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STATE SEMIFINALS: Plano East and Mansfield Lake Ridge gear up for best-of-DFW 6A Semifinal
It's a clash of titans as two DFW powerhouses gear up for the state semifinals on Friday. Each with a remarkable journey that has led them to this pivotal moment, these formidable teams are set to face off in a showdown of high school basketball prowess. On one side, the undefeated Plano East Panthers stand as a dominant force, navigating the season with an unblemished record. On the other, Mansfield Lake Ridge, boasting an impressive 32-6 record, enters the fray with a proven track record of resilience and skill. As the state semifinals approach, high school basketball enthusiasts eagerly anticipate this matchup that promises to showcase the best of these two programs!
Plano East Panthers (38-0, 14-0)
As the only undefeated boys basketball team left in the state with a national ranking, Plano East has posted a dominant record this season. Led by head coach Matt Wester, the team has been able to prove its ability to hang among the best teams in the state and continue to show no signs of slowing down--- especially at the state tournament. Rachard Angton, Narit Chotikavanic, Isaiah Brewington, Carter Buchanan, Jon Tran, and others have helped lead the charge for this explosive team as they leveraged their talents in remarkable fashion leading to a 38 win-streak as they enter the tournament. Looking to continue reigning supreme this season, the team is ready to take down Lake Ridge on Friday.
Mansfield Lake Ridge Eagles (32-6, 11-3)
The Eagles are headed into the program's first-ever state tournament appearance under the reigns of head coach Cornelius Mitchell. On a six-game win streak, talents like Ahmare Rose, Amir McMillian, Eza Nwakamma, Matthew Alexander, and others have helped lead the program to a historic season. Through non-district play, the team honed in their skills against several difficult opponents before taking on a tough district schedule that saw them take down several prominent opponents like DeSotor, Skyline, Mansfield, and more. Working their way through their playoff schedule, the team has found themselves in their first-ever state tournament appearance ready to hush any naysayers as they take on Plano East.
What to Expect
Both teams are explosive right off the bat. With a win and go to the state finals opportunity, neither of these programs are going to put in the work necessary to seal the deal. Plano East is poised to fiercely defend their undefeated status as they enter the semifinals, relying on the cohesive teamwork and exceptional individual talents that have propelled them through the season. Mansfield Lake Ridge is set to bring their resilient spirit and strategic prowess to the court, determined to overcome any obstacles in their path and secure a coveted spot in the state finals. The class between these two powerhouse teams promises an intense battle as they vi for a chance at glory in the state championship.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. on Friday, March 8 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.
Plano East Panthers Skyrocket to National Prominence, Emerge as a Dominant Force in Texas High School Hoops
Seemingly out of nowhere, the Plano East Panthers have found their way to the top of the standings across the nation. As the only undefeated boys high school team in the state of Texas, Plano East has found itself with a 36-0 overall record, ranked at the top of their district, and No. 3 in the nation.
Outscoring their opponents by over 830 points on the season so far, the Panthers have worked hard to gain national prominence on the hardwood this season. Without folding to challenges presented before them, the team has recorded an undefeated record through their entire season-- including a 14-0 record in district play. Led by the likes of Rachard Angton, Narit Chotikavanic, Isaiah Brewington, Jordan Mizell, Ethan Moss, Xavier Miller, Carter Buchanan, Jon Tran, and many more, the Panthers have depth in nearly every position-- helping to power the team to success moment after moment throughout the season.
Defeating top-prospect teams like Allen (80-70), Highland Park (70-54), Lake Highlands (62-47), to begin their non-district play before powering over Coppel (77-50), Lewisville (62-59), Plano West (77-58), Flower Mound (95-29), and others through their district schedule. Powering their way to playoffs, at the top of their district standings, the Panthers defeated Prosper Rock Hill (88-51), Highland Park (74-45), and Allen (79-52) without showcasing a single moment of doubt. The team's most recent victory secured a Regional Quarterfinals Championship and move on in the bracket.
Next up, the Panthers will face off against V.R. Eaton in the Regional Semifinals. Be sure you catch this group in action before the end of the season!