Following tonight’s slate of games, the Final Four in all the NCHSAA classifications will be set. Although this new, seemingly unnecessary realignment for public school programs appeared to be a direct money ploy at first, it’s actually made for some highly entertaining playoff games. In turn, we will take a closer look at each of the upcoming semifinal matchups as they are determined, skipping over to 4A…
Reidsville (1) v. Washington (2)
If this game doesn’t get you fired up, then you might not be a fan of high school basketball. The headlines write themselves. Can Reidsville get revenge after suffering its only loss of the season to Washington? Will Dionte Neal continue to dominate en route to another state title (and arguably the greatest high school career ever) with all eyes watching? Or will Washington claim their own path to the championship contest? These are all real questions going into the upcoming battle. For Reidsville, folks should already know the deal. Neal is having one of the most brilliant seasons possible, both from a production and team success standpoint. However, Paul Cauthen deserves a lot of praise for shining as the running mate and “Robin” to Neal’s “Batman.” The Rams have only played six games to single digits (including three actual scares against Walkertown), but manage to take care of business seemingly every time.
Although they’ve suffered a few more losses, the Pam Pack come from a similarly impressive vein. Chaise Smith will understandably receive a lot of the headlines (deserved), but guys like Shimere Garris and Jarryn Payne have also enjoyed major breakout seasons for this group. With a college-level senior trio averaging nearly 60 PPG, they will be difficult to shut down. They’ve only played four games to single digits (not including two double-digit losses), so they have a similar theme of outscoring opponents by a healthy amount in winning efforts. Given that fact, the previous score (78-74), and overall excitement surrounding this game, nothing else really needs to be said. Obviously, it’s tough to bet against Reidsville and everything they’ve consistently achieved over the last few years. However, if anyone is going to take them down, Washington has the pieces to do so.