Here we go with another prep basketball season. Schools have started in Pennsylvania, Maryland is trying to get started and West Virginia gets it going next week.
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
Full Version: BOYS BASKETBALL 2008
QUOTE (Tim Koelble @ Dec 7 2007, 08:24 PM) 
Here we go with another prep basketball season. Schools have started in Pennsylvania, Maryland is trying to get started and West Virginia gets it going next week.
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
what about St. James?
QUOTE (bball @ Dec 21 2007, 03:38 PM)
QUOTE (Tim Koelble @ Dec 7 2007, 08:24 PM)
Here we go with another prep basketball season. Schools have started in Pennsylvania, Maryland is trying to get started and West Virginia gets it going next week.
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
what about St. James?
QUOTE (bball @ Dec 21 2007, 03:38 PM)
QUOTE (Tim Koelble @ Dec 7 2007, 08:24 PM)
Here we go with another prep basketball season. Schools have started in Pennsylvania, Maryland is trying to get started and West Virginia gets it going next week.
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
what about St. James?
QUOTE (bball @ Dec 21 2007, 03:38 PM)
QUOTE (Tim Koelble @ Dec 7 2007, 08:24 PM)
Here we go with another prep basketball season. Schools have started in Pennsylvania, Maryland is trying to get started and West Virginia gets it going next week.
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
So, the big question is who will the best teams be this year? Remember last year when Greencastle went all the way to the PIAA Class AAA championship game before losing a heartbreaker to General McLane? Well, the Blue Devils are ranked 8th in the Pa. preseason and are off to a 3-0 start with a tough game against Shippensburg tonight (Dec. 7).
They've got Jordan Gembe and Dameatric Scott back along with several other players that can get in your face defensively. James Buchanan lost alot, specifically Shane Rife, Brandon Bryan and Dion Lehman, so new coach Troy Hillwig and his crew will really have to do something special to match JB's 26 wins from last year. Waynesboro welcomes back Terrel Rickard and they also have some gritty players that could help make the Indians a contender behind G-A in the Mid-Penn Capital.
When it comes to the Mid-Penn Commonwealth, Chambersburg will fare better than its football counterparts. The're picked to finished third or fourth in the tough commonwealth, which could be a dogfight between Steel-High and Credar Cliff. Harrisburg will probably be there too, but lost some key players to graduation. Already, chambersburg has shown scoring explosiveness with games of 77 and 84. I saw their first game against St. John's Catholic Prep and was impressed with guard Darryl Peoples, who didn't even play last year. Then he hits for 26 against Carlisle to back up 30 by Armond Perez, who, in my view if he really sticks his nose to the blocks could be a dominant player. Only thing bad for the Trojans is missing point guard Aaron Hill, who simply decided not to play this season.
Hey, even in the Mason Dixon Christian Conference there are some good players. Take a look at Cumberland Valley Christian's Charles McBeth and Andrew Larson and Shalom Christian's Caleb Hussack.
Mercersburg Academy has a 5th-year player in Bret Burrier, who came in from Winters Mill and already has a 34-point game to his credit. McConnellsburg has an excellent guard in Russell Glazeer and Southern Fulton has some experience back under coach Kent Hendershot.
In Washington County, it's hard to tell if anyone can come to the top. North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown are now members of the Piedmont Conference in the MVAL. North had its first losing season in 25 years and has some players back, including Jamie Brunson, who transferred from South. The Rebels may be vastly improved also if everyone stays eligible and healthy. They've got some players with Tywan Lee, Alvin Roberson, Shane Santell and Steve Burnett from last year. Williamsport must replace Will Taylor, and the lead component could be senior Sean Dixon, with a supporting cast of Jeff Ryan, Greg Minnich and others. I like some of the individual talent at Smithsburg, namely Josh Conway. Plus, there's Terry Sword and Steve Whitt, the kind of meatgrinders in the middle that will give the big effort. And there is some athleticism in coach Eric Gerbers camp. At Boonsboro, Chris Selby decided to not return, so new coach Dave Scaggs, who opened tonight (Dec. 7) at St. Maria Goretti, will find out what he's got among Shane Zbir and others.
And how about Goretti? Kevin Breslin, a senior, is back and one of the top guards in the Tri-State area. and as in Pa., there are some good players in the MDCC -- Steve Barthalow at Heritage Academy and Armondo Miller and Devin Gourdine at Broadfording.
In West Virginia, the leading scorer in our coverage area -- Vance Hosby -- is back at Jefferson. Hosby averaged 22 points per game and will lead the Cougars and coach Bob Starkey, loaded with the return also of Dewey McDonald, Tyler Hester and Marquise Jones and some new heighth and depth coming up. Hedgesville and coach Kelly Church will have the tallest player in the area -- 6-10 transfer Calvin Crawford. But height doesn't always sooth all, so the Eagles should be very happy they've got veteran Denver Effland back to lead the way along with Jordan Reed, a junior and in his third year as the Eagles' point guard. Martinsburg, with veteran coach Dave Rogers, is always, always tough.
That's just a brief synopsis .... the girls later
what about St. James?
What about St. James you ask?
Well, the Saints have a fine player in Mike Russ. In fact, he leads the Tri-State area in scoring with about 27 a game. However, the Saints have had the inability to beat competition from within the Mid Atlantic Conference, which has some pretty talented teams. But, the loss that keeps them from being mentioned in the top echelon was their 66-62 loss to Hancock. That's not a slam on Hancock, but that's a game St. James should have won.
Dont look now but The Heritage Academy Boys have started off hot again this season at 7-0. I will not not begin to compare them to other top teams in the area but you must get out to watch them play this year! Steven Barthalow and big man Hamilton Stamper are seniors and looking great, and their supporting cast is not too shabby either. Before anyone cracks on them please go and watch them play! This is just a post to open some eyes! Basketball season is exciting round here. Oh, and Morgan McIntire dropped 38 points in a win over previously unbeaten MSD on Friday night.
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.