THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, February 18, 1996 TAG: 9602160155
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 32 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY ROBIN BRINKLEY, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Short : 49 lines
The Beach District boys basketball tournament starts Monday with four games at Ocean Lakes.
Since the seedings as well as the regular-season championship had yet to be determined at press time, here's a brief overview of what to look for, focusing on who's hot and who's not.
THE FAVORITES: Tallwood and Green Run. They are loaded with seniors, have post-season experience and are playing well.
The Lions were looking to lock up the regular-season title and had won five straight entering Friday night's game at Salem. Key player: Center Neil Roberts shoulders most of the inside scoring and rebounding. He can't afford to get in foul trouble. Unsung hero: Point guard Phil Clay is playing the best basketball of his career.
Green Run had won six straight entering Friday's game against Kellam, including 15-point victories over Tallwood and Cox. Key player: Will Brooks is averaging nearly 23 points a game over that stretch and showed an ability to take over games. Unsung hero: The Stallions are undefeated with Kenyon Mullen in the starting lineup.
WAITING IN THE WINGS: Cox went 1-3 against the big two, but could give Green Run trouble by controlling the tempo and protecting the ball. Key player: The Falcons need an MVP-type performance from Ben Green. Unsung hero: Jamie Irvine has slumped offensively down the stretch and must regain his touch.
DARKHORSES: Kempsville and Ocean Lakes.
Kempsville was the obvious choice when Brian Bersticker came back, but the Chiefs were routed by Tallwood and Green Run down the stretch. Ankle injuries to Tom Detloff and Bernard Staples contributed to the Chiefs' frustration. Both should be back for the tournament. Key player: Anyone who can get the ball inside to Bersticker and McKinley Ford. Unsung hero: Point guards Lex Sherriff and Steve Loder, especially if the Chiefs face Tallwood.
Ocean Lakes faced a terrific tuneup Friday night against Cox. The Dolphins have the depth to play three games, but might lack the experience. Key player: Toby Johnson carried the team early, but has averaged less than 10 points per game in February. He needs to be at the top of his game. Unsung hero: If Ernest Harrell plays well inside, it will open it up for the Dolphins' perimeter shooters. by CNB