The Rebels (21-5) who are the #2 seed in the section take on the #7 seeded Spring Lake Park Panthers (13-13) as the Panthers make their first appearance in the section on Friday March 12th.
The Panthers, who are on a three game winning streak and averaging 68 points a game, are led by three seniors, Elijah Sabah (16 ppg), Travis Johnson (14 ppg) and Ryan Murdy (11 ppg). When looking at the teams common opponents, the Panthers have defeated Centennial, but lost to Osseo, Moundsview, Elk River and Minnetonka.
The Rebels who had their 14 game winning streak snapped last Friday night on senior night, look forward to the return of post player Kyle Zimmermann who has sat out the last four games due to an ankle injury. Zimmermann will bring back a dominate inside presence. Swing man Josh Pella, who has probably missed Zimmermann the most since he has shouldered most of the inside work, should be energized and more effective with the Zimmermann return. The week off will also help Jasper Duberry who nicked a finger in the Anoka game.
Look for the Rebels to play better defense in this game as they gave up their 3rd highest amount of points (77) of the season in their Andover lost which included a mind boggling 54 in the second half. The Rebels also suffered thru one of their worst shooting performances of the year as well.
The balanced scoring Rebels who have four players scoring in double digits per game are averaging 70 points a game. They have won 19 of their last 22 games and are currently ranked #5 in the Minnesota Preps poll.
Posts
