After an exciting week of NCHSAA semifinal games, we have reached the final stop: state championships. All the time, effort, and competition since November have ultimately led to this one game. While there has been a lot of discussion surrounding the realignment of classifications, each of these teams has fought against worthy opponents to reach this stage. Despite restructuring, there is still plenty of talent in every classification. With games beginning Wednesday, we will take a closer look at each matchup, moving over to Northern Nash versus Kings Mountain (5A) …
After consistent dominance throughout the season, Northern Nash has the opportunity to compete against Kings Mountain for a state title. Despite trailing early in the semifinal contest, the Knights ultimately fought back while showcasing their balance and ability to attack teams in several different ways. Everyone provided meaningful contributions. Christian Barnes (12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks) and Jah’Marzea Williams (14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals) combined for over half of the total scoring, but guys like Quantay James (8 points, 11 rebounds), Chris Silver (7 rebounds, 7 blocks), and Jamiere Harris (8 points, 3 rebounds) each played vital roles in this contest. It’s worth noting that this game was Northern Nash’s lowest scoring total of the season. Can they be more efficient in the title game (36% as a team in the semifinal)? Will they return to their usual scoring output? How will they fare against another balanced group of opponents?
On the other side, Kings Mountain advances after edging out a quality opponent in the semifinal round. Arguably the most impressive part is how several guys stepped up. Their leading scorer, Caleb Nixon, didn’t have his greatest showing (6 points, 3 rebounds), but guys like Ethan Daniel (18 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 blocks, and 1 steal) and Micaiah Daniel (22 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal) were exceptional for the Mountaineers. Silas Tate (11 points, 4 rebounds) also found ways to make his presence felt, while guys like Christian Jarrett (6 points, 1 block) and Xavier Hutchens (4 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 block) also found ways to contribute. This upcoming matchup is very interesting. Both teams have a very balanced attack, but higher scoring totals seem to favor Kings Mountain. Can the Mountaineers’ balance overwhelm the Knights’ balance? Will Nixon have a bounce-back game? Will the Daniel duo have another offensive explosion?