Division Vl Non-Select: Contenders and Sleepers

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The playoffs are here and PrepHoops is going around the state to break down some of the top teams and the sleepers that could cause an upset in the bracket conversations. Here is a look at some of the top teams in Division 4 Non-Select as they head into the playoffs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Keep us updated on scores, point totals, highlights, accolades and honors:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>IG: @donald.tatum73</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>X: @cpt_tatum</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The Battle-Tested Favorites: Midland</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Midland enters the playoffs with a first-round bye and a 23-8 record that speaks to their readiness for a deep championship run. Don't be fooled by the eight losses; they've all come against top-tier programs, which has only sharpened this squad's competitive edge. They are led by the formidable trio of Molli Thibadeaux, Camri Primeax, and [player_tooltip player_id='588900' first='Tora' last='Savoy'], who provide a potent combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive grit. Many consider Midland the team to beat, and their top ranking is a clear signal of their potential to bring home a state title. Their tough schedule has prepared them for the playoff grind, and they have the talent and experience to make a serious push for the championship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The Dangerous Dark Horse: Arcadia</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If there's one team that could shake up the bracket, it's Arcadia. They've tested themselves against some of the best teams in the state, regardless of class, and have the star power to compete with anyone. Their offense is fueled by the dynamic duo of [player_tooltip player_id='943314' first='DeAsia' last='Alexander'] and [player_tooltip player_id='588901' first='Arianna' last='Williams'], two of the top guards in the Class of 2027. Alexander recently picked up an offer from Southern Miss, a testament to her high-level talent. But Arcadia is more than just a two-player show. Rhyanna Abney is the team's engine, a tough, two-way player who brings energy and toughness on both ends of the floor. Under the new leadership of WNBA legend Cheryl Ford, Arcadia is looking to reclaim its championship glory, and they have the talent and coaching to make it happen.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The Well-Rounded Contender: Merryville</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Merryville is a team that has steadily built its program and developed its players, and it's paying off in a big way. They've played a challenging schedule and have impressive wins over higher-division schools like West Monroe, Minden, Alexandria, and Tioga. This isn't a team that will be intimidated by the playoff spotlight. They have the size to match up with anyone in the division, and their young guards are more than capable of handling full-court pressure. While not the outright favorite, Merryville is far from a sleeper. Their blend of size, skill, and disciplined style of play makes them a legitimate threat to be the last team standing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The Sleeper Pick: Lake Arthur</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Don't sleep on Lake Arthur. This team could be the surprise of the tournament. While their record may not be as flashy as some of the other top teams, a closer look at their schedule reveals a team that has been tested against high-level competition. In many of their losses, they were right in the game until the final buzzer, and a few bounces in the other direction could have easily changed the outcome. In the playoffs, where every possession matters, strategy, coaching, and execution will be paramount. Lake Arthur has the potential to make a deep run and pull off some upsets along the way.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The Gritty Competitor: White Castle</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>White Castle has proven they can compete with anyone, with notable wins against tough opponents. They've had their share of tough losses, but this team has shown resilience and a competitive fire that can't be ignored. They have a solid win against North Iberville and Patterson, demonstrating their ability to handle business. While they have faced challenges against teams like University Lab and Northeast, their overall body of work shows they are a force to be reckoned with in the state tournaments.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Which teams do we need to take a look at? Which Division will have the biggest shake ups? Which players out there do we need to get out and watch? It is playoff season. Who will be Champions?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->