Monday Mailbag: February 10, 2020

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

This week’s Monday Mailbag features questions about tournament seeding, Van Wert and the NCAA tournament.

Q: Why isn’t Lincolnview the No. 4 seed at Van Wert? Name withheld upon request

A: The Lancers are the No. 5 seed at the Elida district and will play No. 6 Miller City in the sectional semifinals. The two teams met on January 11, with Miller City posting a 64-51 win.

The top three seeds were clear cut, at least in my mind, with Columbus Grove, Ottoville and Kalida . I thought Lincolnview had an excellent shot at the No. 4 seed, but it didn’t work out that way. The fourth seed went to Delphos St. John’s, a team Lincolnview beat on February 1.

One coach said seeding was done primarily by record, which certainly appears to be the case. The Lancers are 10-9, while Delphos St. John’s is 12-6.

Q: What are the chances Van Wert finishes the season with five straight wins? Name withheld upon request

A: If the Cougars come ready to play in each of their remaining three games, I think they have an excellent shot of closing the regular season with five consecutive wins.

The remaining games are Bath, Lima Central Catholic and Celina. Bath and Celina have each won two games and while nothing is a given, I like Van Wert’s chances in those games if they play to their potential.

Lima Central Catholic is 10-8 and has a nice team. That game in on a Tuesday, and the Cougars are 0-2 in Tuesday games this season. It will be a good challenge.

Q: Do you believe this year’s NCAA basketball tournament is going to be one of the best ones because anyone can win it? Name withheld upon request

A: One of the best? Time will tell, but I think it certainly has the potential to be one of the most intriguing and balanced tournaments.

You’re right, it does seem like a number of teams are capable of winning it, simply because there doesn’t appear a true dominating team. Each team has some sort of flaw.

Of course, keep in mind that the best team doesn’t always win the tournament, but rather the team that’s hot at the right time of the year.

If you have a question or comment for the next Monday Mailbag, simply email it to sports@thevwindependent.com.