Games of the Day: 12/2

For us nine to fivers, Friday is a long way off, but for coaches preparing for tough games and top flight competition, it's creeping up quickly. With only three practices left to work and game plan, P-Hoops profiles the top games on deck for Friday, December 2nd.

1. Park Tudor (3-0) vs. Roncalli (1-0)

Class 2A #1 Park Tudor got off to a strong start in Chicago, sweeping through their tournament and winning by an average margin of almost 29 points. Led by senior Yogi Ferrell, and IU signee, and sophomore Trevon Bluiett, the Panthers look like one of the top teams in the state regarless of class. Roncalli will provide a great early season test for Park Tudor. The Rebels have one of the top teams in 3A, led by a dynamic frontline of Ryan Weber and David Heckman, both 6'7 forwards. Expect the two private schools to battle out a close one. The depth and outside shooting of Park Tudor may be the difference in this one, but Roncalli may be able to exploit them inside.

2. Arsenal Tech (2-0) vs. Lawrence Central (2-0)

The Tech Titans are looking to prove that they're 4A contenders and not pretenders after a strong 2-0 start with an average win margin of 25 points. Led by a bevy of talented underclassmen including sophomore Trey Lyles, a national 5 star recruit and IU commit who is averaging a double-double, Tech looks like a serious IPS powerhouse. Tech also boasts sophomore guards Mike Jones and Jeremie Tyler, which forms a strong backcourt to go along with the 6'8 Lyles. Lawrence Central comes into the game on a roll after defeating crosstown rival Lawrence North and Arlington. Leading the Bears is 6'8 senior wing and IU signee Jeremy Hollowell, who is averaging 22.5 points per contest. LC also boasts senior point guard Tyler Corley, another D1 level recruit. The Bears certainly have the edge in experience, but Tech is trying to prove itself as an up-and-comer. Expect a close one.

3. Hamilton Southeastern (1-0) vs. Mt. Vernon (2-0)

HSE proved it's mettle with an early season win over Glenn Robinson III's Lake Central squad. Led by seniors Gary Harris (MSU) and Jaccobby Bledsoe, and junior Zakarie Irvin (Michigan), the Royals are a 4A contender. The Marauders are off to a surprising 2-0 start with big wins over Noblesville and Hamilton Heights. Sophomore CJ Coleman has played well for Mt. Vernon so far this year, including a 21 point outburst against Noblesville. If the Marauders can continue their run and knock off the Royals, they will certainly make waves across the state. I expect HSE to have to fight, but pull away in the fourth.

4. Warren Central (0-0) vs. Cathedral (0-0)

The opener for both teams will be a battle. The Warriors are an athletic bunch, led by 6'8 senior center Brent Calhoun, a Detroit recruit. The top player on the team is likely 6'6 junior wing Devin Davis, a bouncy forward with a developing all around game. Davis is also headed to IU. Cathedral is another top private school, led by 6'6 senior guard Jared Drew, who is headed to St. Louis to play for Rick Majerus. Also starring for the Irish is 6'6 junior wing Collin Hartman, another IU recruit. Sophomore guard Mo Evans is another star-in-the-making for Cathedral. This should be a high scoring affair.

5. Lake Central (1-1) vs. Valparaiso (2-0)

The Indians look to rebound after a tough loss to HSE. Leading the way is Glenn Robinson III, a Michigan recruit who is tearing it up so far this season. Central also gets 6'7 junior post Tyler Wideman back from a one game suspension from receiving two techs in their first contest. Valpo was supossed to be in rebuilding mode, but thanks to the early season play of John Mosser and Andrew Kittridge, they look like they may make some noise in northwest Indiana. I expect Lake Central to rebound and hand the VIkings their first loss of the season.

Other Top Games

Winchester (1-0) vs. Wapahani (1-0)

Ben Davis (1-0) vs. Pike (0-1)

Center Grove (2-0) vs. Southport (1-1)

Noblesville (1-1) vs. Carmel (1-0)

Danville (0-0) vs. Avon (1-0)