<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Warren Central Dragons Archives - Sporting Times</title> <atom:link href="https://stfanclub.com/tag/warren-central-dragons/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://stfanclub.com/tag/warren-central-dragons/</link> <description>For the athletes | For the game</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:03:24 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <image> <url>https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/cropped-512x512_square-logo_72-32x32.jpg</url> <title>Warren Central Dragons Archives - Sporting Times</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/tag/warren-central-dragons/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Power 5 on the Pitch</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=power-5-on-the-pitch</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Sep 2024 12:49:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Boys Soccer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Soccer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Glasgow Scotties]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=23255</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Bowling Green Purples </p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/">Power 5 on the Pitch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><em>Bowling Green remains atop the pack at the midseason point</em></p> <p><strong>Boys Soccer Power Rankings</strong></p> <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Bowling Green 7-1-0</strong></li> </ol> <p><strong>Outlook:</strong> The Purples enter the second half of the season undefeated to go along with multi-goal victories in each of their first seven matches. <strong>Braden Widener</strong> may be splitting his time between the gridiron and the pitch, but the senior’s production has been anything but split. Widener leads Bowling Green in goals (8) and assists (7). The BG defense has allowed only two goals all season and is anchored by senior goalkeeper <strong>Henderson Wiggins</strong></p> <p><strong>Next Up:</strong> Warren Central (Thursday)</p> <ol start="2" class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>South Warren 5-2-3</strong></li> </ol> <p><strong>Outlook:</strong> South Warren checks in at #2 in our power rankings after a strong first month of play. The Spartans swept crosstown rival Greenwood and took the first tie over Warren Central to sit in second in the 14th District standings. Sophomore <strong>Aid Becirovic</strong> leads the team with eight goals and four assists. A road date at Central looms next week; a win over the Dragons would keep South’s chance at the #1 seed in the district tournament alive.</p> <p><strong>Next Up:</strong> at Madisonville-North Hopkins (Friday), vs. Marshall County (Saturday @ MNH), at Warren Central (Tuesday)</p> <ol start="3" class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Warren Central 7-2-2</strong></li> </ol> <p><strong>Outlook:</strong> Warren Central has played an impressive early-season schedule, picking up wins over two teams in the 2023 state tournament (Ashland Blazer and McCracken County). Junior <strong>Mzaliwa Noel</strong> has continued his fine form into 2024, leading the team with 12 goals to go with seven assists. Sophomore <strong>Daniel Rivas</strong> has nine assists to go with six goals as well. A big week awaits with matches at Bowling Green and home dates with Owensboro and South Warren will show the Dragons where they are heading into the final stretch of the regular season.</p> <p><strong>Next Up:</strong> at Bowling Green (Thursday), Owensboro (Saturday), South Warren (Tuesday)</p> <ol start="4" class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Greenwood 7-0-6</strong></li> </ol> <p><strong>Outlook:</strong> Year Two of the Eric Bowers Era has been a season of highs and lows for the Gators. Greenwood rebounded from an 0-5 start to the season with seven straight wins, outscoring opponents 36-7 in the process. A last-second defeat to South Warren this week ended the streak, but the Gators have found momentum heading into the season’s final stretch. Junior <strong>Pleh Reh</strong> leads the way with eight goals, while junior <strong>Joe Padgett</strong> has scored seven goals to go with a team-best eight assists.</p> <p><strong>Next Up:</strong> Daviess County (Tuesday), at Bowling Green (Thursday, 9/19), North Hardin (9/21)</p> <ol start="5" class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Glasgow 10-0-4</strong></li> </ol> <p><strong>Outlook:</strong> Glasgow takes the final spot in our <em>Power 5</em> after upending fellow contender Franklin-Simpson over the weekend in the Kentucky 2A Championships. Junior <strong>Jared Malagon</strong> leads the team with 25 goals, good enough for second in the state at the time of this article’s publication. Senior winger <strong>Darwin Hernandez</strong> is among the state’s leaders with 14 assists. The Scotties have won nine of the last ten district championships and currently sit atop the 15th District standings.</p> <p><br><strong>Next Up:</strong> LaRue County (Thursday), Barren County (Tuesday)</p> <p></p> <p>Next Teams Up: Franklin-Simpson, Todd County Central</p> <p>Return to <a href="http://stfanclub.com">home</a></p> <p></p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/">Power 5 on the Pitch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/power-5-on-the-pitch/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Never-Too-Early ST Power Rankings for the 2024-25 Season</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-the-2024-25-season/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-the-2024-25-season</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-the-2024-25-season/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:09:08 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barren County Trojans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cumberland County Panthers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Franklin-Simpson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Glasgow Scotties]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Metcalfe County Hornets]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Monroe County Falcons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren East Raiders]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22999</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Boys Basketball By Perry Swack A top ten poll projecting next season might seem like a pointless endeavor. For example, a season ago, Bowling Green, Warren Central, and Glasgow were the only teams we ranked in the Never Too Early poll to make the 4th Region Tournament this past March. With this idea in mind, our Never Too Early ST Power Rankings are simply for enjoyment as fans cope with the realization that basketball season has come to an end. […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-the-2024-25-season/">Never-Too-Early ST Power Rankings for the 2024-25 Season</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><em>Boys Basketball</em></p> <p>By Perry Swack</p> <p>A top ten poll projecting next season might seem like a pointless endeavor. For example, a season ago, Bowling Green, Warren Central, and Glasgow were the only teams we ranked in the <em>Never Too Early</em> poll to make the 4th Region Tournament this past March. With this idea in mind, our <em>Never Too Early ST Power Rankings</em> are simply for enjoyment as fans cope with the realization that basketball season has come to an end. Take a look at our rankings and see who you think should be ranked higher!</p> <p>*Team rosters may change over time but this is how they project at the end of the 2023-24 season. Players listed as their 2024-25 class.</p> <p>School 2023-24 Record</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Bowling Green</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>29-6</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Deuce Bailey (Sr), Braylon Banks (Sr), Jace Wardlow (Sr), Luke Idlett (Sr), Kadyn Carpenter (Sr), Trevy Barber (Jr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Mason Ritter, MJ Wardlow, DeMarr Starks, Ishmael Holcomb</p> <p>The Purples will lose the likes of Mason Ritter and MJ Wardlow, but don’t expect Bowling Green to go anywhere. Returning <strong>Deuce Bailey</strong> (12.8 points per game), <strong>Braylon Banks </strong>(8.4 PPG), and <strong>Jace Wardlow </strong>(7.9 PPG, 3.7 RPG) make it easy to pencil in BG as early region favorites in 2025. Senior sharpshooter <strong>Luke Idlett</strong> and junior <strong>Trevy Barber</strong> played big minutes in ‘24 and will be called upon to assume larger roles moving forward. <strong>D.G. Sherrill’s</strong> club has been as consistent as any in the 4th Region and will look to play in a twelfth-straight region championship game next March.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/GKQq6qBXUAAgpgE-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23005"/></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="2"> <li><strong>Warren East</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>19-11</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Brenden Bratcher (Sr), Jordan Hogue (Sr), Kyler Pedigo (Jr), Kaleb Prince (Jr), Dane Parsley (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Jari Barber, Michael Clark, Cayson Riggs, Sean Rigsby</p> <p>The Raiders will return six of their top seven scorers next season, none more important than All-Region pick <strong>Kaleb Prince. </strong>The incoming junior averaged 15.2 PPG on 46% shooting and was the team’s second-leading rebounder. All-District performer <strong>Brenden Bratcher</strong> will also return after making 66 three-pointers in 23-24. <strong>Kyle Benge’s </strong>team will look to get back to the region tournament after being upset in the district semifinals this past season.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/GKKa5G2W0AAK6Fc-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23004"/></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="3"> <li><strong>Glasgow</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>11-17</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Jerrick Martin (Jr), Jeremiah Driver (Sr), Josiah Driver (Sr), Quinn Nunley (Sr), Landon Minton (Jr), Jaylen Bradley (So)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: JC Walbert, David Dale, Javan Garmon</p> <p>After losing a heartbreaker in the 2023 district semifinals, the Scotties avenged their last-second loss with a game-winner of their own over Warren East to qualify for the 4th Region Tournament. The Scotties won the 15th District for the first time since 2019 and then secured their first region victory since 2012. Coach <strong>William Buford’s</strong> club is expected to return six of seven rotation players next season, led by junior <strong>Jerrick Martin</strong>. The springy forward averaged 11.7 points and 7.0 rebounds as a sophomore. Seniors <strong>Jeremiah </strong>and <strong>Josiah Driver</strong> also return after averaging a combined 15 points for the Scotties. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CJ4U0824-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23003"/></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="4"> <li><strong>Barren County</strong><strong> </strong>20-13</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Tate Spillman (Sr), Brey Bewley (Sr), Waylon Clemmons (Sr), Jackson Reece (Sr), Kade Hardy (Jr), Gavin Nunn (Jr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Mason Bunch, William Compton, Graham Hall, Carter Browning, Cash Moore</p> <p>Barren County has been the most consistent team in the 15th District over the course of the last half-decade, qualifying for every region tournament since 2020. A talented roster will give Coach <strong>Warren Cunningham </strong>and his staff a great opportunity to qualify for a sixth-straight year. Cunningham will enter his 17th year at the helm with two All-District performers in the lineup. <strong>Tate Spillman</strong> (14.5 PPG) and <strong>Brey Bewley</strong> (9.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG) will be seniors as the Trojans look to navigate a tough 15th District in 2025.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/GKKcjRQX0AEZo96-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23002"/></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="5"> <li><strong>Warren Central</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>17-12</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Jarek Kirk (Sr), Dominique Anthony (Jr), Johan Pratt (Jr), Armani Byrd (So)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Kade Unseld, Drevin Bratton, Elijah Starks, Cadin Hammer, Elijah Howard, Braylon Boards, Muhammad Ali</p> <p>A year ago Warren Central lost six of its top seven rotation players to graduation after winning the state championship. The same thing is happening again this offseason, with six, rotation seniors set to graduate. Of the returning players, <strong>Jarek Kirk</strong> (4.6 PPG) and <strong>Dominique Anthony</strong> (2.0 PPG) are the only two who played in both the region title game and state tournament this past season. For more than 20 years now, Warren Central has had new players step up each season. With talented underclassmen waiting in the wings, Coach <strong>William Unseld</strong> and his staff await the next group of outstanding players.</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="6"> <li><strong>South Warren</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>14-11</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Griffin Rardin (Sr), Bryce Button (Sr), Jace Jarvis (Sr), Thad Hall (Sr), Cameron Bell (Sr), Colton Veltkamp (Sr), Owen Shively (Jr), Camden Page (So)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: DeShawn Bridges, Drew Hudson, Kye Rich</p> <p>The Spartans will deeply miss All-Region standout <strong>Drew Hudson</strong>; however, coach <strong>Carlos Quarles’ </strong>club will return eight of their top nine scorers from this season. <strong>Griffin Rardin</strong> had a breakout junior year, averaging 14.4 points per game with 59 three-pointers. The sharpshooter shot better than 50% from beyond the arc and grabbed four rebounds per contest. <strong>Bryce Button</strong> averaged 11.7 PPG and 4.2 RPG to help pace the Spartans in the paint. A strong senior class will have the opportunity to help South qualify for its first-ever 4th Region Tournament berth.</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="7"> <li><strong>Cumberland County</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>18-14</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Zachery Harwood (Sr), Byren Crawley (Sr), Burk Sells (Sr), Deven Norris (Sr), Braden Perdue (Jr), Aiden Branham (Jr), Gavin Craft (So), </p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Lance Willen, Damian Kowalewski</p> <p>Cumberland County will enter the 2024-25 campaign favored to win the 16th District as they return their top seven scorers from their district-title winning team of this season. It all begins with All-Region product <strong>Zachery Harwood</strong>. The forward averaged 15.9 points and 11.9 rebounds per game on 55% shooting. The trio of <strong>Byren Crawley</strong> (9.5 PPG), <strong>Burk Sells </strong>(8.1 PPG, 48 made threes), and <strong>Braden Perdue</strong> (7.9 PPG) will round out a solid quartet ready to lead the Panthers as they seek to defend their first 16th District championship since 2009.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/GKKfCpqWYAAJWWT-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23001"/></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="8"> <li><strong>Metcalfe County </strong>12-22</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Cade Button (Jr), Hudson Jessie (Sr), Maddux Garrett (Jr), Kruz Tucker (Jr), Ben Shirley (Sr), Collin Shive (Sr), Byron Kirkland-Lundy (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Cabot Boling, Colton Huffman </p> <p>The Hornets took their lumps throughout the regular season, but when the lights shone brightest they delivered. 16th District Player of the Year <strong>Cade Button</strong> (24.4 PPG) and upcoming senior <strong>Hudson Jessie </strong>(13.9 PPG, 8.2 RPG) will return for another crack at a deep postseason run. In three postseason games this season, the duo scored 129 of Metcalfe’s 182 points, or 71% of the total output. <strong>Maddux Garrett </strong>(7.5 PPG) and <strong>Kruz Tucker</strong> (7.0 PPG) round out a talented junior class for 2025.</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="9"> <li><strong>Franklin-Simpson</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>14-13</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Jakai Partinger (Jr), Kamryn Ray (Sr), Brody McAlister (So), Cole Sharer (Jr), Malik Butler (Jr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: OJ Gamble, Gavin Dickerson, Mathias Dickerson</p> <p>Franklin-Simpson will lose the trio of <strong>OJ Gamble</strong> and <strong>Gavin </strong>and <strong>Mathias Dickerson</strong>; however, the cupboard will not be bare for coach <strong>Dee Spencer</strong> as he enters his thirteenth season next winter. Senior <strong>Kamryn Ray</strong> will return after averaging 8.2 points and 3.7 rebounds per game this past season, as will junior <strong>Jakai Partinger</strong> (8.6 PPG, 3.5 RPG). The Wildcats failed to make the 4th Region Tournament for the first time since 2015. I believe a new streak of appearances will begin again in 2025.</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="10"> <li><strong>Monroe County</strong> 15-14</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Brison Nuckols (Jr), Branson Williams (Jr), Caden Geralds (Jr), Wade Carnahan (Sr), Brayden Baxter (Jr), Reece Bartley (So)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Austen Arnett, Jameson Petett</p> <p>After being named to the ST All-Freshman Team in 2023, <strong>Brison Nuckols</strong> and <strong>Branson Williams </strong>made the jump as sophomores to become major contributors for the Falcons. Nuckols was Monroe’s second-leading scorer at 16.2 points per game, while WIlliams averaged a double-double with 11.6 points and 10.2 rebounds per contest. Both players should return for their junior season next winter and will be paired with four other members of coach <strong>Ashley Geralds’s </strong>rotation. The 16th District will be competitive again, but I expect the Falcons to be in the thick of the race.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-the-2024-25-season/">Never-Too-Early ST Power Rankings for the 2024-25 Season</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-the-2024-25-season/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>On a Historic Run</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/on-a-historic-run/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=on-a-historic-run</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/on-a-historic-run/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:11:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Boys' Sweet Sixteen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[KHSAA Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22971</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Warren Central State Title Defense Begins on Thursday Morning Harlan County Black Bears (31-4) vs. Warren Central Dragons (17-11) March 21, 2024 – 11:00 EST By Perry Swack Over the course of the last three postseasons, the Warren Central Basketball program has been nearly unstoppable. With a record of 21-2, the Dragons have captured three region championships, two district titles, made two appearances in the state championship game, and won the 2023 state title. Since 2000, only four schools have […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/on-a-historic-run/">On a Historic Run</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><em>Warren Central State Title Defense Begins on Thursday Morning</em></p> <p>Harlan County Black Bears (31-4) vs. Warren Central Dragons (17-11)</p> <p>March 21, 2024 – 11:00 EST</p> <p>By Perry Swack</p> <p>Over the course of the last three postseasons, the Warren Central Basketball program has been nearly unstoppable. With a record of 21-2, the Dragons have captured three region championships, two district titles, made two appearances in the state championship game, and won the 2023 state title. Since 2000, only four schools have played in consecutive state championship games – Warren Central (twice – 2004-05, 2022-23), Mason County (2003-04), Holmes (2008-09), Scott County (2018-19), and George Rogers Clark (2022-23). No school has appeared in three consecutive championship games since Male in 1973-1975. Talk to anyone in the Warren Central program and they will tell you they are focused on Harlan County, as they should be. However, it’s important to highlight the rarified air these Dragons are among as they take the court on Thursday morning against the 13th Region champions from Harlan County.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CJ4U2080-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22973"/></figure> <p><strong>Last Time Out</strong></p> <p>Harlan County defeated Corbin, 62-48, in the 13th Region Championship</p> <p>Warren Central defeated Bowling Green, 64-57 (OT), in the 4th Region Championship</p> <p><strong>Last Meeting – Never Met</strong></p> <p><strong>Recap</strong></p> <p>From a pure numbers standpoint, 2023-24 was not supposed to be the Dragons’ year. Losing seven seniors from a state championship roster normally spells a rebuild, especially when your main rival brings back virtually its entire roster from a 26-win season. For most of the season, it seemed like Bowling Green may get back to Rupp Arena for the first time since 2021. The Purples certainly looked the part, challenging themselves against the state’s best and holding their own. Although the regular season games were close, Bowling Green dispatched of the Dragons in their first three meetings, including a 78-54 victory in the 14th District championship.</p> <p>However, a cliche as old as time held true for Warren Central: don’t count out the heart of a champion. Down eight in the fourth quarter of the region finale, the Dragons started to heat up. As he’d done throughout his entire career, senior <strong>Kade Unseld</strong> came through when it mattered most. Starting the final period, he splashed a three-pointer from the top of the key before two <strong>Elijah Howard </strong>free throws had Central suddenly down three. The Dragons took the lead momentarily but settled for overtime after a frenzied, final few seconds of regulation.</p> <p>Bowling Green scored the first basket of overtime, before Unseld nailed another three off of a dribble hand-off to give the Dragons the 51-50 lead – one it would never relinquish. Seconds later he hit another bomb from the left wing to put the Dragons up 54-51. Timely offensive rebounds, free throws, and defensive stops iced the game over the final 90 seconds. Unseld finished with 24 points on only nine shots (6-for-7 from three, 6-for-6 from the line) and grabbed eight rebounds. Fellow senior <strong>Drevin Bratton</strong> scored 11 points to along with ten rebounds. <strong>Elijah Starks </strong>added ten points and seven rebounds, while <strong>Elijah Howard</strong> had nine points.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CJ4U2013-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22974"/></figure> <p><strong>Prediction</strong></p> <p>Coach <strong>Will Unseld</strong> and the Dragons will kick off their state title defense with the 13th Region champions, Harlan County. The Black Bears are making their first appearance in the <em>Sweet 16</em> since 2017. Harlan County coach <strong>Kyle Jones</strong> challenged his club, playing high-profile teams from around the state. They went 3-1 in the <em>King of the Bluegrass</em>, losing to Bowling Green (73-62), but defeating 3rd Region champ Butler County, 7th Region stalwart Male, and De La Salle from Chicago. The Black Bears also defeated <em>Sweet 16</em> participants Ashland Blazer and Perry County Central.</p> <p>On the court, it all starts with 6’6 <strong>Trent Noah</strong>, the South Carolina signee. The senior is averaging 29.7 points per game and 10.5 rebounds. Noah is shooting a team-best 56% from the field, 41% from three, and nearly 90% from the line on 300 attempts. Junior guard <strong>Maddox Huff</strong> is scoring 17.6 points per game and has made 95 three-pointers this season for the high-scoring Harlan County offense. The Black Bears are an elite offense, which will make for an exciting matchup with the Dragons, who defend and rebound at a high level.</p> <p><br>Central boasts one of the top field goal percentages in the state at 51% as a team. Four of their top six players are shooting 50% or better. What’s the recipe for another run deep into the state tournament? Look no further than the region championship game. Unseld’s crew was patient on the offensive end, trusting the flow of their offense and getting the best shot on most trips down the floor. As noted above, timely rebounding, defensive stops, and hitting their free throws when they needed them also helped. En route to the state title last season, WC scored 64 points or less in its three final games. If they are able to control the pace of the game while, a deep run may be in store yet again. Either way, the Warren Central Dragons have already accomplished what few others have in the history of Kentucky high school basketball.</p> <p>Warren Central 55, Harlan County 52</p> <p><strong>Stat to Know – 4</strong></p> <p>Warren Central is one of only four teams to reach the state tournament in 2023 and in 2024 (Lyon County, Pulaski County, Ashland Blazer)</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/on-a-historic-run/">On a Historic Run</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/on-a-historic-run/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>14th District Baseball Tournament Preview</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/14th-district-baseball-tournament-preview/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=14th-district-baseball-tournament-preview</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/14th-district-baseball-tournament-preview/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 14 May 2023 13:18:27 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Baseball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22384</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>May 15-16 – Warren Central High School 2022 Champion – Warren East Warren East won its first 14th District championship since 2017 in a 4-3 victory over Bowling Green. Tray Price, Drake Young, and Braylen Lee each tallied two hits, as Austin Comer picked up the win on the mound with three innings pitched and only one earned run. Young came in on relief, striking out seven in four innings and allowing only one hit. It was the Raiders final […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/14th-district-baseball-tournament-preview/"><strong>14</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District Baseball Tournament Preview</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>May 15-16 – Warren Central High School</strong></p> <p><strong>2022 Champion – Warren East</strong></p> <p>Warren East won its first 14th District championship since 2017 in a 4-3 victory over Bowling Green. <strong>Tray Price</strong>, <strong>Drake Young</strong>, and <strong>Braylen Lee</strong> each tallied two hits, as <strong>Austin Comer </strong>picked up the win on the mound with three innings pitched and only one earned run. Young came in on relief, striking out seven in four innings and allowing only one hit. It was the Raiders final game in the 14th District as they compete in the 15th District as of the 2022-23 academic year.</p> <p><strong>Last Five Championship Games</strong></p> <p>2022 – Warren East over Bowling Green</p> <p>2021 – Bowling Green over Warren East</p> <p>2019 – Bowling Green over South Warren</p> <p>2018 – South Warren over Bowling Green</p> <p>2017 – Warren East over Greenwood</p> <p><strong>Standings</strong></p> <p>South Warren 5-1</p> <p>Bowling Green 4-2</p> <p>Greenwood 3-3</p> <p>Warren Central 0-6</p> <p><strong>Schedule</strong></p> <p>May 15 @ 5:00pm – #2 Bowling Green vs. #3 Greenwood</p> <p>May 15 @ 7:30pm – #1 South Warren vs. #4 Warren Central</p> <p>May 16 @ 6:00pm – Championship Game</p> <p><strong>Prediction</strong></p> <p>The 2023 14th District Tournament features three teams ranked within the top five of the ST Power Rankings and the KHSAA RPI among teams in the 4th Region. South Warren is the top seed for the event after going 5-1 in district play this season. At the time of publication, the Spartans had three pitchers with sub-2.15 ERA – led by<strong> Dalton Sisson</strong> with his 3-0 record and 1.65 ERA. Sophomore <strong>Ethan Reynolds</strong> leads the team at the plate, batting nearly .450 with 12 extra-base hits.</p> <p>Bowling Green picked up the 2-seed after splitting its season series with both South Warren and Greenwood. Senior <strong>Dillon Maners</strong> is having a fantastic season both on the mound and at the plate. The lefty is 4-2 with 33 strikeouts and a 1.41 ERA. Maners is also batting .429 with 16 RBI, seven doubles, and has drawn a whopping 30 walks.</p> <p>Despite averaging 20 wins over the past four seasons, the Greenwood Gators have failed to reach the 4th Region Tournament since 2017. Coach Jason Jaggers’ club is hoping 2023 will be the season it advances to Nick Denes Field. <strong>Zachary Davis</strong> is batting .474 with 37 hits in 23 games, while <strong>Blake Marks</strong> is not far behind with a .469 average.</p> <p>Warren Central’s <strong>Jacob Bealmear </strong>leads the team in hits, runs, RBI, doubles, triples, and batting average. The junior will be looking to help the Dragons spring an upset at home.</p> <p>I predict the Spartans defeat the winner of BG/Greenwood and are crowned the 14th District champions for the first time since 2018.</p> <p><strong>Champion – South Warren</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/14th-district-baseball-tournament-preview/"><strong>14</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District Baseball Tournament Preview</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/14th-district-baseball-tournament-preview/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Never-Too-Early ST Power Rankings for 2023-24 Season</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-2023-24-season/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-2023-24-season</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-2023-24-season/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 07 Apr 2023 14:22:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Clinton County Bulldogs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Glasgow Scotties]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Monroe County Falcons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Russell County Lakers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Todd County Central Rebels]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren East Raiders]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22358</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Boys Basketball By Perry Swack As the final buzzer sounded at Rupp Arena, the Warren Central Dragons knew they had accomplished their crowning achievement. While the ensuing days were filled with much-earned celebration, the Dragons and the rest of the state will soon (if not already) begin looking toward next season. In the spirit of spring, hope and brighter days, we will take an early look at what the 4th Region may look like next winter when these teams take […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-2023-24-season/"><strong>Never-Too-Early ST Power Rankings for 2023-24 Season</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><em>Boys Basketball</em></p> <p>By Perry Swack</p> <p>As the final buzzer sounded at Rupp Arena, the Warren Central Dragons knew they had accomplished their crowning achievement. While the ensuing days were filled with much-earned celebration, the Dragons and the rest of the state will soon (if not already) begin looking toward next season. In the spirit of spring, hope and brighter days, we will take an early look at what the 4th Region may look like next winter when these teams take to the hardwood. </p> <p>*Team rosters may change over time but this is how they project at the end of the 2022-23 season. Players listed as their 2023-24 class.</p> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong> School (2022-23 Record)</strong></p> <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Bowling Green</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong>26-9</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Mason Ritter (Sr), MJ Wardlow (Sr), Deuce Bailey (Jr), Braylon Banks (Jr), Gavin Lightning (So), Jace Wardlow (Jr), Luke Idlett (Jr), Drevin Bratton (Sr), Trevy Barber (So), Briar Griffin (Jr), DeMarr Starks (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: None</p> <p>After spending much of this season ranked in the state’s top ten, the Purples will return every player from their roster for 2023-24. It would come as no surprise if a team from the 4th Region is playing on the final Saturday of the high school basketball season next March. Bowling Green will have the talent and experience to be that team.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22362" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3549-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Deuce Bailey, Bowling Green</figcaption></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="2"> <li><strong>Warren Central</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong>37-1</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Kade Unseld (Sr), Braylon Boards (Sr), Cadin Hammer (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Chappelle Whitney, Omari Glover, Damarion Walkup, Izayiah Villafuerte, Malik Jefferson, Tayvion Wells, Demetrius Barnett</p> <p>Although the Dragons will lose six of their seven rotation players, it feels wrong to rank them lower than #2 until they’re beaten. Coach Will Unseld’s club returns the 2023 Sweet 16’s leading scorer in <strong>Kade Unseld, </strong>and the team will hope BG transfer <strong>Elijah Starks</strong> is eligible for his senior season.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22363" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0666-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kade Unseld, Warren Central</figcaption></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="3"> <li><strong>Todd County Central</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong>19-12</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Jamison Glass (Sr), Trayvon Foster (Sr), Hayden Strader (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Preston Rager, Perez Whitlock, Micah Smith</p> <p>Todd County Central may have lost its head coach John Stigall in the offseason, but the Rebels will be favored to win the 13th District in consecutive seasons next winter. Second Team All-Region performer <strong>Jamison Glass</strong> returns after averaging 18.7 points and 8.8 rebounds in 2022-23.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22330" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CJ4U0381-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Trayvon Foster, Todd County Central</figcaption></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="4"> <li><strong>Monroe County</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong> 18-15</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Austen Arnett (Sr), Brison Nuckols (So), Branson Williams (So), Jameson Petett (Sr), Wade Carnahan (Jr), Brayden Baxter (So)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: John Harlin, Deaton Emmert, Keaton Biggerstaff</p> <p>Monroe County reached the 4th Region Tournament for the first time since 2018 this season and will look to build upon that success in 2023-24. The Falcons will return three of their top five scorers including <strong>Austen Arnett</strong> (11.3 PPG) and two All-Freshman Team members in <strong>Branson Williams </strong>(8.5 PPG, 8.2 RPG) and <strong>Brison Nuckols</strong> (8.4 PPG).</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22364" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U1098-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Branson Williams, Monroe County</figcaption></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="5"> <li><strong>South Warren</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong>21-7</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Drew Hudson (Sr), Bryce Button (Jr), Brayden Parrish (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Brandon Rowe, Justin Posey, Andrew Linhardt, Wells Bratcher, Lukas Smith, Andrew Goley</p> <p>Year one of the Carlos Quarles Era produced arguably the most successful season in South Warren boys basketball history. What could year two behold? All-Region performer <strong>Brandon Rowe</strong> will be gone, but the Spartans will return <strong>Drew Hudson</strong> and his 11.3 points per game. The upcoming senior sharpshooter hit 71 three-pointers at a 41% clip in 2022-23.</p> <p></p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="6"> <li><strong>Clinton County</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong>15-14</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Steele Burchett (Sr), Cohen Davis (Sr), Cannon Young (Jr), Drew Davis (So)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Braden Stockton, Eli Dearborn, Eli Tucker, Thomas Oesterreicher</p> <p>In Nick Irwin’s first season at the helm, Clinton County secured its fifteenth-straight winning season. Next season should see the Bulldogs pick up more wins as the team is set to return its three leading scorers, including All-District performer <strong>Cannon Young</strong> (13.3 PPG, 6.9 RPG).</p> <p></p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="7"> <li><strong>Warren East</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong>21-10</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Jari Barber (Sr), Brenden Bratcher (Jr), Kaleb Prince (So), Dane Parsley (Jr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Isaiah Andrews, Connor Doyle, Roger Duncan, Isaiah Ghee, Simon Ghee, Caiden Murrell, Austin Rigsby</p> <p>The hole left by <strong>Isaiah Andrews</strong> will be huge, but the Raiders can expect to contend for the 15th District title again with the return of All-District performer <strong>Jari Barber</strong> (7.2 PPG, 5.4 RPG) and three more rotation players. Expectations will be high for Year Three of the Kyle Benge Era.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22343" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U0928-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jari Barber, Warren East</figcaption></figure> <p></p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="8"> <li><strong>Glasgow</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong>10-18</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> John Carter Walbert (Sr), Jerrick Martin (So), Rico Crowder (Sr), Josiah Driver (Jr), Zachary Poore (Sr), Preston Gaunce (Jr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Clay Pippen, Javon Clark</p> <p>Glasgow nearly qualified for the 4th Region Tournament in William Buford’s first year with the program but lost a heartbreaker in the district semifinals. The Scotties will return three of their top four scorers next winter, including <strong>John Carter Walbert</strong> and his 12 points per game. The upcoming senior also shot 40% from beyond the arc.</p> <p></p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="9"> <li><strong>Russell County</strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong>10-21</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Owen Loy (Sr), Mayes Gosser (Jr), Trace Stringer (Sr), Braydon Cerrato (Sr), Maddox Shearer (So), Dylan Stanelle (So), Logan Walters (Jr), Kaden Coffey (Jr), Byron Kirkland-Lundy (Jr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: None</p> <p>After qualifying for twelve-consecutive region tournaments from 2006 to 2017 (including seven district titles), the Lakers have failed to reach the last six 4th Region events. Expectations will be high in 2023-24 as Russell County will return its entire team, including <strong>Owen Loy</strong> (13.5 PPG), <strong>Mayes Gosser</strong> (12.6 PPG. 7.7 RPG), <strong>Braydon Cerrato</strong> (10.6 PPG), and <strong>Trace Stringer </strong>(10.2 PPG).<br></p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="10"> <li><strong> Greenwood </strong><strong></strong><strong> </strong><strong></strong>9-22</li> </ol> <p><strong>Returning:</strong> Asher Pettus (Jr), Nick Simpson (Jr), Chaze Huff (Sr), Zachary Davis (Jr), Garrett Hatcher (Jr), Cole Phillips (Jr), Brady Clark (Sr)</p> <p><strong>Departing</strong>: Lofton Howard, Luke Stansbury, Brier Hartis</p> <p>Greenwood took its lumps this season, but the Gators will return two of their top three scorers next season. A talented upcoming junior class that includes <strong>Asher Pettus </strong>(10.4 PPG) and <strong>Nick Simpson</strong> (9.2 PPG) will look to lead the program in Will McCoy’s fifth year at the school.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22361" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5038-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> Nick Simpson, Greeenwood</figcaption></figure> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-2023-24-season/"><strong>Never-Too-Early ST Power Rankings for 2023-24 Season</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/never-too-early-st-power-rankings-for-2023-24-season/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Whitney, Ritter Headline All-Hoops Team for the 14th District</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/whitney-ritter-headline-all-hoops-team-for-the-14th-district/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=whitney-ritter-headline-all-hoops-team-for-the-14th-district</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/whitney-ritter-headline-all-hoops-team-for-the-14th-district/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 04 Apr 2023 15:32:19 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[All-Hoops Team]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22350</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Chappelle Whitney named 14th District Player of the Year Sporting Times All-Hoops Team for the 14th District Boys All-District Team Chappelle Whitney, Warren Central (POY) Mason Ritter, Bowling Green Brandon Rowe, South Warren Kade Unseld, Warren Central Damarion Walkup, Warren Central MJ Wardlow, Bowling Green Chappelle Whitney, Warren Central Senior Coming off a strong junior season, Chappelle Whitney did not disappoint in his senior year. The Sporting Times’ 14th District Player of the Year averaged 16.7 points and 7.9 rebounds […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/whitney-ritter-headline-all-hoops-team-for-the-14th-district/"><strong>Whitney, Ritter Headline All-Hoops Team for the 14</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>Chappelle Whitney named 14</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District Player of the Year</strong></p> <p><em>Sporting Times All-Hoops Team for the 14</em><em><sup>th</sup></em><em> District Boys</em></p> <p><strong>All-District Team</strong></p> <p>Chappelle Whitney, Warren Central (POY)</p> <p>Mason Ritter, Bowling Green</p> <p>Brandon Rowe, South Warren</p> <p>Kade Unseld, Warren Central</p> <p>Damarion Walkup, Warren Central</p> <p>MJ Wardlow, Bowling Green</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><strong>Chappelle Whitney, Warren Central Senior</strong></p> <p>Coming off a strong junior season, Chappelle Whitney did not disappoint in his senior year. The Sporting Times’ 14th District Player of the Year averaged 16.7 points and 7.9 rebounds per game for the state champion Dragons and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Sweet 16. Whitney also shot 57% from the field and 77% from the line. He was named the 4th Region Player of the Year by virtually every group that votes on the award, both media outlets and coaches.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22352" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U4090-1-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>Mason Ritter, Bowling Green Junior</strong></p> <p>Mason Ritter was the only player in the 4th Region to average a double double this season, scoring 12.7 points and 10.4 rebounds per game to help the Purples back to the 4th Region title game for a tenth-consecutive season. The junior center was efficient from the field, shooting a region-best 61% and knocking down 76% of his free throws. In three games at the 4th Region Tournament, Ritter had a double double in every contest.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22353" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2652-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>Brandon Rowe, South Warren Senior</strong></p> <p>In what is being considered the best South Warren basketball team of all time, Brandon Rowe was the team’s engine. The senior averaged 14 points per game and 5.4 rebounds as the Spartans went 21-7. In an early-season win over Franklin-Simpson, Rowe shot 10-for-13 and scored 27 points. The Spartan guard will go down as one of the best in the program’s young history.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22354" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U5053-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>Kade Unseld, Warren Central Junior</strong></p> <p>Kade Unseld helped lead the Dragons to the program’s first state championship since 2004. The junior sharpshooter averaged 16.1 points per game and 7.4 rebounds as Warren Central went 36-1. Unseld shot 55% from the field, 45% from deep, and 77% from the charity stripe. He also led the region with 79 made three-pointers. When the lights were brightest, Unseld delivered, scoring a tournament-best 73 points over the course of four games at the Sweet 16, including 17 in both the state semifinals and finals.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22355" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U3143-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>Damarion Walkup, Warren Central Senior</strong></p> <p>One of the defining memories of the 4th Region boys basketball season will be Damarion Walkup driving baseline and hammering home a thunderous dunk against rival Bowling Green in mid-January. However, the senior did much more in his final season at Warren Central. Walkup averaged 12.1 points per game on 52% shooting for the state champions. In the state championship game, he scored 17 points and hit three three-pointers as the Dragons avenged a one-point state championship loss from 2022.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-22097" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22.jpeg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22-770x513.jpeg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22-360x240.jpeg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22-500x333.jpeg 500w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22-370x247.jpeg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/8BBB1B68-BDCF-42D4-968F-C11508FB8D22-293x195.jpeg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>MJ Wardlow, Bowling Green Junior</strong></p> <p>MJ Wardlow averaged 16.2 points per game in his junior season, shooting an efficient 54% from the field, 44% from beyond the arc, and 76% from the line. His 48 three-pointers were among the highest totals in the 4th Region, and his percentage from downtown trailed only Kade Unseld at Warren Central. Returning for his senior season, Wardlow and the Purples will be favorites to return to the state tournament after a two-year absence.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22356" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CJ4U2686-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/whitney-ritter-headline-all-hoops-team-for-the-14th-district/"><strong>Whitney, Ritter Headline All-Hoops Team for the 14</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/whitney-ritter-headline-all-hoops-team-for-the-14th-district/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Dragons Favored to win Back-to-Back Districts for first time since 2006-07</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/dragons-favored-to-win-back-to-back-districts-for-first-time-since-2006-07/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dragons-favored-to-win-back-to-back-districts-for-first-time-since-2006-07</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/dragons-favored-to-win-back-to-back-districts-for-first-time-since-2006-07/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2023 17:22:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[14th District Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Prep Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22205</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>14th District Boys Basketball Tournament Preview February 21-24 – Greenwood High School 2022 Champion – Warren Central Warren Central won its first 14th District championship since 2013 as the Dragons cruised to a 68-42 victory over Bowling Green. Jaiden Lawrence canned five three-pointers, missing only one attempt, en route to 23 points and nine rebounds in the sizable win. Turner Buttry led the Purples with 15 points. Last Five Championship Games 2022 – Warren Central over Bowling Green 2021 – […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/dragons-favored-to-win-back-to-back-districts-for-first-time-since-2006-07/"><em>Dragons Favored to win Back-to-Back Districts for first time since 2006-07</em></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>14</strong><strong><sup>th</sup></strong><strong> District Boys Basketball Tournament Preview</strong></p> <p><strong>February 21-24 – Greenwood High School</strong></p> <p></p> <p><strong>2022 Champion – Warren Central</strong></p> <p>Warren Central won its first 14th District championship since 2013 as the Dragons cruised to a 68-42 victory over Bowling Green. <strong>Jaiden Lawrence</strong> canned five three-pointers, missing only one attempt, en route to 23 points and nine rebounds in the sizable win. <strong>Turner Buttry</strong> led the Purples with 15 points.</p> <p><strong>Last Five Championship Games</strong></p> <p>2022 – Warren Central over Bowling Green</p> <p>2021 – Bowling Green over Greenwood</p> <p>2020 – Bowling Green over Warren Central</p> <p>2019 – Bowling Green over Warren Central</p> <p>2018 – Bowling Green over Warren Central</p> <p><strong>Schedule</strong></p> <p>February 21 @ 6:00pm – #1 Warren Central vs. #4 Greenwood</p> <p>February 21 @ 7:30pm – #2 Bowling Green vs. #3 South Warren</p> <p>February 24 @ 6:00pm – Championship Game</p> <p><strong>#1 – Warren Central (27-1)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>A well-oiled machine with its entire rotation logging regular varsity minutes for two seasons now, the Dragons of Warren Central are poised for a deep run that ends in late March in Lexington. However, all journeys begin with a single step. Coach Will Unseld will be preaching for his club to do the little things that propelled Central to its #1 ranking in the state. The Dragons are ranked first in scoring margin, winning games by an average of 23.2 points per game. They are also among the state leaders in field goal percentage, three-point field goal percentage, free throw percentage, and rebounds per game. If the Dragons play their game, they will repeat as district champions for the first time since 2007.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22206" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956-500x333.jpg 500w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5956-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>#2 – Bowling Green (23-7)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>Ranked #10 in the KHSAA RPI and in the top ten in most statewide polls across the season, the Purples are not short on talent. Should Bowling Green get by South Warren in the district semifinals, it will be hoping that the third time’s the charm in regard to beating Warren Central. The key to victory will seemingly be in the pace of play. In both matchups, the Purples were able to successfully keep the Dragons from dominating in transition – something WC is known to use to its advantage against most opponents. If Coach D.G. Sherrill’s club can slow down Central and make it a half-court game, its chances will increase exponentially. Furthermore, the Purples will need to rebound better against WC after being outrebounded 35-21 and 44-26 in the two regular season meetings.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22207" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U3182-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong><br></strong><strong>#3 – South Warren (21-7)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>Arguably one of the best teams in school history, coach Carlos Quarles’ club has positioned itself as one of the premier teams in the 4th Region this season. Unfortunately, the Spartans have two of the top teams in the state within their district. South has played Bowling Green tight in each of their two meetings, nearly knocking off the Purples at home in early January before falling 55-50. SW closed the regular season on a seven-game winning streak and will hope this momentum carries into the postseason. A balanced roster with six players averaging six or more points per game, the Spartans are led by senior <strong>Brandon Rowe</strong>. The guard leads the club in points (14.4) and rebounds (5.6) per game.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22208" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/CJ4U5051-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p><strong>#4 – Greenwood (9-21)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>Since late January, the Gators have been in every game they’ve played in, losing four straight by three points or less. Replacing nearly its entire rotation from last year’s roster, coach Will McCoy’s squad has experienced quite a bit of growing pains in 2022-23. For Greenwood to pull upsets on Warren Central and Bowling Green it will need to play nearly a perfect game…twice. In the Gators’ most recent game with the Purples in late January, they got to the line 20 times in a 65-52 loss. GHS will need to get to the line often, outrebound its opponent, and get hot from three with the likes of <strong>Chaze Huff</strong>, <strong>Luke Stansbury</strong>, and <strong>Nick Simpson</strong>. The trio have hit a combined 155 three-pointers on the season.</p> <p><strong>Prediction</strong></p> <p>In 2022, the 14th District housed three teams ranked within the state’s top ten. In 2023, two teams will be ranked there again. The Dragons fell one-point short of a state title last season and are hungry to avenge last season’s heartbreak. For WC, it all begins at Greenwood High School in the last full week of February. A win over Greenwood will qualify them for next week’s 4th Region Tournament.</p> <p>Bowling Green won eight-straight 14th District championships from 2013 to 2021 and knows it is talented enough to win a ninth in ten seasons this year. The Purples took the Dragons to overtime in their final regular season meeting, adding extra intrigue for a likely third meeting at Greenwood in the district finale. South Warren believes it can play spoiler though and clinch its first trip to Diddle Arena in school history.</p> <p><br>Storylines certainly abound; however, I think when the games are over, the White and Navy will be holding the trophy. Their consistency on both ends of the court will give Warren Central its first back-to-back district titles in the Will Unseld Era.</p> <p><strong>Champion – Warren Central</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/dragons-favored-to-win-back-to-back-districts-for-first-time-since-2006-07/"><em>Dragons Favored to win Back-to-Back Districts for first time since 2006-07</em></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/dragons-favored-to-win-back-to-back-districts-for-first-time-since-2006-07/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>The Drive For Five</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/the-drive-for-five/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-drive-for-five</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/the-drive-for-five/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2023 21:59:39 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[14th District Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22175</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Lady Purples have won 33 straight 14th District Games since trio’s freshmen year 14th District Girls Basketball Tournament Preview February 20-23 – Greenwood High School 2022 Champion – Bowling Green  #1 seed Bowling Green defeated #2 seed Warren East by a score of 72-44. Saniyah Shelton led the Lady Purples with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Meadow Tisdale chipped in 17 points and grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds. The title was the Lady Purples’ second-straight district championship. Last Five Championship […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/the-drive-for-five/">The Drive For Five</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Lady Purples have won 33 straight 14th District Games since trio’s freshmen year</p> <p>14th District Girls Basketball Tournament Preview</p> <p><strong>February 20-23 – Greenwood High School</strong></p> <p><strong>2022 Champion – Bowling Green </strong></p> <p>#1 seed Bowling Green defeated #2 seed Warren East by a score of 72-44. Saniyah Shelton led the Lady Purples with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Meadow Tisdale chipped in 17 points and grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds. The title was the Lady Purples’ second-straight district championship.</p> <p><strong>Last Five Championship Games</strong></p> <p>2022 – Bowling Green over South Warren</p> <p>2021 – Bowling Green over Greenwood</p> <p>2020 – Bowling Green over Warren East </p> <p>2019 – Bowling Green over South Warren</p> <p>2018 – South Warren over Bowling Green</p> <p><strong>Schedule</strong></p> <p>February 20 @ 6:00pm – #1 Bowling Green vs. #4 Warren Central</p> <p>February 20 @ 7:30pm – #2 South Warren vs. #3 Greenwood</p> <p>February 23 @ 6:00pm – Championship Game</p> <p><strong>#1 – Bowling Green (19-10)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>This year’s senior class at Bowling Green revitalized the program, winning district and region titles in each of their first three seasons. The Lady Purples are primed for a fourth going 6-0 against the 14th District and 10-0 against the 4th Region overall. The senior trio of <strong>Meadow Tisdale, Saniyah Shelton,</strong> and <strong>Tanaya Bailey</strong> combine to average 35 points and 18 rebounds per game. Tisdale missed four games in February with a knee injury but returned near the end of the regular season. BG’s average margin of victory in district games was 33.2 points per win. </p> <p><strong>#2 – South Warren (17-13)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>Runners-up in two of the last four 14th District Tournaments, the Lady Spartans of South Warren are hungry to win their first title since 2018. Led by freshman <strong>McLaine Hudson</strong> (11.2 points and 5.1 rebounds) and senior <strong>Gracie Hodges </strong>(9.0 points and 5.2 rebounds) the team finished 4-2 in district play. South closed the regular season with six-straight wins, scoring more than 45 points in each of the victories. In three of their four losses since the new year, the Lady Spartans have failed to score 40. When they are clicking offensively, South Warren is a dangerous out.</p> <p><strong>#3 – Greenwood (14-15)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>Greenwood features the region’s top scorer in <strong>Leia Trinh</strong> (19.2 points per game) and second-leading rebounder in <strong>Kayla Grant </strong>(12.3 rebounds per game) giving the Lady Gators the ability to fill up the stat sheet on any given night. Coach Zach Simpson’s club struggled down the stretch of the regular season, losing nine of their final twelve games but will be hoping they can reverse the trend starting with the semifinal matchup with South Warren. In 2021-22, the Lady Gators swept the regular season series with the Lady Spartans before South eked out a two-point win in the district tournament. SW has won both regular season meetings in 2022-23. How will the tournament matchup fare?</p> <p><strong>#4 – Warren Central (5-24)</strong></p> <p>How They Can Win</p> <p>Warren Central is balanced offensively with three players averaging at least eight points per game. The Lady Dragons are led by junior <strong>Aida Akhmedova’s</strong> nine points per game, while senior <strong>Kennedee Robinson</strong> is scoring 8.4 points per contest. Junior <strong>Briana Frausto</strong> leads the team with 7.7 rebounds per game, while <strong>Jaliyah Bailey</strong> is averaging eight points and six rebounds.<strong> </strong>Despite losing six in a row in February, the Lady Dragons were competitive, losing four by ten points or less.</p> <p><strong>Prediction</strong></p> <p>Bowling Green is the heavy favorite to win its fifth-straight district crown. As noted above, the Lady Purples won every district game this season by an average of nearly 35 points. It’s hard to imagine that trend changing, especially with the return of Meadow Tisdale to the lineup. As for the second slot in the region tournament, South Warren has the edge to make back-to-back trips to Diddle Arena. The Lady Spartans defeated Greenwood twice in the regular season by double digits. That coupled with a five-game win streak leads me to predict that South will join BG in Diddle Arena next week.</p> <p><strong>District Champion – Bowling Green</strong></p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/the-drive-for-five/">The Drive For Five</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/the-drive-for-five/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sporting Times Top Ten</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/sporting-times-top-ten-5/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sporting-times-top-ten-5</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/sporting-times-top-ten-5/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:17:16 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Barren County Trojans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bowling Green Purples]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Franklin-Simpson wildcats]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Power Rankings]]></category> <category><![CDATA[South Warren Spartans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=22096</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Boys Basketball     Week 9 Warren Central        19-1                    Outlook: Warren Central ran off its ninth- and tenth-consecutive victories in Week 8 with two wins over district rival South Warren. Senior Damarion Walkup scored 22 points in Tuesday’s W and junior Kade Unseld grabbed 15 rebounds. Week 9 Games: Kenwood (Tuesday), Greenwood (Friday) Bowling Green        19-4                        Outlook: Bowling Green went 3-0 this past week, including a pair of thirteen-point […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/sporting-times-top-ten-5/"><strong>Sporting Times Top Ten</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><em>Boys Basketball</em></p> <p><strong><em> </em></strong><strong>Week 9</strong></p> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Warren Central</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>19-1 </li></ol> <p> Outlook: Warren Central ran off its ninth- and tenth-consecutive victories in Week 8 with two wins over district rival South Warren. Senior <strong>Damarion Walkup</strong> scored 22 points in Tuesday’s W and junior <strong>Kade Unseld </strong>grabbed 15 rebounds.</p> <p> <strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> Kenwood (Tuesday), Greenwood (Friday)</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-22098" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC.jpeg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC-770x513.jpeg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC-360x240.jpeg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC-500x333.jpeg 500w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC-370x247.jpeg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/58CB61F9-5513-407D-A0D0-3063A6EA9BAC-293x195.jpeg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="2"><li><strong>Bowling Green</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>19-4 </li></ol> <p> Outlook: Bowling Green went 3-0 this past week, including a pair of thirteen-point wins over Greenwood and McCracken County. A date with South Warren looms on Friday night – the Purples edged the Spartans, 55-50, on January 6. A win will keep Bowling Green alive in the hunt for the district’s #1 seed.</p> <p> <strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> at Ohio County (Monday), South Warren (Friday)</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-22099" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46.jpeg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46-770x513.jpeg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46-360x240.jpeg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46-370x247.jpeg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/C661C740-01DE-4C73-AF67-4D209DBE5E46-293x195.jpeg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="3"><li><strong> South Warren</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>14-4 </li></ol> <p>Outlook: All four of South Warren’s losses this season are to teams ranked inside the state’s top 11 teams as far as RPI rankings go. The Spartans lost twice this past week to the state’s #1 team, Warren Central. Coach Carlos Quarles’ club will look to right the ship in Week 9 with three games against 4th Region opponents.</p> <p><strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> at Warren East (Tuesday), at Bowling Green (Friday), Logan County (Saturday)</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-22100" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5.jpeg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5-770x513.jpeg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5-360x240.jpeg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5-370x247.jpeg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/3339B5F8-C73F-43F1-A001-B82E5883E4B5-293x195.jpeg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="4"><li><strong> Franklin-Simpson</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>10-6 </li></ol> <p>Outlook: Franklin-Simpson picked up two double-digit wins over Greenwood (61-51) and Logan County (70-36) in Week 8. The Wildcats travel to Todd County Central this Friday for a rematch with the Rebels after eking out a 46-45 win on January 6.</p> <p><strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> Allen County-Scottsville (Tuesday), at Todd County Central (Friday)</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="5"><li><strong>Barren County </strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>13-8 </li></ol> <p>Outlook: Barren County improved its district record to 4-1 with a 63-35 win over Allen County-Scottsville on Friday. Senior <strong>Eli Brooks</strong> scored 20 points, including 9-of-10 from the line, to lead the Trojans to their fifth win in six tries.</p> <p> <strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> at Russellville (Tuesday), Glasgow (Friday)</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-22101" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C.jpeg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C-770x513.jpeg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C-360x240.jpeg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C-370x247.jpeg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/E0874C61-A60E-4049-B2D8-86B3FFE00F6C-293x195.jpeg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="6"><li><strong>Monroe County</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>13-7 </li></ol> <p>Outlook: Monroe County reached the 4th Region All “A” Classic finale after beating Clinton County and Todd County Central; however, the Falcons fell to Cumberland County in the championship game by a score of 59-55. Coach Ashley Geralds’ club will look to stay atop the 16th District standings when it hosts Metcalfe County on Tuesday.</p> <p><strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> Metcalfe County (Tuesday), Bluegrass Blazers (Friday)</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="7"><li><strong>Warren East</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>9-7 </li></ol> <p> Outlook: Warren East cruised to a 54-24 victory over Foundation Christian Academy before losing 60-58 in overtime to Daviess County. The Raiders sit at 2-2 in the 15th District but are not back in district action until January 31 when they host Glasgow.</p> <p> <strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> South Warren (Tuesday), Central Hardin (Friday), Russellville (Saturday)</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-22102" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305.jpeg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305-770x513.jpeg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305-360x240.jpeg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305-370x247.jpeg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/41AD5F8E-2C94-4698-8CAB-E0030A62C305-293x195.jpeg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="8"><li><strong>Todd County Central</strong><strong> </strong>12-8 </li></ol> <p> Outlook: Todd County Central won five straight games over the course of the last two weeks in December but have split its last six, including a 64-54 loss at Monroe County in the 4th Region “All A” Classic last week. The Rebels host Franklin-Simpson on Friday with a chance to tie the Wildcats atop the 13th District standings.</p> <p><strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> Edmonson County (Monday), Franklin-Simpson (Friday), Paducah Tilghman (Saturday)</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="9"><li><strong>Clinton County</strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>9-10 </li></ol> <p> Outlook: Clinton County lost twice in Week 8 but remains in the Sporting Times Top Ten. The Bulldogs remain in second in the 16th District standings at 4-3. Nick Irwin’s squad will get three cracks at ending its two-game slide in Week 9.</p> <p><strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> at Campbellsville (Monday), at Pulaski County (Tuesday), Greenwood (Saturday)</p> <ol class="wp-block-list" start="10"><li><strong> Cumberland County</strong><strong> </strong>8-12 </li></ol> <p> Outlook: Cumberland County features in our top ten after winning three times in Week 8 to clinch the 4th Region All “A” Classic. Victories over Russellville, Glasgow, and Monroe County were enough to see them punch their ticket to the state event. The Panthers will tip off in the All-A State Tournament against Owensboro Catholic on Thursday evening at 9:30 PM EST.</p> <p><strong>Week 9 Games:</strong> Russell County (Tuesday), vs. Owensboro Catholic at EKU (Thursday), Metcalfe County (Friday), Marion County (Saturday)</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/sporting-times-top-ten-5/"><strong>Sporting Times Top Ten</strong></a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/sporting-times-top-ten-5/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>ICYMI: Instant Classic at The Swamp</title> <link>https://stfanclub.com/icymi-instant-classic-at-the-swamp/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=icymi-instant-classic-at-the-swamp</link> <comments>https://stfanclub.com/icymi-instant-classic-at-the-swamp/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Perry Swack]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Feb 2022 01:35:55 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[4th Region Basketball]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Greenwood Lady Gators]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lady Dragons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Warren Central Dragons]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://stfanclub.com/?p=21528</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Thoughts from The Swamp after Greenwood eclipsed Warren Central in double overtime By Perry Swack You could feel the spark in the air at Greenwood High School on Friday night. Crosstown rivals set to do battle in an ever-important 14th District basketball game. But there seemed to be something more to play for in this one. Sure, the winner would have a clear advantage to the #1 seed in the upcoming district tournament. But more than that, it was about […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/icymi-instant-classic-at-the-swamp/">ICYMI: Instant Classic at The Swamp</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="has-normal-font-size"><em>Thoughts from The Swamp after Greenwood eclipsed Warren Central in double overtime</em></p> <p>By Perry Swack</p> <p></p> <p>You could feel the spark in the air at Greenwood High School on Friday night. Crosstown rivals set to do battle in an ever-important 14th District basketball game. But there seemed to be something more to play for in this one. Sure, the winner would have a clear advantage to the #1 seed in the upcoming district tournament. But more than that, it was about pride. It was about both teams bringing their best to the table. It was about both teams being ranked inside the state’s top ten. Has this ever happened when the Gators and Dragons did battle? It seemed to be a first and two of the state’s top teams did not disappoint.</p> <p></p> <p>Here are some notes I observed while taking in an instant classic.</p> <p></p> <p class="has-large-font-size"><strong>1. </strong>Greenwood is learning how to win without Cade Stinnett</p> <p>When one of the state’s top talents went out to injury in the early moments of the Gators’ home win over Bowling Green last week, it was a perfect chance to fold. The senior was averaging 20 points and six rebounds per contest. It would have been completely understandable for Greenwood to pack it in. However, they didn’t flinch. They consumed every punch the Purples threw at them and defeated BG (72-71) for only the second time since 2012. Fast forward a week — a win over Warren East and now over Warren Central has shown that Greenwood can play with the best of the best without its best player. Whenever Stinnett returns to the lineup, watch out.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21531" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0027JPG-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p class="has-large-font-size"><strong>2. </strong>“It’s a game of runs” never felt more true</p> <p>Basketball fans are familiar with the old adage that the game is one of runs — one team goes on a big run, the other team follows. In a tight game, you hope your team goes on the big run last or that your team’s final run gave you enough cushion to outlast your opponent. Warren Central carried a 31-20 lead midway through the second quarter; however, the Gators scored the final seven points of the half to trim the lead to 31-27. In the second half, Greenwood tore off a 17-4 run that gave the Gators a 48-41 lead midway through the fourth. The Dragons followed it up with an 8-1 run to end regulation and force overtime. Greenwood led by five points in the first overtime and four points in the second overtime but were able to eke out a victory by making just enough free throws when they needed it.</p> <p></p> <p class="has-large-font-size"><strong>3. </strong>It was Jaiden Lawrence’s night</p> <p>One of only two seniors on the roster, Warren Central’s <strong>Jaiden Lawrence </strong>understood the gravity of the matchup with Greenwood. The team’s second-leading scorer at 13.6 points per game, Lawrence wanted to ensure his squad had every chance to control its own destiny for the #1 seed in the 14th District Tournament. He hit timely shot after timely shot — pointing in the direction of the Greenwood student section on more than one occasion. Down three with less than five seconds to play in the first overtime, Lawrence caught the ball in the right corner with two Gators on the prowl. The senior had the awareness in the moment to take two steps back behind the three-point line before calmly nailing the game-tying three-pointer. He finished with a game-high 19 points.</p> <p></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21530" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0079JPG-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p class="has-large-font-size"><strong>4. </strong>A New Streak for Greenwood</p> <p>For the first time since the 1998-1999 and 1999-2000 seasons, the Gators have defeated the Dragons in consecutive games. Greenwood beat Central in the 14th District Tournament last season to go along with Friday’s victory. The last time Greenwood won three in a row over the Dragons? Between 1998 and 2000, GHS took six straight from their crosstown rivals.</p> <p></p> <p class="has-large-font-size"><strong>5. </strong>Everyone Seems to Know Their Role</p> <p>The success of any successful basketball team often hinges on the players’ ability to know their role and execute said role. It was clear that both Greenwood and Warren Central understood how they wanted to attack the defense on Friday night. Without Cade Stinnett, the Gators utilized the playmaking abilities of <strong>Brakton Stinnett </strong>and <strong>Aaron Brown</strong> to attack the basket (most effectively on the left side) and either hit a layup or dish to a bevy of shooters on the wings and in the corners. Forward <strong>Lofton Howard</strong> was also utilized well under the basket for tip-ins and layups off the drive.</p> <p>When Central was most effective, it used precision passing in the halfcourt. Particularly in the first half (when the Dragon lead grew to 11 points), coach Will Unseld’s team was able to get a number of wide open three-pointers due to the ball movement created. The Dragons hit eight three-pointers and created a handful of other golden opportunities for more. This ball movement will continue to serve WCHS well as the postseason begins in a few weeks.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21532" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/IMG_0140JPG-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p> </p> <p class="has-large-font-size"><strong>6. </strong>Leia Trinh was Unstoppable</p> <p>I would be remiss if I didn’t include a piece about the most dominant player on the court in either game — Greenwood’s <strong>Leia Trinh</strong>. The sophomore guard poured in 41 points and 8 assists as the Lady Gators pulled away for a 77-54 victory. Driving with either hand, Trinh found her way into the paint with ease and finished a number of tough looks. She also was able to hit from outside, knocking in jumpers from beyond the arc. When the defense surrounded her, Trinh dished it to teammates as Greenwood cruised.</p> <p></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://stfanclub.comwp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-21535" srcset="https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421.jpg 800w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421-300x200.jpg 300w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421-770x513.jpg 770w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421-360x240.jpg 360w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421-370x247.jpg 370w, https://stfanclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/rsz_bl2g8421-293x195.jpg 293w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure> <p>The post <a href="https://stfanclub.com/icymi-instant-classic-at-the-swamp/">ICYMI: Instant Classic at The Swamp</a> appeared first on <a href="https://stfanclub.com">Sporting Times</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://stfanclub.com/icymi-instant-classic-at-the-swamp/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>