Christmas Tournament Finals Previews
Ronald Curry Christmas Classic Finals Preview:
By: Matt Aiton
Championships
Phoebus (4-0) vs. I.C. Norcom (7-2) - A great matchup for the finals of the Ronald Curry Christmas Classic. Phoebus, still undefeated, won over W.T. Woodson in the first round 60-45, then took out Poly Tech High 71-68. Brian Darden went for 24 against Poly Tech High and threw in 10 against W.T. Woodson. For I.C. Norcom, the Greyhounds beat Denbigh in the first round 81-68 and edged Warwick 60-51 in the semi-final. I.C. Norcom continues to roll. They have won huge games all throughout this young season, and look poised to bring home this years title. Phoebus on the other hand, has yet to taste defeat and wants to remain that way and make this a month of titles for the Phantom faithful. If I.C. Norcom can't match Phoebus' three point prowess, the Greyhounds will be in for a long championship game.
The Pick: Phoebus 67-63
Bethel (7-1) vs. Menchville (4-4) - This matchup has championship written all over it. The Menchville Monarchs took out a really good Lake Taylor team and then eliminated Hampton from championship contention. Bethel knocked out Sidwell Friends in the first then held on to defeat Woodside to advance to the finals. Bethel has been off to a great start this season, indicated by their record. Their only loss came against Kecoughtan (5-0) to start the season. The Bruins are very able of winning this game and bring home back-to-back titles. Menchville has played this tournament with a ton of desire. Don't be surprised if the Monarchs find a way to win this tournament and put themselves in great position in the Peninsula District coming out of the Christmas break.
The Pick: Bethel 72-59
Tabb Tournament Final Preview:
Championship
Poquoson (3-4) vs. Tabb (7-2) - In the finals of the Tabb Tournament the Poquoson Islanders will face off with the Tabb Tigers. Tabb is playing really good basketball right now and will be very difficult to beat. They always this want tournament for obvious reasons and always played solid basketball on their home court. Coach Baggett will have his boys ready to go and they should come away with a win today. Poquoson has already lost once this season at Tabb 50-37 just 12 days ago. With Chad Pinder calling it quits due to injury, the Islanders have been working themselves into a solid Bay Rivers District team. Plus, Poquoson teams always seem to pull a huge upset or two every year.
The Pick: Tabb 61-45
