Only eight games remain in the 2024 Georgia high school boys basketball season, and as is an annual tradition here at ITG Next, it’s time for state championship game picks.
Class 1A-DI: Paideia vs. Mt. Vernon
One of these two region foes will win their first state championship this week. The squads split the regular season series, with the Mustangs winning by 18 in mid-February.
Mt. Vernon’s “Fantastic Four” of KJ Garris, Shayah Goba, Xavier Shegog, and Dennis Scott III have terrorized opponents this year, but Paideia has found its stride defensively in the playoffs, holding every opponent to 54 points or less.
This may be a low-scoring affair with possessions at a premium.
Prediction: Mt. Vernon 64, Paideia 58
Class 1A-DII: Manchester vs. Greenforest Christian
Daryus Bryant and Manchester have put together an excellent season.
However, they’ll undoubtedly face their toughest opponent of the season in Greenforest Christian, who has beaten the likes of Newton, Pebblebrook, and Langston Hughes. The Eagles have not lost since Dec. 22, mostly due to legendary defensive performances, and that streak may continue into next season.
Prediction: Greenforest 72, Manchester 57
Class 2A: Toombs County vs. Westside (Augusta)
Westside enters as the back-to-back state champion, and Toombs County is the feisty underdog despite a 29-2 record. The Bulldogs allow just over 43 points per game, and only two opponents have topped the 50-point mark this calendar year.
On the other hand, Westside thrives offensively and has posted triple-digit totals five times this season. The Patriots are dynamite in transition, allowing them to score early and often.
Westside is the outright favorite to win, but Toombs County’s defensive aggression may make them a popular upset selection.
Prediction: Toombs County 63, Westside (Augusta) 62
Class 3A: Sandy Creek vs. Johnson (Savannah)
This is a classic David versus Goliath story: The Patriots are seeking consecutive titles with classic dominance, while the Atom Smashers are on a Cinderella run during which they’ve defeated three higher-ranked opponents. Joshua Quarterman and Favion Kirkwood have been the offensive dynamic duo for Johnson, and their contributions have proven just enough to defeat better playoff squads.
Does the slipper still fit for the Atom Smashers, or has the clock struck midnight?
Prediction: Sandy Creek 73, Johnson (Savannah) 55
Class 4A: North Oconee vs. Holy Innocents’
The playoff runs for both these teams have been nothing short of thrilling. The Titans are coming off a 1-point win over Baldwin, while the Bears stunned perennial power Pace Academy in the second round.
In many ways, these two squads are similar, which makes it difficult to pick an outright favorite. Both dominated their region slate, neither lost at home, and they each feature balanced play at both ends of the court. This may become a back-and-forth affair until the final buzzer sounds.
Prediction: Holy Innocents’ 66, North Oconee 64
Class 5A: Eagle’s Landing vs. Kell
The two best teams in Class 5A meet for the title once again on Thursday night. Last year, Kell pulled away late for an 8-point, title-clinching victory, and there is no doubt that Eagle’s Landing remembers that moment.
This year, the Eagles survived a second-round upset bid by Bradwell Institute en route to the championship game. In addition, they have not faced the same level of talent and competition this season that they will see in Kell.
Kell and their star-studded roster have appeared nearly unstoppable all season long, but they cannot remain complacent. They have been tested in recent weeks, but have escaped each time. That could change in an instant.
Is revenge in store for Eagle’s Landing?
Prediction: Kell 71, Eagle’s Landing 67
Class 6A: Alexander vs. Riverwood
Riverwood has been the feel-good story of the season. Just two years ago, the Raiders ended their season with just six wins. Now, they are one victory away from a state championship.
Riverwood wouldn’t be in this position, though, without Karris Bilal and JR Leonard, who combine for a whopping 50 points and 11 rebounds per game. That duo has been amongst the best in Georgia high school boys basketball this season.
For Alexander, the scoring has been more balanced. Their goal is to repeat as champions and earn their second basketball title in school history. It’s as simple as that.
Prediction: Riverwood 69, Alexander 67
Class 7A: McEachern vs. Grayson
This is the rematch on everyone’s mind. Grayson routed McEachern 79-62 to open this season, but a lot has changed.
The Airious Bailey-led Indians now ride a 14-game winning streak, during which they’ve defeated Newton, Milton, Norcross, and Wheeler.
The Rams, sporting a 29-2 record, have remained dominant defensively, but may lack offensive consistency at times.
Two bluebloods collide on the final night of championships with Grayson seeking their first title and McEachern their second. Both teams have been recognized nationally as well, setting the stage for a fitting state championship finish to a wonderful 2024 Georgia high school basketball season.
Prediction: Grayson 73, McEachern 71
