Sports Writer

WHEELING — The No. 6 Wheeling Park boys’ basketball team will play in Charleston at the state tournament for the first time since 2012 when it tips off today at 9:30 a.m. against No. 3 Parkersburg South.

The Patriots clinched a spot in the 2020 tournament but were unable to participate when the tournament was shut down due to COVID.

“It’s a really good feeling to be back,” Park coach Michael Jebbia said. “Especially after two years ago when COVID stopped it. We’ve prepped for this and we’re ready to go.”

The Patriots played Parkersburg South once this year and lost 82-63.

In that game, Cyrus Traugh netted 24 points and Ashton Mooney added 18.

“That game was really close early in the fourth but they went on a little run,” Jebbia said. “I think we’re a better team now but of course they are, too. We’ll have to make Traugh and Mooney work. I think they want to drive first. They are good drivers, so we’ll try to get our help defense in the right spot and make them pass the ball more. Jackson Smith also made five 3s in the regional for them and he is shooting the ball really well.”

In that Jan. 28 meeting, Brett Phillips paced the Patriots with 19 points, while freshman Aiden Davis garnered 14 and Brendan Richter added eight.

“On our end we have to take better care of the ball and try to get good shot selections,” Jebbia said. “Brett and Aiden have been consistent all year long but when we get a third person to step up, that is when we are at our best. Whether it’s Caleb Francis, Brendan Richter, Xander Gibson, Cole Wilkinson or D’arrae Goodwin off the bench, whoever it might be, that would help us a great deal.”

The winner of Park and South will take on the winner of No. 7 Cabell Midland and No. 2 Jefferson on Friday at 9 p.m.