Nazareth vs. Dodd City
It’s the fourth meeting in five years and familiarity should not be an issue.
Nazareth leads on head-to-head, 4-0, but this year could be different.
Dodd City have the size in the interior led by 6-3 senior center Journie Hilliard. The guard depth will also favor the Lady Hornets, being led by Dani Baccus and Kylee Graves, who led in scoring in the previous game. Sophomore guard Rion Baccus was injured during the semifinal game against Neches in the first quarter and her status for this game in uncertain. But her presence on the court will be key, if she does see minutes on the floor.
Nazareth, despite being young, are no stranger to the big stage, recording their 30th state tournament apperance and seeking their fifth straight state title and 25th overall in program history.
The rebounding in the Swiftette semfinal game against Westbrook was not as dominant as their defensive play, but will be a key emphasis for Eric Schilling’s squad in order to pick up a victory.
Nick’s Pick: Dodd City by 4
Brownfield vs. Fairfield
Track meet alert.
If you are into fast-tempo basketball, this game is for you.
Fairfield looked solid in their transition game in their big victory over Bishop in the state semfinal as the defense was a big key for the victory.
Brownfield may not have the height of Bishop in some areas but size and physicality will be a difference in the interior.
The Lady Cubs have not seen the big stage since 1988, back when notable alumni in Sheryl Swoopes donned the Brownfield jersey, which has since been retired.
Gabi Fields was key for Brownfield in their come from behind semifinal victory over a well-coached Ponder side, as she led the team in scoring with 24 points and put the cape on in order to spark the fourth quarter run.
Lindsey Herrera can shoot the ball from anywhere outside the arc, when given the space. Tia Johnson and Deja Blackwell are interior threats that can rebound the ball well and can also play a stretch post role well.
The big question for Brownfield will lie in the depth of the team, and staying out of foul trouble.
Fairfield carry the height, length and speed advantage which could be a key on the boards. The Lady Eagle transition game is deadly but staying out of foul trouble will also be key for Fairfield.
Nick’s Pick: Fairfield by 10
Frisco Liberty vs. Cedar Park
Never count out a Ross Reedy coached team, especially in overtime periods.
Frisco Liberty survived their respective semifinal game against Lubbock Cooper with the help of junior guard Jazzy Owens-Barnett, who blocked the final shot to give the Lady Redhawks their ticket punched to San Antonio.
Cedar Park have the defense and offensive firepower in a young roster including sophomore Gisella Maul, junior Shelby Hayes and the senior duo of Sarai Estupian and Alisa Knight.
As of recent, Liberty have found their footing, despite the injury news of Owens-Barnett and Kamen Wong, which explains their third place finish in 9-5A.
With Liberty playing their best brand of basketball at the right time and Cedar Park’s defense being a key mainstay in their respective playoff run, it will come down to the small variables on who can execute in key situations that could see either team picking up a victory.
Nick’s Pick: Liberty by 1
Wednesday, March 10 schedule
2:00 p.m. – Brownfield (28-1) vs. Fairfield (27-2)
10 a.m. – Dodd City (31-0) vs. Nazareth (27-4)
7:00 p.m. – Cedar Park (26-1) vs. Frisco Liberty (22-8)
