MidwestUnited

What is going on in Park Hills. Looked at their records the last two years and things aren’t looking to good! Was Coach Cooper the right hire? Was this job to big for her? This year record is 5-5 with big/bad losses and last year 8-18!

Scott played zone according to this story in the Tribune. See coach's comments about SK's turnovers against a zone. Scott boys’ basketball team picking up where it left off last season without all-time leading scorer | NKyTribune

This is what was written a few months ago when the Highlands boosters started yelping about a big loss to Scott County. They did the same thing to Bill Herrmann years ago, but he turned out fine. Don Owen: Lesson learned from Highlands football history; patience is virtue, supercedes overreaction | NKyTribune

Add Notre Dame to the list

Yes

Game of the Week: Covington Catholic vs. Cincinnati Moeller: Coming in Moeller was ranked No. 1 in Cincinnati (also ranked in the top 25 in nation) and Covington Catholic was ranked No. 1 in Northern Kentucky. This one was sold out almost two days in advance and many D1 coaches attended this showdown. Covington Catholic posted a 58-53 victory. Covington Catholic was led by C.J. Fredrick (23 points), Aiden Ruthsatz (15 points) and Jake Walter (10 points). Many observers believe this was one of the best atmospheres for an area high school basketball game in years. Best holiday tournament games coming up:
King of the Bluegrass(Fairdale): Covington Catholic and Cooper Swauger Holiday Classic- Ryle, Bellevue, Newport and Ludlow Simon Kenton Invitational Tournament- Conner, Dixie Heights and Holy Cross Freshman success: Both players lead their team in scoring Wyatt Vieth – St. Henry (10.4 ppg) Scott Draud ( 21.0 ppg) (Beechwood) Surprise players not listen in Top 10: Parker Zimmerman (17.3 ppg.) (Holy Cross) Vince Rankin (20.2 ppg. 10.0 rpg.) (Ryle) Prediction for 9th Region Tournament : 33rd District: Cooper (Winner), Boone County (Runner Up) 34th District: Dixie Heights ( Winner), St. Henry (Runner Up) 35th District: Covington Catholic (Winner), Holmes (Runner Up) 36th District: Newport Central Catholic (Winner), Newport (Runner Up)
 Biggest Win: Boone County beating Newport Central Catholic (74-66) Covington Catholic beating Cincinnati Moeller (Top 25 in Nation) (58-53) 1. Covington Catholic (5-0) – Had a successful week playing two GCL schools before sell-out crowds. The Colonels defeated Moeller (58-53) and La Salle (67-43). Leading the Colonels for the five three games is C.J. Fredrick (21.0 ppg), Aiden Ruthsatz (18.4 ppg) and Jake Walter (11.8 ppg. 7.2 rpg.). Games coming up: King of the Bluegrass(Fairdale). Previous ranking: 1 2. Cooper (5-1) – Won two games last week against Ryle (77-32) and Cincinnati Clark Montessori (66-38). Games coming up: King of the Bluegrass(Fairdale). Leading Cooper for the first four games are Adam Kunkel (18.5 ppg. 9.5 rpg), Chris McNeil (11.8 ppg. ) and Braydon Runion (8.5 ppg.)
Previous ranking: 2 3. Holmes (3-1) – Played in only one game and defeated Lloyd (66-55). Through four games Holmes is led by Kerez Race (15.5 ppg.), Jarrod Miller (11.7 ppg.) and Donavin Saxon (13.0 ppg.) Games coming up: Campbell County(Dec.19),Waggener(Dec.21),Paintsville(Dec.22).Previous Ranking: 5

 4. Newport (5-2) – The Wildcats played in three games last week and went 2-1 . Had a nice wins against Beechwood (84-68) and Conner (60-57) but suffered a loss to 10th Region powerhouse Campbell County (64-59). Through seven games Newport is led by MeKell Burries (23.9ppg.), Tahj Harding (16.9 ppg.) and Makhi McGuire(11.6 ppg.). Games coming up: Swauger Holiday Classic( Bellevue). Previous Ranking: 6 
5. Newport Central Catholic (5-3) – Had a disappointing week, losing to Boone County (74-66) and Cincinnati Deer Park(80-78 in OT). They also won against district opponent Dayton (97-42). Through eight games NewCath is led by Brennan Hall (24.2 ppg.), Brendan Luken (16.3 ppg. 9.7 rpg.) and Branden Posey (9.4 ppg.) Games coming up: Roger Bacon (Dec.19) and Eastern ( Dec.23).Previous ranking: 3 6. Ryle (5-2) –Had a big week playing against big rivals Conner and Cooper. The Raiders lost to Cooper 77-32 and beat Conner, 61-54. Through seven games Ryle is led by: Vince Rankin (20.2 ppg. 10.0 rpg.) and Jacob Tarvin (10.7 ppg). Games coming up: Swauger Holiday Classic( Bellevue).Previous Ranking: 4 7. Holy Cross (4-2) – Played in three games, with wins against Lloyd (56-41) and Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (56-53) but a loss to Sosuth Oldam (75-86) and Campbell County ( 59-77). Through seven games Holy Cross is led by Parker Zimmerman (17.3 ppg.), Nolan Schrand (13.8 ppg) and Jordan Niehuas (13.7 ppg.). Games coming up: Simon Kenton Invitational Tournamen Previous Ranking: 10
 8. Boone County (4-4) – During the week played in three games and defeated Williamstown ( 63-29) and Newport Central Catholic (74-66), but lost to Indian Hill (56-59). Through eight games Boone County is led by Ethan Haynes(15.0 ppg.), Ethan Robbins(14.3 ppg.) and Raymond Rodgers(15.6ppg.). Games coming up: Lloyd ( Dec.20) and Frankfort (Dec.22).Previous Ranking:9 
 9. Lloyd (4-3) – During the week played in three games and defeated Williamstown (76-64) and two losses to Holmes (55-66) and Holmes (41-56). * No Stats available Previous week Lloyd is led by Jordan Fann (17.7 ppg.), Jamal Neal (16.5 ppg.) and Evan Molitor (10.7 ppg.). Games coming up: Boone County ( Dec.20).Previous Ranking: 8 10. Highlands- (4-4) — The winning streak is at four games for the Bluebirds. Highlands had wins against Trinity Grammar (77-47), Ludlow (84-48) and Bishop Brossart (50-48). Through eight games Highlands is led by Roddy Gabbard (8.4 ppg.). Games coming Up: Mason County (Dec.21) and Gateway Holiday Classic. Previous Ranking:14
 11. Dixie Heights (2-5) – After having a losing streak of four games, Dixie Heights bounced back and had wins against Beechwood (72-48) and Villa Madonna (81-61). Dixie Heights’ only loss came to Campbell County (61-64). Games coming up: Simon Kenton Invitational Tournament. *Stats not available
Previous Ranking:13
 
 12. Beechwood (4-4) – Had a bad week not only losing two games but had to cancel a game with Simon Kenton due to a flu bug going around. The two losses were against Newport ( 68-84) and Dixie Heights (72-47). Through eight games Beechwood is led by: Scott Draud( 21.0 ppg) and Ben Toebbe (10.3 ppg). Games coming up: Williamstown (Dec.21) and Campbell County(Dec.22).
Previous Ranking: 7 
13.St. Henry (4-4)- After losing a heartbreaker to Highlands in the last seconds, St. Henry bounced back winning games against Bellevue (64-38) and Dayton (74-39) . After eight games Wyatt Vieth leads the team in scoring (10.4 ppg.). Games coming up: Huck Turner Tip- Off Classic. 
Previous Ranking: 11

 14-Conner (1-7) – The losing streak continues to seven games. Played in three games against Simon Kenton ( 48-74, Ryle ( 54-61) and Newport( 57-60). Through five games Conner is led by Tanner Craddock (10.5 ppg.). Games coming up: Simon Kenton Invitational Tournament Previous Ranking: 12
 15. Bellevue (3-3) – Had a bad week, losing two games to St. Henry ( 38-64) and Calvary Christian (67-70). Through seven games Bellevue is led by: Brett Maehren ( 18.5 ppg. 8.8 rpg) and Tommy Ratterman (11.5 ppg.) Games coming up: Swauger Holiday Classic( Bellevue).Previous Ranking:15

 16. Villa Madonna (6-5) — Played five games, winning three and losing twice. Villa Madonna’s wins came against Ludlow (62-54), Walden (73-52) and Brown ( 68-66). The only losses came against Dixie Heights ( 61-81) and Louisville Collegiate ( 58-70). Through the eleven games played Villa is led by Sean McIntyre (13.7 ppg.)and Ben Zalla (12.3 ppg.) Games coming up: Bellevue (Dec.18) and St. Francis ( Dec.18). Previous Ranking: 16
 
 17. Ludlow (2-6) – Played three games, lost two games against Villa Madonna (54-62) and Highlands (48-84) but won against Silver Grove (67-29). Previous stats from last week: Trey Donahue (12.3 ppg and 5.0 rpg.) and Justin Blackburn ( 10.0 ppg. and 6.0 rpg.) Games coming up: Simon Kenton( Dec. 18) and at Swauger Holiday Classic. Previous Ranking:17
 18. Dayton (1-7)-Lost to Newport Central Catholic ( 42-97) and Saint Henry (39-74). Picked up their first win of the season against Silver Grove (67-37). Games coming up this week: Calvary Christian (Dec.18). * Note: No Stats available
Previous Ranking: 18
 
19. Heritage Academy (0-5) – Lost two games last week against Calvary Christian ( 82-41) and Augusta( 63-23). Games coming up: Silver Grove( Dec. 19) and Brown (Dec.21).Note: No Stats available Previous ranking: 19

Is Houston playing?

Highlands graduates Jared Dougherty and Lou Bunning helped Lindsey Wilson go 11-1 and advance in NAIA playoffs. See story. College spotlight: Highlands grads integral part of Lindsey Wilson football success | NKyTribune

I know and appreciate your comments! The comparative score stuff doesn't work at all, though. If you do that, then in 1982 Chaminade by virtue of its win over No. 1 Virginia and Ralph Sampson should have been ranked No. 1 in the national poll the following week even though they were in the NAIA! That's why Dixie needs to win a game and not rely on comparative scores. Would that have been a laugh, though, with Chaminade from the NAIA No. 1 in the Associated Press college basketball poll in 1982 after beating Virginia?

It's hard to put a winless team No. 6. Yes, they do have some talent, but if they are 0-15 in two months, do we still have them ranked No. 6 based on talent alone? I think not. Right now Dixie is winless against a very tough schedule. An 0-4 record is probably due to a tough schedule, but it's also saying you are not one of the elite teams.

Disagree based on what information?

Game of the Week: Newport Central Catholic(4) vs. Covington Catholic(1) Before the game started, Covington Catholic and Newport Central Catholic honored the life of Bob “Bopper” Finnell for his support of northern Kentucky high school sports. For the first sell-out game of the year, Newport Central Catholic came to Park Hills without three injured starters. Covington Catholic was also without three players as members of the football team sat out a week after winning the 5A state championship. CovCath started the first quarter off by scoring 34 points. The Colonels were led by Aiden Ruthsatz (15 points) and CJ Frederick (10 points) in the first quarter. After leading at half 58-26, Covington Catholic never let up. The Colonels won the Catholic school matchup, 89-50. CovCath was led by Frederick (35 points), Ruthsatz(15 points) and Jake Walter (13.0 points). NewCath was led by Brennan Hall’s 25 points. Play of the Week Adam Kunkel (Cooper): After winning big against Cincinnati Elder, Adam Kunkel had one of the best dunks in high school. Many believe this play should be on ESPN top 10. Best games coming up: Covington Catholic vs. Cincinnati Moeller – Covington Catholic to host Top 25 in Nation powerhouse Moeller on Dec 12. Cooper( #2) vs. Ryle (#4)- Dec. 12 Best Defensive Team performance: Cooper vs. Cincinnati Elder. Cooper held Cincinnati Elder to 26 points. Best Offensive Team performance: Covington Catholic. They averaged 91 points a game, beating the two teams by an average of 45 points per game. Surprise Team: Ryle High School. Ryle is currently 4-1. Underclassman spotlight: Beechwood’s Scott Draud (22.0 ppg). Best Finish to a game: Highlands vs. St. Henry. Highlands beat St. Henry with a late 3-pointer by Carl Schoellman. 1. Covington Catholic (3-0) – Defeated St. Henry (93-51) and Newport Central Catholic (89-50). Leading the Colonels for the first three games is CJ Frederick (22.7 ppg), Aiden Ruthsatz (20.0 ppg) and Jake Walters (11.0 ppg. 6.0 rpg.). Games coming up: Moeller( Dec.12) and La Salle (Dec.15). According to Covington Catholic AD Tony Bacigalupo, Covington Catholic game against Moeller might be the biggest game in gym’s history. Previous ranking: 1 2. Cooper (3-1) – Won two games last week against Conner (66-39) and Cincinnati Elder (58-26). Games next week Ryle (Dec.12) and Taft ( Cincinnati, Ohio)(Dec.16). Leading Cooper for the first four games are Adam Kunkel (19.8 ppg. 11.0 rpg), Chris McNeil (11.0 ppg. ) and Braydon Runion (10.5 ppg. 10.5 rpg.) Previous ranking: 2 3. Newport Central Catholic (4-1) – Won two games against Lloyd Memorial (79-49) and Dixie Heights (67-62), but lost to Covington Catholic (50-89). Through five games Newport Central Catholic is led by Brennan Hall (23.3 ppg.), Brendan Luken (16.3 ppg. 9.7 rpg. ) and Branden Posey (10.7 ppg.) Games coming up: Dayton (Dec.11), Boone County ( Dec.14) and Clark Montessori (Dec.16) Previous ranking: 4 4. Ryle (4-1) – Ryle is a surprise team after five games. The Raiders lost to Simon Kenton 53-66 and beat St. Henry (70-66). Through five games Ryle is led by: Vince Rankin (22.3 ppg. 12.3 rpg.) and Jacob Tarvin (12.0 ppg). Big games against Cooper( Dec.12) and Conner (Dec.15). Previous Ranking: 6 5. Holmes (2-1) – Played in only one game and defeated Newport (81-79 in overtime). Through three games Holmes is led by Jarrod Miller (11.0 ppg.) and Donavin Saxon (11.0 ppg.) Games coming up: Lloyd (Dec.12) Previous Ranking: 5 6. Newport (3-1) – The Wildcats played two close games last week. Had a nice win against Boone County (59-56) but suffered an overtime loss to Holmes (79-81). Through four games Newport is led by MeKell Burries(23.3ppg.), Tahj Harding (15.5 ppg.) and Makhi McGuire(12.5 ppg.). Games coming up: Beechwood ( Dec.11), Campbell County (Dec. 14) and Conner (Dec.16). Previous Ranking:3 7. Beechwood (4-2) – During the week went 2-2. Their two wins came against Bishop Brossart (77-66) and McCreary Central (58-53). The two losses were against Scott ( 83-58) and Butler (72-47). Through six games Beechwood is led by: Scott Draud( 22.0 ppg) and CJ Brannen (10.8 ppg). Games coming up: Newport (Dec.11), Dixie Heights (Dec. 12) and Simon Kenton (Dec.12). Previous Ranking: 7 8. Lloyd (3-1) – During the week played in two games and defeated Villa Madonna (69-59) and lost to Newport Central Catholic (79-49). Through four games Lloyd is led by Jordan Fann (17.7 ppg.), Jamal Neal (16.5 ppg.) and Evan Molitor (10.7 ppg.). Games coming up: Holmes ( Dec.12), Holy Cross( Dec. 15) and Williamstown (Dec.16). Previous Ranking: 12 9. Boone County (2-3) – During the week played in two games and defeated Conner ( 74-54), but lost to Newport (56-59). Through five games Boone County is led by Ethan Haynes(10.8 ppg.), Ethan Robbins(16.0 ppg.) and Raymond Rodgers(18.2 ppg.). Games coming up: Williamstown ( Dec.12), Newport Central Catholic ( Dec.14) and Indian Hill ( Dec.16). Previous Ranking: 10 10. Holy Cross (2-1) – Played in two games against Grant County ( 82-47) and Campbell County ( 59-77). Through three games Holy Cross is led by Nolan Schrand ( 14.0 ppg) and Jordan Niehuas(13.5 ppg.). Games coming up: South Oldham ( Dec.11), Lloyd Memorial (Dec.15) and at John Turner Classic. 
Previous Ranking: 13 11.St. Henry (2-4)- The question preseason is when would the talent freshman class see varsity minutes . After six games Wyatt Vieth leads the team in scoring (10.3 ppg.). St. Henry had a rough week after losing three games. St Henry lost to Covington Catholic ( 93-51), Ryle ( 70-66) and Highlands ( 58-57). Games coming up: Bellevue ( Dec. 13) and Dayton ( Dec.15). Previous Ranking: 11 12-Conner (1-4) – Played in two games against Cooper ( 39-66) and Boone County ( 54-74) and lost both games. Through five games Conner is led by Tanner Craddock (11.8 ppg.). Games coming up: Simon Kenton (Dec.12), Ryle (Dec.15) and Newport (Dec.16). Previous Ranking: 8 13. Dixie Heights (0-4) – The losing streak continues to four games. Dixie Heights losses two games to Newport Central Catholic (62-67) and Simon Kenton (53-58). Games coming up: Beechwood( Dec.12), Villa Madonna( Dec.13) and Campbell County ( Dec.16). *Stats not available Previous Ranking:9 
 14. Highlands- (1-4) — Played in two games, won against St. Henry( 58-57) but lost to South Laurel (54-75). Through five games Highlands is led by Roddy Gabbard (8.4 ppg.). Games coming Up: Trinity Grammar(Dec.11), Ludlow (Dec.14) and Bishop Brossart( Dec.16).
Previous Ranking:14
 15. Bellevue (3-1) – Won two games against Covington Latin ( 67-13) and Heritage Academy (78-40). Through four games Bellevue is led by: Brett Maehren ( 18.5 ppg. 8.8 rpg) and Tommy Ratterman (11.5 ppg.) Games coming up: St. Henry (Dec.13) and Calvary Christian (Dec.15). Previous Ranking:15
 16. Villa Madonna (3-3)- Played three games, winning twice and losing once. Villa Madonna’s wins came against Heritage Academy (74-32) and Silver Grove ( 68-22). The only loss came against Lloyd ( 59-69) . Through the six games played Villa is led by Sean McIntyre (12.8 ppg. 5.0 rpg.) and Ben Zalla (10.8 ppg.) Games coming up: Ludlow (Dec.12), Dixie Heights( Dec.13), Brown(Dec.15), Louisville Collegiate( Dec.16) and Walden(Dec.16). Previous Ranking: 18 17. Ludlow (1-4) – Played three games, lost two games against Calvary Christian (55-62) and Bishop Brossart (32-58) but won against Dayton (48-38). Through 5 games Trey Donahue (14.0 ppg and 5.0 rpg.) and Justin Blackburn ( 10.0 ppg. and 6.0 rpg.) Games coming up: Villa Madonna ( Dec. 12), Higlands (Dec.14) and Silver Grove (Dec.15). Previous Ranking:16
 18. Dayton (0-5)-Lost to Ludlow ( 38-48). Games coming up this week: Newport Central Catholic (Dec.11), Silver Grove (Dec.12), St. Henry(Dec.15). * Note: No Stats available Previous Ranking: 17 19. Heritage Academy (0-3) – Lost two games last week against Villa Madonna ( 32-74) and Bellevue( 40-78). Games coming up: Calvary Christian ( Dec. 12), Augusta (Dec.14) and Portland Christian (Dec.15). Previous ranking: 19

Monday

Game is being played at Covington Catholic. Who wins? Predict the score! Cov Cath: 78 New Cath: 54

Did Houston play?

Lloyd lost nearly all scoring from last year! Holy Cross might have one of their worse teams in several years!

I guess since Cooper lost a game they should drop as well?

Based on what?

1. Covington Catholic (1-0) – Covington Catholic will return three key players after winning 5a State Football Championship. Covington Catholic started the season off with a big road win against Lexington Catholic ( 54-53). Covington Catholic was led by Aiden Ruthsatz (27.0 ppg.) and CJ Fredrick ( 11.0 ppg). Games coming up: Saint Henry ( Dec.5) and Newport Catholic ( Dec.5). 2. Cooper (1-1) – Started the season off with a win against Campbell County( 50-37) and a loss to Hilliard Bradley (OH) (68-70). Cooper was led by Adam Kunkel (20.5 ppg.) and Chris McNeil (15.5 ppg.).Games coming up: Conner(Dec.5) and Elder ( Dec.8). 3. Newport (2-0) - Started the season off with two wins Bishop Brossart( 62-59) and Ponitz Career Tech( 77-70). Newport was led by MeKell Burries(23.5 ppg.), Makhi McGuire(18.0 ppg.) and Tahj Harding (14.0 ppg.) Games coming up: Boone County ( Dec.5) and Holmes (Dec. 8). 4. Newport Central Catholic (2-0) – Started the since off with two wins against St. Henry (71-52) and DeSales (73-72). Newport Central Catholic was led in scoring by Brennan Hall ( 23.0 ppg) and Brendan Luken (19.0 ppg). Games coming up: Lloyd Memorial ( Dec.4), Dixie Heights(Dec.6) and Covington Catholic (Dec.8). 5. Holmes (1-1) – Started the season off with a win against Highlands (46-45) and a loss to North College Hill( 56-65). Holmes was led in scoring by Donavin Saxon (12.0 ppg) and Kerex Race(11.0 ppg) Games coming up: Newport(Dec.8). 6. Ryle (3-0) – Started the season with wins against: Grant County (67-56), Villa Madonna(56-42) and Bellevue ( 66-38). Ryle was led in scoring by Vince Rankin(19.3 ppg) and Jacob Travin (12.3 ppg). Games coming up: Simon Kenton( Dec.5) and St. Henry (Dec.7). 7. Beechwood (2-1) - Started the season off with big wins against Boone County (60-57) and Holy Cross of Louisville (69-40). Beechwood was led by Scotty Draud( 23.3 ppg.), CJ Brannen( 9.7 ppg.) and Ben Toebbe(9.3 ppg.) Games coming up: Scott( Dec.6) and Bishop Brossart(Dec.8). 8. Conner (1-2) - Started the season off with a win against Ludlow(52-32) and two losses against St. Henry (52-55) and Whitley County(45-64). Conner was led in scoring by Tanner Craddock(13.7 ppg.). Games coming up: Cooper ( Dec.5) and Boone County (Dec.8) 9. Dixie Heights (0-2) – Dixie Heights started the season off with losses to Walton Verona( 42-51) and Bryan Station (40-71). Games coming up: Newport Central Catholic (Dec. 6) and Simon Kenton (Dec.8) 10. Boone County (1-2) – Boone started the season off with disappointing losses to Beechwood (57-60) and Holy Cross (57-65) and beat Highlands (67-50). Raymond Rodgers( 20.7 ppg) and Ethan Robbins (14.0 ppg.) was the leaders for the first three games for Boone County. Games coming up: Newport(Dec.5) and Conner(Dec. 8). 11. St. Henry (2-1) – Started the season off by winning vs Conner (55-52) and Ludlow(74-43). Games coming up: Covington Catholic (Dec.5) and Ryle (Dec.7). 12. Lloyd (2-0) - Started the season off by winning two big games against Carroll County( 58-4) and Owen County ( 73-67). Games coming up: Newport Central Catholic ( Dec.4) and Villa Madonna( Dec.7). 13. Holy Cross (1-0) – Started the season off with a big win at Boone County (65-57). Games coming up: Campbell County (Dec 5.), Grant County (Dec. 9) and South Oldham (Dec. 11). 14. Highlands- (0-3) - Started the season off by losing their first three games against Holmes( 45-46), Boone County( 50-67) and Simon Kenton ( 64-74). Alex Starkey averaged 9.7ppg in the first three games for Highlands. Games coming up: Simon Kenton ( Dec. 2), South Laurel(Dec. 8) and St. Henry’s ( Dec.9). 15. Bellevue (1-1) – Tommy Ratterman ( 11.5 ppg.) and Brett Maehren( 16.5 ppg) both lead Bellevue in scoring. Games coming up: Covington Latin( Dec. 6), Covington Latin( Dec.6) and Heritage Academy( Dec. 8). 16. Ludlow (0-2) - Started the season off by a tough first two games against Conner (32-52) and St. Henry ( 43-74). The leading scorers for Ludlow for the first two games were Trey Donaue (10.0 ppg) and Justin Blackburn ( 9.5 ppg). Games coming up: Calvary Christian ( Dec. 4), Dayton (Dec. 7) and Bishop Brossart(Dec 9.) 17. Dayton (0-4)-Played in the Freedom Automotive Tip Off Classic losing all three games. Games coming up: Ludlow (Dec. 7) and Newport Central Catholic ( Dec. 11). 18. Villa Madonna (1-2) – Villa Madonna starts off the season winning against St. Joseph Central (Ironton,Oh). Villa is lead in scoring for the first three games by Ben Zalla(13.5 ppg) and Sean McIntyre(9.0 ppg). Games coming up: Heritage Academy (Dec. 5) and Lloyd Memorial (Dec. 7) 19. Heritage Academy (0-1) - Started the season off by losing to Walden 48-59. Games coming up: Villa Madonna (Dec. 5) and Bellevue (Dec. 8)

Who does South Warren have?

Will the 9th Region see a repeat performance from the Cooper Jaguars in March? Or will the Colonels of Covington Catholic use a deep, talented roster to avenge last season’s loss to Cooper in the regional championship game and earn a trip to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2015? Those are the two questions many 9th Region fans are asking as the 2017-18 season approaches, as Cooper and CovCath appear to be the overwhelming favorites. Cooper (31-5 last season) returns three starters from its state runner-up squad, including talented senior guard Adam Kunkel (16.3 points per game). The Jaguars also have Braydon Runion (10.1 ppg) as an experienced option on offense. CovCath, meanwhile, welcomes back four starters from a 29-6 team that dropped a 51-38 decision to Cooper in the 9th Region championship game at BB&T Arena. It was CovCath’s only loss to a 9th Region team last season, but a setback that cost the Colonels a trip to Rupp Arena and the Sweet 16. CovCath features one of the state’s top players in senior guard C.J. Fredrick, who averaged 19.7 points per game last season. The Colonels also have 7-foot center Jake Walter inside and a host of talent at each position. Newport and Newport Central Catholic both have solid teams and could cause problems for either Cooper or CovCath by the time March rolls around. Newport returns standout guards MeKell Burries and Donnie Miller, while NewCath welcomes back talented scorer Brennan Hall. Holmes and Conner could surprise and are the potential sleepers this season. Here’s a look at the 9th Region for 2017-18: 1. Covington Catholic (29-6) – When most high schools lose a four-year starter who is also their all-time leading scorer, they usually don’t receive a No. 1 ranking the next season. Not so at Covington Catholic, which loses all-time leading scorer and four-year starter Cole VonHandorf (17.6 ppg last season). Despite the loss of VonHandorf, the Colonels return a loaded roster. C.J. Fredrick (University of Iowa commit) will be considered the leader this season. Fredrick averaged 19.7 points per game and is considered one of the top players in the state. Covington Catholic returns four starters (75 percent of its of scoring) from last year. Many consider this the best senior class ever at Covington Catholic. The Colonels also return Aiden Ruthsatz (Christian Brothers commit) and his 13.0 ppg; A.J. Mayer (Miami University football recruit) and his 11.4 ppg; and big man Jake Walter (Xavier commit), who averaged 6.8 ppg. Many believe that Coach Scott Ruthsatz has one of the deepest benches in the state. 2. Cooper (31-5) – Coach Tim Sullivan returns three starters from last season’s 9th Region champions that lost to eventual state champion Bowling Green. Cooper losses two big seniors to graduation in Sean McNeil (17.0 ppg) and Dante Hendrix (7.8 ppg), but the Jaguars return one of the top players in the region in Adam Kunkel. A Belmont University signee, Kunkel averaged 16.3 ppg as a junior and is considered one of the 9th Region’s best players. Cooper returns a great deal of experience and scoring in Brayden Runion (10.1 ppg), Chris McNeil (6.2 ppg) and Blaine Walters (5.9 ppg). Cooper also adds Holy Cross transfer Ty Houston to the backcourt. Houston averaged 8.5 ppg at Holy Cross last season. 3. Newport (16-17) - Despite a loss to Cooper in the regional semifinals, Coach Rod Snapp knew his future looked bright as he played a number of underclassmen. Newport returns much of its scoring from last season and many believe this Wildcat team will be the best in several years. Newport is led by one of the most athletic players in the 9th Region in MeKell Burries. Burries averaged 18.2 ppg as a junior and is a great outside shooter. Newport also returns junior guard Donnie Miller (13.2 ppg) and forward Tahj Harding (11.1 ppg). Newport figures to challenge NewCath for the district title, but the Wildcats have struggled mightily in head-to-head matchups against the Thoroughbreds during the past 10 years. 4. Newport Central Catholic (21-13) - Coach Ken Collopy loses five seniors from last season’s team, but NewCath returns talented guard Brennan Hall. Hall averaged 14.9 ppg as a junior and is a tremendous scorer. Brendan Luken (6.6 ppg), Stephen Pangallo (4.1 ppg) and Jalen McDaniel (4.1 ppg) could be keys as well. Collopy will rely on a number of players with limited varsity experience to complement Hall’s scoring. 5. Holmes (12-17) - Some 9th Region observers believe this will be Coach Mike Listerman’s last season on the Holmes sidelines. After last season’s first-round loss in the districts, Holmes will try to bounce back behind the scoring of Raavia Commodore (9.1 ppg) and Jarrod Miller (9.4 ppg). 6. Conner (15-12) - Conner loses the scoring of Spencer Hemmerich (21.0 ppg), whose senior year ended with a heartbreaking loss to Ryle in first round of the district. Coach Matthew Otte will depend on senior Tanner Craddock (13.0 ppg) to lead the Cougars, who hope to qualify for the regionals this season. 7. Dixie Heights (26-7) – A new era begins at Dixie Heights as Roger Stainforth enters his first season as head coach of the Colonels. Stainforth will rely on senior guard Tyler Scrheck (9.1 ppg) as the Colonels lost most of their scoring to graduation. A a number of underclassmen that made the regional championship games in both junior varsity and freshmen tournaments last year will also be keys for Dixie Heights. 8. Boone County (8-22) - Many believe Boone County could be the most improved team this season. Coach Greg McQueary returns quality experience in Ethan Hayes (10.8 ppg), Ethan Robbins (9.9 ppg) and Raymond Rodgers (9.8 ppg). 9. St. Henry (6-21) - Coach Dave Faust has one of the most talented freshmen classes in the region. The big question will be: How many of them will play varsity this season? Faust loses top scorer Stephen Maley (12.1 ppg) to graduation and will have to depend on Mitch McArtor (6.0 ppg) and Michael Schaefer (5.8 ppg) to challenge for a return to the regional tournament after not qualifying last season. 10. Ryle (15-18) – Coach David McFarland will depend on Vince Rankin (10.7 ppg) after losing top scorer Braden Cheeseman (14.4 ppg) to graduation. In order for Ryle to have a successful season, the Raiders need good production from a very talented junior class. 11. Beechwood (15-13) - Coach Erik Goetz returns standout junior Ben Toebbe (18.9 ppg) from a team that dropped a heartbreaking game to Holy Cross in the first round of last season’s district. Beechwood will also depend on freshman Scotty Draud, who averaged 7.9 ppg last season for the Tigers as an 8th-grader. 12. Lloyd (22-11) - Coach Sam Volpenhein loses 71 percent of his scoring from last season’s district runner-up. Lloyd has an inexperienced team, but the Juggernauts will depend on seniors Jamal Neal (8.3 ppg), Isaiah Voet (6.9 ppg) and Evan Molitor (5.2 ppg) for a return trip to the 9th Region tournament. 13. Highlands- (12-17)- Coach Kevin Listerman loses a lot of scoring from last season’s team. Listerman needs to find replacements after losing Kyle Finfrock (13.9 ppg) and Bryce Traylor (8.9 ppg) to graduation. The Bluebirds have a solid nucleus of young players and will need them to develop quickly if they are to earn a berth in the 9th Region tournament. 14. Bellevue (7-24) - Coach Jim Hicks welcomes back an experienced lineup from a squad that lost to Dayton in first round of the district last season. Bellevue will depend on the scoring of Brett Maehren (16.9 ppg), Tommy Ratterman (12.8 ppg), and Eric Atkins (8.8 ppg) after only winning seven games from last year. 15. Holy Cross (10-19) - Holy Cross must regroup after losing a number of players to both graduation and transfer. Coach Ryan Schrand returns guards Nolan Schrand (11.1 ppg) and Parker Zimmerman (10.1 ppg) to the lineup. 16. Ludlow (12-16) - Ludlow loses T.C. Eads (10.2 ppg) to graduation but returns one of the most talented athletes in Northern Kentucky in Justin Blackburn (8.4 ppg). Senior center Jacob Bridges returns after averaging 8.1 ppg as a junior. 17. Dayton (13-19)- After winning 13 games last year, Coach Brian Volpenhein will have to replace its two top scorers in Draven Garcia (15.4 ppg) and Adrian Hall (12.1 ppg). Volpenhein will depend on eight seniors to follow up on last year’s first-round district win against Bellevue. 18. Villa Madonna (12-26) - Coach Nathan Dilts must replace Thomas Schultzman (16.2 ppg) and Will Martin ( 9.4 ppg) in the starting lineup. Villa Madonna will look to senior guard Sean McIntrye (12.2 ppg) to lead the Blue Lightning scoring attack this season. 19. Heritage Academy (2-24) - Heritage will try to improve after winning two games from last season. The Eagles, who began last season with 16 consecutive losses, later recorded victories against Covington Latin and Walden. Top Ten Players in the 9th Region 1.) C.J. Fredrick, Covington Catholic (University of Iowa commit) – Fredrick averaged 19.7 points a game last season. Many believe that Fredrick is a top contender to win Mr. Basketball in Kentucky this season. 2.) Adam Kunkel, Cooper (Belmont University commit) – Kunkel returns after averaging 16.3 ppg and leading Cooper to the 9th Region championship. The senior guard is another 9th Region standout who could be in the running for Mr. Basketball in Kentucky. 3.) Jake Walter, Covington Catholic (Xavier University commit) – The hulking 7-footer returns after averaging 6.8 ppg as a junior, and he could be a dominant force inside as a senior. After having a successful summer in AAU competition, Walter signed to play basketball at Xavier. 4.) MeKell Burries, Newport - The talented senior guard returns after averaging 18.2 ppg last year and is a reason Newport could challenge for the regional title. Burries also drained a team-leading 98 shots from 3-point range as a junior. 5.) Brennan Hall, Newport Central Catholic – An outstanding scorer, Hall is NewCath’s most experienced player and will key the ‘Breds offense. 6.) Aiden Ruthsatz, Covington Catholic - A three-year starter, Ruthsatz averaged 13.0 ppg last season. The senior guard will try and help the Colonels reach the Sweet Sixteen after losing to Cooper in last season’s regional championship. 7.) A.J. Mayer, Covington Catholic – Mayer averaged 11.4 ppg as a junior and will be a key once he finishes playing for the CovCath football team. The Colonels will not only rely on Mayer for scoring, but they will also depend on him on his rebounding after averaging 8.0 rpg. Mayer is a Miami University football recruit. 8.) Donnie Miller, Newport – Miller averaged 13.2 ppg as a sophomore, and the talented guard is one of the top juniors in the 9th Region. 9.) Brayden Runion, Cooper – The senior guard returns after having a successful averaging 10.1 ppg last season and helping Copper win the 9th Region championship. 10). Ben Toebbe, Beechwood - The junior forward returns after leading Beechwood in scoring last season at 18.9 ppg. Toebbe also averaged 7.8 rebounds per game and shot 55.2 percent from the field.

What schools?

If you guys are complaining about a coach saying a cuss word then you guys need to get out more! Coaches cuss on all levels and all sports! This is just a big deal because it was someone on Covington Catholic coaching staff that said it during a game!

Who wins the Cov Cath vs Holy Cross Boys Basketball game?

How good is Pope John?