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With all the "TALK" about the improved Packers, I'm intrested in observing whether this team is a real threat to Tabb's supremecy in the district. I've only seen Smithfield once against Surry, and they do have the physical presence to match up against Tabb. However, I observed a lack of discipline and to be honest some questionable calls from the bench which led to their demise in their last meeting against Surry County.

I am also curious to see them in their first game situation since the Christmas break against a team that actually played in a tournament against a decent level of competition. I've always believed that it's hard to come back from Christmas in game shape unless you actually played games during the break.

Bowser(12ppg) is an athletic and tough competitor, but I believe reigning BRD Player of the Year Steve Sherwood(18ppg) is the better basketball player. Look for Tabb to spread the floor and use alot of screens to get Sherwood, McGee, and Jones some good looks at the hoop. The disciplined style of Tabb, especially defensively, is essential to getting the Tigers out to a solid start. Mims, Smalls, and Case will DOMINTATE the paint! It wil be important for Tabb to stay out of early foul trouble against a team that loves to slash to the goal. It will be very tempting for Tabb to try and block shots, but the key may be staying ground bound with their arms fully extended upward to force the big men from Smithfield to shoot over the top. Good perimeter defense will be critical to slowing Bowser. He likes to drive the ball down the lane for point blank lay-ups. If McGee can force him to rely on his jumpshot, the game will break decidedly Tabb's way.

Sixth man Emmanuel Jones(11ppg) has been sick to the stomach over his last performance against Poquoson(4pts), both offensively and defensively. If he comes off the bench hungry and plays intelligent defense, this will give Tabb multiple threats from the perimeter. McGee and big man Don Smalls are "pregnant" with good games as well. Maybe they can have those babies this week and push Tabb out of reach in the district race.

Whatever the case, they will have their hands full this week. Friday nights contest at Poquoson looms in the backdrop of this thriller! First things first! I fully expect them to win @ home Wednesday whether by one or twenty! You better believe Coach Doug Baggett and his staff will have them prepared to do just that!