The final game on Saturday is Pickerington North vs. Lakewood St. Edward, which is another one of high powered offenses. North is one of my sleepers in the central district this year, largely because they bring back a lot of talent and experience. Duquesne commit Arness Lawson is the most underrated player in the state of Ohio and he continues to show why in the early season. The senior point guard has athleticism and explosiveness that is among the best I’ve covered, and an improved jump shot that makes him even more versatile. Although the offense is led by him, junior JR Bates and senior Favor McFadden are willing and capable ball handlers and scorers who will compliment Lawson well going forward. The Panthers have started the season 3-0 under experienced head coach Jason Bates with a great overtime win over Westerville Central to begin the season followed by two dominating wins over Central Crossing and Westerville South. North is excellent at speeding teams up defensively, which causes turnovers and runout dunks the other direction in a matter of seconds. This team is extremely dangerous and is a no doubt district title contender this year.
Lakewood St. Edward will play their second game in the event, as they will have already faced Pickerington Central the day before. The tough schedule will continue for the Eagles, who do an excellent job schedule to prepare for the state tournaments. Boden Grant and Bryan Vlosich have had solid seasons so far for St. Ed’s, who have started the season at a strong 4-1. Athletic wing Zymir Knox is also a playmaker at 6’3. Head coach Eric Flannery will look to have his guards ready for a track meet when they battle against Pickerington North. Ball and pace control are essential for the Eagles, who have the size and athleticism to execute against an aggressive Panther defense. The battle between senior guards Boden Grant and Arness Lawson is one of the best senior guard matchups in the event, and will likely determine this outcome (December 28th at 8:15pm).
