Georgia Oct/Nov 2021

OCT/NOV 2021

Every shot is important

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> Hughston’s quality patient care has kept us #1 in orthopaedics for over 70 years > Organizing preparticipation physicals since 1976 > Covering over 1,500 local sporting events each year > Saturday morning injury clinic > Researching and implementing concussion management software for local athletes

PHYSICIANS David P. Antekeier, MD

Fred Flandry, MD

David H. MacDonald, DO

Randall J. Ruark, MD

Champ L. Baker III, MD

Dustin P. Gay, MD

James E. McGrory, MD

Matthew G. Stewart, MD

Brook Bearden, MD

Ryan M. Geringer, DO

William N. Melton, MD

Michael M. Tucker, Jr., MD

Kevin J. Collins, MD

David M. Gloystein, MD

R. Lee Murphy, Jr., MD

John I. Waldrop, MD

Edgar J. Dollar II, DO

Garland K. Gudger, Jr., MD

Douglas W. Pahl, MD

B. Collier Watson, DO

Norman L. Donati, Jr., MD

William C. Hartley, MD

Brent A. Ponce, MD

L. Erik Westerlund, MD

John D. Dorchak, MD

Matthew Heaton, MD

David C. Rehak, MD

Derek A. Woessner, MD

Patrick J. Fernicola, MD

Kurt E. Jacobson, MD

J. Heath Richter, MD

LOCATIONS Albany | Auburn | Columbus | Dothan | Dublin | LaGrange | Macon | Montgomery Moultrie | Phenix City | Thomaston | Thomasville | Tifton | Valdosta | Vidalia 2 | itgnext.com

6262 Veterans Parkway | Columbus, GA 31909 | 706-324-6661 | ga.hughston.com

4 North Carter Street Lakeland, Georgia 31635 (229) 482-3585

978 Valdosta Highway Homerville, Georgia 31634 (912) 487-1200

202 W. Washington Ave. Nashville, Georgia 31639 (229) 686-9451

1201 S. Patterson Street Valdosta, Georgia 31603 (229) 244-3585

3303 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, Georgia 31605 (229) 244-3585

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While so much in our world has changed, kids haven’t.

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GHSA AAAAAAA Berkmar Patriots 12 Camden Co. Wildcats 15 Colquitt Co. Packers 16 Grayson Rams 19 Lowndes Vikings 20 Milton Eagles 22 Newton Rams 23 Tift Co. Blue Devils 24

AAAAAA

Northside (WR) Eagles 45 Valdosta Wildcats 47

AAAAA Coffee Trojans 50 Eagle’s Landing Eagles 51 Veterans Warhawks 53 Warner Robins Demons 54

AA Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane 70 Pace Academy Knights 72 Thomasville Bulldogs 75

A Public Turner Co. Titans 78

GISA AAAA Bainbridge Bearcats 56 Cario Syrupmakers 59

Brunswick Pirates 26

Perry Panthers 61

Buford Wolves 30

Thomas Co. Central Yellow Jackets 63

Glynn Academy Red Terrors 33 Houston Co. Bears 35

AAA

Kell Longhorns 36

Crisp Co. Cougars 64

Lee Co. Trojans 40

Sandy Creek Saints 67 Sumter Co. Panters 68

Frederica Academy Knights 79 Valwood Valients 80

Player Profiles O’ashia Cushion | Tift County 8

Tell us what you thought about the June/July 2021 issue of ITG Next info@itgnext.com

Devin Farrell | Milton 13 Ethan Davis | Collins Hill 17 Hailey Shaver | Pelham 27 Gracee Blanchard | Lee County 37 Donya Golson | Thomas Co. Central 42 Zac Lyle | Houston County 49

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Omari Arnold | Brooks County 57 Taquan Ellis | Tift County 62

If you’re in search of great stories, we have the answer.

Chandler Strong | Houston County 69

features apparel, stories from the magazine, and much more all at your finger tips. There is even a spot to submit your story ideas to us.

Reilly Mason | Worth County 77 Oran Decker | Harris County 83

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TIFT COUNTY GUARD

OUTSTANDING 8 | itgnext.com

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REGION 7 - 7A

BERKMAR

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Brandon Pham

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 25

Wins 2,095

6 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

1,606

Head Coach: Greg Phillips

WHO’S BACK Lookout for the Patriots this season as the 7A state runner up from last season is returning a group of standout players who have the skill and experience to put Berkmar squarely back in the thick of things once again this season. Guard Bryce Blaine will lead a trio of returning guards for Berkmar in 2021-2022. Phillips describes Blaine as “an all around great player who can play down low, as well as hit the 3”. The other two standout players are Jameel Rideout, a 3-star guard, and Jermahri Hill. All three could start for any team in the state, but they’re all Patriots,, and that makes Berkmar a team to beat.

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Look for the Patriots to compete for another chance at a state championship.

They came up a little short against Milton last season, which was their first trip to a state title game in 20 seasons. Fans of Berkmar are certainly hoping it won’t take so long for a return trip this time around, and this team will give them one of the best chances they’ve had in a long time to make it back to back trips to the title game.

KEY LOSSES The Patriots don’t lose too many players from last season’s state runner-up team, but losing Dara Olonade is one of the few. The 6 foot 5 inch power forward was an All-County and 7-AAAAAAA All-Region selection last season, giving Phillips and his Berkmar team a big man who could put it in the basket as well as rebound. Defensive specialist Ja’Ron Ford, a steal machine, also graduated. It was his steal late in the semifinal matchup against Mceachern last year that helped his team seal the victoey and advance to the state title matchup against Milton. The remaining seniors who graduated are Jalen Harris, Trey Lock and Ethan Spires.

Can Berkmar do the impossible and make it back to the state’s largest classification title game for the 2nd year in a row? With the talent they bring back, I say yes. 27 wins and a trip to the title game.

MILTON QUARTERBACK

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912-417-5423 I sghs.org/summit

REGION 1 - 7A Delricco Gillespie

Connor Mckay

Jerald Colonel

Rett VanDeMark

East Coweta

Rabun County

Groves

HALO

10.6 RPG

13.1 RPG

14.6 RPG

14.9 RPG

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 8

Georgia Class of 2022 Rebound Leaders

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

CAMDEN COUNTY

12

Losses

1,142 1,163

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: William Moore

KEY LOSSES The Wildcats have a big hole to fill following the graduation of 6-2 guard/wing Eric Gaines, the 1-AAAAAAA Offensive Player of the Year with 21 points per game. The transfer of 6-5 junior Aiden Olmstead, who averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds per game, is another big loss. Moore also had big plans for junior wing Jeremiah Graham and sophomore guard Brandon Bloodworth, but both moved away during the offseason.

Only Thomas Mott (6 ppg), a 6-4 senior wing, saw significant playing time.

Senior John Woo is expected to step in at point guard, and Moore said, “If he can be the floor captain and run the team, I think we can be successful.” The front line will be anchored by 6-4 forward DeNigel Cooper, a sophomore Moore called “a very talented player. We’re looking to him to be a big contributor this year.” Josh Croft, a 6-4 senior wing, also is expected to contribute this season.

WHAT TO EXPECT Camden County enters the 2021-22 season with a relatively inexperienced team. The upside: The Wildcats are rich in talent and athleticism, and opportunities will be plentiful for many of those players to step up and be “the guy” on any given night.

“Our strengths are our young guys,” said Head Coach William Moore. “We have a pretty talented group of sophomores. They’re going to have to play well if we’re going to be successful. We also have a pretty good group of seniors.

They’re talented, but they’re inexperienced. It’s going to kind of depend on how fast they come along.”

Added Moore: “We’re a pretty athletic team. We’re a little bigger and a little more physical than we have been. If our guard position comes through like we think it’s going to, we can be a pretty good team.”

If this young Wildcats team isn’t overwhelmed by the intensity of always-competitive Region 1-7A, don’t be surprised to see them seriously contend for the title.

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REGION 1 - 7A

COLQUITT COUNTY Georgia Class of 2022 Scoring Leaders

Rett VanDeMark

Logan Allen

Kaleb Banks

Anthony Arrington

HALO

Konos Academy

Fayette County

Galloway

26.9 PPG

24.4 PPG

23.5 PPG

23.2 PPG

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of moultrieobserver.com

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record Wins

10

10

Losses

1,012

Points Scored

1,002

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Tremain Facsion

WHO’S BACK Fortunately for Pack fans, several playmakers return this year from last year’s 10-win team. That includes senior forward Nathen Harden, a 2nd team All Region selection last year. He averaged 8.4 points per game and pulled down 8 rebounds per game in 2020. “Nathen started every game and played the entire season. He did a lot of stuff for the team last year, and we expect that same effort from him again this season,” said Facsion. The All Region 1-7A Defensive Player of the Year for last season, Dijmon “Baby D” Wheeler, is back, and will match up against the opponents best player. He averaged 13 points per game along with 4 steals per game. He also averaged 6 rebounds per game.

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Look for big things from the Packers this season. Facsion will return for his 3rd season, and has made a couple of changes to his staff heading into the season.

Willie Clay and Andy Harden have joined Facsion on the Colquitt coaching staff, and together the coaches expect nothing less than a region championship-to start with. “ I really wanted us to be there at the end last year, but we finished as the #3 seed in the region, and went out early in the playoffs,” he said. “ We expect to win the region this year,” he added.

With the Packers bringing back the nucleus of their team this season, that may not be out of reach.

KEY LOSSES Omar Daniels was a “Mr Do-It-All” for the Pack, according to coach Facsion.

“Omar played the 1, 2, and 3 for us all season long, wherever we needed him,” said the coach. Daniels averaged 8.5 points per game, 5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists for the Packers last season. He also contributed 2.3 steals and 1.5 blocked shots per game. Daniels was a first team All Region selection last year. Power forward and the player that Facsion called “our glue guy” , Zy Brockington, has graduated and moved on to Memphis, where he’ll play football. But on the court , he was solid, averaging 4.3 points per game, along with 5.3 rebounds per game. He was a 2nd team All Region selection last season.

As stated above, a region championship is possible. Of course, as is the case every season, the region title goes through Tift County, and this season won’t be any different . Colquitt finishes with 16 wins and the #2 seed in the region. Look for a nice run in the playoffs.

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REGION 4 - 7A

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of hoopseen.com

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS overall record 22

Wins

4 Losses

1,739 1,408

GRAYSON

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Geoffrey Pierce

WHAT TO EXPECT Grayson obviously returns a wealth of talent from last season which resulted in a second round playoff appearance for the Rams. One of the top overall teams in AAAAAAA a year ago, that should continue this season for the Rams.

The duo of Wiggins and Elliot should one of the best in the state overall, while a few other players could take the next step this season making Grayson of the more exciting teams to watch in the state of Georgia this season. The Rams are a legit state title contender this season, and should be considered as one of the favorites in AAAAAAA from day one.

While the Rams return a vast-majority of last seasons roster, this 2021-22 Grayson team will be led by the duo of guard Tyrese Elliot and forward Chauncey Wiggins. Both are rated as three-star prospects as Wiggins will likely be the focal-point of the Rams frontcourt, while Elliot will undoubtedly be Grayson’s top option in the backcourt.

Joining those three will be a wealth of surrounding talent that includes guards Sean Smith, Kaden McArthur, and Gicarri Harris. Joining Wiggins in the frontcourt will be a combination of numerous players that includes Abduhl Diaby, Jalen Oglesby, Kenton Zackery, and Chad Moodie.

KEY LOSSES Grayson only loses a few notable players off last season’s roster, with the most-notable being power forward/center Ian Schieffelin. Rated as a three-star prospect, Schieffelin was the one of the focal-points of the Rams frontcourt a year ago.

The Rams also lost three other notable players from a season ago which include center Taje Kelly and forward Joshua Ray, as well as star guard Robert Cowherd transferring to Southern California Academy (CA). Despite only losing four players from a year ago, Grayson will need to replace two very-important players in particular with Schieffelin and Cowherd, but when looking at who returns for the 2021-22 campaign, they are more-than-capable of doing it.

Grayson should be one of the favorites to win the AAAAAAA state title this season, and should easily top the 20-win mark.

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REGION 1 - 7A

LOWNDES Georgia Class of 2022 Free Throw Leaders

Kaleb Banks

Logan Allen

Rett VanDeMark

Samuel Moss

Fayette County

Konos Academy

HALO

East Coweta

155 FTM

145 FTM

127 FTM

113 FTM

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

WHO’S BACK

Head Coach: Reshon Benjamin

The Vikings and Benjamin welcome back some really good ones in 20212022. That includes 6 foot, nine inch power forward /center JC Riley, a 2nd team All Region selection last year. Accoeding to his coach, JJ is rated #16 in the state top 100 of centers/Power Forwards. Benjamin added that Riley has had a great summer, and will be even better than last year. “JJ will likely be a double/double guy every game this season,” said Benjamin. Point Guard Jaquavious Williams will give the Vikings a pure scorer, defender, and someone to feed the rock to his teammates. He averages 9 points per game along with 3.5 assists and 3 steals per game. He is also a fan favorite, said Benjamin. “Jacques is a scrappy player, and fights for everything he gets…the fans love him, and when he is in the game gets everybody fired up.” His brother, Aaron Williams will join Jaquavious on the court this year, transferring from Valdosta High. As a Wildcat, Aaron was a 2nd team All Region selection last season, and he will be a nice addition too the team at Lowndes this season. Jalon Baker is another 2nd team All Region selection from last season, and he too will return.

WHAT TO EXPECT

KEY LOSSES

The Vikings dedicated themselves to getting stronger in the offseason, and spent a lot of time in the weightroom over the summer, according to their heads coach. “ We had one of the best summer workout programs in the short time I’ve been here at Lowndes”, said Benjamin, entering his 3rd season as head coach at Lowndes. That, he says, should help the Lowndes inside game, and keep the team from getting pushed around in the paint. You can expect the Vikings post game to be better, so look for Lowndes to feed it down low a lot this season.

The Vikings will lose 7 seniors to graduation, some of which played major roles on the team. Benjamin stressed that every player and the contributions they brought to the team will be missed. However, he said that there were a couple of players who played significant minutes, and their accomplishments were a major part of the Vikings efforts last season and beyond. “Jahbori Raines was a heckuva all around player who could do a lot for us,” said Benjamin. He averaged 13.4 points per game, along with 8 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game. Jayvonn Hutchinson, a shooting guard for the Vikings, has graduated, and leaves behind a legacy that included 8.1 points per game, along with 1.9 assists and 2.7 steals in his senior season.

2020 STATS overall record Wins

6

9

789 807

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Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Expect big things from your basketball team, Viking fans.

I see a 15 win season, at the least!

There are reasons we are preferred.

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REGION 5 - 7A

MILTON Class of 2023 National Free Throw Leaders

Jesse Mitchell

Connor Millikan

Isaiah Koppang

Jesus Delgado

141 FTM

140 FTM

134 FTM

134 FTM

Grace Christian (NC)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Milton Eagles Basketball via TW

2020 STATS overall record 28

Wins

3 Losses

2,257

Points Scored Points Allowed

1,689

Head Coach: Allen Whitehart

WHO’S BACK Milton returns a majority of their roster from a year ago headlined by the state’s top rated player in point guard Bruce Thornton. A four-star prospect, Thornton was the 7A Player of the Year last season, as well as a First-Team All-State and Region selection.

Joining Thornton in the starting lineup will be fourstar junior and First-Team All-State and Region selection Kanaan Carlyle, as well as Second-Team All-Region forwards in three-star Kendall Campbell and Lebbeus Overton. Joining these four will be numerous depth options which include guards Devin Farrell, Nehemiah Stowers, and Daniel Snodgrass, as well as forwards Seth Fitzgerald, Cam Walker, Michael Feinberg, and Jonathan Murray.

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Platteview (NE)

Kansas City East Christian Academy (MO)

Tornillo (TX)

WHAT TO EXPECT The defending AAAAAAA state champions, Milton should be considered as the top overall preseason team in the state for obvious reasons after a phenomenal 2020-21 season that resulted in a trip to Geico Nationals last April. Considered as one of the top overall teams not just in Georgia, but the country, the Eagles have extensive talent and depth returning from last season that should contribute instantly from day one.

Thornton should be one of, if not the top player in the state, while Carlyle, Chandler, and Overton should be in All-State considerations as well. Milton is the preseason favorite to go back-to-back in AAAAAAA as arguably the top overall team in the state, as well as a lock to win AAAAAAA-Region 5.

KEY LOSSES Milton only loses four notable players from a season ago with three coming in the backcourt. Among those three guards, those players include Second-Team All-Region selection Broc Bidwell, Cameron Ellis, and Shane Nealis while the Eagles also lost forward Fisher Finley from the frontcourt.

While the Eagles did lose a few notable players off last season’s team, Milton returns a wealth of talent off the 2020-21 AAAAAAA state championship winning team. Replacing Bidwell will likely be the Eagles top task to do going into the 2021-22 season, while Ellis, Nealis, and Finley will also need to be replaced in the rotation.

Milton is the favorite to repeat as AAAAAAA state champions, and is easily a 25+ win team this season.

REGION 4 - 7A

WHAT TO EXPECT

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of hoopseen.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

14

1,478 1,397

NEWTON

9

Losses

Rams fans can only dream about what may have been this season if TJ Clark was returning to fulfill his senior season with his Newton teammates. But, the senior is doing whats best for him and his family, and his team is still a pretty good bet to match at least their sweet 16 run from a year ago. Coach Gibbons was to the point about his expectations for this season: “With the talent we have coming back, how can I not feel really good about it?” I’d say the same thing. Expect a big year, Newton fans.

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Charlamagne Gibbons

WHO’S BACK Returning to the Rams this season will be a trio of juniors, all of whom are among the top 100 players in the country at their position, according to their head coach. Stephon Castle averaged 14 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists and at 6 foot 5 inches tall made the Max Preps Sophomore All American team last season. Jakai Newton is a top 100 guard in the country, and has Indiana University among the colleges seeking his talents after high school. The Hoosier program have already offered Newton. The 3rd standout junior returning among the Newton Three is Marquavious “Future” Brown, also a Rivals Top 100 prospect who is receiving interest from Clemson and Butler, among others.

KEY LOSSES The Rams lost a player that is technically still enrolled at Newton as a senior, but will not be around to help his team on the basketball court in his final season of eligibility. That’s because T.J. Clark is part of a growing group of elite players who are leaving their varsity school team to play for the ‘Overtime Elite’ league, which is an extension of the NBA’s G-League. It serves as a preparatory league for elite high school basketball players who choose to forego their final season of high school and instead of signing with a college program, decide to try the professional route. Players will earn guaranteed six figure salaries while fine tuning their skills for hopefully an NBA future. T.J. was the Rams leading scorer last season, averaging 14.2 points per game with an average of 3.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, also. Gibbons points to one other player who logged meaningful minutes as being the other player whose impact of not returning will be felt this season: Jordan Marshall, who graduates, averaged 10 points per game with 3 rebounds and 2 steals before tearing his meniscus and missing the last half of the season.

19-8 and a chance at the final 4.

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REGION 1 - 7A

TIFT COUNTY Georgia Class of 2022 3-Point Leaders

Dylan Wolle

Kyan Clark

Chase Cormier

Kyle Keener

Sequoyah

Ridgeland

Greenforest

Sequoyah

98 3PM

59 3PM

53 3PM

53 3PM

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography by: Eric Vinson

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 17

Wins

1,296 1,104

7

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Tommy Blackshear

When Coach Tommy Blackshear returned to the Tift County sideline in 2020, he picked up right where he left off when he coached the Blue Devils from 19882003 – as a proven winner.

Tift County won 17 games, including the region championship, last season.

The expectation for the new season, as always, remains high.

“We’ve been to the state tournament for 28 straight years,” Blackshear said.

“We’ve won the region 11 out of the last 12 years. So we expect to keep that tradition going – to at least try to win our region, and to go as far our talent will get us in the state playoffs.”

With three starters gone from the 2020-21 team, this year’s squad may need some time to gel, but Blackshear hopes that “by early to mid-January and on to February, we can be playing up to our potential and have a shot at the region title.”

WHO’S BACK

KEY LOSSES

Blackshear will rely heavily on 6-1 shooting guard Torrance Galmer (9 ppg) and 6-3 forward Tyler Parker (11 ppg) for leadership and offensive output. [Galmer has] really got to step up this year,” Blackshear said.

“I’m expecting him to average double figures this year.

He has to for us to be effective. He and [Parker] are my two most experienced players. These two guys are the ones I’m really counting on to bring some leadership from playing all those minutes last year.

“We have some good young players,” Blackshear added, “But they’ve never really been in the fire, so we don’t know exactly how they’re going to respond.”

The Blue Devils will miss the leadership and all-round impactful play of 6-6 forward Jatarion Warren, the region player of the year. Also gone are point guard Jyamier Beckhom and 6-4 center Hezekiah Jackson, a determined defender who excelled at taking a charge in the paint. Tift lost seven seniors in all from last year’s team.

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Blue Devil fans will have to be patient.

Tift County may lose a few games again in 2021.

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REGION 2 - 6A

BRUNSWICK Georgia Class of 2022 Assists Leaders

Dylan Wolle

K’hamani Olivacce

Chase Cormier

Devon Wiggins

Sequoyah

North Atlanta

Greenforest

Chapel Hill

155 ASTs

150 ASTs

138 ASTs

132 ASTs

WHO’S BACK

The good news is 6-3 junior guard Camarion Johnson (10 ppg, 5 rpg, 4 apg) returns with a wealth of experience and strong leadership potential. Other upperclassmen expected to see significant playing time are seniors Jason Newmans, J’Maun Weldon, Rico Laster and Saje Alston, and an athletic trio of juniors in point guard Pat Leggett and forwards Kevin Thomas and Riyon Rankin. The Pirates have another player also named Kevin Thomas, a 6-4 sophomore with good shot blocking skills; Turner said he and fellow sophomore Sh’broznyn Baggs could contribute as well.

WHAT TO EXPECT After losing most of his 2020-21 starting lineup to graduation, Brunswick Head Coach Chris Turner needs a complete team effort from this year’s edition of the Pirates.

“It’s going to have to be everybody scrapping and giving it everything they have,” Turner said. “The kids will have to come together and play hard for each other.”

The potential is there, though – if the Pirates can stay healthy and if enough of them can step up to replace the offensive production lost from last year’s squad.

“I hope we can not have any of the Covid restrictions hit us, because we lost some kids at really critical times last year,” Turner said. “I think we’ll play hard on defense, but the big thing is, can we score? With most of my best teams [in the past], it’s been really spread out, with three or four kids in double figures, and that’s what I’m looking for this year.”

The Pirates, short on experience, might struggle to match last season’s 17-9 record. But Turner says they’ve worked hard in the offseason, an indicator of how determined this group is to be competitive.

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Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography by: Eric Vinson

2020 STATS overall record Wins

17

1,649 1,426

9

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Chris Turner

KEY LOSSES The Pirates graduated eight seniors, including the two leading scorers in guards Xavier Bean and Tyrease Jones, who each averaged 12 points per game. Turner also will miss the guard play of Brandon Foster and the presence of 6-4 Izaiah Butler in the middle. “We lost a lot of guard play,” he said, “and we don’t really have a true post player coming back.”

DUAL ENROLLMENT STAR PLAYER

PELHAM PITCHER

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REGION 8 - 6A

BUFORD

WHO’S BACK

Wood certainly has plenty of returners coming back to help him ease into his 1st season at Buford. A trio of returning juniors is led by Malachi Brown, a three sport scholar athlete who will be one to watch not just for Buford, but across the entire state this season, and into next year, also. Joining him are the 2 other juniors: Cameron Kelly and David Burnette. They are joined by their three senior teammates in dynamic wing player Jalen Brown, a two year starter.

Taylor is the most highly recruited Wolf at this point, but he is will have company, especially in teammates Alahn Sumler and Nick Isaac.

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of gainesvilletimes.com

2020 STATS overall record 19

Wins

1,765

WHAT TO EXPECT This will be Coach Wood’s 1 st season as the head coach at Buford, but he is no stranger to the Wolves. He went to school and played sports for the Wolves, graduating in 1990. He has some big shoes to fill, taking over for previous coach Eddie Martin, who led the Wolves to 2 state championships during his 6 years as the head coach. Wood inherits a solid program, and now its up to him to keep things headed in the right direction, and there’s no reason why he shouldn’t.

Wood knows the game, and he knows what it takes to keep Buford in the thick of things all season.

Wood starts his own legacy with a deep run in the playoffs. Look for 20 plus wins for the Wolves, and they could easily go further.

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1,582

8

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Benji Wood

KEY LOSSES The Wolves will lose standout two sport athlete Dajuan Fields, who has graduated and moved on to Lehigh University where he’s starring for the Mountain Hawks football team. But, its what he did on the basketball court for Buford that will be missed. Fields was one of just three seniors that graduated, along with teammates Connor Johnson and Marc Muage. Muage was the leader of not only the three graduating seniors, but for the entire Wolves squad.

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REGION 2 - 6A Ben Monnig

Roderick Jones

Augusta Prep Day

Monsignor Donovan Catholic

76 STLs

76 STLs

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography courtesy of thebrunswicknews.com

overall record 14

1,226 1,123

8

Eugene Bond

Jaylin Houlder

Union Grove

Killian Hill Christian

92 STLs

115 STLs

Georgia Class of 2022 Stealing Leaders

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

GLYNN ACADEMY

Losses

Senior Tyson Rooks, a 6-5 power forward, is back, along with twin brothers Quay and Tray Dickens at the wings. Maurice Walden, a 6-4 forward, played in every game as a junior. “We’re looking for a lot more production out of him and he’s definitely got the potential to do it,” Haywood said of Walden. Tyi Ivey joins the team from the Glynn junior varsity and logged valuable experience playing point guard in summer league basketball.

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Terrance Haywood

KEY LOSSES Max Hrdlicka, a 2019-20 All-State selection, was leading Glynn in scoring at 17 ppg when his 202021 season was shut down after only eight games due to Covid-related concerns. He’s now playing at the University of North Florida. 6-4 center Ivan Groome was the Red Terrors’ best defender. Glynn also will miss guard D’Marion Hayes and 6-4 power forward TJ Lewis, whose athleticism landed him a spot as a quarterback on the University of Louisville football roster.

WHAT TO EXPECT Brunswick High Coach Terrance Haywood thinks his 2021-22 team may not be the flashiest in the region. With eight seniors gone from last season’s unit, Haywood is placing extra emphasis on fundamentals – defense, rebounding, making the extra pass, good shot selection – to keep the Red Terrors competitive.

“We’re going to have to be really disciplined on the defensive end of the court,” Haywood said. “And we lost a lot of size, so we have to focus on rebounding as a team – everybody has got to crash the boards and take rebounding personally.”

Solid fundamentals certainly will be critical in a region that Haywood said includes “no off nights. Every night, we’re going to be in a dogfight. But we put in a lot of work over the summer and we’re excited and ready to get it going and see what happens.”

Glynn faces a big challenge, thanks to inexperience and a tough schedule. But look for the Red Terrors to build confidence and be plenty competitive as the season progresses.

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REGION 1 - 6A Alex Hogg

Bryson Barber-Creekmore

Cottage

Camp Jewell House Academy

97 BLKs

99 BLKs

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of Houston County via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record Wins

5

12 889 976

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Buddy Bivins

KEY LOSSES Houston County enters the 2021-22 campaign having to replace numerous key contributors off last season’s team with none bigger than guard HB Morgan. Morgan was byfar the Bears top scorer from a year ago averaging 16 PPG, as well as 4.5 RPG and a team-leading 2.6 APG while being named First-Team All-Region.

The Bears also lost multiple other prominent players to graduation including guards Dallas Jackson, Demari Fullwood, and Jaydin Ryan, as well as leading rebounder Jaylen Hatcher, Jayson Hodges, and Christian Lawhorn. In all, the Bears will have to replace their top five leading scorers, as well as many of their top rebounders.

HOUSTON COUNTY

Rett VanDeMark

Jerald Colonel

HALO

Groves

100 BLKs

124 BLKs

Georgia Class of 2022 Blocking Leaders

WHAT TO EXPECT The Bears enter year one under new head coach Buddy Bivins, who comes to Houston County after being an assistant elsewhere. Coming off a first round playoff appearance a year ago, the Bears obviously lost notable production, but still return enough to be a key player in AAAAAA. Houston County has talent evident, all of which will be playing larger roles on the court compared to a year ago. Many of their returning players averaged around 3 PPG last season, and will need a few players to step-up offensively to help replace the lost scoring from Morgan, Jackson, and Hatcher in particular.

WHO’S BACK Houston County also returns multiple notable players, in-particular in the backcourt.

Leading the charge in the Bears backcourt will be senior guards Fontane Curtis, Ethan Blasche, Danny Rogers, and Kylen Sanders, as well as sophomore Malachi Jackson playing a pivotal role.

The frontcourt will be cemented by senior Daniel Lamonte while senior forward Jalen Jordan will be a constant on the wing with Noah Fitzgerald and Khalil Quinn as depth options. Both Lamonte and Jordan averaged 3 PPG and 3 RPG a year ago for the Bears, and will play an important role this season as potential breakout candidates.

Despite losing a few key players, Houston County will likely find themselves in the AAAAAA playoffs once again this season.

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REGION 6 - 6A

KELL

WHO’S BACK

The Longhorns will rely on the younger portion of their returning roster this season. Sellars and his staff welcome back one senior, a host of rising juniors, and a sophomore, all of whom played meaningful minutes on the floor for the Longhorns last season. Leading the returning contributors will be junior guard PJ Johnson, a 6 foot 4 inch player , wing player and junior Aaron Smith, along with junior guard Julius Strahorn, who starred on the 16U AAu Team SBT over the offseason. Sophomore Jaylen Colon, who is considered one of the best pure shooters on the Longhorns, is the youngest returner from last season, but that doesn’t mean he’ll be taking a backseat to anyone this season. Colon performed well this offseason in the Elite Preview, a showcase camp for the state’s finest underclassmen. Josh Tec, who covers high school basketball for the publication ‘Hoop Seen’ says when Colon shoots it, “you think its going in every time.”

KEY LOSSES Without a doubt, the biggest loss for Coach Sellars and his Longhorns is Scoota Henderson. The rising senior was expected to be back to make his final curtain call and lead Kell towards another state title matchup. They came up a little short to Wheeler in last season’s championship, but with Scoota returning, they would be considered the team to beat. But, if they DO make it, they’ll have to do it without Henderson. The top 10 college prospect decided this offseason to skip his senior season with the Longhorns, and go straight to the NBA’s G-League. Last year, Scoota averaged 32 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists as a junior. Now, he’ll see if he’s ready to breakthrough with the G League’s Ingnite team, where he’ll play two seasons before entering the NBA draft. The Longhorns also lose 8 seniors, including Najhae Colon, Jaylon Brown, Tre Allen, Garrison Francis, Ramir Chester, Elliot Hearst, Jamal Hill, and Jaylen Harris to graduation. Hill averged 15 points per game, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. He is now at Iowa Lakes University, playing for the Lakers.

A lot of talent just left the building. Still, I just can’t envision Kell not winning 20 ball games.

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Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of hoopseen.com

2020 STATS overall record 22

Wins 2,205 1,783

7 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jermaine Sellars

WHAT TO EXPECT This will be a very interesting season coming up for Kell and their fans. A program that is dominant year after year, having won 73 games over the past three seasons, has a lot of question marks heading into the season. It’s one thing to not have Scoota Henderson back this year, but truth is, it’s not just him. Kell has to replace not only Henderson, but you’ve got 8 seniors who graduated.

That’s out of a roster of 14. Who will step up? We shall see.

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REGION 1 - 6A

LEE COUNTY Georgia Class of 2023 Scoring Leaders

Nick Henry

War Hill Christian Academy

525 PTs

Jeb Walls

Central Fellowship Christian

519 PTs

WHAT TO EXPECT The Trojans return notable production headlined by the duo of Joe Frazier and Malik Brackins, each of whom were named First-Team All-Region a season ago. Frazier ranked second on the team a year ago with 11.5 PPG, as well as 9 RPG and 4 SPG, while Brackins averaged 10 PPG and 11 RPG. A few other notables who return this season that should play important roles include Chris Robinson, Donovan Taylor, and Caden King, while others such as Andrew Knight and Harrison Skinner will also see time. The Trojans have a roster loaded with talent, and should get notable contributions from multiple players this season.

WHO’S BACK Lee County had a phenomenal 2020-21 season that included an appearance in the AAAAAA state semifinals. Despite losing a few key pieces off last season’s team, the Trojans should once again be one of the top teams in Region 1 looking to defend their region crown from a year ago.

The Trojans roster will be led by the duo of Frazier and Brackins, and could potentially go even further than they went in the playoffs a year ago if they can find a way to replace the lost production from last season. Lee County has the potential to be one of the top teams in AAAAAA this season.

Lee County should be one of the top teams in AAAAAA this season, and is a legit state title contender.

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Authur Johnson

DeKarteyia Craig

Bowdon

Twiggs County

456 PTs

447 PTs

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of LCHS Trojans via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record Wins

18

1,551 1,481

10

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Kirven Davis

KEY LOSSES Lee County lost notable production from a year ago in the backcourt in-particular headlined by guard Mickeal Taylor. Averaging 23.2 PPG a year ago for the Trojans while being named FirstTeam All-Region, Taylor was a two-time Region 1-AAAAAA Player of the Year, as well as a GACA All-State selection.

In addition to Taylor, Lee County also lost one of their top rebounders in Kam McKendrick who averaged 6 PPG and 8 RPG, as well as guards Jordan Moser and Brandon Busch. Both Moser and Busch averaged 6 PPG and at-least 3 SPG with Busch averaging 5 SPG to earn Region 1-AAAAAA Defensive Player of the Year honors a year ago.

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REGION 1 - 6A Micah Hoover

King’s Ridge Christian

228 REBs

Keith Williams

Dylan Faulkner

Mount Vernon

Calhoun

Citizens Christian Academy

235 REBs

245 REBs

271 REBs

Written by: Matt Melton Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 9

Walker Altman

Georgia Class of 2023 Rebound Leaders

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

NORTHSIDE (WR)

13

1,321 1,322

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Don Hudson

WHO’S BACK Arguably the top returning player for the Eagles this season is senior forward Kaleb Lindley. Averaging 7.2 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 2.3 APG a year ago, Lindley was an important player for the Eagles last season, and should be the focal-point for Northside this season on both ends of the court.

In addition to Lindley, the Eagles also return a few notable players, primarily in the backcourt.

Among those players, seniors Gage Williams and Centavious Lowe will be some of the top options, while others such as Kayleb Jackson, Ricardo Jones, and Duke McClinton will all play an important role this season.

After a first round playoff appearance a year ago, Northside lost a few key players off last season’s team, many of which made up the team’s top scoring production. However, the Eagles have the pieces needed to be back in the playoffs once again this season.

The backcourt will arguably be the strength for the Eagles this season as Northside has depth and talent evident at the guard position, even despite losing key players from last season. Northside will have to replace some of their top rebounding production and post players from last season, a key storyline to watch for the 2021-22 Eagles as the season draws near.

KEY LOSSES Northside lost notable production from last season, with no player bigger than guard Tre Grane. The Eagles leading scorer from a year ago, Grane averaged 21.9 PPG, while also averaging 8.7 RPG, 4 APG, and 2.4 SPG. In addition to Grane, Northside also lost leading rebounder Jordan Brown who averaged 7 PPG and 10 RPG, while also notable guards Calvin Bowers and Arius Porter, each of whom averaged 6 PPG last season. In all, the Eagles lost a notable portion of their scoring and rebounding production from last season, as well as some key players on the defensive side of the court.

Despite key losses from a year ago, Northside should find themselves in the playoffs once again this season.

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REGION 1 - 6A

VALDOSTA

Amon McDowell

Dylan Faulkner

McDonough

Calhoun

Central Fellowship Christian

95 FTM

102 FTM

112 FTM

DeKarteyia Craig Twiggs County

119 FTM

Georgia Class of 2023 Free Throw Leaders

KEY LOSSES

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

2020 STATS overall record 19

6

1,634 1,303

Jeb Walls

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Darrell Lockhart

WHAT TO EXPECT As coach Lockhart himself put it earlier, these are indeed “unchartered waters” for he and his Wildcat basketball team heading into the season. Every starter from a year ago is no longer with the team, nor is their first guy (6th man) off the bench. That leaves the Wildcaats and Lockhart looking to completely start over. They have two contributors from last season that will be expected to step up and play a bigger role this season in Peak and Edmonds. Unless help comes from a few underclassmen, this could be rebuilding season for Lockhart. We will keep an eye on the ‘Cats this season.

Coach Lockhart and the Wildcats could be facing a rebuilding project this season, after graduating 4 starters from last year’s team, plus having the 5th starter and “6th man” transfer to other schools this offseason. That means the top six players that were the main reason Valdosta won 19 games last season wont be returning this year. But, don’t feel sorry for the head coach. He doesn’t.

“Yes, we are in uncharted waters, but I like our team heading into the season,” he said. Gone via graduation are Dorrien Douglas, Melvin Smith, Stanley Haliburton, and Tyaddrian Newsome. Kylan Fox, who as a freshman last season averaged 6.7 points per game and 5.8 rebounds, is one of the players that transferred this offseason.

WHO’S BACK

Returning to the ‘Cats this year will be senior point guard Cameron Edmonds, who has averaged 2.3 points per game and 1.4 assists per game during his career at Valdosta. Edmonds has played in 31 games while at Valdosta. Also returning is big man Jacarrius Peak, who also starts for the ‘cats football team.

Jacarrius is a senior who averaged 5.9 points per game and snatched 4.1 rebounds per game last season. James Siplen is a junior who also returns this season, and brings with him an average of 4 points per game and 2 steals per game from a season ago.

Time to rally around the Cats: 10 wins for Valdosta this year.

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REGION 6 - 6A

WHEELER

WHAT TO EXPECT When you talk about Wheeler basketball, you always include them in teams competing for a shot at a title. After all, they’ve won back to back state titles, and with Collier leading the way, they’ll no doubt be right there in the end once again in 6A. They lost 6 seniors, but they have 6 returners coming back who all saw a lot of action last season. Thompson says he’ll need every one of them to step up. “Our region, 6-6A, is tough. But our guys had a great offseason on the summer circuit, so we’ll be ready.”

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Brandon Pham

2020 STATS overall record 27

Wins 2,319 1,919

WHO’S BACK The Wildcats offense will evolve around junior point guard Isiah “The Wizard” Collier, a 5-star standout player who Thompson says could be the best PG in the country. He certainly ranks highly in every recruiting service, and he’ll be the key to Wheeler making it three in a row. Thompson said the junior is leaning towards either North Carolina or Auburn. He will be joined by returning small guard Juvon Gamory, who at 5 foot 9 inches can shoot the 3-pointer as good as anyone in the state, says Thompson. “He is shooting right at 38% from 3-point land, and that’s pretty good,” said the coach. Kyle Burns, a Radford University commit, played a key role coming off the bench last season, but he’ll be counted on to do a lot more this season, said Thompson.

Its hard to predict anything but a state title. Make it a 3-peat for the Wheeler Wildcats.

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5 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Larry Thompson

KEY LOSSES The defending two-time 6a state champs lose 6 seniors from those squads, as well as key assistant Mark Wright, who left to take the head coaching job at Brookwood. The task of replacing these stars and coach is the #1 goal of coach Larry Thompson as the Wildcats prepare to defend their back to back state championships. The key guys that Wheeler points out include Jaheim Hudson, who signed with Ga State. Wingman Kaleb Washington signed with The University of Dayton, while guard Max Harris has taken his talents to Albany State.

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REGION 1 - 5A

COFFEE Georgia Class of 2023 3-Point Leaders

Jeb Walls

Central Fellowship Christian

75 3PM

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography by: Milla Creationz Photography

overall record 12

12

1,348 1,291

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Pernell Smith

KEY LOSSES The Trojans will miss the versatile Antonio Reynolds, a 6-4 forward who averaged 12 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3 steals per game. Three more Coffee graduates have gone on to play at the collegiate level. Forward Javeon Ingram (8 ppg 4.1 rpg) stayed in Douglas to enroll at South Georgia State, while guards AJ Wilkerson (7.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg) and KJ Davis (4 ppg, 2 spg) headed south to central Florida’s Webber International University.

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King’s Ridge Christian

74 3PM

Authur Johnson

Jamarion Chambliss

Bowdon

Crisp County

68 3PM

62 3PM

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

Isaac Martin

Smith is looking to a pair of seniors, guard Xazavian Simpson and forward Demark Smith, and junior wing Quincy Davidson to make up for some of the production lost to graduation. Simpson and Smith, at 8.4 and 7.8 ppg, respectively, are the leading returning scorers. Smith also expects sophomore guards Tyriq Edwards and Junitho Benson to log plenty of playing time.

WHAT TO EXPECT Coffee lost half of its point production to graduation, and Head Coach Pernell Smith concedes that his players lack game experience and will need to grow up quickly. Still, he said, “I really like this year’s team. We’re small, but we’re quick and play well together. There’s a few guys that can shoot the three. We’ll have to do all the little things great to be successful this year.”

Smith also is wary of the competition. “This is a very tough region,” he said.

“Veterans returns several key players and they’re the favorite to [finish first]. Warner Robins and Wayne also return some key players, so it will be interesting to see how the region plays out. Our goal is to put ourselves in the position to be in the top three by the region tournament. That solidifies a spot in the state tournament, and I like our chances at region tournament time.”

The Trojans face an uphill battle, but considering their talent level and Coach Pernell Smith’s optimism, they should improve on last season’s .500 finish.

REGION 4 - 5A

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of hudl.com

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 27

Wins 2,067

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

1,495

EAGLE’S LANDING

Head Coach: Elliott Montgomery

WHO’S BACK Eagle’s Landing returns numerous key contributors off last season’s state championship winning team including notable guards such as David Thomas and AJ Barnes. Both Thomas and Barnes were key contributors on both ends of the court last season for the Eagles with Barnes as one of the top scorers overall.

In addition to those two, Eagle’s Landing returns a few other notable players including forward Jordan Fordyce and Fabian DeSilva among many others. The Eagles were dominant in AAAAA a season ago, and a majority of that talented team is back to attempt to repeat this season.

Eagle’s Landing cruised through the AAAAA playoffs a year ago en route to winning the 2020-21 state championship. While the Eagles did lose a few notable players from last season in the process, Eagle’s Landing returns a wealth of talent and experience making them the clear favorite in AAAAA once again.

The guard duo of AJ Barnes and David Thomas should be one of the most must-see in all of AAAAA, while the Eagles should easily replace the lost production from last season. Eagle’s Landing should be considered the clear favorite to lift the trophy once again this season.

KEY LOSSES The Eagles lost a total of five players from a year ago which included notable guards including Jaylon Hand, AJ Daniels, and Jaydan Jackson, as well as forwards Wayne Tripple and Josh Martin. Hand was one of the top scorers for the Eagles a season ago, while Jackson and others played key reserve roles.

Replacing the scoring production of Hand will arguably be the biggest question for the Eagles this season, but they have the talent and depth to do just that.

The Eagles could miss players such as Jackson and Daniels who filled key roles as well.

Eagle’s Landing wins the AAAAA state championship once again.

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VETERANS

REGION 1 - 5A Keishawn Hampton

Isaac Martin

Bilal Abdur-Rahman WD Mohammed

Camp Jewell House Academy

127 ASTs

160 ASTs

315 ASTs

King’s Ridge Christian

Meadowcreek

120 ASTs

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of sportsmic.com

overall record 23 1,672

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

1,286

Georgia Class of 2023 Assists Leaders

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

Braylon Jackson

Head Coach: Brett Hardy

WHO’S BACK The Warhawks do return a wealth of talent for the 2021-22 season headlined by the duo of seniors TJ Grant and Tajh Williams. Grant, a 1,000+ point scorer, led the Warhawks with both 18.9 PPG and 6.9 RPG a year ago, while Williams, arguably Veterans top three-point shooter, averaged 11.1 PPG last season, as well as 3.1 RPG. Joining Grant and Williams are junior forward Aaron Jones who averaged 7.4 PPG and 5.4 RPG a year ago, as well as numerous others from last season’s team including guards DJ Wright and Jeremy Sams. Veterans will also return some important role players including Will Burroughs, Jaleel Wright, Nate Brooks, and Da’Mare Franklin.

After making the first elite eight appearance in school history a year ago, Veterans has an excellent chance to do the same once again due solely to their returning talent.

The 2020-21 AAAAA-Region 1 champions, the Warhawks did not suffer a loss until early-March, and should be one of the top teams in 5A once again. While the loss of notable players headlined by Hines will hurt, Veterans has more-thanenough talent to re-load making them the clear preseason favorite in Region 1.

The duo of Grant and Williams could give Veterans one of top scoring duos in Class AAAAA, making the Warhawks one of the most-exciting teams in their respective classification.

KEY LOSSES While Veterans returns a notable amount of talent, the Warhawks also lost a few key players with none bigger than guard DeAngelo Hines. Hines, a 1,000+ career point scorer, ranked second on the team with 16.2 PPG a year ago, as well as having averaged 3 RPG, 3.3 APG, and a team-high 3.1 SPG on defense.

In addition to Hines, the Warhawks also lost notable guards including Ryland Pereda and Jacquari Bankston, as well as forwards Khalil Johnson and Jaylen Holloway. In all, the Warhawks will have to replace around 29 PPG, as well as around 13 RPG from a year ago.

Veterans should one of the preseason favorites in AAAAA, and is easily a 15-20+ win team this season as a legit state championship contender.

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REGION 1 - 5A

WARNER ROBINS Georgia Class of 2023 Stealing Leaders

Nick Henry

War Hill Christian Academy

87 STLs

DeKarteyia Craig

Chandler Dunn

Twiggs County

Camp Jewell House Academy

Jaylun Goodrum

78 STLs

68 STLs

67 STLs

First Presbyterian Day

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of hudl.com

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record Wins

13

12

1,480

Points Scored

1,448

Losses

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jamaal Garman

WHO’S BACK The Demons return a total of six players off last season’s team, many of which will play pivotal roles this season in the backcourt. Among these players leading the group are two very-good three-point shooting senior guards in Rashaun Williams and Jordyan Keith.

Deuce Petty and sophomore Camryn Perkins will also play important roles in the Demons backcourt, while the frontcourt will be highlighted by Vic Burley, Maxwell Joyner, and others.

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Warner Robins loses a sizeable chunk off last season’s roster that made an appearance in the first round of the AAAAA playoffs. While they will be tasked with replacing multiple prominent players, the Demons should once again find themselves in the playoffs once again.

Rashaun Williams and Camryn Perkins should be an exciting guard duo for Warner Robins this season, while Deuce Petty and others should play a key role as well. If the Demons are able to replace some lost production in the frontcourt, Warner Robins should be able to duplicate last season’s success.

KEY LOSSES Warner Robins lost multiple notable contributors off last season’s playoff team, which included a few prominent players from the frontcourt in particular, many of which play on the wing. Among these players were forwards Greg Jones, Rashaun Tomlin, Xavier Hill, and Cameron Brown.

The Demons will also have to replace two post-players in particular in Jamal Brooks and DK King, as well as guard Jaden Terry. In all, Warner Robins lost a majority off their frontcourt players, as well as a prominent guard from a year ago.

Warner Robins duplicates last season’s success, and will be a playoff team this season in AAAAA.

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REGION 1 - 4A

BAINBRIDGE Georgia Class of 2023 Blocking Leaders

Dhiaukuel Manyiel

Dylan Faulkner

Aaron Jones

Gai Atem

Greenforest

Calhoun

Veterans

Greenforest

77 BLKs

67 BLKs

58 BLKs

55 BLKs

KEY LOSSES The Bearcats and Page are starting over, having lost all 5 starters from last season. That group includes last years leading scorer in Mark Taylor, who averaged 13.8 points per game. He also averaged 7.6 rebounds per game. Another starter from last year that will be missed is Dorrian Cooper, who Page says was the team’s best defensive player not only last season, but over each of the past two years. He averaged 3.2 steals per game last year. Dylun Worlds was another defensive specialist who started last season for the Bearcats. He averaged over 3 steals per game for Bainbridge, and was a solid overall player, according to Page.

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of hudl.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

13

1,241 1,094

8

Points Scored Points Allowed

WHO’S BACK

Head Coach: Jeff Page

Bainbridge will be led by a host of juniors, a sophomore, and senior Ashton Parris this season. Ahston averaged right at 5 points per game, along with 4 rebounds per game, but its his leadership that Page says he will be looking for more than anything this year. The head coach is also thankful to have junior KJ Cochran returning to the floor this season. He was the team’s leading scorer two seasons ago as a freshman, but missed all of last season due to hip surgery. “It will be good to see KJ back on the court,” says the head coach. VJ Ervin is a junior that Page points to as one of the team’s best defenders. He averaged 3.2 points per game last season, and his return is one of the keys to the success of Bainbridge basketball this season. Another junior returning is Ked Bryant, who, like Cochran, is coming off an injury suffered last season. Sophomore AJ Grant is one of the team’s top shooters, averaging 7.1 points per game last year.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Look for Bainbridge to finish with 15 wins, an improvement over last season, with a #3 seed finish in the region.

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Losses

Look for a Bainbridge team that finished with 13 wins last year to make a run at either the #1 or #2 seed in region play this year, which Page says is important because of the home court advantage. “We lost to Baldwin last season in the 1st round of the playoffs, and to have to go on the road is so tough in the early round of the playoffs,” said Page. While the head Bearcat coach knows what it will take, the question is does his team have enough talent to achieve that goal? Losing every one of your starters can be tough to overcome, as Bainbridge did, but the task is not impossible. Page says he and his staff is going to simplify things by having his team stick to the basics of solid defense, and avoiding turnovers.

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ITG Next | 57

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REGION 1 - 4A Justin Morgan

Evan Honnen

Jake Woodward

CAIRO Jack Farnsley

Memphis Home Education (TN)

FAITH Home School (MI)

Parker-Tarrant Home School (TX)

Columbus Home School (IN)

788 PTs

793 PTs

917 PTs

931 PTs

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of hudl.com

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS overall record 2 Wins

14

625

Losses Points Scored

1,063

Class of 2022 National Scoring Leaders

Returning to the team this season will be leading scorer and rebounder Jalon Spence.

The returning senior guard averaged 12.6 points per game, along with 5.9 rebounds last year, and Coach Cooper says he is glad to have Spence returning. “He will be counted on to lead us this season,” said Cooper. There are just two seniors on the roster this season with Joseph Williams the other besides Spence. Cooper says the team will be counting on returning sophomore Amari Powell and junior Braylon Robinson to step up this year. Robinson has averaged 5.2 points per game while at Cairo, while Amari averaged basically the same amount of points with 5.3 per game, pulling down 4.3 rebounds per game, also.

Points Allowed

Head Coach: JJ Cooper

WHAT TO EXPECT The team will be young once again, with just two seniors on the roster this season. According to Coach Cooper, he understands that it may take another year of development, until the senior leadership can develop with his Cairo squad. “Our goal is to simply get a little better this year than last, and I fully expect us to be more competitive than last year,” he said. There has been a more devoted weight room program this off season, and that should make the Syrupmakers stronger and better in the paint.

“Lets get some more wins and let the chips fall where they may,” said Cooper.

KEY LOSSES Fortunately for the Syrupmakers, there was only one senior on last year’s team that graduated, and that was Ricky Walker. Cooper says he was a standout football player that was asked to be a part of the team to help the Syrupmakers with his overall standout athletic ability, but his leadership skills, as well. He will be the only player not returning this year. He averaged 2.5 rebounds per game last season.

Look for the team to be better than last season. It’s still a young team, and it is going to take a year or two to challenge for the top spot in the region. 8-10 wins would be a huge improvement

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PERRY

REGION 4 - 4A Class of 2023 National Rebound Leaders

MJ Thomas

Asa Boyce

Martin Gumwel

Philip Layne

15.8 RPG

15.3 RPG

14.8 RPG

14.8 RPG

Calvert (TX)

Downsville (LA)

WHO’S BACK Perry returns almost all of their notable production from a year ago which includes senior forward Dae’Quan Wright. Leading the Panthers in every statistical category last season, Wright averaged an impressive 16.4 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 3.5 APG, and 2.3 SPG a year ago.

Alongside Wright, the Perry backcourt will feature notable players from last season including Amar Gordon, Camden Nelson, Caleb Wilson, and Kyle Kothe as well as a few others. The frontcourt will feature a few prominent players including Sean Lester Jr, Jaylon Edward, Antonio Lawson, and others.

In all, Perry returns over 10+ contributors off last season’s team, and much of their production.

WHAT TO EXPECT Coming off a first round playoff appearance a year ago, Perry should be a threat to make a deep run in the AAAA playoffs this season due to their experienced roster. Dae’Quan Wright should be one of the top overall players in AAAA, and has numerous pieces on the roster around him to go further in the playoffs than last season.

The Panthers should be one of the most-experienced teams in AAAA, and in-turn one of the most-exciting to watch. With almost all of their notable scoring and rebounding production returning, don’t be surprised at all if a deep playoff run is in the works for the Panthers this season.

Community Baptist (NC)

Calvin Christian (CA)

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of 41nbc.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

8

7

897 930

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Reginald West

KEY LOSSES The Panthers only lost a total of two seniors from last season’s playoff team which included guard Isaiah Castillo, as well as forward Kendrez Hampton.

While Castillo only played in limited action a year ago, Hampton was a notable contributor for the Panthers as he averaged 6.6 PPG and 3.6 RPG while averaging around 15.9 minutes per game.

Perry should return to the playoffs this season with the possibility for a deep run in the state tournament.

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TIFT COUNTY MIDDLE LINEBACKER

Presented by:

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REGION 6 - 4A

THOMAS CO. CENTRAL

Keyonte George

Sean Haggerty

Luke Haertle

iSchool of Lewisville (TX)

Crosby (TX)

Lake Country Lutheran(WI)

Parker-Tarrant Home School (TX)

173 FTM

196 FTM

230 FTM

170 FTM

WHAT TO EXPECT On one hand, Thomas County Central must replace three All-Region players and six other players from its 2020-21 team. On the other hand, the up-and-coming players played a lot together in the offseason and Head Coach Juwan Hopkins thinks they are up to the challenge.

“I think our success will depend on how well we come together, which our guys did a great job of over the summer,” Hopkins said. “A lot of our guys last year shot the ball well, and I think this group here will follow suit. We really can defend the ball – we put a lot of time into defense, and our competitiveness and passion for that should allow us to stay in ballgames.”

WHO’S BACK Hopkins said senior guard David Christopher, Jr. and sophomore wing Abe Smith both had a breakout summer during camp events. “They have been working hard this off-season in the gym and weight room,” said Hopkins. Smith is moving to the wing position after primarily playing center last season. “He’s worked on his outside shot and his ball handling and we’re going to let him transition to an inside-outside role. The coach also expects significant contributions from senior guard Ben Christopher (“His defense is going to be tough on opposing players”), junior guard Ben Taylor and freshman Charlie Dunbar.

Strong team chemistry should translate to a nice upgrade on last year’s four-win campaign.

Jake Woodward

Class of 2022 National Free Throw Leaders

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography by: Lacey Crandle

2020 STATS overall record Wins

4

11

Losses

795

Points Scored

914

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Juwan Hopkins

KEY LOSSES Montay Pickett, a 2nd-team All-Region selection at guard, graduated along with All-Region honorable mentions Colby Parson and DJ Walden. Nine players departed in all, including the team’s top three leading scorers. “Everybody who led us offensively graduated, as well as our leading rebounders,” Hopkins said.

“So we’re going to have new leaders in all categories this year.”

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REGION 2 - 3A

CRISP COUNTY Class of 2022 National 3-Point Leaders

Chris Henthorn

Evan Honnen

Jack Farnsley

Justin Morgan

169 3PM

142 3PM

58 BLKs

55 BLKs

Home School Resource Center (IL)

Written by: Matt Melton Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 12

1,450 1,243

11

Losses

Points Scored

Memphis Home Education (TN)

The Cougars enter the 2021-22 campaign under new head coach Towandi King, as well as with a roster that returns their leading scorer from a year ago along with a few other key pieces. The Cougars will have talent, but just how good can they be?

Crisp County had success at home last season with an 8-2 record, and that success should continue this year, as well as being one of the top teams in AAA-Region 2. Crisp County made a first round playoff appearance last season, and will likely do the same again.

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Towandi King

WHO’S BACK Crisp County does return talent this season, many of which will be juniors. The top returning player for the Cougars will be guard Jamarion Johnson, who lead Crisp County with 12.7 PPG a year ago while also averaging 3.7 RPG and 2.7 APG. Joining Johnson will be guards Qua Deriso, Ajani Christopher, and Jayden Westbrook, each of which appeared in fairly limited action a year ago. Notable returning players in the Cougars frontcourt include Nick King and AJ Brown, both of whom also appeared in limited action a season ago.

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Columbus Home School (IN)

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

FAITH Home School (ML)

KEY LOSSES Crisp County had three players average 10+ PPG a season ago, two of which are now gone in guard PJ Coleman and forward Cortez Thomas. Coleman averaged 11.3 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 4.3 APG, and 2.9 SPG a year ago, while Thomas averaged 12.1 PPG and led the Cougars with 7.8 RPG and 3.5 SPG. In addition to those two, the Cougars lost multiple players throughout their roster with Jordan McCray, AJ Lofton, JJ Deriso, Carmelitess Clark Jr, and Jaylen Epps as the notables at guard. Crisp County will also have to replace notable forwards including Javan Hardemon, Sirad Bryant, and Josh Ford.

Crisp County will make a playoff appearance once again this season.

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REGION 5 - 3A

Written by: Matt Melton Photography by: Brandon Pham

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 28

Wins 2,444

5 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

1,700

SANDY CREEK

Head Coach: Jon-Michael Nickerson

WHO’S BACK Despite the glaring losses for the Patriots, Sandy Creek returns multiple prominent players from last season headlined by guard Vic Newsom and forward Micah Smith. Newsom averaged 8 PPG, 3.1 RPG, and 2.3 APG a season ago as a sophomore, while Smith averaged 6 PPG and 6 RPG as a freshman.

Joining those two will be many key players in both the front and backcourt, each of which will likely play a bigger role this season. Guards Andy Williams, Jaren Alexander, and Corey Gibbs will all play important roles in the backcourt, while Ryan Cooley, Eltramon Smith, and Bryce Davis will all play a role in helping to replace Smith in the frontcourt.

Sandy Creek is coming off one of the best seasons in school history, and enter the 2021-22 campaign having to replace two of the best players to ever wear a Patriots uniform. Despite the notable losses to the roster, the Patriots should not go anywhere this season.

Sandy Creek will once again be one of the top teams in AAA, and should be tops in AAA-Region 5 once again. While the Patriots might not necessarily put up the same overall numbers next season, Sandy Creek has the depth to replace lost production, and will once again be a state title contender in AAA.

KEY LOSSES Sandy Creek’s biggest loss from last season is undoubtedly forward Jabari Smith, the top player in the state of Georgia from a year ago. Rated as a fivestar prospect, as well as a consensus Top 10 player nationally, Smith was the focal-point for the Patriots a year ago averaging 23.4 PPG, 9.5 RPG, and 3.2 APG. The Patriots also lost a few other notable players in addition to Smith, headlined by guard Myles Rice. Rated as a three-star prospect, Rice averaged 19.1 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 6 APG a year ago, the by-far team leader in assists. In addition to Smith and Rice, Sandy Creek also lost other notables including forward Deshon Proctor and guard Shane Erkins.

Sandy Creek should be one of the top teams in AAA as a legit candidate to win the state championship at seasons end.

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REGION 2 - 3A

SUMTER COUNTY Class of 2022 National Assists Leaders

Sam Howery

Luke McMillan

Jalen Jackson

St. Mary’s (CO)

Chen (MD)

Quentin Smith

10.2 APG

9.1 APG

8.6 APG

8.2 APG

Written by: Matt Melton Photography courtesy of hudl.com

overall record 16

1,286 1,007

5 Losses Points Scored

While Sumter County does lose a notable amount of contributors from a year ago, a sizeable amount of their production does return, in particular in the backcourt. Brandon Pope, Devon Dowdell, and Cameron Evans should feature roles at guard among others as well.

The Panthers frontcourt will feature many key players from a year ago including forwards Kyric Davis, Elijah Westbrook, and Canaan Jackson. Davis was a key player for the Panthers a year ago, while Westbrook and Jackson will look to take the next step this season.

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Johnny Genwright

WHAT TO EXPECT Formerly Americus-Sumter, Sumter County will be looking to build off a second round playoff appearance a year ago. While the Panthers lost multiple notable players from last season, Sumter County does return multiple different candidates who could potentially lead the team in scoring showcasing the depth that the Panthers could have.

The Panthers should once again be one of the top teams in AAA-Region 2, as well as likely set to make another return to the AAA playoffs. Don’t be surprised if Sumter County makes a deep run in this season’s playoffs either.

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Lake Shore (MI)

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

West Sabine (TX)

KEY LOSSES The Panthers lost many notable scorers off last season’s team, primarily coming in the frontcourt. Among this group were forwards Keldrick Flemming, Darion Mitchell, Michael Johnson, and Jordan Wiley, each of whom played key roles for the Panthers a year ago which included Sumter County’s top three leading scorers.

Sumter County does also lose two notable guards from last season including Jawaski Whitehead and John Monts, each of whom were key role players a year ago. Despite losing a sizeable amount of production from a year ago, the Panthers also return essentially the same amount as well.

Sumter County makes at-least a second round playoff appearance this season.

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ITG Next | 69

FITZGERALD Class of 2022 National Stealing Leaders

REGION 1 - 2A Petey D’Alessandro Oasis Christian (FL)

6.0 SPG

AJ Wright Clearwater (FL)

Killian Hill Christian (GA)

5.6 SPG

5.5 SPG

WHAT TO EXPECT The way Fitzgerald Head Coach Hamilcar Kelly sees it, his team is due for a region championship. When he took over the program for the 2019-20 season, the Purple Hurricanes finished third. The following season resulted in a runner-up finish, so the next logical step is first place.

“I think with the seniors and the young guys we have coming back, we should have a good chance at that,” Kelly said.

Kelly wants his team to resist the urge to play a fast transition game; instead, he said, his players’ size and defensive skills are better suited to a slower pace.

“We’re going to be a big team,” he said. “We’ve got some length for this level, especially in our region. Our other strength is our half-court defense. If we can keep it to a half-court game, it’s hard to score on us.”

WHO’S BACK Leading scorer JaQuez Lewis, a 6-0 senior who can play both guard positions, returns along with 6-5 center Keyon Logan and 6-0 guard William Devine.

“Those three guys can all light it up,” Kelly said. “They can put up 20 points, but sometimes they can come back the next night and score 5 points. So if they can just put it together and be consistent scorers, we’ll be fine.”

Kelly also is counting on reliable production from sophomore forward Calvin Tillman, senior forward Jakorrian Paulk (“He’s kind of under the radar, but has a lot of big potential”), defensive specialist DeNorris Goodwin at guard, and Julian Deans, a junior transfer who can play small forward and shooting guard.

Expect Fitzgerald to at least break even in their win-loss record. And a run at the region championship won’t be out of the question.

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Jaylin Houlder

Deshawn Brown Central (FL)

5.3 SPG

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography courtesy of hudl.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

15

10

1,264 1,470

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Hamilcar Kelly

KEY LOSSES The Purple Hurricanes lost five seniors, plus one transfer from last year’s squad. They’ll miss the quickness of point guard Rashad Davis, a multisport athlete who excelled on the football field as well as the hardwood. Forwards Eddie Youngblood and Chance Gamble, and shooting guards Torrey Hyman and Demarion Dixon also are gone.

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PACE ACADEMY

REGION 6 - 2A

WHAT TO EXPECT Sharman White, entering his 4th season at Pace, is considered among the best basketball coaches in the country-at any level. He has led the Knights to back to back state titles over two separate classes (3A in 2019-2020), and the 2A state title last season (2020-2021). There’s not a better basketball coach and leader of young men than him. He doesn’t necessarily need a team of all stars to compete for a state title, but it makes it easier to have em…and he does this year.

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Brandon Pham

2020 STATS overall record 2 Losses

28

Wins 2,174

WHO’S BACK The Knights lost some really good players…but, they bring back some good ones, too. Lamar “LJ” Moulton, who played quite a bit as a freshman last season, is a 6 fooot 6 inch wing that White says is set to have a standout season in 20212022. Josh Reed, a 1st team All-State selection last year, is one of the top overall players in Georgia-hands down, says White. Sophomore Kyle Green is turning heads and grabbing scouts attention with his play from a year ago in South Carolina. He’s now at Pace, and under White he will flourish into the type of top rate player everyone’s expecting him to be. Bryson Tiller is one of the top freshman in the country , and at 6 foot 8 inches tall, he’s already received offers from colleges around the country, including Cleveland State. Matt Arrison and Buck Hall will compliment the line up nicely.

Is 30 wins and a third straight state title possible…? Absolutely.

Just too much talent.

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Points Scored Points Allowed

1,354

Head Coach: Sharman White

KEY LOSSES Coach White says that while the team misses every one of the seniors that graduated, he admits that there are three players whose absence will be felt the most. They are Matt Cleveland, who is now at Florida State University. In his last season at Pace, he averaged 22.5 points per game and 9.3 rebounds.

The teams point guard, Madison Durr, will also not be back. He averaged 9 points per game, with 6.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game. Finally, power forward Cole Middleton, who averaged 11.8 points along with 10.3 rebounds has graduated.

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74 | itgnext.com

REGION 1 - 2A

THOMASVILLE

Ezekiel Wilson

Jesus Rivas

Shane Most

Tulsa Green Country Home School (TX)

Brito (FL)

Brady (NE)

Dilley (TX)

5.0 BPG

5.2 BPG

5.5 BPG

4.4 BPG

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 19

1,449

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

1,029

Class of 2022 National Blocking Leaders

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

Landon Keck

Head Coach: Ben Tillman

WHO’S BACK Junior forwards Anthony Dent Jr. and Harrison Jackson were key players on last season’s 19-win team, and are players Tillman said “are going to make major contributions” again. Senior guards Amarion Banks and Tyson Anderson, both three-year starters, are back as well.

Thomasville had an extraordinary season in 2020-21, winning its region and making the state Final Four, where the Bulldogs lost to Pace Academy. Most of the team is back, but with floor leader Clifford Davis lost to graduation, Head Coach Ben Tillman is a bit concerned.

“These guys have not been battle-tested as far as leadership is concerned,” Tillman said. “Do we have that kind of guy who is going to lead us and be creative enough within our offensive scheme to score and be productive? And not only offensively, but also defensively – do we have that guy who’s tough enough to guard their best player?”

To that end, Tillman uses a clever analogy to challenge his young players. “I tell them there’s a major difference between being Robin and being Batman,” he said. “It’s easy for you to be Robin. We need some Batmans – we need some leaders, some ones who understand that the bullseye is on their back and continue to be productive.”

KEY LOSSES First-team All-State selection Clifford Davis averaged 18 points per game and was among the top 3-point shooters in the state. “We’re losing a lot of points and a lot of leadership that we have to replace in him,” Tillman said.

The Bulldogs will contend for a region championship again. Having reached the state Final Four, they’re hungry for a return there as well.

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DUAL ENROLLMENT STAR PLAYER

WORTH COUNTY PUNTER

ITG Next | 77

REGION 2 - 1A

TURNER COUNTY Class of 2023 National Scoring Leaders

Jesse Mitchell

John Mitchell

Connor Millikan

Moroni Seely-Roberts

669 PTs

667 PTs

666 PTs

658 PTs

Grace Christian (NC)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: ITG Next

Platteview (NE)

Grand County (UT)

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Creighton (NE)

17

8

Losses

1,314

Points Scored

1,262

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Shedric Office

WHAT TO EXPECT With as much returning talent that Turner brings back this season, look for the Titans to be even stronger than they were last season. Listening to Office, I think it’s safe to say that Coach Office feels the same way. “We are going to be better than we were last year,” he says. “I feel like this season its Final 4 or bust for us.” The Turner County basketball team made it to the final four in the 2014-2015 season.

Leading the way for the returners this season for the Titans will be shooting guard Demarrion Wilson, a player that Office refers to as “one of our best players.” The coach also says that Wilson is “Mr Everything on the court.” One look at his stats from last year tells us why Office heaps such praise on his returning guard. The senior averages right at 10 points per game, 2.3 assists, 7 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. Mr Everything is right. Trent Thompson is the team’s center, and Office says the big man can “handle the rock.” But, that’s not the only thing Thompson can do well, according to his head coach. “He’s the best pure shooter on the team,” said Office. Thompson averaged 9 points per game last season, along with 7.5 rebounds per game. Azarius Smith has moved in from Tift County, where he played for the Blue Devils. Office says the team welcomes Smith to the Turner County basketball family, and likes the element he brings to the table. “Azarius can shoot the 3,” said Office. Zy Kevion “Money” Hillman will return, and attempt to live up to his nickname, with his 9.3 points per game average, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.

KEY LOSSES Turner County and Coach Office will miss the services of Keonvay Clark. According to Office, the Titans will miss Keonvay off the court as much as they will miss him on the court. “Keonvay was our vocal leader, during the game, at practice, and everywhere the team went, Keonvay led by example,” said the coach. While he was on the floor, he averaged 9.3 points per game, 2.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds per game, and 1.8 steals per game. Office said that the Carithers brothers, Ty and Mondarius, will be missed, too. Mondarius’ absence will be felt on the glass, where he pulled down 4.2 rebounds per game and had 1 block per game. Ty Carithers was what Office called a “plug and play guy”.

You heard the Coach…I’m with him. I’ll go with a final four finish for the Titans and a 20 win season.

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GISA 3A Matt Riddle

Ezekiel Wilson

Miami (AZ)

Tulsa Green Country Home School (OK)

14.9 RPG

15.0 RPG

Written by: Allen Allnoch Photography courtesy of thebrunswicknews.com

overall record Wins

8

1,071

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

910

Chris Livingston

Caleb Gunther

Buchtel (OH)

Chen (MD)

15.8 RPG

18.8 RPG

Class of 2022 National Rebound Leaders

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 9

FREDERICA ACADEMY

Head Coach: Carl Nash

KEY LOSSES Both starting wings, Eli Fritchman and Xavier Collier, graduated. At 14 points per game, Fritchman was the Knights’ leading scorer. “Eli was a really good scorer who could shoot the ball well, so we’re going to need some guys to step up there,” Nash said.

After a season that was regularly disrupted by Covid-related issues, Frederica Coach Carl Nash is eager to complete a full schedule in the 2021-22 season.

“I think the biggest challenge is just to make sure we get through the season – that we don’t have any Covid on our team and we don’t have a shorter season,” Nash said.

Frederica finished 9-8 after winning its region the previous season. With some sizeable front-court personnel, the Knights should be more competitive this season.

“I’m looking forward to coaching this team,” said Nash. “I think they’re pretty hungry. We had a lot of distractions last year, but I’m hoping this year we’ll be more focused and ready to step in and really compete for a region title.”

WHO’S BACK Point guard TJ Jackson, 6-9 sophomore William Jobe, and seniors Brice Reilly (wing) and Jacob O’Connor (shooting guard), all played significant minutes in 2020-21.

“I think our front line is the best we’ve had since I’ve been here,” said Nash, who is beginning his sixth season at Frederica. “We go 6-9, 6-8, 6-4, and I think that’s a pretty good-size front line for an independent school – and they’re talented. It’s going to be up to our guards to step in and fill some of that void left by Eli and Xavier. As long as we can shoot the ball, I think we can be OK.

If Frederica’s guards can get the ball to its big men inside, the Knights could easily bring the region title back to St. Simons.

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GISA 3A

VALWOOD Class of 2023 National Free Throw Leaders

Jesse Mitchell

Connor Millikan

Isaiah Koppang

Jesus Delgado

141 FTM

140 FTM

134 FTM

134 FTM

Grace Christian (NC)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 9

1,024 972

9

Losses

Tornillo (TX)

Points Scored

Returning to lead the Valiants this season are senior Nate Williams, who averaged 13 points per game while also putting in the most minutes of any other player on the roster. Stamschror says Williams is one of his best defenders, and will be counted on as much for his defense as a scorer this season. Another senior that will be counted on to lead the Valiants is Demonte Taylor. He averaged 9 poinyts per game and 7 rebounds for the Valiants last season. “Demonte will be expected to play a big role for us this season.,” said Stamschror. Coming off the bench will be Bowen Patrick, who averaged 4 points per game in 2020-2021.

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Andy Stamschror

WHAT TO EXPECT While the Valiants have some key guys returning, losing 6 seniors on an already small roster will sting a little bit. The loss of Helmsley will most certainly have an impact, as his presence was felt inside but on the perimeter, too. But, with players like Williams and Taylor returning, Valwood will not only have talent but will also have their leadership, which is important, especially with a large number of freshman and sophomores on this years roster. They have the talent, now lets see if they can make a run in GISA Region 3-AAA this year.

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Kansas City East Christian Academy (MO)

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

Platteview (NE)

KEY LOSSES The Valiants said goodbye to 6 seniors overall from last years 9 win team, and that group included several key guys that, according to Stamschror, will be very hard to replace. They are Alec Brannen, a shooting and point guard, who averaged right at 5 points per game, and was known for his 3-point shooting prowess. “ If we were ever down and needed points to get us back in the game, Alec was the guy we turned to,” said Stamschror. Harrison Helmsley was a multisport standout at Valwood who signed on to play football at Georgia Southern.

On the hardwood, the forward averaged 9 points per game along with 8 rebounds. He also shot 43% from the field. Russell Hunter is the other player that Stamschror said will be sorely missed.

Expect another solid year under Stamschror. He will lead the Valiants to 13-wins this year.

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ITG Next | 81

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HARRIS COUNTY WRESTLING

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In April of 2020, Todd West Was Heading Home to Coach Written by: Jon Nelson Photo courtesy of walb.com

He had been coaxed out of retirement to take over the Pataula Charter program in his home town of Edison- a town about 35 miles west of Albany. He had to find a house in a hurry, but was ready to hit the proverbial ground running after being in administration over in Schley County and in his home county of Calhoun.

In his first season, the Panthers lost their first four games but rebounded in October and November- winning five of six for the most wins in the young school’s program history.

2021 was heading in that same direction going 2-2 in a non-region schedule getting ready for homecoming against Cross Keys

in late September. But Coach West was killed in a two-car automobile accident that week and a small town, a home county, and an entire fraternity was devastated in one moment.

The parade would still go on in Edison that week as would the home-away-from-home game as the school is in the process of building their athletic fields over the next few years.

But all you had to do was look at the outpouring of emotion to see how much impact one man can have.

Parents talked about how West improved the outlook of not just the football program, but the middle school baseball program, as he helped build a fu-

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ture. They would also make sure to tell anyone around about how he was a role model for everyone he came in contact with at the Academy.

And all of that impact is amplified when your enrollment is 168 plus those in middle and elementary schools on campus as well plus the town of just under 1,400 and the county and the county you were in before and the one before that. and the job before that.

The chain is long when you think about it.

So, I’ll ask this of

you this time around.

If you’re a part of a chain, stay a part of the chain. Keep an eye on those around you in a time of need and you may not know you’re needed until you ask.

There are those that are closer to you than you know who may be hurting more than you know.

Just be there if that person or persons need to reach out.

And don’t be afraid if you’re asked to be strong for someone and with that same someone.

We can all help each

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other get through tough times and, if you think about it, send an extra prayer and volumes of good vibes to southwest Georgia and anyone in the Pataula Charter and West family orbits.

They’ll need it. Not just now, but for as long as you think about it.

Be strong and play it safe, everyone.

I’ll see you soon.

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