CLASS 3A CHAMPIONSHIP
Austin (30-0) vs. DeLaSalle (29-1),
6 p.m., Target Center
Why DeLaSalle will win: The defending champions are the tournament’s most complete team with a superstar in Reid Travis, an enviable four-guard rotation and athletic forwards. Plus DeLaSalle has a history of success in big games.
Why Austin will win: Austin coach Kris Fadness joked that his team’s chance to win depended on DeLaSalle “getting lost on the way here from the island.” In truth, the Packers can win if they get huge games from cousins Tom and Joe Aase, avoid turnovers and get Travis in foul trouble.
Key to the game: How Austin guard Zach Wessels handles DeLa-Salle’s ball pressure. So far in the tournament, the Islanders have forced 44 turnovers.
Did you know: Austin is making its 28th state tournament trip and has three titles, most recently in 1958. The Packers’ most famous trip was in 1960, when they lost to tiny Edgerton 72-61 in the final.
JIM PAULSEN