Gaither just won the Western Conference title, but Durant and Saladino tournament champion Sickles can't be sold short.
Plant City has a chance, but Lakeland is the favorite.
Plant started slowly, but it now appears to be the team to beat. Riverview has proved to be one of the best Hillsborough County teams. However, the Sharks face perennial state power Sarasota in the first round. Armwood's Mike Pete has been the class of area pitchers, but many believe the Hawks have the county's best pitching staff. It's a long drive to Sebring, and East Bay is hoping the drive home after Wednesday's semifinal doesn't feel that much longer.