The Northwestern is starting to shape up.
McDowell is 9-1 with their only loss coming to a very good Mallard Creek team. The Lady Titans haven't been as dominant as last season and will need to continue to improve as the season goes on. They have some very tough games coming up in the Cherokee tournament with out-of-state teams.
Alexander Central is 8-0. They are the most likely team to knock McDowell out of first place. They have good wins over North Lincoln and Davie. I might consider them the favorite at this point.
South Caldwell is 6-4. They have played a fairly easy schedule and should finish middle of the pack.
Watauga is 3-6. They obviously miss Sears, but they have also played a tough schedule.
Freedom is 2-6. One of the worst years in Lady Patriots' recent history is likely.
St Stephens is 1-8. They will likely finish last