Thursday's top HS basketball game to see (2/28)

No. 1 Humboldt (24-6) vs. No. 4 Lake County (7-22) (Region 7-A boys’ championship)

Time: 7 p.m. at Humboldt

Previous meetings: Humboldt won two of three (Lake County won 55-50; Humboldt won 83-72, 64-59 (Dist.))

Next opponent: Both advance to sectionals to play TCA or MAHS

Players to watch: Humboldt guard Stephen Turner; Lake County guard Zay Coleman

What to know: These two met in last year’s region championship game. Lake County might have just seven wins, but the Falcons are playing well in the postseason. Lake County reached the state semifinals last season, but returned just two starters in Zay Coleman and Devon Jones. Humboldt is on a six-game winning streak. The Vikings are a young team with just one senior on the roster, but they are playing like veterans thus far in the postseason. Both teams are quick and athletic, so there is no advantage for either team in that category.

 

No. 2 TCA (26-5) vs. No. 2 Memphis Academy of Health Sciences (20-8) (Region 8-A boys’ championship)

Time: 6:30 p.m. at TCA

Previous meetings: First meeting

Next opponent: Both advance to sectionals to play either Humboldt or Lake County

Players to watch: TCA’s Kyle Akin; MAHS’ Kelvin Pruitt

What to know: The Lions are coming off the biggest win in program history, knocking off the No. 1 team in the state Booker T. Washington. But TCA must now refocus quickly and be ready to try and beat MAHS in the championship to host a sectional game next Monday. The Lions have won six of their last seven games with the loss coming in the district championship. MAHS has beaten Middleton by nine and Riverside by four to get to this spot in the region tournament. MAHS is 4-3 in its last seven games with the three losses coming against Booker T. Washington by 19, 15 and six points.

 

No. 1 Liberty (26-7) vs. No. 2 South Side (24-3) (Region 7-AA boys’ championship)

Time: 7 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Liberty has won two of the three meetings (Liberty won 69-63, 65-59 (Dist.); South Side won 72-71

Next opponent: Both advance to sectionals to play either Sheffield or Mitchell

Players to watch: Liberty guard Kendell Walker; South Side guard AJ Merriweather

What to know: Nothing like a city rivalry to be played in a region championship game. South Side’s three seniors have not fared well against Liberty during their high school careers. AJ Merriweather and Wray Fuller are the two starting seniors and they are 1-12 all-time against Liberty. The Hawks have won 10 of their last 11 games with the loss coming against Liberty in the district championship. The Crusaders have won 13 of their last 14 games.

Wednesday's top HS basketball games to see (2/27)

No. 2 Middleton (22-9) vs. No. 3 Madison (23-10) (Region 8-A girls’ championship)

Time: 6:30 p.m. at TCA

Previous meetings: Middleton won all three meetings (63-46; 58-41; 70-60 (Dist.)

Next opponent: Both teams advance to sectionals to play either Lake County or Union City

Players to watch: Middleton post Deja Faulkner; Madison post Taylor Davis

What to know: Middleton has beaten Madison by double digits all three times the two have met, but the last time it took until overtime for the Lady Tigers to pull out the win. Middleton has won seven of its last nine games.  Madison has won six of its last seven games, including knocking off District 15-A champion Riverside on Monday. The Lady Mustangs are playing in their fifth region championship since 2005, and the Lady Tigers for the fourth time since 2007, so both are experienced at this level. Madison won region titles in 2006, ’09 and ’12, and Middleton won a region title in 2008.

 

No. 1 Covington (32-2) vs. No. 2 Westview (28-5) (Region 7-AA girls’ championship)

Time: 7 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Covington won two of three meetings (Westview won 54-40; Covington won 46-40, 50-49 (OT) (Dist.))

Next opponent: Both teams advance to sectionals to play either Trezevant or Manassas

Players to watch: Covington post Ashia Jones; Westview guard Kaley Leyhue

What to know: A rematch of the District 13-AA championship where Covington pulled out the one-point lead in overtime. These two teams know each other well, so winning will come down to which team executes their offense. Westview has won eight of their last 10 games. Westview has reached the region championship game eight times since 2001, but this is the first since 2010. Westview has won just one region championship in 2005. Covington is on a 19-game winning streak, and is in the region championship for the second straight season. Covington hasn’t won a region championship since 2002.

 

No. 1 Munford (26-5) vs. No. 4 North Side (13-18) (Region 7-AAA girls’ championship)

Time: 7 p.m. at Brighton

Previous meetings: Munford swept all three meetings (50-46; 54-28; 68-37 (Dist.))

Next opponent: Both teams advance to sectionals to play either Memphis Central or Memphis Overton

Players to watch: Munford’s Alex Turner; North Side guard Jada Perkins

What to know: Munford’s margin of victory has increased each time the Lady Cougars have beaten North Side. Munford is on a seven-game winning streak since losing to Briarcrest during the regular season. The Lady Cougars have gotten better each of the three years that Steve Poindexter, a former Liberty coach, has been there. North Side has been played its best during the region tournament with wins over Millington and Dyer County. The Lady Indians now have to beat another district foe to win their first region championship since 2007.

Tuesday's top HS basketball games to see (2/26)

No. 1 Union City (27-3) vs. No. 4 Lake County (16-10) (Region 7-A girls’ championship)

Time: 7 p.m. at Union City

Previous meetings: Union City swept two meetings (65-41; 51-42)

Next opponent: Both advance to play Region 8-A teams in sectionals on Saturday

Players to watch: Union City post Tori Reedy; Lake County post Shamon Pearson

What to know: Union City was the No. 1 ranked team for most of the season in Class A, and the Lady Tornadoes are now one game away from the state tournament. This game will decide if they play at home or on the road. Union City upset Lake County last year in the region championship, and now the Lady Falcons will try to do the same. The Lady Falcons are playing in their sixth region championship in the last eight years.

 

No. 1 Booker T. Washington (25-3) vs. No. 2 TCA (25-5) (Region 8-A boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at TCA

Previous meetings: Booker T. Washington won 46-42 in last year’s championship game

Next opponent: Winner advances to the championship to play the Riverside-MAHS winner

Players to watch:  BTW’s Zarmarlus Griffin; TCA guard William Hall

What to know: These two teams have been ranked in the Class A poll all season and Booker T. Washington finished at No. 1. Zarmarlus Girffin is one of three Class A Mr. Basketball finalists. The Warriors are on a 19-game winning streak and haven’t lost since a Christmas break tournament. TCA has won five of its last six games, and the Lions are coming off of a big win over Westwood.

 

No. 1 Riverside (18-11) vs. No. 2 Memphis Academy of Health Sciences (19-8) (Region 8-A boys’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at TCA

Previous meetings: First meeting

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the BTW-TCA winner

Players to watch: MAHS’s Kelvin Pruitt; Riverside’s Dylan Scott

What to know: The Panthers found a way to get hot at just the right time. Riverside has won four straight in postseason play after ending the season 1-5 in its last six games. Riverside will have to again bring its best game if the Panthers want a shot at reaching the region championship. MAHS has won 14 of its last 17 games, including an 11-game winning streak, with the three losses coming against Booker T. Washington.

 

No. 1 Liberty (25-7) vs. No. 3 Bolivar (18-11) (Region 7-AA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Split two regular season meetings (Bolivar won 81-68; Liberty won 68-56)

Next opponent: Winner advances to the championship game to play the Haywood-South Side winner

Players to watch: Liberty post Tyler Taylor; Bolivar guard Chris Woods

What to know: One of the biggest rivalries in the state of Tennessee will play in a win-or-go-home game in the region semifinals. These two teams have won six of the last nine Class AA state championships. Liberty is playing well, winning 12 of its last 13 games, including the district championship. Bolivar is 4-4 in its last eight games, but Rick Rudesill will have the Tigers ready to play in a big game.

 

No. 1 Haywood (24-8) vs. No. 2 South Side (23-3) (Region 7-AA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: South Side won 71-65 in Feb. 2011

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship to play the Liberty-Bolivar winner

Players to watch: Haywood post Sadarius Delk; South Side post Malik Hicks

What to know: These two teams haven’t met in two years, but there is history between these two programs. South Side and Haywood played in the highest scoring game ever in the state tournament (211 points). This time the season is on the line as well as a trip to sectionals for the winner. The Hawks have won nine of their last 10 games with the loss coming in the district championship to Liberty. The Tomcats are playing like an experienced bunch with an 11-game winning streak.

Monday's top HS baektball games to see

No. 3 South Fulton (19-11) vs. No. 1 Humboldt (23-6) (Region 7-A boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Humboldt

Previous meetings: Humboldt swept two meetings (58-43; 56-47)

Players to watch: South Fulton guard Harrison Hawks; Humboldt guard De’Sonta Bradford

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship to play the Union City-Lake County winner

What to know: Humboldt took over as host of the Region 7-A tournament after District 14-A swept the region quarterfinals. The Vikings are tough to beat at home and have won nine of their last 10 games overall. South Fulton finished third in the District 14-A tournament, and the Red Devils are 3-3 in their last six games. Humboldt will look to push the ball and use its quickness as an advantage. The winner is one step away from the state tournament, a spot Humboldt has played for many times in recent history.

 

No. 2 Middleton (21-9) vs. No. 4 Scotts Hill (20-8) (Region 8-A girls’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at TCA

Previous meetings: Two teams split two meetings (Middleton won 49-48; Scotts Hill won 42-39)

Players to watch: Middleton post Deja Faulkner; Scotts Hill post Chelsea Wyatt

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship to play the Riverside-Madison winner

What to know: Both teams had an opportunity to win in the two regular season meetings. Middleton has won four of its last five games. The Lady Tigers are playing in their seventh region semifinal in the last nine years, so they have experience at this level. Middleton fell to Adamsville in the region semifinals last year at TCA, but the Lady Tigers return that entire team minus Rachelle Parks (injury) with a year more of experience. Scotts Hill slipped up in the district tournament with two losses, but the Lady Lions responded with a win over top-seeded Booker T. Washington. Scotts Hill is playing in its third straight region semifinal.

 

No. 1 Riverside (18-11) vs. No. 3 Madison (22-10) (Region 8-A girls’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at TCA

Previous meetings: Madison swept two meetings (54-47; 59-46)

Players to watch: Riverside forward Lauren Jones; Madison post Dakota Smith

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship to play the Middleton-Scotts Hill winner

What to know: Riverside has gotten hot at just the right time to win the District 15-A crown. The Lady Panthers have won their last four straight games and eight of their last nine. Riverside is playing in its first region semifinal since 2007, and now it will try to get to the championship for the first time since 2002. The Lady Mustangs are also playing well, winning 11 of their last 13 games. Madison has solid guards and two dominant post players. Madison has advanced to the region semifinals eight of the last nine years and are looking to advance to the region championship for the fifth time in that period.

 

No. 2 Westview (27-5) vs. No. 4 Obion County (26-9) (Region 7-AA girls’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Westview has won two of the three meetings (Westview won 57-48, 59-53 (Dist.); Obion County won 47-40)

Players to watch: Westview post Teddy Vincent; Obion County post Brandi Goodman

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship to play the Covington-Dyersburg winner

What to know: Westview and Obion County are two of six area teams to have advanced to the region tournament every year since 2003. The Lady Chargers have reached the semifinals nine times and Obion County eight. The two will play again for a spot in the sectional round of the postseason. Obion County center, a Memphis signee, is a tough matchup for any team with her inside strength. Westview will look to hit some 3-pointers like it did in the district semifinals. These two teams have played in some classics over the past five years, and this one should be the same.

 

No. 2 Dyer County (19-9) vs. No. 4 North Side (13-18) (Region 7-AAA girls’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Brighton

Previous meetings: Dyer County swept two meetings (59-54; 72-39)

Players to watch: North Side guard Brendi Stokes

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship to play the Munford-Hardin County winner

What to know: Dyer County has swept North Side during the regular season, but the Lady Indians are coming off their biggest win of the season over top-seeded Millington. This is Dyer County’s first berth in the region semifinals in over a decade (our records only go back to 2003). North Side on the other hand has played in eight region semifinals in that time period. So one big question is how the Lady Choctaws will play on a big stage? But rest assured that Derek McCord will have Dyer County ready to play. North Side will rely on guards Jada Perkins and Brendi Stokes to limit turnovers and put points on the board.

Saturday's top HS basketball games to see (2/24)

No. 3 Westwood (19-6) at No. 2 TCA (24-5) (Region 8-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6 p.m.

Previous meetings: TCA won 81-77 in last year’s region semifinals

Players to watch: TCA guard Ben Moroney; Westwood’s Jamarcus Ricks

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Booker T. Washington-Adamsville winner.

What to know: The Lions pulled off the huge upset in last year’s region semifinals, and they will try to pick up a second win over Westwood tonight. Limiting turnovers will be key for TCA with solid ball handling from its many quality guards. Westwood graduated quite a bit of last year’s team so the players will be the different, but the Longhorns will look to still push the ball quickly.

 

No. 3 Middleton (18-10) at No. 2 Memphis Academy of Health Sciences (14-7) (Region 8-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Middleton won 55-45 in last year’s region quarterfinals

Players to watch: Middleton guard Cornelius Patterson; MAHS’s Kelvin Pruitt

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Riverside-MASE winner

What to know: The Tigers have won 10 of their last 12 games with the two losses coming against South Side and Riverside (in the district semifinals). MAHS has played No. 1-ranked Booker T. Washington close all season, so Middleton will have to bring its best for a chance to beat MAHS. Both teams are full of speed and athleticism.

 

No. 4 Memphis Academy of Science & Engineering (13-11) at No. 1 Riverside (17-11) (Region 8-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6 p.m.

Previous meetings: First meeting

Players to watch: Riverside guard Dylan Scott; MAHS’ Fabian Effinger

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the MAHS-Middleton winner

What to know: Riverside won its first district title in 18 years, and now the Panthers will look to continue the momentum. MASE didn’t reach the region tournament last season, but the Phoenix are a quality side out of Memphis. A big asset is the fact that Riverside gets to play at home, and MASE will have to make the long trip from Memphis to the Tennessee River. The Panthers have to come out composed and not let nerves get the best of them early.

 

No. 4 Fayette-Ware (21-9) at No. 1 Haywood (23-8) (Region 7-AA boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Fayette-Ware swept two meetings (71-58; 69-55)

Players to watch: Fayette-Ware guard Carlos Hart, Jr.; Haywood guard Kyler Douglas

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the South Side-Westview winner

What to know: Fayette-Ware swept a regular-season series, but this is the postseason. Haywood seems to be peaking at the right time after winning the District 13-AA crown. Fayette-Ware slipped in the District 14-AA tournament, falling to a No. 4 seed. Haywood will pack the house for this game and make it tough on the Wildcats. Staying out of foul trouble and playing with experience could be the difference for the Tomcats’ young squad.

 

No. 3 Bolivar (17-11) at No. 2 Ripley (17-11) (Region 7-AA boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Bolivar won 60-51 in a Hall of Champions game this season

Players to watch: Bolivar guard Jerrious Sain; Ripley guard Chad Culbreath

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Liberty-Crockett County winner

What to know: Bolivar beat Fayette-Ware for the first time this season in the District 14-AA consolation game and will look to continue the momentum in the region tournament. Ripley played many of the top District 13-AA teams close, but couldn’t get a win until the district semifinals against Westview. The district championship wasn’t as nice to Ripley. Ripley does have the advantage of playing at home, but a Rick Rudesill coached team is hard to beat.

 

No. 3 Westview (27-5) at No. 2 South Side (22-3) (Region 7-AA boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: South Side won 87-49 in a Hall of Champions game

Players to watch: Westview guard Antonio Hogard; South Side guard A.J. Merriweather

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Fayette-Ware/Haywood winner

What to know:  South Side picked up an easy win over the Chargers early in the season, and the Hawks might be fired up enough after losing in the district championship to cross-town rival Liberty to do it again. South Side played almost flawless in the district semifinals, but couldn’t find the basket in the championship. Westview had a slip up in the district semifinals to fall from the No. 1 seed to a No. 3 seed for the region tournament. The Chargers are a senior-laden club that will have to rely on experience to have a chance to win.

 

No. 3 North Side (16-13) at No. 2 Craigmont (14-10) (Region 7-AAA boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: North Side won 86-84 in Mar. 2010

Players to watch: North Side post Larry Fuller; Criagmont’s Terique Brewster

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Munford-Arlington winner

What to know: North Side is a team that has been on the verge of a big win all season. The Indians have played state-ranked Dyer County close in two of the three meetings and took the Choctaws to overtime in the district semifinals. This might be North Side’s chance to pick up that signature win to the season. North Side will have to limit mistakes and shoot the ball well to have a shot at reaching the region semifinals.

Friday's top HS basketball games to see (2/22)

No. 4 Lake County (5-22) at No. 1 McKenzie (22-7) (Region 7-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

 

Previous meetings: Haven’t met in recent history

Players to watch: Lake County guard Zay Coleman; McKenzie guard Trevor Willis

Next opponent: Winner plays the Union City-Huntingdon winner

What to know: McKenzie has won 12 of its last 14 games, but Lake County will provide a tough test. The Rebels will have to come out and shoot the ball well for the start. If they get behind 16-1 like they did in the district championship, a comeback is probably out of the question. Lake County might only have five wins, but the Falcons are still a dangerous team.

 

USJ (24-5) at Franklin Road Academy (27-3) (Division II-A girls’ sub-state)

Time: 6 p.m.

Previous meetings: FRA won 70-27 in last year’s sub-state

Players to watch: USJ post Eliza Edwards; FRA’s Derica Wyatt

Next opponent: Winner advances to the Division II-A state semifinals

What to know: These teams played last year with FRA winning easily, but this year’s game should be much closer. Two Miss Basketball finalists will be featured in USJ’S Eliza Edwards and FRA’s Derica Wyatt, an Oklahoma signee. The Lady Bruins will have to stay out of foul trouble and play their best game of the season to pull out a win.

 

No. 4 Scotts Hill (19-8) at No. 1 Booker T. Washington (Region 8-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Previous meetings: Scotts Hill won 65-43 in last year’s region quarterfinals

Players to watch: Scotts Hill post Chelsea Wyatt; BTW’s Terrica Robinson

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Middleton-Soulsville winner

What to know: These two teams met last year in a No. 1 vs. No. 4 matchup, and Scotts Hill pulled out the win. The Lady Lions will look to do the same this season. Scotts Hill didn’t fare well in the district tournament down in Middleton, but this is a new tournament and Scotts Hill could return to its old self that won the regular season title. The Lady Lions will look to score off their offensive sets on offense and slow down BTW on defense.

 

No. 3 Dyersburg (20-10) at No. 2 McNairy Central (22-7) (Region 7-AA girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Dyersburg won 85-65 in Nov. 2011

Players to watch: Dyersburg post Chari Swift; McNairy Central post Mallorie Sweat

Next opponent: Winner advance to play the Covington-South Side winner

What to know: The Lady Bobcats are coming off a heartbreaking loss to Bolivar when Tymeria Franklin was fouled at the buzzer and sank a free throw. McNairy Central will be playing at home in this one. Dyersburg played well in the district tournament, taking state-ranked Covington to overtime and beating Obion County. The Lady Trojans will hope that momentum continues into the region tournament.

 

No. 4 Obion County (25-9) at No. 1 Bolivar (21-6) (Region 7-AA girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Bolivar won 56-44 earlier this season

Players to watch: Obion County post Brandi Goodman; Bolivar guard Tionne Herron

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Westview-Chester County winner

What to know: Bolivar has experience beating Obion County this season as the two played in November in Bolivar. But now we are in tournament time, and this game could go either way. The Lady Tigers have won eight of their last nine games. Bolivar will look to push the ball quickly up the floor on offense, but the key will be how the Lady Tigers defend Brandi Goodman. Obion County is coming off two straight losses in the district tournament and will look to get back to winning.

 

No. 3 Chester County (20-10) at No. 2 Westview (26-5) (Region 7-AA girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Westview won 65-48 in Nov. 2005

Players to watch: Chester County post Iesha Sims; Westview post Teddy Vincent

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Bolivar-Obion County winner

What to know: Westview took Covington to overtime in the district championship before falling. The Lady Chargers will look to get back to winning, as they won six of their last seven games before that loss to Covington. Chester County plays tough defense that will look to slow down Westview’s guards pushing the ball up the court.

 

No. 4 North Side (12-18) at No. 1 Millington (15-14) (Region 7-AAA girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Millington won 63-60 in Mar. 2010

Players to watch: North Side guard Jada Perkins; Millington’s Tiara Caldwell

Next opponent: Winner advances to play the Dyer County-Bolton winner

What to know: North Side has to have hope going into this game. Millington lost to Munford twice as well as Dyer County, Middleton and Bolivar once. The Lady Indians have a win over Bolivar on the season. If the Lady Indians come out composed, North Side could have a shot at the end of the game to advance.

Thursday's top HS games to see (2/21)

No. 3 Greenfield (17-10) at No. 2 Dresden (21-6) (Region 7-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Greenfield won 50-37

Players to watch: Greenfield guard Brittany Peoples; Dresden guard Amy McAlpin

Next opponent: Winner plays the Union City-West Carroll winner

What to know: Greenfield won the earlier meeting, but this time the losers’ season is over. So don’t expect the same type of game out of Dresden. The Lady Yellowjackets have won four of their last five games with the lone loss coming against the No. 1 team in Class A Union City. The earlier loss to Greenfield ended a nine-game winning streak for Dresden. The Lady Lions will look to respond from a loss in the district championship with a win.

 

No. 4 Lake County (15-10) at No. 1 Gleason (22-7) (Region 7-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Lake County won 58-14 in last year’s region quarterfinal

Players to watch: Lake County guard Tiana Gray; Gleason post Briana Jones

Next opponent: Winner plays the South Fulton-Huntingdon winner

What to know: Lake County won the region quarterfinal easily last year, but the Lady Falcons were ranked in the top five of the state last year with players like T.T. Flowers and Carnation Hart. Lake County is fourth in District 14-A this season with some solid players, but not as strong as last year. Gleason played well in the district tournament to earn the crown and are on a four-game winning streak. The Lady Bulldogs will look to dominate in the post with Briana Jones underneath. Lake County has lost six of its last seven games.

Tuesday's top HS games to see (2/19)

No. 1 South Side vs. No. 2 Liberty (District 14-AA boys’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Chester County

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Liberty won 69-63; South Side won 72-71)

Players to watch: South Side guard Jaylen Barford; Liberty guard Kendall Walker

Next opponent: Winner hosts Crockett County in the Region 7-AA quarterfinals Saturday. Loser hosts Westview in the Region 7-AA quarterfinals Saturday.

What to know: This district has won six of the last nine Class AA state championships and both of these teams have a chance of making a trip to Murfreesboro to keep that streak going. The two teams split during the regular season with each winning on the road. South Side looked unbeatable on Saturday in the semifinal win over Bolivar. Liberty fought back in the fourth quarter to beat Fayette-Ware. The Crusaders have won 10 of their last 11 games. South Side is on a seven-game winning streak.

 

No. 2 TCA vs. No. 4 Riverside (District 15-A boys’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Middleton

Previous meetings: TCA swept (73-60; 67-51)

Players to watch: TCA guard William Hall; Riverside guard Payton Hehe

Next opponent: Winner hosts the Westwood-MASE loser in the Region 8-A quarterfinals. Loser hosts the Westwood-MASE winner.

What to know: Riverside beat Middleton for the first time this season on Saturday in the semifinals. The Panthers will look to do the same tonight against TCA. The girls won their second district title in over a decade, and now the boys will look to win one of their own. Riverside’s offense runs through Payton Hehe and Dylan Scott. TCA will look to use their deep bench to win its first district title. William Hall is a strong scorer for the Lions, but look for a player like Ben Moroney, James Bond or Kyle Akin to get hot tonight to help on offense.

 

No. 3 Hardin County vs. No. 4 North Side (District 13-AAA boys’ consolation)

Time: 6 p.m. at Munford

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Hardin County won 63-61 (2OT); North Side won 64-50)

Players to watch: Hardin County guard Kelby Wardlow; North Side guard Storm Shivers

Next opponent: Winner travels to the Craigmont-Cordova loser in the Region 7-AAA semifinals. Loser travels to the Craigmont-Cordova winner.

What to know: Both of these teams had a chance to advance to championship game, but lost by the slimmest of margins. North Side fell in overtime to Dyer County with seven players fouled out. Hardin County lost by two points to Munford. Now both teams will try to rebound with a win in the consolation game before starting region play. The two had a double-overtime battle at North Side early in the season, and this one should be similar.

Monday's top HS games to watch (2/18)

No. 1 McKenzie (21-7) vs. No. 3 Dresden (18-8) (District 13-A boys’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Huntingdon

Previous meetings: McKenzie on both (69-68; 52-49)

Players to watch: McKenzie guard Trevor Willis; Dresden guard Austin Maxey

Next opponent: Winner hosts the Lake County-South Fulton loser in the Region 7-A quarterfinals. Loser hosts the Lake County-South Fulton winner.

What to know: Dresden is attempting to win its third-straight district championship. The Lions fell twice to McKenzie during the regular season in close game; this time Dresden will be looking to win. Dresden has won six of its last seven games. McKenzie made program history by winning the semifinal and will be hosting a region quarterfinal for the first time. The Rebels have won 11 of their last 13 games.

 

No. 1 Union City (22-6) vs. No. 2 Humboldt (21-6) (District 14-A boys’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Trenton Peabody

Previous meetings: Union City won both (66-64; 61-50)

Players to watch: Union City guard Malik Stockdale; Humboldt guard Stephen Turner

Next opponent: Winner hosts the Huntingdon-West Carroll loser in the Region 7-A quarterfinals. Loser hosts the Huntingdon-West Carroll winner.

What to know: Humboldt is a young ball club with just one senior on the roster. The Vikings have gotten increasingly better as the season has progressed. Humboldt is 7-1 since its last loss to Union City in the regular season. Union City has been the top team in the district the entire second half of the season, and now the Golden Tornadoes have a chance to prove they are the best with a district title.

 

No. 1 Westview (26-5) vs. No. 2 Crockett County (21-8) (District 13-AA boys’ consolation)

Time: 6:30 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Crockett County won 76-71; Westview won 75-65)

Players to watch: Westview guard Antonio Hogard; Crockett County forward William Edwards

Next opponent: Winner travels to the South Side-Liberty loser in the Region 7-AA quarterfinals. Loser travels to the South Side-Liberty winner.

What to know: These two teams entered the tournament as the top two teams, and now they will play each other in the consolation game. The key to winning this is the hope of avoiding state-ranked South Side in the region quarterfinals. Westview played without coach JB Suiter and senior post Javier Gordon in the upset loss to Ripley. Suiter will be back on the sidelines for this one. Crockett County lost a heartbreaker in overtime to Haywood, so the Cavaliers will look to respond well.

 

No. 3 Haywood (22-8) vs. No. 4 Ripley (17-10) (District 13-AA boys’ championship)

Time: 8 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Haywood swept (75-69; 72-60)

Players to watch: Haywood forward Jordan Varnado; Ripley guard Chad Culbreath

Next opponent: Winner hosts the Fayette-Ware/Bolivar loser in the Region 7-AA quarterfinals. Loser hosts the Fayette-Ware/Bolivar winner.

What to know: The Tomcats are young, starting four sophomores and a junior. Haywood played well in some tough situations in the semifinal win, and now the Tomcats will have to step up on a bigger stage. Ripley has played all the top teams in the district close, but couldn’t break through until the semifinal win over Westview. The Tigers will look to continue on that momentum.

 

No. 1 Scotts Hill (19-7) vs. No. 3 Madison (20-10) (District 15-A girls’ consolation)

Time: 6 p.m. at Middleton

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Scotts Hill won 70-61; Madison won 66-60)

Players to watch: Scotts Hill post Chloe Roberts; Madison post Dakota Smith

Next opponent: Winner travels to the Booker T. Washington-Memphis Business Academy loser in the Region 8-A quarterfinals. Loser travels to the BTW-MBA winner.

What to know: Coming off a loss to rival Riverside, Scotts Hill will look to rebound quickly in the consolation game. These two teams are evenly matched with good guard play and two tough post players inside. Each won at home during the regular season, but this one is at Middleton. Madison is coming off a double-overtime loss to host Middleton in the semifinals.

 

No. 2 Middleton (20-8) vs. No. 4 Riverside (16-11) (District 15-A girls’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Middleton

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Riverside won 46-36; Middleton won 46-41)

Players to watch: Middleton guard Averyale Joy; Riverside guard Holly Chumney

Next opponent: Winner hosts the Soulsville-Power Center Academy loser in the Region 8-A quarterfinals. Loser hosts the Soulsville-PCA winner.

What to know: These two teams played on consecutive days just 10 days ago with the home team winning each. This one is at Middleton, but the District 15-A crown is one the line. The Lady Tigers will rely on their two sophomores Averyale Joy and Deja Faulkner to control the offense and scoring. Riverside plays tough defense and will look to contain Middleton’s athleticism.  Both teams get to play at home in the region quarterfinals instead of traveling to Memphis.

 

No. 1 Bolivar (20-6) vs. No. 2 McNairy Central (22-6) (District 14-AA girls’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Chester County

Previous meetings: Bolivar swept (48-39; 49-45)

Players to watch: Bolivar guard Tionne Herron; McNairy Central post Mikaela Rowland

Next opponent: Winner hosts Obion County and loser hosts Dyersburg in the Region 7-AA quarterfinals.

What to know: Bolivar swept each of the other three teams still alive in the district during the regular season. The Lady Tigers are tough with guards like Tionne Herron, Kelsey Kirk and Tymeria Franklin. The winner of this one has the task of playing Brandi Goodman, a Memphis signee, and Obion County in the quarterfinals of the region. The loser hosts a Dyersburg team that is playing hot right now. Bolivar is 7-1 in its last eight games. The Lady Bobcats entered the postseason going 3-3 in the regular season’s final six games, but they have beaten Fayette-Ware and Chester County to get to this point.

Saturday's top HS games to see (2/16)

No. 2 TCA (23-4) vs. No. 3 Adamsville (16-10) (District 15-A boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Middleton

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Adamsville won 57-55; TCA won 54-48)

Players to watch: TCA guard William Hall; Adamsville guard Tucker Campbell

Next opponent: Winner advances to the district championship to play the Middleton/Riverside winner

What to know: The Lions are on a three-game winning streak since last losing to Adamsville. TCA has been ranked in the Class A Top 10 all season. The Cardinals have won eight of their last 10 games. Adamsville is a much improved team from last year and has a shot at winning the district title, but Adamsville has to get through the semifinals first. TCA plays deep into its bench, and that type of team is perfect for tournament time.

 

No. 1 South Side (21-2) vs. No. 4 Bolivar (16-10) (District 14-AA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at Chester County

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (South Side won 87-83; Bolivar won 82-81)

Players to watch: South Side guard A.J.Merriweather; Bolivar guard Jerrious Sain

Next opponent: Winner advances to district championship to play the Liberty/Fayette-Ware winner

What to know: The Tigers responded from a two-game losing streak with a big win over Lexington in the district quarterfinals. Can Bolivar keep it up? Both games between these two teams have been extremely close during the regular season and this one should be also. South Side is on a seven-game winning streak since the Hawks last lost to Bolivar. South Side senior AJ Merriweather was named a Class AA Mr. Basketball finalist this week.

 

No. 2 Liberty (22-7) vs. No. 3 Fayette-Ware (21-7) (District 14-AA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Chester County

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Fayette-Ware won 68-61; Liberty won 67-64)

Players to watch: Liberty guard Daniel Hill; Fayette-Ware guard Shaquille Cooper

Next opponent: Winner advances to district championship to play the South Side/Bolivar winner

What to know: The Crusaders have won 15 of their last 17 games and seem to be back in top-notch form. Liberty knows how to win when it comes to postseason play, as the Crusaders have won three state titles and finished in the semifinals since 2006. Fayette-Ware is 3-3 in its last six games after playing well through most of the season.

 

No. 2 Munford (15-10) vs. No. 3 Hardin County (20-4) (District 13-AAA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Munford

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Hardin County won 49-45; Munford won 55-52)

Players to watch: Munford guard Jonathan Starks; Hardin County post Will Shelton

Next opponent: Winner advances to the district championship to play the Dyer County/North Side winner

What to know: These two teams have had some battles this season and the two wins are by a combined seven points. The two played just a week ago with Munford pulling out the win. The Tigers started slow and trailed 18-2 after the first quarter, but made a big comeback. Munford’s Kameron Foster was ejected from the game, so he should be ineligible in this one. Hardin County was 0-19 two years ago, so a berth in the district championship game would be huge.

 

No. 1 Dresden (21-5) vs. No. 3 Gleason (21-7) (District 13-A girls’ championship)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Huntingdon

Previous meetings: Split two games (Gleason won 62-42; Dresden won 43-34)

Players to watch: Dresden guard Carrie Hatchel; Gleason post Briana Jones

Next opponent: Both advance to the Region 7-A tournament. The winner hosts the Greenfield/Lake County loser, and the loser hosts the Greenfield/Lake County winner

What to know: Dresden is the defending District 13-A champion, but Gleason won the two previous district titles. The Lady Lions lost four key players from last year’s team, but have rebuilt quickly to win the regular season district title and have a shot at defending their tournament title. Gleason’s offense is built around post Briana Jones.

 

No. 1 Covington (29-2) vs. No. 2 Westview (26-4) (District 13-AA girls’ championship)

Time: 8 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Split two games (Westview won 54-40; Covington won 46-40)

Players to watch: Covington post Ashia Jones; Westview post Teddy Vincent

Next opponent: Both advance to the Region 7-AA tournament and will host.

What to know: Westview nailed eight 3-pointers to beat Obion County and advance to the district title game. Covington had to come from behind to beat Dyersburg in overtime. These two teams have been at the top of the district all season, and now they will fight for the district title. Westview will look to play pressure defense and try to contain the quickness of Covington.

 

No. 1 USJ (23-4) vs. No. 2 SBEC (23-6) (Division II-A girls’ semifinal)

Time: Noon at Lausanne

Previous meetings: Teams haven’t met in the past six years

Players to watch: USJ guard Sally Sikes; SBEC guard Kayleigh Patterson

Next opponent: Winner advances to the region championship game to play the Harding Academy/St. George’s winner

What to know: Both teams finished the season ranked in the Division II poll. SBEC is coming off of a 15-point win over JCS. USJ handled ECS easily in the first half before cruising to victory. The two will meet on a neutral floor at noon. USJ played three early games in the Martin Lions Club Christmas Tournament so playing early shouldn’t be a problem for them. The winner is not only in the region championship, but they will also get to host a sub-state game next Saturday.

Friday's top HS basketball games to watch (2/15)

No. 3 Dresden (17-8) vs. No.2 West Carroll (17-10) (District 13-A boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Huntingdon

Previous meetings: Two teams split (Dresden won 65-61; West Carroll won 52-47)

Players to watch:  Dresden guard Brock Dilday; West Carroll guard Letrell Huff

Next opponent: Winner plays the McKenzie/Huntingdon winner in the District 13-A championship

What to know: The Lions have won seven of their last nine games, and Dresden is the defending District 13-A champion. The War Eagles have won eight of their last 10 games. But only one will keep the winning going into the district championship. Win this one and you also get to host a region quarterfinal instead of going on the road to a location like Humboldt or Union City

 

No. 7 Lake County (5-20) vs. No. 3 Humboldt (20-6) (District 14-A boys’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Trenton Peabody

Previous meetings: The two teams split (Lake County winning 55-50 in OT; Humboldt won 83-72)

Players to watch: Lake County guard Zay Coleman; Humboldt guard De’Sonta Bradford

Next opponent: Winner plays the Union City/South Fulton winner in the District 14-A championship

What to know: Lake County fell into the No. 7 seed after forfeiting four victories from earlier in the season. The Falcons are coming off a big win over No. 2 seed Greenfield. Humboldt has won nine of its last 11 games. The Vikings have the potential to go on a deep run in the postseason, but that means they have to win here to avoid Union City in the region semifinals.

 

No. 1 Westview (26-4) vs. No. 4 Ripley (16-10) (District 13-AA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Westview swept (73-62; 81-72)

Players to watch: Westview guard Antonio Hogard; Ripley guard Chad Culbreath

Next opponent: Winner plays the Crockett County/Haywood winner in the District 13-AA championship

What to know: Westview picked up a big win in the quarterfinals, beating state-ranked Covington. The Chargers have to now be ready to keep winning if they want to win the District 13-AA tournament. Westview beat Ripley twice this season, but the Chargers didn’t run away with either. Ripley beat Dyersburg twice to earn a spot in the semifinals and a berth in the region tournament.

 

No. 2 Crockett County (21-7) vs. No. 3 Haywood (21-8) (District 13-AA boys’ semifinal)

Time: 8 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Split two games (Crockett County won 57-55; Haywood won 78-62)

Players to watch: Crockett County forward William Edwards; Haywood forward Sadarius Delk

Next opponent: Winner plays the Westview/Ripley winner in the District 13-AA championship

What to know: These two teams have battled in two meetings this season, and this one should be no different. The Cavaliers have won 10 of their last 12 games, and that included a seven-game winning streak. Haywood is on a seven-game winning streak and hasn’t lost since Jaan. 19 to Fayette-Ware.

 

No. 2 Middleton (19-8) vs. No. 3 Madison (20-9) (District 15-A girls’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Middleton

Previous meetings: Middleton swept (63-46; 58-41)

Players to watch:  Middleton guard Averyale Joy; Madison guard Cayla Sheets

Next opponent: Winner plays the Scotts Hill/Riverside winner in the District 15-A championship

What to know: Middleton won both matchups during the regular season by 17 points, but the Lady Tigers can’t expect this one to be as easy. Middleton is hard to beat at home, as they have only lost once at home this season and that was early in the season against McNairy Central. Madison has won nine of its last 10 games and is playing consistent right now.

 

No. 1 Bolivar (19-6) vs. No. 5 South Side (16-10) (District 14-AA girls’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at Chester County

Previous meetings: Bolivar swept both meetings (52-47; 67-42)

Players to watch: Bolivar guard Tionne Herron; South Side guard Ke’Shunan James

Next opponent: Winner plays the Chester County/McNairy Central winner in the District 14-AA championship

What to know: Bolivar has sat in the No. 1 spot in the district all season, and the Lady Tigers are one win away from a berth in the district championship game. The Lady Tigers have won six of their last seven games. South Side is 5-5 in its last 10 games. Bolivar won the last meeting by 25 points, so the Lady Hawks are going to have to try and find a way to stay closer this time around.

 

No. 3 Chester County (19-9) vs. No. 2 McNairy Central (21-6) (District 14-AA girls’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Chester County

Previous meetings: Split two meetings (Chester County won 42-37; McNairy Central won 39-31)

Players to watch: Chester County post Iesha Sims; McNairy Central post Mallorie Sweat

Next opponent: Winner plays the Bolivar/South Side winner in the District 14-AA championship

What to know: Both meetings have been a defensive showcase, and this one should be another display of tough defense. In the first meeting, Chester County’s press created turnovers and easy baskets. McNairy Central returned the favor in the second meeting, holding the Eaglettes to 31 points.

 

No. 2 Dyer County (17-8) vs. No. 3 Hardin County (16-8) (District 13-AAA girls’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Munford

Previous meetings: Dyer Count swept (52-48; 66-57)

Players to watch: Hardin County guard Katie Terry

Next opponent: Winner plays the Munford/North Side winner in the District 13-AAA championship

What to know: Hardin County lost both matchups against the Lady Choctaws during the regular season, but this might be the one that the Lady Tigers win. Hardin County has won six of its last nine games. The Lady Tigers have a strong post presence with Emily Gray and solid guard surrounding her. Dyer County will try to use their pressure defense to create turnovers.

Thursday's top H.S. games to watch (2/14)

No. 5 Scotts Hill (13-12) at No. 4 Riverside (14-11) (15-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6 p.m.

Previous meetings: Riverside won both (64-42; 63-59)

Players to watch: Scotts Hill forward Nick Hale; Riverside guard Payton Hehe

Next opponent: Middleton

What to know: Riverside is on a three-game losing streak after falling to Middleton twice and TCA during the final week of the regular season. Scotts Hill on the other hand is on a two-game winning streak. The loser’s season is over, and the winner is guaranteed three more games. Riverside swept the season series, but the second one was much closer than the first.

 

No. 5 Lexington (15-11) at No. 4 Bolivar (15-10) (14-AA boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Previous meetings: Bolivar won both (53-44; 55-49)

Players to watch: Bolivar post Des Robertson; Lexington guard Dillon Smith

Next opponent: Winner of South Side/Chester County

What to know: Lexington has been on a hot streak lately, winning its last five games. Lexington ended the season with wins over Liberty and Fayette-Ware, so they are playing their best basketball right now. Bolivar enters the season on a two-game losing streak. If Bolivar doesn’t make the district semifinals, that would be a major upset. Bolivar has won three state titles since 2004.

 

No. 3 Gleason (20-7) vs. No. 2 Huntingdon (23-4) (13-A girls’ semifinal)

Time: 7:30 p.m. at Huntingdon

Previous meetings: Huntingdon won both (40-30; 52-38)

Players to watch: Gleason post Briana Jones; Huntingdon post Hannah Belew

Next opponent: Winner plays Dresden/West Carroll winner in District 13-A championship

What to know: The Fillies swept the season series, but senior Allee Maxwell was injured in the final game of the regular season and will miss out on the postseason. Huntingdon will try to rally to continue winning. Players like Hannah Belew, Savannah Dodson and Morgan McMackin will have to take up the slack. Gleason has one of the best Class A players in the area in Briana Jones, who will work to get her team to the championship.

 

No. 4 West Carroll (18-9) vs. No. 1 Dresden (20-5) (13-A girls’ semifinal)

Time: 6 p.m. at Huntingdon

Previous meetings: Two teams split (West Carroll won 50-45; Dresden won 43-37)

Players to watch: West Carroll guard Tierra Williams; Dresden guard Amy McAlpin

Next opponent: Winner plays Gleason/Huntingdon winner in District 13-A championship

What to know: West Carroll is one of two teams to beat Dresden in district play during the regular season. Dresden has won 11 of its last 12 games, and the Lady Lions are playing well late in the season despite losing four key players from last year’s squad. Gleason has won six of its last seven games.

 

No. 3 Obion County (25-7) vs. No. 2 Westview (25-4) (13-AA girls’ semifinal)

Time: 8 p.m. at Dyersburg

Previous meetings: Two teams split (Westview won 57-48; Obion County won 47-40)

Players to watch: Obion County post Brandi Goodman; Westview post Teddy Vincent

Next opponent: Winner plays the Covington/Dyersburg winner in the District 13-AA championship

What to know: The Lady Chargers and Lady Rebels split during the regular season with each winning at home. This time the game is on a neutral court. Westview will try to use it press defense to disrupt Obion County and force turnovers. Obion County runs its offense through post player Brandi Goodman, a Memphis signee and Miss Basketball finalist. Obion County was the Class AA runner-up, and the Lady Rebels are working towards getting back to Murfreesboro.

 

No. 4 ECS (10-13) at No. 1 USJ (22-4) (Division II-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6 p.m.

Previous meetings: USJ won 46-38 in February of 2010

Players to watch: USJ post Eliza Edwards, a Miss Basketball finalist

Next opponent: JCS/SBEC winner

What to know: USJ and ECS were supposed to player earlier this season, but the game was canceled because of an illness on ECS’ team. The teams will now play with the season on the line. ECS is on a three-game winning streak with big wins over Bishop Byrne, FACS and Tipton-Rosemark.

Tuesday's top H.S. basketball games to see (2/12)

No. 5 Bruceton (10-16) at No. 4 Huntingdon (14-12) (13-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Huntingdon won both, including a 65-58 win last time

Players to watch: Bruceton guard Rekayis McCauley; Huntingdon guard Justice Scott

Next opponent: Winner of McKenzie/Gleason

What to know: The Mustangs have won six of their last seven games entering the postseason. Bruceton is riding a four-game losing streak. Huntingdon is becoming hot at the right time and has the potential to make a run at the district title. The Mustangs will have to find a way to contain Bruceton’s Rekayis McCauley,who is putting up 30 to 40 points a game recently.

 

No. 7 Lake County (4-20) vs. No. 2 Greenfield (16-7) (14-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Greenfield swept (66-62; 63-52)

Players to watch: Lake County guard Zay Coleman; Greenfield guard Tony Robinson

Next opponent: Winner of Humboldt/Halls

What to know: Lake County might not have the greatest record, but the Falcons cannot be counted out. Lake County was forced to forfeit four victories and has not won since Dec. 21, but Zay Coleman is a dangerous player. Greenfield has won back-to-back games since losing consecutive games to Union City and Humboldt. The Yellowjackets have stayed in one of the top two spots in the district all season and want to stay there in the tournament.

 

No. 5 South Fulton (16-10) at No. 4 Bradford (19-8) (14-A boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Split (South Fulton won 63-47; Bradford won 77-68

Players to watch: Bradford guard Tyler McCartney

Next opponent: Winner of Union City/Trenton Peabody

What to know: Bradford has won six of its last seven games and comes in playing well. The Red Devils won on the road in the regular season series, and they will look to avenge the home loss early in the season. Bradford will need more than Tyler McCartney hitting shots. Grant Hampton, Glenn Cooper and Peyton Pruett all have the potential to score in double figures.

 

No. 10 Covington (2-27) at No. 1 Westview (25-4) (13-AA boys’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Covington won both, but had to forfeit both wins (84-79; 82-50)

Players to watch: Covington forward Demetrius Dyson; Westview post Javier Gordon

Next opponent: Winner of Ripley/Dyersburg

What to know: When Covington was forced to forfeit all 24 wins it had this season, the district coaches voted to move them down to No. 10 instead of just leaving them at No. 1. As a result, top-seeded Westview has to play Covington in a win-or-go-home game. Westview played Covington close at home earlier in the season, and Covington is missing two players. Covington can’t be counted out though with a player like Demetrius Dyson, who scored 40 points just a week ago.

 

No. 5 TCA (13-13) at No. 4 Riverside (14-11) (15-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Riverside swept (57-47; 62-50)

Players to watch: TCA guard Samantha VanCleave; Riverside guard Holly Chumney

Next opponent: Scotts Hill

What to know: TCA is forced to win on the road if the Lady Lions want to keep their season alive. Riverside won both games in the regular season, but the Lady Panthers didn’t run away with either win. Riverside is coming off a win over Middleton last week and seems to have momentum on its side.

 

No. 5 South Side (15-10) at No. 4 Lexington (14-10) (14-AA girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Earlier meetings: South Side swept (69-65; 49-44 (OT))

Players to watch: South Side post Stephanie Tipler; Lexington post Kalee Goff

Next opponent: Winner of Bolivar/JCM

What to know: South Side might have won both games during the regular season, but the Lady Hawks will have to travel to Lexington in the quarterfinals of the District 14-AA tournament. South Side is on a two-game losing streak entering the postseason. Lexington is playing well, winning 10 of its last 12 games. One of those two loses were to South Side on the road in overtime.

 

No. 5 USJ (6-17) at No. 4 Harding Academy (10-14) (Division II-A boys’ first round)

Time: 6 p.m.

Last season: Harding won 79-78

Players to watch: USJ guard Peyton Fendley

Next opponent: Fayette Academy

What to know: Harding Academy ended USJ’s season last year. But the Bruins no longer have John Ross Glover, and Harding Academy is not as strong as it was last year. USJ closed out the regular season with a win, and the Bruins will look to carry that over into the postseason for a chance to move into the quarterfinals of the region tournament.

Monday's top HS games to see (2/11)

No. 5 Dyersburg (18-9) at No. 4 Gibson County (18-8) (13-AA girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 7 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Split (Dyersburg won 62-60; Gibson County won 71-58)

Players to watch: Dyersburg guard Myah Taylor; Gibson County guard Jasmine Whittemore

Next opponent: Winner of Covington/Haywood

What to know: Gibson County has won six of its last seven games, and the Lady Pioneers are playing well under first-year coach Mitch Wilkins. Dyersburg has won three straight since its last loss to Gibson County. This is Gibson County’s final year as a Class AA school, and a trip to the semifinals would be a nice ending before being moved down to District 14-A. Expect tough full-court defense from the Lady Pioneers to try and get steals and easy lay-ups.

 

No. 5 Big Sandy (13-13) at No. 4 West Carroll (17-9) (13-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Earlier meetings: West Carroll swept (47-27; 44-37)

Players to watch: Big Sandy post Luz Mena; West Carroll guard Tierra Williams

Next opponent: Winner of Dresden/Bruceton

What to know: Big Sandy is on a three-game winnings streak since last losing to West Carroll at home. The Lady Red Devils finished third in the district last year and to repeat that Big Sandy will have to win on the road to start the tournament. West Carroll was on a five-game winning streak before ending the season with a loss to Huntingdon. The War Eagles are playing consistent at the right time.

 

No. 5 Halls (11-13) at No. 4 Greenfield (25-9) (14-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Greenfield swept (56-48; 48-42)

Players to watch: Greenfield guard Brittany Peoples

Next opponent: Winner of Union City/Trenton Peabody

What to know: Greenfield swept both meetings, but teams seem to bring a different game when the postseason arrives. Halls is on a four-game losing streak including a loss to Greenfield in that stretch. Greenfield has won six of its last eight games.

 

No. 6 Bradford (11-16) at No. 3 Lake County (14-8) (14-A girls’ quarterfinal)

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Earlier meetings: Split (Lake County won 45-42; Bradford won 61-43)

Players to watch: Bradford guard Morgan Martin; Lake County guard Tiana Gray

Next opponent: Winner of South Fulton/Humboldt

What to know: Bradford is a team that has become hot at the right time of the season. The lady Red Devils have won four of their five games with the loss coming against Huntingdon. Lake County beat Bradford in a close one at home earlier in the season, but lost by 18-points two weeks ago at Bradford. The Lady Falcons are on a four-game losing streak.

Friday's top games to see (2/8)

McNairy Central (19-6, 9-4) at Chester County (18-8, 10-3) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Chester County won 42-37

Players to watch: McNairy Central post Mikaela Rowland; Chester County post Iesha Sims

What to know: McNairy Central’s tough final week of the season continues. The Lady Bobcats fell to Bolivar on Tuesday and must turn around and play Chester County today. Both of these teams are fighting for the second and third spots in the district. Chester County won the first matchup in Selmer with tough defense forcing the Lady Bobcats into turnovers. McNairy Central will key on ball handling and getting the ball up the court.

 

TCA (12-13, 4-7) at Adamsville (10-12, 3-8) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: TCA won 58-45

Players to watch: Adamsville guard Keatinez Lloyd; TCA guard Samantha VanCleave

What to know: These two teams played Saturday at TCA. It seems like both of these teams have played extremely well at times, and they have had letdowns at times. Adamsville has a tough guard in Keatinez Lloyd, and the Lady Cardinals will look to her speed to beat the TCA defense.

 

Bolivar (15-9, 9-4) at Liberty (19-8, 9-4) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Bolivar won 81-68

Players to watch: Bolivar post Des Robertson; Liberty post Rashad Crisp

What to know: South Side is the No. 1 seed in District 14-AA, and Fayette-Ware is No. 2. The No. 3 and No. 4 seeds will be determined tonight. Bolivar won the first meeting at home. The loser will fall to the No. 4 seed in the tournament and will be looking at a matchup against South Side in the district semifinals. Liberty has improved as the season has progressed, and the Crusaders have the potential to make a run in the postseason.

 

Hardin County (20-3, 4-3) at Munford (13-11, 5-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Hardin County won 49-45 in OT

Players to watch: Hardin County post Will Shelton; Munford guard Jonathan Starks

What to know: The No. 2 seed in the District 13-AAA tournament is on the line in this one. Hardin County is coming off a loss to North Side at home. Hardin County will look to rebound against a tough Munford team. Hardin County already has a win over Munford this season, so a season sweep means Hardin County in a No. 2 seed. If Munford wins, it is the No. 2 seed. Hardin County will have to stop Munford guard Jonathan Starks and his scoring ability.

 

Westview (22-6, 14-3) at Crockett County (18-8, 13-4) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Crockett County won 76-71

Players to watch: Westview post Javier Gordon; Crockett County forward William Edwards

What to know: These two teams are bettling for second place in District 13-AA behind Covington. Crockett County fell to Covington on Tuesday, so the Cavaliers are a game behind Westview. The Cavaliers did win the first matchup of the season at Martin, so a win here and Crockett County has the season sweep.

Tuesday's top H.S. games to see (2/5)

Scotts Hill (18-5, 9-1) at Madison (17-9, 8-3) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Scotts Hill won 70-61

Players to watch: Scotts Hill post Chelsea Wyatt; Madison post Taylor Davis

What to know: The objective is simple. Win and Scotts Hill is the No. 1 seed in the District 15-A tournament. Lose and the Lady Lions are tied for the top spot with Middleton. Scotts Hill has won five straight games since losing to Lexington. Madison is still trying to find consistency. The Lady Mustangs would certainly find some momentum with a win over Scotts Hill. Madison has secured the No. 3 seed in the district tournament.

 

Bolivar (17-5, 11-1) at McNairy Central (19-5, 9-3) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Bolivar won 48-39

Players to watch: Bolivar guard Kelsey Kirk; McNairy Central post Mallorie Sweat

What to know: The Lady Tigers did a good job at home taking McNairy Central’s post players out of the offense. Bolivar will have to do that again. A win by the Lady Tigers and they have the No. 1 seed in the District 14-AA tournament secured. McNairy Central has Bolivar and Chester County remaining in district play this week, so much is yet to be decided for the Lady Bobcats this week. Win both and McNairy Central could be the No. 2 seed or lose both and they could fall as far as a No. 5 seed.

 

Westview (23-3, 15-1) at Obion County (21-6, 12-2) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Westview won 57-48

Players to watch: Westview post Teddy Vincent; Obion County post Brandi Goodman

What to know: The Lady Chargers are in a fight for the No. 1 seed in the District 13-AA tournament, which means this is a must-win. Westview is playing without starting guard Jasmine Howard, but the Lady Chargers are playing well right now. Obion County is coming off a week of playing four games in six days, but all four resulted in wins. The Lady Rebels are trying to get back into the hunt for the No. 1 seed.

 

TCA (20-4, 8-2) at Riverside (14-8, 7-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: TCA won 73-60

Players to watch: TCA guard William Hall; Riverside guard Dylan Scott

What to know: Riverside has three tough games this week beginning with this one before playing Middleton on Thursday and Friday. If the Panthers can win all three, they can be the No. 1 seed in the tournament. TCA is also fighting for the No. 1 seed and must beat Riverside and Adamsville this week to stay in a tie with Middleton. The Lions are full of offensive weapons and that has posed problems for opposing teams.

 

Huntingdon (13-11, 11-4) at West Carroll (16-9, 13-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: West Carroll won 58-54

Players to watch: Huntingdon guard Justice Scott; West Carroll guard Jamal Glenn

What to know: The Mustangs are playing well right now and are on a five-game winning streak that includes wins over Bradford and McKenzie. Huntingdon can’t win the regular season district title with four losses already, but momentum would be big going into the District 13-A tournament next week. West Carroll is in a tie for the No. 1 seed in the tournament with McKenzie, so a win here is important to the War Eagles.

 

JCS (13-1), 7-2) at Fayette Academy (14-9, 6-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: JCS won 56-49

Players to watch: JCS forward Lucas Pyron

What to know: Jackson Christian School, Fayette Academy and St. George’s are in a tie for the top spot in the district. The loser is looking at the No. 3 seed in the district going into the region tournament next week. The Eagles pulled out the win at home, but now they must win on the road. This is JCS’ final district game. Fayette Academy still has to play Tipton-Rosemark.