Cubster

Steve Wright gonna be the guy?

Kelly Carwile would be great for Marion County.

Plenty of talent returning. That should be a nice trip for the team.

Kelly Wells?

SK return much?

He resigned on his own. Had a great run. 100-60.

Croft is the new coach?

The Tomcats saved their best for last in winning their 33rd regional championship and first since 2002. First year head coach Jason Mays pushed all the right buttons in Morehead this past week. The Tomcats struggled to a 14-16 regular season mark playing a rugged schedule that included three Sweet 16 squads. It proved to be the right formula to produce a region title. Ashland squeaked by Lewis County in round 1, then pulled the upset of the season by knocking off Elliott County in overtime, and finished off their improbable run by beating rival Boyd County in their fifth matchup of the season. 16th region tournament MVP Devaunte Robinson leads this balanced Tomcat squad. The athletic lefty gets to the hoop with regularity. The return of freshman Cole Villers for the last eleven games was a huge boost especially in the title game as he scored 21 points. Fellow freshman Ethan Sellers also had a huge tournament for the Tomcats. Junior Ethan Hudson provides another scorer on the perimeter. He poured in 21 points in the win over Elliott County. The glue of this team is Justin Bradley. He made huge shots and provided defensive toughness in all three region wins. Senior Hunter Mays has been instant offense since he has been moved into the role of sixth man. The Tomcats have gone small since the suspension of Ryan Bryant and the result has been spreading teams out and utilizing the three-point shot. The Tomcats will take on the pressing style of 3rd Region champion Owensboro. Mays should be familiar with the Red Devils as he was interim coach at Kentucky Wesleyan last season. Ashland will have to take care of the basketball to be successful in this game. Also the Tomcats have been using primarily a six-man rotation in the postseason. That could prove to be an issue against Owensboro's relentless pressure. If they can handle the press and convert on the back end, this Cinderella run could continue in Lexington. We will all see at 8 pm Wednesday night at Rupp Arena.

Game #1 ELLIOTT COUNTY (25-3) vs ASHLAND (15-16) On paper this looks like a comfortable win for the Lions. They are undefeated in regional play and own a 54-42 victory over Ashland on February 14th. This game tonight could be closer than most think. Ashland is without Ryan Bryant which could help the Tomcats defensively to match up with the smaller Lions. On the flip side can the Tomcats score enough points to pull the upset without a post presence? The key to the game could be if Ashland can limit the number of looks for sharp shooters Tanner Dickerson and Gage Evans. Can they make Korbin Spencer be the Lions' only scorer? A patient offene is also a must for the Tomcats and they must limit turnovers. In the end I see Elliott County pulling away late to secure a spot in the tile game on Sunday. PREDICTION: ELLIOTT COUNTY GAME #2 ROWAN COUNTY (26-5) vs BOYD COUNTY (23-10) This should be a contrast of styles in tonight's nightcap. Rowan County loves to control tempo and play through Mason Moore. Boyd County wants to speed up the game and create turnovers for easy baskets. Blake Stewart leads a bevy of three-point shooters that feed off of Stewart's playmaking abilities. Both teams are accustomed to semifinal games at Ellis T. Johnson Arena. The Achilles heel for the Vikings is handling pressure. The Lions live off their pressure. Brady Madden and Mason Moore could be the difference on the glass. I think this might be the time for the Vikings to win a semifinal game. PREDICTION: ROWAN COUNTY

David Henley.

Kool Hits app. Can watch on MY Town TV as well

Game #1 ELLIOTT COUNTY vs BATH COUNTY The Lions definitely got the best opening round matchup on paper. The Wildcats have struggled down the stretch and will need a huge effort to knock off Elliott County. Look for the senior trio of Korbin Spencer, Gage Evans, and Tanner Dickerson to lead the Lions into the region semifinals on Friday. Prediction: ELLIOTT COUNTY Game #2 LEWIS COUNTY vs ASHLAND This game could be the best of the first round matchups. The Lions are on a ten-game winning streak and have the best fan following in the 16th Region. Sam O'Keefe and Seth Wright lead the scrappy Lions. Ashland counters with an athletic team led by Devaunte Robinson. The key to this game will be who can make the most perimeter shots. Prediction: Lewis County Game #3 WEST CARTER vs ROWAN COUNTY Another dandy first round matchup in Morehead. The Vikings stumbled down the stretch but rebounded to win their district. Mason Moore will need some scoring help in this one. West Carter was 30 seconds away from upsetting Elliott County in their district final. They feature a balanced team that plays extremely hard. First team to 50 will win this one. Prediction: Rowan County Game #4 RACELAND vs BOYD COUNTY Two very perimeter-oriented teams will close out the first round of play. Blake Stewart and Talbott Taylor will be the primary targets of the Ram defense. The Rams counter with four players who can score 15 any night. The difference will be the role players from Boyd County. Prediction: Boyd County

It is postseason time in the Bluegrass. The region has been Elliott County and everyone else throughout the season. Now it is time to see if anyone can knock off the Lions. Here is a look at the final regular season rankings of the 2018-19 season: 1. ELLIOTT COUNTY (22-3) The Lions finished off their unbeaten run through the 16th region with a home win over Ashland last Thursday. Korbin Spencer now hopes to nab a fourth region title for Elliott County in the past five seasons. 2. ROWAN COUNTY (23-5) The Vikings have stumbled down the stretch with losses to East Carter, Morgan County, and Mason County. Coach Thacker will try to right the ship in the postseason behind the play of Mason Moore and Brady Madden. 3. BOYD COUNTY (20-10) The Lions lost their season finale to East Carter at home. The defending region champs will lean heavily on Blake Stewart and Talbott Taylor in postseason play. 4. LEWIS COUNTY (19-9) The Lions are on an eight-game winning streak heading into the district tournament at The Hampton Inn. Seth Wright and Sam O'Keefe will be vital to LC's postseason run under Coach Joe Hampton. 5. EAST CARTER (12-13) The Raiders finished the season by winning 10 of their last 12 games including wins over Boyd County, Morgan County, and West Carter. Jordan Brooks has been a double-double machine for Coach Brandon Baker's squad. 6. MORGAN COUNTY (18-11) The Cougars finished off a strong season with a win over Phelps. Blake Evans and Jake Helton need big nights for the Cougars to upset Elliott County in round 1 of the 62nd District. 7. WEST CARTER (15-11) The Comets finished off their season with a convincing win over Bracken County Friday night. A balanced attack will be needed in their 62nd District showdown with county rival East Carter Tuesday. 8. ASHLAND (13-15) The up and down Tomcats dominated West Carter on Tuesday but then lost back-to-back road games to Elliott County and rival Russell. Cole Villers will be pivotal in how deep the Tomcats can go in the postseason. 9. RACELAND (15-12) The Rams finished strong down the stretch and got a huge win over Greenup County last week. The Rams are dangerous offensively but face Russell in round 1 of the 63rd District tournament, a team they have lost to twice this season. 10. RUSSELL (9-17) The Red Devils pulled off a mild upset Friday over Ashland behind 14 points from seldom used guard Donovan Moore. Now they will try to knock off rival Raceland for a third time this season with a region berth on the line. 11. BATH COUNTY (11-19) The Wildcats ended the season on a six-game losing streak against solid region teams. Chandler Otis and Jake Porter will try to help Bath turn the tables on Fleming County in Round 1 of the 61st District Tournament on Monday. 12. FLEMING COUNTY (11-18) The Panthers had a tough week with losses to Sayre and Greenup County. Cole Saunders hopes to lead the Panthers to a third victory over Bath County in district play Monday. 13. GREENUP COUNTY (11-18) The Musketeers ended the season with two wins over Piarist and Fleming County. Greenup County will now face the tall task of playing Lewis County in Vanceburg on Tuesday. 14. FAIRVIEW (10-19) The Eagles defeated Tolsia to end their regular season. Noah King and Garrett Greene hope to lead an upset bid against Boyd County Tuesday. 15. MENIFEE COUNTY (9-21) The Wildcats ended the season at 9-21. They will face Rowan County Monday in the 61st District. 16. ROSE HILL (4-24) The Royals made great improvements this season with four wins. They will face host Ashland in district play Monday. 61st District at Rowan County Monday February 18th Rowan County vs Menifee County Fleming County vs Bath County Prediction Winner: Rowan County Runner Up: Bath County 62nd District at West Carter Monday February 18th Elliott County vs Morgan County Tuesday February 19th East Carter vs West Carter Prediction Winner: Elliott County Runner Up: East Carter 63rd District at Lewis County Tuesday February 19th Greenup County vs Lewis County Wednesday February 20th Russell vs Raceland Prediction Champion:Lewis County Runner Up: Raceland 64th District at Ashland Monday February 18th Ashland vs Rose Hill Tuesday February 19th Fairview vs Boyd County Champion:Ashland Runner Up: Boyd County Ten Players to Watch: 1. Korbin Spencer Elliott Averages a region-best 29.6 points per game. Can dominate a game in many ways. 2. Mason Moore Rowan The Paintsville transfer has been as good as advertised averaging 19.7 an outing 3. Blake Stewart Boyd The veteran junior guard averages 21.8 and is also the Lions' leading rebounder. 4. Jordan Brooks East Carter The versatile Brooks has blossomed his senior season averaging 16.1 points for the resurgent Raiders. 5. Sam O'Keefe Lewis The silky smooth lefty combines a toughness that has led the Lions to a 19-9 record while averaging 18.5 a contest. 6. Tanner Dickerson Elliott The sharpshooter has played Robin to Batman with Korbin Spencer. His scoring makes a big difference for the Lions. 7. Kirk Pence Raceland The combo guard recently took over ball handling responsibilities and the Rams have been on a roll. 8. Devaunte Robinson Ashland The athletic Robinson needs to step up his game like he did last season during the Tomcats run to the region finals. 9. Brady Madden Rowan The physical post player will have to dominate the paint for the Vikings to make a deep postseason run. 10. Cole Villers Ashland His presence on the perimeter makes the Tomcats a definite dark horse threat in March. is he healthy enough to be difference maker?

East Carter playing solid basketball since the calendar turned.

You cant try to match Elliott basket for basket. Have to control the tempo.

16th Region Round 1 Mon Tues Semis Fri Finals Sunday

Believe it or not we have reached the final week of the regular season. Elliott County remains unblemished in regional play as the potential contenders continue to topple each other on a weekly basis. Rowan County took two losses this past week while Boyd County and East Carter saw winning streaks snapped as well. Lewis County has reeled off six straight wins to position themselves as contenders in March. Here is a look at this week's ratings: 1. ELLIOTT COUNTY (20-3) The Lions were challenged by both Morgan County and Boyd County and once again responded in typical Elliott County fashion. Gage Evans, Tanner Dickerson, and Collin Porter all complemented high-scoring Korbin Spencer in the wins. They will finish their season with Russell and their home finale against Ashland. 2. ROWAN COUNTY (22-4) The Vikings dropped two games to East Carter and Morgan County after a thrilling win over Ashland on Tuesday. The region's winningest team have won several close games throughout the season with clutch play from Mason Moore. They will wrap their successful season with a game with Fairview on Thursday. 3. BOYD COUNTY (20-9) The Lions notched their 20th win of the season over Floyd Central following a loss to Elliott County. Blake Stewart and Talbott Taylor have been as good as advertised for this high-scoring team. They will meet East Carter on Thursday to finish their regular season schedule. 4. LEWIS COUNTY (17-9) The Lions have now won six consecutive games heading into the final week of the season. The week was punctuated with a thrilling triple overtime win over West Carter on Friday. Tanner Willis made big plays down the stretch to push the Lions to the victory. Seth Wright and Sam O'Keefe have provided an impressive one-two punch for the Lions. The Lions end the season with Augusta and Bath County. 5. WEST CARTER (14-10) The Comets sandwiched wins over Russell and Bath County around the heart-breaking loss to Lewis County. Tyson Webb has been a spark plug lately for the very balanced Comet squad. The Comets take on Ashland Tuesday then end their season with 10th region school Bracken County. 6. EAST CARTER (10-13) The Raiders followed up a loss to improving Raceland with a huge win over Rowan County and a lopsided win over Fairview. Jordan Brooks provided the latest Riser buzzer beater in the win over Rowan County. The Raiders hit the road to end the season with games at Bath County and Boyd County. 7. MORGAN COUNTY (16-11) The Cougars may well be thinking what could have been at the end of this season. A loss at Elliott County insured they will take on the Lions in round one of the 62nd District tournament. The Cougars then defeated 22-win Rowan County for the second time this season on Saturday. Jake Helton has been a force the last couple weeks in the post. The Cougars take on Greenup County and Phelps this week. 8. ASHLAND (12-13)The Tomcats 2-2 split last week was a microcosm of their season up to this point. An impressive win over Spring Valley was followed by a strong effort in an one-point loss versus Rowan County. Ashland then got a road win over Bath County before a lackluster 64-44 loss to Johnson Central at home. The return of Cole Villers should ease the scoring load for the Tomcats. A busy final week will test ashland as they take on West Carter, Elliott County, and Russell. 9. RACELAND (13-11) The Rams had a strong win over red-hot East Carter on Tuesday then battled state ranked Cabell Midland to the wire in a close loss and ended the week with a road win over Menifee County. The perimeter-oriented Rams could be a tough out in the postseason. They will end their season with three games and the most important is Tuesday versus Greenup County that will decide the three and four seeds in the 63rd District. 10. RUSSELL (8-15) The Devils got a nice district win over Greenup County on Tuesday and then lost another late lead in a loss at West Carter. It was a costly loss as improving guard Jared Goodman suffered a season-ending knee injury. The Devils have led in twelve of their 15 losses in the fourth quarter this season. The Devils hope to reverse that trent this week with a tough game at Lawrence County and home games with Elliott County and rival Ashland. 11. FLEMING COUNTY (11-16) The Panthers notched a thrilling win over as sophomore Landen Lutz hit the game winner and scored a career high 21 points. The Panthers absorbed lopsided losses to Lewis County and Mason County as well. Fleming County will end their season with Sayre and Greenup County. 12. BATH COUNTY (11-17) The Wildcats are in the midst of a four-game losing streak despite playing some decent basketball. They played Ashland and West Carter tough behind the play of Jake Porter and Chandler Otis. The raid does not get easier with home games versus East Carter and Lewis County. 13. FAIRVIEW (9-18) The Eagles will try to end a four-game skid this week as they take on Tolsia and Rowan County. Noah King and Garrett Greene look to end their careers on a high note this week. The week was a struggle with losses to Morgan County, East Carter, and Lewis County. 14. GREENUP COUNTY (9-16) The Musketeers came from 15 down to beat Augusta 52-50 on Thursday but had losses to Russell and Wheelersburg to end the week at 1-2. Brady Nelson scored a career-high 33 points in the loss to Russell and has been on a scoring tear the last two week. Greenup County ends the season with four games including a big seed game matchup with Raceland on Tuesday. 15. MENIFEE COUNTY (9-18) The Wildcats almost had a 3-0 week but fell to Raceland 66-61 on Saturday after notching wins over Jackson City and Rose Hill earlier in the week. Estill County, Robertson County, and Williamstown make up the schedule this week. 16. ROSE HILL (4-22) The Royals got their fourth win of the season over Covenant last week. Johnny Wilburn continues to put up big numbers in a stellar junior season. The young Royals will end their season with game versus Tolsia and Raceland.

Every team but one will play at least three games this week as teams get ready for the postseason. Elliott County and Rowan County have been 1-2 most of the season but the hottest team in the region is Boyd County. The Lions have reeled off seven straight wins in the past two weeks. Let's take a look at this week's rankings: 1. ELLIOTT COUNTY (17-3) The Lions remained unbeaten in 16th Region play with a district win over West Carter. Tanner Dickerson and Gage Evans have been consistent players to complement Korbin Spencer all season. Eighth grader Collin Porter has been steady off the Lions bench as well. This week the Lions will take on Menifee County, Morgan County, and red-hot Boyd County. 2. ROWAN COUNTY (20-2) The Vikings are the region's first 20 game winners. The have won pretty most nights but no one can doubt their ability to win close games. Mason Moore and Brady Madden have been mainstays for the Vikings. A big game four-game week awaits the Vikings with games versus Bath County, Ashland, East Carter, and Morgan County. They will all four of those and there is doubt they belong at #2. 3. BOYD COUNTY (18-8) Jonathan Hicks has emerged as the third option for the Lions. Blake Stewart and Talbott Taylor have carried the load for the defending champions but now are getting help from others. A seven-game winning streak was highlighted by a decisive win over Morgan County. Rose Hill, Elliott County, and Floyd Central are on tap as the Lions try to become the region's second 20 game winner. 4. LEWIS COUNTY (14-9) The Lions are back on a three-game winning streak and ended their district seeding at 6-0 with a blowout win over Russell Saturday. Seth Wright and Sam O'Keefe have become a dynamic duo this season. The Lions take on Fleming County, West Carter, and Fairview this week. 5. WEST CARTER (12-9) The Comets fell to Elliott County in their only game of the week. Rodney Evans and Ethan Adkins have had solid senior campaigns for the resurgent Comets this season. A competitive week starts with a game with Russell followed by tilts with Lewis County and Bath County. 6. EAST CARTER (8-12) The Raiders string of victories was halted by another hot team Boyd County on Thursday but the win they needed came on Tuesday over Morgan County. The Raiders are assured of no less than third in 62nd District seeding which means avoiding Elliott County in Round 1. Jordan Brooks and the emergence of Micah Adams have been pivotal in the Raiders turnaround. Raceland, Rowan County, and Fairview will be their opponents this week. 7. MORGAN COUNTY (14-10) A preseason region contender now have their back against the wall. The Cougars need to sweep games with West Carter and Elliott County to even have a chance at the district's three seed. Cameron Bush has been playing at a high level the past few games. This week the Cougars try to regroup with games versus Fairview, Elliott County, and Rowan County. 8. ASHLAND (10-12) The Tomcats are another team with high preseason hopes that are struggling. They suffered losses to George Washington and Mason County this past week. Turnovers continue to plague this team. A tough four-game week can maybe spark them as they take on Spring Valley, Rowan County, Bath County, and Johnson Central. 9. RUSSELL (7-14) The Red Devils had a strong performance in beating Lawrence County but then lost big at Lewis County on Saturday. The return of Charlie Bechtel has given the Red Devils a much-needed inside presence. The Red Devils can lock down the 2 seed in the 63rd District with a win over Greenup County Tuesday followed by a matchup with West Carter on Wednesday. 10. RACELAND (11-10) The Rams are on a modest three-game winning streak with wins over Portsmouth West, Fairview, and Bath County. Kirk Pence and Kyle Adkins along with Greg Mershon have upped their games as of late. The Rams hope to get a signature win this week as they take on East Carter, Cabell Midland, and Menifee County this week. 11. FLEMING COUNTY (10-14) The Panthers took two big losses to Boyd County and Montgomery this past week. Cole Saunders and Kaleb Flannery have led a competitive squad this season as they look for a signature win down the stretch. Opportunities are there this week as they take on Lewis County, Bracken County, and Mason County. 12. BATH COUNTY (11-14) The Wildcats struggle to maintain consistency as they fell 55-37 at Raceland on Saturday. Chandler Otis had a stellar senior season for the Wildcats. The schedule gets tougher down stretch beginning this week with games against Rowan County, Ashland, and West Carter. 13. FAIRVIEW (9-15) The Eagles went 1-2 last week with a win over Greenup County coupled with losses to Raceland and Boyd County. Garrett Greene and Tarrick Smith had impressive games for the boys from Westwood. A challenging week begins with Morgan County followed by games with East Carter and Lewis County. 14. GREENUP COUNTY (8-14) The Musketeers claimed a split in two games last week. A win over Portsmouth Notre Dame was followed by a two-point loss to Fairview. Brady Nelson continues to be the major scoring threat for GC. The Musketeers put an eleven-game winning streak over Russell on the line Tuesday are followed by games with Augusta and Wheelersburg. 15. MENIFEE COUNTY (7-16) The Wildcats lost 66-39 to Rowan County in their lone game of the week. This week four games await the Wildcats. Elliott County, Jackson City, Rose Hill, and Raceland will have the Wildcats busy this week. 16. ROSE HILL (3-19) The Royals have been idle since January 22nd. That will change this week with games versus Boyd County, Covenant, and Menifee County.

Great stats guys. I still feel Elliott is the team to beat. 12-0 in region is proof of that. It won't be an easy road starting with what looks to be a matchup with Morgan County.

This past week may have provided some hope for the teams chasing Elliott County for the 16th Region crown. The Lions survived at Morgan County and then lost 69-54 to Danville in the state All A Classic. Is it just the ordinary January grind taking a toll or could someone make this region a lot more interesting? This week is HUGE in the 62nd District seeding as Morgan County, East Carter, and West Carter battle it out for the 2-4 seed in this ultra-competitive district. Let's take a look at this week's rankings. 1. ELLIOTT COUNTY (16-3) The Lions needed some late free throws from senior Gage Evans to pull out a close win over Morgan County on Tuesday. Danville forced the Lions into a high number of turnovers and dominated the glass to oust them from the state All A Classic. Korbin Spencer, who has committed to UPike, continues to put up big scoring numbers. The Lions look to get back on track this week with home games versus West Carter and Ashland. 2. ROWAN COUNTY (19-2) The Vikings have won more close games than any team ion the region. They survived West Carter on Tuesday night and fought off a pesky Fleming County team later in the week. Mason Moore and Brady Madden have been stalwarts as the Vikings look to reach the 20 win plateau with games versus Menifee County and Bath County this week. 3. BOYD COUNTY (14-8) Don't look now but the defending region champs have reeled off three impressive wins in a row. The Blake Stewart-led Lions followed up an impressive win over Ashland last week with wins over Spring Valley and Mason County. The supporting cast has grown into roles around Stewart and Talbott Taylor. A NBA-type week awaits them this week week with games against Fleming County, East Carter, Fairview, and Morgan County. 4. MORGAN COUNTY (14-8) It is the most important week of the season for the Cougars. Currently 0-3 in district play, the Cougars host East Carter and West Carter this week in West Liberty. Anything less than a sweep likely means an opening round district matchup against Elliott County. Blake Evans, Jake Helton, and Garrett Adkins will need to bring their A games for the Cougars, who also end the week with a game against Boyd County. 5. LEWIS COUNTY (12-9) The Lions broke a three-game losing streak with a hard-fought win over Raceland. The win clinched the top seed in the 62nd District which will be played at Lewis County. Sam O'Keefe and Seth Wright both made big plays down the stretch in the win. The Lions host St. Patrick and Russell this week. 6. WEST CARTER (12-8) The Comets lost two tough games last week to Rowan County and East Carter. The latter on a buzzer-beating three in Grayson. Braden Leadingham and Trace Tackett have stepped up their games in recent games. Two key district games await the Comets this week at Elliott County and at Morgan County. 7. EAST CARTER (7-11) The region's hottest team extended their winning streak to five with a win at Ashland and a thrilling win over West Carter on a buzzer-beating three by Treven Tussey. Jordan Brooks has become a force for the Raiders with his scoring and shot-blocking abilities. The Raiders travel to West Liberty Tuesday for a huge matchup with Morgan County and finish the week with a matchup with Boyd County. 8. ASHLAND (10-10) The up and down season on Blazer Blvd. continued last week. The Tomcats lost 50-48 to East Carter but bounced with a lopsided district win over Fairview on Friday. Senior big man Ryan Bryant is slowly becoming a force in the paint and junior Ethan Hudson has picked up his scoring for the Tomcats. Another tough week awaits the Tomcats with George Washington visiting Anderson Gym and a trip to Sandy Hook to face Elliott County. 9. FLEMING COUNTY (10-12) The Panthers split district games last week with a win over Menifee County and a loss to Rowan County. Cole Saunders has been a consistent scorer for the Panthers this season. The Panthers have some good opponents this seek in Boyd County, Harrison County, and Montgomery County. 10. BATH COUNTY (11-13) The Wildcats stepped out of the region for wins over Estill County and Bracken County last week. Chandler Otis has become a double-double machine for the Wildcats. Rowan County and Raceland will provide the opposition this week. 11. RUSSELL (6-13) The Red Devils crossed the river to face traditional power Wheelersburg and fell 83-66. Tristan Miller found his shooting range to keep the Devils competitive most of the night. This week the Red Devils host Lawrence County and then travel to Lewis County for a district seed game. 12. RACELAND (9-10) The Rams lost two of three last week dropping close games to West Carter and Lewis County before beating Portsmouth West on Saturday. Kirk Pence and Kyle Adkins had some big scoring nights for the dangerous Rams. The Rams can get well this week with a three-game homestand versus Fairview, Greenup County, and Bath County. 13. GREENUP COUNTY (7-13) The Musketeers ended a seven-game losing skid with a 51-48 win over Minford. Brady Nelson carried the scoring load once again as only four players hit the scoring column. This week provides some opportunities for wins with Portsmouth Notre Dame, a key district game at Raceland, and a trip to Fairview. 14. FAIRVIEW (8-13) The Eagles ended the week with a win over Hannan following a shocking loss to Rose Hill and a home loss to Boyd County. Noah King and Garrett Greene continue to carry the scoring load for the Eagles. The Eagles have a busy week with Raceland, Boyd County, and Greenup County dotting the schedule. 15. MENIFEE COUNTY (7-15) The Wildcats dropped a 69-62 decision to Fleming County in their lone game of the week. Travis Trimble has been a bright spot for the Wildcats. The road is no easier with games versus Rowan County and Robertson County and then a game against Rose Hill. 16. ROSE HILL (3-19) The Royals broke a 70-game losing streak versus 64th District opponents with a win over Fairview. Kenny Wilburn poured in 33 points in the win. The Royals will take on Menifee County Saturday in its lone game this week.

You often hear the term "Tuesday Nights in January" in coaching circles. Translation: strange scores in January. The excitement of December turns into the grind of January leading to the pinnacle of the season: the postseason. Russell turned a 39 point loss in December to Bath County into a 16 point win. Bath County notched an upset over West Carter in the All A regional. Fairview pulled a mild upset over Raceland as well. Rowan County survived a couple tough games but one constant remained Elliott County steamrolled its way to another All A regional title. 1. ELLIOTT COUNTY (15-2) The Lions had two convincing wins over Fairview and Bath County to punch their ticket to Richmond this week. Korbin Spencer and his supporting cast continue to put up big numbers on a nightly basis. Morgan County could provide a test on Tuesday before the Lions take on Danville in the state All A Classic Thursday. 2. ROWAN COUNTY (17-2) Mason Moore was the catalyst as the Vikings needed strong fourth quarter surges to notch road wins over Russell and Lewis County. This team has not always been pretty in their wins this season but they have notched a region best 17 wins. The Vikings will take on West Carter and Fleming County this week. 3. MORGAN COUNTY (14-7) The torrid three-point shooting of Blake Evans has carried the Cougars lately. A slow start hampered the Cougars in their 2A state quarterfinal loss to Glasgow. Jake Helton had a big game in the loss. The Cougars face their biggest test of the season against district rival Elliott County. The Cougars, though ranked #3 in the region, have yet to notch a district win. 4. BOYD COUNTY (12-8) The Lions made a nice jump back into the region top four with wins over Lewis County and Ashland sandwiched around a loss to always tough Huntington High. Blake Stewart's game continues to improve as the season draws closer to the postseason. The Lions hope to continue their surge this week as they take on Spring Valley and Mason County. 5. LEWIS COUNTY (11-9) The Lions dropped three games this past week and also encountered some injuries along the way. After a tough loss at Boyd County, the Lions fell to Rowan County and Hazard. Leading scorer Sam O'Keefe and senior guard Cameron Ruckel suffered concussions and sat out considerable time. The Lions hope to heal up in time for a district seed game Friday as they host Raceland. 6. WEST CARTER (11-6) The Comets bounced back from an All A loss to Bath County with a solid win at Greenup County. The deep and balanced Comets have been consistent for most of the season. This week presents three challenges with Raceland, Rowan County, and an improving East Carter on the slate. 7. ASHLAND (9-8) The Tomcats continue to be an enigma. They were thoroughly outplayed in a loss at Boyd County Friday night. Devaunte Robinson and Hunter Mays are feeling the strain of being the focal point of opposing teams defensive game plans. A third option needs to emerge down the stretch. Ashland will take on East Carter and Fairview this week. 8. EAST CARTER (5-11) Don't call it a streak. The Raiders are riding a nice three-game winning streak. Jordan Brooks continued his fine play and got help from Micah Adams and Hunter Binion in wins over Fleming County and Greenup County. There are two interesting matchups on tap this week with Ashland and West Carter. 9. FLEMING COUNTY (9-11) The Panthers fell twice last week at East Carter and a tough home loss to Boone County. Caleb Saunders went off for 37 points in the overtime loss to Boone County. A three-game week awaits the Panthers as they take on Menifee County, Rowan county, and Estill County. 10. BATH COUNTY (9-13) The Wildcats went 2-2 during a grueling four-game week. An upset win over West Carter propelled them in to the All A finals before running into a red-hot Elliott County squad. The win ended with a loss at Russell in Flatwoods. Senior Chandler Otis poured in 35 points in the loss vs Elliott County. He is one of the region's underrated players. The Wildcats hope to inch closer to .500 this week with games against Greenup County, Estill County, and Nicholas County. 11. RUSSELL (6-12) The Devils continue to stay on the verge of breaking into the Top 10. They played Rowan County down to the wire and notched a nice home win over Bath County. Tristan Miller and Brady Bell each had nice games last week. This week the Devils travel to Ohio power Wheelersburg and try to break an 11-game losing streak to Greenup County on Friday. 12. RACELAND (8-8) The Rams notched a big win over Phelps on Saturday to hopefully jump start their season. A team with offensive firepower hopes to improve defensively over the the next few weeks leading into postseason play. They will be tested with games at West Carter , Lewis County, and Portsmouth West (OH). 13. FAIRVIEW (7-11) The Eagles can be a dangerous team as evidenced in their win over Raceland. Noah King has become one of the region's most explosive scorers. They are looking for that signature win down the stretch. Rose Hill, Ashland, and Hannan (Wva) provide the competition this week. 14. GREENUP COUNTY (6-13) The Musketeers are mired in a seven-game losing streak. Scoring has become the major issue as it has recently been Brady Nelson and little other scoring help. The Musketeers hit the road for games at Bath County and Russell before returning home for a matchup with Minford (OH). 15. MENIFEE COUNTY (7-14) The Wildcats have proven they can score the basketball but defending has been a problem. Travis Trimble has been a leader all season for the Wildcats. This week the Wildcats get two chances to dent the win column with games against Fleming County and Rose Hill. 16. Rose Hill (2-19) The Royals effort has not waned but the wins are still few and far between. Kenny Wilburn is having a strong junior season for the Royals. A matchup with Fairview is followed by a winnable game against Menifee County this week.

I feel like they have the pieces and could well be in the top 8-10 in the next few weeks. Fleming losses are puzzling.

The same old song and dance continues in the 16th Region. Elliott County was tested for the first time by a region opponent as Rowan County fought them to the final horn. It gives the rest of the region a possible blueprint for an upset once postseason play begins. The rest of the region continues to play competitive games that have resulted in some surprising results such as East Carter shocking Morgan County in Grayson. Should we just throw numbers 2-14 in a hat and pull them out? This week's matchups may provide some clarity to the rankings but don't hold your breath. We try to rate teams how they are currently playing. 1. ELLIOTT COUNTY (13-2) The Lions got a hard-fought win in Morehead over Rowan County last Thursday. Korbin Spencer continues to show why he is the region's best player evidenced by his 30 point average. He is also one of the top rebounders in the region. The Lions now set their sights on another All A region title. They will play host Fairview in the semifinals on Tuesday night. 2. ROWAN COUNTY (15-2) The Vikings have the most wins of any team in the region. They have in-region losses vs Morgan County and Elliott County. Mason Moore has proven to be the addition this Vikings team needed. The Vikings can cement their position as the biggest threat to Elliott County this week. The go on the road to face Russell and Lewis County before facing the challenge of 10th region favorite Campbell County in the Lake Kelly Classic at Fleming County. 3. LEWIS COUNTY (11-6) The Lions recorded a solid win over district rival Greenup County 57-41 on Friday. Stoney Lykins sparked the Lions offense with 17 points off the bench. A big week awaits the Lions with matchups versus perennial region contenders Boyd County and Rowan County followed by a tough tilt with Hazard at the Lake Kelly Classic. A very telling week for the Lions. 4. ASHLAND (8-7) The Tomcats got healthy dose of Scott County on Saturday night after notching a key district win over Fairview. Seniors Devaunte Robinson and Hunter Mays continue to shoulder the scoring burden for the Tomcats. The question remains when or if Cole Villers will return to action? Rose Hill and Boyd County provide the opposition this week. 5. MORGAN COUNTY (13-6) The Cougars have made it clear they are the region's Jekyll and Hyde team this season. The Cougars have solid wins over Rowan County and Lewis County along with head-scratching losses to Russell and East Carter. Blake Evans was on fire from trey-land as the Cougars went 2-2 and also advanced to the state 2A championships in Owensboro where they will face Glasgow on Friday morning. 6. WEST CARTER (9-5) The Comets have steadily remained a top 6-7 team in the region. Their aggressive, hard-nosed play keeps them in games almost every night out. Ethan Adkins and Rodney Evans have been instrumental in the Comets' turnaround this season. They begin All A region action tonight versus Menifee County in Westwood. 7. BOYD COUNTY (10-7) The Lions split games this week with an easy win over Rose Hill and a competitive 10-point loss to Johnson Central. The Lions are still searching for a consistent third scorer to complement Blake Stewart and Talbott Taylor. Coach randy Anderson will find out a lot more about his teams with games against Lewis County, Huntington (Wva), and a third matchup with Ashland. 8. FLEMING COUNTY (9-9) The Panthers made a big jump this week with a key district win over Bath County and a competitive loss at Rowan County. Coach Chris Stapleton has his Panthers believing they can win and it has them at .500. They will travel to a suddenly resurgent East Carter Tuesday and host Boone County on Saturday at the Lake Kelly Classic. 9. EAST CARTER (3-11) A three-win team at #9? The Raiders notched a huge upset behind versatile big man Jordan Brooks last week. This squad has been steadily improving. We will see if their jump in the rankings is justified as they take on Fleming County, Greenup County, and Bath County this week. 10. RUSSELL (5-11) The Red Devils are also an intriguing team. They have led many of their games into the fourth quarter. The one team they have held the against is Raceland. Charlie Jachimczuk is on a roll the last three games scoring at a 25.6 clip for the Devils. Russell hosts Rowan County and Bath County this week at The Fireplace. 11. RACELAND (7-8) The Rams seem to take a step forward then two steps back. The Rams fell at home to Russell and then were beaten at Fairview in the first round of the All A regional on Saturday. Greg Mershon and Andrew both had big games in the two losses. The rams look to get back on track with home games vs Sciotoville (OH) and an improved Phelps squad. 12. GREENUP COUNTY (6-10) The turnover bug continues to plague the Musketeers against better competition. Brady Nelson and Eli Raby have been consistent scorers all season. This week gets no easier with games against Mason County, East Carter, and West Carter. 13. BATH COUNTY (8-11) The Wildcats are another team that just can't consistently play solid basketball. A loss to Montgomery was followed by another district loss to Fleming County. The Wildcats drilled Rose Hill to open All A regional play and will face the West Menifee winner on Wednesday at Fairview with a spot in the finals on the line. 14. FAIRVIEW (7-10) The Eagles are another team that could also be in the Top 10. Noah King has become a great scorer and Garrett Greene has continued to rebound and score well. The Eagles got a ice win over Raceland and will host Elliott County in the All A semifinals on Tuesday. 15. MENIFEE COUNTY (7-13) The Wildcats recorded a win over Lee County last week while absorbing two losses. Coach Tim Swatz agrees with us on the fact that the Wildcats need a signature win. 16. ROSE HILL (2-17) The Royals continue to fight an uphill battle this season. A date with Ashland will be followed by a winnable game with Sciotoville (OH) later this week.

Wouldnt want to play Lewis at Lewis in an elimination game.

Fun game to watch. Devils in a good position now to be the two or three seed in district play.