Sports
Vinton County Tournament Preview
By: Jordan Gallagher
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The Vinton County Lady Vikings, who have the third seed in their bracket, will have a tough test in their game against third seeded Fairfield Union on Wednesday. The Lady Falcons of Fairfield Union represent a tough task, not just because of their skills, which led them to an 11-9 regular season record, but also because of their height.
The Lady Falcons have the height advantage with four players 5’10” or taller on their roster, which could cause problems for Vinton County. In order to advance, Vinton County will need top players Sammy Thompson and Cassie Bentley to step up not just on the scoreboard,but also on the boards themselves.
The Lady Vikings will also need players like Erin Jones and Darian Radabaugh to have big games. If they get the win against Fairfield Union, they will most likely have to face second seeded Warren.
As for the boys, they may have faced the toughest opponent in the tournament already as they suffered their second loss of the season against the one seeded Miami Trace 72-65. While the loss was a disappointing one for the Vikings, losing to the other number one seed by just seven points should have them feeling good in the early rounds of the playoff.
For their first game, the Vikings will face either Marietta or New Lexington, who were both middle of the road teams this year. As it has been all season, the playoffs will most likely be the Derick Jones, Naylan Yates and Tristan Bartoe show. The three have been the most influential factors in how the Vikings have played all season, but the Vikings have gotten big contributions from players like Bryce Damron and Nevan Yates. It wouldn’t be bad for the Vikings to have some more role players to step up for the Vikings to help take the load off of the big three.