State Tournament: South Breakdown
We are now at our final group breakdown which is the South group led by Southern as the top squad out of 33 teams. Is there any chance anyone can stop them in this region? Let’s take a look at…
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Continue ReadingWe are now at our final group breakdown which is the South group led by Southern as the top squad out of 33 teams. Is there any chance anyone can stop them in this region? Let’s take a look at some players to watch who can make some noise in this group and then I will let you know if anyone is taking down Southern.
Players to Watch
Joe Bilgic (Triton)
Bilgic and Triton may not win this tournament but I do believe they will make some noise. Bilgic is a solid outside hitter who is a full-rotation outside. However, his calling card is an electric serve that is one of the best in the state. He is one who can take over a match in a multitude of ways. If you stop him in one area, he will punish you in another.
Tommy Deakyne (Southern)
Deakyne is the firepower of this high-flying Southern offense. He is one of the best statistically in the state in kills with over 190. Deakyne will swing until his arm falls off and they are able to utilize Deakyne as a decoy a lot which makes Southern that much more lethal as an offense. They will be looking for him to carry the load.
Lorenzo Bonomo (Williamstown)
Bonomo is the key for Williamstown to have a chance to upset Southern. He needs to play like the best player in this group. The all-around outside is very creative with his swing which allows him to rack up kills in a variety of ways. He seems to always know what shot is required in that moment and normally pulls it off.
Destan Llolla (Jackson Memorial)
Llolla is the catalyst of a potentially disrespected Jackson Memorial squad. His volleyball IQ is off the charts and every set has perfect weight and pinpoint accuracy in order to give his teammates the best chance to be successful. Llolla will need to special and then some in order for Jackson Memorial to raise some eyebrows in this group.
Joshua Milke (Rancocas Valley)
Lastly, we Milke for Rancocas Valley. He is Mr. Do It All as he can pass, set, hit, serve, whatever is required. His bread-and-butter is his setting which seems effortless and is beautiful to watch. But he isn’t afraid to do the dirty work as he actually leads the team in blocks. He has excellent anticipation as a setter and for his blocks defensively.
Prediction
Southern over Jackson Memorial
In my opinion, Jackson Memorial is way under-ranked as a sixth seed. This team has shown the ability to play with Southern already this season. So, I think Jackson Memorial will make a run at this and put people on notice that they are legit. However, I still see Southern winning this group with how much depth this team has.