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TOP DFW COACHES When looking for the best coaches in the Dallas-Fort Worth surrounding area the list gets really long in qualified candidates. The challenge is the list could be much longer than it is and, as most high school fans will tell you, most State Championship come through the greater DFW area. So we wanted to create a list of coaches who not only win, but who also get a great deal out of their players.

TOP 10 Boys Coaches: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Chris Hill Chris Dyer David Piehler Kyle Herrema Danny Henderson Von Harris Mike Hatch Jeff Bell Steve Smith Stan Blackmon

Dallas Jesuit DeSoto Highland Park Lovejoy High School Duncanville High School Hillcrest Justin Northwest Brock Aledo Rowlett

Top 5 Private School Boys Coaches: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Corey Henderson Randy Feemster Michael Alfers Greg Guiler Chris Mayberry

Episcopal School of Dallas TCA- Addison Bishop Dunne St. Mark’s Prestonwood Christian

TOP 10 Girls Coaches: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Suzie Oelschlegel Don Patterson Andy Zihlman Jill McDill Michael Ensley Cathy Self-Morgan Teri Morrison Ken Burroughs Michael Oldham Amy Matlock

Irving Macarthur Plano West Bishop Lynch Rockwall North Mesquite Duncanville Southlake Argyle Liberty Christian McKinney North Highland Park

photo credit: Dallas Jesuit

TOP 5 DFW AAU/CLUB PROGRAMS How did we determine that these programs were the best in DFW for 2012 …

We evaluated the following:

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Qualifications of their coaching staffs,

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Players who went on to play at a higher level

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Funding for their teams

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Different age category teams (youth) or girls programs

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Do they have a national presence?

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Do they give back to their local community?

•

Did they win tourneys in 2012?

1.

Dallas Mustangs

A staple of quality AAU basketball in DFW area, Tony Johnson’s 13 boys teams were athletic and ready to play in 2012. One of the oldest programs in DFW, Tony has put together a consistent product that delivers some of the best talent in the area. The list of collegiate athletes that they have fostered is long and impressive with the most recent standout being LyBryan Nash. One thing the hoops community does not know, is that the Mustang staff devotes several resources to helping elementary age kids have a place to play in the winter.

2.

http://www.dallasmustangs.org/

TRIUMPH Basketball

Winning four national events last year and funding 5 teams is only part of their success in their short three year history. They are known for supporting high school coaches and helping the kids develop over the off-season months, they try to schedule events in conjunction with High School coaches so athletes can play for their school team as well in the summer months. In the past 3 years, they have had over 50 athletes go on to play collegiate basketball.

http://www.triumphbasketball.com/

Top 5 DFW AAU/CLUB PROGRAMS

3.

Texas Titans

The Titans have amassed a strong group of athletes sparing no expense for their players. A solid coaching staff, great organizational skills, and massive resources make them a program that will continue to grow. They fielded three teams last year that were funded by the organization – 17U, 15U and a 4th Grade Level Team – between these teams they won three national events.

http://www.texastitansbasketball.org/

4.

Deron Williams Elite

Utilizing a great NBA player’s name for your summer team never hurts. DWill Elite had a great 2012 and boast some of the finest players in the Dallas area especially for the upcoming 2013 season. They have several teams that all compete at the highest level regardless of their age category and provide excellent instruction for their kids to develop into great players.

5.

Texas Express

Tons of teams and solid coaching really make Texas Express one of DFW best all round programs. They are well organized and all over the DFW area. They provide funding assistance for their athletes and spend a great deal of time helping community partners advance specific agendas. They serve over 150 athletes on different teams and have won 6 AAU titles in several age categories.

http://www.texasexpress.org/

The Difference between “TRY” and TRIUMPH is

JAKE FLAGGERT Triumph Gold Player 2013 UTEP Signee

UMPH! www.triumphbasketball.com

2013 UNSIGNED TOP PLAYER FOR NORTH TEXAS Dallas has long been known as a place to find an elite athlete to help build a program around, especially for basketball. While this time of year you see players start making commitments many of the best players are taking their time and playing their senior season. The listed players below are all Rivals.com Top 100 in Texas. They also have not committed to a school for their collegiate careers.

1.

Julius Randle

Prestonwood Christian

2.

Keith Frazier

Dallas Kimball

3.

Shirmane Thomas

Prime Prep Academy

4.

Steven Spieth

Dallas Jesuit

5.

J.D. Wallace

James Madison

6.

Zach Dickerson

Argyle

7.

Anthony Walker

West Mesquite

8.

Kyle Wilson

FW Dunbar

9.

Tavarius Shine

Irving MacArthur

10.

Keyunta Watkins

Byron Nelson

11.

Victor Arnic

Dallas Carter

12.

Chase Fletcher

Highland Park

13.

Xavier Smith

Plano East

14.

Brett Jolly

Southlake Carroll

15.

Damontre Mcfarland

Arlington Heights

Photo credit: Keith Owens

DISTRICT 5A PREVIEWS

District 3-5A North Crowley has earned a right as favorite as one of the state’s top programs under Coach Tommy Brakel.

The Panthers were 14-0 in their district last season and advanced to the regional semifinals before losing to eventual state champion Flower Mound Marcus by 11 points. North Crowley has 14-consecutive playoff berths, every season since the school opened, and must replace some top talent but seems to do so every year. Senior Norense Odiase is one of the state’s top shot blockers which will add to North Crowley’s typical defensive pressure. Senior guards Jalan McCloud and Torrence Neal will provide most of the scoring but the offense is keyed by transition offense off of stops. Arlington Bowie is an athletic program which should do well again in district but doesn’t have much height to make an extended playoff run. Senior 6-1 Jeremy Senglin is a returning first-team all-district player. Arlington has a program which likely will cycle high and low and expect a peak this season. If the Colts find some consistent outside scoring from three returning starters, they should rebound back into the playoffs. Arlington Sam Houston returns 6-1 senior Rashard Bailey should help coach Chris LeGrand, son of former UTA coach Bob “Snake” LeGrand, regain some playoff potential.

District 4-5A Richland Coach Richard Bacon has built quite a program since leaving college coaching and the Dallas Independent School District. Richland showed great promise last season but was upended in the first-round of the state playoffs by a surprising strong Mansfield Timberview. Richland returns 6-7 Oklahoma State commit Leyton Hammonds who has great shooting touch in addition to being a strong defender. The outside game will be supplied by 5-9 senior Malik Mayfield, who moved to North Texas from Wisconsin last season.

Richland’s fast-paced style causes many problems. The Rebels challenge the state’s top programs to get ready for the state playoffs and they’ll try to avoid an early ouster this season. Southlake Carroll hopes to be a stronger challenger after first-year Coach Eric McDade was brought in from tradition-rich Duncanville.

Carroll will have lightning quick guard Ray Crockett after the football season. The son of former NFL standout (Ray Crockett), the younger Crockett has excellent skills at 5-11 but is limited to a perimeter game. Among the state’s most respected coaches is Justin Northwest’s Mike Hatch. Northwest has a 20-win season, but little overall potential to make much of a deep playoff runs against the Region I powerhouses it meets early in the brackets.

DISTRICT 5A PREVIEWS

District 5-5A Never underestimate the firepower of this district. Flower Mound Marcus is rebuilding after consecutive Class 5A state titles, but watch out for Lewisville and Hebron. Under Coach Gary Collier, Lewisville has highly promising sophomore Anthony Davis and Marquis Williams. Collier is a disciple and former player of legendary Robert Hughes of Fort Worth Dunbar. Lewisville could very much blossom into a state contender in Collier’s second year since arriving from building state tourney teams at Class 4A Fort Worth Arlington Heights.

Hebron Coach Mark Bishop has talented 6-0 guard Ridge Shipley returning after a standout run through the state playoffs last year. 6-5 sophomore Tyler Williams is expected to help get the Hawks back for another playoff run. Among the other district contenders, will be Denton Ryan which is fresh off a Class 4A state tournament berth under highly respected Coach Bryce Overstreet. Ryan in fact, had super talented alum Austin Jackson starting in centerfield for the Detroit Tigers in the World Series. The 6-1 Jackson averaged 22 points per game for Ryan in 2005. Senior 5-10 guard Marcus Holcomb is concentrating on basketball after playing as a linebacker/running back for Ryan’s state-ranked football program last season. Holcomb’s gritty, athleticism is typical of a Ryan program which will challenge for the playoffs.

Two-time defending 5A state champ Marcus is in complete rebuild mold with all five starters graduating and playing in college. Starting at Oklahoma State will be Marcus Smart and Phillip Forte. Marcus shouldn’t ever expect a duo like those two again with 6-8 Nick Banyard at New Mexico. First-year Marcus Coach Clay Cody replaces Danny Henderson, who was lured away by Duncanville. Cody has almost no one remaining from Marcus’ championship roster and may even be hard-pressed to qualify for the state playoffs. Look for Flower Mound’s program to elevate with a strong pipeline of young players emerging, including 6-6 sophomore Jacob Feickert. First-year Coach Jason Fossett arrives from Killeen. Coppell’s perennial playoff contender also has a new coach with former assistant Kit Pehl moving over after a successful tenure as head coach at Keller Central. Pehl likely may transition Coppell into a more free-flowing offense but some talented young players must develop.

DISTRICT 5A PREVIEWS

District 6-5A Euless Trinity has built its reputation as a state contending football power, but the Trojans will be a formidable hoops power with emerging 6-10 power forward Myles Turner. He’s a mobile big-bodied who has been looking very good since a broken ankle ended his summer play. Turner could be dominating in district if fall showcases are any indication. He’s jumped into national recruiting prominence with his play.

In what should be a wide open competition, Colleyville Heritage returns four players who have experience from a successful season last year. Senior guard Colten Gober is a solid performer along with 6-2 senior Dominic Perez. Heritage has built a solid program under Coach Stephen Hamrick and will rely heavily on that tradition while young players emerge. Heritage’s cross-town rival Grapevine enters with high expectations with its best depth in several years. Grapevine doesn’t have an anchor player to build upon, but the Mustangs will have balance to make a playoff run.

Hurst L.D. Bell Coach Willie Henderson has a knack for coming up with competitive combos and don’t expect the Blue Raiders to miss many playoffs as they did last season. Senior guard Garrett Hammonds and 6-5 senior Marcus Dixon could create a dynamic inside-outside duo.

District 7-5A A good case could definitely be made as the strongest district in the state. There is state tournament quality talent at DeSoto, South Grand Prairie, Duncanville, Cedar Hill and Mansfield Timberview. Desoto gets the separation with 6-4 senior Duke commit Matt Jones leading a perennially strong program under Eagles Coach Chris Dyer. DeSoto has been to the state tournament three times in the last ten years with state titles in 2003 and 2009 and a runner-up in 2005. Not bad for a program which didn’t have a playoff win until 2003. But even with its tradition, DeSoto still only returns Jones as the only senior to run Dyer’s college-level system of plays. How good is the district, DeSoto is again paired with Cedar Hill, which played against each other in the ’09 state final. Cedar Hill is led by 6-1 senior guard Jalen Jones who returns along with all-district selections Dorian Waggoner and Charles Wesley. There are high expectations for athletic sophomore Charlie Middleton, who was named second-team all-district as a freshman guard.

There’s great anticipation at Duncanville with the arrival of new Coach Danny Henderson, fresh off consecutive state titles and three-consecutive state tournament berths at Flower Mound Marcus. Henderson brings along assistant Kenny Boren to get Duncanville back to its state-contending level.

DISTRICT 5A PREVIEWS

A large part of Duncanville’s problem has been losing to Marcus the last three seasons in the early rounds of the playoffs. Duncanville has a young nucleus with 6-3 junior Devontae Bailey and 6-2 Jerami Grace returning in the perimeter. 6-8 junior Omar Sherman is a solid inside player and there are very high expectations for sophomores Matthew McQuaid and Dominique Thomas. A tradition rich program, Duncanville was a solid 19-15 last season with much higher hopes with Henderson’s arrival.

Not be overlooked in Mansfield Timberview, the Wolves are only an 8-year-old varsity program but have been to the state playoffs in six of those years. Last year, Coach Duane Gregory had a talented team ousted by Marcus at UTA’s College Park Center but not before Timberview upset highly regarded Richland in the first round.

At Grand Prairie, Gophers Coach Tom Inman led Plano to the 2005 state title and is trying to build a program with sophomore Jalon Anderson and junior Jaylen Falls. Mansfield Coach Richie Alfred has a program which could create district havoc with some upsets. *Note District 8-5A is central Texas so not included

District 9-5A Richardson Berkner has established its hoops cred with 6-4 senior guard Kendal Harris regarded as one of the nation’s top players. A USC commit, Harris can lead the Rams to a victory over any opponent. Berkner will be tested in district but first-year Coach Jason Petty should guide the Rams to another district title. Petty was the interim coach for suspended Coach Rod Wright last season as Wright was placed on UIL probation for rules violations concerning practice time. Berkner has talent with 6-6 Somo Edo, a nationally recruited leaper extraordinaire who can intimidate many opponent’s with his high-flying dunks. There is much more athleticism with 6-2 junior Keenan Evans,w ho is a strong defender and rebounder and 6-2 sophomore Torey Everett is a swing-player who can shoot 3-pointers and slash inside for rebounds and follow-up points.

Trying to challenge Berkner will be Skyline, trying to regain its position as a North Texas powerhouse with alums including NBA pedigrees with Larry Johnson and C.J. Miles. Skyline will have a terrific point-guard scorer with Devante Kincade after he completes the football season as the Raiders’ starting quarterback. Kincade is a terrific leader and athlete. There’s blossoming talent in 6-2 junior Chavis Wright, who is one of the area’s top scorers.

DISTRICT 5A PREVIEWS Competing for the district title will be Jesuit. Not dominating, but a solid nucleus with senior Steven Spieth, Bryan Stankey and JD Waggoner. Spieth is a talented outside scorer and is being recruited by several national programs. Stankey and Waggoner are more workman-like inside but provide nice balance. Jesuit Coach Chris Hill has established the Rangers into a solid district contender each year and Jesuit could make a run in the state playoffs with its senior experience.

The surprises could come from Lake Highlands and W.T. White. Lake Highlands is a traditionally strong program under Wildcats Coach Rob Wylie. There isn’t a dominant player or many returning starters, but Lake Highlands manages to annually get itself into the playoff mix. White has some athleticism which will give it a chance to upset talented teams. White must find some scoring consistency to statement making playoff run.

District 10-5A No fortunes may turn faster than at Plano East. The Panthers won five district games last season but are a contender for the 10-5A title and even a strong playoff run. First-year Coach Jeff Clarkson has state tournament experience as a player and coach. He arrives after a state tourney season at Garland Naaman Forest last season to coach his alma mater. There is experience with McNeese State commit Marcus Mathieu, who can matchup well with nearly any point guard. A senior-dominated roster has 6-5 duo Sawyer Kipp and Jarvis Pugh. Plano East doesn’t have a highly rated single player, but it’s got a talented, experienced roster to have a solid season.

Photo credit: Keith Owens

UMPH The extra push needed to accelerate.

46 Athletes in 3 Years playing College Basketball Won FOUR National Events in 2012 17U Coaches average 22 Years of Experience Some of TRIUMPH’s Former Players David Allen – Georgetown Hoyas Jett Raines – Pepperdine University Charles Buggs – Minnesota Gophers Grant Jolly – Texas A&M Aggies Hondo Webb – Lamar University James Fraschilla – OU Caden Dickerson – Western Kentucky

Brandon Conley – Oral Roberts University Eric Reed – Brooklyn LIU Blackbirds Ollie Jackson – St Francis University Nic Victor – Yale Daniel Edwards – Princeton Zach Chu – Richmond Chris Udofia – University of Denver

JOIN US TODAY ONLINE www.triumphbasketball.com

DISTRICT 4A PREVIEWS

District 5-4A Byron Nelson is a third-year program with a high school named after the famed PGA golfer who lived in the area but its developing a strong overall athletic program. Nelson has qualified for the state playoffs in each of its first two seasons and the Bobcats look ready to make some noise in the playoffs with returning experience for Coach Scott Curran. Nelson doesn’t boast great size, but tenacious defense and top-shelf conditioning have made it a program which can execute its way past more talented opponents. The top returnee is 5-8 senior Keyunta Watkins, who was a district MVP as a junior. The strongest challenge likely will come from Denton Guyer, which drops down from Class 5A. Guyer has first-year head coach Grant Long, who had been an assistant under the last two Guyer coaches (Trey Watts returned to Wall) and Nathan Moses. Guyer started three sophomores last season with six being rotated regularly, including the district’s newcomer of the year — 6-2 shooting guard Miles Crawford.

Sophomore guard Sean Choate returns after moving up to varsity as a freshman during the district. Guyer has talented athletes including junior Jerrod Heard, who led Guyer to the 4A state title as a Texas running quarterback commit for the Class of 2014. The 6-3 Heard is a solid scorer and rebounder and brings a highlevel of confidence. Heard already has committed to Texas to be a future Longhorns quarterback with the Class of 2014. Guyer has size with 6-6 senior Justin Griffin, 6-4 Zack Duncan and 6-7 junior Josh Jordan. The district’s remaining playoffs spots will be up for grabs between Wichita Falls, Wichita Falls Rider, Lake Dallas, Denton, Azle and Brewer.

District 6-4A One of two interesting districts which are a hybrid of Fort Worth ISD programs and the suburbs. Fort Worth Dunbar has its lofty reputation but declining enrollment has left the Flying Wildcats scrambling just to reach the state playoffs. Coach Robert Hughes Jr., the son of legendary Coach Robert Hughes, has a potential star with 6-8 and-growing senior Kyle Wilson who is being evaluated by many top programs with Wilson having high interest in Baylor.

Birdville must retool its starting lineup coming off a 22-11 season but Coach Jeff Fitch’s program definitely has become fundamentally strong in the basics of conditioning, defense and shooting. A sign of progress actually was the loss of 8-year assistant Jeff Hudak to be Joshua’s new head coach but Fitch hired a former player Anthony Holman as the replacement. The Hawks are counting on junior guard Jeremy Crane, and senior forward Ben Barnett to be the keys in replacing six seniors.

DISTRICT 4A PREVIEWS

District 7-4A Fort Worth Trimble Tech wasn’t a one-season mirage with Coach Wendell Ivory taking the Bulldogs to the regional semifinals and elimination by Denton Ryan. Tech lost TCU signee Charles Hill but its style depended on a deep rotation and intense style. Six or seven players will score in double figures, but it’ll be a different six or seven with a 10- or 12-man rotation used by Ivory, a former player and coaching disciple of former Dunbar coach Robert Hughes Sr. Tech has promising sophomores Spencer Franklin and DJ McMillan to maintain its depth.

Arlington Heights and Aledo look to be Tech’s strongest challengers. Heights has 6-8 A’Shawn Robinson who is more rebounder and defender with an attitude than scoring threat. But Robinson is a highly touted offensive line recruit for the University of Texas in football and moves extremely well up and down the court. He keeps many opponents from driving the basket. Heights coach Dennis Helms also has talented sophomore JaJuan Burton to work into the mix. six or seven players score in double figures and have beaten opponents by an average of 24 points over their past three games. Aledo has an experienced nucleus led by junior guard Taylor Johnson and its depth may allow it to keep up with the fast-paced tempo in the district.

FW Southwest has one of the state’s most athletic players with 6-3 senior Robbie Rhodes. Considered by many the top receiver prospect in the state, Rhodes has committed to sign with Baylor coach Art Briles.

On the court, Rhodes creates mismatches at numerous positions with the luxury of having 6-3 senior Nick Boone to take off double-team pressure.

Of course, in a district with FWISD teams, there are multiple Hughes disciples. FW south Hill coach Steven Thomas is trying to build his program in the same mold.

District 8-4A Waco University has a strong tradition _ former NFL standout LaDainian Tomlinson was a 3-year basketball starter _ and is coming off a regional quarterfinal appearance with 6-6 De’vadrick Williams transferring in from Hubbard to an already strong lineup. Senior Ray Washington returns as captain at point guard and a district MVP season. Kenrich Williams returns as the Trojans’ leading rebounder and shot blocker. Crowley boasts another strong unit 6-5 senior Tim Thomas and 6-6 Rodney Carter with promising junior returnee 6-3 Byron Cooke. Everman coach Jay Mathieson hopes 5-10 sophomore KJ Malveau is the spark plug to rejuvenate the program toward a long playoff run.

DISTRICT 4A PREVIEWS

District 9-4A Frisco Liberty is a rising program to watch with 6-8 sophomore Tyler Davis expected to be the anchor for some solid playoff runs for Coach Marcus Ekert. The traditional powers of the district will be Little Elm, Frisco and The Colony. Little Elm returns Biron Joseph after an undefeated district season and a 3-game playoff run. Coach Rusty Segler believes point guard Devante Pullum is on the verge of a big year. Frisco returns an experienced seven-man rotation to make another playoff run. The Colony coach Cleve Ryan annually produces a playoff caliber team. The Colony, once the home for NBAer Deron Williams, should repeat as a playoff qualifier despite a lot of new faces.

District 10-4A A new district has six of eight teams coming off winning district records. West Mesquite returns the district’s top player with 5-10 scorer Braylon Rayson and standout defender 6-8 Anthony Walker with 6-3 senior Tyrone Davis. Highland Park has high hopes it has the balance to make a substantial playoff run but the Scots always have to get past difficult early round opponents. Highland Park was ousted in the second round last year by eventual state champ Kimball. Matthew Fraschilla, son of ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla is an excellent floor leader who can score when needed. But it’s deep and balanced scoring which will key any playoff run.

Carrollton Newman Smith traditionally plays well has 6-5 senior Stephen Spurlock creates a good tandem with senior Walter Rickett. Creekview has worked hard to establish itself as another top Carrollton program.

Coach Sean Tippett has a potential star blossoming in 6-7 sophomore Larry Hughes. Mesquite Poteet might not have the depth for an extended playoff run but can certainly creates problems with upsets with its speed to create mismatches.

District 11-4A South Oak Cliff appeared on the brink of another championship season, but got upset in the playoffs by eventual state champ and district rival Kimball in the regional final after SOC had won the district title. Coach James Mays II returns an athletic, 6-4 shot-blocker, rebounder with Jamaal Robateau, who can dominate top opponents with his presence in the paint. Kimball is rebuilding again with 6-5 senior shooting guard Keith Frazier able to score in bunches from long distance and with strategic drives. Senior Keith Frazier and 6-7 junior D’Angelo Allen with 6-6 senior Trent Brinkley giving Kimball great inside depth. The Knights return a key guard with Torrey Henry, who had critical shots in the state final over Houston Yates, but developing a perimeter will dictate how far Coach Royce “Snoop” Johnson gets the Knights.

DISTRICT 4A PREVIEWS

District 12-4A Woodrow Wilson has as much front-rotation athleticism and skills as any, but it’s whether Woodrow can develop depth to be a long-term, post-season tournament run. 6-7 senior Zach Coleman can take over games while 5-10 guard Trey Washington is a consistent scorer even against top competition. Lincoln is another Dallas ISD power, with former star Chris Bosh playing with the Miami Heat, but the Tigers will rely heavily on the speedy, quickness and savvy of junior twins Derrick and Erick Neal, a pair of 5-9 guards who carried the Tigers in the state football playoffs and certainly could cause some bracket upsets in the basketball playoffs. Hillcrest is solid again, but while it’s got some height, Hillcrest doesn’t have a 6-7 power forward like Coleman. Hillcrest has a formidable front with Tim Singleton, Keaton Lambiotte, Donte Jordan, and Greg McCoy all ranging from 6-2 to 6-5.

District 13-4A McKinney North is hoping this will be a strong playoff season with a talented junior class returning from a 22-win season as sophomores. Coach Darryll Craft has 6-3, Julion Pearre, 6-3 Kody Wilson and 5-11 Collin Curran with high expectation for 6-0 junior transfer Michael Caldwell. The Bulldogs will have to hold off a district challenge from 3A power Lovejoy, which moves up an enrollment classification. Lovejoy has decent height, but it will be harder to control the tempo with rebounding and defense as the Leopards did against smaller classes. Wylie East will have plenty of football coaches watching them with highly touted recruits playing but 6-5 senior Marcell Ateman (Oklahoma State) and 6-4 Quan Jones (Baylor) already committed to sign in football, it remains to be seen how much energy they’ll recapture for their final basketball season. *Note District 14-4A is East Texas so not included

District 15-4A Arlington Seguin is loaded with depth and plays well together. Cougars coach Bobby Thigpen is ready to make a state tournament run. Senior North Texas commit Greg Wesley is a strong 6-7 who can defend well.

But it’s waves of defenders which makes the Cougars a strong playoff contender from 6-5 senior TCU signee Brandon Parrish is a versatile catch-and-shooter and 5-10 senior Marcus Frazier. Lancaster again has its trademark, defensive, jump zones which can be extended from half- to full-court. There’s consistent scoring in Oral Roberts commit Bobby Word, one of the area’s top players. Lancaster also is developing 6-9 freshman Nate Morris, who has good athleticism but is developing ball skills. “Big Nate” could be a strong factor by the time the playoffs roll around.

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• SINCE 1986 •

TEXAS TOP 10 TEAMS 1. Fort Bend Travis

Not often does the college recruiting world revolve around Texas, but it did in October with the commitment of 6-5 twin guards Aaron and Andrew Harrisson. The high-profile duo committed to defending national champ Kentucky with a live broadcast from ESPNU. Aaron is a sharp-shooting guard who can nail drive-and-stop 3-point jumpers from NBA range. Andrew is a terrific point guard who can be Steve Nash or Chris Paul depending on which is needed.

2. Prestonwood Christian Academy

Only a nationally ranked private school just north of Dallas has the high-profile, proven national talent to challenge Travis. Senior 6-9 forward Julius Randle is a cross between Chris Webber to Blake Griffin with his skills and athleticism. He’s been a long-time summer teammate of 6-5 Mike Mitchell who is one of the nation’s top football recruits. Mike’s younger brother, Mickey Mitchell is a 6-7 point guard, who can defend players almost a foot smaller and drive past similar size players easily off the dribble.

3. DeSoto

Eagles coach Chris Dyer is too much of a worrier to think DeSoto has a chance at a third state title, but DeSoto was one game away from the state tournament last season. Senior Matt Jones is the only senior returnee but the Duke commitment also has enough talent around him for the Eagles to receive an invite to the HighSchoolOT.com Invitational, so the Dukies can get an early look at the 6-4 shooting guard.

4. Kimball

The Class 4A defending state champions had to rebuild last season under Coach Royce “Snoop” Johnson and hit their stride late in the season after finishing second to South Oak cliff in district. Kimball has its trademark defense which can be intimidating and the added scoring of 6-5 shooting guard Keith Frazier make the Knights more potent.

5. Houston Yates

Even with declining enrollment dropping them under 3A status, Yates could be the defending state 4A champ instead of Kimball. Talent-laden Yates had a five-point lead with two minutes remaining before missing costly free-throws and losing , 78-75, on final second 3-pointer. Yates returns powerful and athletic 6-5 Melvin Swift and J.C. Washington with tournament appearances Hawaii and Washington D.C. to play national programs like Oak Hill Academy and Findlay Prep.

6. Spring Westfield

After losing to DeSoto in the regional semifinals last season, Westfield looks to be on the verge of establishing itself as a perennial state powerhouse. Westfield has athleticism and returns some big-game experience under Mustangs Coach Van Price. Junior Chad Owens returns after a strong sophomore season. The 6-2 swingman has versatility to create many matchup problems and solve a lot too. Senior Wesley Iwundu and junior James Harrison are returning all-district starters.

TEXAS TOP 10 TEAMS 7. Rowlett

Venerable Coach Stan Blackmon may be the first family of DFW hoops. Blackmon is a former University of North Texas player with a son who played for him and was all-conference in college. Plus, he has twin daughters who played at Baylor during a championship season. Blackmon’s teams always look like they’re college-level coached and the Rowlett talent pipeline is now high again with Oklahoma State commit Jeffrey Carroll, Nathan Hawkins and Austin Luke.

8.

Plano East

Former Panthers star Jeff Clarkson returns to try and get Plano East back to the state tournament as he did as a player in 1994.

There’s speed, experience and savvy for 6-0 senior guard Marcus Mathieu. This is a season East is expected to make a playoff run with fellow seniors Jarvis Pugh, Sawyer Kipp, Xavier Smith and Pat Burke ready to make a play for a District 10-5A title and beyond.

9. San Antonio Brennan

Just in its third year, the namesake of former Supreme Court Justice William Brennan, has reached the playoffs each year. Opening the school in 2009, 41-year-old Bears Coach Tommy Hines has a terrific scorer in 5-9 John Azzinaro but the nucleus already reached last year’s regional tournament. There’s some height in 6-5 senior John King and 6-4 senior Paul Derkowski which should help get Brennan on the basketball map in the spring.

10. Richardson Berkner

A highly regarded commitment to USC, 6-4 senior guard Kendal Harris is a polished player who combines athleticism with good ball skills. Berkner went through a mid-season suspension of its coach last season for school disciplinary reasons but the Rams went 13-1 under Coach Jason Petty, who was elevated to head coach last spring. Berkner made its only state tournament run in 2007 with a talented guard in Justin Johnson (University of Houston football standout now), and while the slashing, highlight reel dunks of Harris are a different style than Johnson, it may get the Rams another trip to Austin.

Photo credit: Keith Owens

DFW TOP 10 TEAMS 1. Prestonwood Christian

Julius Randle led the U.S. 18-under national team to a gold medal this summer in the FIBA tournament in Brazil. The 6-9 power forward is expected to lead PCA to another TAPPS state title as well as a strong defense of the City of Palms nationally showcased holiday tournament in Florida. Even though Kansas signee Zach Peters is gone, PCA also has 6-7 point guard Mickey Mitchell, who is considered by many the top Class of 2015 player in the country.

2. DeSoto

Although the Eagles return just one senior starter, the highly respected and talent-laden program starts with high expectations after being one victory away from the state tournament last season. Senior and Duke commit Matt Jones can pump up scoring when needed but Eagles are best known for textbook man-to-man defense which led to Class 5A state titles in 2003 and 2009. Junior 5-10 Takedrick Brown takes over at PG while 6-5 junior Devin Wyatt gives a physical, defensive presence in the paint.

Photo credit: Keith Owens

DFW TOP 10 TEAMS 3. Kimball

The defending Class 4A state champs return for a year in which the Knights’ talented roster is targeted to win a state title. Senior Keith Frazier is one of the country’s top shooting guards and found his way in the defensiveoriented system late last season after transferring from Irving. Junior 6-7 forward D’Angelo Allen could easily average double-doubles in points and rebounds if not for Kimball’s deep rotations. Junior Trent Brinkley adds more depth inside but Kimball’s key will be developing more perimeter depth with guard Torrey Henry.

4. Rowlett

The Eagles always have a tough playoff bracket, but 6-5 senior Jeffrey Carroll will make Rowlett a bracket favorite for Region II. Coach Stan Blackmon has rejuvenated the program with Carroll (an Oklahoma State commit) and standouts Nathan Hawkins and Austin. Senior 5-10 guard Kanard Robinson also returns after getting alldistrict recognition last season.

5. Plano East

Jeff Clarkson helped lead Plano East to the 1994 5A state final as a senior along former Baylor player John Perkins and Texas A&M’s John Reeves. He returns after seven years as head coach at Garland Naaman Forest, which earned its first state tourney berth in 2012. East has a terrific core with senior guard Marcus Mathieu (McNeese State) and some experience with 6-5 Jarvis Pugh, 6-5 Sawyer Kipp and 6-6 Xavier Smith.

6. Richardson Berkner

First-year Coach Jason Petty has been elevated from assistant. If the Rams can have a less injury filled season, it could mean another run back to the state finals. There certainly is plenty of highly regarded talent with 6-4 junior guard Kendal Harris, who was the District MVP as a junior. Senior 6-5 forward Soma Edo and 6-2 junior Keenan Evans have been part of a strong nucleus which reached the regional quarterfinals last season. Look for 6-2 sophomore Torey Everett to establish himself as one of the area’s top players.

7. Duncanville

First-year Coach Danny Henderson was a high-profile hire after he led Marcus to back-to-back 5A state titles and three consecutive state tournaments. Henderson brought highly regarded assistant Kenny Boren as well.

Marcus eliminated Duncanville in the playoffs the last three seasons. Junior Devontae Bailey is a good start for a new foundation for tradition rich Duncanville with some promising young talent including sophomores Matthew McQuaid and Dominique Thomas.

8. Rockwall

The Yellowjackets showed promise last season with a 21-win season and playoff berth. Coach Alan Simmons must make the transition to Class 5A from 4A but has state-ranked talent such as sophomores Austin Grandstaff and Elijah Thomas returning. After a standout freshmen seasons, Rockwall will be able to have strong matchups with the most talented programs. The 6-4 Grandstaff has excellent ball skills and has NBA 3-point range shooting. The 6-8 Thomas is one of the blossoming big men for the Class of 2015.

DFW TOP 10 TEAMS 9. South Oak Cliff

The Golden Bears looked like they were headed toward another state tournament run throughout the regular season last year but were upset by rival Kimball in a hard-fought regional final. Coach James Mays II returns another power-packed roster with a rising athletic star in Jamaal Robateau and consistent scoring returning from 6-5 senior Brian Umoru.

10. Jesuit

Ranger’s coach Chris Hill doesn’t have lot of highly recruited talent, but Jesuit is paced with solid players including 6-6 senior Steven Speith, who has interest from Boston College, Nebraska and Creighton. Speith has solid help from 6-4 Bryan Stankey and the athletic 6-2, J.D. Waggoner, who has committed to Iowa State in football.

TEXAS TOP 10 GIRLS TEAMS

1. Duncanville The defending 5A state champions appear ready to dominate again in 2012-13. District 5-5A defensive player of the year Tasia Foman is back after leading the team in scoring in the state championship game. Junior Ariel Atkins moves from forward to guard after receiving all-district honors. Guard Kiara Perry is an SMU commit. Destiny Means, a 6-2 senior forward and 6-1 senior post Antoina Robinson will give the Pantherettes power in the paint.

2. Southlake Carroll Last year’s 31-4, regional quarterfinalist returns one of the area’s best backcourt combos in Kami Mickens and Kennedy Leonard.

Senior Mickens is a Boston College commit who is shifting from shooting guard to the point. Leonard is coming off an impressive freshman season in which she averaged 9.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.5 steals and a team-leading 5.4 assists. First-time starters Madison Drescher, Anna Hurlburt and Sarah Williams all measure out at 6-feet or taller.

3. West Mesquite

photo credit: duncanville high school athletic department

The state’s top-ranked 4A team is led by senior forward Claudia Price, who averaged 20 points and 13 rebounds last season. The Wranglers are deep in talented juniors including guards Alexus Bertrand and Regina Garrett, plus forward Jazmyne Walker. Bertrand and Garrett were key contributors to last season’s 31-7 regional finalists as sophomores.

4. Plano West West returns much of the roster from last year’s 34-3 regional quarterfinalist that was the only team to beat eventual 5A state champion Duncanville. The Lady Wolves are led by senior guard Devri Owens, a Utah commit, who was District 8-5A’s co-MVP last season. West is loaded with seniors including Grace Horn, Randi Reinhardt and Allison Staley.

5. Skyline Skyline should equal last year’s 28-5 showing with a tall lineup led by 5-10 forward Stabresa McDaniel. The Minnesota commit averaged 15.4 points and 4.4 rebounds last season. The Lady Raiders should dominate in the paint with 6-3 post Marina Lilly and 6-3 sophomore Dai’Ja Thomas.

TEXAS TOP 10 GIRLS TEAMS

6. Mansfield Summit Last year’s 37-3 4A state champions will be challenged to get back to Austin after losing its entire starting lineup including Maya Hawkins, who transferred to Mansfield Lake Ridge. Coach Tammy Lusinger will build on guards Keanna Kelly and Nia Jackson, forwards Ty Calloway and Stylz Sanders, and post Destiny Strange.

7. Mansfield Timberview Timberview could be poised for a deep run in the postseason with a starting lineup deep in college talent.

Guard Lili Thompson, a Stanford commit, averaged 13.9 points last season. Forward JaLea Bennett, a Texas commit, averaged 9.9 points and 3.3 rebounds. Even junior guard Terriell Bradley is being recruited by big-time programs.

8. Kennedale Coach Vance Hughes’ team will be challenged early while star guard Jamaika Hughes recovers from a torn ACL. Hughes, a Texas Tech commit, averaged 14.4 points last season. Junior guard McKinley Bostad, who averaged 14.4 points last season, and forward Autumn Williams will help carry the load until Hughes returns early in 2013.

9. Aledo The Ladycats return five all-district players from last season’s 30-3 finish. District MVP Mallory Powell is back, along with seniors Hannah Loftin, Allanna Martin and Caileen Tallant, The team thrived starting five guards and shooting 3-pointers last season.

10. Cedar Hill The Lady Horns bring back a talented front court led by two powerful inside scorers. Texas A&M commit Jada Terry, a 6-3 all-district post is back. So is 6-foot senior forward Labrittney Jones, last season’s District 5-5A offensive player of the year. Senior guard Candace Adams, a UNT commit, also earned all-district honors.

www.triumphbasketball.com

TOP 5 COLLEGE ASSISTANTS RECRUITING TEXAS Steve Lutz, Creighton: Lutz comes up on everyone’s list. He has paid his dues and is well known around his native Texas. He was a former assistant for Matt Doherty at SMU before arriving at Creighton in 2010. Any Texans who has any inkling to play in the Midwest hears from Lutz quickly. He grew up in San Antonio, has bench knowledge and grinds on the road. He is a former Board of Director for the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC).

Ulric Maligi, SMU: Everyone in Texas knew incoming SMU basketball Coach Larry Brown was taking his latest gig seriously when he hired Maligi to be his Texas connection. Brown, still a regular voice in New York and Eastern hoops media, has been toured around the state by Maligi, who most recently was an assistant at Houston. With particularly strong North Texas ties, Maligi once coached the powerful AAU Dallas Mustangs which had future NBA players such as Wesley Johnson, Anthony Randolph, Sean Williams and Donald Sloan.

Russell Springmann, Texas: The ubiquitous Springmann stands out on the Longhorns bench (think a little hair product, which Rick Barnes doesn’t use) and is well-known in gyms around Texas. While it’s Barnes who creates buzz when he’s in the gym, Springmann does all the prep work to get Texas into position to compete with national programs for top Texas talent, and, at times, national talent as he did when Kevin Durant signed with Texas for the 2006-07 season.

How into hoops is Springmann? His nearly 2-year-old son is named Durant.

Jerome Tang, Baylor: Hired in 2003, Tang has been a central part of Baylor’s transformation into a national power from near extinction and NCAA sanctions imposed following a player payment and teammate murder which seemed to doom the Big 12 program. But Coach Tang often is by Bears Coach Scott Drew’s side on the bench and recruiting trail.

The affable Tang recognizes and projects blossoming players early and Baylor being the first to pay attention to a recruit has often helped secure the commitment.

Alvin Brooks III, Kansas State: The smiling guy walking in the gym is Alvin Brooks III. A testament to his many connections: the likable Brooks has nearly 2,700 @Coach_AB3 twitter followers even though his spring addition to the K-State staff is first stint in a major conference. Newly hired K-State Coach Bruce Weber (former Illinois coach) knew Brooks from the rugged Chicago recruiting trails while Brooks was working his way up from the JUCO ranks, through Bradley. His father, Alvin Brooks II, is a former Houston head coach.

Sixth-Man Chris Gerlufsen, Hartford: Five players from Texas are on the Hartford Hawks’ 14-person roster. It’s a long way from The Colony, TX to west Hartford, Conn. but Gerlufsen may have signed a recruiting jewel last season with blossoming 6-7 freshman Antoine Burrell. He is an athletic, swing forward who played for The Colony graduate Deron Williams’ Elite program. Gerlufsen is a regular in Texas gyms and has signed players for the America East Conference school from Leander, The Woodlands, The Woodlands College Park and Austin Akins. Hartford also helps its state connections with a game at Rice in December.

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