There is no shortage of games tonight and there is something for everyone from the Springs to Longmont.
#1 Smoky Hill vs. #5 Grandview
The Centennial League marches on into league play tonight with a huge match up of Top10 teams as #1 Smoky Hill travels to #5 Grandview. Grandview has an advantage in the lane with arguably the best forward duo in the state with senior Dayne Prim and junior Caleb McGill. Smoky’s advantage is at the guard spots with senior Kenny Foster and junior Quinten Rock. The difference in the game could come down to sophomore Jordan Whitaker. At 6’3 with long arms and wired to play defense he is turning into a premier defender. But he his also fearless with his shot or getting to the basket. Grandview can defend as well but will need to get consistent scoring from one of their guards.
Columbine vs. Douglas County
These two teams could make a very strong argument to be ranked 9th or 10th in the state. We look at this as a bracket buster type of game. Both teams need to win this game as both will be in dog fights as league play starts on Friday. Columbine has a great scorer in junior Luke O’Brien but the Rebels strength is in their rough and ready forwards Ramming and Lorhenz. TJ Boykins the quick and smart senior point guard leads the Huskies. However, senior forward Brandon Temple is one of the best kept secrets of the 2019 class he can play inside or out. This will come down to who can control the boards.
#10 Arvada West vs. Ralston Valley
Throw the records out when it comes to this rivalry game. A West has started the season out well and Josh Rogers is hard to stop. Ralston Valley is off to a good 8-4 start 6’7 Jordan Stratch is primed for a big game.
Montbello vs Thomas Jefferson
The DPL tips offs with an intriguing game between Montbello (FNE) and Thomas Jefferson. This should be a fun match up. Myron Hamilton is a lighting quick senior guard for the Warriors that relishes the big stage. Darius Hornbuckle the junior guard for TJ does too. Both will get there shots. This could come down to size and TJ has the advantage their with the Cecil brothers. But the Warriors will defend and have done a great job of that so far this season.
Vista Ridge vs. #1 Lewis-Palmer
Vista Ridge knocked off Cheyenne Mountain last week behind a very good game from senior Payton Kaiser. Will they have enough to slow down Joel Scott and the Rangers.
#2 Longmont vs. Silver Creek
Silver Creek has started to gel after finding their roles with the departure of last years senior class. #2 Longmont has been a juggernaut this season returning everyone but one very valuable player from last years championship team. Can Silver Creek find the secret to slowing down Longmont? Silver Creek will need to knock down their three point shots and keeping Longmont from making theirs.
Colorado Academy vs.Manual
In 3A the match up of the night is Colorado Academy at Manual. Two of 3A’s premier players DeAnte Dennis of Colorado Academy and Jaedon Bowles from Manual are pitted against each other.
Kent Denver vs. Jefferson Academy
James Doyle leads the Sun Devils in scoring and rebounding. If Jefferson Academy can slow down the big wing then the Jaguars have a very good shot at knocking off the Kent. However if Kent can make someone other than Riley Welsch from orchestrating the Jags attacking Kent will remain at the top of the league.
