The South Suburban Conference is often filled with talent, and this year may be one of the most stacked in recent memory with an emerging Prior Lake squad and an resurgent Shakopee looking to stake their claims in the league title chase.
The pair look to grab an early lead in the race on Tuesday when they open league play against each other, and a high-scoring affair could be in store.
Prior Lake averages 72.8 points per game, just a tad behind Shakopee's 73 ppg total.
Shakopee's offense sputtered in a 59-56 loss to Chaska on Dec. 15, ending a four-game winning streak. The No. 9-4A Sabers (4-1, 0-0), however, should not expect a lack of point production to be the norm with three players averaging double-figure scoring. Junior forward Charles Katona leads the team (15.8 ppg) while guards Will Cordes (13.6 ppg) and Tanner Koenen (10.2 ppg) aid the attack.
Prior Lake is riding a three-game winning streak since a 66-64 loss to No. 1-4A Park Center in the season opener.
The No. 2-4A Lakers (3-1, 0-0) have benefited from the consistent scoring of Dawson Garcia, who averages 27.8 ppg. The junior forward's lowest output this season was 25 points.
Prior Lake holds an advantage in this matchup after narrowly defeating Shakopee 58-56 and 65-56 last year.