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, starting with 8A…
West Forsyth (1) v. West Charlotte (2)
The West Forsyth/West Charlotte matchup has all the makings of an iconic game. Depth and balance meet star power. Between these two rosters, there are probably close to a dozen college-level prospects. These are exactly the type of public-school contests that folks desperately want to see come playoff time. For West Forsyth, it’s starting to become clear that this might just be their season. Upon examining their statistical profile, there aren’t any ridiculous, eye-popping figures or players doing unprecedented things, and that’s what should instill fear into opponents. This group doesn’t ever solely rely on one individual to carry them. Between Jordan Tate, Kamauri Manuel, Kam Higgins, Xavier Mills, Ant Gray, Nicholas Fleming, Cam Jordan, Max Skillman, and several others, they have real contributors throughout the rotation. What’s even scarier? The fact that over the last month, they just randomly decided to start dismantling opponents. Over their last nine games (including two playoff games), they are beating teams by an average of 34 points a game. They’ve won 20 games by double digits. There’s a very real scenario where the Titans, led by Coach Brim and a cast of talented pieces, could dominate their way to a title.
On the other side, West Charlotte is widely considered one of the top teams in North Carolina. Although they have six losses, it’s worth noting that half of those came against North Meck (an opponent they won’t have to see again this year). The Lions have a variety of key pieces. The star sophomore guard duo of Kaharri Coleman and Chacho Womack rightfully warrant a ton of attention, but guys like AC Pressley, Jkhai Wade, and Janon Singh each play vital roles for this team. Carter Sullivan, Major Cross, and Sean Johnson also provide quality minutes. That being said, this group will be particularly difficult to stop if their main pieces are clicking on all cylinders.
Ultimately, it’ll be fascinating to see which team emerges from this contest. Both teams have the talent, coaching, and ability to win it all, and this matchup will likely determine the eventual champion. Based on how effortlessly West Forsyth is scoring the ball right now, it might be beneficial for West Charlotte to slow the game down. Well, why would they do that given their array of explosive, polished pieces? Simply because trying to get in a shootout will only work in the Titans favor. If this game is played above the 60s, it feels like West Forsyth will have an advantage. Regardless, it’ll be a riveting matchup for both teams and fan bases.