The 2025 2nd Region Tournament was the culmination of two decades of longing and heartbreak for the Henderson County faithful.  Their pivotal challenge came in the semi-finals against a formidable Lyon County squad. Down by eight points with just over three minutes left in regulation, the Colonels turned up the defensive pressure, forcing Lyon County into critical, ill-timed turnovers and rushed shots. Henderson County capitalized, knocking down crucial three-pointers to send the game into overtime, where they completed the spectacular comeback, defeating the Lions in the extra period. The stage was then set for the final act: a championship rematch against rivals Madisonville-North Hopkins. Having lost to the Maroons in the regular season, the Colonels brilliantly executed their game plan in the final, securing the victory and, with it, the Colonels' first 2nd Region Title since 1999. The final buzzer signaled more than just a win; it was the end of a 26-year drought and potentially the start of a new era.

 

 

Rankings:

#1 Lyon County:  

If history taught the 2nd Region anything, it's that last year's heartbreaking loss only fuels the fire for the perennial contenders. Poised to reclaim the throne they nearly held is the Lyon County Lions, who will begin the season as the number one team in the region. Under the continued leadership of Head Coach Ryan Perry, the Lions return virtually all of their firepower from the squad that finished just one overtime period short of the Regional Final last March. The team is anchored by what many consider the best pair of players in the 2nd Region, Bray Kirk (22.1 ppg) and Nolan Coffman (17.4ppg).  This tandem provides the Lions with a dynamic offensive attack, featuring consistent scoring and elite rebounding that few teams can match. They are bolstered by the sharp-shooting of Cooper Collins and the tireless work on the glass from post player Isaac Defew. This mix of top-end talent and complementary skills creates a tough matchup for opponents. The Lyon County faithful have every reason to be optimistic this year. With an experienced, fully-loaded roster and a desire to avenge last year's tournament exit, the Lions look ready to roar and secure their place as the favorite heading into the 2025-2026 season.

#2 Hopkinsville: 

While Lyon County may hold the preseason top spot, the Hopkinsville Tigers have the firepower and balance to push for the 2nd Region Title and look ready to challenge the Lions all season long.  The Tigers return their undisputed leader, senior James Bradley Jr., who was an All-Region caliber player last year, averaging nearly 16 points per game. He is supported by a rising core of young talent, specifically the sophomore guard duo of Jonovan Leavell and Jayon Bass, who combined for nearly 20 points per game last season. Their experience as underclassmen in big games will be invaluable.  Additionally, the return of big man Layton Giltner gives the Tigers a crucial presence in the paint. This combination of an elite scoring wing, playmaking guards, and size inside gives Hopkinsville a balanced attack that makes them a legitimate contender for the 2nd Region Title.  This is a team built to withstand the physical play of the region, and they are poised for a massive season.

#3 Hopkins County Central:

 

The most intriguing story heading into the 2025-2026 season belongs to the Hopkins County Central Storm. Tabbed as a dangerous dark horse contender, the Storm begin a new chapter under Head Coach Chris Sullivan, a coach known for his work as an assistant at Hopkinsville during their successful runs under Tim Haworth, who has taken over a roster suddenly loaded with talent.  The foundation is set with the return of senior guard DeVonyae Butcher, one of the most prolific and electric scorers in the 2nd Region. Complementing him is sophomore point guard Channing Stone, who returns with critical varsity experience to run Coach Sullivan's system.  They also bring back a powerful presence on the glass in athletic rebounder Devante Jagoe, giving them much-needed toughness inside.  The Storm's sudden rise is fueled by late-offseason moves, notably the addition of Peyton Smith from rival Madisonville-North Hopkins and Semari Pettus, who played his freshman season in Georgia. These additions are rumored to round out their starting five and provide a critical injection of depth and athleticism.

#4 Henderson County: 

The Colonels will begin the 2025-2026 season with a massive target on their backs, but they face the challenge of replacing significant production. Henderson County graduated four starters and nearly 70% of its scoring from the championship team. However, Coach Tyler Smithhart's program isn't focused on rebuilding; it's focused on reloading.  The foundation for this new run starts in the backcourt as the Colonels return their seasoned, experienced leader in junior point guard Xavion Johnson. His ability to command the offense, handle pressure, and attack the rim will be vital as the new pieces are integrated. Also returning for his junior season is Amare Stewart, who proved his mettle by delivering late-game heroics in the comeback win over Lyon County last season, earning him a spot on the 2nd Regional All-Tournament Team.  Henderson County will look to the depth of its successful program to fill the void. The roster will feature talent graduating from a successful JV team and a highly-touted freshman group that won the 2nd Region Freshman Tournament. While the Colonels may take time to find their rhythm, the defending champions have the system and the emerging talent to once again be a factor in March.

#5 Union County

 

Quaid Girten’s Union County Braves have been a consistent threat in the 2nd Region for years, and the 2025-2026 season should be no different. The Braves return a strong, proven core that positions them as a legitimate contender for the 6th District crown and a deep run in the regional tournament.  The core of their attack features three returning starters. The team is anchored by Daishawn Curry, an established All-Region player who provides consistent scoring and leadership.  He is joined by sharp-shooter Cale Johnson, whose outside presence stretches opposing defenses.  Inside, the Braves boast the size and strength of post player Bubba Rapier, who will command the paint.  Additionally, the Braves benefit from crucial depth, including the athleticism of Gavin Black, the length of Jace Wilson, and the three-point threat of Hayden Mills. This combination of returning talent and improved depth gives Union County a balanced roster capable of challenging any team in the region.

#6 Christian County

Ranked sixth heading into the season, the Christian County Colonels are arguably the most dangerous "sleeper" team in the region. Last season, the young squad battled through one of the region's most difficult schedules, and that experience paid dividends with a strong late-season run that ended with a District Championship.  Head Coach Dior Curtis continues to impress, doing an exceptional job of putting his players in a position to succeed and building a winning culture.  The Colonels return a solid group of players who benefited from last year's trial by fire, including Rahsean Stevenson, Zion Wharton, and Zion Acree.  The addition of transfer Frank Pollard from University Heights Academy further bolsters the roster. With a tougher, more experienced core and a winning late-season pedigree, the Christian County Colonels are primed to challenge the top half of the region and could easily move up this ranking by March.

#7 Webster County

With Jon Newton back at the helm for the Trojans, expect them to be a contender that will make the 6th district very interesting this season.  Returning for Webster County are Aiden Alstadt, Reid McDyer, and Trace Hardison.  With these 3 returning starters to build around and Coach Newton's return, the Trojans will not often beat themselves and will be a tough out by March. 

#8 Madisonville North Hopkins

 

The Madisonville-North Hopkins Maroons, the reigning Regional Runner-Up, are facing the region's most significant turnover. Heavy graduation losses combined with multiple key transfers in the offseason mean Head Coach Caleb Nelson will be tasked with building a new identity.  Despite the losses, the Maroons’ program maintains a high standard of success and still possesses a talented young nucleus. A key addition to this new-look roster is Lake Sumner, an experienced player transferring from Hopkins County Central, who should provide immediate leadership, perimeter shooting, and experience to help guide the younger Maroons through the district and regional gauntlet. The Maroons may not be the preseason favorite, but they are never an easy out.

#9 University Heights Academy

The University Heights Academy (UHA) Blazers enter the season in a state of transition under first-year Head Coach Jordan Grace, a UHA alumnus. Coach Grace is tasked with a difficult project, as the team suffered significant losses in the offseason, most significantly the loss of Tylin George. This departure of talent means the Blazers must immediately replace much of their scoring and leadership.  However, the foundation for a quick turnaround exists.  A major boost comes with a healthy KeShawn Moore, who was injured most of last season. His veteran presence and scoring ability should help Coach Grace and the Blazers find their footing early in the season.

#10 Livingston Central

Despite flying under the radar compared to the regional favorites, the Livingston Central Cardinals are poised to be a major threat and a difficult challenge for anyone on their schedule. The Cardinals are built around a spectacular returning one-two punch.  Senior Logan Wring returns as an undisputed All-Region player who dominated last season, averaging approximately 24 points and 10 rebounds per game. His consistent scoring and work on the glass give the Cardinals a guaranteed foundation every night.  Completing the duo is Bryson Walker, a proven sharp-shooter whose ability to stretch the floor and knock down the three will prevent teams from collapsing entirely on Wring.  This formidable tandem, combined with a tough schedule, means that any team that overlooks the Cardinals will likely be on the wrong end of an upset. Livingston Central is a legitimate contender and earns a solid spot in the regional top 10.

#11 Caldwell County

Just outside the Top 10, the Caldwell County Tigers are a program with momentum and a winning tradition. The Tigers have successfully reached the Regional Tournament in the last two seasons, demonstrating they know how to navigate the difficult waters of their district.  They return a proven leader in Pax Akins and possess a strong, young core of players waiting for their opportunity to contribute. With their recent history of regional tournament appearances and a solid foundation, Caldwell County is poised to challenge the teams at the bottom of the Top 10 and could easily surprise some opponents this year.

#12 Trigg County

Devaree Gude and Landon Swann will be a problem for Coach Fraliex's Wildcats.  Both double-figure scorers have size and strength that will give teams trouble in the paint.  If the Trigg County backcourt develops enough to provide a balanced attack, the Tigers can push Livingston Central for a 2nd Region Tournament birth. 

#13 Dawson Springs

Jayden Plunkette and Easton Bourland will have to step up for a team that lost Region 2 Coach of the Year Mickey Blue and Region 2 Player of the Year Rex Blue.  The most difficult loss of all may be the ball-handling and floor vision of Montgomery Johnson.  This year's version of the Panthers will have a lot to prove. 

#14 Fort Campbell

Coach King faces a difficult task each year as players move on and off base.  However, if Tyreek Anthony and Israel Dillard return, the Falcons will certainly improve on their 3-win season from a year ago. 

#15 Heritage

With Jason Leek gone, Heritage will rely heavily on Nathan Wheatcraft and other role players from last season's team to step up and fill his scoring void. 

#16 Crittenden County

The Rockets were led in scoring by a pair of freshmen in Drake Young and Coby Larue.  The future could be looking brighter for a program that did not win a game last season.   

 

 

 

 

I can't argue the order of the top 10. Christian County and Hopkins Central may finish higher than their preseason rank, but depth will dictate their success.

If Lyon County goes deep at All A state again, I'm curious to see how they respond in the weeks that follow. Their defense showed signs of fatigue in the games that followed. 

I thought Tyler Smithhart did a great job managing his bench last year and it paid off with a region title. They are a big question early. If they win out of the gate, they could repeat.

Edited November 10, 2025Nov 10 by theguru