Preseason News & Observer Sweet 16 poll returns. Who is No. 1 to start the season?
Cardinal Gibbons was somewhat of a surprise winner of the NCHSAA 4A state title a year ago, earning a 14-2, rain-drenched victory over West juggernaut Chambers High School.
What can the Crusaders do for an encore? And will they have enough in the tank to make a repeat run?
Only time will tell, but we do know that a host of teams will be coming after that crown from the Triangle area.
Here’s a look at our preseason Sweet 16 rankings, with last season’s records.
Preseason Triangle Sweet 16
| Rk. | School | Class | 2021 Record |
| 1. | Cardinal Gibbons | 4A | 13-2 |
| 2. | Rolesville | 4A | 9-6 |
| 3. | Cleveland | 4A | 11-1 |
| 4. | Millbrook | 4A | 11-2 |
| 5. | Wake Forest | 4A | 8-4 |
| 6. | Leesville Road | 4A | 10-3 |
| 7. | Heritage | 4A | 10-2 |
| 8. | Panther Creek | 4A | 10-4 |
| 9. | Hillside | 4A | 8-3 |
| 10. | Knightdale | 4A | 6-6 |
| 11. | Middle Creek | 4A | 8-3 |
| 12. | Fuquay-Varina | 4A | 7-4 |
| 13. | Sanderson | 4A | 5-4 |
| 14. | Garner | 4A | 4-5 |
| 15. | Southern Durham | 3A | 6-5 |
| 16. | Clayton | 4A | 5-6 |
This story was originally published August 15, 2022 at 9:30 AM.