It is that time of year again... the North Carolina Baseball State Playoffs.  In total, we will be following 8 state tournaments, each a single elimination format (in 2024 -- seriously -- still single elimination!?!?).  In the preview below will be up to date brackets with expected schedules, plus thoughts and picks from our Prep Baseball Scouting Staff.

NCISAA 1A Tournament Preview

BRACKET

SCHEDULE

1st Round: Tuesday May 7, 2024
Quaterfinals: Friday May 10, 2024
Semifinals: Tuesday May 14, 2024
Finals: Friday & Saturday, May 17-18, 2024 (Best of 3 Games)

TOP SEEDS

#1 Lawrence Academy (18-6)
#2 Kerr-Vance Academy (10-6)
#3 Halifax Academy (4-12)
#4 Pungo Christian Academy (10-8)

CINDERELLA STORY

From our team of scouts, a look at the bracket to see if any teams outside the Top 4 seeds could make a run.

Brandon Hall, NC/Mid-ATL Scouting Director:

I am betting on the top 2 seeds to hold serve throughout, but beyond that I think the way the pitching is setup and used will make the difference. The seeding is somewhat wild but the advantage some higher seeds have had in the past were knocked out with most clubs getting a bye to Round 2.  Does a team hold their ace for round 3 if they are not matchedup with one of the top 2 seeds to swing big? Probably not but this could be interesting to watch.  

Patrick Johnson, NC Asst Scouting Director:

With only 8 teams in the bracket anything can happen but I believe the top 2 seeds will pull rank and show their strengths. 

Zach Boraski, NC Asst Scouting Director:

The top seeds are are in a great spot to make a run. I don't think a cinderalla story is likely to the happen, however a upset in the first round is possible.

SCOUTS PICKS - FINAL FOUR

Brandon Hall:

Lawrence Academy vs. Cape Fear Christian
Kerr-Vance Academy vs. Ridgecroft School

Patrick Johnson: 

Lawrence Academy vs. Cape Fear Christian
Kerr-Vance Academy vs. Ridgecroft School 

Zach Boraski:

Lawrence Academy vs. Cape Fear Christian
Kerr-Vance Academy vs. Ridgecroft School

SCOUT PICKS - NCISAA 4A STATE CHAMPION

Brandon Hall:

Lawrence Academy in 2.

Patrick Johnson:

Kerr-Vance Academy in 3 games

Zach Boraski:

Lawrence Academy in 2