although they have a strong core, Brody Watkins has clearly asserted himself as a leader and focal point for this group. He’s a small, electric floor general with a high IQ, polished skillset, and rugged approach to the game. Watkins is a quality scorer from all levels, but is arguably at his best when breaking down opponents and attacking the basket, where he’s able to finish or reliably set up others in scoring positions. He sees the floor very well as a passer and displays natural playmaking feel with the ball in his hands. That being said, Watkins is also more than capable of taking over a game with his scoring ability. He’s a knockdown shooter with a crafty handle and the pace to pick his spots off the dribble. Right now, he’s averaging 16.4 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.9 APG, and 4.4 SPG with 55/42/72 splits. The junior guard will be a massive part of the Colts’ title pursuit.
However, this squad has several other pieces worth noting. Their overall balance is tremendous, as they have four other players averaging at least ten points or more. Sean Smith has stood out as a senior leader. At 6-foot-6, he’s shown the ability to operate as an inside-out cog with his useful versatility on both ends of the floor. Smith is averaging 12.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, and 2.3 SPG with 50/33/67 splits. He’s second on the roster in scoring, rebounding, and three-point percentage. Additionally, the junior trio of Ely Phillips, Jayson Baskerville, and Josh Smith each play vital roles for this team. Phillips shows the ability to do a little bit of everything as a scrappy forward who can outwork opponents to make his presence felt on both ends of the floor. He’s currently averaging 11.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.1 APG, and 3.1 SPG. Baskerville brings obvious value to this group as a tough, physical athlete who plays much bigger than his size. He’s currently averaging 11.1 PPG, 9.1 RPG, and 1.6 SPG while shooting 56% from the floor. Rounding out this group, Smith does a nice job of filling in the gaps and finding ways to impact the game within the flow of the action. He’s currently averaging 10.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, and 1.6 SPG. It’s clear the Colts have the necessary pieces to contend, so can they ultimately finish the job?