6 Takeaways from High School Basketball
With nearly half of the high school basketball season in the books, there are plenty of surprises and lots of contenders and taking a look at who has made an interesting impression is always interesting.
The Favorite –
After losing both Mickey Pearson and Malik Wright did anyone else see John Hardin as not only the odds on favorite to make the 5th Region Final again, but to have an unblemished record as well? If you did, then you could might have a future in prognosticating. No only have head coach Jared McCurry’ Bulldogs run the table so far (15-0), but they have shown a flair to taking the close games such as their close wins over Central Hardin (second meeting) and LaRue County as perfect examples. Post player Alex Matthews and guard Aaron Scott currently lead the team in scoring and guards Darion Davis and junior Trevon Harris have been steady as well.
Not too Far Behind –
At the beginning of the season, LaRue County was seen as a consistent favorite to take the title after getting to the Region final before losing in the final seconds against John Hardin. At 13-3, they are right where they should be which is near the top and head coach Paul Childress’ team has met any and all challenges. The Hawks have plenty of talent in Anthony Atkins and lots of height with junior Mark Goode and Daillis Cox along with senior guard Noah Davis lead the team in scoring and are currently on top in the 18th District.
Taylor County took a year off going 5-23 in a truly disappointing season after winning three straight 5th Region Championships. After Maze Stallworth stepped down just before the start of the season, head coach Dale Gumm took over and look at them now. At 12-4, this team looks like the one everyone thought could once again challenge for the title. Gumm is also getting great performances by TreVon Smith, who leads the Cardinals in scoring and Kybrin Smith and nick Knifley, who are not to far behind.
Central Hardin was everyone’s favorite to be there on the final day of the 17th District Tournament and make a second straight trip to the Region Tournament this season, but it hasn’t been easy. With a, 11-6 record, head coach Matt Nickell’s team has found the going rough at times, but any team with Lipscomb signee Jacob Hobbs and young guards Chase Elmore and Gavin George along with senior Deonco Wilkerson should be tough to handle by seasons end
Biggest Surprise?
Other than John Hardin’s refusal to take a step back, Marion County could be considered a big surprise this season. After finishing 18-11 last season and an early exit in the 20th District Tournament, this season head coach Montrelle Irvin has this team on the move at 12-5 and have met all the challenges up to this point although they have dropped three of their last four games by a combined total of six points. Irvin is getting great play from the two Epps’ (Tyshay and Jamison) and John
