Potential State Tournament “Sleepers” in 4A

<p>With the Oklahoma High School playoffs in full swing, there’s been a lot of talk surrounding the teams in Class 4A that could compete for a State Title. While Kingfisher, Heritage Hall, and the "sleeper," Daniel Webster are considered to be the favorites, there are two other teams that I believe have a legitimate chance to reap havoc in the State Tournament.</p> <p>Why are Classen SAS and Mount Saint Mary not in the conversation regarding possibly winning a 4A State Title? My guess is because they don’t have any big-time, headlining names on their rosters as Kingfisher and Heritage Hall do. However, I’ll give you a brief synopsis of why you should keep an eye on these teams.</p> <p><strong>Classen SAS:</strong></p> <p>The Comets are top-heavy when it comes to their talent, but that doesn’t matter because they’re outstanding. Kamari Smiley, [player_tooltip player_id="953451" first="Anthony" last="Turner"], and [player_tooltip player_id="967403" first="Tony" last="Palma"] aren’t to be slept on. Smiley and Turner are seniors, and Palma is a junior but presents the perfect three-headed monster to knock off one of 4A’s favorites, especially when they get hot on the offensive end.</p> <p>Their defense is never in question, either. They’ve only given up more than 55 points three times in 15 games, which has been the driving force behind their 13-2 record. Between Classen’s chemistry, defense, and ability to pile on the points at any given moment, the recipe is perfect for a lengthy tournament run.</p> <p><strong>Mount St. Mary:</strong></p> <p>The only thing stopping the Mount from being in the same conversation as Heritage Hall and Kingfisher is their youth. Head coach Brandon Jackson’s key players consist of one freshman, two sophomores, and only one senior. Of those four, his two sophomores, C.J. Johnson and [player_tooltip player_id="981285" first="Diante" last="Palmer"], are probably his most talented.</p> <p>Saying Johnson and Palmer are Mount’s most talented players isn’t slighting what their senior, Luke Harstad brings to the table. In the District championship game, Harstad was the leading scorer with 22 points. He also brings something to the table that this group doesn’t have yet, and that’s experience.</p> <p>Just like the Comets, Mount St. Mary brings the intensity on defense game-in and game-out and doesn’t seem to let up, regardless of the situation.</p> <p>Once again, a perfect recipe for a team that’s ready to make some noise in the State Tournament.</p>