The race for District 9-5A’s four playoff spots begins tonight as contenders Lake Highlands and Skyline clash at the LH Gym (JV 6 p.m., Varsity 7:30).
LH coach Rob Wylie sees 9-5A as a battle between five teams for four playoff spots.
"We haven’t seen Molina or Sunset at this point, and we saw W.T. White earlier," Wylie said. "They might sneak up on somebody, but it looks like Berkner, Skyline, Creekview, Richardson and us battling for the four playoff spots.
"Based on the scores and what we’ve seen, Berkner would have to be considered the favorite. Beyond that, I’m not sure how it will shake out."
In non-district play, Skyline is 11-2, Berkner 11-3, Creekview 9-5 and Richardson 8-7. LH is 7-7 and looking for more consistency.
"We’ve played pretty well at times, and not-so-well at times," Wylie said. "We just haven’t had the consistency yet to know where we stand."
The Wildcats haven’t had a consistent roster through much of pre-district play because of football and other absences. The starting lineup has settled into Ricky Zorn at the point, Trey Bingham at shooting guard, Demarcus Bernard at the three or wing, and Aaron Mazibuko and Tevin Elmore at the forward spots.
The Cats have had balanced scoring, although Wylie said a go-to guy has yet to emerge to take the shots in the clutch.
"We don’t have anyone you can key on, but we haven’t had a guy you can look to when you really need a basket," Wylie said. "Most of the time I’ve been here at LH we’ve had that guy."
LH has played a rough schedule so far, including a lot of tough road games. Wylie said that should pay off during district play.
The Wildcats have beaten several state-ranked teams, including Plano West, San Antonio Reagan in 5A and Highland Park in 4A. They’ve had close losses to state-ranked Mesquite (65-63), and No. 2 Garland Lakeview (also 6-63).
The payoff will come if Lake Highlands can secure another playoff trip. The Cats have made the post-season eight of the last nine seasons.
"We’ve had a pretty tough schedule," Wylie said. "I think that helps get you ready."
