J.D. Mayo's Full Court Press

Vol. II

1EV

De’Aaron D e’Aaron Fox Cypress Lakes p. 14

La auren Cox Lauren Flo ower Mound Flower p. 22

Ĺ“ # %QCEJ 9KVJQWV $QTFGTU Ĺ“ # % %QCEJ 9KVJQWV $QTFGTU Ĺ“ 6GZCUĹŒ 6QR %NCUU QH 4GETWKVU Ĺ“6GZC Ĺ“ 6TKDWVG VQ VJG 5VCVG %JCORKQPU Ĺ“ 6GCO 2TQĆ…NGU 5KFGDCTU Joyner Holmes, Cedar Hill ... p. 24

Terrance Ferguson, API ... p. 16

Ĺ“ /WEJ /WEJ /QTG

P

AS

UN

D AT

IO N

A D E N A ISD

ED

U C AT I O N F

O

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

1

BASKETBALL

N\CDFE#

WWW.GANDYINK.COM • 1-800-999-8137

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

2

Magazine’s Eponym Always Anxious to Start Another Day

by Garland Hancock J.D. Mayo, the eponym for the magazine herein, has been coaching high school basketball for 45 years now. More importantly, he has made it his priority to “make a difference” in the lives of all those who cross his path.

“I believe that’s what I am here to do,” Mayo says.

“I believe God put me here to be of service to others, and I feel truly blessed that basketball – the sport I love so much – allows me the opportunity to do that on a daily basis.”

Mayo is now in year two of heading up the basketball program at Class 5A Joshua High School. It has proved to be one of the biggest coaching challenges for a man who sets his alarm to awake every morning at 4:13. He needs the extra time, he says, to enjoy what he considers will be yet another “great day to be alive.”

In Mayo’s Joshua coaching debut last season, the Owls won nine games, which is three times as many as they had won the previous two years combined.

In December of last year, Joshua finished atop the silver bracket of the Glen Rose Tournament. It marked the first time in 10 years that the school’s basketball program had won any sort of hardware at all. Also, Joshua’s tourney-title victory marked win number six, the first time the Owls had won that many games in eight years. Then came district play and the snapping of a 27-game losing streak.

Mayo first wet his whistle in 1971. That year he served as an assistant at Spruce High School. His boss, mentor and friend was the legendary John Paul Fultz, now a member

J.D. Mayo, Joshua High School head basketball coach

“

If you work hard, you are holding up your end of the bargain. After that, everything is beyond your control and in the hands of God. Really, if you view life like that, it makes things a whole lot easier.”

See J.D. Mayo p. 4

ing cut s Exe Pres The

Graphic Design

Garland Hancock Publisher Writer Editor Ad Sales Cover Design

Gina Lipschitz Graphic Designer

Cover Photography No person, organization or party can copy or re-produce the content of this publication without expressed written consent from the publisher.

In all matters related to the editorial and advertising content of J.D. Mayo’s Full-Court Press, due diligence is practiced by all parties involved to assure accurate copy and imagery reflective of said content’s intended purpose, which is to inform and entertain. The publisher -- and those under his employee -- assumes no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions.

Feedback on J.D. Mayo’s Full-Court Press or the website (www.jdmayosfullcourtpress.com) is always welcome and, in fact, encouraged. The contact number is (972) 679-1635 or you may send an e-mail to: jdmayosfullcourtpress@outlook.com.

De’Aaron Fox photo courtesy of Cypress Fairbanks ISD, Joel Weckerly Lauren Cox photo courtesy of 1st Photo Texas

Miranda Wilcox Graphic Designer

Joyner Holmes photo courtesy of D.E.M. Photography Terrance Ferguson photo courtesy of FIBA

Christy Love Commercial Designer

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

3 Stats Leaders, p. 71 Finals History, p. 94 Tourney Records, p. 100

By the #s

65 Champs UIL, p. 65 TAPPS, p. 105

5 A Coach Without Borders

&

Trent Triple Take, p. 25 Stormy Offseason, p. 28 Amazing Attitudes, p. 28

features

90 A Coaching 1st

&Leaders of the Pack

De·Aaron Fox, p. 14 Terrance Ferguson, p. 16 Lauren Cox, p. 22 Joyner Holmes, p. 24

features

153 Lone Star Legends TABC All-State, p. 126 UIL All-Tourney, p. 129

Accolades

Team Classes 6A, p. 31 / 5A, p. 47 / 4A, p. 131 / 3A, p. 143 Profiles Classes 2A, p. 160 / 1A, p. 169 & More

Top 10 Recruits « Girls, p. 18; Boys, p. 10

Winning Redefined: A Champion·s Mentality, p. 190

4

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

J.D. Mayo from p. 2 of the Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame.

Mayo learned from the master for five years before accepting, in 1976, the head coaching position at Skyline High School. In 33 years at Skyline, he managed to turn a mediocre program into a perennial powerhouse. His 698 wins at Skyline still rank as the most recorded by a coach at any Dallas Independent School District school or schools. In commemoration, Skyline named its new gym – which opened in 2011 – after Mayo.

During his time pacing the pine, Mayo has coached more than 100 players who have gone on to play college ball on full scholarships. In 2000, the National High School Athletic Coaches Association named him National High School Basketball Coach of the Year; and in 2003, Mayo received Make-a-Difference awards from High School Extra and Fox Sports Southwest.

Mayo’s most notable proteges have been Larry Johnson and C.J. Miles.

Johnson led UNLV to a 1990 NCAA

title, won the Naismith and John R. Wooden awards in 1991 and went on to star for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets (1991-96) and New York Nicks (1996-2001). Miles is now in his second season with the Indiana Pacers. He has also played for the Utah Jazz (2005-12) and Cleveland Cavaliers (2012-14). Miles holds distinction as the only DISD player to ever jump straight from high school into the NBA. Mayo left Skyline, a traditionally large school, in 2009 and relocated to Class 2A Nocona. That school had not been to the playoffs in more than a

Larry Johnson

C.J. Miles

decade, but Mayo coached them into a play-in game his first season there and then led the Indians to the playoffs in two of the next four years. Along the way, Nocona recorded major upsets over Krum and Holiday, both schools steeped in winning basketball traditions.

Nevertheless, Mayo views winning basketball games as nothing more than icing on the cake – that is, the sugary stuff on top may provide an immediate rush but can in no way sustain a man through difficult times. But Mayo, a deeply religious man, does firmly believe that basketball can impart life lessons that “make a big difference.”

Primary among those lessons is that hard work always – in one way or the other – pays dividends.

“If you work hard,” Mayo says, “you are holding up your end of the bargain. After that, everything is beyond your control and in the hands of God. Really, if you view life like that, it makes things a whole lot easier.”

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

5

A Coach Without Borders

by Garland Hancock When fate came knocking one crisp autumn morning some 25 years ago, Abilene Christian coach Tony Mauldin sat staring at a video monitor, looking for clues on how to fix the very broken team he had inherited. The knock on his office door caught him by surprise. He did not recall having scheduled any meetings. Nevertheless, he unfurled his 6-5 frame and approached the source of distraction. It proved to be the most impactful move he might ever make. For there on the other side of the door stood two strangers who would change his life forever – Good Samaritans who would ultimately lure him to an ancient land where zebras graze under the watchful gaze of modern-day skyscrapers.

Fast-forward to Feb. 14, 2015...

It is Saturday morning -- Tony Mauldin’s favorite time of day on his favorite day of the week. He navigates his SUV slowly, dodging potholes that pockmark the asphalt in one of the meandering lanes feeding the Nairobian slum of Mathare.

February is considered to be the dog days of summer in this part of the world; and yet, the temperature sits at a quite pleasant 82 degrees. Actually, it rarely gets much hotter in Nairobi, Kenya -- a city whose name derives from the Maasai phrase Enkare Nairobi, or “cool water.”

Mauldin rolls down his window to ask directions, and the stench of raw sewage wafts in. So do the sounds of an See Mauldin’s Mission p. 6 Photo: Mathare - the Nairobian slum that is home to some 600,000 residents

6

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Mauldin’s Mission from p. 5 awakening community, accompanied as they are by the pulsing, musical thud emanating from a passing public transport.

hopes on the fact that Mauldin had proved to be a miracle worker at every stop of his then 20-year coaching career. Never mind that he had inherited a program with only three scholarships left on the table. Coach Mathare’s approximate 600,000 Mauldin had never backed down from residents live shanty to shanty in a a challenge and felt confident he would three-square-mile thicket of red mud and meet yet another. rusted tin. The community is But then flanked by the came that prophetic It’s not that I am not careful. But where I go in Mathare River, knock. The two Mathare, most everyone knows me. They see me just three miles unannounced east of downtown rappers were Mr. as ‘coach Tony,’ the guy that’s their friend and Nairobi. and Mrs. Charles who is there to help. So I feel protected. and Darlene Mauldin Coulston. They were has this Saturday missionaries laying Tony Mauldin, former coach/ morning the foundation current missionary ventured for what would into a corner eventually evolve of Mathare into “Made in particularly notorious as a breeding the Streets,” a team of social workers ground for rival gangs. But for now, coach committed to “rescuing children from the Tony – as Nairobians affectionately call streets of Nairobi, Kenya” by “meeting the former Howard Payne forward – is their physical, emotional and spiritual oblivious to it all. He is worried about needs.” how many kids might later show up to Coulston, a former minister his ever-growing camp. Last week, there from California, asked Mauldin to were nearly a thousand. This week he provide sneakers for teens in Eastleigh, expects more. Perhaps as many as 1,500. a Nairobian slum considered to be more He worries whether there will be enough inhabitable than Mathare, but not by peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to feed much. Mauldin the multitude. obliged and, curious to see “Coach Tony, better roll that his African window up man,” a well-wisher shouts. beneficiaries But the mzungu – Swahili for “white man” up close and -- pays the black man no heed despite his personal, own visage sticking out like a sore thumb enthusiastically in a heart of both figurative and literal accepted darkness.

Coulston’s invitation to “It’s not that I am not careful,” visit Eastleigh Mauldin says. “But where I go in Mathare, the following most everyone knows me. They see summer. The me as ‘coach Tony,’ the guy that’s their trip proved to friend and who is there to help. So I be a powerful feel protected. Outside of Al-Shabaab aphrodisiac. (the jihadist terrorist group based in He and his wife neighboring Somali), I never give my own Janice instantly safety a second thought.” fell head-overheels in love with Torn between two continents ... the children who When Tony Mauldin assumed bore a constant the reigns of Abilene Christian in the spring of 1991, the Wildcats were mired Right: “Coach Tony” Mauldin, in quicksand, having dropped 47 games several members of his extended straight with no signs of a tree limb. Fans family in Mathare and ACU administrators alike pinned their

smile despite living in abject conditions simply unimaginable by most Americans.

“There are needs everywhere, and we certainly have children in this country in need of our love and support,” Mauldin says. “But the poverty you see in Mathare and Eastleigh take desperation to an entirely different level. Take the worst ghettos in America and times that by about five. That’s what you’re dealing with in Nairobi.”

Mauldin’s first visit to Eastleigh made it abundantly clear why the sneakers he donated were so needed. Children everywhere were barefoot or, at best, wore flip-flops. Either way, the kids of Eastleigh were ill-equipped to develop athletically, especially when the soccer field or basketball court beneath them comprised heat-absorbing asphalt.

“As a coach, one of my initial thoughts was, ‘I wonder how much athletic

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

7

talent is getting wasted over here,’” Mauldin says. “Not only because the talent is not getting properly developed, but also because so many of these kids were living on the streets and not even enrolled in school. Even the kids that wind up in school have a tough time getting into college – especially an American college – because they do not have the transcripts, medical records and other things needed to apply.”

Mauldin’s early ruminations on the athletic potential of young Kenyans would eventually evolve into a side project known as Tony Mauldin Basketball Services. Under that umbrella, Mauldin compiles East African scouting reports for U.S. basketball coaches. He also helps Kenyan athletes wade through the red tape required to play overseas.

scripture among other things. Sponsorship dollars allow distribution of peaTony Mauldin’s Saturday camps in Mathare started out small but rapidly grew nut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches to all the kids who show up to have fellowship with their friend, who they affectionately call “coach Tony.” as word spread of a 6-5 mzungu (white man) who totes Bibles and coaches basketball. Now, as many as 1,500 may show up for a day of soccer, song and

Feeding the Multitude

Nevertheless, helping Nairobian kids become better cagers and then shopping their names to fellow coaches back home was not atop Mauldin’s to-do totem pole during the summer of 1992. He, football coach from 1979 to ’87; and in his after all, was amidst trying to resurrect a final year there (1986-87), he somehow Division II college basketball program. found the energy and time to serve as president of the Texas Association of And so it went for five years.

Basketball Coaches.

Mauldin spent the school year recruiting for and coaching Abilene Christian. But So those closest to the alwayseach summer he took a two-to-threeon-the-run Tony Mauldin suspected he week hiatus to be with the impoverished still had plenty in the tank when he left Eastleigh kids who had fortuitously stolen Abilene. Little did they know, though, that his heart. he was about to go global. And neither did Mauldin until the day he received a call Coaching Change: from one Berkeley “Rhino” Hackett.

From one Cat to another...

Mauldin resigned from Abilene Like Charles and Darlene Christian in 1996, compiling a five-year Coulston, Hackett and his wife Charlotte ledger of 61-78. His best year had been his had established an outreach ministry in first when he posted a 17-12 mark with a the Nairobian slum of Eastleigh. Hackett program that, again, had not won a single then -- for the purpose of training Kenyans game in nearly two years. to assist his efforts – founded a technical college he dubbed the Kenya Christian Some media speculated that Industrial Training Institute (KCITI).

Mauldin might retire. He had, after all, The educational initiative flourished enjoyed a pretty good run. At every stop academically, but Hackett felt – to along the way (Boerne HS, 1974-76; Merkel maximize enrollment – KCITI needed to HS, 1976-78; Morton HS, 1978-87; Western also excel athletically.

Texas College, 1987-91), he left a program in much better shape than how he found Having gotten to know Mauldin it. through Coulston, Hackett knew he would be perfect to establish KCITI as a In fact, Mauldin simply basketball power; so, during the spring of dominated at Class 2A Morton, making six 1996, he offered coach Tony the job. consecutive Final Four appearances (198287) and winning titles in 1983, ’86 and ’87.

Mauldin said yes almost Adding to his legacy, Mauldin also served immediately and wasted no time as Morton’s athletic director and head

convincing his wife Janice to move with him to Nairobi that summer. Then, in his African coaching debut, Mauldin led the KCITI Cats to Kenya’s Division II men’s title in 1997 and then to Division I national championships in 1998 and 1999. He also coached KCITI’S women to Division I national titles in 1998 and 1999.

Adjusting to a new culture, Nairobi zebras ...

Actually, Mauldin’s most formidable opponent in Kenya never proved to be another team, but rather the men in stripes and a Kenyan culture that exhibited a laissez faire attitude toward basketball in general.

“Of course, soccer is the big deal over there,” Mauldin explains. “So you have no shortage of great athletes in Kenya, but very few of them really have any basketball skills. And the country as a whole just doesn’t take basketball that seriously. It’s changing, but still has a long ways to go. Basketball over there is kind of like soccer is over here.”

Mauldin learned the latter firsthand when the very first game he coached for KCITI started 90 minutes late; and to this day, he is still not exactly sure why.

See Life Coach p. 8

8

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Life Coach from p. 7 “We were scheduled to play the first game that day, and it was set to tip at noon,” he recalls.

“But at 11 a.m., my team is at a café, leisurely enjoying a pre-game meal.

Meanwhile, I am going nuts, telling Peter Kiganya is perhaps Tony Maul- my players that din’s most accomplished East-African they need to hurry student. He played stateside at Abilene up, or we’re going Christian before then going on to play to have to forfeit. professionally in South America. We finally get to the gym with only 15 minutes to spare, but the door is locked, and no one else is even there. No refs, no players. No one.

“Finally, at about 12:45, someone comes to unlock the gym. Then we wait another 30 minutes for the other team to show up. By the time we tipped off, it was nearly 1:30. Believe me, that would have never happened at a soccer game.”

“I laugh about it now,” Mauldin says. “But it wasn’t funny at the time.

Our biggest rival that first year in the KBF always got phantom calls down the stretch. I mean we would be called for a three-second violation when no one was even in the paint. I always got so furious, but someone finally explained to me that it didn’t matter how much I complained, the other coach’s brother-in-law was the head of officiating. All of sudden, everything made sense, and that’s when I knew it was time to part ways with the KBF.”

Basketball plays second-fiddle to soccer in Nairobi, so facilities are often second-rate at best. Here, coach Mauldin does the best he can despite having to drill players on a court ravaged by the weather and poor upkeep. kidding,’ but he was insistent.”

At other times, officials weren’t During his four years at KCITI necessarily corrupt, but simply too (1996-2000), Mauldin took great joy not ignorant of the rules to make the right call. only in developing raw talent, but also “I had taught both my men’s and paving the way for 40-plus young men and women’s teams the art of taking a charge,” women to receive basketball scholarships in the U.S. Mauldin explains. “It was just one of the many things they had never been exposed to ...

Among the players he exported back home are Steve Othoro (Baylor, 1998-2003) and former Abilene Christian So you have no shortage of great athletes in “So in this stars Peter Kiganya (ACU, 1999-01) and Caroline Omamo (ACU, 1995-98). In fact, Kenya, but very few of them really have any one (women’s) Kiganya went on to play professionally in game, our basketball skills.

South America, Kenya, Rwanda and Egypt opponent had a guard who would before accepting his current position as a graduate-assistant coach at Angelo just lower her Tony Mauldin, former coach/ State. Sadly, Omamo passed away this past head and drive current missionary August following a lengthy illness in Kenya. to the basket no matter what. If my Setting priorities ... girls were in the way, she would just run Although Mauldin’s duties as As for the officiating, it was so them over. So I told my players to stand KCITI’s head coach kept him focused on rife with ambiguous interpretations – and their ground and take a charge. basketball during the week, he devoted in some cases, downright corruption his Saturdays to the same type of work -- that Mauldin took a stand after only “The first four times we got the that Coulston had started in Eastleigh. The one year and withdrew his team from the call, but the fifth time the whistle never difference was that coach Tony blazed a long-established KBF (Kenya Basketball blew. So I called time out and asked the new trail, venturing into the penury that Federation). Mauldin then petitioned for official, ‘Why wasn’t that a charge?’ To is Mathare. His wife Janice, Coulston’s membership to the UCBL (Universities which he said, daughter Brenda and several of his players and Colleges Basketball League); and ‘Coach, that is from KCITI went with him. once KCITI was accepted, he went to work not fair. That is revising the UCBL officiating charter to too many times.

“I felt it very important to get assure a more level playing field for all its Just tell your girls my players involved in Mathare,” Mauldin participant schools. to quit taking says. “I mean basketball was important charges.’ I was like to us all, but there were life lessons to Due largely to Mauldin’s ‘You have got to be be learned, and my players proved to be pioneering efforts to make basketball eager students.” a legitimate sport in Kenya, the UCBL eventually evolved into the Kenya Right: Steve Othoro, a former As real-world classrooms, Universities Basketball League and Baylor Bear, is another one of Tony Mauldin’s Mathare and Coulston’s today is known as the Zuku Universities Mauldin’s more notable East-African Eastleigh proved to be and remain Basketball League, an outfit backed by proteges. Othoro played at Baylor inextricably joined at the hip, each equally a lucrative Zuku TV deal and generous via scholarship, but injuries kept him desperate in its own way. underwriting from Samsung. from reaching his full potential.

Of course, soccer is the big deal over there.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

9 the National Federation of High Schools.

In 1996, Tony Mauldin moved to Nairobi, with wife Janice, to coach the men’s Mathare each Saturday to minister to the many children there in desperate need. and women’s basketball teams of the Kenya Christian Industrial Training Institute. Here, he works out some of the athletes who would follow him into Oftentimes, Mathare’s extreme conditions force children into the streets out of necessity. Many are orphaned, and others have parents who are no longer able to financially or physically care for them. Then there are other children who simply prefer life on the streets to what they have at home. These kids may be victims of domestic abuse or have determined – largely due to poor parenting – that life on the streets will provide them the freedom they crave.

Either way, Eastleigh is where the vast majority of Mathare Valley’s directionless vagabonds tend to congregate, and the dire circumstances that prompt their mass migration from Mathare show no signs of abating.

In fact, health officials report that an estimated 33 percent of all adults living in Mathare are HIV positive, resulting in an average life expectancy of five years or less. Even when AIDs doesn’t factor into the equation, there are countless other maladies that threaten to orphan Mathare’s children or perhaps kill them outright. Dysentery, malnutrition, malaria, typhoid, cholera, tetanus, polio and even simple infections enflamed by sub-human sanitation all exacerbate the problem of Mathare’s weak familial foundation.

Mauldin’s first weekend session in Mathare – held during the summer of 1997 -- drew only five adults and five kids. It was actually held as a Sundaymorning worship service in the home of one of Mauldin’s KCITI students. But word of a tall mzungu who toted Bibles and coached basketball spread like wildfire.

And before long, sessions with “coach Tony” were held on Saturday mornings and eventually evolved into all-day affairs

Yes, his coaching days may be over, but Mauldin has never had any intention of ending what he started nearly a quarter century ago with his first visit to Nairobi. Upon returning home in 2000, he had racked up enough frequent-flyer miles to continue working with the kids of Mathare two or three times a year for at least two weeks at a stretch. Even during his seven-year stint at Lakeview, Mauldin left plenty of time during the summer to visit his slum-dwelling extended family.

And when Mauldin left Lakeview in May 2011, he decided to take his off-thefilled with soccer, song and a side of Bible court game to a whole different level. The lessons thrown in for good measure. Then very next year he opened the Change a Life came the sponsorship dollars, which Academy in Mathare, a privately funded allow Mauldin and crew to distribute school already reputed to be one of the their peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches best of its kind in Nairobi. to everyone who shows up on any given Saturday.

While eradicating Mathare’s abject poverty and its attendant cesspool Changing one life at a time ... of bio-toxic waste may take many, many After living in Nairobi for three years of herculean effort on many people’s years (1996-1999), Tony and Janice Mauldin part, Mauldin knows that the 22 who staff returned home to spend more time with his school today can at least make an their daughters Tonya, Molly and Emily and immediate impact on the lives of some. their then four grandchildren (a number that now stands at In eight).

2012, the school I felt it very important to get my players enrolled 20 kids Janice, who in each of three involved in Mathare. I mean basketball was holds a doctorate in grades (pre-K, important to us all, but there were life lessons education, hired on kindergarten in 2013 as a deputy to be learned, and my players proved to be and first grade). superintendent This January eager students. with the Gainesville the school will Independent School expand its District (a position Tony Mauldin, former coach/ curriculum and she remained in until current missionary collectively retiring this past enroll 120 summer). Her husband kids in pre-K – itching to win some through the more -- resumed his coaching career in third grade. That may not seem like 2002 at Lakeview Centennial High School a lot; but in a slum where many of in Garland. the 70,000-plus school-aged children receive little to no education, it is In seven years with Lakeview, certainly a step in the right direction.

Mauldin posted a 173-89 record and made it to the state-title tilt his last “Without an education, the two seasons, losing his final game as a children of Mathare get sucked into a coach to 2011 state champ Flower Mound lifestyle of prostitution, drug abuse and Marcus, 40-38. It was a bittersweet way to disease,” says Mauldin, who now splits his end, but Mauldin’s extended curtain call time equally between Texas and Nairobi. at Lakeview improved his career record to 818-447. And in 2010, one year before “Bottom line, life is not easy in calling it quits, he was inducted into the Mathare, and that’s why we are all so Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame committed to the school. With God’s help, and named National Coach of the Year by we aim to change one life at a time.”

10

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Top Class-of-2016 Boys Recruits 1. De’Aaron Fox De’Aaron Fox not only ranks as Texas’ top player overall, but also sits atop the totem pole as the nation’s best point guard. Most sports pundits had Dennis Smith, Jr. -- a point guard from Trinity Christian in Fayetteville, North Carolina – as the nation’s top playmaker. With a torn ACL, though, Smith is now damaged goods, which relegates Fox to #1 status.

Fox also lays claim to being the nation’s quickest player.

Combine that with everything else – x-ray court vision, impeccable timing, a great handle and pinpoint passing -- and you have the makings of a superstar who projects to be one-and-done at the next level. The only thing that could prevent Fox from punching his NBA meal ticket sooner rather than later is a mechanical jumper that still needs a little

work. Fox’s range could be better, and he appears much more comfortable shooting off the bounce than he does catching and firing. He’s also a bit of a gambler on defense but often converts risks taken into steals and transition points. At the next level, he may have to be a little more selective with his attempted thievery.

Where next? On Nov. 12, Fox cleared the way for a distraction-free season as he committed to John Calipari’s Kentucky Wildcats, a school that has, in recent years, signed notable Texans Julius Randle and the Harrison twins – Andrew and Aaron.

All three of those players – as do so many of Calipari’s Wildcats – left eligibility on the table to sign with the NBA. Fox says the rapport he had with “coach Cal” and the way everyone made him feel like “family” swayed him to call Kentucky home.

2. Terrance Ferguson Terrance Ferguson is a long and lanky shooter with great range and an ability to effortlessly sky and finish strongly at the rim. At 6-7, 180, he’s a little thin, but any university training table can fatten up this pried recruit in only one summer semester. Ferguson’s pure athleticism makes his YouTube slam-dunk highlight reels among the most watched in the nation. His Achille’s heel is his ball-handling. It has improved greatly, but he still could be much better at creating his own shot – a crucial skill in today’s NBA where isolation offense has risen in stock. As for now, though, Ferguson reigns as the state’s absolute best catch-and-pop shooter. He uses his elite athleticism to create separation off of screens and then fires after receiving without hesitation. Ferguson doesn’t get to the line much, and his shooting mechanics

are a little iffy, but his freakish athleticism still allows him to consistently find the bottom of the net and expose defenses from anywhere on the floor. Ferguson had been enrolled at Deion Sanders’ now closed Prime Prep Academy and teamed for two years with then PrimePrep student Emmanuel Mudiay to form the nation’s most ballyhooed high school backcourt.

Ferguson will this year play as a home-schooler enrolled in an on-line academic program called Advanced Preparatory International.

Where next? Ferguson brought an early end to the madness that is college recruiting by committing to the University of Alabama, a school that this fall launches the era of Avery Johnson, the former color commentator and Dallas Mavs coach now making his NCAA coaching debut.

3. Jarrett Allen Jarrett Allen came into this world nearly a decade after Kareem Abdul-Jabbar graced fans with one final sky hook.

But in many ways, Allen’s raw talent harkens back to the man whose “Giant Steps” left indelible footprints. The 6-10 Allen stands 4 inches shorter than Jabbar and projects to be a power forward instead of a center. But with St. Stephen’s Episcopal, he anchors low, and an impressive summer on the Adidas Gauntlet circuit has now left Allen ranked third amongst center prospects nationwide. He is an anachronistic anomaly in that he is comfortable – like Jabbar – playing with his back to the basket. Also like Jabbar, he is cerebral (i.e. smart with the ball) and has developed a hook shot. To carry the Jabbar analogy further, Allen is mobile and graceful for a big man and has pretty good hands and a soft touch

around the basket. Allen is far from NBA-ready, though. For starters, he needs to get stronger. His 210-pound frame makes him susceptible – like Jabbar -- to getting pushed around by beefier big men. Allen’s length and innate timing serve him well on the glass (career – 11.5 rpg), but he’s “a tweener” – not really a true power forward or true center. He also struggles from the line despite registering enough put-backs to boast a high field goal percentage (career 59%).

Where next? At press time, the University of Indiana seems to have a slight edge over Allen’s other primary suitors -- Houston, Kansas, Kansas State, Kentucky, North Carolina, Notre Dame and Texas.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

11

Top Class-of-2016 Boys Recruits 4. Marques Bolden Marques Bolden was big a year ago and has now gotten even bigger, both in terms of sheer size and in marquee recognition nationwide. While Bolden last year stretched measuring tape to 6-9, he now towers to 6-11 1/2 inches, which, for government work, means he is a 7-footer. He carries a solid, 240-pound frame, and his wingspan impresses at 7 feet, 4 inches. Scouts rank the Desoto HS star as an elite center because of his athleticism and physicality, the latter of which seems to be on the up-tick. Bolden is another one of those rare breeds who excels with his back to the basket, but he also dominates when facing up down low. He’s an imposing force on defense and does a yeoman’s job of keeping the glass clean at both ends of the floor. Like most big men,

Bolden could improve his ball-handling skills, which, in turn, would allow him to more often create shots for himself. He also could keep his stock rising by developing a mid-range game.

But for now, Bolden’s ability to play above the rim on offense and block shots both as a weak-side and on-the-ball defender make him one of the nation’s most-prized commodities.

Where next? Kentucky, Duke and Kansas appear to be running the strongest in the race to secure Bolden’s signature. Some say Kentucky may be sitting pretty given that Bolden took an official visit there in September and then followed up with an unofficial Kentucky visit earlier this month. Bolden contends, though, that Baylor, Alabama, TCU, Oklahoma and Wake Forest are still in the hunt.

5. Andrew Jones Andrew Jones of Irving MacArthur checks in as the state’s top shooting guard. After impressing scouts this past summer while playing in the Nike EYBL (Elite Youth Basketball League), Jones suddenly emerged nationally as a top-50 recruit. At 6-4, 175 pounds, he is lean and mean. Scouts like Jones’ aggressive, not-afraid-to-mix-it-up brand of basketball. An explosive first step allows Jones to break down defenders off the dribble, and his physicality then sets him up to bully opponents as he knifes through congested lanes.

Although Jones has earned distinction as an off-guard, he plays both backcourt positions and has, in fact, been told

by UT Longhorns coach Shaka Smart that he would likely log big minutes running the point for Texas. Bottom line, Jones is your classic combo guard – equally adept at playing

either on or off the ball. Jones showcased his versatility in July at the Duncanville-hosted Great American Shootout and the Nike EYBL’s annual Peach Jam. In five games at the Peach Jam, he averaged 18-plus points. Great speed, fundamentally sound passing and excellent court vision all enter into the equation that has made Jones a late entry in the fiercest of recruiting wars. His potential to evolve into a lock-down defender doesn’t hurt either.

Where next? The recruitment of Jones appears at presstime to have come down to a two-horse race. Still in the saddle are the universities of Texas and Arizona. Louisville could possibly make an 11th-hour charge, but the others who once were once high on the list – Baylor, Oklahoma State, SMU and Texas A&M – seem to have faded from contention.

6. Kameron McGusty Kameron McGusty of Seven Lakes High School has no fear.

The 6-5, 175-pound off guard slashes through traffic without blinking an eye. McGusty projects to be a small forward in college but will need to add a little poundage and strength before mixing it up on the wing. Given his predilection for aggressive, physical play, coaches are banking on his promise to round into fighting shape. McGusty is a scorer first, passer second. His ball-handling skills are superb -- another reason why he enjoys so much success driving the lane – and with an ability to cut on a dime, he also moves very well without the ball. But McGusty’s court vision is suspect – meaning that he doesn’t always see others’ movements away from the ball. As a result, his passing is often deliberate and in need of improvement. He also hopes to get better

shooting from beyond the arc. While turning heads this past spring on the Under Armour circuit, McGusty hit an impressive 50 percent from the field and 82 percent from the line, but managed only 26 percent from downtown. As for his defense, he’s quick-footed with active hands. Just like on offense, though, added bulk and muscle will pay dividends when he takes on the big boys at the next level.

Where next? McGusty is now a Sooner. At least on paper he is.

Texas, Indiana, Tulsa, Southern California, Kansas State, Houston, Auburn, Boise State, Georgia Tech, Northern Iowa, Middle Tennessee State, SMU and Louisville all curried his favor, but he committed to Oklahoma in July.

See Recruits p. 12

12

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Top Class-of-2016 Boys Recruits 7. Schnider Herard Schnider Herard, a 6-11, 260-pound center with a 7-1 wingspan, is the burliest of Texas’ big men. A native of PortAu-Prince, Haiti, Herard suits up for 5A TAPPS state champ Prestonwood Christian, which, in 2013, graduated Julius Randle, the now 6-9, 250-pound L.A. Laker who spent only one year with John Calipari’s Kentucky Wildcats. While certainly an elite player, Herard doesn’t project to be one-anddone like Randle. His physicality is off the charts, but his skills need some work. Herard spent the spring and summer playing in the Nike EYBL (Elite Youth Basketball League). At the Nike Global Challenge, he averaged – per 40 minutes -18.7 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while hitting 56.3% from the field. Herard moves well for a big man and finishes

above the rim with time to spare. But when more than 5 feet from the basket, he digresses. Bobbled passes and an inability to always secure the ball once in possession have proved problematic, and occasional flat-footedness makes him vulnerable to the pick and roll. Bottom line, Herard has the body and demeanor to offensively and defensively flourish down low. But to make it in the NBA, he will need to improve his hands as well as his foot speed and overall instincts away from the basket.

Where next? Herard will next fall pound the hardwoods at the The Hump (Mississippi State’s Humphrey Coliseum). Herard committed on Nov. 4. He had also considered Kansas, Texas Tech and Purdue, but said MSU gave him the best chance to contribute early next fall.

8. J.J. Caldwell J.J. Caldwell is a 6-foot, 183-pound point guard who truly looks to facilitate every time down the loor. When he does call his own number, it’s often as a slasher instead of a jump shooter. In fact, his mid-range and long-range game will need a bit more polish prior to its collegiate unveiling next fall. Some opine that Caldwell could also improve as a floor general if only he were a little more vocal. Maybe so, but Cypress Woods’ soft-spoken leader is one who lets his actions do the talking, and his on-the-floor statements are punctuated with a heady, yet physical brand of play.

Bottom line, Caldwell isn’t afraid to rub shoulders; and like all good slashers, he freezes his prey with a lightning-quick burst. On the other hand, Caldwell picks his spots carefully.

Possessed of a very high basketball IQ, this promising point

guard knows when to attack and when to distribute. He rarely makes an ill-conceived pass; and although his overall game has slotted him as a four-star recruit, he certainly sees the floor at a five-star level.

Where next? Caldwell committed to Texas A&M back in May. He claimed back then that he wanted to get “it” – i.e. the hassle of being recruited – over with. He also said that A&M fed his desire of wanting to play close but not “too close” to home. After 15 schools came calling, Caldwell eventually narrowed his list to Wichita State, Utah, UCLA, Tulsa, Oklahoma, UNLV, Memphis, Virginia Tech and, of course, Texas A&M.

9. Jacob Young Jacob Young, a 6-foot, 170-pound shooting guard from Houston Yates, describes himself as a “scoring point guard.”

Nevertheless, Young has thus far proved to be a much better shooter than ball handler. In fact, Yates’ combo guard has demonstrated an ability to spot up nearly anywhere on the floor, and that alone has earned him four-star recruiting status. Young plays smart, fundamentally sound basketball, and his mechanics are spot on, which explains why he can fire at will. He also moves well without the ball, and that begs the question “Why does he not merit five-star status?”

The answer lies with his defense, which is hampered to a degree by his lack of upper body strength. If Young, a lefty, can improve his weak-side help defense and his ability to guard a player Mano a Mano, he may be in line to realize success

similar to that of his right-handed brother Joseph. Jacob’s older brother enjoyed a stellar career at Oregon and was this past season named Pac 12 Player of the Year prior to getting drafted 43rd overall by the Indiana Pacers.

Where next? Young announced on June 30 that he would next year suit up for Shaka Smart, who, this fall, is debuting as coach of The University of Texas. Young also received offers from Baylor and Duquesne. Oregon, Maryland, Cal Poly, Rice and Arkansas contacted him as well. But in the end, Young chose to go to a school that may also sign Andrew Jones, the only shooting guard in Texas that ranks higher than Young.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

13

Top Class-of-2016 Boys Recruits 10A. Mark Vital Mark Vital is a high-octane, combo forward who stands in at 6-6 but plays even taller. One scout refers to Vital as one of the “toughest” and most “over-achieving” forwards in the Class of 2016. “I am fearless,” says the 215-pound recruit, “and I never get tired.” A former Prime Prep player, Vital is an explosive leaper who jumps off one foot. He relentlessly attacks the basket and rebounds with the ferocity of a player

possessed. Offensively, his range is limited, but he’s a versatile defender whose strong-bodied positioning and ability to block shots serve to intimidate.

Where next? Arizona, Connecticut, Kentucky, Louisville, LSU, McNeese State, Miami, Syracuse, Tulane and Western Kentucky all came courting, but Vital pledged his allegiance to Baylor on Sept. 3.

10B. Cameron McGriff Cameron McGriff is a 6-7, 210-pound small forward who loves to run the floor and can finish with either hand. The South Grand Prairie senior is also an equal opportunity rebounder – scraping the glass with comparable success at both ends of the floor. McGriff’s don’t-blink-or-you’ll-miss-it first step combines with upper-body strength and overall athleticism to make him a prototypical slasher. This, in turn, allows him to consistently traipse to the charity stripe. Mc-

Griff averaged 11.8 points, 7.7 rebounds for the 2014-15 South Grand Prairie Warriors.

Where next? The major players in McGriff’s recruitment proved to be SMU, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Houston, Creighton, Tulsa, Arkansas and Oklahoma State. The plot thickened when he took official visits to Arkansas and OSU. Then, on Sept.

21, he ended the drama by committing to the Cowboys.

www.nbccamps.com 800.406.3926 OVERNIGHT AND DAY CAMPS AT SAGU in Waxahachi, TX

Coach Donnie Bostwick is among the most successful college basketball coaches in America with multiple National Championships and a winning percentage over 80%.

What separates Bostwick is his 8 ggenuine desire to impact lives for Christ through the game of basketball. NBC Camps provides a door of opportunity to teach both Faith and Basketball, few have the proven success Coach Bostwick has when combining this powerful combination.

14

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

15

16

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

17

'3&&

18

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Top Class-of-2016 Girls Recruits 1. Lauren Cox Lauren Cox is without question the nation’s best Classof-2016 recruit. Most college-bound players spend their senior campaign trying to polish their all-around game, and Cox, a 6-4 forward at Flower Mound High School, will certainly prove no different. But make no mistake about it; Cox’s game has no glaring weaknesses. Playing three consecutive years with Team USA has evolved Cox into a can’t-miss prospect who should someday star professionally. Her physical stature alone provides an unfair advantage over most players, but it’s the fact that Cox plays with the athleticism, intensity and smarts of a top-notch point guard that makes her so dominate in the blocks. On offense, she runs the floor like a gazelle and often triggers the break with her

2. Joyner Holmes Joyner Holmes of Cedar Hill High School logs in as Texas’ second best player; and due to no small irony, she ranks #2 on the national charts as well. Yes, Ms. Holmes and Ms. Cox (above) are singular talents that won’t anytime soon need to worry about holding down a traditional job. The 6-3 Holmes lists as a “do-everything” hybrid forward. Truth be known, she has the athleticism to play any position on the floor. Equipped with a college-ready frame, Holmes loves to attack the rim and possesses the physicality to nearly always finish the job. Her ball-handling skills were superb a year ago and have gotten only better following an intense summer of playing travel ball. Mobility in transition and explosivity in the paint combine with Holmes’ ability to hit from downtown, thereby creating a match-up nightmare for

outlet passes. She never hesitates to use either hand to launch any one of several paint moves, and her finishes make even fans flinch. Cox sees traffic as only a speed bump and is equally comfortable stretching a defense to the arc. Her timing is impeccable, and her touch is soft. Foul her, and she will kill you at the line. And if that isn’t enough, she proves equally merciless on defense – a cerebral player who fully grasps the importance of proper positioning and routinely cleans the glass with equal aplomb at both ends of the floor.

Where Next? This past summer Cox won gold versus Russia while playing on the USA’s U-19 team. She was the only team member who had not chosen her college. After deliberating long and hard, Cox finally pledged her allegiance to Baylor on Oct. 25. Being able to play close to home was a factor although the chance to play for coach Kim Mulkey weighed heavier.

even the most creative of coaches. But while Holmes’ offense tends to generate headlines, her time spent with Team USA’s 2014 gold-winning U-17 club paid major dividends in developing her less-publicized mental approach to basketball. Holmes’ time abroad provided skills that have, over time, allowed her to become a much more savvy defender and a player that understands how to employ finesse -- as much as muscle -- to consistently rule the glass.

Where next? Holmes strongly considered offers from Notre Dame and Tennessee but, in the end, chose – on Sept. 18 -- to next fall hook ’em down I-35 and enroll at The University of Texas. Holmes’ decision came on the heels of UT’s commitment from five-star point guard Alecia Sutton of Parkway North High School in Missouri.

3. Natalie Chou Natalie Chou, a 6-0 combo guard from Plano West, checks in as Texas’ top perimeter player and ranks as the nation’s eighth best player overall according to ESPN’s HoopGurlz.

Chou boasts a pretty good pedigree. Her mom, Quanli Li, played pro basketball in China for a decade. Chou also has had some pretty good coaching. Former Dallas Mavs guard Jason Terry coached her from sixth grade through ninth grade. She started for Plano West as a sophomore. That season she was named all-state and helped lead West to the state semifinals. The following summer she helped Team USA capture gold in the FIBA U-17 world championships.

Chou came into her own that summer. As a freshman, she stood 5-9 and weighed in at 135 pounds. Two years later – the summer that saw her win gold – Chou had gained 25

pounds and grown three inches. Chou’s backcourt game is smooth as silk. The quicker the tempo, the more impressive her ball-handling and passing become. Regardless the pace, though, Chou adjusts. She scans the court almost instantaneously, which allows her to exploit mismatches and create mid-range jumpers off the dribble. She finishes in traffic with either hand, and her soft shooter’s touch provides her range beyond the arc. Although an excellent facilitator, Chou certainly boasts a scorer’s mentality and has assumed a leadership role that she was initially reticent to embrace.

Where next? It came down to two California schools (University of California, UCLA) and two Texas schools (The University of Texas, Baylor). On Nov. 11, Chou chose to play for Baylor. Top Texas recruits Lauren Cox and Calveion Landrum will join her in Waco next fall.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

19

Top Class-of-2016 Girls Recruits 4. Nancy Mulkey The 6-9 Nancy Mulkey anchors Cypress Woods’ bid to repeat as Class 6A state champ. She ranks as the nation’s top center and 12th best player overall, according to ESPN’s HoopGurlz. Not surprisingly, Mulkey was reported this past spring to still be developing – i.e. growing into her enormous frame. Mulkey’s performance in the 2015 Class 6A state title game suggested as much as she got caught a little flat-footed and fouled out after logging only 14 minutes.

The early exit made Mulkey – a member of the USA’s 2014 gold-winning U-17 team -- determined to help Cy Woods repeat as state champ. She spent the summer getting physically stronger while continuing to develop fundamentals that may someday evolve her into the Class of 2016’s most

productive talent. Mulkey’s skill set, though, is immense as is.

For starters, she has a soft touch, which serves her well on putbacks and shots within the key. She can attack with either hand, and she finishes strong. Mulkey also runs the floor well, and she monopolizes the glass at both ends. Defensively, Mulkey has always intimidated, altering shots with her mere presence; and now, with improved timing, she has become a source of constant rejection. Bottom line, Cy Woods’ towering senior is still developing. And that’s scary. If she becomes as strong as she is tall, look out below.

Where next? Mulkey will next fall play for the legendary University of Oklahoma coach Sherri Coale. Mulkey verbally committed to OU about this time a year ago. Baylor and The University of Texas also made her final cut.

5. Amber Ramirez Amber Ramirez, known affectionately as “Sauce,” reputes to be Texas’ best point guard and ranks 13th overall in ESPN’s national HoopGurlz rankings. The 5-8 Ramirez struts her stuff at San Antonio’s Wagner High School. And strut is really the best way to put it, for Ramirez is certainly not lacking in confidence. Of Texas’ top 10 players, Sauce is arguably the most entertaining. Her catch phrase -- “Ah ref!” –- can be heard nearly every time she drives the lane.

Ramirez shouts it whether she thinks she has gotten fouled or not. The zebras – long used to the flavor of Sauce’s sense of humor – usually just smile at her plea for charity. Bottom line, though, Ramirez needs little help. While many players are described as “scoring point guards,” few fit the bill like Ramirez. The high-octane floor general excels off the

dribble and is deceptively quick. She last season averaged 26.9 points, scoring a ton from beyond the arc. However, Ramirez’s quick release allows her to manufacture offense most anywhere on the floor, and she has developed a deadly mid-range floater. Sauce can prove streaky, but a high basketball IQ and great court vision allow her to involve others when her shots are not falling.

Where next? Ramirez committed to Oklahoma State this time a year ago but reneged in April and then announced last month (Sept. 21) that she would enroll at TCU. Texas Tech also figured prominently down the stretch, but according to Sauce, “My heart is all the way in this time.”

6. Ciera Johnson Ciera Johnson of Duncanville High School ranks, according to ESPN’s HoopGurlz, as the nation’s 15th best player. Like Cy Woods’ 12th-ranked Nancy Mulkey, Johnson earns her stripes in the paint. At 6-4, she is five inches shorter than Mulkey; but for all practical purposes, she plays just as tall.

In fact, Johnson actually resembles an “old-school” center in that she plays with her back to the basket, making it nearly impossible for defenders to deny her the ball. Johnson’s elite physicality translates into an incredible consistency.

Yes, jump shooters may freeze, but Johnson’s muscle knows no slump. Without fail, she is able to pound inside and then catch and finish in traffic or go to the line trying. Johnson also is nimble of foot and has a surgeon’s touch in the blocks. Plus, she is equally comfortable settling into a half-

court set or running the wing on a fast break. And Johnson loves nothing more than scraping the glass and then making the one pass that gets things headed in the opposite direction. On defense, she makes opponents twitch in fear of getting stuffed underneath, and she has the athleticism to rotate to the top of the key whenever necessary.

Where next? Johnson committed to Louisville on Oct. 12. She snagged that program’s last scholarship, which meant Flower Mound’s top-ranked Lauren Cox had to scratch Louisville off her list if she had not already done so. Notre Dame, Duke, Texas A&M and South Carolina mounted an 11th-hour push to sign Johnson; but in the end, Louisville evidently proved to be the only program in her Cards.

See Recruits p. 20

20

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Top Class-of-2016 Girls Recruits 7. Calveion Landrum Calveion Landrum, a 5-10 combo guard from Waco La Vega High School, is arguably Texas’ most creatively acrobatic player. Her mid-range game is truly a work of art, and her drives through the lane might make a Barnum-and-Bailey contortionist jealous. Oftentimes, Landrum simply creates scoring opportunities out of thin air. Her moves off the dribble freeze defenders for the mere instant it takes her to start slashing to the rim, twisting and turning as she goes.

Pace is key, and the explosively athletic Landrum knows only one speed. Pushing the ball in transition allows her to dictate tempo nearly every trip down the floor. Once in the front-court, she routinely draws two defenders and uses her keen court vision to quickly find whomever is open.

8. ArLeighshya McElroy ArLeighshya “Fats” McElroy, a 5-8 point guard from Richardson High School, earns four-star status from ESPN’s HoopGurlz (HG) and logs in at 63rd overall in the HG national rankings. McElroy last season averaged 19.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4 assists per game to lead her Richardson squad to a heartbreaking 49-48 regional quarterfinals loss to eventual state finalist Skyline. McElroy’s nickname has nothing to do with her lean, mean physique of today, but is instead a nostalgic throwback to her days as a chubby baby. McElroy started climbing the recruitment charts after being named to the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches all-state team as only a sophomore. Since then, she has gotten only better. McElroy especially wowed scouts this past summer in competition at the Nike Nationals. There,

Landrum’s first instinct, though, is to score; and once she sees a double-team forming, she more often than not uses her warpspeed quickness to simply split it. Then she can pick and choose – launch one of her patented mid-range jumpers or penetrate the paint with eyes wide open for a potential kick out. Bottom line, Landrum epitomizes the total control – both in mind and body – that comprises an elite-level floor general whose scorefirst tactics afford no prisoners. As only a sophomore she led La Vega to an undefeated season and state title. Look for her to have a similar impact at the collegiate level.

Where next? Landrum committed to Baylor -- her hometown university -- about a year ago. She allowed coaches from Texas A&M, Texas Tech and Oklahoma State to court her, but the Lady Bears stole her heart long ago. appear that California and Purdue have lost ground.

she excelled at both ends of the floor. McElroy handles the ball in transition with extreme confidence and is able to force the issue as a flamboyant distributor who flourishes in an up-tempo game. In the front-court, McElroy inflicts most of her damage via a diverse mid-range arsenal, but she also proves effective – and in total control – weaving through lane traffic. Defensively, McElroy manages to be a constant burr with her instinctual knack for jumping passing lanes. She also creates – and converts – a lot of turnovers when asked to apply full-court pressure.

Where next? McElroy committed to Texas A&M back in July. She elected to “Gig ’em” after fielding calls from Arkansas, Houston, Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri State, Penn State, Texas and Texas Tech.

9. Natasha Mack Natasha Mack, a 6-4 post from Lufkin High School, checks in at #87 in the ESPN HoopGurlz’ Top 100 class-of-2016 recruits. She may not be as versatile as top-ranked Lauren Cox or as explosive as second-ranked Joyner Holmes, but she has plenty of upside and could very well be one of those players who take off at the next level and never look back.

One also has to consider that Texas’ Class of 2016 is thought to be as loaded with top-quality post players as it has been in nearly a decade. So in some other year, scouts might consider Mack to be Texas’ best in the blocks. In any event, her numbers from last year are about as good as stats get.

Mack nearly averaged a triple double, posting 17 points, 12 rebounds and an unheard of 8 blocks per contest. In fact, legend has it that three years ago Mack registered six blocks

in a single possession. The four-star recruit is able to pound the ball in heavy traffic or kill her opponents softly. She gets up and down the floor in a hurry and can take a defender to the hole with either hand. Throw in Mack’s fundamentally sound footwork, and you have someone who is both – literally and figuratively – head and shoulders above the vast majority of players who will be college freshmen next fall.

Where next? Mack committed to the University of Houston on Aug. 7 after carefully weighing her options with The University of Texas, Texas A&M, Baylor, USC, LSU and Texas Tech.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

21

Top Class-of-2016 Girls Recruits 10A. Brittany Brewer Brittany Brewer, a 6-4 low post from Abilene Wylie High School, sneaks into the ESPN HoopGurlz’ Top 100 classof-2016 prospects at #97. Brewer is a lefty whose only knock is that her physicality takes a back seat to her finesse. If she is able to paint a mean streak this season, her stock will rise dramatically. The two-time TABC all-state selection runs the floor well, boasts a soft touch down low and catches and finishes in traffic. She is also a force on the boards, clogs the

paint and alters shots with her potential to reject. Brewer last season averaged 16.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 3.5 blocks while leading Abilene Wylie to the 4A title game and its second consecutive appearance in the state tournament.

Where next? Brewer committed to Texas Tech on Aug. 30. Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Wake Forest and Abilene Christian all tried to woo her.

10B. Kianna Ray Kianna Ray rounds out the ESPN HoopGurlz’ Top 100 list for larly good job chasing down long rebounds. A svelte ball-handler, the class of 2016. As the nation’s 100th-ranked player, the Ray thrives in transition and loves to push the tempo.

Bowie High School (Austin) senior stands in as a versatile 6-1 Where next? During the summer, Ray made it official that she is lefty with range all the way to the arc. She elevates well on looking forward to becoming a Horned Frog. She will be joined in her jumper and has a quick jab step to put defenders back TCU’s backcourt next fall by ESPN HoopGurlz’ 13th-ranked Amber on their heels. She is an active defender and does a particu- Ramirez of Wagner High School.

A COMPLETE BASKETBALL EDUCATION

PGC Basketball is for dedicated players and coaches that are serious about learning to think the game. You will learn to play smart basketball, develop leadership skills, and become a stand-out player.

Courses include: PGC PREP SCHOOL Ť %XLOG D 6ROLG )RXQGDWLRQ PGC ESSENTIALS Ť %HFRPH D 3OD\PDNHU PGC SHOOTING COLLEGE Ť 7KLQN DQG 7UDLQ /LNH D 'HDGO\ 6KRRWHU POINT GUARD COLLEGE Ť 'HYHORS %DVNHWEDOO ,4 /HDGHUVKLS PGC COACHES COLLEGE Ť /HDUQ WR %XLOG D :LQQLQJ &XOWXUH

COURSES ACROSS TEXAS! VISIT PGCBASKETBALL.COM FOR DETAILS AND TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.

22

22

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

23

24

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

25

Lady Gorillas Provide a 1-2 Punch Times 3 (and a half) are the odds?

“That’s a good question,” says Trent coach Robbie Shugart, affectionately known by her seven twins – and all other players – as coach “Shug.” “I have never even heard of a program having two sets of twins,” she quips, “let alone three, and I actually have three and a half. So that really is something.”

Coach Shug has been coaching for three decades now. Early in her career, she spent a dozen years blowing her whistle at Trent, the high school she graduated from in 1978. But this fall marks only her third season back with the Lady Gorillas, following a 13-year stint at Merkel HS and then brief stops at Alpine (2008-09) and Fort Davis (2009-11).

The Trent alumnus courts a team that is led by the Beaver twins – Britney and Whitney (aka “Flash” and “Dash”). The two senior wings are, due to no small irony, eager as Beavers to make the playoffs after coming very close the previous two seasons.

With Whitney Beaver, the more reserved of the two, the postseason carrot manifests itself in an all-business approach. Not so much with Britney, who finds time for levity no matter the gravity.

Against All Odds Seven twins are involved in Trent High School’s Lady Gorillas basketball program. They are from left to right (top): Mary “Turtle” Robinson, Melanie Robinson, Whitney Beaver and Britney Beaver; (middle): Christina Williams and Jessica Williams; (bottom): Melissa Quintero.

by Garland Hancock Odds are that no other place in these United States of America can one drive through the heart of town and see Lady Gorillas roaming free. That oddity pales in comparison, though, to Trent, Texas’ other offering – its contribution to the anomaly that is twins.

According to the latest numbers released by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 3.3 percent of all births produce twins. But in Trent, a

Britney is the one always jumping out from behind walls to startle teammates. Or breaking out in impromptu dance. Sometimes she will even don crazy attire. Anything for a cheap laugh.

In one particular case this past spring, though, laughter erupted not over Britney’s apparel, but rather in response to something her sister Whitney had been wearing.

town that sports a whopping population of 341, there are Lady Gorillas alone that seemingly refute that number. And yes, As the story goes, in pre-game these Lady Gorillas are human too, so they drills versus Cooper, Whitney took to the figure into the genomic equation that court wearing a wig. Remember, Whitney spits out duplicate babies. tends to be rather demure in comparison to her slaphappy sister; so it goes without In fact, these Lady Gorillas are saying, she wasn’t seeking attention very much human for they comprise the necessarily. She instead just wanted to Trent ISD’s girls basketball program; and mix things up a tad. Make a minor fashion in their midst, despite all odds, there are statement. That is, after all, the way some not one, not two, but three sets of twins.

Check that. Make it 3.5 sets of twins. What See Trent Twins p. 26

26

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Trent Twins from p. 25 Lady Gorillas roll.

But somewhere along the way, a super-athletic Whitney Beaver went one way while her wig went in an entirely different direction.

Well, the Cooper players thought that was a hoot, for there on the shiny hardwood lay Whitney’s rather now disheveled pelt. Peals of laughter echoed through the gym, interrupted only by the chirps of fast-approaching sneakers belonging to none other than Whitney’s carbon copy. “Quit laughing,” the much more demonstrative Britney bellowed.

“That’s not funny. That’s my sister.”

Britney and Whitney have not decided where they will ply their craft in college, but they will very likely do so together. Both also excel in track and field, and several schools have sent letters of interest from coaches of each sport. At presstime, they seemed to be leaning toward McMurry University in Abilene, but they also appeared in no hurry to end speculation with a firm commitment.

Meanwhile, the party that is Lady Gorillas Basketball is about to get jumpin’, and Flash and Dash are not throwing it alone. Melanie Robinson and her twin sister Mary “The Turtle” are cohosting and actually began drinking the Kool-Aid this past summer. For they too believe – in accordance with the Chinese zodiac – that 2016 is the “Year of the Monkey,” or, more specifically, in Trent’s case, the “Year of the Lady Gorilla.”

In fact, as one might expect, these Class-of-2017 sisters hold in common a lot more than a belief in their basketball team. They are, after all, twins. But just like Flash and Dash, the Robinson sisters also have their differences, especially when it comes to personality. Melanie, for example, tends to be -- like Britney Beaver -- the one to jump-start a party while her sister Mary – like Whitney Beaver -- is much more understated. Mary is more likely to be the behind-the-scenes party planner.

All in the Family Robbie Shugart coached her daughter Shiloh while at Merkel, and Shiloh later served as her mom’s assistant coach at Fort Davis.

grin of one forever anxious to lighten the type person who makes sure to close the mood. Hers is a personality that befits her door before any flies get in. role as a high-energy perimeter player – one who dances along the periphery.

Last but not least, there is the senior Melissa Quintero. She accounts for Mary, on the other hand, the half in the program’s boast of 3.5 sets appears contemplative, which perfectly of twins. Her twin brother Jose graduated suits her role as one of two team from Trent this past spring, so Melissa managers. Her job is to film games and is now a Yen without her Yang. Her twin keep stats. She does not have time for brother’s departure notwithstanding, Also like Britney, Melanie Melissa is not, however, a Lady Gorilla loves to cut a rug; and sometimes, when gorilla-play. The team calls her “Turtle” without a purpose. in the mood, she will serenade teammates because she is so slow, but methodical as well. Her smile is constant – an impish might be a better descriptor. Mary is the

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2 Melissa shares managerial duties with the Turtle; and personalitywise, one might think those two are actually twins. For just like the Turtle, Melissa is rather solemn – focused on the task at hand and not given to much superfluous frivolity. While the Turtle methodically checks to see if all metaphorical doors have been properly closed, Melissa is right there by her side.

She is there making a literal checklist of what not to leave behind on a road trip and then compulsively checking that list not once, but twice.

27 ago. At the time, she certainly missed being around her players but not the rigors of day-to-day coaching. She had had enough. Counting her playing days with the Lady Gorillas and then at Howard Junior College (1978-80) and Abilene Christian (1980-82), Shugart had invested 36 years in basketball. She was more than ready for a break.

minister Ronnie Freeman, deliver his sermon at Trent First Baptist the following Sunday, it never dawned on her that folks were already conspiring to get her back in the gym.

“After the service, all these people came up to me saying how I would be perfect for the job,” Shugart recalls.

“So I decided then that I would at least give it some thought.”

I have never even heard of

So when Shugart resigned from Fort As currently constructed, the Davis in 2011, she returned to Trent Lady Gorillas’ varsity bunch includes five twins -- Melissa Quintero, Flash and Dash with husband Then (Britney and Whitney Beaver) and Melanie Steve, a ranch the clincher foreman who was and Mary “Turtle” Robinson. Another came. Coach Shug looking forward way to look at it is that an incredible got called into to a little R&R 63 percent of Trent’s eight returnees the principal’s himself. It had (managers included) are among the only office, which been a good run, 3.3 percent worldwide who are born as was then and is Shugart reflected, twins. now occupied by and it could not Leanna West, a have ended any But as the careful reader former Trent High — Robbie Shugart, Trent High School might note, this story mentioned early on better. For in her School classmate head basketball coach final year at Fort that there are seven twins playing Lady of Shugart’s.

Davis, Shugart Gorillas basketball. So what about the reconnected other two binary babies? That would be “She the Williams twins – sophomores Christina with her daughter Shiloh, who, as a then offered the job to me right there on the student teacher, also served as her mom’s spot,” Shugart says. “What can I say? It and Jessica. Coach “Shug” says, for her, assistant coach. they are the hardest of the twins to tell feels nice to be wanted, so I accepted.” apart. Christina has a freckle that helps; Shiloh’s natural acumen for but other than that, both are really quiet, Two years later, Shugart is coaching impressed her mom so much quite certain she made the right decision. cloaking their personalities – and thus, that coach Shug recommended her The Fellowship of Christian Athletes their identities -- in silence. daughter take over Trent’s girls basketball recently recognized her squad as the area’s Impact Team of the Year, an award The Williams sisters currently program when school officials posted the position in 2013. Shortly thereafter, that takes into account “community suit up for the JV; but with the small following the formality of an interview, service, leadership, sportsmanship and enrollments that circumscribe Class A rosters, they remain on constant standby. Trent ISD offered Shiloh the job. It seemed Christian love.” Shugart could not have to be a done deal. But Shiloh, who had been more proud had her team advanced An illness here or an injury there, and to state. they could be changing jerseys in a hurry. played under her mother at Merkel and Plus, rosters tend to expand a little come gone on to play at Sul Ross State before coaching with her mom at Fort Davis, “These are fun kids to coach,” playoff time. suddenly got cold feet.

Shugart says, “but the icing on the cake is that they are quality young ladies as In any event, coach Shug, who “Shiloh knew firsthand what well. To be a part of that, to have the also coaches the JV, isn’t going anywhere all was involved and decided she would opportunity to help and watch them grow. soon, so the Williams sisters will be That’s the reason I am still here.” playing varsity ball before Robbie Shugart rather stick to just teaching,” Shugart explains. “In fact, Shiloh told me I had to laces her sneakers one final time. have been crazy for having coached all Even so, maybe coach Shug those years.” has also learned, as a basketball lifer, not “I plan on coaching another to throw out the baby with the bathwater. five years,” Shugart says. “I just love these Well, with Trent being such a Especially in a town where -- against all girls so much I don’t want to give it up. At small town, it did not take long for word odds – those babies come in duplicate least not now.” to spread that the Lady Gorillas were still and grow up to be Lady Gorillas.

That is a far cry from the tune in need of a coach. Nevertheless, when Shugart went to hear her dad, long-time coach Shug sang a little over two years

a program having two sets of twins, let alone three,

and I actually have three

and a half. So that really is something.

28

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Ultimate Assist

Lady Rattlers Help Teammate Bounce Back from Tragedy

Gaining Perspective

by Garland Hancock A portent of danger ...

Two San Marcos police officers knocked on the Williams’ front door at about 3 a.m.

Sunday, May 23, 2015, awakening the Rev. Andrew Williams and his then 20-year-old son Christopher. They advised the two to immediately vacate the premises. The reverend chose to ignore their warning. Then, about one hour later, around 4 a.m., Chris awoke again – this time to kittens mewing. Half asleep, he stumbled to the back porch. When he opened the door to investigate, he instantly knew he and his dad should have left.

Always Resilient The Williamses are, l-r, Alma, Adriana and the Reverend Andrew Williams.

At that same time, in Refugio, nearly three hours away, Alma Williams and her daughter Adriana, who will this fall make her varsity debut at San Marcos High School, slept blissfully. It would not be until mid-morning that they would learn of the tragedy that had struck not only their family, but ripped apart the lives of countless others.

Alma and Adriana had

traveled to Refugio to give Alma’s dad, cancer survivor Jesse Dickerson, a break from the care he provides his wife Mary.

Jesse’s wife now suffers from dementia after spending much of her life tending to Alzheimer’s patients. She requires constant attention from her now 77-yearold husband and a rotation of other family members who are able to adjust schedules. So Alma and Adriana help whenever time allows, which it did this

past Memorial Day weekend.

In fact, wanting to be a little closer to mom and dad is one reason Alma had urged her family to make the move from Portland -- a suburb of Corpus Christi -- to San Marcos in August of 2014. “I also have a sister and brother in the area; but more than anything, we were looking for a new start,” says Alma. “I grew up in Rockport, and we had a family business (barbecue

One Coach’s Son, Another Coach’s Daughter Inspire Entire Community

by Garland Hancock Eight years ago, Wink coach Wendy Ratliff gave birth to her son Keegan, who doctors diagnosed as having fibular hemimelia, a rare congenital birth defect. Fibular hemimelia leaves the afflicted with either no fibula or only part of one. Amputation is nearly always recommended, and such was the case with Keegan, who had his left Keegan Ratliff leg removed right below his knee when he was 9 months old.

Keegan’s mom was devastated upon

learning the prognosis in August 2007. In her fourth year as Wink’s head coach, she had just led the Lady Cats to the second round of the playoffs, and the program’s arrow appeared to be pointed up. But Wendy no longer had the energy to sustain that momentum, and so she quit.

Keegan Ratliff has evolved into quite an athlete. He stays active year-round playing basketball, baseball, football See Keegan Ratliff p. 142 and tennis.

“Just like anyone else I kept thinking ‘Why me. Why my son?,’” Ratliff recalls. “It was difficult to focus on anything else, so I decided right

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2 stand) that we left behind in Aransas Pass, but we felt it was time to move on.

Besides, Adriana wanted to play basketball for a bigger school.”

Moving on, for the Williams family, meant leaving everything behind except for those items that held sentimental value. Then tragedy struck, and nearly all their links to the past were damaged beyond recognition and hauled away to evidently be tossed in a dumpster. Suddenly, starting over took on an even bigger meaning.

The sky is falling ...

The awful Memorial Day Weekend tragedy that befell Hays County – primarily Wimberley and San Marcos – crested atop a 43-foot-high Blanco River during the wee hours of Sunday, May 24.

From 10:45 to 11:45 p.m. the day before, the river – pelted by torrential rain – reportedly rose 5 feet every 15 minutes.

And by midnight Saturday, the river’s stage had risen to 32.4 feet. The flood

29 stage is only 13 feet.

Before getting dislodged and swept away sometime Sunday morning, built-in gauges measured the Blanco River’s flow rate at 223,000 cubic feet per second. That is 2.5 times the flow rate of Niagara Falls.

Those living within the floodplain were at serious risk if they had not relocated. Andrew Williams and his son Chris – whose rental home sits right next to the Blanco River – were among those who ill-advisedly chose to ride out the storm. Their troubles were only beginning.

It all happened so fast ...

When Chris opened the door to check on the kittens, the Blanco River flowed in. Within just a few minutes, he was standing in knee-deep water. So he woke his dad and, supporting one another, they made it to their jeep parked out front.

Father and son immediately sought higher ground, making it up to Interstate 35 where they sat for a while watching the river swallow their community.

Exhausted by the commotion, they then pulled into a friend’s yard, cut the motor and tried to get some sleep.

They would need it. In the next few days,

No Time to Fret When the Williamses arrived back home on Memorial Day, the first order of business was to place all of their belongings in piles so they could be hauled away and a crew could start trying to dry out the hardwood floors.

the entire Williams family would work around the clock to salvage what little remained.

Clean-up, however, would not begin until Monday. Before then, a most unpleasant task awaited the Rev. Williams. On Sunday morning, after a few hours of fitful sleep and at a time of day See San Marcos Tragedy p. 30

Soaked to the Core Lady Rattler Adriana Williams, a junior, is making her San Marcos High School varsity debut this season.

An abundance of hardwood flooring created some rather long hours for a clean-up crew that tried to salvage what it could by sucking water out of the wood via a power vacuum. Before getting swept away, built-in gauges measured the Blanco River’s flow rate at 223,000 cubic feet per second.

That is 2.5 times the flow rate of Niagara Falls; and even though flow weakened somewhat as the Blanco River swelled throughout neighborhoods, it was still more than strong enough to blow out windows.

30

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

San Marcos Tragedy from p. 29 when he is used to delivering The Good News, he called his wife and daughter to pass on some terrible news.

Alma had already heard stories of unprecedented flooding – a natural disaster that had reportedly destroyed 400 homes and left more than 1,200 homeless. So when the phone rang, she was prepared for the worst and much relieved to hear her husband’s voice and learn that he and her son were safe and sound.

Now Alma could turn her attention to her daughter, who she feared would not take the news well. What really worried Alma more, though, was how Adriana would respond in the days to come — how her daughter might cope when the reality set in of a past indiscriminately washed away.

Trials and tribulations ...

“I was definitely concerned,” says Alma. “We are a resilient family, but this was a little much.”

Indeed, the Williams family has endured its share of trials and tribula-

tions. Alma’s husband Andrew joined the ministry 16 years ago after being hospitalized with kidney failure. He pledged his life to spreading The Word if only God would let him live.

After nearly a decade of dialysis, Andrew received a kidney from his oldest son, a then 21-year-old Pete.

Andrew eventually got much better but subsequently suffered a major stroke and is now battling stomach cancer.

Even so, the Rev. Williams -- an inspiration to many -- continues to hold forth in the pulpit.

“Yes, we are survivors,” Alma continues, “but none of us – and probably Adriana especially – were prepared for what we saw when we opened the door to our home that next day (Memorial Day).”

A wet welcome ...

The first thing the Williamses saw was water gushing out. Then they saw all the muck.

“I grew up with pigs,” says Alma, “and that’s what this reminded me of. It was like walking into a sloppy pig sty.”

After the initial shock, each family member began to inspect the destruction of nearly everything he or she owned, including all links to the past.

“As a mother, it was almost too much to bear,” says Alma. “Everything that had represented my daughter was gone. It was as if the storm had taken her identity.”

Alma’s heart broke yet again when she ventured into the master bedroom and looked under the bed only to find her wedding dress from 1988 caked with mud and ruined beyond repair.

Forlornly, she threw it on the pile with all of her family’s other possessions. That pile was then loaded onto a trailer and hauled away.

Animal Farm Alma Williams says she grew up around pigs and that what she saw when she walked through her home on Memorial Day reminded her of “a sloppy pig sty.”

“For me, the wedding dress was really tough,” Alma says. “I had kept it next to me all those years. But there was really no time to dwell on what had

Blushing Bride Alma poses just prior to getting married to Andrew Williams on May 28, 1988. Alma hung on to her wedding dress all these many years; and in her family’s San Marcos rental home, she kept it near her, underneath the bed in the master bedroom. She found the dress on Memorial Day caked with mud and beyond repair so she broken-heartedly tossed it on a pile of things to be discarded.

been lost. For one, I knew I needed to be there for Adriana. But beyond that, it was a matter of necessity. We had to move everything out as quickly as possible so a crew could vacuum the (hardwood) floors and try to salvage at least something.”

Lady Rattlers record an assist ...

While the Williamses were only one of nearly 400 families devastated

by Hays County’s now historic storm and the Blanco River’s meteoric rise, the type of support they received proved unique. For while all of the victimized families were showered with kindness from private citizens, local nonprofits, businesses and governmental relief groups, only the Williams family had the built-in safety net of Lady Rattlers basketball.

San Marcos coach Veronica See A New Perspective p. 142

31 2015 • VOL. 2 OCTOBER

Region I 1. De Soto 2. North Crowley 3. Allen 4. Cedar Hill 5. South Grand Prairie

C O A C H E S

1. Humble Atascocita 2. Irving MacArthur 3. Klein Forest 4. Round Rock McNeil 5. Killeen Harker Heights

Region III 1. Houston Aldine 2. Katy Cinco Ranch 3. Houston Cypress Lakes 4. Fort Bend Travis 5. Houston Cypress Ranch

1. Converse Judson 2. Schertz Clemens 3. Cibolo Steele 4. C. Christi Carroll 5. McAllen Memorial

P O L L S

1. Lewisville Flower Mound 2. Plano West 3. Duncanville 4. Amarillo 5. Southlake Carroll

Region II 1. Spring DeKaney 2. Richardson 3. Irving MacArthur 4. Round Rock West wood 5. Humble Atascocita

Region III

1. Houston Cypress Woods 2. Houston Westside 3. LC Clear Springs 4. Galena Park North Shore 5. Katy Seven Lakes

Region IV 1. San Antonio Wagner 2. Northside Brennan 3. Schertz Clemens 4. Laredo United South 5. Northside O’Connor

Profiles

Region IV

R E G I O N A L

Region I

CLASS 6A

Region II

GIRLS

Features

BOYS

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS 31

32

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1

District 2

%ASTWOODÂż,ADYÂż4ROOPERSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż

Amarillo High Sandies - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 14-15/4-8 Coach: Endi Vargas (17 years’ experience; 18th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 Outlook: “We will have a young but hungry team,� says coach Endi Vargas. “These girls have proven themselves to be winners since 7th grade, so this should be a successful season.� The squad’s only returning starter, though, is senior center Sophia Bryant. A good one to build around, but she’ll have a lot to shoulder if the Lady Troopers are to punch their ticket to the postseason.

Playing Collegiately: -DFNLH 6DXFHGR (DVWHUQ :\RPLQJ

2014-15 W-L: 30-4/7-1 Coach: Jason Pillion (16 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 1/0 2015 Postseason: W- El Paso El Dorado, 61-24; W-Midland High, 75-60; W-Arlington Bowie, 46-39; L-Plano West, 72-42.

Outlook: The Sandies are coming off one of the best three-year runs in school history.

But there is only one letterman back from that glorious past, and he saw limited play.

The one returnee is Aaron Anderson, a 6-1 senior guard. Another 6-1 senior guard, Weston Cogburn, will be asked to help shoulder the leadership role. Adam Rivera, a 6-6 junior wing, along with brothers Reagan and Renick Hill, both 6-3 junior wings, will need to provide scoring if Amarillo is to find success in what will be a major rebuilding year.

Playing Collegiately: 0LFKDHO 'DZQ $PDULOOR +RZDUG -8&2 'D] 5LFKDUGVRQ $PDULOOR 0XUUD\ 6WDWH -8&2 %UDGHQ (JJOHVWRQ $PDULOOR +DUGLQJ +XQWHU $WHV $PDULOOR /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ (YDQ :LHFN $PDULOOR +DUJUDYH 0LOLWDU\ 3UHS WKHQ 1DY\ -DFRE 'DZVRQ $PDULOOR 6XO 5RVV 6WDWH *DUUHWW %URFNPDQ $PDULOOR

:HVW 7H[DV $ 0

El Dorado Lady Aztecs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 25-8/10-2 Coach: Ty Burns Returning lettermen/starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Lubbock Monterey, 53-47; W-Arlington Bowie, 62-57; W-Midland High, 53-40; L-Flower Mound, 59-47.

Outlook: In what shakes out to be a district that is as tough as it has ever been, coach Ty Burns says his team should contend for the title. A core quartet will pave the way. It comprises Latrice Washington, a 5-5 senior guard (8 ppg, 2 apg, 2 spg, 2 rpg); Rebecca Davila, a 5-3 sophomore point guard (7 ppg, 4 apg, 2 spg, 1.3 rpg); Erika Santiago, a 5-7 senior guard (6 ppg, 2 apg, 1 spg, 4 rpg); Ebonie Ballesteros, a 5-9 sophomore forward (4 ppg, 1 apg, 1 spg, 6 rpg, 3 bpg).

Playing Collegiately: $GHROD $NRPRODIH (O 'RUDGR 7H[DV &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ (O 'RUDGR &LDUD )LHOGV &RFKLVH &ROOHJH 6WHSKDQLH &RUGRYD (O 'RUDGR 6XO 5RVV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ &DLWO\Q &DPSD (O 'RUDGR &HQWUDO &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH FYI: El Dorado rewrote history in 2014-2015, achieving firsts in school history by tying for the District 1-6A championship and then advancing to the regional semis.

-ONTWOOD¿2AMS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 5-27/1-12 Coach: Diana Garduno Rico (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: Three returning starters with at least two years’ varsity experience will look to galvanize a young Rams squad this season after encountering the trials and tribulations of 2014-15. The leadership trio comprises Melissa Gonzalez (7.9 ppg, 5.3 rpg), Sofia McGee (8.4 ppg, 7.3 rpg) and Alejandra Pasillas (7.4 ppg, 4.5 rpg).

Lubbock Coronado Mustangs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 9-19/3-5 Coach: Kriss Ethridge (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Returning Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-El Paso Coronado, 52-42.

Outlook: With a make-you-tough non-district slate and three returning starters who logged a lot of PT last season, Coronado is well-positioned to pick up a couple more district wins than a year ago and advance into the playoffs. The three returning starters who will lead the Ponies back to greener pastures are Bailey Walden, Savannah Cognasi and Mariah Garza.

Playing Collegiately: (OOH +HQGHUVKRW $OEHUWD 8QLYHUVLW\ 6X]]LH 'LPED $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ /L]]LH 'LPED $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ %DLOH\ :LSII 7DUOHWRQ 8QLYHUVLW\ *DEE\ *RQ]DOHV +RZDUG &ROOHJH

,UBBOCK¿#ORONADO¿-USTANGS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 22-9/6-2 Coach: Randy Dean (15 years’ experience; 9th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: L-El Paso Eastwood, 72-69.

Outlook: Tons of returning experience and a lot of talent to boot leave the Mustangs chomping at the bit to get things started. Emoree Giddens, Zach Stepp, Jarrett Culver and David Pattonguid guide the Ponies this season with depth coming from JJ Culver and Blake Tuazon.

Playing Collegiately: &KULVWLDQ 2ĂĄ1HDO +DUGLQ 6LPPRQV

District 3 Abilene Eagles - Girls -ONTWOODÂż2AMSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 5-26/1-11 Coach: Jeremy Vanley (15 Years; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: A young get up-and-down-the-floor Rams squad will lean on returning lettermen Andres Aguilar, a 5-9 guard; Marcus Ruiz, a 5-8 guard; Anthony Vaughn, a 5-11 guard; and Tyrese Andrus, a 5-10 guard.

Socorro Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 8-20/2-10 Coach: Tim McNally (11 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: The Bulldogs’ hopes of turning things around this season will primarily rest on the broad shoulders of Andy Ramos and Gus Gonzales. Ramos is a 5-10 senior point guard who coach Tim McNally describes as perhaps the hardest working player he has ever coached. Last season, Ramos posted 7 ppg, 5 rpg, 4 apg, and 3 spg en route to honorable-mention all-district accolades and selection to the TABC All-State Academic team compliments his 94 grade-point average. Gonzalez, a 5-10 senior shooting guard, averaged 8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals last season. He hit 34% from beyond the arc and made the all-district team as an honorable mention and the TABC All-State Academic team with a 92 grade-point average. Gonzalez not only led the team in 3-pt. FG percentage, but also had the highest FT percentage (80).

Playing Collegiately: -RH\ *DUFLD 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW 'DOODV FYI: Socorro is celebrating its 50th “Golden� anniversary this year, having first opened its doors in 1965.

Coach: Terri Aston (2 years’ experience); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: Coming off a summer of extended offseason should pay dividends for Abilene as it tries to re-flex its playoff muscle after gong flaccid last season. Doing the heavy lifting will be seniors Dakkia Morris, 5-9; Ashley Pierce, 5-5; and Jasmine Brooks, 6-0, as well as juniors Synia Pitts, 5-11, and Elyssia Esquivel, 5-4.

Playing Collegiately: 6KDP +XQWHU $ELOHQH 0F0XUU\ 8QLYHUVLW\ .HOVH\ +RSSHO 0LGODQG /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 3DULV :HEE 0LGODQG $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 6XO 5RVV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ &DLWO\Q &DPSD (O 'RUDGR &HQWUDO Christian College.

San Angelo Central Lady Cats - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 7-25/2-8) Coach: Bric Turner (coaching debut); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 Outlook: With all five starters back, the Lady Cats should be able to claw themselves into the postseason after clocking out early last spring. Six seniors -- Cali Barger, Alexis Jackson, Kandace McCarty, Brianna Contreras, Ruby Shell and Lauren McCollough -- will combine talents with promising sophomore Cadye Nelms to turn the program in the right direction.

3AN¿!NGELO¿#ENTRAL¿"OBCATS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 14-17/4-6 Coach: Jaime Boswell (18 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 2015 Postseason: L-Arlington Bowie, Bi-district.

Outlook: The Bobcats’ playoff hopes revolve around four all-district performers – 1stteam selections Kolton Kohl, a 6-11 senior post, and Anthony Signorelli, a 6-1 senior guard, as well as 2nd-team selections Cody Henson, a 6-3 senior guard, and Isaiah Oliver, a 5-10 junior guard. The Bobcats’ five other returning lettermen are Adam West, a 6-7 junior post; Will Grindstaff, a 6-4 senior post; Christian Cardenas, a 5-7 junior guard; Alontae Heath, a 6-1 senior guard; and Tommy Nixon, a 5-7 sophomore guard.

Playing Collegiately: Zach Whitlock (San Angelo Central 2013) Southwestern University.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

33 District 4

!RLINGTON¿,ADY¿#OLTS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 9-21/2-12 Coach: Natasha Newsome (2 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: All five returning starters -- Bailey Trevino, Nicole Salser, Sierra Salser, Courtney Cleveland and Melinda Platt – are chomping at the bit to advance the Lady Colts past the regular season. Throw in some impressive newcomers, and Arlington could very well be dancing once again come spring.

Playing Collegiately: %DLOH\ :KLOGHQ &LVFR -8&2

Arlington Bowie Lady Volunteers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 28-7/13-1 Coach: Kelly Carruthers (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2 2015 Postseason: W-Abilene, 67-26; L-El Paso El Dorado, 62-57 Outlook: Bowie coach Kelly Carruthers will field a very guard-heavy squad and her youngest team to date since taking over the Lady Volunteers program five years ago. The three starting guards are 5-8 Jaye Cage (10 ppg; 1st-team all-district); 5-6 D’Andra Credit (7 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 spg, 3 apg) and 5-6 Jasmyne Robinson (8 ppg, 5 apg, 5 spg, 3 rpg). Of the three, Robinson runs the point. Also projected to start are Divine Ndu, a 6-4 post (5 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 bpg), and Kamaya Miller, a 5-10 forward (6 ppg, 5 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: (PHUDOG 0D\ILHOG %RZLH 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 6WDWH /RXLVLDQD

%ULD 'HJUDWH %RZLH 1HZPDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ .DQVDV 1LD 5REHUWV %RZLH

%XWOHU -8&2 .DQVDV .D\OD %URZQ %RZLH +DUGLQ 6LPPRQV $VKOH\ )HUJXVRQ %RZLH 7H[DV 6RXWKHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 1LQLYD 7DLWR %RZLH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 3HUPLDQ %DVLQ .D\OHQ 7D\ORU %RZLH $UNDQVDV %DSWLVW &ROOHJH 7D\ORU :DVKLQJWRQ %RZLH /RXLVLDQD /DID\HWWH .KDOD 5LOH\ %RZLH 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH 5XE\ 5REHUWVRQ %RZLH 7H[DV $ 0 .LQJVYLOOH

Arlington Martin Warriors - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-12/12-2 Coach: Brooke Brittain (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Odessa Permian; W-El Paso Coronado; L-Amarillo.

Outlook: “We have a dynamic, driven, and flexible group of committed team players who can get the job done in multiple positions on both ends.” That’s straight from coach Brooke Brittain, who not only played herself at Martin, but has never coached anywhere else. “Our core group of returning players has really bought into what we do offensively and defensively,” Brittain continues. “So we have less need to reteach some concepts but lots of room for growth from our previous season.” Setting the tone will be 5-4 senior point guard Gabby Bell, who last season was voted district defensive player of the year.

Complementing her in the backcourt will be 5-7 senior guard Madeline Karickhoff, a 2014-15 2nd-team all-district selection. Among those expected to play bigger roles this season are Tiara Malone, a 5-8 junior guard (2014-15 district newcomer of the year), Sidney Reeves, a 5-8 senior guard; Taylor Allen, a 5-7 junior guard; Hillary Smith, a 5-7 junior guard; and Tatum Henderson, a 5-7 sophomore point guard.

Playing Collegiately: (PLO\ 6ODJOH $UOLQJWRQ 0DUWLQ 'DUWPRXWK $PDQGD %DUQHV $UOLQJWRQ 0DUWLQ 6DP +RXVWRQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ /H[LV :HEHU $UOLQJWRQ 0DUWLQ

+HQGHUVRQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ 'HVW\QHH +LYHV 0F&UD\ $UOLQJWRQ 0DUWLQ

608 0DU\ .LQJ $UOLQJWRQ 0DUWLQ 0LGODQG &ROOHJH 0DJJLH %ULFNHU $UOLQJWRQ 0DUWLQ IRUPHU WHDP PDQDJHU RQ EDVNHWEDOO VWDII DW WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI $UNDQVDV

Byron Nelson Bobcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-10 /10-4 Coach: Scott Curran (15 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: The Bobcats project to make a pretty decent playoff run with the return of three starters from a team that enjoyed a modicum of success last season. The ringleader will be Jack Nobles, a 6-6 senior coming off a 2nd-team all-district performance. His supporting cast will comprise the 6-2 Ryan Wheeler and 6-0 Brandon Dale, both of whom made the all-district squad as honorable mentions.

AR LIN GTO NM AR TIN

34

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

.ORTH¿#ROWLEY¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿"OYS

!LLEN¿%ALES¿ ¿"OYS

Coach: Tommy Brakel (17 years’ experience; 18th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 9 2015 Postseason: W-Abilene, 86-65; W-Tascosa, 83-77; W-Eastwood, 75-55; L-Allen, 64-59.

Outlook: The 2014-15 Panthers were the 4-6A champs and made another trip (6 out of 7 years) to the regional tournament. With the return of nine players who saw minutes on last season’s varsity squad, including five rotation players and two starters, the Panthers are hungry to take the next step past the regional tournament and finish their season in San Antonio.

FYI: North Crowley has been a school for 17 years now, and Tommy Brakel has been the head basketball coach since day one. During that time, the Panthers have compiled an all-time home record of 168-11 and an all-time district mark of 219-19. Other team accomplishments include 16 seasons with 20+ wins, 17 straight seasons in the TABC State Rankings, 16 seasons in the playoffs, 13 district championships and eight regional tournament appearances.

2014-15 W-L: 26-10/12-4 Coach: Jeff McCullough (14 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2 2015 Postseason: W-Byron Nelson; W-Richland; W-Keller; W-North Crowley; L-Plano West Outlook: Only two starts return, but fourth-year Allen coach Jeff McCullough claims this will be his deepest squad yet while with the Eagles. Expectations are to make it to the regional finals for a third consecutive season. The headliners will be Hans Burwitz, a 6-6 senior; Myles Nesbitt, a 6-6 senior; Jake Herrin, a 6-4 senior; Ben Dixon, a 6-3 senior; and Ricky Edwards, a 5-11 senior.

Playing Collegiately: 1LFN 5XWKHUIRUG $OOHQ )ORULGD $WODQWLF 2OLQ &DUWHU $OOHQ

6DQ 'LHJR -DPXQL 0F1HDFH $OOHQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 2NODKRPD 0\URQ )LVKHU $OOHQ 6RXWKZHVWHUQ .DQVDV &- :LQ]HU $OOHQ 5LFKODQG -8&2

Flower Mound Lady Jaguars - Girls

7EATHERFORD¿,ADY¿2OOS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 18-13/7-7) Coach: Darryn Shearmire (22 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: “This could be our best team in my five years at WHS,” says coach Darryn Shearmire. “We return four starters and our sixth man, who also started some of the season for us. And we return two other juniors that will definitely help our depth. We will have size and experience.” The four returning starters are Kailin Davis, a 5-11 senior shooting guard (all-district 2nd team, 14.6 ppg); Maddie Dorris, a 6-0 senior post (all-district 2nd team; 8.9 ppg, 6.2 rpg); Vasha Moore, a 5-9 junior forward (all-district honorable mention (6.6 rpg, 4.2 apg); and Gracie Ferguson, a 5-9 junior point guard (all-district honorable mention (6.8 ppg).

District 5 'UYER¿7ILDCATS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 25-11/11-3 Coach: Grant Long (4 years’ experience; 4th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Flower Mound Marcus, 49-46; L-Cedar Hill, 79-52 Outlook: Guyer is primed to win district and make a playoff run with the return of its top two scorers -- Zach Garza and Jake Roberts --- and the influx of ready-for-prime-time youth, including Devion Harmon and Jalen Wilson. Luke Helgesen and Le’tre Darthard also return from last year to provide a little veteran presence.

Playing Collegiately: Miles Crawford, Zach Duncan, Sean Choate, Gordon Hill, Kason Kilgore, Bryson Erby.

Keller Indians - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 23-10/11-3 Coach: Randall Durant (16 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Lewisville, 48-46; W-Desoto, 51-41; L-Allen, 76-61 Outlook: The Indians lost three starters but will be set to at least vie for a fourth consecutive district title. The 6-4 junior RJ Nembhard will run the show at point, and 6-6 senior post Nolan Taylor will patrol the paint.

Keller Indians - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 23-10/11-3 Coach: Randall Durant (16 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Lewisville, 48-46; W-Desoto, 51-41; L-Allen, 76-61 Outlook: The Indians lost three starters but will be set to at least vie for a fourth consecutive district title. The 6-4 junior RJ Nembhard will run the show at point, and 6-6 senior post Nolan Taylor will patrol the paint.

2014-15 W-L: 28-8/13-3 Coach: Sherika Nelson (8 years’ experience; 9th year as head coach at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Justin Northwest, 60-31; W-Southlake Carroll, 61-55 (OT); W-Plano, 45-37; W-El Paso El Dorado, 59-47; W-Plano West, 53-50 (OT); L-Skyline, 61-34.

Outlook: The Lady Jags nearly reached the mountaintop last season and are determined – behind the strength of the nation’s top-ranked Lauren Cox – to get there this season.

“We will rely a lot on our inside presence with Lauren,” says coach Sherika Nelson, whose Lady Jags lost to Skyline in the 2015 state semis. “But we will also get out and run the floor,” Nelson adds. “We will take pride in our defense and let that fuel everything we do.” Cox, a 6-4 senior forward/post, last season averaged 22 points, 15 rebounds and 5 blocks in being named the Texas Gatorade Player of the Year and going on to play on the gold-winning U-19 USA Olympic team after already having helped the U.S. win gold at the U-17 and U-16 levels. Cox’s supporting cast includes Marin Mills, a versatile big-play senior guard (6 ppg, 5 rpg), and Makenzie Grill, a lead-by-example senior point guard who averaged 4 assists last season.

Playing Collegiately: &RXUWQH\ )LHOGV )ORZHU 0RXQG 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH .D\OD 0RXQW )ORZHU 0RXQG 2NODKRPD &KULVWLDQ $VKOH\ 'HDU\ )ORZHU 0RXQG

Northwestern University.

FYI: Lauren Cox, the nation’s top-ranked player according to ESPN’s HoopGurlz, has committed to play next fall at Baylor.

Flower Mound Jaguars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-14/9-7 Coach: Eric Littleton (20 years’ experience; 2nd season at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 1/1 Outlook: After graduating 12 players, it will be back to the drawing board for coach Littleton and the Jags. The one returning starter and only returning letterman is Isaiah Brown, a 6-7 senior forward.

Playing Collegiately: -DNH )LHFNHUW 2NODKRPD :HVOH\DQ &RQQRU *UHHQ 0HUFKDQW Marine Academy.

Flower Mound Marcus Marauders - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-11/8-8 Coach: Clay Cody (13 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: L-Denton Guyer, 49-46.

Outlook: The Marauders will be anchored by 6-2 senior shooting guard Brandon Smithey and sixth man Jake Watermiller, a 6-3 junior guard. Connor Bleasdell, a 6-4 junior forward, also figures prominently in the mix.

Playing Collegiately or the NBA: 0DUFXV 6PDUW 0DUFXV %RVWRQ &HOWLFV 3KLO )RUWH 0DUFXV 2NODKRPD 6WDWH $- /XFNH\ 0DUFXV /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ 1LFN %DQ\DUG 0DUFXV ,OOLQRLV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ ;DYLHU $GDPV 0DUFXV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1HZ 0H[LFR -D[RQ +ROGHQ 0DUFXV 3LWWVEXUJK 6WDWH &KDG (OOLRW 0DUFXV

:HVOH\DQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 0LFKDHO 0D\KHZ 0DUFXV +LOO &ROOHJH

Hebron Hawks - Girls District 6 Allen Lady Eagles - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 19-14/8-8 Coach: Deidra Rucker (13 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/1 Outlook: “I have a very young and talented group of athletes that are looking to run the floor and are extremely passionate about making sure people know about their team,” says coach Deidra Rucker. The one returning starter is Temi Alao, a 5-11 forward. Also projected to start are Sydney Hardeman, a 5-10 guard; De’Anira Moore, a 6-4 post; and Jada Peacock, a 5-7 guard.

Playing Collegiately: 0F.HQ]LH 0DUWLQ $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ

2014-15 W-L: 12-17/6-10 Coach: Dixie Bell (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Hebron missed the playoffs last year by one game; so with a senior-laden squad, coach Dixie Bell feels pretty good about her team’s chances this season. Bell will go to her bench often this year. Players expected to log major minutes include Mary Leigh Rock, Victoria Miller, Stefanie Mitchell, Lauren Gilley, Lana Blanchard, Alexa Gowens, Tamarvia Stovall and Maddie Brown.

,EWISVILLE¿&ARMERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 19-12 Coach: Gary Collier (8 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/0 Outlook: Farmers coach Gary Collier says his team will be learning from scratch as all five starters from last season are now gone. Taking over the team this year will be Jeremiah Taylor, a 6-4 senior wing; Trenton Sandifer, a 6-6 senior forward; Emeka Eni, a 5-11 senior guard; and Aubreion Bobb, a 6-1, senior guard.

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

35

McKinney Boyd Broncos

L.D. Bell Lady Raiders - Girls

2014-15 W-L: 11-21/2-14 Coach: Jeremy Josey (4 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: The Broncos closed out last season by defeating Flower Mound. That marked Boyd’s first district win in two years. So the plan this year is to build upon that. The five returning starters and this year’s designated sixth man are 6-2 senior guard Avery Mason (1st-team all-district), 6-0 junior guard Aidan O’Brien (honorable-mention all-district), 6-1 senior guard Aquil Burnett, 5-10 senior point guard Imari Handy, 6-1 junior guard Marc Collins and 6-3 senior guard Daniel Grant.

Playing Collegiately: 0LFKDHO *UDQW /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\

(2014-15 W-L: 17-16/6-6) Coach: Brock Pembleton (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Duncanville Outlook: The Lady Raiders have regained solid footing after breaking in younger players last year and will be led by D1 recruit Lexi Gordon, who currently ranks 34th nationally among ESPN HoopGurlz’ class-of-2017 recruits. Gordon last season posted 22.7 ppg, 39% 3pt-FG and 7.7 rpg en route to TGCA all-state, TABC all-state and TGCA academic all-state honors. She was also named District 7-6A Offensive Player of the Year after having been named newcomer of the year as a freshman. Seniors Alexis Baston and Tatyanna Bradley will also figure prominently as should junior Tiana Johnson. The 5-5 Baston will facilitate the offense at the point after last season scoring 8.6 ppg.

Playing Collegiately: &LHUUD -RKQVRQ / ' %HOO 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW $UOLQJWRQ

Plano East Panthers - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 19-12/8-8) Coach: Jeff Clarkson (12 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: A couple of solid returners who started most of last year will mix with a group of talented but inexperienced young players to create opportunity for a team that lost a play-in game this past spring. “The ability for the younger players to contribute will have a lot to do with our success next year,” says coach Jeff Clarkson. The two returning starters both made second-team all-district last season. They are Chris Parker and Chauncey Thomas, both of whom are 6-0 senior guards. Marek Nelson, a 6-5 junior forward, was voted district newcomer of the year; and Devin Gifford, a 6-0 senior guard, earned 2ndteam all-district accolades as a part-time starter.

Playing Collegiately: -DUYLV 3XJK 3ODQR (DVW 6DQWD &ODUD 3DW %LUW 3ODQR (DVW

7XOVD ;DYLHU 6PLWK 3ODQR (DVW 6W %RQDYHQWXUH 6DZ\HU .LSS 3ODQR (DVW

7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH =DFK 6PLWK 3ODQR (DVW 7H[DV 7HFK 0DUFXV 0DWKLHX 3ODQR (DVW 0F1HHVH 6WDWH 7UH\ 3DWWHUVRQ 3ODQR (DVW +RXVWRQ %DSWLVW ,VDDF $VUDW 3ODQR (DVW 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH

Plano West Wolves - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 33-2 Coach: Anthony Morgan (19 years’ experience; 10th year at school) 2015 Postseason: W-Timber Creek, 64-43; W-Coppell, 69-60; W-Cedar Hill, 49-43; W-Amarillo; W-Allen, 70-53; W-Irving MacArthur, 78-69; W-Houston Clear Lake, 56-54.

Outlook: After winning the Class 6A state title on a miraculous buzzer-beater by D.J. Hogg, now playing for Texas A&M, Plano West will look to rebuild with players who have shown a special chemistry in the early going. The key component to that team chemistry is returning starter Chris Giles, a 6-2 junior point guard, who last season posted 7.2 ppg, 2.3 apg and 3.0 spg. Giles’s supporting cast comprises newcomers Japheth Mengitsu, a 6-0 senior wing; Michael McGraw, a 5-11 senior guard; and Emeka Obukwelu, a 6-7 senior forward.

District 7 %ULESS¿4RINITY¿4ROJANS¿ ¿'IRLS¿¿ (2014-15 W-L: 27-5/10-2) Coach: Sue Cannon (44 years’ experience; 29th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Desoto; L-Plano West.

Outlook: Trinity coach Sue Cannon says it will be difficult to repeat the success of last season after the loss of four seniors (three starters who are now playing college ball).

However, point guard Haleigh Talbert returns along with power forward Trinity Oliver (both of whom are heavily recruited prospects). “We have some good young players,” Cannon says, “but it will probably take a while for them to learn the system since we do not have ninth graders at our high school.” Here are the two key pieces: 1) Trinity Oliver, a 5-10 junior power forward who led team in rebounding (9.6 rpg) while shooting 59% from the field. She was named to the TGCA 1st-team all-state squad as only a sophomore. 2) Haleigh Talbert, a 5-5 junior point guard who led team in assists (3.6 apg) and hit 72 percent from the line and 38.7% from the field. An excellent ball-handler and passer, Talbert was named 1st-team all-district.

Playing Collegiately: 7HKQLD 0F'DQLHO 7ULQLW\ 0LVVLVVLSSL 9DOOH\ 6WDWH 7RPL 6DQFKH] 7ULQLW\ 6RXWK &DUROLQD :HVO\DQ 7H$QD :DVKLQJWRQ 7ULQLW\ 3DXO Quinn College.

Haltom Buffalos - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 14-16/2-10 Coach: Mandy Rogers (18 years’ experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Returnees Bri Mathews, Chante Mathews, April Phichitchareunsak, Vanessa Carmona and Courtni Dennis will carry the load until the cavalry can come in the form of Dionne Nelson, a player who will start out on the JV but regain her eligibility in January.

This year’s edition of the Buffalos will showcase speed and high-intensity defense.

Playing Collegiately: .HRVKD :LOEXUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU 7D\ORU 'DQJHUILHOG 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU -RUGDQ +\PDQ -DFNVRQYLOOH &ROOHJH

L.D. Bell Lady Raiders - Girls Coach: Willie Henderson (25 years’ experience; 10th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: The Blue Raiders have some seasoned players returning, but no one who lit up the scoreboard a year ago. So someone will have to step up their game if L.D. Bell is to get back to the playoffs after taking a hiatus this past spring. The three returning starters are Orphee Matafadi, a 5-9 point guard (6.4 ppg, 4.1 apg); Ramish Maida, a 6-2 guard (6.2 ppg, 5.1 rpg); and Keinen Brown, a 6-3 guard (4.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: *DUUHWW =ROOLQJHU / ' %HOO 6RXWKZHVWHUQ &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ *DUUHWW +DPPRQGV / ' %HOO 6RXWKZHVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ 0DOLN ,QJUDP / ' %HOO 6WHUOLQJ &ROOHJH -RVK %XVKPDQ / ' %HOO (PDQXHO &ROOHJH LQ %RVWRQ $NHHP %ODFN / ' %HOO 1RUWKODNH &ROOHJH

L.D. Bell Blue Raiders - Boys Coach: Willie Henderson (25 years’ experience; 10th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: The Blue Raiders have some seasoned players returning, but no one who lit up the scoreboard a year ago. So someone will have to step up their game if L.D. Bell is to get back to the playoffs after taking a hiatus this past spring. The three returning starters are Orphee Matafadi, a 5-9 point guard (6.4 ppg, 4.1 apg); Ramish Maida, a 6-2 guard (6.2 ppg, 5.1 rpg); and Keinen Brown, a 6-3 guard (4.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: *DUUHWW =ROOLQJHU / ' %HOO 6RXWKZHVWHUQ &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ *DUUHWW +DPPRQGV / ' %HOO 6RXWKZHVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ 0DOLN ,QJUDP / ' %HOO 6WHUOLQJ &ROOHJH -RVK %XVKPDQ / ' %HOO (PDQXHO &ROOHJH LQ %RVWRQ $NHHP %ODFN / ' %HOO 1RUWKODNH &ROOHJH

2ICHLAND¿,ADY¿2EBELS¿ ¿'IRLS Coach: Shelley Davis (4 years’ experience; 1st year as head coach at Richland) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: The success of the Lady Rebels will this season hinge upon their defensive mindset and pressure. “Our defense will generate our offense,” says coach Shelley Davis. The four returning starters are Destiney Winkfield, a senior; Porscha Huff, a senior; Mikayla Colwell, a junior; and Jenna Jones, a sophomore.

3OUTHLAKE¿#ARROLL¿$RAGONS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 25-7/14-0 Coach: Teri Morrison (26 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-South Grand Prairie; L-Flower Mound Outlook: After going perfect in district last season but then ending the year in only round two of the playoffs, Carroll will try to piece together a longer postseason run.

Hopes will center on two key players – 6-2 senior Anna Hurlburt and Priscilla Smeenge.

Hurlburt last season averaged 12.0 ppg and 8 rpg. She has committed to play ball next fall at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Smeenge last season averaged 18 ppg, 6 rpg, 3 spg en route to TABC All-Region selection.

Playing Collegiately: .HQQHG\ /HRQDUG &DUUROO 8QLYHUVLW\ RI &RORUDGR 5HEHFFD *RUGRQ &DUUROO 7ULQLW\ 8QLYHUVLW\ *UHWFKHQ 0RUULVRQ &DUUROO -DFNVRQYLOOH 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ &DLWOLQ %DUUHWW &DUUROO 7ULQLW\ 8QLYHUVLW\ 6LHUUD 0D\NXV &DUUROO

0F0XUU\ 8QLYHUVLW\

36

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

3OUTHLAKEÂż#ARROLLÂż$RAGONSÂż Âż"OYS

Mansfield Tigers - Girls

(2014-15 W-L: 15-15/6-6) Coach: Eric McDade (17 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2 Outlook: The Dragons are looking forward to adding momentum to last year’s season. As a relatively inexperienced team in 2014-15, the Dragons lost a hard-fought play-in game versus Colleyville Heritage. This year’s bounce-back bunch will be led by Cooper Osburn, a 5-11 guard (3-year letterman); Lil’Jordan Humphrey, a 6-5 forward (3-year letterman); Joey McCormick, a 6-6 forward (2-year letterman); Austin Smith, a 6-5 forward (2-year letterman); and Jacob Gordon, a 5-10 guard (2-year letterman).

Playing Collegiately: +XQWHU 6XPP\ JXDUG 6RXWKODNH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 6DQ 'LHJR .LUN 0DVRQ JXDUG 6RXWKODNH /DPDU 8QLYHUVLW\ %UHWW -ROO\ SRVW 6RXWKODNH

Saint Louis University.

2014-15 W-L: 7-21/3-9) Coach: Kate Goldberg (10 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: The Tigers will be “fast and furious,� according to coach Goldberg. “This team is going to be quick and will fly by the seat of their pants. They are fundamental and will execute offense.� The three returning starters all play on the perimeter. They are juniors Lindsey Wurm and Halei Wortham, and sophomore Whitney Yates. Wortham will run the show at point.

Playing Collegiately: .L$VKD +DUULV 1HRVKR &RXQW\ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH .DQVDV FYI: Returning sophomore Whitney Yates also excels on the golf course for Mansfield.

District 8 Cedar Hill Lady Longhorns - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 23-9/9-3) Coach: Nicole Collins (4 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Colleyville Heritage, 61-36; W-Keller, 63-51; L-Plano West, 67-49.

Outlook: Led by Joyner Holmes, the second-ranked player in the nation, the Lady Longhorns are among the favorites to make a deep playoff run and perhaps win a state championship. Holmes, a 6-3 forward, averaged 16 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.5 steals last season and did nothing but get better after playing select ball during the summer on the heels of playing on Team USA’s gold-winning U-17 squad during the summer of 2014. Cedar Hill’s other returning starter, Victoria Jackson, a 5-6 senior combo guard, will facilitate the offense and look to feed Holmes as often as possible.

Playing Collegiately: &HQHFLD 1HZPDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI +RXVWRQ &KDULW\ /H0HOOH )ULHQGV 8QLYHUVLW\ 'RPLQLTXH 'DZVRQ 6HPLQROH 6WDWH $GULDQQD 0F%D\ 6XO 5RVV 8QLYHUVLW\

#EDARÂż(ILLÂż,ONGHORNSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 28-4/10-2 Coach: Brandon Thomas (4 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Euless Trinity, 65-53; W-Denton Guyer, 79-52; L-Plano West, 49-45 Outlook: “We will be a highly competitive team that will be battle-tested come district play,â€? says coach Brandon Thomas. Six-foot point guards Jonathan Webb, a senior, and Russhard Cruickshank, a junior, will split time running the pays. They’ll be joined in the backcourt by 6-1 senior shooting guard Jaelun Hollomon.

Playing Collegiately: &KULV 2OLYLHU 6HWRQ $FDGHP\ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 0DUN :HHPV 6HWRQ $FDGHP\ ,OOLQRLV 6SULQJILHOG .HDORQ &OD\ERUQH &HGDU +LOO 7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH 'D5KRQ 0LWFKHOO &HGDU +LOO 7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH

$UNCANVILLE¿0ANTHERETTES¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 30-6/12-0 Coach: Cathy Self-Morgan (37 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 2015 Postseason: W-L.D. Bell; L-Plano Outlook: The Pantherettes will shift into warp speed this season both on offense and defense; and with all five starters back, the squad should return to its usual form as a team that goes deep into the playoffs. The centerpiece is Ciera Johnson, a player that ranks 15th nationwide on the ESPN HoopGurlz Class-of-2016 report. The 6-4 senior post last season averaged 14.2 pts, 9.1 rebounds. Maddie Townley, a 6-0 senior power forward, will also prove prominent. She comes in having recorded 5.9 ppg, 9.6 rpg. The third component to Duncanville’s power trio is Zay Green, a 5-10 sophomore guard (11.1 ppg, 2.7 apg). The line-up will be fortified by Rosie Davis, a 5-6 senior guard; Neisha Davis, a 5-8 senior guard; Tae Davis, a 5-5 junior guard; and Aailah Caldwell, a 5-10 junior guard.

Playing Collegiately: 0RUJDQ %ROWRQ 608 .LDUD 3HUU\ 608 (PSUHVV 'DYHQSRUW 7KH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV $ULHO $WNLQV WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7DVLD )RPDQ 7KH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV .DLOL 3LSSLQV /DPDU 7LHUD 'DYHQSRUW /RXLVLDQD 7HFK 'HDQGUD :KHHOHU 7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH $VMKD :KLWH 6LODV -8&2 .H\DQQD 6PLWK -8&2

South Grand Prairie Warriors - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-16/6-6 Coach: Brandon Bennett (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/2 2015 Postseason: L- Richland, 69-63.

Outlook: The Warriors return nine of 12 players from last season, and coach Bennett says the squad has done a yeoman’s job using the summer to prepare for the fall. Cameron McGriff, a 6-7 senior forward (12.5 ppg, 9 rpg, 2 apg), will prove key to SGP’s fortunes.

He was last season named 1st-team all-district and named the Warriors’ team MVP. He’ll share the spotlight with Harrison Henderson, a 6-10 senior forward (11 ppg, 7 rpg) who is also coming off a 1st-team all-district campaign and has committed to playing ball next fall at the University of Southern California. The roster will round out with Cameron Massey, a 6-2 sophomore guard (5 ppg, 2 apg), and Jordan Dansby, a 6-2 guard (4 ppg, 4 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: &KULV :DVKEXUQ 6*3 7&8 %HQ (PHORJX 6*3 608 -D\UQ -RKQVRQ 6*3 3UDLULH 9LHZ $ 0 -RYDQ $XVWLQ 6*3 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH YLD WUDQVIHU IURP %RZOLQJ *UHHQ 0DUN +RZHOO 6*3 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH YLD WUDQVIHU IURP :ULJKW 6WDWH 7\OHU -DFREV 6*3 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7\OHU 7UH\ +DOO 6*3 6W 0DU\ĂĄV 5LFN &XUU\ 6*3 0F/HQQHQ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH '- 7KRUSH 6*3 :HVWHUQ 7H[DV -8&2

District 9 Jesuit Rangers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-11/10-4 Coach: Chris Hill (8 years’ experience; 9th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/0 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Youth and inexperience may characterize this edition of the Rangers, but coach Hill still thinks this bunch could be pretty good. Nearly everyone is back from the squad that last season made it to the playoffs but was sent home early. Ben Kunasek, Mitch Prendergast and Shawn Regan will provide Jesuit a formidable one-two-and-three punch.

Playing Collegiately: 6WHYHQ 6SLHWK -HVXLW %URZQ 8QLYHUVLW\

W. T. White Longhorns - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 7-22/5-9) Coach: Craig Bankhead (10 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: The Longhorns are still relatively inexperienced but much more savvy than a year ago when youth truly prevailed. If they can push the tempo, there might be a chance of extending the season. The top six minute-eaters should be Brett Estrada, Eric Cook, Myles Frierson, Steve Gebremelecot, Abraham Tekle and Byron Hare.

Playing Collegiately: 7\UHH .H\ : 7 :KLWH %OLQQ -8&2

Irving MacArthur Cardinals - Girls Grand Prairie Gophers - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 18-15/5-7) Coach: Tom Inman (14 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: “We’ll be young and relatively untested, but could end up being pretty good by the end of December,� says coach Tom Inman. “We have a bunch of good sophomores, but only time will tell how much they can contribute.� The centerpiece is Ashawntee Harris, a 6-7 senior who is very athletic and runs the floor well. Inman says Cailen Bond, a 6-4 senior, is one of the best 3-point shooters he’s ever coached. Other contributors include Myron Myers, a 5-8 senior point guard who is very quick and plays well in space, and Chris Alexander, a 5-8 junior who passes well in space and has range from beyond the arc. She too is among Inman’s quicker player.

Playing Collegiately: -HUHP\ 6HQJOLQ :HEHU 6WDWH &KULVWLDQ -RQHV VHQLRU DW 6W -RKQĂĄV

(2014-15 W-L: 25-11/10-2) Coach: Suzie Oelschlegel (29 years’ experience; 30th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Lake Highlands, 61-36; W-Killeen, 48-46; W-Rockwall, 36-29; L-Spring Dekaney, 58-41.

Outlook: Balance is the best descriptor for this version of Irving Mac. “Everyone will be involved,� says coach Suzie Oelschlegel. “We’ll be a fun team to watch.� Coach O returns four starters and all were named all-district this past season. Alyson Gamez, a 5-6 junior guard, and Essence Wells, a 5-8 senior guard, were 1st-team selections. Gabby Gregory, a 5-7 senior guard, was a 2nd-team selection, and Jazz Hardeman, a 5-7 senior forward, made the squad as an honorable mention.

Playing Collegiately: 2G\VVH\ 6LPV :1%$ 7XOVD 6KRFN &KDVWLW\ 5HHG IRUPHUO\ ZLWK WKH 7XOVD 6KRFN QRZ SOD\LQJ RYHUVHDV $OH[LV -RQHV %D\ORU YLD WUDQVIHU IURP 'XNH $ULHO $QGHUVRQ 7H[DV 6WDWH .KRULD 1HZPDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI $ODEDPD %LUPLQJKDP 7DQD 'ULYHU Marshall University.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

37 District 10

District 11

(IGHLAND¿0ARK¿3COTS¿ ¿'IRLS¿

Rockwall Yellowjackets - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 20-11/11-3 Coach: Nicole Villarreal (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 2015 Postseason: W-Irving High, 63-40; L- Rockwall.

Outlook: Highland Park will ready for district play this season with a tough preseason slate that includes not only some of the state’s most formidable teams, but also talented teams from out of state that will convene in Duncanville for the Sandra Meadows Tournament. Mikaela Read, Eve Loewe and Morgan Smith will headline a squad that has every starter back for more.

2014-15 W-L: 12-17/7-7 Coach: Alan Simmons (22 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 Outlook: This edition of the Yellowjackets is receiving buzz via the play of seniors Daniel Smith (second-team all-district) and senior Cameron Schmucker (honorable-mention all-district). “We will be young overall,” says coach Alan Simmons. “But our JV won district and the ninth grade came in second last year. We have young kids who will be asked to step in and play big roles for us.”

Playing Collegiately: $XVWLQ *UDQGVWDII 5RFNZDOO 2KLR 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ -RVHSK :LOOLDPV 5RFNZDOO &HGDU 9DOOH\ &ROOHJH &OD\ 0DUOH\ 5RFNZDOO &RQFRUGLD University in Austin.

Highland Park Scots - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-16/6-8 Coach: David Piehler (20 years’ experience; 10th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 Outlook: Highland Park will field an inexperienced team and one that took a step back last season after getting reclassified from 5A to 6A and then getting placed in a tough, top-to-bottom district. Piehler’s projected starters are Pete Davis, a 6-1 senior guard (14 ppg, 3 rpg, 3apg; all-district); Stefon Jauregui, a 6-1 senior guard (3.5 ppg); Ben Reichert, a 6-7 senior post (3.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg); Will Enzor, a 6-3 sophmore guard (3.6 ppg, 2.3 rpg); and Ben Mills, a 6-0 senior guard.

Playing Collegiately: :LOO 0LOOHU +LJKODQG 3DUN 0RXQW 6W 0DU\áV 0DWW )UDVFKLOOD +LJKODQG 3DUN +DUYDUG 'DYLG $OOHQ +LJKODQG 3DUN *HRUJHWRZQ FYI: Last year was the first season in 20 years that Highland Park did not advance to the playoffs. Assistant coach Travis Snowden is following in a family tradition. His dad Bo Snowden served as a coach at Highland Park for 15 years.

2ICHARDSON¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 30-5/13-1 Coach: Justin Reese (8 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Postseason Appearances: W-Irving Nimitz ,76-72; W-Killeen Harker Heights, 81-68; L-Irving MacArthur, 82-70.

Outlook: Richardson will feature two of the state’s top players at their positions – reigning District 10-6A MVP Brandon Averette, a 5’11 point guard (18 ppg, 7 apg) who made the All-Region I team last spring and Dylan Gollihar, a 7-0 center (8 ppg, 8 rpg, 3 bpg) who earned accolades as the district’s defensive player of the year. Keaton Wallace, a 6-1 guard (7 ppg; 2nd-team all-district) should also make a difference, as will Kamren Tennyson, a 6-2 forward (honorable-mention all-district). The Eagles will be up-tempo and able to light the scoreboard, but the team will have to step up defensively to advance further than last season’s team, which wound up being ranked 12th in state.

Playing Collegiately: %HQ 1DNZDDVDK 5LFKDUGVRQ 0F/HQQDQ -8&2 %ODNH +DUGDPRQ 5LFKDUGVRQ :DVKLQJWRQ $FDGHP\ 1\ODQ <DQF\ 5LFKDUGVRQ

-DFNVRQYLOOH -8&2 %UDQGRQ 6FRWW 5LFKDUGVRQ $UNDQVDV 0RQWLFHOOR FYI: Richardson’s point guard Brandon Averette and center Dylan Gollihar already have offers from D1 schools.

Lake Highlands Wildcats - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 5-26/1-13) Coach: Rob Wylie (33 years’ experience; 18th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: After a forgettable campaign a year ago, the Wildcats return three starters and are anxious to make amends. Especially hoping for a quality send-off is senior Malik Brown, a guard who last season averaged 16.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.8 steals en route to 1st-team all-district honors. The other two returning starters are both seniors as well. Brendyn Gettens, a guard, averaged 6.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists last season. Romel Price, a forward, contributed 6.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.9 steals.

District 12 "ELTON¿4IGERS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 15-15/3-11 Coach: Brenda Gomez (34 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: Coach Brenda Gomez says she is hopeful her squad is primed to battle for a playoff spot. That mission will be taken on by the likes of 5-8 senior Blair Gilbert, 5-7 senior Emily Del Real, 5-6 junior Cphammie Moore and 5-10 sophomore Keilee Burke.

+ILLEEN¿+ANGAROOS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 24-11/11-2 Coach: Latisha Williams (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: W-Tyler Lee, 57-43; L-Irving Macarthur, 48-46.

Outlook: “After winning our district last year, we ended the season with a bad taste in our mouth,” says Killeen coach Latisha Williams. With so many players back this season, Williams says her squad “has set high expectations. We will strive to repeat as district champions, and we are working to compete in the regional tournament this year.” The team will showcase a power trio of first-team all-district performers Tia Harston, a 5-5 senior point guard; Jacen Moore, a 5-10 junior forward, and Keaunna Johnson, a 5-10 senior forward, voted 2014-15 district defensive MVP. Two second-team all-district performers will also make major contributions. They are Carmen Williams, a 5-5 senior guard; and Shianne Johnson, a 5-8 junior forward.

Playing Collegiately: -DVPLQH *RRGZLQH .LOOHQ 5LFH 8QLYHUVLW\ 5DYHQ 5LQJR .LOOHHQ 0F/HQQDQ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH ,PDUL 6LPSVRQ .LOOHHQ 9DOGRVWD State University.

FYI: Tia Harston has verbally committed to Sam Houston State.

Killeen Shoemaker Greywolves - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 22-10/9-3) Coach: Emund Prichett (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: W-Garland; L-Irving MacArthur.

Outlook: Shoemaker returns five two-year lettermen from a district championship squad so should be good to this time around. Tyrone Williams returns to headline after being named the area’s Defensive Player of the Year. He’ll be joined by Javon Levi (1st-team all-area), Antoine James (area newcomer of the year) and Devyn Brewton (2ndteam all-area). Deondre Hopkins and Aaron Warren should also prove key while seniors Byrale Carter, Vernon Burns, James Bynum and Tyale Johnson add depth and wisdom.

Playing Collegiately: 7RUHQ]R 6DXQGHUV 6KRHPDNHU 7HPSOH &ROOHJH 6KDQH -RKQVRQ 6KRHPDNHU :HVWHUQ 7H[DV

District 13 Leander Rouse Raiders - Girls

Richardson J.J. Pearce Mustangs - Girls 2014-15 District Record: 1-13 Coach: Lance Edge (4 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: The Lady Mustangs are young but eager and look to use a tough non-district schedule to prepare for the road ahead. A motion-oriented offense and aggressive defensive pressure will tell the tale this season. Pearce’s four returning lettermen are Corrona Williams, a 5-8 senior guard; Madyson Johnson, a 6-0 sophomore post; Holly Grace, a 5-8 sophomore guard; Sienna Copeland, a 5-7 sophomore guard.

Coach: Lori McDonald (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 Outlook: Last season proved to be a transition year with eight new varsity players and the move up to Class 6A. However, the 2015-2016 season brings a core group of varsity lettermen who are hungry to turn things around. Projected starters are Reagan Hjort, a 5-7 senior guard; Alyssa Bennett, a 5-8 junior guard/forward; Hannah Detrich, a 5-7 senior guard; Jennifer Parker, a 6-0 junior forward; and Zoe Holmes, a 5-10 junior forward.

Playing Collegiately: 0DULDK 0HUULZHDWKHU 5RXVH 5DQJHU &ROOHJH 'HMD %HHFKXP 5RXVH 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ %D\OHH 3HFN 5RXVH

8WDK 6WDWH 0DFNHQ]LH :HVW 5RXVH 7HPSOH &ROOHJH

Leander Rouse Raiders - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 21-12/6-8) Coach: Shane Krause (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 Outlook: The Raiders will be perimeter-orientated and led by Sam Paulsen and Kyle Mitchell. Lots of new players will receive the opportunity to contribute early. Paulsen, a 6-3 guard last season averaged 9 points in being named 2nd-team all-district. Mitchell will facilitate the offense this season from his point guard position.

Playing Collegiately: 5HLG :DONHU 5RXVH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7\OHU $QGUHZ /RJDQ 5RXVH 6KULQHU &ROOHJH

38

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

0FLUGERVILLE¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿'IRLS¿

!KINS¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS

(2014-15 W-L: 19-16/9-5) Coach: April Hundl (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/4 2015 Postseason: L-Austin Bowie, 58-45 Outlook: The Panthers will rebuild after a tough year of injuries. Mykiel Burleson, a 5-9 senior guard, will be coming back from an ACL after the year before being named district newcomer of the year (9 ppg, 51% FG, 6 rpg). Alexis Bryant, a 6-0 senior center returns from a broken foot. Her stats prior to the injury – which forced her to sit out district play – were 8.2 rpg, 13.1 ppg, 48.5% FG, 1.7 bpg. Also back are Drea Funderburke, a 5-4 senior guard (2nd-team all-district; 8.5 ppg, 38% 3-pt. FG), and Britney Onyeje, a 5-9 sophomore forward voted 2014-15 district newcomer of the year (5.2 ppg 40% FG).

Playing Collegiately: $O\VVD :DVKLQJWRQ 3IOXJHUYLOOH 'LOODUG 8QLYHUVLW\ .LDQD 0DUWLQ 3IOXJHUYLOOH 0F/HQQDQ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH 7D\ORU )OHWFKHU 3IOXJHUYLOOH 7\OHU -8&2 $O\VVD (FKROV 3IOXJHUYLOOH $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ .DOHD .LQJ 3IOXJHUYLOOH 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ +DMD .DPDUD 3IOXJHUYLOOH

%URZQ 0DFNLH 'HVWLQL 2DNPRQ 3IOXJHUYLOOH 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU -RQHOOH 6PLWK 3IOXJHUYLOOH 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU 'LDQD 2PR]HH 3IOXJHUYLOOH 2NODKRPD 6WDWH $P\ 6WDKD 3IOXJHUYLOOH 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 6WDWH 7D\ORU 5RVV 3IOXJHUYLOOH

6WHSKHQ ) $XVWLQ $UL %RRWK 3IOXJHUYLOOH $PHULFDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ ,á7LDQD 7D\ORU 3IOXJHUYLOOH (DVW &DUROLQD 8QLYHUVLW\ 0DF.HQ]LH &RIIH\ 3IOXJHUYLOOH

0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU

2014-15 W-L: 9-19/4-12 Coach: Jesse Hayes (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: Akins will showcase an up-tempo, guard-heavy team with expectations of making the playoffs after sitting out last year’s dance. The suitors will be senior Brasjion Simpson, senior Vince Prado, junior Cameron Ivey and junior Demarcus Cabezas.

Lake Travis Cavaliers - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 13-16/7-9) Coach: Patrick Hinson (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10-4 Outlook: The Cavaliers are much improved with 80 percent of its offense back and two solid players coming back from injury as well as an influx of JV talent. “This team has experience and talent and should compete for a district title,” says coach Patrick Hinson.

Mandy Karako, a 5-11 senior guard, will light the torch after last season being named to the TGCA All-State team (16.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg). Aspen Howie, a 5-9 junior guard (2nd-team all-district; 10.4 ppg), and Kaylie Kirkpatrick, a 5-10 senior forward (4.5 ppg), will fortify the lineup while Jordan Ott, a 5-9 sophomore guard, looks to make up for lost time after missing much of last season with an injury.

FYI: Mandy Karako is only seven points shy of a 1,000. She is the first all-state player at Lake Travis since now assistant coach Lindsey Hausmann played for the Cavaliers.

-C.EIL¿-AVERICKS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 25-11/11-3 Coach: Darrell Hagemann (25 years’ experience; 25th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: Lost to Irving MacArthur, 57-56, in regional semifinals.

Outlook: The Mavericks are sitting pretty with three starters back from last year’s regional semifinalist team. “We will be especially be deep at the guard spot,” says coach Darrell Hagemann, “and we’re hopeful that our inside game will develop as the year progresses.” McNeil’s fortunes will owe largely due to the play of 2015 13-6A MVP VJ Bailey, a 6-4 junior guard, who, as only a sophomore, averaged 15.1 points and 6.1 rebounds while hitting 75.2 percent from the line and being named to the All-Central Texas squad. Sharing the limelight will be Armonie Brooks, a 6-4 senior guard who last season was named to the TABC all-region squad and was voted 13-16A Newcomer of the Year. He averaged 16 points and 6.3 rebounds while firing 78 percent from the charity stripe. McNeil’s three other projected starters are all juniors -- Anthony Charles, a 6-6 post, and Jonothan Zeiner and Ray Stoddard, both of whom are 6-foot guards.

FYI: McNeil High School is 24 years old. The basketball program started in the school’s second year of existence; and in 23 years of Mavs basketball, McNeil has made it to the playoffs 19 times. Darrell Hagemann has been the only basketball coach the school has ever known. During his 23-year tenure, he has posted a record of 493-276. He is hoping victory #500 comes sooner than later.

3TONY¿0OINT¿,ADY¿4IGERS¿ ¿'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 22-14/10-4) Coach: Julie Walker (3 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W, Buda Hays 71-51; W, Klein Forest, 60-32; L, Spring Dekaney, 58-47.

Outlook: With the graduation of 6-4 Jordan Moore, the 2015-16 Lady Tigers will not feature the same “vertical” presence, but will continue to have a “horizontal” presence.

All six returners bring a great deal of speed and athleticism to the court, which will brand the way Stony Point approaches play and the success it should ultimately have. Projected to see much PT are Soteria Banks, a 5-9 junior guard; Alexus Moore, a 5-11 senior forward; Kyndall Franklin, a 5-8 senior forward; Lexy Edwards, a 5-2 junior guard; Caroline Despres, a 5-11 sophomore guard; and Marlaina Spearman, a 5-11 sophomore guard.

Playing Collegiately: -RUGDQ 0RRUH 6WRQ\ 3RLQW 7&8 &KHOVHD (GZDUGV 6WRQ\ 3RLQW

6W (GZDUGV 8QLYHUVLW\ $VSHQ $QGUHZ 9DQGHJULIW 6XIIRON 8QLYHUVLW\

District 14 Austin Runnin’ Maroons - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 13-15/5-11 Coach: Andy Dudney (8 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 Outlook: The Runnin’ Maroons are looking to return to the playoffs after last season taking a step back for a program that usually keeps the party going. Part of the problem is that the district is beyond tough. But there are four returnees ready to accept the challenge -- Beau Kalbacher, a 6-5 senior forward; Josh Harris, a 6-5 senior forward; Jeff Gary, a 6-3 junior point guard; and Ben Sheridan, a 6-1 senior guard.

Playing Collegiately: (ULF 0F&OHOODQ $XVWLQ *RQ]DJD 0DWW -RQHV $XVWLQ

7ULQLW\ 8QLYHUVLW\ :LQ]HO 6WHUOLQJ $XVWLQ 6RXWK 'DNRWD 6FKRRO RI 0LQHV 1LFN 3HUH] $XVWLQ 7H[DV 6WDWH -RKQ :ULJKW $XVWLQ 1 $

7ESTLAKE¿#HAPARRALS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 19-11/11-5 Coach: Robert Lucero (2 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/1 2015 Postseason Appearances: L-McNeil, 54- 50.

Outlook: The Chaparrals will build this year’s edition around the district’s 2014-15 defensive player of the year Mack Kelley, a senior guard. Point guard Luke Pluymen was honored as last season’s district newcomer of the year and is expected to have an even better sophomore campaign. Fortifying the lineup are senior guard Jacob Fleschman, sophomore forward Matthew Mayer and sophomore forward Brock Cunningham.

Hays Rebels - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 21-12/11-5) Coach: Danny Preuss (12 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L - Stony Point, 71-51.

The Rebels project to have a very athletic starting five that should advance beyond the first round of the playoffs this season. Projected starters are Choon-Hee Chae, a 5-7 junior point guard (10 ppg); Amanda Benjamin, a 5-3 senior guard; Gabby Bosquez, a 5-6 sophomore guard; Jada Finister, a 5-11 junior forward (7 rpg, 2 bpg); and Jaden Williams, a 5-8 junior.

Playing Collegiately: -LOO %RUUHVRQ &ROXPELD -RUG\QH 'XJJHU 6W /RXLV .DUOLH 6FKURHGHU %HWK\O $OH[LV 'HOJDGR 0LVVRXUL 6WDWH

Hays Rebels - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 22-9/13-3) Coach: Sam Lunz (8 years’ experience; 2nd year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: W-Westwood, 70-62; W-Klein Forest, 61-56; L-Atascocita, 70-52.

Outlook:This will be a rebuilding year for the Rebels with seven seniors having graduated this past May. Of seven returning lettermen only three logged any sort of significant time. Jake Krafka, a 6-6 senior guard/forward (11.2 ppg, 1st-team all-district), will steer the ship along with Charles Bohannon, a 6-1 guard (11.3 ppg, 1st-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: +HDWK $JQHZ +D\V +HVVWRQ &ROOHJH

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

39 District 15

+LEINÂż"EARKATSÂż Âż'IRLS

#OLLEGEÂż0ARKÂż#AVALIERSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż

Coach: Jackie Edwards (6 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: Coach Edwards says that she senses this will be a big turnaround year for her squad, which did not advance to the 2015 postseason. She will be banking on three players to make her forecast come true -- Noel Pratts, Gabrielle Orion and Jenna Shaw.

Playing Collegiately: 4XLQF\ %DNHU .OHLQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI ,QFDUQDWH :RUG 0HJKDQ 7HPSOH .OHLQ /R\ROD 8QLYHUVLW\

2014-15 District Record: 3-14 Coach: Michelle Richardson (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: After sitting out the playoffs last season, coach Richardson thinks her mix of returnees and incoming talented players should equal a trip to the postseason. College Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power trio of experience comprises Jasmine Atobajeun, Jordan Rockins and Jewels Campbell.

+LEINÂż"EARKATSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 27-8/12-2 Coach: Glenn Arnold (33 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Kingwood, 48-38; W-Lake Travis, 38-37; L-Round Rock McNeil, 38-37.

Outlook: After losing eight to graduation, coach Glenn Arnold will challenge his JV callups to step up immediately. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We should be competitive,â&#x20AC;? he says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but it will depend on how quickly they adjust to the varsity level of competition.â&#x20AC;? Showing them the way will be 6-7 senior post Elijah Schmidt (1st-team all-district), and Myles Smith, a 6-1 junior guard (2nd-team all-district). Bryce Matthews, a 5-10 senior guard, will also be asked to fulfill a leadership role.

Playing Collegiately: -DOHQ 1LFKRODV &DPHURQ 8QLYHUVLW\ &KLND 8EDK &KLQDGXK 8EDK %ODFN +DZN -XQLRU &ROOHJH LQ &KLFDJR 0DUN %URRNV VPDOO FROOHJH LQ $ODEDPD

College Park Cavaliers - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 15-18/4-8) Coach: Clifton McNeely (21 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/4 Outlook: The Cavaliers will be young and fast with a great knack for finding the open man. The four returning starters are Quentin Grimes, a 6-3 sophomore (8.8 ppg, 3.8 apg, 1.3 spg; all-district honorable mention); McKinley Green, a 6-foot senior (7.6 ppg, 1.6 apg, 1.6 spg); Dax DeBoer, a 6-5 senior (3.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg); and Jordan Gilliam, a 6-3 senior (7 ppg, 2.4 apg, 1.4 spg).

Playing Collegiately: 'HVPRQG )OHPLQJ &ODVV RI &RUQHOO 8QLYHUVLW\ /D\WRQ =LQVPHLVWHU &ODVV RI 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU 8QLYHUVLW\ %UHWW 5HHG &DEULOOR &ODVV RI

&DOLIRUQLD -8&2 (YDQ &RRSHU &ODVV RI +DUWIRUG 8QLYHUVLW\

Atascocita Eagles - Boys

Klein Collins Tigers - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 16-13/12-3) Coach: Devin Gabbard (11 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: L, The Woodlands Outlook: Team returns a wealth of scoring. Looking to play a more up-tempo style on both ends of the floor. There is a potential for team to take some big strides with the experience that returns along with an impressive influx of young talent. Rexesha Hollis, a 5-9 senior forward (13.6 ppg), Magan Bush, a 5-7 senior guard (13.5 ppg), Natalya Chatham, a 6-foot sophomore post (12.8 ppg), Naomi Brown, a 6-1 senior post (12.2 ppg); and Kim Courett, a 5-9 senior forward (8 ppg) provide all the firepower needed to take a shot at advancing much further in the playoffs.

Playing Collegiately: .DWLH :HEVWHU 5RFNZDOO +HDWK /RQJ %HDFK 6WDWH

2014-15 W-L: 35-2/14-0 Coach: David Martinez (18 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: Advanced to Region 2 Finals.

Outlook: DĂŠjĂ vu. Hit replay. Team returns all but two players on roster, and all five starters are back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will be very similar to last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team,â&#x20AC;? says coach David Martinez. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fast and defensive minded.â&#x20AC;? Carsen Edwards, a 5-11 senior, will set the tone after last season averaging 23 points. Greg Shead, a 5-10 senior (10 ppg, 6 apg), and Brandon Loville, a 6-3 senior (11 ppg); and Matt Willrodt, a 6-4 senior (10 ppg), will all contribute scoring. And Fabian White, a 6-8 junior (2015 district newcomer of the year and defensive MVP), will keep the paint clean.

Playing Collegiately: -RH %XUWRQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH =DFK +DQH\ %RLVH 6WDWH 1RODQ %LOER 7H[DV :HVOH\DQ 3DULV 0DUTXH] 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ /D'DULXV <RXQJ /DPDU -8&2 FYI: Carsen Edwards has committed to Purdue University.

3PRINGÂż-IGHTYÂż,IONSÂż Âż'IRLS

Kingwood Mustangs - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 21-10/10-4 Coach: Michael Prejean (7 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: L-Kingwood, 55-53.

Outlook: Spring lost eight players from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s squad, including three to graduation, but coach Michael Prejean remains optimistic that his â&#x20AC;&#x153;young, but athletic and talentedâ&#x20AC;? bunch will vie for a playoff spot. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Depending on how quickly our young players mature, we can compete for the playoffs,â&#x20AC;? he says. The two starters back from last season are Gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Auna Edwards and Taylor Harris.

Playing Collegiately: %HUQLH 3HWHUV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 5LR *UDQGH 9DOOH\ %ULWWDQ\ 6PLWK 8 6 $LU )RUFH $FDGHP\ *DEE\ 6KRXOGHUV 6RXWKHDVWHUQ ,OOLQRLV &ROOHJH

2014-15 W-L: 18-16/8-6 Coach: Royce Huseman (24 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 25th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: L-Klein Outlook: Mustangs coach Royce Huseman describes his team as â&#x20AC;&#x153;young, but very hungry.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;If the leadership is there,â&#x20AC;? he says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;this could be a team to watch late in February.â&#x20AC;?

Kingwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strength is its guard play. Projected starters are Mitchell Clouse, a 6-1 senior guard (2-year starter); Brandon Burrell, a 6-0 junior point guard (1-year starter); Matt Charles, a 5-11 junior guard; Devin Gould, a 6-5 senior forward; and Colin Holderread, a 6-5 senior forward.

District 16 4HEÂż7OODLANDSÂż(IGHLANDERSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 19-13/6-6 Coach: Dale Reed (12 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 11th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Team chemistry makes the up-tempo Highlanders a team to keep tabs on this fall. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simply a team that plays well as a unit in a game that has devolved into so much isolation. The squadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perimeter players can hit with range and do a god job facilitating an offense that will run opponents ragged. The top six to log minutes are junior AJ Bullard, sophomore Romello Wilbert, senior Clay Creighton, senior Jack Hammett, senior Kyle Spears and junior James Primavera.

Playing Collegiately: %ULDQ %DHKO $XVWLQ &ROOHJH 1RODQ &DVV 0LGODQG 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: The Woodlands junior AJ Bullard is the son of former Houston Rockets Matt Bullard.

Cypress Creek Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 10-20/4-9 Coach: Dan Trocquet (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook:After making his career-coaching debut last season, coach Dan Trocquet is in position to see at least a little progress this fall with most all starters back and now fully cognizant of the system they are to run. The lynchpin will be Alex Williams, a 5-7 junior guard who made second-team all-district last season. The supporting cast comprises Alex Witherspoon, a 6-4 junior post; Davon Berry, a 5-11 junior guard; and Cameron Ellis, a 5-11 senior guard.

#YPRESSÂż&ALLSÂż'OLDENÂż%AGLESÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 26-10/10-3) Coach: James L. Stephens (21 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Memorial, 58-50; L-Seven Lakes 60-50.

Outlook: The return of three players from significant injury should buoy the hopes of the 2015-16 Golden Eagles. Combined with the other returnees, these three will provide the squad the kind of experience needed to make a playoff run. Here are the key ingredients to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s puzzle: DaJia Traylor Craft, Joann Allen Taylor, Nia Fuller, Kayla Godfrey, Janvier Branch, Kianna McElroy, Rajene Grant and Dianna Davis.

Playing Collegiately: .DWKHULQH 0HWR\HU +DUYDUG 6DGDOLD (OOLV /LEHUW\ 6KHUQLVH 5REHUWVRQ 6DP +RXVWRQ 6WDWH /RU\Q *RRGZLQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 6DQ $QWRQLR &DURO :LOOLH 7&8 .DWLH 1DMYDU :HVWHUQ &RORUDGR &ROOHJH -DVPLQH *UHHQ :HVW 7H[DV &ROOHJH -D4XD]D &OHYHODQG 2GHVVD &ROOHJH $VKOH\ &DOGZHOO +RZDUG 3D\QH FYI: As only a sophomore, Cy Fallsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Joanne Allen Taylor is already attracting attention from DI recruiters. Head coach James Stephens enters the season just five wins shy of 600.

40

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS District 15

Cypress Falls Golden Eagles 2014-15 W-L: 13-18/5-8 Coach: Richard Flores (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: The Golden Eagles return all five starters along with Justin Van Pelt, a 6-10 senior; Cameron Adams, a 5-10 junior; Justin Skopal, a 6-5 junior; and Anthony Dross, a 5-11 junior. In addition, Nigel Hawkins, a 6-1 sophomore, and Andrew Nguyen, a 5-10 sophomore, will look to bring great energy after leading the JV to a 12-1 district record.

Here are the five returning starters: Deshang Weaver, a 6-7 sophomore (newcomer of the year/1st-team all-district; 12.1 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2.3 bpg); Ayomide Dada, a 5-11 senior (2nd-team all-district; 8.1 ppg, 30 treys, 56 assists, 25 steals); Brian Payton, a 5-10 senior (2nd-team all-district; 8.7 ppg with 30 treys, 30 steals); Leron Davis, a 6-3 senior (honorable-mention all-district); and Design Green, a 6-2 senior.

#YÂż,AKESÂż3PARTANSÂż Âż'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 17-13\5-9 Coach: Michael Stengar (19 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 20th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Senior point guard Kendra Houston returns after making all-district as a sophomore, but then missing all but eight games of her junior campaign due to injury. Aaliyah Davis, a senior named the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defensive player of the year last season, is also back, as is Kelsie Griffith, who should be one of the better juniors in a very tough district. Cy Lakesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fourth returning starter, Tamia Jenkins, is a versatile small forward -- in a power forward body -- who can excel at all five positions. Spartans coach Michael Stengar says this is the best team he has fielded in his 19 years at Cy Lakes.

Playing Collegiately: .LP 1HER 6RXWKHUQ ,OOLQRLV

#YPRESSÂż2IDGEÂż2AMSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 5-24/2-11 Coach: Steve Dibble (10 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: The 2015-16 Rams will be small and young. Not necessarily a winning combination. But we will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;athletic and very hard working,â&#x20AC;? coach Steve Dibble says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will look to score around Jordan Collins. The 6-0 now senior last season averaged 18 points en route to second-team all-district selection. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get help from 5-10 junior Jaylen Stephens (2-year letterman) and 5-10 senior Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;angelo Ellis (3-year letterman).

Playing Collegiately: %UDQGRQ 6ZDQQDJDQ &\ 5LGJH 7XOVD

#YPRESSÂż3PRINGSÂż,ADYÂż0ANTHERSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 12-15/5-8 Coach: Taneisha Rogers (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: Coach Rogers expects this will be the year that her program takes off. Many of her players return from a busy summertime of AAU ball, and there are five seniors who project to provide strong leadership. Tia Tolbert made 2nd-team all-district last season as a freshman and comes in as the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-leading scorer, averaging just under 10 ppg. Tasiia Hayes returns for her senior season as the starting point guard. She last season scored 6 ppg and dished out 5 assists per game. Much-improved Toraya Bass looks to step up and play big minutes in the post her senior season, and 6-5 senior Carma Nkola, a transfer, looks to make a major impact and is getting a lot of attention from college recruiters.

Playing Collegiately: %UHQLVKD &ROHPDQ 1LFKROOV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

#YPRESSÂż2ANCHÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 18-14/8-5 Coach: Mason Huffmeister (10 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Eisenhower, 72-66; L-Seven Lakes, 55-45.

Outlook: A balanced offense and lengthy front court promises to deliver a longer playoff run than last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two-round dance. Miles Simms, a 5-10 senior (10 ppg, 4 apg), will run the show at point, and Elish Benjamin, a 6-5 senior (12 ppg, 7 rpg), will provide scoring punch after making second-team all-district as a junior. Blake Nevins, a 6-3 junior (9 ppg, 5 rpg), and Anthony Agu, a 6-6 senior (5 ppg, 5 rpg), will also play key roles.

Playing Collegiately: .\OH 0F/HUR\ &\ 5DQFK 6DP +RXVWRQ 6WDWH FYI: Senior point guard Miles Simms last year started a nonprofit project called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kicks 4 Kidz.â&#x20AC;? The charity takes in slightly used high tops that kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wear and donates them to Cy-hope for distribution. He did it during the Cy-Fair Invitational Tournament last year and plans on doing it again at this fallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourney.

Cypress Springs Panthers - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 14-17/7-6) Coach: Sam Benitez (3 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2 Outlook: A perimeter-focused Tigers team should return to the playoffs after missing out on the party last season. Two key contributors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both returning starters -- should make the difference. They are senior Eric Parrish, a 6-5 guard, and junior Freddie Ricks, a 6-2 guard.

Playing Collegiately: $QWLQR -DFNVRQ $NURQ 8QLYHUVLW\ (PPDXHO 2ORMDNSRNH $NURQ University.

Houston Cypress Woods Wildcats - Girls

Cypress Ranch Mustangs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 23-11/9-4 Coach: Tresa Martin-Hornsby (26 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist Outlook: The team has set two goals for this year after advancing to the regional quarterfinals last season. The Mustangs first of all want to win what would be their first district championship. Then the ponies want to get further than the regional quarterfinals, which ended their season this past spring. The five returning starters and the first person off the bench this season are DiDi Richards, Ariana Whitfield, Becca Watzke, Rachel Tapps, Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Asia Collins and Mariah Thomas, Playing Collegiately: 6DEUD\\DK )HQQHOO 0HLD 5DFKHO &\SUHVV 5DQFK 2XU /DG\ RI WKH /DNHV 8QLYHUVLW\ 6\GQH\ &ROHPDQ &\SUHVV 5DQFK 7&8 &LHQQD 5RGULJXH] &\SUHVV 5DQFK 7H[DV :RPDQĂĄV 8QLYHUVLW\

Cypress Ridge Rams - Girls Coach: Arthur Prevost (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 Outlook: A new coach and a new start for a Cypress Ridge squad that missed the playoffs last season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope to field a much more competitive team than in the past,â&#x20AC;? Prevost says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Should be a fun year.â&#x20AC;? The centerpiece to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unchartered territory will be 6-1 freshman Kharial Clark.

(2014-15 W-L: 35-1/13-0) Coach: Virginia Flores (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 2015 Postseason: W, Aldine MacArthur 62-32; W, Katy Tompkins 80-19; W, Cypress Ranch 62-38; W, North Shore 71-62; W, Houston Westside 75-36; W, San Antonio Wagner 79-60; W, Dallas Skyline 57-49.

Outlook: Nancy Mulkey, a 6-9 all-state, all-state-tournament senior center (3.7 bpg, 7.1 rpg, 10.3 ppg) will lead the way for defending state-champ Cy Woods after having competed in the FIBA championships as a member of Team USA for three consecutive summers. Jasmine Williams, a 5-10 senior power forward/guard (10.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 2.4 spg) also made first-team all-state last season and will team with Mulkey and District 17-6A Newcomer of the Year Cate Reese, a 6-2 sophomore forward/center, to provide the most potent front-line in Texas.

Playing Collegiately: $XGUH\ *DUFLD &\SUHVV :RRGV 6RXWKZHVWHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ LQ *HRUJHWRZQ (ULFD 2JZXPLNH &\SUHVV :RRGV 3HSSHUGLQH 8QLYHUVLW\ 7DW\DQD 3HUH] &\SUHVV :RRGV 7XOVD 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: The 6-9 Nancy Mulkey was featured on TLCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s July 14 episode of â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Giant Life.â&#x20AC;? The program followed Mulkey for three weeks to show the pros and cons of being so tall.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

41

Langham Creek Lobos - Boys

(2014-15 W-L: 14-17/6-7) Coach: Charles Ament (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: DeAndre Scott, a senior, and juniors Ross Thompson and Dondrick Collins return to the starting lineup to provide the Lobos a pretty good shot at getting back to the postseason after they came up just short this past spring. Josh Thompson will also crack the starting five and has enjoyed a great spring and summer of improvement. Transfer Ellis Jones from Navasota will also make an immediate impact, and Chris Eugley, Ganiyu Are, Cole Van Ness and Brandon Alvarez are all welcome additions that will provide much-needed depth.

Playing Collegiately: 'DQQ\ 1HZVRPH /DQJKDP 7KH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 4XLQQ 7D\ORU /DQJKDP 8WDK 6WDWH *LO &DUWHU /DQJKDP 1RUWKZHVW 2NODKRPD 6WDWH -HURPH 6HJXUD /DQJKDP )DLUILHOG -DPHV 7D\ORU /DQJKDP 6W (GZDUGV 'ĂĄYRQ (QJODQG /DQJKDP 7H[DV $ 0 &RUSXV &KULVWL &ROOLQ /H1RUPDQG /DQJKDP 6KDZ 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: Ament last season missed the playoffs for the first time of his now eight-year coaching career. He is chomping at the beat to initiate another streak.

District 18 Houston Memorial Mustangs - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 18-13/11-1 Coach: Jyusef Larry (6 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: L-Cy Falls, 37-30.

Outlook: The Mustangs will look to kick up their heels once again in district play and gallop way past the first playoff round that saw their season come to an abrupt end this past spring. Four starters return. They are 5-9 sophomore point guard Grace Yochum (10 ppg, 6 spg, 4 rbg, 4 apg; 1st-team all-district/newcomer of the year); 5-6 senior guard Kelsey Slattery (38% 3-pt. FG, 8 ppg, 3 spg, 4 rpg); 5-6 senior guard Courtney Slattery (34% 3-pt. FG, 6 ppg, 2 spg, 3 rpg); and 5-11 senior forward Amanda McCloskey (4 ppg, 6 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: -HVVLH 8VWLFN 0HPRULDO 5KRGHV &ROOHJH 0HPSKLV 7HQQ

$P\ $OIHOG 0HPRULDO &ODUHQGRQ &ROOHJH &ODUHQGRQ 7[ 2OLYLD 3RGDUDV 0HPRULDO 6RXWKZHVWHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ *HRUJHWRZQ 7[

District 19 Katy Tigers - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 8-21/3-11) Coach: Danny Russell (4 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; first year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: Nathan Bradley, a senior who was named district newcomer of the year, and Derrick Godley (15.8 ppg) are two of five returning starters looking to make amends for a tough go of it last season. A team that was inexperienced a year ago has learned enough after a season of hard knocks to perhaps make a playoff push.

Playing Collegiately: $UWKXU 0F&UD\ %ULDUFOLII 8QLYHUVLW\ &KDQFH :HOFK 0LVVRXUL %DSWLVW 7D\ORU 7XFNHU 2OLYHW 8QLYHUVLW\ 7D\ORU 7DQNHUVO\ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7\OHU

Cinco Ranch Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 27 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5/14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 0 Coach: Neil King (7 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Houston Westside; L-Aldine Davis Outlook: The Cougars return nearly its entire starting lineup from a squad that last season won 24 in a row and was undefeated in district play. A short playoff run, though, did not sit as well, and the Cougars will be looking to show their true colors this goaround. District MVP JR Adams, a senior, will set the tone. He last season posted 20 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 3.6 spg, 3.5 apg. Jay Jay Chandler, a 6-4 junior guard, made 1st-team all-district (15.9 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 4.8 apg, 3.6 spg), as did Tyrus Perez, a senior guard (10.6 ppg, 3.4 apg, 3 rpg). Zach Zeller will man the boards underneath after posting 6 ppg, 6 rpg en route to honorable-mention all-district selection last season.

Playing Collegiately: %HQ 6RQQHIHOG &RORUDGR 6FKRRO RI 0LQHV 0DOLN $PRV 3UDLULH 9LHZ $ 0 -& &KDQGOHU +RXVWRQ %DSWLVW

+ATYÂż4AYLORÂż,ADYÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż'IRLS¿¿ 2014-15 W-L: 21-13/7-5 Coach: Blair Ary (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: L-Bidistrict.

Outlook: Youth abounds in Taylor land, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are looking forward to having a hard working, deep, talented group of kids,â&#x20AC;? says coach Blair Ary. Taylorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three returning lettermen are Macy Ray, Delaney Ferguson and Loren Ramos Playing Collegiately: &DLWOLQ 6FKHUSHUHHO 6W 7KRPDV -DGD 5REHUWV /HWRXUQHDX 8QLYHUVLW\ 6DPDQWKD $WNLQVRQ 5RDFK 6RXWKHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ .LD /RYH 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU 'DUQHWWD -DFNVRQ 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU

Katy Taylor Mustangs - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 17-16/7-7) Coach: Matthew Brayton (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st yr. at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: L - Sam Houston, 71-50.

Outlook: Despite returning nearly the entire starting lineup, the Mustangs will be overall a very young team, and one that will have to make major progress in the preseason if it is to return to the playoffs and make it past the first round. James Yang, Troy Marasigan, Blanchard Layton, Enzo Sechi and Max Wright all return after lettering last season.

Playing Collegiately: 3ULFH 'DOWRQ 5KRGHV &ROOHJH

Tompkins Falcons - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 8-20/4-10 Coach: Bobby Sanders (21 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 Outlook: Tompkins looks to be one of the favorites to win 19-6A thanks to a re-rack of the starting lineup and a lot of young players who have matured quickly. The starting five projects as follows: Jamal Bieniemy, a 6-3 sophomore point guard (5 apg); C.J. Washington, a 6-3 sophomore guard (13 ppg, all-district 2nd team); Joshua Washington, a 6-0 junior point guard (3 treys per game, 11 ppg; all-district honorable mention); Alex Tchouangwa, a 6-2 junior guard (3 spg); and Aziz Fadika, a 6-6 senior forward (3.3 bpg; all-district 2nd team).

District 20 7ESTSIDEÂż7OLVESÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 34-4/14-0) Coach: Troy Gillespie (15 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Katy Taylor, 37-35; W-Cy-Fair, 59-48; W-Seven Lakes, 64-60; W-Clear Springs, 57-50; L- Cy-Woods, 75-36.

Outlook: The Wolves are expected to successfully defend back-to-back district titles with senior Sentreal Gregory headlining the show after last season nabbing district MVP honors and 1st-team all-region selection. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be joined in a leadership role by another 1st-team all-region selection - senior Kirbee Celestine. Seniors Kori Seals and Tanea Thomas return after both made 1st-team all-district last season, and sophomore Stephanie Gregory returns as an all-district 2nd-teamer.

Playing Collegiately: 0DGGLVHQ 7XUQHU :HVWVLGH 7H[DV $ 0 &RUSXV &KULVWL -DQDH 6PLWK :HVWVLGH *UDPEOLQJ 6W $OH[LV $GDPV :HVWVLGH *UDPEOLQJ 6WDWH %ULDQD /XWRQ :HVWVLGH $OFRUQ 6WDWH 7H\ORU 6HDOV :HVWVLGH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7\OHU 7LIIDQ\ 'DYLV :HVWVLGH 6RXWK &DUROLQD FYI: Westside has made four regional finals appearances in the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 15-year history and has sent 37 athletes on to college via basketball scholarships.

District 21 "AYTOWNÂż3TERLINGÂż2ANGERSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 13-16/5-7 Coach: Gregory Smith (7 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even though they have fallen short by one game (of making the playoffs) the past few seasons, Sterling will be capable of getting it done this year,â&#x20AC;? says coach Gregory Smith. He says seniors Darius Manuel, Jesus Torres, and Elijah Stanislas will lead the pack and that he expects juniors DJ Dickerson and Chris Rodriguez to be solid contributors as well.

FYI: Rangers coach Gregory Smith enters the season 12 games shy of 100 wins. His team won 13 last season and are expected to be much-improved.

.ORTHÂż3HOREÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 32-3/12-0 Coach: Allison Campbell (15 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: W-Pasadena Dobie, 79-30; W-Friendswood, 82-49; W- Manvel, 63-40; L-Cy Woods, 71-62.

Outlook: Chasity Patterson, a two-time, all state performer, returns to lead North Shore after the squad made it to the regional semis last season. Patterson, a 5-5 point guard scored 25.0 ppg in 2014-15. Her partner in crime this year will be the squadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one other returning starter, Alyssa Okoene, a 6-2 small forward voted the 2014-15 district defensive player of the year.

Playing Collegiately: &RXUWQH\ :LOOLDPV 1RUWK 6KRUH 7H[DV $ 0 0RQLTXH %HGIRUG 1RUWK 6KRUH +HQGHUVRQ 6WDWH $GULLDQD -DFNVRQ 1RUWK 6KRUH

+RXVWRQ %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\ .D\OD 0DFN 1RUWK 6KRUH /R\ROD 8QLYHUVLW\ LQ 1HZ 2UOHDQV 'HMD +XJKHV 1RUWK 6KRUH $UNDQVDV %DSWLVW 7UH 1RUULV 1RUWK 6KRUH

$UNDQVDV %DSWLVW 7LWL $UFHQHDX[ 1RUWK 6KRUH 6RXWKZHVW &KULVWLDQ 6KDH -RKQVRQ 1RUWK 6KRUH 6RXWKZHVWHUQ ,OOLQRLV

42

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

Port Arthur Memorial Lady titans - Girls

Alief Hastings Fighting Bears - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 23-8/10-2 Coach: Kevin Henry (4 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Pearland Dawson, 56-49; L-Clear Springs, 78-64.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This could possibly be the best year in Memorial history,â&#x20AC;? says coach Kevin Henry. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the lineup that fuels his optimism: Jakeira Ford, a 6-1 senior guard (17 ppg, 12 rpg, 3 apg, 2 spg, 1 bpg; 1st-team all-district). Channel Babineaux, a 5-7 senior guard (8 ppg, 4 rpg, 3 spg, 3 spg); Autumn Jones, a 5-3 senior guard (4 ppg, 2 apg, 2 rpg, 1 spg); Teliah Joyce, a 5-2 senior guard (4 ppg, 1 apg, 1 spg); Victoria Brown, a senior (3 ppg, 1 apg, 3 rpg, 1 spg); and Kennedi Lofton, a 6-3 junior (3 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 bpg).

Playing Collegiately: 3DXOOHWWD 3RZHOO 3 $ 0HPRULDO 6WHSKHQ ) $XVWLQ &KDWHUUD &DJH 3 $ 0HPRULDO /68 6KUHYHSRUW 'RUFLHYH 'DYLV 3 $ 0HPRULDO 7H[DV $ 0 &RUSXV &KULVWL 0DULD %HOOR 3 $ 0HPRULDO &DOLIRUQLD 6RXWKZHVW 8QLYHUVLW\ -R\FH .HQQHUVRQ 3 $ 0HPRULDO 7H[DV 6RXWKHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 7\OHU 6HOOHUV 3 $ 0HPRULDO <RUN &ROOHJH 1HEUDVND FYI: This group of players has been playing together since 4th grade, and coach Kevin Henry believes â&#x20AC;&#x153;this team will bring the city and school its first girls basketball state championship.â&#x20AC;?

Coach: Darrell Collins (20 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: The Bears have the experience and length to make some noise in 2015-16. Key components include Eric Nwadike, a 5-8 senior point guard; Julius Hardison, a 6-3 senior guard; Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Michael Adams, a 6-3 sophomore guard; Victor Ekwere, a 6-5 senior wing; Ejike Okocha-Ojeah, a 6-5 senior wing; and Cedric Crutchfield, a 6-7 senior post.

Playing Collegiately: 6KDZQ -RKQVRQ ,QFDUQDWH :RUG &OLQWRQ 1ZRVXK ,GDKR 6WDWH &KULV :DOOHU 6RXWKZHVWHUQ &ROOHJH

District 22 !LVINÂż9ELLOWÂż*ACKETSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 6-26/1-15 Coach: John Oliverio (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 Outlook: Savion Flagg, a 6-5 junior wing (19 ppg, 7 rpg) will headline a team whose nine returnees are anxious to make the playoffs.

-ANVELÂż-AVERICKSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 20-15/12-4 Coach: Chris Wilson (11 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 Outlook: Game-by-game. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the catch phrase this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our goal is to play at our highest level each game,â&#x20AC;? says coach Chris Wilson, making his Manvel coaching debut.

Asked to take that approach will be Mo Hussein, Jalen Preston, Curtis Bias, Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;eriq King, Linton Acliese, Romelle Watts, Jason Scott, Ryan Hudson and Sean Dykes.

Playing Collegiately: Joseph Kilgore and Kasey Shepherd.

0ASADENAÂż%AGLESÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 9-21/3-13 Coach: Jason Pillow (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 Outlook: Nearly everybody is back from a team that last season had to make ends meet with only two returning lettermen. Eagles coach Jason Pillow says to expect an up-tempo offense and a defense that pressures opponents for the full 32 minutes. Pasadena will also lean heavily on the three-ball this year, and the main reason why is Josh Martinez, a junior who last season led all of Class 6A in 3pt FG% (49%). Jacob Johnson, a senior, also shot lights out (46% 3-pt. FG) last season, and Ernesto Juarez, a senior, returns after leading the Eagles in both rebounds and blocked shots in 2014-15.

District 23 Alief Hastings Fighting Bears - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 22-10/12-4) Coach: Corey Brotherton (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Hastings coach Corey Brotherton says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;With what we have coming back, we hope to capture the district championship and make a deep run in the playoffs.â&#x20AC;? The bear with the biggest roar is 6-2 senior Ashley Moore, a forward who last season made 1st-team all-district and led team in blocks.

Tia Jones, a 6-0 senior guard, made 2nd-team all-district last season and will join Moore in the starting lineup, as will 5-9 junior Kai-Lee Valentine and 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;5 senior Ahmir West.

Playing Collegiately: 6\GQH\ +D\HV +DVWLQJV (DVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 5DHVKDZQ -RQHV +DVWLQJV (DVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH $QQHWWH &UHDU +DVWLQJV

)UDQN 3KLOOLSV &ROOHJH $OL\DK %URZQ +DVWLQJV 6RXWKZHVWHUQ &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH 6DGH 2ORQDGH +DVWLQJV 'DOODV &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH

Ft Bend Austin Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 21-12/10-6 Coach: Sherman Chew (17 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 2015 Postseason: L-Clear Springs, 53-35.

Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs will be looking to win their third consecutive district title, but coach Sherman Chew says there are some â&#x20AC;&#x153;ifs.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;If we can get our new additions to contribute and we stay healthy, continue to work hard and get better each day, we may have an opportunity to win our district,â&#x20AC;? Chew says. Bria Ceasar, a 5-10 senior guard, (2nd-team all-district) will be called on to lead the charge, as will Jalynn Johnson, a 5-10 sophomore wing (2nd-team all-district), and Madison Rhoder, a 5-11 senior post (honorable mention all-district). Other key players include Alliyah Davis, a 5-4 senior; Hawa Wague, a 6-1 junior; Arianna Martinez, a 5-7 sophomore; CJ Johnson, a 5-7 senior; and Hailey Curl, a 6-0 senior.

Playing Collegiately: Katrina Battle, Brooke Dyson.

$OBIEÂż,ONGHORNSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L:17-17/10-6) Coach: Kevin Cross (20 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-North Shore Outlook: A core of three returning starters should help Dobie get over the hump after it last year finished fourth in district. A solid core of JV and freshman call-ups should also help. Jason Lester, a 6-3 senior (9.9 ppg, 6.5 rpg) and Royce Hunter, a 6-1 junior (7.4 ppg, 2.5 apg), both made second-team all-district last season. Tyler Giron, a 6-0 senior (6.5 ppg, 2.3 spg) and Travores Gilbert, a 6-3 senior (5.4 ppg, 5 rpg) both made honorable mention all-district. Call-ups Joshua Cooper, a 6-3 junior (4.6 ppg), and Deâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;May Jones, a 6-1 sophomore, will be asked to play major minutes.

0EARLANDÂż/ILERSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 19-11/13-3 Coach: Lauren Martens (making her coaching debut); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 2015 Postseason: Area qualifiers.

Outlook: The Oilers have only one senior and one starter back, but first-year coach Lauren Martens describes her group as â&#x20AC;&#x153;young and talented. Ravae Payne, a junior, is that one returning starter expected to carry the torch of a team that made the 2015 playoffs.

&ORTÂż"ENDÂż$ULLESÂż6IKINGSÂż Âż'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 4-22/2-14 Coach: Mark Rosenbalm (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 Outlook: After a rough go of it last season, coach Mark Rosenbalm says his squad should be much more competitive. Whether that will translate into advancement into the postseason, time will tell, but the hopes rest on the shoulders of a starting five comprised of senior Alexia Luckett, junior Trinity Williams, junior Sydney Johnson, sophomore Tamia Reese and freshman Alaeh Pressley.

Playing Collegiately: %ULWWDQ\ 0EDPDOX 7H[DV $ 0 &RUSXV &KULVWL

&ORTÂż"ENDÂż$ULLESÂż6IKINGSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 9-23/4-12 Coach: Mike Carrabine (30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 19th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 Outlook: No returning starters spell a tough challenge ahead for the 2015-16 Vikings. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope to be better than predicted,â&#x20AC;? coach Mike Carrabine says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but we may be fielding the least experienced team in Texas. Asked to accept the challenge are 6-5 junior Bryce Woodson, 5-6 junior Chazz Mouton, 5-10 junior Kamron Foster and 5-9 sophomore Nikhil Gattu.

Playing Collegiately: %DQJDO\ .DED 'XOOHV $ODVND )DLUEDQNV %HQ %URZQ :KLWH 'XOOHV (DVW &HQWUDO 2NOD 'RF $UFKLEDOG 'XOOHV 5DQJHU -8&2

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

43

(IGHTOWERÂż,ADYÂż(URRICANESÂż Âż'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 27-7/15-1 Coach: Deborah Mize (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 2015 Postseason: Lost in Regional Quarterfinals.

Outlook: The Lady Hurricanes are looking to sweep into San Antonio this spring and for good reason. With 10 lettermen back from a squad that lost only once in district play last season, Hightower should be primed to strike again but with even more impact.

The team is led by Maddison Glass, a point guard who was voted the 2014-15 23-6A MVP. Shooting guard Treazure Mouton, a former district defensive player of the year, provides Hightower the perfect one-two perimeter punch to create headlines come spring.

Playing Collegiately: &KHOVHD /RWW 8QLYHUVLW\ RI .DQVDV 7\OHU DQG 7D\ORU *LOEHUW 8QLYHUVLW\ RI +RXVWRQ $ODQD +HDUG 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW 6DQ $QWRQLR '\DPRQG 3XHEOD 6FKUHLQHU &ROOHJH 8QLTXH )LQOH\ 7H[DV :HVOH\DQ

#LEARÂż3PRINGSÂż,ADYÂż#HARGERSÂż Âż'IRLS¿¿ 2014-15 W-L: 30-5/13-1 Coach: Pamela K. Crawford (26 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: W-Fort Bend Austin, 60-37; W-PA Memorial, 78-64; W-Fort Bend Hightower, 59-49; L-Houston Westside, 57-50.

Outlook: Clear Springs will pin its hopes on the returning quartet of Tasharian Robinson, a 5-10 junior point guard/forward; Sierra Cheatham, a 6-2 junior forward; Dymond Gladney, a 5-5 sophomore point guard; and Brianna Jackson, a 5-4 senior guard.

Playing Collegiately: Brooke McCarty, Courtnie Latham, JoAnn Lira, Kaylin Roher, Paige Tippet, Aaliyah Brown, Adrienne Brown, Christine Moffett, Chelsi Woodard and Mileka Lodrake.

Clear Springs Chargers - Boys

District 24 $ICKINSONÂż'ATORSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 8-16/2-12) Coach: Jason Wilson (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 Outlook: Expectations are running high under second-season head coach Jason Wilson.

His squad struggled a year ago with inexperience; but with seven returning lettermen, that should not be a problem this season. Dickinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two linchpins are Jarian Spells, a 6-1 junior point guard (12.4 ppg) and Damon Williams, a 6-4 junior shooting guard (6.1 ppg).

FYI: Dickinson is looking to end a drought that has kept it from the playoffs since the 2004-2005 campaign.

&RIENDSWOODÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 17-15 Coach: Jeff Keener (16 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: W-Bi-district; L-Fort Bend Travis Outlook: The Mustangs will reload after losing eight seniors for the second consecutive year. The pace will quicken, and a reliance on perimeter play will feed the Mustangsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; success in 2015-16. Friendswoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Three going in comprises Daniel Martinez, a 6-4 wing; Griffin Schneider, a 5-11 point guard; and Andrew Alston, a 6-1 shooting guard.

Playing Collegiately: &KULV &ROOLQV 7H[DV $ 0 /DQH *ULIIRQ :D\ODQG %DSWLVW $GDP +LQFKFOLIIH 7HPSOH &ROOHJH

(2014-15 W-L: 13-19/6-8) Coach: Chris Hairfield (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 Outlook: Clear Springs is a young team that has now been in a consistent system for a solid year, and second-year coach Chris Hairfield says that should pay dividends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We plan to surpass expectations this year,â&#x20AC;? he says. His one returning starter that will be counted on to get the ball rolling is Christian Waller, a 5-10 guard.

Playing Collegiately: 0DWWHZ &ROOLIORZHU &OHDU 6SULQJV +6 7ULQLW\ 8QLYHUVLW\ &RU\ 0F.HQGUHH &OHDU 6SULQJV +6 6W (GZDUGV 8QLYHUVLW\

District 25 #IBOLOÂż3TEELEÂż+NIGHTSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 19-13/7-5) Coach: Lonny Hubbard (4 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-San Antonio Madison, 60-59.

Outlook: After the youngsters got â&#x20AC;&#x153;seasoned upâ&#x20AC;? during the 2014-15 campaign, coach Lonny Hubbard says his team now has â&#x20AC;&#x153;a solid core and some good pieces to put together a good year.â&#x20AC;? The three returning starters are Kijana Love, a senior combo guard (1st-team all-district); Gerald Liddell, a sophomore point forward/wing (1st-team all-district), and Elijah Brown, a senior point guard. Other key players include Terry Ellis, a junior shooting guard, combo guard Ryan Taylor and shooting guard Vincent Tezeno.

New Braunfels Unicorns - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 12-19/3-7) Coach: David Brawner (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: The Unicorns will look to make a playoff run for the first time in six years compliments the return of all five starters -- Zachary Saddler, Bradley Schmid, Jared Drinan, Cullen Sohn and Mitchell Feltmann.

Playing Collegiately: /RUHQ]R *RQ]DOHV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 'DOODV $DURQ (PEU\ 6RXWKZHVWern Assemblies of God University.

Clear Lake Falcons - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-12/8-6 Coach: Kirby Killingsworth (10 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Returning Starters: 6/5 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: All starters return from a squad that notched 20 wins, so the future is about as bright as it can be. Falcons coach Killingsworth says he has a â&#x20AC;&#x153;good mix of young players and veteran players.â&#x20AC;? Whether that will translate into a postseason that lasts beyond the first round, time will tell. The first six to log minutes this year will be Courtnee LaBarrie, Olivia Fox, Mariah Adams, Veronica Llanes, Lexi Graham and Morgan Gray.

#LEARÂż#REEKÂż7ILDCATSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 33-4/13-1 Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Hightower, 60-42; W-North Shore, 68-65; W-Dawson, 55-51; W-Cy Lakes, 75-73; L-Clear Lake, 63-56.

Outlook: After experiencing its most successful season in over 50 years, Clear Creek advanced to the Region III 6A final before losing in double OT to Clear Lake. Clear Creek was a co-district champion in District 24-6A; and while losing six key contributors from a 33-4 squad in 2014-15, it has a talented and experienced power trio to showcase. Rashadre Wilson, a 5-10 senior, averaged 12 ppg en route to all-district selection. Nick Shipley, a MXQLRU DOVR PDGH DOO GLVWULFW ZLWK SSJ USJ ;DYLHU )HUUHOO D VHQLRU SSJ LV the third member of the power trio.

Playing Collegiately: -DUHG (YDQV 5DQJHU -XQLRU &ROOHJH $ - 6SDUNV 5DQJHU -XQLRU &ROOHJH 7\TXRQ -RUGDQ (DVWILHOG -XQLRU &ROOHJH

District 26 3ANÂż!NTONIOÂż*OHNSONÂż*AGUARSÂż Âż'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 26-8/11-1) Coach: Stephanie M. Desmarais (1 year of experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W, vs. Judson; L, vs. Brennan.

Outlook: The Jaguars hope to advance further than the second round of the playoffs this season but will still be up against it having to play two of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elite teams in Wagner and Brennan as well as a tough district slate. The three returning starters who will be asked to shoulder the heaviest load are seniors Breyah Richardson and Tara Molina along with junior Alyssa Adams.

Playing Collegiately: *DEE\ %RZLH -RKQVRQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 8WDK

San Antonio Johnson Jaguars - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 24-9/7-5) Coach: Jay Keller (16 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Conroe Judson; L-Warren.

Outlook: The Jags will be a little height-challenged but should be fine with the return of all-district guard Greg Bowie and Air Force signee Bryce Hughes. Perimeter players are quick and experienced, and coach Keller expects his JV call-ups to log significant minutes. Deshaun Hartley, Khalil McPherson, Austin Schuetz and Tyler Payne should all contribute.

Playing Collegiately: $VD &DQWZHOO +RXVWRQ %DSWLVW

44

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

Robert E. Lee Volunteers - Boys

Stevens Falcons - Girls

(2014-15 W-L: 10-22/1-11) Coach: Norm Galyon (6 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: Lee will be looking to rebound from an under-achieving 2014-15 campaign.

Younger players will add length to the lineup, which should prove key in an always tough District 26-6A. Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six returning lettermen are Mark Sullivan, a 6-2 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 17 ppg); Mohamed Barow, a 5-8 senior guard (honorable-mention all-district); Rudy Flores, a 5-10 senior guard; Samuel Davis, a 5-9 junior guard; Adrian Palacios, a 6-1 senior guard; and Mike Nickles, a 6-4 sophomore wing.

(2014-15 W-L: 14-15/6-7) Coach: Annissa Hastings (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 Outlook: Youth leaves this lineup shrouded in mystery, but the newbies have proved very eager to make an immediate mark. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I look forward to see what they will do this upcoming season,â&#x20AC;? Hastings says. Her two returning starters leading the way are forward Naydine Aleman and guard Shanice Woods.

Playing Collegiately: $QWDQLD 1HZWRQ 6WHYHQV 'RGJH &LW\ -8&2 -XOLD 5HQGRQ 6WHYHQV 2XU /DG\ RI WKH /DNHV 8QLYHUVLW\ 'HOHHVKD 0RQURH 6WHYHQV

3DULV -8&2 $VKWRQ 0HDGRZV 6WHYHQV (DUOKDP $VKOHD 0HDGRZV 6WHYHQV

(DUOKDP $QMD 0DUWLQ 6WHYHQV :HVW 9LUJLQLD

3ANÂż!NTONIOÂż-AC!RTHURÂż"RAHMASÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 23-11/7-5) Coach: Mark Murphy (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; first year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L, Bi-district Outlook: The Brahmas wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have much length, but strong perimeter play and players who can knock down mid-range jumpers should get MacArthur back to the playoffs. The kingpin is Kyle Murphy, a 5-10 senior (16.9 ppg, 5.4 apg) who was last season selected to the TABC all-region squad and earned academic all-district honors as well. The other returning starter is Kevin Luckey, a 6-3 senior (10.2 ppg, 5.7 rpg) who made honorable-mention all-district this past spring.

Playing Collegiately: 6KDZQ +DPLOWRQ 0DF$UWKXU 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ -DPDO 0RQURH 0DF$UWKXU &RDVWDO %HQG -XQLRU &ROOHJH -RQDWKDQ 0DUWLQ 0DF$UWKXU

&RDVWDO %HQG -XQLRU &ROOHJH FYI: The Brahmasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; leading scorer Kyle is the son of Mark Murphy.

San Antonio Brandeis Broncos - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 23-8/7-6) Coach: Marc Gardner (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 Outlook: The Broncos return three starting perimeter players that should provide Brandeis enough punch to get back into the playoffs after suffering through a dry spell last season. Two of the guards are seniors -- Ellis Jefferson and Jakobe Jones. The other is a junior Kobe Magee.

Playing Collegiately: -XVWLQ *UDKDP 8QLYHUVLW\ RI +DUWIRUG (ULF 5RELQVRQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI &KLFDJR 0DWW .DOOHDG :HVW 9LUJLQLD 7HFK 6KDZQ *XHUUHUR 6FKUHLQHU DQG -DUHG 7KRPSVRQ 6FKUHLQHU

Stevens Falcons - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 8-24/2-11) Coach: Michael Raynes (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th yr. at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: With a young squad last season, the Falcons found the sledding tough, but still managed to knock off some playoff teams and stay competitive across a strong schedule. The Falcons are still young, but improving quickly and looking to return to the playoffs come spring. Hopes will center around returning lettermen James Benton and Jhamir Trott (both seniors) and up-and-coming sophomores Quenton Coleman (9.3 ppg) and Jonathan Salazar (9.4 ppg).

Playing Collegiately: +HQU\ )ORUHV 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ $- *RYDQ 2XU /DG\ RI WKH /DNH 8QLYHUVLW\ %UDQGRQ 7KRPSVRQ /RQJ ,VODQG 8QLYHUVLW\ -RVK 2UWD 2XU /DG\ RI WKH /DNH 8QLYHUVLW\ -RH 0RQURH 6W 0DU\ĂĄV 8QLYHUVLW\ 7UHYRU 'R\OH 6XO 5RVV 8QLYHUVLW\ $ - 0F*ORZQ 6W 0DU\ĂĄV 8QLYHUVLW\

Northside Warren Warriors - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 18-18/8-5) Coach: Kyle Smith (3 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th yr. at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-East Central, 83-77; W-Johnson, 56-52; W-Brennan, 80-75 OT; L-Alexander, 54-51.

Outlook: The Warriors return a ton of experience from a squad that achieved more than everyone had anticipated last season. Should be right in the hunt in a very competitive district. The three returning starters are Isaiah Thorne, a 6-1 junior point guard (12 ppg, 3, apg, 4 rpg); Stanley Umude, a 6-5 junior shooting guard (7 ppg) and Charles Johnson, a 6-6 senior small forward (7 ppg, 7 rpg). Deante Crittenden, a 6-5 senior power forward, did not play last season due to a torn ACL but started as a sophomore.

Playing Collegiately: 'LPLWUL 3HWHUVRQ :DUUHQ 6W 0DU\ĂĄV 8QLYHUVLW\ 6DQ $QWRQLR

3ANÂż!NTONIOÂż*OHNÂż-ARSHALLÂż2AMSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 18-13/7-6) Coach: Reggie Ollendieck (6 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 Outlook: Marshall has 10 players coming back from a squad that last season won 18 games (the most wins in over 12 years) and missed the playoffs by just one game. It is now going on 20 years since Marshall last made the playoffs. Jordan Burns and Dorian Lopez will be asked to get the Rams over the hump. Burns, a senior point guard and twotime, 1st-team all-district selection, has already committed to play hoops for Midwestern State University, and Lopez, a senior forward, made second-team all-district last season and has committed to play at Oklahoma Christian University. The Ramsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; playoff fortunes will also depend heavily on a young supporting cast that will be asked to play major minutes and make an immediate impact.

Playing Collegiately: /RUHQ]R *RQ]DOH] 6RXWKZHVW +6 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 'DOODV 5DVKDDQ 0DUWLQ 0DUVKDOO %HWKHO &ROOHJH

/¸#ONNORÂż0ANTHERSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 32-5/13-0) Coach: Karmen Wilson (18 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 19th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W, versus East Central; W, versus Madison; W, versus Clemens; W, versus Laredo United; L, versus Wagner.

Outlook: Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor will be young again, but youth didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop this quality program from making a deep playoff run last season. Quickness and quality perimeter play again look to be the keys to what should be another successful season. The two returning starters are Kasey Saldana, a 5-1 guard, and Victoria Pena, a 5-5 guard. Both players are seniors this year and last season were 1st-team all-district selections.

Playing Collegiately: $PEHU 9LGDO 2ĂĄ&RQQRU 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1HEUDVND 2PDKD 6KHOEL 0LOOHU 2ĂĄ&RQQRU ,QFDUQDWH :RUG 8QLYHUVLW\

District 28 Corpus Christi Carroll Tigers - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 27-9/8-2) Coach: 5RGQH\ :LOOLDPV \HDUVĂĄ H[SHULHQFH 7XORVR 0LGZD\ $' +HDG IRRWEDOO FRDFK 2003-2008;1st year as head basketball coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Northside Taft, 62-49; L-Clemens, 101-61.

Outlook: Installation of a new offense and defense will result in some bumps in the road, but squad should round into form by the time district play rolls around. Look for WKH 7LJHUV WR UHWXUQ WR WKH SOD\RIIV DQG PDNH D GHHSHU UXQ ;DYLHU /HZLV D IRUZDUG post and the South Texas MVP, is returning for his senior year. Steven Garcia, Skylar Schulz, Troy Lopez, Gabino Gonzalez and Jack Garcia have in the past shown an ability to heat up in a hurry, while junior Elijah Joseph has caught everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye with his improvement and work ethic.

Playing Collegiately: -RQ 5HHVH :RRGVRQ 1RUWK 3ODWWH &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

#ORPUSÂż#HRISTIÂż+INGÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 18-16 5-5) Coach: Sean Armstrong (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience) Returnees: 4 Outlook: Last year marked the first time for King to make the playoffs in nine years.

So now it is time to push the pace and step up defensive pressure, says coach Sean Armstrong, who thinks this groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s combination of senior leadership and young athletic players can keep the arrow pointed in the right direction. The four returnees are Rodney Taylor, a 6-0 senior (10 ppg, 7 rpg); Randy Perales, a 5-10 senior (12.6 ppg, 2.6 spg); Tony Martinez, a 6-0 senior (8 ppg and the best three-point shooter on the team); and Jalen Hogg, a 6-0 junior (5 ppg). Cam Dunfee and Josh Auzenee will also have an impact as incoming sophomores.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

45

San Antonio East Central Hornets - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 20-12/8-2) Coach: Jeff Sweet (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/1 2015 Postseason: L, Northside Warren.

Outlook: East Central will benefit from solid depth and continue to get better with experience. For the second consecutive year, the Hornets replace four starters. But the new collection of talent has shown good chemistry and a propensity to play hard. Ethan White, the one returning starter, will play an increased role, and that should increase his scoring output after he last year posted 13 ppg, 4.5 rpg. Junior point guards K’von Rice and Marquez Hamilton will also stir the Hornets offensively, especially in the early-going. If sophomores Rashard Smith and Kevante Hullaby come along as expected and the Hornets are able to step up the defense just a little, look for East Central to win a third consecutive district title with seniors Fabian Chavarria, Dejon Hicks and Jeremy Spencer all providing the aforementioned solid depth.

Playing Collegiately: -HUHP\ -RQHV (DVW &HQWUDO *RQ]DJD -RKQ %DNHU (DVW &HQWUDO ,QFDUQDWH :RUG FYI: Jeremy Jones enrolled at Rice University in the fall of 2014 compliments a football scholarship, but he finished out the spring as a starter on the Owls’ basketball team and will now play basketball for Gonzaga.

PSJA North Raiders - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 30-5/11-1 Coach: Randy Bocanegra (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Harlingen South, 63-54; W-Laredo United, 49-48; L-Laredo Alexander, 62-46.

Outlook: Senior guard Belle Palacios should have a stellar year while providing both offense and leadership. Steady guard play will also come from junior Sarah Serrano and senior Arianna Medrano, both of whom have the experience to keep the ship steady whenever the surf gets a little turbulent. The 5-6 Palacios last season posted 12.4 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 3.5 spg, 1.8 apg, 2.1 bpg and was named 31-6A Offensive Player of the Year as well as to the 1st-team All-Rio Grande Valley squad. Medrano, 5-4, averaged 8.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.7 steals and 4.5 assists per game and was an honorable-mention all-district selection. The 5-6 Serrano recorded 11.5 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 3.5 spg, 4.1 apg en route to 2ndteam all-district selection.

Playing Collegiately: &DVVDQGUD $OHPDQ 36-$ 1RUWK 6FKUHLQHU 8QLYHUVLW\ (Kerrville, Tx.)

7ESLACO¿,ADY¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿'IRLS District 30 Palmview Lady Lobos - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 20-11) Coach: Anisa Reyna (7 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: L, Bi-District.

Outlook: The Lady Lobos made the playoffs for the first time in school history last season and return nearly their entire starting lineup to create the kind of confidence that should bode them well as they contend for the district crown and attempt to advance beyond the first round of the playoffs. The returning starters are senior guard Samantha Gutierrez, sophomore guard Brittnay Cano, senior post Martha Bocanegra and sophomore post Cyndar Magallon.

Playing Collegiately: Samantha Gutierrez.

-C!LLEN¿,ADY¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 15-19/5-7 Coach: Roy Gonzalez (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Alexander, 45-39.

Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs may be young, but that does not mean that they are not experienced. A solid group of savvy vets will lead a team that will this season try to outquick opponents. The kingpins are Sabrina Guzman, a 5-10 junior post (6 ppg, 10 rpg) who was last season voted district newcomer of the year. The two other returning starters are Victoria Alanis, a 5-9 junior wing (4 ppg, 8 rpg; honorable mention all-district), and Heaven Wilbanks, a 5-4 sophomore point guard (4 spg, 3 apg; honorable mention alldistrict). Other key contributors include Brianna Coffee, a 5-5 sophomore guard; Alex Gamino, a 5-4 sophomore guard; and Barbara Alanis, a senior wing.

District 31 %DINBURG¿,ADY¿"OBCATS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 23-13/6-6 Coach: John David Salinas (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 2015 Postseason: L-Veterans Memorial, 55-33 Outlook: With everyone back, the Lady Bobcats look to advance much further than the first round of the 2016 playoffs. The team’s cornerstone is Reyna Del Castillo, a 5-3 senior point guard who made 1st-team all-district after last season posting 8.5 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 3.6 spg and 1.6 apg. Second-team all-district Jennifer Galvan, a 5-8 senior power forward (5.5 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.8 spg, 2.2 bpg), also returns as does two honorable-mention all-district selections – Natalie Roxburgh, a 5-6 junior small forward (4.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 1.0 spg), and Mercedes Hernandez, a 5-4 sophomore guard (3.9 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.2 spg). The Rio Grande Valley Sports.com Newcomer of the Year Jayla Santamaria, a 5-8 sophomore guard, last season logged 11.7 ppg, 7.7 rpg, 3.0 spg and 1.7 apg and looks to explode onto the scene this fall. Rounding out the core players are Emily Acosta, a 5-4 junior guard (7.2 ppg, 1.4 rpg), and Rita Garcia, a 5-3 senior guard.

Playing Collegiately: 0LFKHOLQH 0HUFHOLWD (GLQEXUJ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 5LR Grande Valley.

%DINBURG¿.ORTH¿#OUGARS¿ ¿"OYS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 18-14/8-4 Coach: Rudy Garcia (22 years’ experience; 11th year at school); Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: Cougars will be looking for their sixth straight postseason appearance, returning three key players and a young athletic core of athletes that prides itself on playing hard defensively.The leadership trio comprises Brandon DelaCruz, a 6-0 senior guard; Ubaldo Pequeno, a 6-2 senior forward; and Kobe Patterson, a 6-4 junior guard.

Playing Collegiately: %ULDQ DQG /LFR %HOWUDQ /LQGHQZRRG &ROOHJH &KULVWLDQ &DQWX Schreiner College.

(2014-15 W-L: District, 13-1) Coach: Griselda Fino (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: Area finalist.

Outlook: Seniors Jazlynn Muniz and Amy Garcia will team with sophomore Brianna Pena to provide the Lady Panthers what should be enough punch to again extend play beyond the regular season.

Playing Collegiately: /DXUD 9DQ7LOEXUJ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 5LR *UDQGH 9DOOH\ $QJHOD 9LOODUUHDO 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 5LR *UDQGH 9DOOH\

District 32 (ANNA¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 19-15/5-9) Coach: Luis Gonzalez (5 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 Outlook: Hanna coach Luis Gonzalez says he particularly likes how his team has developed team chemistry during the offseason and says his squad will be much improved defensively this time around. He will turn to 5-5 point guard Carolina Moreno to pull the strings. Also playing critical roles will be Dahlia Reyes, a 5-7 forward, and Sofia Salinas, a 5-6 shooting guard.

(ARLINGEN¿3OUTH¿(AWKS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 22-11/10-4) Coach: Kelly Garrett (8 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 2015 Postseason: L, PSJA-North, 63-54.

Outlook: Three returning starters should enable the Hawks to soar beyond the first round of the playoffs this season. Their trio of returning starters comprises Breanna Gonzalez, a senior point guard (5 ppg, 4 apg; 2nd-team all-district); Mikaela Flores, a senior shooting guard (10 ppg, 4 rpg; honorable mention all-district) and Leeanne Ledesma, a senior guard (7 ppg, 3 apg; honorable mention all-district). A mix of seniors and underclassmen with varsity experience provide solid depth.

Harlingen South Hawks - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 23-10/12-2) Coach: Brian Molina (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 2015 Postseason: W-Edinburg High, 62-26; W-La Joya Plamvies, 64-55; L-McAllen High, 61-58.

Outlook: With nine lettermen returning from last year’s team, including TABC All-Region selection Luke Bradford, the Hawks have the experience to win their fifth consecutive district title and make a deep run in the playoffs. Bradford, a 6-4 senior guard/forward, was named 2015 32-6A Offensive Player of the Year after averaging 18.4 ppg along with 12.8 rpg. Darren Perez, a 5-10 senior guard, made the second-team All-Valley squad with 9.1 ppg and 3.4 spg. Two returnees made all-district honorable mention -- 6-4 senior forward Jimmy Morton (7.2 ppg, 7.1 rpg) and 6-5 sophomore forward Brandon Bennett (6.0 ppg, 4.1 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: 1LFN *DUFLD 6XO 5RVV

46

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

Notable Tournaments Below- For a Complete Tournament List Visit www.mayb.com!

Texas Winter Championships - March 5-6, 2016 in McKinney, TX (100+ Teams, 3rd-12th Grade) Summer Kickoff - June 10-12, 2016 in Wichita, KS Metro (700+ Teams, 3rd-12th Grade) Texas State Championships - July 22-24, 2016 in San Antonio, TX (200+ Teams, 3rd-12th Grade) â&#x20AC;&#x153;Academy Sports + Outdoorsâ&#x20AC;? MAYB National Championships - Aug.4-7, 2016 (800+ Teams, 3rd-12th Grade)

Boys in Wichita, KS and Girls in OKC, OK

Improves ACCURACY

Improves MECHANICS

WRONG

Wrist Rotates â&#x20AC;&#x201C; #1 Cause of Misses

s h4HUMBINGv PUTS FORCE ON THE side of the ball and makes it )-0/33)",% to learn proper form.

RIGHT

Wrist Cannot Rotate

s 3TOPS !,, 4HUMBING Cannot Rotate s Wrist )MPROVES -ECHANICS h4OUCHv for E V E R Y O N E ! ! !

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to believe but, almost

Improves CONFIDENCE

How FAST? IMMEDIATELY â&#x20AC;&#x153;We saw immediate success. This will sound crazy but, one of my guards doubled his percentages in 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 minutes. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unbelievable.â&#x20AC;?

Coach Mike Shaw, Sanderson HS, NC 3 DAYS â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were young and needed help. After three practice sessions using the STRAP, we went from shooting 23% in games to 42%.

The STRAP works.â&#x20AC;?

Coach Chris Seep, Marshall HS, WI 1 WEEK â&#x20AC;&#x153;The STRAP sounded too good to be true but I was wrong.

Within the ďŹ rst week our mechanics were much better and shots were now dropping. The STRAP is amazing.â&#x20AC;?

Coach Pinellafie Johnson, Goodrich HS, TX UNDER 3 WEEKS â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was amazed at how much my kids improved their accuracy and mechanics in less than three weeks. The STRAP is unbelievable.â&#x20AC;?

NBA Coach Kevin McHale - Houston Rockets NBA Top 50 Players of All-Time

EVERYONE improves their ACCURACY.â&#x20AC;?

25'(5 12: Ĺ&#x2DC; ZZZ 6WDU6KRRWHU 1HW

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Region I

Region II 1. Lancaster 2. Frisco Liberty 3. Rockwall-Heath 4. Dallas Wilson 5. Arlington Seguin

Region III 1. Beaumont Ozen 2. Beaumont Central 3. Houston Yates 4. Fort Bend Marshall 5. Fort Bend Elkins

Region IV

Region I 1. Canyon 2. Hereford 3. Wichita Falls Rider 4. El Paso Burges 5. Trimble Tech

Region II R E G I O N A L P O L L S

1. Frisco Liberty 2. West Mesquite 3. McKinney North 4. Tyler 5. Longview

Region III 1. Bryan Rudder 2. Mt. Belvieu Barbers Hill 3. College Station A&M Consolidated 4. Fort Bend Bush 5. Pflugerville Connally

Region IV 1. Cedar Park Vista Ridge 2. Georgetown 3. Corpus Christi Tulosa-Midway 4. Corpus Christi Flour Bluff 5. Austin LBJ

Profiles

1. San Antonio Houston 2. Austin LBJ 3. Corpus Christi Flour Bluff 4. Laredo Nixon 5. Edinburg Vela

GIRLS

CLASS 5A

1. Amarillo Palo Duro 2. Fort Worth Arlington Heights 3. Wichita Falls Rider 4. El Paso Del Valle 5. Crowley

C O A C H E S

Features

BOYS

47

48

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1

El Paso Burges Mustangs - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 28-3/16-0) Coach: Cynthia Hernandez (19 years’ experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: Plenty of experience but little depth describes this version of the Burges Mustangs. “New kids will have to grow up fast,” says coach Cynthia Hernandez. In the meantime, count on returning starters Rebecca Cardenas (senior), Natalie Sanchez (junior), Kayla Galindo (junior) and Mayra Garcia (senior) to hold up their end of the bargain.

Playing Collegiately: Victoria Lopez.

District 2 "EL¿!IR¿(IGH¿(IGHLANDERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 32-1/14-0) Coach: Rob Dibler (12 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Burges, 45-36; W-Canyon Randall, 49-31; L-Andress, 58-44.

Outlook: The Highlanders graduated over 85% of their points, rebounds, and assists. So there will be a lot of role players from last year that will be asked to step up as starters this season. The one returning starter is Isaiah Aguilera, a 6-1 senior wing and two-time 2nd-team all-district selection. Joining him in this season’s starting five are Romeo Johnson, a 6-0 senior guard; Ruben Mendoza, a 6-3 senior post; Isaiah Acosta, a 5-10 senior guard; and Sergio Enriquez, a 5-9 senior point guard.

Playing Collegiately: -RUGDQ (QULTXH] :HVWHUQ 1HZ 0H[LFR 8QLYHUVLW\

#HAPIN¿(USKIES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 23-7/13-3) Coach: Jonathan Watters (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Horizon, 60-43; L-Plainview, 67-51.

Outlook: Team will be younger but quicker at all positions this season. The Huskies will rely heavily on their guard play. Overall, the team has the talent to post high shooting percentages and send players to the rim when necessary. The projected starting five is: Kiana Vega, a 5-6, senior guard (first-team all-district); Aolanis Jusino, a 5-4 senior guard; Scout Gonzales, a 5-5 junior guard; Ariana Valles, a 5-5 junior guard; and Therese DeSantos, a 5-9 sophomore guard.

Playing Collegiately: $OH[LV :LQWHUV &KDSLQ 1HZ 0H[LFR -8&2 *DEELH 5LFR &KDSLQ 'DOODV &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH %UDQGL -LPHQH] &KDSLQ 7RKRQR 2á'HOO Community College.

FYI: Kiana Vega and Aolanis Jusino will be 4-year lettermen by season’s end.

%ASTLAKE¿&ALCONS¿ ¿'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 24-9/12-2) Coach: Joi S. Woodard (6 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-El Paso Andres; W-Herford; L-Plainview.

Outlook: “The team is working hard,” says coach Joi S. Woodard, “but we have a competitive district yet again. We are outsized in many positions, but hopefully our heart and tenacity will pay dividends.” The headliner is Caitie Aguirre, a 5-5 senior point guard voted the district’s co-MVP this past season and to the TABC first-team all-region squad.

She last season posted 16.3 ppg, 3.9 apg and 3 spg. Her supporting cast includes Jessika Espinosa, a 5-8 sophomore forward, and Athina Castanon, a 6-0 junior post.

Playing Collegiately: (OLVD *RQ]DOHV (DVWODNH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 3HUPLDQ %DVLQ +HDWKHU &ULWWHQGHQ (DVWODNH &HQWUDO &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH .DQVDV -DQHOOH 3HUH] +RUL]RQ +6 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI /RXLVLDQD

District 3 #ANYON¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS¿¿ #HAPIN¿(USKIES¿ ¿"OYS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 9-21/5-11) Coach: Toraino Johnson (2 years’ experience); 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 Outlook: “We have grown a good group of seniors,” says coach Toraino Johnson. “Looking forward to their leadership to bring Chapin Basketball back in the forefront of our district.” Chapin’s six returning lettermen are 6-0 senior point guard Cristian Hernandez, 6-2 senior small forward Aaron Ferrari, 6-3 senior small forward Andrew Batts, 5-10 senior guard Demetris Bland, 6-4 junior power forward Matthew Gregory and 5-10 junior shooting guard Nacio Dillard.

Playing Collegiately: Tai’la Joseph, Blake Kelly, Jeremy Warren, Cory Rogers, Rylan Williams, Patrick Anderson.

)RVIN¿2OCKETS¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 5-24/2-14) Coach: Anthony Sanchez (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 Outlook: The Rockets will be looking to make the playoffs for the first time in 10 years.

Shoving from behind will be Daaron Saleem, a 6-2 senior forward (2nd-team all-district; 14 ppg, 7 rpg); Meshach Thornton, a 6-2 sophomore point guard; Antonio Martinez, a 5-8 junior guard; and Jordan Hernandez, a 5-9 senior guard.

*EFFERSON¿3ILVER¿&OXES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 17-16/10-6) Coach: Noel Castaneda (17 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-El Paso Bel Air. Outlook: The Silver Foxes look to compete for a playoff spot behind five senior lettermen. Vianca Sanchez (all-district; 8.4 ppg, 3.5 apg, 5.2 rpg), Samantha Guzman (5.4 ppg, 6 rpg) and Yolie Hernandez (4.5 ppg, 2.3 apg) will provide the core leadership. Notable newcomers for the Silver Foxes include freshmen Ally Torres and Anahi Saenz.

Playing Collegiately: 1DNHGUD %XUNH *LOOHWH &ROOHJH .LDQD %XUFKHWW 8QLYHUVLW\ RI WKH Southwest.

2014-15 W-L: 34-3/9-1 Coach: Joe Lombard (37 years’ experience; 31st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: W-Abilene Cooper, 64-30; W-El Paso Bel Air, 46-34; W-El Paso Burges, 47-36; W-WF Rider, 48-46 (OT); W-Trimble Tech, 55-49; W-Bryan Rudder, 59-46; W-Dallas Adams, 48-41.

Outlook: Death and taxes. Will Canyon contend for another state title? Of course it will.

It is as inevitable as your last breath and paying Uncle Sam. Nearly the entire bunch returns from last season’s team that had a few close calls en route to gold, but still managed to win another state title when it was all said and done. Angel Hayden, a 5-5 junior guard (11 points ppg, 6 rpg) will lead the way along with Caitlyn Cunyus, a 5-6 senior guard (8 ppg, 4 apg). Hayden and Cunyus last season earned all-state status, and Hayden won MVP accolades at the state tournament. The two other returning starters are Calista Winings, a 5-10 forward (7 ppg; all-district); and Bailey Byrd, a 5-7 forward (6 ppg; honorable-mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately: .\QGDOO 'DYLV &DQ\RQ :\RPLQJ 8QLYHUVLW\ 0DGLVRQ 3DUNHU &DQ\RQ :HVW 7H[DV $ 0 6KD\OD DQG 6KDZQD 0RQUHDO &DQ\RQ :D\ODQG University.

FYI: Canyon’s roster includes two pairs of sisters – senior Calista Winings/sophomore Blaire Winings and senior Caitlyn Cunyus/sophomore Channing Cunyus.

(EREFORD¿7HITEFACES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 22-8/9-1 Coach: Christy Connally (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/4 2015 Postseason: W-Abilene Cooper, 62-34; L-Eastlake, 67-58.

Outlook: “We were disappointed in how we finished in the playoffs,” says coach Christy Connally in reference to her squad’s second-round exit. “We have definitely used that as motivation in the offseason.” Connally describes her squad as “well-rounded and with a lot of depth” but still in need of getting better in rebounding and protecting the ball.

Of the four returning starters, Mia Castaneda commands the most attention after last season being named 3-5A MVP and then getting selected to the TGCA All-State team. The 5-5 senior guard earned those accolades after posting 17 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.2 apg. Lizet Sosa, a 5-11 senior forward/post, averaged 8 points and 6 rebounds in earning 1st-team all-district selection, and Chantel Acosta, a 5-7 senior forward/post gained second-team all-district selection with 8 ppg and 5 rpg. Hereford’s other returning starter is Zoey High, a 5-4 senior guard (5 ppg, 2 rpg, 1 apg).

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

49 District 4

District 5

!BILENEÂż#OOPERÂż#OUGARSÂż Âż'IRLS

Azle Lady Hornets - Girls

2014-15 W-L: 16-14/4-4 Coach: Ashlee Olvera (3 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have high expectations for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team,â&#x20AC;? says coach Ashlee Olvera. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will be somewhat of a rebuilding year, but we have great talent in our younger players.â&#x20AC;?

Rebuilding maybe, but four starters actually return. They are Kianni Mitchell, a 6-0 senior center (second-team all-district); Tierra Cherry, a 5-9 senior forward (all-district honorable mention); Emarie James, a 5-6 senior shooting guard (all-district honorable mention); and Alyssa Ruffin, a 5-3 senior point guard (academic all-state).

(2014-15 W-L: 25-6/10-4) Coach: Mitzi Marquart (31 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 2015 Postseason: W-Lake Dallas, 43-42; W-Burleson, 54-46; L-Trimble Tech, 76-41.

Outlook: Azle has three returning starters but not much of anything else. The Lady Hornets will largely be a work in progress. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We may start the year young and somewhat inexperienced at the varsity level, but will play together and with a lot of heart,â&#x20AC;? says coach Mitzi Marquart. Two returning starters promise to smooth the transition. Both were first-team all-district selections last season. Kaycie Dunkerley, a 5-7 senior wing, averaged 9 points, 2.3 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 2 steals per game last season. Payton Berger, a 5-10 senior post, contributed 11 points, 7 rebounds and 1 steal per contest.

Playing Collegiately: 9DODULH 0DWORFN $[OH +RZDUG 3D\QH

,UBBOCKÂż7ESTERNERSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 18-13/4-4) Coach: Jesus Arenas Jr. (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Canyon Randall.

Outlook: The Westerners are small, but athletic and experienced. They will be looking to achieve a school first, which would be making the playoffs four consecutive years.

Faced with that challenge is the starting five of Chris Meacham, a 5-9 senior guard; Jose 9LOODORERV D MXQLRU JXDUG $LGHQ 9DOGH] D VHQLRU JXDUG ;DYLHU )UHPRQW D senior guard; and Jacob Bayouth, a 6-4 senior post.

FYI: Lubbock HS first began playing basketball in 1917, seven years after the school first opened. Never once during 98 seasons of basketball have the Westerners advanced to the postseason for the fourth consecutive year, but they have an opportunity to do exactly that this season.

#HISHOLMÂż4RAILÂż2ANGERSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 17-12/5-9 Coach: David Markley (3 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/5 Outlook: The Rangers return five starters from a team that set the school record for wins last season with 17. This is the first year for the Rangers basketball program to have a four-year class; and so, for the first time, Chisholm Trail will have significant varsity experience on the roster. Chisholm Trail has gotten better each year of its existence, and this season promises to be no different. The five returning starters and this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projected sixth man are Jase Brock, a 6-2 senior guard (1st-team all-district); Mike May, a 6-6 senior forward; Kristian West, a 6-3 senior forward; Ryan Flores, a 6-6 junior guard/ forward (2nd-team all-district); Dustin Mathis, a 5-9 junior guard; and Bryson Power, a 6-9 junior center.

$ENTONÂż"RONCOSÂż Âż"OYSÂż

,UBBOCK #OOPERÂż(IGHÂż3CHOOLÂż Âż'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 10-20/2-6 Coach: Christie Parsley (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a lot of experience as we stepped on the floor last season, says coach Christie Parsley, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but stepping on the floor this season, we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have that problem.â&#x20AC;? With 10 lettermen to pick from, Parsley has named a starting five of Jacey Hise, Sarah Doherty, Avery Gregory, Hollie Windham and Lillie Douglas.

0LAINVIEWÂż,ADYÂż"ULLDOGSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 27-8/8-0) Coach: Danny Wrenn (27 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 28th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Canyon Randall; W-El Paso Chapin; W-El Paso Eastlake; L-Fort Worth Trimble Tech.

Outlook: Plainview has a strong tradition and some key returnees back, but the Lady Bulldogs did say goodbye to two four-year varsity players, including Karli Wheeler, the TABC Class 5A Texas Player of the Year. With Wheeler gone, the Big Dog on campus becomes Jaden Gonzales, a TGCA All-State selection who last season averaged 13 points per contest. The other two returning starters are all-district selections Allie Bennett and Harlee Davis.

Playing Collegiately: .DUOL :KHHOHU 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

San Angelo Lake View Maidens - Girls (2014-15: W-L: 26-6/6-2) Coach: Rob Young (25 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Amarillo Palo Duro; L-El Paso Burges.

Outlook: The Maidens appear ready to set sail on another successful season followed by what coach Rob Young hopes will be a little longer playoff round than last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s which ended with a loss in Area to Burges. Four returning starters share his hope. They are Briâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ana Soliz, a junior forward; Jordan Brooks, a junior guard; Darien Bankston, a junior post; and Ragen Norriega, a senior guard.

(2014-15 W-L: 15-13/9-5) Coach: Harold Jackson (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 18th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Denton projects to sit on a playoff bubble this season but certainly has enough talent to climb on in. Four returning starters will tell the tale. They are Emerson Espinoza, Edson Vasques, Justin Mazziotta and Dolan Nicholson.

District 6 Fort Worth Dunbar Wildcats - Girls Coach: Candice Isaac (making her career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 Outlook: The Dunbar roster is filled with youth and athleticism, but it will be up to two returning starters to make sure the Wildcats stay on curse under first-year coach Candice Isaac. Those returnees are Shakayla Johnson, a 5-5 sophomore guard, and Michaela Johnson, a 6-1 junior post. Newbies Kenya Hawkins, a 5-10 junior guard/forward; Teâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mya Harris, a 5-3 sophomore guard; and Tyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ran Beard, a 5-5 junior guard, should also have much to say with how the season progresses.

FYI: Candice Isaac is a rookie head coach, but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been around the block a few times.

She played at Skyline and later coached there as an assistant under her former coach Cassandra McCurdy, who retired this past season from Skyline after losing to Houston Cypress Woods in the 2015 6A state-title tilt. Isaac also played for the University of Texas at San Antonio under Coach Krista Girlich, who now heads up the program at the University of Texas at Arlington. Isaac followed up UT San Antonio with playing stints at Grayson College and Texas A&M-Commerce.

0OLYTECHNICÂż,ADYÂż0ARROTSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż Coach: Sharon Starr (10 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/4 Outlook: Can you say Polly wants a playoff spot? The Lady Parrotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hopes rest with the return of four starters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shybrinna Goss, a 5-4 junior guard; Meosha Farris, a 6-0 senior post; Meriah Guevara, a 5-8 junior forward; Natasha Jones, a 5-7 junior guard/forward; and Loreal Carter, a 5-4 senior guard.

'RAPEVINEÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 32-3/12-0) Coach: Lindy Lombard-Slagle (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 2015 Postseason: W-Saginaw, 48-33; W-Cleburne, 54-51; L-Rider, 54-35.

Outlook: Two first-team all-district performers will be asked to bring along the newbies as they break in their varsity basketball sneakers. Those PT players are Abby Sandy, a 5-7 senior guard, and Tatum Tellin, a 5-8 junior guard.

Playing Collegiately: 0DQGL 5RXWRQ *UDSHYLQH 5RVH +XOPDQ ,QVWLWXWH RI 7HFKnology (Terre Haute, Ind.); Carli Dominguez (Grapevine 2015) ... Southwestern University (Georgetown, Tx.).

50

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS District 8

'RAPEVINEÂż-USTANGSÂż Âż"OYS

#LEBURNEÂż9ELLOWÂż*ACKETSÂż Âż"OYSÂż

(2014-15 W-L: 19-13/8-4) Coach: Jeremy Mills (6 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Fort Worth Brewer, 39-45 Outlook: The Mustangs return eight players who proved instrumental in Grapevine last season posting a 19-13 overall record and a third place finish in District 6-5A. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We look to build upon this success and look forward to trying to win our programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first playoff game since 1985,â&#x20AC;? says coach Jeremy Mills. The three returning starters in Millsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; coaching pocket are 6-7 center Andrew Lastinger (8.8 ppg, 7 rpg; 1st-team all-district), 5-9 point guard Gabe Ford (7.6 ppg, 4 apg; 2nd-team all-district) and 6-5 power forward Travis McCormick (3.5 ppg, 3.5 rpg; 2nd-team all-district). Other returnees include 6-1 wing Boone Montgomery, 6-3 power forward Matthew Green, 6-0 point guard Hunter Holloway, 6-0 wing Cooper Bowers and 6-2 power forward Grant Hill.

Playing Collegiately: 'DQLHO (LEHO *UDSHYLQH 2NODKRPD &KULVWLDQ %U\FH %DWFKHORU *UDSHYLQH +HQGUL[ &ROOHJH .\UH (GZDUGV 6DP 5D\EXUQ 7H[DV $ 0 Kingsville.

(2014-15 W-L: 5-19/1-9) Coach: Kurt White (30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: An offseason and summertime of having incoming players develop their skill set and a little team chemistry should pay dividends for coach Kurt White in the start of his fourth decade of coaching. The four returning starters are Addison Wallace, a 6-2 sophomore (2nd-team all-district), Alec Tarver, a 5-9 sophomore guard; Blake Bryson, a 6-4 senior forward; and Colin Burrius, a 6-2 senior guard.

Playing Collegiately: 5HHG 'RQDOGVRQ &OHEXUQH +6 0LVVRXUL 9DOOH\

"IRDVILLEÂż,ADYÂż(AWKSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 22-11/10-2) Coach: Amy Ingram (17 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Wichita Falls, 45-40; L-Trimble Tech, 60-34 Outlook: Birdville lost three key starters but has enough call-up talent to be competitive and fight for another berth in the postseason. Freshman newcomers Abbey Walter and Aimee Campbell will be asked to contribute from the outset and seem to be making the adjustment nicely. There are three all-district performers returning -- Nina Flores, a 5-6 senior (6.8 ppg; 2nd-team all-district); Camryn Caruthers, a 5-7 junior guard (3.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg; 2nd-team all-district); and Grace Turner, a 5-11 sophomore forward (2.4 ppg 2.6 rpg; honorable-mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately: *DEE\ 1HOVRQ %LUGYLOOH <DOH 8QLYHUVLW\ %ULWWDQ\ 3HUUDXW %LUGYLOOH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW 7\OHU

%VERMANÂż"ULLDOGSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 22-13/12-2) Coach: Jay Mathieson (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: W-Trimble Tech; L-Wichita Falls Rider.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will be young, but deep and will try to pick up the tempo with full-court pressure and transition,â&#x20AC;? says coach Jay Mathieson. Jonathan Jackson, a 6-4 junior post (1st-team all-district), is the only starter back from last season. Marcus Brackens, a 5-11 junior, will step into a starting role this year and facilitate the offense from the top of the key.

Playing Collegiately: . - 0DOYHDX (YHUPDQ +LJK 6FKRRO 7H[DV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: Cameron Franklin, a JV player in 2014-15, missed most of the season after undergoing brain surgery. He came back late in district play and contributed to the Everman JVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s district championship. This year he is a junior and one of the varsityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hardest workers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I expect that he will not only make our varsity, but play a pivotal role in much of what we do,â&#x20AC;? says coach Jay Mathieson.

District 7 &ORTÂż7ORTHÂż!RLINGTONÂż(EIGHTSÂż9ELLOWJACKETSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 22-6/13-1) Coach: Jon Wagner (15 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 2015 Postseason: W-Granbury, 56-46; L-Birdville, 66-57.

Outlook: The Yellowjackets will be led by senior center Andre Washington, who averaged 19 points, 9 rebounds a game last season en route to 1st-team all-district selection.

Joining him in a leadership role will be Jeff Postell, a 5-7 junior point guard who made all-district as an honorable mention. The two will be surrounded by a cast of youth ready to make their mark.

Playing Collegiately: /DYHOOH 6FRWWLH $UOLQJWRQ +HLJKWV $LU )RUFH $FDGHP\

4RIMBLEÂż4ECHÂż,ADYÂż"ULLDOGSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 35-5/14-0) Coach: Derrick Robertson (2 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 2015 Postseason: W-Aledo, 64â&#x20AC;&#x201C;47; W-Birdville, 60-34; W-Azle, 76-41; W-Plainville, 63-48; L-Canyon, 55-49.

Outlook: A â&#x20AC;&#x153;young-and-hungryâ&#x20AC;? litter of Lady Bulldogs is what coach Derrick Robertson is working with this season. Included in the mix are five incoming freshmen. There ae only two returnees from last year, neither of whom started. They -- Jhyrah Cobb, a junior, and Jazzlyn Gales, a senior -- are automatically thrust into leadership roles.

Playing Collegiately: &U\VWDO $OOHQ 7ULPEOH 7HFK 6HDWWOH 8QLYHUVLW\ .DUULQJWRQ %URZQ 7ULPEOH 7HFK 1LFKROOV 6WDWH /DNHQGUD %DVVHWW 7ULPEOH 7HFK 7\OHU -8&2 'HVLUUHD 0F*LQQLV 7ULPEOH 7HFK (DVWHUQ 2NODKRPD

&ORTÂż7ORTHÂż/ $ Âż7YATTÂż#HAPARRALSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 17-15/9-3) Coach: DeMarqus James (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/1 2015 Postseason: W-Burleson Centennial, 67-56; L-Dunbar, 69-91.

Outlook: Two all-district performers -- juniors Clint Maxfield and St. Albert Yverson â&#x20AC;&#x201C; will provide the rudder for a talented group of underclassmen who will be asked to contribute immediately. Maxfield, a 6-2 junior combo guard, and Yverson, a 6-0 junior point guard, will receive reinforcement from supporting cast members Wesley Gardner, a 6-4 junior wing/forward, and Jerry Boyd Jr., a 6-7 senior power forward.

Playing Collegiately: 0DUTXLVH %U\VRQ :\DWW &ODUHQGRQ -8&2 FYI: Wyatt coach DeMarqus James is the son of former Dallas Carter coach Robert Wright and is one of three of coach Wrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sons who are currently coaching basketball.

'RANBURYÂż0IRATESÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 20-9/8-6) Coach: David Breazeale (24 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Last season unraveled toward the end. Granbury was 17-5 and tied for first in district when it lost its MVP point guard to a torn ACL. So coach David Breazeale is anxious to get back out on the court and roll the dice again. The only problem is that there are just two starters back. They are Ethan Gonzales and Eric Kirchner. Kirchner was a co-district newcomer of the year last season, scoring 11 points per game. Brendan King, Cade Timmons, Hayden Kostman and Kade Phillips lettered last season. Other key players include Chevie Van Patten and Jordan King. They will be asked to step up and contribute in their varsity debut season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This will be my longest team at Granbury,â&#x20AC;?

Breazeale says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We lost good basketball IQ guys last year, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be more athletic.

Work ethic for these guys is really good. We will play different stylistically for sure, so thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the $64,000 question. Will our change of play work?â&#x20AC;?

Joshua Owls - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 9-20/1-13) Coach: J.D. Mayo (45 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returnees: 3 Outlook: Joshua coach J.D. Mayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philosophy of â&#x20AC;&#x153;hard work pays dividends every timeâ&#x20AC;? is starting to take hold. Joshuaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new team culture has translated into a whole new perspective and, as a result, more skilled and knowledgeable players. Much progress was made in year one of the Mayo regime; and with three returnees, optimism abounds in Owl land. Key among the three returnees expected to sustain momentum from 2014-15 is Junior Loya. The 6-1 senior last season averaged 21.4 points and 4 assists while hitting 83 percent of his free throws and netting more charity-stripe points (201) than any other player at the 5A level. Ethan Ervin, a 6-1 senior and another one of the three returnees, is one whose work ethic makes him the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bonafide leader. The Owlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; other returnee, Mason Farley, is primed for a breakout year after posting 2.5 ppg, 4.0 rpg.

FYI: Joshua coach J.D. Mayo, one of the longest-tenured coaches in Texas high school basketball, is expertly assisted by Jimmy Littleton, who came out of retirement after winning 600-plus games himself, primarily as the head coach at San Antonio Reagan. The Mayo-Littleton combination provide Joshua a wealth of coaching experience that no other school in Junior Loya Texas can claim.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

51

52

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

&RISCOÂż#ENTENNIALÂż,ADYÂż4ITANSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż

&RISCOÂż,IBERTYÂż2EDÂż(AWKSÂż Âż"OYSÂż

(2014-15 W-L: 23-10/10-6) Coach: Wesley Charles (21 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: L-McKinney, 52-26.

Outlook: The Lady Titans lost only one senior from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team, and Mallory Adams, a player who last season dominated as a freshman, but tore her ACL down the stretch is back healthy again. The Lady Titans were 22-4 and state-ranked when Adams went down. They finished 1-6 after that. So her return is reason for much optimism. The 6-0 sophomore guard/forward averaged 18 points and 10.1 rebounds last season and was named district newcomer of the year and to the TABC all-region squad. Mireya Saldana, a 5-5 junior point guard returns after last season averaging 7.7 points. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be joined in the backcourt by 5-9 senior guard Arione Hodges (6.5 ppg). Look for the Lady Titans to indeed go deep in the playoffs come spring.

Playing Collegiately: 0F.HQ]LH $GDPV )ULVFR &HQWHQQLDO 608 $OLFLD 'HPDUHW )ULVFR &HQWHQQLDO 0F3KHUVRQ &ROOHJH .DQVDV -D\VD &RRSHU )ULVFR &HQWHQQLDO

(DVWHUQ 1D]DUHQH &ROOHJH 0DVVDFKXVHWWV

(2014-15 W-L: 29-4/12-2) Coach: Marcus Eckert (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-McKinney North, 59-35; W-Creekview, 57-45; L-McKinney, 55-53.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We expect to battle for our second straight district title and have a long playoff run,â&#x20AC;? says coach Marcus Eckert. Liberty has eight returning players from a 29-4 district championship team. The squad is anchored by sophomore Reggie Chaney and senior Carter Brown. The 6-7 Chaney was named to the TABC All-Region squad as only a freshman and was also named District 9-5A Offensive MVP after last season recording 13 ppg and 7 rpg. The 6-1 Brown, Libertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point guard, is a two-time first-team all-district selection and posted 2014-15 numbers of 10 ppg and 3 apg. The Red Hawksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; other returning starters are Trey Curry, a 6-1 senior guard who last season joined Chaney and Brown on 9-5Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-district first team. Libertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starting rotation rounds out with Bradley Saad, a 5-10 senior guard; Brandon Hicks, a 6-4 senior forward; and Zac Watson, a 6-7 sophomore forward.

Playing Collegiately: %UXFH :ULJKW 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 'DYLG :DVKLQJWRQ )ULVFR /LEHUW\ 8QLWHG 6WDWHV 0HUFKDQW 0DULQH $FDGHP\ 'HOZLQ <RXQJ )ULVFR /LEHUW\

6HZDUG &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

&RISCOÂż#ENTENNIALÂż4ITANSÂż Âż"OYSÂż (2-14-15 W-L: 19-11/10-6) Coach: Mike Scarbrough (23 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; eighth year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Prosper, 71-55; L-Dallas Wilson, 47-44 (OT).

Outlook: The Titans will be giantly experienced, but need to find consistent guard play and are not the deepest team around. Other than that, they are primed to make a playoff run. The big man on campus is Jonathyn Washington, a 6-5 forward who was named 1st-team all-district last season after averaging 13 points. John Robbins, a 6-4 forward, averaged 8 points as a 2014-15 starter, and Mason Smith, a 5-11 guard earned honorable-mention all-district accolades after posting 8 ppg as a starter.

Playing Collegiately: %U\DQW 5XFNHU 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 'HQYHU -RH :LOOLDPV +DQQLEDO LaGrange University.

&RISCOÂż)NDEPENDENCEÂż+NIGHTSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 1-27/0-16) Coach: Eric Davis (4 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 12/5 Outlook: Frisco Independence was a start-up school a year ago, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little difficult â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with players in flux â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to project a starting lineup. But coach Eric Davis says he expects key contributions from 5-10 senior point guard Jason Guan, 5-10 sophomore guard Jordan Sullivan, 5-10 sophomore guard Reid Robinson, 6-2 sophomore forward Collin King, 6-2 junior forward Jonathon Battle, 6-8 sophomore center Keith Barrett and 5-10 sophomore guard Brian Maxey. Guan, injured much of last season, should make a difference as a team leader who is now healthy.

FYI: Frisco Independence was the first Frisco school to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in its first year of existence -jump directly into a class 5A varsity season.

&RISCOÂż,IBERTYÂż2EDÂż(AWKSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 31-4/16-0 Coach: Ross Reedy (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Lovejoy, 27-21; W-Carrollton Creekview, 42-37; L-McKinney North, 33-29.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;What was lost in talent from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior class will be more than made up for with the new crop of freshmen and returning underclassmen,â&#x20AC;? says Liberty coach Ross Reedy. The Red Hawks are on a roll. They have won 45 consecutive district games and reached at least the regional quarterfinals in each of the last three seasons.

Rebecca Lescay, a 5-8 junior combo guard, headlines. She last season recorded 14.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.1 spg and 1.1 bpg en route to TABC All-State selection (only one of two sophomores to be so honored). Jordan Hamilton, a 5-8 junior point guard, facilitates the offense. She last season recorded 6.7 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 3.0 apg, 2.2 spg and 1.8 bpg. She was named the 2015 District 9-5A Defensive MVP. The other returning starter is Sydney Keller, a 5-2 junior guard (2.7 ppg, 1.8 rpg, .9 apg).

Playing Collegiately: %HDWULFH $WWXUD /LEHUW\ 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ .D\OD 0XQG\ /LEHUW\ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1HZ 2UOHDQV %ULD )ULHUVRQ /LEHUW\

8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1RUWK 7H[DV 0DMHVWLH 5RELQVRQ /LEHUW\ 5HJLV 8QLYHUVLW\ 'HQYHU Colo.).

FYI: Rebecca Lescay, Jordan Hamilton and Sydney Keller have gotten to know one another pretty well through the years. Special chemistry? Certainly chemistry exists, but circumstance probably plays a larger role. The three girls have been playing together since the fourth grade.

&RISCOÂż,ONEÂż3TARÂż2ANGERSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 22-6/13-3) Coach: Keith Connor (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: L-Wylie, 57-55.

Outlook: There are so many new faces that the Rangers almost need name tags this year. The Rangers bid farewell to 11 seniors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The team will be working towards finding our identity early as we get ready for a long district race,â&#x20AC;? say coach Keith Connor. The one returning starter is the very quick and athletic Cameron Gooden, a 5-11 junior point guard (11 ppg; 2nd-team all-district). Also projected into the 2015-16 starting lineup are an athletic Daishaun Woods, a 6-7 junior forward; sharpshooting Jason Shelley, a 5-11 junior guard who was last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sixth man; and Bryce Cain, a 6-5 senior forward thought to be one of the squadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hardest workers.

Playing Collegiately: =DFK %URZQ /RQH 6WDU &ROOLQ &ROOHJH .RUELQ .UDPHU /RQH 6WDU +HQGUL[ &ROOHJH &DPGHQ &UDGGRFN /RQH 6WDU 5LFKODQG &ROOHJH

&RISCOÂż7AKELANDÂż7OLVERINESÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 10-18) Coach: Tyron Lee (7 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are looking forward to a great season after a strong offseason,â&#x20AC;? says coach Tyron Lee. Projected difference-makers include Javante McCoy, a senior guard; Matt Hendrix, a senior guard; Greg Jones, a junior guard; and Justice Mercadel, a junior forward.

Playing Collegiately: 0LFKDHO 6XOOLYDQ 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ 8QLYHUVLW\

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

53

4HEÂż#OLONYÂż#OUGARSÂż Âż"OYS

-C+INNEYÂż,IONSÂż Âż"OYS

(2014-15 W-L: 16-15/8-7) Coach: Cleve Ryan (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: The Cougars could very well sink their claws into a district title this season given an all-senior lineup whose experience should pay major dividends. The headliners are RJ Pair, a 5-11 guard (1st-team all-district), and Zach Giles, a 6-1 guard (73 three-pointers; 2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: =DFK /HGD\ 7KH &RORQ\ 9LUJLQLD 7HFK

(2014-15 W-L: 25-11/12-2) Coach: Wes Watson (14 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 15th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: W-Frisco Heritage, 72-61; W-North Forney, 67-47; W-Frisco Liberty, 55-53; L-Lancaster, 86-61.

Outlook: District 10-5A MVP Alex Vilarino returns for his senior curtain call to give McKinney a chance to replicate last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deep playoff run. Vilarino, also voted to the TABC All-Region team, is a 6-1 point guard who last season recorded 18 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 4 apg. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll share the limelight this season with EJ Clark, a 5-11 junior point guard (18 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.6 apg) who was a unanimous 1st-team all-district selection this past spring.

McKinneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starting rotation rounds out with CJ Givens, a 6-3 senior forward; Michael Brooks, a 6-3 senior guard/forward; Camryn Givens, a 6-5 junior forward; and Damon Witmer, a 6-0 sophomore guard.

Playing Collegiately: $- 0RXWU\ 0F.LQQH\ (DVW &HQWUDO 8QLYHUVLW\ 3UHVWRQ 6PLWK 0F.LQQH\ +HQGUL[ &ROOHJH /XNH 0XUSKH\ 0F.LQQH\ +HQGUL[ &ROOHJH

,ITTLEÂż%LMÂż,OBOSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 10-19/4-10) Coach: Rusty Segler (31 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 10/4 Outlook: A lot of components paint a rosy picture for the Lobos. First off, the lineup is filled with players who have logged varsity experience. As for the JV call-ups they are coming from a squad that last season posted a 22-4 record. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Plus, we have quickness and speed, and we have a strong defensive presence and can shoot the three well,â&#x20AC;? says coach Rusty Segler. The four returning starters are Devin Pullum, a 5-10 junior (18.6 ppg, 82 3-pt. FGs, 6.2 apg; 9-5A Offensive Player of the Year); Corday Fairley, a 6-2 senior (9.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg; honorable-mention all-district); Deshon Gilbert, a 6-2 junior (10.5 ppg, 9.8 rpg; honorable-mention all-district); and Cameron Kennedy, a 6-5 senior (8.7 ppg, 6.9 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: 'DYDQWH 3XOOXP /LWWOH (OP 0LGZHVWHUQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ %LURQ -RVHSK /LWWOH (OP 6HZDUG -8&2 .DQVDV 6KDXQ *UDQW /LWWOH (OP

Seward JUCO (Kansas).

$ENISONÂż9ELLOWÂż*ACKETSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 6-21/1-13) Coach: Chet Byerly (15 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: All five starters return, so the hope is that Denison will jettison its non-competitive woes of a year ago. That will largely depend, though, on the performances of three players -- Raylen Johnson, a 6-0 senior guard (16 points, 2nd-team all-district); Caleb Ross, a 6-0 senior guard (8 ppg, 6 rpg); and Devin Mitchell, a 6-4 senior post (9 ppg, 5 rpg).

Ă&#x2122;-AINĂ&#x2122;3T Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122;

-C+INNEYÂż.ORTHÂż"ULLDOGSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 29-7/14-0) Coach: Holly Mulligan (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Frisco, 90-29; W-Carrollton Newman Smith, 54-40; W-Frisco Liberty, 33-29; L-Arlington Sequin, 64-53.

Outlook: McKinney North has four first-team all-district performers on the roster. But Stephanie Jackson, a 5-8 junior guard, tore her ACL over the summer and will not return until around playoff time. Joceyln Scott, a 5-9 senior forward, is coming back from ACL surgery and should provide the team a lift. The squadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other two all-district performers are Breah Powell, a 5-8 junior guard, and Tia Wright, a 5-9 junior forward.

Playing Collegiately: &KDQWHUULD -DFNVRQ 0F.LQQH\ 1RUWK /RQJ %HDFK 6WDWH /RQGRQ +ROODQG 0F.LQQH\ 1RUWK )ORULGD $ 0

Ă&#x2122;-AINĂ&#x2122;3T Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2122;

Ă&#x2122;%Ă&#x2122;(ILLĂ&#x2122;0ARKĂ&#x2122;2D Ă&#x2122;Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122; Ă&#x2122;

54

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 12

-C+INNEY¿.ORTH¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 17-14/9-6) Coach: Darryll Craft (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Look for McKinney North to battle McKinney and Wylie East for district supremacy. McKinney North’s eight returning lettermen are 6-7 junior Jared Pearre, 6-0 senior Miguel Hudson, 6-4 senior Dominick Ford, 6-4 junior TJ Givance, 6-4 junior Shannon Watkins, 5-11 junior KJ Harris, 6-1 senior McShane Wyatt and 6-1 senior Javion Williams.

Playing Collegiately: -XOLRQ 3HDUUH 0F.LQQH\ 1RUWK 8WDK 6WDWH -ROD 2WXEX 0F.LQQH\ 1RUWK &ROOLQ &ROOHJH

&ORNEY¿,ADY¿*ACKRABBITS¿ ¿'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 12-19/6-8) Coach: Ricky McCown (8 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Forney came close to making the playoffs last season; and now, with second-year coach Ricky McCown having firmly entrenched his system, the Lady Jackrabbits look to get over the hump. Leading the way will be the veteran threesome of 5-9 Meagan Jones, 5-7 K. K. Kennedy and 5-7 Danielle Keeler.

Mesquite Poteet Pirates - Girls 0ROSPER¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 19-13/10-4) Coach: Trey Rachal (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason Appearances: L-The Colony, 52-45.

Outlook: With the return of seven lettermen and the addition of some talented young players, Prosper appears primed to better last year’s third-place district finish. The three returning starters are Mackenzie Hewitt, a freshman point guard (8 ppg, 4 apg; 1st-team all-district); Alexa Boushey, a junior point guard (6 ppg, 3 apg; 2nd-team all-district) and Skylar Brooks, a senior shooting guard (5 ppg; honorable-mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately: .DQG\FH )UHHPDQ 3URVSHU 6RXWKHUQ 1D]DUHQH 8QLYHUVLW\

(2014-15 W-L: 19-8/11-3) Coach: Jonathan McKinney (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: L-Carrollton Newman-Smith, 48-41.

Outlook: Poteet made it to the postseason for the first time in four years last season and are looking to keep the arrow pointed in the same direction. The two returning starters are Victoria George, a 6-0 post (1st-team all-district) and Jada Jennings, a 5-4 point guard (2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: 6DYDQDK 'RW\ 3RWHHW &HQWHQDU\ &ROOHJH

Mesquite Poteet Pirates - Boys 7YLIE¿0IRATES¿ ¿"OYS¿ (2014-125 W-L: 19-11/10-4) Coach: Stephen Pearce (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W- Frisco Lone Star; W-Rockwall Heath; L-Woodrow Wilson.

Outlook: After advancing to the regional quarterfinals last season, the Pirates will be challenged to do as well. Replacing three starters will prove pretty tough, according to coach Stephen Pearce. Noah Whitworth, a 1st-team all-district selection this past season will lead the charge with Stewart Matthews and Michael Gipson playing pivotal roles as well.

Playing Collegiately: 6FRWW *DUULJD (DVWILHOG &ROOHJH 0\URQ 9DUPDOO )ULHQGV 8QLYHUsity.

District 11 Carrollton Creekview Mustangs - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 18-13/10-5) Coach: Sean Tippett (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: W-South Garland, 55-46; L-Frisco Liberty, 57-45.

Outlook: Creekview recorded its first playoff win in 12 years this past spring and is hoping to get back to the postseason despite returning only two starters. Creekview coach Sean Tippett says fortunes will largely rest on the shoulders of returnees Augustine Ene, a 6-3 junior guard (District 11-5A Sophomore of the Year), and Micaiah Livingston, a 6-5 senior post, (honorable-mention all-district); and Tre Kidd, a 6-5 senior wing.

Playing Collegiately: 'H$QGUH $EUDP &UHHNYLHZ *HRUJH 0DVRQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 'HVPRQG )XQFKHV &UHHNYLHZ %URRNKDYHQ -8&2

Carrollton Newman Smith Trojans - Boys (2014-15 District Record: 9-5) Coach: Percy Johnson Jr. (13 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: L-Rockwall Heath, Bi-district.

Outlook: A young Trojans squad will play a guard-laden, up-tempo style of play. Contributors project to be Cameron McGee, Charles Fortenberry, Marquies Tinsley, Morgan Cannon, Jalan Nichols and Matt Rupp.

Playing Collegiately: 'HRQGUD %XUQV $UNDQVDV /LWWOH 5RFN 6WHSKHQ 6SXUORFN 0DU\ODQG (DVWHUQ 6KRUHV :DOWHU 5LFNHWW -DFNVRQYLOOH -8&2 'DUULQ %URZQ 3XGD 2XU /DG\ RI The Lakes University.

(2014-15 W-L: 13-16/7-7) Coach: Kory McIver (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: “We will play hard, play together and defend,” says coach Kory McIver. His projected five starters are Tracy Jones, Jonathan Below, Jordan Wooden, Maliek Stearns and Markel Brown.

North Forney Falcons - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 18-14/9-5) Coach: Andy Curtis (8 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Dallas Conrad, 55-54; L-McKinney, 71-51.

Outlook: North Forney finished second in the district race last season and have four starters back to see if the title can’t now be captured. “We will be versatile both offensively and defensively -- looking to take advantage of opponents’ weaknesses,” says coach Andy Curtis.

The Falcons’ four returning starters are Zane McFarland, a 6-8 junior (2nd-team all-district; 7 ppg, 6 rpg); Jacoby Armstrong, a 6-4 senior (2nd-team all-district; 10 ppg, 10 rpg); Parrish Price, a 5-9 junior (8 ppg, 4 apg); and Taylor Hawkins, a 6-0 senior (11 ppg).

FYI: North Forney opened its doors in the fall of 2009. Since then, it has netted 97 wins, so victory #3 this season will be a little special.

2OCKWALL (EATH¿(AWKS¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 29-2/14-0) Coach: Brad Waters (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: W-Carrollton Smith, 88-77; L-Wylie, 66-63.

Outlook: The Hawks were nearly perfect last year and return nearly everyone, so expectations are that there’s plenty in the tank to drive well beyond the second round of the playoffs where Rockwall-Heath saw its season come to an abrupt end this past spring. The Hawks’ projected starting lineup begins with all-state point guard Camron Talley, a 6-0 senior voted the 2014-15 district MVP. His supporting cast will comprise 6-1 senior guard Tyler Zivney (all-district), 6-5 junior guard Kelden Pruitt (all-district), 6-2 senior forward Jeremiah Sandidge (all-district) and 6-5 senior forward Bailey West, who will play a pivotal role after moving back home from Alaska. “We want to be playing in the Alamodome in March,” says coach Brad Waters.

FYI: Rockwall-Heath has four seniors who logged significant varsity minutes beginning with their freshman campaigns. Three of the four already have 90-plus games of varsity experience.

$ALLAS¿#ONRAD¿,ADY¿#HARGERS¿ ¿'IRLS

Royse City Lady Bulldogs - Girls

(2014-15 W-L: 5-20/4-10) Coach: Richard Johnson (2 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 Outlook: “We are going to be very young with a lot of potential,” says coach Richard Johnson.

Playing Collegiately: /D6DQGUD %URZQ 0RXQWDLQ 9LHZ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

(2014-15 W-L: 16-18/6-8) Coach: Dallas Bookout (17 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/4 Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs came just a game away from making the playoffs last season, and this year have the returning talent necessary to make amends. Two of the returnees were 1st-team all-district selections last season -- Alexus Wanton, a 6-0 senior, and Morgan Sumrow, a 5-6 junior. The other two returning starters are Belle Munoz, a 5-3 junior (2nd-team all-district), and Daryn McMinn, a 5-11 senior (honorable-mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately: .U\VWDO 3LFNURQ 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

55 District 15

7EST¿-ESQUITE¿,ADY¿7RANGLERS¿ ¿'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 24-9/13-1) Coach: Tabitha Wesley (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Woodrow Wilson, 54-41; W-The Colony, 42-38; L-Bryan Adams, 73-64.

Outlook: Tamia Cunigan, a 5-6 senior guard; Tyra Walker, a 5-1 senior guard; Marissa Gary, a 5-8 junior guard; and Teia Johnson, a 5-8 senior post, all return after starting a year ago for a team that was nearly perfect in district play. Look for West Mesquite to advance further than the regional quarterfinals where it was ousted this past spring.

Playing Collegiately: $OH[XV %HUWUDQG 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7\OHU -D]P\QH :DONHU Eastern Oklahoma via transfer from Collin County Community College; Regina Garrett $UNDQVDV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ YLD WUDQVIHU IURP $QJHOLQD &ROOHJH 7D\ORU $EEH /H7RXUQHD University.

District 13

(ALLSVILLE¿,ADYCATS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 17-5/8-6) Coach: Brad Blalock (8 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Lufkin, 65-53.

Outlook: After making the playoffs for the first time in six years, the Ladycats have all starters back to make a strong run for district supremacy and then make a run in the postseason. Hallsville’s stellar starting five starts with TGCA All-State senior point guard Elisha Leathers. The 5-4 Leathers last season recorded 13 ppg, 4 apg, 4 spg en route to all-state selection and also being named to the TGCA’s 1st Team All-Academic squad. Her supporting cast includes Julie Rawls, a 5-7 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 8.2 ppg, 3.8 spg); Talure Wilder, a 5-8 senior forward (2nd-team all-district; 8.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg); Brooklyn Taylor, a 5-5 junior guard (7.5 ppg; honorable-mention all-district); and N’Kaye Pipkins, a 5-8 junior post (6.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg).

FYI: The Ladycats are seeking to make it to the postseason in consecutive years for the first time since they did so in 2007-2009.

3PRUCE¿,ADY¿4IMBERWOLVES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (2014-15 W-L: 24-9/13-1) Coach: Mario Clacks (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school)

(ALLSVILLE¿"OBCATS¿ ¿"OYS District 14 Arlington Seguin Cougars - Girls (2014-15 W-L: 29-8/12-2) Coach: Courtney Phillips (25 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: Lost in Regional Finals.

Outlook: Looks to be a rebuilding year for the Cougars, and coach Courtney Phillips says starting over will start with an emphasis on defense first. This year’s core group comprises three seniors -- Tajshia Moore, Khilynn Cooper and Morgan Newton. Look for freshman newcomer Timia Jefferson also to make a fish splash.

Playing Collegiately: /DXU\QQ 0F*RZHQ 6HJXLQ 6DP +RXVWRQ 6WDWH 'DQLHVH %XUWRQ 6HJXLQ 0RXQWDLQ 9LHZ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH $XQGUD 6WRYDOO 6HJXLQ

:LFKLWD 6WDWH 'ZDQLVKD 7DWH 6HJXLQ 0LVVRXUL :HVWHUQ 6WDWH

-ANSFIELD¿,AKE¿2IDGE¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 18-15/10-6) Coach: Stephani Gray (13 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: W-Dallas Samuell, 48-22; W-Texas High, 58-48; W-John Tyler, 40-34; L-Bryan Adams, 60-40.

Outlook: Lake Ridge coach Stephani Gray describes her bunch as “fast and feisty.” The squad will be led by its two returning starters -- Kylie Collins, a 5-6 senior (1st-team all-district, academic all-district), and Kennedy Burks, a 5-10 senior (2nd-team all-district, academic all-district).

Playing Collegiately: &KHOVHD -HQQLQJV 1RUWK &URZOH\ +6 7H[DV $ 0 /LQGVH\ 0DQQ 1RUWK &URZOH\ +6 0LG $PHULFD &KULVWLDQ 0D\D +DZNLQV /DNH 5LGJH +6 5LFH 8QLYHUVLW\ -D]]PLQ -DFNVRQ /DNH 5LGJH +6 &RQFRUGLD 8QLYHUVLW\ $ULH 6PLWK /DNH 5LGJH +6 1RUWKZHVW .DQVDV 7HFKQLFDO &ROOHJH -DQD\D +LQHV /DNH 5LGJH +6 0LG $PHULFD &KULVWLDQ .ULVWLDQ 'HZLWW /DNH 5LGJH +6 2GHVVD &ROOHJH

(2014-15 W-L: 13-16/7-7) Coach: Rusty Walker (15 years’ experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: “The Bobcats are determined to ride the momentum of last year’s 7-7 district mark to a playoff appearance in 2015-2016,” says coach Rusty Walker. Hallsville’s returning starters are Nolan Johnson, Blaine Parker, Ryan Cole, Johnathan Mitchell and Coleton Lasseter. The Bobcats also return three other lettermen -- Matt Mowery, Lance Hardman and Chris Timberlake.

FYI: Nolan Johnson is the son of the former University of Oklahoma all-conference guard of the same name (Nolan Johnson, OU 2001).

-OUNT¿0LEASANT¿4IGERS¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 15-17/8-6) Coach: Joey Chism (1 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Corsicana, 60-41.

Outlook: A strong sophomore class combines with the return of seven lettermen to make the Tigers think they can improve on last season’s fourth-place finish in district and actually compete for a district title this time around. James Moore, a 6-5 junior forward (13.1 ppg, 8.2 rpg) will be the linchpin after last season being named 15-5A Newcomer of the Year. Jesse Morales, a 5-10 senior guard (2nd-team all-district; 8.8 ppg, 2.8 apg, 1.6 spg, 44 made 3-pt. FGs) will also make a difference, as will Dexter Roberson, a 6-1 senior forward (6.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg).

District 16 -ANSFIELD¿4IMBERVIEW¿7OLVES¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 18-13/9-7) Coach: Duane Gregory (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: L-South Oak Cliff, Bi-district.

Outlook: Timberview finished this past season with three freshmen and one sophomore in the regular rotation and qualified for the postseason in a rugged District 14-5A, so this year and the next couple look extremely promising. And, in keeping with program tradition, Timberview will once again stress defense and a team-oriented approach to the game. Chris Mullins, a 6-3 sophomore guard, headlines the returnees after last season being named District 14-5A Newcomer of the Year. The other three key returnees are Colin Hadnot, a 6-5 senior forward; Tim Johnson, a 6-3 junior guard; and Isaac Likekele, a 6-2 sophomore guard.

Playing Collegiately: *HUDOG %XUUHOO 7LPEHUYLHZ *UDFH 8QLYHUVLW\ 4XLQQ 6XWWRQ 7LPEHUYLHZ 6SULQJ +LOO &ROOHJH 6HDQ &ROHPDQ 7LPEHUYLHZ :HVW +LOOV &RDOLQJD -8&2 7\XV 0RPRK 7LPEHUYLHZ &DPHURQ 8QLYHUVLW\ $OH[ 5RELQVRQ 7LPEHUYLHZ 7H[DV $ 0 8QLYHUVLW\ 0DWW 0DUWLQ 7LPEHUYLHZ (DVWILHOG &ROOHJH -9 /RQJ 7LPEHUYLHZ &DPHURQ 8QLYHUVLW\ &RUQHOLXV +XGVRQ 7LPEHUYLHZ

:DNH )RUHVW 8QLYHUVLW\ &KULV 2ZHQV 7LPEHUYLHZ &HGDU 9DOOH\ &ROOHJH %UDQGRQ 3\H 7LPEHUYLHZ 7H[DV $ 0 &RUSXV &KULVWL 7XQGH $NLQERWH 7LPEHUYLHZ *UDFH 8QLYHUVLW\ 0F:LVGRP %DGHMR 7LPEHUYLHZ (PSRULD 6WDWH University.

#ORSICANA¿4IGERS¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 29-6/12-2) Coach: Don Newton (17 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Mt. Pleasant, 61-40; L-Kimball, 67-58.

Outlook: The Tigers won a district title for the first time in 30 years last season and are hoping to again contend with three all-district performers back this season. That power trio comprises the 6-7 Jonah Mckissack (two-time all-district selection), 6-4 Chris Beachum (all-district 2015) and Carlos Tovias (all-district 2015).

Playing Collegiately: 5DOSK :DWWV (DVWILHOG &ROOHJH 'DQDLU 0DUWLQ (DVWILHOG &ROOHJH

,UFKIN¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 20-15/8-4) Coach: J T McManus (24 years’ experience; 15th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Texarkana Texas High, 65-55; L-Dallas South Oak Cliff, 85-78.

Outlook: Lufkin had a deep bench to begin with and is now the beneficiary of a move-in who earned all-region accolades as a mere sophomore. Throw in that last year’s JV went 25-2, and one can see why there is reason for optimism in Panthers land. Ja’Darrien Bennett, a 5-9 senior (1st-team all-district), will lead the way along with Cameron Hart, a 6-7 senior (1st-team all-district), and Royce Kenebrew, a 6-1 senior (1st-team all-district).

The other returning starter is Kenan Jackson, a 6-5 senior. And Dhailon Phillips, a 6-3 junior, is the move-in who last season made all-region distinction playing for Class 1A Mount Enterprise.

Playing Collegiately: 'RPLQLTXH 6KDZ /XINLQ 3UDLULH 9LHZ $ 0 YLD 7\OHU -8&2 'DYLV 5RELQVRQ /XINLQ (DVW 7H[DV %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\

56

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

*OHN¿4YLER¿,IONS¿ ¿'IRLS

7HITEHOUSE¿7ILDCATS¿ ¿"OYS¿

2014-15 W-L: 31-5/9-1 Coach: Mike Smith Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Sulphur Springs, 81-35; W-Red Oak, 69-47; L-Lake Ridge, 40-34.

Outlook: John Tyler looks to be set to make a deep playoff run and perhaps make it all the way to San Antonio. All components are there – experience, depth, quickness and quality shooters. JT coach Mike Smith describes his unit as “well-balanced inside and out.” Leading John Tyler’ Pride is Ashtyn Beal, a 5-7 senior named the 2015 15-5A MVP. Alyssa Mayfield (1st-team all-district) returns as JT’s leading rebounder, and Destini Whitehead, a 5-10 sophomore, took everyone by storm last season when she was named district defensive player of the year as only a freshman. Tyler’s two other projected starters are Daz Johnson, a 6-0 junior who runs the floor and rebounds well, and lefty Shakendra Tilley, a 5-8 senior who can take it to the hoop with the best.

(2014-15 W-L: 12-19/2-10) Coach: Brent Kelley (7 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: Whitehouse graduated five starters two years ago and struggled last year due to its youth. But now, all five starters return, and that should make all the difference in the world, according to coach Brent Kelley. “Altogether, we have 10 guys who played on varsity last season,” he explains. “Returning that much experience should help us compete for a playoff spot.” The 10 he speaks of are Javier Neal, Ashton Melton, Trent Williams, Colby Duhon, Bryce Hand, Justus Carnahan, Landry Mayo, Isiah Clark, Ryan Walls and Collin Bullard.

Playing Collegiately: 6SHQFHU 6KDZ 2NODKRPD &KULVWLDQ

District 17 -ANOR¿,ADY¿-USTANGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿

*OHN¿4YLER¿,IONS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 20-13/6-6 Coach: Cedeno Clark (11 years’ experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/5 2015 Postseason: Bi-district Champs.

Outlook: Returning starters Jacob Owens-Bush, Patrick Williams, Tavian Teal and Carlin Gray provide coach Cedeno Clark enough firepower to make a strong playoff push, and the energy and hustle of several call-ups promise to make a difference as well. The newbies that have looked particularly impressive include Mashaud Moore, Gerald Berry, Zion Jenkins and Jordan Allen.

Playing Collegiately: -Dá.KDUL /HZLV (DVW 7H[DV %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\ 0DUWHVH &KULVWLDQ &HGDU 9DOOH\ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH *D4XD\ 0LOOHU &HGDU 9DOOH\ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

(2014-15 W-L: 14-18/6-5) Coach: Jennifer Pillich (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Bryan Rudder, Bi-district.

Outlook: The Lady Mustangs made the playoffs for the first time in eight years and have all five starters back to turn the trick again. Altogether, the Lady Mustangs return 90 percent of their scoring from 2014-15. The lead horse is Legaci Young, a two-time, first-team all-district selection who averaged 16.3 points in 2014-15. Brionna Cannon runs the offense at point and earned honorable-mention all-district selection this past spring as a mere freshman. Also figuring prominently in the starting rotation are senior Kayla Jackson – the team’s designated leader -- and a trio of now experienced returnees comprising Ashley Chase, Geneva Monroe and Brynne Rountree. Manor coach Jennifer Pillich says she will also have several call-ups from a JV squad that finished 20-5. She expects sophomores Amaya Cook, Kierra Rivers, Ja’Ke Clay, and Kianna Rivers to contribute scoring immediately. Likewise, Zahra Cross and Ciera Beecham will push strong for varsity PT. Playing Collegiately: .LDUD 'DUOLQJ 7HPSOH &ROOHJH FYI: Girls athletic coordinator and head basketball coach Jennifer Pillich has decided to groom players even earlier than usual. She has started an elementary school girls basketball league in Manor. The “Manor Pony Express League” will focus on the skill development and team aspects of competition.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

57

4EMPLEÂż7ILDCATSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 12-19/5-7 Coach: Quinton Gibson (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bryan, 59-52.

Outlook: Second-year coach Quinton Gibson is anxious to see what a year of adapting to a new system will produce. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This will be the guysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; second year running (my) program,â&#x20AC;?

Gibson says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;so I think we will be better on the offensive end and much more improved on the defensive end.â&#x20AC;? Gibson returns three starters who promise to sustain momentum. They are Logan Hicks, a 6-3 senior combo guard (1st-team all-district); Sterling Brown, a 6-3 senior shooting guard/power forward (2nd-team all-district); and Wesley Sheppard, a 6-4 power forward (2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: =DFK %HKU 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ 8QLYHUVLW\

District 18 "RYANÂż,ADYÂż6IKINGSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż (2014-15 W-L: 19-15/9-5) Coach: Elizabeth Jesurun (31 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: L-Pflugerville Connally, 57-48.

Outlook: Bryan coach Elizabeth Jesurun describes her squad as â&#x20AC;&#x153;young, athletic and fast.â&#x20AC;? But only one starter returns from the team that made an early exit from last seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playoffs. Faith Simpson, a 5-10 senior post (5 ppg, 4.8 rpg), will, along with Keyoshia Washington, a 5-4 senior guard (5.3 ppg, 1.9 spg), provide the squadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership core.

Also projected to make key contributions are Raveen Blue, a 6-0 junior forward; Charnell Gibson, a 5-9 sophomore forward; Christiany Newton, a 5-5 junior guard; and Quinteria Johnson, a 5-8 junior guard.

Playing Collegiately: /RUHQ]LD 1RZOLQ -DFNVRQYLOOH &ROOHJH .HQWDYLD %RZHUV -DFNVRQville College.

! -Âż#ONSOLIDATEDÂż4IGERSÂż Âż"OYS (2014-15 W-L: 17-15/7-7) Coach: Rick German (21 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Size will be an issue for the Tigers, but shooting and defense are at such a high level to perhaps compensate and push the Tigers back into the playoffs. All four starters who return this season earned all-district accolades last season. Trey Pulliam, a 6-2 senior guard (14 ppg), made the 1st team, as did Tre Flowers, a 6-1 junior guard (18 ppg).

The other two starters earned 2nd-team selection. They are Layton Dimery, a 5-8 junior guard (10 ppg), and Garrett Peters, a 5-8 senior guard (5 ppg).

Playing Collegiately: $OH[ &DUXVR $ 0 &RQVROLGDWHG 7H[DV $ 0 8QLYHUVLW\

(UNTSVILLEÂż,ADYÂż(ORNETSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 10-20/5-9 Coach: Pinellafie Johnson (30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/4 Outlook: After finishing tied for fifth in district last season, coach Pinellafie Johnson is hoping the return of four starters and a re-emphasis on defense will put the Lady Hornets back into the playoffs as is the tradition in Huntsville. The projected starting five are Taryn Archie, a 5-7 senior post/forward (18 ppg, 8 rpg); Lakendera Ross, a 5-8 senior forward (7 ppg, 4 rpg); Moesha Straughter, a 5-9 senior post (5 ppg, 6 rpg); Jalynn Ashley, a 5-6 senior forward/guard (4 ppg, 2 rpg); and Cathy Aguilar, a 5-6 sophomore point guard (3 ppg, 3 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: $OO\VRQ 'XNH *RRGULFK &LVFR -8&2 .KDGLMDK &DUWHU *RRGULFK -DFNVRQYLOOH *RRGULFK 8QLYHUVLW\ RI $ODEDPD

District 19 Spring Woods Tigers - Boys

Bryan Vikings - Boys (2014-15 W-L: 18-11/13-1) Coach: Chris Jones (7 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: W-Temple, 59-52; L-Brenham, 93-91.

Outlook: A lot of new players getting a lot of playing time in a hurry. That will be the storyline for a Bryan squad who will turn to A.J. Lawson, a 6-4 senior guard, to set a good example for all the newbies. Lawson last season earned distinction as the 18-5A MVP and was named to the TABC All-Region squad.

Playing Collegiately: 4XD\ORQ 1HZWRQ %U\DQ 6RXWKHUQ 1D]DUHQH 8QLYHUVLW\ - 0\FKDO 5HHVH %U\DQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1RUWK 7H[DV

Bryan Rudder Lady Rangers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 36-5/13-1 Coach: Michael Stenseth (28 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Manor, 71-38; W-Houston Stratford, 72-49; W-Hutto, 80-74; W-Barbers Hills, 72-57; W-A&M Consolidated, 63-60; L-Canyon, 59-46.

Outlook: Rudder has only been in existence for eight years and managed to make it to the state semifinals last season before losing to eventual state champ Canyon. The foundation is being set for a rich tradition of basketball excellence. No other girls team in Bryan ISD has ever made it to the state tournament. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With a few young players stepping up, we could make a similar deep run,â&#x20AC;? says Rudder coach Michael Stenseth. Brianna Suber, a 5-9 junior power forward, is back after making the all-tourney team at the UILâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2015 Final Four, and Teashton Thompson, a 5-6 senior, returns to what will be her fourth year to letter. Also back are Meagan Daily, a 5-5 senior (last seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sixth man); Patrickia Daily, a 5-5 senior point guard; and Kianna Suber, a 5-8 junior small forward.

Playing Collegiately: .H $VLD :LOOLDPV 5XGGHU %OLQQ -8&2

#OLLEGEÂż3TATIONÂż,ADYÂż#OUGARSÂż Âż'IRLS (2014-15 W-L: 18-14/8-6) Coach: Megan Symank (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Hutto, 62-29.

Outlook: The Lady Cougars clawed their way into school history last season, becoming College Station HSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first girls basketball team to reach the postseason. Now, the focus is on creating a tradition. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enough talent left over to get the ball rolling. The four starters who return include team leader Raenett Hughes, a 5-7 junior wing who last season earned 1st-team all-district selection and was named to the All-Brazos Valley 3rd team. Two seniors started a year ago. They are 5-6 guard Raven Manley and 5-9 post Jalie Smith, both of whom merited second-team all-district accolades last spring. The fourth returning starter is 5-5 junior point guard Katelyn Francis, an all-district honorable mention.

Playing Collegiately: $OH[DQGUD %RZGHQ &ROOHJH 6WDWLRQ &RQFRUGLD 8QLYHUVLW\

2014-15 W-L: 5-27/1-13 Coach: Joe Gibson (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Starters: 0 Outlook: Last year was tough. This year could be tougher. There are no returning starters from a squad that won only one district game last season. Darian Gibson and Nico Hardin should prove key, but theirs is a heavy load to carry, especially when you consider that both are freshmen. Altogether, the Tigers comprise three freshmen, four sophomores and four juniors.

-AGNOLIAÂż,ADYÂż"ULLDOGSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 19-11/7-7 Coach: Erika Ritter (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 10th year at school) Returning lettermen/Starters: 5/4 Outlook: Magnolia has come up just one game shy of making the playoffs for the past two seasons, so the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four returning starters have extra incentive this season to avoid a similar fate. The Lady Bulldogs are a squad that loves to attack the basket and has several outside scoring threats as well. The four returning starters are: Alexus Wykoff, a 5-10 junior guard/forward (8 ppg, 4 rpg; 1st-team all-district; Katie Dalton, a 6-1 junior forward/post (8 ppg, 6 rpg, 3 bpg; second-team all-district); Taylor Bearden, a 5-5 senior point guard (5 ppg); and Hannah Coyle, a 5-8 senior forward (3 ppg, 3 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: 7RUL )UHGHULFN 0DJQROLD 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 6W 7KRPDV +RXVWRQ -HVVLFD %UXWL 0DJQROLD &HQWHQDU\ &ROOHJH /RXLVLDQD

Magnolia Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-11/9-5 Coach: Danny Randall (30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: L-Houston Madison, 67-61 Outlook: Squad has good size in mix-and-match situations and will try to push the ball to the rim whenever possible. But the Bulldogs also have a couple of players who have a little range. Defensively, Magnolia will employ both man and a match-up zone. The projected starting five are Jerren Cambell, John Brown, Jackson Moffatt, Jacob Frazier, Michael Woods and Daniel Aman.

Playing Collegiately: -HVVH -RQHV 0LGODQG 8QLYHUVLW\ -RVK %HDUGHQ 6W 7KRPDV University.

Tomball Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 9-22/5-9 Coach: Brad Ball (16 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 15th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 Outlook: If the Cougars are able to avoid health issues that have plagued them in the past, coach Brad Ball says his squad should be improved over last season, and that means Tomball projects to be a bubble team. The three returning starters are all seniors -- Cullin Johnson, Luke Hicks and Jamal Grey. Juniors Tanner Ball, Darius Taylor, DJ Doakes and Miles Marhofer all played big minutes a year ago off the bench, as did senior Mitch Michel.

Playing Collegiately: 0DUTXHHVH *UD\VRQ 7RPEDOO *LOOHWWH -8&2 :\RPLQJ Tomball coach Brad Ball turns to the military to toughen up his players for the season that lies ahead. The entire team goes through a two-week boot camp run by the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Navy ROTC Commander.

58

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 21

Tomball Memorial Wildcats 2014-15 W-L: 24-10/13-1 Coach: Jon Sheppard (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: W-Sharpstown, 67-58; W-Huntsville, 66-53; L-Yates, 78-74.

Outlook: Tomball Memorial graduated a whopping 10 seniors so will usher in a ton of newbies this season. There are five underclassmen expected to make the varsity roster.

Leading them by the nose will be Tyler Moore, a 6-4 senior forward (2nd-team all-district) and Jeden Stephens, a 5-11 senior guard (honorable mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately: *HRII %HFNKDP 7RPEDOO 6W 7KRPDV 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: Last year marked the second time for Tomball Memorial to make the playoffs and the first time for the Wildcats to win in the postseason. The Wildcats lost to Huntsville at home during the regular season but beat them at home in the playoffs. Then, Tomball Memorial lost to Houston Yates at the Merrill Center after defeating them there during the regular season.

#ROSBY¿,ADY¿#OUGARS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 25-9/13-3 Coach: Michelle Trotter (11 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 2015 Postseason: L-Lumberton, 55-52.

Outlook: With two senior D1 prospects and a couple of D1 hopefuls in the younger ranks, this could be Crosby’s year to make a deep run in the playoffs. “We have our eyes on a trip to San Antonio,” says coach Michelle Trotter. Crosby’s top cat is 5-9 senior small forward Sydney Carr (12 ppg, 6 rpg, 5 spg, 3 apg; district defensive MVP, All-Region TABC, All-State TGCA). Crosby’s other D1 senior prospect is Shannon Jones, a 5-10 small forward (12 ppg, 8 rpg, 2 spg, 2 bpg; 1st-team all-district). The other three returning starters are 5-6 senior shooting guard Katrionna Washington (2nd-team all-district); 5-11 sophomore small forward Paris Netherly (9 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg; district newcomer of the year); and 5-5 sophomore point guard Sloan Casey (2nd-team all-district).

District 20 (OUSTON¿-ADISON¿-ARLINS¿ ¿"OYS¿

Barbers Hill Eagles - Girls

2014-15 W-L: 25-11/12-2 Coach: Craig Maura (17 years’ experience; 18th year at school) 2015 Postseason: W-Magnolia, 67-61; W-University High Waco, 83-67; W-Brenham, 63-49; L-Beaumont Ozen, 51-46.

Outlook: A combination of seasoned varsity returnees and some ready-for-PT players from a JV squad that won district leave the Marlins swimming pretty. The projected starting five are Jeremiah Gambrell Jr., a 5-11 sophomore; Curtis Randle a 5-9 senior; Chris Mayberry, a 6-2 senior; Torrance Archie, a 6-2 senior; and Devon Collins, a 6-5 senior.

Playing Collegiately: &KULV +DUULV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI +RXVWRQ

2014-15 W-L: 28-4/16-0 Coach: Tri Danley (19 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Regional Semifinals.

Outlook: Barbers Hill returns two all-state performers and will cull from a JV squad that was 29-1 last season. “We will be lacking experience, but we have speed, quickness and great team chemistry,” says coach Tri Danley. The team’s fortunes rests on the shoulders of a foursome comprising sophomore Charli Collier, senior Leah Silva, sophomore Madison Armer and senior Taylor Ballinger.

Playing Collegiately: .HQGDOO 6KDZ 9DQGHUELOW 0DNHQ]LH 0D\ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW 7\OHU .D\OHH .DQD .LQJVYLOOH $ 0 .ULVWLQD .DQD &RDVWDO %HQG &ROOHJH %HHYLOOH

.ORTH¿&OREST¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 15-9/13-1 Coach: Jasmin Cardenas (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: L-Tomball Memorial, 56-34.

Outlook: Gone is North Forest star Joi Simmons, so coach Jasmin Cardenas is turning to a trio of new leaders to carry the torch. It comprises LaMycia Hamilton, a 5-10 senior small forward (15 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 bpg; two-time 1st-team all-district selection); Deonna London, a 5-7 junior point guard (4 spg; 2nd-team all-district); and JaKendria Jenkins, a 5-9 junior forward (a JV call-up who joined the varsity during the playoffs last season).

Playing Collegiately: -RL 6LPPRQV 1RUWK )RUHVW ;DYLHU 8QLYHUVLW\ LQ New Orleans.

FYI: For the past three years, North Forest has been co-district champs. A little better than a brother kiss maybe, but North Forest is ready to reach the mountaintop without company.

Houston North Forest Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-9/11-3 Coach: Trey Washington (16 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: L-Brenham, Bi-district.

Outlook: A young an athletic squad will be led by Sonny Cousin.

Playing Collegiately: (OLMDK /HZLV &RQFRUGLD 'HQ]HO :DONHU 3DXO 4XLQQ :LOPDQ 2FRUR 3DXO 4XLQQ $GPRQ *LOGHU 7H[DV $ 0 .LQJ 0F&OXUH %D\ORU 7\OHU 6LQJOHWRQ ,QFDUQDWH :RUG -HUHPLDK -HIIHUVRQ :HEHU 6WDWH /DVDQL -RKQVRQ 6WHSKHQ ) $XVWLQ 'D\OQ 0XPSKUH\ $QJHOLQD &ROOHJH 7LP 3ULOOHU ,QGLDQD FYI: North Forest is a school formed from the combination of Smiley HS and Forest Brook HS. North Forest became a part of the Houston ISD in 2013.

(OUSTON¿9ATES¿,ADY¿,IONS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 22-8/13-1 Coach: Jun DeHorney (10 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 2015 Postseason: L-Tomball, Bi-district, 57-46.

Outlook: Andrea Moore led Yates in six statistical categories last season. Moore has graduated and therein lies the challenge that faces coach Jun DeHorney. “We’ll look to be up-tempo with a hard man-to-man defense this year,” DeHorney says. The projected starters are Amari Albrow, a 5-2 senior guard; Derian Smith, a 5-4 senior guard; La Asia Baker, a senior guard; Mya Banks, a 5-9 junior forward; and Morghan Taylor, a 6-1 junior center.

Playing Collegiately: $QGUHD 0RRUH <DWHV %HWKDQ\ &ROOHJH

District 21 'OOSE¿#REEK¿-EMORIAL¿0ATRIOTS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 15-17/8-6 Coach: Kevin Fletcher (14 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: L-Barbers Hill, 76-48.

Outlook: The Patriots have spent an offseason working on crashing the boards and forcing more turnovers while better protecting the ball. Patriots coach Kevin Fletcher says those two areas alone should result in a higher team PPG while lowering points allowed. He also has one of the state’s better point guards to lean on. The 5-3 Faith Cook returns after last season earning selection to the TABC and TGCA all-state teams and emerging as the 5A girls FT champion. She recorded 25.1 ppg, 4 apg and 3 spg. The other three returning starters are Semone Magee, a 5-6 forward (1st-team all-district; 5 rpg, 5 ppg); Keyawne Hill, a 5-4 guard (2nd-team all-district; 6.4 ppg, 4 rpg, 2.1 spg); and Josee Mackyeon, a 6-0 center (honorable-mention all-district; 6 rpg, 2 bpg). Vying for the fifth starting slot are Karen Simien, a 5-7 guard, and Taylor Lattimore, a 5-8 forward.

Playing Collegiately: 7HUD\H *LOOXP *RRVH &UHHN &ODUHQGRQ &ROOHJH 0HJDQ 3HUU\ *RRVH &UHHN 6RXWKZHVWHUQ &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH $PEHU 5LFKDUG *RRVH &UHHN

/68 0DGLVHQ :LOOLDPV *RRVH &UHHN -DFNVRQYLOOH &ROOHJH FYI: Faith Cook, a University of Texas at El Paso commit, has scored 1746 points in her celebrated career. She is a two-time TGCA All-State selection and is a three-time firstteam all-district selection. She won the TABC FT Champion Award and was voted 22-5A Offensive Player of the Year last season. The year before, she was voted 19-4A MVP; and the year before that, she was voted 19-4A Newcomer of the Year.

"EAUMONT¿#ENTRAL¿*AGUARS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 35-4/13-1 Coach: Franklin Paul (1 year’s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: Regional finals.

Outlook: With three starters back from a trip to the regional finals, the Jaguars will be a team that has an outside chance to sneak into the state tournament this season.

Everything – health included -- will have to fall just right, though. Their three returning starters, for example, will have to play even better than they did as juniors, and there’s not much depth to lean on. But all three returning starters are seniors, so Beaumont Central certainly has the core to make some noise. The Jags’ ballyhooed senior trio comprises 6-4 Nijal Person, 6-5 Tyrin Atwood and 6-6 Delvin Bennett.

,UMBERTON¿2AIDERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 7-24 Coach: Josh Mitchell (5 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/5 Outlook: The Raiders were very young last season but have now grown into themselves, and several seniors provide Lumberton enough leadership to vie for a playoff spot. The top seven minute-eaters should be TIm Rhodes, Gaven Whitmire, Stephen Yarbro, Mason Sikes, Jacob Bridgers, Reese Kemp and Houston Sonnier.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

59

0ORT¿.ECHES 'ROVES¿)NDIANS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 12-17/4-10 Coach: Patrick Abel (15 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: The Indians don’t have much experience and are a little height-challenged, but they are a good-shooting squad and get after it on defense. Among the three starters who return two were 2014-15 second-team all-district selections -- Ryan Abel, a 6-4 senior forward (10 ppg, 8rpg, 3bpg, 3 spg), and John Dubois, a 5-8 senior point guard (10 ppg, 2 apg, 2 spg). The other returning starter is Keynel McZeal, a 6-5 junior post (5 ppg, 5 rpg).

4EXAS¿#ITY¿3TINGAREES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 6-24/3-11 Coach: Chris Mason (18 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 Outlook: Texas City will start five underclassmen; and while that should make things a little dicey at times, coach Chris Mason says his team will be much more competitive than a year ago. Three starters return from last year’s squad that missed the playoffs.

They are Johan Rodriguez, Jaylon Simpson and Jacoree Evans.

District 24

District 23 Fort Bend Bush Broncos - Girls

!NGLETON¿7ILDCATS¿ ¿"OYS¿

2014-15 W-L: 23-8/12-2 Coach: Kimberly Smallwood (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: The entire starting lineup returns for a squad that made noise last season.

Better yet, all five starters are seniors. Expect the Broncos to at least gallop beyond the third round of the playoffs. The returning starters are Taylor Perry, Daizha Norris, India Lloyd, Tamera Gulley and Emily Casler.

Playing Collegiately 9LFWRULD .HPRNDL )% %XVK 8QLYHUVLW\ RI ,QGLDQD &LHUUD 3DOPHU )% %XVK ,QGHSHQGHQFH &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH 7DPLD 7KRPDV )% %XVK

6XO 5RVV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ 0\DQJLHO +LFNV )% %XVK 6XO 5RVV 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

2014-15 W-L: 15-15/4-6 Coach: Clint Anderson (11 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: L-Fort Bend Bush, 58-50.

Outlook: Angleton’s core returns, and those four were playing very well down the stretch of last season before losing to Fort Bend Bush in the first round of the playoffs. This year’s starting rotation includes Josh Campbell, Malik Louison, Salomon Smith, Raylon Gardner, Billy Foster and Koy Richardson. “We will be a fun team to watch,” says coach Clint Anderson.

Playing Collegiately -RVK ,EDUUD +RXVWRQ %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\

&ORT¿"END¿"USH¿"RONCOS¿ ¿"OYS

&OSTER¿,ADY¿&ALCONS¿ ¿'IRLS

2014-15 W-L: 29-7/13-1 Coach: Ronnie Courtney (20 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Angleton, 58-50; L-Beaumont Central, 57-54 Outlook: “We have a chance to compete for the district title; and if we do make it to the play-offs, I think we have a chance to advance far,” says coach Ronnie Courtney. Three starters return. They are Peter Byrd, a 6-0 point guard (11.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 4.1 apg, 3.2 spg); Joshua Ihek, a 6-8 post (10 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 2.4 bpg); and Jalan Carter, a 5-10 guard (8.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.5 spg).

Playing Collegiately (GHQ (ZLQJ 7\OHU -8&2 -RVKXD -RQHV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI +RXVWRQ %UHQGRQ *DQDZD\ 6RXWKHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\

Coach: Ashton Phillips (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: The addition of freshman point guard Mickayla Hamilton will step up the Lady Falcons’ pace quite a bit. “Yes, we are young and energetic this season, says coach Ashton Phillips. “It will be a much different look from last year.” Another key will be Miranda Stephens, a returning starter who has put in yeoman’s work this past summer to improve her range. “And our bigs have put in a tremendous amount of work, so they will be ready to run with the smalls,” Phillips says. Two other returnees are also expected to play pivotal roles. They are Brooke Konvicka and Tamika Dixon.

Playing Collegiately -DQLND (UQVW )RVWHU &HQWUDO &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH

Foster Falcons - Boys &ORT¿"END¿%LKINS¿+NIGHTS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 27-5/13-1 Coach: Albert Thomas (14 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 Outlook: “Expectations are high for a team returning 10 lettermen,” says coach Albert Thomas.

Those 10 returnees are Ken Busby, Chad Bowie, Bryce Terrell, Ansu Sesay, Tyrik Armstrong, Eddie Everline, Chandler Jacobs, Noel Pinnock, Jonathan Griffin and Collier Thomas.

Playing Collegiately %UDQIRUG -RQHV (ONLQV /RQJ %HDFK 6WDWH .HUU\ *UHHQ (ONLQV *UDQG 9LHZ 8QLYHUVLW\ $DURQ 5HHG (ONLQV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 6W 7KRPDV

2014-15 W-L: 20-7/7-3 Coach: Reuben Fatheree (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: L-Fort Bend Marshall, 76-57.

Outlook: The Falcon’s will have to replace eight seniors -- five of which ranged from 6-3 to 6-6 in height. “We will be young at several positions, but we will be quicker with a smaller line-up,” says coach Reuben Fatheree. The two returning starters are Josh Chilo, a 6-4 forward/post (14.6 ppg; 1st-team all-district), and Evan Fairs, a 6-3 combo guard (15.8 ppg; 1st-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately -DQLND (UQVW )RVWHU &HQWUDO &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH FYI: The Falcons last season became the first team in Foster’s 14-year program history to notch 20 wins.

District 25

7ILLOWRIDGE¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 11-18/3-10 Coach: Bisi Ngwolo (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 Outlook: “We will make the playoffs in one of the toughest districts in Texas,” says coach Bisi Ngwolo. Prompting those words of confidence are four players -- Montrell Moses, Braylon Hunter, Kendal Rogers and Keyshun Harris.

'ALVESTON¿"ALL¿'OLDEN¿4ORNADOES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 16-14/7-7 Coach: Jerald Temple (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: The Tornadoes look to advance to the postseason for the seventh time out of the last nine seasons. Early battles against La Marque, Clear Brook and Clear Creek will serve to prepare the squad for a tough district schedule. The starting five has been determined except for one slot. The first four slots will be filled by Bobby Temple, a 6-2 senior guard (8 ppg, 3 rpg; 2nd-team all-district); Nicholas Moore, a 6-3 sophomore wing (6 ppg, 6 rpg; 2nd-team all-district); Brian Ball, a 5-8 junior guard (6 ppg, 6 apg); and Kyle Wheeler, a 6-3 junior post (4 ppg, 4 rpg).

Vying for that fifth spot are returnees Derrell Radin, a junior forward, and Kerrian James, a senior. Newcomers James Landor, Ben Ramsell, Javon Elliot, Jeremy McBride and Josh Fields also should log PT. Playing Collegiately *UHJ 5ROOLQV %DOO +6 &RQFRUGLD 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: Galveston Ball High School is one of Texas’ oldest schools. It was founded in 1884.

Vista Ridge Lady Rangers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 36-3/12-0 Coach: Keith Allen (5 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: State Semifinalist.

Outlook: Riding the high of a perfect 2014-15 district slate and an appearance in the state tournament, the Lady Rangers will look for a little Déjà Vu via the return of three senior starters – 5-9 Mikayla Christian, 5-10 Danielle Rainey and 5-9 Charmaine McBride.

6ISTA¿2IDGE¿2ANGERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 24-11/9-3 Coach: Joe Duffield (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: W-McCallum, 63-52; W-San Marcos, 66-51; L-SA Sam Houston 61-56.

Outlook: With nine varsity letterman coming back from a team that made it to the regional quarterfinals, the team is hungry to make a deeper run in the playoffs this season. Vista Ridge will look to play an up-tempo style with several quick guards on the perimeter. The growth and improvement of junior twins Brandon and Quinton Taylor on the inside will make for a balanced team both inside and out. Here’s the six-man rotation: 6-1 junior point guard Aaron Gregg (1st-team all-district); 6-1 senior small forward RJ Phillips (25-5A Defensive Player of the Year); 6-6 junior power forward Brandon Taylor; 6-6 junior power forward Quinton Taylor (all-district); 6-0 senior guard Jeremy Geist (captain; honorable mention all-district); 5-10 senior shooting guard Marquan Hampston (honorable mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately 'DQLHO 'LRQ 9LVWD 5LGJH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1HZ +DPSVKLUH &HGULF +XGVRQ 9LVWD 5LGJH $XVWLQ &ROOHJH

60

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

2015-2016 Georgetown Lady Eagle Basketball ...Go Army of One 1980 Zone Champion; 1984, 1986 Bi-District Champion; 1993, 2007 Bi-District Finalist; 1997, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2012 Area Finalist; 1999, 2002, 2005, 2008, 2009 Regional Quarter Finalist; 1994, 1995, 1998, 2006, 2010 Regional Semi-Finalist; 2015 Regional Finalist; 1978, 1983, 1991, 1996, 2014 State Semi-Finalist; 1992, 2003, 2011 State Finalist;

1979 State Champions | 2013 State Champions

$RIPPING¿3PRINGS¿4IGERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 8-24/4-10 Coach: Craig Swannack (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: After a very tough 2014-2015 campaign, the Tigers look to rebound in 20152016. They return three starters and five lettermen from last year’s squad and bring in several promising players from the JV unit. With the right pieces in place, the Tigers look to make some noise in a very tough District 25-5A and return to the playoffs. Here’s the projected starting line-up: Ty Johnson, a 6-5 senior; McKenly O’Neal, a 6-4 junior; Cullen Young, a 6-4 junior; Jacob Hafner, a 5-8 senior; and Nick Breen, a 6-1 junior.

Playing Collegiately: -DOHQ -XU\ 0DU\ +DUGLQ %D\ORU *LOHV *LOOLDP &RORUDGR &KULVWLDQ University.

FYI: This year’s version of the Tigers features three younger brothers of players on the 2013-2014 district championship team.

Georgetown Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-14/8-6 Coach: Russell Miller (14 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-LBJ (Bi-district), 46-40.

Outlook: The 2015-2016 roster features an exciting mix of returnees and newcomers.

Defense will be the Eagles’ staple again this season as they look to continue to hold opponents to 42 points per game. Offensively, the Eagles will run a more up-tempo offense and look to get out in transition. Four have nailed down starting roles with the season about to tip. They are Chandler Herman, Beau Corrales, Kaden Herbert and Zak Kepner.

Playing Collegiately: 0LFKDHO +DUGJH *HRUJHWRZQ 7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ -HDQ /XF 3DUNHU *HRUJHWRZQ 1HZ +DPSVKLUH 8QLYHUVLW\ $GGLVRQ +HUEHUW *HRUJHWRZQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 0LVVLVVLSSL 6DP 7DOEHUW *HRUJHWRZQ /H7RXUneau University.

Georgetown Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-14 W-L: 31-6/12-2 Coach: Rhonda Farney (41 years’ experience; 29th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Bastrop Cedar Creek, 61-21; W-Ha, 52-34; W, 61-58; W, 61-33; L-Vista Ridge, 53-40.

Outlook: The 2015-16 edition of the Georgetown Lady Eagles will be deep and long. Defense will again be the forte, and the anchor of that lock-down D is the two-time all-state Kendrick Clark. The remainder of coach Rhonda Farney’s six-player starting rotation comprises Taylor Green, Brooke Elliott, Dee Day, Avery Kelly and Sandi Harris.

Playing Collegiately: %ULDQQD %RJDUG :D\ODQG %DSWLVW .U\VWDO )RUWKDQ :D\ODQG %DSWLVW 0HJKDQ :KLWH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI &RORUDGR 3XHEOR +D\OH\ :KLWH 6RXWKZHVWHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ (PLO\ -RKQVRQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV .DLWO\Q :DOOD 7H[DV 6WDWH +D\OH\ )ULDV ,QFDUQDWH :RUG &DLWO\Q %XWWUDP /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ &KDULVPD $OH[DQGHU 6WHSKHQ ) $XVWLQ $PDQGD -RKQVRQ +RXVWRQ %DSWLVW 7D\ORU /D&RXU :HVW 7H[DV $ 0 0DGGLH $QGHUVRQ +HQGUL[ &ROOHJH FYI: District 25-5A had four schools in the top 25 in the UIL’s statewide Class 5A Loan Star Cup standings, which recognize schools’ collective athletic success by awarding points to accomplishments in all sports. The district had a representative school at every sport’s state tournament/meet.

%AST¿6IEW¿0ATRIOTS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 11-20/6-8 Coach: Dave Walla (14 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Four returning starters led by the versatile inside/outside threat of Abby Holland should make this team more successful than last season, which ended with a play-in game loss. Losing senior starting wing Shaun Cavanaugh to a summer knee injury will force a player from a largely young and inexperienced bench to step up. But along with Holland, returning starters Emily Daniel, Diamond Morrison, and Rachel Wisian will combine to make East View a team that should definitely burst through the front door of the playoffs this season. Holland, a 5-10 senior, has made first-team all-district three consecutive years now. She was named district newcomer of the year as a freshman and earned offensive-player-of-the-year accolades her sophomore and junior years. Daniel, a 5-8 junior, has made first-team all-district both of her years on varsity, and Diamond Morrison, a 5-4 sophomore, was named the 2014-15 district newcomer of the year on top of gaining first-team selection. Wisian, East View’s other returning starter, is a 6-1 sophomore. She made second-team all-district this past spring.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

61 District 26

!USTINÂż#ROCKETTÂż#OUGARSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 20-14/11-5 Coach: Jennifer Shuttlesworth (9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 2015 Postseason: L-Vista Ridge, Bi-district.

Outlook: Replacing eight seniors will be a tough task. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we are really excited about the steady play this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior class will provide us,â&#x20AC;? says coach Shuttlesworth. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also very encouraged about the possibilities of our underclassmen. We have some very athletic, scoring-capable young players.â&#x20AC;? The teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one returning starter is Korin Park-Overton, a 6-2 center (1st-team all-district). The only other returnee is the 5-10 Alexis Gonzales (2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: $QJHOD %HDGOH &URFNHWW 6DP +RXVWRQ 6WDWH -RUG\Q +ROPHV &URFNHWW 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7XOVD

!USTINÂż,ANIERÂż6IKINGSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 17-12/10-6 Coach: Joseph Pendell (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: The Vikings look to advance beyond the first round of the playoffs after ending their season there this past spring. Two players should prove pivotal -- Davion Buster (2015 26-5A Co-Newcomer of the Year) and Darius Redwine (1st-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: ,VDLDK :LOVRQ $XVWLQ /DQLHU 5HGODQGV &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

Cedar Creek Eagles - Girls Coach: Ashley Roberts (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: Not much looks the same as it did a year ago. Cedar Creek has a brand new coach who has never been a head coach before, and the roster has turned over almost entirely. Ashlan Smith -- a 6-3 center and the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only returning starter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; will be asked to help coach Roberts blaze a new trail through uncharted territory.

District 27 &LORESVILLEÂż4IGERSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 27-10/12-3 Coach: Coy Tackitt (8 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: W-Bi-district; L-Austin LBJ. Outlook: After losing 27-5A MVP Chris Albert and 1st-team all-district selections Jared Kotzur and Zach Chambers, the Tigers will need some people to step up to bigger roles.

The 5-11 Bradley Bunn was last season elected district newcomer of the year and is the only returning starter. The four returnees who will be challenged to assume bigger roles this season are 5-10 Logan Hopkins, 6-3 Brandon Mutz, 6-5 Ryan Rodriguez and 6-1 Dalton Schroller.

Kerville Tivy Antlers - Boys -C#ALLUMÂż+NIGHTSÂż Âż"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 17-13/12-4 Coach: Daniel Fuentes (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L in Bi-district.

Outlook: McCallum coach Daniel Fuentes says â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will be difficult to replace Jake Holmes (all-Centex third team) and Harrison Brown (co-offensive player of the year).â&#x20AC;? But there are seniors capable of stepping up, he adds. Three seniors he will rely on are Mike Watson, a 5-7 point guard; Jesse Levy-Rubinett, a 6-1 guard; Cedric Watson, a 6-0 forward.

Other key players include James Sullivan, a 6-0 senior guard; and Roman Zamora, a 6-0 junior guard.

Playing Collegiately: +DUULVRQ %URZQ 0F&DOOXP 5LFH 8QLYHUVLW\ -RKQ 3DVV 0F&DOOXP $XVWLQ &ROOHJH ,VDDF /HY\ 5XELQHWW 0F&DOOXP 3DPRQD &ROOHJH FYI: At McCallum, the term â&#x20AC;&#x153;All in the familyâ&#x20AC;? has taken on added significance. Jesse Levy-Rubinett, a 6-1 guard on the basketball team, also plays baseball and earned an All-Central Texas award on the diamond this past spring. His older brother, Isaac Levy-Rubinett, also earned an All-Central Texas award, but did so in basketball and is now playing for Pamona College. The brotherly theme continues this season as Mike Watson, a senior point guard, has a younger brother Destin playing. Destin is a sophomore.

Coach: Brian Young (20 years at school; 7 years as head coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: The Antlers will look to hoof it into the playoffs on the strength of three returning starters. They are senior Cameron Fields (1st-team all-district); senior Dillon Young (honorable mention all-district) and senior Christian Fields (2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: .HOE\ .DLVHU 3DWULFN -LPHQH] 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ

Lockhart Lions - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-15/6-10 Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: The Lions will be looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 1998; but after notching 14 wins last season, their roar may be back. The three returning starters set on ending the dry spell are Clay Buehring, a 6-5 forward; Bruce Busbee, a 6-1 guard; and Trae Spence, a 6-1 guard.

FYI: Lockhartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 14 wins last season marked the most the program has amassed in more than a decade.

!LAMOÂż(EIGHTSÂż-ULESÂż Âż'IRLS !USTINÂż2EAGANÂż,ADYÂż2AIDERSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 8-13/8-7 Coach: Erica Routt (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 Outlook: Last year the Lady Raiders stayed at home during the postseason, so coach Erica Routt, in her first year at the helm, now says changes are coming. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a goal of getting back to the playoffs, and that is going to require doing some things a little differently,â&#x20AC;? she says. The one returning starter is junior Tatiana Jackson, who will be asked to fulfill the leadership role ordinarily assigned to a senior. Another returnee, senior Kiana Queen, is expected to make an impact on both ends of the floor with her hustle and determination while sophomore Kimberly Tutt will be asked to bring the ball down the floor and facilitate via her excellent handles. The x factor, though, is 6-2 sophomore transfer Shae Routt. As only a freshman, she last season made the 23-6A all-district first team. Her play prompted letters from D1 schools, and she has already committed to The University of Texas.

4RAVISÂż2UNNIN¸¿2EBELSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 7-19/6-8 Coach: Frankie Crayton (6 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a loaded junior class with enough talent to contend for the district title,â&#x20AC;? says Travis coach Frankie Crayton. His Runninâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rebels lost two seniors but now sport a roster with 13 juniors and one senior. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how Travisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; starting five shakes out: Breonn Watson, a 5-8 junior shooting guard (2nd-team all-district; 12 ppg, 5 rpg); Keenan Rivers, a 5-8 senior point guard (honorable mention all-district; 6 ppg, 3 rpg); Darrell Green, a 6-2 junior small forward (8 ppg, 4 rpg); Michael Murray, a 6-3 junior power forward (6 ppg, 5 rpg); and Charles Gurley, a 5-7 junior point guard (3 ppg, 3 rpg).

Playing Collegiately 0LFKDHO 6PLWK 7UDYLV 7H[DV &ROOHJH

2014-15 W-L: 15-15/8-8 Coach: Gene Phillips (13 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 Outlook: 6R FORVH 7KH 0XOHV FDUULHG D KHDY\ ORDG GXULQJ WKH RIIVHDVRQ DIWHU PLVVLQJ the 2015 playoffs by only one game. With all five starters back, though, that has now become a distant memory, and this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mules are ready to kick the door in to the 2016 postseason. Leading the way is Makayla Mabry, a 6-1 junior who last season received all-region accolades and was named district offensive MVP. Her supporting cast includes two other all-district selections. Alex Yndo, a 5-6 senior, was a 1st-team pick, and Sarah Hicks, a 5-8 senior, earned second-team distinction.

John F. Kennedy Rockets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 9-23/2-14 Coach: David Alonzo (3 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: A young group competing in a tough district would seem to spell a difficult season. And with only one starter back -- Julian Landeros â&#x20AC;&#x201C; matters donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get any better.

Such is the challenge facing coach David Alonzo in year four of his coaching career.

San Antonio Memorial Minutemen - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 0-16 Coach: Jonathan Sanchez (4 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our size will be a major advantage against most schools,â&#x20AC;? says coach Jonathan Sanchez. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So if our young guards can handle the pressure and feed our post, we should be in much better shape than a year ago.â&#x20AC;? A year ago the Minutemen failed to notch a win in district play. Gabriel McGarity and Josh Pitts are the potential lynchpins to a season that they hope will not become unhinged like the 2014-15 campaign.

62

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS 3IDNEY¿,ANIER¿6OKS¿ ¿'IRLS¿

3AN¿-ARCOS¿,ADY¿2ATTLERS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 30-7/15 -1 Coach: Veronda Kendall (10 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Harlandale, 52-39; L-Cedar Park, 60-55.

Outlook: “We will continue to compete; but with the loss of four senior starters, it will be a challenge,” say coach Veronda Kendall, who last season made her debut as Lady Rattlers head coach. This season’s fortunes will largely revolve around the one starter that does return. Raelynn Jackson, a 5-11 senior post, last season averaged 7 points and 7 rebounds en route to 2nd-team all-district selection.

Playing Collegiately: %DLOH\ +LOO 6DQ 0DUFRV 6W (GZDUGV 8QLYHUVLW\ 6KDQQRQ 0DWKLV 6DQ 0DUFRV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW 'DOODV FYI: Adrianna Williams, a 2014-15 JV player looking to make varsity this season, got a large dose of a jarring reality this past May when she and her family pretty much lost everything they had after floodwaters swept through San Marcos. The Williams family – thanks largely to generosity from members of the community and the Lady Rattlers basketball team – has begun to piece together a semblance of normalcy, and Adrianna can’t wait for the season to begin so she can divert more of her attention away from what has been a horrific experience.

2014-15 W-L: 22-12/12-4 Coach: Laura R. Negrete-Fernandez (15 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Kerrville Tivy (Bi-district), 57-37.

Outlook: All starters return, making Lanier a district-title contender and a pretty sure bet to advance past the first round of the playoffs that ended its season this past spring.

Cornerstone players are Sabrina Cortinas, Ruby Garza and Ashley Lopez, as well as defensive stopper Esmi Garza.

Playing Collegiately: 'HVWLQ\ *DU]D 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1RUWK 'DNRWD

McCollum Cowboys - Boys Coach: Marcus Alvarado (1 year’s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: In his debut season at McCollum, coach Marcus Alvarado says he likes the pieces in place to make a playoff push. He says he and his staff are banking on two of those pieces – senior Tre Johnson and junior Roger Martinez – setting the tone with breakout seasons.

District 28 District 29 San Antonio Highlands Owls - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 25-9/16-0 Coach: Adrianna Wiatrek (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Boerne Champion, 57-25; L-Georgetown, 53-34.

Outlook: Highlands returns its top three scorers from a year ago and boasts an overall seasoned line-up that will be known for its quickness on defense, its ability to connect from beyond the arc and a predilection for finishing strong at the rim. The starting five begins with Aaliyah Prince, a 5-9 senior combo guard who was last season named Greater San Antonio’s Class 5A MVP as well as one of the district’s co-MVPs. Prince posted 15.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.9 spg and 2.7 apg as a junior. Jazmine Jackson, a 5-10 senior forward/ guard, will help Prince lead the Owls after herself earning first-team all-district selection and being named to the Greater San Antonio 5A Team. Jackson’s junior campaign yielded 12.4 ppg, 2.8 spg, 11.0 rpg and 1.3 bpg. The starting five’s third major component is Kiara Pesina, a 5-4 point guard (13.2 ppg, 2.9 spg, 2.4 apg, 3.4 rpg). She was named 28-5A Defensive Player of the Year and also made the Greater San Antonio 5A Team. The starting five rounds out with Jeerica Herrera, a 5-0 junior shooting guard, and Susana Stephens, a 6-1 senior center.

Playing Collegiately: 3HDUO 7KRPDV 6$ +LJKODQGV 2XU /DG\ 2I WKH /DNH 8QLYHUVLW\

,AREDO¿-ARTIN¿4IGERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 District Record: 10-4 Coach: Hector J. Noyola Jr. (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: The Tigers will be looking to make their third consecutive appearance in the regional quarterfinals and advance to the playoffs for the fourth time in five seasons.

Two key players return to keep their postseason success churning. Angelo De Los Santos, a 6-0 senior and fourth-year starter, averaged 18 points last season and was named 29-5A Offensive Player of the Year. Luis Ortegon, a 6-1 sophomore guard, was honored as the district’s co-newcomer of the year. He too has played varsity ball since his freshman year, and he last season averaged 10 points. Seniors Danny Gonzalez and Jesus Inclan also return as major contributors from last season when they earned all-district second-team selection.

Playing Collegiately: &DUORV & - 0DUWLQH] /DUHGR 0DUWLQ 2XU /DG\ RI WKH /DNH University.

FYI: Laredo Martin has won one state championship in school history. It came in 1956 and was indeed in basketball.

Laredo Nixon Mustangs- Boys

3AN¿!NTONIO¿3AM¿(OUSTON¿(URRICANES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 16-15/10-6 Coach: Erik Coleman (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Alamo Heights, 57-56; W-Vandergrift, 55-44; W-Cedar Park Vista Ridge, 61-56; W-Edinburg Vela, 66-54; L-Cedar Park, 52-39.

Outlook: There’s a footnote to the Hurricanes’ three returning starters. Each of them became a starter as a mere freshman. So now that they are about to experience their curtain-call, expectations are running high, especially after the Hurricanes advanced all the way to the regional finals last season. The team’s ring leader is 6-3 all-state point guard Robert Christian (15 ppg, 7 rpg, 3 spg, 3 apg). In addition to receiving all-state accolades, Christian was named 28-5A MVP and an all-area MVP. His talented backcourt mate is Jawon Anderson, a 6-1 junior shooting guard (11 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 spg, 3 apg; 1st-team all-district, all-area). Ramonte Prime, a 6-1 senior forward (8 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 spg; honorable mention all-district), provides punch along the baseline. And the six-man starting rotation rounds out with 6-4 senior forward Brandon Vargas, 5-6 senior point guard Dewayane Brown and 5-11 senior shooting guard Henry Carter, the latter two of whom logged important varsity minutes last season.

Playing Collegiately: ,NH 7KRUQWRQ 6DP +RXVWRQ 6DQ -RVH 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ -RUGDQ +DUULV 6DP +RXVWRQ /DPDU 6WDWH &ROOHJH

2014-15 W-L: 26-10/14-0 Coach: Pete Solis Jr. (8 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 2015 Postseason: W-Victoria West, 86-73; W-Mission Veterans, 65-62; L-Flour Bluff, 86-82.

Outlook: High expectations rest on the return of 10 lettermen, including three 2014-15 starters – now seniors Hector Castillo (29-5A Defensive Player of the Year), Hector Ibarra (1st-team all-district) and Jerry Garcia (2nd-team all-district).

5VALDE¿#OYOTES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 11-19/4-10 Coach: Tut Wardlaw (11 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: “We will be very inexperienced, but it will be the most talented team I have had since starting here in 2013,” says coach Tut Wardlaw. “We will play fast and rely on full-court defense.” Leaders of the pack are Ernest Ortiz (1st-team all-district) and Grant Zimmerman (honorable mention all-district).

District 30 4ULOSO -IDWAY¿7ARRIORS¿ ¿"OYS¿

3AN¿!NTONIO¿4HOMAS¿*EFFERSON¿-USTANGS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 12-17/3-13 Coach: Art Vela (6 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen: 3/2 Outlook: Aggressive defense and an up-tempo offense are the key components of the new system being installed by Jefferson’s new coach Art Vela. “Although our team is transitioning into a new system, I think we should definitely make an impact and a run for the playoffs in District 28-5A,” Vela says. The Mustangs’ new coach will build around his two returning starters -- Noah Soto, a 6-3 junior wing/forward (a unanimous 1st-team all-district selection), and Anthony Freire, a 5-10 junior point guard.

Playing Collegiately: $UW\ 9HOD 7KRPDV (GLVRQ +6 &RQFRUGLD 8QLYHUVLW\ 3KLOOLS -RKQVRQ 7KRPDV (GLVRQ +6 8QLYHUVLW\ RI WKH ,QFDUQDWH :RUG /RUHQ]R 9HOD 7KRPDV (GLVRQ +6 +LEELQJ -8&2

2014-15 W-L: 12-19/8-8 Coach: Bobby Craig (39 years’ experience; 34th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: The Warriors have been to the postseason 22 times since 1984 but have come up dry the last two seasons. Bottom line, everyone is anxious to get back on track, and this looks to be a season where the worm will once again turn. The roster comprises 6-5 senior Tyler Graves, 6-5 junior Kameron Belford, 5-9 senior Tommy Chavera, 5-9 senior Todd Torres, 5-9 senior Noah Benavides, 6-0 senior Jeremy Garcia, 5-9 senior Ryan Flores, 5-7 sophomore Nate Allen and 5-9 senior Mike Saldivar.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

63 District 31

6ETERANSÂż-EMORIALÂż%AGLESÂż Âż'IRLSÂż Coach: Roy DeLaPena (25 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 0/0 Outlook: Roy DeLaPena has a quarter century of coaching experience, but this year is different like no other. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a brand new first-year program, and this is his first year at Memorial. There are no returnees to provide hope. He will look to 6-3 junior post Alexis Worley to help him wade through uncharted territory.

6ICTORIAÂż%ASTÂż4ITANSÂż Âż'IRLSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 25-12/12-1 Coach: Yulonda Wimbish-North (5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Laredo Martin, 58-29; W-Mission Veteran Memorial, 57-54; W-Victoria West, 58-51; L-Vista Ridge, 72-53.

Outlook: Victoria East was nearly perfect in district last season, but now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a whole new ball game with only one returning starter to build something again. That one returning starter is a good one, though. Serelia Dean, a 5-4 senior point guard, was last season voted district defensive MVP. Playing Collegiately: 'DQLHOOH )UDQNOLQ 9LFWRULD (DVW +XVWRQ 7LOORWVRQ 5DPD\D 'HDQ 9LFWRULD (DVW +XVWRQ 7LOORWVRQ $GHODLGH :HQ]HO 9LFWRULD (DVW 7H[DV Lutheran University.

Edinburg Vela SaberCats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 31-7/11-1 Coach: Lalo Rios (9yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 2015 Postseason: W-PSJA; W-Corpus Christi Miller; W-Laredo Martin; L-San Antonio Houston, 68-58.

Outlook: After the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first regional tournament appearance in only the third year of school existence, the SaberCats return 10 lettermen and three starters from a 31-7 team. With tremendous depth and experience, the SaberCats look to repeat as district champs and return to the regional tournament. The three returning starters who promise to accomplish that are Ryan Garza, a junior point guard; Hector Ruiz, a senior shooting guard; and Alec de la Cruz, a junior small forward.

District 32 Mercedes Tigers - Boys

6ICTORIAÂż7ESTÂż7ARRIORSÂż Âż"OYSÂż 2014-15 W-L: 19-13/11-5 Coach: Pat Erskine (11 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L-Laredo Nixon, 84-73.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This team could be the most athletic team West has had since opening in 2010,â&#x20AC;? says coach Pat Erskine, who has been there as head coach since day one. The relatively new program has never had to endure growing pains. The Warriors have made the playoffs every single year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This could be the team that goes the farthest in the playoffs if they are willing to put the team first,â&#x20AC;? Erskine says. The centerpiece is Ruben Trevino, a 6-0 senior guard who has lettered since his freshman campaign when he was named 30-4A Newcomer of the Year.

He was a 30-4A first-team all-district selection his sophomore year and then named as a Class 5A all-state honorable mention last season. Two other key components to this season earned second-team all-district selection this past spring. They are Eulogio Mendez, a 6-4 senior forward, and Kasey Kalich, a 6-3 junior forward.

Playing Collegiately: 'UHZ (UVNLQH 9LFWRULD :HVW 6RXWKZHVWHUQ $VVHPEOLHV RI *RG University.

2014-15 District Record: 7-7 Coach: Rick Trevino (3 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: The Rick Trevino era is now underway at Mercedes as the coach takes over a program that, in his words, is â&#x20AC;&#x153;very young, but with a lot of potential.â&#x20AC;? The one returning starter is senior point guard Ricky Jimenez. He has lettered three years now and actually cracked the starting lineup two years ago as a sophomore. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be joined in the backcourt by two-year letterman Rey Rincon, a shooting guard.

64

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

let us take care of all your printing needs

MAGAZINES | CATALOGS POSTCARDS | CALENDARS | BROCHURES

4954 Space Center Dr., San Antonio, TX 78218 512.480.0860 | www.shweiki.com

65

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

2015 UIL State Champions Boys

Girls

6A -- Plano West 5A -- Lancaster 4A -- Bridgeport 3A -- Brock 2A -- Canadian 1A -- Texline

6A -- Cypress Woods 5A -- Canyon 4A -- Argyle 3A -- Sunnyvale 2A -- Martin’s Mill 1A -- Nazareth

66

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Reprinted with Permission from The Dallas Morning News

D.J. Hits Legendary Buzzer-Beater

by Matt Wixon SAN ANTONIO — Despite all the big shots that sharpshooter D.J. Hogg made in his years playing for Plano West, he had never won a game with a shot at the buzzer.

Not until Saturday night, when the senior nailed a 19-footer in his final shot for the Wolves.

It came from the top of the key and barely scraped the back of the rim as it fell through. It was a typically sweet-looking stroke, and when it gave Plano West a 5654 win over Houston Clear Lake, it became the sweetest shot in school history.

Plano West had won the Class 6A state title — its first.

“The first game-winner, and it’s at state,” said Hogg, who scored 22 points and was chosen the game’s MVP. “It’s crazy.”

Crazy was a fair description of the game in front of 10,781 at the Alamodome. After blasting off to a 13-4 lead in the first five minutes, Plano West (33-2) struggled against smaller-but-quicker Clear Lake (35-3). Clear Lake went on a 12-0 run to end the first quarter to take a lead it wouldn’t give up until midway through the fourth.

Plano West took a 52-50 lead with 2:08 left when Mickey Mitchell made a steal and threw ahead for a Soso Jamabo layup, but Clear Lake scored the next four points.

After Plano West’s Chris Giles tied the score at 54-54 on a layup with 37 seconds left, Clear Lake worked the clock until Christian West drove to the basket.

He was called for a charge with 11.9 seconds left, setting up Hogg’s heroics. Plano West didn’t call time out, and Hogg got the ball at the top of the key and let the shot fly with 2.2 seconds left.

“D.J. had the ball in his hands, and you’ve got to trust that,” Jamabo said. “I thought I had a shot. He pulled up, I watched it go in and the rest is history. We’re state champs, and I couldn’t be happier.”

That Hogg would take the last shot made sense. The Texas A&M signee is one of the state’s best shooters from anywhere on the court. But through three quarters, he had only six points and had missed all eight of his 3-pointers.

But with 6:56 to play, Hogg hit his first. Twenty-one seconds later, he hit another for a 42-42 tie. He hit two more treys before drilling the game-winner with his foot on the 3-point line.

“I just kept shooting, man,” Hogg said. “I knew I could hit them. All my teammates said to keep shooting. All my teammates believed in me, so they helped me believe in myself.”

Plano West center Tyler Davis, another Texas A&M signee, had 14 points and six rebounds. Mitchell, who signed with Ohio State, had nine points, six rebounds and 10 assists for the Wolves, who were No. 1 in the state rankings all season.

“I can’t put the feeling in words,” Mitchell said. “We overcame a lot of adversity.”

“It’s a relief. A big, big relief,” Hogg added. “If we lost, we would’ve never let ourselves g it.” forget

D.J. Hogg

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

67

Front Row (l-r): Waseem Limbada, Michael McGraw, Grant Betz, Mickey Mitchell, DJ Hogg, Christian Gans, Jalen Stafford, Derrick Aimes, Coach Anthony Morgan, Soso Jamabo, Coach Derrick Richardson, Coach Julio Enriquez; Back Row (l-r): Katie McCool, Alan Tapia, Coach Nathan Leraas, Vezi Magalela, Ryan Smith, Japeheth Mengistu.

Chris Giles, Emeka Obukewelu, Coby Martin , Tyler Davis, Lavel Ramsey, Coach Mark Reynolds, Coach Bronson Aspen.

CLASS 6A PLANO WEST VISITORS: Houston Clear Lake 35-3 TOT-FG 3-PT REBOUNDS ## Player Name FG-FGA FG-FGA 34 Stenerson, Chris....f 5-10 0-0 41 Westby, Alex........ c 2-5 0-0 02 Lewis, Orion........ g 2-4 0-0 22 George, Bradley....g 5-11 2-3 25 West, Christian..... g 6-12 0-2 11 Fogle, Xavier.......

1-3 0-2 12 Gittens, TJ.........

0-1 0-0 21 Winfield, Nick...... 0-0 0-0 33 Lucas, Ryan......... 0-0 0-0 TEAM................

Totals..............

21-46 2-7

FT-FTA 0-0 1-1 2-2 2-2 4-4 1-2 0-0 0-0 0-0 10-11

OF 4 1 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 1 11

DE 4 2 0 5 4 0 0 0 0 2 17

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 13-28 46.4% 2nd Half: 8-18 44.4% Game: 45.7% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 0-4 0.0% 2nd Half: 2-3 66.7% Game: 28.6% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 5-6 83.3% 2nd Half: 5-5 100 % Game: 90.9% 1 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------HOME TEAM: Plano West 33-2 TOT-FG 3-PT REBOUNDS ## Player Name FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE 22 Smith, Ryan......... f 1-2 0-0 0-0 1 1 34 Davis, Tyler........ c 6-8 0-0 2-4 2 4 00 Mitchell, Mickey.... g 3-7 0-0 3-5 2 4 01 Hogg, DJ............ g 9-21 4-11 0-0 0 5 03 Jamabo, Soso........ g 2-4 1-3 2-2 1 0 04 Giles, Chris........

1-2 0-0 0-0 0 0 05 Limbada, Waseem..... 0-1 0-1 0-0 0 0 11 Aimes, Derrick...... 0-0 0-0 0-0 1 0 TEAM................

1 Totals..............

22-45 5-15 7-11 8 14 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 9-23 39.1% 2nd Half: 13-22 59.1% Game: 48.9% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 1-7 14.3% 2nd Half: 4-8 50.0% Game: 33.3% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 7-11 63.6% 2nd Half: 0-0 0.0% Game: 63.6% 2 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------Officials: Eddie Hopkins, Michael Barnes, Cody Kuykendall Technical fouls: Houston Clear Lake-None. Plano West-None.

Attendance: 10781 Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Houston Clear Lake............ 16 15 9 14 - 54 Plano West.................... 13 13 8 22 - 56

TOT 8 3 0 7 6 1 0 0 0 3 28

PF 3 2 2 2 3 1 0 0 0

TP 10 5 6 14 16 3 0 0 0

A 1 2 1 0 2 0 1 0 0

TO 0 1 1 6 5 0 1 0 1

BLK 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

S 1 1 2 2 1 0 0 0 0

MIN 30 27 22 32 32 4 10 1 2

13

54

7

15

1

7

160

TOT 2 6 6 5 1 0 0 1 1 22

PF 0 4 4 2 1 1 0 1

TP 2 14 9 22 7 2 0 0

A 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0

TO 0 2 6 1 1 1 0 1

BLK 0 4 0 3 0 0 0 0

S 1 1 1 1 1 2 0 2

MIN 18 27 30 31 28 8 4 14

13

56

10

12

7

9

160

Game 18 - Conference 6A Championship Championship Game MVP: DJ Hogg, Plano West Points in the paint-HCLRLAKE 34,PLNWEST 30. Points off turnovers-HCLRLAKE 16,PLNWEST 14.

2nd chance points-HCLRLAKE 12,PLNWEST 14. Fast break points-HCLRLAKE 12,PLNWEST 4.

Bench points-HCLRLAKE 3,PLNWEST 2. Score tied-5 times. Lead changed-5 times.

Last FG-HCLRLAKE 4th-03:42, PLNWEST 4th-00:01.

Largest lead-HCLRLAKE by 10 3rd-06:34, PLNWEST by 9 1st-03:41.

HCLRLAKE led for 20:45. PLNWEST led for 05:26. Game was tied for 05:19.

3

68 68

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESSPRESS J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT

Short-handed Cy Woods Still Turns Out the Lights on Dallas’ Skyline

by Garland Hancock SAN ANTONIO — With 6-9 center Nancy Mulkey in foul trouble, Cypress Woods (35-1) turned to Erica Ogwumike to pick up the slack, and the senior guard did that and more in a 57-49 Class 6A state-title win over Skyline (31-7).

Ogwumike, later named the game’s MVP, closed with a gamehigh 26 points. She hit 9 of 17 (52.9 percent) from the field and 3 of 5 (60 percent) from beyond the arc.

Ogwumike also pulled down 8 rebounds and recorded a game-high 5 steals. Her overall game – including a crucial steal with just over a minute to go in the game -- proved to be the difference.

With Mulkey’s playing time limited to only 14 minutes, Cy Woods’ other four starters – Ogwumike, Williams, Cate Reese and Tatyana Perez -- were asked to log yeoman’s minutes. Each played the maximum 32, never coming out once for a breather.

Mulkey, currently ranked by ESPN’s HoopGurlz as the nation’s top center, picked up her second foul of the game at the 6:12 mark of the first period.

During the first media timeout, she subbed out with her team leading 7-2. In her absence, Cy Woods closed the period by extending its lead to 19-8. But Mulkey’s presence was sorely missed in the second period as Skyline rallied to go up, 28-24, at the break.

In the third period, with Mulkey back on the floor, Cy Woods righted the ship to go into the final stanza leading 47-38. Then, less than a minute into the final frame, Mulkey picked up foul number four and left the game again.

She returned at the 3:57 mark; but less than a minute later, fouled out with her team leading 50-44.

Williams hit the front end of a 1-and-1 to extend the lead, but Skyline’s leading scorer Dai’ja Thomas got fouled on a made layup and hit the following free throw. Then, on Skyline’s next trip down, Thomas

hit another layup to cut it to two, 51-49.

Williams answered with a layup of her own, and Ogwumike, with just 1:14 remaining, came up with a timely steal. On the ensuing possession, Williams and Reese each missed layups, but Williams then got fouled and hit the first of two free throws. She missed the second but Perez came down with the rebound; and with only 33 seconds left and Cy Woods ahead by 5 (5449), the courtside Mulkey breathed a big sigh of relief.

Cy Woods could have eliminated the late-game drama but missed seven of 13 free throws in the final frame. For the game, Cy Woods hit only 14 of 25 free throws (56 percent). Those missed opportunities were largely offset, though, by Cy Woods forcing eight more turnovers than it committed.

Reese and Williams joined Ogwumike in double-digit scoring with 10 each. Reese also posted a team-high 9 rebounds.

Skyline’s Thomas would have likely nabbed MVP honors if not for her team losing. She hit 7 of 11 from the field and 10 of 11 from the line for a team-high 24 points. She also recorded game-highs with 13 rebounds and four blocked shots.

Christalah Lyons had a strong game as well with 8 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals.

Bi-district Houston Cypress Woods 62, Houston MacArthur 32 Area Cypress Woods 80, Tompkins 19 Regional Quarterfinal Cypress Woods 62, Cypress Ranch 38

Erica Ogwumike

Regional Semifinal Cypress Woods 71, North Shore 62 Regional Final Cypress Woods 75, Westside W Wes We es estsi t side tsi e 36 36

State Semifinal Cypress Woods 79, San Antonio Wagner 60 State Championship Houston Cypress Woods 57, Dallas Skyline 49

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

69

Seated (L-R):Sai Bapat, Kayla Alker, Madison Goodson, Hannah Dolinsky, Shelby Stephenson, Olivia Holmes, Madelin Cowden and Bianca Banda.

Standing (L-R):Head coach Virginia Flores, assistant coach Brittany Ishmael, Gabby Perez, Jummy Orundami, Alyssa Weick, Tatyana Perez, Jasmine Williams, Nancy Mulkey, Cate Reese, Erica Ogwumike, Julie Brogdon, Katrina Romo, Shelby Sisneroz, LAT Louie Villarreal and LAT Laura Anderson.

CLASS 6A CYPRESS WOODS VISITORS: Houston Cypress Woods 35-1 FG-FGA ## Player Name 4-12 34 Reese, Cate.............. f 1-3 32 Mulkey, Nancy.......... c 3-7 11 Perez, Tatyana......... g 9-17 13 Ogwumike, Erica...... g 3-9 15 Williams, Jasmine.... g 0-1 10 Stephenson, Shelby 0-0 24 Alker, Kayla Team..........................

20-49 Totals.......................

FG-FGA 0-0 0-0 0-1 3-5 0-2 0-0 0-0

FT-FTA 2-2 2-2 1-2 5-10 4-9 0-0 0 0

3-8

14-25

OF 6 1 2 3 2 0 0 1 15

DE 3 6 3 5 1 1 0 1 20

TOT 9 7 5 8 3 1 0 2 35

PF 3 5 1 3 1 1 0

TP 10 4 7 26 10 0 0

A 1 0 2 1 0 0 0

TO 0 1 3 6 2 1 0

BLK 0 1 0 0 1 0 0

S 2 1 0 5 2 0 0

MIN 32 14 32 32 32 10 8

14

57

4

13

2

10

160

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 10-23 43.5% 2nd Half: 10-26 38.5% Game: 40.8% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 3-7 42.9% 2nd Half: 0-1 0.0% Game: 37.5% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 1-3 33.3% 2nd Half: 13-22 59.1% Game: 56.0% 3 HOME TEAM: Dallas Skyline 31-7 FT-FTA TO A MIN S FG-FGA BLK FG-FGA TP PF TOT DE OF ## Player Name 0-0 3 0 26 3-6 0 2 3-6 9 5 5 5 0 15 Alexander, Jordan....f 10-11 4 1 31 0-2 0 4 7-11 24 2 13 8 5 20 Thomas, Dai’Ja.........f 0-0 5 5 30 2 2-6 0 3-12 8 2 5 4 1 01 Lyons, Christala........g 1-2 2 2 21 0-3 1 0 0-8 1 4 0 0 0 04 Johnson, Raven........g 5 0 0-0 21 0-1 1 0 0-1 0 3 2 2 0 11 Gulley, Jaylan............g 1 0 0-0 12 1-5 1 0 2-6 5 3 1 1 0 02 Paul, LaDerica..........

0 0 0-0 12 0-0 0 1-1 0 2 1 1 1 0 22 Amand, Jamesia.......

1 0 0-2 7 0-0 0 0 0-0 0 2 3 1 2 25 Allen, Byunna...........

3 3 Team..........................

21 8 11-15 160 6-23 5 6 16-45 49 22 33 22 11 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 9-22 40.9% 2nd Half: 7-23 30.4% Game: 35.6% DEADB Game 18 - Conference 6A Final 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 3-8 37.5% 2nd Half: 3-15 20.0% Game: 26.1% REBS Points in the paint-CYWOODS 24,SKYLINE 18. Points off turnovers-CYWOODS F Throw % 1st Half: 7-8 87.5% 2nd Half: 4-7 57.1% Game: 73.3% 2 20,SKYLINE 14.

2nd chance points-CYWOODS 14,SKYLINE 14. Fast break points-CYWOODS Officials: Billy Gaines, Darin Duecker, Jacoby Smith 10,SKYLINE 2.

Technical fouls: Houston Cypress Woods-None. Dallas Skyline-None.

Bench points-CYWOODS 0,SKYLINE 7. Score tied-1 time. Lead changed-2 times.

Attendance: 4813 Last FG-CYWOODS 4th-01:34, SKYLINE 4th-01:44.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Largest lead-CYWOODS by 11 1st-00:15, SKYLINE by 6 2nd-00:24.

Cypress Woods.............. 19 5 23 10 - 57 CYWOODS led for 25:59. SKYLINE led for 05:22. Game was tied for 00:33.

Dallas Skyline................ 8 20 10 11 - 49

70

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Thomas Showcases Elite Talents to Give Lancaster 1st Hoops Title

by Garland Hancock

in just over 6 minutes of play.

Down 29-20 to begin the secSAN ANTONIO — Elijah ond half, Ozen started to show Thomas, the state of Texas’ top–ranked player, wasted no signs of panic. After firing only five treys in the first half, the time in living up to his pregame hype. The 6-9 Thomas set Panthers hoisted 11 after interthe tone with a dominant first mission and only netted one.

Thomas, Lancaster’s title-game period, and Lancaster (34-4) MVP, would go on to hit 8 of 11 cruised – for the most part – to a 59-47 win over Beaumont from the field. He scored 17 points, pulled down nine reOzen (33-4) in the class 5A state-title tilt. The title bounds and blocked three shots marked the first in basketball in only 21 minutes of play.

The Tigers’ backcourt leader, for a school mainly known for Antwon Portley, contributed a its track and field program. team-high 21 points (5-of-14 The only time that Ozen shooting) and added eight appeared to have a fighter’s chance was when Thomas sat rebounds. JaColby Pemberton out nearly the entire second pe- also registered eight boards for riod due to foul trouble. During the Tigers. that stretch, the Panthers man- John Comeaux was the only Ozen Panther to score in double aged to close the gap to four. digits. He netted 15 points But that reprieve was shortlived. When Thomas returned to on 5-of-12 shooting. Ozen’s Christian Bolton pulled down a play after team-high eight rebounds, but intermission, Lancaster resumed control, and the game the Panthers lost the battle of the boards overall, 47-38. never seemed in question With four starters returning, again.

Lancaster will enter the 2015Thomas scored on a layup 15 seconds into the game and 16 season as the prohibitive favorite to win another title. keyed a 14-3 Lancaster lead when he hit four of five shots – The Tigers also will be riding a including one from downtown – 28-game winning streak as the season begins.

Eli Thomas

Sponsored by J.D. Mayo’s Full-Court Press

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

71

2014-15 Statistical Leaders Boys

Girls

Assists

Assists

Player

School

APG 2015-16 Class

Player

School

APG 2015-16 Class

1. Travis Dean

Texas Christian

10.5

Senior

1. Shelly Abbott

Strawn

9.0

2. Domonique Chambers

Caldwell

8.7

Sophomore

2. Cami Davis

Marion

7.6

Graduated

3. Jake Yackle

Carroll

8.5

Graduated

3. Kennedy Leonard

Carroll

7.5

Graduated

4. Joey Rosamond

Azle Christian

7.8

Graduated

4. Kennedy Taylor

Lincoln

6.6

Sophomore

5. Jj Caldwell

Cypress Woods

7.6

Senior

5. Bria Johnson

Sunnyvale

6.4

Graduated

6. Calvin Mcgee

Abilene

7.1

Senior

6. Jaelyn Richard-Harris

Dekaney

6.3

Senior

7. Hunter Bennett

Flint Academy

7.1

Graduated

7. Kristian James

Goodrich

6.2

Senior

8. Alex Herrera

Hanna

7.0

Graduated

8. Te’Aire Hambrick

LaPoynor

6.1

Sophomore

9. Austin Ferguson

Methodist

6.9

Senior

9. Calveion Landrum

La Vega

6.0

Senior

10. Alyx Henderson

Plains

5.9

Graduated

11. Marissa Banfield

Westbury Christian

5.9

Junior

Children’s Home 10. Grayland Arnold

Kountze

6.7

Senior

Rebounding

Graduated

Rebounding

Player

School

RPG 2015-16 Class

Player

School

RPG 2015-16 Class

1. Keyshawn Jones

River City Christian

17.4

1. Shayla Jones

Gateway

18.1

Junior

2. Lyndon Cook

Muenster

15.6

Graduated

3. Michael Johnson

Texas Christian

15.4

Senior

2. Teaira Mccowan

Brenham

17.1

Graduated

4. Issac Ridgle

Athens Christian Prep 15.3

Graduated

3. Ayisha Allen

Burton

16.4

Graduated

5. Paul Hepburn

Clear Lake Christian

14.9

Senior

6. Conner Miller

Khabele

14.8

Graduated

4. Daniela Perez

Mission

16.2

Graduated

7. Rickey Brice Jr.

Pantego Christian

14.5

Graduated

5. Sara Lewis

Reagan

15.9

Senior

8. Josh Duncan

KOR Education School 14.4

Graduated

6. Lauren Cox

Flower Mound

15.3

Senior

9. Grant Miller

Dallas Academy

14.4

Graduated

7. Madison Rhoder

Fort Bend Austin

15.2

Senior

10. Hunter Reaves

Longview Christian

14.3

Junior

8. Adeola Akomola

El Dorado

15.1

Graduated

9. Tontyana Sanders

Connally

14.5

Junior

10. Jessica Myers

Christian Life Prep

13.5

Sophomore

Sophomore

Charter Academy

Adventist Academy

Scoring

Scoring PPG 2015-16 Class

Player

School

PPG 2015-16 Class

Player

1. Shane Stelter

Brenham Christian

36.8

Graduated

1. Kristian James

Goodrich

30.5

Senior

2. Harrison Nowak

Strawn

33.2

Graduated

2. Eryka Sidney

Wheatley

29.4

Senior

3. King McClure

Triple A Academy

32.1

Graduated

3. Kira La Sage

Dallas

29.0

Junior

4. Admon Gilder

Dallas Madison

30.8

Graduated

5. Wendell Mitchell

Rockdale

29.7

Graduated

28.7

Junior

6. Austin Grandstaff

Rockwall

29.0

Graduated

7. Dalton Standish

Grapevine

28.3

Senior

Faith Christian

School

Christian Academy 4. Alexis Morris

Legacy Christian Acadmey

5. Gracie Dozier

Sonara

26.9

Graduated

6. Jayde Price

Strawn

26.0

Graduated

8. Blake Dwyer

Reicher Catholic

28.1

Senior

7. Kyra Lambert

Clemens

25.8

Graduated

9. Alex Hobbs

La Porte

27.0

Senior

8. Angel Hastings

Gervin Academy

25.4

Sophomore

10. Jaylon Player

Methodist

26.6

Graduated

9. Faith Coook

Goose Creek Memorial 25.1

10. Anja Martin

Stevens

Children’s Home

24.2

Senior Graduated

72

Canyon Successfully Defends Title in a Physical Class 5A Whistle Fest

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS SPONSORED BY:

by Garland Hancock

Adams’ leading scorer with 12, SAN ANTONIO — After getting capped the run with a layup, repeatedly assaulted, Canyon prompting Lombard to stop the ultimately managed to execute a clock with 3:29 remaining in the couple of hit-and-runs of its own period. to pull away from Dallas Adams, Out of the timeout, Lexi Her48-41, and win yet another back- nandez missed a three, but game to-back state championship.

MVP Angel Hayden grabbed the Canyon (34-3) has now placed 17 rebound and then hit reserve notches in its championship belt Savannah Bartlett with an assist. and has won back-to-back titles Bartlett hit from deep, and the four times. But this title defense trey launched an 8-0 run that was far from business as usual. ended with Canyon on top, 33-23, This one got a little physical and with only 1:35 to go before the then some. final frame.

In an effort to force the issue Lombard wisely stopped play at the line, Adams (30-5) nearly again early in the fourth. As fouled out its entire starting line- before, he called timeout after up. Adams committed 28 fouls andAdams hit an easy layup. This time got whistled 16 times in the fourth the soon-to-foul-out Fears did the period alone. Starting forward damage, coming up with a steal Jerice Fears (9 points) fouled out and then finishing at the rim. with nearly 6 minutes remaining Fears’ bucket closed the gap after committing two fouls in 38 to only six, 35-29. But when play seconds, and Adams’ four other resumed, a foul by Adams’ Jasa starters wound up with four fouls Nixon put the ball on the side, and each. a subsequent foul by Fears put The onslaught of fouls startHayden at the line. Hayden made ed early in the final frame even only one of two, but that free though Canyon’s lead through throw served to settle nerves and three, 35-27, was far from insur- kick start a 7-1 run that erased any mountable. Adams’ early fouls remaining doubt. came in an attempt to force turn- As the game’s MVP, Hayden overs. Towards the end, a desper- closed with a game-high 16 points ate squad employed a designated (5-of-12 from the field; 6-of-11 fouler off the bench to simply slowfrom the line) and a game-high 9 down the clock. rebounds along with 2 steals.

While matters never got too Canyon’s Bailey Byrd contributdicey, Canyon struggled at the ed 9 points, and McKenzie Taylor line, and that left the door at least proved to be a spark coming off ajar for Adams. Canyon made only the bench, scoring 5 points and 13 of 25 free throw attempts (52 posting 3 rebounds in only 9 percent) in the final period and minutes. hit just 18 of 33 attempts (54.5 Canyon got to the line 21 more percent) for the game. times than an Adams squad that Twice Canyon looked like it wound up hitting 83.3 percent of might be teetering on its champi- its 12 free throws, but managed onship pedestal, but two timely only one free throw attempt the timeouts by coach Joe Lombard entire first half. Canyon’s ability to served to stem the tide.Adams maintain defensive pressure withtrailed, 23-15, at halftime but out fouling proved key. Contested started the third period with an on nearly every shot, Adams hit 8-2 run that narrowed the gap to only 31.1 percent from the field only two, 25-23. Alexus Gilbert, compared to Canyon netting 41.2 percent of its shots.

Photo: James S. Barrington

Angel Hayden

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 5A CANYON

73

Front Row (L-R): Bryan Lintner, Angel Hayden, Savannah Bartlett, Calista Winings, Bailey Byrd, Sid Urteaga, Kaitey Harris and Lexi Hernandez.

Back Row (L-R): Brianne McDowell, Todd Bowman, Blaire Winings, Channing Cunyus, Meghan Jackson, Paitlyn Tankersley, KC Brown, Brianna Stewart, McKenzie Taylor, Kalista Kotara, coach Joe Lombard, Callie Boren and Johnny Hampton.

VISITORS: Abilene Wylie 32-6 TO A FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA ## Player Name MIN S BLK TP PF TOT DE OF 4 4 1-1 0-1 4-9 00 Fears, Jerice............ f 26 4 1 9 5 3 3 0 1 0 5-6 0-0 1-4 05 Dixon, Fabrianna..... f 32 2 1 7 4 4 3 1 5 3 1-1 0-4 1-12 15 Baty, Dabrasia......... f 27 1 0 3 4 4 3 1 2 0 1-2 2-4 2-6 01 Nixon, Jasa............... g 28 0 0 7 4 4 1 3 2 1 2-2 0-0 5-11 12 Gilbert, Alexus......... g 30 1 2 12 4 5 4 1 1 0 0-0 1-2 1-3 03 Gibson, Keya.............

14 1 0 3 3 2 0 2 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 10 Brown-Freeney, Kia. 0+ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 23 Walker, Qui................

1 0 0 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 40 Tilley, Lakota............

2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Team..........................

3 1 2 15 8 10-12 3-11 14-45 Totals.......................

9 4 41 28 26 160 15 11 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 6-17 35.3% 2nd Half: 8-28 28.6% Game: 31.1% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-6 33.3% 2nd Half: 1-5 20.0% Game: 27.3% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 1-1 100 % 2nd Half: 9-11 81.8% Game: 83.3% 1 HOME TEAM: Canyon 34-3 A TO FT-FTA ## Player Name MIN TP S PF BLK FG-FGA TOT DE OF FG-FGA 0 1 0-1 44 McDowell, Brianne... c 16 2 1 0 3 1-1 2 1 1 0-0 0 1 2-3 10 Byrd, Bailey........ g 22 9 1 2 0 3-7 3 2 1 1-4 0 1 3-4 21 Winings, Calista.... g 27 5 1 2 2 4 3 1 0-1 1-4 4 0 6-11 23 Hayden, Angel....... g 31 16 2 0 0 9 5 4 0-1 5-12 4 0 6-8 32 Cunyus, Caitlyn..... g 27 6 2 2 0 4 3 1 0-0 0-1 2 2 0-4 03 Hernandez, Lexi.....

11 0 1 0 0 3 3 0 0-1 0-1 0 0 0-0 04 Jackson, Meghan.....

3 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0-1 2-4 2 1 0-0 05 Bartlett, Savannah..

9 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0-0 12 Urtega, Sidra.......

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1-1 0+ 0-0 0 0 0-0 20 Cunyus, Channing....

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0+ 2-3 0 0 1-2 40 Taylor, McKenzie....

5 1 2 0 3 2 1 0-0 9 0-0 0 0 0-0 41 Stewart, Brianna....

0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0-0 2 0-0 1 0 0-0 42 Brown, KC...........

0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0-0 0+ 0-0 0 0 0-0 55 Tankersley, Paitlyn.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 3 0-0 Team..........................

1 1 15 4 18-33 Totals.......................

48 9 13 2 32 21 11 2-8 160 14-34 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 9-19 47.4% 2nd Half: 5-15 33.3% Game: 41.2% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 1-4 25.0% 2nd Half: 1-4 25.0% Game: 25.0% REBS Game 16 - Conference 5A Final F Throw % 1st Half: 4-7 57.1% 2nd Half: 14-26 53.8% Game: 54.5% 9 Officials: Chris Sauceda, Stacie Blow, Tricia Losavio Points in the paint-ADAMS 22,CANYON 22. Points off turnovers-ADAMS 15,CANYON 15.

Technical fouls: Dallas Adams-None. Canyon-None.

2nd chance points-ADAMS 9,CANYON 8. Fast break points-ADAMS 4,CANYON 6.

Attendance: 4247 Bench points-ADAMS 3,CANYON 10. Score tied-3 times. Lead changed-2 times.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Last FG-ADAMS 4th-00:00, CANYON 3rd-00:39.

Dallas Adams.................. 8 7 12 14 - 41 Largest lead-ADAMS by 3 1st-03:02, CANYON by 12 4th-03:51.

Canyon............................ 11 12 12 13 - 48 ADAMS led for 01:35. CANYON led for 25:11. Game was tied for 04:35.

OCTOBER742015 • VOL. 2

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS 74

Bridgeport Captures Historic Title as Bulls Bully Raiders by 30 points

by Garland Hancock

Caleb Smith

SAN ANTONIO – The onetwo punch of juniors Devonte Patterson and Caleb Smith proved deadly in Bridgeport (35-4) capturing its first state title in boys basketball via a unanimous 83-53 decision over Houston Sterling (31-6).

Not only had Bridgeport never won a state title in basketball, the last time it won a playoff game was in 1998. That year, current coach Alan Green was a sophomore at Bridgeport.

Sterling hung with the Bulls for the first six minutes, but that’s when things began to unravel. In a four-minute stretch bridging the first and second periods, the Bulls went on a 13-2 run. That gave Bridgeport a commanding 19-9 lead, and Sterling really never recovered its legs after that.

The route was all the more impressive given that Bridgeport posted an all-junior lineup. Smith hit 67 percent from the field and 50 percent from downtown en route to MVP hon-

ors. He closed with 23 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. The rangy 6-6 Patterson added 29 points and 15 rebounds.

Altogether, the Bulls had four players notch double-digit scoring. In a complementary role to Smith and Patterson, Keenan Holdman and Ethan Chapman contributed 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Commendably, the Raiders never tapped out. Leading their valiant effort to keep answering the bell was Corey Burks (18 points, 4 rebounds), Joshua Young (17 points, 9 rebounds) and Avery Ragland (10 points, 5 rebounds).

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

75

CLASS 4A BRIDGEPORT

L-R: coach Clay Johns, Jacob DelAngel, Devonte Patterson, John Freeman, Justin Meyers, Toby Hamblin, Chayton Stotts, Cole Shawn, Andrew Horton, Dillon Banner, Ethan Chapman, Connor Hurd, Keenan Holdman, Caleb Smith, Jacob Tibbels, coach Alan Green and coach Joel Faulkenberry.

VISITORS: Houston Sterling 31-6 FT-FTA ## Player Name FG-FGA FG-FGA DE OF 2-4 03 Young, Joshua....... f 1-5 7-16 7 2 0-6 04 Mitchell, Reginald.. f 0-0 2-4 2 2 0-0 02 Wesley, Curtlon..... c 0-1 1-7 2 3 2-5 00 Burks, Corey........ g 2-5 7-15 4 0 4-6 01 Ragland, Avery...... g 0-3 3-9 3 2 0-0 05 Petties, Jordan.....

0-0 0-1 0 1 0-0 10 Jackson, Joseph.....

0-2 0-2 1 1 0-0 11 Weathers, Darius....

0-0 0-0 0 0 0-0 12 Thomas, Keldrick...

0-1 0-2 0 0 0-0 14 McKinney, Robert....

0-0 0-1 1 0 0-0 21 Walker, Isaiah......

0-0 1-1 0 1 Team..........................

2 8-21 Totals.......................

3-17 21-58 22 12 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 6-25 24.0% 2nd Half: 15-33 45.5% Game: 36.2% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 0-4 0.0% 2nd Half: 3-13 23.1% Game: 17.6% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 4-12 33.3% 2nd Half: 4-9 44.4% Game: 38.1% 5,2 HOME TEAM: Bridgeport 35-4 ## Player Name 02 Patterson, Devonte.. f 01 Del Angel, Jacob.... g 03 Chapman, Ethan...... g 05 Holdman, Keenan..... g 12 Smith, Caleb........ g 10 Freeman, John.......

11 Tibbels, Jacob......

15 Horton, Andrew......

21 Stotts, Chayton.....

22 Hurd, Connor........

23 Meyers, Justin......

25 Banner, Dillon......

Team..........................

Totals.......................

FG-FGA 8-20 1-5 4-10 3-7 8-12 0-0 0-0 1-1 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1

FG-FGA 3-8 1-3 3-7 0-0 2-4 0-0 0-0 1-1 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1

FT-FTA 10-18 2-2 0-0 6-8 5-7 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

25-56

10-24

23-35

OF 6 3 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 14

DE 9 6 3 8 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 32

TOT 9 4 5 4 5 1 2 0 0 1 1 2 34

PF 2 4 5 4 4 1 0 1 2 2 0

TP 17 4 2 18 10 0 0 0 0 0 2

A 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TO 3 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

BLK 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

S 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

MIN 31 29 19 26 31 1 1 8 8 5 1

25

53

1

7

0

3

160

TOT 15 9 3 9 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 46

PF 2 2 4 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TP 29 5 11 12 23 0 0 3 0 0 0 0

A 2 2 3 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TO 2 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

BLK 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

S 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

MIN 30 28 31 32 30 1 1 3 1 1 1 1

14

83

15

7

0

5

160

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 11-29 37.9% 2nd Half: 14-27 51.9% Game: 44.6% DEADB Game 17 - Conference 4A Championship 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 3-13 23.1% 2nd Half: 7-11 63.6% Game: 41.7% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 8-13 61.5% 2nd Half: 15-22 68.2% Game: 65.7% 5,1 Officials: David Schmidt, Yaiwan Gatewood, Points in the paint-HSTRLNG 32,BRIDGEPT 24. Points off turnovers-HSTRLNG 7,BRIDGEPT 9.

Thomas Northcutt 2nd chance points-HSTRLNG 12,BRIDGEPT 17. Fast break points-HSTRLNG 8,BRIDGEPT 8.

Technical fouls: Houston Sterling-None. Bridgeport-None. Bench points-HSTRLNG 2,BRIDGEPT 3. Score tied-2 times. Lead changed-3 times.

Attendance: 10049 Last FG-HSTRLNG 4th-01:06, BRIDGEPT 4th-01:31.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Largest lead-HSTRLNG by 2 1st-06:59, BRIDGEPT by 32 4th-01:31.

Houston Sterling........... 9 7 21 16 - 53 HSTRLNG led for 01:22. BRIDGEPT led for 26:02. Game was tied for 02:47.

Bridgeport.................... 14 19 27 23 - 83

76

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Gray-ce Under Pressure: Argyle Sophomore Delivers

by Garland Hancock SAN ANTONIO — After turning heads at the 2014 state tournament as only a freshman, forward Vivian Gray came up even bigger this time around – nabbing MVP honors after leading Argyle (32-5) to a lopsided 46-25 win over favored Abilene Wylie (32-6).

Gray, slotted 14th nationwide in ESPN HoopGurlz’ class-of-2017 rankings, scored almost as much as all 11 of the players who logged playing time for Abilene Wylie. She wound up with 21 points on 9-of-16 shooting from the field and 3-of-4 shooting at the line.

Gray also pulled down a gamehigh 12 rebounds and swatted a couple of shots for good measure.

Peyton Sanders, Abilene Wylie’s leading scorer with 8, made a layup to put her team up, 6-4, with 3:25 to go in the first period. It would be the last time Argyle trailed.

Argyle closed the period with a 10-2 run and then scored the first four points of the second frame to take a commanding double-digit lead at 18-8. In fact, Abilene Wylie would never get closer than 6 the rest of the way, and that happened only once in the opening moments of the second half.

Aside from Gray being by far the best player on the floor, the lopsided score could be traced to a more aggressive Argyle winning the battle of the boards, 33-22, and keeping a hand in the face of Abilene Wylie’s shooters, who hit only 24.2 percent of their shots from the field. Even worse, a rattled Abilene Wylie hit only 2 of 12 from beyond the arc and could fare little better at the line, hitting only 7 of its 15 freebies (46.7 percent).

Brittany Brewer, Abilene Wylie’s 6-4 center who is headed to Texas Tech next fall and is currently ranked as ESPN HoopGurlz’ 97th player nationwide, never got rolling. She scored just 6 points on 2-of-8 shooting from the field and 2-of-6 shooting from the line.

She did record 4 blocks but pulled down only 5 rebounds.

For Argyle, Jesse Sheridan joined Gray in double-digit scoring. She was a perfect 8-of-8 from the line en route to 13 points. She also netted a game-high 3 steals.

Gray’s performance proved singular, though, and it came on the heels of a 36-point, 13-rebound performance in Argyle’s 58-54 win over 2014 state champ Waco La Vega, a team that defeated Argyle in the 2014 title tilt, 47-42, and was expected to repeat in 2015.

The state championship marked the seventh overall for coach Skip Townsend and his first since taking over at Argyle in 2011. He has now been to the state tourney nine times.

Vivian Gray

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 4A ARGYLE

77

Sitting (L-R): Caroline Tynes, Marley Straubmueller, Leighton Eschle, Cheyanne Gantz and Yaritza Sanchez.

Kneeling (L-R): Kaylie King, Jesse Sheridan, Molly Sheridan, Hannah Atkins, Kayla Haynes and Mira Lillard.

Standing (L-R): Olivia Gray, Brittany Hamilton, Madison Ralston, Delaney Sain, Jocelyn Pierce, Sophie Betzhold and Madison Stapleton.

Back Row (L-R): Sammye Townsend, Skip Townsend, Claire Betzhold, Vivian Gray, Brady Bell and Derek Hilliard.

VISITORS: Abilene Wylie 32-6 TO A FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA ## Player Name S BLK TP MIN PF TOT DE OF 1 2 0-0 0-0 0-0 30 Shields, Courtney.... f 0 0 0 13 0 1 0 1 4 0 2-6 0-0 2-8 40 Brewer, Brittany...... c 0 4 6 28 0 5 5 0 1 0 0-0 1-6 2-7 24 Weilert, London....... g 0 1 5 25 4 3 3 0 2 0 1-2 0-1 0-5 32 Christian, Kinsey..... g 1 0 1 18 5 2 1 1 2 1 3-4 1-2 2-4 34 Sanders, Peyton...... g 1 0 8 29 2 6 5 1 0 0 0-0 0-2 0-2 10 Brasel, Taylor............

0 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 11 Garcia, Madi..............

0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 0-0 0-1 0-1 12 Henson, Ragan.........

0 0 0 10 0 1 1 0 1 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 20 Seale, Shannon........

0 0 6 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 1-3 0-0 1-3 42 White, Daylee............

0 3 10 1 1 2 0 2 0 0 0-0 0-0 1-3 44 Moseley, Makaela....

0 2 13 1 0 2 2 0 Team..........................

12 3 7-15 2-12 8-33 Totals.......................

5 160 25 17 3 22 17 5 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 3-15 20.0% 2nd Half: 5-18 27.8% Game: 24.2% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 1-5 20.0% 2nd Half: 1-7 14.3% Game: 16.7% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 4-6 66.7% 2nd Half: 3-9 33.3% Game: 46.7% 4 MIN HOME TEAM: Argyle 32-5 31 TO A FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA TP PF TOT S BLK DE OF ## Player Name 29 2 1 3-4 9-16 21 3 12 1 2 9 3 0-0 12 Gray, Vivian.............. f 30 2 1 1-2 1-2 3 2 0 4 1 3 1 0-0 22 Ralston, Madison.... f 30 0 2 0-0 0-2 0 2 0 6 0 5 1 0-1 34 Gray, Olivia............... f 31 1 0 3-4 7 1 2 0 0 1 1 0-0 2-10 15 Sain, Delany............. c 2 3 1 8-8 13 1 3 3 0 2 1 1-3 2-7 33 Sheridan, Jesse........ g 3 1 0 0-0 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 0-0 1-1 10 Pierce, Jocelyn.........

1 1 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 11 Hamilton, Brttany....

2 0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 23 King, Kaylie...............

1 0 0 0-0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-1 35 Betzhold, Claire........

0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 42 Stapleton, Madison..

160 5 4 1 Team..........................

10 5 15-18 46 10 5 33 3 24 9 1-4 15-39 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 10-26 38.5% 2nd Half: 5-13 38.5% Game: 38.5% DEADB Game 17 - Conference 4A Final 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 0-3 0.0% 2nd Half: 1-1 100 % Game: 25.0% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 0-0 0.0% 2nd Half: 15-18 83.3% Game: 83.3% 1 Officials: Ricky Collinsworth, Danny Barker, Bobby Bytheway Points in the paint-WYLIE 10,ARGYLE 22. Points off turnovers-WYLIE 11,ARGYLE 13.

Technical fouls: Abilene Wylie-None. Argyle-None.

2nd chance points-WYLIE 3,ARGYLE 6. Fast break points-WYLIE 0,ARGYLE 0.

Attendance: 5064 Bench points-WYLIE 5,ARGYLE 2. Score tied-2 times. Lead changed-3 times.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Last FG-WYLIE 4th-00:12, ARGYLE 4th-00:56.

Abilene Wylie................. 8 3 6 8 - 25 Largest lead-WYLIE by 2 1st-04:14, ARGYLE by 24 4th-03:41.

Argyle........................

14 6 12 14 - 46 WYLIE led for 01:45. ARGYLE led for 26:53. Game was tied for 03:22.

78

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

An Eagle of Two Different Tails; Active Brock D Bails Out Offense

by Garland Hancock SAN ANTONIO — Brock advanced to the 2015 state-title tilt largely due to a high-octane offense that averaged 70.2 points per game; but in the grand finale, it proved to be defense that preserved the Eagles’ 37-32 victory over Universal City Randolph.

Trailing 32-31 with only 3:29 to play, Brock (37-2) managed to hold Randolph (31-4) scoreless the rest of the way and eke out enough offense to win its third state title in what marked its ninth consecutive state-tournament appearance.

The final stanza began with Randolph clinging to a precarious 26-24 lead. Brock went back on top, 31-29, compliments a Hayden James lay-up with 4:02 to go. But Randolph’s Bryan London hit a jumper on the next trip down and got fouled on the play. A free throw later, the Ro-Hawks had gone back on top, 32-31.

Then Brock turned the screws even tighter, forcing three Randolph turnovers in the final three minutes to hold the Ro-Hawks scoreless.

On the flip side, Brock’s Lance Ewell, the game’s MVP, resuscitated when it mattered most. He answered London’s three-point play with a made jumper and then hit a pair of free throws and a layup down the stretch to seal the deal.

In the beginning, it seemed to be business as usual as Brock jumped out to a 7-0 lead. During that stretch, Randolph missed its first five shots, including three consecutive layups.

But the Ro-Hawks shook the jitters and pieced together an 8-0 run of their own. Going into the second frame, Randolph led, 10-9.

From that point on, there were seven lead changes, and the largest lead for either team proved to be a six-point advantage that Brock secured with a couple of minutes to go before intermission.

Thanks to his late-game heroics, Ewell posted a team-high 14 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the field. Micah Thornton led Brock on the boards with 10 while Ewell, Bailey Cockburn and James each registered 9 rebounds.

London led Randolph in scoring with 15 points on 7-of-11 k held Randolph’s Randol shooting. Brock starting backcourt to 1-of-24 from the field and out-boarded th the Rohawks, 40-28.

Lance Ewell

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

CLASS 3A BROCK

79

Front Row (L-R): Zack Weber, Matthew Thornton, Amery Hughes, Dawson “Little” Paige, Dalton Dickerson, Garrett Leek, Wyatt Moore and Tanner Bynum.

Back Row (L-R): head coach Zach Boxell, Micah Thornton, Hayden James, Bailey Cockburn, Lance Ewell, Jacob Ray, Taylor Perry, Nolan McCall, Dylan Lackey, Leddy French, Tren Corcorran, coach Mark Cook and coach Bo Rickner.

VISITORS: Randolph 31-4 FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA ## Player Name DE OF 0-0 1-2 2-4 20 Hardy, Nick......... f 3 0 0-0 0-1 0-3 42 Gomez, J.J.......... f 0 0 1-1 0-0 7-11 22 London, Bryan....... c 3 2 0-0 0-2 0-10 04 Jackson, Shaun...... g 3 2 2-2 0-2 1-13 10 Williams, Jordan.... g 6 1 0-0 0-0 0-0 05 Wayne, Tyler.......

0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 24 Hentz, Caleb........

2 0 3-4 1-1 2-2 30 Barnes, Braelin.....

2 2 Team..........................

1 1 6-7 2-8 12-43 Totals.......................

20 8 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 5-24 20.8% 2nd Half: 7-19 36.8% Game: 27.9% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 0-3 0.0% 2nd Half: 2-5 40.0% Game: 25.0% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 4-4 100 % 2nd Half: 2-3 66.7% Game: 85.7% 1 HOME TEAM: Brock 37-2

TOT 3 0 5 5 7 0 2 4 2 28

PF 2 0 2 3 1 0 3 3

TP 5 0 15 0 4 0 0 8

A 0 0 0 3 1 0 1 0

TO 0 0 3 5 1 1 0 3

BLK 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

S 2 0 2 4 3 0 0 0

MIN 24 14 28 31 32 1 9 21

14

32

5

13

2

11

160

FT-FTA TO A ## Player Name MIN FG-FGA S BLK FG-FGA TP PF TOT DE OF 0-2 3 0 13 Ray, Jacob.......... f 13 0 0-2 0 0-4 0 0 1 1 0 3-5 2 4 21 Thornton, Micah..... f 32 1 0-0 0 2-6 7 0 10 4 6 2-4 3 1 40 Ewell, Lance........ c 30 4 0-1 2 5-11 14 3 9 5 4 2 0 0-2 10 Cockburn, Bailey.... g 30 1-4 1 0 3-7 7 3 9 5 4 2 2 0-0 15 James, Hayden....... g 32 2 1-7 2 2-12 5 1 9 5 4 1 0 0-0 24 McCall, Nolan.......

13 0 1-2 0 1-3 3 0 2 2 0 0 1 1-2 30 Perry, Taylor.......

10 0 0-3 0 0-4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 33 Lackey, Dylan.......

0+ 0 0-0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 Team..........................

13 8 6-15 Totals.......................

3-19 160 8 14-47 4 37 7 40 22 18 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 8-21 38.1% 2nd Half: 6-26 23.1% Game: 29.8% DEADB Game 14 - Conference 3A Championship 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-10 20.0% 2nd Half: 1-9 11.1% Game: 15.8% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 0-4 0.0% 2nd Half: 6-11 54.5% Game: 40.0% 4,1 Officials: Henry Louis IV, Matt Martinez, Clarence Sims Championship Game MVP: Lance Ewell, Brock Technical fouls: Randolph-None. Brock-None.

Points in the paint-UCRANDOL 16,BROCK 20. Points off turnovers-UCRANDOL 9,BROCK 9.

Attendance: 8296 2nd chance points-UCRANDOL 4,BROCK 14. Fast break points-UCRANDOL 2,BROCK 6.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Bench points-UCRANDOL 8,BROCK 4. Score tied-5 times. Lead changed-10 times.

Randolph...................... 10 4 12 6 - 32 Last FG-UCRANDOL 4th-03:29, BROCK 4th-00:21.

Brock.........................

9 9 6 13 - 37 Largest lead-UCRANDOL by 3 4th-06:33, BROCK by 7 1st-04:56.

UCRANDOL led for 07:30. BROCK led for 19:48. Game was tied for 04:42.

80

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Balanced Sunnyvale Runs Shallowater’s 3-pt. Well Dry

by Garland Hancock SAN ANTONIO – In only its sixth year as a high school, Sunnyvale (37-2) captured its first state basketball title with a convincing 52-37 win over Shallowater (35-2). The game’s pivotal stretch came in the first minute of the third period when Sunnyvale went on a 7-0 run to extend its lead to 30-17. After that, the lead never dropped below 10.

Four players registered double-digit scoring for Sunnyvale.

MVP Grace Goodhart led the way with a team-high 13 points.

Karah Sicurella contributed 12, and Leslie Berry and Ivy Alexander added 10 each.

Sunnyvale hit 50 percent of its shots from the field and managed to shoot 66.7 percent in the second half alone thanks largely to a lights-out third period. Sunnyvale won the third, 21-12, and owned a 44-29 advantage going into the final frame.

Sicurella, Berry and Alexander all held a hot hand. Alexander hit 67 percent (4-of-6) from the field while Berry and Sicurella each hit 62.5 percent (5-of-8). Bria Johnson – the one Sunnyvale starter not to post double-digit scoring – did everything else. She led the team in assists with 7 and in rebounds with 5. She also came up with a big block.

Shallowater’s Kelee Smith recorded team-highs with 14 points and 6 rebounds. But she hit only 1 of 6 trey attempts and, as a team, Shallowater shot just 1 of 12 from beyond the arc.

The victory extended Sunnyvale’s win-streak to 34 and provided Sunnyvale coach Jill McDill her second state title.

She previously won a 5A title as coach of Rockwall in 2007.

Grace Goodhart

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

CLASS 3A SUNNYVALE

81

Seated (L-R): Landry Westmoreland, Lori McDermett and Madison D’Elia.

Middle Row (L-R): Elizabeth-Ann Beatty, Gabrielle Allen, Avionne Alexander, Kinsley Troutman, Bria Johnson, Karah Sicurella, Karlee Williams and Kayla Rabb.

Back Row (L-R): coach Casey Reeves, coach Autumn Softley, Leslie Berry, Jordan Griffin, Coach Chris Wangler, Claire Knight, Jim Threet, Grace Goodhart, coach Jill McDill and Julia McDill.

VISITORS: Sunnyvale 37-2 A FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA TP PF TOT DE OF ## Player Name 0 2-3 0-0 4-6 10 1 4 2 2 01 Alexander, Ivy.......... f 2 0-0 0-0 5-8 10 2 3 2 1 02 Berry, Leslie............. c 7 0-0 0-1 2-4 4 3 5 5 0 10 Johnson, Bria........... g 2 1-2 1-1 5-8 12 1 2 1 1 12 Sicurella, Karah....... g 2 3-4 0-1 5-16 13 3 4 4 0 15 Goodhart, Grace...... g 0 0-0 1-1 1-1 3 0 0 0 0 03 Allen, Gabrielle.........

0 0-0 0-0 0-1 0 1 2 1 1 44 Troutman, Kinsley....

5 4 1 Team..........................

13 6-9 2-4 22-44 52 11 25 19 6 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 10-26 38.5% 2nd Half: 12-18 66.7% Game: 50.0% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 1-3 33.3% 2nd Half: 1-1 100 % Game: 50.0% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 2-4 50.0% 2nd Half: 4-5 80.0% Game: 66.7% 1 HOME TEAM: Shallowater 32-2 FT-FTA A ## Player Name FG-FGA TP FG-FGA PF TOT DE OF 2 2-2 13 Almsted, Hannah..... f 0-1 6 2-6 4 6 5 1 2 0-0 21 Pearson, Summer..... f 0-0 8 4-7 2 1 1 0 2 3-4 24 Smith, Kelee........ f 1-6 14 5-13 3 6 4 2 0 1-1 15 Breckel, Carli...... g 0-1 5 2-5 1 3 3 0 2 0-0 23 Bennett, Morgan..... g 0-2 0 0-3 0 1 1 0 1 0-0 10 Pope, Kandace.......

0-0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 11 Shotts, Kaley.......

0-0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 1 0-0 14 Breckel, Cailyn.....

0-1 0 0-1 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 20 Willer, Jayden......

0-1 2 1-2 2 1 1 0 0 0-0 22 Davis, Kasden.......

0-0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 25 Johnston, Shelby....

0-0 2 1-1 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 30 Ayers, Hannah.......

0-0 0 0-0 0 0 0 0 Team..........................

4 3 1 10 6-7 Totals.......................

1-12 37 15-38 12 22 18 4 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 6-22 27.3% 2nd Half: 9-16 56.3% Game: 39.5% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 0-7 0.0% 2nd Half: 1-5 20.0% Game: 8.3% REBS Game 14 - Conference 3A Final F Throw % 1st Half: 5-6 83.3% 2nd Half: 1-1 100 % Game: 85.7% 1

TO 1 0 2 0 2 0 0

BLK 0 0 1 0 0 0 0

S 2 0 1 3 1 0 0

MIN 32 29 29 32 32 3 3

5

1

7

160

TO 5 0 1 0 3 1 0 1 0 1 0 0

BLK 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

S 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

MIN 28 21 30 22 28 8 2 10 8 1 1 1

12

3

3

160

Officials: Tracey Edmonds, Mike Tobar, Demoya Williams Points in the paint-SUNNYVAL 28,SHALLWTR 10. Points off turnovers-SUNNYVAL 11,SHALLWTR 4.

Technical fouls: Sunnyvale-None. Shallowater-None.

2nd chance points-SUNNYVAL 8,SHALLWTR 4. Fast break points-SUNNYVAL 6,SHALLWTR 2.

Attendance: 4281 Bench points-SUNNYVAL 3,SHALLWTR 4. Score tied-1 time. Lead changed-0 times.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Last FG-SUNNYVAL 4th-04:05, SHALLWTR 4th-02:43.

Sunnyvale..................... 16 7 21 8 - 52 Largest lead-SUNNYVAL by 17 4th-07:38, SHALLWTR None.

Shallowater................... 13 4 12 8 - 37 SUNNYVAL led for 29:20. SHALLWTR led for 00:00. Game was tied for 00:52.

82

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

A Galla Affair: Composed ’Cat Delivers Victory in the Clutch

by Garland Hancock SAN ANTONIO — A game of big run after big run saw Canadian (21-1) come up bigger than Dallardsville Big Sandy (38-4) when it mattered most. After falling behind by four in the opening minute of period number four, Canadian outscored its heavily favored opponent, 17-4. It proved to be the game’s one punch that would not be countered, leaving Canadian a 68-60 winner and in possession of the school’s first state title in basketball.

There were many heroes but none bigger than MVP Braiden Galla, who, playing with a cracked wrist, scored 11 of his team-high 17 points in the tell-all final frame. In that final period, Galla hit a trey with exactly five minutes remaining. That capped a 9-2 run and, at 56-53, put Canadian on top to stay. Galla would go on to hit 6 of 7 free throws to ice the game and wound up hitting 9 of 10 from the line overall.

Canadian’s team field goal percentage also figured prominently as coach Andy Copley’s Wildcats hit 50 percent of their shots while holding Big Sandy – thanks largely to pressure on the perimeter – to just 34 percent shooting. And in a game otherwise statistically close, that one difference proved telling.

While Canadian landed the final and decisive punch, Big Sandy threw the first one as it went on a 14-2 run in the first period to take a 16-6 lead. But Canadian answered with a 16-4 run in the second period to go up, 30-26, with just over a minute to go before the break. The wall had been climbed; but in that final minute and change, Canadian hiccupped, and Big Sandy actually regained a

1-point advantage, 33-32, going into intermission.

Then things really got dicey in the third period as Big Sandy sprinted to a 44-37 lead following an 8-0 spurt. Once again, though, a composed Canadian squad countered. Sawyer Cook hit a huge trey, Galla sunk three free throws after getting fouled beyond the arc and Cameron Copley made a layup to cap Canadian’s own 8-0 run. That put Canadian back on top by one, 45-44, and set the stage for Galla’s heroics in the final frame.

Copley closed just shy of a triple double with 8 points, 8 boards and 10 assists.

Cook hit 7 of 10 from the field to net 15 points, including his momentum-shifting trey in the third, and Matthew Lynch, a freshman, showed his mental mettle by netting 13 points after getting blanked in the semifinal game.

For Big Sandy, which had won 20 straight coming into the game, Angel Bullock scored a game-high 30 points, including six 3-pointers, while Joseph Williams added 10 points and 9 rebounds.

Cameron Copley

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 2A CANADIAN

83

Bottom Row (L-R): manager Reagan Cochran, manager Ben Bryant, Braiden Galla, Cameron Copley, Branden Carson, Trae Dwyer, Manny Ramsey, Brice Chidester, manager Josh Culwell and videographer Gage Greenhouse.

Top Row (L-R): coach Jeff Isom, coach Tim Fletcher, Tanner Schafer, Caleb Davis, Sawyer Cook, Cooper Trollinger, Ethan Lusk, Matthew Lynch, Corbin Douthitt, Cody Gill, Cody Wolfe, Cory Chidester, Tyler Richardson, Alexander Cervantes, coach Hayden Merket and coach Andy Copley.

VISITORS: Canadian 21-1 MIN TO A FT-FTA ## Player Name TP S PF TOT BLK DE OF FG-FGA FG-FGA 25 1 2 1-1 02 Schafer, Tann........... f 9 4 1 3 0 2 1 0-1 4-10 30 0 0 0-3 05 Cook, Sawyer.......... ..f 15 3 1 4 1 2 2 1-2 7-10 32 4 10 4-6 03 Copley, Cameron......g 8 2 2 8 0 8 0 0-5 2-8 22 4 3 0-0 04 Lusk, Ethan...............g 2 0 0 6 0 5 1 0-2 1-3 26 4 2 9-10 11 Galla, Braiden...........g 17 1 3 3 0 3 0 2-3 3-6 0+ 0 0 0-0 00 Davis, Caleb..............

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 7 0 1 0-2 13 Trolinger, Cooper......

4 0 1 2 0 1 1 0-0 2-2 15 1 1 4-4 15 Lynch, Matthew........

13 1 0 0 3 2 1 3-5 3-5 2 0 0 0-0 21 Carson, Branden......

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0+ 0 0 0-0 30 Chidester, Cory.........

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 1 0 0 0-0 32 Gill, Cody....................

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0+ 0 0 0-0 33 Wolfe, Cody...............

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 Team..........................

1 1 160 18 15 18-26 Totals.......................

68 6 13 1 30 24 6 6-18 22-44 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 11-23 47.8% 2nd Half: 11-21 52.4% Game: 50.0% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-10 20.0% 2nd Half: 4-8 50.0% Game: 33.3% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 8-13 61.5% 2nd Half: 10-13 76.9% Game: 69.2% 3,2 HOME TEAM: Big Sandy 38-4 A FT-FTA TO TP PF TOT MIN DE S OF BLK FG-FGA FG-FGA ## Player Name 0 0-0 1 0 4 5 24 5 1 0 0 0-0 0-1 20 Dickens, Zach.......... f 2 2-2 1 10 3 9 27 4 0 5 2 0-0 4-7 24 Williams, Joseph...... c 2 2-2 3 7 4 5 20 3 1 2 0 1-8 2-15 03 Williams, Benson..... g 0 2-2 4 7 3 1 24 0 1 1 0 1-7 2-10 12 Williams, Trent......... g 4 6-9 3 30 2 9 31 5 3 4 0 6-15 9-23 23 Bullock, Angel.......... g 0 0-0 1 4 1 3 9 1 0 2 0 0-0 2-2 10 Langley, Laine...........

0 0-1 2 2 4 2 12 1 1 1 0 0-0 1-1 11 Maze, Seth................

0 0-0 0 0 4 0 13 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 21 Richard, Samuel......

2 2 Team..........................

8 12-16 15 60 25 36 160 21 7 15 2 8-30 20-59 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 10-31 32.3% 2nd Half: 10-28 35.7% Game: 33.9% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 4-14 28.6% 2nd Half: 4-16 25.0% Game: 26.7% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 9-12 75.0% 2nd Half: 3-4 75.0% Game: 75.0% 2 Game 15 - Conference 2A Championship Officials: Marvin Royal, Ryan Huber, Mike Lahey Points in the paint-CANADIAN 28,BIGSANDY 24. Points off turnovers-CANADIAN 25,BIGSANDY 22.

Technical fouls: Canadian-None. Big Sandy-None.

2nd chance points-CANADIAN 4,BIGSANDY 15. Fast break points-CANADIAN 8,BIGSANDY 9.

Attendance: 9708 Bench points-CANADIAN 17,BIGSANDY 6. Score tied-4 times. Lead changed-10 times.

Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Last FG-CANADIAN 4th-01:04, BIGSANDY 4th-00:36.

Canadian...................... 11 21 15 21 - 68 Largest lead-CANADIAN by 9 4th-01:16, BIGSANDY by 10 1st-01:11.

Big Sandy..................... 18 15 16 11 - 60 CANADIAN led for 09:22. BIGSANDY led for 17:29. Game was tied for 04:06.

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

84

Cheyenne Brown

Brown Cashes in on Gruver Charity; Achieves Near Perfection with FTs

by Garland Hancock SAN ANTONIO — Cheyenne Brown proved unstoppable – especially with the clock itself stopped – and Martin’s Mill (31-7) managed to pull away late in a 49-36 Class 2A state-title victory over Gruver (31-6).

The win gave Martin’s Mill its second state championship in only three years.

Gruver’s game plan was simple – to slow down Brown – but it produced mixed results.

Sagging down low on the Martin’s Mill power forward did force the rest of her team to take shots that just would not fall, but it also put Brown at the line a lot, and 15 of her 16 free throws found net.

The foul-first, worry-later approach also put Gruver’s Hadlee Spivey into serious foul trouble. Spivey scored Gruver’s first seven points but wound up with only 10 for the game.

Assigned to guard Brown, she picked up her third foul less than a minute into the second period, and that sent her to the pine until late in the third

frame.

Meanwhile, Brown continued dominating. She wound up with a game-high 29 as she not only lit the scoreboard with the clock stopped, but also by hitting 7 of her 13 shots from the field.

As a team, Martin’s Mill hit 22 of 26 free throws (84.6 percent) but only managed 12-of-38 shooting (31.6 percent) from the field. And without Brown’s hot hand figuring into the equation, Martin’s Mill hit only 5 of 25 field goal attempts (20 percent).

Martin’s Mill never once trailed in the game, but the Lady Tigers’ tough time converting open looks kept Gruver hanging around. Martins Mill saw its seven-point halftime lead dwindle to two in the third frame, and with just under 7 minutes to go in the game, Gruver trailed by only three, 32-29, after Reagan Haynes hit a layup.

Then, right on cue, Hailey Celsur hit a trey. It proved to be a giant bucket for a team that hit only 3 of 21 from downtown for the entire game. With the lead back to six, Martin’s Mill cruised, and Brown kept delivering at the line, going 6 of 6 in the final three minutes.

Gruver’s Reagan Haynes notched team-highs with 11 points and 6 rebounds. Brown logged a team-eight rebounds to go along with her game-high 29 points.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

85

Bottom Row (L-R): Managers - Abbie Orrick, Molly Daniel, Lydia Burns, Taylor Sparks and Hannah Manry.

Middle Row (L-R): Hailey Hawes, Hannah Celsur, Madi Daniel, Jacee Greenlee, Sarah Munns and Briley Moon.

Top Row (L-R): Assistant Coach - Melissa Camacho, Alyssa Pate, Jocie Bennett, Hannah Munns, Cheyenne Brown, Calli Camacho, Hailey Celsur and Head Coach - Laura Jenkins.

VISITORS: Gruver S BLK TO A TP PF MIN TOT DE OF FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA ## Player Name 0 0 3 3 8 3 23 5 3 2 2-2 0-1 3-11 02 Seagler, Brennyn..... c 0 0 0 0 0 3 15 1 1 0 0-0 0-0 0-1 11 Stedje, Bailey........... c 0 2 0 0 2 22 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-1 05 King, Kennedy.......... g 0 3 1 10 4 21 2 3 2 1 0-0 2-4 4-8 21 Spivey, Hadlee......... g 0 3 1 11 4 32 6 5 4 2 3-3 0-4 4-14 24 Haynes, Reagan...... g 0 1 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 03 Davis, Michaela........

0 3 0 7 2 24 5 1 4 1 1-4 2-4 2-6 10 Irwin, Klaire..............

0 0 0 0 0 0+ 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 14 Garcia, Patty.............

0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 22 Ayala, Christina........

0 1 1 0 0 13 1 1 0 1 0-0 0-0 0-1 23 Davis, Landry............

5 2 3 Team..........................

0 17 6 36 18 160 26 9 16 10 6-9 4-13 13-42 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 4-16 25.0% 2nd Half: 9-26 34.6% Game: 31.0% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-4 50.0% 2nd Half: 2-9 22.2% Game: 30.8% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 3-4 75.0% 2nd Half: 3-5 60.0% Game: 66.7% 1 HOME TEAM: Martin’s Mill FT-FTA ## Player Name BLK TP PF TOT DE OF S TO A FG-FGA FG-FGA MIN 15-16 32 Brown, Cheyenne.... f 6 29 2 8 5 3 1 2 1 0-0 7-13 29 3-4 02 Moon, Briley............. g 0 6 3 4 3 1 1 1 0 1-4 1-5 20 2-3 03 Pate, Alyssa............. g 1 5 1 5 3 2 1 1 1 1-6 1-6 31 0-0 23 Celsur, Hailey........... g 0 3 2 4 4 0 3 7 4 1-5 1-5 32 0-0 33 Daniel, Madi............. g 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 1 0-1 0 0-1 15 2-2 10 Bennett, Jocie..........

0 6 2 1 0 1 0 1 0-2 2-5 16 1 0-0 13 Celsur, Hannah.........

0 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0-0 0-0 7 0 0-1 44 Hawes, Hailey...........

0 0 2 4 1 3 1 0 0-3 0-3 10 1 Team..........................

3 3 22-26 Totals.......................

7 49 12 33 21 12 3-21 13 7 12-38 160 9 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 5-23 21.7% 2nd Half: 7-15 46.7% Game: 31.6% DEADB Game 15 - Conference 2A Final 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 1-13 7.7% 2nd Half: 2-8 25.0% Game: 14.3% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 9-11 81.8% 2nd Half: 13-15 86.7% Game: 84.6% 2

CLASS 2A MARTIN’S MILL

Officials: Derick Barnes, John Marshall, Curtis Whitfield Technical fouls: Gruver-None. Martin’s Mill-None.

Attendance: Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Gruver........................ 7 6 14 9 - 36 Martin’s Mill.............. 10 10 10 19 - 49

Points in the paint-GRUVER 14,MARTINML 16. Points off turnovers-GRUVER 14,MARTINML 11.

2nd chance points-GRUVER 8,MARTINML 7. Fast break points-GRUVER 0,MARTINML 0.

Bench points-GRUVER 7,MARTINML 6. Score tied-1 time. Lead changed-0 times.

Last FG-GRUVER 4th-02:14, MARTINML 4th-01:45.

Largest lead-GRUVER None, MARTINML by 13 4th-00:29.

GRUVER led for 00:00. MARTINML led for 30:22. Game was tied for 01:00.

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

86

Tornadoes Blow Into Tournament and Gut(ierrez) Grady Inside, Out

by Garland Hancock

that disappointment fresh in

his mind going into the 2015 SAN ANTONIO — With the game clock winding down and title tilt.

Grady’s EJ Rodriguez the reality of Texline’s first opened the scoring with a trey, state championship in any but Texline quickly answered sport about to set in, senior with back-to-back layups by Aaron Gutierrez celebrated Gutierrez and fellow senior victory with a monster slam.

It was the perfect kicker to Carlos Espino. From that point on, the Tornadoes never trailed the Tornadoes’ breezy 76-52 again. win over Lenorah Grady – a game that Gutierrez dominated Joining Gutierrez and Laren route to MVP accolades. With amore in double-digit scoring were Gannen Braddock, 16 31 points (13-of-22 shooting) and 12 rebounds, the 6-4 Guti- points, and Espino, 11 points. errez was one of two Tornadoes Braeden Jones, 14 points, and to finish with a double-double. Beau Lucas, 11 points, led The other, Carter Laramore, a Grady’s offense.

6-5 freshman, logged 10 points and 12 rebounds.

With a notable height advantage, Texline (35-3) destroyed Grady (31-5) on the boards, 41-29.

Victory proved all the more sweet given that Texline had two years before come so very close to gold, but lost an overtime heartbreaker to Roxton in the state semifinals.

With a chance for Texline’s redemption, Gutierrez kept

Aaron Gutierrez

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 1A TEXLINE

87

L-R: coach Bryan Braddock, Dustyn Bruns, Austin Womble, Carlos Espino, Dawson Nicholoson, Anthony Grims, Aaron Gutierrez, Carter Laramore, Mile Cantrell, Gannen Braddock, Tristen Womble, Alonzo Montes, Wyatt Heimann and coach Coby Beckner.

VISITORS: Texline 35-3 FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA DE OF ## Player Name 1-2 1-2 1-5 2 3 01 Grimes, Anthony...... f 0-0 0-0 5-7 6 6 04 Laramore, Carter..... f 3-6 1-4 6-12 1 0 05 Braddock, Gannen.. g 0-0 3-9 4-10 1 1 10 Espino, Carlos.......... g 5-8 0-4 13-22 9 3 23 Gutierrez, Aaron...... g 0-0 0-0 1-2 2 1 24 Womble, Tristen........

0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 32 Cantrell, Miles..........

0-0 0-0 1-1 3 2 35 Nicholson, Dawson..

1 Team..........................

9-16 5-19 31-59 25 16 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 14-33 42.4% 2nd Half: 17-26 65.4% Game: 52.5% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-12 16.7% 2nd Half: 3-7 42.9% Game: 26.3% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 6-11 54.5% 2nd Half: 3-5 60.0% Game: 56.3% 1 HOME TEAM: Lenorah Grady 31-5 FT-FTA FG-FGA FG-FGA DE OF ## Player Name 6-6 0-3 1-7 3 2 35 Avery, Cole................ f 0-0 4-9 5-13 1 1 02 Jones, Braeden........ g 0-0 0-0 1-1 3 0 03 Briseno, Joseph....... g 0-0 1-2 1-2 0 0 04 Rodriquez, EJ........... g 0-1 3-12 4-15 4 0 15 Lucas, Beau.............. g 1-1 0-1 4-8 2 5 01 Garza, Kyle................

0-0 0-1 0-3 0 2 14 Jimenez, Alejandro..

0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 24 Smith, Devynn..........

2-4 0-0 3-5 2 0 44 Polson, Dillon...........

0-0 0-0 0-1 0 1 54 Robles, Andrue.........

2 2 Team..........................

9-12 19-55 17 13 8-28 Totals.......................

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 7-22 31.8% 2nd Half: 12-33 36.4% Game: 34.5% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 4-12 33.3% 2nd Half: 4-16 25.0% Game: 28.6% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 4-7 57.1% 2nd Half: 5-5 100 % Game: 75.0% 1,1 Officials: Kevin Smotherman, David Littleton, Ernest King Technical fouls: Texline-None. Lenorah Grady-None.

Attendance: 8296 Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Texline.......................

19 17 28 12 - 76 Lenorah Grady................ 12 10 20 13 - 55

TOT 5 12 1 2 12 3 0 5 1 41

PF 1 2 3 0 2 1 0 2

TP 4 10 16 11 31 2 0 2

A 2 3 5 1 3 0 0 0

TO 0 4 5 0 4 1 0 1

BLK 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0

S 0 3 3 1 4 0 0 0

MIN 25 26 28 26 31 14 1 9

11

76

14

15

2

11

160

TOT 5 2 3 0 4 7 2 0 2 1 4 30

PF 4 1 3 5 2 0 0 0 1 0

TP 8 14 2 3 11 9 0 0 8 0

A 0 2 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 0

TO 3 3 2 0 4 2 1 0 0 0

BLK 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

S 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0

MIN 17 30 28 7 31 22 8 1 15 1

16

55

8

15

2

5

160

Game 13 - Conference 1A Championship

3RLQWV LQ WKH SDLQW 7(;/,1( /*5$'< 3RLQWV RII WXUQRYHUV 7(;/,1( /*5$'< QG FKDQFH SRLQWV 7(;/,1( /*5$'< )DVW EUHDN SRLQWV 7(;/,1( /*5$'< %HQFK SRLQWV 7(;/,1( /*5$'< 6FRUH WLHG WLPHV /HDG FKDQJHG WLPH /DVW )* 7(;/,1( WK /*5$'< WK /DUJHVW OHDG 7(;/,1( E\ WK /*5$'< E\ VW 7(;/,1( OHG IRU /*5$'< OHG IRU *DPH ZDV WLHG IRU

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

88

Swiftettes Continue Rewriting Texas’ Rich Basketball History

by Garland Hancock Allie Schulte

SAN ANTONIO — With sophomore guard Allie Schulte playing like a seasoned senior, Nazareth (34-2) won its 20th state title by handily defeating Lipan, 56-40.

No Texas school has won more state titles in either girls or boys basketball. The only program even within striking distance is Canyon’s girls team, a squad that under the guidance of the legendary coach Joe Lombard won its 17th state title this year.

Nazareth coach Eric Schilling feels his club has a decent shot at keeping ahead of the curve given that Schulte has another two years to lead the Swiftettes.

Schulte’s stellar performance versus Lipan earned her the game’s MVP plaque. Her numbers would likely have been even better had she not gotten into foul trouble and watched nearly eight minutes of the game from the bench. As is, in only 24 minutes’ play Schulte scored a team-high 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting and netted 3 of 4 trey attempts. She also registered 5 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 steals.

Nazareth never trailed in the game and opened the scoring with a Schulte trey 34 seconds in.

Lipan hung tough through most of that first period but stumbled late to go down, 20-11, headed into the second frame.

Lipan then gathered itself for a 10-2 run to open the period and trailed by only 1, 22-21, with 3:32 to go before the break.

A the end of that run, Schulte picked up her third foul, sending Lipan’s Lanie Roberts to the line for a pair of free throws.

Roberts netted both to bring her club to within a point of tying; and by game’s end, Roberts would score 25 points on 9-of-22 shooting from the field and 6-of-

7 shooting at the line.

Schulte’s foul forced her to the bench with her team’s lead at its most precarious. But in her stead, the Swiftettes closed out the period with a 7-0 run and led at the half, 29-21.

Schulte exited again after picking up her fourth foul with 2:55 to go in the third period.

But she was back on the floor to start the final frame, and the game was never really in much doubt through most all of the second half. Lipan did cut it to 6 about a minute into the third period, but Schulte quickly answered with a three, and Nazareth pretty much cruised from that point on.

Part of Lipan’s problems owed to it not getting to the line one time in the second half. Lipan also looked to be a team in a state of panic. It launched 9 treys in the first half and hit only one. Then, in the second half, it launched 13 more, netting just two.

Rebounding also proved to be key. Nazareth out-boarded Lipan, 39-26, and 25 rebounds came off the defensive glass – oftentimes when Lipan would launch an errant three and not have anyone stationed underneath.

Nazareth’s Deborah VanDijk scored 11 points, and Hannah Leavitt and Kelsey Espenson each netted 10 to join Schulte in double-digit scoring. VanDijk also posted a game-high 12 rebounds, and Leavitt contributed 11 more.

Mackenzie Gerber, the only starter not to score in double digits, greased the offense with a game-high 5 assists.

In addition to leading both teams in scoring with 25, Lipan’s Roberts also logged a team-high 10 rebounds and a game-high 6 steals. Unfortunately, though, only one of her 9 bonus bombs found their mark.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 1A NAZARETH

89

Bottom Row (L-R): Abby Schmucker, Kelsey Espenson, Tarah Hill and Hannah Leavitt.

Middle Row (L-R): Paige Gerber, Payton Robb, Mackenzie Gerber and Carlie Heiman.

Top Row (L-R): managers Blakely Gerber, April Schmucker, Cambrie Heiman, coach Eric Schilling, Ellen Schilderink, Deborah VanDijk, Allie Schulte, Aubrie Durbin, coach William Raphelt, manager Kamryn Schulte, coach Morgan Moore and manager Hallie Kleman.

VISITORS: Nazareth 34-2 FT-FTA FG-FGA ## Player Name DE FG-FGA OF 5-6 2-8 25 Leavitt, Hannah....... f 9 1-1 2 3-8 4-10 20 VanDijk, Deborah.... c 8 0-0 4 0-2 7-10 12 Schulte, Allie............ g 1 3-4 4 6-6 0-3 14 Gerber, Mackenzie.. g 2 0-3 0 0-0 5-7 21 Espenson, Kelsey.... g 4 0-1 1 2-4 0-3 02 Robb, Payton............

0 0-0 1 0-0 0-2 03 Schmucker, Abby......

0 0-1 0 0-0 0-0 04 Hill, Tarah.................

0 0-0 0 0-0 0-0 23 Durbin, Aubrie..........

1 0-0 0 0-0 0-0 24 Gerber, Paige............

0 0-0 0 0-0 0-0 33 Heiman, Carlie.........

0 0-0 0 0-0 0-0 35 Schilerink, Ellen.......

0 0-0 0 Team..........................

2 16-26 18-43 Totals.......................

25 4-10 14 TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 11-26 42.3% 2nd Half: 7-17 41.2% Game: 41.9% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 2-5 40.0% 2nd Half: 2-5 40.0% Game: 40.0% REBS F Throw % 1st Half: 5-11 45.5% 2nd Half: 11-15 73.3% Game: 61.5% 1 HOME TEAM: Lipan 33-4 FT-FTA DE OF ## Player Name FG-FGA FG-FGA 0-0 0 0 21 Redwine, Hannah.... f 0-0 1-1 1-4 5 2 44 McGee, Maddie........ c 0-0 2-2 0-0 1 0 01 Herrera, Taylor........ g 1-7 2-10 6-7 8 2 10 Roberts, Lanie......... g 1-9 9-22 0-0 3 0 22 Phelps, Bryanna...... g 1-6 1-8 0-0 0 0 02 Baldree, Hannah......

0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 11 Ferguson, Lacee.......

0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 12 Thormann, Catherine 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 24 Miller, Joy..................

0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 33 Callaway, Sarah.......

0-0 0-0 3 2 Team..........................

7-11 20 6 Totals.......................

3-22 15-43

TOT 11 12 5 2 5 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 39

PF 2 1 4 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0

TP 10 11 17 6 10 2 0 0 0 0 0 0

A 1 1 0 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TO 4 3 2 1 2 1 3 0 0 0 0 0

BLK 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

S 1 2 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

MIN 30 30 24 25 30 9 7 1 1 1 1 1

10

56

8

16

2

9

160

TOT 0 7 1 10 3 0 0 0 0 0 5 26

PF 3 2 4 4 3 0 2 1 0 0

TP 2 5 5 25 3 0 0 0 0 0

A 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0

TO 2 3 2 5 4 0 0 0 0 0

BLK 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0

S 0 0 0 6 3 0 0 0 0 0

MIN 17 31 31 30 31 1 6 11 1 1

19

40

3

16

3

9

160

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 7-23 30.4% 2nd Half: 8-20 40.0% Game: 34.9% DEADB 3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 1-9 11.1% 2nd Half: 2-13 15.4% Game: 13.6% REBS Game 13 - Conference 1A Final F Throw % 1st Half: 7-11 63.6% 2nd Half: 0-0 0.0% Game: 63.6% 1 Officials: LaFonzo Prince, Terrance Stills, Shannon Wesley Technical fouls: Nazareth-None. Lipan-None.

Attendance: 4281 Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total Nazareth...................... 20 9 14 13 - 56 Lipan............................. 11 11 9 9 - 40

Points in the paint-NAZARETH 26,LIPAN 22. Points off turnovers-NAZARETH 9,LIPAN 14.

2nd chance points-NAZARETH 10,LIPAN 3. Fast break points-NAZARETH 2,LIPAN 8.

Bench points-NAZARETH 2,LIPAN 0. Score tied-0 times. Lead changed-0 times.

Last FG-NAZARETH 4th-04:37, LIPAN 4th-00:49.

Largest lead-NAZARETH by 19 4th-01:00, LIPAN None.

NAZARETH led for 30:29. LIPAN led for 00:00. Game was tied for 00:34.

90

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Copley Goes Where No Coach has Gone Before

by Garland Hancock

S

tate titles are rare enough birds as to not require any extra seasoning to make their sweetness waft through the years of lofty records.

There are some titles, though, that truly stand out as once-in-a-life affairs; and in the case of Canadian’s Andy Copley, his titles hold distinction as being unlike any other in the history of Texas basketball.

This past season Copley became the first Texas basketball coach to ever lead a team to its first basketball title in school history and then repeat that feat the very next year with another school.

Copley’s Canadian Wildcats captured the 2015 Class 2A title via a 68-60 win over Dallardsville Big Sandy.

They earned the right to play for their school’s first gold medal in basketball by defeating Martin’s Mill, 68-62, in the semis.

In 2014, Copley coached Class 1A Division II Water Valley to its first state championship in basketball. (Water Valley would become a class 2A school under reclassification the following year.)

Water Valley emerged as Texas’ best via a 68-44 win over Laneville and knocked off Nazareth, 58-42, in the semis.

There have been two other times in the annals of Texas basketball history that coaches have won consecutive titles with different schools, but each time one of the schools had previously won a state championship.

It first happened on the boys side in 1970. That year Jim Reid coached Class 3A Kerrville to gold with a 55-54 win over Perryton and then led Dumas past Fort Worth Como, 65-59, in the 1971 Class 3A title tilt. But Dumas had been on that horse before, winning a Class 2A title in 1953 and then Class 3A titles in 1962 and

1971.

Neither was Kerrville’s 1970 title its first. Reid led Kerrville to its first title the year before in 1969. Given that Reid went back-to-back with two different schools after already having won a state championship, Copley also holds distinction as the only boys coach whose first leg of a back-to-back with two different schools also marked his first time to win gold.

The only other time for this statistical oddity to flap its wings was in 1977-78 when girls coach Cathy Wilson did the honors. In 1977, Wilson’s Nazareth defeated May, 73-54, to capture the Class B state championship. Ironically, that title was not only Wilson’s first, but also the first for a school that has today won more state championships (20) than any team – boys or girls – in Texas basketball history.

After setting Nazareth’s legacy in motion, Wilson coached Class 2A Slaton to a 55-45 win over Granbury in the 1978 state title game. Slaton had won one other title – also in Class 2A – in 1974. In 1979, with Wilson still as head coach, Slaton won its third title – second consecutive – compliments a 68-54 taming of Pflugerville.

Again, though, Copley is the only coach to win back-to-back titles with two different teams that had never before won a state championship, and he is the only boys coach to win back-to-back titles with two different teams after having never before won a state championship himself.

Both are feats that speak well to Copley’s ability to get the most out of his players. But the self-deprecating coach will be the first to tell you that before accepting a position with Canadian he did his homework and saw that the Wildcats had all the pieces in place to make a run. He also had a trump card to play, for when he relocated to Canadian from Water Valley so did his son Cameron.

As a sophomore, Cameron last season was one of three Canadian players named to the all-tournament team. In the state-title game, Copley recorded a game-high 10 assists while posting team-highs in rebounds (8) and steals (2). He also scored eight points (2-8; 0-5; 4-6).

As only a freshman, the coach’s son contributed significantly to Water Valley’s win over Laneville in the 2014 title game. In that matchup, Copley was 5-of10 from the field, 2-of-2 from the line and a perfect 4-of-4 from 2-point range.

Cameron’s brother Connor -- Class of 2014 -- ran the offense for Water Valley and was named tournament MVP after recording a game-high 11 assists to go along with 9 points (3-8; 2-5; 1-2), 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Connor is now trying to earn a roster spot with Wayland Baptist, a NAIA school in Plainview.

Meanwhile, Cameron, now a junior, is focused on helping dad win a third consecutive title; and going in, Canadian is thought by many to be the favorite.

Copley has now logged 25 years as a coach – 22 years as the guy in charge.

His stints as a head coach have included, in order, those at Three-Way ISD (two years), Dalhart High School (three years), Dumas (eight years), McLean (one year), Follett (two years), Water Valley (four years) and Canadian (2014-present).

As for the future, Copley isn’t quite sure what it might hold, but now that he’s gotten used to playing on the second Saturday in March, he’s hoping the trend will continue. And who knows?

His point guard Cameron is but a junior.

Maybe the Wildcats of Canadian are about to make a little more history.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

Canadian coach Andy Copley comes off the bench to exchange pleasantries with an official during the Wildcats’ 2015 state-title clash with Dallardsville Big Sandy in San Antonio

91 Although Andy Copley, Jim Reid and Cathy Wilson are the only three coaches in Texas basketball history to win backto-back titles with different teams, there have been 77 coaches -- 41 boys, 36 girls -- win back-to-back titles and, altogether, there have been 116 occurrences -- 54 boys, 62 girls – of coaches winning back-to-back titles.

On the boys side, M.N. Robinson and Donnie Victorick have won the most back-to-back titles with four each while Joe Lombard claims that honor on the girls side with eight back-to-backs.

Robinson won his four back-to-back titles with Buna and did so with two three-peats (1955, ’56, ’57, ’61, ’62, ’63).

Victorick captured his four back-tobacks with Snook and did so the easy way – by simply winning five consecu-

tive state championships (1980, ’81, ’82, ’83, ’84).

Lombard won his first four back-toback titles with Nazareth and second four back-to-backs with Canyon. His first three came when Nazareth won four consecutive titles beginning in 1979. Nazareth then – after failing to win a fifth consecutive title in 1983 – went back-to-back in 1984 and ’85.

Lombard won his first two back-to-back titles at Canyon by three-peating (2003, ’04, ’05). He then skipped a year and went back-to-back in 2007 and ’08. He accomplished his last back-to-back this past spring with a finals win over Dallas Adams.

Here are all the instances of Texas high school basketball coaches winning backto-back state championships.

Back-to-Back Title Winners - Boys Coaches 1921 1922 1923 1924 1933 1934 1944 1945 1951 1952 1953 1954 1953 1954

1955 1956 1957 1958 1959

El Paso 25, SA Brackenridge 11 (Luther Coblentz, coach) El Paso defeats Lindale by DQ (Luther Coblentz) Dallas Oak Cliff 17, El Paso 15 (Howard Allen, coach) Dallas Oak Cliff 29, El Paso 18 (Howard Allen) Athens 36, Houston Davis 20 (J.T. ‘Bobo’ Nelson, coach) Athens 28, Lamesa 22 (J.T. ‘Bobo’ Nelson) Prairie Lea 30, Blossom 26 (J.D. Fulton, coach) Prairie Lea 35, Mt. Enterprise 33 (J.D. Fulton) Bowie 54, Brenham 34 (Raymond Mattingly, coach) Bowie 65, Levelland 59 (Raymond Mattingly) Bowie 81, Dumas 44 (Raymond Mattingly, coach) Bowie 70, Spring Branch 40 (Raymond Mattingly) Pampa 61, Austin 47 (Clifton McNeely, coach) Pampa 47, Dallas Crozier Tech 44 in OT (Clifton McNeely) Buna 58, Dickinson 54 (M.N. Robinson, coach) Buna 52 Troup 42 (M.N. Robinson) Buna 74, Seminole 45 (M.N. Robinson) Pampa 48, Port Arthur 47 (Clifton McNeely, coach) Pampa 65, Dallas Jefferson 52 (Clifton McNeely)

1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1963 1964 1965 1966 1965

1966 1967 1968 1968

1969

1969 1970 1971

Huntington 63, Plains 43 (Jack Whitton, coach) Huntington 61, Sunray 46 (Jack Whitton) Buna 60, Dimmitt 36 (M.N. Robinson, coach) Buna 49, Jacksboro 30 (M.N. Robinson) Buna 47, Canyon 41 (M.N. Robinson) McAdoo 52, Prairie Valley 35 (Fabian Lemley, coach) McAdoo 66, Hutto 64 in 2-OT (Fabian Lemley) Snook 48, Deweyville 44 OT (Jimmy Horn, coach) Snook 64, Channing 40 (Jimmy Horn) FW Lake Worth 60, Austin-Port Acres 49 (Drue Smith, coach) FW Lake Worth 60, Crane 42 (Drue Smith) Kennard 51, Krum 47 (John Carter, coach) Kennard 64, Friendswood 49 (John Carter) Houston Wheatley 85, Dallas Jefferson 80 OT (Collin Briggs, coach) Houston Wheatley 52, Houston Memorial 47 (Collin Briggs) Kerrville Tivy 55, Perryton 54 (Jim Reid, coach) Kerrville Tivy 81, Cypress-Fairbanks 68 (Jim Reid) Dumas 65, FW Como 59 (Jim Reid)

1972 1973 1974

1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1980 1981 1980 1981 1981 1982 1981 1982 1982

LaPoynor 53, Snook 44 (Bill Ingram, coach) LaPoynor 72, Brock 52 (Bill Ingram) Houston Kashmere 91, Dallas S. Oak Cliff 87 (Weldon Drew, coach) Houston Kashmere 60, FW Paschal 58 (Weldon Drew) Broaddus 82, Crowell 46 (Marion Neill, coach) Broaddus 84, Whitewright 71 (Marion Neill) Snook 63, Coppell 62 (Don Horn, coach) Snook 57, Krum 56 (Don Horn) Snook 59, West Lamar 58 (Donnie Victorick, coach) Snook 41, Midway 33 (Donnie Victorick) Gladewater Sabine 69, Bartlett 68 (Carl Allen, coach) Gladewater Sabine 62, Shallowater 43 (Carl Allen) Beaumont Hebert 88, Snyder 53 (Fred Williams, coach) Beaumont Hebert 59, Canyon 57 (Fred Williams) Snook 41, Midway 33 (Donnie Victorick, coach) Snook 52, Greenwood 45 (Donnie Victorick) Beaumont Hebert 59, Canyon 57 (Fred Williams, coach) Beaumont Hebert 76, Waxahachie 71 (Fred Williams) Snook 52, Greenwood 45 (Donnie Victorick, coach)

See Back-to-Back Title Winners p. 92

92

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS Back-to-Back Title Winners continued from page 91

1983 1982 1983 1983 1984 1983 1984 1986 1987 1987 1988 1987 1988 1992 1993 1992 1993

1996

1997

1998 1999 1999 2000 2000

2001 2002 2003 2002

Snook 76, Central Heights 40 (Donnie Victorick, coach) Dimmitt 60, Linden-Kildare 59 (Ken Cleveland, coach) Dimmitt 81, Van Vleck 54 (Ken Cleveland) Snook 76, Central Heights 40 (Donnie Victorick, coach) Snook 39, Nazareth 30 (Donnie Victorick) Bryan 71, FW Paschal 54 (Larry Brown, coach) Bryan 68, Houston Memorial 56 (Larry Brown) Morton 73, Dripping Springs 59 (Tony Mauldin, coach) Morton 84, Liberty Hill 72 (Tony Mauldin) Paducah 71, Bronte 39 (Randall Ryan, coach) Paducah 99, Big Sandy 61 (Randall Ryan) Sweeny 66, Hughes Springs 64 (Raymond Washington, coach) Sweeny 59, C.C. West Oso 50 (Raymond Washington) Laneville 51, Petersburg 49 (Bennie Gupton, coach) Laneville 77, Brock 68 (Bennie Gupton) Troup 60, Krum 40 (Leland Hand, coach) Troup 69, Amarillo Highland Park 49 (Leland Hand) Dallas Kimball 72, Euless Trinity 64 (Goree Johnson, coach) Dallas Kimball 64, Galena Park N. Shore 53 (Goree Johnson) Moulton 67, Goodrich 44 (Sammie Koudelka, coach) Moulton 54, Brookeland 49 (Sammie Koudelka) Peaster 66, Wellington 62 OT (Danny Henderson, coach) Peaster 67, Van Vleck 58 (Danny Henderson) Sugar Land Willowridge 59, Klein Forest 52 (Ronnie Courtney, coach) Sugar Land Willowridge 65, Bryan 58 (Ronnie Courtney) Nazareth 61, Goodrich 58 (Mike Scarbrough, coach) Nazareth 69, Oakwood 60 3OT (Mike Scarbrough) Brock 76, Kennard 59 (Jeff Bell, coach)

2003 2007 2008 2007

2008 2008 2009 2009

2010 2011 2012 2011

2012

2012 2013 2013

2014

2014 2015

Brock 81, Hitchcock 52 (Jeff Bell) Thorndale 39, Martin’s Mill 37 (Jeff Lieberman, coach) Thorndale 53, Big Sandy 42 (Jeff Lieberman) Dallas South Oak Cliff 54, Beaumont Ozen 42 (James Mays, II/coach) Dallas South Oak Cliff 80, FW Southwest 77 (James Mays, II) Ponder 72, Tuscola Jim Ned 51 (Doug Boxell, coach) Ponder 51, New Waverly 39 (Doug Boxell) Houston Yates 94, Dallas Kimball 78 (Greg Wise, coach) Houston Yates 91, Lancaster 73 (Greg Wise) Dallas Kimball 78, LaMarque 64 (Royce Johnson, coach) Kimball 78, Houston Yates 75 (Royce Johnson) Flower Mound Marcus 40, Lakeview Centennial 38 (Danny Henderson, coach) Flower Mound Marcus 56, Fort Bend Travis 52 (Danny Henderson) White Oak 61, Brock 53 (Ron Boyett, coach) White Oak 56, Brock 54 (Ron Boyett) Houston Yates 2, Dallas Madison 0 / forfeit (Greg Wise, coach) Houston Yates 2, Dallas Madison 0 / forfeit (Greg Wise) Water Valley 68, Laneville 44 (Andy Copley, coach) Canadian 68, Dallardsville Big Sandy 60 (Andy Copley)

Back-to-Back Title Winners Girls Coaches 1951 1952 1954 1955 1956 1957

Claude 42, Clyde Denton Valley 40 (Lawrence “Jake” Halter, coach) Claude 47, Duncanville 42 (Lawrence “Jake” Halter) Dimmitt 66, Granbury 60 (Leo A. Fields, coach) Dimmitt 62, Granbury 44 (Leo A. Fields) Buna 54, New Deal 44 (R.C. Hyden, coach) Buna 69, Seagoville 31 (R.C. Hyden)

1958 1959 1958

1959 1960 1960 1961 1961 1962

1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1967 1968

1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977

1978 1977 1978 1977 1978

Abernathy 64, Ft. Worth Brewer 53 (Pete Wilson, coach) Abernathy 59, Buna 57 (Pete Wilson) Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 86, Collinsville 28 (Freeman Parish, coach) Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 64, Bovina 47 (Freeman Parish) Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 42, Claude 38 (Freeman Parish) Buna 66, Friona 63 (R.C. Hyden, coach) Buna 66, Spearman 47 (R.C. Hyden) Sundown 50, Moulton 46 (C.W. Dukes, coach) Sundown 51, Ladonia Fannindel 46 (C.W. Dukes) Sundown 51, Moulton 48 (C.W. Dukes) Trent 76, Burkeville 27 (Ralph Newton, coach)\ Trent 69, Round Top-Camine 65 (Ralph Newton) Tulia 76, Victoria 75 (Leroy Roberts, coach) Tulia 70, Victoria 57 (Leroy Roberts) High Island 48, Quitaque 39 (Jerry Whitaker, coach) High Island 53, Lamesa Klondike 40 (Jerry Whitaker) Spearman 52, Buna 47 (Dean Weese, coach) Spearman 50, Waco Robinson 49 (Dean Weese) Grandview 39, Turkey Valley 37 (Harold Pinkerton, coach) Grandview 52, Shiner 36 (Harold Pinkerton) Waco Midway 60, Canyon 52 (Mitch LeMoine, coach) Waco Midway 64, Canyon 59 (Mitch LeMoine) Dallas S. Oak Cliff 79, Schertz Clemens 65 (Gary Blair, coach) Dallas S. Oak Cliff 70, Victoria 62 (Gary Blair) Canyon 58, Waco Midway 54 (Bob Schneider, coach) Canyon 59, CC Tulosa Midway 37 (Bob Schneider) Nazareth 73, May 54 (Cathy Wilson, coach) Slaton 55, Granbury 45 (Cathy Wilson)

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

93 Back-to-Back Title Winners - Girls Coaches

1979 1979 1980 1981 1981 1982 1981 1982 1982 1983 1982 1983 1984 1985 1984 1985 1986

1987 1988 1988

1989 1988 1989

1988 1989 1989 1990 1989

Slaton 68, Pflugerville 54 (Cathy Wilson) Nazareth 46, Brock 43 (Joe Lombard, coach) Nazareth 56, Brock 50 (Joe Lombard) Nazareth 84, Colmesneil 39 (Joe Lombard) Hardin 61, New Deal 46 (Bob Parker, coach) Hardin 69, Phillips 61 (Bob Parker) Nazareth 84, Colmesneil 39 (Joe Lombard, coach) Nazareth 64, Dimebox 37 (Joe Lombard) Barbers Hill 68, Sweeny 53 (Dennis Rivers, coach) Barbers Hill 86, Sweeny 81 / 3OT (Dennis Rivers) Hardin 69, Phillips 61 (Bob Parker, coach) Hardin Hale 41, Center 39 (Bob Parker) Waco Richfield 56, Levelland 43 (Poo Welch, coach) Waco Richfield 44, Sweetwater 35 (Poo Welch) Nazareth 64, Petty West Lamar 32 (Joe Lombard, coach) Nazareth 56, Priddy 48 (Joe Lombard) Levelland 44, A&M Consolidated 43 / OT (Dean Weese, coach) Levelland 41, CC Calallen 30 (Dean Weese) Levelland 38, CC Calallen 35 (Dean Weese) Duncanville 68, North Mesquite 46 (Sandra Meadows, coach) Duncanville 42, Victoria 38 (Sandra Meadows) Levelland 38, CC Calallen 35 (Dean Weese, coach) Levelland 45, West Orange-Stark 24 (Dean Weese) Nazareth 64, LaRue LaPoynor 28 (Sandy Oliver Heiman, coach) Nazareth 57, LaRue LaPoynor 33 (Sandy Oliver Heiman) Duncanville 42, Victoria 38 (Sandra Meadows, coach) Duncanville 74, Houston Yates 51 (Sandra Meadows) Nazareth 57, LaRue LaPoynor 33 (Sandy Oliver Heiman, coach)

1990 1992 1993 1993

1994 1994 1995 1995

1996

1995 1996 1999 2000 1999 2000 2000 2001 2000 2001 2000 2001 2001 2002 2001 2002 2001 2002

Nazareth 53, Moulton 34 (Sandy Oliver Heiman) Celeste 70, Brock 57 (Susan Morton, coach) Celeste 63, Muenster 38 (Susan Morton) Amarillo 68, Corpus Christi King 65 (Dale Blaut, coach) Amarillo 62, Conroe 46 (Dale Blaut) Sudan 40, Jayton 36 (Mike Martin, coach) Sudan 66, Alvord 42 (Mike Martin) Austin Westlake 59, Duncanville 56 / OT (Cathy Self-Morgan, coach) Austin Westlake 64, Alief Elsik 60 / 2OT (Cathy Self-Morgan) Ozona 61, Cooper 47 (Dickie Faught, coach) Ozona 45, Gunter 39 (Dickie Faught) Mansfield 65, CC Carroll 46 (Samantha Morrow, coach) Mansfield 69, Plano 43 (Samantha Morrow) Winnsboro 56, Lufkin Hudson 48 (Buddy Hawkins, coach) Winnsboro 54, Smithville 51 (Buddy Hawkins) Mansfield 69, Plano 43 (Samantha Morrow, coach) Mansfield 62, Spring Westfield 49 (Samantha Morrow) Winnsboro 54, Smithville 51 (Buddy Hawkins, coach) Winnsboro 51, Abilene Wylie 48 (Buddy Hawkins) Nazareth 72, Valley View 56 (Matt Garrett, coach) Nazareth 61, Saltillo 51 (Matt Garrett) Mansfield 62, Spring Westfield 49 (Samantha Morrow, coach) Mansfield 47, San Antonio Taft 42 (Samantha Morrow) Plainview 51, Dallas Lincoln 40 (Danny Wrenn, coach) Plainview 68, Dallas Lincoln 40 (Danny Wrenn) Nazareth 61, Saltillo 51 (Matt Garrett, coach) Nazareth Dodd 67, City 42 (Matt Garrett)

2002 2003 2002 2003 2003 2004 2005 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2011

2012 2011 2012 2012

2013 2012 2013 2014 2015 2014 2015

Plainview 68, Dallas Lincoln 40 (Danny Wrenn, coach) Plainview 50, Dallas Lincoln 41 (Danny Wrenn) Brock 58, LaRue LaPoynor 26 (Skip Townsend, coach) Brock 55, Shallowater 36 (Skip Townsend) Canyon 76, Kountze 45 (Joe Lombard, coach) Canyon 63, Winnsboro 33 (Joe Lombard) Canyon 66, Cleveland 46 (Joe Lombard) Canyon 53, Crockett 38 (Joe Lombard) Canyon 59, Kennedale 43 (Joe Lombard) Brock 61, Woodville 32 (Skip Townsend, coach) Brock 38, Wall 33 (Skip Townsend) Brock 47, Winnsboro 26 (Skip Townsend) Neches 61, McClean 32 (Andy Snider, coach) Neches 65, Whitharral 44 (Andy Snider) Smyer 49, Martin’s Mill 41 (Leland Bearden, coach) Smyer 52, Martin’s Mill 49 (Leland Bearden) Abilene Wylie 66, Lucas Lovejoy 58 (Tri Danley, coach) Abilene Wylie 59, Celina 45 (Tri Danley) Neches 65, Whitharral 44 (Andy Snider, coach) Neches 60, Lipan 41 (Andy Snider) Duncanville 69, Spring Dekaney 31 (Cathy Self-Morgan, coach) Duncanville 59, Cibola Steele 36 (Cathy Self-Morgan) Brock 52, Poth 49 (Chance Westmoreland, coach) Brock 40, Merkel 32 (Chance Westmoreland) Nazareth 82, Calvert 41 (Eric Schilling, coach) Nazareth 56, Lipan 40 (Eric Schilling) Canyon 49, McKinney North 42 (Joe Lombard, coach) Canyon 48, Dallas Adams 41 (Joe Lombard)

94

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

All-Time State Tournament Results - Boys Year/Class 1921 N.A. El Paso 25, San Antonio, Brackenridge 11 1922 N.A. El Paso def. Lindale (disqualified) 1923 N.A. Dallas Oak Cliff 17, El Paso 15 1924 N.A. Dallas Oak Cliff 29, El Paso 18 1925 N.A. Beaumont 14, San Antonio Brackenridge 12 1926 N.A. San Antonio Brackenridge 29, Corsicana 23 1927 N.A. Athens 23, Denton 14 1928 N.A. Temple def. Austin (disqualified) 1929 N.A. Athens 22, Denton 11 1930 N.A. Denton 30, Estelline 11 1931 N.A. Athens 25, Houston San Jacinto 22 (OT) 1932 N.A. Temple 30, Houston San Jacinto 23 1933 N.A. Athens 36, Houston Davis 20 1934 N.A. Athens 28, Lamesa 22 1935 N.A. Denton 38, Lamesa 23 1936 N.A. Cushing 33, El Paso 29 1937 N.A. Carey 26, Gober 18 1938 N.A. Dallas Wilson 41, Abilene 27 1939 N.A. Livingston 37, San Antonio Lanier 35 1940 N.A. San Marcos 22, El Paso 21 1941 N.A. El Paso 27, Abilene 20 1942 B Slidell 32, Fayetteville 22 1A Van 35, Nederland 27 2A Houston Davis 55, Lufkin 35 1943 B Slidell 36, Sidney 23 1A San Antonio Lanier 30, Beaumont French 18 2A Houston Davis 40, Austin 27 1944 B Prairie Lea 30, Blossom 26 1A Nocona 33, Mt. Vernon 32 (OT) 2A Dallas Sunset 29, Childress 20 1945 B Prairie Lea 35, Mt. Enterprise 33 1A SA Lanier 30, Quitman 24 2A FW Paschal 43, Lufkin 29

1946 B 1A 2A 1947 B 1A 2A 1948 B 1A 2A 1949 B 1A 2A City 1950 B 1A 2A City 1951 B 1A 2A City 1952 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1953 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1954 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1955 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1956 B 1A 2A 3A 4A

Stratford 29, Perrin 18 Pasadena 50, Levelland 35 Dallas Crozier Tech 32, Houston Davis 28 Johnson City 16, Marfa 14 East Mountain 35, Bowie 22 El Paso 27, San Antonio Jefferson 22 Maydelle 35, Johnson City 22 Mt. Vernon 44, East Mountain 43 Dallas Crozier Tech 29, Lufkin 28 Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mill 39, Big Sandy 33 Memphis 27, Beaumont French 25 Texas City 30, Brownwood 28 FW Paschal 41, Houston Milby 40 Gruver 43, Waelder 34 Canyon 49, S. San Antonio 25 Corpus Christi 40, Vernon 34 Houston Milby 40, Dallas Crozier Tech 39 Cayuga 44, Big Sandy 38 Bowie 54, Brenham 34 Lubbock 44, Austin 43 Houston Lamar 78, San Antonio Alamo Heights 52 Big Sandy 62, Laneville 41 Dimmitt 62, Plano 40 Bowie 65, Levelland 59 San Antonio Alamo Heights 49, Gladewater 45 FW Poly 56, Borger 51 Cayuga 50, Big Sandy 46 White Oak 69, Denver City 53 Bowie 81, Dumas 44 Beaumont S. Park 82, San Antonio Edison 54 Pampa 61, Austin 47 Cayuga 79, Big Sandy 59 Sweeny 92, Sundown 67 Bowie 70, Spring Branch 40 San Antonio Alamo Heights 67, Galena Park 60 Pampa 47, Dallas Crozier Tech 44 (OT) Avoca 47, Big Sandy 41 Buna 58, Dickinson 54 Seminole 50, San Marcos 49 Victoria 60, Beaumont French 51 Dallas Crozier Tech 57, Waco 55 Central Pollok 74, Krum 68 Buna 52, Troup 42 Jacksonville 70, Phillips 68 Amarillo Palo Duro 59, Beaumont French 51 Laredo 65, North Dallas 54

1957 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1958 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1959 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1960 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1961 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1962 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1963 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1964 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1965 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1966 B 1A 2A 3A 4A

Big Sandy 80, Meadow 59 White Oak 66, McGregor 51 Buna 74, Seminole 45 Houston Smiley 52, Pecos 35 Port Arthur 67, Pampa 51 Blossom 67, Big Sandy 61 James Bowie 48, Brownsboro 47 (OT) Belton 58, New London 56 (2-OT) Waxahachie 77, S. San Antonio 63 Pampa 48, Port Arthur 47 Midway (Henrietta) 65, Kyle 58 Huntington 63, Plains 43 Buna 53, Bowie 48 Houston Smiley 58, Hereford 42 Pampa 65, Dallas Jefferson 52 McAdoo 58, Midway (Henrietta) 42 Huntington 61, Sunray 46 Linden-Kildare 52, Dimmitt 44 Lamesa 56, S. San Antonio 54 Beaumont S. Park 41, Austin 36 Frankston 60, Hutto 44 James Bowie 53, Brownsboro 53 Buna 60, Dimmitt 36 S. San Antonio 67, Clear Creek 54 Houston Austin 68, Amarillo Palo Duro 60 Huntington 60, Roxton 56 White Deer 59, Woodsboro 39 Buna 49, Jacksboro 30 Dumas 58, Waxahachie 38 Dallas Jefferson 69, Houston Davis 46 McAdoo 52, Prairie Valley 35 West Sabine 66, Woodsboro 51 Buna 47, Canyon 41 Clear Creek 65, Seminole 57 San Angelo Central 62, Spring Branch 49 McAdoo 66, Hutto 64 (2-OT) Talco 75, Henrietta 60 Canyon 52 Lancaster 51 (OT) Graham 60, Clear Creek 50 Houston Austin 50, Dallas Adamson 42 Snook 48, Deweyville 44 (OT) West Sabine 51, Woodsboro 48 FW Lake Worth 60, Austin (Port Acres) 49 San Marcos 87, Waxahachie 63 Houston Jones 64, Dallas Jefferson 59 Snook 64, Channing 40 Gruver 63, Honey Grove 62 FW Lake Worth 60, Crane 42 San Antonio Marshall 64, Clear Creek 60 (OT) Houston Memorial 73, Dallas Samuel 68

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

95

All-Time State Tournament Results - Boys 1967 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1968 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1969 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1970 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1971 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1972 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1973 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1974 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1975 B 1A 2A 3A 4A

Kennard 51, Krum 47 Brownsboro 68, Archer City 59 Hardin-Jefferson 59, Dimmitt 51 Lamesa 60, S. San Antonio 56 San Antonio Lee 70, Houston Memorial 69 Kennard 64, Friendswood 49 Aspermont 52, Louise 50 Kirbyville 57, Mexia 52 Lake Highlands 51, Lubbock Dunbar 49 Houston Wheatley 85, Dallas Jefferson 80 (OT) Snook 50, Brookeland 41 Friendswood 51, West Sabine 49 FW Kirkpatrick 63, Klein (Spring) 54 Kerrville Tivy 55, Perryton 54 Houston Wheatley 52, Houston Memorial 47 Chester 75, Midway 53 Kennard 72, Clarendon 64 Kountze 75, Taft 73 Kerrville Tivy 81, Cypress-Fairbanks 68 Houston Wheatley 108, Carrollton Turner 80 Krum 52, Snook 51 Van Horn 68, Pottsboro 67 Hughes Springs 64, Friendswood 60 Dumas 65, FW Como 59 Cypress Fairbanks 72, Houston Wheatley 58 LaPoynor 53, Snook 44 Pottsboro 61, Garrison 60 Morton 62, Whitehouse 59 Odessa Ector 71, Henderson 64 Dallas Roosevelt 68, San Antonio Jefferson 63 LaPoynor 72, Brock 52 Kennard 77, Petrolia 57 San Augustine 60, Grand Saline 58 Pine Tree 45, Lamesa 38 Houston Wheatley 84, Midland 78

1976 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1977 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1978 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1979 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1980 B 1A 2A 3A 4A 1981 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 84 1982 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A

1983 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A Huckabay 49, LaPoynor 48 1984 Huntington 41, Snook 39 1A Bowie 76, Friona 66 2A Gonzales 77, Crosby 62 3A Houston Kashmere 91, 4A Dallas S. Oak Cliff 87 5A 1985 LaPoynor 52, Spade 42 Brookshire Royal 62, Whitewright 57 1A 2A Dimmitt 49, Van Vleck 43 3A Lamesa 59, S. Grand Prairie 55 Houston Kashmere 60, FW Paschal 58 4A 5A

Richards 57, Brookeland 47 Broaddus 82, Crowell 46 Mart 57, Morton 52 Odessa Ector 76, Waxahachie 75 EP-Eastwood 74, Tyler 62 Avinger 68, Hedley 62 Broaddus 84, Whitewright 71 Morton 63, Kountze 60 Daingerfield 72, Borger 68 Dallas S. Oak Cliff 78, FW Dunbar 71 Krum 69, Avinger 68 Snook 63, Coppell 62 Whitehouse 60, Dimmitt 59 Huntsville 55, Mineral Wells 49 Houston Wheatley 84, San Antonio Fox Tech 83 (OT)

1986 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1987 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1988 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A

1989 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1990 Snook 59, West Lamar 58 1A Gladewater 69, Sabine Bartlett 68 2A Abernathy 64, Boling 58 3A Beaumont Hebert 88, Snyder 53 4A Houston Kashmere 70, Plano 69 5A 1991 Snook 41, Midway 33 Gladewater 62, Sabine Shallowater 43 1A 2A Rice Consolidated 56, 3A North Lamar 52 4A Beaumont Hebert 59, Canyon 57 PA Lincoln 92, San Antonio Marshall 5A 1992 1A Snook 52, Greenwood 45 2A Shelbyville 46, Nixon 39 3A Dimmitt 60, Linden-Kildare 59 Beaumont Hebert 76, Waxahachie 71 4A 5A San Antonio Churchill 75, 1993 Galveston Ball 74 1A 2A Snook 76, Central Heights 40 Morton 91, Bartlett 69 3A Dimmitt 81, Van Vleck 54 4A Waxahachie 79, Borger 66 5A Bryan 71, FW Paschal 54 1994 1A Snook 39, Nazareth 30 2A Shelbyville 73, Somerville 67 3A New Boston 76, Hardin-Jefferson 65 4A PA Lincoln 61, Flour Bluff 52 5A Bryan 68, Houston Memorial 56 1995 LaPoynor 47, Nazareth 43 (OT) 1A Grapeland 63, Morton 56 2A Sweeny 55, Brownsboro 43 3A Bay City 65, Lamesa 63 4A Houston Madison 89, Conroe 69 5A Snook 57, Krum 56 Vega 52, LaPoynor 44 Seminole 47, Rice Consolidated 42 Huntsville 48, Mineral Wells 45 Lufkin 75, FW Dunbar 74

Nazareth 53, Archer City 49 Morton 73, Dripping Springs 59 Cleveland 57, Dimmitt 56 PA Lincoln 55, Mansfield 39 Amarillo 68, Dallas Kimball 63 Paducah 71, Bronte 39 Morton 84, Liberty Hill 72 Sweeny 66, Hughes Springs 64 Dallas Hillcrest 51, Cleburne 42 La Porte 64, SA Holmes 58 Paducah 99, Big Sandy 61 Archer City 80, Liberty Hill 69 Sweeny 59, Corpus Christi W. Oso 50 PA Lincoln 66, WF Hirschi 59 Houston Sam Houston 73, FW Dunbar 68 Fannindel 75, Moulton 58 Edgewood 48, Tidehaven 46 San Antonio Cole 66, Clarksville 60 PA Lincoln 86, Austin Travis 69 Clear Lake 86, San Antonio Jay 69 Santo 67, Moulton 64 Ingram Moore 73, Troup 72 Navasota 71, Lamesa 54 Dallas Lincoln 87, Boerne 77 Dallas Kimball 59, Clear Lake 56 Moulton 53, Bronte 44 Abernathy 55, Troup 46 Hardin-Jefferson 75, Clarksville 68 PA Lincoln 77, San Antonio Alamo Heights 68 Duncanville 65, San Antonio Jay 38 Laneville 51, Petersburg 49 Troup 60, Krum 40 Stafford 73, Groesbeck 72 Dallas S. Oak Cliff 73, Georgetown 60 Longview 71, Victoria 67 (OT) Laneville 77, Brock 68 Troup 69, Amarillo Highland Park 49 Southlake Carroll 66, Ferris 56 Dallas Lincoln 46, PA Lincoln 45 FW Dunbar 74, Converse Judson 64 Lipan 62, Nazareth 60 Krum 56, Troup 45 Ferris 84, Littlefield 66 Plainview 54, Austin Anderson 52 Sugar Land Willowridge 50, Plano East 44 Sudan 74, Calvert 71 LaPoynor 60, Maypearl 56 Clarksville 87, Madisonville 69 PA Lincoln 57, Austin Anderson 56 (OT) San Antonio East Central 108, Dallas Carter 86

See Results p. 96

96

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

All-Time State Tournament Results - Boys Lakeview Centennial 58 1996 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1997 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1998 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1999 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 2000 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 2001 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2002 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2003 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A

Avinger 51, Anderson-Shiro 48 Krum 53, East Chambers 39 Sinton 66, Graham 59 Pampa 82, Dallas Madison 68 Dallas Kimball 72, Euless Trinity 64 Wortham 50, Nazareth 42 Italy 71, Industrial 63 Dallas Madison 64, Tulia 58 San Antonio Fox Tech 68, Dallas Lincoln 59 Dallas Kimball 64, Galena Park North Shore 53 Moulton 67, Goodrich 44 Krum 64, Little River Academy 52 Clarksville 90, Crockett 83 Houston Waltrip 67, Dallas Highland Park 60 Midland 63, San Antonio Taft 51

2004 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2005 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2006 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A

Moulton 54, Brookeland 49 Peaster 66, Wellington 62 (OT) Mexia 77, Seminole 71 (OT) Crowley 60, PA Lincoln 51 Duncanville 78, Dallas Kimball 61 Brookeland 63, Moulton 53 Peaster 67, Van Vleck 58 Waco LaVega 60, Gainesville 47 Denton Ryan 80, Dallas Madison 69 Sugar Land Willowridge 59, Klein Forest 52 Goodrich 62, Nazareth 51 Evadale 61, Stratford 47 Ponder 59, Danbury 40 Mexia 74, Corpus Christi West Oso 49 Beaumont Ozen 58, SA Lanier 42 Sugar Land Willowridge 65, Bryan 58

5A 2007 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2008 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2009 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A

Nazareth 61, Goodrich 58 Brock 76, Kennard 59 Little River Academy 49, Frankston 48 4A Gainesville 79, Kountze 62 Dallas Lincoln 71, Beaumont Ozen 51 5A San Antonio Jay 54, Dallas Kimball 53 2010 1A-II 1A-I Nazareth 69, Oakwood 60 (3OT) 2A Tenaha 72, Lipan 55 3A Brock 81, Hitchcock 52 Everman 72, Tatum 44 4A FW Dunbar 66, Beaumont Ozen 54 5A DeSoto 94, Corpus Christi Ray 73

Lenorah Grady 55, Neches 49 Normangee 53, Morton 51 (OT) Shallowater 47, Argyle 45 (OT) Kountze 73, Greenwood 54 Houston Jones 63, Dallas Lincoln 61 Houston Milby 72, Cedar Hill 67 Lipan 58, Paducah 49 Morton 66, Snook 38 Kountze Tuscola 77, Jim Ned 64 Van 62, Graham 41 San Antonio Sam Houston def.

S. Oak Cliff (disqualified by forfeit) Humble Kingwood 54, DeSoto 52 Nazareth 53, Lipan 48 Bogata Rivercrest 57, Gruver 49 Arp 65, Ponder 49 Dallas Roosevelt 61, Carrollton Ranch 46 FW Dunbar def.

S. Oak Cliff (disqualified by forfeit) Plano 60, Humble Kingwood 58 (OT)

2011 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2012 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A

2013 1A-II 1A-I 2A 3A 4A 5A 2014 1A-II Nazareth 52, Laneville 43 1A-I Thorndale 39, Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mill 37 2A Kountze 71, Shallowater 57 Hardin-Jefferson 56, Abilene Wylie 44 3A Dallas S. Oak Cliff 54, 4A Beaumont Ozen 42 Duncanville 60, Humble Kingwood 46 5A Laneville 56, Goodrich 50 2015 Thorndale 53, Big Sandy 42 1A Ponder 72, Tuscola Jim Ned 51 2A Kennedale 61, Burkburnet 59 Dallas S. Oak Cliff 80, FW Southwest 77 3A North Crowley 73, Ft. Bend Dulles 67 4A 5A Elkhart Slocum 45, Nazareth 27 6A Roscoe 52, Plains 48 (OT) Ponder 51, New Waverly 39 Dallas Madison 68, Lubbock Estacado 66 (OT) Houston Yates 94, Dallas Kimball 78 DeSoto 59, Cedar Hill 47 Nazareth 52, Lenorah Grady 43 Cayuga 66, Bronte 60 (OT) Ponder 66, Idalou 40 Lubbock Estacado 69, Dallas Madison 63 Houston Yates 91, Lancaster 73 Ft. Bend Bush 65,

Paducah 45, Bronte 30 Clyde Eula 64, Tenaha 49 Idalou 55, Tatum 54 Corpus Christi West Oso 61, Burkburnett 57 Dallas Kimball 78, LaMarque 64 Flower Mound Marcus 40, Lakeview Centennial 38 Calvert 63, Graford 37 Clarksville 65, Mumford 47 White Oak 61, Brock 53 Argyle 44, Corpus Christi Miller 33 Kimball 78, Houston Yates 75 Flower Mound Marcus 56, Ft. Bend Travis 52 Roxton 60, Douglass 54 Triple A Academy 80, Mumford 54 White Oak 56, Brock 54 Dallas Madison 85, Houston Yates 72 Rosenberg Terry 55, Dallas Kimball 47 Ft. Bend Travis 46, S. Grand Prairie 38 Water Valley 68, Laneville 44 Mumford 64, Muenster 57 Ponder 66, Tatum 56 Houston Yates 2, Dallas Madison 0 (Madison forfeits title) Dallas Kimball 52, Amarillo 37 Galena Park North Shore 57, Converse Judson 45 Texline 76, Lenorah Grady 55 Canadian 68, Dallardsville Big Sandy 60 Brock 37, Universal City Randolph 32 Bridgeport 83, Houston Sterling 53 Lancaster 59, Beaumont Ozen 47 Plano West 56, Houston Clear Lake 54

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

97

All-Time State Tournament Results - Girls Year/Class 1951 B Claude 42, Clyde Denton Valley 40 1A Comanche 50, McLean 49 1952 B Claude 47, Duncanville 42 1A Hamilton 27, Morton 19 1953 B Claude 40, Bryson 30 1A New Deal 58, Whitesboro 44 1954 B Winnie East Chambers 46, Claude 45 1A Dimmitt 66, Granbury 60 1955 B Waco Midway 58, Cotton Center 50 1A Dimmitt 62, Granbury 44 2A Bowie 54, Angleton 52 1956 B Collinsville 83, Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 75 1A Buna 54, New Deal 44 2A Angleton 51, Seagoville 48 1957 B Lubbock Roosevelt 56, Hawley 40 1A Ropesville 64, Cooper 51 2A Buna 69, Seagoville 31 1958 B Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 86, Collinsville 28 1A Cooper 59, Moulton 53 2A Abernathy 64, Ft. Worth Brewer 53 1959 B Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 64, Bovina 47 1A Pollok Central 58, Sudan 57 2A Abernathy 59, Buna 57 1960 B Sulphur Springs N. Hopkins 42, Claude 38 1A Cooper 60, Moulton 51 2A Buna 66, Friona 63 1961 B Midway (Henrietta) 54, Claude 48 1A Sundown 50, Moulton 46 2A Buna 66, Spearman 47 1962 B Claude 55, Wells 41 1A Sundown 51, Ladonia Fannindel 46 2A Devine 38, Tulia 37 1963 B Slidell 71, Wells 65 1A Sundown 51, Moulton 48 2A West Orange 49, Little Cypress 42 1964 B Trent 76, Burkeville 27 1A Baird 85, Jourdanton 68 2A Friona 50, League City Clear Creek 45

1965 B 1A 2A 3A 1966 B 1A 2A 3A 1967 3A 2A 1A B 1968 B 1A 2A 3A 1969 B 1A 2A 3A 1970 3A 2A 1A B 1971 B 1A 2A 3A 1972 B 1A 2A 3A 1973 B 1A 2A 3A 1974 B 1A 2A 3A

1975 B 1A 2A 3A 1976 B Round Top-Carmine 57, Deport 32 1A Jourdanton 79, Earth Springlake 74 2A Spearman 50, 3A Orange Little Cypress 46 4A Tulia 76, Victoria 75 1977 B Tulia 70, Victoria 57 1A Orange Little Cypress 52, 2A Spearman 43 3A Earth Springlake 105, 4A Cross Plains 52 High Island 48, Quitaque 39 1978 B High Island 53, 1A Lamesa Klondike 40 2A Earth Springlake 75, 3A George West 65 Bogata Rivercrest 56, 4A Gregory-Portland 54 1979 Stephenville 41, West Orange 27 B 1A Lamesa Klondike 62, High Island 48 2A Stratford 42, Deweyville 37 3A Waco Midway 56, Spearman 55 4A Canyon 59, Angleton 42 1980 B Corpus Christi Tuloso Midway 66, 1A Canyon 54 Waco Robinson 57, Spearman 49 2A Abilene Wylie 80, Grandview 57 3A Follet 59, Trent 50 4A Round Top-Carmine 48, Grandview 33 1981 Claude 46, Glen Rose 33 1A Spearman 52, Buna 47 2A Victoria 55, Canyon 51 (OT) 3A 4A Round Top-Carmine 54, 5A Huckabay 48 Claude 57, Southlake Carroll 55 1982 Spearman 50, Waco Robinson 49 1A Canyon 59, Rockdale 36 2A 3A Neches 49, Poolville 45 4A Grandview 39, Turkey Valley 37 5A Waco Midway 65, Comanche 46 1983 Angleton 57, Canyon 55 1A 2A Poolville 60, Lamesa Klondike 54 3A Grandview 52, Shiner 36 4A Slaton 51, Comanche 45 Canyon 65, Conroe 41 5A Trent 69, Round Top-Carmine 65 Lubbock Roosevelt 77, Jourdanton 71 Edna 60, Friona 57 Victoria 63, Weslaco 46

Crawford 45, Neches 44 Southlake Carroll 50, Vega 48 (3OT) George West 52, Bellville 51 Waco Midway 60, Canyon 52 Neches 53, Crawford 49 Stratford 60, Archer City 57 Phillips 83, Bellville 69 Waco Midway 64, Canyon 59 Duncanville 70, Victoria 69 (OT) Nazareth 73, May 54 Cooper 85, Deweyville 69 Spearman 61, Waco Robinson 58 Canyon 58, Waco Midway 54 Dallas S. Oak Cliff 79, Schertz Clemens 65 Nazareth 47, Graford 39 Robert Lee 44, Cushing 41 Slaton 55, Granbury 45 Canyon 59, Corpus Christi Tulosa Midway 37 Dallas S. Oak Cliff 70, Victoria 62 Nazareth 46, Brock 43 Hale Center 46, Bogata Rivercrest 29 Slaton 68, Pflugerville 54 Georgetown 51, Sweeny 49 Victoria 43, Dallas S. Oak Cliff 41 Nazareth 56, Brock 50 Bogata Rivercrest 68, Panhandle 41 Slaton 75, Kyle Hays 44 Dumas 53, Corpus Christi Flour Bluff 43 Dallas S. Oak Cliff 74, Lubbock Monterey 69 Nazareth 84, Colmesneil 39 Hardin 61, New Deal 46 Abernathy 61, Sweeny 59 Canyon 64, Bay City 53 Lubbock Monterey 71, Duncanville 70 Nazareth 64, Dimebox 37 Hardin 69, Phillips 61 Barbers Hill 68, Sweeny 53 Del Valle 76, Carthage 64 Victoria 46, Dallas S. Oak Cliff 45 Sudan 46, LaRue LaPoynor 34 Hardin 41, Hale Center 39 Barbers Hill 86, Sweeny 81 (3OT) Levelland 41, Corpus Christi Calallen 28 Houston Yates 58, Victoria 56 (OT)

See Results p. 98

98

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

All-Time State Tournament Results - Girls 1984 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1985 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1986 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1987 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1988 1A 2A 3A 40 4A 5A 1989 1A 2A 3A 4A 24 5A 1990 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1991 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A

Nazareth 64, Petty West Lamar 32 Pollok Central 37, Hale Center 36 Abernathy 67, Groesbeck 57 Waco Richfield 56, Levelland 43 Longview 72, Houston Yates 52

1992 1A 2A 3A 4A Nazareth 56, Priddy 48 5A Troy 80, Abernathy 72 1993 Vernon 52, Sweeny 51 1A Waco Richfield 44, Sweetwater 35 2A Dallas S. Oak Cliff 60, Victoria 46 3A 4A Snook 36, Nazareth 33 5A Abernathy 51, Rogers 42 1994 Hardin-Jefferson 72, Ingleside 53 1A Levelland 44, 2A A&M Consolidated 43 (OT) 3A Victoria 57, Tyler Lee 44 4A Sudan 55, Moulton 26 5A Morton 68, Paris Chisum 53 1995 Slaton 43, Sweeny 40 1A Levelland 41, 2A Corpus Christi Calallen 30 3A Plainview 59, Austin Lanier 47 4A 5A Nazareth 64, LaRue LaPoynor 28 Godley 60, Grapeland 58 1996 Brownfield 49, Hardin-Jefferson 1A 2A Levelland 38, 3A Corpus Christi Calallen 35 4A Duncanville 68, North Mesquite 46 5A Nazareth 57, LaRue LaPoynor 33 Grapeland 54, Abernathy 47 Hardin-Jefferson 46, Canyon 44 (2OT) Levelland 45, West Orange-Stark Duncanville 42, Victoria 38 Nazareth 53, Moulton 34 Tatum 61, Marion 50 Abilene Wylie 51, Edna 37 Corpus Christi Calallen 46, Waco Midway 39 Duncanville 74, Houston Yates 51 Nazareth 50, Moulton 30 Abernathy 37, Honey Grove 32 Tulia 58, Winnsboro 39 Levelland 51, Dallas Lincoln 30 Amarillo Tascosa 54, Victoria 41

1997 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1998 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 1999 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A

Celeste 70, Brock 57 Panhandle 52, Marion 49 Canyon 49, Winnsboro 29 Canyon Randall 43, Georgetown 42 San Marcos 45, Duncanville 43 (OT)

2000 1A 2A 3A 4A 5A 2001 1A-I 1A-II 2A

Celeste 63, Muenster 38 Marion 69, Hamilton 63 Dimmitt 59, Dripping Springs 51 Austin Westlake 48, Levelland 40 Amarillo 68, Corpus Christi King 65 3A 4A Sudan 40, Jayton 36 5A Tuscola Jim Ned 31, Hemphill 29 2002 Dripping Springs 64, 1A-I Waco LaVega 56 1A-II Waco Midway 52, Dallas Lincoln 40 2A Amarillo 62, Conroe 46 3A 4A Sudan 66, Alvord 42 5A Ozona 61, Cooper 47 2003 Bowie 65, Dripping Springs 50 1A-I Cleburne 55, Silsbee 50 1A-II Austin Westlake 59, 2A Duncanville 56 (OT) 3A 4A Nazareth 43, Celeste 30 5A Ozona 45, Gunter 39 2004 Groesbeck 63, Slaton 61 1A-I Canyon 60, Cedar Hill 34 1A-II Austin Westlake 64, 2A Alief Elsik 60 (2OT) 3A 4A Whiteface 59, Celeste 39 5A Poth 54, Shallowater 50 Barbers Hill 66, 2005 Dripping Springs 45 1A-I Levelland 36, Cedar Hill 33 1A-II Duncanville 44, Alief Elsik 33 2A 3A Karnack 69, Nazareth 45 4A Hamilton 54, Ozona 45 5A Comanche 65, Winnsboro 56 2006 Canyon Randall 52, Bay City 23 1A-I Alief Elsik 58, Amarillo Palo Duro 38 1A-II 2A Vega 70, Valley View 64 3A Hughes Springs 61, Salado 33 4A Winnsboro 56, Lufkin Hudson 48 5A Dallas Lincoln 52, Canyon 49 Mansfield 65, Corpus Christi Carroll 46

Nazareth 72, Valley View 56 Farwell 47, Brock 35 Winnsboro 54, Smithville 51 Canyon 74, Waxahachie 54 Mansfield 69, Plano 43 Kennard 61, Windthorst 54 Nazareth 61, Saltillo 51 Nacogdoches Central Heights 57, Boyd 56 Winnsboro 51, Abilene Wylie 48 Plainview 51, Dallas Lincoln 40 Mansfield 62, Spring Westfield 49 Brock 58, LaRue LaPoynor 26 Nazareth 67, Dodd City 42 Buffalo 48, Abernathy 43 Llano 67, Liberty-Eylau 51 Plainview 68, Dallas Lincoln 40 Mansfield 47, San Antonio Taft 42 LaRue 52, LaPoynor Gruver 47 Priddy 57, Hedley 54 Brock 55, Shallowater 36 Canyon 76, Kountze 45 Plainview 50, Dallas Lincoln 41 Duncanville 47, Georgetown 27 Archer City 43, Muenster 42 Fayetteville 48, Briscoe 41 Shallowater 44, Aubrey 37 Canyon 63, Winnsboro 33 Dallas Lincoln 57, Plainview 35 Spring Westfield 66, Duncanville 49 Seagraves 60, Moulton 45 Nazareth 62, Kennard 57 Brock 64, Canadian 30 Canyon 66, Cleveland 46 Ft. Worth Dunbar 56, Angleton 50 Arlington Bowie 69, Humble 62 (OT) Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mill 61, Elkhart Slocum 30 Kennard 44, Springlake-Earth 26 Argyle 51, Wall 33 China Spring 57, Abilene Wylie 54 Waxahachie 52, Kerrville Tivy 48 Plano West 54, Rockwall 47

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

99

All-Time State Tournament Results - Girls 5A 2007 1A-I 1A-II 2A 3A 4A 5A 2008 1A-I 1A-II 2A 3A 4A 5A 2009 1A-1 1A-II 2A 3A 4A

Lindsay 43, Sundown 36 Nazareth 61, Garden City 31 Poth 72, Winnsboro 70 (2OT) Canyon 53, Crockett 38 Ft. Worth Dunbar 62, Dickinson 51 Rockwall 59, Cypress-Fairbanks 54 (OT)

2010 1A-I 1A-II 2A 3A 4A 5A

Follett 71, Kennard 51 Martin’s Mill 48, Sudan 43 Tuscola Jim Ned 65, Poth 49 Canyon 59, Kennedale 43 Dallas Lincoln 50, Dickinson 47 Cypress-Fairbanks 50, DeSoto 33 Sudan 71, Roscoe 38 Roby 44, Neches 34 Brock 61, Woodville 32 Waco Robinson 49, Argyle 33 Waco Midway 50, Mansfield Timberview 27

2011 1A-I 1A-II 2A 3A 4A 5A 2012 1A-I 1A-II 2A 3A

4A 5A 2013 Smyer 49, Martin’s Mill 41 1A-I 1A-II Neches 61, McClean 32 Brock 38, Wall 33 2A Liberty-Eylau 70, 3A Abilene Wylie 68 (OT) 4A Mansfield Timberview 55, 5A Frisco Wakeland 39 2014 Cypress-Fairbanks 65, 1A-I Ft. Bend Hightower 41 1A-II 2A Smyer 52, Martin’s Mill 49 3A Neches 65, Whitharral 44 4A Brock 47, Winnsboro 26 5A Abilene Wylie 66, Lucas Lovejoy 58 2015 Canyon 44, Austin LBJ 39 1A Irving MacArthur 75, 2A Georgetown 51 3A 4A Sudan 70, Martin’s Mill 41 5A Neches 60, Lipan 41 6A Brock 52, Poth 49 Abilene Wylie 59, Celina 45 Mansfield Summitt 52, Houston Nimitz 43

Mansfield Summit 45, Rockwall 42 Duncanville 69, Spring Dekaney 31 Martin’s Mill 49, Smyer 46 Whitharral 45, Saltillo 36 Brock 40, Merkel 32 Mexia 69, Kennedale 62 Georgetown 65, Dallas Lincoln 60 Duncanville 59, Cibola Steele 36 Plains 57, Kerens 44 Nazareth 82, Calvert 41 Wall 48, Brock 44 Waco La Vega 47, Argyle 42 Canyon 49, McKinney North 42 Manvel 58, Duncanville 53 Nazareth 56, Lipan 40 Martin’s Mill 49, Gruver 36 Sunnyvale 52, Shallowater 37 Argyle 46, Abilene Wylie 25 Canyon 48, Dallas Adams 41 Houston Cypress Woods 57, Dallas Skyline 49

100

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

UIL State Tournament Records • Boys

Green = New Records

All Classifications Individual high score, game 51 -- Don Stanley (Buna, 1957) Tommy Jones (Crane, 1969) Individual free throws, game 17 -- Frank Portilla (Milby-Houston, 1956) Robert Zamora (South San Antonio, 1961) Individual high score, series (3 games) 95 -- Jimmy Moore (Frankston, 1964) Individual high score, series (2 games) 91 -- Tommy Jones (Crane, 1969) Team low score, game 2 -- Kenedy, 1923 (Oak Cliff 44, Kenedy 2) Team high score, series (3 games) 238 -- Kennard, 1968 Team high score, series (2 games) 215 -- East Central-San Antonio, 1995

Most times in tournament 19 – Austin HS-Austin (1922, ’24-28, ’30-31, ’36, ’43-45, ’49, ’51, ’53,’57, ’58, ’60-61) -- Snook (1962, ’65-68, ’71-72, ’79-85,2005...Class 1A; 1973-74, ’77-78...Class 2A) Most state championships 10 – Snook (1965-66, ’70, ’78-84) Class 6A Individual high score, game 45 -- Ira Terrell (Roosevelt-Dallas) Individual free throws, game 17 -- Frank Portilla (Milby-Houston) Individual high score, series (3 games) 75 -- Mack Carter (Borger) Individual high score, series (2 games) 78 -- Stanley Bonewitz Jr. (Central-San Antonio, 1995) Team high score, game 111 – Roosevelt-Dallas, 1972 Team low score, game 15 -- Waco, 1947

Blue = Old Records

Most times in tournament 19 -- Austin HS-Austin (1922, ’24-28, ’30-31, ’36, ’43-45,’49, ’51, ’53, ’57-58, ’60-61) Class 5A Individual high score, game 41 -- Dennis Realer (Gonzales, 1974) Individual free throws, game 17 -- Robert Zamora (South San Antonio, 1961) Individual high score, series (3 games) 86 -- Marcus Frieberger (Greenville, 1947) Individual high score, series (2 games) 78 -- Dennis Tealer (Gonzales, 1974) Team high score, game 106 – Yates-Houston, 2010 Team low score, game 17 -- Lufkin, 1946 Team high score, series (3 games) 167 -- Alamo Heights-San Antonio, 1952

Aggregate high score, game 220 -- Roosevelt of Dallas 111, Wheatley-Houston 109...1972

Team high score, series (3 games) 188 -- Borger, 1952

Aggregate low score, game 21 -- Sulphur Springs 11, Waco 10

Team high score, series (2 games) 215 -- East Central-San Antonio, 1995

Aggregate high score, game 185 -- South Oak Cliff-Dallas 95, Angleton 90...2006

Championship game, individual high score 51 -- Don Stanley (Buna, 1957)

Aggregate high score, game 220 – Roosevelt-Dallas 111, Wheatley-Houston 109...1972

Aggregate low score, game 37 – Davis-Houston 20, Lufkin 17...1946

Championship game, team high score 108 – Wheatley-Houston, 1970 East Central-San Antonio, 1995

Aggregate low score, game 37 – Davis-Houston 20, Lufkin 17...1946

Championship game, individual high score 38 -- Jerry Mallett (South Park-Beaumont, 1953)

Championship game, lowest scoring winner 14 -- Beaumont, 1925

Championship game, individual high score Championship game, team high score 44 -- Rick Bullock (Jefferson-San Antonio, 1972) 94 – Yates-Houston, 2009

Championship game, highest scoring loser 86 – Carter-Dallas, 1995

Championship game, team high score 108 – Wheatley-Houston, 1970 East Central-San Antonio, 1995

Championship game, lowest scoring loser 11 -- San Antonio, 1921 Denton, 1929 Estelline, 1930 Championship game, aggregate high score 194 -- East Central-San Antonio 108, Carter of Dallas 86...1995 Championship game, aggregate low score 26 -- Beaumont 14, Brackenridge-San Antonio 12...1925

Championship game, lowest scoring winner 27 -- El Paso, 1947 Championship game, highest scoring loser 86 – Carter-Dallas, 1995

Team high score, series (2 games) 198 – Yates-Houston, 2010

Championship game, lowest scoring winner 45 -- Pine Tree-Longview, 1973 Championship game, highest scoring loser 78 – Kimball-Dallas, 2009 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 35 -- Pecos, 1957

Championship game, lowest scoring loser 22 – Jefferson-San Antonio, 1947

Championship game, aggregate high score 172 – Yates-Houston 94, Kimball-Dallas 78...2009

Championship game, aggregate high score 194 -- East Central-San Antonio 108, Carter-Dallas 86...1995

Championship game, aggregate low score 83 -- Pine Tree-Longview 45, Lamesa 38...1973

Championship game, aggregate low score 49 -- El Paso 27, Jefferson of San Antonio 22...1947

Most times in tournament 14 – Dunbar-Fort Worth (1976, ’78-79, ’81, ’84, ’87-88, ’90-91, ’93...Class 5A; 2002-03, ’06-07...Class 4A)

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

101

UIL State Tournament Records - Boys Most state championships 7 – Lincoln-Port Arthur (1981...Class 5A; 1984, ’86, ’88-89, ’91, ’95...Class 4A)

Class 3A Individual high score, game 50 -- Russell Boone (Sweeny, 1954)

Most times in tournament 17 – Dimmitt (1944, ’48, ’51, ’60-61, ’67, ’71, ’75, ’78, ’82-84, ’86-88; 2001-02)

Class 4A Individual high score, game 51 -- Don Stanley (Buna, 1957) Tommy Jones (Crane, 1969)

Individual free throws, game 12 -- Wayne Williams (Dickinson, 1955) Franklin McLean (Deer Park, 1956) Roy Myers (Huntington, 1974)

Most state championships 7 – Buna (1955-56...Class 2A; 1957-58, ’61-63...Class 3A)

Individual free throws, game 16 -- Bennie Lenox (Clear Creek-League City, 1960) Tommy Jones (Crane, 1969) Individual high score, series (3 games) 74 -- Harold Pheland (Levelland, 1952) Individual high score, series (2 games) 91 -- Tommy Jones (Crane, 1969) Team high score, game 100 -- Lamesa, 1990 Team low score, game 16 -- Elkhart, 1942 Team high score, series (3 games) 169 -- Bowie, 1951 Team high score, series (2 games) 172 – Hardin-Jefferson/Sour Lake, 1991 Aggregate high score, game 173 -- Clarksville 90, Crockett 83...1998 Aggregate low score, game 36 -- Mount Vernon 19, Lanier of San Antonio 17...1944 Championship game, individual high score 51 -- Don Stanley (Buna, 1957) Championship game, team high score 90 -- Clarksville, 1998 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 30 – Lanier-San Antonio, 1943 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 18 – French-Beaumont, 1943 Championship game, highest scoring loser 83 -- Crockett, 1998 Championship game, aggregate high score 173 -- Clarksville 90, Crockett 83...1998 Championship game, aggregate low score 48 – Lanier-San Antonio 30, French-Beaumont 18...1943 Most state championships 5 – Wheatley-Houston (1968-70, ’73, ’78)

Individual high score, series (3 games) 66 -- Junior Carrington (East Mountain, 1947) Individual high score, series (2 games) 89 -- Russell Boone (Sweeny, 1954) Team high score, game 97 -- Troup, 1994

Class 2A Individual high score, game 43 -- George Scott (McAdoo, 1960) John Ray Godfrey (Aspermont, 1962) Zac Tabor (Graford, 2012) Individual free throws, game 19 -- Zac Tabor (Graford, 2012)

Team low score, game 16 -- Elkhart, 1942

Individual high score, series (3 games) 95 -- Jimmy Moore (Frankston, 1964)

Team high score, series (3 games) 186 -- Dimmitt, 1952

Team high score, game 99 -- Paducah, 1988

Team high score, series (2 games) 173 -- Morton, 1983

Team low score, game 14 -- Marfa, 1947

Aggregate high score, game 179 -- Lorenzo 92, Zapata 87...1967

Team high score, series (3 games) 238 -- Kennard, 1968

Aggregate low score, game 60 – Universal City-Randolph 31, Childress 29...2015 78 -- Plano 40, Lovelady 38...1952 Championship game, individual high score 50 -- Russell Boone, (Sweeny, 1954) Championship game, team high score 92 -- Sweeny, 1954 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 37 -- Brock, 2015 41 – Huntington, 1974 Championship game, highest scoring loser 72 -- Liberty Hill, 1987 Troup, 1990 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 32 – Universal City-Randolph, 2015 39 – Snook, 1974 -- Nixon, 1982 -- East Chambers (Winnie), 1996 -- New Waverly, 2009 Championship game, aggregate high score 160 -- Morton 91, Bartlett 69...1983 Championship game, aggregate low score 69 – Brock 37, Universal City-Randolph 32...2015 80 -- Huntington 41, Snook 39...1974

Team high score, series (2 games) 170 -- Triple A Academy-Dallas, 2013 Aggregate high score, game 164 -- Laneville 91, Calvert 73...1993 Aggregate low score, game 30 -- Johnson City 16, Marfa 14...1947 Championship game, individual high score 35 -- Calvin Gerke (Snook, 1966) Championship game, team high score 99 -- Paducah, 1988 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 16 -- Johnson City, 1947 Championship game, highest scoring loser 71 -- Calvert, 1995 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 14 -- Marfa, 1947 Championship game, aggregate high score 160 -- Paducah 99, Big Sandy of Livingston 61...1988 Championship game, aggregate low score 30 -- Johnson City 16, Marfa 14...1947

See Records p. 102

102

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Records - Boys cont.

Tournament Records • Girls

Most times in tournament 19 – Snook (1962, ’65-68, ’71-72, ’79-85, 2005...Class 1A; 1973-74, ’77-78...Class 2A) Most state championships 10 – Snook (1965-66, ’69, ’79-84...Class 1A; 1978...Class 2A)

All Classifications Individual high score, game 68 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956)

Class 1A Individual high score, game 36 – Aaron Gutierrez (Texline, 2015)

Individual field goals, game 28 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956)

Individual free throws, game 11 – Cole Avery (Lenorah Grady, 2015) Individual high score, series (2 games) 67 – Aaron Gutierrez (Texline, 2015)

Individual high score (3-game series) 168 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956)

Team high score, game 76 – Texline (in 2 games), 2015 Lenorah Grady, 2015 Team low score, game 48 – Graford, 2015 Team high score, series (2 games) 152 – Texline, 2015 Aggregate high score, game 151 – Lenorah Grady 76, Calvert 75...2015 Aggregate low score, game 124 – Texline 76 Graford 48...2015 Championship game, individual high score 31 – Aaron Gutierrez (Texline, 2015) Championship game, team high score 76 – Texline, 2015 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 76 – Texline, 2015 Championship game, highest scoring loser 55 – Lenorah Grady, 2015 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 55 – Lenorah Grady, 2015 Championship game, aggregate high score 131 – Texline 76, Lenorah Grady 55...2015 Championship game, aggregate low score 131 – Texline 76, Lenorah Grady 55...2015 Most times in tournament 7 -- Graford (1965, ’82, ’88, 2000, ’08, ’12, ’15) Most state championships 1 – Lenorah Grady, 2004 Texline, 2015

Individual free throws, game 29 -- Bebe Zajicek (Ganado, 1966)

Individual high score (2-game series) 103 -- Mary Rosebrock (George West, 1968) Team high score, game 105 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967 Team low score, game 11 -- Sulphur Bluff, 1951 Team high score (3-game series) 249 -- North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs), 1958 Team high score (2-game series) 171 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967 Team field goals, game 38 -- Bovina, 1959 Aggregate high score, game 179 -- Buna 92, Freeport Brazosport 87...1960 Aggregate low score, game 36 -- Claude 25, Sulphur Bluff 11...1951 Championship game, individual high score 68 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956) Championship game, team high score 105 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 27 -- Hamilton, 1952 Championship game, highest scoring loser 75 -- North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs), 1956; Victoria High, 1966 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 19 -- Morton, 1952 Championship game, aggregate high score 158 -- Collinsville 83, Sulphur Springs (North Hopkins) 75...1956 Championship game, aggregate low score 46 -- Hamilton 27, Morton 19...1952 Championship team, most points (3-game series) 249 -- North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs), 1958

Green = New Records Blue = Old Records

Championship team, most points (2-game series) 171 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967 Championship team, fewest points (3-game series) 102 -- Claude, 1951 Championship team, fewest points (2-game series) 79 -- Stephenville, 1968 Most times in tournament 25 – Canyon (1969-78, ’81, ’89, ’92, ’94, ’96, ’99; 2000, ’03-05, ’07-08, ’11, ’14-15) 24 – Nazareth (1976-82, ’84-86, ’88-91, ’93, ’96, ’98; 2000-02, ’05, ’07, ’14-15) 23 – Duncanville (1951-52, ’59, ’62, ’66-67, ’73, ’76, ’81, ’83-84, ’88-92, ’95, ’97; 2003-04, ’12-14) Most consecutive times in tournament 10 -- Canyon High (1969-78) Most wins in tournament 28 -- Nazareth Most points scored in tournament 1,311 -- Claude (27 games) Most losses in tournament 17 -- Moulton Highest points-per-game average in tourney 64.5 -- Springlake Earth (6 games) Most state championships 20 – Nazareth (1977-82, ’84-85, ’88-91, ’96, 2000-02, ’05, ’07, ’14-15) Most consecutive state championships 6 – Nazareth (1977-82) Class 6A Individual high score, game 44 -- Brittney Griner (Nimitz-Houston, 2009) Individual free throws, game 16 -- Susan Rouse (Clemens-Schertz, 1977) Grant (Mansfield, 2001) Individual field goals, game 19 -- Brittney Griner (Nimitz-Houston, 2009) Individual high score (2-game series) 72 -- Von Bunn (Victoria High, 1976) Team high score, game 86 -- South Oak Cliff (Dallas), 1978

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

103

UIL State Tournament Records - Girls Team low score, game 27 -- Georgetown, 2003 Team high score (2-game series) 158 -- South Oak Cliff (Dallas), 1977 Aggregate high score, game 155 -- Houston Yates 78, Longview High 77...1983

Individual field goals, game 16 -- Frieda Rousseau (Tulia, 1967)

Individual free throws, game 29 -- Bebe Zajicek (Ganado, 1966)

Individual, high score (2-game series) 99 -- Frieda Rousseau (Tulia, 1967)

Individual field goals, game 27 -- Jill Rankin (Phillips, 1976)

Team high score, game 81 -- Canyon High, 1977

Individual high score (2-game series) 93 -- Jill Rankin (Phillips, 1976)

Aggregate low score, game 74 -- Victoria High 38, Duncanville 36...1991; Duncanville 47, Georgetown 27...2003

Team low score, game 17 -- Calallen (Corpus Christi), 1984

Championship game, highest scoring loser 71 -- Duncanville, 1981

Aggregate high score, game 151 -- Tulia 76, Victoria High 75...1966

Championship game, lowest scoring winner 42 -- Duncanville, 1989 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 27 -- Georgetown, 2003

Team high score (2-game series) 155 -- Canyon High, 2000

Aggregate low score, game 49 -- Levelland 32, Corpus Christi Calallen 17...1984

Championship game, individual high score 37 -- Cynthia Barefield (Victoria High, 1978)

Championship game, individual high score 52 -- Frieda Rousseau (Tulia, 1967)

Championship game, team high score 79 -- South Oak Cliff (Dallas), 1977

Championship game, team high score 77 -- Canyon High, 1978

Championship game, aggregate high score 144 -- South Oak Cliff of Dallas 79, Schertz Clemens 65...1977

Championship game, highest scoring loser 75 -- Victoria High, 1966

Championship game, aggregate low score 77 -- Duncanville 44, Alief Elsik 33...1997 Championship team, high scoring (2-game series) 158 -- South Oak Cliff (Dallas), 1977 Most times in tournament 23 – Duncanville (1951-52, ’59, ’62, ’66-67, ’73, ’76, ’81, ’83-84, ’88-92, ’95, ’97; 2003-04, ’12-14) Most consecutive times in tournament 5 -- South Oak Cliff (Dallas, 1976-80); Duncanville (1988-92) Most state championships 8 – Duncanville (1976, ’88-90, ’97; 2003, ’12-13) Most consecutive state championships 4 -- Mansfield High (1999-2002) Class 5A Individual high score, game 52 -- Frieda Rousseau (Tulia, 1967) Individual free throws, game 25 -- Jean Shumbera (Victoria High, 1966)

Championship game, lowest scoring winner 36 -- Levelland, 1997 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 23 -- Bay City, 1998 Championship game, aggregate high score 151 -- Tulia 76, Victoria High 75...1966

Team high score, game 92 -- Buna, 1960 Team low score, game 16 -- Vidor, 1953 Team high score (3-game series) 162 -- Comanche, 1951 Team high score (2- game series) 168 -- Phillips, 1976 Aggregate high score, game 179 -- Buna 92, Freeport Brazosport 87...1960 Aggregate low score, game 46 -- Hamilton 27, Morton 19...1952 Championship game, individual high score 42 -- Karen Thompson (Pflugerville, 1979) Championship game, team high score 86 -- Barbers Hill (Mont Belvieu, 1983) Championship game, lowest scoring winner 27 -- Hamilton, 1952 Championship game, highest scoring loser 81 -- Sweeny, 1983

Championship game, aggregate low score 68 -- Stephenville 41, West Orange...1968

Championship game, lowest scoring loser 19 -- Morton, 1952

Championship team, high score (2-game series) 155 -- Canyon High, 2000

Championship game, aggregate high score 167 -- Mont Belvieu Barbers Hill 86, Sweeny 81...1983

Most times in tournament 25 – Canyon (1969-78, ’81, ’89, ’92, ’94, ’96, ’99; 2000, ’03-05, ’07-08, 2011, ’14-15)

Championship game, aggregate low score 46 -- Hamilton 27, Morton 19...1952

Most consecutive times in tournament 10 – Canyon (1969-78) Most state championships 17 – Canyon* (1969, ’72, ’74, ’77-78, ’81, ’92, ’96, 2000, ’03-05, ’07-08, ’11, ’14-15) *2003-05, ’07-08 titles came in Class 4A Class 4A Individual high score, game 58 -- Jill Rankin (Phillips, 1976)

Championship team, high scoring (3-game series) 162 -- Comanche, 1951 Championship team, high scoring (2-game series) 168 -- Phillips, 1976 Most times in tournament 10 -- Levelland (1982-84, ’86-89, ’91, ’93, ’97) 10 -- Abilene Wylie (1964, ’70, ’90; 2001, ’06, ’10-12, ’14-15) Most consecutive state championships 4 -- Levelland (1986-89)

See Records p. 104

104 Records - Girls cont.

Class 3A Individual high score, game 61 -- Paula Corn (Baird, 1964) Individual free throws, game 23 -- Sue Janes (Sundown, 1961); Mary Rosebrock (George West, 1968); Barbara Renfro (Cross Plains, 1967) Individual field goals, game 23 -- Paula Corn (Baird, 1964); Mary Rosebrock (George West, 1968)

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS Championship team, high scoring (2-game series) 171 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967

Championship game, aggregate high score 158 -- Collinsville 83, North Hopkins-Sulphur Springs 75...1956

Most times in tournament 20 – Brock (1963, ’65-68, ’75, ’79-81, ’92; 2000, ’02-03, ’05, ’09-14)

Championship team, high scoring (3-game series) 249 – North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs), 1958

Most consecutive times in tournament 10 – Comanche (1951-52, ’73-76, ’79, ’82, ’97-98)

Most times in tournament 24 – Nazareth* (1976-82, 1984-86,1988-91, ’93, ’96, ’98; 2000-02, ’05, ’07 2014-15) *2015 appearance came in Class A

Most state championships 8 – Brock (2002-03, ’05, ’09-13) Most consecutive state championships 5 -- Brock (2009-13)

Individual high score (3-game series) 109 – Margaret Odom (Dimmitt, 1954)

Class 2A Individual high score, game 68 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956)

Individual high score (2-game series) 103 -- Mary Rosebrock (George West, 1968)

Individual free throws, game 26 -- Bonnie Buchanan (May, 1977)

Team high score, game 105 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967

Individual field goals, game 28 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956)

Team low score, game 19 -- Morton, 1952 Team high score (3-game series) 203 -- Dimmitt, 1954 Team high score (2-game series) 171 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967 Aggregate high score, game 167 -- Shallowater 91, Buffalo 76...2003 Aggregate low score, game 46 -- Hamilton 27, Morton 19...1952 Championship game, individual high score 61 -- Paula Corn (Baird, 1964) Championship game, team high score 105 -- Springlake (Earth), 1967 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 27 -- Hamilton, 1952 Championship game, highest scoring loser 74 -- Springlake (Earth), 1966 Championship game, lowest scoring loser 19 -- Morton, 1952

Individual high score (3-game series) 168 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956) Individual high score (2-game series) 94 -- Bonnie Buchanan (May, 1977) Team high score, game 90 -- Bovina, 1959 Team high score (3-game series) 249 -- North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs), 1956 Team low score, game 11, Sulphur Bluff (1 field goal), 1951 Aggregate high score, game 170 -- Bovina 90, Skidmore-Tynan 80...1959 Aggregate low score, game 36 -- Claude 25, Sulphur Bluff 11...1951 Championship game, individual high score 68 -- Juvean McWhorter (Collinsville, 1956) Championship game, team high score 86 -- North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs, 1958) Championship game, lowest scoring winner 36 -- Snook, 1986

Championship game, aggregate low score 46 -- Hamilton 27, Morton 19...1952

Game, highest scoring loser 75 -- North Hopkins (Sulphur Springs), 1956

Championship team, high scoring (3-game series) 203 -- Dimmitt, 1954

Championship game, lowest scoring loser 26 -- Moulton, 1987; Springlake (Earth), 2006

Most consecutive times in tournament 7 -- Nazareth (1976-82) Most state championships 20 – Nazareth* (1977-82, ’84-85, ’88-91, ’96; 2000-02, ’05, ’07, ’14-15) *2015 title came in Class 1A Most consecutive state championships 6 -- Nazareth (1977-82) Class 1A Individual high score, game 25 -- Lanie Roberts (Lipan, 2015) Individual free throws, game 9 -- Lanie Roberts (Lipan, 2015) Individual high score, series (2 games) 50 -- Lanie Roberts (Lipan, 2015) Team high score, game 61 -- Nazareth, 2015 Team low score, game 18 -- D’Hanis, 2015 Team high score, series (2 games) 117 -- Nazareth, 2015 Aggregate high score, game 96 – Nazareth 56, Lipan 40...2015 Aggregate low score, game 79 -- Nazareth 61, D’Hanis 18...2015 Championship game, individual high score 25 -- Lanie Roberts (Lipan, 2015) Championship game, team high score 56 -- Nazareth, 2015 Championship game, lowest scoring winner 56 -- Nazareth, 2015 Championship game, highest scoring loser 40 -- Lipan, 2015 Championship game, aggregate high score 96 -- Nazareth 56, Lipan 40...2015 Championship game, aggregate low score 96 -- Nazareth 56, Lipan 40...2015

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

105

2015 TAPPS State Champions Boys 5A -- Plano Prestonwood Christian 4A -- Houston Westbury Christian 3A -- Cedar Hill Trinity Christian 2A -- Dallas Cambridge 1A -- Granbury North Central Texas

Girls 5A -- Argyle Liberty Christian 4A -- Lubbock Trinity Christian 3A -- Lubbock Christian 2A -- Sherman Texoma Christian 1A -- Granbury North Central Texas

106

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Prestonwood four-peats as MVP Herard Returns in 2nd Half to Kick-Start Offense

by Garland Hancock MANSFIELD -- Prestonwood Christian’s offense came out of a deep first-half coma to knock off Trinity Christian Addison, 49-32, and lay claim to the school’s fourth consecutive state title. The victory underscored just how important Schnider Herard -- ranked 67th nationally in ESPN’s Top 100 recruits for the class of 2016 -is to the Lions’ success.

After picking up a couple of early fouls, Herard subbed out with 3:11 to go in the first period and Prestonwood owning a relatively comfortable 10-4 lead. In Herard’s absence, Trinity Christian executed a mini 6-2 run, and the opening period ended with Prestonwood’s lead cut to two, 12-10.

Then the game – in terms of points on the board -- turned into an international soccer match. Prestonwood won the period, 2-1. The Lions would have lost the frame, 1-0, but coach Chris Lovell, wanting to regain momentum, inserted p Herard for one possession.

Herard had his marching orders orders;

Schnider Herard

and with 5:20 remaining before the break, he delivered a monster slam to restore order in the world.

It looked a little bleak at the break; but all was not lost for the Lions as they still led, 14-11.

Herard scored eight of Prestonwood’s 14 first-half points and then scored 15 points in the second half to net a game-high 23 and erase all the drama that had ensued after his departure. “Once we were able to get [Herard] back on the court, we were able to push the tempo,” Lovell said.

The Lions began the third period with a 7-0 run, extending their lead to 21-11. And after winning period number two, 2-1, Prestonwood Christian, with Herard back on the floor, outscored Trinity Christian, 178, in the third frame.

With his team trailing, 31-19, to open the fourth period, Trinity Christian’s Mark Paterson knocked down a trey 20 seconds in, but that’s as close as it would get.

In addition to fueling the offense, Herard pulled down six rebounds. Evan Peters checked in with seven points and five assists for Prestonwood while Chris Stephens contributed seven points and two steals.

Also logging important minutes were Shane Missimo (six points, four assists, two fourth-period steals) and Djery Baptiste (four blocks, three steals).

Everett Ray netted a teamhigh 14 points for Trinity Christian and accounted for all eight of his team’s points in the third period.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 1A PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN

107

Front Row (L-R): Keaton Reis (statistician), Alex Elliott (manager), Bowman Lovell (ball boy), Deonte Williams, Josh Richardson, Chris Stephens and Paxton Lovell (ball boy).

Middle Row (L-R): assistant coach Bryce Cole, Dr. Larry Taylor (head of school), Dr. Terry Rodgers (high school principal), Ezekiel Tyson, Doug Kreitling, DJ McGee, Dante Webb, head coach Chris Lovell, assistant coach Taylor Wade and Chris Cunningham (athletic director).

Back Row (L-R): Evan Peters, Shane Missimo, Djery Baptiste, Schnider Herard and Stephen Webb (videographer).

Prestonwood Park Dental Careâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;6505 W. Park Blvd. #132; Plano, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.dentalcaretexas.com Kor-BQ Prestonwood Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; W. Park Blvd.; Plano, TX ÂŤ - Mama¡s Daughter¡s Dinerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;6509 W. Park Blvd. #400; Plano, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.mamasdaughtersdiner.com Ebby Halliday Realtorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;6400 W. Plano Pkwy. #112; Plano, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.planowillowbend.ebby.com

Elite Educational Instituteâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;6505 W. Park Blvd.; Plano, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.eliteprep.com Dunkin¡ Donutsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3216 E. Hebron Pkwy; Carrollton, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.dunkindonuts.com MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes â&#x20AC;&#x201D;6400 W. Plano Pkwy. #100; Plano, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.mooyah.com Buffalo Wild Wingsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3320 E. Hebron Pkwy. #100; Carrollton, TX ... (972) 695-2001 ÂŤ www.buffalowildwings.com

108

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Sidney Goodson

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;¢ VOL. 2

109

!

! " # $

110

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Houston Westbury Adds to Legacy With Third Consecutive State Title

by Garland Hancock MANSFIELD — And the beat goes on. This time to the tune of a 73-52 thumping of a very good team.

Houston Westbury Christian (34-7) won its third consecutive state championship (19th in 25 years), defeating All Saints Episcopal’s best team (37-3) in school history. With no flair for the dramatic, Westbury Christian all but put this 4A showdown in the books by halftime, leading 41-19 at the break.

In what marked their school’s fourth Final-Four appearance but first time advancing to the state-title tilt, the Trojans of All Saints went cold, due in no small part to a long and athletic Westbury Christian squad. The Trojans made only four of 25 trey attempts and were held to 27 points below their season average.

On the flip side, the Wildcats of Westbury dazzled from deep, hitting 9 of 21 shots from beyond the arc. Even more telling, they hit 7 of 15 in a set-the-tone first half highlighted by a 17-2 second-period run.

Seniors Galen Robinson and Kirk Berger provided the onetwo first-half punch from which the Trojans never recovered.

Berger scored all 19 of his points in the first half alone.

And 15 of those 19 came in a second period that started with All Saints still in the game at 1911, but ended with the Trojans on the short end of a 22-point deficit.

Robinson, a University of Houston signee, logged 11 points, two steals and five assists by halftime. He wound up with game-highs in points (20) and steals (four) while also contributing six assists and six rebounds.

Westbury Christian guard Marlin Davis notched game highs with seven rebounds and

nine assists, and the Wildcats’ 6-9 Wayne Li joined Robinson and Berger in double-digit scoring with 10 points.

For the game, Westbury Christian hit 26 of 59 field goal attempts (44.1 percent) and went 12 for 17 (70.6 percent) at the line. All Saints shot 17 for 59 from the field and hit 14 of 17 free throws.

Rebounding and turnovers also contributed to the rout as Westbury Christian out-boarded All Saints, 45-30, and forced five more turnovers (12-7).

Aston Francis, a senior playing with a stress fracture in his foot, led All Saints in scoring with 12 points. Teammate Jaired Maddox netted double digits as well with 10.

Thanks largely to Francis and Maddox, the Trojans gained their composure in the second half and managed to win the third period, 17-13. But that proved too little, too late as the Trojans never narrowed the gap to less than 18 after intermission.

Westbury Christian head coach Trey Austin has now won two state titles heading up the Wildcats. He has also won one as an assistant coach and p y for Westburyy four as a player Christian.

Galen Robinson

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Class 4A Westbury Christian

111

Front Row (L-R): Dessiah Daniel, Abigail Williard, Catherine Smith, Valerie Lewis, Cydney Stevenson, Kaitlyn Bracey, Reâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ana Ross and Christina Smith.

Middle Row (L-R): Derrick Cyprian, Seye Egbejimi, Marlin Davis II, Noah Lack, Galen Robinson Jr., Sheyi Ajiboya and Kase Carerra.

Back Row (L-R): Head coach Trey Austin, Tucker Toole, Kirk Berger, Travis Hicks, Grant Hazle, Wayne Li, Gabriel Salibi, Jared Cebrun and assistant coach Larry Williams.

Southwest Schwinn Cycleryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;6607 S Braeswood Blvd.; Houston, TX ÂŤ (713) 777-5333 ÂŤ wwww.http://houstoncyclingcentres.com Kumon Math/Reading Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;9726 Hillcroft St.; Houston, TX ÂŤ (713) 728-8986 ÂŤ www.kumon.com/houston-braeswood-hillcroft Westbury Baptist Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;10425 Hillcroft St.; Houston, TX ÂŤ (713) 723-6428 ... www.wbchouston.org Brownstone Dentalâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;9824 Fondren Rd.; Houston, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.mybrownstonedental.com

Foodarama Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;5665 Beechnut St.; Houston, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.foodaramatexas.com Papa John¡sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;9718 Hillcroft St.; Houston, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.papajohns.com Wishnow Vision Associatesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;5649 Beechnut St., Houston, TX ÂŤ (713) 771-1206 ... www.wishnowvisionassociates.com Weichert Realtors/Wayne Murray Propertiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;9708 Hillcroft St.; Houston, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.weichert.com

112

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Reprinted with Permission from Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Thorne, Wentz Tag-Team Westbury Christian As Trinity Christian Cruises to Three-peat

by Nicholas Talbot MANSFIELD – It is a good thing the Thornes are moving.

Ashtyn Thorne needs a little more room on her bedroom wall – the Lubbock Trinity Christian senior guard has a few too many medals for her old room.

Thorne scored a game-high 18 points as the Lions rolled to their third straight state championship, easily skating past Houston Westbury Christian, 87-55.“It means a lot with everything our coaches put us through, it pays off,” Thorne said.

“The legacy we leave will impact Trinity forever, but we couldn’t have done it without our coaches and families.

“Our seniors grew up with each other and (winning again) just shows how much confidence we have in each other.”

The game was never close.

Breklyn Wentz scored 12 points in the first quarter, and Trinity Christian (30-10) was up by 19 points after only eight minutes. Wentz scored all 17 of her points in the first half.Still, it was the closest title game Trinity Christian has played in the last three years. In its first two championship games, Trinity got up by more than 40 points and TAPPS instituted a running clock.

“That has been a little embarrassing when you run the clock in the state championship game,” Trinity coach Gregg Ammons said.

“We prepare. There is no question.

Our quarterfinals and our semis are usually pretty tight.

“I just think these districts are not used to the speed of the game. And I am not just talking physically, but mentally. That ball is moving, and we bring a lot of pressure. When you aren’t used to that pace, it is hard to adjust.

Westbury (35-8) couldn’t adjust.

Trinity Christian wasted no time assuming total control. Wentz and Ashton Duncan hit threes to fuel a 17-0 first quarter run that saw the Lions take a 23-6 lead. At the end of

the quarter, Trinity was up 30-11.

And it only got worse from there. By intermission it was 42-15, and Trinity stretched its lead into the 30s in the third quarter.

Wentz didn’t even score in the second half. Nor did she need to.

Trinity dominated on its way to a third consecutive title.

“We were pretty excited from the very beginning; and we knew if we played our game, it would fall in our favor,” Wentz said. “We knew if we would space them out and get in the lane and get some layups, it would open up three-pointers.”

It did indeed.

Trinity hit eight three-pointers in the win, including three from Thorne.

“If I am open, I am going to take it.

That is what we train to do – catch and shoot,” Thorne said.

She did just that and led Trinity with 18 points. Sophomore Ashton Duncan and Nancie Wheeler both scored in double figures with 13 and 10, respectively. Abigail Sosebee had eight points, and both sophomore Cara Cowan and senior Lauren Parker scored seven.

“It is unreal, it is a great way to end senior year,” Thorne said. “Doing it with this group of seniors is special, and I am proud of them.”

Ashtyn Thorne

Breklyn Wentz

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

113

Lady Lions Rank as One of Texas’ Toughest Teams to Beat in This Millennium

Class 4A Lubbock Trinity Christian

Kneeling L-R: Abigail Sosebee, Ashtyn Thorne, Breklyn Wentz and Emma Hardin.

Standing L-R: coach Amanda Bullen, Kennedy King, coach Gregg Ammons, Ashton Duncan, Lauren Parker, Sara Jane Leavorton, Cara Cowan, Nancie Wheeler, coach Clay Stout, Rebekah Hardwicke (manager) and Emily Carelton (manager).

by Garland Hancock

Ashton Duncan

Head coach Gregg Ammons

In this millennium alone, Lubbock Trinity Christian has certainly proved to be a team for all the ages. Starting with the 2000-01 season, the Lady Lions have made it to TAPPS’ version of the Final Four 12 out of 15 times. Even more impressive, though, is that with coach Gregg Ammons now in his ninth year at the helm, the Lady Lions appear to be trending up. And this is from a team that this past season won its third consecutive state title.

“We expect to win a state championship every year,” say Ammons. “That’s just the type program we have worked hard to create, and there was a pretty solid tradition already in place when I got here.”In making it to the Final Four 12 out of the last 15 years Lubbock Trinity Christian has placed six notches in its state-championship belt. The Lady Lions won their first title of the millennium in 2003 and then went back-to-back in 2005 and 2006 before three-peating back in March.

All of the team’s titles have come in Class 4A. In Trinity Christian’s six Final Four appearances that did not conclude with a championship, the Lady Lions three times finished as runner-up to the title. While the program is trending up based on having just won three consecutive state championships, a fourpeat should prove to be a tall order. That’s because Ammons returns only one starter.

Nevertheless, Ammons’ optimism abounds. One reason is because that one starter happens to be a player around whom you can build your entire squad. Ashton Duncan, a 5-9 junior guard, last season averaged 14.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists in being named second-team all-state. She also made the TAPPS Final Four all-tournament team.

“Yes, our expectation is to win the state championship again,” Ammons says.

“Our older girls know how to win. In the beginning, we will not have the depth we had last year, but we have been developing our younger girls for the past eight months. We expect them to be ready.”

114

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Cedar Hill TC’s Allen Turns Into Superhero, Leads Team to State Title Via 2nd-Half Surge

by Garland Hancock MANSFIELD — Through one half of play it looked like Trinity Christian Cedar Hill and Houston St. Thomas Episcopal might be locked into an epic, 3A state-championship bout destined to go down to the final possession. But in the end, the two schools parted ways on distant shores.

After leading by only one, 28-27, at intermission and then allowing defending state champ St. Thomas Episcopal to jump on top, 29-27, when play resumed, Trinity Christian suddenly morphed into a different team altogether. A team that had, at times, appeared to be on shaky ground in half number one now set sail for a rout, launching a 22-7 run in the process.

“I told my players that we just needed to stay in our press and be patient and trap and pick up the extra effort,” Jarod Moss, Trinity Christian’s head coach, later said.

“We were so close, we could feel it.”

Moss’ cool approach comes in what marks his maiden voyage as Trinity Christian’s head coach after having served the team as an assistant in 2013-14. He wasn’t without a life preserver, though. In fact, he had more than one.

After combining for five touchdowns in Trinity Christian’s state-title win over League City Bay Area Christian in December, seniors Cameron Allen and Jon Cole evolved into super heroes once again, but this time on the hardwood.

En route to Trinity Christian’s 2015 basketball title, Allen netted a team-high 20 points, including 15 in the second half that told the story. Adding insult to St. Thomas’ injury, Cole contributed 18 points.

Trinity Christian last won a state title in boys basketball in 2008. It came close last year but lost the 2014 Class 4A title game to Houston Westbury before dropping down in classification this season.

Cameron Allen

115

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Class 3A Cedar Hill Trinity Christian

Front Row (L-R): Skyler Barrett, Terry Jackson, Jon Cole, Cameron Allen, Tavione Carter and Marvin White.

Top Row (L-R): coach Moss, coach Chris Wesley, Justin McElroy, Willie Jackson, David Chappelle, Cedar Stone, Dareny Sims, Malachi Broadnax, Jarred Williams, Keegan Collett, Brandon Pearson, coach Paul Ferguson and coach Tim Ferguson.

David¡s Seafood Grillâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;350 East FM 1382; Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.davidsseafoodgrill.com CiCi¡s Pizzaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1382 FM 1382, #140; Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.cicispizza.com

Applebee¡sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;649 Uptown Blvd.; Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.restaurants.applebees.com

Los Tapatiosâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1030 U.S. 67 Frontage Rd.; Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ (469) 272-7811 ÂŤ www.tapatioscedarhill.com Chapps CafĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;140 W FM 1382, #200; Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.chappscafe.com Dick¡s Uptown CafĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;610 Uptown Blvd., Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.dicksuptowncafe.com Panera Breadâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;416 E. Pleasant Run Rd.; Cedar Hill, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.panerabread.com

116

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Lubbock Christian Regroups to Send

Lindsey Hearn

Favored Lutheran North Headed South

by Garland Hancock MANSFIELD -- On paper, Houston Lutheran North had this one in the bag. The Lady Lions had lost only once coming into the Class 3A title game, winning by an average of nearly 30 points en route to becoming the state’s top-ranked team. Lubbock Christian, on the other hand, had reached double digits in losses (10) and ranked sixth coming in.

Sometimes, though, projections based on who has done what in the regular season are, similar to money, not worth the paper on which they are printed. All that really matters is what happens between opening tip and final buzzer. And in that time frame, junior Lindsey Hearn was money from downtown, and junior Shelby Blankenship cashed in from the charity stripe to lead Lubbock Christian (32-10) to a 66-44 slaying of the Goliath known as Lutheran North (38-2).

It wasn’t all Blankenship and Hearn, though. They get credit for loading the slingshot as they combined for 24 and 23 points, respectively. But equally telling was a third period in which the Lubbock Christian defense baited Lutheran North into unraveling. That period started with the score knotted at 30. It ended with the Lutheran North offense barely a blip on the radar and Lubbock Christian in possession of a double-digit lead, 47-34.During the first four minutes of the final frame, Lutheran North managed to close the gap by only two, outscoring Lubbock Christian, 10-8, to enter the stretch run down, 55-44.At that point, Lubbock Christian coach Craig Mitchell called a timeout, and his team gathered round.

“He told us, ‘You don’t have to force it. We have this,’” Blankenship recounted. At that point, Mitchell’s players all bought in wholeheartedly. It was, after all, their coach’s decision to slow things down – to quit pressing on

defense and to set up in the half court on offense -- that coincided with Lubbock Christian shifting momentum in the first half.

Mitchell’s decision came none too soon, though, as Lutheran North managed – in the game’s first five minutes – to jump out to a 17-5 lead.

Doing the damage were the vaunted Woods sisters – Shania and Asia. They anchored Lutheran North’s offense in the paint and were nearly unstoppable in the early going. The first period ended with Lutheran North on top, 19-9, but with Lubbock Christian’s Hearn lurking from beyond the arc. In the early going of the second period, Hearn pulled the trigger on two treys from deep in the right corner, and both found their mark.

That cut the lead to 21-15 and by game’s end Hearn would drain six three-pointers, five of which were launched along the baseline right of the basket.

Lubbock Christian’s second-period revival also set up shot at the line. The Lady Eagles hit 11 of 14 free throws in the first half and then 13 of 15 freebies after intermission, resulting in a free-throw percentage of 82.8 for the game.

Blankenship kick-started her game-high offensive performance with trips to the line in period number two and then found her stroke from the field.

Complementing the 47-point combined production of Blankenship and Hearn was yet another junior, Sara Dalton, with nine points.

Shania Woods led Lutheran North in scoring with 21 points followed

by Tiffany Valentine with 12 and Shania’s sister Asia with eight.

Sara Dalton

Shelby Blankenship

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

117

Class 3A Lubbock Christian

Front Row (L-R): Halle Farris, Jaiden Eaton, Tatum Lowe, Alex Kitten, Hanna Farris, Karlee Combest and Cailey Lawrence (manager).

Back Row (L-R): Head coach Craig Mitchell, Preston Lee, Lindsey Hearn, Shelby Blankenship, Maddy Crockett, Sara Dalton, Abbey Langford, Calley Crockett, Emma Scarborough and assistant coach Shelly Farris.

Lowe’s Supermarket

–

t k c u L f o Best

y d a L e h ot

– s e l Eag

IN THEIR PURSUIT OF BACK-TO-BACK STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS!

5725 19th Street Lubbock, Texas (806) 780-6745

118

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Goldsmith Carries Dallas Cambridge In Pivotal Stretch of 2A Title Game

by Garland Hancock GLEN ROSE -- Like all true champions, Dallas Cambridge proved it knows how to finish strong. A flourish at the end of the first half and then a 13-2 run to close out the game proved key in Cambridge knocking off Christian Academy of San Antonio, 52-37, in TAPPS’ 2015 Class 2A state-title tilt.

In his senior curtain-call, Calvin Goldsmith donned Superman’s cape, scoring 18 of his game-high 23 points in the second half. He also scored on a dunk late in the first half to give Cambridge (26-2) a lead it would never relinquish. Goldsmith’s dunk made it 19-18, and Johnson Thweatt improved that to 22-18 when he hit a before-the-break, buzzer-beater trey. Momentum seemed to carry over into the second half as Cambridge started the third frame with an 11-2 run highlighted by the Lions holding Christian Academy (27-2) scoreless for nearly three minutes.

Calvin Goldsmith

Christian Academy never threw in the towel, though.

With the game looking to be out of hand in the fourth period, Christian Academy launched a basketball blitzkrieg, snapping off a 10-0 run to cut the deficit to 39-35 with 5:40 remaining.

An unfazed Cambridge squad reconnoitered and proceeded to close like the champion it is. And the leader of the pack once again proved to be Goldsmith. The senior headliner accounted for 10 points in a 13-2 end-of-the-game run.

Goldsmith also led Cambridge on the boards with nine rebounds. Thweatt, Joel Truelson and Trent Gahm each scored eight points to complement Goldsmith’s 23.

The Cambridge defense also figured prominently, forcing 16 turnovers that really never allowed Christian Academy to establish any sort of offensive rhythm.

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Class 2A Dallas Cambridge

119

L-R: Blake Beckham, Johnson Thweatt, Colton Runnels, Joe Byrne, Trent Gahm, coach Riggs Mayfield, Brannon Farrow, head coach Armein Kirkland, coach Brandon Greene, Joel Truelson, Preston Richard, Addison Dunayer, Calvin Goldsmith and Oliver Weir (manager).

All Care Eye Clinicâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3720 Walnut Hill Ln. #101; Dallas, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.allcareeye.com Eagle Cleanersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3720 Walnut Hill Ln. #113; Dallas, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.fintobridalcleaners.com Preston Hollow Danceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3720 Walnut Hill Ln.; Dallas, TX ÂŤ (214) 351-1690 ÂŤ www.prestonhollowdance.com

Domino¡s Pizzaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3720 Walnut Hill Ln. #105; Dallas, TX ... (972) 620-7444 ÂŤ www.dominos.com Okinawan Karate Club / Dallasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3720 Walnut Hill Ln.; Dallas, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.okinawankarateclub.com Diamond Nailsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;10031 Marsh Ln #114a, Dallas, TX ÂŤ - ÂŤ www.nguoiviethome.com

120

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

121

Master of Arts Degree in ŽĂĐŚŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ƚŚůĞƟĐ ĚŵŝŶŝƐƚƌĂƟŽŶ Preparing Coaches and Athletic Administrators for Service in the 21st Century

Serving Texas Coaches!

ǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ŝŶ Ă ĨƵůůLJ KE>/E ĨŽƌŵĂƚ Program can be completed in as quickly as a year

x

x

We will be in Texas: January 14-16, 2016 - dĞdžĂƐ ,͘^͘ ĂƐĞďĂůů ŽĂĐŚĞƐ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƟŽŶ ůŝŶŝĐ - Waco, TX May 19-20, 2016 - Texas Basketball Coaches Clinic - San Antonio, TX x July 17-ϮϬ͕ ϮϬϭϲ d,^ ŽŶǀĞŶƟŽŶ - San Antonio, TX

&Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ŽŶ ƚŚŝƐ ŽƵƚƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚLJ͕ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ͗

Chris Lewis Associate Director of Admissions– MCAA Christopher.Lewis@cui.edu

ĞĂŶ sŝĞƐĞůŵĞLJĞƌ Online Director– MCAA Dean.Vieselmeyer@cui.edu

122 122

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESSPRESS J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT

Ristanovic Displays Sophomore Steel; Drills Pair of Treys to Force Overtime

by Garland Hancock ARLINGTON -- Some athletes register a lifetime of greatness only to be all but forgotten by the next generation. Then there are those who, in only a matter of seconds, secure their place in local lore as a Lone Star Legend. Such is the case with Andrija Ristanovic.

Ristanovic’s late-game heroics allowed North Central Texas Academy (21-3) to reach overtime and eventually defeat Kingwood Northeast Christian, 67-65, for the TAPPS Class 1A state championship, marking NCTA’s second state title in as many years.

Ristanovic, a sophomore forward, hit two treys in 11 seconds to force OT. Teammate Marko Vulovic set the table for Ristanovic when with 25 seconds to go and NCTA trailing 55-48, he converted three free throws after getting fouled on his own trey attempt. NCTA then stopped the clock with a foul, but Kingwood drew blanks at the line, leaving the door open for Ristanovic to walk through and into sports immortality.

Ristanovic’s three-pointer with only 15 seconds remaining left his Pioneers trailing by only one, 55-54.

A quick foul later, Kingwood’s Cody Toomey drained a pair of free throws to take his Warriors’ lead back to three. But Ristanovic was feeling it; and with only four ticks left, popped another trey to reset the clock with double 57s showing on the board.

Then, just when fans thought the storyline could not possibly get any better, superman shows up again early in OT, hitting yet another trey to make it 60-57, providing his team a lead it would never relinquish.

Things got a little dicey when Kingwood’s Joshua Vinal hit a 3-pointer with 4 ticks left in OT, but NCTA kept the ball in the air long enough to avoid clock stoppage, and an instant classic of a game came to an end, leaving everyone in the arena exhausted whether they played or just watched.

No one, though, could have predicted the drama that would unfold

after watching the first half. In the second period, the Pioneers went on an 11-0 run; and with three minutes and change left before popcorn break, NCTA leaned back on a 32-15 lead and proceeded to get a little sloppy. After failing to convert a technical foul and then turning the ball over, NCTA let the Warriors climb back into the ring via a 7-0 run to end the half and narrow the gap to 32-22.

Feeding off their first-half finish, the Warriors then waylaid NCTA in the third period, 20-7, and led 42-39 going into what would be a most historic final stanza.

The Warriors led 50-45 with just under 4 minutes to go, but then suffered a seemingly major blow as Zackary Walker fouled out after netting what would wind up being a gamehigh 27 points. Even then, Kingwood managed to maintain control until the final stretch when the Pioneers dug deep within and a mere sophomore fired from even a little deeper.

While Kingwood relied heavily on offense from the game’s two leading scorers – Walker (27 points) and Vinal (26 points), NCTA was more about spreading the wealth and hit 43 percent from the field compared to the Warriors’ 38-percent shooting. Four Pioneers managed to net double-digit scoring – Swan Ayada (17 points), Luis Carlos Rivas (17), Marko Vulovic (15) and Ristanovik (14).

NCTA’s biggest stumbling block came on the glass where Kingwood’s Walker corralled a game-high 14 rebounds to lead his team to a 40-21 rebounding advantage. Rivas led the Pioneers with 10 rebounds and also posted team highs in assists (5), steals (4) and blocks (3).

NCTA went 15 of 26 (58 percent) at the line compared to Kingwood hitting 20 of 29 (69 percent) of its free throws.

Kingwood also outshot NCTA from 3-point range. The difference there, though, proved to be NCTA’s willingness to keep firing away. The Pioneers hit 9 of 20 trey attempts (45 percent) compared to Kingwood converting 5 of 9 attempts (56 percent).

Andrija Ristanovic

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 1A North Central Texas Academy

123

L-R: Marko Vulovic, Luis Rivas, Mark L., Josh Oma., Mark N., Andrija Ristanovic, Djordge Sarenac, coach Derek Stevens, Nash S., Shuge X., Jon D., Jared Dodson, Tyler H. and Swan Ayada.

124 124

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESSPRESS J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT

Lady Pioneers’ Trophy Case Crowded; Team Adds 5th Straight Championship

by Garland Hancock ARLINGTON -- What constitutes a sports dynasty is ambiguous.

It varies from sport to sport and seemingly from era to era. However, North Central Texas Academy’s girls basketball program leaves no room for debate.

After shellacking Brownsville First Baptist, 57-34, for a fifth consecutive state title, the Lady Pioneers (21-5) have no one doubting whether they constitute a dynasty. In fact, it could be argued that no other team in all of Texas sports has assembled a stretch of dominance quite like NCTA’s.

What sets NCTA’s run apart from most any other is that it goes beyond the career of any one player or timespan of any one class.

On a rare occasion, a program will climb on the back of a oncein-a-blue-moon freshman or ride a particularly deep class for four years. But a program like NCTA’s – one that wins five consecutive titles -- is one whose success can be traced back to its reputation in general and its overall foundation. Any program that wins five titles in a row is truly a dynasty and more than likely set up for repeated success.

Case in point, NCTA graduated three starters from its 201314 championship team and still managed to cruise in 2014-15 under the guidance of Jodie Stevens, the Lady Pioneers’ third coach during the now five-year title run.

New players, new coaches. None of it seems to matter. The Lady Pioneers just keep rolling. That’s the hallmark of a dynasty.

This season’s state-title power-drive owes largely to NCTA’s absolute dominance on the boards.

Headline Goes here

Using length to their advantage, the Lady Pioneers outrebounded Brownsville, 53-14.

A 10-0 run in the second period extended an already double-digit lead to 31-11, and NCTA enjoyed the break with a comfortable 35-14 advantage.

After intermission, NCTA eased up on the gas and wound up only outscoring Brownsville 22-20. But Brownsville (24-5) never even hinted at getting back in the game. The closest it got was when in garbage time, with just under five minutes remaining, it managed to creep within 18 at 48-30.

Although NCTA wound up winning by 23 that is actually something Brownsville can hang its hat on. No other playoff team versus NCTA lost by fewer.

The Lady Pioneers netted a sizzling 54 percent (21-39) of their shots from the field as three players scored in double figures. Esther Udonsi registered a game-high 18 while Cinthya Rivas contributed 15 and Gabriela Bianchi added 12. Sandra Masso led Brownsville (9-28; 32 percent from the field) with 15 points, followed by Andrea Barrios with 13.

Brownsville managed 5 of 11 shooting (45 percent) from beyond the arc and probably would have been better served had it launched many more treys.

NCTA, not needing bonus land to dominate, connected on a third of its only 9 trey attempts.

NCTA did not prosper much at the line, hitting only 6 of 15 free throws (40 percent). But Brownsville barely saw the charity stripe at all, converting just one of only three free throws.

Gabriela Bianchi

55,

57,

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

CLASS 1A North Central Texas Academy

125

L-R: coach Jodi Stevens, Sophie Schultz, Korede Ahmedu, Abby Weedman, Cinthya Rivas, Esther Udonsi, Lilian Ijeh, Cleo Nestor, Gabriela Bianchi, Kali Mulcahy, Katrina Y., Sharon L. and Sydney Lindsey.

126

$87B *4. <* 527 $B5.; *;<.7 *B7. *;.- . *;87 ;*-5.B ><=27 8<1

8;-*7 2,4.B 8;-*7 "*<1*;- .;@27 2,4 #*62;

55.7 >--. *7=@.55 *;=.; *?2< -@*;-< -@*;-< ?*7< 8A .8;0. ;*7-<=*// *@5.B 800 2=.

2=,1.55 >;91B -86.< "8*,1 ">=1.;/8;- #.12,

8-B "8+.;= *=;2,4 *@>7 #9.7,.; ;.7-87 *D!>*5B7 1;2< 8;-*7 $;.B

*587 "*<1*- *6;87 523*1 *<*<<7 $ 5?27 D$8;;287 *,8+

;.@.; 1;2<=2*7 . 5* $8;;. ?*7< ;*74527 *7*@*B 25+;.*=1 *;;2< >7=.; 7201= *<<.7+>;0 255.; #=255 $*55.B $186*< $186*< &*<1.; '*;;.7 '255;2-0.

(8>70

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E D E

D E

D E D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

87?.;<. >-<87 *4. $;*?2<

# 817<87 55.7

5*78 '.<= =*<,8,2=*

#,1.;=C 5.6.7< 5.*; ;..4 B9;.<< *4.< 5.*; *4.

"8,4@*55

;?270 *, ;=1>; 5*78 '.<= # 5*;4

5*78 '.<= # ;.77*7 899.;*< 8?.

8;=1 #18;.

55.7

B9;.<< '88-<

24. '*,4.; 527= *=B *6.< .55.; .// , >558>01 7=187B 8;0*7 *?2- *;=27.C 52/=87 552< '.< ;B*7 .// #7.-.4.; $866B 27-.;< 5*7 #26687< $8+B *;=27 7=187B 8;0*7 #=.?. #B5.<=27.

7=187B 8;0*7 $866B 27.< 255B '12=. *?2- ;..7 .// , >558>01 1;2< ;*>-=

8;-*7 *=*52. *>;.7 .A2 <15.B *<1*77 8B7.; 8;-*7 *3*5* B;*1 73* 6.;*5- *7,B ;2,* 1*<2=B 6+.; 2*7* *.5B7 *2 * *--2<.7 6+.; *<627.

5.A*7-.; 18> 8A 8;-87 .*;7 200< 856.< 8<.B 8@.55 *6+.;= *;=27 *B/2.5- >54.B 0>624. *==.;<87 "*62;.C "*B "2,1*;- $186*< $>;7.; &2-*5 '2552*6<

"8+.;= 8- ;2, 85.6*7 *?2- .2=1 2,85*< #62=1 '.7-.55 ?8;B "8772. 8>;=7.B .// ?*7< ;*20 *>;* *;:>2< #*?.*= 5*4. ;8@7 *6.< *B< 1*;5.< ;884< 26 8;+.< ;*- '*=.;< .;;27 8>05*< *= '*<1270=87 52// , >2;.

26 8;+.< "8+.;= .. ;.0 '2<.

*4.7-;* *<<.== <15.B .=1 ".+.,,* *;-.7*< 24*B5* 1;2<=2*7 .7-;2,4 5*;4 *2=1 884 $*62* >720*7 *9;..,. .*7 5.AA>< 25+.;= 70.5 *B-.7 1*7=.;;2* *,4<87 6*7-* 817<87 ".+.,,* .<,*B 5*;2. *BC. $.*2;* , 8@*7 *=;27* *;-.. <15.B ".2- *;52 '1..5.; . <2* '2552*6< .0*7 '8;;B

.;;2,4 "8+.;=<87 *;.7 .27=C B7=12* .;7*7-.C .,8< , *72.5 "187-* *;7.B .?27 5.=,1.; $*+2=1* '.<5.B .,8< , *72.5 *;;.7 >+*74< 8. 86+*; 2,1*.5 5-1*6 "187-* *;7.B "8<< "..-B 8>;=7.B 125529< 5*B=87 *;;2< .,8< , *72.5 "*6<.B 1*C*5 *77B ';.77 2,1*.5 #=.7<.=1 "2,4.B *,4<

D

D

D

D E D

D E

D D

D

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E D E

D

D

1*<=87 ;884< 87*=187 *?2< *>;87 ;..6*7 -687 25-.; >;4 *;;2< &*7,. >01.< .<<.

817< .B<1*@7 817<87 #.53* 817<87 #.=1 .?B ..

27,857 2,1*.5 , *27 270 , 5>;.

287 8?25 2,1*.5 #*5*-27 ;*742. #*7,1.C $B5.; #2705.=87 *5.+ #62=1 >;=5*7 '.<5.B 8<1>* (8>70

58>; 5>//

8><=87

#1*;B5*7-

26+*55

' $;26+5. $.,1 8;= .7- ><1 6*;2558 *58 >;8 8><=87 *-2<87 .*>687= C.7 .-*; *;4

#8>=1 *4 52// #.*08?255.

5 *<8 7-;.<< "8,4@*55 .*=1 *7,*<=.;

'25<87

'2,12=* *55< "2-.; 5 *<8 7-;.<< .*>687= .7=;*5 8><=87 (*=.<

#

#

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

D E D E

D E

D E

D E D E D E

D E

D E

D E

D E

#4B527. *<<*7-;* , >;-B 5*78 '.<= ;2<=.7 .;;B 58@.; 8>7- #1.;24* .5<87 .55 ;8,4 .6+.5=87 #*,1<.

877* , >558>01 .-*; "2-0.

70.5* .,4 .-*; 255 2,85. 85527< *7?.5 ;B*7 *;;2< .<8=8 *;;B 8*# 5.6.7< 817 7,.

772<<* *<=270 # #=.?.7< ;5270=87 8@2. .55B *;;>=1.;< B '88-< &2;0272* 58;.< B '88-< &2;027* 58;.< 8;=1<18;.

552<87 *69+.55 # '*07.; 1;2<=27* *6*,18 &2,42. .7<87 ><=27 8@2. .4*7.B #=*,.B #=;86*7 #4B527. *<<*7-;* , >;-B '.<=<2-. $;8B 255.<92.

D 877.; *;6.7 '25<87 B '88-< &2;0272* 58;.<

D E

E

D E

D E

D E D E

D E

D E D E E D E D E

D E D E D E D E

D E D E

D E

D E D E D E

D E D E D E D E

D E D E D E D E D E D E

D E

D E D E D E

D E D E D E D E D E D E

$;26+5. $.,1 87<852-*=.- >;0.< &2<=* "2-0. .8;0.=8@7 88<. ;..4 '.<= .<:>2=. &2<=* "2-0. ;B*7 -*6< *7B87 , 277.B 8;=1 .8;0.=8@7 ;2<,8 2+.;=B ;5 #.0>27 ;.71*6 &2<=* "2-0. ' "2-.; 5*7?2.@ ">--.; >6+.;=87

$*=>6

;0B5.

* *;:>.

*-2<87

.A2*

.77.-*5.

<=*,*-8

'1*;=87

*;2<

.?27.

*;=.;

#25<+..

$;295.

+25.7. 'B52. *;-27 .//.;<87 2-*508

$;295.

;2-0. 8;= #=.;5270

#=.;5270

*B7. 8A.55 "><<.55 .;427< *?2- 87=*78 *687 *;7.== $87B .*687 8>0 ;8// $87B '*07.; *==1.@ ;8@7 255B #=.. .;.5 .*=B B7-87 8?.

8. #205.; $26 #2705.=87 ;.00 ">//27 5*B *?2< ><=*?8 #*7,1.C $26 #2705.=87 5*7 ;..7 7-;. (8>70 7-;. (8>70

5.A.< ;2==*7B 52C*+.=1 B7.<. ;27 .72<1* &2?2*7 7-;.* *<6B7. *5?.287 *D7.2:>. *D$.<12* .5*7.B 2,* .<<. *4*25* <15.. *=2. , *B5.. $;.38>2;

.55

;.@.;

.;*

*?2<

.0;*=.

8;-

;*B

*55

*;;2<

*7-;>6 .*5.B

@.7<

#*27

#,17.2-.; #1.;2-*7 $B.;

'*54.;

'.++

'.2<1>17 '25<87

D E

D E D E D E

D E D E

D E D E D E D E D E D E

E D E D E D E D E D E

D E D E

*=;2,2* .5<87 >;= "2,1*;-<87 5*B *;7.== 8;-*7 *?2< 6B 255>6 $866B *=.< #429 $8@7<.7*=;2,. '*; 1.;B5 '2552*6< 6B 255>6 #1*7* $*B58; "*7-B *;0.; #429 $8@7<.7 6B ">.-. #429 $8@7<.7 *;4 1*>?.*>A *== 2;<,1.; 5*>-. '.++ .5*7- .*;-*7 .*=1.; 8+.;=C

$*=>6 +25.7. 'B52. .?.55*7- .527* * &.0* *?*<8=* ;0B5.

85>6+2* ;*C8<98;= * &.0* *-2<87?255. .A2* ;0B5.

8.;.7 ;0B5.

8-5.B 2+.;=B 255 .52<<* #.62785. ;8@7@88-

127

;*-B ;*B5*7- <*2*1 *25.B *7,.

26*;28 8527 $*77.; ><=27 1*<. ;*7= ;B*7 '.7-.55 #*6>.5 1;2<=2*7 ;.<=87 *<87 "B*7 ;.- *B

7-.;<87 ;785- 85270 8,4+>;7 @.55 ;8>7-< *5. *625=87 *;9.; *;;2< >01.< 87-87 2=,1.55 88;. .;.C "2,1*;-<87 "20027< #,1>.<<5.; $869427< '8;46*7

*,2. ;;270=87 8;0*7 .77.== ".0*7 5*3.<42 *5.<2* 88=1 8>;=7.B ;*-B *--2 12=<.B 8++2 12=<.B .77*1 8//6*7 *62 *?2< .A2 >,*= ;*,.

88-1*;= *,4.7C2. ;.08;B ;2* 817<87 &.56* 2=,1.55 .<<2,* >78C .D 18;2* "8+.;=<87 *;*1 #2,>;.55* .5<2 #62=1 66* '2,4 ;.*77* ';201=

D D

D D

D

D E

D E

D

D D D

D E

D

E E D E

D

D D

D

D E

87-.;

8>7=C.

&*7 5<=B7. ;8,4

;8,4

*55.==<?255. ;*7<*< *<< 884<

8>7=C.

87-.;

;*74527

"*7-8591 "8,4-*5.

2A87 #625.B *5/>;;2*< >7*

'12=.@;201= '12=.<+8;8 .69<=.*- .;62=

>-. #=*7.5B >*7. 8>+.;= "><<.55 .<= )*,1 8A.55 )*,1 8A.55 #,8== 8==.782; 5.7 *B.< 1;2< .77270=87 >*7. 8>+.;= >-. #=*7.5B #1*- "..$26 .7-;87 #.;028 *;,2* *;5=87 , 277.B -6>7-8 .;.C ;B*7 '12=62;.

B5. 12/.; $8+B #5>-.; 8++B #9*27 #=.?.7 58;.<

*=. .==< 70.5 >558,4 >7=.; 87@*B B7-87 884 *6.;87 895.B 86272, ;>C $B5.; *?2<87 ;.77.7 8@5.; 5*<187 *//7.B ;*2-.7 *55* *4.7-;2, B<87 *6.< *,4<87 $*B58; 270 *?2< 88;. #1.;6*7 *>5 *,. .;427< $B5.; $1869<87 87*=1*7 $8@7<.7- $;.7= '2552*6< *,4<87 '2558>01+B

#

87 72< .?27 8<=.; $;*. 88;.

B77 884 7-B 895.B .;;B 877.55 $8-- 8--.7 8772. >;7*6 '2552. 8>5=.; 7-B 895.B 5*B7. *?2< .*7 >,4855< #=.?.7 #=.0*55 $;*. 88;.

24. 58;.< #1*7. .;427< "2,1*;- 880.7-88;7 $26 '.++ .?27 8<=.; 8. 8,>;.4

;.**77. *A=.;

.*1 .552<

*=2. ;*7*6

1.B.77. ;8@7

*,5*B >2.

*5.B .5<>

"25.B *;7.<=

*B5* >2,.

$.D 2;. *6+;2,4 66* 855*7-

*C627. 2;+B

, .77* *A,.B

*,2 .;4.=

#1*7787 24.<4B

*B,2 *-0.==

.<<5B7 885.

;.77B7 #.*05.; *-2<87 #9.*;<

*-5.. #92?.B

$*=>6 &.2=.71.26.;

$;*587 85. #1.5-87 "8D-.;2,4 8++B 8;B *B=87 *;58< *B-.7 *?27 .B-.7 *;87 *5.+ .*> 80*7 80*7 *;;2<87 2=,1.55 !>27=.7 .5+2

5.A*7-.; ?.;B >;,1.== *518>7 125-.;< 1899 --5.6*7 <9278 *;:>1*; >.7=.< .;+.; >=2.;;.C +*;;* >,*< 255.; 8;;2< 8@*4 *;<5.B $*+8; &*5-.C

.;.7<

20 #*7-B *;=27< 255 >.7<=.; *7*-2*7 .7.-B

$.7*1*

#6B.;

5*;4<?255. *7*-2*7 >6/8;- * 8B78; 885?255.

*;=27< 255 # #=*,.B *;@.55

#,1>5.7+>;0 '.55270=87 20 #*7-B 8;= ;*7<*<

;*- 2+<87 1>,4 *;-.7 *;B '*=427< $27* >.;;.;8 85+B *<=><.4 $*=. 86+*;$*=. 86+*; >7=.; 885.B 855B7 ,'1277.B 1*7,. '.<=68;.5*7 255 , 255 $B5.; .56< 255 , 255 52C*+.=1 ,!>2==.; <15.B ;8@7 52C*+.=1 ,!>2==.; 255 , 255 1>,4 *;-.7 6B 8@.55 *;5.7* ;8@7

D E

D E

D E

D E

D D E D E D

D

D D

D

D E D E

D D E D

D

D

D E

D E D E D E D E D E

D E

D E D E D E

D E D E D E D E D E

D E D E D E

D E D E D E

5+* 85-.7 #1*558@*=.; ;*74527 # 85.

8@2. '*55 '*55 26 .- *;287 ;8,4 #>77B?*5.

-*58> #>77B?*5.

"8,4-*5. .7=;*5 .201=< "8,4-*5. #>77B?*5. #1*558@*=.; *55.==<?255. *;;.55

D

D

D

D D E

D E D

D E

D D E

D E

D D D D E

D E

D E

D E D

D E

D E D E D E

D E D E D E D E D E D E D E D E D E D E

E

D E D E E D E D E D E

.72<. 27,857 5.7 8@.;B *;;2 ;*7*6 *>;* .7427< *== *;;.== *>;* .7427< "*7-B .7-.;<87 .// >2,. *;B ;*17 "80.; *>927 "80.; *>927 52,2* >66270< .?27 "2,1*;-<87 $*7-B .=*4 702. .;6.<6.B.; ;*7-87 5B $;.7= *74/8; 817 *,4<87 $;.7= *74/8; .*=1.; #=*;4

.;.7< 8?.5*-B .55< *;=27D< 255 1;2<=8?*5 *;=27D< 255 5*27< *<87 * 8B78; '.26*; '.26*; #*7 #*+* *7*-2*7 #,1>5.7+>;0 85-=1@*2=. ;*@/8;- ;>?.; *B>0* ;>?.; '27-=18;<=

*7.?255. 8<.* .. ;*-B $186*< 5*B *B=87 "B*7 5.24.; 8852-0. ;B*7 87.< ;8<+B=87 $8-- *<< *5?.;= *;,>< '8;=1*6 #*7-< 255B ;>6+5.< $.A527. ;B*7 ;*--8,4 $1;8,468;=87 *<87 5*74.7<129 >,4*+*B ;B*7 5*,4@.55 *C*;.=1 *=1*7 ;*7>6 $.A527. ;B*7 ;*--8,4 '*.5-.; ;*7-87 8@*; ;*-B $186*< 5*B 255.; ;8?. *;B 255270<5.B ;* #1*. #*7/8;#=;*@7 ;.7= *@<87 ;8@.55 "..,. '*54.; ;*/8;- $B $*+8; >5* 8<1 8<=.5

*77*1 55.7 *,:>.527. .;>6.7 *B5..

58?.; ;2==*7B *;C* 855B *5/6*77 #B-7B .5+.;= ;2<=*27 *6.< *,.B .<48 2*77* 2;?.7 *27.B ..

8552.

8>7<.B ;B*77* 1.59< *B-. ;2,. *72.

"8+.;=< 552. #,1>5=.

6B. $.695.=87 ..<12* $1869<87 .+8;*1 &*7 234 *B587 '*54.; *5.B '1..5.;

#1.* *>,86 8. ;*++ .A=.; ?B 266B ?.;B 1;2< #>6;*55 #1.* *>,86 %;<>5* 255 *7.7. .<48 8++B #62=1 $.;;B *;4.; #1*7. '88-< 6+.; ;*7<87 8. ;*++ 6+.; ;*7<87 ;2, #,1255270 $2//*7B 8==< 5.A #=.91.7<87 ;2, #,1255270 1;2< 87-87 ;.0 "*6<.B

D E D E D E D E D E D E D E D E D E

D E D E D E D E D E D E D E D E

D E D E D E

2015*7- #=;*@7 #*5=2558 ;*-B *;-.7 2=B 2015*7- 88-;2,1 *C+>--2.

8852-0.

12;.78 855.== 29*7 #=;*@7 29*7 *C*;.=1 "*7427 8-- 2=B *C*;.=1 *5?.;= &*55.B

128

11*3

&66*88

978.3 8 8*5-*3?7 5.7(45&1

&2438 .3,

)&27

6.88&3=

978.3 8 8*5-*3?7 57.(45&1

#:433* )&27

&58.78*

/*6=

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

-6.7 4:*11

3)6*;7

11*3

&11&7 6**3-.11

&66=3 &3)1*6

*33*88

=6.(0

&11&7 &6.7- 5.7(45&1

-6.7 3)*6743

&3+.*1)

&6.77&

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

47- &.1*=

14;

4,&3

978.3 8 42.3.( &:.4 &8-41.( &3 *63'*6,

&3*>

*77.(&

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3

&88 *.).,0

6.(*

.(0*=

61.3,843 &38*,4 -6.78.&3

3)6* !&10*6

41*2&3

&.?/&

=56*77 -6.78.&3

&67-& &68.3

:&37

978.3

&11&7 6**3-.11

4*= .27

75.347& -*1'=

978.3 8 .(-&*17 &8-41.(

&66*1 2.8-

6&3(.7

7843

=1*6 11 &3.387 5.7(45&1

)).* 6&3(.7

&2243) &641.3*

.)1&3) -6.78.&3

-6.7 ='963

*-&3

46)43

&11&7 5.7(45&1

46*= *3)*6743

&3)

*'*0&-

6,=1* .'*68= -6.78.&3

*3 96649,-7

46)43

&(0

&11&7 8 &60?7

6*, 9.1*6

&3)

&33&-

6,=1* .'*68= -6.78.&3

*3 96649,-7

*11927

34<

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3

.11 43*(0

7*3'*6,

&=1*=

&11&7 6**3-.11

&66=3 &3)1*6

*66&6)

(-3.)*6

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

-6.7 4:*11

&3&0

-6.78.3*

9++

4,&3

&3 3843.4 3843.&3 6*5

-&61.* 4,,*77

.2'6.(0

9&8*6&

.(846.& &.38 47*5-

*11&.6* 5.7(45&1

&66.* *=*67 1&3 6&)7-&;

&(0743

46)&3

497843 8 .97 "

977*11 &66

&74

.3)7*=

&11&7 .7-45 =3(-

3)= $.-12&3

4-3743

&7&3.

&11&7 .7-45 933*

.(-&*1 1+*67

&743

( *33&

&3 &6(47 (&)*2=

2= #&6'649,-

.8(-*11

2*34+.7

9,&6 &3) 468 *3) -6.78.&3

4)) 6.3(*

? 433*11 &96*3

497843 8 ,3*7 (&)*2=

*++ 4111.3,*6

&=

:*6*88

)).743 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

&3)= **278*6

.*6(*

33&

&11&7 &6.7- 5.7(45&1

4-3 6.++.3

4'.3743 &1*3

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

6*= 978.3

(-3*11

46.

&66411843 6.3(* 4+ *&(* -6.78.&3 &:.) 9250.37

4'.3743 978.3

&3 3843.4 -6.78.&3

4-3 &1*3>9*1&

2.8-

6.88&3=

1&34 4-3 &91

.0* &68.3

8*5-*3743 &91

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

*6*2= ( *66.3

-463*

7-8=3

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

6*,, 22437

8=71.3,*6 &0*

&3 3843.4 8 &6=?7 &11

&66= -&2'*61.3

!.11.&27

&)*

1&34 6*7843;44)

-*66. 11.743

=&)&

;&3

468- *386&1 *<&7 (&)*2=

.6'= &7(4

&66.47

3)6*&

64;37:.1* .678 &58.78

*66= 4'*687

41*

43

*)&6 .11 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

&64) 477

&>

&6.&-

42'&11 47*-.11 -6.78.&3

8*:* 6&38>

3,919

&29*1

8 !468- *8-*7)& -6.78.&3

.2 ;*3

*38743

&33&-

-*62&3 *<42& -6.78.&3

&60 11.743

41)72.8- &1:.3

478 &2'6.),* (-441 4+ &11&7

62*.3 .601&3)

1&30*37-.5 -*1'=

9''4(0 -6.78.&3

6&., .8(-*11

*3743

&66*88

*7484 &38*6'96= 5.7(45&1

&(4' 412*7

4>'=

&33&-

&6'1* &117 &.8-

*66= 3,1.7-

43&7

$&(0*6=

*3*:& (-441 4+ 4*63*

&3.*1 *6*>

&1843

&6&

9''4(0 -6.78.&3

6&., .8(-*11

&;6*3(* 1'*68

61.3,843 6&(* 6*5 (&)*2=

.(-.* 1+6*)

*3843

&=146

&6'1* &117 &.8-

*66= 3,1.7-

.78*6

&1*'

&=84;3 -6.78.&3 (&)*2=

6&., *33&243

1*33

.(41*

978.3 6*38;44) -6.78.&3

*:&3 4+8.7

=437

&7-97

'.1*3* -6.78.&3 (-441

*:.3 64407

&;8-463* &(.

8 !468- &0* 49386= -6.78.&3

8*:* &(-&1

&))4<

*=843

9''4(0 -6.78.&3 (-441

6&) 64;

*&63*

.3)7*=

9''4(0 -6.78.&3

6&., .8(-*11

.:*67

&33*6

8 &0* 49386= -6.78.&3

*1(43 43*7

43*7

1*<97

8 !468- &0* 49386= -6.78.&3

8*:* &(-&1

*+843

7&.&-

&3 3843.4 98-*6&3 .,-

69(* .*).3,*6

**5*6

91.&33*

8 !468- &0* 49386= -6.78.&3

8*:* &(-&1

.27

&6*3=

*)&6 .11 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

&64) 477

&774

&3)6&

64;37:.1* .678 &58.78

*66= 4'*687

5*(07

7&.&-

497843 8 -42&7 5.7(45&1

-6.7845-*6 ;.3*

466.7

1*<.7

*&92438 *,&(= -6.78.&3

43 6*,46

=0*7

6*=

*&,9* .8= &= 6*& -6.78.&3

.2 -&6*6

1278*&)

1&.6*

-*62&3 *<42& -6.78.&3

&60 11.743

-;*&88

4-3743

&2'6.),* (-441 4+ &11&7

62*.3 .601&3)

4;*67

46.

-*62&3 *<42& -6.78.&3

&60 11.743

;.3*

47-9&

497843 8 -42&7 5.7(45&1

-6.7845-*6 ;.3*

6.(*

*)43&

&6'1* &117 &.8-

*66= 3,1.7-

!&10*6

$&(0&6=

.3,;44) 468-*&78 -6.78.&3

-6.7 (-4*88*10488*

.:&7 &68.)& =38-.&

6&3'96= 468- *38 " (&)2*= 4).* 8*:*37

!.11.&27 !44)7

&88-*; 47*5-

-6.78.&3 (&)*2= 4+ &3 3843.4 &60 &1.3&7 &6'1* &117 &.8- (&)*2= .(0 41*2&3

69*'*3'&(0 :*6=

9*378*6 &(6*) *&68

)437.

6&3'96= 468- *38 " (&)2*= 4).* 8*:*37

78-*6

43 * 6&77*96

129

!

/*6= &58.78*

6

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

6440* 1*<&3)*6

6

4)= 6&-&2

45-

497843 8 .97 "

&=1& .7*

6

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3 1&34 4-3 &91

3)6*; &22

6

97843 8 .97 "

*77.(& &3*>

6

8.1.8=

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3 1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

34< *11927

6

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3

&6.&- 19*11*3

6

(-3.)*6 *66&6)

6

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

=)3*= 44)743

6

6,=1* .'*68= -6.78.&3

*&843 6411

6

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3

&33&- &3)

6

6,=1* .'*68= -6.78.&3 6,=1* .'*68= -6.78.&3

-&3* .77.24

6

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

*'*0&- &3)

6

&60 &8*6743

6

)).743 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

.3)7*= 6*);&=

6

8.1.8=

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3

&88 &8*6743

6

)).743 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

11.743 !*11.3,

6

8.1.8=

42'&11 43(46).& 98-*6&3

:*6*88 &=

6

)).743 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

&)* !.11.&27

45-

1&34 6*7843;44) -6.78.&3

!

5*3(*6 &11

6

=1*6 11 &.387 5.7(45&1

*,&3 7-843

45-

.)1&3) -6.78.&3

.60 *6,*6

6

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

&6& &6.* &.1*=

6

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

4,&3 14;

6

978.3 8 42.3.( &:.4 &8-41.(

&6.77& &3+.*1)

45-

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

&61.3 &:.7

6

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

=6& 462.*6

6

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

7843 6&3(.7

6

=1*6 11 &.387 5.7(45&1

7-843 93(&3

45-

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

&.6*) &))4<

6

=1*6 11 &.387 5.7(45&1

-*1'= 75.347&

6

978.3 8 .(-&*1?7 &8-41.(

*:.3 ;*37

6

978.3 8 42.3.( &:.4 &8-41.(

&641.3* &2243)

6

.)1&3) -6.78.&3

&1*3 4'.3743

6

497843 !*78'96= -6.78.&3

22& &6).3

6

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

&91 8*5-*3743

6

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

7-8=3 -463*

6

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

46= !.2'*61=

6

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

6*01=3 !*38>

6

9''4(0 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

!

&2*643 11*3

6

*)&6 .11 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

1.77& *&88.*

6

.)1&3) 1&77.(&1

&1&(-.

64&)3&<

6

*)&6 .11 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

-*1'= 1&30*37-.5

6

9''4(0 -6.78.&3

43 41*

6

*)&6 .11 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

463;*11 6 &33&- 47'=

&6'1* &117 &.8- (&)*2=

&).743 4-37*3

6

*&92438 *,&(= -6.78.&3

&6& &1843

9''4(0 -6.78.&3

6

1'*68 &;6*3(*

6

61.3,843 6&(* 6*5

.3)7*= *&63

6

9''4(0 -6.78.&3

46)&3 -.11.57

6

61.3,843 6&(* 6*5

6.78*3 4-3743

6

.)1&3) 1&77.(&1

6;.3 468.7

45-

497843 8 -42&7 5.7(45&1

&=1& **:*7

45-

&6'1* &117 &.8- (&)*2=

&6*3= .27

6

*)&6 .11 6.3.8= -6.78.&3

.++&3= &1*38.3*

6

497843 98-*6&3 468-

7&.&- 5*(07

6

497843 8 -42&7 5.7(45&1

7.& !44)7

6

497843 98-*6&3 468-

47-9& ;.3*

6

497843 8 -42&7 5.7(45&1

-&3.& !44)7

6

497843 98-*6&3 468-

!

46*= 6.*7*3-&-3

45-

8.1.8=

&.38 38-43= 98-*6&3

&6.&- &>

6*38 &-2

6

&11&7 &2'6.),* 4+ &11&7

&33&- *387*3

6

6

42'&11 47*-.11 -6.78.&3

-*62&3 *<42& -6.78.&3

&11*887:.11* &(6*) *&68 &8-41.(

&1:.3 41)72.8-

6

&11&7 &2'6.),* 4+ &11&7

&6&- 19)&9

45-

-6.78.&3 .(0*=

6

2&3)& .,9*64&

45-

!

411.3 93.(0

45-

8.1.8=

&.38 38-43= 98-*6&3

22& 6&:*7

6

42'&11 47*-.11 -6.78.&3

978.3 !&1)46+

4'.&7 &6*0

45-

8.1.8=

978.3 !&1)46+

2.1= &65*6

6

&11*887:.11* &(6*) *&68 &8-41.(

&3.*1 .8>

6

&6&- *6'71*'

6

42'&11 47*-.11 -6.78.&3

4-3743 -;*&88

6

&11&7 &2'6.),* 4+ &11&7

&2&38-& 46843

6

978.3 !&1)46+

&88-*; !.11.&27

6

*&86.(* ,9=*3

6

-*62&3 *<42& -6.78.&3

*++ !.1743

6

8.1.8=

978.3 !&1)46+

1&.6* 1278*&)

45-

-*62&3 *<42& -6.78.&3

;&3 =&)&

6

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

'9093 -2*)9

6

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

&1*' 6&'-&2

6

.3,;44) 468-*&78 -6.78.&3

.38-=& &68.)&

6

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

*6*2= 64;3

6

9''4(0 .3,)42 6*5

&)*1.3* =&1&

6

.77.43 9&3 .*,4

&66*88 *30.37

6

9''4(0 .3,)42 6*5

3& &1(&>&6

6

8.1.8=

64;37:.11* 78 &58.78

64;37:.11* 78 &58.78

&8-*; **

6

.77.43 9&3 .*,4

3)6*& &66.47

6

8.1.8=

4-3 *6*>

6

.77.43 9&3 .*,4

&'6.*1& .&3(-.

6

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

9.7 &6147 .:&7

45-

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

&72.3* 43,

6

.77.43 9&3 .*,4

47-9& .3&1

45-

.3,;44) 468-*&78 -6.78.&3

&3)6& &774

6

8.1.8=

64;37:.11* 78 &58.78

&604 914:.(

6

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

)6.&33& &9(*)4

6

$&(0&6= !&10*6

6

.3,;44) 468-*&78 -6.78.&3

78-*6 )437.

6

1 &74 *797 -&5*1

6&3'96= 468- *386&1 *<&7

%

!

130

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS

+##

;/(4 $8,5

,&.(; ,6&+(//

+4,5 6(1(4521

+4,56,$1 !(56

( *+ "./ /$12 !(56 /$12 !(56 27 /($4 $.( 27 /($4 $.(

- 4 4 4 4

6 7

= >

= >

= >

= >

0 -! +-2 -!

(16(4 7$4' 249$4' 249$4' (16(4 7$4'

* ./"- $1&$56(4 ($70216 <(1 $1&$56(4 ($70216 <(1

- 4 4 4 4

6 7 = > = >

= >

= >

+-2 -! "*/" 7$4' 7$4' 7$4' (16(4

-%!#",+-/ $//$5 $',521 4,'*(3246 4,'*(3246 275621 6(4/,1*

- 4 4 4 4

6 7

= > = >

= >

= >

0 -!

7$4' 7$4' 249$4' (16(4 249$4'

-+ ' 2716<( 42&.

1,8 ,6; $1'2/3+ 1,8 ,6; $1'2/3+

- 4 4 23+ 4

6 7 = >

= >

= > = >

+-2 -! "*/" 7$4' 7$4' (16(4 7$4'

* !% * - $//$4'58,//( ,* $1'; 4 $1$',$1 4 $1$',$1 23+ $46,1=5 ,// 4

6 7

= >

= > = > =

0 -!

7$4' 249$4' 7$4' 7$4'

"3(%*" (:/,1( (124$+ 4$'; (124$+ 4$'; $/8(46

6 7 = > = > = > = >

0 -! +-2 -!

7$4' 7$4' 7$4' 249$4'

(%& $ $+) .

(21 $44(66

2+1 20($7:

16921 246/(;

!$;1( !;1*$4'(

*#"( 4!"*

,.$;/$ +4,56,$1

$,6/;1 71;75

(4,&( ($45

4,$11$ 7%(4

*4+* +,$ ('$4 $4. ,56$ ,'*( 4 $1;21 4 $//$5 '$05 4 4;$1 7''(4 23+

6 7 = > = > = > = >

0 -!

7$4' 7$4' 249$4' 249$4'

%1% * - 4

4,66$1; 4(9(4

$/8(,21 $1'470

(55( +(4,'$1

5+/(( !$/.(4

-#4(" %,/(1( !;/,( !$&2 $ (*$ 4*;/( ,%(46; ,//

+,$ 4 4 4 4

6 7

= > = > = > = >

+-2 -!

(16(4 7$4' 7$4' 7$4'

- 4 23+ 4 4

6 7 = > = > = > = >

0 -!

7$4' 249$4' 249$4' 7$4'

-/%*6. %(( 478(4 !(,0$4 478(4 $ 7( $ 2;124

- 4 4 4 4

6 7 = > = > = > = >

+-2 -! "*/" 7$4' 7$4' 249$4' (16(4 7$4'

5 -"/$ = $1,5 $4'(1 ,6; ,3$1 $<$4(6+

+,$ 23+ 4 4 4

6 7 = > = > = >

= >

0 -!

7$4' 249$4' 7$4' 249$4' 7$4' (16(4

- " ++!$ -/ 0**41 ("

(= +24,$ 2%(46521 2&.'$/(

$4$+ ,&74(//$ 711;8$/(

(/5(( 0,6+ +$//29$6(4

4($11$ !4,*+6 $44(//

-+* 0/%"--"5

$11(1 4$''2&.

4$('(1 21(5

($7 7&$5

#$&&+$(75 !,//,$05

0 -! +-2 -!

(16(4 (16(4 7$4' 249$4'

- %!"* ((

1*(/ 7//2&.

$9;(4 22.

$0(421 23/(;

$8,5 224(

6 7

= >

= > = >

= >

* " 2"((

4$;/$1' 412/'

$;'(1 $0(5

4;$1 21'21

24'$1 !,//,$05

+0. 4,-".. ++!. - (9,5 /29(4 271' 4 275 ;34(55 !22'5 4 $1 1621,2 !$*1(4 4 $//$5 .;/,1( 4

(" )%/$

'021 ,/'(4

((1$1 2/'0$1

(8216( $66(4521

25+7$ "271*

-% #20)%'"

$74(1 2:

$1&; 7/.(;

0%(4 $0,(4(<

$,= $ +20$5

$"4"**" -+2*

($*$1 $;1(5

$<0,1( ,4%;

4(11;1 ($*/(4

$/(; (44;

- 4(5+ 4 4 4

((%" $0(/"

+(/%; $;4(

2//; $/)0$1

$1,( 2%(465

(%24$+ $1 ,-.

(/(&6(' %; 6+( (:$5 552&,$6,21 2) $5.(6%$// 2$&+(5

Sport RackS )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ FRQWDFW 6FRWW &R[ VFRWWFR[#FDEOHRQH QHW

Â&#x2021; 6WHHO UDFNV ZLWK ORFNLQJ OLGV Â&#x2021; :HOGHG FRQVWUXFWLRQ Â&#x2021; 1R QXWV EROWV RU VFUHZV ± &RPHV FRPSOHWHO\ DVVHPEOHG Â&#x2021; ´ VROLG UXEEHU FDVWHUV ZHOGHG RQWR WKH UDFN Â&#x2021; %DNHG RQ SRZGHU FRDW SDLQW Â&#x2021; 6FKRRO FRORUV DYDLODEOH DW QR H[WUD FKDUJH

www.sportracks.net

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Region I 1. Bridgeport 2. Levelland 3. Abilene Wylie 4. Kennedale 5. Decatur

1. Dallas Madison 2. Paris 3. Dallas Triple A Academy 4. Argyle 5. Dallas Carter

Region III 1. Silsbee 2. Houston Wheatley 3. Navasota 4. Waco La Vega 5. Fairfield

Region IV

P O L L S

Region I 1. Abilene Wylie 2. Levelland 3. Seminole 4. Kennedale 5. Stephenville

Region II 1. Argyle 2. Dallas Lincoln 3. Melissa 4. Sanger 5. Bullard

Region III 1. Waco La Vega 2. Madisonville 3. Navasota 4. Diboll 5. Tatum

Region IV 1. Boerne 2. Geronimo Navarro 3. Freeport Brazosport 4. Corpus Christi West Oso 5. Fredericksburg

Profiles

1. La Marque 2. Wharton 3. Freeport Brazosport 4. Liberty Hill 5. Taylor

R E G I O N A L

GIRLS

CLASS 4A

Region II

C O A C H E S

Features

BOYS

131

132

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1

0AMPA¿(ARVESTERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 22-6/4-4 Coach: Matt Embry (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Cade Engle, a 3-time all-district player and fourth-year starter, will be the centerpiece to Pampa’s attempt to get back to the payoffs and advance past the first round that ended its season this past spring. In 2014-15, Engle averaged 13 ppg, 5 apg, 5 rpg and 3 spg. Pampa’s other two returning starters – Bryson Burrell and Brandon Sieck – should also bolster Pampas’ playoff aspirations, as will several JV call-ups.

FYI: Cade Engle is set to end his career having played the second-most games of any player in Pampa’s storied history. Mike Nelson played 110 games, and Engle is on tap to play about 107.

District 2 Big Spring Steers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-12/5-5 Coach: Nicholas Tyerman (making career debut as a head coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/0 2015 Postseason: L-Lubbock Estacado (Regional Quarterfinals).

Outlook: The young up-tempo Steers look to stay competitive in the tough district that saw all four playoff teams reach at least the third round of the playoffs. The starting five projects to be three 6-0 senior shooting guards -- Kolton Knudson, Kameron Cooper and Lorenzo Jones, as well as 6-5 senior power forward Eric Ortega and 6-3 senior power forward Jacob Scott.

Pecos Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-12/4-6 Coach: Sammy Soliz (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/0 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: There are no returning starters to lean on, so a young and inexperienced collection of talent will have to turn within. Pecos’ biggest minute-eaters project to be Sebastian Ornelas, Julian Nicols, Juan Jasso and Christopher Henson.

Playing Collegiately: Andre Roman, Jacob Chavez, Isaiah Carrasco, Anthony Legarda.

"URKBURNETT¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 7-21/2-6 Coach: Danny Nix (34 years’ experience; 35th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Depth and experience bolster the 2015-16 edition of coach Danny Nix’ Bulldogs. Eight lettermen are back. They include Darion Chafin, a 6-4 junior; Grant Jimenez, a 5-9 senior; Case Caldwell, a 5-9 junior; Marty Wilson, a 5-8 senior; Shonne Carter, a 6-7 junior; Wes Wilson, a 6-2 junior; and Zach Hinnant, a 5-10 senior.

Playing Collegiately: (OLMDK 6WULFNODQG 2NODKRPD &KULVWLDQ $UWKXU +DPOHWW (DVWILHOG Community College.

FYI: Prior to last season, the Dogs had averaged 25 wins for 20 consecutive years. Burkburnett has made the playoffs 19 times out of the last 20 years.

)OWA¿0ARK¿(AWKS¿ ¿"OYS¿ ,AMESA¿'OLDEN¿4ORNADO¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 20-11/6-4 Coach: Gregg Moreland (17 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Starters: 5 2015 Postseason: W-Pampa; W-Andrews; L-Levelland.

Outlook: “We have a lot of experience coming back, but we will be small,” says coach Gregg Moreland. “Very quick and small,” he continues. “Pressure defense and quality shooting will be the keys to our success.” The five returning starters are 5-7 junior Jaleel Edwards (13.2 ppg; 1st-team all-region); 5-7 junior Dre Smiley (12.2 ppg; 1st-team all-district); 5-9 senior Darius Jackson (8 ppg; honorable mention all-district); 5-9 junior Ty Maxwell (8 ppg; 1st-team all-district); 5-9 junior Keshawn Hunter (7 ppg; honorable mention all-district).

2014-15 W-L: 16-14/4-2 Coach: Payton Jackson (1 year’s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Stephenville, 71-54; Bridgeport, 40-70.

Outlook: The Hawks return four players who each have at least 30 games’ experience, and three returnees have been on the varsity since they were freshman. Two first-team all-district selections headline the squad. They are Cole Oxford, a 5-10 senior point guard, and Matthew Cooper, a 6-0 senior forward. Also projected into the starting lineup are Keaton Jackson, a 6-3’junior forward, and Hayden Harris, a 64 senior post.

6ERNON¿,ADY¿,IONS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ Levelland Lobos - Boys Coach: Jeff Bontrager (21 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Borger, 79-72; W-Seminole, 75-57; W-Lamesa, 61-58; L-Bridgeport, 78-68.

Outlook: The top three scorers from last season’s regional tournament team are back, making the Lobos primed for another deep run. Kentton Williams, a 6-5 senior wing, posted 18.9 ppg, 6.8 rpg last season. That earned him all-region accolades and selection as the 2-4A Offensive MVP. Lukas Bontrager, a 6-2 senior wing, earned all-district selection after averaging 10.6 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. Nick Gerber, a 6-1 junior guard, also made all-district this past spring, logging stat totals of 10.4 ppg and 5 apg. The Lobos’ other two projected starters are Jeff Elliott, a 6-1 junior wing (5.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg), and Kendall Durrett, a 6-0 junior guard (5.1 ppg). Elliott was named the 2015 2-4A Newcomer of the Year.

FYI: Last year, all four playoff qualifiers from district 2-4A advanced to the quarterfinal round, and Levelland and Estacado kept going to regionals.

2014-15 W-L: 14-10/4-2 Coach: Jeremy Matus (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 7/3 Outlook: Of seven returning lettermen, three have a combined total of 8 years’ experience on varsity. Expect that to pay dividends. Those three savvy veterans are all seniors – guard McKenna Spikes and posts Manija Youngberg and Jaylan Thomas.

6ERNON¿,IONS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 4-16/0-6 Coach: Doug Patterson (5 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: L-Abilene Wylie (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lions’ goal this season is to handily secure a playoff spot (finish higher than fourth place) and then advance past the first round of the playoffs. Accepting that gauntlet will be Evan Bailey, Darren White, Francisco Cardenas, Chaz Smith, Bryson Hall, Jordan Villalobos, Jaden Fanner and Seth Petzold.

District 4 District 6 &ORT¿3TOCKTON¿0ROWLERS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 14-14/3-7 Coach: Vic Ivy (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: “We will be relying on young players to come through for us this year,” says coach Vic Ivy, but the two starters that do return from last season are 5-6 senior wing Natalee Hodges (3.3 ppg, 3 rpg) and 5-10 junior post Victoria Arriaga (6.9 ppg, 7 rpg; 2ndteam all-district). Their veteran presence will prove key in how well the young players are able to adjust. Ivy’s three other projected starters are 5-6 wing Amber Corral, 5-6 small forward Crishna Villarreal and 5-2 point guard Arianna Zapata.

!BILENE¿7YLIE¿,ADY¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 32-6/8-0 Coach: Kurt Richardson (9 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: W-Wichita Falls Hirschi, 71-15; W-Kennedale, 63-32; Bridgeport, 68-29; Levelland, 56-42; Seminole, 78-55; Liberty Hill, 53-42; L-Argyle, 46-25.

Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs’ imposing frontline – anchored by the 6-4 all-state senior post Brittany Brewer, will keep Abilene Wylie competitive despite Brewer being the only starter to return from last season’s loss to Argyle in the Cass 4A state-title tilt. Brewer, a Texas Tech commit, ranks in the nation’s top 100 class-of-2016 recruits (#97), according to ESPN HoopGurlz. The all-state selection was also named to the UIL’s Final Four all-tournament team. She last season posted 16.4 ppg, 8.2 rebounds and 143 blocks while hitting 61% from the field. She won’t have to go it alone, though. She’ll have some front-line help in the name of Makaela Mosley, a 6-0 senior forward (5.4 ppg, 5.5 rpg). The key, according to coach Kurt Richardson, will be the continued improvement of his team’s perimeter play. “If our guards continue to get better, we have a chance to be pretty good,” he says.

Playing Collegiately: /RQGRQ :HLOHUW $ELOHQH :\OLH +DZDLL 3DFLILF

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

133

"ROWNWOOD¿,ADY¿,IONS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 17-11/5-3 Coach: Heather Hohertz (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: L-Iowa Park (Bi-district), 47-43.

Outlook: A little more depth than recent years’ past and some added height should combine nicely with Brownwood’s team speed and proclivity for playing lock-down defense.

This year’s tour de force is Trejouir Wilson, a TABC and TGCA All-State selection that filled box scores last season with 20.3 ppg, 6 rpg and 5 apg. The lineup will be fortified by Kylie Ellis (2nd-team all-district) and the return of Heaven Walker from ACL injury. Lastly, Mallory Garcia, a most talented freshman, could be the x factor. If she takes to varsity like any fish takes to water, then the Lady Lions could be set up for an extended playoff run.

-INERAL¿7ELLS¿,ADY¿2AMS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 8-19/2-6 Coach: Leslie Holman (4 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Burkburnett (Bi-district) Outlook: A tough preseason schedule includes the likes of state runner-up Abilene Wylie. “That will help us get ready,” says coach Leslie Holman, “but I think we will be stronger this season mainly because several key players return with a year of varsity experience behind them.”

Mineral Wells’ starting five is headlined by the 5-8 all-state senior point guard Natalie Ragland. The pieces around her comprise Ashley Valdez, a 5-7 senior guard; Madie Pappas, a 5-9 senior wing; Tahya Ruelas, a 5-11 junior post; and Kylie Burke, a 5-9 junior post.

3TEPHENVILLE¿(ONEYBEES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 22-11/5-3 Coach: Alan Thorpe (24 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinals.

Outlook: “Should be a good year for the Honeybees with strong leadership and some young players that will impact the team in a great way,” says coach Alan Thorpe. The two returning starters challenged with ushering the Honeybees back into the playoffs are Bayleigh Chaviers and Lariat Larner.

Stephenville Yellow Jackets - Boys Coach: Bill Brooks (making career debut as head coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Under a brand new head coach, the Yellow Jackets will be looking to vie for a district title after last season making the playoffs but finishing third in district and then losing in the first round. The three returning starters carrying Stephenville’s banner of hope are Darian Brown, a 6-1 wing; Alonzoe Kendall, a 6-3 post/wing; and Josh Nowell, a 6-5 post.

Playing Collegiately: 0DOLN 7D\ORU 5DQJHU -8&2

District 7 'ODLEY¿7ILDCATS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 13-15/6-2 Coach: Keith McFarland (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 2015 Postseason: Area finalist.

Outlook: The Wildcats will lack experience this season; but part of that disparity will be offset by the return of players who sat out much of last season due to injury. Godley coach Keith McFarland is particularly excited to see the continued progress of sophomore Bobby Goodloe, who was last season voted district newcomer of the year. He is this season’s only Wildcat to have started during the 2014-15 campaign.

Playing Collegiately: 'HYLQ %ROGHQ +LOOVGDOH %DSWLVW

+ENNEDALE¿,ADY¿+ATS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 26-10/7-1 Coach: Doug Watson (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Springtown, 85-59; L-Abilene Wylie, 63-32.

Outlook: Sometimes returning lettermen and starters can be a little misleading.

Kennedale only has two starters back from last season’s squad, but coach Doug Watson notes that his Lady Kats return six of the top 10 players from a year ago. And Watson’s number could prove to be even more telling. Kennedale won the district title last year and will again contend for that honor. And while the number of returning starters can sometimes be misleading, the two starters that do return for Kennedale this season are rather significant. Evie Whorley, a junior point guard, last season averaged 10 points and 3.9 assists and, as a result, was named District 7-4A Newcomer of the Year. Lucy Benson, a junior forward, posted 8.2 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 3.1 spg. She was named District 7-4A Defensive Player of the Year. “The Lady Kats will look to compete for a district title again this year, as well as get back to the regional tournament,” Watson says.

Playing Collegiately: -DVP\Q 3RH .HQQHGDOH 7H[DV $ 0 &RPPHUFH 0F.LQOH\ %RVWDG .HQQHGDOH 7H[DV 6WDWH YLD WUDQVIHU IURP $UNDQVDV LQHOLJLEOH IRU VHDVRQ GXH WR WUDQVIHU -DPDLND +XJKHV .HQQHGDOH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW $UOLQJWRQ 7UDYDQWL 'RZQHV .HQQHGDOH 7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH $XWXPQ :LOOLDPV .HQQHGDOH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI $UNDQVDV /LWWOH 5RFN

District 8 $ECATUR¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 24-11/6-2 Coach: Drew Coffman (7 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Alvarado, 53-34; L-WF Hirschi, 51-48.

Outlook: Eagles are in the middle of the perfect storm. They made the playoffs last season. But only advanced far enough (the second round) to want more. The roster has plenty of experience, but there are also those that have no varsity experience but hail from a JV squad that won district. All of which means the Eagles are positioned to make a run this season. The projected starting five begins with headliner Cade Lamirand, a 6-0 senior who was last season tagged 8-4A Offensive MVP after averaging 13 points per game. Parker Hicks, a 6-5 junior, received all-region accolades this past spring and was named 8-4A Newcomer of the Year after averaging 14 points per game. Mason Hix, a 6-6 sophomore, poured in 9 ppg en route to all-district accolades, and the other two projected starters – 6-2 junior Bryce Elder and 6-1 senior Ethan Sij – earned honorable-mention all-district selection.

,AKE¿7ORTH¿,ADY¿&ROGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 6-26/1-7 Coach: Elisha Woodsen Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: Lake Worth coach Elisha Woodsen says her very young and inexperienced squad will look to gain solid footing but will face many challenges in what must be considered a re-trenching year despite the return of seven lettermen.

3PRINGTOWN¿0ORCUPINES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 15-15/4-4 Coach: James Rike (8 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Godley (Bi-district).

Outlook: Experience combines with a lengthy lineup and a proclivity to crash the boards for a Springtown squad anxious to make a run. Three starters return, and Dawson Meek, a 6-5 post, is the top Porcupine after averaging 14 points and 8 rebounds en route to all-district selection. Trent Partain, a 6-4 forward (7 ppg, 4 rpg), is an honorable mention all-district selection, and Raul Medina, a 5-8 guard, is Springtown’s other starter from a year ago.

Playing Collegiately: &DOHE %URZQ 6SULQJWRZQ $UOLQJWRQ %DSWLVW &ROOHJH

District 9 !RGYLE¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 32-5/9-1 Coach: Skip Townsend (42 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: 5A State Champion.

Outlook: The Lady Eagles will again vie for a state title with one of the state’s better players leading the way. Vivian Gray, a 6-0 junior, earned first-team all-state accolades as only a sophomore and was named the MVP of the 2015 Class 4A state tournament.

Gray ranks #14 among class-of-2017 recruits nationwide, according to ESPN HoopGurlz.

The Lady Eagles had three other returnees garner postseason accolades in 2015.

Vivian’s sister Olivia, a 5-8 senior; Madison Ralston, a 6-0 junior; and Gabby Standifer, a 6-0 sophomore, all earned selection to the 9-4A All-District squad. Argyle’s two other returnees -- 5-11 junior Jocelyn Pierce and 5-9 junior Brittany Hamilton – will also figure prominently in Argyle’s title defense. To toughen up for what lies ahead the Lady Eagles will play notoriously tough tournaments-- Marble Falls, Jack Frost (Georgetown) and Eastside Prep (Palo Alto, Calif.).

Playing Collegiately: 'HODQH\ 6DLQ $UJ\OH )RUW /HZLV &ROOHJH -HVVH 6KHULGDQ $UJ\OH &RUQHUVWRQH &KULVWLDQ

134

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 10

!UBREY¿#HAPARRALS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 23-11/8-2 Coach: Kyle Smith (11 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Dallas Hampton Prep, 67-47; L-Dallas Lincoln, 72-47.

Outlook: “Most of the other teams in our district are senior loaded, but I believe we will compete strong for a playoff spot,” says Aubrey coach Kyle Smith. Aubrey’s one returning starter is Drew Davis, a 6-6 senior forward (15 ppg, 8 rpg; 1st-team all-district/1st team all-area). Aubrey’s other two returning lettermen are senior Erich Harrington and sophomore Gatlin Grisso, both of whom posted 3.1 ppg last season.

FYI: Last year’s Chaparrals became Aubrey’s first varsity boys basketball team to make the playoffs in 17 years. Going back 45 years, only two other teams in program history won more games than the 2014-15 Chaparrals.

'AINESVILLE¿,EOPARDS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 5-22/1-9 Coach: Eric Johns (20 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Gainesville looks to rebuild after a disappointing 2014-15 campaign that ended with the last regular-season game. Gainesville’s top cat is Nick Welch, a 6-1 junior guard (14 ppg, 5 apg, 7 rpg).

2ANCHVIEW¿,ADY¿7OLVES¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 20-11/8-0 Coach: Wendy Bartlett (8 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Gainesville, 53-52 (Bi-district).

Outlook: “It’s going to be a very exciting year for Ranchview Girls Basketball,” says coach Wendy Bartlett. “We will surprise a lot of people.” Ranchview’s point guard won’t surprise anyone, though. Her reputation precedes her. MaQhi Berry, a 5-8 junior, is the reigning 10-4A MVP, a TABC All-Region selection and the 44th ranked point guard in the country, according to ESPN. She last season filled box scores with 14.6 ppg, 4.6 apg, 4.6 rpg and 3.0 spg. Joining her in the Ranchview backcourt is Jada Freeman, a 5-7 junior voted the 2015 10-4A Newcomer of the Year (11.5 ppg, 2.4 apg, 2.1 spg, 4.5 rpg). Ranchview two other returning starters are Jada Garrett, a 5-10 junior (6.3 ppg, 6.3 rpg; 1st-team all-district), and Bry Washington, a 5-10 junior (9.6 ppg, 10.2 rpg; 1st-team all-district).

Skylah Hawkins, a 6-0 junior, projects to round out the starting five. Bartlett describes Hawkins as “very long and very athletic,” a D1 recruit who “will dominate in the paint this year.”

Playing Collegiately: 'HMD 5RELQVRQ 5DQFKYLHZ (DVWHUQ .HQWXFN\ 8QLYHUVLW\ 0LFKROH $PRV 5DQFKYLHZ &LVFR -8&2 7D\ODU :DONHU 5DQFKYLHZ 0F0XUU\ University.

Ranchview Wolves - Boys +RUM¿,ADY¿#ATS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ Coach: Lana Degelia (16 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: “The players have been working hard and showing great improvement,” says coach Lana Degelia. Whether that will be enough to return tradition-rich Krum to the postseason this spring time will tell. The two starters who return from last season are senior Kylee Myers and sophomore Rhett Robinson.

Playing Collegiately: 5DFKHO :DOODFH 6RXWKHDVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\ 6DGLH 0D\ 'DOODV &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH

2014-15 W-L: 17-15/6-2 Coach: Dee Boyd (15 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: W-Celina; L-Madison.

Outlook: Ranchview coach Dee Boyd says his team should finish in the top half of the district; but whether that will be good enough to break into the playoffs, time will tell.

Bottom line, Ranchview projects to be a bubble team. The Wolves’ two returning starters are Mikhail Land, a 6-2 senior guard/forward (15 ppg; all-district), and D’Quan Waheed, a 6-0 senior point guard (8.5 ppg).

Playing Collegiately: 1LHP 6WHYHQVRQ 6HZDUG -8&2 0DWWKHZ /HZLV 6HZDUG -8&2

District 11 +RUM¿"OBCATS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 13-17/3-7 Coach: Thomas Clay (15 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen: 8/4 Outlook: Tradition-rich Krum welcomes in the era of Thomas Clay basketball. Clay comes to Krum from Grady, where he last season led the Wildcats to the Class 1A state-title tilt, a game won by Texline, 76-55. Clay inherits a senior-heavy team that narrowly missed the playoffs last season and is hoping a new coach will kick-start future success.

Clay’s top Cats are Nick Perches, a 5-10 point guard, and Jared Cowan, a 6-2 forward. The three other projected starters are Hunter Sullivan, a 6-4 forward; Colton Knierim, a 5-10 guard; and Garrett Koiner, a 6-6 post.

3ANGER¿)NDIANS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 11-22/4-6 Coach: Matt Farmer (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L, Triple A Academy (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Indians finished the 2015 season on a positive note by rallying down the stretch to slip into the playoffs before losing to Triple A in the first round. In year two of his tenure at Sanger, coach Matt Farmer fields a senior-laden group that is now fully up to speed on his offensive and defensive schemes. Three starters return. The Big Chief is Joseph Clark, a 6-7 senior guard named the 2015 9-4A Offensive MVP and selected to the 4A All-Region II squad. Clark last season posted 16.3 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2 spg and 1.1 bpg. The other two returning starters are Hayden Higgs, a 6-4 senior guard (11.1 ppg, 5 rpg; 1st-team all-district), and Braven Smith, a 6-4 junior forward who finished last season with three double doubles in the last four games. Other players to keep an eye on are seniors Dakota Branch, Austin Odom and Angel Jacquez.

FYI: In the past 10 years, Sanger has been a coaching stop for two state-tournament coaches in The Colony’s Cleve Ryan and Ponder’s Jude Stanley.

$ALLAS¿#ARTER¿#OWBOYS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 17-14/6-4 Coach: Lyndon Love (8 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: W-Anna; L-Triple A. Outlook: “This Carter team is shaping up to be one of the school’s all-time greats,” says coach Lyndon Love. “We are looking forward to making a run at San Antonio to compete for the 4A state championship.” The lead poke is 6-3 senior point guard Melvin Joiner (1st-team all-region; 11 ppg, 6 rpg and 5 apg). Three-year letterman Richard Foster, a 6-5 senior forward, came on strong last season and wound up averaging 7 points and 5 rebounds a game. Four other returnees also project to log heavy minutes in the six-man starting rotation. Aaron Walton, a 6-3 senior wing, made 1st-team all-district and was voted 11-4A Defensive Player of the Year this past spring. He posted 7 ppg, 4 rpg and 4 spg. Tavon Griffin, a 6-4 senior forward, made second-team all-district. His numbers were 4 ppg and 6 rpg. Then there’s 6-0 senior wing Nate White, who shot 38% from beyond the arc while draining 72 treys. He booked 8 ppg, 2 rpg and 2 spg. And 6-1 senior point guard Keenan Dixon provides Carter a second facilitator to utilize when Joiner’s not running the show. Dixon recorded 6 ppg, 5 apg and 3 spg last season.

Playing Collegiately: -HUHP\ &RPEV &DUWHU 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1RUWK 7H[DV /HH /LQFROQ &DUWHU 2NODKRPD :HVOH\DQ

Lincoln Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-18/5-5 Coach: Cedric Patterson (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: Lincoln should make another run with plenty of talent back from a year ago.

The two Top Cats are Kortrijk Miles, a 6-4 junior guard (2nd-team all-district), and Lamarsay Austin, a 5-5 sophomore point guard who also made 2nd-team all-district. The five other returnees are Jabari Richardson, a 64 senior forward/guard; Jeremiah Whitaker, a 6-7 junior post; Kennedy Milton; a 6-2 sophomore guard; Tyree Sutton-Durham, a 5-9 point guard; and Demarcus Randle, a 6-6 forward.

Playing Collegiately: (ULF 1HDO /LQFROQ 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW $UOLQJWRQ 0DUN -RKQVRQ /LQFROQ 1RUWK (DVWHUQ 2NODKRPD -8&2 'HUULFN 1HDO /LQFROQ

Kansas University; Emanuel Porter (Lincoln 2014) ... Texas Christian University.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

135 District 13

$ALLAS¿-ADISON¿4ROJANS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 25-8/9-1 Coach: Damon Barnett (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Round Community, 83-28; W-Ranchview, 77-65; Lincoln, 67-57; Paris, 55-50; Triple A Academy, 67-63; L-Bridgeport, 68-60.

Outlook: The Trojans have both youth and experience. And after last year’s extended playoff run, look for Madison to make it back to the state tournament. Here’s the starting five that promises to turn heads: Ke’Tarrious Bouchum, a senior shooting guard/wing; Desmon Scott, junior point guard; Patrick Terry, a junior combo guard; JeMichael Bowens, a junior shooting guard/wing; and Trevion Jackson, a sophomore combo guard.

Playing Collegiately: $GPRQ *LOGHU 7H[DV $ 0 8QLYHUVLW\

District 12 !NNA¿#OYOTES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 23-8/6-4 Coach: Nick Sekeres (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Dallas Carter (Bi-district), 59-43.

Outlook: The Coyotes return seven of 10 players from last year, and those seven players have collectively logged 12 years of varsity experience. The Coyotes are also hungry.

They are looking to make the playoffs for a third consecutive year, which would be a first in school history. The leader of the pack is 5-11 junior guard Keamoni Mattocks (17 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 spg, 2 apg). Mattocks made 92 treys last season and shot 43% from beyond the arc.

He was named 12-4A MVP and also earned all-region selection. The starting five should also include 6-1 senior forward Brennan White (6 ppg, 4 rpg; 12-4A All-Defense); 5-9 junior guard Elijah Smith (6 ppg, 4 rpg; all-district honorable mention); 5-11 senior guard Tela Short (2 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 apg, 2 spg); and 6-1 senior forward Chase Henson (3 ppg, 2 rpg, 1 apg). Providing quality depth will be Devon Matthews, a 5-7 senior guard (2 ppg); Brandon Williams, a 5-10 senior guard (2 ppg); and ReMon Williams, a 5-9 senior guard voted newcomer of the year last season.

"ONHAM¿7ARRIORS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 5-21/2-8 Coach: Franco Islas (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: Last year was a rebuilding phase; but with all 5 starters back, the foundation is now laid for a solid showing. “We have experience and height,” says coach Franco Islas.

Emblematic of the team’s improvement is a first-place finish in the Red River Shootout held back in June. Bonham’s top three Warriors should be senior Caleb Ukpe (1st-team all-district; 21 ppg, 4 rpg, 4 apg), senior Corey Smallwood (2015 12-4A All-Defensive Team; 10 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 bpg) and sophomore Wyatt Dolberry (8 ppg, 10 rpg).

-ELISSA¿,ADY¿#ARDINALS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 28-3/10-0 Coach: Heather Lane (19 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: Area Finalist.

Outlook: A brand new coach and a lot of young players tell the story of this year’s edition of Lady Cardinals basketball. “We may be young, but it’s a very skilled team with a lot of quickness,” coach Heather Lane says. Lane will lean on her two returning starters to set the tone. They are junior Gill Gray and sophomore Taylor Thomas.

Playing Collegiately: .DWLH :HEE 6RXWKHDVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

Melissa Cardinals - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-16/8-2 Coach: Clint Sadler (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Wilmer Hutchins, 72-56 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Cardinals look to continue ramping up compliments the cumulative effect of eight returning lettermen. The projected starting lineup comprises Karson Munson, a 5-9 senior (6.2 ppg, 4.2 apg); Nathan Razo, a 5-9 senior (7.5 ppg, 2.4 apg); Joseph Ragon, a 6-2 junior (8 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 1.5 apg); Hunter Campbell, a 6-6 junior (7 ppg, 6 rpg); and Gunnar Murphy, a 6-2 junior (9.3 ppg, 6.9 rpg).

&ERRIS¿,ADY¿*ACKETS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 22-10/6-2 Coach: Shelly Kay (25 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Eustace; L-Bullard.

Outlook: “Hopefully, we will begin where we left off and continue to get better,” says coach Shelly Kay. Translation: the Lady Jackets are hoping to not only make the playoffs, but also advance beyond the second round where they stubbed their toe this past spring versus Bullard. 13-4A MVP Jade Thurmon, a 5-6 senior, will steer the ship. She last season booked 24 ppg, 5 apg, 6 rpg and 4 spg last season. Ferris’ other four projected starters are Taylor Abrone, a 5-9 senior (5 ppg, 8 rpg, 5 bpg; 2nd-team all-district); Kameron Rogers, a 5-6 junior (8 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 spg, 3 apg; 1st-team all-district); Leshia Dickerson, a 5-7 junior (5 ppg, 4 rpg, 3 spg; 2nd-team all-district); Mickhayla Nunez, a 5-7 junior (5 ppg, 3 rpg; honorable mention all-district); and Baylee Bakely, a 5-6 senior (5 ppg; honorable mention all-district).

Playing Collegiately: -XOLD &RQQHOO 0RXQWDLQ 9LHZ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

+AUFMAN¿,ADY¿,IONS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 5-25/2-6 Coach: Kelli Rose (5 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Brownsboro, 67-29 (Bi-district) Outlook: “We will look to juniors Madison Smith (5-8 forward) and Alexis Dickerson (5-7 guard) for offensive stability and are excited to see senior Catara Coy (5-11 post) back on the court after suffering a season-ending injury back in January,” says coach Kelli Rose.

-ABANK¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 18-15/6-2 Coach: Tracy Carter (8 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Emory Rains, 62-56; L-Texarkana Pleasant Grove, 56-51.

Outlook: “Mabank will have to overcome a lack of size to repeat as 13-4A district champions, but our guard play and overall shooting ability should help a great deal,” says coach Tracy Carter. Cole Smith, a 5-9 senior point guard (1st-team all-district; 11.2 ppg); and Jordan Thomas, a 5-11 junior guard (2nd-team all-district; 8.7 ppg) are the only two returning starters. Also expected to play key roles are Mark Driskell, a 5-11 senior guard, and Cole Plunkett, a 6-0 junior guard.

Playing Collegiately: 'DOWRQ %XUOHVRQ 0DEDQN (DVW 7H[DV %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\

District 14 "ROWNSBORO¿"EARS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 27-5/8-0 Coach: Brent Smith (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: Regional Semi-Finalist.

Outlook: The Bears have the returnees in place to not lose a step after winning district last season and then advancing to the regional semifinals for the second consecutive season. There will also be quality players moving up from a JV squad that did not lose a district game. Tamrick Pace, a 6-3 senior (16 ppg, 3.2 apg, 6 rpg; 14-4A District Co-MVP), will headline. The other two returning starters are Kenneth Woods, a 6-3 sophomore (9 ppg, 9.3 rpg; 14-4A Newcomer of the Year), and Xavier Richardson, a 5-9 senior (5 ppg; 2nd-team all-district).

#ANTON¿%AGLETTES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 24-10/8-2 Coach: Randy Henderson (19 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: Regional semifinalists.

Outlook: Canon coach Randy Henderson is in his first year heading up the Eaglettes, but his players have been around. He inherits an experienced team that has the athleticism to play multiple styles. PT returnees include senior Lilly Nelson (1st-team all-district), junior Courtney Roberts (1st-team all-district) and junior Taylor Tidwell, (2nd-team all-district). Other players expected to make a difference are senior Destiny Dollgener, senior Payton Williams, senior Taylor Durham, senior Holly Raitz and junior Sarah Bell.

136

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 16

#ANTON¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 14-19/4-4 Coach: Heath Dudley (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Athens, 63-51 (Bi-district).

Outlook: “If healthy, this year’s team should be the best Canton has seen in some time,” says coach Heath Dudley. “Our team defense should take this team to the next level.”

Returning starters are 5-10 senior guard Logan Nace (1st-team all-district); 6-0 senior forward Tre’ Fitzgerald (1st-team all-district) and 6-5 senior forward Jackson Malone (2nd-team all-district). Other returning lettermen are 5-8 senior guard Chance Hyles, 6-0 senior guard/forward Travis Perkins, 6-0 senior forward Mason Baugh and 6-3 senior forward Andrew Hamel. Providing depth are newcomers 5-10 senior guard Bryce Branson, 6-0 junior guard/forward Jacob Johnson and 6-4 junior forward Logan Willeford.

FYI: Canton finished 3-3 in the Summer State Basketball Tournament this year. There were 24 teams in Canton’s bracket. Each of the three teams Canton lost to ended up in the tournament’s Final Four.

"ULLARD¿,ADY¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 31-7/9-1 Coach: Barry Gill (13 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Pittsburg; W-Ferris; L-Canton.

Outlook: Lexi Kirgan, the 2015 16-4A MVP and a TABC All-Region selection, will serve as the lynchpin to this year’s campaign to assure an extended playoff run. The six-person starting rotation also includes Hannah Lloyd (16-4A District Newcomer of the Year), Deanna Howard (1st-team all-district), Kristen Chamberlain (2nd-team all-district), Lauren Zachry (2nd-team all-district) and Tracey Johnson (honorable-mention all-district).

Plus, the Lady Panthers stand to benefit quite a bit from call-ups who last season played on a JV squad that did not lose one district contest.

Playing Collegiately: 0LQWD 6SHDUV %XOODUG 9DQGHUELOW /H[L $EHUFURPELH %XOODUG $XVWLQ &ROOHJH

3PRING¿(ILL¿,ADY¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿'IRLS¿

7ILLS¿0OINT¿,ADY¿4IGERS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 10-18/0-8 Coach: Dane Morgan (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 Outlook: “If we can get more consistent guard play, I think we have a chance to be very competitive this year,” says coach Dane Morgan. “All six kids we have back started at some point in the season.” The team’s fortunes will largely rest on the shoulders of three difference-makers -- Kendal Brown, a 5-7 senior guard (10.2 ppg); Emily smith, a 5-9 junior forward (6.7 ppg); and Meredith Edwards, a 5-6 junior guard/forward (5.1 ppg).

District 15

2014-15 W-L: 19-11/5-5 Coach: Allan Pope (16 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-North Lamar, 58-47 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Experience should be a plus. The Lady Panthers went 1-4 during the first half of district play last season but then rallied to finish 4-1 in the second half and make the playoffs. So with that experience having pointed the arrow up, there should be a carry-over effect this season. Much of what happens, though, will be dictated by 5-11 senior wing Ann Hollas, who coach Allan Pope describes as “probably the best athlete in the district.” Hollas was named the 2015 16-4A Offensive MVP and has earned all-district accolades in each of her three prior years playing varsity ball. Her supporting cast comprises 5-10 senior Julie Hodges, 5-6 senior A’Kia Larke, 5-8 junior Kayla Crowe, 5-6 sophomore Jayla Landrum and 5-4 senior Hannah Grubb.

Playing Collegiately: 0DGLVRQ 0DUWLQ +DUGLQJ 8QLYHUVLW\

0ARIS¿7ILDCATS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 35-1/10-0 Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: W-Tyler Chapel Hill, 95-44; W-Ferris, 109-42; W-Kilgore, 51-49; L-Dallas Madison, 55-50.

Outlook: Four starters return from a squad that never lost last season until bowing to Dallas Madison in the regional semifinals. The three returning starters who forecast continued success are: 6-4 Jared Embry (1st-team all-district, 1st-Team All-Red River Valley), 6-5 Jordan Embry (1st-team all-district, 1st-team All-Red River Valley) and 6-3 Jalon Pipkins (15-4A Newcomer of the Year, 2nd-team All-Red River Valley).

Playing Collegiately: 6HOMDK -RKQVRQ &ROLQ &RXQW\ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH 5R\ -RQHV Eastfield Community College.

District 17 #HINA¿3PRING¿#OUGARS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 12-16/1-9 Coach: Kristi Mize (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 Outlook: With Only two players having any varsity experience at all, coach Kristi Mize has her work cut out for her. “We have great shooters who have joined us, and I have players who have a high basketball IQ,” she says. “Our kids will compete. I’m looking forward to working with this group.” Her one returning starter is Alex Perkins, a 5-6 sophomore point guard. Perkins was a 1st-team all-academic selection as well as a 2nd-team all-district pick this past spring.

Playing Collegiately: 5Há(OOH 0LOOHU 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW 7\OHU 7\UDVKD 'HJUDWH Ranger JUCO.

,IBERTY %YLAU¿,EOPARDS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 8-14/2-8 Coach: Aquanetta Watson (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3.

Outlook: “I am looking forward to a complete turnaround for this year’s team,” says coach Aquanetta Watson. “This amazingly athletic group of young ladies is hungry and feels it has something to prove.” Liberty-Eylau’s three returning starters are Lekena Dunn, a 5-11 senior combo guard (2nd-team all-district); Chelsea Fagan, a 5-11 senior forward/guard (1st-team all-district); and Taylor Crabtree, a 5-7 sophomore guard.

FYI: Liberty Eylau’s seniors have dedicated their season to their former coach Raydean Wheeler, who passed away unexpectedly prior to the 2013-14 season when they were sophomores. “He was a great coach and an even better person who wanted to get the full potential out of every athlete,” says current Liberty-Eylau coach Aquanetta Watson. “He is greatly missed, and we dedicate this season to him.”

,IBERTY¿%YLAU¿,EOPARDS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 District Record: 4-6 Coach: Marlon Byrdsong (5 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 Outlook: The Leopards look to get off the playoff bubble this season and stroll into the postseason. Four returning starters provide the savvy and punch needed to make that happen, and two players, in particular, should lead the way. Liberty Eylau’s two key pieces to this year’s puzzle are Decorrian Meadows, a 6-0 shooting guard (15-4A Newcomer of the Year), and KT Hernandez, a 5-11 point guard (all-district).

'ATESVILLE¿(ORNETS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 20-11/3-7 Coach: Chris Carroll (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 6/4

,ORENA¿,ADY¿,EOPARDS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ Coach: Rodney Gee (17 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: L-Madisonville (Bi-district) Outlook: Carly Campbell, a 5-5 TGCA All-State guard, will be the Top Cat in this year’s edition of the Lady Leopards. Campbell posted 16.4 ppg and netted 86% of her free throws and 39% of her trey attempts last season. Michal Bennett, a 5-7 guard, is a two-time all-district selection who last season hit 46% from beyond the arc and averaged 11.4 points per game. Likewise, Abbie Gee, a 5-6 guard, also boasts two-time selection to the all-district squad. She drained 38% of her threes last season and averaged three assists per contest. Part-time starters returning are Emily Craig, a 5-4 guard, and Claire Conradt, a 5-10 post.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

137 &AIRFIELD¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS

7ACO¿#ONNALLY¿,ADY¿#ADETS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 23-12/5-5 Coach: Taylor Sims Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: L-Mexia (Bi-district) Outlook: Connally will return 10 lettermen and four starters to a team that won a school-best 23 games last season. After finishing third in a very tough District 17-4A and making the playoffs for the first time since 2002, coach Taylor Sims’ squad will look to make an even deeper run this season. The Lady Cadets will be led by junior standout Tontyana Sanders, a 5-10 post who managed a double-double in 32 of 35 games last season. After missing her entire freshman season due to a torn ACL, Sanders made her presence felt as a sophomore by earning 17-4A District Newcomer of the Year, Super Centex Newcomer of the Year and All-State honors. Along the way, she posted 16.8 ppg, 14.7 rpg and 2.2 bpg. Seniors Timeya Adams and Reagan Reed will also be key cogs for the Lady Cadets. Adams, a 1st-team all-district and all-region selection will use her speed and quickness to break through opposing teams’ full-court press defenses. She will also look to be a defensive stopper as she led Central Texas with over 6 steals per game last season while also averaging 10.8 points per contest and dishing out 4.5 apg.

Reed, who is one of the best three-point shooters in the state, last season made over 80 three-pointers and shot 36% from beyond the arc while averaging 10.1 ppg. Seniors Ahlana Lofton and Ray’Veana Johnson will also be called upon to produce some big numbers after junior seasons in which both averaged over six points per game. Other key contributors will be senior Brittni Schmidt; juniors Hanna Brown and Keiana Williams; and sophomores Cierra Stewart, Malaika Lee, Heaven Lee and Kayla Crockett. “For the Lady Cadets to have another successful season, they will need to stay healthy and continue to use their speed and quickness on both ends of the floor,” says coach Sims.

2014-15 W-L: 28-4/8-0 Coach: Joey Worley (18 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W- China Spring, 62-29; L-Tatum, 61-60.

Outlook: Of the four returning starters, three have logged two years’ PT with the varsity, and that should pay dividends as the Eagles look to fly into regionals this season. The three seasoned vets are Domonic Brackens, a 5-10 senior point guard (10 ppg; TABC All-Region); Charles Oliver, a 6-4 senior forward (8 ppg, 7 rpg; 1st-team all-district); and Cam Hicks, a 6-0 guard (7 ppg, 5 rpg; 2nd-team all-district). Jarret Carpenter, a 6-5 forward, is the fourth returning starter. He last season posted 8 ppg and 8 rpg en route to 2nd-team all-district selection.

Groesbeck Goats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 10-21/0-8 Coach: Chris Reid (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: This season will afford third-year coach Chris Reid the chance to work with players who have now been through his system for two years, and he anticipates that will make a major difference in the success of his program. Groesbeck will be led by the tough and physical play of 6-3 senior forward John O’Kelley (8.7 ppg, 7.5 rpg; 2nd-team all-district) and the athleticism and court savvy of 5-10 junior guard Sabrien Jones (9.7 ppg, 5.1 rpg; honorable-mention all-district). Joining Jones in the backcourt will be the 5-8 senior Jaylon Medlock (10 ppg, 2 apg; honorable-mention all-district), one of the area’s fastest guards with a ball in his hands. Along the frontline Reid will have 6-3 senior forward Jarrius Washington (51% FG, 2.4 bpg; honorable-mention all-district), a force in the paint as evidenced by last season’s many rejections. Josh Forge, a 5-10 senior guard, averaged nearly 10 ppg last season coming off the bench, and 6-3 sophomore forward Brayden Bradley provided both muscle and depth as a reserve last season. Also look for junior guards Michael Loyd and Kolby Ayres to log important minutes as they grow into their varsity roles.

District 19 Connally Cadets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-10/6-4 Coach: Quinton Snell (16 years’ experience; 17th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: L-Mexia, 64-59 (Bi-district) Outlook: “We will be young, but it’s a group that will play hard and will definitely play together,” says coach Quinton Snell. The squad’s cornerstone is its one returning starter -- Trajan Snell, a 5-9 sophomore point guard who splashed on to the scene a year ago by being named Waco Tribune Herald Super-Centex Newcomer of the Year and District 17-4A Newcomer of the Year. Snell’s numbers were 10 ppg, 4 apg, 5 spg and 3 rpg. He shot 70% from the line and 38% from beyond the arc. Other pieces to the puzzle include Ronnie Briscoe, a 5-11 junior guard (17-4A Honorable Mention All-District); Javion Dawkins, a 6-1 sophomore guard; and Grant Knight, a 6-6 senior forward.

Playing Collegiately: 6N\OHU +DGGHQ &RQQDOO\ 0XUUD\ 6WDWH &ROOHJH

,A¿6EGA¿0IRATES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 20-13/10-0 Coach: David Drafahl (15 years’ experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Madisonville, 73-42; W-Diboll, 53-36; L-Tatum, 56-48.

Outlook: The Pirates are looking to three-peat as district champs. And they have the speed and athleticism to do exactly that. “We have high expectations to go deep in the playoffs,” says coach David Drafahl. La Vega’s power trio of talent comprises Amariye Blunson, a 5-8 senior point guard; Amani Gibson, a 6-2 junior guard; and Kedrick James, a 6-5 junior center.

Playing Collegiately: &DPHURQ -DFNVRQ 0F0XUU\ 8QLYHUVLW\

District 18 Fairfield Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 21-13/4-4 Coach: Stephen Heers (30 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: L-Waco Robinson (Bi-district).

Outlook: With only two seniors back from last year’s team, Fairfield will rely on five juniors, three sophomores and two freshmen to create an identity and in a hurry. “Look for us to be tough around December,” says coach Stephen Heers. The projected starters are junior Da’meka Shed, junior Keara Birdow, senior Kim Hayes, senior Erica Lyle and junior Makayla Thurman.

Playing Collegiately: $LQOH\ 5LFKDUGVRQ $UOLQJWRQ %DSWLVW 7LDUD 7DWXP 7DUOHWRQ 6WDWH %UHH %RVVLHU +HQGHUVRQ 6WDWH

2USK¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 17-14 Coach: Baldemar Ruiz (16 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Hudson, 55-32.

Outlook: Rachel Miller and Catlyin Ballew will provide the one-two punch that coach Baldemar Ruiz hopes will push his Lady Eagles back into the lofty air that is the postseason.

2USK¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2015-15 W-L: 7-18/1-8 Coach: Zach Allison (6 years; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: Rusk returns seven players from a young team that finished tied for fourth last season. “Our experienced guard play should carry the team throughout the season,” says coach Zach Allison. “If we can find some type of inside presence to control the defensive paint, we could return to postseason play.” Rusk’s seven returnees are Antonio “PJ” Tilley, Isiah Francis, Jacquez Cook, Daron Neal, Jake Hugghins, Trevor Lee and Bradley Hamilton.

4ATUM¿,ADY¿%AGLES¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 26-4/7-1 Coach: Patricia Nelson (18 years’ experience; 12th year) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Jasper; L-Mexia.

Outlook: “This will be an exciting, up-tempo, fun team to watch, with good shooters and great ball handlers,” says coach Patricia Nelson. The Lady Eagles’ six-player starting rotation begins with BriAnna Mitchell, a sophomore guard (15 ppg, 3 rpg, 6 spg, 5.3 apg).

The other five comprise senior post Ro’Nishia Simpson (12 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3 spg), junior guard Destiny Hicks (9 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 5 spg, 5.1 apg), sophomore guard Jada Shans (5 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg), senior post Diamond Sammons (4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 4 spg) and senior forward Alexus Freeney (5 ppg 3.3 rpg, 3 spg, 2.3 apg).

Playing Collegiately: .D\ODK 6WDUOLQJ .LOJRUH -8&2 $OH[HV %HOO 7\OHU -8&2 FYI: BriAnna Mitchell -- only a sophomore -- has already received a basketball scholarship offer from Stephen F. Austin.

138

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

4ATUM¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS¿

Houston Washington Golden Eagles - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 27-11/7-1 Coach: Layne Boxell (3 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Huntington, 78-65; W-Fairfield, 61-60; W-Waco La Vega, 56-48; L-Houston Sterling, 70-62.

Outlook: After advancing to the regional semifinals this past spring, the Tatum Eagles will shift back into a developmental stage as only one starter – 5-11 senior Jalan Horne (1st-team all-district) – returns. Five other lettermen are back, though. They are DaCalen Hicks, a 5-10 senior point guard; Corey Lee, a 6-3 senior guard; Stephen Marshall, a 6-3 senior guard; KJ Boyd, a 6-2 senior forward; and Shay Rodgers, a 6-5 junior post.

Coach: Vincent Grayson (10 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 Outlook: “Young but tough.” Those are the three words coach Vincent Grayson uses to describe his newest bunch of Golden Eagles. No starters are back, but the birds fly on with the likes of Dominique King, LaDaniel Miller, Treyvion Robinson and Chris Simms.

Playing Collegiately: 7DMRQ :HOFRPH 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ /RXLVLDQD 'DULRQ &RRNV +XVWRQ 7LOORWVRQ 0DXULFH 7D\ORU +XVWRQ 7LOORWVRQ

District 23 District 20 #LEVELAND¿)NDIANS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ (UNTINGTON¿2ED¿$EVILS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 19-14/2-7 Coach: Shawn Jones (11 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Senior-laden squad should vie for district title behind the strength of returning starters Jeremiah Robertson, Ethan Dhone and Bryndan Nerren.

(UDSON¿,ADY¿(ORNETS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 16-15/6-3 Coach: Kirsten Hines (7 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: A savvy bunch are these Lady Hornets. The lineup includes five seniors, and all five have two to three years’ of varsity PT. The four returning starters are Briana Dillard, Hannah Grandgeorge, Kaci McCarty and Marcy Thomason.

2014-15 W-L: 29-6/12-2 Coach: Shiakiea Carter (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Orangefield, 60-29; W-La Grange, 50-22; W-Giddings, 52-35; W-Mexia, 49-44; L-Waco La Vega, 74-40.

Outlook: “We will have a playoff experienced team that is determined to take care of unfinished business,” says coach Shiakiea Carter. Cleveland came just one game shy of advancing to the state tournament last season and will look this season to step up defensive pressure to get over the hump. Simran Mayfield, a 5-7 sophomore point guard (2015 23-4A Co-Offensive Player of the Year; 15 ppg, 4 apg, 5 rpg, 3 spg), is a key cog in this year’s playoff push, and helping her grease the wheel are Tytiana Reed, a 5-4 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 225 3-pointers); Briana Williams, a 5-11 senior post (23-4A Co-Defensive Player of the Year; 5 ppg, 9 rpg); and Aysha Lewis, a 5-6 wing (1st-team all-district). Alexis Wheeler, a 5-8 sophomore wing (honorable-mention all-district; 7 ppg, 5 rpg), should also provide big minutes as will Tytiana Haamid, a 5-10 sophomore forward (23-4A Newcomer of the Year; 10 ppg, 7 rpg), and 6-0 post Sherra Bartlett.

#LEVELAND¿)NDIANS¿ ¿"OYS "ELLVILLE¿"RAHMAS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 14-17/5-5 Coach: Mitchell Doty (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Houston Sterling (Bi-district).

Outlook: With plenty of speed and athleticism, Bellville will continue to rely on a defense-first mentality. The Bulls will look to pick up the pace on both sides of the court, providing fans’ their money’s worth. Mac Briscoe should headline after last season being named 21-4A Newcomer of the Year with 18 ppg and 6 apg. The other three returning starters are Michael Scyrus (all-district; 10 ppg, 12 rpg), Tanner Riden (all-district) and Mark Rodriguez (team leader in assists).

2014-15 W-L: 20-5/10-2 Coach: Roderick Broussard (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-West Orange, 70-67; L-Wheatley, 99-66.

Outlook: After losing 6-6 wing Marcus Keyser (2015 23-4A MVP and Cleveland’s leading scorer) to a transfer, the Indians will have the speed and quickness – along with experience – to perhaps compensate and win a fifth consecutive district title. “Don’t count us out,” says Cleveland coach Roderick Broussard. “We will lack height but will keep an up-tempo style of play to make it back to the postseason.” Cleveland returns three starters -- D. D. Jackson, a 6-3 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 10 ppg, 6 spg, 5 apg); Leroy Scott, a 6-4 senior forward (1st-team all-district; 9 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 bpg); and Jaylon Williams, a 6-5 sophomore guard (23-4A Newcomer of the Year; 11 ppg, 6 apg). The two other projected starters are Rashad Carter, a 5-8 junior guard (2nd-team all-district; 8 ppg), and Malik Hopkins, a 5-9 junior guard (4 ppg, 3 spg).

District 22 3CARBOROUGH¿3PARTANS¿ ¿'IRLS¿¿ 2014-15 W-L: 0-17/0-10 Coach: Lionell Robertson (1 year’s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 0/0 Outlook: “Changing the mindset is my goal,” says coach Lionell Robertson, who enters his second year as a head coach and first year as Scarborough’s head coach. Last year the Spartans went winless. No one who experienced that exercise in futility is back for this season. So with all new faces, coach Robertson remains optimistic. “We will try to build by winning the small battles of success,” Robertson says. Jada Russ is one of those new faces expected to not only make a difference, but to lead by example.

4ARKINGTON¿,ONGHORNS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 6-21/1-11 Coach: Gregory A. Scharer (28 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: “If we are going to be in the mix in our district, we must show up every night and play as a team and bring great intensity on defense,” says coach Gregory A. Scharer.

“We need to become a better transition team, both on offense and defense. “I think we will be an above-average three-point shooting team, but must score more from steals and offensive rebounding.” Returning starters are Ricky Martin, a 5-10 junior point guard (5.2 ppg, 3.2 apg); John Willis, a 6-0 junior shooting guard (11.5 ppg, 2.8 apg); C.J. Emmert, a 6-3 senior post (8.9 ppg, 8.5 rpg); and Kaelin Jones, a 5-10 senior wing (7.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg); and Trace O’Brien, a 6-2 junior post (2.1 ppg, 1.9 rpg). Other contributors include Cole Gaither, a 6-0 senior guard (4.2 ppg, 1.7 rpg); Andrew Hare, a 6-3 junior post; Jared Haltom, a 6-2 junior post; and Ruben Rodriquez, a 5-7 junior guard.

3CARBOROUGH¿3PARTANS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 23-11/8-4 Coach: Martin Wall (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-La Grange; L-Silsbee.

Outlook: The Spartans have spent an offseason basking in the glory of the program’s first playoff win in school history. (Scarborough was built in 1968.) But now it’s time to hit reset and forget the past. One main reason that coach Martin Wall thinks his Spartans will experience comparable success is Hunter Janacek (22-4A Offensive Player of the Year). The district’s leading scorer is primed to have an even better sophomore campaign. Scarborough’s two other returning starters also project a bright future. Quinton Hudson was named 2015 22-4A Freshman of the Year and earned 1st-team all-district accolades. Tahj Parrish, a sophomore, averaged 6 points per game in 2014-15.

FYI: Hunter Janacek has verbally committed to Lafayette in the Patriot League.

(UFFMAN¿&ALCONS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 19-12/6-6 Coach: Scott Barrett (12 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: L-Silsbee (Bi-district) Outlook: Usually when coaches have young squads, they try to compensate by turning up the tempo. That’s all well and good if you have the talent to do so; and in this case, coach Scott Barrett does. “We’ll be very young and play very fast,” he says. Setting the pace will be a six-man starting rotation of Noah Pendagrass, Dillon Todd, Dylan Hairston, Luke Bailey, Caden Cotter and Antwon Frazier.

Playing Collegiately: =DFK 'XPDV 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

139 District 25

3HEPHERD¿0IRATES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 15-16/5-7 Coach: Jeremy Bennett (9 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: “The Pirates will display a competitive energy every time we step on the floor,” says coach Jeremy Bennett. There are five returning starters to rev the motor. They are senior Jonathan Marshall (12.3 ppg), senior Royce See (11.1 ppg), senior Zach Truelove (11.4 ppg), senior Tanar Castleman (8.2 ppg) and T.J. Robinson. Trevor Moye and Nick Truelove are also expected to play important minutes, but it’s a move-in, junior Cameron Wright, that could have the biggest impact of all. Wright last season averaged 15.4 points.

3PLENDORA¿7ILDCATS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ : / 'LVWULFW 5HFRUG Coach: Randy Romines (32 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: L- Little Cypress-Mauriceville, 62-43.

Outlook: The Wildcats have won four consecutive district titles, and coach Randy Romines thinks that his squad – in the final season before his retirement – has the experience and quality shooters to capture a fifth straight district title and make some noise in the postseason. Romines’ projected starting five certainly provides balanced scoring. Opponents really won’t be able to double down on any one player without paying a price. Here’s Splendora’s sharpshooting starting five: 6-0 senior post Zoe Osteen (110 Blocks, 7.4 ppg, 7.2 rpg), 5-8 senior post Autumn Knott (8.9 ppg, 10.4 rpg), 5-7 senior guard Brielle Coody (9.4 ppg, 3.4 spg); 5-6 senior guard Frankie York (6.8 ppg, 3.3 spg) and 5-5 sophomore point guard Jessica Hiltibrand (9.2 ppg, 6.4 apg).

Playing Collegiately: (PLO\ 5LFKDUGVRQ 6RXWKHDVW 0LVVRXUL 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

"URNET¿,ADY¿$AWGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 21-10/5-5 Coach: Doug Messer (10 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Navarro, 48-45; L-Bay City, 57-51.

Outlook: “We feel like our depth and chemistry will play vital for us this season,” says coach Doug Messer. He claims his roster’s quality goes 10 deep. Here they are: Shaylah Hullum, a 5-7 senior combo guard (all-district 1st team); Katelyn Pool, a 5-8 senior forward (all-district 1st team); Afabiana Brooks, a 5-6 senior point guard (all-district 2nd team); Miranda Weeks, a 5-8 senior forward; Marissa Escamilla, a 5-9 sophomore forward; Ashley Bernal, a 5-6 senior guard; Sierra French, a 5-6 senior guard; Emma Skinner, a 5-10 senior post; Hailey Letterman, a 5-6 senior guard/forward; and Reagan Giesenshlag, a 5-9 junior guard/forward.

"URNET¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 16-15/5-5 Coach: Roy Kiser (17 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: L-Wimberley, 61-59 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Burnet will be looking to improve upon a third-place finish in district via a roster that has three juniors and seven sophomores. The team’s nine returnees are Darius Johnson, a 5-9 senior; Jesse Pollard, a 6-4 senior; Drew Kiser, a 6-1 junior; Caelin Graves, a 5-9 junior; Kyle Cavender, a 6-0 junior; Gage Blair, a 5-10 junior; Ryan Robertson, a 5-8 junior; Carlos Herrera, a 6-3 junior; and Luke Pemberton, a 6-4 senior.

Splendora Wildcats - Boys

,AMPASAS¿"ADGERS¿ ¿'IRLS¿

2014-15 W-L: 8-22/2-10 Coach: Jason Vela (14 years’ experience; 15th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: The Wildcats have turned over the vast majority of their lineup and return only one starter from a squad that found the going rough last season. The good news is that coach Jason Vela should get some help from several members of a freshman team that last season went 18-5 and won a district title. Toby Clark, a 6-2 post, is the varsity’s one returning starter. He last season earned honorable-mention all-district selection.

2014-15 W-L: 14-16/7-3 Coach: Jenny Bowden (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: L-Cuero, 55-48 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Alexis I and II are the two returning starters that combine with five other lettermen to make Lampasas a more experienced team than it was last season when it disappointingly took an early postseason exit despite finishing 7-3 in district. Alexis Lewis and Alexis Theus remember it well and are ready to make amends.

Playing Collegiately: 4DGUH\ 7ROOLYHU /DPSDVDV %HWKDO &ROOHJH LQ .DQVDV

District 24 3ILSBEE¿4IGERS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 30-6/11-1 Coach: Joe Sigler (28 years’ experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 2015 Postseason: W-Huffman-Hargrave, 83-63; W-Houston Scarborough, 93-56; W-Houston Wheatley, 83-79; W-Mexia, 83-46; L-Houston Sterling, 57-43.

Outlook: “Tigers should be competitive this season with the nucleus of the team returning,” says coach Joe Sigler. “We will also add some incoming talent from the lower levels that will benefit us greatly.” Silsbee’s five returning starters are junior Michael McCain (all-state selection), senior Travious Grubbs (all-region), senior Dontre Thomas (all-district), junior Trajan Harris (all-district) and junior Kolten Mackey (all-district).

Playing Collegiately: -DOHQ +DUGHZD\ 6LOVEHH %URRNKDYHQ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH 'D9DXJKQ 7KRPDV 6LOVEHH .H\VWRQH &ROOHJH

,IBERTY¿(ILL¿2UNNIN¸¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 32-1/10-0 Coach: Barry Boren (36 years’ experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 9/4 2015 Postseason: W-Geronimo Navarro, 63-26; L-Brazosport, 62-56.

Outlook: The Panthers are long and experienced. Liberty Hill will miss the now graduated headliner Callen Mikulencak; but other than that, nearly the entire lineup is back from a squad that was perfect until disappointingly losing in the second round of the playoffs. Liberty Hill has won 10 district titles in 12 years and are certainly the favorite to win one again this season. Here are the four returning starters: Zach Lord, a 6-9 junior (all-region); Slater Foust, a 6-2 senior (25-4A Defensive Player of the Year); Conner Lowe, a 5-9 senior (1st-team all-district); and Trey Jenkins, a 6-4 senior (2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: &DOOHQ 0LNXOHQFDN /LEHUW\ +LOO 0RQWUHDW &ROOHJH %ODNH 'DQLHODN /LEHUW\ +LOO ,QGLDQD 8QLYHUVLW\ 3HQQV\OYDQLD FYI: Zach Lord is the grandson of the late Jim Reid who coached state championship teams at Ingram Moore, Kerville Tivy and Dumas.

Hardin-Jefferson Hawks - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 28-7/11-1 Coach: Clay Davis Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: Hawks coach Clay Davis will have 10 seniors to lean on this season following a 2014-15 campaign that saw his team advance three rounds in the playoffs. Three starters return, and all will prove pivotal this season. Hardin-Jefferson’s power trio comprises 6-0 senior shooting guard Michael Saladin (20.2 ppg), 6-2 sophomore guard Elijah Parquet (12.5 ppg) and 6-5 senior forward Jamerson Roberts (6.5 bpg in district).

Playing Collegiately: 6KDZQ 3UXGKRPPH +DUGLQ -HIIHUVRQ 6RXWKHUQ 8QLYHUVLW\ =MRUL %RVKD +DUGLQ -HIIHUVRQ /DPDU 8QLYHUVLW\ '\ODQ 0D\V +DUGLQ -HIIHUVRQ

&HGDU 9DOOH\ &RPPXQLW\ &ROOHJH

3ALADO¿%AGLES¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 19-13/4-6 Coach: Kenny Mann Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: Salado got off to a 15-7 start last season but couldn’t pull the string in district play. Whether four returnees will be enough to get the Eagles off the bubble is tough to tell, but optimism abounds as the season begins. The four returnees who galvanize hope are Preston Rosebrock, a 6-2 senior; Justin Tatum, a 5-6 senior; Peyton Keyburz, a 5-9 senior; and Trevor Stump, a 6-3 junior.

140

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 27

4AYLOR¿$UCKS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 25-6/8-2 Coach: Justin Boswell (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Cuero, 65-59; L-West Columbia 63-62.

Outlook: The Ducks are looking to improve upon back-to-back 25-win seasons, and an all-senior backcourt certainly won’t hurt matters. B.J. Tealer leads Taylor’s highly touted backcourt. He last season averaged 19 points and 4.5 assists en route to TABC all-region selection. He also received distinction as the 25-4A Offensive MVP and was named to the AAS All Cen-Tex Team. His two backcourt bunkmates are senior Xavier Washington (all-district honorable mention; 5 ppg, 3 rpg) and senior Greg Caldwell (all-district honorable mention). A trio of juniors in Malik Jackson (25-4A Newcomer of the Year; 7.5 ppg, 6.4 rpg), Clifton Gadison (all-district honorable mention) and Ryan Schneider earned plenty of experience last season and is primed to fill roles vacated by graduation. Damarcus Fields, a senior, provides quality depth, as do several call-ups from the 2014-15 JV and ninth-grade squads.

District 26 #ANYON¿,AKE¿(AWKS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 7-24/3-9 Coach: Luke Chapman (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Canyon Lake looks for its first playoff appearance in school history. After graduating six seniors off of last year’s team, coach Luke Chapman will turn to a successful and talented core of JV players to take the program to new heights. The top four minute-eaters should be Rory Preiss, a 6-1 junior (2nd-team all-district; 6.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.1 spg); Brandon Ward, a 5-9 senior (2nd-team all-district; 7.8 ppg); Tyler Williams, a 6-3 junior (4.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.2 bpg); and Will Gray, a 5-10 senior (3.9 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 1.1 spg).

Playing Collegiately: &KULVWLDQ 3HQD &DQ\RQ /DNH 6FKUHLQHU 8QLYHUVLW\

"AY¿#ITY¿"LACKCATS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 20-13/8-2 Coach: David Shepherd (5 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) 2015 Postseason: L-LaMarque, 58-46 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Bay City lost six seniors, but coach David Shepherd expects his returnees to find their mark by the time district play arrives. Key returnees include 6-0 senior offguard Archie Gaskins, 6-4 junior Brandon Wade, 6-0 senior Thurman Williams and 5-10 sophomore Taveon Roberson.

7HARTON¿4IGER¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 31-6/10-0 Coach: Matt Brown (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Stafford, 40-33; W-Wimberly, 55-47; W-West Columbia, 67-60; W-Hidalgo, 57-43; L-La Marque, 62-58.

Outlook: An experienced core of players that has made consecutive regional tournament appearances translates into a 2015-16 state-title contender. That contention is further fueled by the fact that Wharton’s freshman squad finished 20-0 last season, and the JV won district with a 17-6 record. So there is talent to be culled from the lower ranks, and the future certainly looks bright as it does not seem the Tigers will have to rebuild any time soon. “We will look for our upperclassmen to lead our team and help mold the younger players into a solid bench,” says coach Matt Brown. “We want them ready to play significant minutes by district play so we can get set for another run at the regional title.” Brown’s six-man starting rotation shakes out as follows: 5-11 senior Jessie Garza (27-4A Offensive Player of the Year, all-region selection; 12 ppg, 3 spg, 4 rpg), 6-0 senior Josh Young (all-region, 2-time 1st team all-district selection; 10 ppg, 6 rpg, 3 spg), 6-0 junior Tim Young (27-4A Newcomer of the Year; 8 ppg, 7 rpg, 2.5 bpg), 6-0 senior John Owens (2nd-team all-district; 8 ppg, 4 apg, 2 spg), 6-3 junior Maine Temple and 6-2, 240-pound junior Bull Haynes.

Playing Collegiately: .H\VKDZQ -RKQVRQ 7H[DV $ 7 YLD WUDQVIHU IURP :KDUWRQ &RXQW\ JUCO; Elliott Hudson Wharton County JUCO/Ranger College.

District 28 "RAZOSPORT¿%XPORTERS¿ ¿"OYS¿

.AVARRO¿0ANTHERS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 14-18/6-6 Coach: Jim Weaver (13 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/5 2015 Postseason: L-Liberty Hill (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Panthers return almost the entire team after making the playoffs for the first time since moving up from Class 2A. The top two returnees are Jacob Cooper, a 6-0 senior guard (1st-team all-district), and Will Eveld, a 6-2 sophomore forward (2nd-team all-district). Lettermen also include Garrett Weaver, a 5-7 junior guard; Isaiha Grant, a 5-9 junior guard; Tanner Law, a 5-9 junior guard; Mason McCaig, a 6-4 sophomore post; Anthony Grant, a 5-9 senior forward; Ben Anzaldua, a 6-0 junior post; and Manny Longoria, a 6-0 senior forward.

2014-15 W-L: 20-13/8-2 Coach: Ondra Waddy (17years’ experience; 18th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-El Campo, 67-52; W-Liberty Hill, 62-56; W- LaMarque, 62-39.

Outlook: The Exporters are coming off a regional quarterfinals appearance, where they lost to district rival LaMarque, but not before eliminating the previously undefeated Liberty Hill (32-1). The 2015-2016 team will be run by 5-11 junior point guard sensation Chris Rossow (TABC All-Region, 28-4A Co-MVP; 14 ppg, 8 apg). Rossow will have plenty of options in facilitating an offense that coach Ondra Waddy hopes will guide the Exporters to a place they have never been before – the state tournament. Those options include 6-0 senior guard Angel Trevino (TABC All-Region, 1st-team all-district; 12 ppg, 3 spg), 5-11 senior combo guard Genesis Green (all-district honorable mention; 10 ppg, 5 apg), 6-3 senior wing Noah Taylor (all-district honorable mention; 8 ppg, 8 rpg) and 5-11 senior shooting guard Ja’Quavious Dean. Also expect an immediate impact from 6-6 sophomore forward post Hunter Quick, a highly touted newcomer.

Playing Collegiately: -DOHHQ 6PLWK %UD]RVSRUW 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1HZ +DPSVKLUH

Gonzales Apaches - Boys

,A¿-ARQUE¿#OUGARS¿ ¿"OYS¿

2014-15 W-L: 5-15/0-10 Coach: Derek Williams (4 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 Outlook: “We are young,” says coach Derek Williams. “But after falling on hard times, this program took big steps last year, and we plan to take even bigger steps this season.”

There are eight who currently figure into the PT rotation. They are Arron Hunt, a 5-8 junior point guard; Reggie Mcniel, a 6-3 sophomore post; Cody Calzado, a 6-2 junior guard; Tyler Hendershot, a 6-2 senior post; Luis Segera, a 6-1 junior guard; Jason Banda, a 5-10 junior guard; Johnny Palacios, a 6-1 senior post; and Joe Guerra, a 6-2 junior wing.

2014-15 W-L: 28-10/6-4 Coach: David Montano (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 2015 Postseason: W-Bay City, 58-46; W-La Vernia, 55-39; W-Brazosport, 62-39; W-Fredericksburg, 58-41; W-Wharton, 62-58; L-Sterling, 66-57.

Outlook: With its entire seven-man rotation in tact from last season, the Cougars have every reason in the world to dream of strolling down San Antonio’s Riverwalk with gold around their neck. Two-year starter Raymond Stubblefield, a 6-3 junior forward, will drive the bus along with Jauron Freeman, a 6-1 junior guard. Freeman this past season earned all-state accolades and was named 28-4A Defensive Player of the Year. Stubblefield drew headlines with his all-region selection. Other important cogs include Tavier Blaine, a 6-1 senior guard (2nd-team all-district); LaDerrious Arvie, a 6-5 junior forward (28-4A Newcomer of the year); Desmond Murray, a 6-2 junior guard (honorable-mention all-district); and Jermaine Morris, a 5-8 sophomore guard (honorable-mention all-district).

9OAKUM¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿"OYS¿ Coach: Joe Mireles (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: The Bulldogs lost only one starter from a team that placed fifth in district, so the thought is that this season they should get off the bubble and shake things up a little in the district standings. The projected six-man starting rotation comprises 6-4 sophomore forward Josh Moore (1st-team all-district), 6-3 sophomore forward Jordan Moore (2nd-team all-district), 5-4 senior guard Jared Garza (2nd-team all-district), 6-4 senior forward Justin Brown, 6-5 senior post Glenn Love and 5-8 senior point guard Leo Rodriguez.

.EEDVILLE¿,ADY¿*AYS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 20-14/4-6 Coach: Keely Cox (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason Appearances: W-Bay City, 54-51 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Caroline Briscoe, a 5-8 senior, will be the centerpiece to the Lady Jays’ attempt to return to the postseason and erase the memory of last season’s early exit. Briscoe last season merited TABC 1st-Team All-Region selection after posting 17.1 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 3.1 spg, 4 apg. Also playing pivotal roles will be Autumn Matlock, a 5-10 senior (2nd-team all-district; 9 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 spg), and Megan Crosby, a 5-9 senior (15.6 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg).

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

141 District 29

Devine Arabians - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 28-7/4-6 Coach: Jim Sessions (13 years’ experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: Of Devine’s eight returnees, five started playing for the varsity as mere freshmen and are now seniors. That makes for a pretty salty bunch going into this season.

Returnees Baylee Quisenberry, Kara Stacy, Julia Harrell and Kailee Ramirez started last season, and coach Jim Sessions says he expects Jenna Sadler and move-in Vanessa Oyola to waste little time turning heads this season.

Devine Warhorses - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-12/6-4 Coach: Jerel Beaty (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: W-Carrizo Springs, 73-49; L-West Oso, 67-49.

Outlook: With 92% of Devine’s scoring now graduated, baskets could be hard to come by to begin the season. But the Warhorses have length at several positions and that could serve to kick-start this season’s offense via forced turnover and, as a result, easy baskets. The squad’s three cornerstones comprise Reagan Anderson, a 6-1 forward (11.2 rpg); TJ Wofford, a 5-9 shooting guard; and Jacob Oyola, a 5-9 point guard.

Playing Collegiately: 6HWK /HY\ 'HYLQH 6FKUHLQHU 8QLYHUVLW\ $XVWLQ 5,FKDUGVRQ 'HYLQH 2NODKRPD :HVOH\DQ

Fredericksburg Battlin’ Billies - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-10/9-1 Coach: Tim Kaman (23 years’ experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2 2015 Postseason: W-Poteet, 82-49; W-LaFeria, 47-30; W-Sinton, 46-41; L-La Marque, 58-41.

Outlook: Fredericksburg projects to be a potent perimeter team, but a lack of size could be a problem. One key, according to coach Tim Kaman, will be his team’s ability to chase down long rebounds. Kaman’s two returning starters are Kyle Reeh, a 5-10 senior guard (29-4A co-MVP, all-region; 11 ppg, 4 rpg, 5 apg, 3 spg), and Cole Bourgeois, a 5-10 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 6 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg). Luke Prado, a 6-0 senior guard, will also prove key after averaging 6 points and 3 rebounds en route to honorable-mention all-district selection.

FYI: In the last 50 years, the only teams to make the playoffs at Fredericksburg were coached by Kamans. Dennis Kaman – the father of current coach Tim Kaman -- took Fredericksburg to the regional finals in 1985 and 1987. He ranks second on Fredericksburg’s all-time wins list. Current coach Tim Kaman has now led the Billies to their first postseason appearance in 50 years. He also ranks first – ahead of his father -- on Fredericksburg’s all-time wins list.

Lytle Lady Pirates - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 10-22/1-9 Coach: Lori Wilson (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: Natalie Cortez, a 5-3 senior point guard who earned 1st-team all-district selection last season, returns as the only starter from a 2014-15 campaign that saw the Lady Pirates’ ship take on a little water. It will certainly be a rebuilding year, according to coach Lori Wilson, but the offseason gave a glimpse of smoother sailing in the near future.

#ORPUS¿#HRISTI¿7EST¿/SO¿"EARS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 25-9/14-0 Coach: Karl Turk (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: W-Raymondville, 67-45; W-Devine, 75-58; L-Hidalgo, 60-57.

Outlook: Creighton Avery and Larry Hamilton return to man a potent backcourt that will look to push the tempo at every opportunity. Avery, a 5-10 sophomore point guard, last season averaged 8.5 points and 5.5 assists and was named 31-4A Newcomer of the Year.

Hamilton, a 5-11 junior wing, posted 9 ppg and earned distinction as the 31-4A Defensive MVP. West Oso’s other returnee, junior Keon Hodge, will also play a critical role as the Bears try to make it back to state for the 12th time in school history.

Playing Collegiately: 5REHUW :DWVRQ :HVW 2VR +XVWRQ 7LOORWVRQ FYI: West Oso is pursuing its 41st district title and has not lost a district game since 2004.

And this year the school’s proud tradition will reach new heights as a new high-definition video board unveils. This particular state-of-the-art attraction is said to be one of only12 like it in the nation.

/RANGE¿'ROVE¿,ADY¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 11-21/7-7 Coach: Jeff Huber (30 years’ experience; 26th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: “With all five starters back and a deep bench to boot, Orange Grove is ideally positioned to capture the district crown. “But we’ll need to be more competitive and composed in late-game situations,” says coach Jeff Huber. “We literally just missed the playoffs last season by several possessions.” McKenzie Hahn, a 5-5 junior, will run the show at point guard after last season earning first-team all-district selection. The four other returning starters are Anissa Farias, a 5-9 junior post (second-team all-district); Ashlyn Hesseltine, a 5-9 post (31-4A Newcomer of the Year); Jane Hunt, a 5-6 junior (honorable-mention all-district); and Brittany Cox, a 5-6 senior (honorable-mention all-district). Bailey Ray, a 5-3 junior; Aspen Cox, a 5-6 sophomore; Alina Delgado, a 5-10 junior; and Mary Grace Bluntzer, a 5-6 sophomore, will round out the roster.

Playing Collegiately: %ULDQQD 'DYLOD 2UDQJH *URYH &RDVWDO %HQG &RPPXQLW\ College.

3INTON¿0IRATES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 14-13/9-5 Coach: Jimmy Woodin (9 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Fredericksburg, 46-41, in Regional Quarterfinals.

Outlook: The Pirates have a good infusion of youth and plenty of experience to go along with a deep bench. Bottom line, the Pirates should saunter into the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. The 5-8 senior shooting guard Fernando Ramirez is the lynchpin after last season averaging 16.1 points and making the TABC All-Region team. The four other projected starters are 6-3 Colt Gorman, a sophomore small forward (5.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg), 5-11 Mark Villarreal, a senior wing (4 ppg, 9.8 rpg); 6-2 Ethan Owens, a junior center; and 5-9 Jayden Villa, a junior shooting guard.

District 32 Raymondville Lady Kats - Girls

District 31 7EST¿/SO¿,ADY¿"EARS¿ ¿'IRLS 2014-15 W-L: 23-9/13-1 Coach: Cheryl Fillmore (1 year’s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Port Isabel, 47-36; L-Hondo, 51-47.

Outlook: Many of the Lady Bears are still cubs, and the program lost a couple of key players to transfer. But the young players hail from a JV team that went undefeated last season and won a 6A tournament in the process. Bottom line, there’s a reason to remain optimistic, especially when you also take into consideration the momentum generated from last season’s near perfect district slate. The two returning starters are Marissa Lopez, a 5-2 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 13 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg), and Ashia Williams, a 5-7 sophomore guard (10 ppg, 2 rpg).

2014-15 W-L: 15-16/4-10 Coach: Felix Silva Jr. (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: “With four starters returning and the experience that our young backcourt obtained from last year, we will make a push to return to the playoffs while competing for a district title,” promises coach Felix Silva Jr. His only concern is the injury bug that bit his squad last season and was largely responsible for a sub-500 district slate. Looking to turn the tide is Raymondville’s Anabell Hernandez, a 5-7 forward who last season averaged 7 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals en route to 1st-team all-district selection.

Raymondville’s four other projected starters are Mireya Cervantes, a 5-3 point guard (honorable-mention all-district; 15 ppg, 3 rpg, 5 spg, 4 apg); Miranda Esparza, a 5-9 post (4 ppg, 5 rpg); Katelyn Ramirez, a 5-7 forward (4 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 spg, 2 apg); and Claudia Mesa, a 5-6 guard (5 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 spg, 2 apg).

Playing Collegiately: $EELH $QQD 5LYDV 5D\PRQGYLOOH ,QFDUQDWH :RUG

142

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

A New Perspective from p. 30 Kendall was one of the first to reach out to the Williamses.

“Coach Kendall had a lot to do with my daughter surviving what she went through,” says Alma, a reading specialist at her daughter’s high school. “As a coach, she has a way of pulling something out of her players that they don’t realize they have.

And in our situation, coach Kendall’s kindness and immediacy helped my daughter tap into an inner strength that told her she needed to move on from something that was tragic, but cannot be changed.”

Players from San Marcos’ JV and varsity squads also were quick to lend support, pooling their time and resources to provide Adriana not only bedding and clothing, but more importantly, a shoulder to lean on.

“Along with coach Kendall, my teammates made all the difference in the world,” Adriana says. “Just hearing someone say ‘We’re thinking of you. We’re here for you.’ Those words helped me look beyond what had happened and be grateful for what I still have.”

“Those girls were under no obligation to help,” Alma adds. “They did so only because they truly wanted to make sure Adriana was taken care of, and that

says a lot about their character and the coach who has helped shape that character.”

Gaining a new perspective ...

The final component to Adriana moving on has been the busyness of being back in school and playing basketball.

As a junior, Adriana was this fall inducted into the National Honor Society while taking three advanced-level courses and working toward becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. She has yet to select a college but aspires to become a Registered Nurse and obtain a Ph.D. within medicine.

Then there is basketball. With practice and games consuming a huge chunk of her daily schedule, Adriana has had little time to reflect on the recent past.

“It’s not that I have totally blocked out what happened,” Adriana says, “but I think being able to focus on school and basketball has helped me kind of prioritize my thoughts. And I am guessing, with time, I will think less and less about that weekend.”

Even so, Adriana says one image will probably always remain vivid.

It was tough, she says, to watch a trailer filled with her personal belongings grow distant as it climbed past the Blanco River and onto the highway where it would gain speed and, in her mind, disappear forever.

When the trailer returned two days later, Adriana felt buoyed for the first time since her ordeal began. Her possessions were still where they had been piled; and now, with a little more time, Adriana found a few things – mainly clothing -- that could be power-washed and put back into use.

Adriana cringed – as an avid reader – to see that her beloved books were unsalvageable. But she pulled other items from the pile no matter how muddy and slimy simply because they were hers.

It made her feel better, she says, to feel as if she – and not some random, impersonal storm – would ultimately decide what she carries with her into the future.

“It was as if those things on that trailer allowed Adriana to see her old self again, but in an entirely different way,” Alma says. “I think that storm helped us all to gain a new perspective ... to better appreciate the people who are always there – storm or no storm – when you need them most.”

Keegan Ratliff from p. 28 then that my days of coaching basketball were over.”

For the next six years, Ratliff taught kindergarten and coached only tennis, which allowed much more time to ruminate about her son’s lot in life, but also to watch him develop in a direction she had never imagined.

During those six years, Keegan allayed any fear his mom had that others would single him out as one to be pitied.

Keegan pursued life with boundless energy and, in fact, evolved into quite an athlete, participating in baseball, football, tennis and, yes, basketball.

“I have watched Keegan grow into the best thing that has ever happened to me,” Ratliff says. “He has truly been a blessing and an inspiration to me daily.”

It is no small irony then that Rat-

liff’s prelude back into coaching proved to be a tragic ATV accident that two years ago left Wink High School student Payton Hrncir with a broken back and paralysis. Payton’s dad Andy is Wink’s athletic director, and her mom Amy coached volleyball prior to resigning to take care of her daughter. With Amy’s departure, coaching assignments shuffled and ultimately left Wink in need of a new girls basketball coach.

“Teaching kindergarten all day and then running to eighth-period athletics is quite a task, but I would not change it for anything. I love the kids, and I love what I do.”

Ratliff agreed to fill that need temporarily; but two years later, she remains at the helm -- happier than she has ever been to be a part of the sport she loves.

As for Payton Hrncir, she, like Keegan Ratliff, has proved to everyone that she is not going to allow others’ thoughts cloud her own. She eventually returned to school and picked up right where she left off.

This fall, Payton enrolled at Tarleton State University; and although looking forward to Christmas break, she is doing quite well thank you.

“It is amazing what a different perspective I now have as a coach and as a person,” Ratliff says. “I have learned that things are not always perfect -- seasons are not perfect, kids are not perfect, coaches are not perfect ... but loving what you do is.

“Payton is super independent and has found a way to stay involved,” coach Ratliff says. “She is a fighter, and I am pretty certain that Payton, like Keegan, will defy all odds. I admire them both so much.

They certainly have made a difference in the way I see life.”

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Region I 1. Brownfield 2. Kermit 3. Shallowater 4. Childress 5. Brady

C O A C H E S

1. Van Alstyne 2. Ponder 3. Dallas Faith Family 4. Hooks 5. Bowie

Region III 1. Kountze 2. Frankston 3. White Oak 4. Palestine Westwood 5. Franklin

Region IV

P O L L S

1. Wall 2. Shallowater 3. Tuscola Jim Ned 4. Idalou 5. Brady

Region II 1. Sunnyvale 2. Brock 3. Bowie 4. Paradise 5. Winnsboro

Region III 1. Nacogdoches Central Heights 2. Troup 3. Malakoff 4. Little River Academy 5. Teague

Region IV 1. Jarrell 2. Hallettsville 3. San Antonio Cole 4. Mathis 5. Goliad

Profiles

1. Aransas Pass 2. Nixon-Smiley 3. Universal City Randolph 4. Jarrell 5. Falfurrias

R E G I O N A L

Region I

CLASS 3A

Region II

GIRLS

Features

BOYS

143

144

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1 Denver City Mustangs - Boys

Amarillo Highland Parks Hornets- Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-15/2-6 Coach: Michael Jackson (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: L-Shallowater (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Hornets are extra long and physically strong. More importantly, though, Malik Jackson returns for his senior curtain-call after having lettered every year beginning with his freshman campaign. Jackson has 1,299 career points and is averaging 16 points a game and 5 rebounds a game for his career. Last spring he earned distinction as the 1-3A Offensive MVP and then garnered all-region accolades. Daniel Carrillo will share leadership responsibilities. Their charges are Quintin Reece, Danny Gonzalez, and Nick Donaghy – players that will be asked to adjust to varsity ball sooner than later.

2014-15 W-L: 23-6/8-2 Coach: Rob Ogle (17 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Alpine, 79-54; L-Shallowater, 63-61 OT. Outlook: Denver City coach will turn to two sophomores to hold the reins this season, and that reflects the fact that this version of the Mustangs is very young. Ogle will look to compensate by utilizing his team’s quickness at every opportunity. His two sophomore mainstays are Mathew Delarosa, a 5-6 sophomore point guard (5 ppg, 5 apg, 3 rpg, 2 spg), and Kade Patterson, a 5-10 sophomore guard/forward (6 ppg, 3 rpg, 1 spg).

Playing Collegiately +XQWHU +HPPHOLQH 'HQYHU &LW\ &RQFRUGLD 8QLYHUVLW\ &DOHE 6SRRQ %UHFNHQULGJH +6 +DUGLQ 6LPPRQV 8QLYHUVLW\

District 4 Crane Golden Cranes - Boys

Spearman Lynx - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-15/6-2 Coach: Craig Black (5 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: L-Muleshoe (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lynx bring back a little experience but will need to develop the depth of their rotation. The projected starting five are Griffin George, Cade Garnett, Trenton Baird, Payton Smith and Edward McIntyre.

District 2

2014-15 W-L: 17-16/3-6 Coach: Chris Suttle (9 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L-Brownfield (Bi-district) Outlook: “Overall length and varsity experience provide the Golden Cranes a good chance to advance beyond the first round of the playoffs where they were ousted this past spring. Crane coach Chris Suttle’s primary challenge will be replacing two talented perimeter players who graduated. ”But if everything meshes, look for us to take a big step forward,” he says. The two returning starters are sophomore Carlos Montes (16 ppg, 8 rpg) and junior Anthony Marinelarena (4 ppg, 2 bpg). Two seniors -- Mark Heredia and Aaron Carrillo – will be asked to take over the vacated perimeter spots.forward Crishna Villarreal and 5-2 point guard Arianna Zapata.

-ULESHOE¿-ULES¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 15-15/6-5 Coach: Clay White (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 2015 Postseason: W-Spearman, 57-47; L-Kermit, 81-51.

Outlook: The Mules’ starting five returns in tact, ready to take last year’s success to another level. Tipping off the season will be Dagen Dunham, a 6-4 forward (all-district); Jason Florez a 5-10 point guard (all-district); Danny Campos, a 6-2 forward; Tony Castillo, a 6-1 guard; and Josh Lopez, a 5-7 guard.

FYI: In a wild finish last season, District 2-3A had three teams wind up in a tie for third place. That resulted in a seeding tournament, which saw Muleshoe defeat Littlefield; and that, in turn eliminated Friona.

Kermit Yellow Jackets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 29-5/8-0 Coach: Steven Flores (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Slaton, 61-41; W-Muleshoe, 81-51; L-Brownfield, 78-61.

Outlook: Kermit’s 2015-16 version will be guard-oriented and reliant on high-percentage shooting and a defense that will transition into offense. The Yellow Jackets are headlined by 6-0 senior Jay Workman, who last season became the region’s lone representative on the TABC All-State squad. Workman’s selection was precipitated by his averaging 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists per game. Kermit’s other three returning starters are 5-11 senior Jordan Melendez (11 ppg, 3 apg, 3 rpg; 1st-team all-district), 5-11 senior Noey Porras (6 ppg. 4 rpg, 4 spg; 4-3A Defensive Player of the Year) and 5-10 senior Duke Abalos (10 ppg, 2 rpg, 3 apg; 1st-team all-district).

District 3 District 5

Brownfield Runnin’ Cubs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 30-6/10-0 Coach: Dustin Faught (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Crane, 98-62; W-Dimmit, 69-35; W-Kermit, 78-61; W-Wall, 50-33; L-Childress, 56-55.

Outlook: The Runnin’ Cubs’ forte this season is overall team speed and a lineup filled with players who have logged time in the varsity trenches. But the squad is not long and neither is it deep. Projected to eat minutes are Nathaniel Saenz, a 5-9 senior guard; Jezreel Griffin, a 6-4 junior post; Jaelyn Nolan, a 6-3 sophomore guard; Xavier Mason, a 6-4 junior post; Dakota Oliver, a 6-4 junior post; Gage Siller, a 5-9 senior guard; Coby Serbantez, a 6-2 senior guard; and Alex McCrary, a 5-10 senior guard.

Reagan County Owls - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 23-10/5-3 Coach: Ken Campbell (25 years’ experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: W-Ballinger, 56-37; W-Eastland, 64-58 OT; L-Wall, 43-39.

Outlook: Only one starter returns, but there is a good nucleus of returnees who played reserve roles last season, and the JV call-ups have looked particularly impressive after last season playing for a squad that finished 19-4. “We have high expectations,” says coach Ken Campbell. “It’s a part of our proud tradition.” The one returning starter is Noah Olvera, a 6-4 senior post (13.1 ppg; 7.8 rpg; 2.1 bpg). The other three returning lettermen are Baylee Barton, a 5-8 senior guard; Josh Hernandez, a 5-9 senior guard; and Jake Myers, a 5-10 senior guard. Campbell says he also expects several newcomers to vie for important minutes. They include Turner Stark, a 5-11 junior guard; Eddie Cemental, a 6-0 junior forward; Alex Chavez, a 6-1 sophomore forward; and Juan Sanchez, a 5-9 senior guard.

Idalou Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-16/5-5 Coach: Dustin Schulte (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Tornillo, 52-40; L-Childress, 69-39.

Outlook: Idalou coach Dustin Schulte will have a veteran core to work with, especially around the perimeter, but is ultimately needing a couple of newbies to step up and embrace their new roles at the varsity level. Idalou’s Top Cat is 5-9 senior guard Caleb Stricklin (1st-team all-district; 12 ppg, 5 rpg, 4 apg). The other two returning starters are 5-9 senior guard Ben McGhee (honorable-mention all-district; 8 ppg, 5 apg, 4 rpg) and 5-11 senior post Ty Nichols (7 ppg, 5 rpg).

Caleb Stricklin

Ben McGhee

Stanton Buffaloes - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 23-10/5-3 Coach: Ken Campbell (25 years’ experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: W-Ballinger, 56-37; W-Eastland, 64-58 OT; L-Wall, 43-39.

Outlook: Only one starter returns, but there is a good nucleus of returnees who played reserve roles last season, and the JV call-ups have looked particularly impressive after last season playing for a squad that finished 19-4. “We have high expectations,” says coach Ken Campbell. “It’s a part of our proud tradition.” The one returning starter is Noah Olvera, a 6-4 senior post (13.1 ppg; 7.8 rpg; 2.1 bpg). The other three returning lettermen are Baylee Barton, a 5-8 senior guard; Josh Hernandez, a 5-9 senior guard; and Jake Myers, a 5-10 senior guard. Campbell says he also expects several newcomers to vie for important minutes. They include Turner Stark, a 5-11 junior guard; Eddie Cemental, a 6-0 junior forward; Alex Chavez, a 6-1 sophomore forward; and Juan Sanchez, a 5-9 senior guard.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

145 District 6

District 9

Wall Hawks - Boys

Boyd Yellowjackets- Boys

2014-15 W-L: 24-9/9-1 Coach: Brian Blackburn (4 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Regional Semifinals, 50-33.

Outlook: Tough team defense and balanced scoring will fuel Wall’s hopes of making it to San Antonio this spring. The Hawks’ seven returning lettermen are 6-3 junior Ryan Walling, 6-5 junior Jesse McMillan, 6-4 senior Bryce Dierschke, 5-10 senior Thomas Hurtado, 6-3 senior Wyatt Huebner, 5-9 sophomore Tymber Carr and 5-10 sophomore Brock Rosenquist.

Playing Collegiately: 0DVRQ 5LJJLQV :KLWHZULJKW +6 /RQJ %HDFK 6WDWH 0DWW /HGIRUG )ORZHU 0RXQG 0DUFXV +6 -RKQ %URZQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 3KLO )RUWH ,,, )ORZHU 0RXQG 0DUFXV +6 2NODKRPD 6WDWH $- /XFNH\ )ORZHU 0RXQG 0DUFXV +6 /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 1LFN %DQ\DUG )ORZHU 0RXQG 0DUFXV +6 6RXWKHUQ ,OOLQRLV -RUGDQ -RKQVRQ )ORZHU 0RXQG 0DUFXV +6 :D\ODQG %DSWLVW

Coach: Jacob Hines (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Outlook: Trace Moran, a 6-0 point guard, and Reece Jordan, a 6-3 forward, will headline as coach Jacob Hines continues to establish a system after making his head-coaching debut a year ago.

District 7

Nocona Indians- Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-13/10-4 Coach: Bret Botard (9 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason Appearances: L-Whitewright, 100-70 (Bi-district), Outlook: In his first season walking the pines at Nocona, coach Bret Botard says he has been impressed with the leadership skills of the returning lettermen he has inherited.

Smoothing the transition of a new coach will be 6-0 senior guard Kameron Hill (2015 9-3A Offensive MVP), 5-11 junior guard Brenton Vineyard (1st-team all-district) and 5-10 sophomore guard Riley McCasland.

"ANGS¿$RAGONS¿ ¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 15-10/4-4 Coach: Colby Rives (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters:2/0 2015 Postseason: L-Breckenridge, 81-63 (Bi-district).

Outlook: After losing all starters from a year ago, the Dragons will try to rebuild around the inside-out game of 5-8 senior point guard Darrius Gant (honorable-mention all-district) and 6-3 senior forward Josh San Juan. Landon James, a 5-10 junior guard, should also log important minutes, and there will be several JV call-ups asked to play beyond their years.

Coleman Bluekatts - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 14-17/4-4 Coach: Jessica Elder (5 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: L-Breckenridge (Bi-district).

Outlook: After tying for second in district last season, the Bluekatts are looking to capture a crown and arrange for a little later check-out time in the postseason. Two starters return to make it happen, They are senior Ashley Hammonds and junior Kloe Hale.

Clyde Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 5-21/0-8 Coach: Shawn Cullins (3 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Breckenridge (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Bulldogs will look to get off the schneid this season on the strength of seven players who logged varsity minutes last season and remember well the trials and tribulations of going winless in district. The starting five projects to be Tanner Riley, a 5-9 junior point guard; Chase Hicks, a 5-11 senior small forward; Tanner Broadfoot, a 6-2 junior power forward; Chandler Mauldin, a 5-10 senior shooting guard; and Cord Schreffler, a 6-3 junior center.

District 1 0 Callisburg Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 11-20/4-10 Coach: Travis Marmon (4 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 Outlook: Seven seniors and two juniors provide Callisburg coach Travis Marmon valuable veteran leadership and a good chance for the Wildcats to advance to the postseason for only the seventh time in school history. “We will be a defensively minded team,” Marmon says, “and it will help that we have a few talented JV and freshman players who will letter this season.” Marmon’s six-man prime-time rotation comprises 5-11 senior point guard Reese Richey (2015 10-3A Newcomer of the Year), 6-5 senior post Hunter Olson (2nd-team all-district), 6-0 senior wing Gage Oppel, 6-2 junior wing Parker Huddleston, 6-1 post Casey McLeaster and 6-1 post Sam Cross.

Playing Collegiately: Mason Langthorn (Callisburg 2014) ... Tabor College in Kansas.

Hunter Olson

Whitesboro Bearcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 27-6/13-1 Coach: Toby Sluder (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 2015 Postseason Appearances: W-Nocona, 100-70; L-Brock, 75-50.

Outlook: Time to re-boot. No starters return, so coach Toby Sluder has a chance to build the exact kind of team he would like. The two lettermen who will try to provide some carryover from last season’s near-perfect district slate are junior point guard Josh Fletcher and senior guard Brent Chaney.

Playing Collegiately: Ryan Schuessler (Whitesboro 2015)... Oklahoma Wesleyan; Wiley Walsh (Whitesboro 2015) ... Oklahoma Wesleyan.

District 8 Eastland Mavericks - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-8/7-1 Coach: Ryan Marwitz (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason Appearances: W-Comanche; L-Reagan County.

Outlook: Eastland will find it tough to replace the graduated 8-3A MVP Matt Majors, but the Mavericks will be much longer than last season, and that should pay off enough to compensate. The squad will be headlined by Brant Bailey, a 6-0 senior guard voted the 2015 8-3A Newcomer of the Year.

Bowie Jackrabbits - Boys Coach: Doug Boxell (26 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: “We plan to repeat as district champs and are working hard to make a playoff run,” says coach Doug Boxell. To keep the wheel of momentum rolling are returning starters Chase Hall (senior), Zeke Vaughan (senior), Jeffrey Howard (sophomore) and Keck Jones (freshman).

District 1 1 Glen Rose Lady Tigers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 12-16/5-9 Coach: Sheree Hill (35 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 2015 Postseason Appearances: W, Aldine MacArthur 62-32; W, Katy Tompkins 80-19; W, Cypress Ranch 62-38; W, North Shore 71-62; W, Houston Westside 75-36; W, San Antonio Wagner 79-60; W, Dallas Skyline 57-49.

Outlook: Returning starters Madi Gibson and Ally Andress will be charged with leading a team that, according to coach Sheree Hill, is filled with “young but hard-working athletes who love the game.”

Playing Collegiately: Kayla Goebel ... St. Edwards.

146

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1 3

'LEN¿2OSE¿4IGERS¿ ¿"OYS 2014-15 W-L: 23-7/10-4 Coach: Owen Clifton (6 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L-Life Oak Cliff, 57-51 (Bi-district).

Outlook: It doesn’t appear that the Tigers will be changing their stripes anytime soon.

Although returning only two starters look for Glen Rose to reach the playoffs yet again in 2016. One main reason to bank on the Tigers is the all-around play of Tucker Garza, a 5-8 senior point guard (10.4 ppg, 3.1 apg, 2 rpg, 1.1 spg). Also projected to make a difference are Wyatt Goebel, a 6-4 senior shooting guard (5.6 ppg, 1 apg, 3.8 rpg); Bailey Holder, a 6-1 senior forward (3 ppg, 2.2 rpg, .7 spg); and Ethan Hartman, a 6-0 junior guard (3.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: Patrick Walker (Grapeland HS 2014) ... Ranger JUCO.

Commerce Lady Tigers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 6-23/3-11 Coach: Eddie Barker (21 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: Commerce coach Eddie Barker describes his team’s immediate future as “very bright” and its chances of making the playoffs as “legitimate” despite enduring tough times in 2014-15. Commerce’s five returning starters are 5-9 senior high post Lori Pattillo (2nd-team all-district), 5-6 senior shooting guard Jordyn Sharp (2nd-team all-district), 5-4 senior point guard Cheyenne Pell (honorable-mention all-district), 5-7 sophomore small forward Alyssa Redd (honorable-mention all-district) and 5-9 senior high post Chelsey Beane (honorable-mention all-district). Other returning lettermen are 5-3 sophomore point guard Ali Matlock (honorable-mention all-district), 5-7 junior shooting guard Claire Dobbs, 6-0 junior post Madison Shaw and 5-9 senior post Dominique Dugan.

Grandview Lady Zebras - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 27-7/12-2 Coach: Steve Montgomery (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Maypearl, 56-51; L-Pottsboro, 48-33.

Outlook:The Lady Zebras are on a roll, and nothing suggests that that roll won’t gain momentum in 2015-16. Grandview has now – for the past two seasons – compiled a 53-11 record – and many of the same pieces are still in place. Three of four seniors have been playing varsity ball since they were a freshman. Not coincidentally, coach Steve Montgomery made his career head-coaching debut when he signed on with Grandview prior to their sophomore season. His leadership has proved invaluable and has now rubbed off on his senior core, which consists of point guard Kennedy Jentsch (7ppg), forward Jade Rochelle (13ppg; 2015 11-3A Defensive MVP), guard Emily Sullivan and guard/forward Ralee Knowles.

4OM¿"EAN¿4OMCATS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 18-12/7-7 Coach: Wes Chapman (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: W-Quitman, 67-65; W-DeKalb, 56-53; L-Van Alstyne, 89-73.

Outlook: The Tomcats are coming off of the best season in school history, but most of the seniors that created last season’s magic are now graduated. If Tom Bean is going to have any success this season, it must, according to coach Wes Chapman, receive solid production from first-year varsity players Tyler Goff, Garrett Gomez and Bryce Grier, as well as lean on the leadership of Daniel Jackson, Keoni Puana and Noah Boyd. Jackson, a 6-2 senior guard, last season averaged 14 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals per game en route to 1st-team all-district and All-Texomaland selection. Boyd, a 5-10 junior guard, posted 10 ppg and shot 37 percent from beyond the arc in 2014-15. Those numbers prompted him to be named to the all-district squad as an honorable mention.

Playing Collegiately: Logan LeDane (Tom Bean 2014) ... McMurry University; Hunter Book (Tom Bean 2015) ... East Texas Baptist University.

Peaster Greyhounds - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 23-7/12-2 Coach: Derron Smith (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Ret. Lettermen/Starters:5/4 2015 Postseason:Lost in Area (Round II).

Outlook: “This could be the best Peaster team we’ve had here in a long time,” says coach Derron Smith. “We are going to be small but have very good guard play.” All five returnees made all-district last season, and one, Parker Grudt, a 6-1 guard, has made first-team all-district all three years of his varsity career and was this past season named 11-3A Offensive MVP. Here’s how the rest of the starting five looks: Draven Tell, a 5-11 point guard (1st-team all-district); Connor Turan, a 6-1 guard (1st-team all-district); Books Pennington, a 6-1 forward (2nd-team all-district); and Cooper Matlock, a 5-11 guard (honorable-mention all-district).

District 1 2 Sunnyvale Lady Raiders - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 37-2/14-0 Coach: Jill McDill (15 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Peaster, 68-32; W-Paradise, 63-40; W-Brock, 59-48; W-Winnsboro, 71-40; W-Alba-Golden, 68-55; W-Rockdale, 71-27; W-Shallowater, 52-37.

Outlook: After handily winning the Class 3A state championship, the Lady Raiders will be going back to the drawing board. Only one starter -- Ivy Alexander -- and two other lettermen return. Alexander is certainly a good one to build around, though. She was named TABC All-Region last season and earned 1st-team all-district selection both her freshman and sophomore seasons. “We will be young, but our players have worked hard this summer to be able to compete,” says coach Jill McDill.

Playing Collegiately: *UDFH *RRGKDUW 6XQQ\YDOH /R\ROD &KLFDJR %ULD -RKQVRQ Houston Baptist; Karah Sicurella ... Tarleton State University.

FYI: Sunnyvale’s 2015 state title marked the second state championship for coach Jill McDill. She previously won gold while coaching 5A Rockwall to a 59-54 overtime win over Cypress Fairbanks in 2007.

Van Alstyne Panthers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-9/14-0 Coach: Russell Best (12 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Alba Golden, 68-42; W-Mt. Vernon, 65-37; W-Tom Bean, 89-73; W-Ponder, 62-59; L-Brock, 67-55.

Outlook: After coming just one game away from advancing to state, the Van Alstyne Panthers enter the 2015-16 campaign as one of the favorites to pan for gold in San Antonio. Van Alstyne’s not-so-secret weapon is 6-2 senior Isaiah Boling, who last season earned all-state selection and was named 13-3A Offensive Player of the Year. Sharing the limelight will be 6-3 senior Jared McMakin. He garnered 2015 all-region accolades and was voted 13-3A District Defensive Player of the Year. The Panthers’ three other projected starters are Jake Hillebrenner, a 6-3 senior (all-district 2nd team); Seth Caraway, a 6-1 senior (2015 13-3A 6th Man of the Year); and Harrison Awe, a 6-1 senior (all-district honorable mention).

District 1 1 Alba-Golden Lady Panthers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 35-4/14-0 Coach: Brad Gibson (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Lost to Sunnyvale in the Regional Final.

Outlook: “We should be just as good as last year,” says coach Brad Gibson, whose Lady Panthers came just one game away from advancing to the 2015 state tournament.

Gibson’s projection largely revolves around the play of senior guard Caitlin Lennon and junior post Shelby Wright, both of whom arguably rank in the top two at their position in Class 3A. Also playing key roles will be senior Kaylee Bizzell and senior Cetara Carter.

Playing Collegiately: Macie Arrington (Alba-Golden 2015) ... Angelo State; Jordan Dawson (Alba-Golden 2015) ... Southeastern Oklahoma State.

Sunnyvale Raiders - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-15/8-6 Coach: Chris Softley (4 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Brock, 62-32 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Sunnyvale coach Chris Softley is now in his third year of coaching the Raiders.

His first two seasons he had to watch his team exit the playoffs via losses to perennial powerhouse Brock. This year he’s hoping the worm turns. All three of his returning starters made all-district last season, and his point guard, 6-3 senior Lawson Ayo, earned 1st-team all-district selection by pouring in 16 points per game while also averaging 3 rebounds and 2 assists. His fellow returning starters – each of whom also made all-district – are 6-1 senior shooting guard Julius Kirven and 6-1 junior shooting guard Tre Sterling.

Playing Collegiately: -RVK 4XLQQ 6XQQ\YDOH $XVWLQ &ROOHJH

Harmony Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 8-21/1-13 Coach: Clint Helpenstill (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/5 Outlook: Everyone returns from a team that struggled mightily in district play last season. Among the returnees are several who have lettered more than one year on varsity.

“Our team has good height and has gotten a lot stronger and deeper than we have been in years past,” says coach Clint Helpenstill. The squad’s two kingpins are 6-6 senior forward Bentley Miner (9.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg) and 6-2 senior guard Dalton Brenner (10.8 ppg, 30% 3-pt. FG).

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

147

Edgewood Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 22-11/9-5 Coach: Kyle Short (26 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Van Alstyne; W-Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill; L-Winnsboro.

Outlook: Edgewood coach Kyle Short will ask junior Demiya Warren, a two-time all-district selection, to lead by example during what will be a rebuilding year for a young team that returns no other starters.

Mount Pleasant Chapel Hill Lady Devils - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 26-9/12-1 Coach: Matt Garrett (25 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: “We should be able to make a deep run,” says coach Matt Garrett. Three starters return from a squad that advanced three rounds in the playoffs and had only one blemish on its district record. The linchpin to last year’s success and much of the reason for coach Garrett’s optimism this fall is 6-2 junior Haley Fieseler.

%DGEWOOD¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿"OYS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 24-7/11-3 Coach: Jay Jameson (22 years’ experience; 23rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/0 2015 Postseason: L-Commerce (Bi-district).

Outlook: No starters return, but coach Jay Jameson says he is happy with the way his squad’s perimeter play is coming along. “We need to develop some inside play,” Jameson says, “but I think we’ll get better as the season goes on.” The Bulldogs’ four returning lettermen are Trey Erwin, a 6-0 sophomore; Canyon Jayroe, a 5-8 senior; Garrett Baker, a 6-0 senior; and Dalton Dover, a 5-8 junior.

Winnsboro Lady Raiders - Girls 2014-15 District Record: 11-3 Coach: Troy Wallace (25 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Whitewright, 33-30; W-New Boston, 74-37; W-Edgewood, 43-33; L-Sunnyvale, 71-40.

Outlook: “We’re in the process of building a complete new team,” says coach Troy Wallace. “There are a lot of variables in play right now.” Wallace will ask two returning starters -- Logan Redding and Kelsey Green -- to balance the beam – and also expects Darby Denton and Timber Brown to take on key roles.

District 1 5 New Boston Lady Lions - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 18-10/10-2 Coach: Keri Waide (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2 2015 Postseason: W-Hughes Springs, 62-38; L-Winnsboro, 74-37.

Outlook: Only two starters return from New Boston’s impressive 2015 district run, which was followed by an early exit from the playoffs. The Lady Lions’ projected starting five are 5-6 junior guard Madison Thomas, 5-5 senior guard Sydney Humble, 5-6 sophomore guard Hailee Nero, 5-8 junior forward Hannah Burnett, 5-6 senior forward KeKe Bland and 5-5 senior guard Haley Steward.

Playing Collegiately: 0DUTXHVKLD 7KRPSVRQ 1HZ %RVWRQ 3DULV -8&2

Redwater Lady Dragons - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 10-16/2-10 Coach: Greg Frachiseur (12 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: Redwater bid farewell to eight seniors last season, so there will be a lot of question marks as play opens next week. The squad’s most seasoned returnees are Katy Worrell, Kelli Francis and Emily Ketchum. They will be asked to drive the bus.

District 1 6 Daingerfield Tigers - Boys Coach: Curtis Lewis (33 years’ experience; 20th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: “We return a good group with good size and a lot of athleticism,” says coach Curtis Lewis. “All of these guys play football, so the key to us having a good season is to get them healthy and keep them healthy.” Daingerfield’s six returning lettermen are Denzel Mims, Torrian Chism, Ricky Lee, Mikal Reeves, Deonta Allen and Reggie Jeter.

District 1 7 Elysian Fields Lady Jackets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 26-6/9-1 Coach: Carl Reed (21 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Area.

Outlook: The Lady Jackets lost only two seniors this past spring, and this year’s team should be not only more experienced, but also stronger. “With some help from upcoming underclassmen, we will also be deeper on the bench,” says coach Carl Reed. Among the returnees are two 2015 all-region selections and the 2015 17-3A MVP. Madison Spears, a senior forward, has made the TABC All Region squad for two years running, and junior forward Jade Barge was named to the TABC All-Region squad this past season. Frankazia Boyd, a sophomore, was named the 2015 17-3A MVP as only a freshman. The other returning starter is Chloe White, a junior guard who also earned all-district accolades this past spring.

Sabine Lady Cardinals - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 15-15/4-6 Head Coach: Keith Taylor (12 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Troup (Bi-district).

Outlook: “We have a nice size group of seniors that have played varsity ball for several years, and our maturity and experience should help us do well,” says coach Keith Taylor.

Sabine’s three returning starters are Jayden Mount, a 5-6 senior point guard (1st-team all-district; 9.4 ppg, 2.1 spg, 4.2 apg); Shelby Burns, a 5-9 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 10.1 ppg, 4.8 rpg); and Shekiah Griffin, a 5-8 senior forward (2nd-team all-district; 4.8 ppg).

White Oak Ladynecks - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 18-11/8-2 Coach: Desiree Hutchins-Boyett (13 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 2015 Postseason: Area Finalist.

Outlook: With nearly its entire roster intact from last year, White Oak goes in as the favorite to win district and to this season make more noise in the playoffs after getting silenced in round two this past spring. White Oak’s five returning starters are Audrey Lunstedt, Allison Goll, Makenzie Goll, Landry Seimears and Kayla McCoy. FYI: In taking over as the head coach of White Oak’s girls basketball program, Desiree Hutchins-Boyett joins her husband on the White Oak ISD payroll. Her husband, Ron Boyett, heads up White Oak’s boys basketball program.

White Oak Roughnecks - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-10/8-2 Coach: Ron Boyett (24 years’ experience; 25th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: L-Rockdale (Area).

Outlook: White Oak returns seven of nine lettermen, including 4 starters. “We should be improved,” says coach Ron Boyett, who coached the Roughnecks to a state title in 2012. White Oak’s seven returning lettermen are Nike Simmons, Landry Sheridan, Justin Benson, Dax Davis, Conner Weeks, Austin Iske and Jeremy Patak.

Playing Collegiately: /HYL <DQF\ 1RUWKZHVWHUQ 6WDWH

(UGHES¿3PRINGS¿-USTANGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 14-14/6-6 Coach: Jeremy Griffin (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: L-New Boston, 62-38 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Six seniors have departed, and the Mustangs are not blessed with a lot of

size. Throw in a tough district slate with the likes of Mount Vernon and Chapel Hill, and it becomes apparent how tall of an order it is for the Mustangs to get back to the postseason. But that is the plan, and coach Jeremy Griffin has asked his two floor leaders – 5-3 junior point guard Katelyn Roth (5 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.3 spg) and 5-10 sophomore post Kensley Echols – to execute it.

148

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1 8

Frankston Indians - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-7/13-1 Coach: Robert Loper (40 years’ head-coaching experience; 28th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Jefferson, 62-44; W-Whitney, 37-34; L-Rockdale, 62-48.

Outlook: Longtime coach Robert Loper says the future “looks bright” for his club given that all three returning starters nabbed postseason accolades this past spring and are joined by three lettermen who are primed to step into much larger roles. Chief among the Indians is Kendrick Rogers, a 6-5 senior post (17 ppg, 11.5 rpg). He was named 2015 18-3A Co-Offensive MVP in addition to earning selection to the TABC All-Region team and to the third unit of the East Texas Sports Network’s Super Team. He’ll be joined in the paint by 6-1 senior post Justice Bean (10.5 ppg, 6.2 rpg; 1st-team all-district). The Indians’ leader along the perimeter is Dylan Hokit, a 5-9 senior guard, who logged 7.2 ppg, 2.9 apg and 3.3 rpg in earning second-team all-district selection in 2014-15. Rounding out Loper’s PT rotation are Allen Byrd, a 6-0 senior wing (2.5 ppg, 1.5 rpg); Michael Bradford, a 5-11 sophomore wing (2.7 ppg, 2 rpg); and Jerome Scott, a 5-11 senior wing (4 ppg, 3.4 rpg).

FYI: This season marks Robert Loper’s 50th year in coaching and Frankston 41st as a head coach (38 years as a boys head coach and 3 years Coach as a girls head coach). Loper, now in his 28th season at Frankston, Robert has notched 843 wins as a varsity boys head coach. That averages Loper to 22 per season.

Mildred Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-12/9-5 Coach: Daniel Johnston (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: L-White Oak, 75-45 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Mildred has its Eagle-eye set on an extended playoff run given that nearly everyone is back from last spring’s short-lived, one-and-done postseason experience.

Mildred’s six-man PT rotation comprises Jordan Harvell, Russell Holden, Wesley Huitt,Jake Harvell, Bryce Samuels and Jessie Adamson.

Teague Lions - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 24-9/11-3 Coach: Dexter Patrick (5 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Letterman/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Little River Academy, 58-45; W-Malakoff, 82-66; W-Franklin, 48-42; L-Crocket, 61-57.

Outlook: Teague bid farewell to the explosive 2015 19-3A MVP Xavier Dixon, but the Lions have plenty of left over to compensate for the guard’s departure and make another deep playoff run. Here’s how the returning eight lettermen break down: 6-2 sophomore guard/forward Tyrese Heard (9 ppg, 9 rpg), 6-3 senior forward Keivontray Brooks (2-year starter who’s spent an offseason working on his rebounding), 5-10 junior guard Mylan Shed (2015 co-captain; 19-3A 6th Man of The Year), 5-10 senior guard Mikkail Shepherd (two-time, 1st-team all-district honoree), 5-9 junior guard A.J. Weathers (3-point shooter who last season made all-district as an honorable mention), 6-3 senior forward Major Burrell (2.5 bpg; all-district honorable mention), 6-3 senior forward Justin Fowler (academic all-district) and 6-4 senior forward Matt Travis, a transfer move-in from Fairfield whose height and defensive skills come as a welcome addition.

FYI: Teague last season won a second-round playoff game for the first time in school history.

Whitney Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 24-7/14-0 Coach: Troy Doyle (17 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Rogers, 52-40; L-Frankston, 37-34.

Outlook: Whitney graduated three out of four big men, but returns five out of six guards.

“We will look a lot different and will not be as deep,” says coach Troy Doyle, “but we should compete well in our region.” The Wildcats will be looking to win a fifth consecutive district title. Whitney’s potent perimeter play will showcase the talents of 6-2 shooting guard Tristan Sadoski and point guard Ashton Leech. Sadoski last season averaged 14 points, 3 assists, 2 steals and 3 rebounds. He was named 19-3A Offensive MVP and earned selection to the Super Centex All-Region 1st team and to the TABC All-Region squad. Leech posted 8 ppg, 5 apg and 3 spg in becoming a 1st-team all-district honoree.

District 20 Lexington Eagles - Boys Rice Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-17/8-7 Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: L-Waskom, 88-60 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Bulldogs will look to clamp on to a playoff spot via centerpiece Sim Nezar whose outstanding 2014-15 campaign earned selection to the TABC All-Region squad.

Jeremy Claxton – Rice’s other returning starter – also projects to play a pivotal role.

2014-15 W-L: 7-21/4-10 Coach: Michael Williams (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 Outlook: The Eagles return all varsity lettermen for the third consecutive year, so experience should serve Lexington well as it tries to extend its season this spring after sitting at home last season. Lexington’s five returning starters are senior guard Grant Peimann (1st-team all-district), sophomore guard Gavin Thomas (2nd-team all-district), senior guard Jay Cooper (honorable-mention all-district), junior guard Ryan Garrison (honorable-mention all-district) and senior forward Austin Thomas.

District 21

District 1 9 Bruceville-Eddy Eagles - Boys

Buffalo Lady Bison - Girls

2014-15 W-L: 14-17/5-9 Coach: Trent Collier (4 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: The young but talented Eagles showcase a player that projects to be one of the region’s best. Sedgerick Merchant, a 5-11 junior combo guard, last season posted 16 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.4 apg and 1.8 spg. Those numbers earned him 1st-team all-district selection.

The Eagles’ other returning starter, 6-3 junior small forward Beau Williams, registered 7 ppg and 4 rpg to merit an all-district honorable mention. He was also named 19-3A Newcomer of the Year.

2014-15 W-L: 21-10/11-3 Coach: Jozette Jenkins (6 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: “We will be going through a rebuilding phase,” says coach Jozette Jenkins, “but still look forward to having another successful season.” Rebuilding maybe, but Buffalo does return four starters. They are junior Jordan Jenkins and seniors Maci Hoffman, Allison Grissett and Taylor Shelton.

Crockett Bulldogs - Girls Clifton Lady Cubs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 14-16/4-10 Coach: Steve Bateson (14 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: The Lady Cubs did not sniff the playoffs last season; but with the return of four starters, they project to – at the very least – be a bubble team. Two returning starters earned all-district selection last season. Point guard Hope Harris did so as a first-teamer while guard Karlee Kleibrink made second-team all-district. The four others projected to be in Clifton’s six-person PT rotation are forward Maria Chavez, forward Elena Ibarra, post Toshia Napieralski and guard Kayley Roberson.

2014-15 District Record: 13-1 Coach: TaNesiah Johnson Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Garrison (Bi-district).

Outlook: Crockett coach TaNesiah Johnson describes her bunch as “hard-working and mentally focused.” Her squad was also nearly perfect in district last season. And then came a first-round exit in the playoffs. So now it comes full circle, and the focus is on making amends. Crockett’s three returning starters are junior guard Shelby Corry (second-team all-district), senior guard Jardan Garner (2nd-team all-district) and sophomore guard Dea’Junique James (2015 21-3A Newcomer of the Year).

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

149 District 23

New Waverly Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-6/10-4 Coach: Donna Gilliam (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: L-Woden (Bi-district).

Outlook: New Waverly lost six seniors to graduation. “We will be a much younger team, but we look to finish strong with the help of some talented freshmen,” says coach Donna Gilliam. And the two starters that do return -- Essence Hall and MaClaye Hatcher -- have the potential to all but carry a team. Hall, a 5-10 senior post (15 ppg, 9 rpg), had 55 blocks last season en route to first-team all-district accolades and distinction as the 21-3A Defensive Player of the Year. Hatcher, a 5-4 sophomore quard (8 ppg, 4 spg), earned 2nd-team all-district selection and was named runner-up to the 21-3A Newcomer of the Year award.

Playing Collegiately: Ashlyn Reyna (New Waverly 2015) ... Arlington Baptist University in Arlington, Tx.

Anahuac Panthers - Boys Coach: Ben West (12 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 Outlook: Everyone’s back, including Vincent Perry, who was last season the 23-3A Newcomer of the Year as a sophomore. Here are the 10 returnees and two JV call-ups that will fill out the 2015-16 roster: 6-0 senior forward Melvin Spencer, 6-0 senior center Savio Fontenot, 5-10 senior shooting guard Brett Cooley, 5-9 senior point guard Tyre Humphrey, 6-0 junior wing Vincent Perry, 6-1 senior shooting guard Quincy Lewis, 5-10 junior forward Deon Mayes, 6-5 junior center Robert Shaw, 5-8 junior point guard Caleb Wiley, 6-0 sophomore wing Chris Moulton, 6-0 junior wing Mikhaelis Moore and 6-0 sophomore wing KeShawn Whittington.

East Chambers Lady Bucs - Girls Palestine Westwood Lady Panthers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 6-20/4-10 Coach: Warren Ringland (25 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 Outlook: Courtney Luckett’s return from a torn ACL is key to the Lady Panthers’ 2015-16 fortunes. Solid post pay and quality depth along the perimeter should leave Westwood in good position to still be playing when it counts in February. Those who project to log impactful PT along the perimeter are Janzel Baroy (4.5 ppg), Courtney Luckett (3.2 ppg, 3.5 apg), Chasity Sanders, Vicka’la Gray, Kimmie Hutchison and Ronneisha Randle. Tameia Davis and Diamond Dewberry (3.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg) will anchor Westwood in the paint.

Playing Collegiately: Saxton Sims ... Baylor; Reid Courmier ... Concordia Lutheran.

Westwood Panthers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-11/9-5 Coach: Scott Nettles (20 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Woodville, 52-49; L-Kountze, 85-78.

Outlook: All three returning starters are seniors who are determined to still be playing in March after last season getting eliminated in the second round of the playoffs. This power trio of seniors is led by the 6-6 post/forward Travion Hicks (18 ppg, 9 rpg; 21-3A Offensive MVP, TABC All-Region). The other two returning starters are D.J. Hicks, a 5-7 senior point guard (1st-team al-district), and Dejuan Hickerson, a 6-1 senior shooting guard (1st-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: Courtney Anderson (Westwood 2012) ... Chabot College in Haywood, Calif.

2014-15 W-L: 26-9/12-2 Coach: Eddie Michalko (34 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: W-Danbury, 52-28; W-Woden, 38-35; W-Central Pollok, 40-28; L-Franklin, 72-28.

Outlook: “We want to try and build on last year’s success while reminding everyone that each season is different,” says coach Eddie Michalko. The longtime coach debuted at East Chambers last year and wasted no time ushering the Lady Bucs into the regional semifinals. Now, in year two, the players have become acclimated to his system. Even better, nearly the entire roster is intact from last season. Three players project to carry over momentum from the 2014-15 campaign. First and foremost, there’s Haylee Smith, an athletic senior point guard who continues to get better with every game. She last season averaged 16.2 points per contest – good enough to garner all-region selection and distinction as the 23-3A Player of the Year. Gia Simien, a 5-9 junior center who is steal learning the game, earned 1st-team all-district accolades in her sophomore campaign, and AD Randle, a senior guard/forward, closed 2014-15 as East Chambers’ second-leading scorer (12.4 ppg; 2nd-team all-district).

District 24 East Bernard Brahmas - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-8/10-2 Coach: Shannon Taylor (20 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 2015 Postseason: L-East Chambers (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Brahmas return their entire starting lineup and five quality reserves, which means East Bernard is perfectly positioned to make another deep playoff run. The Brahmas’ top four comprises JJ Talas, a junior point guard (16 ppg, 4 apg); Jared Rejsek, a 6-5 senior post (10 ppg, 10 rpg); senior Allen Anderson (7 ppg, 5 rpg); junior Chris Baggett (9 ppg); senior guard Lane Kolafa; 6-3 junior Cody Lehmann; and 6-6 junior Cade Koeppen.

Trinity Lady Tigers - Girls Coach: Micah Murphy (11 years’ experience) Outlook: “We will be looking to change the environment and outlook of all the girls,” says coach Micah Murphy. “With a buy-in by the girls to the new system and expectations, we expect a quick turnaround for the success of the program.”

District 22 Pollok Central Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-17/6-8 Coach: Josh Jones (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: In 2013-14, Central graduated all 12 players from its regional quarterfinals squad, thereby leaving coach Josh Jones, who made his career head-coaching debut last season, with a gutted roster. This year, though, the tables have turned. In year two of his tenure, Jones now has a roster that did not graduate a single player last season.

“We now think we can contend for the district championship this season,” Jones says.

Jones’ projected starting five comprises Arturo Marroquin. a 5-10 senior guard (1st-team all-district); Jared Davis, a 6-0 senior guard/forward (2nd-team all-district); Riley Dewitz, a 5-10 sophomore guard (2nd-team all-district); Ty Clifton, a 6-1 sophomore guard (honorable-mention all-district); and Jamie Townsend, a 5-9 senior guard (honorable-mention all-district). Providing quality depth will be Lane Ponson, a 5-9 sophomore; Caleb Brewer, a 6-0 junior; and Zach Nicholson, a 5-9 senior.

Hitchcock Bulldogs - Boys Coach: Christopher Jordan (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: L-Kountze (Bi-district).

Outlook: “We will have to learn as the season goes along,” says coach Christopher Jordan, who expects he will be learning a lot himself, given this is his first season to serve as a head coach. Jordan will rely on Hitchcock headliner John Scott to help smooth the transition and serve as a de facto coach on the floor.

District 25 Blanco Panthers - Girls 2014-15 District Record: 7-3 Coach: Stuart Schultz (25 years’ experience; 15th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/0 2015 Postseason: W-Universal City Randolph, 57-43; L-Hallettsville, 68-42.

Outlook: Blanco coach Stuart Schultz offers only that his team will be “super young” this season.

Woden Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 21-7/9-3 Coach: Paul Driver (34 years’ experience; 35th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-New Waverly, 69-52; L-Winnie East Chambers, 38-35.

Outlook: Woden lost four seniors from last year’s squad that finished second in district.

Bottom line, the 2015-16 Lady Eagles will be much younger and with much less experi-

ence. Woden’s projected starting five comprises Shelby Brown, a 5-10 senior (7 ppg, 6 rpg; 2nd-team all-district); Britney Thompson, a 5-6 sophomore (6 ppg, 4 apg; 2nd-team all-district); Allanah Fontenot, a 5-9 junior; Samantha Lowery, a 5-6 junior; and Allison Counts, a 5-8 senior.

Playing Collegiately: Nicole Muse (Woden 2015) ... Southern Virginia University.

150

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Blanco Panthers - Boys

San Antonio Cole Cougars - Girls

Coach: Derrick Hernandez (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: Expectations are high with eight lettermen returning. “We have quality game experience across the board in our six returning seniors,” says coach Derrick Hernandez. Tyler Schlinke and Jacob McCaslin will provide plenty of offensive pop after each averaged 17 points per game last season. Justin Williams will pick up where he left off in 2014-15 as Blanco’s hustling “trash man,” and Hugo Rodriguez and Ryan Ronces will continue to serve as Blanco’s workhorses in the paint. Other impact players will be Dawson Albin, Trent Dechert and Noah Wheeler. “We will lean on our seniors for leadership and to put us in the hunt for a district title,” Hernandez says.

2014-15 W-L: 32-3/10-0 Coach: Tina Guerrero (21 years’ experience; 22nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Ingram, 65-32; W-Goliad, 55-34; L-Jarrell, 68-63.

Outlook: The Cougars should win district this season and have the pieces in place to maybe sneak into the state tournament if everything falls just right. Two of the four returning starters -- Dalesia Booth and Chandre Nunez -- earned first-team TABC All-Region selection last season. Booth, a 5-9 senior forward, was also named 26-3A MVP. The 5-8 Nunez plays forward as well so will team with Booth to provide Cole one of the more formidable – albeit small – frontlines in the region. Cole’s other two returning starters are Loreany Hernandez, a 5-3 senior point guard (1st-team all-district), and Cara Taliaferro, a 5-10 senior guard (1st-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: 3DWLHQFH *LWDX &ROH 2NODKRPD :HVOH\DQ

Ingram Tom Moore Lady Warriors 2014-15 W-L: 10-21/4-7 Coach: Roy Boone (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-San Antonio Cole, 65-32 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lady Warriors will look to build upon a 2014-15 campaign that resulted in the school’s first playoff win in five years. “We will look for leadership from a veteran group of seniors and ask an athletic group of underclassmen to fill in at key spots,” says coach Roy Boone. His starting five is as follows: Becca Estright, a 5-4 senior guard (2-time all-district selection; 5.6 ppg, 6.4 rpg); Meagan Whitley, a 6-1 senior post (2-time all-district selection; 5.2 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 3 bpg); Hailey Riley, a 5-7 senior guard (3.7 ppg); Kenzie Kowalski, a 5-8 junior post (1.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg); and Maci Piper, a 5-5 junior guard (2.3 ppg).

San Antonio Cole Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 22-11/7-3 Coach: Justin Morett (19 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 2015 Postseason: L-Lago Vista (Bi-district).

Outlook: In his San Antonio Cole debut, coach Justin Morett inherits a fledgling group of Cougars who will rely on returning starters Jacquez Harris and Darien Williams to lead the way.

District 27 Ingram Tom Moore Warriors - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-11/9-3 Coach: Ray Fierro (3 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 2015 Postseason: L-Marion, 64-54 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Warriors sent eight seniors off to other stomping grounds, but there’s no lack of fire amongst the newbies. Here’s who is being asked to step up and create a new chapter of Warriors basketball: 5-9 senior guard Joey Buenrostro, 6-3 junior post Nathan Gelsone, 6-0 senior guard Joey Albor and 6-2 junior forward Julian Ryan.

Playing Collegiately: Keaun Valverde ... Schreiner University; Braden Fairchild ...

Schreiner University.

Jarrell Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 26-8/11-1 Coach: Drew Sumner (27 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Natilia; W-Poth; L-San Antonio Randolph.

Outlook: In his first year pacing the pines at Jarrell, coach Drew Sumner will turn to two seniors -- Tucker Sansom and Tony Brown -- to keep the Cougars hungry and focused.

The 6-4 Sansom last season averaged 14 points and 9 rebounds while the 5-11 Brown poured in 15 ppg and contributed 6 rpg. Trevor Ledbetter, a 6-2 junior (14 ppg, 7 rpg); Mark Nemec, a 6-0 senior (5 ppg, 4 rpg); and TJ Sykes, a 6-0 sophomore (7 ppg, 3 rpg), are the other three starters.

District 26 Marion Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 24-12/8-2 Coach: Kollyn McWhinney (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Lago Vista, 79-42; W-Poth, 45-35; W-Hallettsville, 67-63; W-Aransas Pass; 50-38; L-Jarrell, 61-46.

Outlook: After graduating four starters with a combined 14 seasons of varsity experience, Marion will rely on the senior leadership of Jordan Estrada and a core of sophomores and juniors who logged valuable PT last season. “We should be able to play fast and with a lot of energy,” says coach Kollyn McWhinney. “We will be a solid defensive team and should be able to score from all five positions.” Estrada, a 5-7 senior guard, was a 2015 TABC All-Region selection after posting 10.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.6 apg and 2 spg.

Complementing her play will be two other key players -- Natalie Deml, a 5-5 junior point guard, and Stacey Radtke, a 6-0 junior post.

Playing Collegiately: Cami Davis (Marion 2015) ... The University of Texas; Tyler Rachel Farris (Marion 2012) ... Montana Tech.

FYI: Last season, then senior Cami Davis scored the 2,000th point of her career. It is believed that she is only the second player in school history to reach this milestone. The accomplishment is all the more impressive given that Davis missed 12 games her junior year as she recovered from the ACL surgery she underwent the previous summer.

Goliad Tigerettes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 24-11 Coach: Chris Jost (17 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 2015 Postseason: W-Palacios, 57-45; L-Cole, 55-34.

Outlook: The Tigerettes will rev the engine in 2015-16 as they become more reliant on pressure defense and a transition offense under coach Chris Jost, who is making his Goliad coaching debut. Jost inherits the entire starting lineup from last season so arrives on campus expecting the Tigerettes to not only repeat as district champs, but to also make a deep playoff run after last year’s postseason appearance ended in round two. Goliad’s five returning starters are headlined by Roxanne Morris, a 5-9 junior guard/ forward who garnered 2015 27-3A MVP honors and made the TABC All-Region team after averaging 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals per contest. Her fellow returning starters are Jade Reyna, a 5-1 junior guard (1st-team all-district; 7 ppg, 3 apg); Michala Jannsen, a 5-9 junior forward (1st-team all-district; 7 ppg, 6 rpg); Shay Kowalik, a 5-6 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 7 ppg, 4 rpg); and Katy Salziger, a 5-10 senior post (2nd-team all-district; 4 ppg, 7 rpg).

Karnes City Badgers - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 4-8 Head Coach: Kyle Armstrong (3 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 Outlook: Only one senior is on this season’s roster, but coach Kyle Armstrong is hoping that the five other returning lettermen will provide enough court savvy to allow him to slowly work the newbies in. “We’ll compete every night,” Armstrong says. “Every night we will be fighting for a playoff spot.” The starting five asked to do battle are 6-4 senior Cib Braun (returning starter), 5-11 junior Jacob Gonzales (returning starter), 6-4 sophomore Colby Robinson, 6-2 junior Corbyn Wright and 5-11 junior Joseph Salinas.

Nixon Lady Mustangs -Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-15/6-7 Coach: Scott Jones (17 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: Nixon coach Scott Jones thinks that the return of four starters will help his team get over the hump and into the playoffs after a sub-500 district slate in 2014-15. Those four returning starters are Celeste Arriaga, a 5-4 point guard; Tyhana Mejia, a 5-5 shooting guard; Lexi Trammell, a 5-6 post; and Amanda Munoz, a 5-6 forward.

Nixon-Smiley Mustangs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-5/11-1 Coach: Carlton McKinney (18 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 12/4 2015 Postseason: W-Rice, 83-51; L-Marion, 67-61.

Outlook: Déjà vu. Minus one starter, the Mustangs – including the reserves -- look the same as last season. And that should bode well for a program looking to advance beyond the second round of the playoffs where their 2014-15 campaign abruptly ended this past spring. “We should be very strong,” says coach Carlton McKinney. The lead horse amongst McKinney’s four returning starters is 6-2 senior guard Samuel Moore. He last season registered 25.8 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2.4 spg and 3.5 apg. Those numbers resulted in all-state accolades, and Moore was named the 27-3A MVP. The Mustangs’ three other returning starters are Treon Fatheree, a 6-3 junior forward (12.5 ppg, 5.4 rpg; first-team all-district); Luis Limon, a 5-9 senior wing (9.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg; first-team all-district); and Jordan VanAuken, a 5-10 junior guard (6.5 ppg, 3.8 apg; 2nd-team all-district).

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

151 District 3 1

Poth Pirettes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-11 Coach: Amanda Hemby (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/0 Outlook: All starters are gone, and only two seniors punctuate the 2015-16 lineup. “I will have to have my girls step up to the challenge,” says coach Amanda Hemby. Poth’s eight returning lettermen are Makayla Maha, Haley Cooper, Adia Cruz, Emily Leger, Tori Sunday, Amanda Lyssy, Erynn Hosek and Christina Gorzell.

Playing Collegiately: Dominique DeHoyos ... Texas Lutheran University.

District 2 8

Falfurrias Jerseys - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 30-5/7-2 Coach: Edmund Perez (14 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Monte Alto, 59-40; W-Odem, 35-31; W-Santa Rosa, 54-41; W-Halletsville, 53-50; L-San Antonio Randolph, 50-37.

Outlook: A 5-11 Christian E. Perez returns for his senior curtain-call after this past season being named 31-3A MVP and then getting selected to the TABC All-State team. His 2014-15 numbers were stellar -- 15 ppg, 12 rpg. The other mainstay carryovers from last season are Jake Reyes, a 6-0 junior (31-3A Newcomer of the Year; 12 ppg, 8 rpg); Noah Aleman, a 5-10 junior (2nd-team all-district; 2 spg); and Christian Rey Perez, a 6-2 junior (honorable-mention all-district; 4 ppg, 4 rpg).

Edna Cowgirls - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 18-12/6-4 Coach: Brett Nidey (8 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/0 2015 Postseason: L-Poth (Bi-district).

Outlook: No returning starters and only one senior may paint a bleak picture for some, but the Cowgirls are anxious to get back in the saddle. Bailey Brown, a junior who last season made the all-district team as an honorable mention, will be asked to hold the reins of what amounts to a rebuilding year.

Hallettsville Lady Brahmas - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 27-4/10-0 Coach: Amy Powell (11 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason Appearances: W-Bloomington; W-Blanco; L-Marion.

Outlook: Hallettsville’s biggest challenge will be replacing two-time All-Stater Emma Wick. In her stead, three already prime-time players will be asked to step up their game even more. They are Kasey Hairell, a 5-10 senior post (2015 28-3A Co-MVP; TABC All-Region first team); Imari Grant, a 6-3 post (2015 28-3A Offensive Player of the Year); and Kaymee Howell, a 5-6 senior guard (1st-team all-district).

District 29 Aransas Pass Panthers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 33-6/10-0 Coach: Glen Hayes (30 years’ experience; 23rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Freer, 112-33; W-Banquete, 78-45; W-Santa Gertruidis Academy, 81-42; L-San Antonio Randolph, 53-48.

Outlook: Aransas Pass has won 33 games in each of the past three seasons. Reaching that plateau a fourth consecutive season will prove very difficult. “Experience wise, we will be relatively young,” says coach Glen Hayes. “There will be much learning to do early on, but these players have a great team attitude.” The Panthers also have their 2015 star to lean on. Returning for his senior curtain-call is the 6-0 point guard Colin Hale. In being named to the 2015 TABC All State squad, Hale put up 23 ppg and 8 apg last season.

Aransas Pass’ one other returning starter is Matt McElroy, a 6-6 senior center (6 ppg, 3 bpg) who was named the 2015 29-3A Defensive Player of the Year. The Panthers’ six-man starting rotation also includes Gregory Giageos, a 5-10 shooting guard (8 ppg); Connor Sullivan, a 6-0 senior; Matt Butler, a 6-1 sophomore; and Jalen Hill, a 5-10 senior.

Playing Collegiately: Roderick Brooks (Aransas Pass 2015) ... Lincoln Christian UniversiW\ 7UR\ *DOYDQ $UDQVDV 3DVV 7H[DV $ 0 .LQJVYLOOH

Mathis Pirates - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 37-1/10-0 Coach: Larry Skinner (30 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/5 2015 Postseason: W-Dilley, 111-19; W-San Diego, 59-35; W-George West, 80-75; L-Jarrell, 74-50.

Outlook: After advancing to the 2015 regional semifinals, Mathis returns nearly everyone, including all five starters. The biggest name to return is junior Allyssa Alonzo. She last season was named 29-3A MVP and the All South Texas.Com Player of the Year. She also earned selection to the TABC All-Region squad and to the Class 1A-6A All South-Texas First Team. Mathis’ four other returning starters are senior Brandi Silva (two-time, 1stteam all-district), senior Mhya Medrano (two-time, 1st-team all-district), senior Monique Alavardo (two-time District Defensive Player of the Year) and junior Gabbi Trejo (second-team all-district). Addi Badaryo, another senior, is also back after being honored as the 2015 29-3A 6th Man of the Year.

FYI: Mathis had won only four games in the three years prior to coach Larry Skinner’s arrival on campus in 2013. Mathis finished the 2013-14 campaign with a 27-6/13-1 record and then finished 37-1/10-0 this past season. The 2013-14 season ended with a second-round playoff loss. This past season ended with advancement to the regional semifinals. Not only has the turnaround been immediate, but the momentum seems to be building steam. With 11 lettermen returning this season, Mathis emerges as a strong state-title contender.

San Diego Lady Vaqueros - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 15-15/5-3 Coach: Alex Tunchez (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/5 2015 Postseason: W-Edinburgh IDEA, 50-37; L-Mathis, 59-35.

Outlook: Time to hit replay. All hands are back on deck as the Lady Vaqueros look to win District 31-3A and make a deep playoff run. It’s a perfect way to welcome Alex Tunchez, who this fall not only makes his coaching debut at San Diego, but also makes his career debut as a head coach. San Diego’s six-person PT rotation includes four players who earned first-team all-district selection last season. These four are 5-8 junior forward Cierra Perez, 5-7 sophomore point guard Marlena Martinez, 5-8 sophomore guard Leandra Bazan and 5-6 sophomore forward Deedra Lopez. The other two players listed in the rotation are 5-5 senior guard Janye Flores and 5-6 senior Kayla Oliveira.

District 3 2 Santa Rosa Warriors - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 8-0 Coach: Juan Ciprian (14 years’ experience; 15th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Bishop, 70-64; W-Mathis, 84-69; L-Falfurrias, 54-41.

Outlook: Leo Lara, a 6-2 junior guard, has now won the 32-3A MVP award for two consecutive years (each year of his still-young varsity career). Lara also garnered selection to the 2015 TABC All-Region squad. Santa Rosa’s immediate fortunes largely rest on his shoulders. He has some pretty solid help, though. Santa Rosa’s three other returning starters are Matt Garcia, a 6-1 post (1st-team all-district); AB Lozoya, a 5-1 point guard (32-3A Newcomer of the Year); and Michael Ruiz, a 6-2 center (1st-team all-district).

FYI: Santa Rosa has won or shared a district title for 11 consecutive years. Warriors coach Juan Ciprian played basketball for Santa Rosa, and his reason for returning to coach 14 years ago was largely grounded in his experience as a player. ”I had a different coach year in and year out,” Ciprian explains. “We made it to the regional tournament every year except my senior year, but I think we could have been better basketball players had we had more consistent coaching. So I decided to come back and be the basketball coach. I had thought I was going to be an accountant; 14 years later, I think I made the right choice.”

152

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS We Match Any Price!

%DVNHWEDOO

HTXLSPHQW WUDLQLQJ DLGV KHDGTXDUWHUV

͞/ Ăŵ ŐŽŝŶŐ ŝŶƚŽ ŵLJ ϰϰƚŚ LJĞĂƌ ĐŽĂĐŚŝŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ :Ğī ;ZĞĞĚͿ ŝƐ ŐŽŝŶŐ ŝŶƚŽ ŚŝƐ ϰϮŶĚ LJĞĂƌ ŚĞĂĚŝŶŐ ƵƉ <ŽƌŶĞLJ ŽĂƌĚ͘ ^Ž ǁĞ ŚĂǀĞ ŬŝŶĚ ŽĨ ŐƌŽǁŶ ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ͘ / ŐŽ ƚŽ <ŽƌŶĞLJ ŽĂƌĚ ĞǀĞƌLJ LJĞĂƌ͘ zŽƵ ũƵƐƚ ǁŽŶ͛ƚ ĮŶĚ ĂŶLJ ďĞƩĞƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ Žƌ ƉƌŝĐĞƐ͘͟ Ͷ :͘ ͘ DĂLJŽ

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

153

The 2015 Inductees

154

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS 2015 Texas Sports Hall of Fame Inductees --Basketball-Zelmo Beaty The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Big Zâ&#x20AC;? may have hailed from little oleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Woodville, but the 6-9, hard-nosed center certainly commanded the spotlight when all the world became his stage. Zelmo Beaty zig-zagged to stardom with the NBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s St. Louis Hawks (1962-69) and the ABAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Utah Stars (1970-74) before closing out his career with a one-year NBA curtain call via the Los Angeles Lakers (1974-75).

Beaty first garnered attention under the tutelage of coach John Payton at what was then Woodvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s segregated Scott HS. That school won back-to-back Prairie View Interscholastic /HDJXH $ VWDWH FKDPSLRQVKLSV LQ DQG 7KHQ DW 3UDLULH 9LHZ $ 0 %HDW\ DYeraged 25 points and 20 rebounds in becoming a two-time, first team NAIA All-American. He led the Panthers to the 1962 NAIA national title and was named the Chuck Taylor Tournament MVP. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Big Zâ&#x20AC;? went third in the NBA draft to the Hawks and impressed early, earning selection to the NBA All-Rookie first team. During seven years in St. Louis, he averaged 17.4 points, 11.2 rebounds and was twice named an all-star.

The ABAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Utah Stars lured him away from St. Louis in 1970, and Beaty proceeded to lead Utah to the 1971 ABA title while averaging 22.9 points and 15.7 rebounds -- numbers that also earned him playoff MVP accolades. While in Utah (1970-74), the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Big Zâ&#x20AC;? averaged 19.1 points and 11.6 rebounds en route to three ABA all-star appearances.

Woodvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pride and joy posted 12-year career marks of 15,207 points and 9,665 rebounds. He was named to the ABAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 30-man, all-time team in 1997 and inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014, not long after his death on Aug. 27, 2013. --Garland Hancock

Nolan Richardson El Paso native Nolan Richardson took over as the University of Arkansasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; head coach in 1985, becoming the first African American to coach at a major university in the south. His 17 years at Arkansas (1985-2002) were characterized by a â&#x20AC;&#x153;40-minutes-of-hellâ&#x20AC;? brand of basketball that relied heavily upon a full-court press and fast-break offense.

Richardsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coaching career peaked in 1994 when the Razorbacks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; led by Corliss Williamson (aka The Big Nasty) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; captured the NCAA national title with a 76-72 win over Duke. That championship remains Arkansasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; only one in basketball and earned Richardson distinction as the only coach to win a JUCO title (Western Texas Junior College, 1980) and an NIT championship (Tulsa, 1981) in addition to the NCAA title.

Richardson, a forward, played high school ball at El Paso Bowie and then suited up collegiately for the legendary Don Haskins at Texas Western College, which today is known as The University of Texas at El Paso.

Richardson still reigns as Arkansasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; winningest coach (389-169) and was named the National Coach of the Year in 1994 when his Hogs beat Duke for the title. At Arkansas, Richardson recorded 12 20-win seasons and four 30-win ledgers. He advanced Arkansas to the Final Four three times (1990, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;94, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;95), losing in the semifinals to Duke in 1990 and then losing to UCLA in the 1995 title game one year after winning it all versus Duke. Richardson is one of only five coaches to win 365 games in 15 seasons or less. The other four are Roy Williams, Denny Crum, Jim Boeheim and Tubby Smith.

Richardson began his coaching career with a 10-year stint at his high school alma mater (El Paso Bowie, 1968-78). He then coached three years at Western Texas College (1978-81) and four seasons at the University of Tulsa (1981-85) before taking over at Arkansas. His career Division I college record stands at 508-206. His resume also includes having coached the Panama national team (2005-07) and Mexicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national team (2007) as well as the WNBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tulsa Shock (2009-11).

Richardson was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014. --Garland Hancock

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

155 2015 Texas High School Coaches Association Hall of Honor Inductees --Basketball--

Robert Hale Few names are as synonymous to Texas high school basketball as is Robert Hale’s. He has remained an active member of the Teas High School Coaches Association for 47 years and has logged 39 years as a UIL head basketball coach.

Hale was born and raised in West Texas. He played for coach Max O’Banion at Lubbock High School and then suited up for coaches Tom Tinker and Barry Dowd while serving as team captain for The University of Texas at Arlington.

Hale, the holder of a master’s degree from Texas Christian University, launched his coaching career as an assistant with the Fort Worth Independent School District, but then returned to his West Texas roots, signing on as an assistant with Caprock High School in Amarillo.

Hale’s 39-year trek as a head basketball coach began with the Seymour Panthers (1971-72). He next coached the Dalhart Golden Wolves (1975-76) and then the Lewisville Fighting Farmers (1976-79).

He broadened his resume with stops at Burleson High School (197982), Everman HS (1982-86), Pampa HS (1986-99), Weatherford HS (1999-2001), Azle HS (2001-04) and, finally, Crowley HS (2004-2010).

At those nine schools, Hale managed to win 753 games while dropping only 379. His teams collectively won 13 district championships and advanced to the postseason 21 times. Nine of his teams advanced as far as the regional tournament and three of his squads made it to the UIL’s equivalent of the Final Four. His success yielded 13 district coach-of-the-year awards.

Hale’s biggest triumph came in 1996 when his Pampa Harvesters won a Class 4A state title. That year, the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches and the Texas Sports Writers Association each showered him with coach-of-the-year accolades. The Amarillo Globe News also named him its coach of the year after having bestowed that same honor on him five years earlier in 1991.

A year after Hale’s Harvesters ruled supreme, the Texas Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame recognized his continued impact with a 1997 coach-of-the-year plaque; and in 2004, Hale was honored as the 2004 Fort Worth Star-Telegram Super Team Coach of the Year.

Following the 2009-10 season at Crowley High School, Hale transitioned into private-school coaching, and he now heads up the program at Azle Christian School. He also works part-time with the Texas Rangers baseball organization.

--Garland Hancock

Roy Garcia Growing up in a family of migrant farm workers and spending long hours toiling in fields of cotton created the fabric from which Roy Garcia’s success as a coach would ultimately be cut.

Roy and his four brothers Luis, Frank, Tony and Adan saw sports as an escape from the tedium of harvesting cotton, and their father Guadalupe, an avid baseball fan, encouraged them to play as hard as they worked.

As a three-sport star -- baseball, basketball and football -- while attending Los Fresnos High School, Garcia managed to land a basketball/baseball scholarship to Texas Southmost College; and after obtaining an associate’s degree there, enlisted in the U.S. Army and completed a tour of duty in Germany.

Garcia obtained a bachelor-of-science degree and a master’s degree from the then East Texas State University and launched his coaching career in 1971 as the head baseball coach at his high school alma mater (Los Fresnos). A year later, he signed on as Mission High School’s head basketball coach.

For four years, Garcia also served as an assistant football coach at Mission; but in 1976, he went straight basketball and led the Eagles to the first of 11 district titles under his watch. Two years later, in 1978, he became Mission’ athletic director while continuing to head up the basketball program.

In his 28 years as Mission’s head basketball coach, Garcia advanced his teams to the postseason 15 times; and as Mission’s AD, he oversaw a department that produced nine District 31-5A All-Sports Championship(s) during an 11-year span (1986-97).

After nearly three decades at Mission, Garcia took a brief hiatus but then got back in the saddle at San Benito High School. In 2007, he led the Greyhounds to their historic first-ever playoff win in basketball.

Garcia followed six years at San Benito with a 2010 coaching curtain-call at PSJA Southwest, a new school with an upstart basketball program.

Garcia served on the THSCA Board of Directors from 1983 to 86. He enters the THSCA’s Hall of Honor with a career record of 712 – 516. --Garland Hancock

156

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS 2015 Texas Girls Coaches Association Hall of Fame Inductee --Basketball-Shirley Rowe

This long-time Gregory-Portland legend – born Shirley Junek in a small farm community outside Port Lavaca -- ultimately staked her legacy on coaching diversity. Whether coaching basketball, volleyball or track and field, Rowe managed to win and, more often than not, win big.

However, Shirley Rowe is perhaps even better known for the significant role she played in the advocacy of Title IX, a federal law that “prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity.”

Rowe was a multi-sport star while attending Port Lavaca High School and was voted that school’s most athletic student her senior year.

Rowe continued to play several sports while attending Victoria College and the then Southwest Texas State Teachers College, which is now known as Texas State University. Her first teaching

job came at her high school alma mater where, in keeping with her reputation, she coached basketball, volleyball and track, and led her teams to success in each one.

During her six years at Port Lavaca, Rowe posted a 97-37 record in basketball and thrice advanced to the postseason. She left Port Lavaca in 1959 to become the head girls coach at Taft High School.

Then, two years later, she transferred her coaching skills to Gregory-Portland High School, and it is there that she remained until retirement in 1990.

During her 29 years at Gregory-Portland, Rowe posted a remarkable win-loss record (in basketball) of 409-181. That ledger netted her four district championships and two trips to the state tournament – one to the semifinals and one to the state-title tilt.

Rowe enjoyed even more success heading up Gregory-Portland’s volleyball program. In that sport, she produced 18 district champions; and in four trips to the state tournament, she returned with two state titles.

Similarly, Rowe coached Gregory-Portland to six district championships with two state titles in girls track and field.

--Garland Hancock

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

157 2015 Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame Inductees Laura Dawson

Jiggs Buchanan Wayman “Jiggs” Buchanan forced scorekeepers to keep a pencil sharpener handy at all times. In an era that rarely saw players score 20-plus in even one game, Buchanan averaged 25 per contest as a senior at Fort Worth Carter Riverside.

The City of Fort Worth’s two-time scoring leader single-handedly willed Carter Riverside to a 20-2 record his final year (1951-52). Riverside’s only two setbacks came against eventual 4A state champ Fort Worth Poly, and each time it was by only a point. Denied a chance at gold, Buchanan settled for an MVP plaque at the 1952 Texas High School Coaches Association All-Star Game. The North won, 29-27, thanks to Buchanan hitting a shot with just seconds to spare. Buchanan went on to letter three years at The University of Texas at Austin and now continues his winning ways as a San Antonio businessman.

--Garland Hancock

Terrance Jerod Ford Terrance Jerod Ford, nicknamed T.J. by his mom Mary, is thought by many basketball experts to be the best point guard the state of Texas has ever produced. T.J. lettered four years for Willowridge High School, honing his skills under the tutelage of legendary coach Ronnie Courtney. With T.J. running the show, Willowridge compiled a 75-1 record and won 62 straight during T.J.’s two final years – seasons that culminated in Class 5A state championships. Some thought T.J.’s playing days might end at Willowridge when doctors diagnosed the gifted point guard with the debilitating condition of spinal stenosis. But T.J. persevered, and his ability to get the most out of those around him proved key during his two years playing for The University of Texas at Austin. While wearing the burnt orange, T.J. became college basketball’s first freshman to lead the nation in assists (8.27 apg). Then, as a sophomore, T.J. led the Horns to their first Final Four in 47 years and received the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year and John Wooden awards. He was also named player of the year by Sports Illustrated, The Sporting News, ESPN.com and CBS SportsLine. T.J. subsequently became the first basketball player to have his jersey retired at UT and only the fourth Longhorn overall to so be honored. The other three are Earl Campbell, Ricky Williams and Roger Clemens. After only two years of college ball, T.J. signed with the Milwaukee Bucks as the eighth player selected in the 2003 NBA draft. Sadly, T.J.’s NBA career was racked with injury, including a spinal cord contusion he suffered as a rookie.

Nevertheless, he managed to lead the Toronto Raptors to the 2007 NBA playoffs via a first-place Atlantic Division finish.

--Garland Hancock

.

Laura Dawson sealed her coaching legacy when in the 1990s she molded Alief Elsik’s Lady Rams into one of that decade’s most successful basketball programs. Making her 1990s’ run all the more impressive was the fact that she had also turned heads the previous decade as a rookie coach who wound up pacing the hardwoods for eight years at C.E. King High School in Houston.

Dawson first elevated her basketball IQ while playing for Deer Park HS and, later, at Southwestern University. Then, in 1980, she stepped in as head coach at C.E. King and proceeded to win 163 games while dropping only 64. Her winning ways landed her a job as an assistant coach at the University of Houston; but after only one season, she returned to the high school ranks, signing on with Alief Elsik. She compiled a 247-45 record there and advanced her Elsik teams to the state tournament four times (1991, 1996-98). Elsik’s Lady Rams reached the state championship game three consecutive years (1996-98) and won the Class 5A state title in 1998. After that championship season, Dawson retired from coaching, but remained with the Alief Independent School District as an assistant athletic director until her retirement in 2013.

--Garland Hancock

Mike Smith . Mike Smith epitomizes both consistency and loyalty to commitment. He pledged to turn Victoria High School into a basketball powerhouse; and during his 26 years as Victoria’s head coach that’s exactly what he did. His program proved to be a model of consistency, notching 643 wins versus 230 losses. Under Smith’s watch, Victoria reached the postseason 21 times, captured 17 district titles, advanced to 10 regional tournaments and twice made it to the UIL’s Final Four.

Smith’s 1992 team lost an overtime heartbreaker to Longview, 71-67, in what remains one of the more exciting state-title tilts in Texas basketball history. Perhaps just as impressive is Smith’s commitment to loyalty. Although he retired from coaching basketball in 1998, he remains employed by the Victoria Independent School District as a teacher and girls golf coach.

In fact, his female linksters have inked out their own place in local lore.

During Smith’s tenure, they have advanced to the UIL’s state golf tournament eight times; and in 2004, they brought home the title. Smith is a charter member of the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) and served one term as TABC president (1976-77). Smith hails from Abilene. He played basketball for Abilene High School and then suited up for Cisco Junior College and Sam Houston State University. --Garland Hancock

158

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS 2015 Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame Inductees LeRoy Larson

LeRoy Larson hails from Oregon and now lives in Colorado, but his legacy will forever remain firmly rooted in Texas soil. In a 35-year coaching career that included stops at Brock, Ponder, Graford, Stratford and Boswell, the former Howard Payne University player posted a mind-blowing 1,413-502 record. Some might do the math and say that is simply not possible. But here’s how he did it. While at Brock, Ponder and Graford -- all schools today known for their proud basketball traditions – Larson did double-duty. That is to say, he coached both the girls and boys teams. Larsen’s teams made 33 playoff appearances, won 30 district championships, advanced to the regional tournament 19 times and reached the UIL’s penultimate Final Four on five occasions. Larson blew his last whistle in 2005 and retired to the more elevated climes of Colorado.

But his two kids – Lance Larson and Lana Degalia – remain triedand-true Texans. Lance is a supervisor for the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, and Lana serves as the head girls basketball coach at tradition-rich Krum High School. Larson’s granddaughter, Kristi Degalia, just wrapped up a successful basketball career at Midwestern University, earning all-region accolades along the way. --Garland Hancock

Lee Snider . Lee Snider laid the foundation for a tradition-rich Neches basketball program that continues to contend today thanks largely to the championship pedigree Lee passed on to his son Andy. Lee, a graduate of Buffalo High School and Sam Houston State University, coached basketball for 35 years, and 24 of those seasons were spent at Neches.

Snider coached both boys and girls basketball throughout his career. Collectively, his teams won 34 district titles, advanced to 19 regional tournaments and made four trips to the UIL’s Final Four. Snider’s Lady Tigers twice reached the mountaintop, winning state titles in 1973 and 1976.

Snider’s son Andy currently coaches Neches’ Lady Tigers, a program that again grabbed headlines when – with Andy at the helm – it strung together three consecutive state titles (2010-12). Andy’s dad Lee also left a legacy at Oakwood High School. After launching his coaching career with brief stints at Center HS and then North Zulch HS, Lee Snider held court at Oakwood HS for eight years. Then, in 1968, he signed on with Neches and began his 24-year journey there. Snider took a coaching hiatus for six years (1991-97) but returned to Oakwood for a two-year, coaching curtain-call (1997-99) before officially retiring.

Snider passed away in January 2014. --Garland Hancock

OCTOBER 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 2

Emma Adams

159 2015 Prairie View Hall of Fame Inductees --Basketball-Mary Lena Cooper Peoples

Emma Adams â&#x20AC;&#x201C; known affectionately as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sea Biscuitâ&#x20AC;? for her thoroughbred-like athleticism â&#x20AC;&#x201C; found the winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s circle much more often than not while playing basketball and running track for Rowe High School in Jasper. She captained the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball team and dizzied opponents via her slick backcourt moves. With â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sea Biscuitâ&#x20AC;? setting the pace, Roweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cagers excelled, winning a district title in each of her final two seasons (1953-55). Adams, however, proved equally talented as a vocalist. She attended Texas Southern University as an undergrad and then obtained her Master of Education degree from Stephen F. Austin University. For 31 years, Adams taught music in the Jasper ISD. She retired in 1992. --Garland Hancock

Travis Wright Travis Alton Wright left a legacy in Southeast Texas as one of that regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most dazzling guards to ever grace the hardwoods.

Having grown up in the Mount Union/Magnolia Springs area, Wright â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or â&#x20AC;&#x153;T Wrightâ&#x20AC;? as his friends called him â&#x20AC;&#x201C; plied his craft at Walnut Hill High School (a Rosenwald School). Before graduating in 1961, â&#x20AC;&#x153;T Wrightâ&#x20AC;? guided Walnut Hill to four district titles and to back-to-back appearances in the Class B state championship game. His calling card proved to be a deadly set shot combined with magical ball-handling skills. â&#x20AC;&#x153;T Wrightâ&#x20AC;? is now retired from the timber industry.

--Garland Hancock

Freddie Forcey Freddie Forcey proved to be a hardwood force who would later join the Air Force and serve his country proud in Vietnam. Under the tutelage of coaches Jim Richardson and Charles White, Forcey starred in both baseball and basketball at Rosenwald High School in Luling. He closed out his stellar basketball career, though, playing for coach Lonnie Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1959-60 squad at L.C. Anderson High School in Austin. A leader both on and off the court, Forcey assumed point-guard duties for coach Jackson. Following his miliWDU\ VHUYLFH )RUFH\ PRYHG WR 6DQ $QWRQLR DQG WRRN D MRE ZLWK $7 7 +H continued working there until retiring in 1999. --Garland Hancock

Mary Lena Cooper Peoples proved to be a leader on not only West Kirbyville High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball court, but also on its football field. No, the 1960 graduate did not break barriers by donning a football helmet, but she did step proudly as West Kirbyvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very first drum major; and in the gym, she had no equal. Coached by Brady Beauregard, Mary Lena Cooper Peoples led her school to multiple district titles and is considered today to be among the best cagers in school history.

Today, she works for Child Protective Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a job she took after 15 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service with the Houston Independent School District. --Garland Hancock

Terry Cooper Terry Cooper starred in basketball for Carver High School in Kountze and served as vice president of Carverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1962 graduating class. He grew up in Mount Union and first attended Walnut Hill High School in Kirbyville before transferring to Carver and establishing himself as a dominant player. So talented was Cooper that most everyone felt he would excel at the next level, but his scholarship to play ball at Huston-Tillotson College yielded little due to a career cut short by injury.

Cooper later moved to Flint, Mich. where he went to work for AC Spark Plug, a division of General Motors. --Garland Hancock

Marshall Land, Jr. Marshall Land, Jr. proved to have myriad talents while attending West Kirbyville High School. In basketball, he teamed with Leon Peacock and David Riley to make coach Brady Beauregard look like a gym genius. Land also kicked up his heels as a district high-jump champion; and as a musician, he played in state-level Prairie View Interscholastic League competitions. Neither did the Magnolia Springs native skip a beat in the classroom. He finished third academically in West Kirbyvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class of 1961 and then attended Paul Quinn College on an athletic scholarship. Land now lives in Little Rock, Ark., having worked in the trucking industry for 49 years. --Garland Hancock

George Marshall . George C. Marshallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deadly aim often prompted scouts to report that â&#x20AC;&#x153;if he can see it, he can hit it.â&#x20AC;? Marshall was born in Lubbock but attended L.C. Anderson High School in Austin. There, with coach Lawrence Britton looking on and smiling broadly, he averaged 16.2 points and 4 rebounds while netting 80 percent from the line. The storied sharpshooter went on to attend Austin Community College and obtain a certificate in welding. He

also continued to hoop it up, playing in the Pan Am League and in recreation centers throughout Austin. In fact, as the legend goes, the former L.C. Anderson star kept his â&#x20AC;&#x153;dead eyeâ&#x20AC;? for the basket even into his 60s. In between games, Marshall logged 18 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service with the Texas Employment Commission.

--Garland Hancock

160

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Region I 1. Canadian 2. Stratford 3. Farwell 4. Panhandle 5. Clarendon

1. Martin’s Mill 2. Muenster 3. Clarksville 4. Blue Ridge 5. Goldthwaite

Region III 1. Dallardsville Big Sandy 2. La Rue La Poynor 3. Grapeland 4. Tenaha 5. Shelbyville

1. Schulenburg 2. Thorndale 3. Flatonia 4. San Isidro 5. Normangee

P O L L S

1. Gruver 2. Canadian 3. Christoval 4. Panhandle 5. Farwell

Region II 1. Martin’s Mill 2. Windthorst 3. Muenster 4. Gladewater Union Grove 5. Frost

Region III 1. La Rue La Poynor 2. Evadale 3. Hubbard 4. Tenaha 5. Crawford

Region IV 1. Weimar 2. Mason 3. San Saba 4. Falls City 5. Shiner

Profiles

Region IV

R E G I O N A L

Region I

CLASS 2A

Region II

GIRLS

Features

BOYS

C O A C H E S

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

161 District 2

District 1 Canadian Wildcats - Boys

Clarendon Broncos - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 21-1/10-0 Coach: Andy Copley (22 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: Bye; W-Claude, 46-25; W-Panhandle, 60-41; W-Smyer, 36-32; W-Farwell, 49-48; W-Martin’s Mill, 68-62; W-Big Sandy Dallardsville, 68-60.

Outlook: Defending state champ Canadian bid farewell to a few key seniors but returns its all-state point guard Cameron Copley and forwards Sawyer Cook and Tanner Schafer, both of whom started last season and contributed significantly at the 2015 state tournament in San Antonio. As is the case with so many small schools, much of Canadian’s fate will rest with whether anybody gets hurt while also playing football. And if Canadian’s football team advances in the payoffs as expected, basketball won’t even start up until December. But the six returning lettermen are anxious to defend their title and worked hard over the summer to prepare for another run. The 5-8 junior Copley enters the 201516 campaign having last season posted 14 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals per game. In addition to earning all-state accolades, Copley joined Cook on the five-member all-tournament team announced after the state tourney in San Antonio. As for Schafer, his postseason accolades came in the form of first-team selection to the 1-2A All-District squad. Matthew Lynch, a 5-10 sophomore guard, joins Copley, Cook and Schafer in forming Canadian’s carryover core from the 2014-15 state-championship season. Lynch did not start as a freshman but still logged big-time minutes. In only 15 minutes played in the state-title tilt versus Big Sandy Dallardsville, Lynch netted 13 points.

Playing Collegiately: &RQQRU &RSOH\ :DWHU 9DOOH\ :D\ODQG %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: Canadian helped itself to a double-dip of gold during the 2014-15 school year. The Wildcats went 15-0 in capturing the Class 2A state championship in football via a 34-7 win over Mason. Canadian’s basketball team – some of whom had just gotten through playing football – then cruised to a 21-1 record, which culminated with the Wildcats slipping past Big Sandy Dallardsville, 68-60, in the gold-medal, state-title tilt.

2014-15 W-L: 22-8/8-2 Coach: Brandt Lockhart (13 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: L-Gruver, 66-60 (Bi-district).

Outlook: “I feel that this season we will be quicker, more experienced and able to shoot the ball well,” says coach Brandt Lockhart. Each of three returning starters fuel his optimism. The trio is led, though, by Bryce Grahn, a 5-8 junior point guard (12 ppg, 3.8 apg, 6 rpg) who garnered all-region accolades this past spring. He’ll share the limelight with Chance Lockhart, a 6-2 junior forward (10 ppg, 3.3 apg, 6.2 rpg; all-district), and Junior Ceniceros, a 6-0 senior guard (9.3 ppg, 2.7 apg).

Gruver Lady Hounds - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 31-6/9-1 Coach: Trent Lankford (6 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: State Runner-up.

Outlook: The Lady Hounds are still smarting from losing to Martin’s Mill, 49-36, in the 2015 Class 2A state-title tilt. But a solid nucleus from that state runner-up squad is back and, according to coach Trent Lankford, there is reason to be excited about the players he has called up from the JV. Two key players carry over from the Lady Hounds’ golden flirtation, and they alone make Gruver one of the preseason favorites to advance to the state tournament. Brennyn Seagler and Hadlee Spivey are simply among the best at their position in all of Class 2A. Seagler nabbed TGCA and TABC all-state accolades last season after posting 14.2 ppg and 7.2 rpg. She was also named the AGN Media Golden Spread 2A Player of the Year and has been named a district MVP for two consecutive years. As for Spivey, she booked 13.8 ppg and 7.1 rpg, which also translated into selection to the TGCA and TABC all-state squads. Additionally, Spivey has garnered recognition as a district defensive MVP for three straight years dating back to her freshman campaign.

Bottom line, the Lady Hounds are back and ready to go fetch what eluded them this past spring.

Playing Collegiately: 5HDJDQ +D\QHV :HVW 7H[DV $ 0 University.

Memphis Cyclones - Boys Coach: Chris Mosier (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: In his maiden voyage as a head coach, Chris Mosier will ask for a little help from his backcourt charges – namely 6-0 sophomore point guard Clifford Byrd and 6-0 senior shooting guard Xavier Garza. Byrd was named the 2015 2-2A Newcomer of the Year, and Garza garnered 1st-team all-district selection.

Wellington Rockets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 21-6/9-1 Coach: Tim Webb (18 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Bi-district; L-Farwell, 55-54.

Outlook: The Rockets will be rebuilding this season within a rugged district. The Rockets bid farewell to three all-state caliber players that had started nine years between them and had accounted for 85% of Wellington’s scoring last season. And then there’s the tough district part of the equation. Three of the district’s teams are state-ranked. So you better be solid top to bottom; and in Wellington’s case, only two starters return. They are DJ McKnight, a 5-8 senior guard who made all-district last season, and Andrew Rueda, a 5-8 junior guard.

District 3 Farwell Steers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-8/7-3 Coach: Shane Perkins (19 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-New Deal, 79-67; W-Wellington, 60-59; W-Stratford, 51-48; W-Hawley, 47-45; L-Canadian, 49-48.

Outlook: The Steers will feature an impressive inside-out game that starts with all-state guard Jace Perkins. The 6-2 Perkins, a junior, will team with two seniors – both of whom started a year ago – to provide the Steers their swagger. One senior, the 6-2 Angel Graxiola, will join Perkins in the backcourt after being named the 2015 3-2A Defensive Player of the Year. The other senior, the 5-11 Gerardo Martinez, will play center, anchoring the Steers’ high-low game in the paint. Other returning lettermen include Leo Cervantes, a 5-9 senior guard, and Oscar Muniz, a 6-3 senior center.

Smyer Bobcats - Boys Gruver Greyhounds - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 11-12/6-4 Coach: Johnny Mack Hudson (24 years’ coaching experience; 25th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: W-Clarendon, 56-50; L-Panhandle, 56-54.

Outlook: Johnny Mack Hudson – celebrating his Silver Anniversary season as Gruver’s coach – says the 2015-16 edition of “Houndball” will be shaped by how well his first-year varsity players can pick up on a new system and then how well the team in general will be able to peak at just the right time. Translation: the Greyhounds will have to be playing their best basketball during the home stretch of district play against what is arguably the saltiest collection of 2A teams in the state. Gruver’s three returning starters are Aaron Felderhoff, a 6-3 senior post (13.5 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 1.4 apg; 1st-team all-district, academic all-district, TABC All-Region); Karsten Irwin, a 5-11 senior guard (6.2 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 3 apg; honorable-mention all-district, academic all-district); and Jahir Rodriguez, a 6-1 senior wing (2.5 ppg, 2 rpg, 1.5 apg; academic all-district).

FYI: Gruver – a school steeped in basketball tradition -- boasts one of the finest smallschool gyms in the entire Panhandle. The Greyhounds have advanced to the state tournament eight times since the 1950s, and twice returned home with gold hanging around their necks. Rich tradition and high expectations: they usually go hand in hand, and such is certainly the case in Gruver where all Greyhounds are focused on making another title run sooner than later.

Jajir Rodriguez Ulysses Valverde Aaron Felderhoff Karsten Irwin

2014-15 W-L: 27-4/10-0 Coach: Lonnie Burnam (10 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Irran, 79-34; W-Albany, 72- 43; L-Canadian, 36-32.

Outlook: Smyer may have only one returning starter, but will be adding six players from a JV squad that last season finished 19-3 overall and 10-0 in district. “We expect to be very competitive again this year,” says coach Lonnie Burnam. “If we develop good team chemistry and court discipline, we will have a chance to make another big run in the playoffs.” The one returning starter is Kole Vedder, a 6-6 senior post who earned TABC All-Region selection after averaging 10 points and 6 rebounds per game. Also projected to log important minutes are Eric Wright, a 5-10 senior guard who posted 6 ppg, 3 apg en route to 2015 all-district selection; Tristan Fuentes, a 6-3 senior post; and Jerrod Fowler, a 6-6 junior forward.

Playing Collegiately: %UHQQHQ )RZOHU /XEERFN &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 1LF /XFHUR :D\land Baptist University.

162

J.D. MAYOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL-COURT PRESS District 5

Sundown Roughettes 2014-15 W-L: 16-14/7-5 Coach: Brian Legan (17 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: For a team that missed the playoffs last season, 2015-16 could represent a perfect confluence of factors needed to right the ship. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of experience returning, the girls bonded over a summer of honing basketball skills and the roster is not lacking for speed or athleticism. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We just need to develop some consistent scorers,â&#x20AC;? says coach Brian Legan. Among those heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll look to thrust into that role are returnees Maegan Hodge, Courtney Sales, Jenna Legan, Bryanna Day, Caycee Holson and Reese Randolph.

Playing Collegiately: Anitria Flowers (Sundown 2012) 6RXWKZHVW 8QLYHUVLW\ LQ +REEV 10 %ULHOOH 0F*UXGHU 6XQGRZQ &LVFR -8&2 LQ &LVFR 7;

District 7 Albany Lions - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 15-14/7-5 Coach: Paul Johnston (23 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 20th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: Albany proved to be a bubble team last season but should break through to the other side this time around thanks to the play of returning starters Rachel Hill, Alexis Munden and Abbi Beard.

Stamford Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-14/9-5 Coach: Dean Edwards (16 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: Despite playing respectably in district last season, the Bulldogs wound up on the outside looking in when it came to the postseason. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enough talent and experience to make sure the Dogs donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get left out in the cold again. But any prospectus on Stamford basketball should begin with Ligon West, a 6-2 senior shooting guard and 2015 TABC All-Region selection (14 ppg, 6 rpg). Stamfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three other returning starters are John Louis Dyer, a 6-2 senior power forward (12 ppg, 6 rpg; all-district); Zai Zai Smith, a 6-0 senior post (8 ppg, 5 rpg); and Noah Horn, a 6-0 sophomore point guard (9 ppg, 4 apg).

Arlington Martin - Girls (District 4) 2014-15 W-L: 3-22/2-12 Head Coach: Val Acree (14 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 1st year as girls head coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: The Lady Blizzards welcome their third coach in four years. Val Acree takes over after last season coaching the boys. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The amount of success this team enjoys will depend on how quickly the players can buy into yet another system,â&#x20AC;? Acree says. The 2015-16 Lady Blizzards have plenty of speed but are a little height-challenged. They wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be lacking, though, in motivation. The program is currently suffering through a four-year playoff drought, and this group would love nothing more than to bring that to an abrupt end. Two Lady Blizzards started last season. They are Bailee Busher, a 5-6 senior post, and Christy Kruse, a 5-5 junior guard. The other returning lettermen are Angelica Taylor, a 5-6 senior post; Michaela Ochoa, a 5-6 junior guard; and Aimee Green, a 5-5 sophomore guard.

District 8 Albany Lions - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-5/12-2 Coach: Ryder Peacock (4 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: Bye; W-Seagraves; L-Smyer.

Outlook: Albany returns three starters and three key role players. Add to the mix some incoming juniors and sophomores from a JV team that won 20 games last season. The combination should be enough to push the Lions back into the playoffs and at least to the third round where they were ousted last season. Albanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six returnees are as follows: Hunter Owen, a 6-0 junior forward (10 ppg, 9 rpg; 1st-team all-district); Brian Hamilton, a 6-0 sophomore forward (7 ppg, 5 rpg; 7-2A Newcomer of the Year); Drew Neece, a 5-10 senior forward and three-year starter (9 ppg, 7 rpg; 2nd-team all-district); Michael Cotter, a 6-2 senior guard and two-year starter (8 ppg, 4 rpg, 4 apg; 2nd-team all-district); Alex Faith, a 5-10 senior guard (4 ppg, 2 spg; honorable-mention all-district); and Jordan Pleasant, a 5-9 junior guard (honorable-mention all-district).

Hawley Lady Cats - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 11-16/4-10 Coach: Andrea Ables (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: Hawley coach Andrea Ables will build her team this season around sophomore guard Samantha Newton (9.5 ppg, 5 rpg). Newton was named the 2015 7-AA 6th Man of the Year and the 2015 All Big Country Newcomer of the Year. Newton will be joined in the starting five by the three other returnees â&#x20AC;&#x201C; senior forward Cassidy Meyer and senior posts Kyrah Bailey and Makayla Easley.

Hawley Bearcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 26-8/10-4 Coach: Chase Coulter (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Regional Semifinalist.

Outlook: In his sophomore season of coaching, Chase Coulter says he is motivated by the athleticism and work ethic of his players. Neither does it hurt his overall outlook that in his rookie season as a coach he was able to guide the Bearcats to the regional semifinals. In hopes of making anther playoff run, Coulter will delegate leadership roles to his two returning starters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; seniors Colton Stoker, a 5-11 guard (8 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 spg) and Brian Webster, a 6-6 post (6 ppg, 5 rpg). The team should also get a boost from the return of Jarred Griffin, a 6-1 junior guard who was averaging 8 points per contest before breaking his foot last season. Three others who project to eat minutes are Calvin Seago, a 6-1 senior forward (5 ppg, 3 rpg); Cameron Kapke, a 5-11 senior guard (2 ppg, 4 apg); and Sylvester Gonzalez, a 6-0 sophomore guard.

Playing Collegiately: &KDVH 6FRWW +DZOH\ +DUGLQ Simmons University.

Christoval Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 21-9 Coach: Gerald Butts (12 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Hawley, 43-41 (Regional Quarterfinals).

Outlook: A 6-0 Baylen Pierce and 6-2 Jacob Whitworth return to lead a smaller-but-quicker- than-last-season Cougars squad.

Eldorado Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 12-16/4-10 Coach: Colton Holmes (1 yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 Outlook: After not getting an invite last season, Eldorado will look to crash the postseason party this spring via two key player knocking on the door. They are returning starters Justin Whiten, a 6-0 senior power forward, and Justin Ochoa, a 5-8 senior point guard.

Iraan Braves - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-10/10-2 Coach: Rick Onofre (16 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Haskell; L-Smyer.

Outlook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We lost some great seniors but will be looking for players to fill some big shoes,â&#x20AC;? says coach Rick Onofre. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We feel the commitment level is there for this team to try and win a district championship.â&#x20AC;? Onofre will build around his two returning starters -- Tanner Myers, a 5-9 senior point guard (1st-team all-district), and Canon Andrews, a 6-4 junior forward (all-district honorable mention). Three other returnees will vie for starting jobs. They are Jordan Foster, a 5-10 senior guard; Owen Davis, a 6-2 senior forward; and Austin Onofre, a 6-1 sophomore guard/forward.

FYI: Team members will be going out into the community this season to volunteer with various outreach projects. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s their way of showing appreciation for the support the community provides them. Many of the projects involve charity fund-raisers. A lot of time, though, will be spent serving as mentors and/or tutors to younger students at the elementary and junior high school levels.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

163

Iraan Bravettes - Girls

Windthorst Trojans - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 9-18/3-11 Coach: Phil Aris (15 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Of Iraan’s seven returnees, five are seniors, so optimism abounds as the 2015-16 campaign approaches tip-off. “We have some very athletic girls returning, and they have put in a lot of work over the summer,” says coach Phil Aris. “If we can take care of the ball and shoot a higher percentage from the perimeter, we should be able to make a run at a playoff spot this year.” Ready to brave whatever the new season may bring are returning starters Hannah Beal, Hayley Cravens, Desiree Fay and Ta’khira Covington.

Lauren Garlock and Corby Chaney will compete for the fifth starting spot.

2014-15 W-L: 20-13/6-4 Coach: Joe Rackley (9 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Tolar, 77-62; L- Dallas Gateway, 50-37.

Outlook: Despite only one returning starter, The Trojans will look to a pair of experienced guards to set the pace and pave the way for a third consecutive trip to the postseason. Windthorst’s one returning starter is Logan Veitenheimer, a 5-10 senior guard (12 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg, 2 apg; 1st-team all-district). He’ll be joined in the starting backcourt

by Garrett Syrus, a 6-0 senior who was last season named the 9-2A 6th Man of the Year (8 ppg, 4 rpg, 2 spg, 1 apg). Also vying for spots in the six-man PT rotation are Landry Vieth, a 6-1 senior post (4 rpg; 9-2A All-Defense Team); Cody Green, a 5-10 senior guard; Brady Tackett, a 6-2 junior post; and Lyndon Teichman, a 6-4 junior post.

FYI: The Trojans are looking to make the playoffs for a third consecutive season. A threeyear playoff run has been accomplished only one other time in school history.

Miles Bulldogs Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-8/12-2 Coach: Kully Hoffpauir (7 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: The Bulldogs return 6-3 Cody Krueger, the 2015 8-2A Co-MVP, and that alone gives Miles the upper-hand in returning to the playoffs and advancing beyond the first round that ended its season this past spring. Also expected to bolster the odds are 6-2 Brett Hedden (2nd-team all-district), 6-1 Hunter Owens (honorable-mention all-district) and 6-5 Sergio Gutierrez.

District 9

District 10 De Leon Lady Cats - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 14-14/2-12 Coach: Kyle Spitzer (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: Kyle Spitzer made his career head-coaching debut last season, and it wasn’t easy. He hopes the return of seven lettermen and a year of teaching his system to new charges will provide the push needed for the Lady Cats to rebound from last season’s 2-12 district mark. He will lean heavily on a core of four comprised of senior point guard Tayln Jobe, senior center Emily Glover, junior power forward Marly Sides and sophomore shooting guard Alyssa Mahan.

Archer City Lady Wildcats - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 22-10/6-4 Coach: Amy Huseman (13 years’ experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Goldthwaite (Bi-district).

Outlook: Two key injuries played havoc with the 2014-15 campaign, but the silver lining proved to be the experience gained by young players who were asked – due to the lineup shake-up – to accept new roles with added responsibility. Their experience should now pay dividends a year later. “We still need to find players with a score-first mentality, but everyone on the team has gained more confidence,” says coach Amy Huseman.

Archer City’s six-person PT rotation comprises Taylor Sims, a senior point guard (13.1 ppg, 2.3 apg, 1.7 spg); Kennedy Huseman, a sophomore guard (12.2 ppg, 2.1 apg, 1.8 spg); Kacey Hasley, a sophomore post (18.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg); Morgan Knobloch, a senior forward (8.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg); Sarah graves, a senior forward (7.4 ppg, 4.5 rpg); and Madison Lucido, a senior guard (8 ppg, 5.2 spg, 2.4 rpg).

Goldthwaite Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-9/9-3 Coach: Angie Hermesmeyer (18 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Archer City, 52-38; W-Muenster, 48-37; L-Windthorst, 60-42.

Outlook: Goldthwaite last season made it to the regional quarterfinals largely due to the play of three-year all-state headliner Jayci Padgett. She’s now playing college ball, so it doesn’t seem likely that Goldthwaite will proceed without skipping a beat. But at least PDNLQJ LW EDFN WR WKH SOD\RIIV GRHV VHHP SODXVLEOH ã7KLV \HDUáV WHDP ZLOO EH VROLG ZLWK lots of depth at every position,” says coach Angie Hermesmeyer. Looking to carry the torch will be a starting five of Cecelia Balencia, a 5-6 senior point guard (14 ppg, 6 spg, 4 apg); Judith Horton, a 5-8 senior guard (9 ppg, 5 rpg); Rylie Padgett, a 5-9 junior forward (10 ppg, 6 rpg); Gwendolyn Johnson, a 5-10 senior center (4 ppg, 8 rpg); and Mayra Delacruz, a 5-5 senior guard (4 ppg, 4 spg).

Playing Collegiately: -D\FL 3DGJHWW &RQFRUGLD 8QLYHUVLW\

Olney Cubs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 27-6/10-0 Coach: Carl Pennington (14 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 1/0 2015 Postseason: L-Muenster (Regional Quarterfinals).

Outlook: Olney only has one returnee. Period. The Cubs lost 10 seniors who compiled a 72-23 record during their three years of varsity ball. “We will struggle at the start trying to find our identity,” says Carl Pennington. “If we can find a point guard and if Carson Fite and Brent McCorkle can provide some offense with some solid kids coming off of the JV, we will have a chance to compete for a playoff spot. But we will have to hang our hats on being a solid defensive team. That will be our focus.” Carson Fite, a 6-3 forward (2.1 ppg, 1.8 rpg) is Olney’s only returnee. Brent McCorkle is a JV call-up expected to have a breakout year.

Windthorst Trojanettes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 28-6/10-0 Coach: Heather Stark (10 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 2015 Postseason: Bye; W-Frost, 73-37; W-Goldthwaite, 60-42; L-Bells, 65-58.

Outlook: The return of an all-state point guard, four other starters and two key bench players positions Windthorst as a team with a pretty good shot at advancing to the state tournament. The cornerstone is 5-7 sophomore point guard Tatum Veitenheimer. As a mere freshman, she averaged 21.9 points and 7.5 steals per game – numbers that not only earned her distinction as the 2015 9-2A MVP, but also selection to the TABC and TGCA all-state squads. Her backcourt mate, Sydni Clifton, a 5-7 senior (9 ppg), made the TABC All-Region team, and Breann Schreiber, a 5-8 senior post (9.7 ppg), earned 1st-team all-district selection.

Goldthwaite Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-6/11-1 Coach: Jeffrey Head Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Bi-district; L-Area.

Outlook: The Eagles will have to replace the 12-AA Defensive Player of the Year and the squad lacks height; but all of that notwithstanding, there is quite a bit of talent returning. Bottom line, Goldthwaite should have little problem making the postseason this spring. What it does after that is anyone’s guess. The Eagles’ four returning starters from last season are Jansen Head, Christian Valencia, Hunter Parrish and Zac Gaspar.

Ranger Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 6-20/0-12 Coach: Buddy Adams (making head coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: Buddy Adams makes his career head-coaching debut with a program that failed to win a game in district play last season. The Bulldogs of a year ago were very young; and even though seven lettermen return this season, the roster is still relatively young. ”We will need to emphasize defense to get to where we want to be,” says Adams.

“We will have multiple defenses to throw at opponents, and hard work on the defensive end will hopefully translate into many opportunities to score in transition, where we will look to push the tempo.” Adams says he will go with a starting five of Mitchell Needham, a 6-3 sophomore forward (12 ppg, 8 rpg); Jeffrey Beatty, a 5-11 junior guard (8 ppg, 5 rpg, 5 apg); Robby Podratz, a 6-0 senior forward (4 ppg, 7 rpg, 4 apg); Jorge Bosquez, a 6-0 junior forward (7 ppg, 7 rpg, 3 apg); and Bennett Motley, a 5-10 freshman guard.

164

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Ranger Lady Bulldogs - Girls

Muenster Hornets - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 15-13/2-10 Coach: Jill Kendall (23 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs are looking to break a playoff drought of 28 years. All four starters who return garnered all-district accolades last season, so maybe this is the year that the worm turns. The four returning starters are Erin Mayes, a 5-10 senior forward (1st-team all-district); Makaela Ewing, a 6-0 junior forward (2nd-team all-district); Mia Cherry, a 5-7 sophomore point guard (2nd-team all-district); Madilyn Ellerbe, a 5-9 sophomore forward (honorable-mention all-district).

2014-15 W-L: 32-4/14-0 Coach: Lynn Cook (16 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: W-Petrolia, 58-34; W-Olney, 52-27; W-Clarksville, 72-58; L-Martin’s Mill, 46-28.

Outlook: Muenster coach Lynn Cook says his program will undergo “a complete overhaul” this fall. “We go from having two of the best big men in the state over the past two seasons -- Cole Walterscheid and Lyndon Cook -- to being a very guard-oriented team.

Defense, as always, will be the key to our success.” Nevertheless, Muenster remains a legitimate state-title contender. One reason is that Muenster’s point guard isn’t a typical point guard. Logan Cook – the younger brother of Lyndon Cook – stands 6-6. The junior floor general last season earned all-region selection after posting 9.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.7 apg, 2.5 spg and 1.2 bpg. Muenster’s two other returnees are Blake Hoepfner, a 6-1 junior wing (2nd-team all-district; 8.2 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.3 apg), and Blayne Jones, a 6-1 junior wing (11-2A Newcomer of the Year; 5.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: /\QGRQ &RRN 0XHQVWHU 6W (GZDUGV 8QLYHUVLW\

Santo Ladycats - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 25-8/11-3 Coach: Tony Raffaele (25 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Seymour; W-Italy; W-Alvord; L-Martins Mill.

Outlook: Chasen Howard, a 5-10 senior wing/post, is one of four starters who return from a squad that reached the regional semifinals before bowing to Martin’s Mill.

Howard last season received all-region accolades, and her versatility has evolved her into the type of player that could prove singular in Santo’s attempt to make some playoff noise in 2016.

Poolville Monarchs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 15-12/5-9 Coach: Woody Young (34 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: The Monarchs have now had one full year to learn coach Woody Young’s system, which he installed upon taking over as head coach for the 2014-15 campaign.

Familiarity should breed improvement, and that could result in Poolville sneaking into the playoffs or, at the very least, getting on the bubble. Young’s ace in the hole is Tracy Johnson, a 5-7 senior who last season earned her way onto the TGCA All-State team. Her 2014-15 numbers speak for themselves: 19.9 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 5.6 apg, 3.13 spg, 47.3 FG% and 78.3 FT%. Poolville’s three other returning starters are Katie Cumbie, a 5-9 senior (8.2 ppg, 10.1 rpg); Kallee Cumbie, a 5-7 junior; and Brenlee Jones, a 5-9 junior.

Tolar Rattlers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 12-17/9-3 Coach: Kent Caruthers (16 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: L-Windthorst (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Rattlers bid farewell to three starters but will reload with athletic reserves and are coiled and ready to reach the playoffs again. The two returning starters are Steve Morphew, a 5-10 senior guard (1st-team all-district), and Bryce Farmer, a 6-1 junior guard (2nd-team all-district). The x factor, though, is Will Bonnell, a 6-5 junior post who was named 10-2A 6th Man of the Year. He will certainly be a force in the paint. How much so will probably prove to be pivotal.

Valley View Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 10-15/5-9 Coach: Leigh Vickery (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: “We are going to be much smaller than in previous years, but we are going to be faster and much more athletic,” coach Leigh Vickery says. Valley View will throw opponents a one-two punch this season. The first punch will come via Savanna Schneiderjan, a 5-6 senior point guard and two-time all-district selection. She last season posted 9 ppg, 5 apg and 5.4 rpg. Lauren Bierschenk, a 5-9 senior guard/forward, will deliver the second punch. She too is a two-time all-district selection. Bierschenk booked 15 ppg, 5.2 rpg in 2014-15.

District 1 1 Alvord Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-15/11-3 Coach: John Shelton (26 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 2015 Postseason: Regional Quarterfinalist.

Outlook: Muenster begins the season as the favorite to win the 11-2A title, but Alvord – with the return of all-state junior post Cierra Rangel – will offer a strong challenge. The 6-foot Rangel last season posted 14.5 ppg, 7.8 rpg in earning 2015 all-state accolades.

Three other Lady Bulldogs also buoy Alvord’s playoff prospects. These three impactful minute-eaters comprise Mikena Mader, a 5-5 senior guard (4.9 ppg, 2.5 apg, 2.1 spg); Bailey Hamilton, a 5-7 senior point guard (5.0 ppg, 3.8 apg, 2.7 spg); and Reagan Guthrie, a 5-4 senior guard, who last season flexed her defensive muscle by taking a team-high 28 charges.

Playing Collegiately: -RUGDQ :DUG 8QLYHUVLW\ RI &HQWUDO 2NODKRPD /DXUHQ +DUW 8QLversity of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.

District 1 2 Frost Lady Polar Bears - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 24-5/4-2 Coach: Clark Moore (19 years’ experience; 4th year with the Lady Polar Bears) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Lindsay; L-Windthorst.

Outlook: Six-foot forward Jae Moore returns for her senior curtain call after earning distinction as the 2015 12-2A Co-MVP. Frost’s starting lineup also includes Karlie Scott, a 5-8 junior guard (1st-team all-district); Kennah Kennedy, a 5-8 junior guard (2015 12-2A Co-Defensive Player of the Year); Kaycee Bowling, a 5-8 senior guard (1st-team all-district); and Madison Revill, a 5-9 senior forward (2015 12-2A 6th Man of the Year).

Frost Polar Bears - Boys Muenster Lady Hornets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 25-8/13-1 Coach: Griffin Fields (13 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Bye; L-Goldthwaite, 48-37.

Outlook: “Region II has some great teams and great coaches,” says Muenster coach Griffin Fields. “It will be a dogfight that we hope to be a part of in the end.” To that end, Fields has pieced together a challenging preseason schedule to make his squad battle-tested heading into district play. Muenster’s seven returnees are topped by Mady Burnett, a 5-6 senior guard who last season earned distinction as 11-2A MVP and was then selected to the TABC All-Region team. The other six returnees are Bailey Klement, a 5-11 junior post (2015 11-2A Newcomer of the Year); Morgan Eldridge, a 6-1 junior post (2nd-team all-district); Katie Pagel, a 5-11 senior guard/post (2nd-team all-district); Claire Schneider, a 5-9 senior guard (honorable-mention all-district); Courtney Stevens, a 5-5 senior guard (honorable-mention all-district); and Allie Walterscheid, a 5-11 senior guard.

Playing Collegiately: 'HPL .RHO]HU 6RXWKHDVWHUQ 2NODKRPD 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\

2014-15 W-L: 15-16/6-2 Coach: Tony Leamon (14 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Lindsey, 57-54 OT (Bi-district).

Outlook: Tony Leamon assumes control of the Polar Bears this fall after having coached Mexia to back-to-back appearances in the regional tournament. He inherits a strange mix. His new team is really young but experienced at the same time. Only two Polar Bears are seniors, but most of the key players return from last year’s playoff team. “We should improve drastically as the season goes on,” Leamon says. “As usual, adapting to a new system and improving fundaments will be key.” Kobe Hailey, a 6-0 junior guard (19.6 ppg, 6.2 rpg), will help smooth the transition after last season being named 12-2A Co-MVP. Frost’s two other returning starters are Ryan Worley, a 6-1 senior forward (8.2 ppg, 7.5 rpg; 1st-team all-district), and Sami Manrriquez, a 5-10 junior guard (4.3 ppg, 3.1 apg; 2nd-team all-district).

Playing Collegiately: '- :HDWKHUV 0H[LD 7H[DV $ 0 .LQJVYLOOH 0LVWHU &DUUROO 0H[LD

6RXWKZHVWHUQ &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ &XUN +DUULV 0H[LD 5LFKODQG &ROOHJH 7UH\ %DUVWRZ 0H[LD &HQWHQDU\ &ROOHJH RI /RXLVLDQD

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

165 District 1 5

Italy Lady Gladiators - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 24-9/6-0 Coach: Melissa Fullmer (7 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Santo, 58-53.

Outlook: The Lady Gladiators are fresh off their best season in school history; and with seven lettermen returning, there should be plenty more where that came from. Gone is all-state star Kortnei Johnson, who closed her career this past spring as Italy’s all-time leading scorer. But there’s a new Gladiator in town, and her name is Emmy Cunningham.

She will be the floor general after a stellar freshman campaign (18 ppg, 7 rpg, 4 apg) that ended with her being named 2015 12-2A Offensive Player of the Year and earning selection to the TGCA All-State team and to the academic all-district squad. Shercorya Chance, a 6-2 senior center (11 ppg, 9 rpg; 1st-team all-district), and Taleyia Wilson, a 5-8 senior forward (6 ppg, 10 rpg; 1st-team all-district) are returning veterans who add strength and size in the paint, and Janae Robertson, a 5-11 senior guard/forward (3 ppg, 3 rpg), is expected to have a big year after being named the 2015 12-2A Newcomer of the Year.

Sharing the backcourt with Cunningham will be Brycelen Richards, a 5-6 sophomore combo guard (3 ppg, 2 apg; 2nd-team all-district, academic all-district), who is expected to have a breakout year after getting wet as a fish. Also figuring into the PT rotation are T’Keyah Pace, a 5-4 sophomore who will serve as Italy’s designated defensive stopper, and Lillie Perry, a 5-8 senior forward (4 ppg, 3 rpg; 2nd-team all-district).

District 1 3 Blue Ridge Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 28-4/13-3 Coach: Daniel England (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Quinlan Boles, 73-54; L-Clarksville, 72-54.

Outlook: The Tigers return three starters -- Brevin Wiggins, Harrison Martin and Ty Agan – in coach Daniel England’s second year at the helm. Looking to also eat important minutes are Garrett Jones, Konner Walker, Clayton Patton, Hunter McCarley and Joel Linn.

Avery Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-9/8-2 Coach: Jack Bowles (24 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: The 2015-16 edition of Avery basketball is fortified with lots of depth but no skyscrapers. Despite a lack of height, coach Jack Bowles thinks his squad can advance beyond the first playoff round that bit them this past spring. His hopes rest on the shoulders of four returning starters – 6-0 senior Charles Kelly, 5-10 senior Gage Berry, 5-9 Alan Jackson and 5-10 Kort Bowles.

FYI: Avery has not missed the playoffs in more than two decades, and the basketball program’s rich tradition owes largely to longtime successful coach and former Avery High School principal Gene Weaver. It is for his many contributions that the high school’s gym is named in his honor.

Bogata Rivercrest Rebels - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 24-9/6-4 Coach: Eric Hicks (3 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Hawkins, 44-34; L-Bland, 46-35.

Outlook: A trio of seniors – all of whom started last season – will propel Rivercrest’s playoff hopes this season. This three-pronged tower of power comprises Devynn Sloan, a 6-1 senior guard (1st-team all-district, 2015 Red River Valley Newcomer of the Year); Trevor Barbo, a 6-5 senior post (1st-team all-district, 2nd-team All Red River Valley); and Josh Eudy, a 6-3 senior forward (2nd-team all-district, honorable-mention All Red River Valley).

Playing Collegiately: $QWKRQ\ 3HQD 5LYHUFUHVW 6RXWKHUQ 1D]DUHQH 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: This year marks the 10th anniversary of Rivercrest’s 2006 state championship team.

All those connected to Rebels basketball are blowing out the candles accordingly and wishing for similar success in the very near future.

Celeste Lady Blue Devils - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 15-15/9-5 Coach: Amy Herron (10 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Fruitvale, 54-35; W-Clarksville, 53-41; L-Bells, 66-37.

Outlook: After losing two key players to graduation, Celeste will pin its playoff hopes on the inside-out game of point guard Sarah Myers (2015 13-2A Offensive MVP) and post Jalisa Phillips (1st-team all-district).

Bland Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 27-7/13-1 Coach: Jeff Bell (31 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Rivercrest; L-Clarksville.

Outlook: “We will play great team basketball from the outset,” says coach Jeff Bell, “and we hope that by the time district rolls around, we will be a good defensive team.” Jerrie Giffin (all-district) will lead a squad that also returns four other lettermen -- Mason Morquecho, Caleb Turner, Matt Humphrey and Justin Wells.

Trenton High School - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-8/8-6 Coach: Mike Jones (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 Outlook: A loss of three starters hasn’t shaken the tree. “We have the core of our team coming back,” says coach Mike Jones, “and we have some very talented young players that should make an impact.” The beam will be balanced, though, by the return of two starters -- Jordan Withrow and Bria Green.

Wolfe City Lady Wolves - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 5-21/2-12 Coach: Stephen Blassingame Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 Outlook: Wolfe City coach Stephen Blassingame describes the 2014-2015 campaign as “a tough year,” but goes on to say that “with three sophomores returning who played big minutes last season as freshmen, along with three new players, we look to reverse our season record (5-21/2-12).” Returnees include Taylor Woodruff, Madison Humphries, Skylar Brower, Lauren Turner, Lexi Blassingame, Lexi Hattaway, Jayla Hattaway and Baylee Jordan.

Clarksville Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 26-9/10-0 Coach: Willie Coulter (34 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Blue Ridge, 72-54; Bland, 56-38; L-Muenster, 72-58.

Outlook: Clarksville coach Willie Coulter says his young team is anxious. “We want to make amends for our earlier-than-expected exit from the playoffs last year,” he explains. “With this young team and the tradition of Clarksville basketball, we are excited about the next few months.” Three juniors – all of whom started last season – will provide the Tigers their collective catalyst. They are 6-7 junior forward Clashon Gaffney (first-team TABC All-Region; 2015 15-2A MVP), 5-9 junior guard Rayzon Allen (2015 15-2A Defensive MVP) and 6-5 junior forward Quintin Wallace (first-team all-district).

Maud Cardinals - Girls Coach: Shannon Williams (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: Maud returns seven of eight players from last season, and there has been a concerted effort during a summer-long conditioning program to fine-tune the motor for an up-tempo style of play. “We should be very athletic and will look to get up and down the floor quickly,” says coach Shannon Williams. “It promises to be an exciting season.”

Maud Cardinals - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 9-16/2-8 Coach: Colby Carr (2 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: In his second year at Maud, coach Colby Carr has set the bar about as high as possible given a team coming off a 2-8 showing in district. “We should be much improved,” Carr says. “I fully expect to make the playoffs this year, or we all will be very disappointed.” Carr goes on to explain that last year was all about “laying down a solid foundation.” “The kids were new to me,” he says, “and I was new to them. This year, I believe we will hit the ground running. The kids have been working hard in the off-season to prove we are not just a baseball/football school.” Carr’s team will literally revolve around 6-3 center Kendall Mathis (2nd-team all-district; 12.7 ppg, 9.8 rpg). Also projected to log important minutes are Logan Hemby, a 6-3 forward; and two 5-9 guards -- Josh Cardwell and Cade Prince.

166

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1 6

Big Sandy Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-16/6-4 Coach: Kerry Strong (7 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Avery, 51-49; L-Martin’s Mill, 70-38.

Outlook: The return of six seniors and the addition of one very talented freshman shape the storyline for Big Sandy’s Wildcats. Incoming freshman Josiah Johnson will immediately take over the point guard duties and, according to coach Kerry Strong, “he has the potential to make every other player for us better.” Strong adds that his biggest concern is depth. Four of his starting five have been named, though. Johnson will join the three returning starters from last season. Those three returnees are Jordan Womack, a 6-1 senior guard; Jacob Shipman, a 5-11 junior guard; and Mason Maxwell, a 6-2 senior forward.

FYI: Big Sandy has – for the first time in school history – advanced to the postseason three consecutive years.

LaPoynor Flyers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 28-5/11-1 Coach: Dean Nuckolls (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Chilton, 53-41; W-Cross Roads, 75-56; L-Tenaha, 67-59.

Outlook: LaPoynor projects as a team that will battle Big Sandy Dallardsville for supremacy in Region 3. Much of the Flyers’ preseason respect owes to the return of 6-1 all-state forward James Jackson. LaPoynor’s headliner enters his senior curtain-call having last season booked 14 points and 11 rebounds per game. He’ll have plenty of valuable pieces around him as the Flyers’ starting five also includes 5-10 junior guard Xavier Oliver (1stteam all-district; 9 ppg, 3 apg), 5-9 junior guard Lane McClelland (1st-team all-district; 8 ppg), 6-0 junior guard KeAndre Eldridge (2015 19-2A Defensive Player of the Year) and 6-0 junior guard Zach Solis (2015 19-2A 6th Man of the Year).

District 2 0 Groveton Indians - Boys Union Grove Lions - Boys 2014-15: 21-8/9-1 Coach: Dee Lewis (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Honey Grove, 55-50.

Outlook: “We have some returnees who are better familiar with the offense and are disciplined and dedicated to learn and get better every day,” says coach Dee Lewis. That being said, the Lions return only four lettermen. Here’s how the starting five breaks down: Hayden Gray, Chase Day, Austin Owens, Parker Thornton and Brennon Daughtry.

2014-15 W-L: 6-18/1-9 Coach: Zach Birdwell (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 Outlook: The Indians did not field a varsity team in the 2013-14 season but bounced back last year to win six games. Groveton’s 2015-16 edition will have three returning starters and, according to 2nd-year coach Zach Birdwell, will be in the hunt for the Indians’ first playoff birth since 2009. The three returning starters are Jonathan Eleby, a 6-2 senior center; Dawson Chumley, a 6-3 junior shooting guard; and Saul Chavez, a 5-8 sophomore point guard.

McLeod Lady Longhorns - Girls 2014-15 District Record: 1-9 Head Coach: Marty Francis (9 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 Outlook: There is only one senior on the entire roster, but youth notwithstanding, coach Marty Francis says “We should be able to compete for a play-off spot if everyone stays healthy.” The two starters that return from a squad that mustered only one district win are Kyndal Shepard, a 5-9 forward/post, and Selena Moon, a 5-3 point guard.

District 1 7

District 2 1 Alto Lady Jackets - Girls 2014-15: W-L: 12-14/4-6 Coach: Kendra McAlister (8 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: The Lady Jackets were left out in the cold come playoff time this past spring.

This season they will hope to heat up a bit and will turn to two all-district performers to turn on the switch. Shavieontae Johnson, a 5-6 sophomore point guard, was voted the 2015 21-2A Newcomer of the Year, while Jakamri Green, a 5-4 senior shooting guard earned first-team selection to the all-district squad.

Crawford Pirates - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 10-14/9-3 Coach: Brent Elmore (9 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 7/4 2015 Postseason: L-Chilton, 36-32 (Bi-District).

Outlook: Three of Crawford’s five seniors have been playing varsity ball since they were mere freshmen and should serve as great leaders in their career curtain calls. All of which is to say that the Pirates should again make the playoffs and this time advance at least a couple of rounds. The four returning starters are Wyatt Griffith, a 6-1 senior forward (1st-team all-district); Max Viladevall, a 5-9 senior guard (1st-team all-district); Peyton Rathke, a 6-3 senior forward (1st-team all-district); and Garrett Dutschmann, a 5-8 sophomore (39% 3-pt. FG).

District 1 8 Rosebud-Lott Cougars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 11-19/5-5 Coach: Hosea Smith (11 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: After coming just a game away from making the playoffs this past spring, the Cougars’ starting five returns intact and ready to cleanse the palate. Here’s the opening-tip breakdown: Tyler Willberg, a 6-4 senior post; Jason Mallory, a 6-0 senior post; JaQuorion Johnson, a 5-6 guard; Jaylon McKinnley, a 5-11 guard; and Ramiro Costilla, a 5-6 guard. Players to watch include Juwon Roberson, Chris Bravo, Ross Ashford, Latham Hoff and Jeremy Truesdale.

District 2 2 Shelbyville Dragons - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-8/9-1 Coach: Jerod Roland (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-West Sabine.

Outlook: “We should win our district and make a significant playoff run,” says coach Jerod Roland. Strong words maybe, but the Dragons return 10 lettermen from a team that was nearly perfect in district. The three returning starters who hold the palm leaves are guard/forward JJ Boykins (17 ppg) point guard Ta’Vion Barnes (9 ppg) and guard Jeremy Boykins (8 ppg).

Timpson Lady Bears - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 6-20/0-10 Coach: Joshua Jourden (8 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: “We will be very young,” coach Joshua Jourden says, “but I am hoping we grow and improve through pre-season and are ready to compete in District 22.” Young may be an understatement. There are four freshmen, one sophomore and only one senior in the six-person PT rotation. Here’s how it breaks down: sophomore Jasmine Rogers, senior Tori Cross, freshman McKenzie Burgay, freshman Ja’Karia Deckard, freshman Macey Hanson and freshman Sara Duke.

3OD\HUV &RPSHWLQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ 0LD 2FKRD :KLWKDUUDO +6 6XO 5RVV 6WDWH 8QLYHUsity.

District 1 9 District 2 3

Dawson Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 8-22/0-12 Coach: Darious Slade (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/3 Outlook: On the heels of an 0-for in district, the Bulldogs have renewed hope that the worm is about to turn. A core of four -- Josh Summers, Justin Gray, Lane Dotson and Micheal Femster – has impressed with improvements made during the offseason, and Summers and Femster look particularly primed to have breakout years.

West Sabine Tigers - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 8-2 Coach: Danny Bragg Jr. (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-West Hardin, 71-38; W-Shelbyville, 66-55; L-Big Sandy, 67-43.

Outlook: The Tigers bid farewell to two players who wound up lettering all four years of their career, but coach Danny Bragg Jr. says his team still boasts more depth than it has in several years. Bragg has decided on four starters and is waiting on a fifth to force his hand. Here’s how the first four break down: 5-8 junior guard DeMarie’ Smith, 6-0 senior post Dillon Sepulvado, 6-3 junior post Blake Ponder and 5-7 senior guard CJ Williams.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

167

San Augustine Wolves - Boys

Normangee Panthers - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 14-15/9-1 Coach: Tory Barnes (7 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: L-Tenaha (Bi-district) Outlook: In his first-year as San Augustine’s coach, Tory Barnes sees a cup half full instead of a cup half empty. Only 1 starter returns, but Barnes sees nothing but a cadre of young and talented players. “We will be very athletic and look to pressure defensively and run in transition,” he says. “We should be able to play about 10 deep.” There are three, though, that will lead the pack. They are Jaylon Taylor, a 5-8 senior (8 ppg, 2 spg); Ced Thomas, a 6-0 sophomore (13 ppg, 3 apg; 1st-team all-district); and Z’Vante Garrett, a 6-1 senior (3 spg, 5 rpg; 2015 23-2A Defensive Player of the Year).

2014-15 W-L: 20-7/9-1 Coach: Rusty Hunter (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Shiner, 78-49; L-Schulenburg, 62-51.

Outlook: Gone is 2015 26-2A MVP and All-Brazos-Valley selection Exavier Brooks. Also graduated is Colton Jones, a 1st-team all-district selection last season. Brooks and Jones accounted for half of the Panthers’ offensive output, so they will be sorely missed.

But there’s still plenty left in the tank for Normangee to again drive to the top of the district standings and then cruise back to the regional tournament for a chance to punch its ticket to San Antonio. Of Normangee’s three returning starters, the centerpiece is Austin Aguirre, a 5-8 senior (10.5 ppg, 3.3 apg, 3.3 spg; 45% 3-pt FG; 1st-team all-district).

Ty’Draious Jordan, a 5-11 junior, and Bryson Cornish, a 6-1 senior, also started a year ago.

Jordan posted 5.9 ppg and 3.5 apg while hitting 41% from beyond the arc. He was named the 2015 26-2A Defensive MVP. Cornish booked 8.7 ppg and 8 rpg en route to 2nd-team all-district selection. Two 2014-15 reserves – 6-2 senior Logan Young and 6-3 senior Boston Wrenn – will now start. Young, the first person off the bench last season, averaged 4.8 points per game and hit 42% from deep.

Wren averaged 3.5 points and 4.3 rebounds.

Playing Collegiately: ([DYLHU %URRNV 1RUPDQJHH (DVW 7H[DV %DSWLVW 8QLYHUVLW\

Zavalla Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 12-17/4-6 Coach: Jan West (29 years’ experience; 30th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 Outlook: The potential for success for this edition of the Lady Eagles is vast. The Lady Eagles will this season be founded on defense, according to coach Jan West. “Our speed and team chemistry will be what allow this team to accomplish more than it did a year ago.”

Two starters are back, and one, Jordann Quail, a 5-4 guard, last season averaged 13.1 ppg in being named the 2015 23-2A Offensive Player of the Year and earning selection to the TABC All-Region squad. Rebecca White, a 5-7 post (4.2 ppg), also started a year ago, and Kristen Evans, a 5-4 guard (sidelined by a knee injury midway through the 2014-15 campaign), is anxious for the season to get underway.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ &DLWO\Q /DPEHUW =DYDOOD $QJHOLQD &ROOHJH

District 2 4 Evadale Rebels - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 30-5/12-0 Coach: Robert Hollyfield (15 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Carlisle; W-Tenaha; L-Hubbard, 60-56.

Outlook: Evadale coach Robert Hollyfield describes his latest edition of Rebels as a “scrappy bunch” and one that is in good position to win another district title after doing so last season with a perfect 12-0 slate. Three starters return to make his words prophetic. They are Michaela Terry, a 5-5 sophomore point guard; Hannah Oldbury, a 5-6 junior shooting guard; and Savannah Richardson, a 5-11 senior post.

Evadale Rebels - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-14/8-3 Coach: Keith Talbert (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Broaddus, 61-58; L-New Summerfield, 57-49.

Outlook: Evadale returns its top two scorers but will need to find someone to step up and grab some of the rebounds the now graduated Logan Hare pulled down as the Rebels’ top board-crasher in 2014-15. Slated to be on the floor when the season tips are Brady Griffin, Tyler Torres, Kegan Rawls, Coy Williams and Daniel Bean.

District 2 6 Anderson-Shiro Owls - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 19-16/8-0 Coach: Randy Foy (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Mason, 55-42.

Outlook: “We should make a good run this year,” says coach Randy Foy, whose squad won district last season but then lost by 13 to its first opponent in the postseason. The three returning starters who remember that experience all too well are 5-11 senior wing/post Madison Milligan (2015 26-2A Defensive MVP), 5-8 junior combo guard Hannah Barosh (1st-team all-district) and 5-7 sophomore guard Catie Sexton (2nd-team all-district).

Mumford Mustangs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 30-6/9-1 Coach: Blayne Davis (10 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 2015 Postseason: Area Qualifiers.

Outlook: The Mustangs will set up shop around the perimeter this season. Mumford’s guard-dominated lineup showcases the 2015 26-2A Offensive MVP James Morris. His supporting cast includes three other returnees -- Edward Scamardo (2nd-team all-district), Andrew Eckenrode (honorable-mention all-district) and Rene Alvarado. .

Playing Collegiately: /DNHQGULF +\VRQ %OLQQ &ROOHJH

District 2 7 Harper Longhorns - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 27-7/8-2 Coach: Vance Millican Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Mumford; L-Thorndale.

Outlook: The Longhorns have both the experience and size to make another run following last season’s trip to the regional quarterfinals. Six lettermen return to bolster their chances. They include seniors Roger Perkins, Gus Sagraves, Jayden Baumann and Drew Stracke. The other two returnees are juniors with length – 6-6 Josh Sagraves and 6-6 Carson McKnight.

Playing Collegiately: *X\ 6WHYHQVRQ 6FKHLQHU 8QLYHUVLW\

San Saba Armadillos - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 28-4/10-0 Coach: Alicia Cummings (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Iola, 61-45; L-Schulenburg, 66-63.

Outlook: The Armadillos will rely on speed and quickness -- along with balanced scoring -- to navigate what they hope will be a pathway to San Antonio. Three starters return, and there’s a core of four that will be asked to grip the steering wheel. This court quartet comprises Saveria Vasquez, a 5-5 junior guard (15.9 ppg, 3.1 spg); Alexus Saldivar, a 5-7 senior forward (7.8 ppg, 5.1 rpg); Raylee Pannell, a 5-10 junior post (4.5 ppg, 5.2 rpg); and Hannah Hibler, a 5-8 junior post (6.1 ppg, 6.7 rpg).

San Saba Armadillos - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-11/8-2 Coach: Ron Welch (8 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Shiner, 61-57 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Whether the Armadillos return to the postseason this spring will hinge on whether the 2014-15 role players can stare into the limelight without blinking. “We will have to have some kids really step up and contribute this year if we are going to have any success,” says coach Ron Welch. In the meantime, three returning starters will try to batten down the hatches. They are John Welch, a 6-0 senior point guard (27-2A Co-Defensive MVP); Holt Oliver, a 6-1 senior forward (1st-team all-district); and John Faught, a 5-10 senior guard (2nd-team all-district).

District 2 8 Flatonia Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 11-20/3-7 Coach: Jennifer Zaruba (9 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 Outlook: At least one more game. That’s the bone the Lady Bulldogs are looking to dig up after not tasting the postseason in some time. Maggie Mica and Riley Beck return to the lineup after starting a year ago. Brittany Ochs also returns after missing much of the 2014-2015 season due to injury.

Schulenburg Lady Horns - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-4/8-2 Coach: Phillip Eddins (7 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/1 2015 Postseason: W-Center Point, 59-21; W-Holland, 47-30; W-San Saba, 65-62; W-Port Aransas, 57-38; L-Weimar, 70-35.

Outlook: After coming just one game shy of the state tournament, it will be back to scratch. “We are looking to rebuild quickly and get back to regionals,” says coach Phillip Eddins. To that end, he’ll go with a starting five that comprises K. Haywood, J. Machac, B. Stoval, C. Norell and D. Jackson.

168

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Shiner Comanches - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-11/6-4 Coach: Noe McCarthy (19 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-San Saba; L-Normangee.

Outlook: Schulenburg and Flatonia may be favored to win 28-2A; but with seven returning lettermen, Shiner could be the surprise team that gives them fits. Three starters return from last year’s squad that ran into a second-round buzz saw called Normangee. The big chief among the three is Justin Stovall, a 5-10 senior guard (16 ppg, 7 rpg, 3.2 apg, 2.6 spg). The other two starters are Chad Neubauer, a 5-10 senior forward (7 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 spg), and Ty Condel, a 6-2 senior forward (6 ppg, 4 rpg, 2.4 apg).

Sabinal Yellowjackets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-9/7-3 Coach: David Navarro (12 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: Area Qualifier.

Outlook: Sabinal coach David Navarro says his lineup will include a lot of new faces looking to learn the ropes of varsity ball, but adds that the Yellowjackets should still have enough sting to secure one of four playoff spots. The 5-10 Aaron Santleben and 6-0 Heath White are expected to set the tone for a revamped squad that includes only one returning starter.

District 3 0 Falls City Beaverettes - Girls Weimar Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 3-26/2-8 Coach: Marcus McNeil (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Last season marked Marcus McNeil’s career head-coaching debut. Now that the players have learned his system, he says the bar has been risen. “I have high expectations for this group,” McNeil says. “The potential is very high. Really, the key will be how well we pull together and play for one another.” Two starters -- Tanner Sembera and Trevor Holland – return from last season. They should prove instrumental in acclimating the younger call-ups to McNeil’s brand of basketball. Also slated to letter this year are Dalton Wyrich, Jacory Gordon, Parker Holland, Jadon Blanks, Da’Vondre Almedia, JaCobi Rhodes, Julio Jimenez, Jerrett Brown and Dylan Isaac.

2014-15 W-L: 25-9/10-0 Coach: Brian Osuna (10 years’ experience; 8th year at school).

Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Corpus Christi London, 55-44; W-Bracketville, 54-33; L-Weimar, 70-37.

Outlook: Three of the district’s best players return to project Falls City as a state-title contender. For starters, the 2015 30-2A co-MVPs -- Kaelan Cheatham and Hannah Lyssy – return.

Cheatham, a senior point guard, and Lyssy, a senior forward, were also selected to the TABC All-Region team after averaging 10 and 12 points, respectively. Falls City’s other returning starter, senior guard Alexis Sekula, contributed 7 points per game and earned distinction as the 2015 30-2A Defensive Player of the Year.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ &KHOVH\ 6WROOH 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 7LIIDQ\ ']LXN 7H[DV /XWKHUDQ University.

District 2 9 Kenedy Lions - Boys

La Pryor Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 8-19/6-4 Coach: Dean Carter (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 2015 Postseason: L-Three Rivers, 35-25 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs are looking to notch consecutive postseason appearances for the first time in program history. The odds are in their favor as every starter returns from a year ago. Three-year starter Sadie Martinez headlines La Pryor after having averaged 18.4 points per game and getting selected to the 29-2A all-district team last season. Returning starters Larrisa Delgado and Gracie Gaspar also earned all-district selection, and La Pryor’s two other starters -- Kiersten Paul and Caitlyn Holguin – showed continued improvement that should manifest itself in increased roles this season.

2014-15 W-L: 25-11/10-0 Coach: Jerry Connell (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: L-Refugio, 67-56 (Area).

Outlook: After losing an all-state player, Kenedy finds itself in the process of re-tooling. Nevertheless, coach Jerry Connell claims this year’s edition of the Lions will actually be “deeper and more athletic” than last season’s. Two players -- Andre Martinez and Derrick Wilson -- will be challenged to take on leadership roles. Martinez, a 5-10 senior point guard, was named 2015 30-2A Co-Offensive Player of the Year after averaging 13 ppg, 4 apg and 4 spg. Derrick Wilson, a 6-2 junior forward, posted 11 ppg, 12 rpg and 2 bpg in earning section as the 2015 30-2A Newcomer of the Year. Coming off the bench, Noah Garcia, a 5-8 forward, booked 8 ppg and 3 spg en route to 2nd-team all-district accolades. Also expected to eat minutes this season are Aaron Villarreal, a 5-8 senior guard (4 ppg); Dedrick Wilson, a 6-3 freshman center; Seth Harris, a 6-3 senior; and Chris Pena, a 5-10 junior forward. Playing for the JV last season, Pena averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds per contest.

(407)722-4714 z 2507 N. Alafaya Trl #9 z Orlando, FL 32826 www.ibball.com – Official Site For I Am Basketball

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

Region I 1. Nazareth 2. Happy 3. Texline 4. Turkey Valley 5. Whitharral

C O A C H E S

1. Menard 2. Lenorah Grady 3. Jayton 4. Water Valley 5. Gail Borden County

Region III 1. Lipan 2. Lingleville 3. Avinger 4. Graford 5. Huckabay

Region IV

1. Nazareth 2. Follett 3. Turkey Valley 4. Petersburg 5. White Deer

Region II R E G I O N A L P O L L S

1. Roscoe Highland 2. Garden City 3. Menard 4. Rochelle 5. Ira

Region III 1. La Rue La Poynor 2. Evadale 3. Hubbard 4. Tenaha 5. Crawford

Region IV 1. Coolidge 2. D’Hanis 3. Chireno 4. Calvert 5. Goodrich

Profiles

1. Laneville 2. Coolidge 3. Calvert 4. Chireno 5. Waelder

Region I

CLASS 1A

Region II

GIRLS

Features

BOYS

169

170

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 1

Fort Elliott Cougars - Boys Coach: Eldon Van Hooser (6 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 Outlook: The Cougars’ entire starting lineup is intact from last season, which should provide coach Eldon Van Hooser solid footing as he makes his Fort Elliott debut. Here’s how his roster breaks down: Caleb McDowell, a 6-4 senior forward; Devon McDowell, a 6-0 senior guard; Dalton McDowell, a 6-2 senior guard; Dawson Hefley, a 5-9 junior guard; Trip Sorrell, a 6-2 junior forward; Brody Umpsted, a 6-0 junior guard; Dillon Forbes, a 6-1 junior forward; Tyler Lester, a 6-2 junior forward; Dylan Waldon, a 6-5 freshman center; Payton Tollison, a 6-0 freshman forward; Kelton Quarles, a 5-8 freshman guard; and Christian Camorilna, a 5-8 freshman guard.

Darrouzett Lady Horns - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 2-18/0-10 Coach: Troy Humphrey (13 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: Last season was rough. And for good reason. The 2014-15 edition had no seniors and started two freshmen. Towards the end of the season, though, things started to come together, and that carryover should hold the Lady Horns in good stead this fall.

The five returning starters are sophomore point guard Brianna Justice, sophomore guard Kylie Miller, senior forward Yoseline Estrada, senior post Kami Bingel and junior forward Jazmine Mercer.

Higgins Coyotes - Boys Coach: Steve James (12 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: In his first year coaching the Coyotes, Steve James will turn to a trio of seniors -- Dawlson Allen, Gustavo Cisneros and Kurtis Hassler -- to set the tone. Dakota Guinn, a sophomore, will also be a key component.

District 2 Groom Tigers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 9-12/3-7 Coach: Jay Lamb (13 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 Outlook: A no-senior lineup will present coach Jay Lamb several challenges. Among those will be integrating four freshmen into the rotation and grooming the Tigers’ perimeter game. The starting five projects as follows: Caroline Britten, a 5-10 junior forward; Chelsey Lamb, a 5-10 sophomore post; Leslie Germany, a 5-7 junior guard; Jamey Germany, a 5-9 sophomore post; and Lauren Kuehler, a 5-8 sophomore post.

Groom Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 11-6/7-3 Coach: Tony Dodson (16 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Fort Elliott, 35-17; L-Nazareth, 39-29.

Outlook: Groom coach Tony Dodson has labeled 2015-16 as a “rebuilding year” that will allow some less experienced players to assume major roles. Two players to watch for are 5-6 Nate Roskens and 5-7 Carson Ritter.

Darrouzett Longhorns - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-7/10-0 Coach: Dillon Mitchell (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Hart, 62-55; L-Texline, 82-24.

Outlook: The Longhorns look to build a new identity after graduating three all-district seniors, including two who earned all-region accolades. Shaping that new identity will be Dillon Mitchell, who will be making his career head-coaching debut. He’ll have two returning starters to help him with the transition. They are senior Patrick Smith (all-district; 5.7 ppg, 6.2 rpg) and sophomore Marcos Reyes (all-district; 5.9 ppg, 4.0 rpg).

Follett Panthers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 10-10/4-4 Coach: Brad Rainer (15 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: L-Mclean, 62-42 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Plenty of experience and depth should allow the Panthers to step out of the quagmire of .500 ball that defined 2014-15. Four starters return. They are Stetson Chadwick, a 6-3 post; Charles Al-ag, a 5-9 guard; Fabian Gordillo, a 5-9 guard; and Holden Born, a 6-3 post.

Follett Lady Panthers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 26-7/8-0 Coach: Shane Woods (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Spring-Lake Earth, 68-30; W-White Deer, 48-38; W-Petersburg, 36-28; L-Nazareth, 56-43.

Outlook: A senior-heavy and playoff-experienced Follett squad will also be battle-tested by the time district play rolls around. This fall Follett will for the second consecutive year play the toughest 1A pre-district schedule in Texas. It’s all a part of getting past perennial powerhouse Nazareth. The last two seasons the Lady Panthers have exited the postseason via a loss to eventual state-champ Nazareth. Now, in her senior curtain-call, all-state senior forward Mollie Mounsey wants nothing more than to put an end to that trend. The 5-8 Mounsey last season averaged 18 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and 4 assists. As a sophomore, she was named TABC Player of the Year. Three other returnees -- Raegan Bourquin, Lauren Lobmeyer and Diana Chavez -- share Mounsey’s sentiment.

Bourquin, a 5-8 senior post, made the 2015 TABC All-Region squad after posting 8 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 spg and 2 apg. Lobmeyer, a 5-8 senior forward, booked 6 ppg, 3 rpg, 2 spg and 2 apg while Chavez, a 5-4 senior guard, contributed 3 ppg, 2 rpg, 3 spg and 2 apg. Lobmeyer and Chavez both made the 1-2A All-District team.

Playing Collegiately: 'DMD 6PLWK )ROOHWW )UDQN 3KLOOLSV &ROOHJH

McLean Lady Tigers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 19-10/6-4 Coach: Braydon Barker (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: W-Fort Elliott, 60-49; L-Nazareth, 65-34.

Outlook: McLean junior Callie Crockett, the 2015 2-1A Defensive Player of the Year, will be among nine returning lettermen that have Braydon Barker feeling optimistic going into his sophomore season as a head coach. In 2014-15, Crockett averaged 10 points, 6 rebounds and 6 steals. She is one of three Lady Tigers to have earned first-team all-district accolades. Kearston Tolleson and Rachel Soto – both juniors – are the other two. Tolleson last season contributed 11 points per game. Soto posted 9 points and 9 rebounds per contest.

McLean Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-7/8-2 Coach: Lee Parker (20 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: W-Follett, 87-49; L-Texline, 90-26.

Outlook: Nearly everyone’s back from a squad that lost to eventual state champ Texline in the second round of the playoffs. McLean’s four returning starters are Josh Watson, a 6-1 junior shooting guard; Morgan Reynolds, a 6-3 junior power forward; BJ Ketcherside, a 6-0 senior point guard; and Colton Beagle, a 6-1 senior center. Other projected minute-eaters are Rance Blaylock, Jaden Abshire, Jordan Parsons, Alex Langfordmull, Andrew Bybee and Wyatt Armbrister.

Silverton Lady Owls - Girls Coach: Josh Gordon (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 13/5 2015 Postseason: L-Miami (Bi-district).

Outlook: With all hands on deck, coach Josh Gordon courts a team that should be much improved. The starting five projects as follows: Teah Patton, Harley Wadlow, Taviann Waller, Kortney Cox and Lucchese Cogdell.

Silverton Owls - Boys

Higgins Lady Coyotes - Girls Coach: Nicholas Tarr (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 14/5 Outlook: Nicholas Tarr’s first season as a head coach will provide him the best of both worlds. All five starters are back from last season, but there is plenty of youth to mold into the type of players that will best fit his system. Of the seven players who project to eat regular minutes, only one is a senior. Here’s how those seven break down: senior Brittany Cano, junior Madison Woods, junior Marisol Cisneros, sophomore Rae Hemme, sophomore Cierra Watson, sophomore McKayla Fuchs and sophomore Katie Meininger.

Coach: Aaron Green (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 Outlook: Aaron Green will rely on a core of four to help smooth the transition of what marks his career head-coaching debut. His assistant coaches on the floor will be Blaine Patton, Kaleb Naceanceno, Noe Beltran and Zach Patton.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

171

Valley Lady Patriots - Girls

Happy Cowboys - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 27-6/10-0 Coach: Greg Ramsey (15 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Happy, 68-43; L-Nazareth, 58-48.

Outlook: “Our success this season will depend on how fast younger players develop and how we play with very limited depth,” says coach Greg Ramsey. Each of the two starters that return from last season earned all-region accolades this past spring. Kennadee Buchanan, a 5-3 guard, averaged 10 points, 3 assists and 3 steals per game. Emily Barrett, a 5-5 guard, contributed 16 points, 2 rebounds and 4 steals per contest.

2014-15 W-L: 23-6/8-2 Coach: Kendall Cogburn (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 2015 Postseason: W-Kress, 82-28; L-Valley, 51-50.

Outlook: “We played some great basketball at times last year and are hoping to build upon that,” says coach Kendall Cogburn. Nine of 10 lettermen return, including all five starters. The starting five comprises 6-0 senior Sam Middleton (2015 3-1A Defensive Player of the Year), 6-2 Cooper Gray (all-district), 5-10 senior Zack Flatt, 6-4 junior Sterling White and junior Karson Bryan. The four other returning lettermen are 6-3 sophomore Dalton Gray, 5-7 junior Trever Phillips, 5-9 sophomore Colton McCarley and 5-10 junior Mitchell Downing.

Valley Patriots - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-9/9-1 Coach: Shawn Harrison (19 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Happy, 52-51; L-Nazareth, 53-44.

Outlook: “We have the chance to be real good this season,” coach Shawn Harrison says, “but we’ll need for some kids moving up from JV to mature quickly. We need their depth.”

Valley returns three starters, including 2015 2-1A Newcomer of the Year Jake Merrell, a 6-1 sophomore forward (10.0 ppg, 9.4 rpg). The other two returning starters are sophomores as well -- 5-4 guard Dax Allen (7.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.9 apg; 1st-team all-district) and 5-7 guard Jayton Smith (3.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.1 apg). Ashton Barclay, a 5-10 senior forward (6.5 ppg, 5.3 rpg; 1st-team all-district), will join the starting five this season after fulfilling a sixth-man role in 2014-15.

District 3 Adrian Lady Matadors - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 10-12/4-6 Coach: Joshua Smith (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: Adrian welcomes in Joshua Smith, who is making his debut as a head coach. He has only one starter back to help him drive the bus but says his new talent is ready to be “tested.” The one returning starter is 5-4 Charisse Blankenship. She’s a combo guard who will be asked to serve as Adrian’s floor general.

Adrian Matadors - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 4-17/0-10 Coach: Jerry Caffey (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: Adrian coach Jerry Caffey says he expects to have a roster of nine this season; and of those nine, six will be freshmen. To say it’s a rebuilding year may be an understatement. But after last season’s tough sledding in his head-coaching debut, Caffey is anxious to start with a new crew that will be learning his system from scratch. In laying his foundation, he’ll start with two cornerstones -- one seasoned (5-7 senior guard Ramon Gabino) and one brand new (6-0 freshman forward/post Coy Hammitt).

Channing Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 6-15/3-7 Coach: Ray Turpen (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: In his second year at Channing, coach Ray Turpen has his entire starting lineup back. It is a starting five that is now well-acclimated to Turpen’s way of doing things and is anxious to get back to the playoffs after staying at home last spring. Channing’s seven returning lettermen are 5-9 junior Austin Birdsong, 5-8 junior Nick Garcia, 6-0 senior Gage Johnson, 5-10 sophomore Chris Bohannan, 5-11 junior Nick Rhoades, 5-9 junior Lane Stricker and 5-10 sophomore Sean McCoy.

Happy Cowgirls - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-11/8-2 Coach: Jimmy Moore (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: W-Hart, 46-37; L-Valley, 81-37.

Outlook: Now with his program firmly entrenched, third-year coach Jimmy Moore has a team well-positioned to reach the regional tournament and turn a few heads. “We return a lot of experience, but we are still unproven,” he says. “We’ll be tested early, but that should get us ready for the challenges of district play.” The Cowgirls will be led by 5-8 junior guard Kenna Bryan (2015 1-3A Offense Player of the Year; 17.7 ppg). The other key returnees are 5-8 sophomore point guard Madison Stockett (2015 1-3A Newcomer of the Year; 6.9 apg) and 5-7 junior guard Karyn Hunt (1st-team all-district). Rounding out the roster are 5-9 senior post Bailey Johnson, 5-5 senior guard Desiree Juarez, 5-7 junior guard Laci Michalewicz, 5-9 junior post Gracie Smith, 5-9 junior post Jade Moore, 5-5 senior guard Hannah Miller and 5-9 sophomore guard Ashton McCarley.

Hartley Lady Tigers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 13-12/6-4 Coach: Dedra Hill (10 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Springlake-Earth, 55-37 (Bi-district).

Outlook: They’re back! Everyone that is. “The focus and leadership will be there,” says coach Dedra Hill. “We just have to play with confidence. If we do, we feel like we can compete for a district title.” Ashley Skalsky, a 5-7 senior guard/post; Valeria Torrez, a 5-1 senior guard; and Hunter Hill, a 5-3 junior guard, all made all-district last season and will anchor the 2015-16 Lady Tigers. Skalsky averaged 7 points and 6 rebounds per game during the 2014-15 campaign while Torrez contributed 9 ppg and 3 apg and Hill booked 6 ppg and 3 apg. Hartley’s other two returning starters are Hannah Drew, a 5-6 junior guard/post (4 ppg, 6 rpg), and Emma Detwiler, a 5-11 sophomore (4 ppg, 5 rpg). The three other returning lettermen are Angelica Gonzalez, a 5-2 junior guard; Kelly Wieck, a 5-4 sophomore guard; and Kylie Richardson, a 5-9 sophomore post/guard.

Hartley Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 5-18/5-5 Coach: Kevin Alexander (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L-Hart (Bi-district).

Outlook: The loss of five seniors combines with inclusion in a district topped out by Happy and defending state champ Texline to provide a tough challenge for first-year coach Kevin Alexander. He concedes that 2015-16 definitely shapes up to be a rebuilding year but adds that his two returning starters are primed to have career years. Elijah Drew, a 5-8 all-district guard, led the team in treys last year and should stretch defenses even more in his senior swan song. Macario Chavez, a 5-6 junior guard, also made all-district.

His forte is speed, which translates into Chavez serving as Hartley’s defensive stopper.

Texline Tornadoes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 7-21/4-6 Coach: Michael Hurley Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 Outlook: The word from Texline is that this will be another rebuilding year following a no-playoff campaign in 2014-15. But four starters return, and the Tornadoes were just a win away from finishing .500 in district play last season. The four starters who return with design on getting their team over the hump are 5-5 junior point guard Morgan Arnold (7 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 apg), 5-4 sophomore Courtney Arnold (11 ppg), 5-5 sophomore Danni Poole (5 rpg) and 5-8 sophomore Melanie Fruy (6 ppg, 5 rpg).

Texline Tornadoes - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 35-3/10-0 Coach: Bryan Braddock (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-McLean, 90-26; W-Darrouzett, 84-28; W-Crosbyton, 51-34; W-Nazareth, 49-36; W-Graford, 76-48; W-Grady, 76-55.

Outlook: Texline returns all-region point guard Gannen Braddock and three solid contributors from last year’s state-championship squad. All of which is to say that it would surprise no one if Texline returns to San Antonio for the state tournament. Braddock, a 5-10 sophomore, last season averaged 12 points and 5 assists per game; and, in addition to all-region accolades, was named to the All-State-Tournament team in San Antonio.

Also instrumental in Texline’s 2014-15 climb to the top were returnees Anthony Grims, a 6-0 guard (8 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 apg; all-district); Tristen Womble, a 6-3 guard (8 ppg, 3 rpg; all-district); and Dawson Nicholson, a 6-2 power forward (5 ppg, 5 rpg).

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ $DURQ *XWLHUUH] 7H[OLQH )UDQN 3KLOOLSV &ROOHJH FYI: Texline’s 2015 state championship marked the first-ever at a school that last season only had 22 boys enrolled at the secondary level.

172

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 4

Amherst Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 5-13/3-7 Coach: Daniel T. Hinojosa (10 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: “We will be improved and have the capability to play great defense and score from anywhere,” says Daniel T. Hinojosa, who last season took over as the Bulldogs’ head coach. In year two, Hinojosa will turn to his three returning starters to power up the program after a trying 2014-15 campaign. His lead dog is 5-11 junior Adam Gonzales (15 ppg, 2 spg, 5 rpg; 1st-team all-district). Following right in step will be returning starters who last season earned honorable-mention all-district selection – 6-0 junior Jesus Pacheco (8 ppg, 7 rpg, 1.2 spg) and 6-1 junior Jonathan Cardenas (5 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 1.5 spg, 2 bpg).

Springlake-Earth Lady Wolverines - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-13/7-3 Coach: Ryan Ocheskey (5 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Hartley, 55-37; L-Follett, 60-38.

Outlook: Four who made a difference last season – including the district defensive MVP -- have graduated, so coach Ryan Ocheskey enters 2015-16 with a few question marks.

“Yes, we will be young based on experience,” he says. “But these girls have put in a lot of work throughout the summer and are ready for the opportunity to step up. Even with the loss of those four seniors, I expect this year’s team to be fighting for a playoff spot.”

Ocheskey’s two returning starters are Jordan Weldon, a 5-8 senior (1st-team all-district; 8 ppg, 7 rpg, 3 spg, 2 apg), and Callie Crum, a 5-3 junior point guard (4 ppg, 2 rpg, 1 spg, 1 apg). Three other players also lettered last season -- Heather Mendoza and Reagan Mendoza (both 5-7 senior posts), as well as 5-0 junior guard Lauren Betz.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ 6DUDK 6DPDUURQ 6SULQJODNH (DUWK )UDQN 3KLOOLSV &ROOHJH

Springlake-Earth Wolverines - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 4-20/3-8 Coach: Armando Solis Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: The Wolverines are still a little young, but last season gained some valuable experience, and that should pay dividends a year later. Among the four returnees, the leader of the pack is Michael Deleon, the Wolverines’ top scorer from 2014-15. His fellow returnees are Treylr Jackson, Isaac Romero and Jesus Reyes.

Hart Ladyhorns - Girls Coach: Ruby Romero (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 2015 Postseason: L-Happy (Bi-district).

Outlook: Last season ended abruptly in the first round of the playoffs, but everyone is back and ready to make amends. Hart’s five returning starters are Camrie Neudorf, a 5-5 senior guard; Lilibeth Nunez, a 5-10 senior post; Marissa Godino, a 4-8 junior point guard; I’Lynne Marquez, a 5-5 junior guard; and Kaitlyn Sweet, a 5-6 junior post.

Lazbuddie Lady Horns - Girls Coach: Jacob Schacher (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen: 5 Outlook: The Lady Horns open the season with a first-year coach, Jacob Schacher, but with a seasoned core of returnees – three seniors, three juniors. After missing the playoffs in 2014-15, the senior returnees looking to go out on top are 5-6 shooting guard Kennedi Nickels, 5-7 center Iridian Fernandez and 5-8 center Micah Vera. The three junior returnees are Mattisun Hester, a 5-6 power forward; Ashley Scott, a 5-4 point guard; and Karsyn Youngblood, a 5-4 small forward.

Lazbuddie Longhorns - Boys Coach: Chad Larkin (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen: 7 Outlook: Rookie head coach describes the squad he inherits as “young and confident.”

Of the seven returning lettermen, four are sophomores – 5-6 Bernardo Lopez, 5-8 TJ Ballard, 5-11 Ian Hudson and 5-7 Coy Baird. The 5-8 Eric Sanchez is the only senior of the bunch, and there are two juniors – 5-10 Destry Ivy and 5-11 Wesly Penrod.

Nazareth Swiftettes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 34-2/10-0 Coach: Eric Schilling (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-McLean, 67-35; W-Valley, 55-45; W-Spur, 63-34; W-Follett, 56-43; W- D’Hanis, 61-18; W-Lipan, 56-40.

Outlook: You know you have a dominant program when you win a state championship and all the talk is about how much better you will be the following year. Such is the case with the celebrated Swiftettes of Nazareth. This past spring they steamrolled opponents in capturing a 20th state title for what – in terms of sheer hardware – is the most storied program in Texas basketball history. But this part of the Nazareth story has yet another page to turn, and it appears the writing is on the wall. With practically everyone back, the Swiftettes are on paper the odds-on favorites to have gold draped around their necks yet again. Four starters return hungry for an even larger piece of the pie. This talented core comprises seniors Deborah VanDijk, Kelsey Espenson, Hannah Leavitt and Allie Schulte (2015 State Tournament MVP). Also back on board are Abby Schmucker and Aubrie Durbin, each of whom is expected to log significant minutes either as a starter or as the first person coming off the bench. “Yes, our expectations are high,” says coach Eric Schilling.

“We have a lot of ‘big game’ experience going in. But just like any other year, it is going to come down to each player fulfilling her individual role so that we can reach our full potential as a team.”

Players Competing Collegiately: 5HEHNDK 9DQ'LMN 1D]DUHWK 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV $UOLQJWRQ FYI: Nazareth is often referred to as the most storied program in Texas basketball history. But the Swiftettes’ 20 state championships also resonate nationally. No U.S. public-school team has won more girls basketball titles. And under the direction of coach Eric Schilling, it looks like the Swiftettes could very well be in the process of padding their lead, thereby creating a record that may never be broken.

Hart Longhorns - Boys Coach: Tim Ashlock (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Hartley, 47-43; L-Darrouzette, 62-55.

Outlook: With nearly all of the 2014-15 roster intact, the Longhorns are hoping to stampede into regionals this season. Four starters return, and they are all seniors. This core of four comprises David Cedillo, a 5-6 point guard; Justin Garcia, a 5-9 senior guard; Raul Gonzales, a 5-10 senior guard; and Julian Rojas, a 5-10 senior post.

Kress Lady Roos - Girls 2014-15 District Record: 2-8 Coach: Jonathan Ramirez (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/0 Outlook: After making his head-coaching debut last season, coach Jonathan Ramirez will more or less be starting anew once again. No starters are back, and only three logged any varsity minutes at all. These 2014-15 carryovers are sophomore point guard Ariel Bownds, senior post Savanna Casas and senior shooting guard Alex Hinojosa.

Kress Kangaroos - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-14/6-4 Coach: Shawn Langston (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseasn: L-Happy (Bi-district).

Outlook: Of Kress’ eight returning lettermen, six are seniors and the other two are juniors.

The starting five comprises players that have all logged at least two years of varsity PT. These now savvy cagers are bent on advancing beyond the first round that saw them stub their toe last spring. Andrew Reyes, a 5-6 shooting guard, earned all-district accolades in 2014-15 and projects to headline once again during his senior curtain-call. Kress’ five other seniors are 6-4 post Scott Bye, 6-4 post Brennon Amador, 5-9 post Luis Cruz, 5-9 guard Adrian Araujo and 5-11 guard Jaren Ramirez. The two juniors are 5-6 point guard Jordan Reyes and 5-10 post Jesse Munoz.

Nazareth Swifts - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 27-9/10-0 Coach: Nathan Branum (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Groom, 39-29; W-Valley, 58-49; W-Ropes, 63-42; L-Texline, 49-36.

Outlook: Troy Gerber returns for his senior swan song and an opportunity to advance to the state tournament after his team lost to eventual state-champ Texline in the 2015 regional finals. The 6-3 forward was last season named the 4-1A MVP after averaging 18 points and 8 rebounds per game. He was also a second-team selection to the Texas Six-Man Coaches Association All-State team and earned inclusion on the TABC All-Region squad. He will be joined by Nazareth’s only other returning starter – the 5-9 senior guard Tyler Ramsey (6 ppg, 4 apg; 1st-team all-district). “We will have some young players step into bigger roles,” says coach Nathan Branum, “but this group has a chance to be very successful. As always, our focus is to play high-quality, fundamental basketball and to do that with the energy and fight it takes to win championships.”

FYI: Nazareth’s girls basketball program often grabs the spotlight for having won more state titles than any team – boys or girls – in Texas basketball history. That attention is only unfortunate in that it sometimes overshadows Nazareth’s spectacular boys basketball program. Here’s one indication of just how good Nazareth’s boys basketball program has been over the last two decades: every player who has suited up since 1994 has made at least one trip to the UIL state tournament, which is the equivalent of the NCAA’s Final Four. Pretty impressive indeed.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

173 District 5

Anton Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 17-8/8-4 Coach: Cody MacBeen (2 years’ experience; 1st year at strojanchool) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Lost play-in game.

Outlook: Third-year coach Cody MacBeen will make his debut at Anton this fall. He will rely on his two senior guards -- Alani Juarez and Kasandra Culp – to help lead the team through a season of transition. “I will be looking to my returners to make a big impact on how quickly we learn (a new system) so that we can be competitive in every game,” says MacBeen. Despite having to learn a new way of doing things, the Lady Bulldogs appear set to make the playoffs following the bitter disappointment of losing a play-in game this past spring.

Petersburg Lady Buffs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 27-2/12-0 Coach: Ritchie Tarbet (29 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 2015 Postseason: L-Follett, 36-28 (Regional Semifinals).

Outlook: In his 30th year as a head coach, Ritchie Tarbet will be tested yet again. This time on his ability to flatten the learning curve of several key underclassmen who will need to fill the void left by graduated seniors. Only two returnees are back from last season’s squad that rumbled through district play without a hiccup. Tarbet is banking on Madison Tarbet, Sydney Torrez and Lexi Williams to herd the Buffs back into the postseason despite depleted numbers.

Petersburg Buffs - Boys Anton Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 13-12/5-5 Coach: Maurice Harvey (15 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: Offensively, the Bulldogs are impressive with the return of two all-district performers who lit up the scoreboard in 2014-15. Seniors Jordan Haston and Javier Savedra will again keep defenses on their heels and are joined by fellow returning starter Aaron Campos, a junior. “We have a great class of freshmen that will be in the mix of things as well,” says coach Maurice Harvey. “We are counting on them to step up and contribute.”

Cotton Center Lady Elks - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 8-16/0-12 Head Coach: Emily Coppick Returning Lettermen: 4 Outlook: The Lady Elks don’t have much length but have guards with range. Throw in a couple of freshmen who also have the ability to pop from the perimeter, and the Lady Elks could prove to be a factor in district play after getting silenced last season. Vying for PT will be 5-4 senior guard Hallye Nichols, 5-3 senior guard Macie Burnett, 5-4 senior guard Cassie Burnett, 5-9 junior post Sarah Berry, 5-1 sophomore point guard Alanis Garza, 5-4 sophomore guard Jennifer Hale, 5-3 freshman guard Delaney Nichols and 5-6 freshman guard/forward Michaela Rivera.

Cotton Center Elks - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 0-18/0-12 Coach: Darin Barrow (6 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 Outlook: The Elks will be looking to sharpen their antlers after getting corralled a year ago. Two front-line starters return to hopefully paint a better picture – 5-10 forward Brandon Castilleja and 6-1 center Manuel Rodriguez.

Crosbyton Chiefs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-6/10-2 Coach: Todd Bass (21 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Guthrie, 48-42; W-Paducah, 57-56; L-Texline, 51-34.

Outlook: Crosbyton could be a surprise team this season. The Chiefs don’t rank in the TABC’s preseason Top 20 but is a team that could sneak into the state tournament.

Stranger things have happened. Crosbyton returns the majority of its team after reaching the regional semifinals last season. “I believe we can be an even better defensive team than we were last year,” says coach Todd Bass. “We will have to find ways to consistently score the ball, but our winning tradition is a plus.” Three starters return to sustain momentum from a successful 2014-15 campaign. The top of the trio is Zane Zundt, a 5-9 senior guard (8 ppg, 3 apg; 2015 5-1A Newcomer of the Year). The other two returning starters are senior forwards – the 5-11 Noah Rubalcado (6 ppg, 5 rpg; all-district) and 6-0 Chris Gutierrez (5 ppg, 3 rpg).

Lorenzo Lady Hornets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 23-9/8-4 Coach: Lin Fink (21 years’ experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Southland; L-Paducah.

Outlook: The Lady Hornets are aflutter about making some noise in the 2016 postseason. Four starters return from last season’s squad that made the playoffs but lost in the second round. Alexis Rodriguez, a 5-3 junior guard, averaged 14 points last season in earning all-district selection. Lorenzo’s three other returning starters are 5-10 junior Marisol Reyna (14 ppg), 5-9 junior Daniela Reyna (6 ppg) and 5-4 senior Jasmine Salinas (5 ppg, 5 apg).

2014-15 W-L: 16-10/10-2 Coach: Kyle Wood Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Bi-district.

Outlook: Last season’s underclassmen did themselves proud during district play but then bit the bullet early in bi-district. Now that they are seasoned vets nothing short of a district title followed by an extended playoff run will satisfy. A core of four should carry the torch that was lit a year ago. They are Yovahn Marroquin, Gabriel Hinojos, Marcos Hinojos and Issac Salas.

Whiteface Lady Lopes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 8-20/2-10 Coach: Bill Brown (10 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/3 Outlook: After pacing the pines for a decade, coach Bill Brown has taken on new charges. In his first season blowing a whistle at Whiteface, he has a team that endured growing pains a year ago and should be much-improved. Four returnees provide hope for making the playoffs after the Lady Lopes failed to do so this past spring. This courtly quartet comprises 5-8 post Kensley Rice, 5-5 guard Brooklyn Epke and 5-6 guards Amanda and Brittany Chancey.

Whiteface Antelopes - Boys Coach: Paul Finley (3 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/5 Outlook: The entire starting lineup carries over from last season when a young Antelopes squad failed to make the playoffs. It’s still a young squad, but most of the players are no longer wide-eyed and trying to acclimate to varsity ball. In his first year as Whiteface’s head coach, Paul Finley will go with a six-man rotation that comprises 5-6 junior guard Jon Rivas, 5-7 senior guard Jeremiah Morales, 6-0 junior post Peyton Baker, 5-5 senior Raul Borunda, 5-8 junior Keegan Freeman and 5-10 junior Caleb Scoggins.

Whitharral Lady Panthers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 22-12/8-4 Coach: Aaron Marks (8 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: W-Meadow, 44-17; Munday, 44-22; L-Spur, 44-37.

Outlook: Lexie Wischkaemper returns for her senior swan song after a stellar junior campaign that saw her average 14.5 points and 8 rebounds per game to earn all-region selection. Two other starters also return – juniors Jaci Pigg (9.3 ppg, 3.4 rpg) and Hannah Scott (4.4 ppg, 4.5 rpg). “We should be very solid defensively,” says coach Aaron Marks, “and we have the experience to get over that hump (Whitharral’s third-round loss to Spur in the 2015 playoffs).”

FYI: Whitharral will this season be seeking its 29th consecutive postseason appearance – one of the longest playoff streaks in the state.

Whitharral Panthers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 21-10/9-4 Coach: Clayton Fryar (6 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 2015 Postseason: W-Meadow, 47-42 OT; L-Paducah, 61-52.

Outlook: The Panthers may not have a whole lot of depth this season, but that won’t matter if everyone stays healthy. At the top of the lineup is a core of seniors who have combined to make 16 postseason appearances. The Top Cat is Matt Pinkert. He averaged a double-double (20 ppg, 14 rpg) in leading Whitharral to the second round of the 2015 playoffs. Austin Price (10 ppg, 8 rpg, 3 apg) and Kevin Albus (8 ppg) also started a year ago and will likely prove pivotal again. The X factor is Chad Moore, who started as a sophomore, but missed his junior campaign with a torn ACL. His return could be what pushes the Panthers further in the playoffs.

174

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 6

Meadow Lady Broncos - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 11-18/5-5 Coach: Kyle Johnson (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Whitharral, 44-17 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lady Broncos were able to slip into the postseason last year but could not muster the offense needed to make it past the first round. “We really struggled to score last year,” says coach Kyle Johnson. “We became a very strong defensive team, and it will be important for us to continue that, but we’ll also need to get our offense to a more consistent level.” Four starters return with intent of taking the Lady Broncos to that next level. That core of four starts with three seniors -- Lexy Silva, a 5-10 post (7.7 ppg, 7.5 rpg); Kristian Arguellez, a 5-5 guard (4 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.7 apg); and Emily Rodriguez, a 5-3 guard.

The fourth returning starter is 5-6 sophomore guard Zariya Silva (9 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 1.3 apg).

Two other returnees -- Eadon Hunt, a 5-6 junior post, and Reagan Perez, a 5-4 sophomore guard – will vie for the fifth starting spot.

Meadow Broncos - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-6/8-2 Coach: Kyle Johnson (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: L-Whitharral, 47-42 in OT (Bi-district).

Outlook: In his sixth year coaching the Broncos, Kyle Johnson says his 2015-16 collection of talent will likely go down as the best shooting team he’s had. “Like the last few years, we will depend heavily on our quickness and pressure defense,” he says. “We feel that we have quality depth, but the key will be whether our reserves consistently play to their potential.” The Broncos’ fortunes start with Trey Herrera, a 5-9 senior guard and fourthyear starter who last season averaged 15.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists. Another senior, Adrian Flores, will also assume a leadership role in what will mark his third year to start on the varsity. The 5-7 guard averaged 7.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists during the 2014-15 campaign. Meadow’s three other returnees are Robert Herrera, a 5-10 junior post (5.2 ppg, 7.0 rpg); Chanse Smith, a 6-0 junior post (7.9 ppg, 4.6 rpg); and Ruben Moya, a 5-8 sophomore guard (4.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.1 apg).

Southland Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 18-8/9-3 Coach: Kiersten Parker (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: L-Lorenzo, 57-27 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Time to don the hard hats. The Lady Eagles’ 2015-16 edition is officially under construction. Which is not to say that they can’t return again to the postseason, but it will be a challenge. Only two starters are back. Ashlee Graves, a 5-7 post, and Jessica Payton, a 5-6 combo guard, will look to lead by example and re-create the inside-out game that contributed to Southland’s success a year ago.

Southland Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 6-16/2-8 Coach: Tommy DeLeon (6 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: Three starters – all of whom were named to the 2015 6-1A All-District squad – return to provide new coach Tommy DeLeon a program foundation. Kevin Dorman, a 5-10 senior guard; Tucker Lee, a 6-1 junior post; and Christian Sanchez, a 5-7 sophomore guard (6-1A Newcomer of the Year), will be asked to set the tone. The other three returnees from a Southland squad that missed the 2015 playoffs are Tony DeLeon, a 5-9 senior guard; Marcos Deleon, a 5-10 senior post; and Israel Guerra, a 5-8 sophomore guard.

Wellman-Union Lady Wildcats - Girls Coach: Stacy Stayton (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/2

Wellman-Union Wildcats - Boys New Home Leopards - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-14/7-3 Coach: Koby Abney (13 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-Petersburg, 54-52; L-Crowell, 51-43.

Outlook: The Leopards are certainly headed in the right direction. After going 6-16 in 2013-14, New Home progressed to 17-14 last season and made it to the second round of the playoffs. “Now we are looking to continue that path, to battle for a district championship and push for a deeper playoff run,” says coach Koby Abney. The Leopards’ 2015-16 edition will revolve around the play of two junior forwards -- Billy Castro and Jackson Abney -- who have started since they were freshmen. Castro last season earned distinction as the 6-1A Offensive Player of the Year and was a first-team selection to the TABC All-Region squad. His numbers were 19 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.5 apg and 1.2 spg. Abney earned 1st-team all-district selection after posting 9.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 1.6 apg and 2.2 spg.

Ropes Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 21-10/10-0 Coach: Mike McCann (19 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: L-Spur (Area).

Outlook: Only one senior checks in this season for the Lady Eagles. “This will be the youngest team we have had in years,” says coach Mike McCann. The three who return from the squad that last year accomplished a perfect district slate are Mika McCann, Shelby Ochoa and Isela Olivas.

2014-15 W-L: 12-16/3-7 Coach: Tommy Tritz (3 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 12/4 Outlook: Except for one starter, everyone – including the reserves – is back to take another shot at advancing to the postseason after falling short this past spring. The four 2014-15 returning starters are Braden Caldwell, a 5-9 senior guard; Martin Loewen, a 5-11 senior forward; Nathaniel Steiger, a 5-7 senior guard; and Albert Alaniz, a 5-8 junior guard.

Wilson Mustangs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 2-22/1-9 Coach: Rustin Keith (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: Rustin Keith made his head-coaching debut last season, and it proved to be a tough pill to swallow. “We all learned a lot from last season and look to improve on our strengths as well as our weaknesses,” Keith says. “I think an improved mentality and work ethic will help make us competitive this year,” he adds. The fact that all five starters return should also help. These opening-tip minute-eaters are Bryan Pea, a 6-3 senior forward; Bailey Steen, a 5-9 junior guard; Lance Lopez, a 5-0 sophomore guard; Brandon Rowland, a 5-10 senior forward; and Pete Esparza, a 5-7 senior guard. Also expected to make key contributions are David Lopez, a 5-11 junior guard/forward, and newcomer Bryan Mendez, a 5-8 freshman guard.

District 7 Guthrie Lady Jags - Girls

Ropes Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 25-4/9-1 Coach: Lane Jackson (19 years’ experience; 20th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Knox City, 66-49; W-Crowell, 76-73; L-Nazareth, 61-38.

Outlook: The Eagles will again be formidable in the paint but need for their young perimeter players to leave the nest early. If the guards can develop quickly and complement the play of Ropes’ big men, then look for the Eagles to soar yet again. The 2015-16 edition is anchored by 6-4 senior post Wesley Hancock, the Eagles’ lone returning starter. He last season averaged 8.6 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. Joining him in the paint will be up-and-comer Drew Anderson, a 6-4 sophomore post who averaged 7.5 points and 5 rebounds. The 5-8 senior Hunter Yandell will spearhead the perimeter. His backcourt bunkmates include two 6-foot newbies -- sophomore Kaiston Terry and junior Brogen Johnson. The X factor is 5-6 junior guard AJ Mendez, who logged minutes as a freshman but missed last season due to a torn ACL.

2014-15 W-L: 7-17/2-6 Coach: Trent Van Meter (19 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 Outlook: Following a season filled with trials and tribulations, the Lady Jags are much more court savvy and that should reflect in their 2015-16 win-loss ledger. “We will be young again, but definitely improved from last year,” says coach Trent Van Meter. All five of his starters are back and are led by the dynamic backcourt duo of 5-5 point guard Reagan Maxwell and 5-6 shooting guard Gina Cheyne.

Guthrie Jaguars - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 13-10/6-4 Coach: Jodie Reel (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 2015 Postseason: W-Munday, 43-28; L-Crosbyton, 48-42.

Outlook: In his first year as a head coach, Jodie Reel will turn to his one returning starter -- the 6-foot senior Bronc Horn -- to provide a steady rudder in a sea of change. Horn last season netted 12 points per game and was not only named 7-1A Newcomer of the Year, but earned second-team selection to the Texas 6-Man Coaches Association All-Region squad. As the jags fight to earn another playoff spot, overall team speed will serve them well and help compensate for what will be a comparatively smaller lineup than those of the recent past.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

175 Munday Moguls - Boys

Knox City Houndettes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 7-20/5-5 Coach: Dylan Ballard (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: “We will be a force to be reckoned with,” says coach Dylan Ballard, who, in his rookie season last year, saw his Houndettes get leashed by an inordinately tough schedule. This year the scheduling slope isn’t quite so slippery, and the return of all five starters will certainly make a difference. Within the starting five, there is a trio of seniors expected to push the Houndettes back into playoff contention. Knox City’s power trio comprises MaKaylie Steele (12 ppg, 10 rpg, 2 bpg), Jordyn Eaton (6 ppg, 2 spg, 3 apg) and Brooke Jones (10 ppg, 6 rpg, 2 spg, 2 apg).

2014-15 District Record: 7-3 Coach: Greg Clark (21 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Guthrie, 43-28 (Bi-district).

Outlook: “This year’s group will have an explosive ability to cover the floor and run,” says coach Greg Clark. A trio of Moguls -- -- Temerick Reagins, Heath Bivens and Day’veon Dockins -- will set the pace.

Vernon Northside Lady Indians - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 14-10/6-4 Coach: Darcey Ham (4 years’ experience) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1

Motley County Matadors - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 8-10/4-6 Coach: Isiah Archer (3 years’ experience)

Northside Indians - Boys Paducah Lady Dragons - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 20-9 Coach: Amy Bowles (14 years’ experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Lorenzo, 58-43; L-Petersburg, 33-30.

Outlook: The Lady Dragons should waltz into the playoffs and make a run thanks to the return of all five starters and one other letterman. Returnees are senior guard Ali Smith, senior post Leslie Mayo, junior guard Faith Walker, junior guard Elizabeth Ramos, sophomore guard Ebony Hampton and sophomore guard Charlie Holley.

2014-15 W-L: 10-14/2-8 Coach: Matt Billings (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/4 Outlook: The Indians are banking on the return of four starters and an influx of talented freshmen to provide a mix that places them in the playoff hunt. The four starters eager to avenge last season’s stay-at-home postseason are Bradyn Garcia, a 5-11 senior post (2nd-team all-district); Jacob Reed, a 6-2 junior post (academic all-district); Taylor Allen, a 5-10 junior point guard; and Julian Lopez, a 5-10 senior post.

District 9 Balmorhea Lady Bears - Girls

Paducah Dragons - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-7/10-0 Coach: Will Flemons (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Whitharral, 61-52; L-Crosbyton, 55-53.

Outlook: After not being challenged much in district last season, Paducah will face a tougher opponent – the inexperience of players yet to be fully initiated into varsity ball.

“We will be young,” coach Will Flemons says, “but with some hard work, we will be okay.

We will compete in every game.” Four players have earned starting spots. The quartet is led by Jacolby Burns, a 6-1 sophomore forward/center (4 ppg, 3 rpg; all-district honorable mention). Also slotted to start are Kameron Todd, a 5-8 junior guard (3 ppg); Joseph Garibaldi, a 5-10 junior (3 ppg); and Kaleb Rochelle, a 6-0 sophomore.

Playing Collegiately: &ROOLQ )OHPRQV 6RXWK 3ODLQV &ROOHJH 2VFDU 0DWKLV :D\ODQG Baptist University.

District 8 Chillicothe Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 4-22/2-6 Coach: Brock Ramsey Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: After getting their feathers ruffled in 2014-15, the Lady Eagles should get off the ground again compliments a strong freshman class. There will also be plenty of experience with the return of four starters. Turning the worm will be 5-6 Stormie Propst, 5-2 Vallie Thrash, 5-4 Taylor Porter and 5-4 Addisyn Haynes.

2014-15 District Record: 6-2 Coach: Chris Virdell (13 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Sanderson, 42-20; L-Highland, 67-35.

Outlook: The Lady Bears return four starters with experience. Their playoff hopes will hinge upon an in-your-face defense and an offense that revolves around its presence in the paint. Depth should prove key as coach Chris Virdell expects to rotate freely. Balmorhea’s five returnees are Audrey Lozano, Sashsa Lozano, Jayda Lozano, Cielo Iniguez and Dora Estrada.

Balmorhea Bears - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 9-17/6-4 Coach: Jourmain Matta (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 2015 Postseason: L-Wink, 68-37.

Outlook: The Bears last season made the playoffs despite only having two players -- PJ Iniguez and Joshua Guebara -- with varsity experience. Equally impressive, five freshmen suited up a year ago, and Isaiah Mendoza missed the entire year due to a football injury. All eight of those players and the entire starting lineup returns; so it’s safe to say, there’s plenty of reason to expect the Bears to advance further than the first round of the playoffs that last season ended their season. Iniguez and Guebara enter the season as the headliners after earning 2015 first-team all-district selection. Iniguez, a 6-2 point guard, last season averaged a double-double (16 ppg, 10 rpg). Guebara, a 5-6 shooting guard posted 8 ppg and 5 rpg. Two other returning starters – 5-6 guard Kyle Garcia (5 ppg, 5 rpg) and Avery Mendoza, a 5-8 forward (4 ppg, 6 rbg) – made all-district as honorable-mention selections. Other returnees include Matthew Carrasco, a 5-8 guard (6 ppg, 3 rpg); Josiah Garcia, a 5-7 guard (4 ppg, 2 rpg); Danny Vasquez, a 5-4 guard; and Laine Garcia, a 5-10 center. Also throw in Mendoza, who is now fully recovered from last season’s football injury.

Chillicothe Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 13-14/5-5 Coach: Clint Miller (6 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/1 Outlook: The 2015-16 Eagles will look to build a new nest with some young but talented athletes. Chillicothe’s Big Bird this season will be the 5-11 team leader Connor Pautsky.

Dell City Lady Cougars - Girls Coach: Veronica Gomez (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 Outlook: Dell City lost two seniors that played an integral role in 2014-15 and is now a squad in the midst of rebuilding via an influx of fresh talent. Four have won starting jobs.

The fifth spot is still up for grabs. The four opening-tip minute-eaters are Liz Silva, a 5-6 guard; Natalie Guillen, a 5-5 wing; Abby Mansell, a 6-1 post; and the 5-5 Itati Ruiz.

Munday Mogulettes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 18-10/10-1 Coach: Cory Stephenson (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Whitharral, 44-22.

Outlook: The Mogulettes bid farewell to leading scorer Raci Dillard (18 ppg) but still boast a staunch defense and is hoping a couple of players will step up to fill the void left

by Dillard. “Defensively we are always tough, with teams only averaging about 28 points,” says coach Cory Stephenson. “I don’t expect that to change; so if we can keep that up in 2015-2016, we will have a chance at winning a lot of games again.” Munday’s two returning starters – 5-6 senior guard Kimberley Shahan and 5-6 junior guard Charity Hunter – should play a major role in smoothing the transition following Dillard’s departure.

Fort Davis Indians - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 21-9 Coach: Gary Lamar (28 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Starters: 4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Klondike, 51-32.

Outlook: Fort Davis returns four starters, including two juniors who earned all-state selection last season. That isn’t enough, though, for Fort Davis to rank in the TABC Top 20.

Bottom line, the 5-8 Hadley McIvor and 5-5 Yani Ponce should provide enough all-state punch to push their team into regionals, but a lack of depth still leaves Fort Davis as nothing more than a dark horse to advance further.

176

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Marfa Lady Shorthorns - Girls

Wink Wildcats - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 13-11/6-4 Coach: Irma Linda Ojeda (8 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: L-Wink, 60-33 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The 5-5 Priscilla Serrano and 5-6 Shelby Martinez are the only two starters back from a team that snuck into the 2015 playoffs and then got ousted in the first round.

Several freshmen are expected to make an impact this season, but Marfa remains one of the district’s mystery teams as the season gets underway.

Coach: Jesse Jones (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 Outlook: The return of 6-5 forward Christian Ortega – sidelined last season with an ACL injury – will prove key to a versatile lineup that has pretty good speed and a little length.

Joining Ortega in the starting five will be Eli Augusta, a 5-10 point guard; Josh Parks, a 6-6 post; and Donavan Garcia, a 5-4 guard.

District 11 Ackerly Sands Lady Stangs - Girls

Valentine Lady Pirates - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 11-15 Coach: Sandy Flippen FYI/Outlook: The key number for Valentine this season is five. That’s not the number of returning starters or lettermen. That’s the number of players on the entire roster for what is the smallest school in Texas. In fact, there are only six students enrolled in Valentine High School this fall. Fortunately, five of those students are female, which allows the school to field an actual girls team and play a regularly sanctioned schedule. For the past three years, Valentine has competed as a co-ed team; and last season, these co-ed Pirates finished 11-15 and came close to making the playoffs. Valentine’s 2015-16 all-girls roster comprises two freshmen, two sophomores and a junior. The junior and two sophomores were on the high school’s 2014-15 co-ed team but saw limited playing time. Likewise, the two freshmen played co-ed ball at the junior-high level. “We hope to keep the team together over the next few years and have some more girls coming from our middle school in a year or two,” says coach Sandy Flippen. As for now, the girls faced with the challenge of playing entire games without ever being spelled are junior Jaci Garcia, sophomore Abbey Hardie, sophomore Jessie Garcia, freshman Angeni Kemp and freshman Frances Sanchez.

District 10 Marathon Mustangs - Boys Coach: Rick Garcia (25 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/0 Outlook: Marathon coach Rick Garcia, who last season celebrated his silver anniversary as a head coach, simply describes his team as “young and inexperienced.” No starters return, so even though this season will mark Garcia’s third at Marathon, it will be as much like starting anew as was his first season to guide the Ponies two years ago.

2014-15 W-L: 13-15/4-6 Coach: Ben Connell (15 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: The Lady Stangs finished fourth in district and just short of making the playoffs. With four starters back, there should be plenty of oomph to get over the hump this season. Pressure defense and high-octane offense should pay dividends. The lead horse is Kailey Tindol, a 5-2 junior point guard who last season earned second-team selection to the TABC and Texas 6-Man Coaches Association all-region squads. She averaged 17 points and 3 assists per game in 2014-15. Also projected to log pivotal minutes are Nina Clare, a 5-6 junior post (2nd-team all-district; 5 ppg, 7 rpg), and Kelsey Reed, a 5-3 senior wing (6 ppg, 4 rpg).

Ackerly Sands Mustangs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-11/8-2 Coach: Billy Grumbles (12 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: W-Roscoe Highland; W-Rankin; L-Ira. Outlook: Senior guard Dayton Eddleman, a 2015 TABC All-State selection, and senior post Dyllan Tindol, a 2015 TABC All-Region pick, are back to provide Ackerly Sands more than enough horsepower to better its three-round playoff run of this past spring. Two other returning starters – junior guard Juan Diaz and senior guard Dylan Segundo – should also help spur the ponies to new and greener pastures.

Lamesa Golden Tornado - Boys Rankin Lady Devils - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 25-6/8-0 Coach: Tiffany Potts (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Grady, 45-41.

Outlook: The graduation of four seniors and the transfer of two underclassmen who last season logged varsity minutes has left the Lady Devils with very little to defend their 2015 10-1A title. The 5-2 senior guard Bryleigh MacGregor is the only starter back, and only one other returnee follows her into the uncertainty that surrounds the 2015-16 campaign. “While our team will be extremely young and inexperienced, we do have a strong commitment and work ethic in our upcoming classes,” says coach Tiffany Potts.

“As we mature and grow in experience, this team will improve and contend for another district championship.”

Rankin Red Devils - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-14/7-1 Coach: Brad Thompson Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/1 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Sands, 67-56.

Outlook: With only one starter returning and one other lettermen, the Red Devils will have to learn on the fly this fall. As coach Brad Thompson tries to lay a foundation for future success, he will rely heavily on assistance from the program’s current cornerstone talent Michael Rodriguez, a 5-9 senior wing who was last season named the 10-1A Defensive MVP. The team looks to anchor down low as the only two starters to be named at presstime were both post players – the 5-10 Zebby Huitron and the 6-1 Jonathan Storie.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ 6L ([XP 5DQNLQ 6FKUHLQHU 8QLYHUVLW\

2014-15 W-L: 20-11/6-4 Coach: Gregg Moreland (17 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 2015 Postseason: W-Pampa; W-Andrews; L-Levelland Outlook: Nearly everyone is back, including five starters – all of whom earned all-district accolades last season. It’s a squad that lacks height, but one that will out-quicken opponents with pressure defense and on the break. Throw in a couple of sharpshooters, and one can see why some project Lamesa as a dark horse capable of pulling a couple of upsets in the 2016 postseason. The breeziest of the bunch is Jaleel Edwards, a 5-7 junior who averaged 13.2 points per game last season to earn 1st-team all-region accolades.

Dre Smiley, a 5-7 junior (12.2 ppg), and Ty Maxwell, a 5-9 junior (8.0 ppg), both made all-district as first-team selections. The two other returning starters – Darius Jackson and Keshawn Hunter – were all-district honorable mentions. Jackson, a 5-9 senior, averaged 8 points while Hunter, a 5-9 junior, contributed 7 points per game.

Grady Wildcats - Girls Coach: Jimmy Avery (31 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Gail Borden County, 46-24; W-Rankin, 45-41; L-Roscoe Highland, 59-56.

Outlook: Grady coach Jimmy Avery says his two returning starters Carli Richards, a senior, and Brittney Garza, a junior, have evolved into “excellent leaders.” Whether that translates into another playoff run of at least three rounds is difficult to project. But Avery says he’s been happy with the amount of time all his players have spent in the gym this past offseason. “These girls have a lot of heart and dedication,” he says, and adds that two call-ups should contribute “substantial power” to the team.

Grady Wildcats - Boys Wink Lady Cats - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-12/8-2 Coach: Wendy Ratliff (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Marfa, 63-30; L-O’Donnell, 67-40.

Outlook: Three seniors return to starting roles as the Lady Cats project to battle Rankin and Buena Vista for district supremacy. Both Raina Parks, a 5-7 forward, and Alexa Uranga, a 5-5 guard, made 1st-team all-district last season. The other returning starter, Shaye Youngblood, a 5-6 guard, made 2nd-team all-district. A fourth senior, the 5-9 K’Leigh Johns, will anchor Wink in the paint.

Playing Collegiately: *UDFLH 5DPRV :LQN +6

McMurry University.

2014-15 W-L: 31-5/10-0 Coach: Chris Short Returning Lettermen: 6 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Wink, 89-65; W-Borden County, 68-41; W-Jayton, 58-41; W-Menard, 58-46; W-Calvert, 75-74; L-Texline, 72-52.

Outlook: Chris Short takes over as Grady’s new coach and inherits a starting five that includes two all-staters and two all-region players. Neither does it hurt that four of the starting five are seniors. Suffice it to say Grady is loaded again after last year advancing to the state title game before losing to Texline. Cole Avery, a 6-3 senior, earned TABC All-State selection this past spring while the 5-8 senior Braeden Jones received all-state accolades via the Texas 6-Man Coaches Association. Kyle Garza, a 6-1 senior, made the TABC All-Region team, as did Jaylon Short, a 6-2 junior who transfers to Grady this season along with his dad, the coach. Grady’s fifth starter, the 5-8 senior Alejandro Jimenez, is nothing to sneeze about either. He was selected to the 2015 11-1A All-District squad.

Speed, size and sharpshooting with range ... The Wildcats have it all and are mighty hungry after watching the state title slide off their dinner table back in March.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

177

Dawson Lady Dragons - Girls

Loraine Bulldogs - Boys

Coach: Nathan Peralez (making career head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 Outlook: In his first assignment as a head coach, Nathan Peralez takes over a squad that starts in the middle with 6-0 junior center Mika Davis. She is one of three returning lettermen, all of whom started a year ago. Dawson’s inside-out game is facilitated by 5-4 junior point guard Tori Cruz and her perimeter partner 5-5 junior Renae Quintanilla, both of whom also started in 2014-15.

2014-15 W-L: 0-15/0-12 Coach: Eric Sanchez (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 11/5 Outlook: Loraine’s third-year coach Eric Sanchez describes last season as a “learning experience for a young team” and promises that “improvement will be evident in all areas of the game.” Everyone’s back from that winless campaign so sheer experience should pay dividends. Patrick Tills, a 5-9 senior point guard, runs the show; and in 2014-15, impressed everyone with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 steals per game. Other returning starters include James Thomas Cooper, a 5-7 junior guard (4 ppg); Javon Walthall, a 6-1 sophomore (5 ppg, 7 rpg); and Gaige Carson, a 5-8 guard (5 ppg). Also expected to make key contributions are junior Sonny Benivamondes and sophomores Dakota Smith and Michael Garca.

Dawson Dragons - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-13/5-5 Coach: Todd Wall (5 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: L-Borden County, 55-31 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Dragons last season scaled the wall between them and the playoffs for the first time since 2002 and are now full of vim and vigor as the 2015-16 campaign opens.

Their best shot at returning to the playoffs literally rests with 5-10 junior shooting guard Mattheu de la Rosa (12.5 ppg; 1st-team all-district). He is one of three returning starters.

The other two are Austin de la Rosa, a 5-8 junior point guard (4 apg), and Justin Contreras, a 6-0 senior center (8.9 rpg). Aaron Contreras, a 5-8 sophomore shooting guard, and Trey Sessums, a 6-0 junior power forward, project to fill the other two starting spots.

District 12 Borden County Lady Coyotes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-16/6-4 Coach: Michael Skelton (11 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Grady (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lady Coyotes have more depth than they have had in “quite some time,” according to coach Michael Skelton. Intent on bettering last season’s one-and-done playoff appearance will be returning starters Tatum Richey, a 5-5 senior guard (1st-team all-district; 8 ppg, 4 spg, 5 rpg); Zoie Key, a 5-5 senior guard (2nd-team all-district; 4 ppg, 2 spg, 3 rpg); and Preslea Hall, a 5-7 sophomore (1st-team all-district; 8 ppg, 4 spg, 4 rpg).

It’s the depth, though, that could propel the Lady Coyotes further than last season, and that depth starts with the leadership of senior Kylee Dean. Savannah Herridge, a junior, and sophomores Braylee Walker and Harley Merrill will combine with a large freshman class to allow Skelton to keep fresh legs on the floor at all times.

Highland Lady Hornets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 26-6/8-0 Coach: Shea Baucom (15 years’ experience; 13th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Balmorhea, 62-37; Grady, 56-39; L-Garden City, 37-33.

Outlook: Highland is one of the leading candidates to advance to the state tournament this season and for two very good reasons – seniors Hannah Allen and Sydny Helbert.

Allen, a 5-11 point guard (15.3 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.6 spg, 4.2 apg) who also excels in the classroom, was last season named 12-1A MVP and to the TGCA, TABC and Texas 6-Man Coaches Association all-state teams. Helbert, a 5-10 post (9.5 ppg, 11.5 rpg), made the TABC All-State team while ranking high in her class as well. The two headliners will be reunited with fellow 2014-15 starters Kelsi Johns, a 5-5 senior guard (all-district) and Bailey Garrett, a 5-6 senior guard (honorable-mention all-district). Providing quality depth and vying for PT in the fifth starting role will be Kailee Hall, a 5-4 senior guard; Karlie Allen, a 5-9 sophomore post; Holly Bradbury, a 5-9 senior post; and Hannah Kirby, a 5-6 senior post.

Playing Collegiately: 6LHUUD $OOHQ +LJKODQG

Abilene Christian University.

District 13 Aspermont Lady Hornets - Girls

Hermleigh Lady Cardinals - Girls Coach: Marisa Clement (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: The 2015-16 edition of the Lady Cardinals should “out-quick” many teams this season, and coach Marisa Clement’s squad has added height and strength underneath the basket after last season failing to make the playoffs. It isn’t the most experienced bunch, though. “A lot of these girls haven’t played with each other, so we’ll need to work on getting the chemistry going early on,” says Clement. Three returning starters will be charged with sparking that chemistry. They are Kelsey Digby, a 5-4 junior (1st-team all-district); Aaliyah Sneed, a 5-8 junior (2nd-team all-district); and Brishaya Sneed, a 5-2 sophomore.

Hermleigh Cardinals - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 11-15/3-8 Coach: Sam Winters (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: The Cardinals never found their wings last season; and, as a result, stayed at home come playoff time. This year, though, seven solid returnees – including a strong core of seniors -- forecast a brighter future. Optimism starts with Hermleigh’s three returning starters – senior forward Kyler Roemisch, senior point guard Dylan Randolph and junior guard Dylan Sorrells. And that optimism is echoed by rookie coach Sam Winters, who sees only what lies ahead and none of what is now history.

2014-15 W-L: 15-14/9-5 Coach: Missy Dutchover (17 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/1 Outlook: The Lady Hornets missed the 2015 playoffs and graduated six seniors, so it’s back to the drawing board for coach Missy Dutchover. Only one starter returns from last season – senior Shayla Hays, a 2015 2nd-team all-district selection. Haley Dutchover, a junior, is also back after earning distinction as the 2015 13-1A 6th Man of the Year. After that, PT is up for grabs.

Aspermont Hornets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 29-5/14-0 Coach: Ryan Bleiker (10 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Baird, 61-34; W-Eula, 57-55 (2 OT); L-Grady, 57-42.

Outlook: Jayton is considered to be a legitimate state-title contender, but some think the Jaybirds are still flying under the radar. They do, after all, have not one but two all-state players -- Sheldon Burchett and Slade Coulter -- on the roster. That suggests that they may be more than a mere contender. Burchett, a 6-0 sophomore guard (18 ppg, 7 apg, 8 rpg), took Class 1A by storm as only a freshman. Burchett not only earned distinction as the 13-1A MVP, but was also named to the TABC and Texas 6-Man Coaches Association (TSMCA) all-state teams. Slade Coulter, a 6-4 senior guard/forward, turned heads as well, posting numbers (14 ppg, 8 rpg) that landed him on the TSMCA All-State squad. Also returning to a starting role is Kobe Lisenbee, a 5-8 junior guard (6 ppg, 4 rpg).

Tristan Benavides, a 6-0 junior forward, will press for PT after contributing last season, and sophomores Clay Griswold, a 6-0 guard (5 ppg, 7 rpg), Tyler Seaton, a 5-9 guard; and Judd Latham, a 6-3 forward, all lettered in 2014-15.

178

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 14

Trent Lady Gorillas - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 10-12/8-6 Coach: Robbie Shugart (30 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: Robbie Shugart attended Trent High School. And now, after three decades of coaching basketball, she enters year three of her tenure as the head coach of her alma mater. The first two seasons under Shugart’s direction ended without the Lady Gorillas making the playoffs. But knock on wood, the third year appears like it may be the charm.

The Lady Gorillas are led by senior twins Whitney and Britney Beaver. The starting five also showcases seniors Lexi Hogan and Melissa Quintero, as well as junior guard Melanie Robinson. Shugart expects to get immediate help from her underclassmen -- sophomores Peyton Shipp, Caitlyn Wallis, Mariann Rainey and Brittany Crouch, as well as freshman guard Amanda Farmer. The 5-10 Crouch could prove particularly key as a true center who can block shots and provide balance to an offense that otherwise sets up shop around the perimeter. “We are ready to get this party started,” Shugart says. “We had several injuries last season and have missed the playoffs the last two years, but we have only been a win or two away from advancing. I think our time is now.”

FYI: Trent has not one, not two, but three sets of twins involved in its basketball program (see full story on p. 25). The most lauded, though, are the Beaver twins – Whitney and Britney. The Beaver sisters excel not only in basketball, but also in track and softball.

The twins have made it to the state track meet every year since they were freshmen, and Britney has also advanced to the XC State Meet each year of her high school career. The twins’ goal in this, their senior curtain-call, is to advance beyond the regular season not only in track, but also in softball and basketball. They have come close in the latter two sports but have never quite made it. This year they feel their chances are better than ever of accomplishing what would be a Triple Crown for thoroughbreds that walk upright and thrive in the subtropical climes of Trent, Texas.

Blackwell Lady Hornets - Girls Coach: Soli Shellman (2 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 Outlook: This fall marks Soli Shellman’s head-coaching debut at Blackwell, but she has had her players going through rigorous basketball drills throughout the summer.

She hopes the hard work will make for a smooth transition as the girls try to acclimate to her way of doing things. It helps that all five starters return to provide a solid core of leadership. Blackwell’s six-person rotation comprises Shianne Solis, a 5-2 senior point guard; Hailey Bennett, a 5-8 senior wing; Crystal Chavez, a 5-2 junior point guard/wing; Abby Gott, a 5-5 junior wing; Halee Sanderson, a 5-8 junior post; and Cambrey Coulter, a 5-8 sophomore wing.

Blackwell Hornets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 3-15/0-14 Coach: Dale Means (14 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Blackwell coach Dale Means will turn to a pair of guards -- 6-foot Cole Alley and 5-8 Charlie Cano -- to turn around the fortunes of a program that failed to net a 2014-15 district win. Alley and Cano are the only players to log time as starters last season.

Bronte Lady Longhorns - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 13-12/8-6 Coach: Carol Moore (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Bronte finished fourth in district last season, just on the other side of what could have been. This season the Lady Longhorns will go with an all-junior starting five. Each of the five logged varsity minutes at some point during the 2014-15 campaign and know all too well the frustration of just missing the playoffs. “We are still young, and we have no seniors,” says coach Carol Moore. “But this is an exceptional group of juniors.” The goal is to at least avenge last spring’s near miss; and then, next year, when all five are seniors, make a little noise with an extended playoff run. Two of the five juniors -- Brittany Bedford and Kacelyn Follis -- started a year ago. Bedford, a point guard, led her team in assists and in three-point shooting as a sophomore. That earned her first-team selection to the 14-1A All-District squad. Follis, a 5-5 junior shooting guard, also earned first-team all-district selection. She finished right behind Bedford in three-point shooting and hit 67% from the charity stripe.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2 Bronte Longhorns - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 16-14/10-4 Coach: Rocky Rawls (32 years’ experience; 33rd year at school) Returning Letterman/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: L-Lueders-Avoca, 62-60 (OT).

Outlook: Solid returnees, high-percentage shooters and quality call-ups from a JV squad that finished 16-4 should be enough to herd the Longhorns back into the playoffs, but their lack of size could limit how far they advance. The 6-foot senior Ean Ward headlines the 2015-16 edition of Longhorns basketball after last season averaging 6 points and 8 rebounds en route to second-team all-district selection. Five others round out Bronte’s PT rotation. They are Carson Kelso, a 5-11 junior; Ryan Jones, a 5-11 junior; Shawn Puentez, a 5-6 sophomore; Diego Perez, a 6-2 junior; and Tanner Bedford, a 5-11 sophomore.

Robert Lee Lady Steers - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 19-8/10-4 Coach: Billy Whyburn (33 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: W-Jayton, 37-35; L-Cross Plains, 42-30.

Outlook: The Lady Steers won their first playoff game in 10 years last season, and now that starting five is back convinced that they left a little meat on the bone after losing in the second round of the playoffs. The most insatiable of the five may be Brady Clawson, a 5-11 senior power forward who earned distinction as the 2015 14-1A Offensive MVP after averaging 16.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 2.3 blocks. Pammy Meeks, a 5-10 senior post (8.1 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 2.0 apg), garnered 1st-team all-district accolades, and Mariah Munoz, a 5-4 sophomore guard (9.8 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 2.5 apg, 2.4 spg), exploded onto the scene and was named the 14-1A Newcomer of the Year. Justice Saucedo, a 5-6 senior forward (2.0 ppg, 5.1 rpg), made 2nd-team all-district, and Karlee Roach, a 5-5 senior forward (3.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg), and Anna Huapilla, a 5-1 sophomore guard (1.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg), made all-district as honorable mentions. Two others -- Sandra Flores, a 5-2 senior guard, and Kiara Burns, a 5-6 sophomore post – also lettered in 2014-15. Burns averaged 3.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest.

FYI: The Lady Steers have four seniors -- Brady Clawson, Pammy Meeks, Karlee Roach and Sandra Flores -- who have excelled in other sports. Clawson advanced to the UIL State Golf Tournament her freshman and junior years and has, the last two years, also represented Lee in state high-jump competition. As a freshman, Flores joined Clawson at the 2013 state golf tourney; and last year, as juniors, Meeks and Roach punched their own tickets to state. Meeks did so throwing the discus while Roach took a cross-country route.

179 Veribest Lady Falcons - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 5-20/0-14 Coach: Monty Hale (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: The Lady Falcons were young last season when they went winless in district and have a large class of freshmen looking to letter this season. Nevertheless, coach Monty Hale gives his group at least a back-door chance of sneaking into the playoffs.

Garden City is the odds-on favorite to win district; but after that, you have a gaggle of teams – Veribest included – that will battle for seeding scraps. And the good news for Hale is that he returns all five of his starters. These now court-savvy birds are senior Lanie McWilliams; juniors Hailie Warren, Angelica Rojo and Hannah Ward; and sophomore Deyna Smetana.

Water Valley Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 26-4/14-0 Coach: Micky Baker (27 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: W-May, 54-41; L-Menard, 47-40.

Outlook: Water Valley coach Micky Baker will tighten the screws defensively this season as he tries to squeeze the most out of a roster short on experience. Two first-team all-district selections -- Asher Rogers and Tyler Hoover -- return from last season’s two-round playoff team, but they are the only two who started a year ago. Rogers, a 5-10 senior, will orchestrate the offense at point. Hoover, a 6-5 junior post, will provide him an easy target in the paint.

District 15 Baird Lady Bears - Girls Coach: Brad McGann (8 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/0 2015 Postseason: L-Roby (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lady Bears are cub-like again. Seven graduated this past spring, and there are no starters returning. Bottom line, coach Brad McGann will have his work cut out for him if Baird is to return to the playoffs. A strong preseason schedule should mature his newbies in a hurry. The three players who lettered a year ago are senior wing Cheyenne Hayes and juniors Kylie Fortune, a guard, and Breeanna Gonzalez, a wing.

Lee Steers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 13-15/8-6 Coach: Travis Dawson (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: The Steers came just a snort away from making the playoffs this past season but return three starters, all of whom are now seniors. The 5-8 Bruce Buddin and 5-10 Austin Fowler will handle guard duties while 6-2 post Jake Jackson holds court down in the blocks.

Sterling City Lady Eagles - Girls Coach: Amelia Reeves (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Rotan, 42-36; L-Menard, 49-35.

Outlook: Sterling City returns three starters who were instrumental in last season’s two-round playoff appearance; and, according to coach Amelia Reeves, there are a few athletic call-ups ready for varsity PT. The top returnee is Brittany Rauch, a 2nd-team selection on the 2015 Texas 6-Man Coaches Association All-Region team. She was also named last season’s 14-1A Defensive Player of the Year and to the All-West-Texas Super Team. Sterling City’s two other returning starters -- Autumn and Ashlynn Kilpatrick – earned 1st-team and 2nd-team selection, respectively, to the 2015 14-1A All-District squad.

Baird Bears - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-10/5-5 Coach: Jeff Campbell (25 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: W-Eden; L-Jayton.

Outlook: The Bears learned how to scratch and claw in 2014-15, and that should serve them well this season. Baird finished .500 in district play but won a play-in game and then managed to get past the first round. Eight players that contributed to that feat are back and confident they can do more. The 2015-16 six-man PT rotation comprises senior wing Isaiah Cruz, junior point guard Dakota Fannin, senior wing Ashton Beauchamp, senior post Zach Gorham, senior wing Dillon Isenhower and sophomore post Seth Porter.

Eula Lady Pirates - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 22-10/9-3 Coach: Will Corley (25 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: W-Richland Springs, 45-27; L-Garden City, 35-28.

Outlook: Senior point guard Destiny Carson, a two-time all-region selection and twotime all-district pick, returns to drive the bus for a team that coach Will Corley says could surprise its 1-15A bunkmates despite returning only two starters. Camri Smith, a threetime all-district selection, is the other returning starter. She too is a senior and will join Carson in the backcourt as Eula’s shooting guard.

Sterling City Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 9-19/4-10 Coach: Trey Sisco (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: Timmy Collins, a 5-10 senior guard (2nd-team all-district), and Lathen Horwood, a 6-foot junior forward, are the two returning starters from a squad that never quite found its wings in 2014-15. This season, coach Trey Sisco has plucked several athletic players from the nest and hopes these newbies will jump-start the roster so it can keep the lights on come playoff time.

Cross Plains Buffaloes - Boys Coach: J. Bart Eison (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: Holden Senclair, a 6-3 junior, averaged a double-double (17.7 ppg, 13 rpg) as only a sophomore and should – along with three other returning starters – provide Cross Plains an excellent chance at making the playoffs that eluded the Buffaloes this past spring. He won’t have to go it alone, though. Rylan Laminack, a 5-9 senior, projects into a leadership role after averaging 9 points and 3.5 steals a game last season. The 5-8 senior Phoenix Sanders, 5-11 junior Joseph Revoir and 5-10 junior James Briggs will also be on the floor come opening tip.

180

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 16

Brookesmith Mustangs - Girls Coach: Samantha Guerrero (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 Outlook: Brookesmith gets a facelift this season. This fall will mark Samantha Guerrero’s first as a head coach anywhere, and all her players – except for two – are in the same boat because they have never before played varsity ball. Together, coach and players will trudge through the uncharted waters of what could be a most challenging season. The three players who have nailed down starting jobs are Jessica Harris, Chyna Allgood and Micah Drake.

Brookesmith Mustangs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 2-15 Coach: David Donnell Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4

Eden Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 23-5/12-2 Coach: Colton Martin Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/2 2015 Postseason: L-Baird, 48-40 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Eden is somewhat in transition, but that doesn’t mean the Bulldogs will be sitting at home come playoff time. There are enough quality upperclassmen to get Eden back to the postseason while also chaperoning what will be a talented group of freshmen. Throughout the lineup, Eden has players who are very quick at both ends of the floor. The two returning starters are Isiahia Ogden, a 6-0 junior forward (8 ppg, 7 rpg; 2nd-team all-district), and Ryan Holden, a 6-4 senior post (5 ppg; honorable-mention all-district).

Lohn Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 9-17/5-7 Coach: Leon Freeman (36 years’ experience; 35th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 Outlook: Five upperclassmen return, and that might be enough to push Lohn on the playoff side of the fence after the gate closed on its hopes this past spring. The 5-9 senior Jeramy Rendon, 5-11 junior Zach Horne and 5-11 junior Dillon Roberts slide back into their 2014-15 starting roles while 5-9 senior Jack Shapland, 5-9 junior Isaiah Watkins and 5-8 sophomore Cole Carlile compete for the other two starting slots.

Menard Lady Yellow Jackets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 24-10/13-1 Coach: Jerry McSherry (23 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Sterling City, 49-35; L-Garden City, 52-48.

Outlook: With two TABC all-state players -- Shayne Wand, a 5-11 forward, and Cheyenne Hill, a 5-9 post -- returning for their final seasons, Menard is among the three or four teams that could emerge from a stacked Region II and then make noise in the state tournament. Wand, a player who was also named to the 2015 All West Texas Super Team, averaged 17 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 1.1 blocks her junior year. Hill, another 2015 All West Texas Super Team honoree, averaged 10.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.2 steals last season. “If our young players can keep progressing, we could make a good run,” says coach Jerry McSherry. To that end, Jaci McSherry, a 5-9 junior guard, is expected to take on a much larger role after posting 2.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.0 apg as a sophomore.

Menard Yellow Jackets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 31-3/10-0 Coach: Lee Harvey (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/3 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Lueders-Avoca, 53-41; W-Water Valley, 47-38; W-Ira, 55-51; L-Grady, 58-46.

Outlook: Menard’s 2014-15 campaign marked the best season in school history as the Yellowjackets came just a game away from advancing to the state tournament. But the story doesn’t end there. It’s very likely that the best part is still to come, for Menard enters this season as a favorite to reach the Final Four. There are several reasons why, but the two biggest are the Emmons twins – seniors Garrett and Grant. Garrett, a 6-4 post (15 ppg, 9 rpg, 3 apg), was named the 2015 16-1A Defensive MVP while Grant, a 6-2 guard (15 ppg, 5 rpg, 7 apg), earned distinction as the 16-1A Offensive MVP. The twins were also named co-MVPs of the Concho Valley All West Texas Super Team. One other returning starter, 6-foot junior guard Kolby Hernandez (8 ppg, 7 rpg, 4 apg), earned second-team all-district selection this past spring. Gone are Menard’s 6-4 post Robert Marshall and guard Eddie Duque. Both of them played key roles last season, but they will be ably replaced by 6-foot sophomore post Tee Jay White (5 ppg, 4 rpg; honorable-mention all-district) and Colt Palmer, a 6-4 senior guard who transfers in from Early where he garnered all-district accolades. Tony Garcia, a 6-1 senior post (5 ppg, 3 rpg), will likely assume a 6th-man role while 5-8 junior guard Ty Titzman, 5-7 senior guard Miguel Acevedo, 6-3 sophomore post Garret Hill and 6-foot freshman guard Christian Salazar fortify the roster in reserve roles.

FYI: The Emmons twins – Garrett and Grant – not only turn heads playing basketball, but also impress in football and in track. And they have been doing so since they were freshmen. The two brothers enter the 2015-16 basketball season having contributed to 78 wins throughout their high school careers. They are expected to pass the 100-win mark this season. Garrett and Grant have garnered all sorts of football accolades, and each has won silver in state-track-meet competition. Garrett has won silver in the 300 hurdles, and Grant silvered in the 110 hurdles.

Richland Springs Lady Coyotes - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 24-5/10-4 Coach: Shawn Rogers (17 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 2015 Postseason: L-Eula, 45-27 (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Lady Coyotes feel their 2014-15 campaign ended prematurely with a lopsided loss to Eula. Fortunately, nearly everyone is back to set things right. Expected to log minutes within a six-person rotation are Hailee Ashworth, Jordan Gossett, Marci Martin, Bralei Lusty, Brittney Bush and Paige Sloan.

Rochelle Lady Hornets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 28-4/13-1 Coach: Jym Dennis (13 years’ experience; 12th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: L-Baird (Bi-district).

Rochelle Hornets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 10-12/5-9 Coach: Jeremy Phillips (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 Outlook: All five of the Hornets’ returning lettermen made all-district last season; so it would seem on paper, Rochelle is a shoe-in to make the playoffs after last year finishing four games south of .500 in district play. The Hornets’ 2015-16 edition will revolve around the post play of 6-foot senior Marty Flores. A first-team all-district selection, Flores stuffed box scores last season with 12 points, 12 rebounds, 8 steals, 4 assists and 2 blocks per game. Matthew Nuncio, a 5-7 junior point guard, was named 16-1A Newcomer of the Year (12 ppg, 6 rpg, 6 spg and 4 apg), and Jacob Cox, a 6-foot senior post, earned 2nd-team all-district selection with 11 ppg, 9 rpg, 2 spg and 2 apg. Two senior guards – 5-9 Cody Tinney and 5-7 Timothy Estrada – made all-district as honorable mentions.

The roster fills out with four newbies -- Jacob Sanchez, a 5-7 sophomore guard; Daniel Contreras, a 5-8 junior guard; Zach Cook, a 5-10 sophomore guard; and Jeremy Rendon, a 6-foot senior post.

District 17 Bryson Cowboys - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-14/5-5 Coach: Jason Briles (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Lingleville (Bi-district), 53-31.

Outlook: After finishing third in district and getting bucked out of the first round of the 2015 playoffs, the Cowboys appear to be sitting a little higher in the saddle. All five starters return, including centerpiece Tyler Tuel, a 6-4 senior post who last season attracted everyone’s attention by averaging an off-the-charts double-double of 22 points and 13 rebounds. The 1st-team all-district pick also earned Academic All-State distinction.

Other key returnees include Jacob Jonas, a 5-11 senior guard (12 ppg, 6 rpg; 2nd-team all-district); Paul Davidson, a 6-foot sophomore point guard (5 ppg, 5 rpg, 4 apg, 2 spg); district newcomer of the year); and Trey Foyt, a 5-8 senior guard (4 ppg 3 rpg, 2 apg, 3 spg). Quality depth will come from Trent Moore, a 6-3 junior post; Jose Ramos, a 5-10 senior guard; and Brayden Houser, a 5-11 sophomore guard.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

181 District 18

Perrin-Whitt Lady Pirates - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-11/7-3 Coach: Jamie Jenkins (13 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: L-Huckabay, 48-25 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Only two starters return from a squad that finished second in district but then nearly got doubled up in the first round of the playoffs. Both returning starters -- Ashlyn Cox and Danyelle Kuhn – are seniors, though, and eager to take care of unfinished business. With Cox and Kuhn chaperoning the newbies, look for the Lady Pirates to again be in the playoff mix.

Lingleville Cardinals - Boys Coach: Zane Morris (making head-coaching debut) 2015 Postseason: W-Bryson, 53-31; W-Zephyr, 45-34; L-Graford, 66-55.

Outlook: Zane Morris steps into a good situation in what marks his rookie season as a head coach. His Cardinals rank in the TABC Top 10 and are definitely considered to be among those in contention for a berth in the state tournament.

Lipan Lady Indians - Girls Perrin-Whitt Pirates - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 6-19/1-9 Coach: Jamie Jenkins (13 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: Despite scratching out only one win in district play last season, coach Jamie Jenkins doesn’t hesitate in saying that his 2015-16 bunch should “challenge for the third playoff spot” in District 17-1A. Jenkins is pinning much of his hope on the return of three now upper-class starters – seniors Chase Akin and Garrett Galliher, as well as junior Hunter Francis.

Throckmorton Lady Hounds - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 7-20/4-6 Coach: Ryan Dollar (12 years’ experience; 9th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 1/1 Outlook: It is time for coach Ryan Dollar to roll up the sleeves. “Yes, there is lots of work to do,” Dollar says with regard to his fledgling squad. Only one letter-winner returns.

It helps that she started this past season and registered a first-team all-district performance. But Bri Navarro, a 5-6 junior guard, can’t win without a little help from her friends. Just how much help she’ll receive from the newbies is anyone’s guess at this juncture.

Throckmorton Greyhounds - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 22-4/9-1 Coach: Jason Blankenship (19 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Lipan, 76-60; W-Blum, 84-62; W-Huckabay, 60-56; W-Avinger, 66-46; L-Graford, 63-61.

Outlook: The Greyhounds lost a two-point heartbreaker this past spring to Graford in the regional finals, and that may be a loss that will continue to haunt because this year’s bunch bears little resemblance to the 2014-15 Greyhounds. “We will have a different look this year without Division 1 signee Hayden Farquhar,” says coach Jason Blankenship.

“Our success will have to come from relentless hustle and hard work as we blend in our younger players.” Only one starter and two other lettermen return. They are 5-10 senior post Keith Balthrop, 5-8 senior guard Luke Hale and 6-2 junior forward Adam Dennis.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ +D\GHQ )DUTXKDU 7KURFNPRUWRQ $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUsity.

Woodson Cowgirls - Girls 2014-15 District Record: 0-10 Coach: Gordon Thomas (23 years’ experience; 22nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: One game at a time will be the mantra as the Cowgirls climb back into the saddle after getting blanked in 2015 district play. The Cowgirls won’t be without experience as four starters return from last season’s rough ride. Cowgirls coach Gordon Thomas will roll the die with a starting five of 5-6 senior Miranda Cortez, 5-7 junior Joale Groote, 5-5 junior Victoria Cortez, 5-4 sophomore Madison Frazier and 5-4 sophomore Emma Hart.

2014-15 W-L: 33-4/9-1 Coach: Amber Branson (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Gustine, 86-34; W-Huckabay, 69-25; W-Saltillo, 5734; W-Strawn, 65-40; W-Garden City, 55-28; L-Nazareth, 56-40.

Outlook: The Lady Indians played for gold this past spring, and it appears they may very well get another shot at winning it all this season. The biggest reason to bank on Lipan is Lanie Roberts, a 5-11 senior guard who averaged a whopping 30 points per outing in 2014-15 and was subsequently showered with accolades, including distinction as the 18-1A MVP, selection to the UIL Final Four All-Tourney team and inclusion on the TABC and TGCA All-State squads. Lo and behold, though, Lipan has not one all-stater, but two.

Bryanna Phelps, a 5-10 senior guard, was voted the 18-1A Defensive MVP and also went on to garner selection to the TABC All-State team. If not for Roberts and Phelps, Maddie McGee, a 6-foot junior post, would get all the preseason hype after becoming a member of the 2015 TABC All-Region squad. The 5-10 senior post Hannah Redwine, Lipan’s fourth returning starter, will join McGee in the paint as a 2015 all-district honorable mention.

Lipan Indians - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 12-20/6-4 Coach: Brent Gaylor (10 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: L-Throckmorton (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Indians have a Big Chief in the paint, and that could allow them to send up more than a few smoke signals come playoff time. That Big Chief is Derrick Cook, a 6-5 junior post who made the 2015 TABC All-Region squad. Cook will provide a looming target for Lipan’s two quality guards -- Lance Ferguson, a 5-10 senior who made All-Region as a sophomore, and Santana Martinez, a 5-8 sophomore selected to the 18-1A All-District team this past season. Also returning to the starting lineup from 2014-15 are two other sizable players -- Tate Phillips, a 6-4 junior guard, and Ty Bryant, a 6-5 sophomore forward.

Strawn Lady Greyhounds - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 35-4/9-1 Coach: Jamie Heflin (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 1/0 2015 Postseason: W-Graford, 77-29; W-Zephyr, 49-31; W-Newcastle, 72-52; W-Dodd City, 77-56; L-Lipan, 65-40.

Outlook: These are exciting times for former Lady Greyhound Jamie Heflin. She this fall launches her career as a head coach by returning to her alma mater to re-tool a program gutted by graduation. The tradition of Strawn makes it a tremendous opportunity, but Heflin will have her hands full trying to work around only one returning letterman and a young one at that. K’Lani Nava, a sophomore, is the only player on the 2015-16 roster to have logged varsity minutes. Erin Price, a freshman, projects to be a headliner, but she’ll need a lot of help to get the Lady Greyhounds back to their accustomed status as a perennial power.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ -D\GH 3ULFH 6WUDZQ 5DQJHU &ROOHJH 6KHOO\ $EERWW 6WUDZQ

+LOO &ROOHJH

Strawn Greyhounds - Boys Woodson Cowboys - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 2-8 Coach: Bobby Lankford (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: After trudging through his rookie campaign as a head coach, Bobby Lankford is hoping familiarity with his schemes will translate into much more success for the seven returnees who last season eked out only a pair of district wins. Of the seven returnees, four started in 2014-15. They are Justin Pollei, a 5-7 senior; Anthony Long, a 5-8 junior; Harley McCarthy, a 5-10 junior; and Will Roberts, a 6-1 sophomore.

2014-15 W-L: 19-10/5-5 Coach: Michael Forester (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: In his sophomore season as a head coach, Michael Forester will structure a roster around the high-low game of 5-11 senior guard Ross Alison and 6-foot senior post Jerardo Hernandez, both of whom started a year ago for a team that stayed in its kennel come playoff time.

Playing Collegiately: +DUULVRQ 1RZDN 6WUDZQ 5DQJHU &ROOHJH

182

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Blanket Lady Tigers - Girls

Walnut Springs Hornets - Boys

Coach: Amanda Sheffield (2 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: L-Blum, 52-38 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Despite a very young lineup last season, the Lady Tigers managed to slink into the playoffs. This fall it looks like some of those younger players have begun to find their stripes, so it would stand to reason that Blanket should not only advance to the postseason again, but could very well take a name or two along the way. “There’s a lot of potential,” says Amanda Sheffield, who is this season making her Blanket coaching debut. Sheffield says she has thus far been impressed with the senior leadership that has greeted her. Four starters return, and two of the four -- Briana Wilson, a 5-6 guard, and Marki Kinkade, a 5-4 guard – are among the district’s best. Wilson was named the 2015 19-1A Offensive Player of the Year while Kinkade earned first-team all-district selection.

2014-15 District Record: 4-6 Coach: Tim Trotter (24 years’ experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: Tim Trotter enters his third decade pacing the pines as Walnut Springs’ head coach; and in this 21st season, he has assembled a quick-strike squad that will live or die along the perimeter. “We lack height,” says Trotter, “so we are a little weak inside.”

But that deficiency is countered by a set of guards who can hit with range and spread the floor. Bottom line, the Hornets should have enough firepower to get off the bubble and play beyond the regular season.

District 21 Bowie Gold-Burg Lady Bears - Girls

Blanket Tigers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 15-13/6-4 Coach: Scott Edmondson (11 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Iredell, 58-44 (Bi-district).

Outlook: Winning District 19-1A is a tall order for anyone, but Blanket is tall enough this season to give it a go. “It should be a very challenging district race this year,” says coach Scott Edmondson. “But we have some good size. We just need to better use it to our advantage this season.” The three returning starters ready to accept the challenge are 6-4 senior post Jordan Chasteen (1st-team all-district), 5-10 senior guard Toby Florence (2nd-team all-district) and 6-2 sophomore forward Blake Hood (1st-team all-district).

2014-15 W-L: 0-27/0-16 Coach: Cheryl Cromleigh (making Bowie Gold-Burg debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/2 Outlook: Cheryl Cromleigh starts anew, taking over a Lady Bears’ program emerging from hibernation. Cromleigh’s new team won not one game last season, but she is undaunted. Ten letter winners return, but only two of them -- Shelby Horton and Stormy Edwards -- started in 2014-15 and did so as mere freshmen. Which – reading between the lines -- is to say that the Lady Bears are still very young. “Gold-Burg is going to have a totally different look,” Cromleigh promises. “My young players are really athletic, and that will show.” Bottom line, Gold-Burg should win some games this season, but the Lady Bears still have a way to go if they are going to get into playoff contention.

Bowie Gold-Burg Bears - Boys Priddy Lady Pirates - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 13-17/5-5 Coach: Roy Aaron (2 years’ experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/5 Outlook: Roy Aaron arrived on campus last fall still learning the ropes as a head coach.

Under his direction, the 2014-15 Lady Pirates managed to tread water but missed the playoffs with a .500 district slate. All five starters return from that maiden voyage with coach Aaron, and they now appear ready to snatch a playoff spot. Two sophomore guards – 5-6 Alex Evans and 5-foot Cara Ivy – will team with the 5-5 junior forward Linzee Mcneel to headline a squad that lacks height and is still relatively young, but growing up in a hurry.

2014-15 W-L: 2-25/1-14 Coach: Aaron Tefertiller (10 years’ experience; first year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: The Bears will still have a lot of cubs on the roster, but all three returnees are upperclassmen – senior Kasen Allen and juniors Anthony Rios and Rayge Gardner, both of whom were all-district honorable mentions last season. “Gold-Burg should be more productive this year,” says coach Aaron Tefertiller, who, in his Gold-Burg debut, inherits a team that won only twice last season and only once in district. “Youth will still be our identity, but we should be competitive and get only better in the next couple of years.”

Forestburg Longhorns - Boys Priddy Pirates - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 7-19/3-7 Coach: Curtis Hurst (15 years’ experience; 16th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: The Pirates had to walk the plank of youth last season, but look to have regained their sea legs. “We were very young last year but return all players but two, so should be much improved,” says coach Curtis Hurst. Among the four returning starters, Adam Hurst, a 5-8 junior point guard, will command the spotlight after earning 1st-team all-district accolades last season. Also returning as starters are second-team all-district selections Jayden Schrank, a 6-1 sophomore forward, and Tylor Raines, a 5-11 senior post. The fourth returning starter, 5-7 sophomore guard Aaron Ivy, made the 2015 all-district team as an honorable mention.

District 20 Kopperl Eagles - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 2-8 Coach: Nupy Flores (26 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: Experience, depth and senior leadership. Kopperl coach Nupy Flores claims his current squad has plenty of all three. Which is to say that the Eagles feel the worm is about to turn following last season’s failure to make the playoffs. With four starters returning, Flores projects a starting five of Jakob Wood, a 6-4 senior post; Armando Lozano, a 6-1 senior power forward; Seth Lampman, a 5-9 junior guard; Dustin Jordan, a 6-3 senior forward; and Collin Bachhofer, a 5-10 sophomore forward.

Walnut Springs Hornets - Boys - Boys 2014-15 District Record: 4-6 Coach: Tim Trotter (24 years’ experience; 21st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 Outlook: Tim Trotter enters his third decade pacing the pines as Walnut Springs’ head coach; and in this 21st season, he has assembled a quick-strike squad that will live or die along the perimeter. “We lack height,” says Trotter, “so we are a little weak inside.”

But that deficiency is countered by a set of guards who can hit with range and spread the floor. Bottom line, the Hornets should have enough firepower to get off the bubble and play beyond the regular season.

2014-15 W-L: 16–12/9-5 Coach: Steve Sandusky (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/5 2015 Postseason: W-Trinidad, 47 42; L-Miller Grove, 65-35.

Outlook: Not only are all five starters back; but in summer league play versus most of the teams they will face in district, the Longhorns looked very impressive. Skyler Sandusky, a junior forward (12.8 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3 bpg) made first-team all-district last season as did sophomore guard JD Moore (6.9 ppg, 2.9 spg). Another returning starter, Taten Vann (10.5 ppg, 3.6 rpg), made 2nd-team all-district.

Prairie Valley Lady Bulldogs - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 8-17/4-10 Coach: Jeannie Carpenter (6 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 Outlook: The Lady Bulldogs last season started two then freshmen -- Taylor Carter and Brooklynn Messer -- and then sophomore Lexi Roof. Those three are much more seasoned as the 2015-16 campaign gets underway, but they are also the only three on the current squad to have logged any varsity minutes at all last season. The Lady Bulldogs missed the playoffs this past spring, and they may very well call it a season early again unless the new additions make a big splash.

Prairie Valley Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 7-16/3-11 Coach: Jack Williams (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: According to Prairie Valley’s fourth-year coach Jack Williams, the Bulldogs have plenty of room for improvement in all facets of the game. Three returning starters should make Prairie Valley more competitive than last season when it finished eight games under .500 during district play. The returning starters include two seniors – 6-foot Tyler Carter and 5-4 Alec Ducharme -- as well as 5-10 sophomore Lanne Roof.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

183

Saint Jo Panthers - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 12-14/6-8 Coach: Brian Blank (1 year’s experience; 2nd year) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/0 Outlook: Brian Blank arrived on campus last fall as a rookie coach; but in many ways, this season marks an even newer beginning. In his mind, nothing is set. “With no returning starters, every position is wide open,” he says. “We will be relying on an athletic freshman class to step up and help rebuild the program.” While no one started last season, 6-1 junior forward Bret Haney and 6-2 sophomore center Ethan Wagner did at least log varsity minutes and should provide the Panthers some options low in the blocks.

Other than that, two freshmen -- Preston Lyons, a 6-foot guard, and Blake Anderson, a 5-10 guard – project to make an immediate impact.

Miller Grove Hornets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 16-12/8-4 Coach: Gary Billingsley (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: L-Slidell (Area).

Outlook: Most everyone returns from last season’s second-round playoff squad, but Miller Grove is still without a single senior. Nonetheless, coach Gary Billingsley thinks his program is not only in good shape for next season, but could very well make a “good run” in 2015-16. Three players, in particular, fuel his optimism, and at the top of that power pyramid is Aleigh Bessonett, a 2015 All-Region selection. Cornerstone players Ashley Purser and Kayleigh Lester further fortify the pyramid.

Miller Grove Hornets - Boys

4IOGA¿,ADY¿"ULLDOGS¿ ¿'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 8-14/8-6 Coach: Morgan Reed (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: Five starters return for a team that placed fourth in district last season. Kari Hughes, a 5-8 senior point guard, will run the offense. The TABC All-Region selection last season averaged 19 points per game and will team with returning starter Verenise Agguire, a 5-2 senior shooting guard, to provide Tioga a formidable backcourt. The three other returning starters are all sophomores who just managed to get their feet wet last season. This trio of now seasoned veterans comprises 5-7 forward Destini Maness, 5-3 shooting guard Brittany Barnett and 5-9 center Andrea Perez. Look for the Lady Bulldogs to sink their teeth into a playoff spot after sitting on the bubble this past season.

FYI: Tioga High School closed its doors in 1961 and then reopened them – thanks to a bond election – some 50 years later in 2012. This spring, Tioga II will graduate its first class of seniors, which includes the Lady Bulldogs’ starting backcourt of Kari Hughes and Verenise Agguire. With no graduating class last season, coach Morgan Reed knew going into the 2015-16 season nearly everyone would return and greatly increase the team’s odds of making the playoffs after rejoining the UIL only a year ago.

Tioga Bulldogs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 5-23/4-10 Coach: Erik McNairy (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 Outlook: Tioga’s High school re-opened in 2012 after a 50-plus-year hiatus, and the Bulldogs did not rejoin the UIL until this past season. Bottom line, this newest incarnation of Tioga HS has yet to graduate anyone so coach Erik McNairy is the beneficiary of 10 returning lettermen, including all of last season’s starters. The Bulldogs are in a tough district, though, due in no small part to the fact that four member schools do not have football programs and can focus solely on basketball. All the same, McNairy feels his team will this season compete for a playoff spot after finishing six games under .500 in district play last season. Here is the starting five ready to re-establish Tioga tradition: 6-2 senior forward Travis Lewis (2nd-team all-district), 5-11 senior guard Austin Sprabary (honorable-mention all-district), 6-2 senior forward Cade Gibson, 5-9 sophomore guard Justin Rodriguez and 5-10 guard Isaac Sloane.

District 23 Cumby Lady Trojans - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 2-19/0-10 Coach: Shane McBride (1 year’s experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: After Cumby posted a goose egg in district play last season, the Lady Trojans of 2015-16 are focusing on the future, and Shane McBride, their new coach, says they are “ready to prove themselves.” Two returning starters – 5-3 senior guard Madison Thomas and 5-11 junior post Jaycee Weatherbee – should set the tone along with returning letterman Viviana Ugalde, a 5-7 senior forward.

Cumby Trojans - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 1-23 Coach: Ronnie Striplin (making Cumby debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 Outlook: Ronnie Striplin takes over a program that is still teetering from a season that netted only one victory. In his attempt to rebuild, Striplin will employ 6-3 senior Travis Taylor as his on-the-floor foreman. Taylor made all-district last season but is only one of two starters back from that ill-fated campaign.

2014-15 W-L: 26-14/11-1 Coach: Gary Billingsley (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Forestburg, 65-35; W-Bellevue, 66-51; L-Graford, 68-53.

Outlook: Hornets coach Gary Billingsley enters the second decade of his stay at Miller Grove touting his squad as quicker than any he has ever had. It’s a young collection, and only two starters return from the bunch that advanced to the regional semifinals, but Billingsley is hoping his team’s speed will translate into a season of reloading as opposed to a season of rebuilding. Both returning starters -- Brennan Green and Trey Lester – project to play significant roles as the Hornets shift into the fast lane.

Dodd City Lady Hornets - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 29-5/12-0 Coach: Alex Stephenson (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Bellevue, 84-19; W-Slidell, 90-60; L-Strawn, 63-48.

Outlook: Dodd City’s 6-foot junior Fallon Hilliard averaged a double-double last season (14 ppg, 14 rpg) and was not only selected to the TABC All-Region squad, but also earned distinction as the 2015 23-1A MVP. She alone places her team in the conversation about what teams have a shot at advancing to the 2016 state tournament. But she won’t have to shoulder the burden of expectations alone. Dodd City returns the core of a squad that not only made it to the regional semifinals, but also plowed through district play without a loss. Joining Hilliard to form that core are 6-foot junior Lindsay Carter (10 ppg) and 5-5 sophomore Paige Granstaff (2015 23-1A Newcomer of the Year; 14 ppg, 3.2 spg).

Ector Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 14-13/5-3 Coach: Corrie Evans (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/5 Outlook: Ector’s 2014-15 season came to a disappointing end when the Lady Eagles lost to Miller Grove in a play-in game. With last season’s starting lineup still intact, plans are to not play it so close to the vest this time around. In the start of decade number two as Ector’s head coach, Corrie Evans says the Lady Eagles should be considered a top contender to win the 2016 23-1A title. Here’s who will be on the floor come opening tip: senior point guard Kelsee Nelson (2nd-team all-district), sophomore shooting guard Sunnie Bingham (1st-team all-district), sophomore power forward Bailey Collins (1stteam all-district), junior guard Payton Anderson and junior post Emma Harris.

Ector Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-8 Coach: Blake Turner (3 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/4 2015 Postseason: L-Saltillo, 32-29 OT (Bi-district).

Outlook: The Blake Turner era of Eagles basketball begins this fall, and Ector’s new coach has been dealt a full hand. Almost everyone is back from the team that lost an overtime heartbreaker in the first round of the playoffs, and Turner is thinking experience alone will lengthen an Eagles’ postseason stay this time around. Among the players battling for significant playing time are Nick Harger, a 5-10 point guard; DeViaire Duplachaun, a 5-9 shooting guard; Ryan Wilder, a 6-foot small forward; Ethan Norwood, a 6-3 center; Timmy Ayers, a 6-1 power forward; Andrew Groneck, a 5-10 small forward; and Adi Pandey, a 5-11 shooting guard.

Playing Collegiately: %DLOH\ 0RUURZ &ODXGH +6 2NODKRPD :HVOH\DQ 8QLYHUVLW\

Fannindel Lady Falcons - Girls Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: A sophomore-laden Fannindel squad projects to be on a playoff bubble this February. Look for Dodd City to cruise to the 2016 23-A title while the Lady Falcons – via their talented sophomore core -- battle Miller Grove and Campbell for seeding leftovers.

184

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Fannindel Falcons - Boys Coach: Erik Pevey (making head-coaching debut) Returning Letterman/Starters: 5/3 Outlook: Rookie coach Erik Pevey inherits three returning starters; and while the Falcons flew south come playoff time last season, Pevey thinks there is enough flap in the wings this time around to challenge for at least a lower-seed playoff spot. It won’t hurt Fannindel’s chances that all three returning starters – 5-11 Jarvis Wilburn, 6-foot Akeyl Caeser and 6-2 Britt Moody – are battle-tested seniors.

District 24 Bloomburg Lady Wildcats - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 10-24/8-4 Coach: Shannon Peacock (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 2/2 2015 Postseason: L-Campbell, 62-33.

Outlook: Shannon Peacock arrived on campus last season as a rookie coach and managed to guide the Lady Wildcats to the playoffs. They were nearly doubled up in the first round, but at least they were able to extend their season by a game. In year two, though, Peacock is working without a net. Only two letter winners return. Both of them – 5-6 senior post Kim Restelle and 5-5 sophomore post Erin Evans -- started last season. That’s a good thing, but there remains many question marks as Peacock tries to fill a lineup with almost all new players.

Bloomburg Wildcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 10-19/5-7 Coach: Chad Sheffield (2 years’ experience; 3rd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 Outlook: With four returning starters and added depth, Bloomburg looks to return to the playoffs after a four-year drought. Two forwards -- Nathan McGill and Jordan Clayton – will drive the bus. McGill, a 6-1 senior (15 ppg, 1st-team all-district), is a versatile scorer who also excels on the defensive end while Clayton, a 6-2 junior (14 ppg, 9 rpg; 2nd-team all-district), earns his keep as a mid-range sniper with board skills. Brett Crumpler, a 5-9 junior point guard (5 apg; honorable-mention all-district), will facilitate but will also be challenged to assume more of a scorer’s role. Hunter Garrett, a 5-10 sophomore forward, returns after last season establishing himself as Bloomburg’s “hustle player,” and Dylan Craft, a 6-1 junior forward/post, and Ronnie Payne, a 6-2 senior post, will provide quality depth in the paint.

Jonesboro Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 14-9/7-3 Coach: Jeb Dixon (3 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/3 2015 Postseason: L-Gholson, 59-55 (Bi-district).

Outlook: In each of his three years at Jonesboro’s helm, Jeb Dixon has managed to advance his team to the first round of the playoffs but never any further. This season he returns District 25-1A’s 2015 MVP (6-foot senior guard Cannon Dixon) and 25-1A’s reigning Newcomer of the Year (5-9 sophomore guard Wyatt Young). So it would seem the Eagles have the tools to buck the trend and actually make some sort of run. Other returnees that should help the Eagles fly past the first round are 6-foot senior Josh Smith, 6-3 senior post Derrick Miller, 6-2 junior post Jimmy Apodaca, 5-8 junior guard Robert Robuck and 6-1 junior guard Josh Barnes.

Lometa Hornets - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 20-8/9-1 Coach: Aaron Nuckles (4 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 12/5 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Mount Enterprise, 55-45.

Outlook: With everyone back, Lometa has every reason to think in terms of an extended playoff run. The Hornets are looking to win a school-best fourth consecutive district championship. Lometa’s current wave of success began in 2012, a year after coach Aaron Nuckles was named head coach. During that three-year stretch, the Hornets have compiled a 75-37 record overall and a 37-5 district ledger. It has been a decade, though, since the Hornets made it past the first round of the playoffs, so that has become the carrot that motivates Lometa’s 12 returnees this season. Four returnees – including two that averaged a near double-double last season -- assume particularly pivotal roles.

This core of four comprises Kyle Molter, a 6-2 senior post (11 ppg, 12 rpg); Ivan Jasso, a 5-11 senior wing (10 ppg); Adrian Rivera, a 6-2 junior post (12 ppg, 9.9 rpg); and Connell Barnett, a 6-1 junior post (6 ppg).

FYI: Lometa is currently constructing a new gym that will replace one that has been in use for some eight decades. While everyone involved with the basketball program is eagerly anticipating the unveiling, there is one slight concern. Beginning with the 2011-12 season, the Hornets have lost only six home games. So when it comes time to officially be “out with the old and in with the new,” Hornets faithful hope that the team’s good fortunes don’t get swept away as well. On another note, headliner Kyle Molter, a 6-2 senior post, needs 282 rebounds to total 1,000 for his career. Based on 2014-15 numbers, he is on pace to book 336 rebounds by season’s end.

District 26 Bynum Lady Bulldogs - Girls Union Hill Lady Bulldogs - Girls Coach: Jason Crow (9 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 10/5 Outlook: In year four of his tenure as Union Hill’s head coach, Jason Crow sits in the enviable position of having 10 returnees, including the same starting five as last season.

Which is not to say that the 2015-16 Lady Bulldogs have already found their varsity comfort zone. “We’re still a young team trying to put it all together,” says Crow. “But it’s a team of hard workers who will go to battle every game.” His words are reflected in a starting five that includes three sophomores. It’s the other two starters, though, that will likely dictate fortunes. KayLynn Mowery, a senior guard, made first-team all-district last season while Myah Hollins, a junior forward, earned 2nd-team selection. The three sophomores who round out the starting five are guard Hannah Campbell, post Josie Heflin and forward Taylor Colbert.

District 25 Jonesboro Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 21-11/7-3 Coach: Chris Ashby (7 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/5 2015 Postseason: W-Penelope, 54-45; W-Calvert, 52-48; W-Lometa, 48-34; L-D’Hanis, 38-34.

Outlook: Jonesboro is a team that might be flying a tad under the radar. Last season, the Lady Eagles finished third in district but then managed – in the words of coach Chris Ashby – to “play very good ball when it counted.” Translation: Jonesboro advanced all the way to the regional semifinals before losing by only four points to D’Hanis, a team that ultimately advanced to the state tournament. The five starters responsible for Jonesboro’s whirlwind finish grew a lot down the stretch and come into this season eager to keep the party going. Plus, Ashby is moving up two freshmen that are expected to contribute immediately. Combine the two fish with a salty group of six returnees and there emerges a team that could sneak up on a program receiving more attention.

Jonesboro’s most obvious shortcoming may be its height; but at 6-foot-even, senior center Amber Hill does stand relatively tall in the middle. She last season earned second-team selection to the Texas 6-Man Coaches Association All-State team after being named the 25-1A Offensive MVP and getting voted first-team TABC All-Region and firstteam Super Centex. Joining her as a 2015 first-team all-district selection was 5-5 senior post Cassidy Coble. The 5-5 junior forward Savannah Cox and 5-6 sophomore guard Caitlin Ashby made all-district as second-team selections, and two 5-4 sophomore guards -Hannah Isom and Erica Gilmore -- also received 2015 accolades. Isom was named 25-1A Newcomer of the Year, and Gilmore made all-district as an honorable mention.

Playing Collegiately: .DWLH .X]HQND -RQHVERUR 6KULQHU 8QLYHUVLW\

Coach: Joshua Ball (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/4 Outlook: While the Lady Bulldogs’ leash did not extend beyond the regular season this past spring, coach Joshua Ball projects that there is now enough bite to not only advance to the postseason, but to also “make a playoff run.” His words are lent some credence by the return of four starters – junior Kylie Green (2nd-team all-district), junior Haylee Meeks, sophomore Savannah Register and senior Cierra Miller.

District 27 Groveton Indians - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 6-18/1-9 Coach: Zach Birdwell (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/3 Outlook: The Indians may have won only six games this past season, but that’s not bad given that the year before they did not even field a team. Now, with some semblance of normalcy restored, second-year coach Zach Birdwell says he thinks he can build around his three returning starters and produce a team that will, at least, be in “the hunt” for what would be Groveton’s first playoff appearance since 2009. Birdwell’s three returning starters include Groveton’s man in the middle – 6-2 senior center Jonathan Eleby. The other two returning starters staff the backcourt – 6-3 junior shooting guard Dawson Chumley and 5-8 sophomore point guard Saul Chavez.

District 28 Gary Bobcats - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 6-23/2-10 Coach: Tony Wood (13 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 Outlook: Gary coach Tony Wood doesn’t mince words: “We expect a huge turnaround from last season.” In fact, Wood projects that his squad – after winning only two district games in 2014-15 – will be in contention for one of 28-1A’s playoff spots. His optimism is fueled by the return of not only four starters, but also four other lettermen that provide quality depth. “We’ll start the season with a lot of young, but experienced players,” Wood says. All of which means that the Bobcats project not only better fortunes this season, but an immediate future that looks bright as well. Wood’s four returning starters comprise Austin Morton, a 6-4 junior, and three sophomores -- 6-3 Landon Odom, 5-10 Cason Daniels and 5-9 Kenneth Andrews.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

185 District 29

District 30

Goodrich Hornets - Boys

Fayetteville Lions - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 7-18/3-4 Coach: Lester King (35 years’ experience; 29th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/5 Outlook: According to long-time veteran coach Lester King, the 2015-16 Hornets will “play hard and fast baseline to baseline.” King says Goodrich will look to force the issue on defense and then set the pace with a well-executed, half-court offense. Five starters return, but there are several freshmen who will challenge for starting roles. In fact, the Hornets are young from stem to stern. Among those expected to make an impact are sophomores Devante Hughes, Javarius Nickelberry and Cristian Garzon. The freshmen looking to eat minutes are Ryan Harrell, Tyrese Harrell and Isaiah Garzon.

2014-15 W-L: 4-22/3-11 Coach: Blake Krebs (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 Outlook: Blake Krebs got initiated into the agony of defeat last season when, as a rookie coach, he watched his Lions drop eight district contests. “We are looking to turn the page from last season and move toward a bright future,” he said earlier this fall. One reason to look ahead is the influx of young talent that projects to have an immediate impact. Two other reasons to have hope are Fayetteville’s two returning starters, both of whom are seniors. Derek Bertsch, a 6-1 forward, and Damon Gerik, a 6-foot guard, are anxious to squeak the hardwoods after enduring a long and winding road as juniors.

Leggett Pirates - Boys

Premier Learning Academy Knights - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 17-14/8-2 Coach: Dennis Earl Stewart (37 years’ experience; 3rd year at Leggett) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: L-Moulton, 56-33.

Outlook: Patrick Roberts and Darius Cooper return to headline a team eager to make amends for its one-and-done postseason appearance this past spring. Veteran coach Dennis Stewart – now in year three of his tenure at Leggett -- says he has been encouraged by the influx of talent from Leggett’s junior high. “I feel like we will have some depth this season; and for that reason, I feel we could be pretty good.”

Players Competing Collegiately: /HVOL .RURPD /RQH 6WDU &ROOHJH

2014-15 W-L: 30-5/12-2 Coach: Ronnie Bush (making head-coaching debut) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 4/2 2015 Postseason: W-Spurger, 83-30; W-Leakey, 77-33; W-Burkeville, 61-46; L-Calvert, 50-47.

Outlook: According to rookie coach Ronnie Bush, the goal this season is to win district and then let the chips fall as they may. Easier said than done. Both of the team’s district losses last season came against Waelder, a team that ranks in the TABC’s Top 25. On top of that, the Knights are not as deep as last season when they lost by only three to Calvert in the regional semifinals. And last, but not least, the Knights return only two starters.

Nevertheless, Bush doesn’t flinch. “I still feel we have a realistic goal of returning to the regional tournament.” Three players -- Jacoby Callier, Darian Phillips and Kobi Clayton -- prompt Bush’s rosy picture. Bush describes Callier, a 5-10 senior point guard, as “one of the most quick and explosive players in (Class) 1A.” Phillips, a 6-3 junior small forward, is tall enough to play center at most 1A schools but has the type of handles that beg to be utilized on the wing. Then there’s Clayton, a 6-1 sophomore who has evolved into perhaps the squad’s most versatile player. Bush’s power forward has range from beyond the arc, pounds the offensive glass and produces points in the paint.

3OD\LQJ &ROOHJLDWHO\ 5R\ &DOOLHU -DUYLV &KULVWLDQ &ROOHJH

186

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS District 31

District 32

Nueces Canyon Lady Panthers - Girls

Austwell-Tivoli Redfish - Boys

2014-15 W-L: 25-6/12-2 Coach: Brandy Sweeten (10 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Letterman/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Runge, 65-21; W-Moulton, 41-38; L-Leggett, 66-62.

Outlook: Brandy Sweeten enters her second decade as a head coach relieved that she isn’t having to piece together a new lineup. Over the last two years of coaching the Lady Panthers she has had to deal with the graduation of 13 players. Going into 2015-16, all but two players return and four of the returnees started last season. Especially promising is the fact that the reigning 31-A MVP, 5-6 junior guard Gabby Irwin, returns after also earning 2015 TGCA All-State selection via averages of 15 points and 6 rebounds per game.

Irwin will share the backcourt with Emily Carnes, a 5-6 senior (12 ppg; 5 rpg; 1st-team all-district), and the both of them will look to feed Bethany Fisher, a 5-7 junior post (8 ppg, 8 rpg; 2nd-team all-district).

Coach: John Armstrong (4 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: L-Knippa, 72-55 (Bi-district).

Outlook: In his first year on campus, coach John Armstrong inherits a team with four starters returning from a bittersweet experience. Yes, the Redfish made the playoffs this past season, but wound up getting summarily dismissed in the first round. Armstrong thinks there is better in store for the Redfish in 2015-16. A trio of returnees -- Josh Maddux, Josh Arizmendi and Britten Battles -- will play a large role in determining whether the Redfish sink or swim. Maddux, a 6-5 senior center, made second-team all-district last season while the sophomore guards Arizmendi (5-foot-7) and Battles (5-foot-9) earned first-team and second-team all-district selection, respectively. Also projected to start are 5-11 senior forward Ishmael Perez and 5-7 junior guard Eric Garcia.

D’Hanis Cowgirls - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 27-7/13-1 Coach: Fred McCollum (6 years as boys coach; 2 years as girls coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/2 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); W-Burton, 68-49; W-Goodrich, 53-51; W-Jonesboro, 39-35; W-Coolidge, 48-46; L-Nazareth, 61-18.

Outlook: D’Hanis graduated three key components to its 2015 state semifinalist team, including the 2015 31-1A MVP Mallory McCollum; but two core players return, and the general consensus is that D’Hanis – along with Coolidge and Chireno – should still be considered a strong contender to emerge from Region IV and advance to the state tournament. The two starters that do return to help sustain D’Hanis’ contention status are Sarah Craft, a 5-7 senior shooting guard, and Shelby Gayre, a 5-9 junior post. Craft last season averaged 8.7 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.5 apg en route to TABC All-Region accolades and selection as the 31-1A Defensive MVP. Gayre posted equally impressive numbers -- 7.5 ppg, 11 rpg, 2.2 apg – and was named 31-1A Newcomer of the Year and then became one of five selected to the State-Tourney team in San Antonio. The three other Cowgirls expected to be on the floor at opening tip are Jacie Henefey, a 5-9 junior post (3.5 ppg, 2.2 rpg); Ashley Philipp, a 5-8 senior post (2.6 ppg, 2.1 rpg); and Elisa Nolasco, a 5-2 senior guard (2.0 ppg).

D’Hanis Cowboys - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 12-15/8-6 Coach: Fred McCollum (6 years as boys coach; 2 years as girls coach) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 Outlook: After losing to Rocksprings in a third-place, playoff play-in game, the Cowboys hope to leave nothing to chance in 2015-16 and barge through the postseason’s front door. “We will look to get out and run the floor and generally speed the game up,” says coach Fred McCollum, who will this season coach both D’Hanis’ girls and boys basketball teams. D’Hanis’ hopes of returning to the boys playoff bracket will hinge largely on the play of its three returning starters -- Christian Tapia, a 5-6 senior point guard (1st-team all-district); Zac Valenzuela, a 5-8 senior shooting guard (2nd-team all-district); and Trent Higgins, a 5-11 senior forward (2nd-team all-district). D’Hanis’ three other returning lettermen – 6-1 junior post Tyson Zinsmeyer, 5-9 junior wing Cris Salgado and 5-8 junior wing Juan Mares -- will vie for the other two starting spots.

McMullen County Cowgirls - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 28-4/6-0 Head Coach: Tony Taylor (27 years’ experience; 5th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-district); L-Leggett, 59-45.

Outlook: The 2015 32-1A District Champion Cowgirls ran out of gas last season in the playoffs. They played Leggett close for three quarters but couldn’t finish the job. In retrospect, coach Tony Taylor thinks his 2015-16 bunch – if it stays healthy and continues to develop a little depth – could “play for a while” in the 2016 playoffs. All of Taylor’s five projected starters – including four girls who started last season – earned 2014-15 accolades. The most-decorated honoree was Makinna Seratta. The 5-10 sophomore was voted 32-1A Offensive MVP and then named to the TABC All Region team as a mere freshman. Calli Cruz, a 5-4 senior, was named 32-1A Defensive MVP while Hallie Taylor, a 5-6 sophomore, earned 32-1A Newcomer-of-the-Year distinction. McMullen County’s two other projected starters – 5-3 senior Sarita Cavazos and 5-9 senior Jordan Stephenson – also earned selection to the 2015 32-1A All-District team.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

187

188

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Class 3A

TAPPS Team Profiles Class 2A District 1

Wichita Falls Notre Dame Lady Knights - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 22-10/5-1 Coach: Steve Smith (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/4 2015 Postseason: W-Greenville Christian, 54-40; L-Dallas Lakehill, 58-52.

Outlook: After kicking the tires last season, then rookie coach Steve Smith found his team road-ready. Now, in year two, it’s simply a matter of finding out whether there’s enough gas in the tank to drive the bus to Mansfield. Based on the return of four starters, Smith is optimistic his team can at last make a run at the title. Much of his optimism is fueled by 2015 second-team all-state selections Tori Harney, a 5-9 senior post who averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds last season, and Denica Palomo, a 5-5 senior point guard (11 ppg, 5 rpg, 8 apg). A third returning starter, Alex Parkey, a 5-10 senior post (9 ppg, 8 rpg), made all-state as an honorable mention while the Lady Knights’ one other returning starter, Keeley Johnston, a 5-10 junior wing (4.5 ppg, 2 rpg, 2 apg), garnered first-team all-district honors.

Two returnees -- Sydney Chapa and Adi Smith – will vie for the other starting slot.

District 5 Live Oak Classical Falcons - Boys Coach: Adam Stanley (5 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 Outlook: Chase Hill, a 5-11 sophomore guard, returns to pick up where he left off last season after being named 1st-team all-district as a mere fish. Three other returning starters -- Cole Jahrmarkt, a 5-11 sophomore guard; Philip Moffatt, a 6-1 senior post; and Seth Howton, a 6-2 junior post – will provide Live Oak enough punch to make the playoffs despite the loss of two key players who graduated this past spring.

Playing Collegiately: %UDQGRQ /LWWOHV /LYH 2DN &ODVVLFDO 6RXWKZHVWHUQ &KULVWLDQ University.

District 7 Lutheran HS-San Antonio Mustangs - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 19-18/8-2 Coach: Bruce Biedinger (23 years’ experience; 20th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: W-Faith Victoria, 85-79; W-Pasadena First Baptist, 70-69; W-Bryan Brazos Christian, 72-69; L-San Antonio CASA, 72-69.

Outlook: The Mustangs came just three points shy of winning TAPPS’ 2015 Class 2A title and have to be considered a prohibitive favorite with almost everyone back. And as an extra bonus, the 2015-16 ponies boast a roster that – for the first time in three years – comprises mainly upperclassmen. The centerpiece to this year’s squad is 2015 1st-team all-state selection Collin Hunick, a 5-9 junior shooting guard (14.7 ppg, 3 rpg, 2.1 apg) who made 94 treys as a sophomore. Corey Friesenhahn, a 5-11 junior point guard (9.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4.2 apg, 2.9 spg; 1st-team all-district), will also prove indispensable to any state-title run while the 6-2 forward Phillip Williams (5.8 ppg, 5.6 rpg) and 6-3 center Daniel Hernandez (5 ppg, 5.6 rpg) will be asked to take on even larger roles after they earned varsity starting stripes in 2014-15.

Playing Collegiately: '\ODQ 0XUGRFN /XWKHUDQ +6 &RUQHOO &ROOHJH LQ ,RZD FYI: Lutheran coach Bruce Biedinger says to simply describe his team as “up-tempo” is to seriously understate what actually takes place. His team plays not just an up-tempo brand of basketball, but does so at warp speed. Players rotate every 45 seconds in a motion offense that has seen the Mustangs fire up more than 1,000 treys in each of the past two seasons.

District 2

Lake Country Christian School Lady Eagles - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 33-8/12-0 Coach: Steve Rachal (16 years’ experience; 7th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 8/4 2015 Postseason: Bye (Bi-District); W-Cedar Hill Trinity, 73-52; L-Lubbock Christian, 69-60.

Outlook: Lake Country Christian’s second-round playoff loss last season came at the hands of eventual state champ Lubbock Christian; but now, with nearly everyone back, it could very well be the Lady Eagles’ turn to perch in the Catbird’s Seat come playoff time. Gone is 2,000-plus-point scorer Julianne Leeper, who is now suiting up for Eastern New Mexico, but the Lady Eagles return four starters, including Laci Hawthorne, who enters 2015-16 as the squad’s leading scorer after last season averaging 19 points to go along with 8 rebounds and 3 blocks per game. Hawthorne, a 6-foot junior forward, garnered first-team selection to the 2015 TABC All-State team in addition to being named the 2-3A Offensive Player of the Year. Alexus Jones, a 5-7 junior guard (13 ppg, 7 apg, 6 spg) who made second-team all-state last season, balances the offense with her presence in the backcourt. Two other returning starters -- Jasmine Chambers and Madison Thomas – round out Lake Country Christian’s core of four. Chambers, a 5-11 junior post (10 ppg, 7 rpg; 1st-team all-district), provides the squad muscle in the paint, while Thomas, a 5-5 senior guard (7 ppg, 2 spg; 2nd-team all-district), teams with Jones to fortify the backcourt. Four other players also project to log significant minutes, providing the type of quality depth needed to win championships. They are Laken Rachal, a 5-5 junior guard (5 ppg, 2 spg; honorable-mention all-district); Jazmyne Jones, a 5-7 sophomore guard (6 ppg, 3 spg, 4 rpg; honorable-mention all-district); McKenna Whites, a 5-9 sophomore guard (5 ppg, 4 spg); and Joy Young, a 5-10 sophomore forward (4 ppg, 5 rpg).

Playing Collegiately: -XOLDQQH /HHSHU /DNH &RXQWU\ &KULVWLDQ (DVWHUQ 1HZ 0H[LFR $OH[XV 0F&ROOXP /DNH &RXQWU\ &KULVWLDQ +LOO &ROOHJH FYI: Lake Country Christian enters the fall having won 76 consecutive games in district. That translates into all those in the last three senior classes – even those who lettered as freshmen -- having never experienced a district setback.

District 6 Lutheran North Lions - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 36-2/10-0 Coach: John Slomchecj (6 years’ experience; 6th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 6/3 2015 Postseason: W-Brentwood, 45-32; W-Legacy Christian, 70-62; W-Faith Academy, 66-52; L-Lubbock Christian, 66-44 (state championship game).

Outlook: Asia Woods, a 6-foot senior who earned second-team all-state selection last season, will headline an ultra-athletic squad considered to be a prime state-title contender after bowing in the 2015 title tilt. Two other returning starters --- both of whom are juniors and made second-team all-district last season -- bolster Lutheran North’s chances of getting another shot at the title. These two cornerstones -- Amber Reyes and Rebecca Wood – stand in at 5-7 and 5-8, respectively. The 5-6 senior Miceala Ladet (all-district honorable mention) also projects to start. After that, there will be two sophomores – 5-7 Cydney Rivera and 6-foot Alyce Fields – and 5-6 junior Sable Barnes who will slide into a starting role or be among the first two to come off the bench.

Playing Collegiately: 6KDQLD :RRGV /XWKHUDQ 1RUWK 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 1HZ 2UOHDQV 7LIIDQ\ 9DOHQWLQH /XWKHUDQ 1RUWK 6SULQJ +LOO &ROOHJH -HVVLFD 6ORPFKHFN /XWKHUDQ 1RUWK

&RQFRUGLD RI &KLFDJR

Class 4A District 1

Lubbock Trinity Christian Lady Lions - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 34-10/14-0 Coach: Gregg Ammons (7 years’ experience; 8th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/1 2015 Postseason: Quarterfinals: W-Dallas Christian, 59-46; Semifinals: W-Midland Christian, 79-44; Finals: W-Houston Westbury, 89-55.

Outlook: In his eighth season coaching one of the state’s most consistently successful programs, Gregg Ammons doesn’t shy from making public his team’s belief that it will win a fourth consecutive state title. “Our expectation is to win the state championship again,” Ammons says. “We will not have the depth we had last year at the beginning of the season,” he continues, “but we have been developing our younger girls for the past eight months, and our older girls know how to win. We are ready.” Ammons’ words come despite only one starter returning. The 5-9 junior guard Ashton Duncan is one of the very best, though, having averaged 14.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game last season. Duncan earned 2015 second-team all-state selection and was also named to the 2015 state tournament’s all-tourney team. She won’t have to navigate the journey back to Mansfield alone, though.

Two returnees – 5-7 junior guard Cara Cowan (13.9 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.8 apg) and 5-4 senior guard Kennedy King (7.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2.1 apg – will share the load after last season garnering second-team all-district accolades. Also projected to keep the party going are senior guards Nancie Wheeler and Sara Jane Leavorton. The 5-9 Wheeler posted 8.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.7 apg while the 5-7 Leavorton contributed 8.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 9 apg.

Playing Collegiately: %UHNO\Q :HQW] 7ULQLW\ &KULVWLDQ $ELOHQH &KULVWLDQ 8QLYHUVLW\ FYI: Year in, year out, the Lady Lions play a monstrously tough schedule as a way to become battle-tested headed into district play. This year’s oppositional minefield includes defending UIL 5A state-champ Canyon, Clovis (New Mexico), Amarillo, Plainview, Wall and Canyon Randall, as well as teams the Lady Lions will face in the highly touted Colleyville Heritage, Brock and Caprock tournaments.

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

189 District 2

Tyler All Saints Episcopal Trojans - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 37-3/11-0 Coach: Eddie Francis (13 years’ experience; 14th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 2015 Postseason: W-Midland Christian, 93-79; W-Arlington Pantego, 68-53; W-Lubbock Trinity Christian, 67-57; L-Houston Westbury Christian, 73-52 (State Championship).

Outlook: Four starters are gone from what was last season considered to be the best team in school history, but coach Eddie Francis is optimistic that he has a couple of cornerstone players and enough quality JV call-ups to piece together another extended playoff run after last spring’s ended at the end of the rainbow via a loss to perennial power Westbury Christian. One cornerstone is 2015 district co-defensive player of the year Luke Lee. The other is district newcomer of the year Sean Phillips. Lee, a 6-3 senior post, averaged 10 points, 7 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 2 assists per game in 2014-15. Sean Phillips, a 6-5 junior guard, posted 9 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.3 apg while tormenting defenses with 39% shooting from beyond the arc. They will be joined in the starting five by 6-1 senior forward Chris Williams (3.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg). As for the JV call-ups, they are coming from a squad that won district last season, and Francis expects them to make significant and immediate contributions. He cites two who should be on the floor at opening tip -- Nathan jasper, a 6-1 junior guard, and Sam DeBoer, a 6-1 junior post.

Playing Collegiately: Aston Francis (All Saints Episcopal

7\OHU -8&2

Legacy Christian Academy Eagles - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 18-10/6-5 Coach: Cole Johnson (18 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Outlook: With veteran coach Cole Johnson making his Legacy Christian debut, the Eagles will be asked to crank up the tempo at both ends of the floor and tighten the screws on defense. Setting the pace will be standouts Drew Liebert and Mason Pelham.

Class 5A District 1

,IBERTY¿#HRISTIAN¿7ARRIORS¿ ¿ 'IRLS¿ 2014-15 W-L: 39-2/15-0 Coach: Ken Burroughs (20 years’ experience; 10th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/4 2015 Postseason: W-Houston Awty International, 72-20; W-Houston Duchesne, 72-26; W-Plano John Paul II, 65-31; W-Plano Prestonwood, 45-38.

Outlook: Liberty Christian is overwhelmingly favored to successfully defend its state title as three of four returning starters -- Sydney Goodson and the Hand twins (Rebekah and Hannah) – return for their senior swan songs after nabbing first-team all-state accolades as juniors. Rebekah Hand was also named the 2015 1-5A MVP while sister Hannah earned distinction as the 1-5A Defensive Player of the Year. Not to be done, Goodson made it a clean sweep for Liberty Christian as she was named 1-5A Offensive Player of the Year. Liberty Christian’s other returning starter, Kendall Ellig, also made the 2015 1-5A All-District first team and has all the tools to be a difference-maker if teams get too preoccupied trying to account for her three all-state teammates.

Class 6A District 1

Prestonwood Christian Lions - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 33-4/13-0 Coach: Chris Lovell (4 years’ experience; 4th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/3 2015 Postseason: W-Kelly Catholic, 83-34; W-Central Catholic, 85-51; W-St. Pius X, 66-39; W-Trinity Christian Academy, 49-32.

Outlook: The Lions are on a roll. Many a sport pundit considers Prestonwood Christian to be on the most impressive run of any private or public school in Texas. Last season’s state championship marked the basketball program’s third consecutive, and there is absolutely no reason to expect the streak to end in 2016. Much of the Lions’ success has to be attributed to coaching. Chris Lovell arrived on campus three seasons ago and immediately led Prestonwood Christian to the first of its now three consecutive titles. But it helps to have a megastar or two, and Lovell has had exactly that. His first year on campus he inherited the now Los Angeles Laker Julius Randle; and on his current roster, he has the 6-11 senior center Schnider Herard, a Mississippi State signee who ranks 67th nationwide on ESPN’s Top-100-Classof-2016 list. Herard (16 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 3.5 bpg) last season earned 1st-team all-state accolades and was named the MVP of the TAPPS state tournament. As if that were not enough, the Lions also bedazzle opponents on the perimeter via the play of Evan Peters, a 6-4 senior guard (12 ppg, 4 apg, 2.4 spg; 2nd-team all-state). Bottom line, there is no more potent combination in the state than Peters passing to Herard in the blocks. DJ McGee, a 6-foot senior (10 ppg, 3 apg, 1.5 spg; 2nd-team all-district), provides Prestonwood additional pop along the perimeter while Mark French, a 5-10 senior guard who has transferred from Briarcrest Christian, will team with JV call-up Josh Richardson, a 6-4 junior forward; and Justin Webster, a promising 6-2 freshman guard, to round out a Top 6 that on paper projects not only to win, but to also dominate.

Playing Collegiately: 'MHU\ %DSWLVWH 3UHVWRQZRRG 9DQGHUELOW 8QLYHUVLW\ &KULV 6WHSKHQV 3UHVWRQZRRG 6RXWKHUQ 1D]DUHQH 8QLYHUVLW\ -XOLXV 5DQGOH 3UHVWRQZRRG

8QLYHUVLW\ RI .HQWXFN\ /RV $QJHOHV /DNHUV 0DUTXDQ %RWOH\ 3UHVWRQZRRG )ORULGD $WODQWLF 8QLYHUVLW\ $XVWLQ 5HWWLJ 3UHVWRQZRRG 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7DPSD FYI: It is often speculated about just how good Prestonwood Christian Academy’s basketball program really is compared to teams throughout the country. Well, on paper, the Lions stack up well, and this season they will get to compete against some of this country’s most lauded teams via their entry in the national Max Preps Classic and Tarkanian Classic basketball tournaments.

Trinity Christian Academy (Addison) Trojans - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 33-5/12-1 Coach: Randy Feemster (17 years’ experience; 11th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 5/4 2015 Postseason: W-Brownsville St. Joseph, 60-56; W-San Antonio Antonian, 58-44; Tomball Concordia Lutheran, 63-45; L-Prestonwood, 49-32 (State Finals).

Outlook: After reaching the final battle this past spring, the Trojans have reconnoitered and are now ready to again ride the horse that brought them to near glory. That horse personified is the pair of twins known otherwise as Mark and Matt Paterson. Each of Trinity Christian’s dynamic duo made the 2015 TAPPS State Tournament All-Tourney team and is committed to scaling the TAPPS mountaintop before moving on to the green pastures of college ball. Miller Williams and Brandon Legband also project to make a difference after starting last season, and Reagan Freeman and Blake Hinton will compete for playing time as either the fifth starter or the first player coming off the bench.

Playing Collegiately: &DUYHQ +ROFRPEH 7ULQLW\ &KULVWLDQ 2XDFKLWD %DSWLVW $UNDQVDV /DQGRQ %UDQVRQ 7ULQLW\ &KULVWLDQ +RSH ,QWHUQDWLRQDO &DOLIRUQLD

District 2 St. Anthony Catholic Yellow Jackets - Girls Bishop Lynch Lady Friars - Girls 2014-15 W-L: 18-15/10-5 Coach: Andy Zihlman (35 years’ experience; 36th year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 7/2 2015 Postseason: Regional Finalist.

Outlook: Two starters are back to lead five other returnees in the Lady Friars’ annual quest to add yet another state title to a program steeped in championship tradition.

Bishop Lynch last season came just a game away from advancing to the state tournament, and guards Bianca Bowring, now a senior, and Murphy Yoxall, a junior, are eager to push their team over the hump. The 6-1 Gabby Rogers, a junior, will join Bowring and Yoxall in the starting five and could be the X factor that provides Bishop Lynch just enough of a physical presence to scale the mountaintop once again.

Playing Collegiately: (ULQ 6PLWK 7\OHU -8&2 %DLOH\ -LOHV 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV 7\OHU %ULWWQ\ 1RUULV 6RXWKHUQ 0LVVLVVLSSL 'DQ\HO %UDGOH\ +RZDUG 3D\QH $OH[ *UHHQ Stanford.

FYI: Legendary coach Andy Zihlman is one of those rarest of birds that has remained forever at one school and won and won and won some more. Zihlman started his coaching career at Bishop Lynch 35 years ago and remains there today, having established a girls basketball program unequaled -- in terms of sustained excellence – by any other private school. Last season provided a milestone for Zihlman as he notched his 900th career win. Now it’s Onward Christian Soldier as he attempts to reach the mother of all accomplishments – win #1,000.

2014-15 W-L: 16-12/0-6 Coach: Ron Glazener, Jr. (12 years’ experience; 1st year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 3/1 Outlook: Miranda Leal is the only senior on a Yellow Jackets squad whose young and inexperienced crop of newbies will be asked to take a pre-season crash course in the rigors of varsity play. Once initiated, they will then be tested come district play but can only improve on the winless ledger their predecessors posted in 2014-15. Along with Leal, Gabby Mitchell, a junior, also projects as a player that will have a major say in how St. Anthony bounces back from last season’s trials and tribulations.

FYI: Ron Glazener retired from public school administration in 2014. Prior to that, he logged more than a decade as a head coach, and this fall he will be jumping back into the frying pan as he comes out of retirement to make his St. Anthony coaching debut.

Saint Joseph Academy Bloodhounds - Boys 2014-15 W-L: 17-12/1-5 Coach: Sam Lucio (1 year’s experience; 2nd year at school) Returning Lettermen/Starters: 9/3 Outlook: Last season, the Bloodhounds endured the growing pains of a roster filled with youth and a rookie coach whose new system everyone had to learn. With that behind them, look for Saint Joseph to be much improved after winning only one district game. Of nine returning lettermen, 6-1 shooting guard Jorge Villarreal leads the way following a 2014-15 campaign that landed him on the TAPPS All-State team as an honorable mention and on the All-Metro team as a second-team selection. Saint Jo’s two other returning starters are Kai Money, a 5-11 point guard (2nd-team all-district), and Andres Borrego, a 6-0 guard (all-district honorable mention). The other half of the Bloodhounds’ six-man rotation comprises three post players – 6-3 Jose Martinez, 6-3 Javier Gonzalez and 6-7 Miles Fowkes.

190

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

Champions Look at Competition This Way

by Aaron Weintraub “Basketball is what I do, Not who I am.”

“I might get beat, but I’ll never be defeated!”

“Basketball is not war.

I compete fiercely, but it is just a game.”

“I love this game.”

Coach Aaron Weintraub

• Why does one person break down under pressure while another breaks through?

• How can an athlete perform well in practice, then struggle mightily in the game?

• Why do many fine athletes work hard and have talent, but play so inconsistently?

An unhealthy perspective in sports says “win at all costs; the score is the only concern.”

If you do not win, does this make you a loser? Absolutely not, but socialization into 21st Century America teaches many athletes to feel this way.

American culture consistently promotes the false premise that winning is all that matters.

The idea that your self-worth depends on your achievement is a distorted belief. Your value as a person does not fluctuate at all based on your daily sport performances. It is immeasurably immense, a birthright that can never be diminished.

Perspective is the “ability to see things in a true relationship” to one another.

It can also mean, “a specific point of view in understanding things or events.” Is your way of looking at events honest? Is it the most useful way to look at the truth? Athletes find all sorts of ways to keep themselves from performing at their best, and all of them are related in one way or another to a flawed perspective. To improve faster, lead effectively, and perform well through adversity and pressure, athletes need to look at life in a way that is both true and useful. True, because you will not be able to lie to yourself; useful, because there are two sides to every coin. While both sides of the coin are true, only one way of explaining life is the most useful for creating confidence and an ideal internal state.

The first step to a healthy perspective about sports is to recognize that it is just a game. Sports pose no life-ordeath propositions. Parents will not stop loving because of what happens today. Athletes in “big” moments on television may have literally millions of eyes on them, and they are sometimes “tough” enough to perform as though they have not a care in the world. Attend a youth game and you are likely to see a few nine-year-olds carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. The source of these polar opposites is not the situation, but the way the athlete perceives the situation.

An ideal perspective recognizes that how things go in competition today is

OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 2

191

important, but it is not nearly as important to the task at hand, and generally more positive as knowing who I am. Performance outcomes than their counterparts. They are less likely to provide feedback. However, no single outcome complain. Leaders live out the words of John should ever be given too much importance. No Wooden, “Don’t whine. Don’t complain. Don’t make loss should ever be seen as a catastrophe. No excuses.” Leaders are consistently grateful. “failure” should be allowed to carry an emotional When you are off track from where you want scar of inadequacy. With a healthy perspective on to be during a contest, the first step to getting the game, fear of failure, which everyone has to back on track is awareness. Then, it is your some degree, will not interfere with performance. responsibility to gather yourself to get back on You can be scared but act courageously. track. A pre-planned gathering routine to make An attitude of gratitude is a key perspective this happen is a great idea. One step of this plan for success in sports, as in life. Being thankful can be a power phrase or image that fills you with improves the heart’s rhythmic functioning, which gratitude or reminds you that basketball is just a reduces stress, promotes clarity of thought, and game that provides you with challenges. Perhaps aids the healing process. It is physiologically you think, “This is a great opportunity to not only impossible to feel stressful and grateful at the play ball, but also work on my toughness and same time. Grateful athletes are more relaxed, consistency.” Perhaps you imagine a grandparent more coachable, more forgiving, more present watching over you. It is your job to find the tools that work for you.

Photo Courtesy of the NBA Every athlete experiences challenges and setbacks along the journey to find out how good he or she can be. With a healthy perspective, you compete with yourself first and foremost.

Challenges and pitfalls provide motivation for you to get better, faster; they should not be viewed negatively. Outcomes are no longer bad or good, they are both bad and good because they give you a chance to learn. Clearly, if you and your teammates use mistakes rather than letting them use you, this will give your team an edge over your competition. Yes, mistakes are good. Because of Mavs coach Rick Carlisle and point guard your healthy perspective, you improve at asking Rajon Rondo often butted heads last season; and answering the ultimate questions of life: and according to reports, Rondo’s reluctance Where am I? Where do I want to go? And, how do I to adjust his thinking contributed largely to get there? the friction.

Biography Aaron Weintraub holds a B.A. from Emory University (1993) and a M.Ed. from the University of Virginia (2000). He coached college baseball for 13 years, then in 2006, he started www.CoachTraub. com, a consulting business whose mission is to over-deliver value on goods and services designed to help you and yours W.I.N. the mental side of the game. He has worked with teams and individuals in all sports around his hometown of Dallas and around the country. Weintraub lives in The Colony, TX with his wife, Nicole, and their four children.

192

J.D. MAYO’S FULL-COURT PRESS

GET READY FOR AN EXCITING

2015-2016 SEASON NOVEMBER SUN

MON

FEBRUARY

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

SUN

10

11

12

IDA 13 7pm

IDA 14 7pm

15

16

17

18

OKL 19 7pm

20

21

7

22 @DEL 23 5:30pm

24

25

26

LAD 27 7pm

LAD 28 7pm

14

15

21

1

30

DECEMBER SUN

Former Vipers Player Current Houston Rockets

TUE

9

29

CLINT CAPELA

MON

8

MON

WED

THU

1

2

FRI 3

7

8

9

13

SXF 14 7pm

15

16

@LAD 20 @BAK 21 7pm 9pm

22

23

24

28

29

30

31

SUN

SAT

RNO 4 7pm

MON

10

11

12

13

AUS 16 7pm

17

18 @SCW 19 9pm

@IDA 20 8pm

22 SCW 23 7pm

24

25 TEX 26 TEX 27 7pm 7pm

MON

TUE

WED

6

7

OKL 8 7pm

AUS 17 AUS 18 11am 7:30pm

19

13

14 RNO 15 7pm

25

BAK 26 7pm

20

21

27

28 @OKL 29 7pm

5 @LAD 6 8:30pm

THU

FRI 3

9

SAT

@ERI 4 6pm

5

10 @TEX 11 @TEX 12 7pm 7pm

16 @AUS 17 7:30pm

22 MNE 23 7pm

18

19

24 BAK 25 BAK 26 7pm 7pm

30 @OKL 31 7pm

APRIL

TUE

WED

5

THU

6

FRI

7

8

9

15

16

11

12 @RNO 13 @IDA 14 9pm 8pm

17

18

19

24

AUS 25 7pm

26

OKL

DEL

RNO

29

mostheagency.com

www.rgvipers.com (956) 972-1144

TUE

WED

TEAM LEGEND AUS BAK CAN DEL ERI

TEX 30 7pm

SXF

MON

THU

FRI

SAT 1

21 @SCW 22 @SCW 23 9pm 9pm

27 @OKL 28 7pm

LAD

SUN

@TEX 2 7pm

10

OKL 20 7pm

SAT 1

4

Call Now

SAT

8 @AUS 9 11am

1 @GRD 2 10am

10 @RNO 11 @RNO 12 9pm 9pm

3

IDA

FRI

@BAK 4 9pm

5

JANUARY SUN

THU 3

MARCH

TUE

IDA 6 3pm

SCW 27 3pm

WED 2

AUS

Austin BakersямБeld Canton Delaware Erie

BAK

FWN Fort Wayne GRD Grand Rapids IDA Idaho IWA Iowa LAD Los Angeles

SCW

TEX

SHOWCASE AWAY HOME

LAD 2 7pm

all times CT

MNE Maine TEX Texas OKL Oklahoma City RAP Raptors RNO Reno WES Westchester SCW Santa Cruz SXF Sioux Falls

GRD

ERI

MNE

DECEMBER

NO OV E M B E R SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

1

WEDNESDAY

2

3

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

4

SATURDAY

5

SUNDAY

6

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

2

1

7

RNO 9

10 10

11

12

TEX

1 16

17

18 1 8

19

GRD

2 23

25

26 6

22

28

29

SCW

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

2

TUESDAY

6

2

7

8

14

15

BAK

18

19

20 20

8

9

26

27 27

15

7:00pm 17 17

18 18

19

OKC

7:30pm

23

24 2 4

2 25

20

OKC

7:00pm

26

27

OKC

2:00pm

7:00pm

7:30pm

13

TEX

16

22

12 12

IDA

IDA

7:00pm

11 11

30

29

RGV

6

7:00pm

10

7:00pm

21

7:00pm

28

SATURDAY 5

TEX

RGV

23

RNO

7:30pm 25

14

22

LA

24

11:00am

16

6:30pm

21

FRIDAY 4

7:00pm

LA

7:00pm 17

26

9

RGV

13

THURSDAY 3

GRD 7

12 1 2

31

WEDNESDAY

1

7:00pm

11

30

25

7:30pm

RNO

10

24

FEBRUAR RY

THURSDAY

1

5

7:30pm

23

SCW

7:30pm

J A N U A RY

4

19

2:00pm

7:00pm

5:00pm

3

18

OKC

SCW

27

WEDNESDAY

12

RGV

11:00am 21

BAK

TUESDAY

11

17

RGV

20

30 30

MONDAY

16

5:00pm 28

27

7:00pm

SUNDAY

15

LA

SCW 29 9

10

7:30pm 14

13

21

7:00pm

24

9

LA

TEX

11:00am 22

8

7:00pm

20

5

7:00pm

7:30pm

7

OKC

7:30pm 15

6

14

13

4

WES RNO

7:00pm

8

SATURDAY

3

28

31

29

OKC

5:00pm

MARC CH SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 1

APRIL

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

2

SUNDAY

SATURDAY

3

4

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

5

SATURDAY

LA

TEX

7:30pm 6

7

IDA

9

7:00pm 14

15

7:00pm 16 1 6

22 22

7:30pm

23

BAK

SCW

6:00pm

7:30pm 28

29

18

IDA

3

4

5

6

7

7:00pm 8

9

7:00pm 19

30

7:30pm

24

TEX

3:00pm 27

17

12

RGV RNO

6:30pm 21

11

IDA

SXF

20

10

BAK

3:00pm 13

8

2

1

25

MNE

26

HOME

AW A W WAY

7:30pm

AT&T CEN NTTE ER San Antoniio

31

HOME GAMES PLA AYED D AT

BAK

7:00pm

*game dates and times subject to change

AUSTIN SPURS s 512-236-8333 s AUSTINSPURS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/AUSTINSPURS

TWITTER: @AUSTIN_SPURS

INSTAGRAM: @SPURS_AUSTIN

2015-16 Texas Legends See Tomorrow’s Future Stars Today

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! November

DECEMBER SUN

MON

TUE

WED

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

6

7

8

9

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

13

14

15

16

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

20

21

22

29

30

1

2

3

4

5

27

28

29

7:30 @AUS 2:00 @OKC

January SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

7:00 AUS

FRI

7:00 OKC 7:00 OKC

2 7:00

6:00 ERI

THU

2

3

MON

4

10

11

5

8

6

7

12 7:00 13

14

9

15 7:00 16 7:00

@OKC

17

18

19

SCW

20

21 7:00 22

SCW

11

17

18

23

24

25

30

31

9:00 @IDA

TUE

WED

1

2

3

THU

FRI

4

5

7

8

9

10

11

12

14

15

16

17

18

19

21

22

23

24

25

26

26 9:00 27 9:30 28

@IDA

@BKE

28

29

@IDA

29

30 7:00 @RGV

@LAD

31

March SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

1

2

3

4

5

9:00 @RNO

6

7

8

13

14

15

16

17

20

21

22

23

24

27

28

29

30

9:00 @RNO

7:00 IDA

9

9:00 @RNO

WED

THU

FRI

7:00 IDA

10

11

9:00 @BKE

7:30 @AUS

7:00 LAD

31

7:00 IWA 7:00 AUS

7:00 RGV

APRIL SUN

12

7:00 RGV

18

19

25

26

7:00 @OKC

MON

TUE

8:30 @LAD

7:00 RNO

9:00 @SCW

12 19 26

7:00 SFX 7:00 RNO 7:00 LAD

SAT

7:00 RAP

6

7:00 AUS

13

7:00 BKE

7:00 @RGV

1

8:30 @LAD

7:00 SCW

5

12:00 MNE

23 9:00

BKE

24 5:00 25

SAT

4

10

RGV

3

FRI

9:00 @SCW

FEBRUARY SUN

SAT

1

1

20

7:00 BKE

27

7:00 @RGV

SAT

7:00 OKC

2

7:00 @AUS

D-League Home Away NBAShowcase All Home Games can be seen on Texas 47

The Official Development League Affiliate of the Dallas Mavericks

For Ticket information, call 214-469-0822 or visit