15th Region

Overview: Johnson Central brought home their second tournament win of the year and third to the region, Shelby Valley suffered their first loss, Paintsville continues to roll and the 2A Classic is set to tip off for regional teams. Rankings are as follows: Rankings (overall record): 1. (-) Shelby Valley (10-1) – Shelby Valley lost their first game of the year, but remain number one as they finished 2-1 in week five. In the Mountain School Boy Classic at Belfry, the Wildcats fell to Bourbon County 47-61 despite 29 points from Cody Potter. They would bounce back with a 65-53 win over Morgan County and a 53-44 win over Phelps. In all three games Potter played extremely well, even hitting his 3rd half court buzzer beater to end a quarter, but the rest of the team struggled to score. Zone defense seems to be the formula to stopping Valley as a team. In week six, Shelby Valley will travel to Betsy Layne and then host Pikeville in a what is expected to be a packed house. 2. (-) Johnson Central (10-1) – The Golden Eagles traveled to Bath County for the Dan Swartz Classic in week five and came away with their second tournament victory of the Holiday Season (Rebel Classic at Tolsia). JC dominated the competition, defeating Russell 81-61, East Carter 76-58, and Anderson County 81-61. Sophomore standout Isaiah May took home his second tournament MVP averaging 24.3 points and 7 rebounds during the event. The Golden Eagles have four players averaging over 11 points per game and play a fast tempo that’s hard to match. With playmakers like Jacob Rice and May, it’s extremely difficult to focus your defense on taking one of them away as four or five other kids have the ability to score 20 in a game. Johnson Central will put their nine game win streak on the line as they host Paintsville in week six. This is one of the best rivalries in the state and will see a packed house. 3. (Up 1) Paintsville (9-2) – Paintsville extended their win streak to nine games with a 71-62 win over Hart County in the Mountain School Boy Classic at Belfry. Like Johnson Central, Paintsville also has four players that average in double figures as they are led by freshman standout Colby Fugate. With two game winners already this season, Fugate will look to lead his team into hostile territory as Paintsville faces Johnson Central on the road in week six. How big is the Paintsville/JC game? It’s the only game for both teams all week and that’s probably not by accident. The atmosphere will be electric as both team’s matchup very well with each other. Expect a packed house and close contest in one of the best rivalries in Kentucky. 4. (Down 1) Pikeville (6-4) – The Panthers went 1-2 in week six, albeit against a difficult schedule. Pikeville defeated Hart County 79-47 in the Mountain School Boy Classic at Belfry and then fell to Logan, WV 62-70 and Bourbon County 60-64 on back-to-back nights. Logan is one the best teams in 2A in the state of West Virginia and boast major D1 talent. Bourbon County is very good as well, giving Shelby Valley their only loss of the season. Despite the losses, Pikeville is still one of two undefeated teams within the region (Shelby Valley). That will change this Saturday as they travel Valley for a huge 59th District showdown. Prior to Saturday’s Shelby Valley game, Pikeville will be on the road at East Ridge in another 59th District seeded game. 5. (-) Lawrence County (8-4) – The Bulldogs won their only contest in week five with a 72-60 home win over Cross Lanes Christian, WV. Week six will see Lawrence County hit the road for two games as they travel to Betsy Layne for an important 58th District seeded contest and then to Magoffin County where they face Pike Central. Lawrence is the best team in the region outside the big four above and will try to stay sharp this week as they will play only their second game in the last thirteen days going into Betsy Layne. 6. (Up 1) Sheldon Clark (3-6) – The Cardinals were idle in week five and will be idle again in week six. Hopefully the two plus week layoff won’t affect their play in the new year. Sheldon Clark will play Piarist in week seven when they return to action. 7. (Up 2) Magoffin County (7-5) – Since losing their first three games of the season, Magoffin County is 7-2 to include going 2-0 in week five. This past week they defeated Phelps in overtime 61-59 and then got a payback win over East Ridge 62-60 after (lost to ER by 19 earlier in season). This team was rated highly in the preseason and could be finding their stride mid-season. In week six they host the 2A classic where they drew a bye. 8. (Down 2) Phelps (3-4) – This is not your typical Hornets team and junior play maker Trey Francis is a very good player averaging another double-double for the second straight year (20/11). However, they have lost four in a row to include an overtime loss in week five to Magoffin County and a nine-point loss to the region’s top team in Shelby Valley. Phelps is still the best team in the 60th district and should be in the regional tournament. Phelps has Prestonsburg and Grundy, VA in week six. 9. (Down 1) Prestonsburg (6-6) – Prestonsburg went 1-2 in week five in the Williamstown Classic. They lost their opening game to Thomas Nelson, defeated host Williamstown, then lost the 5th place game to McCreary Central. Despite the losses, it’s been a long time since the Black Cats were at or above .500 coming out of the new year. 10. (-) Pike Central (8-5) – The Hawks went 1-1 in week five, participating in the King of the Smokies. The Hawks have Wolfe County, Jenkins and Lawrence County (2A Classic at Magoffin County) in week six. This team could be in the regional tournament out of the 60th District. 11. (Up 1) Betsy Layne (7-4) – Betsy Layne is playing better and picked up two wins against one loss in week five by knocking off Hart County and East Ridge and falling to Morgan County. The Bobcats have three players averaging in double figures and will need every bit of that scoring and more in week six as they face Lawrence County, Shelby Valley and Phelps in games they will underdogs in. 12. (Down 1) Belfry (2-8) – Belfry snapped their six game losing streak in week five, but started another one that is currently at two games. Belfry defeated East Ridge and then fell to Bourbon County and Morgan County by double digits. In week six, Belfry will open the 2A Classic with Floyd Central at Magoffin County. 13. (-) East Ridge (4-7) – The Warriors dropped all three games in week five at the Mountains School Boy Classic at Belfry. Belfry, Magoffin County and Betsy Layne all knocked off the Warriors, but one game was in overtime and it was by a combine eleven points. It was good to see Randy McCoy roaming the sidelines again as he continues to recover. Expect him to be back on the sidelines leading his team soon! 14. (-) Floyd Central (2-13) – The nightmare season continues for Floyd Central as their losing streak has ballooned to nine games and tied the longest in the region this year to include Piarist. The good news is the season is half way over and the young kids playing are getting valuable experience for the future. Floyd Central will play Belfry at Magoffin County in the 2A Classic opening round in week six. 15. (-) Jenkins (1-9) – After their first win in two years, the Cavaliers were idle in week five. This week they will play Pike Central and East Ridge where they will be heavy underdogs. 16. (-) Piarist (0-8) – Piarist was defeated by a home school team in week five. They play Jackson City in week six. Agree or Disagree?

Overview: Shelby Valley and Johnson Central both went undefeated in Holiday Classics, Paintsville brought home another tournament title to the region on a buzzer beater, Pikeville knocked off a top five team in the state and Sheldon Clark headed to Las Vegas in week four. The top of the region remains status quo as the gap between the first four and the rest has grown significantly. Below are the 15th Region rankings after four weeks of play. Rankings (overall record): 1. (-) Shelby Valley (8-0) – The Wildcats continue to shine behind the play of Cody Potter. This week Potter dropped back-to-back 40 plus point games in the Hi-Tech Signs and Graphix Holiday Classic at Prestonsburg, hitting 18 triples combine in the three game event. Valley beat Prestonsburg 55-48, Perry Central 78-71 and Cordia 74-61 despite not having Cameron Worrix for most of the later two contest (status unknown). After Christmas, the Wildcats travel to Belfry for the Mountain School Boy Classic where they face Bourbon County, Morgan County and Phelps. They will be favored in all three games. 2. (-) Johnson Central (7-1) – The Golden Eagles only loss continues to be against Shelby Valley as they went 4-0 in week four with wins over Lawrence County (74-55), Perry Central (78-68), Cordia (69-62) and Pike Central (61-24). Johnson Central led by 20 plus in the second half of all four games before going to the bench and like Shelby Valley, finished the Hi-Tech Signs and Graphix Holiday Classic undefeated. Surprisingly, the Perry Central win marked the first time in school history the Golden Eagles defeated the Commodores in boys’ basketball. JC also made history in the Pike Central game, giving up the fewest points in school history. Isaiah May, Jacob Rice and Cory VanHoose are leading the three headed monster that is Johnson Central. May has scored in double figures in every game of the season and continues to show off his athleticism with lob dunks. Rice stuffs the stat column every night and draws the toughest defensive assignment on a regular basis. VanHoose scores and rebounds in bunches with his strength and quickness. JC will look to keep rolling after Christmas as they travel to Bath County for the Dan Swartz Holiday Tournament. They will be the favorite and open with Russell. 3. (-) Pikeville (5-2) – The Panthers picked up the best win of the season for any team in the region in week four, knocking off state #4 Warren Central in convincing fashion 57-39 (Smokey Mountain Classic in Gatlinburg - semifinals). It was the second consecutive win against an undefeated opponent for Pikeville in the tournament (beat Oasis, FL 69-64 in opening round) as they advanced to the championship game before falling to Bullitt Central 54-57. Pikeville also defeated Harlan 84-48 earlier in week four. In the Warren Central game, Pikeville was led by Connor Roberts with 27 points as he joined the Pikeville 1,000-point club. Pikeville is big, physical and can play any style of game. They will be challenged again in week five as they drew the toughest three games in the Mountain School Boy Classic at Belfry, facing Hart County, Logan, WV and Bourbon County. 4. (-) Paintsville (8-2) – Like the other top teams in the region, Paintsville had a stellar week, bringing home the second tournament win of the season to the region in the form of a Derby Classic Championship. The Tigers play a lot of close games (eight of their ten games have been decided by a combined 19 points) and opened the week with a district win at home over Magoffin county 64-60 despite trailing by four midway through the final quarter. Paintsville then traveled to Raceland for the Derby Classic. They opened with a blow-out of Anderson County 77-52 then followed with nail-biter against Morgan County 64-62 in a game won with late FT’s. In the championship game against Allen County-Scottsville, Paintsville was down two with 1.1s to play when freshman Colby Fugate caught a sideline inbounds pass and nailed a 25 footer at the buzzer for the win. It was Fugate’s second buzzer beater in the last five games as he hit one to defeat North Laurel down one in week three. In week five, the Tigers play in the Mountain School Boy Classic at Belfry for one game against Hart County. 5. (-) Lawrence County (7-4) – The Bulldogs are not in the top four of the region, but on a given night could knock off any of them as they are athletic, long and play very fast. Lawrence County puts five players on the floor that are all capable of scoring 20 points in a game and are well coached. In week four, the Bulldogs went 1-1 with their second consecutive loss to Johnson Central (55-74) and a win against East Carter (67-50). In week five, Lawrence will host Cross Lanes Christian, WV. People should not sleep on this team as right now they are the top sleeper in the region. 6. (Up 2) Phelps (3-2) – The Hornets did not play in week four and move up two spots as Sheldon Clark and Belfry went a combined 1-6 to fall below them. Phelps is back in action at the Mountain School Boy Classic at Belfry with Magoffin County and Shelby Valley. They also have Twin Valley, VA on the road in week five. 7. (Down 1) Sheldon Clark (3-6) – The Cardinals made their way to Las Vegas this week for the Tarkanian Classic. They were able to pick up a win in their opening game by defeating Valley, NV 55-44, but then lost their next three contest by a 20, 23 and 25 points respectively. We don’t know much about the quality of competition, but it seemed Sheldon Clark was less than competitive in their last three games. The region’s top prospect Trey James held his own and was a lone bright spot for a team that is still breaking in four new starters. The Cardinals are off in week five before returning to action in the new year. 8. (Up 1) Prestonsburg (5-4) – The Blackcats went 1-2 in week four against very good competition. They played Shelby Valley, the region’s top team, very close before falling 48-55 then defeated East Ridge 53-43. Prestonsburg closed out the Hi-Tech Signs and Graphix Holiday Classic with a loss against Perry Central 42-62. This team is still leading the 58th district and will likely be in the regional tournament if they keep progressing. In week five, Prestonsburg will travel to Williamstown for their Holiday Tournament. They open with Thomas Nelson in a very winnable game. 9. (Up 2) Magoffin County (5-5) – Magoffin County, along with Phelps, makes the biggest jump this week, moving two places up the rankings. The Hornets seem to be finding their stride and went 1-1 in week four with a three-point win at home over Pike Central (58-55) and a narrow loss on the road in 57th District action to Paintsville 60-64 in a game they led midway through the 4th. Magoffin travels to Belfry in week five for the Mountain School Boy Classic as where they will face Phelps and East Ridge. It would be a great victory if the Hornets can finish 2018 above .500 after starting the season 0-3. 10. (-) Pike Central (7-4) – Pike Central went 2-2 in week four with wins over Union, VA and June Buchanan and losses to Magoffin County and Johnson Central. In the Johnson Central game, the Hawks were only able to put up 24 points (no FG after six-minute mark of second quarter). This team has seven wins, but the schedule is suspect as they have not been close to the top teams in the region. Their best win in currently Prestonsburg. In week five, Pike Central will travel to Pigeon Forge to compete in the King of the Smokies Tournament. 11. (Down 4) Belfry (1-6) – Belfry takes the biggest fall this week, dropping four spots as they are trending sharply downward. After opening the season with a home win, the Pirates have dropped six in a row, including some losses to very weak competition. In week four they lost to Model, Sayre and Harlan Independent, failing to reach the 60-point plateau in any game. They will return home and hopefully pick up a win in week five as they host East Ridge, Bourbon County and Morgan County in the Mountain School Boy Classic. East Ridge is the only game they will be favored in. 12. (Up 1) Betsy Layne (5-3) – The Bobcats won their only game in week four by knocking off Floyd Central at home 47-41. The win moved Betsy Layne to 1-0 in 58th District play. They will play Morgan County, Hart County and East Ridge at Belfry in Mountain School Boy Classic in week five. 13. (Up 1) East Ridge (4-4) – Head Coach Randy McCoy is feeling better and is kind of back on the sidelines as he observes and gives insight close to the bench, recovering from open heart surgery. Seeing their coach might have sparked the Warriors as they went 2-1 in week four, avenging a 16-point loss to Grundy, VA at home with a 20-point win on the road (85-65). East Ridge also defeated Hurley, VA (63-44) before falling to Prestonsburg (43-53). This team is very young and couple years away from being at the top of the region, but can give any teams fits if they are hot. 14. (Down 2) Floyd Central (2-10) – Since an opening win, Floyd Central has dropped ten of their last eleven games, only defeating Piarist in that stretch. The controversy surrounding Head Coach Kevin Spurlock and the eight players that quit a few weeks ago has a left a dark cloud over the program. This was evident as the Jaguars lost to winless Nelson County at home (52-57) and then suffered a 52-point beat down (29-81) to First Love Christian Academy, PA. Not only has Floyd Central been unable to win games, they are also not very competitive in their losses. With the latest loss, the program is now under .500 (21-22) for the first time in their young history. Hopefully they can buck this trend in week five as they travel to the Cumberland Falls Invitational at Corbin for more tough competition, but the outlook is not bright. 15. (-) Jenkins (1-9) – The Cavaliers are on a one game win streak for the first time in the better part of three seasons. Jenkins picked up their first win since the 2016-2017 season when they defeated June Buchanan in the play-in game of the 53rd district tournament by knocking off Jackson City 72-69. Jenkins has no games scheduled in week five 16. (-) Piarist (0-7) – The Knights did not play a game in week four and have no games scheduled for week five. Agree or Disagree?

Final for Hi-Tech Graphix Holiday Classic at Prestonsburg. KHSAA Scoreboard is backward. Cory VanHoose of Johnson Central with 28 points - Isaiah May with 21 points Perry Central was led by Camron Turner with 34 points - Noah Caudill had 17 and 10 rebounds. JC plays Cordia tomorrow Perry Central plays Shelby Valley

Overview: Shelby Valley is steam-rolling all competition, Johnson Central brings home the first Holiday Tournament to the region, Paintsville picks up a controversial win at the buzzer and Pikeville finally opens the season in the week three. Listed below is the updated rankings for the 15th Region Rankings (overall record): 1. (Up 3) Shelby Valley (5-0) – Shelby Valley is laying waste to everyone in their path and rise to the top spot this week. In fact, their closest game being a 19-point win on the road. Week three saw them knock off the top team in the 15th region in Johnson Central 80-61 and then dismantle the top team in the 14th region in Knott Central 87-57. The Wildcats play very hard and are well coached. With stars like Cody Potter (25 points 16 rebounds vs. Johnson Central) and Cameron Worrix (averaging 16 ppg) leading them way, this team is showing why they are one of the top overall teams in the mountains. In week four Shelby Valley will play in the Hi-Tech signs and graphix holiday classic at Prestonsburg where they will face Prestonsburg, Perry Central and Cordia. 2. (Down 1) Johnson Central (3-1) – The Golden Eagles drop from the top spot after losing at home to Shelby Valley (61-80) to open week three. Johnson Central bounced back by winning the Rebel Classic at Tolsia, WV with wins over Huntington High, WV 80-72 in OT (trailed by 16 with 6:40 in 4th) and Lawrence County 87-56 (Championship game). In the classic, standout sophomore Isaiah May was named tournament MVP as he had 22 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 1 dunk in the championship. Cory VanHoose and John King were also named all-tournament from JC. In week four, the Golden Eagles will face Lawrence County again, but on the road this time, followed by three games in the Hi-Tech signs and grahix holiday classic at Prestonsburg. In that event they will face Perry Central, Cordia and Pike Central. 3. (Down 1) Pikeville (2-1) – The Panthers opened the season with a district win on the road over Jenkins 88-40 (Connor Roberts 21 points). That was followed by the longest running tournament in the state in the Pikeville Invitational where Pikeville would drop their opening game to Louisville Central 54-74. The Panthers would finish the week strong with a consolation win the P.I.T. over Covington Holmes 89-62. In week four, Pikeville will host Harlan Independent before traveling to the Smokey Mountain Classic in Gatlinburg over the weekend. 4. (Down 1) Paintsville (4-2) – Paintsville posted a perfect 3-0 record in week three with wins over Powell County (86-55), Sheldon Clark on the road in 57th district action (55-51) and North Laurel (77-76) on a controversial buzzer beater. Freshman Colby Fugate is leading the Tigers in scoring this season and continues to impress. In the North Laurel game, however, this mid-range jump shot appeared to be after the horn (per Paintsville radio announcer and social media video), but was counted nonetheless. Paintsville is young and extremely talented, but appear to be working out some internal issues. Junior standout Seth Williams seems to be assessed technical fouls every game, and some players are on the bench one night and gone the next. Once the rotations are established and roles defined, look for Paintsville to put a much more consistent product on the floor. Improving an already very good one. Week four will see Paintsville host another 57th district foe in Magoffin County before traveling to Raceland for the Derby Classic where they open with Anderson County. 5. (Up 2) Lawrence County (6-3) – The Bulldogs went 3-1 in week three with wins over Belfry, Lewis County on the road, and Tolsia, WV on the road and a loss the Rebel Classic Championship to Johnson Central (56-87). In the Johnson Central game freshman Cody Maynard scored the first five points of the game, but injured his wrist and did not play the entire second half. Cody scored a career high 30 points in the previous game versus Tolsia, WV. Week four will see Lawrence County again play Johnson Central (home) before hosting East Carter. 6. (-) Sheldon Clark (2-3) – The Cardinals lost both games in week three. The first was an extremely close contest at home versus Paintsville 51-55 in which they fell behind 11-0 to start. The region’s top prospect, Trey James, was impressive in the win with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Sheldon Clark had a chance late to win the game, but an untimely turnover and missed 3FG is how the game would ultimately end. Following the Paintsville game, SC would travel to Perry Central where they would fall 47-74. Week four will see the Cardinals head to Las Vegas for the Tarkanian Classic where they have four games scheduled. 7. (Down 2) Belfry (1-3) – The Pirates were 0-3 in week three with losses to Knox Central, Letcher Central and Lawrence County and all by double digits. The Pirates need to find to find a consistent second scorer behind Dezmon Roblee. In week four Belfry will participate in the Sayre School Classic where they will face Model, Sayre and Harlan Independent. Hopefully the three game losing streak will not continue. 8. (Up 1) Phelps (3-2) – The Hornets lost their only contest in week three in form of an overtime defeat to Morgan County at home 52-53. Trey Francis continues to shine as he surpassed the 1,500-point mark for his career. Phelps has no games scheduled for week four and will be back in action after Christmas. 9. (Up 2) Prestonsburg (4-2) – Prestonsburg has won three in a row and four of their last five to include going 2-0 in week three. Wins over Magoffin County (50-43) and Floyd Central (56-40) have the Black Cats 2-0 in 58th district play and above .500 this far into December for the first time in a long time. Brent Rose has his boys playing together and growing as a team. The schedule gets much tougher in week four as Shelby Valley, East Ridge and Perry Central come to town for the Hi-Tech signs and graphix holiday classic. They will be heavy underdogs in all games expect East Ridge. 10. (-) Pike Central (5-2) – The Hawks were 2-0 in week three with wins over Mountain Mission, VA and Buckhorn both at home in the Buffalo Wild Wings Shootout. Pike Central is struggling with pressure early in the season, but continues to win against a weak schedule. In week four they have Magoffin County, Jenkins, June Buchanan and Johnson Central. Expect at least two wins. 11. (Up 2) Magoffin County (4-4) – After and 0-3 start to the season, Magoffin has won four of their last five to include going 2-1 in week three, pulling their record back to .500. This past week the Hornets lost to Prestonsburg, then defeated both June Buchanan and Letcher Central by double digits. Senior Brady Whitaker is leading the region is scoring at nearly 28 per game, and the rest of the team seems to be falling into their rolls. Magoffin will look to keep it rolling in week four as they have Pike Central at home and then 57th district foe Paintsville on the road. 12. (Down 4) Floyd Central (2-6) – Floyd Central has lost six of their last seven with the only win coming in the form of a 79-35 final over Piarist (late addition to schedule). In week three, the Jaguars went 1-2 with the aforementioned win and losses to Prestonsburg (40-56) on the road and Hazard (45-64) in the Buffalo Wild Wings shootout at Pike Central. Kevin Spurlock returned to the sidelines after serving his suspension, but the fallout from the previous weeks has Floyd Central at the bottom of the region. Perhaps a voluntary team building “movie night” will help this weekend as the Jags have nowhere to go but up (per Coach Spurlock’s twitter). In week four they will face Betsy Layne in a very important 58th seeded game, then Nelson County, Christian County and First Love Christian Academy, PA in the Pop’s Chevy Classic at Floyd Central. One bright spot is junior Ethan Smith-Mills has been consistently putting up 20 point nights during this tough stretch. 13. (Up 1) Betsy Layne (4-3) – Betsy Layne picked up wins over Piarist and East Ridge in week three. The Bobcats host Floyd Central in a huge 58th District seeded game in their only contest this week. 14. (Down 2) East Ridge (2-3) – The Warriors went 1-1 in week three with a home loss the Betsy Layne 73-77 and a district win over Jenkins 75-54. Taylor Kane and Cameron Hess continue to lead East Ridge as the team scoring has increased this season compared to those in recent past. Week four will have East Ridge face Hurley, VA, Grundy, VA and then Prestonsburg in Hi-Tech holiday classic. 15. (-) Jenkins (0-9) – Another 0-3 week for the Cavaliers. They host Pike Central and Jackson City in week four and will not play in any holiday tournaments after that. They will get at least one win this season as they play Piarist after the new year. 16. (-) Piarist (0-7) – The Knights were 0-2 in week three and will not play again until January as they have no holiday tournament’s scheduled. Agree or Disagree?

5-Male 3-Boyd 3-Paintsville 1-Henry Clay 1-Walton Verona 1-Cooper 1-Paducah Tilghman 1-Barren County 1-Knott County Central 1-Wayne County TB-154

Overview: Controversy dominated the headlines in week two of the 15th Region as allegations flooded out of Floyd Central. Despite the negativity, some basketball was played and student athletes showcased their skills across the mountains. Week two rankings and team recaps are as follows: Rankings (overall record): 1. (-) Johnson Central (1-0) – The Golden Eagles were idle in week two. Week three will see them host Shelby Valley before traveling to Tolsia, WV for the Rebel Classic. While at Tolsia, JC will face Huntington, WV in the opening round of the tournament and are guaranteed two games. Johnson Central also welcomes back key football players to the roster this week, adding size and depth to an already talented team. 2. (-) Pikeville (0-0) – The Panthers are the last 15th Region team to open the season as they have been waiting for most of their starters to get back from football. Week three will see them travel to district foe Jenkins then open play with Louisville Central in the Pikeville Invitational Tournament. 3. (-) Paintsville (1-2) – The Tigers went 1-1 in week two with both games being in the WYMT tournament. In the opening round, Paintsville fell just short to Knox Central by a final of 77-78 (Williams 26 points, Fugate 21 points) despite having a shot inside 15 feet to win. In the consolation game, Paintsville picked up their first win by defeating Harlan County 66-63 with standout Seth Williams only scoring 4 points. In the Harlan County game, freshman Colby Fugate again electrified, hitting five 3FG’s and scoring a game high 21 points. This team is very talented and still working on substitution patterns and late game scenarios. The tough schedule they have played thus far will only benefit their team maturity late. Although it is early, Colby Fugate is establishing himself as not only a team leader, but one of the best players in the region. Paintsville will host Powell County, open district play with Sheldon Clark on the road, and play North Laurel in week three. They should be favored in every game. 4. (-) Shelby Valley (3-0) – The Wildcats picked up two more blowout wins in week two in the form of a 70-37 win at home over Betsy Layne and an 87-57 win on the road versus Pike Central. All three of Shelby Valley’s wins have been by 30 or more points against less than stellar competition. Nonetheless, junior prospect Cody Potter has continued to shine alongside senior playmaker Cameron Worrix. These two are excellent players that are surrounded by quality role players. Shelby Valley plays hard and goes very deep in their rotations. The schedule gets much tougher in week three as the Wildcats travel to Johnson Central then play Knott Central (@Pike Central) in the Buffalo Wild Wings Shootout. We will know much more about Shelby Valley after this week. 5. (Up 1) Belfry (1-0) – The Pirates opened the season with a quality win at home over Wayne, WV 72-61. Belfry was led in scoring by Dezmon Roblee (23) and also saw newcomer Devin Browning hit double figures (15). This team plays hard, but may take some time to find its identity after losing so many seniors from last year’s squad. Week three will see the Pirates on the road against Lawrence County, Knox Central and Letcher Central. It will be a challenging week to say the least. 6. (Up 1) Sheldon Clark (2-1) – The Cardinals defeated Betsy Layne at home in week two by a final of 48-44 in what was a surprisingly close contest. Trey James and Braxton Maynard paced the Cardinals in double figures (13 points and 12 points respectively). James was also very close to a triple-double, posting 9 rebounds and 9 blocks in the game. The schedule gets extremely difficult in week three as Sheldon Clark hosts Paintsville and then travels to Perry Central. 7. (Up 1) Lawrence County (3-2) – The Bulldogs went 2-1 this week with double digit wins at home over Phelps and Magoffin County and a huge 58th district loss on the road at Prestonsburg. Maynard continues to lead LC and they will have another full slate of games in week three as they face Belfry, Lewis County, Tolsia, WV and a TBA in the Rebel Classic (also at Tolsia). Lawrence is a fun team to watch as they play fast and shoot a lot of triples. 8. (Down 3) Floyd Central (1-4) – The entire basketball community has undoubtedly heard the allegations coming out of Floyd Central with respect to Head Coach Kevin Spurlock. What we know is that several players have quit, the school suspended the coach and the team has lost four games in a row to include two this week in the WYMT classic. The Jaguars were blown out by Clay County 43-66 and again by Bell County 44-73 in the consolation game. Floyd Central will host Piarist, travel to Prestonsburg and face Hazard at Pike Central in week three. Coach Spurlock has stated he will return to the sidelines for the Hazard game so we will see what happens. In the meantime, the Prestonsburg game has huge 58th district seed implications as the Black cats are already 1-0 in seeded games. Hopefully Floyd Central can get things together and move forward as the season progresses. 9. (Up 1) Phelps (3-1) – The Hornets went 1-1 in week two with a home win over Prestonsburg and a loss on the road to Lawrence County. This could be the year they make it back to the regional tournament as there is no clear cut favorite in the 60th district and they have the best player in Trey Francis. The Hornets have a tough home test in week three as Morgan County comes to the fieldhouse. 10. (Up 1) Pike Central (3-2) – Pike Central went 2-1 in week two with easy wins over East Ridge and Jenkins and a 30-point loss to Shelby Valley at home in a game that was not very competitive. The Hawks are young and still establishing their identity. They have a tendency to play extremely well in stretches and then equally poorly the next few minutes. Betsy Layne, Mountain Mission, VA and Buckhorn is on the slate in week three. You should expect at least two more wins. 11. (Up 1) Prestonsburg (2-2) – Prestonsburg picked up a huge 58th District win in week two as they knocked off Lawrence County at home 74-67. They also dropped a road game to Phelps 40-52. Magoffin County at home and a huge district game against a reeling Floyd Central make week three extremely important for new Head Coach Brent Rose. It will be interesting to see how this young team continues to develop. 12. (Down 3) East Ridge (1-2) – The Warriors went 0-2 in week two as they still await the return of Head Coach Randy McCoy (open heart surgery). Losses to Grundy, VA (16 points) and Pike Central (20 points) are bad losses to say the least, but the great thing about basketball is you get to play a lot of games. Week three will see four of the easiest games possible as East Ridge will play Piarist, Jenkins, Betsy Layne and Hurley, VA. They should be favored in every game. 13. (-) Magoffin County (2-3) – The Hornets went 2-1 in week two with wins over Jenkins and Robertson County and a loss to Lawrence County. Prestonsburg, June Buchanan and Letcher Central are on the docket for week three as Magoffin County will look to build on their current two game winning streak. So far this season, this team has under achieved as they continue to shoot a very low percentage from the field. 14. (-) Betsy Layne (2-3) – Despite easy scheduling, the Bobcats are below .500 after an 0-2 week. A blowout loss to Shelby Valley 37-70 followed by an extremely competitive loss to Sheldon Clark 44-48 is how Betsy Layne closed out this week. More wins could be on the horizon as Betsy Layne will have East Ridge, Pike Central and Piarist in week three. They will get at least one win. 15. (-) Jenkins (0-6) – Week two saw Jenkins got 0-3 with their closest game being a 35-point loss. Week three will see them play Pikeville, East Ridge and Letcher Central. Expect three more losses. In fact, Jenkins won’t be favored in a game until they play Piarist in February. 16. (-) Piarist (0-5) – The Knights went 0-3 in week two as they continue a season in which they will play no home games (building gym). They were more competitive with Lee County (lost by 20) and Cordia (lost 63-67: Cordia played middle school/freshman aged players). Do not expect another remotely close game until mid-January. Agree or Disagree?

5-Bowling Green 3-George Rogers Clark 3-Lafayette 1-Dunbar 1-Letcher County Central 1-Morgan County 1-Campbell County 1-Valley 1-Christian County 1-Clinton County TB-140

Overview: The 15th Region saw one of their top teams push one of the best in the 16th to double overtime, a few teams stumble and some early surprises after one week of play. This will be a fun, competitive region to follow throughout the year. Updated rankings are as follows. Rankings (overall record): 1. (-) Johnson Central (1-0) - The Golden Eagles opened the season strong with a dominating win over Jackson County at home by a final of 81-52. Never trailing in the game, JC put four players in double figures led by Cory VanHoose who posted 21 points and 12 rebounds. Isaiah May (15 points 6 rebound 5 assists) Jacob Rice (12 points 8 assists 4 steals and 6 rebounds) and Gabe Ferrell (13 points 6 rebounds 2 blocks 1 assist) had strong performances as well. JC returns four starters that averaged double figures last season in the aforementioned players and will only get better this week and several key players from football return. In week two the Golden Eagles will be idle as they have no games scheduled. 2. (-) Pikeville (0-0) - The Panthers have yet to open the season and are scheduled to be idle until week three. Most of their key players are still returning from football and will take some time rounding into basketball form. 3. (-) Paintsville (0-1) - The Tigers opened the season on the road versus the top team in the 16th region in Elliott County. Paintsville gave them all they wanted before falling 93-96 in double overtime. With multiple chances to win in regulation and the first extra frame, the Tigers fell just short despite getting big games from freshman Colby Fugate (26 points) and junior Seth Williams (26 points). Freshman transfer Brady Dingess posted 8 points (3/5 FG) 2 rebounds 4 turnovers 0 assists and 0 steals before fouling out. This Paintsville team is very good, play very fast and if will be difficult for anyone in the 15th region to beat. Paintsville will be in the WYMT Mountain Classic this week as they open with Knox Central on Tuesday. 4. (-) Shelby Valley (1-0) - The Wildcats began the season with 59th District play against Jenkins and saw 13 players hit the scoring column in an 81-32 home win. The running clock came early as the stars sit most of the game, but Valley did see Samuel Stanley (18), Cody Potter (13) and Cameron Worrix (11) hit double figures. Valley is deep and like the teams above them, play very hard. Look for two more lop sided wins in week two as the Wildcats host Betsy Layne and then travel to Pike Central. 5. (-) Floyd Central (1-2) - The Jaguars opened the season at home with a 60-42 win over Magoffin County. The game was close until the fourth quarter when Ethan Smith-Mills put the Hornets away for good, leading the game with 26 points on 9/21 shooting. Floyd Central star Brady Conn played in the first half, but did not return for the second half and it is still unclear whether it was an injury, coaches decision, etc. The Jaguars would finish out week one with two losses on the road. They were defeated by Perry Central 54-73 and Fleming County 41-53 (no stats available for either game). Week two will see the Jaguars play in the WYMT Classic back at Perry Central as they take on Clay County in the opening round. It will be the second school Floyd Central Head Coach Kevin Spurlock has faced this season where he once coached (Perry Central). 6. (-) Belfry (0-0) - Like a few other teams in the region, Belfry has yet to open the season. They will host Wayne, WV at home in week two. 7. (Up 3) Sheldon Clark (1-1) – Sheldon Clark makes the biggest jump this week as they opened strong with a 61-49 win over Mercer County in the Nissan Classic at North Laurel. Top Prospect Trey James was named player of the game, notching 21 points. The Cardinals would follow up the win with a loss in their home opener to 16th region power Boyd County by a final of 68-83. James again continued his excellent play with 26 points and 13 rebounds and the Cardinals also got a career high from sophomore guard Jordan Dalton (20 points). This game was closer than the final indicates as the Cardinals were down only six going into halftime. The Cardinals have Betsy Layne at home on Thursday. The last time these two met it came down to a buzzer beater by Ethan Colegrove, but don’t expect this contest to be as close. 8. (-) Lawrence County (1-1) – The Bulldogs were on the road for their first two contests of the season in the form of a 53-60 loss at Morgan County and a 91-70 win over Jenkins. The fast play continues for Coach York and his squad as this team really likes to get up and down the floor. Week two will see a home game versus Magoffin County on Tuesday, a road game versus Prestonsburg on Friday and a home game versus Phelps on Saturday. Lawrence County will be favored in all three games. 9. (Up 2) East Ridge (1-0) – The Warriors jump up two spots this week with an impressive win at home versus Magoffin County by a final of 70-51. Head Coach Randy McCoy is recovering from open heart surgery and still not able to be with the team, but they are running his system in his absence. With strong showings in their scrimmages, East Ridge seems to be a little better than most suspected early in the season. In week two the Warriors will be on the road at Pike Central in their only contest. 10. (Up 2) Phelps (2-0) – Led by Trey Francis, Phelps has a much improved team this year as indicated by an undefeated opening week. In wins over Hurley, VA (81-44) and Twin Valley, VA (53-51), the Hornets showed they could play both a fast pace game and controlled, slow game. In the Hurley, VA game Francis had a nice two handed dunk on a breakaway. The competition will pick up in week two as Phelps hosts Prestonsburg and travels to Lawrence County. 11. (Up 2) Pike Central (1-1) – The Hawks defeated Prestonsburg in their home opener 54-47 and fell to Leslie County on the road 49-66 in week one. After setting the school record for wins in a season last year, its full rebuild mode for Coach Whitaker and his staff. Jenkins, East Ridge and Shelby Valley are on the slate for a week three home stretch as Pike Central hopes to remain above .500. 12. (Down 4) Prestonsburg (1-1) – New Head Coach Brent Rose opened his first week with Prestonsburg win a loss on the road to Pike Central 47-54 and a win on the road at Leslie County 61-35. This team is looking to build off a regional tournament run last season and has the personnel to do it. In week two, Prestonsburg will travel to Phelps before having their home opener against Lawrence County. The latter of those two games could have major 58th district seeding implications come tournament time and should be a great atmosphere. 13. (Down 7) Magoffin County (0-2) – The Hornets took the biggest fall in week one, dropping seven spots after blow out losses to Floyd Central (42-60) and East Ridge (51-70) on the road. Coming off a surprising summer run, these Hornets are staggering out of the gate. Scoring machine Brady Whitaker has yet to find his groove although he has been in double figures both games. Magoffin has Lawrence County on the road, hosts Jenkins in their home opener, and travels to Robertson County to play Augusta in the Robertson County Adidas Classic in week two. They will be looking to pick up more than one win this week. 14. (-) Betsy Layne (2-1) – Brad Short is back on the sidelines after sitting out of coaching last season (former Allen Central Head Coach). Despite losing one of his best players to transfer (Byron Hammond - Pikeville) was able to schedule easy and pick up two wins in week one by defeating Jenkins 74-40 and June Buchanan 62-45 (both on the road). The loss was to Buckhorn 36-48 (also on the road). Betsy Layne completes their five game road show to open the season in week two as they travel to Sheldon Clark and Shelby Valley. They will be big underdogs in both games. 15. (-) Jenkins (0-3) – The Cavaliers lost 40-74 at home versus Betsy Layne, 32-81 on the road versus Shelby Valley and 70-91 at home versus Lawrence County in week one. Jenkins last win came February 20th, 2017 versus June Buchanan (winless last season) but they will not go winless this season as they have Piarist on their schedule. Jenkins has Pike Central, Magoffin County and Barbourville all on the road in week two. 16. (-) Piarist (0-2) - The Knights opened the season with two losses on the on the road to June Buchanan (24-59) and Breathitt County (29-86). Expect them to be on the list of “teams in the state without a win” late into the season. Agree or Disagree?

Pendleton County star and UK Signee Dontaie Allen is off to fast start scoring this season with back-to-back 50 plus points games. This made me wonder where he was with respect to the all-time scoring list in KHSAA boys basketball history. Allen has averaged double figures every year since his 8th grade season and scored over 1,000 points last season alone. Counting his two contest this season, Allen currently has 2,802 career points (per khsaa website). The all-time record is held by Wayland's "King" Kelly Coleman at 4,337 points. If Allen plays 28 more regular season games and one guaranteed post season game (29 total), maintaining his current average of 53.5, he will score 1,551 points this season. Add that to his career total and he will have 4,353 career points. My question for BGP is two fold: 1. It is reasonable to think Dontaie Allen can maintain his current scoring average and break Coleman's scoring record? -if not 2. Its is reasonable to think Allen can average 41.3 ppg this season and become only the second player in khsaa history to score 4,000 career points?

10-Central 7-CAL 5-Beechwood 3-Johnson Central 2-Covington Catholic 1-Scott County Tb-56

5-Scott County 3-Ashland 3-George Roger's Clark 1-Madison Central 1-Cooper 1-Knott Central 1-Owensboro Catholic 1-McCracken County 1-Glasgow 1-Marion County TB-160

2018-2019 15th Region Preview 15th Region Overview (57th and 59th Districts Pace Top Loaded Region): Johnson Central, Pikeville, Paintsville and Shelby Valley pace a top loaded 15th Region this season. The Panthers are coming off back-to-back state tournament appearances and led by a trio of experienced seniors while Johnson Central looks to extend their record and make it back to the regional title game for the eighth straight year. Paintsville and Shelby Valley are deep and experienced as they try to take the next step in tournament progression. One of the aforementioned four teams will likely represent Region 15 at Rupp Arena, but there is a large pack in the next tier that could upset any of them on a given night. It’s basketball time in the mountains and should be another exciting campaign. Let’s see how our preseason rankings shake out! 15th Region – Team Rankings (Last Season’s Record) 1. Johnson Central (19-15): The Golden Eagles have advanced to seven straight 15th Region Championship games (winning four of them) and are looking to get back to Rupp Arena again this season. JC is also one of the few teams in the state that can boast four returning starters that all averaged in double figures the previous year. A stellar summer produced a 22-2 record and a Gold Bracket KBA Championship, generating high hopes for this year’s squad. Johnson Central will be led by a plethora of talented players with senior guard Jacob Rice at the tip of the spear. Rice is a five-year varsity member and four-year starter who will likely break the school’s all-time assist record and push the 2,000-point plateau. Rice is not the only record breaker on the team, however, as super sophomore Isaiah May holds the school record for most points as eighth grader and most points as a freshman. May is a do-it-all talent that can guard the post or run the point. He has range to twenty-five feet and plays well above the rim (14 in-game dunks this past summer) and should easily become the school’s first 1,000-point scorer as sophomore. May showcased his skill set last season in the regional semifinal versus Belfry scoring a tournament high 32 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. May and Rice give Johnson Central two bonafide stars that can dribble, pass and shoot under pressure, but that’s not all they have. Sophomore guard Cory VanHoose had statistically the second greatest freshman season in school history last year (Isaiah May had the greatest) and has a knack for being able to score the ball. VanHoose is extremely strong and an above average leaper, which allows him to play much bigger than he is. If teams key on Rice and May, VanHoose can carry to scoring load for the Golden Eagles. Shooting and playmaking are always key on a great team and JC has that covered as well. Senior EKU baseball signee Gabe Ferrell is a high percentage three-point shooter with multiple twenty plus point games under his belt. This two-year starter plays very hard and more physical than opponents think despite his slender build. Ferrell is an excellent floor spacer around May, Rice and VanHoose. Breakout player Bryson Hackney will also be key for the Johnson Central. The sophomore point guard is extremely quick with the ball and probably the best all-around athlete in the school (has played seven varsity sports at Johnson Central and been named all-area in three of them entering his sophomore campaign). Hackney, can shoot, pass and plays above the rim having his first in-game dunk last season in a JV contest, but that is not his best quality. Hackney prefers to create for others rather than score. His idea of a perfect possession is drawing two defenders and dropping the ball off to a teammate for an easy bucket. Johnson Central sophomore standout Isaiah May hits the go ahead 3FG late in the 57th District Championship versus cross-town rival Paintsville last season. This iconic shot lifted JC to a title and showcased the big play ability May has. (Photo Credit: Todd Conley – Ashland Daily Independent) Johnson Central has a starting five that will be extremely difficult to guard in the 15th Region, but their bench is also deep and talented. Look for senior Braxton Bentley to bring a lot of heart and energy to the game and big men Zach Russell and Tate Cantrall to provide size and stregth down low. New comers Brett Caudill, Toby Spriggs, Dawson Burton and John King will also play big roles as they could see significant minutes this season. The Golden Eagles will play fast, generating a hectic pace in hopes of wearing down opponents over the course of the game. Look for multiple full court press’s and a break neck sideline fast break on change of possession. They are the team to beat as of now. Sophomore guard Cory VanHoose (left) demonstrates an uncanny ability to score in the open court. Senior leader Jacob Rice (right) will guide the Golden Eagles during what is expected to be a highly success season. (Photo Credit: Todd Conley – Ashland Daily Independent &Teddy Paynter EKB Sports) Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Tommy McKenzie Head Coach Career Record: 228-122 (0.6514) (Entering 12th Season at JC) Enrollment: 1,078 Mascot: Golden Eagle Colors: Black and Gold Founded: 1968 (Consolidation of Flat Gap, Oil Spring, Van Lear, and Meade Memorial) District: 57th All Time Record: 865-598 (0.5913) Regional Titles: (9) 1972, 1975, 1984, 2000, 2006, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (115-52) vs. 15th Region (76-21) 2017-18 19-15 (Lost Regional Championship) 2016-17 27-7 (Lost Regional Championship) 2015-16 20-13 (Lost Regional Championship) 2014-15 23-10 (Won Region) 2013-14 26-7 (Won Region / Elite 8) Key Losses: None Key Returning: Jacob Rice Sr. 5’11” (17.3 ppg 3.7 rpg), Isaiah May So. 6’3’’ (15.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg), Gabe Ferrell Sr. 6’3’’ (11.5 ppg, 4.4 rpg) Cory VanHoose So. 5’11’’ (12.3 ppg, 3.5 rpg), Bryson Hackney So. 6’3’’ (2.9 ppg, 2.7 rpg), Braxton Bentley Sr. 6’1’’ (3.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Dawson Burton Jr. 6’6’’ (0.8 ppg, 1.2 rpg) John King So. 6’0’’ (1.1 ppg, 0.6 rpg) 2. Pikeville (25-10): The Pikeville Panthers are the current two time defending 15th Region Champions and have a great chance of making it three in a row. Head Coach Elisha Justice returns three senior starters from an Elite 8 team in guards Conner Roberts and Kyle Watkins and forward Christian Billiter. Roberts is one of the best all-around athletes in the mountains (QB of football team) and one of the best basketball players in the area. He will run the show at point, with the ability to score from anywhere on the floor. In late game situations, Roberts will have the ball in his hands, making the key decisions for the Panthers. Kyle Watkins is a solid guard that will provide tough defense, rebounding, ball-handling and scoring when needed. He has been backcourt running mates with Roberts for the past two seasons, providing a potent one-two punch for the Panthers. Christian Billiter is a physical forward that has the ability to shoot from deep or play above the rim on drives to the basket. Providing defense in the post and rebounding, Billiter is tough to check on both sides of the ball. Pikeville forward Christian Billiter celebrates a 59th District Championship over rival Shelby Valley last season. Pikeville is one of the favorites to win the 15th Region this season. (Photo Credit: Cory Vance Appalachian News Express) Pikeville is a strong, physical team top to bottom. The Panthers not only have Roberts, Watkins and Billiter as muscular, well-built players, but they picked up big man Byron Hammond from Betsy Layne (transfer) and have seen steady improvement by 6’7’’ junior Connor Byers (multiple in-game dunks this summer). Look for them to play a controlled style where they give opponents very few second chances, controlling the game in the half-court. In other words, they will reduce the amount of possessions opponents are accustomed to with strong sagging defense, outstanding rebounding and limited live ball turnovers on offense. Much like last season, this team will not beat its self. This is not to say, however, that Pikeville can’t run with teams and put up points as they can. Pikeville will be very difficult for anyone beat in the post season with their style as it is much easier to slow a game down rather than speed one up, but they can also beat you in a shootout if needed. Expect a lot of wins and stellar game plans from this club. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Elisha Justice Head Coach Career Record: 80-39 (0.6723) (Entering 3rd Season with Pikeville: 5th Overall) (32-20 while coaching June Buchanan [2015-2016] and 58-19 while coaching Pikeville [2017-present]) Enrollment: 327 Mascot: Panther Colors: Maroon and White Founded: 1915 District: 59th All Time Record: 1620-1098-1 (0.5958) (Tie occurred in 1916: No overtime rule) Regional Titles: (11) 1949, 1950, 1952, 1953, 1955, 1957, 1959, 1974, 1999, 2017, 2018 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (93-66) vs. 15th Region (70-38) 2017-18 25-10 (Won Region / Elite 8) 2016-17 23-9 (Won Region) 2015-16 17-16 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2014-15 17-13 (Lost 59th District) 2013-14 11-18 (Lost 59th District) Key Losses: Wyatt Battaile 6’3’’ (24.1 ppg 8.6 rpg – UofL), Cade Byers (5.9 ppg, 5.7 rpg), Evan Rhodes (7.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg) Key Returning: Connor Roberts Sr. 5’11’’ (13.9 ppg 3.6 rpg) Kyle Watkins Sr. 5’11’’ (6.4 ppg, 2.2 rpg), Christian Billiter Sr. 6’3’’ (4.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Connor Byers Jr. 6’7’’ (1.8 ppg, 1.1 rpg), Byron Hammond Sr. 6’5’’ (Transfer from Betsy Layne – 11.5 ppg, 9.2 rpg) 3. Paintsville (20-10): The Tigers lost their leading scorer and arguably their best all-around player to transfer in 6’5’’ Mason Moore (Rowan County) but still have a stable of young talent in juniors Seth Williams and Nick Keeton and freshman Colby Fugate. Despite the current senior class having a losing record (36-47 in three years), Paintsville may have turned the corner last season, picking up 20 wins and advancing to the regional tournament for the first time since the 2008-2009 season. This team will be led by multi-sport star Seth Williams who has a knack for taking and making big shots. Williams is a strong, physical guard, that will play mostly off the ball with Sheldon Clark transfer Brady Dingess running the point guard. Nick Keeton will provide stellar post play for the Tigers and should post a double-double average from the front-court. Freshman Colby Fugate will look to have a break out season and replace the scoring vacated by Mason Moore. Fugate has big time potential that was beginning to take form in the regional tournament last season before being derailed by an ankle injury. Paintsville junior Seth Williams will lead the Tigers on the hardwood as they look to take the next step toward Rupp Arena. Paintsville advanced to the regional tournament last season for the first time in 10 years. (Photo Credit: John Flavell – Ashland Daily Independent) Paintsville will try to create havoc and press opportunistically in both the full and half court. They don’t have a ton of size, but play very physical from the guard and forward positions. They can all handle the ball and have plenty of depth to include projected starter James Allen (senior), Braxton Tharp, Jaxson Watts, and Ryan Gibson. This team will can beat anyone in the region on a given night and by season’s end could be representing region 15 at Rupp Arena. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Landon Slone Head Coach Career Record: 28-30 (0.4827) (Entering 3rd Season as a Head Coach) Enrollment: 228 Mascot: Tiger Colors: Blue and White Founded: 1921 District: 57th All Time Record: 1468-1129-2 (0.5648) (Ties in 1945 – Overtime elected not to be played in games) Regional Titles: (9) 1933, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1995, 1996 (State Title), 1997, 1998, 2008 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (61-71) vs. 15th Region (39-49) 2017-18 20-10 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2016-17 8-20 (Lost 57th District) 2015-16 8-17 (Lost 57th District) 2014-15 15-10 (Lost 57th District) 2013-14 10-14 (Lost 57th District) Key Losses: Mason Moore So. 6’5’’ (Transferred to Rowan Co. – 17.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg) Key Returning: Seth Williams Jr. 5’9’’ (16.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg), Nick Keeton Jr. 6’4’’ (8.9 ppg, 10.8 rpg) Colby Fugate Fr. 6’3’’ (5.0 ppg, 1.8 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Brady Dingess (Transfer from Sheldon Clark – 19.0 ppg, 2.8 rpg) 4. Shelby Valley (22-9): Head Coach Jim Hicks and the Shelby Valley Wildcats have another strong squad ready to make a run at a regional title. Valley will be led by the region’s top junior in sweet shooting Cody Potter. With range to 30 feet, Potter has an uncanny ability to catch and shoot from anywhere inside half court. With a near seven-foot wing span it’s difficult for defenders to contest his high release and alter his shot. If it’s going in, it makes for a long night. Potter has also shown the ability to throw down a few dunks from game to game, creating an inside-out mismatch tough for any team in the state to deal with. With the ability to score in the forties, as he did last year, Potter will be a focal point for both Shelby Valley and opposing defenses, but he is not the only option. Senior Camron Worrix might actually lead the team in scoring this season, playing off the fact many teams game plan solely for Potter (and rightfully so). Worrix is a hard-nosed, gritty guard who can score slashing to the basket or on the pull up triple. He is a competitor that can score in all three phases (FT, 2FG and 3FG). While defenders are paying attention to Potter and leaving driving lanes open, Worrix will be taking full advantage. Look for both Worrix and Potter to be key pieces for the Wildcats this season. The 15th Regions top junior Cody Potter goes up for a block shot last season at Tug Valley. Potter is a match-up nightmare for anyone in the state with his size and shooting ability. (Photo Credit: Jimmie Earls – Williamson Daily News) Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Jim Hicks Head Coach Career Record: 269-188 (0.5886) (Entering 6th Season at SV: 18th Overall) (12-13 while coaching Owsley County [2002] 63-50 while coaching Greenup County [2003-2007] 53-23 while coaching Bath County [2008-2010] 48-42 while coaching Grant County [2011-2013] and 93-60 while coaching Shelby Valley [2014-present]). Enrollment: 565 Mascot: Wildcat Colors: Blue and White Founded: 1990 (Consolidation of Dorton and Virgie) District: 59th All Time Record: 569-269 (0.6789) Regional Titles: (7) 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010 (State Title), 2011 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (93-59) vs. 15th Region (64-37) 2017-18 22-9 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2016-17 16-15 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2015-16 17-12 (Lost 59th District) 2014-15 18-13 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2013-14 20-10 (Lost Regional Championship) Key Losses: Blake Burke 6’0’’ (15.8 ppg 4.0 rpg) Key Returning: Cody Potter Jr. 6’7’’ (16.3 ppg, 8.4 rpg), Cameron Worrix Sr. 5’11’’ (9.9 ppg, 2.7 ppg), Orbie McPeek Sr. 6’3’’ (5.7 ppg, 2.5 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Keian Worrix So. 5’10’’ (3.0 ppg, 1.1 rpg) 5. Floyd Central (19-12): Floyd Central fell short of their goal of a regional title last season, but are still a viable contender in 15th Region the top returning team in the 58th District. The Jaguars return one of the state’s top rebounders in polished big man in Brady Conn and will lean on his scoring and rebounding ability to carry them this season. Conn has always been a physical force with excellent foot work, but in the off season will surprise teams with his new found ability to shoot from deep. The Jaguars will also see increased usage and production from junior Ethan Smith-Mills. The smooth lefty will be asked to handle the ball more than in the past, but provides a second scoring option and three-point threat to compliment Conn in the post. Smith-Mills will play more like he did his freshman season at Allen Central when he was asked to do more scoring. Floyd Central had a productive summer schedule, but lost a key piece with the transfer of Rylee Sammons to Pikeville. Sammons averaged in double figures in the summer to include a 30-point performance in a close loss to Johnson Central. This will open minutes up for the entire bench to prove themselves. You could see multi-school transfer and journeyman Kobe Brown get several of these minutes. As always, expectations are high at Floyd Central. Floyd Central lost quite a bit to graduation to include J.R. Tackett (center), but still have enough to make a run at the 15th Region title. (Photo Credit: Steve Lemaster – Floyd County Times) Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Kevin Spurlock Head Coach Career Record: 266-132 (0.6730) (Entering 2nd Season at Floyd Central: 14th Overall) (9-18 while coaching Trimble county [2002] 89-32 while coaching Hazard [2003-2006] 80-43 while coaching Clay County [2007-2010] 43-19 while coaching Sheldon Clark [2011-2012] 26-8 while at Perry Central [2013] 19-12 while at Floyd Central [2018-present]). Enrollment: 680 Mascot: Jaguars Colors: Teal, Black and Gold Founded: 2017 (Consolidation of Allen Central and South Floyd) District: 58th All Time Record: 19-12 (0.6129) Regional Titles: None Record Last 5 Years: Overall (19-12) vs. 15th Region (12-3) 2017-18 19-12 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) Key Losses: J.R. Tackett 6’0’’ (18.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg), Jacob Collins 6’3’’ (8.3 ppg 2.6 rpg), Kyle Isaac 6’2’’ (6.6 ppg, 2.5 rpg) Rylee Sammons Fr. 6’4’’ (2.9 ppg, 1.7 rpg - Projected starter who transferred to Pikeville) Key Returning: Brady Conn Sr. 6’4’’ (14.4 ppg, 9.2 rpg), Ethan Smith-Mills Jr. 6’2’’ (5.5 ppg, 2.1 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Grant Blackburn Jr. 6’7’’ (0.5 ppg, 0.9 rpg) 6. Belfry (20-13): Belfry lost four starters from a twenty-win season and regional semifinal appearance but will still be a factor in the regional tournament again this season. The Pirates return junior starter Dezmon Roblee and senior big man Tyelin May. Both will take on leadership roles for Head Coach Mark Thompson this season as Roblee will be asked to score more while May will provide a front court presence. Belfry will be relatively young, but play hard. It will likely take them until midway through the season to establish a true identity as they can play fast and controlled depending on setting. Their personnel set’s up for more of a zone based team, but they have the ability to play man against certain opponents. Regardless of what their style ends up becoming, expect this young squad to improve throughout the year and be in the regional tournament come post-season. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Mark Thompson Head Coach Career Record: 82-127 (0.3923) (Entering 6th season at Belfry: 8th Overall) (22-39 while coaching Pike Central [2008- 2009] and 60-88 while coaching Belfry [2014- present]) Enrollment: 603 Mascot: Pirate Colors: Red and White Founded: 1930 District: 60th All Time Record: 1346-1080 (0.5548) Regional Titles: (3) 1990, 1991, 1992 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (60-88) vs. 15th Region (46-48) 2017-18 20-13 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2016-17 14-18 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2015-16 12-18 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2014-15 6-20 (Lost 60th District) 2013-14 8-19 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) Key Losses: Koleston Blankenship 6’1’’ (9.6 ppg, 4.9 rpg), Isiah Roblee 6’0’’ (22.3 ppg, 3.8 rpg) Ryan Jessie 6’4’’ (3.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg), Devin Varney 6’2’’ (14.5 ppg, 4.4 rpg) Key Returning: Dezmon Roblee Jr. 5’11’’ (4.3 ppg, 2.5 rpg), Tyelin May Sr. 6’4’’ (4.0 ppg, 2.3 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Brett Coleman Fr. 5’11’’ (2.6 ppg, 0.6 rpg) 7. Magoffin County (9-20): Last season the Hornets welcomed the return of then junior Brady Whitaker and he did not disappoint averaging nearly twenty points. This season expect Whitaker to average twenty-five plus. Magoffin County is a scrappy team with two excellent guards in sophomore Isaiah Salyer and the aforementioned Whitaker. Throw in sophomore front court player Mason Lovely, who just knows how to play, and up and comer Aden Barnett (eighth grader) and you have a young team with strong leadership. The rest of the team will develop around the four players mentioned, leaning on Whitaker for most of their scoring and big game decisions. Magoffin showed consistent full court pressure throughout last season for the first time in many campaigns. Look for that trend to continue early in the season and taper the closer we get to tournament time. Fans will be excited to see how many Whitaker can score on a nightly basis but teams should not overlook this Hornet squad as although they may be a year or two away from being really good, they have knockout power right now. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: James Scott Castle Head Coach Career Record: 79-62 (0.5603) (70-42 Magoffin County Girls HC [2013-2016] 9-20 Magoffin County Boys Coach [2018-present]) (Entering 2nd Season as Boys Head Coach; 6th Overall) Enrollment: 598 Mascot: Hornet Colors: Maroon and White Founded: 1976 (Consolidation of Salyersville to later include Royalton and Magoffin Co. Baptist Institute) District: 57th All Time Record: 537-628 (0.4609) Regional Titles: None Record Last 5 Years: Overall (73-72) vs. 15th Region (59-50) 2017-18 9-20 (Lost 57th District) 2016-17 18-12 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2015-16 22-9 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2014-15 9-18 (Lost 57th District) 2013-14 15-13 (Lost 57th District) Key Losses: Dylan Arnett 6’1’’ (5.7 ppg, 2.8 rpg), Nolan Arnett 6’1’’ (5.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg) Key Returning: Brady Whitaker Sr. 5’11’’ (19.0 ppg, 2.9 rpg), Isaiah Salyer So. 6’0’’ (6.6 ppg, 1.3 rpg), Mason Lovely So. 6’2’’ (1.8 ppg, 1.7 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Aden Barnett 8th 5’11’’ 8. Lawrence County (8-22): Lawrence County did not experience the regional tournament for the first time in five years last season after being moved to the 58th District, but are expected to get back to the EXPO this season. Travis York lost no key players from last year’s squad and dedicated much of his off season training to the weight room. This Bulldog team will use that added muscle to run up and down the floor like teams past. In fact, outside Johnson Central, Lawrence County is one of the few teams in the region that likes to play very fast, and has the depth to do it. Look for their scores to be high win or lose and look for them to be led by a trio of Maynard’s (Cody and Tyler being the main contributors). Mix in senior leadership from Noah Fairchild and this team can be tough to deal with as they will shoot thirty plus 3FG’s a game. If you are a casual basketball fan, this is a fun team to watch with a coach who coveys a ton of positive energy. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Travis York Head Coach Career Record: 78-52 (0.6000) (Entering 5th Year at LC) (Head Coach at Miami University – Hamilton before coming to LC) Enrollment: 699 Mascot: Bulldog Colors: Red and Black Founded: 1977 (From Louisa High School) District: 58th All Time Record: 483-640 (0.4301) Regional Titles: (1) 2016 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (99-63) vs. 15th Region (55-32) 2017-18 8-22 (Lost 58th District) 2016-17 22-12 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2015-16 29-5 (Won Region) 2014-15 19-13 (Lost Regional Championship) 2013-14 21-11 (Lost Regional Semifinal) Key Losses: None Key Returning: Tyler Maynard Jr. 6’2’’ (16.4 ppg, 6.4 rpg), Cody Maynard Fr. 5’11’’ (14.0 ppg, 1.8 rpg, Noah Fairchild Sr. 6’3’’ (6.2 ppg, 5.8 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Alex Ratliff Jr. 6’2’’ (5.4 ppg, 1.6 rpg) 9. Prestonsburg (14-19): Brent Rose returns to the high school sidelines after an eleven-year absence and will lead a team heavy in upper classmen as Prestonsburg looks to advance to the regional tournament for the second straight season. The Black Cats are coming off an improved season and will return Adam and Blake Slone to patrol the front court. After watching them in the summer, this team has a lot of energy around their new coach, but still seems to be establishing a pecking order with the new system. In a wide open 58th District, Prestonsburg could play spoiler and knock someone off come tournament time. Could this be the first winning season in the last seven years? Black Cat nation thinks it might be and this is a workman like team that could restore pride to the area. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Brent Rose Head Coach Career Record: 107-113 (0.4863) (Entering 1st Season at Prestonsburg; 9th Overall) (107-113 while at Betsy Layne [2000-2007]) Enrollment: 473 Mascot: Black Cat Colors: Red, White and Black Founded: 1930 District: 58th All Time Record: 1147-1337 (0.4617) Regional Titles: (1) 1989 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (49-91) vs. 15th Region (38-73) 2017-18 14-19 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2016-17 7-24 (Lost 58th District) 2015-16 7-22 (Lost 58th District) 2014-15 6-16 (Lost 58th District) 2013-14 15-18 (Lost Regional Semifinal) Key Losses: Phil Cornett 6’0’’ (12.4 ppg, 1.9 rpg), Drake Nunnery 6’0’’ (8.8 ppg, 6.1 rpg) Key Returning: Austin Endicott Sr. 6’0’’ (11.4 ppg, 2.6 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Adam Slone Jr. 6’1’’ (8.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg) Blake Slone Sr. 6’0’’ (7.0 ppg, 5.9 rpg) 10. Sheldon Clark (11-20): Last year the Cardinals lost four starters from a twenty loss team and were eliminated in the opening round of district play for the third straight season. Gone are point guard Brady Dingess (transfer), power forward Ethan Colegrove (transfer), shooting guard Ian Reed (transfer) and shooting guard Austin Horn (graduation). Sheldon Clark still has the best collegiate prospect in the region in big man Trey James, but it will be difficult getting him the ball with such little experience returning. Sheldon Clark should improve as the year goes on, but don’t expect too many wins against quality opponents. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Jason James Head Coach Career Record: 39-54 (0.4193) (Entering 4th Season at Sheldon Clark) Enrollment: 535 Mascot: Cardinal Colors: Red, White, and Columbia Blue Founded: 1973 (Consolidation of Inez and Warfield) District: 57th All Time Record: 641-644 (0.4988) Regional Titles: (1) 1983 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (81-67) vs. 15th Region (53-36) 2017-18 11-20 (Lost 57th District) 2016-17 19-12 (Lost 57th District) 2015-16 9-22 (Lost 57th District) 2014-15 23-6 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2013-14 19-7 (Lost 57th District) Key Losses: Brady Dingess Fr. 5’10’’ (19.0 ppg, 2.8 rpg – transferred to Paintsville), Austin Horn 6’0’’ (7.4 ppg, 2.5 rpg), Ethan Colegrove Fr. 6’3’’ (11.6 ppg, 8.1 ppg – transferred to Tug Valley), Ian Reed So. 6’1’’ (6.5 ppg, 2.4 rpg – transferred to Tug Valley) Key Returning: Trey James So. 6’10” (11.5 ppg, 10.9 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Braxton Maynard Jr. 5’11’’ (4.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg) 11. East Ridge (8-20): Head Coach Randy McCoy enters the season with major health concerns for the second straight year and our thoughts and prayers are with him as we hope for a speedy recovery. East Ridge has been steadily improving for the past two season and will be much better than their record in 2018-2019. Cameron Hess, Dalton Wellman and Kane Taylor give the Warriors three scoring options every night. With McCoy’s controlled style, 50 points from the trio will be enough to be competitive every single contest. East Ridge is up against two very good teams in the 59th district in Shelby Valley and Pikeville, but with patience and practice could pull a major upset come tournament time. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Randy McCoy Head Coach Career Record: (549-323) (0.6296) (Entering 7th season at ER: 30th overall) (222-109 while coaching Elkhorn City [1989-1999], 140-79 while coaching Pikeville College [2000-2007], 91-54 while coaching University Heights [2008-2012] and 96-81 while coaching East Ridge [2013-present]). Coach McCoy holds a career high school record of 409-244 and a college record of 140-79. Enrollment: 487 Mascot: Warrior Colors: White and Navy Blue Founded: 2002 (Consolidation of Elkhorn City, Feds Creek, and Millard) District: 59th All Time Record: 254-201 (0.5582) Regional Titles: (1) 2004 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (80-66) vs. 15th Region (59-50) 2017-18 8-20 (Lost 59th District) 2016-17 19-11 (Lost 59th District) 2015-16 22-12 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2014-15 15-12 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) 2013-14 16-11 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) Key Losses: Jacob Chafins 6’2’’ (9.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg) Key Returning: Cameron Hess Jr. 6’2’’ (10.6 ppg, 5.8 rpg), Dalton Wellman Jr. 6’1’’ (12.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg), Kane Taylor Sr. 5’11’’ (9.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Hunter Damron So. 6’0’’ (5.0 ppg, 1.6 rpg) 12. Phelps (10-21): For the first time since their district title in 2012, Phelps has a legitimate chance to advance to the regional tournament. The Hornets will be led by one of best juniors in the region in Trey Francis (averaged double-double last season). Francis can shoot from the outside or play above the rim, but he is not alone. Senior Brandon Turnmire will help with the ball handling and scoring from the guard position. Phelps has some good young talent to go along with Francis and Turnmire to include some size. If they develop under first year Head Coach Jason Sanson, this team should come out of the 60th district. Believe it or not, Phelps has always had great basketball talent, it’s just been a matter of keeping them from transferring. This season could be one where enough kids stayed to make them a factor in the regional tournament. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Jason Sanson Head Coach Career Record: 0-0 (Entering 1st Season at Phelps) Enrollment: 216 Mascot: Hornet Colors: Blue, White and Gray Founded: 1932 District: 60th All Time Record: 955-1336 (0.4168) Regional Titles: (1) 1988 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (43-105) vs. 15th Region (18-76) 2017-18 10-21 (Lost 60th District) 2016-17 14-17 (Lost 60th District) 2015-16 6-24 (Lost 60th District) 2014-15 8-19 (Lost 60th District) 2013-14 5-24 (Lost 60th District) Key Losses: None Key Returning: Trey Francis Jr. 6’3’’ (17.0 ppg, 10.3 rpg), Brandon Turnmire Sr. 5’8’’ (7.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Keegan Bentley So. 6’1’’ (8.4 ppg, 3.9 rpg) 13. Pike County Central (24-9): The Hawks set the school record for wins in a season last year, but lost 92% of their scoring to graduation. This year, Pike Central will look for the one returning starter, Brady Adkins, to provide key leadership and help develop a roster that has little game experience. Pike Central has decent size, and played an up-tempo style this summer, but like many young teams lack a true identity. This should change as the season goes along, but don’t expect much early. With so many question marks around them, Pike Central is ranked here to start the season. This could be volatile team with respect to where they move in the rankings as they year plays out. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Ryan Whitaker Head Coach Career Record: 68-57 (0.5440) (Entering 3rd season at PCC: 5th Overall) (28-33 while coaching Powell County [2015-2016] 40-24 while coaching Pike Central [2017-present]) Enrollment: 649 Mascot: Hawk Colors: Blue and Orange Founded: 1993 (Consolidation of Johns Creek and Mullins) District: 60th All Time Record: 371-352 (0.5131) Regional Titles: None Record Last 5 Years: Overall (84-68) vs. 15th Region (60-43) 2017-18 24-9 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2016-17 16-15 (Lost 60th District) 2015-16 12-19 (Lost 60th District) 2014-15 17-14 (Lost Regional Semifinal) 2013-14 15-11 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) Key Losses: Seth Conn 5’11’’ (7.9 ppg, 2.9 rpg), Levard Missick Jr. 6’6’’ (14.5 ppg, 10.8 rpg) Christian Mounts 6'3" (19.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg) Key Returning: Brady Adkins Sr. 6’0’’ (7.8 ppg, 3.0 rpg) Dennis Freeman Sr. 6’4’’ (5.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Bryce Adkins So. 6’0’’ (2.9 ppg, 0.4 rpg) 14. Betsy Layne (12-16): Former Allen Central Head Coach Brad Short makes his return to the sideline this season for the Bobcats as he replaces Gary Keathley. Betsy Layne was gearing up for what was expected to be an excellent year with the return of play maker and leading scorer Grant Orsborn, but were derailed a bit by the transfer of quality big man Byron Hammond (Pikeville) prior to summer ball. Nonetheless this Betsy Layne squad will be senior laden with plenty of game experience. Expect this team to get better and better as the season progresses and be a very difficult opponent come tournament time. Don’t be surprised to see them climb the rankings as the season progresses. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Brad Short Head Coach Career Record: 77-105 (0.4231) (Entering 1st season with Betsy Layne; 8th overall) (77-105 while at Allen Central [2011-2017]) Enrollment: 402 Mascot: Bobcat Colors: Blue and White Founded: 1929 District: 58th All Time Record: 1562-1159 (0.5741) Regional Titles: (2) 1976, 1980 Record Last 5 Years: Overall (78-72) vs. 15th Region (52-46) 2017-18 12-16 (Lost 58th District) 2016-17 7-23 (Lost 58th District) 2015-16 12-19 (Lost 58th District) 2014-15 21-8 (Lost 58th District) 2013-14 26-6 (Lost Regional Quarterfinal) Key Losses: Byron Hammond Sr. 6’5’’ (11.5 ppg, 9.2 rpg – transferred to Pikeville) Key Returning: Grant Orsborn Sr. 6’2’’ (13.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg), Zach Bentley Sr. 5’11’’ (8.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Morris Adkins Sr. 6’2’’ (7.1 ppg, 6.7 rpg) 15. Jenkins (0-29): The Cavaliers entered the 15th Region for the first time in school history last season and it was not kind as they were one of the few winless teams across the state. Jenkins plays in the 59th district and will face tough competition in likes of East Ridge, Shelby Valley and Pikeville. This team is still extremely young but easy to pull for. Hopefully they can pick up a win this season and start building in the right direction. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Corey Hairston Head Coach Career Record: 6-84 (0.0667) (Entering 4th season at Jenkins) Enrollment: 126 Mascot: Cavaliers Colors: Kelly Green and White Founded: 1921 District: 59th All Time Record: 1105-1367 (0.4470) Regional Titles: None Record Last 5 Years: Overall (16-146) vs. 15th Region (3-45) 2017-18 0-29 (Lost 59th District) 2016-17 5-26 (Lost 53rd District) 2015-16 1-29 (Lost 53rd District) 2014-15 6-19 (Lost 53rd District) 2013-14 4-24 (Lost 53rd District) Key Losses: None Key Returning: Payton Rose Jr. 5’11’’ (10.3 ppg, 0.9 rpg), Ethan Cummings Sr. 6’0’’ (10.0 ppg, 1.7 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Jason Sandin Jr. 6’0’’ (8.8 ppg) 16. Piarist (3-26): Piarist has won 41 games in 20 years of basketball and never defeated any 15th Region opponent. The Knights will hopefully pick up a win or two in the Christian league as basketball is more of an extracurricular activity than a sport at the school. They did lose their best player to graduation in Skylar Williams (averaged double-double). Piarist is a high academic school the focuses on GPA more than PPG. Quick Reference Guide Head Coach: Kevin Tackett Head Coach Career Record: 23-134 (0.1465) (Entering 8th season as a head coach of Piarist [2011-2015] [2017-present]) Enrollment: 40 Mascot: Knight Colors: Blue and Gold Founded: 1998 District: 60th All Time Record: 41-371 (0.0995) Regional Titles: None Record Last 5 Years: Overall (12-113) vs. 15th Region (0-66) 2017-18 3-26 (Lost 60th District) 2016-17 1-28 (Forfeit 59th District) 2015-16 0-25 (Lost 59th District) 2014-15 5-15 (Lost 59th District) 2013-14 3-19 (Lost 58th District) Key Losses: Skylar Williams 6’1’’ (13.5 ppg, 10.1 rpg) Key Returning: Kyle Price Jr. 5’11’’ (7.8 ppg, 5.7 rpg) Newcomers to watch: Nathaniel Kumar So. 6’0’’ (6.5 ppg, 2.9 rpg) 15th Region Player Rankings: 1. Jacob Rice (Johnson Central) 5’11’’ Senior (PG) Johnson Central will be led by four-year starter and point guard Jacob Rice. Rice is already a member of the 1,000-point club and will push the 2,000 by career’s end, is on pace to be the school’s all-time leader in assists, game started, and minutes played and has a chance to become the school’s all-time steals leader as well. Needless to say, Rice can do it all and he does it in a way that is conducive to winning. Some nights it might be by running the show and getting others involved while other nights it might by scoring the ball and taking advantage of mismatches. If you come to the gym to watch him play, you will see a son of a coach in every way imaginable. From guarding the other team’s best player to taking the big shot late in the game. The kid just wins and does it within the team concept. In the AAU era of basketball, Rice is a refreshing throw-back that many would consider a coach’s dream. Senior point guard Jacob Rice knocks down a big three in last year’s regional tournament. Rice has started in three straight regional championship games and will hold many school records by season end. (Photo Credit: Mike Muncy) 2. Cody Potter (Shelby Valley) 6’7’’ Junior (SF) A mismatch nightmare for any team in the region lies in the 6’7’’ frame of Cody Potter. The region’s top rated junior can shoot the ball from anywhere on the court and has one of the best strokes since Kyle Gullett was a Mr. Basketball finalist from the 15th. Potter has multiple forty point games as an underclassman, and usually see’s zero help defense on a nightly basis. Despite game plans centered around stopping him, Potter still scores the ball at a high clip by remaining efficient. As a 40% plus 3FG shooter and 90% FT shooter, Potter scores by drawing contact and shooting over smaller defenders, but can also play above the rim as it is not uncommon for him to have a dunk or two every contest. It’s very difficult to stop him from scoring when he gets the ball. If you teams want to beat Shelby Valley they must game plan for Cody Potter. Shelby Valley’s junior standout Cody Potter rises up above a smaller defender to get a short range shot off. Potter is one of the purest shooters in the state from any range. (Photo Credit: Teddy Paynter – EKB Sports) 3. Connor Roberts (Pikeville) 5’11’’ Senior (PG) Multisport star Conner Roberts (starting QB) will try to lead Pikeville to its third straight regional championship in his senior season. Roberts is a three-year starter, has the ability to score the ball from anywhere on the floor and represents the heart and soul of the team on defense. Roberts is strong, physical guard, who can slash to the basket and shoot from deep. He is also very good on defense both on the ball and help side. He is a very good, very solid player who will lead his team and not allow them to beat themselves. Pikeville point guard Conner Roberts rises up for as hot in the regional tournament last season. Roberts will try to lead Pikeville to a three-peat in the 15th Region this season. (Photo Credit: Twitter) 4. Isaiah May (Johnson Central) 6’3’’ Sophomore (W) The top rated sophomore in the region is the do-it-all player Isaiah May. May can play any position on the floor from point guard to center and can guard any position on the floor as well. During a typical game it is not uncommon to see May run the point on offense one possession then guard the center on defense the next (or vise-versa). He has range to 25 feet and also plays well above the rim from the guard position (14 in-game dunks during 24 game summer session). May has an extremely large wing span for his size (6’8’’) and some of the largest hands you will ever find on anyone. This allows him to control the ball with the dribble and though the air with ease. May has a knack for taking and making the big shot in big games as well. He had a regional tournament high (all teams, all games) with 32 points versus Belfry last season and did it on 13 shots. May has no weakness in his game. He can dribble, shoot from range, shoot from mid-range, attack the basket and finish with either hand, play above the rim, create for himself or his teammates, run the point or play in the post and guard anyone on the floor on a given night. Look for the Golden Eagles to go through him in late game pressure situations. Isaiah May glides past a defender in last year’s regional championship game. May played like a senior as a freshman last season and will make great leaps again this year. This is one of the top prospects in the mountains. (Photo Credit: Mike Muncy Photography) 5. Trey James (Sheldon Clark) 6’10’’ Sophomore © Sheldon Clark has the best collegiate prospect in the region in Trey James. James will average a double-double easily this season and could average a triple double (blocks) as sophomore. With multiple dunks every game, James is also the best defensive player in the region with his ability to block shots coming from the weak side. Playing as a traditional big in every sense and doing very little creating off the dribble, James still has the ability to dominate games. If he consistently catches it in the post, your team is in for a long night. James will be looking to get his team out of the district tournament for the first time this season. Sophomore big man Trey James hammers home a dunk over and opponent last season. James is the top prospect in the region this season for any class. (Photo Credit: Twitter) 6. Brady Whitaker (Magoffin County) 6’0’’ Senior (SG) Title of the best scorer in the region belongs to Magoffin County’s Brady Whitaker. Scoring 39 in a half last season, Whitaker showed he take over a game by himself. Whitaker has the ability to get crazy hot shooting the ball at any time and handles the ball well enough to create for himself through traffic. He has unlimited range, a very nice floater, and gets to the line 8-10 times a game. Simply put, he has a great ability to score the ball. Whitaker will keep Magoffin in games every night, giving them a chance to win late. Look for him to average 25 plus points a game this season. Magoffin County senior guard Brady Whitaker will likely lead the region in scoring this season. Whitaker is the most underrated player in the region. (Photo Credit: Jim Arnett Salyersville Independent) 7. Brady Conn (Floyd Central) 6’5’’ Senior (PF) Floyd Central’s Brady Conn has been one of the best rebounders in the state since his freshman year at South Floyd and now as a senior will try to lead his Jaguars back to the regional tournament in their second year of existence. Conn has added the ability to shoot from range this season to already impressively strong front court game (figuratively and literally). His is quite possibly the strongest player in the region and an absolute load down low with his power and leaping ability. Conn can put it on the floor to an extent to create in the low post and will see game plans against him every single time he plays an in region opponent. Conn can be a monster if not accounted for. Floyd Central’s Brady Conn will be a force in the post the season for the Jaguars. One of the state’s top rebounders will hope to lead the Jaguars on a deep post season run in his final year. (Photo Credit: Steve Lemaster Floyd County Times) 8. Seth Williams (Paintsville) 5’9’’ Junior (SG) The shortest player on the list might have the most heart. Paintsville’s Seth Williams will likely lead a talented Tiger team in scoring and big play making. Williams returns as a three-year starter and plays just about every sport as his school from soccer to football to baseball. He is a competitor of the highest order who can will his team to wins. Williams is a fun player to watch. Seth Williams attacks the basket against cross town rival Johnson Central. Williams is Paintsville’s leading returning scorer after getting them back in the regional tournament last season for the first time since 2008. (Photo Credit: Mike Muncy Photography) 9. Trey Franics (Phelps) 6’3’’Junior (SF) Hornet’s guard Trey Francis is one of the best kept secrets in the mountains. After averaging a double-double last season as a sophomore, Francis hopes to lead his team to the regional tournament for the first time since 2012. Francis is a complete player that can attack the rim and dunk the ball and shoot from deep. Trey Francis of Phelps averaged a double-double last season as a sophomore. He will surprise teams with his athleticism and ability to score in multiple ways. (Photo Credit: Facebook) 10. Cameron Worrix (Shelby Valley) Senior 5’11’’ (SG) The surprise breakout player in the region is Cameron Worrix of Shelby Valley. Worrix is a hard-nosed guard who knows only one speed, fast. Worrix has the ability to attack the rim and finish through contact with either hand and the ability to stop and pop from 15 to 20 feet. He will be a force to handle with his competitive nature and could help lead Shelby Valley back to Rupp Arena for the first time since 2011. Shelby Valley senior guard Cameron Worrix rises up for a shot against rival Pikeville last season. Worrix will carry a much larger scoring role for his team this season. (Photo Credit: Facebook) Players just outside the top 10 (in no particular order): Brady Dingess (Paintsville), Nick Keeton (Paintsville) Colby Fugate (Paintsville) Ethan Smith-Mills (Floyd Central), Christian Billiter (Pikeville) Kyle Watkins (Pikeville), Cory VanHoose (Johnson Central), Gabe Ferrell (Johnson Central), Bryson Hackney (Johnson Central), Isaiah Salyer (Magoffin County), Adam Slone (Prestonsburg), Tyler Maynard (Lawrence County), Cody Maynard (Lawrence County), Grant Orsborn (Betsy Layne), Cameron Hess (East Ridge), Dalton Wellman (East Ridge), Keian Worrix (Shelby Valley), Ethan Cummings (Jenkins), Dezmon Roblee (Belfry), Tyelin May (Belfry), Brady Adkins (Pike Central), Dasean Penn (Pike Central) Listed below is the break-down of the 15th Region by District with Preseason Predictions based on past performance: 57th District (last years’ record): Johnson Central (19-15) Sheldon Clark (11-20) Magoffin County (9-20) Paintsville (20-10) Projected Winner: Johnson Central Projected Runner-up: Paintsville *2019 57th District Tournament is Scheduled to be played at Paintsville 58th District (last years’ record): Betsy Layne (12-16) Prestonsburg (14-19) Floyd Central (19-12) Lawrence County (8-22) Projected Winner: Floyd Central Projected Runner-up: Lawrence County *2019 58th District Tournament is Scheduled to be played at Prestonsburg 59th District (last years’ record): Shelby Valley (22-9) East Ridge (8-20) Pikeville (25-10) Jenkins (0-29) Projected Winner: Pikeville Projected Runner-up: Shelby Valley *2019 59th District Tournament is Scheduled to be played at East Ridge 60th District (last years’ record): Piarist (3-26) Pike Central (24-9) Belfry (20-13) Phelps (10-21) Projected Winner: Belfry Projected Runner-up: Phelps *2019 60th District Tournament is Scheduled to be played at Phelps **15th Region Tournament will be at Pikeville EXPO Center. Contract was renewed through 2021 season.

. 60 wins? If you go 15-0 for 4 straight years you can get 60 wins. Did some of these seniors play as middle school players? Just curious.

7-Newport 5-Scott 3-Paris 2- Mason County 1-Western Hills TB-Scott

7-Glagow 5-Seneca 3-Marion County 2-Spencer County 1-Thomas Belson TB-Glasgow

7-Bardstown 5-Daviess County 3-Glasgow 2-Barren County 1-Union County TB-Glasgow

7-Montgomery County 5-Tates Creek 3-Madison Central 2-Rockcastle County 1-Lexington Catholic TB-Tates creek

7-Johnson Central 5-Knott Central 3-Corbin 2-MorganCounty 1-Frankfort TB-Knott Central

5-St.Xavier Ohio 3-Johnson Central 3-Manual 1-Glasgow 1-Scott 1-Lexington Catholic 1-Bardstown 1-Corbin 1-Christian County 1-Daviess County TB-54

Love the list, but how do you define winningest (total wins from what I gather, but definitions may differ)? I would like to see the list filtered by era's going by 20 year cohorts. Some programs have been around much longer than others and thus its difficult to compare. It would be interesting to see the top 5-7 from each interval, then compare and debate the top from each era. Great information though.

Great insight into the game. Should be a dandy that could go either way. Always a great Friday night when these two programs get together. Much respect between both fan bases.

7-Paris 5-Danville 3-Kentucky Country Day 2-Tates Creek 1-Bryan Station TB-Danville

7-Paris 5-Harrison Co. 3-Scott 2-Bellevue 1-Grant TB-Paris

7-Raceland 5-Perry Central 3-Letcher Central 2-Lawrence County 1-Lynn Camp TB-Perry Central

7-South Warren 5-McLean County 3-Madisonville North Hopkins 2-Eminence 1-Trigg County TB-South Warren