Tuesday's Top Tips: 2/10

There are just a few big games tipping off tonight due to the start of the Girl's State Tournament. Most teams are taking the day off to give the guys a chance to support the ladies in their postseason run. There are some exceptions, however, so let's take a look at some of the best games going down tonight, Tuesday the tenth!

Howe (9-5) vs. Indiana Deaf (11-5) - The Deaf Hoosiers are at a disadvantage against this opposing city team, but don't count them out altogether. The Hornets have not played their best ball as of late, and the Deaf School features one of the top scorers and rebounders in the state in Gabriel Paulone. Howe is stocked with talent, but they have struggled a bit as of late, losing two of their last three games, most recently to Northwest in overtime. Space Pioneer Ronald Ross dismantled the Hornet "D" to the tune of 17 points, 21 rebounds, and 15 assists. I do expect Howe to win behind the play of stars PJ Boutte, Andre Hampton, and Jordan Manuel.

Kokomo (10-6) vs. Anderson (11-3) - The WildKats have had some big-time wins this year, including an upset against 2A number two Tipton, and they are on a run, winning four straight games and six of seven. They have a number of solid players including 6'7 senior forward Patrick Hopkins, an Indiana Wesleyan recruit. Anderson is playing potentially one of their final games in the famed Wigwam gymnasium (see recent post below). They are winners of three in a row, all over 4A squads, including a hard-fought double overtime game against a tough Logansport team. I expect the Indians to utilize their home court advantage and get a big North Central Conference win tonight.

Lawrence Central (6-7) vs. Hamilton Southeastern (9-6) - The Bears are having comparative success this season in light of their 1-19 record last year. The transfer of Marcus Jackson, a 6'5 forward, from Lawrence North has been a big help, as has the solid freshman season of Jeremey Hollowell, a likely D1 recruit. The Royals have had the definition of an up-and-down season. They have winning streaks of four and three games, and also a five-game losing streak to their credit so far. They are currently on their three game win streak. They are led by forwards Zach Starr and Charlie Duffy, among others. I expect the Royals to prevail at home.

Check back tomorrow to see the results of these games, and highlights of others.