RPI: Ross Rowling predicts the semi's

Four teams still Stand

The quarterfinals did not disappoint. Robinson and Terre Haute North fought toe to toe for 32 minutes and Coach Mack Thompson put it best saying, “We were fortunate to be on top when the time ran out.” That was truly a fantastic ballgame. Northview, Rockville, and Sullivan join the Maroons in the semi-finals. Let’s take a look at the matchups. Here's Saturday's edition of the RPI (Rowling Prediction Index)

7:00 Northview vs. Robinson

The Maroons have been the darlings of this tournament. They’ve knocked off the two biggest schools in two days, and now they get another in Northview. Aaron Siler is averaging 32 ppg in the tournament including a 39 point explosion against two time defending champion Terre Haute North. The Maroons can’t expect Siler to go for 39 again, but 25 is certainly reasonable. He’s a fantastic player. The Knights have a good point guard of their own with Craig Peters. I’m looking forward to the matchup at the point. Northview does have the beef inside to matchup with Robinson’s size. Ethan Whitson is coming off a career day. I think Derrick Nicholas will bounce back from a foul ridden quarterfinal game to have a big day on Saturday. Two young energetic coaches will be primed up on the sideline for the big stage in the semi-finals. Both will have their teams fired up and ready to play. Robinson has been playing so well. They’ve unseated the champs, and I don’t see the run coming to an end in the semi’s.

Pick: Robinson

8:30 Rockville vs. Sullivan

The nightcap features a matchup between Rockville and Sullivan that should be awesome. Both teams have impressive victories to make it to this point. Rockville’s Lane Mahurin showed why he’s one of the best players in the tournament in a win over Marshall. Mahurin does so many things well and presents a matchup nightmare for opponents. Sullivan has the size to matchup with the Rox. Michael Hutchcraft and Jake Kinneman have taken turns having big games in this one. Kinneman is especially physical and could give the Rox fits inside. Rockville likes to create easy opportunities off of defensive pressure. I think Sullivan’s guards are good enough to resist great pressure. That’s why this young Golden Arrow team will stay close. At the end of the day, Mahurin is the best player on the floor and proves to be the difference in this one. The Rox move on to set up a titanic clash in the championship game when they meet Robinson.

Pick: Rockville.

Enjoy Day 3 of the Pizza Hut Classic. Come say Hi and lets talk some hoops.