Division IV Ohio boys basketball state tournament preview
Here are predictions for the Division IV Ohio boys basketball state tournament:
Division IV
Best player: Mike Bothwell, Cornerstone Christian
If his 41 points in the regional title game against Lutheran East didn’t make Bothwell the state’s best remaining player in Division IV, I’m not sure what will. Only a sophomore, this is as talented a D4 player as you’ll find, and he should start garnering plenty of Division I college interest soon.
Semifinal predictions
Cornerstone Christian over Columbus Wellington School
Although their record is far worse, Cornerstone Christian is playing like a better team right now. They have the best player on the floor (Bothwell) and can score better than any team left in the field. It’s just really though to slow down the Patriots.
Jackson Center over Van Wert Lincolnview
This one will come across as an upset because Van Wert Lincolnview is ranked first in the state. Jackson Center, though, has a dynamite player in Drew Sosby, who will be a mismatch. He should lead Jackson Center to the state title game.
State title prediction
Cornerstone Christian over Jackson Center
The lone Northeast Ohio team to cut down the nets in Columbus will be Cornerstone Christian. The emergence of Bothwell has made this the most dangerous team left in the field, and they’ll play like it this week. The Patriots will be celebrating the state title.