Powell (6-1) Looks To Bounce Back Against Halls (5-3)

By Aiden Gallagher

Game Preview:

It’s rivalry week, two high-level teams, a district game—it doesn't get much bigger. The Battle for Emory Road has always been a big game between these two teams but early on in the year it just feels bigger. A win by either of these teams can set the tone for the future of their seasons. The season series between these two is always big and taking the first game is huge for the series. The meeting will feature a strength-on-strength matchup between an elite Panthers defense and an electric Red Devil offense. The Red Devils in their wins are putting up 76 points per game while the Panthers in their wins are only giving up 44.5 points per game. The Red Devils' offense vs the Panther's defense will make for a very interesting affair and we should get a show Friday Night. Another important factor will be seeing how Powell plays on the road as this will be their first true road game of the season.

Matchup History:

The Battle for Emory Road has existed for decades and is always a big game anytime these two schools meet. This will be the 40th meeting between the two teams and Powell leads the series 27-12 all-time.

Impact Players:

Powell:

Panthers Guard Neyland Dugger comes into the game averaging 9.6 points per game however, is averaging 11.8 points in his last 4. Dugger has shown an elite ability to stretch the floor and will look to do it again against a Halls team that has struggled to close out on shooters.

Halls:

This is one of the easiest picks I’ve ever made, 6’7 Junior Center Chandler Gamble has proven to be one of the best players in Halls’ history putting up 17 points per game along with 10 rebounds per game. He currently sits 9th in the nation for points per 32 at 29.5 points. Stopping Gamble is the formula for a big win against Halls.