Hoops preview: Linconview vs. Crestview

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

Something has to give in what’s certain to be a packed gym at Lincolnview High School on Friday night.

The Lancers (10-5, 4-0 NWC) are riding a four game winning streak heading into their Van Wert County rivalry game against Crestview. The Knights (12-3, 4-0 NWC) have won eight straight and the two teams are tied for first in the Northwest Conference.

Out of Lincolnview’s five losses, only one (vs. Ottoville) has come at home, while two of Crestview’s three losses (Fort Jennings, Ottoville) have been on the road.

The visiting Knights will enter the game averaging 62 points per game, while allowing 43 points per game.

“There are multiple things that concern you when playing Crestview on both ends of the floor,” Lincolnview head coach Brett Hammons said of the Knights. “On the offensive end it is their ability to score the basketball in a variety of ways, and they have multiple guys that can score in these different ways which makes them hard to guard. On the defensive end it is the pressure they can apply. Their length and athleticism helps make things difficult.”

Hammons added that he has a great deal of respect for Crestview head coach Jeremy Best and his program.

“It’s fun to get the opportunity to coach against him,” Hammons said. “He is a great guy and coach. You know he is always going to have his team prepared and it is going to be a challenge. He is one of the best coaches in our area and he has proven that through his years at Crestview.”

Lincolnview is averaging 59 points per game and giving up 52 points per contest.

Best said he has multiple concerns about the Lancers.

“They have the most productive guard tandem in the Northwest Conference in (Caden) Ringwald and (Chayten) Overholt,” Best explained. “These two fellas are really tough nuts and compete at a high level. They make the other players on their team better which is a real indication of the leadership they provide for their team.”

“This group is playing really good basketball right now and they are getting excellent production out of several other guys,” Best continued. “The confidence level that they are playing with is very impressive. They execute on the offensive end as well as any team we’ve played to date. They play to their strengths and force their opponents to play at a high level.”

Best went on to compliment Hammons and what he’s done for Lincolnview’s basketball program.

“I really like Brett and his staff and appreciate and respect what he has accomplished during his tenure.” Best said. “He has established a culture of positivity and excellence in his program that has resonated throughout their school and community. His teams play hard and they play with a sense of toughness and confidence.”

“This game and rivalry has so many underlying stories and connections. Both our teams and communities respect each other, but once the ball is thrown into the air, it’s a basketball game of Crestview vs Lincolnview, and that’s special.”

Friday night’s game will air live on WKSD 99.7FM and will stream live at www.thevwindependent.com.