Inside the 13th Region 2-9-15

The Clay County Tigers remain the top team in the 13th Region for another week while teams such as South Laurel and Knox Central keep moving up in the rankings. Williamsburg ahs dropped three of its last four games, but remains in the top five – for now. So with that said, let’s take a look at the Top 10.

1. Clay County (20-5 overall, 11-0 vs. 13th Region competition)

The Tigers have dropped some games here and there, but still remain unbeaten against 13th Region teams. Clay County fell at home to Wayne County, 78-68, but responded with a come-from-behind 61-57 win over Cordia a couple of days later. I’ve said it numerous times, and I’ll say it again – until the Tigers lose to a 13th Region team, they remain the team to beat. Clay County will be tested Tuesday on the road against No. 3 Knox Central.

2. South Laurel (13-9, 6-6)

The Cardinals might be playing better than any other team in the region right now. They are winners of four straight, which includes a 59-50 win over Williamsburg this past week and a 71-59 victory over cross-town rival North Laurel on Saturday. The duo of Jared Grubb and Caleb Taylor were almost unstoppable during those two wins, as the two combined to score 58 points against North Laurel.

3. Knox Central (14-11, 8-2)

The Panthers have been flying under the radar the entire season, and now they are getting healthy, and that could spell trouble for everyone in the region. They picked up an impressive 73-61 win over Whitley County this past week, and knocked off Leslie County, 77-38 on Saturday. They have a big game against No. 1 ranked Clay County Tuesday.

4. Williamsburg (18-3, 14-1)

The Yellow Jackets are 1-3 during their last four games, and looked to have come back down to earth just a bit. Williamsburg also suffered its first region loss of the season after dropping a 59-50 decision on the road to South Laurel last week. The Yellow Jackets have a big game tonight against No. 5 Whitley County and could be playing for the 50th District’s top seed Thursday at home against South Laurel.

5. (tie) North Laurel (9-14, 4-6)

The Jaguars took one on the chin against South Laurel at home Saturday, losing 71-59. North Laurel was never really in the game even when it cut its deficit to four points in the fourth quarter. The Jaguars did receive solid play from Isaiah Collier, who led the team with 17 points. North Laurel will try to build some momentum this week with games against Lynn Camp and East Jessamine.

5. (tie) Whitley County (16-7, 9-4)

The Colonels are earning more and more respect from me. They snapped a three-game losing skid by knocking off Corbin this past week, 82-65. There were 56 total fouls called in the game with the Colonels knocking down 41-of-50 free throws attempts.

7. Corbin (13-9, 7-8)

Yes, the Redhounds are struggling, but I still believe in the end they’re going to make a run. Tony Pietrowski is one of the best coaches around, and he’ll make sure his team is ready come district tournament time. Corbin will enter the district tournament as the No. 4 seed for the first time since realignment, thanks to a 1-5 record in district play.

8. Barbourville (16-7, 10-5)

I’m thinking the Tigers are ranked a tad bit too low, to be honest. Wade Liford has established himself as one of the best players in the region, and Brently Perry is one of the best shooting guards around. I can see this Barbourville team making some noise once postseason play begins.

9. Harlan County (14-10, 5-6)

The Black Bears quietly sit in the No. 9 spot after picking up three straight wins.

10. Jackson County (14-11, 5-6)

This General team is hard to figure out. They’ve got the firepower to surprise some teams once postseason play begins.

Player of the Week

Caleb Taylor and Jared Grubb, South Laurel

This week’s honor goes to two players, as Grubb scored 30 points during the Cardinals’ 71-59 win over North Laurel. Taylor added 28 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks in the win.