The Cross (Bluffton, SC) varsity basketball team will face Lee Academy (Bishopville, SC) in a neutral-site playoff game today. This matchup is part of the 2025 SC SCISA Girls Basketball Tournament – Class AA.
Cross vs Lee Academy Girls Basketball Playoff Game Info:
What: South Carolina High School Girls Basketball Playoff
Who: Cross vs Lee Academy
When: Thursday, February 20, 2025
Time: TBD
Bracket: 2025 SC SCISA Girls Basketball Tournament – Class AA
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Game preview: Cross vs Lee Academy
As the season progresses, Lee Academy and Cross have emerged as two formidable teams, each showcasing their strengths in different areas. With both teams boasting impressive records, a deep dive into their statistics reveals what makes them successful and where they stand against each other.
Team Performance Overview
Lee Academy (11-4)
Lee Academy has put together a strong campaign, winning over 73% of their games. Their dominance in the region (5-1) and their stellar home record (6-1) make them a tough opponent on their own court. Their scoring average of 39.2 points per game is respectable, but their true strength lies in their rebounding, where they average an outstanding 44.6 rebounds per game—a key factor in their ability to control possessions.
Cross (17-10)
Cross, with a 17-10 overall record, has had a slightly more challenging schedule but remains dominant within their region, going undefeated (6-0). They have proven to be a more explosive scoring team than Lee Academy, averaging 43.4 points per game while maintaining a strong defensive presence. Cross also excels at forcing turnovers, averaging an impressive 16.0 steals per game compared to Lee Academy’s 6.6.
Offensive and Defensive Comparison
| Category | Lee Academy | Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 39.2 | 43.4 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 44.6 | 28.3 |
| Assists Per Game | 9.6 | 9.4 |
| Steals Per Game | 6.6 | 16.0 |
| Blocks Per Game | 2.9 | 2.5 |
- Scoring: Cross holds a slight edge in scoring with 43.4 points per game, compared to Lee Academy’s 39.2. However, Cross tends to score heavily in the third quarter (14.2 PPG) but slows down in the fourth (7.0 PPG), while Lee Academy remains consistent across all quarters.
- Rebounding: Lee Academy dominates the glass with 44.6 rebounds per game, compared to just 28.3 for Cross. This could be a crucial advantage if the two teams were to meet, as second-chance opportunities could tilt the game in Lee’s favor.
- Defense & Turnovers: Cross’ 16.0 steals per game is an exceptional figure, indicating their aggressive defensive style. Lee Academy, while solid defensively, doesn’t generate as many takeaways.
Key Players to Watch
Lee Academy
- #5 Karagan Melton (11.9 PPG): The team’s leading scorer, providing consistent offensive production.
- #33 Mazie Tomlinson: A dominant all-around presence, leading the team in rebounds (17.5 per game), assists (3.2), steals (2.6), and blocks (1.2).
Cross
- #4 Ryan Mayers (13.9 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 4.2 SPG): A versatile playmaker and a defensive menace.
- #10 Sydney Hollings (2.8 APG): The team’s primary distributor, helping facilitate the offense.
- #11 Lexann Maldonado (1.5 BPG): A key shot-blocker, providing rim protection.
Final Thoughts
Both teams bring unique strengths to the table. Lee Academy’s rebounding dominance could give them an edge in a matchup, while Cross’ high-pressure defense and superior scoring ability make them a tough opponent. If these two teams face off, it could be a battle of tempo—Lee Academy looking to control the boards and play at their pace, while Cross tries to force turnovers and push the game into an up-tempo affair.
Regardless of how the season unfolds, both teams have established themselves as contenders, and any potential meeting between them would be a must-watch showdown.
