By Josh Verlin & Mitchell Gladstone
The smallest schools in the state are those with a couple hundred students or fewer –– in some cases far, far fewer. Some of the schools in the 1A classification have just a couple dozen eligible boys if not fewer, though most of those in the state tournament are closer to the larger end of the field.
Though the 1A field is often wide-open and has some more interesting participants –– District 10 champ Commodore Perry comes in with a 3-20 record –– there are still a few teams worth paying attention to as the rounds progress. Last year’s champion, Sankofa Freedom, is back, though the Warriors are without most of their key pieces from that squad, including Khalil Turner (Rider), Scott Spann (Chestnut Hill College) and Derrius Ward (St. Thomas More). That leaves the door open for some experienced squads from around the state to put their names in the mix.
Chester Charter (1-1; 18-5)
Three years ago, the Sabers didn’t exist — they were a brand-new program in a city that already has a powerhouse program with eight state titles to its name. But Chester Charter is now a District 1 champion that’s hung tough with several Class 5A teams this season including West Chester East, Unionville, Phoenixville and Academy Park. 6-foot-5 senior Damir Baez is the offensive standout, but the Sabers will typically play nine guys — all of whom are juniors or seniors, which could prove critical in close contests.