Flushing vs. Saginaw Heritage: Game Preview
Thursday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Bay City Western
Perhaps the biggest and most important rematch of the year takes place Thursday, March 12, 2015 at Bay City Western high school. The Lady Hawks of Saginaw Heritage and the Flushing Lady Raiders will face off for the second time in less than a month. I had the pleasure of sitting courtside for the February 24th game that ended with Flushing winning 50-48 in overtime at home. This game was close from start to finish. It was almost like each team was playing against themselves. They took turns winning alternate quarters by no more than 2 points which is how they ended up in overtime. The game was so close, only a pair of free throws hit by 2017 Guard Lauren Newman with 21 seconds left in overtime could seal the game. I can say without thinking twice that it was one of the most exciting high school games of the year. Flushing who is now 24-0 plans to keep their streak alive, while Saginaw Heritage (20-3) has plans to “upset” another favorite pick opponent and continue on the road to the Breslin Center. I am 100% sure that unlike most movies, the Flushing vs. Saginaw Heritage sequel will be just as exciting as the first contest, if not better!
Keys to Victory
Flushing:
Knocking down the outside shot is necessary for Flushing in order to spread Heritage’s defense.
Win the rebounding war on both ends of the court.
Flushing must establish an inside presence early in the game.
The back court players must aggressively defend the perimeter.
Take advantage of transition opportunities; minimal turnovers and finish layups and open shots.
Saginaw Heritage:
Boxing out on the defensive end is crucial. They must limit Flushing to one shot.
Flushing can’t be allowed to beat them up the floor in transition.
Post players have to stay out of foul trouble in order to potentially be a deciding factor in this game.
The Lady Hawks must be patient on offensive, especially if they have a lead.
Consistent free throw shooting could make and break this game.
Predictions: Due to the physically and emotionally draining game the Flushing had versus Flint Carman- Ainsworth; I think Heritage will have the slight advantage over Flushing. However, by no means will this game be easy for Heritage. They will have to be sharp and battle ready the entire 32 minutes.
Final Score: Saginaw Heritage 49-46
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