2017-18 Basketball Preview

A Special Publication of the Messenger-Inquirer • Friday, November 24, 2017

2017-18 HIGH SCHOOL

BASKETBALL PREVIEW SCHEDULES & PRESEASON ANALYSIS

Owensboro Catholic High School seniors, from left, Hayden Riney, Luke Hayden, Bailey Ballard, JD Marshall, Gabe McFarland, Patrick Schepers and Max Reid.

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirersee more/page ?

2 Basketball

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Hungry for More Experienced Aces seeking return trip to state tournament

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL

individual job.

Reid provides the toughness and serves as the team’s vocal leader on the efore Tim Riley became head boys’ floor. basketball coach at Owensboro “That’s just how I play my game,�

Catholic High School two years ago, the 5-foot-10 point guard said. “If I can he called around to get some information contribute in any way, I want to be about the job.

The one piece of information that kept somebody who can make my teammates better in all aspects of the game.� coming back to him was the school’s Hayden, after putting up 14.3 points strong class of rising sophomores. and five rebounds per game last season, Once Riley took over, it didn’t take is the Aces’ top offensive threat — and long for him to see it for himself. the 6-foot-3 forward has been Catholic’s “Part of the reason to come here top scorer for the past two years. was the attraction of this group of “I just want to be the best teammate kids,� he said, “and they really have not that I can be and make everybody around disappointed.� me better,� said Hayden of his mindset.

In Riley’s first season at the helm, the Marshall, whose contributions were Aces won 9th District and 3rd Region marginal as a sophomore, titles, advancing to the broke out a season ago to KHSAA state tournament “We have been the tune of 10.9 points and for the first time in together for a long 6.8 rebounds per game. school history. They lost, time. So obviously we Now his sights are set 58-34, to South Oldham even higher. in the opening round in plan on being “Ever since my Lexington. successful. We’ve sophomore year, I’ve Last season, Catholic talked about this year just gotten better and won its second straight since middle school. We better and better,� the district crown before forward said. “It’s falling to Meade County want to be successful 6-foot-7 crazy to see how much in the region tournament and hopefully make it progression I’ve made semifinals.

After playing vital roles back to state this year.� thanks to (Riley). He’s had so much success getting for the past two seasons, to state and developing this year’s group of seniors — JD Marshall players, so I’m just eager — Bailey Ballard, Luke to have one more year Hayden, Gabe McFarland, senior under him to learn.�

JD Marshall, , Max Reid, Two years ago, Riney Hayden Riney and Patrick stepped into a starting role when the Aces Schepers — are intent on continuing the ventured to the state tournament. After momentum they’ve built so far. then-senior Cameron O’Bryan went down It wasn’t a process that began just a to injury in the 3rd Region Tournament, couple years ago, either.

Riney’s role expanded. Since then, he’s “We have been together for a long been the team’s defensive stopper. time,� Marshall said, “So obviously we Ballard and McFarland have also plan on being successful. We’ve talked improved tremendously, Riley added, and about this year since middle school. We Schepers is expected to supply leadership want to be successful and hopefully make from the bench. it back to state this year.� “They all have shined at some point The always-competitive 9th District in time,� Riley said. “If we win, they’ll all will pose a challenge along the way, have their moments.� as the Aces are well aware, but Riley’s Put all of those ingredients together, preseason message to his players has and the Aces feel like they’ve got been simple: The strength of the team everything needed for a successful relies on each person performing his recipe.

B

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Owenboro Catholic’s Max Reid drives against Muhlenberg County’s Ty Vincent (who transferred to Owensboro Catholic) last year at the Owensboro Sportscenter. “This is a good group of guys, and they’re also good basketball players,�

Riley said. “This would be a good class of basketball players for most every school in Kentucky.�

Over the last two seasons, this group of seniors has won 44 games SEE HUNGRY/PAGE 20

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Apollo Boys

Focused Eagles seeking redemption in district Eight seniors bring a lot of experience

BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

T

he Apollo High School boys’ basketball program is looking for a season of redemption, having been eliminated by arch-rival Daviess County 63-60 in overtime in the opening round of last season’s 9th District Tournament.

“It left a bitter taste in our mouths,” Eagles coach Steve Barker said of that “Alex is the outcome. “Our high-energy coaches haven’t forgotten it, our guy who makes us go. returning players haven’t forgotten He’s a it, and it will ser ve potential as a season-long motivation for us to doublefinish and get the double guy done.” who is always jobApollo, 22-7 in around the 2016-17, figures basketball to be in the thick of the hunt again, and who despite the loss of never gives guard Zach up on a play. do-it-all Hopewell (20.5 ppg, He loves the 4.6 rpg). Having game, and he eight seniors on the plays it with roster will help.

“This is an great experienced group passion.” of kids who have — Steve Barker been around me Apollo boys coach for a while — they understand our system, know what’s expected of them, know what it takes to succeed at this level of play,” Barker said. “We have guys who have been there and done that, so to speak, and they’ve worked hard to become better players.

“Plus, we have some new varsity

Nathan Boyle

Alex Gray

Hayden Shelton

2017-18 SCHEDULE 12/1 at Warren Central 7 12/4 Webster County 7 12/8 Owensboro Catholic 7 12/9 at Grayson County 7:30 12/12 Butler County 7 12/15 at Owensboro 7:15 12/21-23 at OIT 12/27-29 Apollo Fairfield Inn Invitational 1/5 Daviess County 7 1/6 at McCracken County

(Mustang Madness) 7:45 1/16 Breckinridge County 7 1/19 at Owensboro Catholic 7 1/20 Evansville Central 7 1/22 at McLean County 7 1/26 Muhlenberg County 7:30 1/30 at Ohio County 7 2/2 Owensboro 7 2/3 at Paducah Tilghman 7 2/6 Henderson County 7 2/9 at Daviess County 7 2/10 Hancock County 7 2/13 at Madisonville-North Hopkins 7 2/16 McLean County 7

double-double guy who is always around the basketball and who never gives up on a play. He loves the game, and he plays it with great passion.”

Hayden Shelton, a 6-3 senior, and Meechi Chambers (6 ppg, 3.1 rpg), a Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer 6-2 senior, will also vie for backcourt Angel Saldana runs through practice with teammates on Nov. 8. playing time.

“Hayden can shoot the ball and “Nathan is a tremendous players who are going to be great student-athlete who really goes about get to the basket, and his presence additions to the program. They’re will take some pressure off Nathan eager to break into the mix and help it the right way,” Barker said. “He Boyle on the perimeter,” Barker said. has great ability to score, and he’s make us the best team we can be.”

“Meechi is a quality defender who worked hard on being able to get to The Eagles will be led by 6-foot-5 the rim, and that will be a new facet of can finish around the rim and is just a senior guard Nathan Boyle (13.1 great athlete.” ppg, 4 rpg) and 6-3 senior guard Alex his game this season.

“Alex is the high-energy guy Gray (9.6 ppg, 6.7 rpg) — a pair of who makes us go. He’s a potential proven veterans.

SEE REDEMPTION/PAGE 17

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Apollo Girls

Rhodes expected to lead rebuilding E-Gals Apollo had best record in region

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BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he Apollo High School girls’ basketball team experienced a dramatic turnaround last season, going from 11-20 in 2015-16 to a 3rd Region-best 25-8 — winning the 9th District championship and finishing runner-up to Grayson County in the regional tournament under first-year co-head coaches Willis McClure “Braelyn is a Natalie Payne. great basketball andNow, the player. I love the E-Gals are looking way she can get for an encore to the rim and — after losing seniors to the way she can seven graduation. step out and “We lost a lot of production,” make the perimeter shot. Payne said, “but we like our Her ability to returning players, score inside and and we have some out makes her impressive young within our one of the most talent program. difficult players “This team in the region to has worked very hard during the guard.” preseason, and we — Natalie Payne want to keep the Apollo girls co-head momentum going coach that we worked so hard to establish last season.”

The cupboard is far from bare.

Apollo returns one of the region’s best all-around players in 5-foot-11 senior guard-forward Braelyn Rhodes, who averaged 15.7 points and 6.1 rebounds per game as a junior. She shot 50 percent from the field, including 40 percent from 3-point range.

“Braelyn is a great basketball player,” Payne said. “I love the way she can get to the rim and the way she can step out and make the perimeter shot. Her ability to score inside and

Lexi Shadowen Keisha Mattingly

Kassidy Clark

2017-18 SCHEDULE 11/27 at Henderson County 7:30 12/2 Warren Central 4:30 12/5 Union County 7:30 12/8 Owensboro Catholic 5:30 12/12 at South Warren 7 12/5 at Owensboro 5:30 12/21-23 at OIT 12/28-30 at Allen County-Scottsville South

Central Bank-Halton Classic 1/2 Meade County 7 1/5 Daviess County 5:30 1/8 at Butler County 7:30 1/9 Hopkins County Central 7:30 1/13 Bowling Green 4:30 1/16 at Breckinridge County 7 1/19 at Owensboro Catholic 5:30 1/22 Grayson County 7 1/25 Hancock County 7 1/27 at Christian County 1:30 1/30 Logan County 7 2/2 Owensboro 5:30 2/3 at Allen County-Scottsville 6:30 2/5 Muhlenberg County 7 2/9 at Daviess County 5:30 2/12 at McLean County 7:30 2/15 Madisonville-North Hopkins 7 Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Apollo’s Braelyn Rhodes dumps off a pass to Ally Paige Kirk under the basket against Grayson County during the championship game in the girls’ 3rd Region Basketball Tournament last year at the Sportscenter. out makes her one of the most difficult players in the region to guard.”

“Defensively, she can cause havoc with her wingspan, and she’s a lock-down defender. She also jumps well, which helps her rebound well — she’s the total package.”

Also back is 5-6 junior Lexi Shadowen, who will run the show out front after averaging 4.1 points and 1.8

rebounds per game as a sophomore.

“I think Lexi is ready for the challenge of being our point guard,” Payne said. “She’s worked hard to become a better ball-handler, and she’s a capable scorer, too.”

Apollo will also be counting on breakout seasons from 5-7 senior SEE LEAD/PAGE 17

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Basketball

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Daviess County Boys 2017-18 SCHEDULE

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Daviess County’s Dakota Walden brings the ball up court under pressure from Muhlenberg County’s Austin Sailing during a game in the Boys’ 3rd Region Basketball Tournament last year at the Sportscenter.

11/28 at Madisonville-North Hopkins 7:30 12/2 Bowling Green

(at Muhlenberg County First

State Bank Tipoff Classic) 6 12/5 at Edmonson County 7:30 12/8 at Owensboro 7:15 12/9 Logan County

(Kentucky 811 Shootout) 6:30 12/11 Trinity (Whitesville) 7:30 12/15 at Owensboro Catholic 7 12/18 Butler County 7:30 12/21 St. Xavier OIT 6:00 12/26 Wolfe County (at Lexington

Catholic Traditional Bank

Holiday Classic) 2:30 1/5 at Apollo 7 1/9 at Breckinridge County 7 1/12 at Ohio County 7:30 1/19 Owensboro 7:15 1/22 at Hancock County 7:30 1/23 Henderson County 7:30 1/27 vs. Central Hardin (at John Hardin

Nathan McCurry Classic) 2:45 1/30 at Muhlenberg County 7:30 2/2 Owensboro Catholic 7 2/3 Meade County 6:30 2/6 McLean County 7:30 2/9 Apollo 7 2/13 at Grayson County 7:30 2/15 John Hardin 6

Veteran Panthers eager to finish the deal Boswell, Owen, Coomes will lead DC

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BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

aviess County nearly made it to the promised land last season, finishing 21-13 and advancing all the way to the 3rd Region Tournament championship game before losing a narrow 52-50 decision to Meade County at the Sportscenter.

The Panthers are eager to take the next step this season, according

Blake Boswell

Jay Owen

Caden Coomes

to third-year coach Neil Hayden.

“We’re three years in, not re-tooling anything,” Hayden said.

“We’re just building on what’s already been established the past couple of seasons, and I believe we’re a little ahead of the cur ve this year in terms of preparation and being ready for the season to start.”

A cast of familiar veterans will lead the way.

“I feel good about our senior group,” Hayden said. “They’re tight-knit, they work hard, and they care about each other. The trust is there after playing together for so long, and that can take a team a long way.”

Leading the way for the Panthers will be 6-foot-1 senior guard Blake Boswell (14.4 ppg, 4.8 rpg), 5-10 senior point guard Jay Owen (11.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg) and 6-foot senior guard Caden Coomes (9.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg).

“Blake is one of the most competitive kids I’ve coached — he’s just a battler who wants to win,” Hayden said. “Jay is a solid perimeter shooter who will need to handle (the ball) well for us, and Caden is one of our most consistent

guys in practice, capable of breaking through with a huge season.”

SEE EAGER/PAGE 19

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Daviess County Girls

New era begins for Lady Panthers DC has a good core of talented returnees

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BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he post-Emma Johnson era begins at Daviess County this season, and Lady Panthers coach Jordan Ferguson fully understands that it will take a collective effort to make up for the loss of one of the greatest players in program history.

“We obviously lost a lot when we lost her,” Ferguson said of Johnson, a Murray State signee who averaged 21 points and 6.3 rebounds per game as a senior. “She was a great, great basketball player, and we’re going to have to have several players step up and provide production.

“We’ve had a great preseason, though. The girls have worked hard, have been very positive about our approach, and we’re looking forward to the challenge.

“Last year was a transition year with a new coaching staff, and this year has been much smoother in that regard.

We’re all familiar with each other now, and we’ve been able to get down to business and make a lot of progress.”

Despite the loss of Johnson, DC maintains a core of talented returnees, including 5-foot-11 senior forward Bailey Hume, who averaged 11.1 points and five rebounds per game last year, while hitting 37 percent from 3-point range.

“Bailey is a great player to have back,” Ferguson said. “She’s very smooth in everything she does on the court. She’s extremely smart, and she always makes the right play. She’s not a rah-rah type, but she’s a tremendous competitor and a quiet leader of our team.”

Also back is 5-6 senior point guard Mikayla Hamilton (8.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 40 percent from 3-point range) and 5-6 senior guard Kailey Bowers (3 ppg, 3 apg, 1.7 rpg).

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Daviess County’s Mikayla Hamilton handles the ball during practice on Nov. 9 at Daviess County High School.

“We’re inexperienced as a whole,” Ferguson said. “We only have three players with significant varsity experience, and we’re going to need for them to be real leaders for us, to help bring our young talent along.”

SEE ERA/PAGE 19

2017-18 SCHEDULE 11/27 Breckinridge County 7 12/2 at LaRue County

(Corky Cox Classic) 5:30 12/5 at Edmonson County 6 12/8 at Owensboro 5:30 12/9 McLean County

(Kentucky 811 Shootout) 1 12/11 at South Spencer (Ind.) 7:15 12/12 at Logan County 7:30 12/15 at Owensboro Catholic 5:30 12/21 vs. Hopkinsville (OIT) 4:30 12/22 vs. Owensboro (OIT) 3 12/23 vs. Henderson County (OIT) 11 12/28 vs. Grayson County (at Hopkins

County Central Lady Storm Classic) 7:45 12/29 vs. Clarksville (Tenn.) Northeast

(Hopkins County Central

Lady Storm Classic) 1:30 12/29 at Hopkins County Central

(Lady Storm Classic) 8:30 1/5 at Apollo 5:30 1/8 at Ohio County 7:30 1/9 at Trinity (Whitesville) 5:30 1/13 Henderson County 3:30 1/15 at Muhlenberg County 7 1/16 Butler County 7:30 1/19 Owensboro 5:30 1/22 at Hancock County 5:30 1/23 at McLean County 7 1/27 Meade County 3:30 2/2 Owensboro Catholic 5:30 2/5 Grayson County 7 2/9 Apollo 5:30 2/13 Union County 7:30 2/15 Warren Central 7:45

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7

Owensboro Boys

Seasoned Devils expect to contend OHS wants to find postseason success again

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BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he state championship hangover has been ver y real for Owensboro, which, after winning the KHSAA state championship in 2015, has since gone 22-29 and has failed to win a postseason game over the past two seasons.

Veteran Red Devils coach Rod Drake is expecting that to change this season.

“We have a chance to be pretty good because of our experience,” said Drake, whose team went 13-15 last year and fell to Owensboro Catholic, 63-59, in the opening round of the 9th District Tournament. “We lost a lot of close ballgames last year because of our youth, and I believe our experience will help us win those close games this year.

“We’ve had a real good summer, and this team has bonded ver y well.

This is far and away the best team chemistr y we’ve had since the state championship season.”

The player who makes OHS go is 6-foot senior guard Cor y Gardner, the team’s leading scorer (14.3 ppg) last season.

“He’s a leader on and off the court, and you have to have those type of guys to be successful,” Drake said of Gardner. “He’s a hard worker, and he could be one of the leading scorers in western Kentucky this season because of his explosiveness.”

Also back are 6-2 senior for wards Deonte Douglas (10.4 ppg, 2.8 rpg) and Jeron Tinsley (8.7 ppg, 5 rpg).

“Deonte is capable of having a breakout season for us,” Drake said, “and Jeron has changed his body through conditioning and being in the weight room. I expect big things

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro’s Cory Gardner gets around Owensboro Catholic’s Max Reid during a game at Owensboro High School on Feb. 22 in Owensboro.

Deonte Douglas

Jeron Tinsley

Klain Creamer

from both of them in their senior seasons.”

Another key returnee is 6-5 senior center Klain Creamer, who produced 4.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game last season.

“Klain can run the court with the best of them, and we plan to take advantage of that in matchups when we can,” Drake said. “If he can stay close to the basket at the offensive

end, he could be dangerous. He can get some scoring done for us in the paint.”

Running the point will be 5-11 junior Darrion Wimsatt (2.8 ppg).

“He’s the total package out front,” Drake said of Wimsatt. “He can shoot it, and he can distribute it, and he’s another player on our roster capable of a breakout season.”

Among others expected to be major contributors will be Lance Lewis, a deep-shooting 6-2 senior guard, and Taeron Hogg, a 6-5 senior power for ward.

“Our depth should not be an issue,” Drake said. “We should be SEE CONTEND/PAGE 18

2017-18 SCHEDULE 12/4 at Trinity (Whitesville) 7:30 12/5 at Warren Central 7:30 12/8 Daviess County 7:15 12/9 vs. North Hardin (Daviess County/

Kentucky 811 Shootout) 5:30 12/12 Christian County 7:30 12/15 Apollo 7:15 12/18 at Ohio County 7:30 12/21-23 at OIT 1/2 Castle (Ind.) 7:30 1/5 Owensboro Catholic 7:15 1/6 Taylor County 7:30 1/12 at Muhlenberg County 7:30 1/16 Grayson County 7:45 1/19 at Daviess County 7:15 1/23 Madisonville-North Hopkins 7:15 1/26 at Evansville Bosse 7:30 1/30 Breckinridge County 7 2/2 at Apollo 7 2/6 Bowling Green 7:30 2/9 at Owensboro Catholic 7:15 2/13 at Hopkinsville 6 2/15 at Henderson County 7:30

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro Girls

Lady Devils seeking culture change Tutt should emerge as leader for OHS

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BY JIM PICKENS

Kya Collier

Tayonna Greer Mykael Winstead

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ansen Locher takes the reigns of the Owensboro High School girls’ basketball program this season, and the young mentor believes the Lady Devils can become a force to be reckoned with by postseason tournament time.

Certainly, he says, the preseason has gone well.

“We’ve had a great beginning,” said Locher, who replaces veteran Andy Groves at the helm. “It’s taken some time for them to get used to a new head coach and a new staff, and it’s taken us time to get to know and understand the players, but we’re coming along fine.

“One thing we’ve really emphasized is to make easy plays, make the natural play. Don’t tr y to do too much, but instead let your natural athletic ability and instincts take over.

“One of the keys to our success this season will be to best utilize our skills, and that would be speed and athleticism at both ends of the floor.

If we do that well, we believe we’ll be competitive when it counts in Februar y.”

Leading the way will be mercurial 5-foot-8 senior guard-for ward Jaleah Tutt, who averaged 10.3 points and five rebounds per game a year ago.

“Jaleah is one of the most gifted athletes in the 3rd Region, and we want to maximize her abilities to the fullest,” Locher said. “She’s fast, jumps out of the gym, and our plan is to play her off the ball a little bit. She

2017-18 SCHEDULE 11/28 Butler County 7:30 12/1 at Ohio County 7:30 12/4 at Trinity (Whitesville) 6 12/5 Muhlenberg County 7:30 12/8 Daviess County 5:30 12/12 Christian County 6 12/15 Apollo 5:30 12/18 at Union County 7:30 12/22 vs. Daviess County (OIT) 3 12/29 at Murray

(Murray Bank Lady Tiger Classic) 1:45 12/29 vs. North Hardin

(Murray Bank Lady Tiger Classic) 5 1/5 Owensboro Catholic 5:30 1/8 at Logan County 7:30 1/13 at University Heights 2:30 1/16 Grayson County 6 1/19 at Daviess County 5:30 1/22 McLean County 7:30 1/23 Madisonville-North Hopkins 6 1/27 Logan County 3:30 1/29 Hancock County 7 2/2 at Apollo 5:30 2/3 Edmonson County 4:15 2/5 at Meade County TBD 2/9 at Owensboro Catholic 5:30 2/10 Webster County 3:30 2/13 at Breckinridge County 7 2/16 at Butler County 7:30

can cause havoc (for opponents) at both ends of the floor.”

Also back is 5-8 senior guard Kya Collier (4.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg), one of the squad’s most consistent performers.

SEE CHANGE/PAGE 18

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro’s Jaleah Tutt drives in for a basket against Warren East’s Allison Hendrick during the second quarter of game last season at Owensboro High School.

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Owensboro Catholic Boys

Veteran Aces seek to break through again Riley wants team to play at a higher level

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BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

season after playing in the KHSAA state tournament for the first time in its nearly seven-decade history, Owensboro Catholic was strong again in 2016-17 — going 22-11, winning the 9th District championship and reaching the 3rd Region Tournament semifinals before being eliminated by eventual champion Meade County.

Now, however, the Aces — featuring six battle-tested seniors — are intent on returning to Rupp Arena under veteran coach Tim Riley, who, indeed, is quite familiar with the road to Lexington.

“I like the look of our basketball team,” Riley said. “We have length, we have skill and we have experience.

“I think the key will be for us to challenge ourselves to compete at a higher level of play. All the components are there for success, but we’ve got to be committed to putting forth the effort and execution that will make us the best team we can possibly be.”

Leading the way for the Aces will be Luke Hayden, a 6-foot-3, 190-pound senior forward who has scored more than 1,200 points in his prep career.

Last season, Hayden produced 14.3 points and five rebounds per game.

“Luke is a quiet kid who works really hard and plays the game the way it’s supposed to be played,” Riley said. “For the first time in his career he likes the idea of going inside, and I look forward to seeing how beneficial that’s going to be for us.”

Other key returnees include 6-7 senior forward-center JD Marshall (10.9 ppg, 6.8 rpg), 5-10 senior guard

JD Marshall

Max Reid

Bailey Ballard

2017-18 SCHEDULE 11/28 South Spencer (Ind.) 7:30 12/1 at Meade County 8 12/5 at Muhlenberg County 7:30 12/8 at Apollo 7 12/9 Warren East (at South Warren/

Rafferty’s Shootout) Noon 12/15 Daviess County 7 12/21 vs. Bullitt East (OIT) 1:30 12/22 vs. Apollo (OIT) 6 12/23 vs. Monroe County (OIT) 12:30 12/27-29 at Ashland Invitational 1/5 at Owensboro 7:15 1/6 at Grayson County 7 1/9 at Trinity (Whitesville) 7:30 1/11 vs. Trinity (Whitesville) in All ‘A’

Region at McLean County 7:30 1/19 Apollo 7 1/22 Ohio County 7:30 1/30 at Madisonville N. Hopkins 7:30 2/2 at Daviess County 7 2/3 at Breckinridge County 1:30 2/9 Owensboro 7:15 2/10 vs. Fern Creek (at Bowling

Green/Wes Strader Schoolboy Shootout) TBD 2/13 at Ohio County 7:30 2/15 Muhlenberg County 7:30

Max Reid (3.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg), 6-6 swingman Bailey Ballard (3.4 ppg, 1.8 rpg), 6-4 senior forward Gabe McFarland (3.6 ppg, 2.7 rpg), 6-2 senior guard Hayden Riney (4.7 ppg, 1.8 rpg), and 5-10 junior guard Peyton Survant (1.3 ppg).

SEE BREAK/PAGE 18

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Owenboro Catholic’s Luke Hayden gets his arm hit as he goes up for a shot against Muhlenberg County’s Will Nofsinger (24) and Jordan Terry (21) during the boy’s’ basketball game last season at the Owensboro Sportscenter.

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro Catholic Girls

Lady Aces looking for more this time

Mitchell, Keelin lead several key returnees

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2017-18 SCHEDULE

BY JIM PICKENS

FOR THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER

or some time now, the bar has been set exceptionally high for the Owensboro Catholic girls’ basketball program, and nothing changes in that regard this season.

The Lady Aces won 19 games last season and advanced to the 3rd Region Tournament, where they dropped a 61-56 decision to Breckinridge County in the opening round.

A solid season, to be sure, but Catholic will be shooting for more in 2017-18.

“We return a lot of players with skill and varsity experience,” said OCHS coach Michael Robertson, who lost only steady guard Katelin Maggard from last season’s starting five.

“The biggest thing for us is to get everybody playing together, and in the preseason we have started to gel. We’ve begun to see the type of cohesiveness as a unit that we’ve been looking for, and that’s a great sign for our program.”

Three-year starter Ellie Mitchell, a 5-foot -11 forward, leads the way. Last season, the versatile Mitchell averaged 12 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, playing virtually every position on the court.

“Ellie can do it all,” Robertson said.

“She’s very deceptive. She can score, rebound, pass, and she’s a very good defensive player. She’s been around a long time, and she knows what it takes to win at the highest level.”

Other key returnees include 6-1 junior forward McKenzie Keelin (12 ppg, 5.1 rpg), 6-1 junior center Sarah Beth Clemens (10 ppg, 5.7 rpg), 6-foot sophomore forward Hannah McKay (6.2 ppg, 4.4 rpg), and 5-7 sophomore guard Spencer Harvey (4.1 ppg, 1.7 rpg).

“I’m looking for Sarah Beth to be a dominant force in the region at both ends of the floor,” Robertson said, “and McKenzie can score with anyone in the region — we just need for her to be more physical and more tenacious.

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer

Owensboro Catholic’s Ellie Mitchell jumps over Grayson County’s Bailey Snyder after they collide during a game last season at the Sportscenter.

Mackenzie Keelin

Sarah Beth Clemens

Spencer Harvey

“Otherwise, we have several players who have the opportunity to break through with very big seasons for us, and if that happens we’re going to be in pretty good shape.”

Others in the mix for the Lady Aces include 5-8 senior guard Brynnan Booth, 5-11 junior forward Madelyn Lyon and

5-6 sophomore guard Caroline Reid, who could shoulder some of the load in replacing Maggard.

Robertson feels that he has a well-rounded team, despite the loss of senior Meg Patton and junior Caroline Head to season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.

“We have quality depth, and that helps in a lot of ways, including competitive practices,” Robertson said. “Also, if you don’t bring it at the start of a game, you might not get back in the game if your replacement is being productive. Having depth is always a blessing for any team.”

Now, it’s just a matter of putting everything together in a program that has become a perennial contender for the 3rd Region championship — last winning it

11/27 Ohio County 7 12/1 at Meade County 6 12/2 Elizabethtown

(Independence Bank Classic) 7 12/5 Warren Central 7 12/8 at Apollo 5:30 12/15 Daviess County 5:30 12/16 vs. Hopkinsville (Muhlenberg

County/Donnie Watkins

Christmas Classic) 4 12/21 vs. Evansville Bosse (OIT) 9 a.m.

12/22 vs. Apollo (OIT) 4:30 12/23 vs. Webster County (OIT) 11 12/27 vs. Beech (Tenn.) at Riverdale

(Tenn.) State Farm Classic 3:30 12/28 vs. Shelbyville Central (Tenn.)

at Riverdale (Tenn.) State

Farm Classic 3:30 1/2 at Muhlenberg County 7:30 1/5 at Owensboro 5:30 1/6 Marshall County 6 1/9 Sacred Heart 6 1/11 vs. Trinity (Whitesville) at All ‘A’

3rd Region at McLean County 6 1/19 Apollo 5:30 1/20 at Webster County 6 1/30 Allen County-Scottsville 7:30 2/2 at Daviess County 5:30 2/6 Christian County 7:30 2/8 at Grayson County 7 2/9 Owensboro 5:30 2/10 at Murray (Independence

Bank Valentine’s Shootout) 6 2/12 at Henderson County 7:30 2/16 at Breckinridge County 7

in 2016, when the Lady Aces reached the Sweet 16 quarterfinals.

“For us, doing all the little things well will be an important factor in our success,” Robertson said. “It’s about developing that consistent commitment to hard work and always being focused on the task at hand.

“The potential is definitely here for a really good season, but we’ve got to continue to develop our chemistry and trust in one another, be willing and eager to share the basketball and then work hard together at the defensive end and on the boards.

“We’re certainly looking forward to the challenge.”

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Basketball

11

10th District Boys

10th District title race appears wide open Young squads looking to learn as they go

A

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL MESSENGER-INQUIRER

year ago, Muhlenberg County and Ohio County battled for 10th District boys’ basketball bragging rights.

The Mustangs edged the Eagles, 53-50, in the district tournament finale, and both teams went on to the 3rd Region Tournament. However, neither squad managed to advance past the opening round.

Both Muhlenberg County and Ohio County will seek improved performances in 2017-18, while McLean County looks to make it a three-way race for district supremacy.

Eades said. “At this point, we have a lot of inexperience on our roster. ... What we do know, however, is that we want to have a team that competes at a high level for 32 minutes.”

The key to forming that team identity, Eades added, is to challenge his players with top-level competition along the way.

“We have a very high standard for this program and for what we want to accomplish as a basketball team,” he said.

“Ultimately, our goal is to maximize our potential as a team and to be playing our best basketball at tournament time.”

OHIO COUNTY

The Eagles finished 15-14 last year, with their season coming to a close in a 60-57 loss to Owensboro Catholic in the first round of the 3rd Region Tournament.

Coach Tony Hopper saw plenty of positives in his first season with Ohio County, and he’s hoping to carry that momentum over into this season.

“It’s always helpful to players to have MCLEAN COUNTY the same coach for an extended time,” The Cougars were disappointed by he said, “so I have had these guys for last season’s year-long struggles, which a calendar year now. We have worked resulted in a 3-26 record. They were hard in the offseason to get stronger and eliminated in the opening round of the develop our skills.”

10th District Tournament by Muhlenberg Though Hopper’s squad lost three Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer starters, expectations are that 5-8 senior County, 87-53.

McLean County’s Logan Patterson drives against Apollo’s Nathan Boyle during a guard Dylan Decker (7.1 ppg, 39.3 Senior guard Keenan Smith is back as the Cougars’ top player after ranking boys’ basketball game last season at Eagle Arena. percent from 3) and 6-3 senior forward second in scoring (11.6 ppg) as a junior.

Logan Sandefur (5.8 ppg) — both Cougars will have to overcome their experience to our team, but has a lot Smith connected on 42.5 percent of returning starters — will help guide Ohio inexperience to be successful throughout of tools that make him a very talented his shots from the field, including a County to its third consecutive region the season. player,” first-year coach Kyle Eades said. team-high 52-of-148 3-pointers (35.1 tournament appearance.

“We have a few starters returning, but “Will has always been an exceptional percent).

“Dylan Decker made the all-region most of them will be getting their first shooter with high basketball IQ. This “(Smith) will be one of our team last year and is our best 3-point varsity experience,” Stephens said. “We offseason, he has worked very hard on senior leaders on the floor,” coach Greg shooter,” Hopper said. “Logan Sandefur hope to play off our youthful enthusiasm his ball handling and his ability to attack Stephens said. “He’ll be the top scorer has gotten much stronger and improved and be a hard-working team that we the basket and make plays.” returning from last year’s team.” his skills.” think we can be. As we gain experience As the Mustangs work to reload after Sophomore wing Logan Patterson John Parker, a 6-4 junior forward, will and improve, we should become very losing five of their top six scorers to (7.5 ppg) is a dynamic playmaker that also provide experience. He finished third competitive.” graduation, others that saw significant Stephens is counting on. on the team in scoring (9.1 ppg) and playing time last year include 6-3 senior “He can play just about any position second in rebounding (5.3 rpg) last MUHLENBERG COUNTY forward Alex VanHook (4.1 ppg, 2.8 rpg), season. on the floor,” Stephens said of Patterson.

The Mustangs went 15-16 in 5-11 junior guard Nolan Davis (1.2 ppg) “Logan is a very hard worker and is a “I also have high expectations for 2016-17, ending their season with a and 5-6 senior guard Brody Kennedy (0.5 John Parker, who had a great summer versatile scorer.”

61-49 loss to Daviess County in the 3rd ppg).

Other seniors that Stephens will rely and improved every area of his game,” Region Tournament.

Other contributions are expected from Hopper said. on to guide his young squad include Senior Will Nofsinger, a 6-2 guard, will 5-9 junior guard Joe McInerney and 6-3 guard Dylan McMahon (5.1 ppg) and Other seniors who saw junior forward Trey Boggess. significant minutes last year are 6-5 forward Austin Blades (1.6 ppg, 2.3 rpg). be Muhlenberg County’s top returner after putting up 10.6 points with a “A big focus for us going into this McLean County has “high forward Heath Simmons (2.2 ppg, 2.6 rpg) team-high 4.4 rebounds per outing. season will be establishing who we are expectations” for the upcoming and 5-8 guard Kennedy Addington (1.3 “Will not only brings a lot of ppg). year, according to Stephens, but the as a team and how we want to play,”

12 Basketball

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

10th District Girls

Lady Mustangs hope to repeat as 10th District champs Lady Cougars experienced; Lady Eagles are young

M

OHIO COUNTY

The last three seasons for the Lady Eagles have been disastrous, as they’ve gone 14-70 under three different head coaches. The club hit bottom last season, posting a 1-28 mark.

Brigance hopes to establish the base for the program’s turnaround this season, with it being very much a rebuilding project.

The Lady Eagles will need big improvement from junior Haylee Jones and freshman Kelsey Kennedy, as they’re expected to be the floor generals.

But with little experience returning, Brigance is keeping the focus on consistent improvement.

“Anytime you have a young team you’re going to have your ups and downs,” Brigance said. “We’ve got to just keep getting better every day.”

BY BLAKE STEWART MESSENGER-INQUIRER

uhlenberg County is a contender for the 3rd Region title with its top three scorers from last season returning.

Ohio County, meanwhile, gets former coach Matt Brigance (2012-2014) back following three consecutive losing seasons under three different coaches.

Brigance was 44-17 with two district titles in two seasons as the Lady Eagles coach.

And second-year coach Arlando Johnson of McLean County will have nine upperclassmen on this year’s team, including last year’s leading scorer and rebounder, Whitley Patterson.

MCLEAN COUNTY

The Lady Cougars were often the victim of inexperience last season, with only one senior on their 10-20 squad. But with five seniors among their bevy of upperclassmen this season, Johnson is looking for his club to make significant strides.

“I like the group that we’ve got coming back,” Johnson said. “We feel like we’ve been together for a year, so they understand my system, and I understand the players, so there will be a lot more familiarity.”

After an exceptional junior campaign, Patterson, a 5-foot-9 guard who averaged 12.5 points and 6.5 rebounds a game last season, will be counted on for consistent production.

The Lady Cougars will also have Hadley Rice’s perimeter shooting. The 5-6 senior guard led last year’s squad with 43 made 3-pointers en route to averaging six points per game. Madison Miller, a 5-5 senior guard, gained valuable experience a year ago by stepping in at point guard and averaged 5.6 points per game. “(Miller) will be going back to her normal shooting (guard) position,” Johnson said. “I feel like she’ll have a big year.”

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Muhlenberg County’s Raegan Blackburn drives to the basket during a game against Edmonson County at the Owensboro Sportscenter on Feb. 28.

MUHLENBERG COUNTY

The Lady Mustangs went 18-12 last season en route to the 10th District championship, and they’re looking to build on that success.

“Our district is traditionally tough,” Muhlenberg County coach Mike Harper said. “We will need to play at a high level and improve defensively from last season.

Many of these kids have another year of experience under their belts, and that should enable them to maintain a solid focus from start to finish.”

The Lady Mustangs return their leading scorer from last season, Raegan

Blackburn. The 5-8 guard averaged 15.8 points per game.

Harper also expects his club to be formidable in the paint, with Erica Cary, a 5-10 forward who averaged 9.9 points and 6.7 rebounds a game last season, and junior Alaira Drake, a 5-9 center who scored nine points and grabbed seven boards a game, returning as team leaders.

“I look for them to improve on what they did last year and play with more confidence and poise,” said Harper of his leading trio. “It’s always a good situation when you have three players like that coming back.”

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Basketball

13

11th District Boys

Hornets have a lot of points to replace Meade is defending regional champion

CLOVERPORT

The Aces will be under the direction of first-year coach Scott

BY BLAKE STEWART MESSENGER-INQUIRER Bradley following a disappointing since his freshman year and was a 11-20 season. full-time starter last year.” ancock County had an amazing Bradley lost five seniors from White averaged nine points per season last year, finishing 27-5 game last season, while Gray scored last year’s team due to graduation, overall, 8-1 in district play. including last season’s leading 5.4 for the Hornets.

The Hornets won the 11th District championship and finished with the L ynam also said 6-foot senior scorer. However, he has seven best record in the 3rd Region. center Lathan Lamar (3 ppg) will be seniors on his roster for this season.

The Hornets, however, lost three a key contributor this season. He was Two of those seniors are for ward of their top four leading scorers from the team’s backup center the last two John Fetch (6.3 ppg) and guard last season due to graduation. seasons.

Dylan Simmons (6.2 ppg). They’re “We’ll have a few growing pains, The Hornets, who led the state in expected to be the main scoring but we expect to play competitive defensive average last season, will threats. basketball and play good again this preach defensive consistency again Bradley isn’t sure how much to year,” Hancock County coach Darren this year. expect from Aces’ seniors Kelton L ynam said.

“We’ll tr y to play off our defense L ynam isn’t Daughter y, Zayne Ray and Clayton again this year,” worried about the loss ““We’ll have a few Thompson. They all didn’t play on L ynam said. “We of leadership because last year’s varsity team. hope to have that be growing pains, but we of the number of seniors he has on this expect to play competitive a staple of this year’s team as well.” year’s team. basketball and play good “I think we’re going BRECKINRIDGE to have a lot of senior again this year . We’ll COUNTY leadership,” L ynam share the ball and look to The Fighting said. “We’ve got six make the extra pass.

Our Tigers are coming seniors that are going to be on the roster, off the worst season scoring will probably be three that didn’t play under coach Patrick balanced, kind of like it last year.”

Critchelow since the The loss of the has been the last two to 2012-13 campaign. scoring is also not But there is reason three years.” an issue for L ynam. for optimism, as As long as his team — Darren Lynam they’ll have their continues playing Hancock County boys coach two leading scorers the style of offense returning, junior they’ve played in the guards Kobe Poole and Tanner past, he expects the same balanced Whitworth. offense from previous seasons.

“We’ll share the ball and look Poole averaged a team-high to make the extra pass,” L ynam 15.2 points per game last season. said. “Our scoring will probably be Whitworth averaged 10 points and balanced, kind of like it has been the shot 48.1 percent from 3-point range. last two to three years.”

Breckinridge County will rely on The Hornets return two of their 10 upperclassmen this season — four starting guards: 5-foot-11 senior seniors and six juniors.

Jacob White and 5-11 junior Jaxson Senior for ward Kollin Bland (3.6 Gray. Both have a lot of experience ppg) and sophomore guard Brock playing on the varsity team.

“Jacob has been starting since his Lucas (2.2 ppg, 9-of-13 for 3-pointers) 4925 Frederica freshman year,” L ynam said. “Jaxson will look to have bigger offensive 270-691-9195 roles.

Gray has been playing varsity ever

H

MEADE COUNTY

The Green Wave lost to Hancock County in the 11th District title game but were able to advance way through the regional tournament and become 3rd Region champs by defeating Daviess County, 52-50, in the title game.

They lost their leading scorer and rebounder from last year but will have center Aiden Matthews returning for his senior season.

Matthews was second on the team in points and rebounds, as he averaged 10.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.

Senior Noah Schwartz (9.8 ppg) and junior Chesney Weick (8 ppg) are also valuable assets returning for coach Jason Tripure.

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14 Basketball

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

11th District Girls

Hancock County getting accustomed to Beck Wingler expected to be a top player for the Meade County Lady Waves

H

BY BLAKE STEWART MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ancock County will look to improve upon last season’s 10-17 record in head coach Steve Beck’s second season in charge.

“Starting my second season, I believe the returning players and myself have a better familiarity with each other,” Beck said.

The Lady Hornets have 12 players returning from last year’s team.

“I have a better understanding of who they are as players and individuals, and they have a better understanding of the ways I want certain things done,” Beck said.

“Hopefully this will lead to both of us being able to not overthink things and just react to situations in both practice and games.”

One of those returning players is last season’s leading scorer, Kassie Keown. The 5-foot-7 senior guard averaged 12.2 points and five rebounds per game last season.

“Kassie is a ver y skilled basketball player,” Beck said. “Sometimes she may look a little unorthodox, but she finds a way to score the ball. She has worked ver y hard on her game to improve on her weaknesses, because she understands that she’s going to

be the focal point of our opponents’ defensive game plan.”

Without their second-, third- and fourth-leading scorers from last season. Beck knows that Keown will be have to play around potential double teams.

“She is going to have to be patient and not force things early in games,” Beck said. “She needs to understand what teams are tr ying to do to her and be able to make adjustments.

She has also stepped in and been a tremendous leader for us.”

Look for Aver y Morris to step up offensively for Hancock County. The 5-7 senior averaged 3.7 points last year.

“With Kassie being keyed on by other team’s defenses, we’re looking at senior for ward Aver y Morris to step up and have a productive season in the post,” Beck said. “She’s a little undersized but is ver y strong and has the ability to put the ball on the floor and finish.”

Since Keown and Morris are the only seniors on the team, Beck will have to rely on his underclassmen to have some impact throughout the season. The Lady Hornets have four freshmen and four sophomores playing varsity.

“We have several young perimeter players that haven’t played a lot of varsity minutes that are going to be counted on to play big roles for us,” Beck said. “Each one has the ability to knock down shots from behind the 3-point line and are getting better at penetrating and finishing in the lane.”

CLOVERPORT

First-year head coach Brian Weatherholt looks to turn things around following a 11-18 record by the Lady Aces.

Cloverport has a young team this season with only one senior. They have three eighth-graders and six freshmen on the varsity roster.

Freshman Kaitlyn White led BRECKINRIDGE COUNTY the team in scoring last year as an The defending eighth-grader with 11th District “I have a better 11.9 points per game. champions posted a understanding of who they 23-11 record in Chad MEADE COUNTY are as players and Moorman’s first Dina Hackert led individuals, and they have a season as coach. the Lady Waves to a better understanding of the 16-13 record in her The Lady Tigers finished 7-1 in ways I want certain things first season as coach district competition done. Hopefully this will last year. behind their five lead to both of us being Hackert returns senior leaders, a large portion of able to not overthink things including their her team, having and just react to situations leading scorer, last season. This year in both practice and games.” lost only one senior. There they only have three are four seniors — Steve Beck seniors. on this year’s squad.

Hancock County girls coach Junior center Meade County Kayla Young, who returns its leading averaged 8.9 points last season, scorers, including Kendall Wingler, will be in line for more scoring a sophomore guard who put up 25.1 opportunities after the Lady Tigers points per game her freshman year. lost their top two scorers.

Senior Lauren Alexander averaged 11 Senior guard Riley Collins, who points and 6.9 rebounds a year ago. averaged 5.3 points per game a Fellow senior Ryleigh Board scored year ago, looks to also be in line for 10.1 points per contest. increased looks offensively.

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Basketball

15

12th District Boys

Hopeful Raiders ready for step forward W

Trinity looking to contend for district title

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL MESSENGER-INQUIRER

hitesville Trinity enters this season intent on starting a new, winning tradition in Whitesville.

The Raiders — who last finished above .500 in 2004 — should not only have a successful year, according to second-year coach Nathan West, but they should also be in contention for a district title.

“This is a special time to be a Trinity Raider fan,” said West, whose program won its last district championship in 2004.

“We have a ton of talent and depth and a beautiful new facility to play in. The players and I expect a lot from ourselves.

This is the start of a new era of Trinity Raider basketball.”

The Raiders will open play in the new St. Mary of the Woods Horn Community Center after going 7-24 and falling in the first round of the 12th District Tournament a year ago.

Though Trinity remains a bit undersized — with no player taller than 6-foot-4 — West cites his team’s depth and versatility as a reason for excitement heading into the new season.

“My current players also better understand my philosophies and style of play, which is always an adjustment under a new coach,” he said. “We hope to employ a slightly more uptempo pace, both in transition and defensively, and we hope to execute better at crucial times of the game.”

Junior Cameron Wright, a 6-4 forward, is the team’s top returner after finishing third in scoring (7.3 ppg) last season. He also led the Raiders in rebounding (6.7 rpg), shot blocking (32) and steals (50).

Wright started all 30 games a season ago, and expectations are even higher for this year.

“His overall offensive game and confidence have skyrocketed after a

very successful summer, and I expect a breakout season from him,” West said. “In fact, I think he will be a top-10 player in the region this year, and a top-three player next year. He’s that talented.”

Other starters include 5-10 senior point guard Dalton Crisp (4.1 ppg, 2.4 apg), 6-1 junior shooting guard Trenton Morris (2.9 ppg), 6-2 junior forward Joe Brown (1.5 ppg, 44-percent shooter) and 6-1 senior forward Zach Roberts (1.3 ppg).

Others who West will count on for contributions will be 5-10 senior guard Zach McDowell, 6-2 senior center Zeke Roberts, 6-foot sophomore guard Landon Hall, 5-8 sophomore point guard Ethan Howard and 5-6 sophomore guard Will Edge. Additional depth will come from 5-11 junior forward Sam Russelburg, 6-3 junior big man Devin Rhinerson and 6-foot sophomore forward Brenden Wathen.

The majority of the roster played in at least 25 games last season, and West is banking on his team’s growth and maturity since then to pay off.

“After struggling last season, I think we will be exponentially better,” he said. “Outside of (graduated) Eric Howard, the majority of my players were very inexperienced, and — while we graduated four key contributors — everyone else received a lot of playing time and experience.”

BUTLER COUNTY

Senior Will Moore, a 6-2 guard, returns to lead the Bears after scoring a team-high 14.1 points per game last year.

Butler County went 13-16 a season ago, finishing as the 10th District runner-up before falling to Daviess County in the second round of the 3rd Region Tournament.

The Bears also return an experienced duo in senior guards Brennan Grubb (7.7 ppg) and Caleb

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com

Whitesville Trinity’s Dalton Crisp looks to pass while being defended by Owensboro Catholic’s Gabe McFarland during a game on Jan. 11 at the Owensboro Sportscenter.

Beasley (7.2 ppg) — who both played in all 29 games last year.

EDMONSON COUNTY

The Wildcats are looking for their second consecutive district title after topping Butler County for the 12th District Tournament championship last year.

Edmonson County finished its year 19-11, including a loss to eventual region champion Meade County in the opening round of the 3rd Region Tournament.

Top players for coach Mike McClintic’s squad — made up of eight seniors — are expected to be guard Tucker Cole (6.8 ppg, 3.5 rpg), forwards Logan Lindsey (3.2 ppg) and Brayden Carey (1.5 ppg) and forward John Vincent (1.4 ppg).

GRAYSON COUNTY

Travis Johnston steps into his first season coaching the Cougars, who finished 14-16 last year and lost to Butler County in the first round of the 12th District Tournament.

Grayson County returns senior guard Bailey Logsdon, who averaged 10.8 points per game last year.

Other top returnees include junior guard Caleb Ray (6.0 ppg), junior forward Josh Embry (3.5 ppg) and junior guard Logan Majors (3.2 ppg).

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16 Basketball

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

12th District Girls

Lady Raiders young but experienced this season Edmonson wants a breakthrough year in district

game and added 5.5 rebounds. improve as the season goes on.

“We just want to continue to get This year’s team has two seniors, better,” Cummings said. “There’s Erin Kinsey and Valerie Wilkerson. going to be high moments and low Kinsey, 5-7 guard, averaged 11.9 moments, but the toughest thing is to points and 5.2 rebounds a game last season. Wilkerson, 5-4 guard, was not be our best in district tournament and regional tournament time. on last season’s team.

“I look for ward to seeing how good Cummings expects Wathen, Kinsey

BY BLAKE STEWART we can be by the end of the season.” and Wilkerson to MESSENGER-INQUIRER lead as examples for “We just want to continue irst-year head coach John BUTLER COUNTY all of the younger Cummings takes the reigns The Lady Bears to get better.

There’ s players on the team of a ver y young Whitesville finished 12-17 last going to be high moments with their attitude Trinity squad that consists of season under and willingness to and low moments, but the Brian Bivens, coach only four upperclassmen and six who is improve. toughest thing is to be our entering his fourth underclassmen, including four “All three work eighth-graders. best in district season as head coach. extremely hard, so All four eighth-graders do, Butler County lost tournament and regional that really helps however, have experience playing its top three leading tournament time. I look scorers from last the younger ones,” varsity, as all were on last year’s Cummings said. forward to seeing how 18-13 sqaud that went winless in 12th season to graduation.

The Lady Radiers District play. good we can be by the end The Lady Bears also have their “We’re going to be ver y young, only have one senior, of the season.” leading rebounder, but that’s a good thing,” Cummings Maddy Murphy. The said. “The kids really work hard, and 5-9 sophomore — John Cummings 5-10 for ward averaged Morgan Kinsey, and they’re ver y fundamental, which are Trinity girls coach 6.7 points and tied a third leading scorer, two great things to start with.” team-high with 6.6 Cummings has 21 years experience 5-6 eighth-grader rebounds last season.

Cassidy Morris, returning. coaching varsity basketball, 11 as a Bivens’ record has improved in Kinsey hauled in 9.7 rebounds a head coach. His last head coaching each season he’s coached the Lady game and 5.5 points last year. Morris Bears. stint was with Ohio County in the scored 11.2 points and 5.1 rebounds 2014-15 season. per game.

Trinity returns all of its starters EDMONSON COUNTY Cummings knows this season will from last season, including leading Third-year coach Kevin Jackson have its struggles, but he’s confident will look to finally catapult his team scorer Nina Wathen, a 5-foot-6 junior guard who averaged 19 points per his team can adapt and consistently

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to a 12th District championship — the Lady Cats have lost to Grayson County in the title game the last six seasons.

Edmonson County only lost one player from last year’s 23-9 team.

They have five seniors leading the way this season, including their top two leading scorers from a year ago.

Caitlin Simon is a 5-9 guard that scored a team-high 21.2 points per game. She also averaged a team-high 5.4 rebounds a game.

Peyton Martin, 5-5 guard, averaged 15.1 points on 55.3 percent shooting. She buried a team-high 51 3-pointers.

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GRAYSON COUNTY

The Lady Cougars have won 12 straight 12th District championships and are the defending 3rd Region champs.

Josh Basham takes over as head coach this season after the Lady Cougars posted a 22-11 record under a first-year coach last seson.

The Lady Cougars lost their leading scorer and rebounder from last season but return their second-leading scorer, Hannah Saltsman. The 5-8 senior averaged 10.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. She shot 50 percent from the field and on 3-pointers.

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REDEMPTION FROM PAGE 3

The big addition is Angel Saldana, a 6-foot senior point guard from Puerto Rico who moved to Owensboro in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria this past summer.

“He’s extremely talented, and we’re thrilled to have him in our program,” Barker said of Saldana.

“He’s extremely quick, finds the open man quickly, and he’s an outstanding defender — this young man is the real deal.”

Also expected to make contributions will be 6-6 senior forward James Graham, 6-4 senior forward-center Corey Wilson and 6-3 senior Zach Greer, a standout for the Eagles on the baseball diamond.

“I like our depth potential, and we have good overall size and length,” Barker said. “I believe we’re a team that will be able to go at least eight deep, I really do. There’s going to be a lot of competition for playing time,

All the

and that’s only going to make us better.”

And, expect the Eagles to get it out and go.

“We’re going to be more up-tempo with the addition of Saldana,” Barker said. “I’ve told our other players, if they get out and run with him they’ll wind up shooting layups or wide open jumpers — he’s going to get the ball to the player in the best position to score.”

How good can Apollo be?

“Well, the district is ver y good and ver y balanced, but I believe if we get the job done at the defensive end and rebound well, we’ve got a good shot to be one of the better teams in the region,” Barker said.

“I like our talent, I like our work ethic, I like our passion for the game. It’s just a matter of putting ever ything together and then continuing to get better throughout the season.

“It’s going to be a fun season for basketball in our area, and we’re looking forward to being a big part of it.”

LEAD

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

Basketball

and I believe we’re going to develop enough depth so we can push the tempo at both ends of the court.

“We have some good young talent, FROM PAGE 4 but some of them need varsity game experience. forward Keisha Mattingly (2.8 ppg, 2.8 “The kids have bought into defense rpg), 5-6 senior guard Cassidy Clark and rebounding, energy and effort, and (1.2 ppg), 6-foot senior center Haley John (1.9 ppg, 2.9 rpg) and 5-9 senior that will carry us a long way if we can be forward Mycah Lindsey, one of the consistent with it.” squad’s most athletic players.

Ultimately, however, the E-Gals’ fate “Keisha brings all the intangibles, will largely depend on the production including toughness and the ability they receive from Rhodes. to get key rebounds,” Payne said, “Braelyn needs to carry us, night in “and Haley has a chance to be a force and night out,” Payne said. “And, the inside for us with her post defense and great thing about that is that she’s not rebounding. She’s very athletic for her afraid to carry that load. She thrives on size.” challenges, and I look for her to have an Among newcomers to varsity is 5-9 outstanding senior season as the leader freshman forward Amber Dunn. of our team.”

“She just has a knack for the game,” If everyone else accepts and fulfills Payne said of Dunn. “She has great their respective responsibilities, Payne instincts, and she will be pushing for a believes the young E-Gals can once lot of varsity minutes. Amber has the opportunity to be a very good player for again be in the hunt for championships.

“It’s going to be important for our us.” players to understand their roles and the Payne says Apollo’s level of roles of their teammates,” Payne said. “If effectiveness at the defensive end will we can come together in that way, then be the key to its success. gain the varsity experience we need as “We really need to get after it the year goes along, we can be a pretty defensively to be the best we can be,” she said. “We’re pretty versatile in spots, solid team by the end of the season.”

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17

18 Basketball

Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

BREAK FROM PAGE 9

“JD was probably one of the most improved players in our region last year, and I see no reason he can’t be the most improved player again this year,” Riley said of Marshall, who is being heavily recruited by Transylvania and Centre. “And, Max Reid has been the backbone of our team for the past two seasons — one of the absolute toughest dudes I’ve ever coached. He’ll take a charge playing on asphalt.

“Hayden Riney is our best defensive player, and Bailey, Gabe and Peyton are all capable of

breakout seasons for us, no question about it.”

Catholic will also feature Muhlenberg County transfer Ty Vincent, a 6-4 junior for ward.

“Ty’s an inside banger who could contribute,” Riley said of Vincent, who averaged 5.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per contest for the Mustangs last season.

Riley likes the Aces’ depth, and, consequently, plans to play at a brisk pace this time around.

“We’re going to run it and tr y to get easy baskets in transition off our defense,” Riley said.

“From a defensive standpoint, we’ll get after it (man-to-man), but the zone has been good for us the past couple of seasons, and we’ll continue to utilize it when it fits.

“With our size and length, I anticipate rebounding being one of our strengths, but, again,

CHANGE

taught,” Locher said. “She’s worked on her jump shot and her form has gotten so much better. She’s going to be very important to us in terms of defense FROM PAGE 8 and rebounding. She has a knack for knowing where the ball is coming off “Kya is a playmaker who does the rim.” everything well,” Locher said. “Our Locher says his squad is intent girls feed off her energy and her on changing the culture of the Lady enthusiasm for the game, and she’s Devils’ program — from the inside terrific in the open court.” out.

The best long-range threat remains “We’re going to play hard, and we’re Tayonna Greer, a 5-5 junior guard who going to play with class,” Locher said. was the team’s leading scorer last “We want to change what people think season (10.7 ppg). about our basketball program. It’s not “Tayonna is our best natural going to happen overnight, but we’re shooter,” Locher said, “and she’s going to take the steps necessary to working hard on improving her make it happen.” defense and endurance. We need her One such step will be the contributing in a number of different requirement of 10 hours of community ways.” service for every member of the team.

Locher is also high on 5-7 “We want our team to represent sophomore Mykael Winstead (5.6 ppg, 5.1 rpg), whom Locher believes is one our school well and to represent our community well,” Locher said. “We of the team’s most improved players, want to make an impact, not just “Mychael has instincts that can’t be

CONTEND FROM PAGE 7

able to go seven or eight deep with big contributions from our bench.

This will be a key element in terms of the level of success this team can achieve.”

Slightly undersized, Owensboro also must pound the boards with authoritative regularity.

“Rebounding and half-court defense are the areas we need to improve in the most,” Drake said.

“This bunch is beginning to figure

out that great defense can start our offense, and that’s significant because we plan to apply a lot of game-long, full-court pressure because of our personnel.”

One thing’s for certain, neither the Devils nor any other team can afford to take a night off in the 9th District.

“All four teams in the 9th have the potential to be ver y good — the balance is really special this season,” Drake said. “You could easily have five or six overtime games over the course of the district schedule this season.

“It’s going to be knock-down, drag-out ever y time we play — should be fun.”

it’s takes the right mentality to rebound well, and we need to give maximum effort on the boards. All of our guys have gotten sharper and stronger, so I’m looking for big things from us off the glass.”

All in all, Riley expects the Aces to be knocking on the door again — with the chance to knock it down for the second time in three seasons.

“If we score between 62 to 65 points per game,” he said, “I believe it’s going to be tough for teams to beat us.

“It all comes down to that first game of the district tournament. Win that one, and you’ve got a shot. Lose it, and your season is over. There’s a thin margin for error in the 9th. Hopefully, we’ll be sharp and ready to play right out of the gate in the postseason — ultimately, that’s what it comes down to.”

as basketball players and coaches, but as individuals who care about those around us. We want to be as well-rounded as we can be as human beings.”

On the court, meanwhile, the OHS girls plan to run, run and, yes, run some more.

“We want the pace to be uptempo as much as possible, because that plays to our strengths,” Locher said.

“We want to make it a full-court game

at both ends of the floor, with an understanding that great defense can lead to productive offense for us.

“More than anything else, we want to dictate the tempo, the style of play.

Most of our opponents are going to try to make it a half-court game, but we want to make sure we get up and down the play. We need to dictate the style of play and not let our opponents dictate it.

“Our thoroughbreds need to run.”

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

EAGER

Daviess County shot a lot of 3-pointers last season, and Hayden expects the trend to continue.

FROM PAGE 5 “We averaged about 25 3s per game last season, Other seniors in the mix and we may average 30 include 6-2 swingman Nick this season,” he said. “We Driskill (2.6 ppg, 2 rpg), are guard-oriented, for considered by Hayden the team’s best defensive player, sure, so my biggest fear is 6-6 center Seth Fenwick (4.5 rebounding. We’ll have to ppg, 2.7 rpg) and 5-11 guard rebound as a unit, and we’ll need to create turnovers Will Whittaker.

Making his presence felt with our full-court pressure to make up for our lack of in the preseason has been size on the inside.”

6-foot junior guard Dakota DC will also have to make Walden (2.7 ppg). up for the loss of starters “I think Dakota is a Tyler Boling (10.2 ppg, 3.6 sleeper in the 3rd Region,” rpg), a stellar guard, and Hayden said. “He’s put on Hassan Green (5.4 ppg, 3.7 20 pounds and is much stronger on a straight line to rpg), a rangy for ward.

“We lost some key the basket. He’s gained a lot personnel, no doubt, and it’s of confidence in his outside going to take a collective shooting, too, and I believe he’s capable of having a big effort to make up for what we lost,” Hayden said. “But season for us.” this is an impressive group.

Depth will be provided by 6-4 junior for ward Gavin They listen, play hard, and they’re focused on doing Ray and 6-foot junior guard what they can do to help us Mason Payne.

win basketball games — we just need others to step up, be leaders, fill the void.

“I see this team getting up and down the floor ver y well. We’ll play with a lot of energy and enthusiasm at both ends of the court, and I have a lot of trust in these guys because they have high basketball IQs. They’ve been around the program a long time, they know what they’re doing out there.”

Coming so close to a trip to the Sweet 16 will also ser ve as motivation for the Panthers to reach their potential.

“When you get that close, you want to do ever ything you can to give yourself the opportunity to take that next step,” Hayden said.

“Our program took a big step in the right direction last season, and we want to build on that this year — the goal is always to take that next step.”

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19

improvement at the defensive end, and we’ve got to do a better job of rebounding the ball.

FROM PAGE 6 “We share the ball really well, and it’s going to be Also back is 5-8 senior guard important for us to do that the Jaclyn Hume, who missed entire season if we expect to virtually the entire 2016-17 reach our goals. We need to be season with a hyper-extended solid in the halfcourt and then thumb and broken foot. take advantage of opportunities Others in the mix include 5-8 to push the ball when we have senior guard Ragan Howard, them.”

5-8 sophomore guard Emma DC went 12-18 last season Anderson and 5-7 junior guard and was eliminated by Claire Johnson. arch-rival Apollo, 56-52, in the “I feel like we’re going to first round of the 9th District develop some depth on this Tournament. team,” Ferguson said. “That’s More challenges loom for certainly the goal, but it won’t happen immediately because of a rebuilding program, but our inexperience at the varsity Ferguson remains optimistic.

“We’re quicker than I level. It’s going to take a little thought we’d be, which is time.” encouraging,” he said. “Also, A point of emphasis in this is a team that plays smart the preseason has been basketball with a lot of energy ball-handling. and passion. We’re going “I think we’re going to be to get better as we go if we much better handling the maintain the solid work ethic basketball this season -- I’ve we’ve shown in the early going seen improvement in this — we’re excited about the area from several players,” possibilities.”

Ferguson said. “We also need

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Friday, November 24, 2017 Messenger-Inquirer

HUNGRY FROM PAGE 2

and captured two of Catholic’s 12 district titles in school history.

After seeing so many positives leading into last year’s postseason, their defeat in the region tournament left a bitter taste in the Aces’ mouths.

“They know the difference in winning and losing,” Riley said. “It’s easy to bring up those experiences, because our loss to Meade County — we probably stole one from Meade two years ago, but we felt like we had the better team last year. We just had a bad night.”

In fact, the 46-42 loss has been inspiration for Hayden since March. “(Going to state) was definitely motivating,” he said, “but I say the bigger motivator was losing last year in the

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“This year, I wouldn’t put a limit on what we’re capable of ... . Our chemistry is better than it ever has been, since I’ve been here. We have a lot of length, we have a lot of height. We’re stronger, faster and we should do some good things this year.”

For others, the taste of playing in Lexington has been fuel for them to keep pushing forward.

“Our sophomore year, we made it

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It would be the perfect way to cap off the group’s high school careers, Reid said.

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