We’re going to be taking a look at some of Section 1’s opponents in the NYSPHSAA final four starting tomorrow in Binghamton for the boys and in Troy for the girls.

Binghamton player to watch

Leading the pack in a talented group for Binghamton is Zubayr Griffin, a Monmouth University commit who dropped 26 in the regional final against Lourdes, carrying the Patriots to the final four. Griffin, a 2000 point career scorer, is a four year varsity starter, who has averaged 26 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists per game this season. If anyone is up to the task of stopping Griffin, it might just be Tappan Zee, who have been consistently holding teams under 40 points throughout the playoffs and regular season.

How they got here

Binghamton is currently ranked No. 6 in the NYSSWA state rankings and hasn’t lost a game since a January 3rd matchup against Class A regional finalist Seton Central. They took down NYSSWA No. 24 Union Endicott in the Section 4 title game 62-58 before their 70-63 regional win over No. 23 Lourdes. The Patriots also hold two quality wins against Corning-Painted Post, the Class AAA champion for Section 4.

Prediction

Zubayr Griffin will be the best individual talent that Tappan Zee has had to face during the postseason and has the potential to score 30+ on any night. The Dutchmen, however, play some of the best team defense you’ll see in New York State and know how to control the tempo of a game. We think this one stays within a couple of possessions the whole way, but Tappan Zee will have enough to pull through in the 4th. Xavier and Isaiah Leveille are playing at incredibly high levels and Tommy Linehan’s leadership and poise will make the difference.

The Pick: Tappan Zee 51, Binghamton 45