Although the first round sits nestled in the back pocket of Waimea, both Kaua’i and Kapa’a are peaking at the right time and should challenge the Menehune for the second round crown.
The Warriors seem to have found their groove and the Red Raiders’ youthful squad are maturing to the level where head coach Brandon Fujita wants them to.
Tonight’s game has a lot riding on it and if Kapa’a is able to play the way they did against Waimea on Tuesday, the Red Raiders might have a tough time taking the victory from the boys in green.
Kapa’a would like nothing better than to repeat its last performance against the Red Raiders.
In that contest on Jan. 17, the Warrior utilized 18 big points from Mike Lindsey in a 51-43 win at home.
However, in their first matchup on Jan. 6, Kaua’i had its way, as Josh Bradbury (17 points) and Basil Walton (13 points) combined for 30 points in a 52-38 victory at the Raiderdome.
A Kapa’a win would give them a commanding second round lead, but if Kaua’i should walk away with the triumph, it would open up the final round to all three squads.
Players to watch
Kaua’i: Josh Bradbury (Kaua’i’s leading scorer), Basil Walton (hard-nosed player), Travis Stine (mammoth on the boards), and Tyrus Ceria-Lux (dangerous shooter).
Kapa’a: Mike Lindsey (Kapa’a’s top big man), Nate Beralas (Kapa’a’s top shooter), Greg Ragsac (quick as a cat), and Junnel Calpito (tough as nails).
Keys to the game
Kaua’i: 1) Not watching Bradbury, but instead playing with him. 2) Controlling the boards with Stine and Gebauer. 3) Controlling Lindsey inside.
Kapa’a: 1) Getting Lindsey enough touches in the paint. 2) Playing under control and cutting down on turnovers. 3) Containing Bradbury.
