Two new teams, one new No. 1 in The Charlotte Observer’s Sweet 16 basketball polls

There are two new teams and one new No. 1 in The Charlotte Observer’s Sweet 16 basketball polls this week.

The Sweet 16, which began in 1984, ranks the top high schools in the media outlet’s coverage area, currently teams in Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln and Union counties in North Carolina, plus York and Lancaster counties in South Carolina.

▪ In the boys’ poll, there is one new team. Hopewell has started the season 3-0, and that includes an impressive 68-46 win over a Gaston Christian team that was ranked in preseason.

During that hot start, senior guard Quay Watson has become the school’s all-time leading scorer, with more than 1,200 points.

▪ In the girls’ poll, unbeaten West Meck is in this week after a 49-15 win over Sugar Creek Charter to start the season.

▪ Independence took over the top spot in the girls’ poll after beating preseason No. 1 Mallard Creek at the Charlotte Hoops Challenge on Friday night. The Patriots (3-0) will play West Charlotte at home on Tuesday.