Marquee Matchups: Week 10 in Central Ohio
We’ve got primarily Columbus City League games on the docket this week. We’re especially interested to see how Africentric fares after their 15-point wins against South and Gahanna last week.
Jan. 30: Northland at Beechcroft
Beechcroft hasn’t played a true test since their Jan. 6 matchup against Pickerington North at The Challenge. It was their only loss of the season, as they rank near the top of the Division II AP Poll every week. Their spot is deserved, but another signature win against Northland to end the season is important for them as they lack a strong schedule. In their last matchup, Beechcroft won by nine at Northland and Will Mfum scored 21 to lead the Vikings.
Jan. 30: Africentric at Eastmoor Academy
As mentioned, Africentric has officially thrown their hat in the ring of Division III Central Ohio contenders, joining Harvest Prep, The Wellington School, and Bishop Ready. Luckily for Africentric, they’ll continue testing their character against quality competition this week. Eastmoor beat them in their first matchup back in late-December by seven points. EA’s athleticism all over the court has been a challenge for opposing offenses all season, allowing under 50 points per game through last Friday against a ridiculous schedule.
Feb. 3: Upper Arlington at Dublin Coffman
Two top ten Division I teams according to the AP poll play in their first of two matchups this weekend. The high-profile talent jumps off the page here with UA’s Dane Goodwin (Notre Dame signee), Max Martz (Pennsylvania), and Dominiq Penn (sophomore with an Ohio State offer). Coffman’s role players Nicholas Carlson, Derek Van Vlerah, and Will Hunter will need to step up on both ends of the floor to limit UA’s signature bucket-getters. For UA, the secondary question behind creating separation for jumpers is competing on the boards.
Feb. 3: Africentric at McNicholas
Click here for the game preview in the Southern Ohio section.