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Basketball in the Lone Star state has returned with a big docket of big games from across the state including many matchups involving ranked teams. We preview the big games that you need to watch for on opening weekend.
Game of the week
5A #7 San Antonio Wagner @ 5A #6 Cedar Park
Cedar Park will have a new look on the floor with Gisella Maul graduating early, but the attention will be on the Wagner returnees including sophomore LA Sneed, who averaged 19.5 points per game last year. The remaining top two scorers in Sahvani Sancho and Jacy Reese return to the lineup for the Lady Thunderbirds, now in 5A and have a favorable path for a deep run.
The Lady Timberwolves will have a new look on the floor despite losing the playmaking ability, but will have the youth that has experienced two state titles.
Wagner will have the edge in the guard play in the game. The big question will be how both teams will fare in the interior offensively.
Games to watch
Barbara Brown-McCoy Showcase at South Oak Cliff
5A #8 Timberview vs. 5A #22 Frisco Lone Star
Frisco Lone Star bring back depth on the guard positions as Timberview return a junior-laden roster, being led by Chrishawn Coleman.
Both teams have the athletic capability to run the floor in transition. The Lady Rangers do bring an inside attack, being led by senior 6-1 center Peyton Jackson.
Timberview has recently been known to have an inside-out game but will be looking for interior scoring threats as the season progresses.
6A #19 Lewisville Hebron vs. 5A #11 Lubbock Cooper
Hebron have a lot coming back and the experience will guide them in a tough district. The Lady Hawks open up against a new look Lubbock Cooper team, that will have a different playing style in comparison to past years.
Size will be a key for Hebron and making the Lady Pirates settle in the half-court game. Lubbock-Cooper will be looking to run in transition and have quick offensive possessions.
6A #22 Cedar Hill vs. 6A #5 Austin
The opening game for both teams will come in as an early test. Austin High return the core of their roster, including the Reid twins, Shanel and Aubrey.
Senaida Barrientos brings long-range shooting on the floor.
Cedar Hill will bring in size in the interior, led by 6-3 junior Kianna Dennis. Jadyn Atchison will be a versatile 6-1 guard for the Lady Horns.
Cedar Hill will look to set up an inside-out game with Dennis and Micah Vaughn in the interior. If the Lady Maroons can handle the inside attack, expect Austin be a threat in the statewide picture.
TAPPS 5A #1 Fort Worth Southwest Christian @ 6A #3 South Grand Prairie
Southwest Christian are coming off back-to-back state title runs in the TAPPS ranks are are well-coached.
South Grand Prairie return interior scoring threat Adhel Tac and Taylor Barnes.
The Lady Warriors lose two key guards and will look to add depth in the backcourt as South Grand Prairie will receive a tough test in their opener.
Other games to watch
Plano @ Allen
Fort Bend Hightower @ 6A #14 Galena Park North Shore
4A #11 Paris @ Rockwall-Heath
Grand Oaks @ Deer Park
5A #5 College Station @ Katy Cinco Ranch
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