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CLASS D BOYS STATE FINAL

WHO: Monmouth (16-5) vs. Machias (20-1)
WHEN: 4:15 p.m. Saturday
WHERE: Augusta Civic Center, Augusta
TV/STREAMING: Maine Public Broadcasting Network

KEY PLAYERS: Monmouth — Levi Laverdiere, junior (17.5 points per game); Tyler Day, freshman (10.2 points); Rory Foyt, senior (8.3 rebounds); Gavin Parsons, sophomore (7.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists); Jake Harmon, junior (5.8 points, 6.2 rebounds). Machias — Mickey Fitzsimmons, senior (18 points, 7 assists, 5.5 rebounds); Liam O’Connor, senior (14 points, 4 assists, 4 steals); Landon Barrett, senior (8 points, 8 rebounds, 62% FG); Kaiyden Carter, senior (8 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks).

MONMOUTH WINS IF IT…

• Breaks the press. Monmouth is sharp with its offensive ball movement, which will be necessary to get by Machias’ full-game, full-court defense. Once in the half-court set, of course, made shots will be crucial since wide open looks will be at a premium.

• Prevents easy buckets in transition. That means ball security in the backcourt, no forced passes against the Bulldogs’ long defenders, and hustling back in coverage when the North champs gain possession and stretch the floor.

• Relies on postseason experience. Saturday will be the 14th tournament game the Mustangs have played at the Augusta Civic Center in the past four years, which includes their 2024 Class C state championship win. Coach Wade Morrill’s team is familiar with what it takes to thrive in the big moment.

MACHIAS WINS IF IT…

• Utilizes its size. The Bulldogs have a considerable height advantage over their opponent, especially in the paint with Carter (6-foot-6) and Barrett (6-3). Extending offensive possessions with second-shot opportunities and limiting the Mustangs’ chances with blocks and defensive rebounds will be key.

• Penetrates the defensive wall. Machias (70.5 points per game) hasn’t scored fewer than 51 points all year, but Monmouth (43.5 points allowed per game) is one of the stingiest defenses in the state and hasn’t allowed more than 49 points since Jan. 12.

• Capitalizes on mistakes. The Southern champs don’t give the ball up often, so any time Machias can force a turnover, points need to come on the other end. It’s likely with Barrett, Carter and Fitzsimmons shooting over 50% from the field.