KHSAA Sweet Sixteen Preview: Lexington Catholic vs. Holmes

Game 11: Lexington Catholic (26-7) vs. Covington Holmes (33-2) 6:30 p.m.

The night session of the quarterfinals figures to be a great night of basketball. Last night's session was watched by a record number of fans for the tournament's first round. Tonight could be record-setting, as well. The first game of the evening will feature Lexington Catholic against Holmes. The Knights, winners of the 11th Region, have reached the quarterfinals by defeating Bowling Green behind Vee Sanfords 28 points and 12 rebounds. Sanford, who was being watched by Kentucky coach Billy Gillispie yesterday, averages 22.3 points per game.

Holmes continued a terrific season by holding off Christian County in the first round. The Bulldogs are exceptionally athletic and have plenty of size in their lineup. They play outstanding defense, which bodes well for tournament play. Holmes is led by 6'7" junior Elijah Pittman and his 14.2 points a game. Ricardo Johnson, another junior, averages 10.7 points a game and senior Jamel Riley adds 10.3 points for the Bulldogs.

My Thoughts: This should be one of the more entertaining games of the day. Both teams are playing really well and will challenge each other on both ends of the court. The key to the game will be whether or not Catholic can score against the tough Holmes' defense.

Prediction: Holmes doesn't always play beautiful, offensive basketball, but they always manage to score enough to get the job done. I feel that their defense will slow Lexington Catholic down and lead the Bulldogs to the semifinals. I'll take Holmes in a good ballgame.