JohnsonQ

AAU is great for scouting individual talent, but not for assessing how that talent will fit in on its high school team. No scouting reports and they don't prepare for days/weeks to beat an opponent. Owen has talent, no argument there. They also have weaknesses, as does every other team. Owen has no answer for Smith from Oldham. They need for someone else to beat Oldham in my opinion. However, an argument could be made that Oldham is not guaranteed to get out of their district. North creates a mismatch and South is very good as well. Seed games will be very important in Oldhams district.

Chambers health is the key to Simon's success. SK has several good players, Chambers keeps them all happy with his ball distribution.

I think the original concern was coaches would make it mandatory and kids would have to choose between sports. Will volleyball lose players if the basketball coach puts pressure on players to get into the gym for personal instruction versus playing volleyball?

I don't think the length of floor has much to do with it. The 8th is not as athletic as some other regions. A good draw may determine their fate more than anything else. 8th girls nor boys has the talent to win state at this time, however, they are good enough to beat some of the other regions. As far as comparing Whitfield and Gayhart, I think Whitfield has more raw talent and a greater upside, but Gayhart is a better basketball player at this time.

Walton will win big. Too much size on the line for the young raiders.

I like Owen in this one. I think the game will remain close due to the rivalry between the two schools.