Lorain vs. Toledo St. John’s Jesuit

What: Division I Akron/Toledo Region final When: 2 p.m., March 17 Where: University of Toledo, Savage Arena, 2801 Bancroft St., Toledo For the record: The Titans did what no one expected when they shocked eighthranked St. Edward in overtime in a regional semifinal on March 14, and if there’s one thing to take away from that game, it’s this: Don’t count out Lorain. Devon Grant led the way in the semifinal with 34 points, including all 12 of Lorain’s points in overtime in what was one of the junior’s most incredible performances to date, while Taevon PierreLouis chipped in 15 points and 18 rebounds. The duo continues to impress game in and game out. Fifthranked St. John’s (23-3) is coming off 52-36 win over Toledo Whitmer and was led by 6-foot-5 senior Vincent Williams Jr., who had 29 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Obviously Williams will be a focus of Lorain’s defense, which caused problems for a big, physical St. Edward team all game, but clearly the Titans proved they can hang with anyone. St. John’s started cold against Whitmer in the semifinal, and if Lorain can force another cold start and capitalize early, the Titans could certainly be on their way to the final four. At the very least, the win over St. Edward proved Lorain is

For the record: Both Bay (20-6) and Lexington (225) enter the game unranked and having upset the top two teams in Division II in regional semifinal matchups. The Rockets got a bit frantic but played well against No. 2 Columbus Beechcroft while Lexington stormed back in the fourth quarter to stun No. 1 Wauseon — a state favorite this season. Beechcroft had the size and speed, but Bay had the sheer will to win as every player who stepped on the court contributed in meaningful ways. True to form, R.J. Sunahara had 18 points and 19 rebounds but the role players came up big in key moments that made the difference down the stretch. Lexington has a special player of its own, though, in 6-foot-5 junior Cade Stover. Stover had 21 points and 14 rebounds, including his own 11-0 run in the fourth quarter to get his team back in the game and will no doubt be a focus for the Rockets in the regional final. But Bay is no stranger to the big stage, and despite a shaky start to the regular season, the Rockets seem primed for their second trip to Columbus in three seasons. McNees’ pick: Bay