Danny V’s state final picks
We’ll dig out the crystal ball and attempt to predict the outcome in each of the eight state basketball finals today in Springfield. The Herald will provide a live chat all day long and we’ll have you covered from both venues.
Division 1 boys, 5:45 p.m., at MassMutual Center, Cambridge (23-0) vs. Franklin (22-2): The Panthers have shown their resiliency in the postseason, winning their last two games in overtime. They will be put to the test, however, against a physical, imposing Cambridge team looking to defend its state title. Pick: Cambridge.
Division 2 boys, 1:15 p.m., at MassMutual Center, Brighton (22-5) vs. Nashoba (213): The Bengals were simply dominant in a state semifinal win over WhitmanHanson, scoring 94 — the most points in a state semi in 15 years. I think the momentum carries over and Brighton takes home its second-ever state title. Pick: Brighton.
Division 3 boys, 11 a.m., at MassMutual Center, Hanover (22-3) vs. Palmer (23-1): One team is going to leave Springfield with its first-ever state basketball championship. The Indians have survived a tough postseason slate. Just have a hunch they are more battle-tested. Pick: Hanover.
Division 4 boys, 5:45 p.m., at Springfield College, St. Mary’s (19-5) vs. Maynard (214): A rematch of last year’s state final, won by St. Mary’s, 61-52. The Spartans showed some grit in the state semifinal, rallying from a 19-point deficit to defeat CCL rival Cathedral. Good luck picking against their quest to repeat. Pick: St. Mary’s.
Division 1 girls, 3:30 p.m., at MassMutual Center, Braintree (21-4) vs. Springfield Central (21-3): Braintree certainly earned its way, defeating four top-10 teams — defending champ Bishop Feehan, Newton South, Mansfield and Andover — by double digits. I think the Wamps have one more big effort in them. Pick: Braintree.
Division 2 girls, 1:15 p.m., at Springfield College, Arlington Catholic (19-6) vs. Medfield (22-2): Medfield avenged a regular-season loss to Hopkinton with a victory in the Central final, then coasted past Pittsfield to get here. A senior-laden squad carries the day for the Warriors. Pick: Medfield.
Division 3 girls, 11 a.m., at Springfield College, Archbishop Williams (21-4) vs. Hoosac Valley (23-2): The teams met in the state final two years ago with the Bishops cruising to an easy victory. I feel it will be a little closer this team, but look for Archies to take home another title. Pick: Archbishop Williams.
Division 4 girls, 3:30 p.m., at Springfield College, Cathedral (18-4) vs. Quaboag (18-6): Despite the Div. 4 status, Cathedral is a legitimate top-10 team, a Catholic Central League power with several nice wins under its belt. Just think this is a tall order for Quaboag. Pick: Cathedral.