It should be another exciting year, though the 9^th region will be looking a lot different with three teams who have dominated the past few years taking major steps backward. Cooper, the reigning 9^th region champion and regional finalist in 2023 and 2024, lost almost every one of their major contributors to graduation or transfer. Newport, coming off a regional semi-finals appearance in 2025 and regional champions in 2023 and 2024, returns only one player that contributed to those teams. Lloyd, who finished as regional runner-ups in 2025 and were regional semi-finalists in 2022 and 2023, brings back star Anthony Blackaar but loses everybody else that played meaningful minutes, including EJ Walker (now at the University of South Carolina). In addition, the region is also not as deep as it has been in years past, and I think we are looking at only a few teams as possible regional champions (with one heavy favorite). I’ve divided the top 12 teams into 5 tiers, where teams in the same tier are considered relatively even. I don’t expect much movement from teams in the Top 3 tiers, but lots of potential changes in the bottom half of the top 10.

Led by a strong returning core and impact transfer, Covington Catholic is the clear favorite and my only team in Tier 1. Next in Tier 2 (The Contenders) are Holy Cross and Highlands, who are both senior-led and return multiple impact players. Tier 3 (The Sleepers) includes Ryle and Conner – led by strong junior and senior classes, these two teams make up the last two teams in what I think are a clear top 5. Tier 4 (The Wild Cards) rounds out our top 10 and is made up of teams that lost star players - Dixie Heights (Griffen Derry), Lloyd [EJ Walker, Jayden Humphrey], Beechwood [Jack Sullivan, Carson Blackburn], Newport [James Turner, Griffin Starks] - or hall-of-fame coaches -St. Henry [Dave Faust]. Making up Tier 5 are teams just outside of the top 10 – reigning 9^th region champ Cooper, who lost hall-of-fame coach Tim Sullivan and their top 5 players, and Newport Central Catholic, who lost their top 2 scorers from last year’s 12-17 team.

While I would be surprised if anybody outside of the Top 2 tiers wins the region, Tier 3 teams Ryle and Conner have the potential to beat anyone on any given night. It will be fun to watch the movement among the Tier 4 teams, as they all will be relying on contributions from new players and have the potential to much better (or worse) than expected. There are several unknowns for teams outside the top 10 - What will a post-Tim Sullivan Cooper squad look like? How will coach Sam Elsbernd build off an improved 2024-25 Holmes team? Can Boone County rebound from a tough 7-23 season? Will Bellevue surprise some people this year as they bring everybody back? Also, I wouldn’t read too much into results before Christmas – many teams have key contributors who play football and will be working their way into basketball shape (particularly Cov Cath, Highlands, Beechwood). This preview is based on what I saw last season, the new or returning players (and coaches), and games that I was able to watch this summer. Next week I plan on posting a preview of the top players in the region and a prediction for 9^th Region Player of the Year. Feel free to agree or disagree with my assessments and predictions. Any insight into your teams that I may have missed are welcomed and appreciated!

 

Tier 1 – The Favorite (Covington Catholic)

(1) Covington Catholic [24W – 9L, lost regional semi-finals to Cooper]

Key Fact(s): The Colonels shot only 30.2% from 3 in 2024-25; JV team won the regional tournament

Cov Cath stands alone as the clear top team in the 9^th region this year. They return almost every player from their 24-9 team last season that only lost 2 games (both to Cooper) within the region, and added junior Braydin Myrick (6’3 guard, 19.1 ppg, 45.7% 3FG) from Mason County. Cov Cath has maybe the best backcourt trio in the state of Kentucky in Myrick, senior Athens McGillis (20.6 ppg, recently committed to Division II national champion Nova Southeastern), and senior Cash Harney (15.8 ppg).  Other key players returning are 6’6 senior forward Donovan Bradshaw (12.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 60% FG) and guard Teegan Stava (4.2 ppg). Cov Cath will be looking for several players from their 2024-2025 JV Championship squad to step up and contribute, including sophomores Dylan Courtney (forward) and Cash Myers (guard/forward), and juniors Grayson Justice (guard), Blake Hussey (guard), and John Brecount (6’8 center). The Colonels biggest weaknesses in 2024-25 were 3-pt shooting (enter Braydon Myrick) and lack of size inside (enter Dylan Courtney, John Brecount).

Prediction: Relying on their typical stellar defense and improved 3-pt shooting, Cov Cath does not lose a game within the region and wins the 9^th region tournament, with the potential to make a nice run in the Sweet Sixteen in Lexington.

 

Tier 2 – The Contenders (Holy Cross, Highlands)

(2) Holy Cross [17W – 12L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Newport]

Key Fact(s): The Indians return 4 starters (all seniors) from 2024-2025 team

Similar to Cov Cath, Holy Cross returns the majority of their core players from last season, including senior forward Brady Gabbard (12.7 ppg), senior point guard Luke Arlinghaus (12.9 ppg, 41.3% 3FG), and senior center Nate Rominger (12.6 ppg, 8.2 rpg). Senior guard Aiden Urlage (4.3 ppg, 42.3% 3FG) also returns and should help replace the loss of graduated 3pt specialist Gavin Goetz (6.2 ppg, 38.1% 3FG). They will be looking to junior Max Hunt (6’6) and senior Essex Adams (6’2) to replace graduated William McElheney’s inside production (12.2 ppg, 9.2 rpg). Coach Johnson will also rely on Newport transfer Irvan Nichols (4.4 ppg) and sophomore guards Brian Ferguson and Amir Henderson to play important roles off the bench. Biggest question marks heading into the season are how they handle the loss of the leadership and production of McElheny (they struggled when he went down with an injury last season) and the pressure of being one of the favorites.

Prediction: Relying on their core group of seniors and some newcomers (keep an eye on sophomore Amir Henderson), Holy Cross wins the All “A” 9^th region and makes a run at the All “A” state tournament. However, they fall just short of their first regional title since 1994, losing to Covington Catholic in the regional final.

 

(3) Highlands [18W – 13L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Cooper]

Key Fact(s): The Bluebirds had no seniors on 2024-25 team; Freshman team won regional tournament

While Cov Cath and Holy Cross return most of their key players, Highlands did not have any seniors on their 2024-25 roster and will return everyone (well, maybe) - rumors from Fort Thomas are that junior Tayden Lorenzen will choose to focus on football and not play basketball this season. While Lorenzen (11.6 ppg, 6.3 rpg) not playing would be a huge loss for the Bluebirds, they still return 4 players who averaged at least 9 ppg last season, including senior guards Finn Bouldin (13.2 ppg, 34.3% 3FG) and Vinny Listerman (10.3 ppg, 37% 3FG), and senior forwards Nathan Rickard (12.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg) and Owen Ebert (6’2, 9.3 ppg, 32% 3FG). Other key players returning include senior guard Charlie Messmer (6.5 ppg, 40.2% 3FG) and junior Cale Harris (5.3 ppg), with others competing for important minutes, including sophomores (coming off their freshman regional championship) Dom Listerman and Bo Schlarman and several juniors. Another potential contributor is 8^th grader Amil Wimzie, who transferred from Holy Cross (where he played freshman and JV as a 7^th grader) and is considered one of the best 8^th graders in Kentucky. The Bluebirds will be deep, but if Lorenzen does not play they will be tested in the frontcourt.

Prediction: Led by their strong senior class and Lorenzon, who makes a last-minute decision to play basketball this season, coach Listerman and the Bluebirds cruise into the regional semifinals.

 

Tier 3 – The Sleepers (Ryle, Conner)

(4) Ryle  [16W – 13L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Lloyd]

Key Fact(s): The Raiders lost 50% of their scoring from 2024-2025 team; JV team regional runner-up

To have any chance of making a run in the 9^th region tournament, Ryle will have to find a way to replace the production of graduated seniors Landon Lorms (22.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg) and Jonathan DeGroff (11.4 ppg, 9.4 rpg). Fortunately, they bring back several key players including senior point guard Anthony Coppola (10.5 ppg), senior forward AJ Davis (9.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg), and junior guard Holden Smith (8.3 ppg). Ryle will also be looking to several players from their regional runner-up JV team (who I believe lost only 1 game all of last season) to step up – including seniors Jerry Draine III and Cameron Haygood. Coach Dorning has a very deep squad and the Raiders looked very good in the summer. Their success this season may depend on the development of their inexperienced players filling out their rotation.

Prediction: Ryle will be the best team not named Cov Cath, Highlands, or Holy Cross in the region. But like the last two years, Ryle will fall just short of pulling off an upset in the first round of the regional tournament.

 

(5) Conner [18W – 10L, lost in District to Ryle]

Key Fact(s): The Cougars shot >40% from 3 in 2024-25

Just like their Tier 3 rival Ryle, Conner will need to replace major contributors in graduated seniors Landon Warner (15.1 ppg, 58.5% FG) and Chase Huff (14.5 ppg, 43.5% 3FG). Conner will rely heavily on senior guards Finn Louden (17.0 ppg, 42.9% 3FG) and Brady Bushman (7.7 ppg, 44.6% 3FG) and junior forward Tyler Warner (5.0 ppg) to fill the void. Other key contributors will be seniors Holten Raider and Logan Back, while junior sharpshooter Gabe Smith and junior point guard Nolan Nipper will play important roles. Coach Browning’s teams are fun to watch and I expect Louden to be in the conversation for 9^th region player of the year. Size could be a weakness for Conner as junior big man Brent Haynes may miss a good portion of the season with an ACL injury.

Prediction: The Cougars beat Ryle in the 33^rd District final and make a run to the regional semifinals where they fall to one of the top 3.

 

Tier 4 – The Wild Cards (Dixie Heights, Lloyd, Beechwood, Newport, St. Henry)

(6) Dixie Heights [21W-10L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Cov Cath]

Key Fact(s): The Colonels shot >42% from 3 in 2024-25

Dixie is the first of the Tier 4 teams that are difficult to place. They lose Griffen Derry (16.3 ppg, 48.3% 3FG) and Owen Neihues (8.9 ppg, 41.2% 3FG) to graduation, but return a strong core with junior Hunter Seng (6’5, 11.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 56.4% FG) and seniors Max Rubemeyer (6’4, 9.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 59.1% FG) and Tyson Metzger (7.6 ppg, 41.3% 3FG). Dixie won 21 games last season and beat some quality opponents - including Highlands, Holy Cross, and Simon Kenton - but struggled in other games losing to Newport Central Catholic and getting blown out in the regional tournament by Covington Catholic. If the Red Colonels can take advantage of their size (Hunter Seng, Max Rubemeyer) and continue to shoot 3-pointers at a high percentage, they could surprise some people and move up in the rankings.

Prediction: Dixie wins the 34^th District but is unable to advance past the first round of the regional tournament.

 

(7) Lloyd [26W – 7L, lost to Cooper in 9^th region championship]

Key Fact(s): The Juggernauts lost 2/3 of their scoring from last year

Outside of star guard Anthony Blaackar (6’1, 15.3 ppg, 59.2% FG), Lloyd brings back little experience on their roster. The only other returning contributors are Isiah Golsby (3.5 ppg) and Billy Lewis (2.3 ppg). Gone are reigning 9^th region co-player of the year EJ Walker (18.8 ppg, who is now at the University of South Carolina), Jayden Humphrey (10.3 ppg), Isiah Sebastion (7.7 ppg) and Carter Bresser (5.2 ppg). While I expect Blaackar to have a monster year and be in the conversation for player of the year in the 9^th region, Coach Walker will rely on several young players and could struggle to get out of the 34th District this season (with an improved St. Henry).

Prediction: Lloyd makes it back to the regional tournament but is unable to make it out of the first round, despite the efforts of star Anthony Blaackar.

 

(8) Beechwood [16W – 12L, lost in District to Holy Cross]

Key Fact(s): The Tigers lost 2/3 of their scoring from 2024-2025; Freshman team regional runner-up

Beechwood will be looking to replace the loss of graduated seniors Jack Sullivan (16.6 ppg), Carson Blackburn (14.9 ppg), and Aiden Way (9.5 ppg) – all of whom shot better than 41.5% from 3-point range. Returning starters senior Owen McCormack (8.3 ppg, 44.9% 3FG) and junior Kingston Brockett (6.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg) will be relied on to replace some of this lost production. Other expected contributors include sophomore guards Dylan Topmiller and Carter Moore, juniors Cole Coppage and Ryan Smith, and senior Quentin Knasel. Coach Hart will have his work cut out for him this season as the success of the Tigers will likely depend on the development of a large group of talented sophomores (9^th region freshman runner-up) and juniors with limited varsity experience.

Prediction: Beechwood is in the unfortunate position of likely having to beat Holy Cross to win the 9^th region All “A” or advance to the 9^th region tournament. The Tigers will look to 2026-2027 to accomplish these goals.

 

(9) Newport [19W – 11L, lost to Lloyd in regional semi-finals]

Key Fact(s): The Wildcats lost 6 of top 7 players to transfer or graduation

Coach Snapp has his work cut off for him to get Newport back to regional prominence. In addition to losing three very good players to graduation (Yamil Rondon, DeShawn Anderson, and AJ Lowe), the Wildcats lost two future Division I players (Griffin Starks and James Turner) to prep schools and Irvan Nichols (4.4 ppg) to Holy Cross. The Wildcats did add a transfer from across the river in junior Davae Andrews-Glover (11.8 ppg). Beyond junior guard Amontae Lowe (5’11, 8.4 ppg), Newport will be relying on a group of young players with little varsity experience.

Prediction: Though Newport will be better than expected and competitive on most nights, they will fall short in the 36^th District final to Highlands and lose in the first round of the 9^th region tournament.

 

(10) St. Henry [7W – 19L, lost in District to Dixie]

Key Fact(s): Hall-of-Fame coach Tim Sullivan replaces Hall-of-Fame coach Dave Faust

St. Henry was another hard team to place. Gone is long-time coach Dave Faust, replaced by Cooper’s long-time coach Tim Sullivan. Sullivan will have his work cut off for him as the Crusaders struggled to a 7-19 record in 2024-25 and lost their top two scorers to graduation. There are some reasons for optimism – back are senior Caden Kunstek (6’3, 8.5 ppg, who missed 15 games due to injury), sophomore Tyler Detzel (6’3, 6.8 ppg), and junior Ryne Ravenscraft (5’11, 5.1 ppg) – along with a few transfers including junior Parker Lutz (6’1, from Cooper).

Prediction: The Crusaders will be greatly improved from last season and surprise some people, but will ultimately fall short of the regional tournament.

 

Tier 5 – Not Quite the Top 10 (Cooper, Newport Central Catholic)

(11) Cooper [24W – 6L, won 9^th Region, lost to state champion Great Crossing in state quarterfinals]

Key Fact(s): The Jaguars return only 1 player who played regular minutes in 2024-2025

It was difficult to place the reigning 9^th region champions outside of the top 10, but I couldn’t find a reason to rank them any higher. The only returning player that played regular minutes is junior Julienne Knuckles (2.5 ppg). Also gone is long-time coach Tim Sullivan. The Jaguars will now be led by long-time girls coach Justin Holthaus, who guided the program to four straight regional titles.

Prediction: Holthaus has a reputation of being a very good coach, so the Jaguars will be competitive on most nights. However, I don’t expect them to make it past Ryle or Conner in the 33^rd District.

 

(12) Newport Central Catholic [12W – 17L, lost in District to Highlands]

Key Fact(s): The Breds lost >50% of scoring from 2024-2025

It may be another long season for Newport Central Catholic as they will be looking to replace graduated seniors Ian Mann (17.4 ppg), who is playing collegiate baseball at Thomas More, and Louie Collopy (13.0 ppg), who is playing collegiate basketball at Wittenburg. Top returning players from last year’s 12-17 team include Jack Gearding (8.4 ppg) and John Luhn (8.1 ppg).

Prediction: While I expect the Thoroughbreds to struggle, coach Luhn’s teams always play hard and they will find a way to surprise and win a few games against teams ranked higher than them during the season, though still fall short of the 9^th region tournament.

 

Everyone else – (Holmes, Ludlow, Boone County, Bellevue, Dayton, Villa Madonna, Heritage)

(13) Holmes was much improved in 2024-25 and finished 15-14. The Bulldogs are led by senior Mark McCutchen Jr (16.7 ppg, 9.1 rpg), but will need to replace a lot of production with the graduations of Joseph Meyer (12.3 ppg), Dominic Scott (10.4 ppg), and Tony Kutcher (7.9 ppg).

(14) Boone County struggled to a 7-23 record under new coach Todd Humphrey, who looks to have his work cut off for him again this season. Gone are the top three leadings scorers, including guard Nolan Searp (14.1 ppg), while sophomore Joel Montanya Brown (6.0 ppg) returns.

(15) Bellevue has reasons to be optimistic about improving on their 10-20 record last season – all of their top players return, including seniors Arion Stuckey (11.3 ppg), Adam Kues (9.9 ppg), and Tristan Woodyard (8.9), along with sophomore Jordan Watson (8.9 ppg).

(16) Heritage finished 19-9 last season, though loses leading scorer Cade Holtman (15.6 ppg) to graduation. Key returning players include seniors Landon Reinhart (14.8 ppg) and Trent Stone (11.4 ppg).

(17) Ludlow and new coach Dan Sullivan will look to replace leading scorers Spencer Brandenburg (17.4 ppg) and Joseph Scott (12.8 ppg) from last year’s 16-15 team. Sophomore Logan Day (10.2 ppg) is the top returning scorer.

(18) Villa Madonna struggled to a 5-25 record last season, though the Vikings return leading scorer Michael Popham (10.1 ppg).  

(19) Dayton finished 6-25 last season and lost their top 5 scorers to graduation. Sophomore Malachi Kennedy (4.6 ppg) is the top returning scorer.

I look for Holmes to take a big step forward in year 2 under Sam Elsbernd. I think the biggest story of the year will be Cooper and Newport both dropping off big time.

2 hours ago, Knight Owl said:

It should be another exciting year, though the 9^th region will be looking a lot different with three teams who have dominated the past few years taking major steps backward. Cooper, the reigning 9^th region champion and regional finalist in 2023 and 2024, lost almost every one of their major contributors to graduation or transfer. Newport, coming off a regional semi-finals appearance in 2025 and regional champions in 2023 and 2024, returns only one player that contributed to those teams. Lloyd, who finished as regional runner-ups in 2025 and were regional semi-finalists in 2022 and 2023, brings back star Anthony Blackaar but loses everybody else that played meaningful minutes, including EJ Walker (now at the University of South Carolina). In addition, the region is also not as deep as it has been in years past, and I think we are looking at only a few teams as possible regional champions (with one heavy favorite). I’ve divided the top 12 teams into 5 tiers, where teams in the same tier are considered relatively even. I don’t expect much movement from teams in the Top 3 tiers, but lots of potential changes in the bottom half of the top 10.

 

Led by a strong returning core and impact transfer, Covington Catholic is the clear favorite and my only team in Tier 1. Next in Tier 2 (The Contenders) are Holy Cross and Highlands, who are both senior-led and return multiple impact players. Tier 3 (The Sleepers) includes Ryle and Conner – led by strong junior and senior classes, these two teams make up the last two teams in what I think are a clear top 5. Tier 4 (The Wild Cards) rounds out our top 10 and is made up of teams that lost star players - Dixie Heights (Griffen Derry), Lloyd [EJ Walker, Jayden Humphrey], Beechwood [Jack Sullivan, Carson Blackburn], Newport [James Turner, Griffin Starks] - or hall-of-fame coaches -St. Henry [Dave Faust]. Making up Tier 5 are teams just outside of the top 10 – reigning 9^th region champ Cooper, who lost hall-of-fame coach Tim Sullivan and their top 5 players, and Newport Central Catholic, who lost their top 2 scorers from last year’s 12-17 team.

 

While I would be surprised if anybody outside of the Top 2 tiers wins the region, Tier 3 teams Ryle and Conner have the potential to beat anyone on any given night. It will be fun to watch the movement among the Tier 4 teams, as they all will be relying on contributions from new players and have the potential to much better (or worse) than expected. There are several unknowns for teams outside the top 10 - What will a post-Tim Sullivan Cooper squad look like? How will coach Sam Elsbernd build off an improved 2024-25 Holmes team? Can Boone County rebound from a tough 7-23 season? Will Bellevue surprise some people this year as they bring everybody back? Also, I wouldn’t read too much into results before Christmas – many teams have key contributors who play football and will be working their way into basketball shape (particularly Cov Cath, Highlands, Beechwood). This preview is based on what I saw last season, the new or returning players (and coaches), and games that I was able to watch this summer. Next week I plan on posting a preview of the top players in the region and a prediction for 9^th Region Player of the Year. Feel free to agree or disagree with my assessments and predictions. Any insight into your teams that I may have missed are welcomed and appreciated!

 

 

 

Tier 1 – The Favorite (Covington Catholic)

 

(1) Covington Catholic [24W – 9L, lost regional semi-finals to Cooper]

 

Key Fact(s): The Colonels shot only 30.2% from 3 in 2024-25; JV team won the regional tournament

 

Cov Cath stands alone as the clear top team in the 9^th region this year. They return almost every player from their 24-9 team last season that only lost 2 games (both to Cooper) within the region, and added junior Braydin Myrick (6’3 guard, 19.1 ppg, 45.7% 3FG) from Mason County. Cov Cath has maybe the best backcourt trio in the state of Kentucky in Myrick, senior Athens McGillis (20.6 ppg, recently committed to Division II national champion Nova Southeastern), and senior Cash Harney (15.8 ppg).  Other key players returning are 6’6 senior forward Donovan Bradshaw (12.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 60% FG) and guard Teegan Stava (4.2 ppg). Cov Cath will be looking for several players from their 2024-2025 JV Championship squad to step up and contribute, including sophomores Dylan Courtney (forward) and Cash Myers (guard/forward), and juniors Grayson Justice (guard), Blake Hussey (guard), and John Brecount (6’8 center). The Colonels biggest weaknesses in 2024-25 were 3-pt shooting (enter Braydon Myrick) and lack of size inside (enter Dylan Courtney, John Brecount).

 

Prediction: Relying on their typical stellar defense and improved 3-pt shooting, Cov Cath does not lose a game within the region and wins the 9^th region tournament, with the potential to make a nice run in the Sweet Sixteen in Lexington.

 

 

 

Tier 2 – The Contenders (Holy Cross, Highlands)

 

(2) Holy Cross [17W – 12L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Newport]

 

Key Fact(s): The Indians return 4 starters (all seniors) from 2024-2025 team

 

Similar to Cov Cath, Holy Cross returns the majority of their core players from last season, including senior forward Brady Gabbard (12.7 ppg), senior point guard Luke Arlinghaus (12.9 ppg, 41.3% 3FG), and senior center Nate Rominger (12.6 ppg, 8.2 rpg). Senior guard Aiden Urlage (4.3 ppg, 42.3% 3FG) also returns and should help replace the loss of graduated 3pt specialist Gavin Goetz (6.2 ppg, 38.1% 3FG). They will be looking to junior Max Hunt (6’6) and senior Essex Adams (6’2) to replace graduated William McElheney’s inside production (12.2 ppg, 9.2 rpg). Coach Johnson will also rely on Newport transfer Irvan Nichols (4.4 ppg) and sophomore guards Brian Ferguson and Amir Henderson to play important roles off the bench. Biggest question marks heading into the season are how they handle the loss of the leadership and production of McElheny (they struggled when he went down with an injury last season) and the pressure of being one of the favorites.

 

Prediction: Relying on their core group of seniors and some newcomers (keep an eye on sophomore Amir Henderson), Holy Cross wins the All “A” 9^th region and makes a run at the All “A” state tournament. However, they fall just short of their first regional title since 1994, losing to Covington Catholic in the regional final.

 

 

 

(3) Highlands [18W – 13L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Cooper]

 

Key Fact(s): The Bluebirds had no seniors on 2024-25 team; Freshman team won regional tournament

 

While Cov Cath and Holy Cross return most of their key players, Highlands did not have any seniors on their 2024-25 roster and will return everyone (well, maybe) - rumors from Fort Thomas are that junior Tayden Lorenzen will choose to focus on football and not play basketball this season. While Lorenzen (11.6 ppg, 6.3 rpg) not playing would be a huge loss for the Bluebirds, they still return 4 players who averaged at least 9 ppg last season, including senior guards Finn Bouldin (13.2 ppg, 34.3% 3FG) and Vinny Listerman (10.3 ppg, 37% 3FG), and senior forwards Nathan Rickard (12.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg) and Owen Ebert (6’2, 9.3 ppg, 32% 3FG). Other key players returning include senior guard Charlie Messmer (6.5 ppg, 40.2% 3FG) and junior Cale Harris (5.3 ppg), with others competing for important minutes, including sophomores (coming off their freshman regional championship) Dom Listerman and Bo Schlarman and several juniors. Another potential contributor is 8^th grader Amil Wimzie, who transferred from Holy Cross (where he played freshman and JV as a 7^th grader) and is considered one of the best 8^th graders in Kentucky. The Bluebirds will be deep, but if Lorenzen does not play they will be tested in the frontcourt.

 

Prediction: Led by their strong senior class and Lorenzon, who makes a last-minute decision to play basketball this season, coach Listerman and the Bluebirds cruise into the regional semifinals.

 

 

 

Tier 3 – The Sleepers (Ryle, Conner)

 

(4) Ryle  [16W – 13L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Lloyd]

 

Key Fact(s): The Raiders lost 50% of their scoring from 2024-2025 team; JV team regional runner-up

 

To have any chance of making a run in the 9^th region tournament, Ryle will have to find a way to replace the production of graduated seniors Landon Lorms (22.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg) and Jonathan DeGroff (11.4 ppg, 9.4 rpg). Fortunately, they bring back several key players including senior point guard Anthony Coppola (10.5 ppg), senior forward AJ Davis (9.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg), and junior guard Holden Smith (8.3 ppg). Ryle will also be looking to several players from their regional runner-up JV team (who I believe lost only 1 game all of last season) to step up – including seniors Jerry Draine III and Cameron Haygood. Coach Dorning has a very deep squad and the Raiders looked very good in the summer. Their success this season may depend on the development of their inexperienced players filling out their rotation.

 

Prediction: Ryle will be the best team not named Cov Cath, Highlands, or Holy Cross in the region. But like the last two years, Ryle will fall just short of pulling off an upset in the first round of the regional tournament.

 

 

 

(5) Conner [18W – 10L, lost in District to Ryle]

 

Key Fact(s): The Cougars shot >40% from 3 in 2024-25

 

Just like their Tier 3 rival Ryle, Conner will need to replace major contributors in graduated seniors Landon Warner (15.1 ppg, 58.5% FG) and Chase Huff (14.5 ppg, 43.5% 3FG). Conner will rely heavily on senior guards Finn Louden (17.0 ppg, 42.9% 3FG) and Brady Bushman (7.7 ppg, 44.6% 3FG) and junior forward Tyler Warner (5.0 ppg) to fill the void. Other key contributors will be seniors Holten Raider and Logan Back, while junior sharpshooter Gabe Smith and junior point guard Nolan Nipper will play important roles. Coach Browning’s teams are fun to watch and I expect Louden to be in the conversation for 9^th region player of the year. Size could be a weakness for Conner as junior big man Brent Haynes may miss a good portion of the season with an ACL injury.

 

Prediction: The Cougars beat Ryle in the 33^rd District final and make a run to the regional semifinals where they fall to one of the top 3.

 

 

 

Tier 4 – The Wild Cards (Dixie Heights, Lloyd, Beechwood, Newport, St. Henry)

 

(6) Dixie Heights [21W-10L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Cov Cath]

 

Key Fact(s): The Colonels shot >42% from 3 in 2024-25

 

Dixie is the first of the Tier 4 teams that are difficult to place. They lose Griffen Derry (16.3 ppg, 48.3% 3FG) and Owen Neihues (8.9 ppg, 41.2% 3FG) to graduation, but return a strong core with junior Hunter Seng (6’5, 11.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 56.4% FG) and seniors Max Rubemeyer (6’4, 9.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 59.1% FG) and Tyson Metzger (7.6 ppg, 41.3% 3FG). Dixie won 21 games last season and beat some quality opponents - including Highlands, Holy Cross, and Simon Kenton - but struggled in other games losing to Newport Central Catholic and getting blown out in the regional tournament by Covington Catholic. If the Red Colonels can take advantage of their size (Hunter Seng, Max Rubemeyer) and continue to shoot 3-pointers at a high percentage, they could surprise some people and move up in the rankings.

 

Prediction: Dixie wins the 34^th District but is unable to advance past the first round of the regional tournament.

 

 

 

(7) Lloyd [26W – 7L, lost to Cooper in 9^th region championship]

 

Key Fact(s): The Juggernauts lost 2/3 of their scoring from last year

 

Outside of star guard Anthony Blaackar (6’1, 15.3 ppg, 59.2% FG), Lloyd brings back little experience on their roster. The only other returning contributors are Isiah Golsby (3.5 ppg) and Billy Lewis (2.3 ppg). Gone are reigning 9^th region co-player of the year EJ Walker (18.8 ppg, who is now at the University of South Carolina), Jayden Humphrey (10.3 ppg), Isiah Sebastion (7.7 ppg) and Carter Bresser (5.2 ppg). While I expect Blaackar to have a monster year and be in the conversation for player of the year in the 9^th region, Coach Walker will rely on several young players and could struggle to get out of the 34th District this season (with an improved St. Henry).

 

Prediction: Lloyd makes it back to the regional tournament but is unable to make it out of the first round, despite the efforts of star Anthony Blaackar.

 

 

 

(8) Beechwood [16W – 12L, lost in District to Holy Cross]

 

Key Fact(s): The Tigers lost 2/3 of their scoring from 2024-2025; Freshman team regional runner-up

 

Beechwood will be looking to replace the loss of graduated seniors Jack Sullivan (16.6 ppg), Carson Blackburn (14.9 ppg), and Aiden Way (9.5 ppg) – all of whom shot better than 41.5% from 3-point range. Returning starters senior Owen McCormack (8.3 ppg, 44.9% 3FG) and junior Kingston Brockett (6.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg) will be relied on to replace some of this lost production. Other expected contributors include sophomore guards Dylan Topmiller and Carter Moore, juniors Cole Coppage and Ryan Smith, and senior Quentin Knasel. Coach Hart will have his work cut out for him this season as the success of the Tigers will likely depend on the development of a large group of talented sophomores (9^th region freshman runner-up) and juniors with limited varsity experience.

 

Prediction: Beechwood is in the unfortunate position of likely having to beat Holy Cross to win the 9^th region All “A” or advance to the 9^th region tournament. The Tigers will look to 2026-2027 to accomplish these goals.

 

 

 

(9) Newport [19W – 11L, lost to Lloyd in regional semi-finals]

 

Key Fact(s): The Wildcats lost 6 of top 7 players to transfer or graduation

 

Coach Snapp has his work cut off for him to get Newport back to regional prominence. In addition to losing three very good players to graduation (Yamil Rondon, DeShawn Anderson, and AJ Lowe), the Wildcats lost two future Division I players (Griffin Starks and James Turner) to prep schools and Irvan Nichols (4.4 ppg) to Holy Cross. The Wildcats did add a transfer from across the river in junior Davae Andrews-Glover (11.8 ppg). Beyond junior guard Amontae Lowe (5’11, 8.4 ppg), Newport will be relying on a group of young players with little varsity experience.

 

Prediction: Though Newport will be better than expected and competitive on most nights, they will fall short in the 36^th District final to Highlands and lose in the first round of the 9^th region tournament.

 

 

 

(10) St. Henry [7W – 19L, lost in District to Dixie]

 

Key Fact(s): Hall-of-Fame coach Tim Sullivan replaces Hall-of-Fame coach Dave Faust

 

St. Henry was another hard team to place. Gone is long-time coach Dave Faust, replaced by Cooper’s long-time coach Tim Sullivan. Sullivan will have his work cut off for him as the Crusaders struggled to a 7-19 record in 2024-25 and lost their top two scorers to graduation. There are some reasons for optimism – back are senior Caden Kunstek (6’3, 8.5 ppg, who missed 15 games due to injury), sophomore Tyler Detzel (6’3, 6.8 ppg), and junior Ryne Ravenscraft (5’11, 5.1 ppg) – along with a few transfers including junior Parker Lutz (6’1, from Cooper).

 

Prediction: The Crusaders will be greatly improved from last season and surprise some people, but will ultimately fall short of the regional tournament.

 

 

 

Tier 5 – Not Quite the Top 10 (Cooper, Newport Central Catholic)

 

(11) Cooper [24W – 6L, won 9^th Region, lost to state champion Great Crossing in state quarterfinals]

 

Key Fact(s): The Jaguars return only 1 player who played regular minutes in 2024-2025

 

It was difficult to place the reigning 9^th region champions outside of the top 10, but I couldn’t find a reason to rank them any higher. The only returning player that played regular minutes is junior Julienne Knuckles (2.5 ppg). Also gone is long-time coach Tim Sullivan. The Jaguars will now be led by long-time girls coach Justin Holthaus, who guided the program to four straight regional titles.

 

Prediction: Holthaus has a reputation of being a very good coach, so the Jaguars will be competitive on most nights. However, I don’t expect them to make it past Ryle or Conner in the 33^rd District.

 

 

 

(12) Newport Central Catholic [12W – 17L, lost in District to Highlands]

 

Key Fact(s): The Breds lost >50% of scoring from 2024-2025

 

It may be another long season for Newport Central Catholic as they will be looking to replace graduated seniors Ian Mann (17.4 ppg), who is playing collegiate baseball at Thomas More, and Louie Collopy (13.0 ppg), who is playing collegiate basketball at Wittenburg. Top returning players from last year’s 12-17 team include Jack Gearding (8.4 ppg) and John Luhn (8.1 ppg).

 

Prediction: While I expect the Thoroughbreds to struggle, coach Luhn’s teams always play hard and they will find a way to surprise and win a few games against teams ranked higher than them during the season, though still fall short of the 9^th region tournament.

 

 

 

Everyone else – (Holmes, Ludlow, Boone County, Bellevue, Dayton, Villa Madonna, Heritage)

 

(13) Holmes was much improved in 2024-25 and finished 15-14. The Bulldogs are led by senior Mark McCutchen Jr (16.7 ppg, 9.1 rpg), but will need to replace a lot of production with the graduations of Joseph Meyer (12.3 ppg), Dominic Scott (10.4 ppg), and Tony Kutcher (7.9 ppg).

 

(14) Boone County struggled to a 7-23 record under new coach Todd Humphrey, who looks to have his work cut off for him again this season. Gone are the top three leadings scorers, including guard Nolan Searp (14.1 ppg), while sophomore Joel Montanya Brown (6.0 ppg) returns.

 

(15) Bellevue has reasons to be optimistic about improving on their 10-20 record last season – all of their top players return, including seniors Arion Stuckey (11.3 ppg), Adam Kues (9.9 ppg), and Tristan Woodyard (8.9), along with sophomore Jordan Watson (8.9 ppg).

 

(16) Heritage finished 19-9 last season, though loses leading scorer Cade Holtman (15.6 ppg) to graduation. Key returning players include seniors Landon Reinhart (14.8 ppg) and Trent Stone (11.4 ppg).

 

(17) Ludlow and new coach Dan Sullivan will look to replace leading scorers Spencer Brandenburg (17.4 ppg) and Joseph Scott (12.8 ppg) from last year’s 16-15 team. Sophomore Logan Day (10.2 ppg) is the top returning scorer.

 

(18) Villa Madonna struggled to a 5-25 record last season, though the Vikings return leading scorer Michael Popham (10.1 ppg).  

 

(19) Dayton finished 6-25 last season and lost their top 5 scorers to graduation. Sophomore Malachi Kennedy (4.6 ppg) is the top returning scorer.

 

Phew! Very well done. 

Just my opinion.

Top 8, nailed it.

Top 5, on course but not how I see it.

6-8, 2 of those teams should be final 4 9th region tournament teams but that all just depends on the draw as many years do.

Going to be alot of competitive basketball in NKY this winter but could be considered a down year due to all the talent that graduated. Leaves alot of room for names to be made. 

 

11 hours ago, Knight Owl said:

It should be another exciting year, though the 9^th region will be looking a lot different with three teams who have dominated the past few years taking major steps backward. Cooper, the reigning 9^th region champion and regional finalist in 2023 and 2024, lost almost every one of their major contributors to graduation or transfer. Newport, coming off a regional semi-finals appearance in 2025 and regional champions in 2023 and 2024, returns only one player that contributed to those teams. Lloyd, who finished as regional runner-ups in 2025 and were regional semi-finalists in 2022 and 2023, brings back star Anthony Blackaar but loses everybody else that played meaningful minutes, including EJ Walker (now at the University of South Carolina). In addition, the region is also not as deep as it has been in years past, and I think we are looking at only a few teams as possible regional champions (with one heavy favorite). I’ve divided the top 12 teams into 5 tiers, where teams in the same tier are considered relatively even. I don’t expect much movement from teams in the Top 3 tiers, but lots of potential changes in the bottom half of the top 10.

 

Led by a strong returning core and impact transfer, Covington Catholic is the clear favorite and my only team in Tier 1. Next in Tier 2 (The Contenders) are Holy Cross and Highlands, who are both senior-led and return multiple impact players. Tier 3 (The Sleepers) includes Ryle and Conner – led by strong junior and senior classes, these two teams make up the last two teams in what I think are a clear top 5. Tier 4 (The Wild Cards) rounds out our top 10 and is made up of teams that lost star players - Dixie Heights (Griffen Derry), Lloyd [EJ Walker, Jayden Humphrey], Beechwood [Jack Sullivan, Carson Blackburn], Newport [James Turner, Griffin Starks] - or hall-of-fame coaches -St. Henry [Dave Faust]. Making up Tier 5 are teams just outside of the top 10 – reigning 9^th region champ Cooper, who lost hall-of-fame coach Tim Sullivan and their top 5 players, and Newport Central Catholic, who lost their top 2 scorers from last year’s 12-17 team.

 

While I would be surprised if anybody outside of the Top 2 tiers wins the region, Tier 3 teams Ryle and Conner have the potential to beat anyone on any given night. It will be fun to watch the movement among the Tier 4 teams, as they all will be relying on contributions from new players and have the potential to much better (or worse) than expected. There are several unknowns for teams outside the top 10 - What will a post-Tim Sullivan Cooper squad look like? How will coach Sam Elsbernd build off an improved 2024-25 Holmes team? Can Boone County rebound from a tough 7-23 season? Will Bellevue surprise some people this year as they bring everybody back? Also, I wouldn’t read too much into results before Christmas – many teams have key contributors who play football and will be working their way into basketball shape (particularly Cov Cath, Highlands, Beechwood). This preview is based on what I saw last season, the new or returning players (and coaches), and games that I was able to watch this summer. Next week I plan on posting a preview of the top players in the region and a prediction for 9^th Region Player of the Year. Feel free to agree or disagree with my assessments and predictions. Any insight into your teams that I may have missed are welcomed and appreciated!

 

 

 

Tier 1 – The Favorite (Covington Catholic)

 

(1) Covington Catholic [24W – 9L, lost regional semi-finals to Cooper]

 

Key Fact(s): The Colonels shot only 30.2% from 3 in 2024-25; JV team won the regional tournament

 

Cov Cath stands alone as the clear top team in the 9^th region this year. They return almost every player from their 24-9 team last season that only lost 2 games (both to Cooper) within the region, and added junior Braydin Myrick (6’3 guard, 19.1 ppg, 45.7% 3FG) from Mason County. Cov Cath has maybe the best backcourt trio in the state of Kentucky in Myrick, senior Athens McGillis (20.6 ppg, recently committed to Division II national champion Nova Southeastern), and senior Cash Harney (15.8 ppg).  Other key players returning are 6’6 senior forward Donovan Bradshaw (12.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 60% FG) and guard Teegan Stava (4.2 ppg). Cov Cath will be looking for several players from their 2024-2025 JV Championship squad to step up and contribute, including sophomores Dylan Courtney (forward) and Cash Myers (guard/forward), and juniors Grayson Justice (guard), Blake Hussey (guard), and John Brecount (6’8 center). The Colonels biggest weaknesses in 2024-25 were 3-pt shooting (enter Braydon Myrick) and lack of size inside (enter Dylan Courtney, John Brecount).

 

Prediction: Relying on their typical stellar defense and improved 3-pt shooting, Cov Cath does not lose a game within the region and wins the 9^th region tournament, with the potential to make a nice run in the Sweet Sixteen in Lexington.

 

 

 

Tier 2 – The Contenders (Holy Cross, Highlands)

 

(2) Holy Cross [17W – 12L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Newport]

 

Key Fact(s): The Indians return 4 starters (all seniors) from 2024-2025 team

 

Similar to Cov Cath, Holy Cross returns the majority of their core players from last season, including senior forward Brady Gabbard (12.7 ppg), senior point guard Luke Arlinghaus (12.9 ppg, 41.3% 3FG), and senior center Nate Rominger (12.6 ppg, 8.2 rpg). Senior guard Aiden Urlage (4.3 ppg, 42.3% 3FG) also returns and should help replace the loss of graduated 3pt specialist Gavin Goetz (6.2 ppg, 38.1% 3FG). They will be looking to junior Max Hunt (6’6) and senior Essex Adams (6’2) to replace graduated William McElheney’s inside production (12.2 ppg, 9.2 rpg). Coach Johnson will also rely on Newport transfer Irvan Nichols (4.4 ppg) and sophomore guards Brian Ferguson and Amir Henderson to play important roles off the bench. Biggest question marks heading into the season are how they handle the loss of the leadership and production of McElheny (they struggled when he went down with an injury last season) and the pressure of being one of the favorites.

 

Prediction: Relying on their core group of seniors and some newcomers (keep an eye on sophomore Amir Henderson), Holy Cross wins the All “A” 9^th region and makes a run at the All “A” state tournament. However, they fall just short of their first regional title since 1994, losing to Covington Catholic in the regional final.

 

 

 

(3) Highlands [18W – 13L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Cooper]

 

Key Fact(s): The Bluebirds had no seniors on 2024-25 team; Freshman team won regional tournament

 

While Cov Cath and Holy Cross return most of their key players, Highlands did not have any seniors on their 2024-25 roster and will return everyone (well, maybe) - rumors from Fort Thomas are that junior Tayden Lorenzen will choose to focus on football and not play basketball this season. While Lorenzen (11.6 ppg, 6.3 rpg) not playing would be a huge loss for the Bluebirds, they still return 4 players who averaged at least 9 ppg last season, including senior guards Finn Bouldin (13.2 ppg, 34.3% 3FG) and Vinny Listerman (10.3 ppg, 37% 3FG), and senior forwards Nathan Rickard (12.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg) and Owen Ebert (6’2, 9.3 ppg, 32% 3FG). Other key players returning include senior guard Charlie Messmer (6.5 ppg, 40.2% 3FG) and junior Cale Harris (5.3 ppg), with others competing for important minutes, including sophomores (coming off their freshman regional championship) Dom Listerman and Bo Schlarman and several juniors. Another potential contributor is 8^th grader Amil Wimzie, who transferred from Holy Cross (where he played freshman and JV as a 7^th grader) and is considered one of the best 8^th graders in Kentucky. The Bluebirds will be deep, but if Lorenzen does not play they will be tested in the frontcourt.

 

Prediction: Led by their strong senior class and Lorenzon, who makes a last-minute decision to play basketball this season, coach Listerman and the Bluebirds cruise into the regional semifinals.

 

 

 

Tier 3 – The Sleepers (Ryle, Conner)

 

(4) Ryle  [16W – 13L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Lloyd]

 

Key Fact(s): The Raiders lost 50% of their scoring from 2024-2025 team; JV team regional runner-up

 

To have any chance of making a run in the 9^th region tournament, Ryle will have to find a way to replace the production of graduated seniors Landon Lorms (22.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg) and Jonathan DeGroff (11.4 ppg, 9.4 rpg). Fortunately, they bring back several key players including senior point guard Anthony Coppola (10.5 ppg), senior forward AJ Davis (9.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg), and junior guard Holden Smith (8.3 ppg). Ryle will also be looking to several players from their regional runner-up JV team (who I believe lost only 1 game all of last season) to step up – including seniors Jerry Draine III and Cameron Haygood. Coach Dorning has a very deep squad and the Raiders looked very good in the summer. Their success this season may depend on the development of their inexperienced players filling out their rotation.

 

Prediction: Ryle will be the best team not named Cov Cath, Highlands, or Holy Cross in the region. But like the last two years, Ryle will fall just short of pulling off an upset in the first round of the regional tournament.

 

 

 

(5) Conner [18W – 10L, lost in District to Ryle]

 

Key Fact(s): The Cougars shot >40% from 3 in 2024-25

 

Just like their Tier 3 rival Ryle, Conner will need to replace major contributors in graduated seniors Landon Warner (15.1 ppg, 58.5% FG) and Chase Huff (14.5 ppg, 43.5% 3FG). Conner will rely heavily on senior guards Finn Louden (17.0 ppg, 42.9% 3FG) and Brady Bushman (7.7 ppg, 44.6% 3FG) and junior forward Tyler Warner (5.0 ppg) to fill the void. Other key contributors will be seniors Holten Raider and Logan Back, while junior sharpshooter Gabe Smith and junior point guard Nolan Nipper will play important roles. Coach Browning’s teams are fun to watch and I expect Louden to be in the conversation for 9^th region player of the year. Size could be a weakness for Conner as junior big man Brent Haynes may miss a good portion of the season with an ACL injury.

 

Prediction: The Cougars beat Ryle in the 33^rd District final and make a run to the regional semifinals where they fall to one of the top 3.

 

 

 

Tier 4 – The Wild Cards (Dixie Heights, Lloyd, Beechwood, Newport, St. Henry)

 

(6) Dixie Heights [21W-10L, lost 1^st round of regionals to Cov Cath]

 

Key Fact(s): The Colonels shot >42% from 3 in 2024-25

 

Dixie is the first of the Tier 4 teams that are difficult to place. They lose Griffen Derry (16.3 ppg, 48.3% 3FG) and Owen Neihues (8.9 ppg, 41.2% 3FG) to graduation, but return a strong core with junior Hunter Seng (6’5, 11.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 56.4% FG) and seniors Max Rubemeyer (6’4, 9.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 59.1% FG) and Tyson Metzger (7.6 ppg, 41.3% 3FG). Dixie won 21 games last season and beat some quality opponents - including Highlands, Holy Cross, and Simon Kenton - but struggled in other games losing to Newport Central Catholic and getting blown out in the regional tournament by Covington Catholic. If the Red Colonels can take advantage of their size (Hunter Seng, Max Rubemeyer) and continue to shoot 3-pointers at a high percentage, they could surprise some people and move up in the rankings.

 

Prediction: Dixie wins the 34^th District but is unable to advance past the first round of the regional tournament.

 

 

 

(7) Lloyd [26W – 7L, lost to Cooper in 9^th region championship]

 

Key Fact(s): The Juggernauts lost 2/3 of their scoring from last year

 

Outside of star guard Anthony Blaackar (6’1, 15.3 ppg, 59.2% FG), Lloyd brings back little experience on their roster. The only other returning contributors are Isiah Golsby (3.5 ppg) and Billy Lewis (2.3 ppg). Gone are reigning 9^th region co-player of the year EJ Walker (18.8 ppg, who is now at the University of South Carolina), Jayden Humphrey (10.3 ppg), Isiah Sebastion (7.7 ppg) and Carter Bresser (5.2 ppg). While I expect Blaackar to have a monster year and be in the conversation for player of the year in the 9^th region, Coach Walker will rely on several young players and could struggle to get out of the 34th District this season (with an improved St. Henry).

 

Prediction: Lloyd makes it back to the regional tournament but is unable to make it out of the first round, despite the efforts of star Anthony Blaackar.

 

 

 

(8) Beechwood [16W – 12L, lost in District to Holy Cross]

 

Key Fact(s): The Tigers lost 2/3 of their scoring from 2024-2025; Freshman team regional runner-up

 

Beechwood will be looking to replace the loss of graduated seniors Jack Sullivan (16.6 ppg), Carson Blackburn (14.9 ppg), and Aiden Way (9.5 ppg) – all of whom shot better than 41.5% from 3-point range. Returning starters senior Owen McCormack (8.3 ppg, 44.9% 3FG) and junior Kingston Brockett (6.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg) will be relied on to replace some of this lost production. Other expected contributors include sophomore guards Dylan Topmiller and Carter Moore, juniors Cole Coppage and Ryan Smith, and senior Quentin Knasel. Coach Hart will have his work cut out for him this season as the success of the Tigers will likely depend on the development of a large group of talented sophomores (9^th region freshman runner-up) and juniors with limited varsity experience.

 

Prediction: Beechwood is in the unfortunate position of likely having to beat Holy Cross to win the 9^th region All “A” or advance to the 9^th region tournament. The Tigers will look to 2026-2027 to accomplish these goals.

 

 

 

(9) Newport [19W – 11L, lost to Lloyd in regional semi-finals]

 

Key Fact(s): The Wildcats lost 6 of top 7 players to transfer or graduation

 

Coach Snapp has his work cut off for him to get Newport back to regional prominence. In addition to losing three very good players to graduation (Yamil Rondon, DeShawn Anderson, and AJ Lowe), the Wildcats lost two future Division I players (Griffin Starks and James Turner) to prep schools and Irvan Nichols (4.4 ppg) to Holy Cross. The Wildcats did add a transfer from across the river in junior Davae Andrews-Glover (11.8 ppg). Beyond junior guard Amontae Lowe (5’11, 8.4 ppg), Newport will be relying on a group of young players with little varsity experience.

 

Prediction: Though Newport will be better than expected and competitive on most nights, they will fall short in the 36^th District final to Highlands and lose in the first round of the 9^th region tournament.

 

 

 

(10) St. Henry [7W – 19L, lost in District to Dixie]

 

Key Fact(s): Hall-of-Fame coach Tim Sullivan replaces Hall-of-Fame coach Dave Faust

 

St. Henry was another hard team to place. Gone is long-time coach Dave Faust, replaced by Cooper’s long-time coach Tim Sullivan. Sullivan will have his work cut off for him as the Crusaders struggled to a 7-19 record in 2024-25 and lost their top two scorers to graduation. There are some reasons for optimism – back are senior Caden Kunstek (6’3, 8.5 ppg, who missed 15 games due to injury), sophomore Tyler Detzel (6’3, 6.8 ppg), and junior Ryne Ravenscraft (5’11, 5.1 ppg) – along with a few transfers including junior Parker Lutz (6’1, from Cooper).

 

Prediction: The Crusaders will be greatly improved from last season and surprise some people, but will ultimately fall short of the regional tournament.

 

 

 

Tier 5 – Not Quite the Top 10 (Cooper, Newport Central Catholic)

 

(11) Cooper [24W – 6L, won 9^th Region, lost to state champion Great Crossing in state quarterfinals]

 

Key Fact(s): The Jaguars return only 1 player who played regular minutes in 2024-2025

 

It was difficult to place the reigning 9^th region champions outside of the top 10, but I couldn’t find a reason to rank them any higher. The only returning player that played regular minutes is junior Julienne Knuckles (2.5 ppg). Also gone is long-time coach Tim Sullivan. The Jaguars will now be led by long-time girls coach Justin Holthaus, who guided the program to four straight regional titles.

 

Prediction: Holthaus has a reputation of being a very good coach, so the Jaguars will be competitive on most nights. However, I don’t expect them to make it past Ryle or Conner in the 33^rd District.

 

 

 

(12) Newport Central Catholic [12W – 17L, lost in District to Highlands]

 

Key Fact(s): The Breds lost >50% of scoring from 2024-2025

 

It may be another long season for Newport Central Catholic as they will be looking to replace graduated seniors Ian Mann (17.4 ppg), who is playing collegiate baseball at Thomas More, and Louie Collopy (13.0 ppg), who is playing collegiate basketball at Wittenburg. Top returning players from last year’s 12-17 team include Jack Gearding (8.4 ppg) and John Luhn (8.1 ppg).

 

Prediction: While I expect the Thoroughbreds to struggle, coach Luhn’s teams always play hard and they will find a way to surprise and win a few games against teams ranked higher than them during the season, though still fall short of the 9^th region tournament.

 

 

 

Everyone else – (Holmes, Ludlow, Boone County, Bellevue, Dayton, Villa Madonna, Heritage)

 

(13) Holmes was much improved in 2024-25 and finished 15-14. The Bulldogs are led by senior Mark McCutchen Jr (16.7 ppg, 9.1 rpg), but will need to replace a lot of production with the graduations of Joseph Meyer (12.3 ppg), Dominic Scott (10.4 ppg), and Tony Kutcher (7.9 ppg).

 

(14) Boone County struggled to a 7-23 record under new coach Todd Humphrey, who looks to have his work cut off for him again this season. Gone are the top three leadings scorers, including guard Nolan Searp (14.1 ppg), while sophomore Joel Montanya Brown (6.0 ppg) returns.

 

(15) Bellevue has reasons to be optimistic about improving on their 10-20 record last season – all of their top players return, including seniors Arion Stuckey (11.3 ppg), Adam Kues (9.9 ppg), and Tristan Woodyard (8.9), along with sophomore Jordan Watson (8.9 ppg).

 

(16) Heritage finished 19-9 last season, though loses leading scorer Cade Holtman (15.6 ppg) to graduation. Key returning players include seniors Landon Reinhart (14.8 ppg) and Trent Stone (11.4 ppg).

 

(17) Ludlow and new coach Dan Sullivan will look to replace leading scorers Spencer Brandenburg (17.4 ppg) and Joseph Scott (12.8 ppg) from last year’s 16-15 team. Sophomore Logan Day (10.2 ppg) is the top returning scorer.

 

(18) Villa Madonna struggled to a 5-25 record last season, though the Vikings return leading scorer Michael Popham (10.1 ppg).  

 

(19) Dayton finished 6-25 last season and lost their top 5 scorers to graduation. Sophomore Malachi Kennedy (4.6 ppg) is the top returning scorer.

 

Well done Knight Owl, this is a very solid preseason preview of the 9th region !!! 

While I do think going into the season there appears to be a bigger gap than normal between #1 Cov Cath and the rest of the top 5, we need to let the season play out. So much can happen between now and March.

It will be interesting to see just how far Cooper & Newport fall off from where they have been. The 35th district appears to be really strong with Cov Cath/Holy Cross up top.

Outstanding job!

Kudos Knight Owl.

While I think Cov Cath is a top contender to take it all at Rupp, sometimes things don’t go as planned.

I think those kids at Cooper that haven’t got much clock the past few years will be better than anticipated. They have had to battle in practice against great players the last few years. The “new” coach will bring fresh perspective. Look for Cooper to surprise a few clubs this year!

9 minutes ago, Falcon Pride said:

 

I think those kids at Cooper that haven’t got much clock the past few years will be better than anticipated. They have had to battle in practice against great players the last few years. The “new” coach will bring fresh perspective. Look for Cooper to surprise a few clubs this year!

If Justin can find a scorer or two and get the Jags to the Region tourney, I think year #1 will have been a big success.  Coach Holthaus is elite, the future will be bright on Longbranch.

Great write up and agree with the preliminary assessments. I do look for St. Henry to surprise some people. Yes, they'll probably a couple of years out, but I will not be surprised if they make it to the regional tournament this season. Just my opinion.

Holy Cross will be very good and I am anxious to see them in action.

This is a wonderful preview. One of the best I have ever seen on here.

Great Job!

I think Beechwood is being heavily slept on. Especially if Fryman plays. He will be an equalizer one way or another when he is on the court.

I also think Lloyd will beat Dixie, Conner and Ryle. Bunch of athletes out their in Erlanger that have become use to winning a lot, I believe winning is contagious.

On 10/29/2025 at 10:58 PM, Honey Badger said:

I think Beechwood is being heavily slept on. Especially if Fryman plays. He will be an equalizer one way or another when he is on the court.

I had a hard time placing Beechwood with all that they lost and having to rely on so many new players. I forgot all about Fryman. He would be a difference-maker if he played, but I have a hard time believing he is going to play with all the attention he is getting from colleges for both football and baseball. He's also not listed on the roster on KHSAA.

 

On 10/29/2025 at 11:03 PM, Honey Badger said:

I also think Lloyd will beat Dixie, Conner and Ryle. Bunch of athletes out their in Erlanger that have become use to winning a lot, I believe winning is contagious.

I'll admit that I am not as high on Lloyd as others. I think that Blaackar will carry them in many games, but he is going to need some help to compete with the top 5.

 

On 10/29/2025 at 4:56 PM, Mr. Sixer said:

Great write up and agree with the preliminary assessments. I do look for St. Henry to surprise some people. Yes, they'll probably a couple of years out, but I will not be surprised if they make it to the regional tournament this season. Just my opinion.

Holy Cross will be very good and I am anxious to see them in action.

I think of all the teams in Tier 3, St. Henry is the most likely to be better than expected with Sullivan  coaching and an intriguing mix of players returning. 

22 minutes ago, Knight Owl said:

I had a hard time placing Beechwood with all that they lost and having to rely on so many new players. I forgot all about Fryman. He would be a difference-maker if he played, but I have a hard time believing he is going to play with all the attention he is getting from colleges for both football and baseball. He's also not listed on the roster on KHSAA.

 

I'll admit that I am not as high on Lloyd as others. I think that Blaackar will carry them in many games, but he is going to need some help to compete with the top 5.

 

I think of all the teams in Tier 3, St. Henry is the most likely to be better than expected with Sullivan  coaching and an intriguing mix of players returning. 

I think St. Henry will be improved from the previous years for sure but it's going to take some time for Sully's ways to show up in the win and loss columns. I think Oliver Niehues carries Dixie over St. Henry, just a gut feeling.

It could just be wishful thinking on my on own selfish part that Fryman plays but something tells me the competitor in him wants to get out there and compete.

Keep sleeping on Lloyd lol.

Ill give out my top 8 here and we can watch it fall apart.

1. Covington Catholic

 

 

 

 

 

2. Highlands

3. Beechwood

4. Lloyd Memorial

5. Holy Cross

6. Ryle

7. Conner

8. Dixie Heights

* For Beechwood, Highlands, and Lloyd the fact that quite a few players could be opting out on playing basketball this winter could change things drastically. But IF they end up playing at some point before district tournaments I could see this being realistic going into the 9th Region Tournament.