State Tournament: Central Breakdown
The State Tournament starts yesterday and one squad as already advanced into the second round for the Central group: Bridgewater-Raritan. These boys have been waiting all year for this opportunity and many thought it may not happen but here we…
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Continue ReadingThe State Tournament starts yesterday and one squad as already advanced into the second round for the Central group: Bridgewater-Raritan. These boys have been waiting all year for this opportunity and many thought it may not happen but here we are. Let’s continue our group breakdowns by taking a look at the Central (29 teams) with the top team in our power rankings as the top seed: Christian Brothers.
Players to Watch
Nick Schon (Old Bridge)
Schon is important to Old Bridge as he is able to make everyone better on the court. His decisive decision making are paramount to Old Bridge’s success. If Old Bridge wants revenge against Christian Brothers in this group and then potentially Southern later on. Schon will need to be the best player on the court which he is certainly capable of.
Vinil Shah (Hillsborough)
Next up is Shah for Hillsborough. He is the top option as part of a one-two punch that Hillsborough has. Hillsborough has the potential to be a true dark horse and with Shah who can make you pay from anywhere on the court as an outside hitter. You can never rule them out because once he gets going, there is no stopping him. You can only try to limit the damage.
Tucker Rossi (Northern Burlington)
Rossi from Northern Burlington is a true all-around middle blocker for Northern Burlington. His calling card is his ability to anticipate and set himself up for blocks. He may not be getting a block all-the-time but he is affecting the match consistently. They are a long-shot squad but Rossi is capable of carrying them to couple wins with his offensive and defensive prowess.
Sneh Shah (Colonia)
Shah is the catalyst for Colonia as he is always in command of the play. He always ends up making the right play and ensures the best opportunity for team success. He is able to make a set from anywhere on the court so defenses have to make sure they know where he is at all times. Otherwise, he will make a play and make you pay.
Jack Dooling (Christian Brothers)
Lastly, we have Dooling for the top team in the state in my opinion, Christian Brothers. Dooling is the focal point of this Christian Brothers attack. They will continuously utilize Dooling as the primary option and even as a decoy. This team is aspiring for perfection and if they can do so, it will be because of Dooling.
Prediction
Christian Brothers over Old Bridge
This could easily be the most difficult group with the amount of depth in this group with Christian Brothers, Old Bridge, Hunterdon Central and more. However, as I’ve mentioned, Christian Brothers and Old Bridge are a part of those four squads that have separated from the rest of the field. It will be intriguing to see if anyone can challenge them but I think they are set up for a rematch with Christian Brothers staying perfect.