Ohio High School Hoops

Farewell

2011-06-20T13:52:00.001-04:00

Today, Ohio High School Hoops comes to you with mixed emotions. Judging by the title of the post, most of you can guess what is coming next.

Yes, today will be our final post on Ohio High School Hoops. This will not be clever or eloquent, because I'm not that talented. I will just come straight from the heart.

After 20-plus years of being involved in high school basketball in some capacity, I feel God leading me in another direction. When something is a staple in your life for that long, it's hard to let go as was the case for me. We finally decided to trust God's will in regards to this situation, and with faith follow his lead. I am not certain where this path is going to lead me, but I trust the navigator.

I tried to push his voice aside, but eventually He had to start playing hardball. Basketball started to lose its enjoyment for me and it longer was fun. The daily grind along with my other job just became overwhelming. Basketball is certainly a 24/7/365 sport in 2011.

So, over the last couple weeks, I have been praying about this and really seeking a bold answer from God if this is the right thing to do. We will no doubt miss everyone, but I feel at peace with the decision to leave basketball at this time.

There is no telling what God has in store for me, but I will trust in him and know that His plan for my life is far greater than anything I can control. Will I ever be back involved with basketball, well, only God knows the answer to that.

For now, I'm going to relax a little bit, try some new things, and spend a lot more time with my beautiful wife. Maybe even think about starting a family and bring a few little Stubbs' into the world.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention a few special people. Obviously, God has given me the strength and a vision to be able to do this over the years and surrounded me with some wonderful people. So, as always, we give thanks to the Lord first and foremost.

My wife Lois has been unbelievable through all the this with all the time spent away from home. She is truly a gift from God and I certainly out punted my coverage with her. I can't even begin to describe how supportive she has been over the years. She is amazing!

My mom, dad, and sister have been great supporters over the years. They always backed me know matter what crazy idea I had. I love you all so much. I could never repay them for all they have done.

John Stovall is another name I would like to mention. He has really showed me the ropes in this business and how to conduct myself. He is always willing to lend a hand or an ear and he certainly never had to. He gave me some great advice not just in terms of the basketball world, but so much more. I greatly appreciate you man!

Other thank yous have to go to Adam Shoulders, Rob Taylor, Ty Kish, Rodger Bohn, Chris Johnson, Chas Wolfe, and Corey Albertson. You guys are amazing in this business!

Thank you to all the players for giving me the privledge to watch you play over the years. You guys are what it's all about. I was just blessed with a computer, you were the ones that make this all happen.

To all the coaches, who have made my job a million times easier, I thank you. I thank for all the returned calls, emails, and information you provided over the years. I know I could be a pain. I have to especially thank Jason Bates, Michael Bates, Mark Mitchell, Rob Stircula, Peter Pullen, Kim Clifford, Anthony Calo, Carl Kremer, Rich Saffield, Michael Jebbia, Michael Fuline, Dave Shutt, and Travis Trice.

Through AAU and other things I have met some great people along with developing some wonderful relationships. Coach Vic, Coac Burke, Jeff Potts, Adam Vincenzo, Brian Bishop, Calvin Thornton, Renny Tyson, Myron Bess, Lucius Jones, Danny Peters, Todd May, Jerry Watson, Mike Duncan, Winston Grays, Larry Rogers, Randy Gardner, Ed Lyshe, Brad Kretzer, Randy Forrest, Quentin Rogers, George Howard, the guys from the WV Wildcats, and many others along with some terrific college coaches. We may have not always agreed on everything, but I respect you guys.

Thank you to Eric Frantz for giving me a chance at JJHuddle and pretty much always letting me do my thing. You have been unbelievable over the years.

To every person who ever came to this site, I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I apologize if I missed anyone at all. We love you all and will certainly miss you all! I leave you with one of my favorite verses:

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God."

-Philippians 1:3-11

Recruiting News: 6/17/2011

2011-06-16T22:41:00.000-04:00

Devon Carter (6'2/2012) of Cleveland John Hay told us he received calls from USC, Penn and Kent State.

Mike Mills (6'7/2013) of Canton McKinley told us he received calls from Akron, Bowling Green, Albany, Northern Illionois, Eastern Michigan, and Central Michigan.

Tyler White (6'2/2012) of Lima Senior told us he received calls from Akron, UNC-Wilmington, Morehead State, Old Dominion, Kent State, Cleveland State, and Northern Kentucky.

Monty Boykins (6'4/2013) of Lakota West has an offer from Miami (OH) and received calls from Bowling Green, Dayton, Toledo, Ohio, and Providence.

Kevin Johnson (6'2/2013) of Cincinnati Summit CD told us he has offers from Cincinnati, Xavier, Seton Hall, Ohio, Dayton, Toledo, and Wisconsin. He received calls from Cincinnati, Xavier, Seton Hall, Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio, Toledo, Miami (OH), Dayton, and Bowling Green.

Geovonie McKnight (6'4/2012) of Middletown told us he holds offers from Miami (OH), Northern Kentucky, Kent State, and Ohio. He has also heard from Virginia Tech.

Evan Payne (6'1/2012) told us he holds offers from Central Michigan, USC, Texas Christian, Boston College, and Akron.

Mark Williams (6'8/2013) of Cleveland Benedictine told he holds offers from Robert Morris, Northern Illionois, and Dayton. He is getting interest from Wisconsin, Cleveland State, Dayton, Robert Morris, Northern Illinois, Central Michigan, Toledo, Akron, West Virginia, Kent State, Cincinnati, and Indiana.

Vitto Brown (6'7/2013) of Bowling Green HS told us he has an offer from Bowling Green. He is getting interest from Akron, Central Michigan, Ohio, Cincinnati, Robert Morris, Xavier, Wichita State, Purdue, Dayton, Bowling Green, and Toledo.

Zach Garber (6'8/2013) of Vanlue told us he holds an offer from James Madison. He is getting interest from Akron, Ohio, Cincinnati, Toledo, Kent State, William & Mary, James Madison, and Northeastern.

Evan Bradds (6'6/2013) of Jamestown Greeneview told us James Madison offered him. He received calls from Notre Dame, Boston College, Dayton, Miami (OH), Toledo, Akron, Kent State, St. Francis, William & Mary, Davidson, Northeastern, Colgate, Wright State, and Albany.

CJ Gettys (6'11/2012) of Findlay HS told us Kentucky, Clemson, Bowling Green, Dayton, UNC-Wilmington, and Kent State all recently called.

More to come...

News and Notes: 6/16/2011

2011-06-16T22:16:00.002-04:00

We reporter earlier in the week on Twitter that both Elijah Macon (6'9/2012) and Evan Payne (6'1/2012) will be attending Huntington Prep (WV) this fall.

Donnal Goes Big Blue

2011-06-15T22:45:00.002-04:00

Mark Donnal (6'9/2013) of Anthony Wayne HS committed to Michigan today.

Northland Big Commits to UC

2011-06-14T19:29:00.000-04:00

Devon Scott (6'8/2012) of Columbus Northland has committed to the University of Cincinnati via his Twitter account.

"As of now I am verbally committed to the University of Cincinnati," Scott revealed on his account.

Scott was on a visit to UC today.

The senior-to-be averaged 11.3 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks a game as a junior helping the Vikings to a (26-2) and state runner-up finish. Scott shot 73 percent from the field in a coming out party of sorts for the high-energy big.

2011 Midwest Shootout: Recap

2011-06-12T16:07:00.002-04:00

Reggie McAdams (6'5/2012) of Elida (Photo by OHSH).

Dayton, Ohio -- The 2011 Midwest Shootout was held yesterday in Dayton, Ohio at three different sites around the city. Dayton Dunbar (the host school), Dayton Ponitz, and Dayton Stivers were the sites.

Ohio High School Hoops stopped by Dunbar High School to take in some of the festitivies. To our knowledge, there was no real winner crowned, but rather a round-robin type format. 24 teams, eight at each site, participated in the high-level shootout. Four teams were in each pool played a round-robin followed by a crossover game with a team from another pool at a particular site.

The two pools we were able to watch consisted of Dunbar, Columbus Mifflin, Berlin Hiland, and Kettering Fairmont in one and Thurgood Marshall, Elida, Chillicothe, and Winton Woods in the other.
Read more »

2011-2013 Division Breakdown

2011-06-09T17:02:00.001-04:00

The OHSAA released its divisional breakdowns for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 winter seasons. Here is a low at the new numbers and enrollment figures.

http://www.ohsaa.org/members/sptdivis11.htm

Division Breakdowns:

Division 1- 369-Up
Division 2- 215-368
Division 3- 123-214
Division 4- 122-Down
Read more »

News and Notes: 6/8/2011

2011-06-08T12:28:00.002-04:00

**According to a source, Semaj Christon (6'3/2011) of Cincinnati Winton Woods will likely be playing at St. Thomas More Prep in Oakdale, Connecticut this coming season. Christon was the breakout player of the year in Ohio this past season.

"He wants to come here by all indications," said St. Thomas More head coach Jere Quinn. "We would love to have him and know he is a very talented kid. He hasn't been up here yet to visit, but he is coming very soon. We know he will love it."

News and Notes: 6/7/2011

2011-06-07T17:59:00.000-04:00

**Congratulations to All-Ohio Red (17U), All-Ohio Red (16U), and the Cincinnati Lakers (15U) for capturing this year's Ohio AAU State Championships.

For more in-depth coverage visit http://www.cincyprephoopsreport.blogspot.com/

**Markus Crider (6'5/2011) of Huber Heights Wayne will go the prep school route, but hasn't made any decisions yet according to his high school coach, Travis Trice Sr.

Neel Close to Official

2011-06-07T17:52:00.000-04:00

Brandon Neel (6'4/2011) of Cincinnati La Salle told us he picked a prep school school to attend, and will find out this week if he is accepted. We will keep you posted on Neel's situation in the coming days.

2011 Ohio AAU Basketball Championships: Preview

2011-06-02T21:41:00.000-04:00

Some major players in this weekend's tourney. (Photo by OHSH)

The 2011 Ohio AAU Basketball Championships will take place this weekend in Cincinnati, Ohio. The annual championships will involve three different age groups including 15, 16, and 17-and-under. A champion will be crowned on Sunday in each division.
Read more »

Midwest Future Stars Showdown and Shootout: Recap

2011-05-31T23:44:00.000-04:00

King James 15U Champions (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus – The Midwest Future Stars Showdown and Shootout had a healthy dose of Ohio teams mixed with some out-of-state foes this past weekend in Central Ohio.

All-Ohio controlled the older divisions, while the King James Shooting Stars handled two of the younger age groups. All-Ohio Purple won its third tournament of the spring in the U-17 division, while All-Ohio Red captured its third straight Gold in the U-16 ranks. King James brought home both the U-14/15 championships in a great showing.
Read more »

Luke Kennard: Cincinnati Knights

2011-05-27T08:55:00.001-04:00

Here are some recaps/highlight videos of Luke Kennard (6'3/2015) of Franklin/Cincinnati Knights. Kennard received rave reviews by many top scouts for his play at the prestigious John Lucas Camp a few weeks ago.

Recaps of John Lucas Camp:
http://www.bballspotlight.com/2011/05/john-lucas-international-combine-report_20.html

http://www.ihigh.com/allmetrosports/article_67298.html

Highlight Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouSlPxzsPUM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c61IQhI8NPg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMp0lLawv8A

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE9ZhOT0w7M

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maiOeLrYRJk

Hello, My Name Is...

2011-05-26T22:48:00.001-04:00

Ohio High School Hoops stopped over at Columbus Africentric High School this evening to watch All-Ohio Red's U-14 team partake in a two-hour practice session. In doing so, we were introduced to one of the best young talents in the country.

It only took 15 to 20 seconds to recognize who he was upon entering the gym. Tonight, Ohio welcomed Vincent "VJ" King to the Buckeye State. The 6-5 seventh grader oozes with long-term potential, but he is very good right now.

His father, Vincent, told his son "be good now, but great later."

If you could create a young prospect on a video game, Vincent's frame and length would be the ideal start. The kid's IQ for the game is far beyond his years. He is highly skilled and understands how to play especially against older competition. There were several things we saw him do this evening that crafty guys do in the over-30 league and he was doing it against guys who will be playing in college next year.

"VJ's game isn't going to wow you, but he just gets it done," explained his father. "We always talk about making the simple play, and that is usually what he does. Just keep it simple."

We certainly don't want to put pressure on this kid, but the talent is undeniable and big time colleges are already very familiar with his name. If they aren't, they soon will be. He still looks very young in terms of his facial and body features, so more growth is likely to be coming. His athleticism is really starting to surface, which will be scary when he adds that to his skill, IQ, and shooting ability.

King, who is a straight-A student and oh so humble, played jayvee basketball and dressed varsity as a seventh grader for nationally-ranked United Faith Christian (NC) this past year. He has been playing AAU for the Charlotte Royals U-16 squad.

King will be with All-Ohio Red's U-14 team for the rest of the summer, while residing in the Cleveland-area for the next three months. King's father is a graduate of Beachwood High School and played his college ball at Indiana University Pennsylvania before playing 10 years overseas. He, his wife, daughter, and VJ reside in Charlotte, North Carolina.

All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase: 14U Recap

2011-05-26T22:22:00.000-04:00

Columbus – This past weekend at the All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase we spent a great deal of time looking at some new blood. It’s always fun to get a long look at the next group of incoming freshmen and on Saturday and some of Sunday that is just what we did by checking out the Class of 2015.

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen some of these kids, but it’s really our initial look at them at any length. Ohio High School Hoops certainly likes how this class is shaping up considering the best U-14 team wasn’t even at the event, referring to the highly touted and defending national runners-up Cincinnati Knights.
Read more »

News and Notes: 5/25/2011

2011-05-25T19:52:00.001-04:00

Transfers:

Eric "Trent" Donald has transferred from Cincinnati Woodward to Cincinnati Winton Woods, per Cincy Prep Hoops Report.

Milt Davis has transferred from Cincinnati Summit CD to Cincinnati Colerain, per Cincy Prep Hoops Report.

Kane Thompson has transferred from Cincinnati Aikent to Cincinnati Colerain, per Cincy Prep Hoops Report.

Andre Yates has transferred from Trotwood-Madison to Dayton Dunbar, per OHSH.

Other News:

With Ed DeChellis leaving Penn State for Navy it leaves Garfield Heights' Trey Lewis and former Dayton Flyer Juwan Staten in limbo.

According to our sources, Staten is really looking into a certain Big 12 school. Our sources believe something could happen within the next couple days.

Lewis is drawing interest from the ACC, A10, and Big East, but will likely stay at Penn State if he likes the coaching choice. This also according to a source.

With Mike Brown taking the Los Angeles Lakers position, it's almost certain his son Elijah (6'2/2013) of Lakewood St. Edward will be leaving the Buckeye State. Stay tuned.

Louisville Magic Roll to Kentucky 15U Title

2011-05-24T08:45:00.000-04:00

Henry Clay's Trey Grundy. (Photo by OHSH)

Here is Jody Demling's story from the Kentucky AAU State Tournament. D'Angelo Russell, Trey Grundy, Jordan Green, and Christian Cunningham, all kids who have played for an Ohio AAU team, joined up with some other top KY talent to storm through the competition.

http://blogs.courier-journal.com/jodydemling/2011/05/23/louisville-magic-dominates-15s-at-state-aau/

Devin Williams: Interview

2011-05-23T22:18:00.000-04:00

Here is Ohio High School Hoops interview this past Sunday with Cincinnati Withrow's Devin Williams (6'8/2013).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7Eebd_-iOc

All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase

2011-05-23T21:18:00.000-04:00

Ohio Varsity 15U Champions. (Photo by OHSH)

Columbus – This past weekend Ohio High School Hoops was in the house at the All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase held at multiple sites around Central Ohio. The event was top shelf as always with most of Ohio’s top teams partaking in the annual smorgasbord of hoop talent.

The two-day event started on Saturday with pool play and concluded Sunday evening with the championship games in each group at Ohio Dominican University. OHSH spent most of its Saturday watching the Class of 2015, which will be the incoming freshmen crew. We were also able to catch a little variety later in the night. Sunday afternoon we set up shop at Ohio Dominican and watched Gold Bracket action in all four age groups (14-17U).

The following is a recap of each age division.
Read more »

News and Notes: 5/22/2011

2011-05-22T22:05:00.000-04:00

**Tomorrow we will have a full recap of this weekend's All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase.

**We will release our Spring AAU rankings following the AAU State Tournament in two weeks.

**New videos being released this week including Theo Pinson, Mark Williams, and Devin Williams.

**A couple new feature stories as well.

17U AAU Rankings: Spring Version

2011-05-20T22:46:00.000-04:00

Here is a look at John Stovall of Prep Spotlight's 17U Spring AAU Rankings.
**These rankings have "nothing" to do with Ohio High School Hoops.

1. All-Ohio Red
2. Ohio Basketball Club
3. King James Shooting Stars
4. All-Ohio Purple
5. Ohio Hoopsters
6. Cincinnati Knights
7. Ohio Shooting Stars
8. All-Ohio Gold
9. Dayton Metro- Felder
10. Team CBIZ
11. NW Ohio Basketball Club
12. All-Ohio Black
13. Hidden Gems
14. Gametime Magic
15. Mustang Ballers
16. Queen City Prophets
17. Friends 4 Life
18. TNBA
19. Millenium Fire
20. Dayton Seahawks

2011 Commitment List

2011-05-20T21:25:00.004-04:00

Division 1:
Trey Burke (Michigan)
Aaron Thomas (Florida State)
Shonn Miller (Cornell)
Anton Grady (Cleveland State)
Tre’ Brown (Cleveland State)
Brian Sullivan (Miami OH)
Stevie Taylor (Ohio)
Trey Lewis (Penn State)
Travis Trice Jr. (Michigan State)
Traevon Jackson (Wisconsin)
Blake Justice (Akron)
Jalen Ragland (UTEP)
Jehvon Clarke (Bowling Green)
Aaron White (Iowa)
Desmond Rorie (Bowling Green)
Nate Anderson (UNC-Wilmington)
Alex Lalonde (Air Force Prep)
Pat Forsythe (West Virginia)
Davonte' Beard (Siena)
Tanner Gibson (Albany)
Conner Litt (Air Force Prep)
Ricky Johnson Jr. (Bethune-Cookman)
Jared Bryant (UT-Chattanooga)
Ned Tomic (Cornell)
Larry Nance Jr. (Wyoming)
Khristian Taylor (Tennessee-Martin)
Delbert Love (Kennesaw State)

D2, D3, and NAIA:
Jake Heagen (Findlay)- John Glenn
Paul Honigford (Ashland)- Sugarcreek Garaway
Cole Krizancic (Ashland)- Mentor
Steve Bridgeman (Ohio Dominican)- Bloom-Carroll
Colin Barth (Wheeling Jesuit) - Mentor
Brock Ammons (Ohio Dominican)- Findlay
Zach Wasson (Malone)- Orrville
Ryan Fleming (Northern Kentucky)- Cincinnati La Salle
Michael Shull (Malone)- Massillon Jackson
Evan Legg (Rio Grande)- Piketon
Jeff Copeland (Walsh)- Toledo St. John's
Jalen Billups (Northern Kentucky)- Cin. Shroder
Austin Parker (Ohio Valley)- Worthington Kilbourne
Tyler Kelly (Florida Southern)- Pickerington North
Cameron Vines (Flordia Southern)- Col. Whetstone
Anthony Monaco (Northern Kentucky)- Dover
Trey Howard (Lake Erie)- Lima Shawnee
Marcus Reineke (Cedarville)- New Knoxville
Nathan Copley (Capital)- Chesapeake
Colin Kennedy (Shawnee State)- Chesapeake
DJ Bettinger (Indiana Wesleyan)- Richfield Revere
Kendal Sherrod (Wooster)- Bishop Hartley
Garrett Stephenson (Davenport)- Milton-Union
Christian Heine (Mercyhurst)- Dublin Coffman
Andrew Countryman (Mount St. Joseph's)- Peebles
Noah Guthrie (Lourdes College)- Glouster Trimble
Mason Roth (Defiance)- McComb
Javon Rice (Urbana)- Dayton Dunbar
Jamel Morris (Glenville State)- Gahanna Lincoln
Keenan Brush (Rio Grande)- Piketon
Michael Bouley (Tiffin)- Glen Este
Andrew Bendolph (Tiffin)- Portsmouth
Drew Lehman (Ferris State)- Toledo CC
Allen Derosa (Wittenberg)- St. Clairsville

JUCO:
Nyles Evans (Brevard CC- FL)- North Canton Hoover
Jazel Garrett (Cincinnati St.)- Akron Buchtel
Robert Davis (Columbus St.)- Toledo Bowhser
Dareon Jones (Northern Oklahoma)- Toledo CC
Darius Carter (Vincennes JC)- Akron Firestone
Dwayne Bazemore (Cincinnati St.)- Walnut Ridge
Eric Beckstest (Edison)- Covington
Kirby Wright (Kankakee)- Middletown
Nick Robertson (Cincinnati St.)- Nordonia
Allen Thompson (Ancilla CC- IN)- Cincinnati NW
Cameron Lee (Sinclair CC)- Lakota East

All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase: Preview

2011-05-19T19:35:00.001-04:00

The 2011 All-Ohio Nike Super 16 Showcase will take place this Saturday and Sunday in several Central Ohio locations including Ohio Dominican University, Pickerington Central High School, Whitehall-Yearling High School, J Ashburn Youth Center, and the New Covenant Believers Church (Focus Center).

In all, 88 teams in age groups 14-17U will take part in Ohio's best AAU event in the month of May.
Read more »

16U AAU Rankings: Spring Version

2011-05-19T07:54:00.001-04:00

Here is a look at John Stovall of Prep Spotlight's 15U Spring AAU Rankings.
**These rankings have "nothing" to do with Ohio High School Hoops.

1.All-Ohio Red
2.All-Ohio Varsity
3.Ohio Basketball Club
4.Martin's Wolverines
5.Team CBIZ
6.TNBA East
7.King James Shooting Stars
8.All-Ohio Toledo (Grey)
9.Shining Star Sports- Schaefer
10.Cincinnati Lakers
11.Midwest Athletic Celtics
12.Ohio Aces
13.Club Ohio
14.Ohio Playmakerz
T15.Nova Village
T15.Queen City Prophets

Ohio Hoopsters Mania

2011-05-18T19:03:00.002-04:00

Tyler White of Lima Senior (Photo by OHSH).

Perhaps you haven't heard of the Ohio Hoopsters, but don't worry, there is no need to apologize. The program is not even two months old in terms of performing, but is already starting to collect a groupie-like following.

How can a travel team which has only played 27 games in its history draw so much attention? The Hoopsters are a mid-majors, more specifically Mid-American Conference, dream. However, this isn't the reason it has drawn so many onlookers in most of its games. The team is a mixture of castoffs, blue collar-type players, and shooters combined with some colorful personalities on its bench.
Read more »

15U AAU Rankings: Spring Version

2011-05-18T07:37:00.001-04:00

Here is a look at John Stovall of Prep Spotlight's 15U Spring AAU Rankings.
**These rankings have "nothing" to do with Ohio High School Hoops.

1.King James Shooting Stars
2.All-Ohio Red
3.King of the Court
4.Team CBIZ
5.Ohio Tar Heels
6.Team Lima
7.All-Ohio White/Ohio Varsity
8.Ohio Basketball Club
9.Millenium Fire
10.Cincinnati Lakers

News and Notes: 5/17/11

2011-05-17T12:35:00.000-04:00

**Mike Davis (6'2/2012) of Garfield Heights committed to Northern Illinois today, per source.

**Zach McCormick (6'1/2014) has decided to transfer to Dixie HS in Kentucky. McCormick averaged 16.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists for Wilmington HS this past winter.

Adidas May Classic: Recap

2011-05-16T17:48:00.000-04:00

Here are some reviews regarding the Adidas May Classic in Bloomington, Indiana from this past weekend.

John Stovall (Prep Spotlight Scouting) mentions a few Ohio guys in his story on www.espn.com including Mark Donnal, Andre Yates, and Maverick Morgan.

Mark Donnal (Whitehouse, Ohio/Anthony Wayne)
2013, PF/C, 6-8, 225 pounds | Team: Indiana Elite South
College: Undecided

He has really come on in the last year, improving by leaps and bounds as a player and a prospect. Donnal is a solid athlete who can play above the rim and has developed a solid face-up jump shot with range to 17 feet. He can also score on the low block, but prefers to face the basket and is a good rebounder who uses his big body well inside.

Andre Yates (Madison, Ohio/Trotwood-Madison)
2012, PG, 5-11, 185 pounds | Team: Ohio Hoopsters
College: Undecided

The lefty scoring point guard is an effective, but streaky shooter with range to 22 feet. Yates loves to take a few rhythm dribbles to set up his smooth jump shots, is a good competitor and takes pride in his defense. He is a solid passer who can create fairly well for his teammates and helped lead his team to the U-17 championship.

The U-17 division was won by Wisconsin Playground Warriors, which defeated the Ohio Hoopsters, 70-46. Tokoto lead the Warriors with 17 and Yates lead the Hoopsters with 13.

2013 center prospect Maverick Morgan (Springboro, Ohio/ Springboro) is a very intriguing player. He has a big body, very long arms and is a solid rebounder who is an improving scorer inside. He is going to become a Midwest priority as he continues to improve.

Here is a piece from Mike Pegram's (www.peegs.com) in regards to Mark Donnal.

The best 16 & under pool game of the weekend may have been a great back and forth tussle between the Spiece Indy Heat squad with IU commits Trey Lyles and James Blackmon and the Indiana Elite South squad led by Big Ten target Mark Donnal. Park Tudor's Trevon Bluiett was the leading scorer in this one, scoring 28 points but his drive as time was expiring was blocked by Donnal to preserve a 78-77 win for Indiana Elite South. Donnal finished with 23 points for the winners while Blackmon had 25 and Lyles finished with six.

Adidas May Classic Winners:
17U: Wisconsin Playground
16U Eric Gordon All-Stars
15U: Meanstreets

New Prep Spotlight: Now Available

2011-05-11T20:30:00.000-04:00

The latest Prep Spotlight is now available featuring in depth coverage of Ohio and Michigan along with national rankings for the classes of 2011-2014. Stovall hands out his Ohio Top Player Awards, Players of the Year, All-State Teams, and Dream Team. Also included are his Ohio player rankings for the classes of 2011-2014 and a little taste of next year's high school season with his Crystal Ball section. This and much more is included in the latest magazine.

If you would like a copy of the latest Prep Spotlight please make checks ($7) payable to:
Prep Spotlight

Send to:
John Stovall
10154 Berkshire St
Pickerington, OH 43147

Potts Stock is Rising

2011-05-11T19:48:00.000-04:00

Columbus Northland has produced some quality basketball players over the past five years with the likes of Devon Moore, Jared Sullinger, JD Weatherspoon, and most recently Trey Burke.

Obviously those players were terrific, but never has Northland been in position to put a class of four kids into Division 1 programs like the 2012 group. The members include 6-8 bigs Jalen Robinson and Devon Scott, 6-4 wing Ke'Chaun Lewis, and 5-11 guard Jordan Potts.

For the majority of the past three years, Trey Burke (Michigan) has been the mainstay at point guard for the Vikings and rightfully so. However, in the meantime, Potts has been patiently waiting his turn to take over the point guard spot while playing alongside the reigning Ohio Mr. Basketball.

During his springs and summers, Potts has been a regular for All-Ohio Red the past three seasons helping his squad to a national runner-up finish a year ago. The Northland junior has been very good thus far on the AAU circuit, but once again he has been forced to a different role.

All-Ohio Red added electric combo guard Terry Rozier (Shaker Heights) to its squad in the off season forcing Potts to come off the bench, but as usual he is finding a way to thrive. Potts brings energy, toughness, defense, and a willingness to push the basketball when his number is called.

Red was most effective when Rozier and Potts were on the floor at the same time this past weekend, but head coach Quentin Rogers prefers to have Potts come off the bench. "Big game Potts" leads a bench unit which features Jalen Robinson, Deontae Hawkins, and Leroy Alexander.

This is par for the course when talking about Potts' career as he always finds a way to rise to the top despite the circumstance. This is a kid who could average 20-plus points per game, but has always done what is best for the team which is rare in today's society.

Potts is a bulldog and excellent in big games throughout his career. He has the ability to lead a team and is vocal enough to get on any of his teammates if he feels they are dogging it. Some may disagree, but we really feel he is a natural point. He does a great job of pushing the basketball when the situation calls for it and has a good feel as to when he needs to back it out and run offense.

Potts can knock down shots off the pull up and catch-and-shoot situations. He may be the best in the state at stopping on a dime in transition and knocking down a pull up. Potts tends to seperate himself on the defensive end where he is just plain relentless.

Potts currently holds offers from James Madison and Bethune-Cookman with strong interest from Eastern Kentucky, Western Kentucky, Florida Atlantic, and Indiana State. His father, Jeff Potts, told us Iowa, South Florida, and the College of Charleston are also showing interest.

"We are definitely open at this point," said Jeff Potts. "We are dating all the schools at this point and not looking to get married until September or October. It would be nice if we can get things done before his senior season, but we will have to wait and see how it plays out."

Potts averaged 8.7 points and 2.8 assists per game for Northland (26-2) as a junior. The Vikings finished the year as Division 1 state runner-up.

LaSalle's Neel Still Searching

2011-05-11T19:41:00.000-04:00

Brandon Neel (6'4/2011/WF) of Cincinnati LaSalle is currently on his way to visit Hargrave Military Academy in Virginia.

Neel told OHSH he is considering Hargrave, St. John's Prep (MA), Brewster Academy (NH), and Bridgton Academy (ME).

Another Bradds

2011-05-10T21:02:00.000-04:00

Jamestown Greeneview’s Evan Bradds has been good thus far in the early AAU period, but this past weekend he took his game to a new level. Bradds helped lead Team CBIZ to the Final Four of the prestigious Bill Hensley Memorial Run-n-Slam All-Star Classic in Fort Wayne, Indiana by his outstanding offensive play.

The name Bradds rings loud and proud in the Buckeye state thanks to former Ohio State basketball great Gary Bradds. It appears the apple didn’t fall from the tree as Evan is the grandson of Gary.

This Bradds may not be as well known as his famous grandfather, but the inner basketball circle and most of the MAC schools know what Bradds is all about. The rest of the state will soon find out.

This past weekend Bradds went from a little known star in Jamestown, Ohio with a popular grandpa to a kid who had national scouts taking serious notice.” He did so by straight “killin it” in CBIZ’s fantastic run to the Final Four.

Bradds helped CBIZ avenge a King James Shooting Stars Classic loss to the Michigan Mustangs by scoring 20 points and followed with a 16-point showing against a sound Spiece Mo-Kan squad.

The junior-to-be turned up his game a couple more notches on Sunday in a stunning defeat of highly regarded Mac Irvin Fire out of Chicago, Illinois. The lengthy 6-foot-6 sophomore dropped a game-high 21 points to help CBIZ reach the Final Four.

In the semifinal contest, CBIZ wasn’t able to overcome a talented Meanstreets outfit out of Chicago, but Bradds showed well with a team-high 16.

Bradds has the ability to be a big time shot maker on the perimeter and shows the toughness to drive the lane and score in the paint. He lacks strength at this point, but he possesses a terrific long and lean basketball body. Though, don’t be fooled by his frame he is wiry strong and if you fall asleep on defense he will dunk on you with his above average bounce.

“Evan has shot the ball really well this spring behind the arc,” said CBIZ head coach Brian Bishop. “He has great bounce, but needs to work on his ball handling. Right now, he has trouble getting by shorter, quicker guards. He also needs to get a little stronger.”

The Greeneview sophomore currently holds offers from Ohio University, Akron, Toledo, and Miami (OH), but look for that number to quickly change.

Bradds averaged 17 points per game this past season earning him Division 3 Honorable Mention All-Ohio.

Remember Me?

2011-05-09T20:42:00.000-04:00

Tyler Ulis (5'7/2014) point guard of Marion Catholic HS (IL) put on a show this past weekend in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Ulis and his Meanstreets' teammates suffered their first loss of the spring falling to a very good IBA Select team (IL) in Sunday's Gold Bracket tournament. Though, not before Ulis put on another point guard clinic.

The former Lima, Ohio resident spoke with Ohio High School Hoops on Saturday about his recruitment and what he has been doing since leaving Ohio.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwWykT3TPiE

Donnal and Big 10s

2011-05-09T20:19:00.000-04:00

Mark Donnal (6'8/2014) of Anthony Wayne HS talks to Ohio High School Hoops about playing for Dan Dakich on Indiana Elite South and tells us what schools are in his recruitment at this point.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6jkEGcsALw

Bill Hensley Memorial Run-n-Slam All-Star Classic

2011-05-09T19:01:00.004-04:00

All-Ohio Red 16U: Gold Bracket Champions (Photo by OHSH).

Fort Wayne, Indiana – Ohio High School Hoops made the trek across the border this past weekend for the prestigious Bill Hensley Memorial Run-n-Slam All-Star Classic at the Spiece Fieldhouse and other surrounding schools.

The beautiful, eight-court Spiece facility hosted some of the weekend’s elite games and players providing an exciting three days of basketball in the Hoosier state. A select 64 teams participated in each of the 15, 16, and 17-and-under pools and 24 teams took part in the 14-and-under festivities. The top two finishers in each pool made the Gold Bracket, while the third and fourth place teams competed in Silver Bracket action.
Read more »

Spiece: Recap

2011-05-09T00:42:00.000-04:00

Fort Wayne, Indiana -- Tomorrow we will unleash our Spiece recap from this past weekend and what a weekend it was in terms of competition, talent, and atmosphere.

Check in tomorrow for a full report.

2011 King James Shooting Stars Classic: Recap

2011-04-26T12:58:00.001-04:00

Rosel Hurley of Shaker Heights (Photo by OHSH).

Akron, Ohio – This past weekend we rolled to Northeast Ohio to observe one of the Midwest’s best spring AAU events. Though, the action was very good it was a bit disappointing to have the event on Easter Weekend.

OHSH was on hand Friday and Saturday before heading home late Saturday night.

We spent Friday evening watching 17U “super pool” games. The “super pools” consist of three elite teams in each pool with all three squads making the Gold Bracket regardless of record. This certainly makes pool play games much more interesting.

On Saturday, we were able to spend the entire day devoted to the 15U circuit.

Here is a look at how some of the Ohio teams finished and some of the top performances “we were able to see.”
Read more »

Happy Easter and Vacation Coming

2011-04-24T22:03:00.000-04:00

Ohio High School Hoops hopes that everyone had a wonderful Easter and got to spend quality time with family and loved ones. More importantly, let us all rejoice that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has risen. Christ paid the ultimate sacrifice for us by dying on the cross to save us of our sins. Thank you Jesus, we love you and thank you for loving and forgiving sinners like us.

This song says it all: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVxS3xyGBOQ

Also, OHSH will be taking a much needed vacation starting this Tuesday through May 5th. It has been nearly three years since we have taken more than a day away from basketball, so it's time. We are certainly not bigger than the game, so we are sure things will go on without us just fine for the next two weeks. Hopefully we will be back better than ever after spending more-and-more time in God's word seeking what his plan is for us along with spending some quality time with my lovely wife.

**We will put our King James Shooting Stars Classic recap up tomorrow. We left late Saturday night, but final results from Sunday will be in the recap as well.

We pray that everyone has a blessed two weeks and will be back on May 6th.

As always we love you and thank you!

Ohio High School Hoops

Trey Burke...Hard Work

2011-04-22T12:52:00.000-04:00

Here is a special look at Columbus Northland senior and Michigan signee Trey Burke.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=HoFW5T02l1U

Unreal!

2011-04-19T18:41:00.000-04:00

This isn't Ohio related, but here is a look at two of the top 8th graders in North America, Jamar Ergas of Grassroots Canada and Horace Spence of Gym Rats.

Ty Kish of City League Hoops was able to capture this dynamite footage at the Pittsburgh Hoop Group Jam Fest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZeHxNHjBtc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XaltCB6aw8

Seeking Information

2011-04-19T13:40:00.000-04:00

We are looking for information as to what colleges are coming to your school this week to check out certain players.

Email us at: ohiohshoops@yahoo.com with any information you may have.

As always, thank you!

Northeast Ohio Unsigned Senior Showcase

2011-04-19T09:01:00.001-04:00

What: Northeast Ohio Unsigned Senior Showcase

Venue: Garfield Heights High School
Date: May 4, 2011
Time: 5:30pm to 10pm
Cost: $30 per player
Contact: SonnyJohnson32@yahoo.com

Showcase of unsigned seniors. There will be between 30 and 50 college coaches in attendence.

Pitt Hoop Group JamFest: Results

2011-04-18T20:55:00.005-04:00

Desmond Ridenour of Cle. Benedictine (Photo by OHSH).

Pittsburgh, PA -- The 2011 Pitt Hoop Group Jam Fest was filled with some top level talent from Texas to the East Coast, but Ohio proved they were right there at the top of the list. Several teams from the Buckeye state delivered top-notch performances. Here is a look back at some of the weekend's top showings.

Champions:
The 17U tournament was won by Team Takeover (MD) as it defeated Team Loaded (VA), 83-71.

Team Final (PA) defeated CIA Bounce (CAN) in the 16U tournament championship.

CIA Bounce (CAN) upended Team Takeover (MD) in the 15U championship.
Read more »

Pitt Hoop Group JamFest: Video

2011-04-18T18:18:00.000-04:00

Here are some good videos done by the Hoop Group from this past weekend featuring two of Ohio's best 2012s, Terry Rozier and Elijah Macon.

Rozier currently has offers from Akron, Cleveland State, Dayton, and Kent State.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ldtc6_v6kAs

Macon is considering several schools.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_yfuVy6Rds&feature=related

Crider Back on the Market

2011-04-18T12:58:00.000-04:00

Markus Crider (6’6/2011) of Huber Heights Wayne has opened his recruitment back up. Crider committed to Providence back in August, but with the recently release of former head coach Keno Davis the Wayne senior has decided the Friars may not be the right fit.

“We had a conference call on Saturday with the new head coach (Ed Cooley) and Markus (Crider) didn’t really feel comfortable with the whole situation,” said Wayne head coach Travis Trice Sr. “He didn’t like the direction he was feeling from Coach Cooley. He was really open with us and we certainly respect that.”

Trice said the phone has been ringing off the hook with the likes of Illinois, Penn State, Northwestern, VCU, Northern Illinois, and Miami, OH among others.

“We are going to sit down again and see how things progress,” Trice explained. “We have so many coaches trying to get over here in the next couple days, so we are doing two-a-days in the morning and after school.”

Crider is still considering Providence, but isn’t keen on red shirting or going the prep school route which is what Cooley suggested.

“I don’t think Coach Cooley has been able to get out too much with everything that has been going on, but Markus didn’t think he had a good feel of who he was,” Trice said. “Providence is going to lose a couple recruits, but they seemed okay with that.”

Crider was the MVP of the North/South game last night at Capital University scoring 24 points in 20 minutes of play. He averaged 14 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game for the 22-2 Warriors this past season.

8th Graders

2011-04-18T09:22:00.000-04:00

Check out City League Hoops' video of two of the top eighth graders in the country in Jamar Ergas and Horace Spencer. Sick!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XaltCB6aw8

2012 Explosion

2011-04-14T23:37:00.003-04:00

Seger Bonifant of Berlin Hiland (Photo by OHSH).

Here is a list of 10- 2012 prospects we think will blow up this spring/summer and significantly raise their stock.

Evan Payne (6'0)- Walsh Jesuit
Lorenzo Cugini (6'6)- Akron SVSM
Terry Rozier (6'0)- Shaker Heights
Antonio Hearn (5'9)- Akron Kenmore
Tyler White (6'2)- Lima Senior
Joe Thomasson (6'3)- Thurgood Marshall
Jacob Rossi (6'7)- Franklin
Seger Bonifant (6'7)- Berlin Hiland
CJ Gettys (6'10)- Findlay
Jordan Barham (6'3)- University School

Pittsburgh Hoop Group Jam Fest

2011-04-14T21:17:00.001-04:00

This weekend at the University of Pittsburgh and some surrounding sites will be the Pittsburgh Hoop Group Jam Fest featuring 264 teams in the 14, 15, 16, and 17U brackets along with an Open Division.

Ohio will be well represented this weekend in the Steel City with 50 teams making the trek east. Four teams from West Virginia with some Ohio kids will also be competing.
Read more »

Shining Star Sports- Schaefer Starts Strong

2011-04-14T19:51:00.001-04:00

Shining Star Sports as a whole has many teams in its stable, but one of its 16U teams is making a name for itself early in the AAU season. Shining Star Sports- Schaefer, headed by Chad Schaefer, got off to a fast start this past weekend with a championship at the Bearcat Classic in Cincinnati.

Shining Star was able to get by a good Tri-State team in the 16U semis led by Ironton sophomore guard Zac Carter before beating Shining Star Sports- Moman in the title game.

Schaefer's bunch went (6-0) on the weekend winning its games by 27, 26, 27, 42, 18, and 16 points.

According to Schaefer, Zack Denny of Germantown Valley View, Damarion Geter of Dayton Dunbar, Bryan Porter of Cincinnati Colerain, Louis Maniacci of Cooper, Kentucky, Deiontay Walters of Cincinnati Colerain, Conner Myslowski of West Carrollton, and Austin Piatt of Dayton CJ were his top performers.

Schaefer mentioned Chris Stefanou and Tyler Hadden of Cincinnati St. Xavier and Jake Rawlings of Cincinnati Summit Country Day as giving quality contributions as well.

Denny enjoyed a terrific sophomore campaign at Valley View and possesses the ability really score the basketball along with being a deadly shooter. Denny averaged over 20 points per game for the weekend.

Geter is another prospect with Division 1 potential who oozes with potential. When the light comes on for Geter and he begins to reach his potential there is no telling what he is capable of.

Schaefer's team will be playing in the AAU Super Regional this weekend in Cincinnati, and then will be headed to Fort Wayne, Indiana for the Spiece Run N' Slam (May 6-8).

**Interesting to note, the Ohio Basketball Club's ultra-talented 16U squad won the 17U Bearcat Classic. The team features guards Elijah Brown of Lakewood St. Edward and Kevin Johnson of Cincinnati Summit Country Day along with front line performers Devin Williams of Cincinnati Withrow, Tony Farmer of Garfield Heights, Demonte Flanning of Cleveland VASJ, and Kash Blackwell of Shaker Heights.

Team CBIZ: 2011 Version

2011-04-13T21:22:00.000-04:00

Team CBIZ will get its 2011 AAU season underway this weekend at the Pitt Jamfest in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. CBIZ is an AAU outfit with one team in each of the 15, 16, and 17U age brackets.

Under the direction of Brian Bishop, CBIZ has quietly went about its business over the years continuing to put player-after-player in the college ranks while racking up wins along the way. The Blue-and-White will always be well-coached, respected, and a top-notch program.

This year's teams look pretty good as most of the kids are back on the 16 and 17s from last season. Obviously, the 15s are totally new to the proram, but Bishop has done a tremendous job of putting together another good team.

The 2012 group is back with regulars Dylan Kaufman (6'4) of Berlin Hiland, Seger Bonifant (6'7) of Berlin Hiland, Marky Thompkins (6'0) of East Liverpool, Mark Lieberman (6'1) of Dayton Christian, Austin McMaster (6'5) of Chesapeake, Travis Tucci (6'3) of Malvern, Andrew Pratt (6'5) of Akron Green, and Paul Baumgart (6'7) of Canton, Michigan.

A couple new additions to this year's club are lefty Justin Fritts (6'1) of Mentor and Joey Vuyancih (6'1) of Mentor Lake Catholic. Both newcomers can really score the basketball.

Former East Liverpool standout, Andrew Bobalik will coach the 2012 team.

The 2013 edition will have returnees Ryan Logan (6'5) of Fredericktown, Robert Geoghegan (5'11) of Owosso, Michigan, Max Kapron (6'5) of Malvern, Chase Lawson (6'2) of Sardina Eastern Brown, and Jett Speelman (6'7) of Newark Catholic.

The team took a big hit with the loss of OHSH D3 1st Team All-Ohio, Danny Monteroso. The St. Clairsville sophomore recently had shoulder sugery and will likely miss the entire spring and summer.

However, Bishop did a stellar job of adding some new pieces with the likes of Isaac McGlone (6'2) of Bloom-Carroll, Wade Gelhaus (6'4) of Fort Recovery, Austin Gardner (6'0) of Toledo St. John's, Evan Bradds (6'7) of Jamestown Greeneview, and Tyler Sherman (6'7) of Norton.

McGlone is a solid point guard that can score, Gelhaus is a player who will really surprise some people, Gardner is steady point guard with a good IQ for the game, Bradds is a mid-major plus prospect with the ability score from the wing, and Sherman will be a nice addition in the paint.

The 2014 crew, the new bunch, will consist of Ryan Badowski (6'0) of Brunswick, Elijah Kahlig (6'1) of Fort Recovery, Luke Saseen (6'4) of Wheeling Park, West Virginia, Conner Krizancic (6'2) of Mentor, Tony Vuyancih (6'3) of Lakewood St. Edward, Brandon Fritts (6'4) of Mentor, Kevin Vannatta (6'2) of Upper Arlington, Peyton Aldridge (6'6) of Leavittsburg LaBrae, and Gavin Skelly (6'7) of Westlake.

EYBL Statistics: Round 1

2011-04-13T18:31:00.000-04:00

All-Ohio Red (4-1):

Kenny Kaminski (6'7/2012)- Medina- 14.6 ppg./2.6 rpg.
Terry Rozier (6'0/2012)- Shaker Heights- 13 ppg./2.8 rpg.
Jake Kretzer (6'7/2012)- Waverly- 11.2 ppg./2.4 rpg.
Elijah Macon (6'9/2012)- Marion-Franklin- 10 ppg./6.4 rpg.
Jalen Robinson (6'8/2012)- Northland- 9.2 ppg./6.8 rpg.
Myles Hamilton (6'2/2012)- St. Edward- 8.4 ppg./3.4 rpg.
Geovonie McKnight (6'4/2012)- Middletown- 6.3 ppg./0.8 rpg. (4 games)
Jordan Potts (5'11/2012)- Northland- 6.2 ppg./2.2 rpg.

King James Shooting Stars (1-4):

Lorenzo Cugini (6'6/2012)- Akron SVSM- 18.2 ppg./6.2 rpg.
Antonio Hearn (5'9/2012)- Akron Kenmore- 11.6 ppg./3.2 rpg.
Sheldon Jeter (6'6/2012)- Beaver Falls (PA)- 10.4 ppg./4 rpg.
Pharoah Brown (6'6/2012)- Lyndhurst Brush- 8 ppg./4.7 rpg. (3 games)
Devon Carter (6'3/2012)- Cleveland John Hay- 6.8 ppg./1.8 rpg.
D.J. Blanks (6'1/2012)- Akron SVSM- 6 ppg./1 rpg.
Michael Newton (6'0/2012)- St. Edward- 4.6 ppg./2 rpg.
Kevin Clark (6'6/2012)- Cleveland Heights- 3.2 ppg./2.4 rpg.
Devontae Watson (6'10/2012)- Lincoln Park (PA)- 1.6 ppg.4 rpg.

Spiece (3-2):

Vitto Brown (6'7/2013)- Bowling Green- 1.4 ppg./2.8 rpg. (9.4 minutes per game)

Revamped Mustang Ballers

2011-04-13T13:33:00.000-04:00

The Columbus Mustang Ballers showed off its new look team in Cincinnati this past weekend at the Club Ohio Tournament of Champions.

The Ballers finished runners up in the 17U division to a good Gametime Magic squad from Southwest Ohio.

Head coach Renny Tyson said Lakota East's Mark Minch and Pickerington Central's Chad Nelson were his go-to-guys and playing like potential D1 kids. He also noted Walnut Ridge's Kai Turner was a "monster" on the boards.

"Our 7-foot Jake Campbell (Centerville) did a great job for it being his first tournament with us," Tyson mentioned. "Phil Forte and Darius White are shooting the ball well for us."

Lakota East's Allante Foster and Hilliard Davidson's Davonte Peterson were both sidelined for the tournament due to injury.

Gametime Magic, who Tyson stated shot lights out in the championship game, are led by Cincinnati Princeton's Malcolm Smith, Norwood's Deontez McGee, Woodward's Chris Connell, and Cincinnati Princeton's De'Arius Young.

EYBL Results: 1st Leg

2011-04-11T22:32:00.001-04:00

Special to OHSH
By: John Stovall
Prep Spotlight/ESPN

Hampton, Virginia -- It was the first leg of the Nike EYBL play with 40 teams competing in the 17U bracket. Ohio has two team involved in All-Ohio Red and the King James Shooting Stars.

Red got off to a good start with a (4-1) weekend thanks to some quality play from Elijah Macon, Kenny Kaminski, and Terry Rozier. Every team member played well over the course of the weekend. Jake Kretzer, Jalen Robinson, Jordan Potts, and Geovonie McKnight all had their moments.

Red's only loss was to Boo Williams in a game they led in the second half.

King James finished (1-4), but showed good signs. King James was very competitive in all its games led by Akron SVSM's Lorenzo Cugini. Akron Kenmore's Antonio Hearn surprised many outside of Ohio with his play and Cleveland John's Devon Carter played well at times also. Beaver Falls PA's Sheldon Jeter looked good as well.

Ironically, King James only win of the weekend was against Boo Williams.

In the 16U division, which isn't affiliated with league play, All-Ohio Red went undefeated in pool play but lost in the Elite 8 of tournament action to Baltimore Elite. Marc Loving, Nigel Hayes, Keon Johnson, Austin Grimes, and Monty Boykins performed well.

Also in the 16U, All-Ohio Varsity participated. They finished 1-2, but didn't make tournament play. Jack Gibbs and Marion-Franklin's Marquise Lawrence were the top players.

King James' 16U won just a single game as well and didn't make the tournament, but Mark Williams, Maurice Ofield, and Pennsylvania's Devon Wilson all had their moments.

In 15U, All-Ohio Red went unbeaten in pool play and lost a tough game to Ferrari in the Elite of tourney play. Deangelo Russell, Rosel Hurley, and Kendrick Mallory were standouts.

King James struggled much of the weekend and didn't make the tournament. Jordan Green, Trey Grundy, Victor Dorsey, and Jae'sean Tate led the way.

Coaches Contact Information

2011-04-11T12:52:00.000-04:00

Coaches,

We are currently updating our contact information. If you could please email us your contact information it would be greatly appreciated.

ohiohshoops@yahoo.com

Nike EYBL: The Scouts are Saying

2011-04-10T22:39:00.002-04:00

Here is Rivals' Eric Bossi on Lorenzo Cugini and Kenny Kaminski.

Lorenzo Cugini, SF, King James- Although he's probably not quite his listed 6-foot-7, the junior wing is a big time shooter with deep range. In catch and shoot situations on the perimeter, you can pretty much count it once he locks in on the rim and lets it fly. Not a bad athlete either, he's one to watch as the Spring drags on.

Kenny Kaminski, PF, All-Ohio- Because he's such a good shooter for a big man, some aspects of Kaminski's game get under rated. He's a clever defender who doesn't mind getting physical, he rebounds and he does lots of little things away from the ball. While he's not a leaper, his three-point flame throwing can trump a lot of guys with 40 inch verticles.

Elijah Macon may be transferring to a prep school and has plenty of high major interest. The 6-foot-9 big man mentioned West Virginia. UConn, Cincinnati, Dayton, Xavier and Tennessee.

Here is Rivals' Jerry Meyer on Kenny Kaminski and Terry Rozier.

Kenny Kaminski (2012, All Ohio Red)- Speaking of high level shooters, Kaminski can fill it up with the best of them. Due to a lack of quickness he projects as a stretch four man who also should be physical around the basket. Look for him to bulk up and develop a more physical side to his game at Michigan State.

Terry Rozier (2012, All Ohio Red)- A 6-foot-1 point guard, Rozier is the point man for another quality All Ohio Red team. With a wicked left to right crossover, Rozier scored bucket after bucket against the New York Gauchos.

A high major level talent, Rozier has offers from Kent State, Akron and Cleveland State. Serious recruiting interest is coming in from Wisconsin. Rozier has his eyes on Louisville and Michigan State as well.

2011 All-Ohio Nike Cup: Results

2011-04-10T22:08:00.002-04:00

Tyler White of Lima Senior (Photo by OHSH).

Gahanna, Ohio -- The All-Ohio Nike Cup came to close this afternoon at Gahanna Lincoln High School and for consecutive weekends All-Ohio Purple came to Central Ohio and took gold back to Cincinnati.

The Nike Cup, which is an open tournment, had 24 teams participating over the course of two days. In an open tournament there are no age brackets meaning 14s, 15s, 16s, and 17s would all be in the same tournament. This obviously has its pros and cons, but for the most part it was a pretty good show.
Read more »

More 2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational Results

2011-04-06T13:39:00.000-04:00

Here is a look at Buckeye Prep's coverage of the event. Rob Taylor did a fantastic job with the event and also produced some quality coverage.

http://buckeyeprep.blogspot.com/2011/04/bigs.html

http://buckeyeprep.blogspot.com/2011/04/all-ohio-purple-takes-7-of-7-bpr.html

http://buckeyeprep.blogspot.com/2011/04/millennium-fire-goes-undefeated-to.html

http://buckeyeprep.blogspot.com/2011/04/cincinnati-knights-dominates-9th-grade.html

http://buckeyeprep.blogspot.com/2011/04/team-berea-takes-second-consecutive.html

AAU Schedule: April 8-10

2011-04-06T13:25:00.000-04:00

Cincy Prep Hoops Report did a nice job of rounding up most of the AAU tournaments for this weekend. They do an excellent job of covering the Queen City, but also some state-wide stuff as well.

http://cincyprephoopsreport.blogspot.com/2011/04/weekend-tourney-preview.html

Oden Changing Addresses

2011-04-06T13:20:00.000-04:00

Aaron Oden (6'0/2014) has apparently enrolled at Cincinnati Taft after a solid freshmen year at Cincinnati Hughes.

Here is CPHR's story:
http://cincyprephoopsreport.blogspot.com/2011/04/aaron-oden-transfer.html

**We will try to keep you updated throughout spring/summer with all of the latest transfers.

Transfers:
Leroy Alexander- Holland Springfield to Toledo Whitmer
Aaron Oden- Cincinnati Hughes to Cincinnati Taft

2011 NY2LA Swish 'N Dish: Results

2011-04-05T20:54:00.001-04:00

This past weekend a few Ohio AAU teams traveled to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to take part in the NY2LA Swish 'N Dish Tournament. All-Ohio took its Red team in 14-17U along with All-Ohio Varsity in the 16U division. The only other Ohio team to make the trip was the 15U Ohio Tarheels.

All squads played extremely well and an Ohio team in each division (14-17) lost to the eventual overall winner.

14U All-Ohio Red lost to the Milwaukee Rebels in the Elite 8. The Rebels eventually won the tournament.

*Team members include Michael Simon (Hilliard), LaMonta Stone (Toledo), Jaquan Harrison (Columbus), Andrew Francesconi (Tallmadge), Andre Foster (Dayton), Jalon Tuttle (Indian Lake), Shawon Wilson (Columbus), Jae'von McClain (Akron SVSM), Jalon Lewis (Columbus), Tony Anderson II (Columbus),

15U All-Ohio Red lost to Ferrari in the semis and the Chicago-based went in to capture the title.

*Team members included Adam Gigax (Cincinnati Moeller), Tay Bennett (Trotwood-Madison), Jemichael Blanton (Thurgood Marshall), Blake Simpson (Cincinnati Moeller), William Green (Dayton Dunbar), Mario Davison (Mansfield Senior), Deangleo Russell (Louisville Central). and Donovan Benson (Mansfield Senior).

15U Ohio Tarheels fell to Indiana Elite in the Sweet 16.

*Vincent Edwards (Middletown) and Roderick Mills (Cincinnati St. Xavier) lead the way for the Tarheels.

16U All-Ohio Varsity lost to the St. Louis Eagles in the Elite 8. The Eagles ended up winning the championship.

*Team members included Jack Gibbs (Westerville North), Ty Pack (Licking Heights), Aaron Jackson (Gahanna Lincoln), Deiondray Martin (Lima Senior), Malik Bush (Columbus Brookhaven), Adrian Cook (Westerville North), Tyler Hale (Grove City), Wendell Davis (Reynoldsburg), Randall Clarkson (Columbus Brookhaven), Marquise Lawrence (Marion-Franklin), Marvin Thomas (Groveport-Madison), and Kenny Robinson (Harvest Prep).

**Mark Alstork of Dayton Thurgood Marshall will be with this team next week.

16U All-Ohio Red wasn't able to get by the SYF Players in the Elite 8.

*Team members included Jaaron Simmons (Kettering Alter), Charles Tucker (Lansing Eastern), Marc Loving (Toledo St. John's), Nigel Hayes (Toledo Whitmer), Austin Grimes (Cincinnati Aiken), Jordan Lauf (Napoleon), Damarion Geter (Dayton Dunbar), Keon Johnson (Mansfield Senior), and Monty Boykins (Lakota West).

17U All-Ohio Red fell victim to Mac Irvin and the Chicago outfit went on to win the whole thing.

*Team members included Terry Rozier (Shaker Heights), Geovonie McKnight (Middletown), Jake Kretzer (Waverly), Kenny Kaminski (Medina), Elijah Macon (Marion-Franklin), Myles Hamilton (Lakewood St. Edward), Leroy Alexander (Toledo Whitmer), and Jordan Potts (Columbus Northland).

2010-2011 OHSH Player of the Year

2011-04-04T19:22:00.000-04:00

After weighing all the options, looking at stats, wins, and the intangibles our pick for the Ohio High School Hoops 2010-2011 Player of the Year is Columbus Northland's Trey Burke.

The Michigan signee is the second winner of our player of the year award following Jared Sullinger's crowning a year ago.

Burke averaged 22.8 points, 6.5 assists, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.5 steals a game for the state runner-up (26-2) Vikings. The 6-foot-1 senior shot nearly 60 percent from the field despite an uncharacteristic 8-of-31 showing at the state tournament. Burke shot 42 percent from distance and 74 percent from the free throw line.

Burke lost just five games in high school career including a state championship in 2009, a state runner-up in 2011, and a regional regional runner up in 2010.

2010-2011 OHSH Division 1 All-Ohio

2011-04-04T19:00:00.000-04:00

OHSH Division 1 All-Ohio:

1st Team:
Traevon Jackson- Westerville South
Travis Trice Jr.- Huber Heights Wayne
Aaron Thomas- Cincinnati Withrow
Aaron White- Strongsville
Pat Forsythe- Brunswick
Read more »

2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational: Day 3

2011-04-04T17:39:00.000-04:00

Columbus, Ohio -- Championship day of the 2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational saw a make shift All-Ohio Purple squad capture the 17U tournament, Millenium Fire own the 16U division, and the Cincinnati Knights throttled the competition en route to the 15U title.

17U:

All-Ohio Purple and All-Ohio Black met in the semis, while the Ohio Hoopsters locked up with a Gametime Magic squad out of Cincinnati.

Purple defeated Black in overtime, 58-55 thanks to a nice comeback. Pickerington Central's Caris Levert got a great look to send the game to a second overtime, but his right corner three was off the mark.

The Ohio Hoopsters got by Gametime Magic, 33-31.

In the title game, All-Ohio Purple pulled away late for a 51-42 victory. Purple started the weekend off a little slow as the team was pieced together throughout the weekend. However, when Taft's Adolphus Washington arrived, Purple got a whole lot better. Washington was joined by Findlay's CJ Gettys, and Taft's Jalen Lowe as Purple's top players.

16U:

The Ohio Playmakers were able to defeat King James' 15U team in the semis and the Millenium Fire out of Northeast Ohio got by the Dayton Nets.

The Millenium Fire won the championship with a victory over the Playmakers in the finals. Bedford Chanel's Montel Goodwin was named tournament MVP.

The Playermakers got quality play from Columbus Northland's Jaylen Benton and Galloway Westland's JJ Smith.

15U:

The Cincinnati Knights scored a repeat win over Team Queen City in the Final Four with a 55-42 victory and the Millenium Fire knocked off a good King of the Court team, 62-54.

The Knights, who were playing up a division, took down the Millenium Fire 66-53 in a game they controlled mos of the way.

Cincinnati Knights 15U Team Champions (Photo by OHSH).

Amos "AJ" Harris was named tournament MVP and Luke Kennard and Nate Fowler were both named to the All-Tournament team.

Kennard led the Knights with 20 points in the finals and Fowler was good for 15.

Kennard can score for sure, but the thing we love about this kid is the way he "wants" to rebound on the defensive end of the floor. Fowler showed unbelievable hands catching and finishing time-after-time.

The Millenium Fire was a quality team with some nice talent led by Marcus Bagley (Cleveland Heights), Daniel Sapp (Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin), John Cirillo (Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin), Kory Pearson (University School), John Davis (Beachwood), and Greg Alexander (Cleveland CC).

Daniel Sapp (6'3/2014) of NDCL (Photo by OHSH).

Bagley led the Fire in the championship game with 18 points, Cirillo added 12, and Sapp chipped in 10.

We are looking forward to the progression of the players on this team. Sapp and Cirillo are both good looking prospects.

2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational: Day 2

2011-04-02T20:52:00.003-04:00

Luke Kennard (6'4/2015) of the Cincinnati Knights (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus, Ohio -- The 2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational went into full swing on day 2 with action running from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at four different sites in the capital city.

Ohio High School Hoops made the trip to Whitehall-Yearling High School this morning to get a look at the talented Cincinnati Knights. The 14U outfit was playing up in the 15U division, which is something they are accustomed to. This isn't the first time we've seen this unit, but as always, we came away impressed. OHSH was able to see the Knights throttle a solid OIC Ball Dynasty squad based out of Columbus in the morning before stopping back in the afternoon to watch them run by a talented Team Queen City squad out of Cincinnati.
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2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational: Day 1

2011-04-02T00:09:00.002-04:00

Evan Bailey (6'3/2013) of Massillon Jackson (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- The 2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational got off and running tonight with several good showings and quality teams. OHSH set up shop at Ohio Dominican University and remained there for the duration.

Some of the teams we saw tonight:
Read more »

2010-2011 OHSH All-Freshmen Team

2011-03-31T20:10:00.003-04:00

**This is not a listing of who the best freshmen in Ohio are, but rather the ones who contributed on the varsity level this past year.

OHSH All-Freshman Team:

1st Team:
Jae'Sean Tate- Pickerington Central
Robert Caldwell- Dayton Stivers
Vincent Edwards- Middletown
Juan Ford- Huber Heights Wayne
Victor Dorsey- Akron SVSM
Peyton Aldridge- Leavittsburg LaBrae
Daniel Sapp- Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin
DeShone Kizer- Toledo Central Catholic
Antonio Woods- Cincinnati Summit CD
RaChaun Martin- Dayton Christian

Freshmen of the Year: Zach McCormick- Wilmington

Honorable Mention:
Evan Bailey- Massillon Jackson
Airius Moore- Beavercreek
Tyonte Robertson- Cincinnati Aiken
Marsalis Hamilton- Lakewood St.Edward
Gregory Alexander- Cleveland Central Catholic
Shemar Waugh- Canal Winchester
Cameron Taylor- Clayton Northmont
Darryl Long- Westerville South
Ronnie Williams- Columbus Brookhaven
David Mitchell- Cincinnati Hughes
Javon Bess- Pickerington Central
Michael Barwick- Cincinnati Summit CD
Joey Schmitz- Bloom-Carroll
Connor Kern- Pickerington Central
Ben Haraway- Norwalk
Jeff Thomas- Norwalk
Aaron Oden- Cincinnati Hughes
Kevin Daniels- Cincinnati Hughes
Bruce Williams- Georgetown
Steven Carpenter- Lancaster Fairfield Christian

2011 Buckeye Prep Invitational

2011-03-30T21:08:00.000-04:00

This Friday Ohio High School Hoops will start its AAU coverage at the Buckeye Prep Invitational. The event will take place at four different sites including nine courts starting Friday evening at 6 p.m. and on Saturday at 8 a.m. Sunday's schedule will be determined Friday night. The sites will be Ohio Dominican University, New Covenant Believers Church, Whitehall-Yearling High School, and the Bruce Howard Recreational Center.

Tournament Director Rob Taylor has once put together a top-notch field.

OHSH 2010-2011 Division 2 All-Ohio

2011-03-30T20:43:00.000-04:00

OHSH Division 2 All-Ohio

1st Team:
Deontae Hawkins- Dayton Dunbar
Jalen Ragland- Chillicothe
Damond Powell- Toledo Rogers
Jake Heagen- John Glenn
Davonte' Beard- Akron SVSM

Player of the Year: Evan Payne- Walsh Jesuit
Coach of the Year: Dru Joyce

2nd Team:
Tanner Gibson- Zanesville
Jazel Garrett- Akron Buchtel
Devon Carter- Cleveland John Hay
Jordan Watson- Dayton Thurgood Marshall
Lorenzo Cugini- Akron SVSM

3rd Team:
Reggie McAdams- Elida
Jake Kretzer- Waverly
Jordy Barham- University School
Eric Siefert- Bishop Hartley
Percy Dean- Columbus Mifflin

4th Team:
Desmond Ridenour- Cleveland Benedictine
Nate Jacubec- Struthers
Eric Truog- Chagrin Falls Kenston
Austin Cunningham- Vincent Warren
Josh Ingle- Shelby

OHSH 2010-2011 Division 3 All-Ohio

2011-03-29T22:43:00.000-04:00

OHSH Division 3 All-Ohio:

1st Team:
Adolphus Washington- Cincinnati Taft
Marquise Taylor- Columbus Africentric
Blake Justice- Peebles
Danny Monteroso- St.Clairsville
Brennan McKean- West Salem Northwestern

Player of the Year: Anton Grady- Cleveland Central Catholic
Coach of the Year: Michael Bates- Columbus Africentric

2nd Team:
Evan Legg- Piketon
Paul Honigford- Sugarcreek Garaway
Jalen Billups- Cincinnati Shroder
Zach Wasson- Orrville
Demonte Flannigan- Cleveland VASJ

3rd Team:
Andrew Bendolph- Portsmouth
Ty O'Connor- Lima Central Catholic
Telly Fricke- Archbold
Austin McMaster- Chesapeake
Steve Bridgeman- Bloom-Carroll

OHSH 2010-2011 Division 4 All-Ohio

2011-03-28T19:29:00.003-04:00

OHSH Division 4 All-Ohio:

1st Team:
Dylan Kaufman- Berlin Hiland
Luke Kohls- Columbus Grove
Cody Latimer- Dayton Jefferson
Zak Kirkbride- Zanesville Rosecrans
Blake Blevins- Manchester

Player of the Year: Mason Roth- McComb
Coach of the Year: Kevin Homier- Continental

2nd Team:
Seger Bonifant- Berlin Hiland
Devonte Brooks- Bedford Chanel
Marcus Reineke- New Knoxville
Grant Harris- Harvest Prep
Travis Tucci- Malvern

3rd Team:
John Spitnale- Continental
Travis Combs- Manchester
Drew Moore- New Madison Tri-Village
Matthias Tayala- McDonald
Shakir Dunning- Harvest Prep

OHSH All-Ohio Teams

2011-03-28T19:15:00.001-04:00

With the conclusion of the high school boy’s basketball season, Ohio High School Hoops will deliver our season ending awards. We waited for the end of the year, so we were incorporating the whole body of work.

We will be releasing our All-Ohio teams in each of the four divisions along with coaches of the year, All-Freshmen squad, and the OHSH Player of the Year.

Note, the OHSH Player of the Year will not be on any oter team and the Player of the Year in each division will not be on that particular team. In other words, the OHSH Player of the Year will be the captain of all four teams and the player of the year in each division will be the captain of that particular squad.

Release Schedule:
Division 4- Monday March 28, 2011
Division 3- Tuesday March 29, 2011
Division 2- Wednesday March 30, 2011
All-Freshmen Team- Thursday March 31, 2011
Division 1- Monday April 4, 2011
OHSH Player of the Year- Monday April 4, 2011

2011 State Tournament All-Tournament Team

2011-03-27T16:35:00.001-04:00

Here is OHSH's All-Tournament Team:

Division 1:
MVP- Brandon Neel- Cincinnati La Salle

All-Tournament Team:
Ryan Fleming- Cincinnati La Salle
Trey Casey- Cincinnati La Salle
Devon Scott- Columbus Northland
Trey Lewis- Garfield Heights
Drew Lehman- Toledo Central Catholic

Division 2:
MVP- Lorenzo Cugini- Akron SVSM

All-Tournament Team:
Davonte' Beard- Akron SVSM
Mark Alstork- Dayton Thurgood Marshall
Joe Thomasson- Dayton Thurgood Marshall
JR Rayford- Toledo Rogers
Jacob Matuska- Columbus Bishop Hartley

Division 3:
MVP- Adolphus Washington

All-Tournament Team:
Jalen Lowe- Cincinnati Taft
Marquez Johnson- Cincinnati Taft
Anton Grady- Cleveland CC
Marquise Taylor- Columbus Africentric
Tre Underwood- Portsmouth

Division 4:
MVP- Seger Bonifant- Berlin Hiland

All-Tournament Team:
Dylan Kaufman- Berlin Hiland
Jalen Miller- Berlin Hiland
Grant Harris- Harvest Prep
Shakir Dunning- Harvest Prep
John Spitnale- Continental

Cincinnati La Salle vs. Columbus Northland: Division 1 State Championship Game

2011-03-27T14:28:00.002-04:00

Columbus -- Cincinnati La Salle and Columbus Northland locked up in the 2011 Ohio Boy's Basketball State Tournament final and the Lancers capped off a tremendous season with a slightly shocking 59-40 rout of the Columbus-based Vikings.

It wasn't surprising that La Salle won the contest, but it was a bit stunning in the way it was able to do so. La Salle out executed, out hustled, out game planned, and out rebounded Northland in one of the best basketball clinics we have seen in a long time. It was truly a thing of beauty.

The Lancers started slow falling behind 12-4 in the first quarter, but did manage to knot the game at 12 behind two buckets each from seniors Brandon Neel and Ryan Fleming.

The teams traded buckets to start the second period, but following a Northland bucket by Jakyl Cornley to tie the game at 16 the Lancers took control for good and never trailed again.

La Salle opened up a 28-22 lead by half and stretched its lead to as many as 12 points on two separate occassions in the third chapter. The Lancers took a 43-31 lead into the final eight minutes.

While many expected the talented Vikings to make a charge in the fourth quarter, La Salle would have none of it. The Lancers went with an open post and spread the floor with five skilled kids on the floor and totally sliced up Northland.

La Salle (26-2) led by as many as 22 points in the final frame consistently working the clock and getting easy buckets. On the defensive end, the Lancers were able to hold Northland to mainly one shot each possession by out rebounding the bigger Vikings. The GCL South Co-Champions out boarded the Columbus City League Champions, 28-20.

Once La Salle was able to get the lead, the Vikings (26-2) were forced to come out and guard on the perimeter which forced Northland's 6-8 juniors (Devon Scott and Jalen Robinson) to the bench. The two were basically non factors.

The Lancers got 17 points, six rebounds, and four dimes from Fleming and seven points and five boards from senior Trey Casey. Junior Josh Lemons added five counters and a like amount of rebounds. Friday's hero Matt Woeste only scored four points, but he was able to make several winning plays.

Michigan signee Trey Burke was held to just 10 points on 4-of-14 shooting. Ohio's Mr. Basketball was just 8-of-31 from the field in his two state tournament games.

Player of the Game: Brandon Neel (La Salle) had 22 points on 10-of-15 shooting, six boards, and four assists.

Stat of the Game: La Salle scored 17 points off Viking' turnovers, while Northland was only able to manage six tallies.

Cincinnati Taft vs. Cleveland CC: Division 3 State Championship Game

2011-03-27T12:02:00.007-04:00

Columbus -- There were several words to describe Saturday's Division 3 State Championship game featuring Cincinnati Taft and Cleveland Central Catholic, but the one which best describes the contest was dominance.

Taft outscored its counterpart 72-25 through the first three quarters en route to a dominating 95-52 triumph along with setting several state records. The Senators set records for points in a state tournament game, points in a quarter, rebounds in a game, and three-pointers in a game among others.

The second and third quarters were most dominant where Taft held a 58-19 advantage.

Cleveland Central Catholic suffered a tough blow in the first quarter when star Anton Grady and top sub Marcus Jones each picked up two fouls. Not that it mattered in the grand scheme of things, but it did appear the young Ironmen were lost without their leader.

Taft's first unit did plenty of damage in the first quarter leading to a 16-6 advantage, but the second unit which Senators' head coach Mark Mitchell refers to as the "muskateers" came in during the second quarter and brought some serious energy. Taft was able to blow the game completely open with the quickness of his top subs.

The Senators led 46-16 at recess thanks to 30 second period points.

The third chapter was much of the same as the Senators held a 28-9 advantage with Kadeem Palmer, Dwanye Stanford, Adolphus Washington, Marquez Johnson, Jalen Lowe, and Chris Lowe all getting into the act.

To the Ironmen's credit they didn't quit when it could have been very easy to do so. CCC won the fourth and final quarter, 27-21.

Jalen Lowe scored 15 points for the winners on 6-of-10 shooting and brother Chris added 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting. Junior Orland Berry Jr. had nine points, six assists, and six rebounds, Palmer and junior Jermaine Freeman each tallied eight, Johnson netted seven off the bench, and Stanford meshed six as did sub Malcom Hicks.

Grady led Central Catholic (19-9) with 22 points on 8-of-20 shooting and 14 rebounds. Junior Ra'Saun Smith was good for nine points as was freshman guard Gregory Alexander.

Taft (26-1) set a record for most rebounds in a game with 47 compared to just 32 for the Ironmen. The Senators got 46 points off its bench while Central Catholic was only able to generate seven.

Player of the Game: Adolphus Washington (Taft) had 18 points on 8-of-14 shooting and grabbed eight rebounds in just 20 minutes of action.

Stat of the Game: Cincinnati Taft knocked down 13 of its 22 three-point attempts, while Central Catholic was just 1-of-17.

Berlin Hiland vs. Harvest Prep: D4 State Championship Game

2011-03-26T16:33:00.000-04:00

Jalen Miller and Noah Boyd of Hiland (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- The Hiland Hawks once again used its superior size to overpower a worthy opponent and this time it was Harvest Preparatory in the Division 4 State Championship encounter. The Hawks outscored the Warriors 26-11 in the final period to run away with a 63-48 victory thanks in large part to junior Seger Bonifant.

The 6-7 Bonifant once again came off the bench and proved he was the most dominant player on the floor. The Strasburg transfer went to work in the paint in the final eight minutes scoring over his left shoulder on several jump hooks demoralizing the smaller Prep defenders.

Hiland led by one after one (8-7), but fell behind at halftime as the Warriors were getting several easy buckets in the lane.

Trailing 22-20 heading into the third period, the Hawks were able to tie the game at 37 by the quarter's close. Harvest Prep's Grant Harris knocked down a long range bomb from the left wing to break the Warriors even at 37.

In the fourth quarter, it was the Bonifant show. Hiland was able to run a version of the Princeton to perfection allowing them several easy inside buckets.

Following a Shakir Dunning triple to make the score 47-44, the Hawks would score 16 of the next 20 points.

Lost in the Bonifant and Dylan Kaufman hype was the ultimate x-factor Jalen Miller. The 6-2 senior scored 13 points and grabbed six rebounds. The lefty scored several buckets near the rim with his left hand and played solid defense all weekend.

Kaufman tallied 19 points on just 5-of-18 shooting, but managed to go 8-of-8 at the line and snared eight boards. 6-7 senior Noah Boyd added eight points and chased down six strays.

Harvest Prep got 17 points from hard working senior Shakir Dunning. Junior Grant Harris chipped in 14.

Hiland was a perfect 10-of-10 from the charity stripe.

Player of the Game: Seger Bonifant (Berlin Hiland) had 21 points on 9-of-17 shooting and seven rebounds.

Stat of the Game: Hiland scored 23 points off turnovers compared to just seven by the Prep, which is certainly a role reversal for the Warriors.

Akron SVSM vs. Dayton Thurgood Marshall: D2 State Championship Game

2011-03-26T13:58:00.000-04:00

Lorenzo Cugini of Akron SVSM (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- Akron SVSM used a stingy 2-3 zone defense to hold Dayton Thurgood Marshall to just 31 percent shooting en route to winning its fifth state championship this decade and sixth in the school history. The 2011 Division 2 State Championship, which was a 57-46 triumph, moves Akron SVSM to second all-time for boy's basketball state championships.

Both teams started very slow from the field, but SVSM was able to manage a 12-9 lead after the initial chapter. The Irish continued to stymie the Cougars in the second quarter with their zone leading the Irish to a 23-18 halftime advantage. SVSM was able to hold Thurgood to just 25 percent (7-of-28) shooting in the first half.

Each team came out of the locker room scoring some easy buckets on the interior with neither team doing a good job of stopping penetration. However, the Cougars went dry once again midway through the third period allowing the Irish to grab a 38-28 lead after three quarters of action.

SVSM extended its lead to 16 in the final frame thanks to some easy buckets from junior Lorenzo Cugini, freshman Victor Dorsey, sophomore Nick Wells, and senior Davonte' Beard.

The Irish defense was good enough in the fourth to hold the lead and seal the win.

Beard had 13 points and four assists for the victors and junior DJ Blanks added nine points and five rebounds off the bench. Wells chipped in six points and five boards off the pine as well. Senior Ricky Johnson put in four points and four rebounds along with six dimes.

Jordan Watson returned to the line up for the Cougars following a semifinal game suspension and scored 16 points on just 7-of-22 inlcuding 0-of-10 from the distance. Watson added six rebounds.

Sophomore Mark Alstork and Edmond Early Jr. each meshed eight points and Alstork also snared six rebounds.

Player of the Game: Lorenzo Cugini (Akron SVSM) tallied 15 points on 6-of-10 shooting and grabbed 10 rebounds.

Stat of the Game: Thurgood Marshall was a dismal 1-of-19 from the three-point range.

Columbus Northland vs. Garfield Heights: Game 8

2011-03-26T10:42:00.000-04:00

Devon Scott of Columbus Northland (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- Friday night's finale featuring Columbus Northland and Garfield Heights had plenty of side stories attached to it, but in the end the only story which mattered was the Vikings 67-59 triumph. The win sends Northland to its second state championship in the past three years where they will meet Cincinnati La Salle.

Northland used a strong inside game from 6-8 juniors Devon Scott and Jalen Robinson along with some big play from "big game" Jordan Potts to secure its 26th win of the season.

The Vikings led 14-8 after eight minutes and 31-22 at recess thanks to 13 points and six rebounds from Scott and eight tallies from Potts.

Garfield held a slight 15-14 edge in the third period in large part to Division 1 Co-Player of the Year Trey Lewis and his eight points.

Trailing 45-37 heading into the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs let the contest get away from them allowing the Vikings to open up 55-39 lead with 4:02 to play in the game.

Garfield waited too long, but did manage to make a bevy of shots late in the game eventually cutting the lead to 61-55. Lewis had 13 points in the quarter, but it was too little too late as Northland was nearly spotless from the line when it mattered.

Northland (26-1) got 16 points and four assists from Potts and 15 by Trey Burke despite a poor 4-of-17 shooting night. Burke was the second half of the Division 1 Co-Player of the Year duo.

Robinson added seven points and eight rebounds and Ke'Chaun Lewis chipped in seven and six.

Lewis paced the Bulldogs (25-2) with 33 points on 11-of-21 shooting including eight triples and six rebounds and sophomore Tony Farmer was good for 11 points and eight caroms. Junior Mike Davis added nine counters.

Player of the Game: Devon Scott (Northland) had 17 points on 8-of-11 shooting and 10 rebounds along with three blocks.

Stat of the Game: Northland's bench scored 22 points compared to just nine for Garfield.

Cincinnati La Salle vs. Toledo Central Catholic: Game 7

2011-03-26T10:12:00.000-04:00

Columbus -- Cincinnati La Salle and Toledo Central Catholic needed 31 minutes and 57 seconds to decide their Division 1 semifinal Friday night inside Value City Arena.

With the game knotted at 46, Cincinnati La Salle ran an isolation play for senior Brandon Neel. The lengthy 6-4 Neel caught the ball near the right block but lost his footing and threw the ball up on the back board. The wild attempt missed badly, but senior Matt Woeste flew in from the left side and laid in the miss giving the Lancers a 48-46 victory.

The shot made by Woeste sent the La Salle faithful into frenzy and put the Lancers in Saturday night's Division 1 state championship game against powerful Columbus Northland.

La Salle jumped out to a 9-8 leaf after one despite a very slow start and extended its lead to 22-12 at half.

The Lancers opened up a 14-point lead in the third period before Toledo Central Catholic head coach Jim Welling decided to go with a younger line up.

Sophomores Cliff Bussey and Deontae Cole each knocked big shots sparking the Irish to a furious rally. Central Catholic cut the lead to 31-29 after 24 minutes and eventually took the lead in the fourth quarter.

The contest went back-and-forth down the stretch with Neel making difficult shots for the winners and Central Catholic getting big hoops from a number of kids. A game which lacked much excitement for the majority of the game turned into one of the best the weekend had to offer.

Senior Drew Lehman led Central Catholic with 13 points and Bussey added 11.

Senior Ryan Fleming tallied 11 for the Lancers and Woested added seven.

Player of the Game: Brandon Neel (La Salle) had 23 points on 10-of-16 shooting.

Stat of the Game: Toledo Central Catholic shot 54 percent in the first half and was down 10 points.

Cleveland Central Catholic vs. Portsmouth: Game 6

2011-03-25T16:00:00.000-04:00

Anton Grady of Cleveland CC (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- Cleveland Central Catholic was silky smooth in the second as in Anton "Silk" Grady smooth. The Ironmen overcame a 20-9 first half deficit with a strong second half to secure a 58-47 victory.

Grady was sensation in the second half especially the third quarter following a three point and eight rebound first half. The 6-8 Cleveland State commit scored 15 of his team's 19 third quarter points along with being a menace on the boards and defensive end.

It certainly wasn't easy for Central Catholic (19-8) as it had to withstand a first half in which the Trojans shot nearly 55 percent from the field and 4-of-8 from distance including an off-balance runner at the end of the first half by junior Wayne Evans giving the Trojans a 28-20 lead.

However, Grady quickly went to work in second half scoring his team's first 11 points of the quarter to take a 31-30 lead. Ra'Saun Smith followed with a bucket for the winners, but Zaide Whitley answered right back with another triple to knot the game at 33.

Grady would score again and lanky junior Alan Harper would knock down a right corner jumper giving the Ironmen a 39-36 lead heading into the final frame. Not only were they terrific on offense, CCC was equally as good on defense holding the Trojans to just 24 percent shooting in the final 16 minutes compared to 54 percent shooting of its own.

Central Catholic outscored Portsmouth, 19-11 in the final frame.

The Ironmen held a 40-26 edge on the boards and outscored the Trojans 30-8 in the paint.

Portsmouth (21-5) got 15 points from senior Andrew Bendolph and 13 by Evans. Senior Tre Underwood had six points and 10 rebounds.

Central Catholic will now meet Cincinnati Taft (25-1) in tomorrow's championship game in a rematch of a two quarter scrimmage Thanksgiving weekend at Reynoldsburg High School. Taft edged the Ironmen 29-28, so Saturday should be a fantastic contest.

Player of the Game: Anton Grady (Central Catholic) had 26 points and tied a state tournament record for rebounds with 22 along with blocking seven shots. Grady's second half numbers were 23 points, 14 rebounds, and five swats.

Stat of the Game: Central Catholic's bench out pointed Portmouth's bench, 14-1 thanks to sixth man Marcus Jones scoring all of those points and adding five rebounds.

Cincinnati Taft vs. Columbus Africentric: Game 3

2011-03-25T13:35:00.000-04:00

Jalen Lowe and Adolphus Washington of Taft (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- In Friday morning's Division 3 semifinal Cincinnati Taft used its depth, size, and relentless pressure to knock off a game Columbus Africentric squad, 63-50.

The Senators dashed out to a 21-6 lead late in the first quarter and eventually took a 21-8 advantage into the second quarter. Taft's fast start can be attributed to junior Jalen Lowe's hot shooting off the bench.

Africentric (18-8) settled in nicely in the second period thanks to star point guard Marquise Taylor. The Nubians held an 18-17 advantage in the second frame as Taylor had 15 points by half.

Taft (25-1) came out in the third quarter looking to make an extra effort to get the ball into junior Adolphus Washington. The 6-6 and 250-pound man child, who was the Associated Press Division 3 Player of the Year, was able to do some damage scoring 10 points in the period.

Despite Washington's efforts, Africentric continued to attack led by Taylor and was able to get some easy put backs on the interior. The Nubians won the quarter 22-14 cutting the lead to 52-48 heading into the final stanza.

The Nubians scored the first bucket of the fourth quarter cutting the lead to two points, but never scored again as the Senators outscored their counterpart 11-2 in the final frame.

Taft got 16 points from Jalen Lowe off the bench and nine rebounds from junior Dwayne Stanford.

Taylor scored 21 points in defeat on 9-of-14 shooting. FuQuan Tucker added nine points and nine rebounds and 6-5 shooting guard Kalomo Figueroa-Jackson chipped in eight on just 3-of-11 shooting.

Both teams committed a high amount of turnovers with the Nubians giving the ball away 23 times and Taft was charted for 21.

Player of the Game: Adolphus Washington (Taft) had 22 points and four rebounds. Washington was 7-of-8 from the field.

Stat of the Game: Taft out pointed Africentric's bench 28-6 thanks to Lowe's 16 and Marquez Johnson and Rasaan Jackson netting eight and four respectively.

Top 2011's Video: City League Hoops

2011-03-24T23:34:00.002-04:00

Great piece by Ty Kish of City League Hoops.
Video

Berlin Hiland vs. Continental: Game 4

2011-03-24T23:27:00.000-04:00

Seger Bonifant of Berlin Hiland (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- The Hiland Hawks were just too big for the Continental Pirates in Thursday night's Division 4 night cap. The Hawks were able to use their size and versatility for a 70-56 victory.

Hiland's bigs are very versatile, which makes it very tough for the opponent. The Hawks started two kids 6-5 and 6-7, while bringing 6-7 and 6-6 off the bench. By the way, the 6-7 kid off the bench just happens to be a Division 1 college prospect in Seger Bonifant.

The Hawks raced out to a 15-9 advantage after one period of play, and extended the lead to 32-22 at the break.

The Pirates would hang tough in the 3rd quarter behind some quality play from John Spitnale, Brock Homier, Auston Sharp, and Dylan Geckle. Continental was able to inch a little closer trailing 53-44 after the third quarter.

Continental scored the first five points of the final stanza to cut the lead to just four points.

With Hiland (26-1) clinging to a 53-49 and Continental owning the possession, Seger Bonifant came up with a big block and Dylan Kaufman scored at the other end. Kaufman followed the next Continental possession with a block of his own and then scored again at the other end.

Kaufman later found senior Jalen Miller on a pretty pass and finish to extend the lead to 59-51 and all but seal the deal. Noah Boyd and Miller would score again on fast break lay ups to virtually put it out of reach at 64-53 with 1:45 to play in the contest.

Jalen Miller scored 13 points for the winners and Kaufman and Boyd both added nine. Kaufman didn't make a field until 30 seconds remaining in the third quarter, but did manage nine rebounds and four assists. 6-6 junior Neil Gingerich added 10 points.

Continental (21-4) got 15 points from Spitnale on 7-of-9 shooting and six rebounds. Geckle chipped in 14, Sharp tossed in 13, and Homier had 12 before fouling out.

Player of the Game: Seger Bonifant (Berlin Hiland) scored 23 points on 7-of-12 shooting using a variety of face up and back to the basket moves.

Stat of the Game: Hiland's bench out scored Continental's pine, 33-2 thanks to Bonifant and Gingerich.

Harvest Prep vs. Houston: Game 3

2011-03-24T19:34:00.000-04:00

Grant Harris of Harvest Prep (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- In the first Division 4 semifinal, Harvest Prep used its superior athleticism and quickness to run out to a 27-14 halftime lead virtually overwhelming the Wildcats. The Warriors used a strong defensive effort in the second half to complete a 54-39 victory.

For most of the evening Houston looked in awe of the entire situation and its shooting added to the theory. The Wildcats shot just 14-of-45 from the field and a brisk 10-23 from the free throw line.

Meanwhile, Harvest Prep used its relentless defensive pressure and constant attacking of the offensive glass to earn the big lead. Prep scored 40 points in the paint compared to 24 from Houston and held a 32-11 advantage in terms of bench points.

To Houston's defense they were down a starter in Jacob Monnier due to illness, but its top three scorers went just 7-of-26 from the floor.

Shakir Dunning scored 10 points for Prep (22-5) and Eric Brown came off the bench to tally nine points and snare eight boards. Dunning was just 5-of-16 from the field.

Houston (20-6) got eight points apiece from seniors Josh Redd and Derek Estes and seven from classmate Jacob Benanzer.

Player of the Game: Grant Harris (Harvest Prep) scored 14 points on 5-of-10 shooting and added five rebounds.

Stat of the Game: Houston was 6-of-19 from the charity stripe in the 4th quarter.

Dayton Thurgood Marshall vs. Toledo Rogers: Game 2

2011-03-24T16:03:00.000-04:00

Joe Thomasson, Joe Ballard, & Mark Alstork. (Photo by OHSH)

Columbus -- Dayton Thurgood Marshall and Toledo Rogers took the floor in game 2 of Thursday's Division 2 semifinals, but it didn't appear Rogers got the heads up on the tip time. Thurgood Marshall raced out to a 21-7 lead before Toledo Rogers scored 27 second quarter points to knot the game at 34 by recess.

The contest was tightly played in the second half, but junior Joe Thomasson tipped back his own miss with 17 seconds remaining to give Thurgood the lead and eventually the win, 68-66.

Rogers got two looks from three-point range, but both were off the mark.

The Cougars will now advance to Saturday's state championship game tilt against Akron SVSM, which is a repeat of the 2009 D2 State Title game. The Irish won that battle.

Thurgood played exceptionally well considering its leading scorer and go-to-guy, senior Jordan Watson, was unable to play. In his absence, sophomore Mark Alstork, juniors Joe Ballard and Thomasson, and sophomore Gerry Green stepped it up.

Watson will be able to go on Saturday.

The Cougars had to overcome an 8-of-19 showing behind the arc from Rogers. Sophomore Clemmye Owens connected on 4-of-8 and totaled 14 points for the game.

The game was tied nine times and there were four lead changes.

Alstork led the Cougars (22-5) in scoring with 18, Joe Ballard added 16 including seven dunks, and Green tallied 10 points and snared nine boards.

JR Rayford led the Rams (16-6) with 15 points and six rebounds and senior Damond Powell, who was the AP Division 2 Player of the Year, notched 12 on just nine floor attempts.

Player of the Game: Joe Thomasson (Thurgood Marshall) scored 14 points, dished out eight assists, grabbed four rebounds, and scored the game winning bucket.

Stat of the Game: Thurgood out pointed Rogers in the paint 44-28.

Akron SVSM vs. Columbus Bishop Hartley: Game 1

2011-03-24T13:11:00.001-04:00

Davonte' Beard of Akron SVSM (Photo by OHSH).

Columbus -- Akron SVSM started the 89th Annual Ohio State Boy's Basketball Tournament like a team which had been there several times before, while Columbus Bishop Hartley looked more like a deer in headlights.

The Irish jumped out to a 12-4 lead after eight minutes of play and eventually stretched its lead to 13 before Hartley roared back to take the lead in the final quarter. The Irish regained their composure and were able to recapture the lead and eventually the win, 49-44.

Akron SVSM freshman Victor Dorsey slam sparked a mini run for the Irish giving them a 20-9 lead, but Hartley scored seven of the last nine first half points to close the gap to 22-16 at the break despite shooting 33 percent from the floor. Hartley junior Eric Siefert knocked down a right corner pocket triple as the buzzer sounded.

Lorenzo Cugini paced the Irish in the first half with eight points, while Siefert led the Hawks with five.

The Irish came out of the locker room swinging by scoring the first seven points thanks to a Ricky Johnson Jr. triple, an Aaron Carey steal and hoop, and two freebies from Davonte' Beard to take a 29-16 lead.

Hartley, who had won close games all year, mounted a comeback late in the 3rd sparked by Siefert to close the gap to 36-33 at the quarter's end. While the Irish went cold from the floor, the Hawks were plugging away at the lead.

Siefert hit a floater and sophomore Jacob Matuska scored on an inside basket to start the final frame giving Hartley its first lead at 37-36.

The Irish regained the lead on a Cugini rebound and put back. Though, Hartley got it back, but a Johnson three ball gave the Irish the lead for good.

Beard and Cugini knocked down some freebies in the final minute to seal the victory.

Beard had 12 points, seven rebounds, and three assists for the winners.

Siefert led Hartley with 13 points and six rebounds and Matuska added 11 and eight.

Player of the game: Lorenzo Cugini (Akron SVSM) scored 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting and four rebounds.

Stat of the Game: Akron SVSM was 15-of-16 at the charity stripe with Davonte' Beard going 8-of-8.

Mr. Basketball: Trey Burke

2011-03-23T18:49:00.001-04:00

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Besides being a great scorer, team leader, big winner and the 2011 Associated Press Mr. Basketball award winner, Columbus Northland's Trey Burke is one courageous young man.

A University of Michigan signee, the 6-foot-1 point guard wears his maize and blue everywhere around Ohio's capital city. Needless to say, some people take umbrage at a Michigan fan in the heart of Ohio State country.

Burke makes it three in a row for Northland, with current Ohio State big man Jared Sullinger winning the Mr. Basketball award the past two seasons. It's the first time that any high school has produced more than one Mr. Basketball.

Burke, the 24th annual Mr. Basketball award winner, averaged 23.9 points a game and has taken his team to a third state tournament.

AP All-Ohio: Division 4

2011-03-22T19:00:00.002-04:00

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The 2010-11 Associated Press Division IV All-Ohio boys basketball team, based on the recommendations of a media panel:

FIRST TEAM: Nick Levin, Cols. Tree of Life, 6-foot, senior, 17.6 points per game; Dylan Kaufman, Berlin Hiland, 6-4, jr., 14.0; Cody Latimer, Dayton Jefferson, 6-3, sr., 16.2; Travis Combs, Manchester, 6-1, jr., 20.0; Devonta Brooks, Bedford Chanel, 6-5, sr., 12.0; Luke Kohls, Columbus Grove, 6-4, sr., 16.9; Matthias Tayala, McDonald, 6-2, sr., 18.3; Zak Kirkbride, Zanesville Rosecrans, 6-6, jr., 20.3.
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AP All-Ohio: Division 3

2011-03-22T18:59:00.003-04:00

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The 2010-11 Associated Press Division III All-Ohio boys basketball team, based on the recommendations of a media panel:

DIVISION III

FIRST TEAM: Adolphus Washington, Cin. Taft, 6-foot-6, junior, 19.1 points per game; Anton Grady, Cleve. Cent. Cath., 6-8, sr., 20.9; Brennan McKean, West Salem Northwestern, 6-0, sr., 28.0; Paul Honigford, Sugarcreek Garaway, 6-8, se., 16.8; Evan Jamison, Richwood North Union, 6-7, sr., 22.1; Nathan Copley, Chesapeake, 6-2, sr., 14.5 Derek Zeiter, Ontario, 6-4., sr., 19.4
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Trey Squared

2011-03-21T22:37:00.001-04:00

Trey Lewis and Trey Burke in 2009 at AAU Nationals.

Trey Burke and Trey Lewis are more than linked by a third generation nickname. The two were awarded Division I Co-Player of the Year honors this evening and will likely be the frontrunners for the AP's Mr. Basketball which will be awarded this Wednesday.

Furthermore, Burke and Lewis will meet Friday night in something more meaningful than any individual award. The two will meet head-to-head when Burke's Columbus Northland Vikings meet Lewis' Garfield Heights Bulldogs in a battle of 25-1 outfits with a trip to the state championship game on the line.

However, Burke and Lewis have history long before this week when the pair teamed on All-Ohio Red's U16 AAU National Championship team in 2009.

Burke originally committed to Penn State, but eventually backed out and Lewis committed to the Nitany Lions and Burke later pledged to Michigan.

2011 Gatorade Player of the Year

2011-03-21T21:43:00.000-04:00

Travis Trice Jr. (Photo by OHSH)

CHICAGO (March 17, 2011) — In its 26th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with ESPN RISE, today announced Travis Trice of Wayne High School as its 2010-11 Gatorade Ohio Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Trice is the first Gatorade Ohio Boys Basketball Player of the Year to be chosen from Wayne High School.
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2011 State Tournament Preview: Division 1

2011-03-21T21:28:00.003-04:00

Cincinnati La Salle vs. Toledo Central Catholic
Cincinnati La Salle (24-2) will make its first state tournament appearance since 1996 when it captured the Division I crown on the back of star senior Dave Esterkamp. The Lancers came up short the past two seasons in the regional final, but was able to get over the hump this year against GCL rival Cincinnati Moeller winning their 12th game in a row. One difference is head coach Dan Fleming has been able to coach the team since suffering a heart attack back March 7th. He missed the district championship game against Meadowdale, but was able to watch both regional games from a box seat. It’s still uncertain whether he will coach or not this week in Columbus.
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2011 State Tournament Preview: Division 3

2011-03-21T21:27:00.003-04:00

Cincinnati Taft vs. Columbus Africentric
Cincinnati Taft (24-1) will make its first state tournament appearance. The Senators are ranked No. 1 by the AP and have been a heavy favorite from day one to cut down the nets much like they were a year ago before being upset by Bishop Ready in the regional final.
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2011 State Tournament Preview: Division 4

2011-03-21T21:26:00.001-04:00

Berlin Hiland vs. Continental

Berlin Hiland (25-1) has long been known as on of Ohio’s top small school programs and the Hawks are back to the state tournament for the first time since a 2007 semifinal loss to eventual champion Georgetown. The late, great Perry Reese Jr. along with star player Junior Raber led the Hawks to their only state championship in 1992.
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2011 State Tournament Preview: Division 2

2011-03-21T21:25:00.002-04:00

Akron SVSM vs. Columbus Bishop Hartley
Akron SVSM (17-9) will play in its 10th state tournament looking to capture its sixth state championship. The Irish are currently tied for second all-time with five state championships along with Columbus East. SVSM could move to second by itself putting it just one behind Middletown’s seven.
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2011 State Tournament Preview: Fun Facts

2011-03-21T21:23:00.003-04:00

The 89th Annual State Boys Basketball Tournaments are upon us and the card is filled with several intriguing match ups. The action starts Thursday at 10:45 a.m. inside Value City Arena at the Jerome Schottenstein Center on the campus of The Ohio State University.

Fun Facts:
None of the teams here this weekend qualified a season ago, which marks the third straight year where there will be zero back-to-back appearances. However, three of the 2009 state champions will return (Columbus Northland, Akron SVSM, and Cleveland Central Catholic).
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AP All-Ohio: Division 2

2011-03-21T21:15:00.003-04:00

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The 2010-11 Associated Press Division II All-Ohio boys basketball team, based on the recommendations of a media panel:

DIVISION II

FIRST TEAM: Deontae Hawkins, Dayton Dunbar, 6-foot-7, junior, 16.1 points per game; Percy Dean, Cols. Mifflin, 5-9, sr., 24.1; Jalen Ragland, Chillicothe, 6-6, sr., 20.5; Devon Carter, Cleve. John Hay, 6-3, soph., 20.1; Jake Heagen, New Concord John Glenn, 6-4, sr., 22.0; Damond Powell, Tol. Rogers, 5-10, sr., 22.5; Evan Payne, Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit, 6-1, jr., 24.5.
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AP All-Ohio: Division 1

2011-03-21T21:14:00.003-04:00

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The 2010-11 Associated Press Division I All-Ohio boys basketball team, based on the recommendations of a media panel:

DIVISION I

FIRST TEAM: Trey Burke, Cols. Northland, 6-foot-1, senior, 23.9 points per game; Travis Trice II, Huber Hts. Wayne, 6-0, sr., 24.5; Trey Lewis, Garfield Hts., 6-0, sr., 23.0; Chauncey Orr, Bowling Green, 6-4, sr., 21.5; Pat Forsythe, Brunswick, 6-10, sr., 22.5.
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Initial State Tournament Thoughts

2011-03-19T23:11:00.002-04:00

We are currently sitting here with a thousand thoughts running through our head, so there is no better time than now to crank out some early state tourney thoughts.
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Not This Time!

2011-03-19T22:29:00.001-04:00

Columbus -- Columbus Northland wasted little time in tonight's regional final contest proving a repeat of last year wasn't going to happen. A year ago Gahanna Lincoln shocked the Buckeye state by upsetting and routing Northland who was the No. 1 team in the country at the time. This year, Westerville South couldn't repeat the feat.
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OHSAA Tournament Scores: 3/19/2011

2011-03-19T15:46:00.001-04:00

Division 1:
Toledo Central Catholic 61, Stow 33
Garfield Heights 85, Mentor 68
Columbus Northland 80, Westerville South 62

Division 2:
Akron SVSM 59, Cleveland John Hay 53
Toledo Rogers 78, Rocky River 68
Bishop Hartley 46, John Glenn 43, OT
Thurgood Marshall 74, Roger Bacon 59

Division 3:
Cleveland CC 59, Youngstown Ursuline 46
Columbus Africentric 45, Archbold 38
Portsmouth 69, Chesapeake 68
Cincinnati Taft 49, Cincinnati Summit CD 45