Texas Playoff Round Up Friday February 27th

2010 Jarrell Turner of Pflugerville hit the shot "Heard Round the Cen Tex/South Texas Area" last night. He calmly came around a screen and hit the three with no time left on the clock to propel Pflugerville to a 54-52 win over San Antonio Clark and on to a meeting with Converse Judson. Judson's only loss this year came to Pflugerville.

Texas UIL BOYS 4A
Pflugerville 54 San Antonio Clark 52

Austin Lake Travis 77 Schertz Clemens 46
Killeen 68 Boerne Champion 66 OT
Austin LBJ 73 Kerrville Tivy 52
Texas UIL BOYS 5A

San Antonio Wagner 65 San Antonio Madison 64
San Antonio Stevens 71 San Antonio Reagan 68
San Antonio Southwest 86 Harlingen 52

2009 G Brandon Thompson took care of business last night to lead his San Antonio Stevens squad to a 71-68 win over San Antonio Reagan.

2011 G Jake Kocher of Austin St. Michael's poured in 27 in a last second loss in TAPPS 5ATAPPS 5A Boys

Austin St. Michael's suffered a heart breaking loss to Addison Trinity Christian Academy 66-65. With a chance to ice the game leading 65-63, St. Michael's missed two free throws allowing Addison to hit a buzzer beating 40 foot shot to earn a berth in the TAPPS 5A State Championship Game.

St. Michael's was led by 2011 G 6'0" Jake Kocher who scored 27, likely on a broken foot. He's a player to watch as along with 2011 Deion Mitchell of Pflugerville are clearly the two most prominent scoring prospects in the austin area in the Class of 2011

=============================================================

UIL 5A GIRLS

Region 1

Mansfield Summit 63 Irving MacArthur 59

Duncanville 64 Arlington Bowie 56

Region 2

The Woodlands College Park 65 Garland Naaman Forest 55

Cypress Fairbanks 54 Dallas Skyline 51

Region 3

Bellaire 55 Fort Bend Hightower 37

Aldine Nimitz 76 Fort Bend Dulles 59

Region 4

San Antonio Jay 51 McAllen 27

Pflugerville 57 harlingen South 41

UIL 4A GIRLS

Region 1

Arlington Seguin 47 Canyon 35

Mansfield Timberview 53 Amarillo Palo Duro 41

Region 2

Waco Midway 78 Dallas Lincoln 44

Frisco 58 Waxahachie 47

Region 3

Del Valle 46 Houston Washington 37

Buda Hays 48 angleton 44

Region 4

Corpus Christi Ray 46 Marble Falls 45

Cibolo Steele 78 Gregory-Portland 37

TAPPS 5A GIRLS

San Antonio Antonian lost their State semifinal matchup to defending State Champion Dallas Bishop Lynch 66-43. Antonioan was led by Liz Boyd with 14 points.

Louisiana High School Boys Playoffs

2010 G 6'5" Brian Williams of #2 Baton Rouge Glen Oaks brings his explosive game to the playoff opener v Tioga. Williams currently has offers in his pocket from Oklahoma State and LSU amongst others.

2011 P 6'7" Tre Drye is likely the best sophomore in the State of Louisiana. He'll be a big part of #2 Baton Rouge Glen Oaks as they attempt to get to the Cajun Dome for the Final 4.2010 G Ronald McGhee brings his sweet stroke to the table as he leads Baton Rouge Istrouma into the 4A playoffs v Lee. Hello to all our friends down on the Bayou. We just don't cover Texas Basketball folks, we drop into Louisiana from time to time as well. Unlike Texas, the Louisiana model for the playoffs is a seeding system based on a formula that may be as confusing as the BCS. This process allows the top 32 teams to play in each classification.

In Texas, your playoff pairings are decided in advance based on your placement in District & Region. Something I do like about the Louisiana Model is that it does theoretically allow the best teams to meet in their Final 4. In Texas, there may be 2-3 teams from Houston or Dallas that have to beat it up on their way to Region with only one of them making it to the Drum for State.

So, along with the assistance of our Louisiana correspondent here are our picks for the playoffs.

5A Playoffs

1. Huntington v 32 West Jefferson....Huntington

16 St. Amant v 17 West Hammond...St. Amant

9 Jesuit v 24 Mandeville...Jesuit

8 South LaFource v 25 John Ehret...South LaFource

5 Westgate v 28 Lafayette...Westgate

12 Hanville v 21 Airline...Hanville

13 East Ascension v 20 Brother Martin...East Ascension

4 St. Thomas More v 29 Covington...Thomas More

3 West Monroe v 30 Woodlawn...West Monroe

14 Carencro v 19 Dutchtown...Dutchtown

11 Sulphur v 22 Ruston...Sulphur

6. St. Augustine v 27 Central...St. Augustine

7 Terrebone v 26 v Natchitoches...Terrebone

10 Catholic v 23 Scotlandville...Catholic

15 Thibodeaux v 18 East St. John...St. John

2 Ouchita v 31 Slidell...Ouchita

4A Playoff Pairings

1 Peabody v 32 Shaw...Peabody

16 Franklin Parrish v 17 East Jefferson...Jefferson

9 Salmen v St. Martinville..Salmen

8 Abbeville v 25 Northwood...Abbeville

5 OP Walker v 28 St. Michael...Walker

12 Istrouma v 21 Lee...Istrouma

13 Edna Carr v 20 Carroll...Edna Carr

4 Alexandria v 29 Franklinton...Alexandria

3 Northside v 30 Beau Chene...Northside

14 Minden v 19 Opelousas...Opelousas

11 LaGrange v 22 Mckinley...LaGrange

6 Bossier v 27 Leesville...Bossier

7 DeRidder v 26 Zachary...DeRidder

10 Grant v 23 Teurlings...Grant
15 McDonogh v 18 Ellender...McDonogh

2 Glen Oaks v 31 Tioga...Glen Oaks

Converse Judson 57 Austin Westlake 54

Westlake's 2010 duo of PG Cody Doolin had their high school season cut short by Judson last night despite great performances by both.2009 duo Ned Cox & Alex Lewis just would not quit and willed their Judson team to victory.

Big Chris Wacker dropped 16, including 6-7 from the free throw line for the Rockets.

Texas Basketball Inc. will be at New Braunfels Canyon HS tonight for the 2nd Round UIL 5A Boys matchup between Austin Westlake and Converse Judson. The game will be streamed LIVE & FREE at http://www.texasbasketballinc.com/ Click on the "MAX AUDIO" tab and enjoy!

PREVIEW

Austin Westlake looked extremely crisp in thumping a very solid San Antonio Lee team in the 1st Round. 2010 PG Cody Doolin led the way with 30 points and 2010 W 6'6" Conner Kemper added 20 and did yeoman work on the boards.

Converse Judson has lost only once all year to Pflugeville. Unlike Lee they'll have plenty of height and depth to toss at the Chaps. They'll be led by 2009 G Ned Cox an 2009 Chris Wacker who has signed with St. Edward's.

This one should be a dandy. Westlake will come with full court pressure against a team that is highly structured offensively, well coached and not easily rattled. Role players may well be the difference. Wildcard: Westlake Freshman 2012 6'6" Drew Wikelius. Can the frosh grow up in a hurry and compete against Judson's Big front line? Prediction: Westlake by one....at the buzzer.

GAME

This was an extremely well played high school basketball game. You can hear it in it's entirety at http://www.texasbasketballinc.com/ as it's archived on the "MAX AUDIO" portion of our site. My special guest at half time was Texas State head Coach Doug Davalos.

Westlake was behind 2-0 before the whistle blew as theyreceived a tech for dunking in the warm ups. After Westlake made it 3-2, Judson never trailed. Their lead flucuated from 4-8 points for most of the game until Westlake went on a 4th quarter run to tie the score at 45-45. It was then that Senior Alex Lewis took over scoring 2 big reverse layup baskets in traffic and then hitting several free throws down the stretch to keep the Chaps from closing in.

Westlake was led by 2010 W Conner Kemper with 18 points & 6 rebounds and 2010 PG Cody Doolin with 16 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. 2009 Cliff Houston finished his high school career with 13 points including three triples that keyed the Westlake 4th quarter run.

The Judson Rockets pushed their record to 35-1. 2009 PG Demarcus Richardson dropped 7 dimes, 2009 Alex Lewis had 9 pts including 7 down the stretch, & St. Mary's signee Chris Wacker added 16 to keep his high school career alive. The heart and soul of Judson on this night though was 2009 G Ned Cox.

Along with Leander's Joel Smith, and Stevens Brandon Thompson, Cox is one of the best unsigned seniors in the area. Not sure of his academic situation but D-1's and Jukes need to definitely have a look. He can catch and shoot with the best of them, with a smooth stroke. Cox finished with 16, including 4 three pointers. he suffered a scary injury with about 3 minutes left in the 3rd quarter and was assisted to the locker room. As Westlake was making it's run, the crowd let out a roar as he returned to the bench with about 5 minutes to play. Even though you could see a limp and he was not that effective, I believe his toughness translated over to his team mates as he willed them to victory. We pray that he's healthy to play again next Wednesday.

Texas UIL 5A Boys- Super 64 (2nd Round)

Let's see if I can improve on my 78% correct picks in Round 1, in the 5A Boys Division.

Region 1

El Paso El Dorado v Arlington Bowie....Bowie
Arlington Martin v El Paso Hanks...Martin
Hurst LD Bell v Plano West...West
Duncanville v TBD....Duncanville

Midland v North Crowley
Mansfield Summit v El Paso Montwood...Montwood
Coppell v Cedar Hill...Cedar Hill
Irving v Lewisville Flower Mound...Irving

Region 2

Garland Lakeview Centennial v Bryan....Bryan
Mesquite v Garland Naaman Forest....Naaman Forest
Klein Forest v Leander....Leander
Langham Creek v Klein Collins....Collins

Garland v Desoto....Desoto
Mesquite Horn v Richardson Lake Highlands...Horn
Spring Westfield v Cy Woods...Cy Woods
Round Rock McNeil v Tomball....McNeil

Region 3

Alief Taylor v Austin Eisenhower...Eisenhower
Houston Madison v Houston Strake Jesuit....Jesuit
Galena Park North Shore v Fort Bend Elkins...Elkins
Fort Bend Bush v LaPorte....Bush

Alief Elsik v Humble Kingwood...Kingwood
Houston Chavez v Katy Seven Lakes...Chavez
Deer Park v Fort Bend Hightower
Fort Bend Travis v Port Arthur Memorial....Travis

Region 4

San Antonio Reagan v San Antonio Stevens....Stevens
San Antonio Madison v San Antonio Wagner...Wagner
Laredo United v Weslaco....United
Harlingen South v McAllen....McAllen

Austin Westlake v Converse Judson....Westlake
San Antonio Clark v Pflugerville...Pflugerville
Laredo Alexander v Edinburg...Edinburg
Harlingen v San Antonio Southwest....Southwest

Texas UIL Boys 4A Super 64 (2nd Round)

Here we go again stepping into the deep water to pick the 32 games being played over the next 2 days in 4A Boys playoff action.

Region 1

Andress v Wolfforth Frenship.....Frenship
Canyon Randall v El Paso Austin....Randall
Wichita Falls v Legacy....Legacy
Mansfield Timberview v Azle...Azle

El Paso Burges v Amarillo Palo Duro...Palo Duro
Abilene Cooper v El Paso Chapin...Chapin
The Colony v Fort Worth Dunbar....Dunbar
Everman v Denton Ryan....Everman

Region 2

McKinney v Dallas Lincoln...McKinney
Dallas Kimball v Denison....Denison
Longview v Waco Midway...Longview
Waco University v Whitehouse..Whitehouse

Dallas Highland Park v Dallas Carter...Carter
Dallas Woodrow WIlson v Sherman
Jacksonville v Lancaster...Lancaster
Cleburne v Pine Tree...Pine Tree

Region 3

Manor v Ozen....Ozen
Houston North Forest v Huntsville...North Forest
Houston Washington v LaMarque...LaMarque
Angleton v Houston Jones....Angleton

Brenham v Crosby...Crosby
Livingston v Del Valle....Livingston
Houston Wheatley v Lamar Consolidated...Wheatley
Texas City v Houston Yates...Yates

Region 4

Austin Reagan v San Antonio Alamo Heights....Reagan
Kerrville Tivy v Austin LBJ...Tivy
Floresville v Roma...Roma
Corpus Christi Flower Bluff v San Antonio McCollum...McCollum

Killeen v Boerne Champion...Champion
Schertz Clemens v Austin Lake Travis...Lake Travis
Medina Valley v Corpus Christi Calallen...Medina Valley
Mercedes v Port Lavaca...Port Lavaca

Texas UIL Girls 4A & 5A Sweet Sixteen

In 4A they are down to 16 teams vying for the State Championship. 7 of those teams are from Central/South Texas

Region 1

Canyon v Arlington Seguin
Amarillo Palo Duro v Mansfield Timberview

Region 2

Dallas Lincoln v Waco Midway
Frisco v Waxahachie

Region 3

Del Valle v Houston Washington
Buda Hays v Angleton

Region 4

Marble Falls v Corpus Christi Ray
Cibolo Steele v Gregory Portland
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
In 5A they are also down to their Sweet Sixteen. 4 of those teams are from Central/South Texas.

Region 1

Mansfield Summit v Irving MacArthur
Arlington Bowie v Duncanville

Region 2

Garland Naaman Forest v Woodlands College Park
Dallas Skyline v Cypress Fairbanks

Region 3

Bellaire v Fort Bend Hightower
Aldine Nimitz v Fort Bend Dulles

Region 4

San Antonio Jay v McAllen
Pflugerville v Harlingen South

Coach Max's Prognostication Report Card

After stepping out on a limb, and forecasting ALL 128 1st Round Games in the Boys UIL 4A-5A playoff bracket there were mixed results.

In 4A I picked 75% of the winners correctly. 48 of 64.

Biggest upset losses of the opening round were suffered by the following District Champions.

2-4A El Paso Ysleta
10-4A Carrolton Newman Smith
28-4A San Antonio Brackenridge
30-4A Corpus Christi Miller

In 5A I picked 78% correctly 50 of 64.

2-5A Midland Lee
5-5A Keller Fossil Ridge
14-5A The Woodlands College Park
20-5A Houston Bellaire
24-5A Galveston Ball

CONCLUSION: It appears I have a little more insight than a trained chimpanzee, but how much we're not sure...lol Stay tuned as I pick the 2nd Round Games.

Texas Basketball Inc Web Stream's Doubleheader

To listen to the archived (or live) broadcasts) go to www.texasbasketballinc.com and click on the "MAX AUDIO" icon.

2009 PG Jonathan Garza will lead Pflugerville2010 G Chris Gramling will need a huge game if San Antonio MacArthur hopes to upset heavily favored Pflugerville.2010 Paul Garnica leads San Antonio Lee into the playoffs v Austin Westlake. 2010 PG Cody Doolin leads Austin Westlake

Texas Basketball Inc. will be at Hay Lehman HS tonight for the 1st Round Playoff Doubleheader where we'll audio stream the games over the web. 6PM Pflugerville v San Antonio MacArthur

PREVIEW

MacArthur has lived all year by the stall game, to the point where it seems they'd rather pass up a layup to maintain possession and mik the clock. If ever there was a poster child for the shot clock in the high school game in the State of Texas, this is it. For MacArthur to win, the game would have to stay in the low 30's. Pflugerville will simply not let that happen. 2010 PG Chris Gramling will have his hands full with the Panthers pressure and only a superlative effort on his part along with a career performance from unsigned senior post Stephen Miller will keep the score respectable let alone notch the upset.

Pflugerville has a deep squad and it's got 4 D-1 talents on the roster. They'll be led by a pair of Lamar signees; PG Jonathan Garza & 6'8" Osas Ebomwonyi. Ebomwonyi, who suffered a broken leg prior to the season is back at full strength and is the most intimidating shot blocker this side of Kileen High's 6'9" Cory Jefferson. 2010 W 6'5" Demetrious "Cleveland" Smith gives the Panthers additional inside/outside help while Super Soph Deion Mitchell is as smooth a 2011 G as there is in the Cen Tex. He can get to the rack or burn you deep.

GAME Pflugerville 66 San Antonio MacArthur 43

Pflugerville controlled this game from the beginning. It was never totally one sided but it never got close either. The intense pressure on the ball by the Pflugerville guards was the difference as MacArthur suffered double digit turnovers. PG Jonathan Garza showed great leadership by distributing the ball at the right times, leading his team in scoring with 18 points and his energetic on the ball defense. For MacArthur, Stephen Miller finished his high school career with 11 and a hard fought effort.

8PM Austin Westlake v San Antonio Lee

PREVIEW

Hard to top last night's OT thriller where San Antonio Madison edged Austin Akins 55-54 but this matchup just might do it. Neither team gears itself defensively to stopping any one player so this could be a track meet. What makes this one so intriguing is that it has a lot of personal drama within the team game. Both teams PG's lead their cities in scoring. Austin Westlake's Cody Doolin (19.6PPG) will take on San Antonio Lee's Paul Garnica who leads the entire Cen Tex/San Antonio area in scoring (26.2 PPG). Adding to the storyline is that these two 2010 players are pals and summer team mates in the backcourt with the Texas D-1 Ambassadors.

Doolin already has one D-1 offer under his belt as a soph this past summer from the University of San Francisco. Garnica is now drawing interest from the likes of Baylor. This could be a doozy. Doolin's high game this year was 43, while Garnica's was 53. Both HATE to lose.

Each team has a very good second option as well. Lee brings 2010 6'2" G Ryan Pierce at you. He was also top 10 in San Antonio in PPG with a nice shot and explosive moves to the rack. Westlake counters with 2010 6'6" Conner Kemper who can shoot it lights out from the perimeter as well as help on the boards. This one is tough to call. I'm personally vested in the game and hate that one team has to lose. I'll give the slightest of edges to Westlake because of their height advantage. However, when the game's on the line expect Garnica & Doolin to be taking the shots and anything could happen.

GAME Austin Westlake 86 San Antonio Lee 63

This one was never competitive as Cody Doolin scored 12 points in the first 3 minutes, staking Westlake to a 15-5 lead. Garnica was limited in his opportunities with his 4 first half points coming from the free throw line. (He finished with 12 for the game). 2010 G Ryan Pierce showed great athleticism as he led Lee with 23 points.

The story of the game though was too much Doolin & 2010 W Conner Kemper. Kemper usually causes most of his damage from the perimeter but he scored 20 last night, mostly from under the goal. He battled hard on the boards all night and was the recipient of some great looks from Doolin. 2010 PG Doolin scored 30, had 10 assists & 9 rebounds just missing his double double. I was also impressed as the freshman 6'6" Drew Wikelius gave the Chaps quality minutes and looks to have a great high school & potential college career ahead of him.

The Playoffs Are Underway!

San Antonio Stevens 82 San Antonio east Central 65
San Antonio Wagner 68 San Antonio O'Connor 46
San Antonio Clark 84 San Antonio Highlands 57

Houston Wheatley 72 Houston Sharpstown 66
Houston Yates 105 Houston Furr 35

Coppin State signee Jonathan Landry (pictured below) took a nasty fall with 2 seconds left in regulation. He was on the floor for several minutes before being helped off. He shook it off though and was back on the floor for the key OT session and helped will his Mavs to victory
San Antonio Madison 55 Austin Akins 54 OT

Texas Basketball Inc. was at the scorer's table for this one, and it was a dandy! There was not one second of zone defense played in this one. It was both teams in each other's grill tonight mano es mano. The game was extremely tight until midway through the 3rd quarter when Akins bolted to a 39-28 lead and quite honestly looked like they were on the verge of solidly thumping Madison. Akins appeared to be the better conditioned team, but never underestimate the heart of a champion. The Mavs clawed back with a 9-1 run to end the 3rd. The 4th quarter started with the score Akins 40-37.

2010 W 6'7" Stephen Baird led the Mavs with 13. Cameron Catlett added 12 including 2 big steals during the 3rd quarter run. He must have been inspired by his mom and pops who competed in the halftime free throw/dance contest. It capped a great week for the Catlett Family as according to the San Antonio Express news he received his first D-1 offer from Colorado State. Congratulations!

2009 Brandon Wooley had 15 for Akins, as did 2011 Yolonzo Moore. The Eagles 5 guard lineup gave them an edge in quickness. Coach david Peavey had a great game plan, isolating his big guards up top against Madison's post players Baird Landry. The flip side to this is that Madison did control the boards down the stretch and got several key second chance buckets.

Coppin State signee Jonathan Landry had 10 points for the Mavs including 2 key free throw in OT. Free throw shooting did decide it as Stephen Baird's two from the charity stripe were the winning margin.

Austin Reagan 64 Pflugerville Hendrickson 63

Wow! Right out of the gate, the 5A playoffs had a Cen Tex surprise. First of all, props to Austin Reagan. Not too many people gave them a chance against Pflugerville Hendrickson including myself. Well, Coach Davis got himself a huge win and the Raiders prevailed behind a pair of 20 point efforts from Cornelius Commack and 2011 Jaquarius Daniels.

Boys UIL 5A Playoffs-1st Round Games

Once again, Texas Basketball Inc. is putting themselves on the line and calling all 64 1st Round 5A playoff games. Nobody else in the State does it!

REGION 1

El Paso Eldorado v Lubbock Coronado...Coronado
Burleson v Arlington Bowie...Bowie
North Richland Hills v Arlington Martin...Martin
El Paso Hanks v Midland Lee...Lee

Hurst Bell v Lewisville Hebron...Hebron
Irving MacArthur v Plano West ..Plano West
Duncanville v Plano...Duncanville
Grapevine v Lewisville Marcus ... Marcus

El Paso Americas v Midland...Midland
Fort Worth North Crowley v Mansfield...North Crowley
Fort Worth Paschal v Mansfield Summit...Summit
El Paso Montwood v. Lubbock ...Montwood

Keller Central v Coppell...Central
Cedar Hill v Plano East...Cedar Hill
Irving v Dallas Jesuit...Irving
Keller Fossil Ridge v Lewisville Flower Mound...Fossil Ridge

REGION 2

Carrolton Creekview v Garland Centennial...Centennial
Tyler John Tyler v Bryan...Bryan By 14
Mesquite v Harker Heights...Mesquite By 6
Richardson Berkner v Garland Naaman Forest....Naaman Forest

Klein Forest v Conroe Oak Ridge...Klein Forest
Cypress Falls v Leander...Leander By 3
Langham Creek v Round Rock..Langham Creek By 12
Klein Collins v The Woodlands College Park...College Park by 8

Dallas Skyline v Garland...Skyline
Desoto v Killeen Shoemaker...Desoto
Mesquite Horn v Killeen Ellison...Ellison by 4
Richardson Lake Highlands v North Garland...Lake Highlands

Spring Westfield v The Woodlands...The Woodlands
Cypress Woods v Georgetown...Cypress Woods by 20+
Cypress Springs v Round Rock McNeil...Cypress Springs
Tomball v Lufkin...Tomball

REGION 3

Katy Cinco Ranch v Alief Taylor...Alief Taylor
Aldine Eisenhower v Houston Bellaire...Bellaire
Humble Atascocita v Houston Madison...Madison
Katy v Houston Strake Jesuit...Jesuit

Galena Park North Shore v Pearland...Pearland
Fort Bend Elkins v Galveston Ball...Ball
Fort Bend Bush v Friendswood Clear Brook...Bush
Channelview v LaPorte...LaPorte

Katy Mayde Creek v Alief Elsik...Elsik
Humble Kingwood v Sam Houston...Kingwood
Humble v. Houston Chavez...Humble
Katy Seven Lakes v Houston Stratford...Seven Lakes

Beaumont West Brook v Deer Park...Deer Park
Fort Bend Hightower v Houston Clear Lake...Hightower
Fort Bend Travis v League City Clear Springs...Travis
Port Arthur Memorial v Pasadena Dobie...Memorial

REGION 4

Austin Bowie v San Antonio Reagan...Reagan By 2
San Antonio East Central v San Antonio Stevens...Stevens by 10
San Antonio Wagner v San Antonio O'Connor...Wagner By 12
Austin Akins v San Antonio Madison...Madison By 8

Laredo United v Mission Sharyland..United by 15
PSJA North v Weslaco...Weslaco
Harlingen South v Brownsville Pace...South
Laredo Martin v McAllen...McAllen By 16

Austin Westlake v San Antonio Lee...Westlake by 4
Converse Judson v San Antonio Warren...Judson by 8
San Antonio Highlands v San Antonio Clark..Clark by 10
Pflugerville v San Antonio MacArthur...Pflugerville by 15

Laredo Alexander v McAllen Rowe...Rowe
Edinburg v Los Fresnos...Edinburg
Harlingen v Brownsville Hanna...Harlingen
San Antonio Southwest v McAllen Memorial...Southwest

Boys UIL 4A Playoffs 1st Round Games

With action beginning tonight, Texas basketball Inc. fearlessly will prognosticate EVERY games outcome, with all 128 4A teams. In some cases I'll even predict the spread. Now everyone will see that I truly know NOTHING...lol Play along with me and have some fun.

REGION 1 WINNER

El Paso Andress v Canutillo...Andress
Amarillo Caprock v Wolfforth Frenship... Wolfforth
Canyon Randall v Big Spring... Canyon Randall
El Paso Austin v El Paso Ysleta... Ysleta

Wichita Falls v W.E. Boswell... Wichita Falls
Fort Worth Southwest v Legacy... Legacy
Fort Worth Trimble Tech v Mansfield Timberview... Timberview
Guyer v Azle... Azle

El Paso Burges v El Paso Parkland... Parkland
Amarillo Palo Duro v Plainview... Palo Duro
Pampa v Abilene Cooper... Pampa
El Paso Chapin v El Paso Riverside... Chapin

The Colony v Birdville... Birdville
Fort Worth Dunbar v Crowley... Dunbar
Fort Worth Eastern Hills v Everman... Everman
Denton Ryan v Aledo... Ryan

REGION 2

McKinney v Richardson Pierce... McKinney
Dallas Pinkston v Dallas Lincoln... Lincoln
Dallas Kimball v Dallas Hillcrest... Kimball
Denison v Carrolton Newman Smith... Newman Smith

Longview v Lindale... Longview
Poteet v Waco Midway...Waco Midway
Red Oak v Waco University... Red Oak
Hallsville v Whitehouse...Whitehouse

Frisco Wakeland v Dallas Highland Park... Wakeland
Dallas Carter v Dallas Samuel... Carter
Dallas South Oak Cliff v Dallas Woodrow Wilson... South Oak Cliff
Sherman v Rockwall... Sherman

Sulphur Springs v Jacksonville... Jacksonville
Lancaster v Corsicana... Lancaster
West Mesquite v Cleburne... West Mesquite
Pine Tree v Nacogdoches... Pine Tree

REGION 3

Manor v Magnolia... Magnolia By 6
Kingwood Park v Beaumont Ozen...Ozen
Houston North Forest v Nederland... North Forest
Elgin v Huntsville... Huntsville By 12

Houston Waltrip v Houston Washington... Waltrip
Richmond Foster v LaMarque ...LaMarque
El Campo v Angleton... Angleton
Houston Reagan v Houston Jones... Jones

San Marcos v Brenham... Brenham
Crosby v Beaumont Central... Crosby
Houston C E King v Livingston... C E King
Del Valle v Montgomery... Del Valle By 9

Houston Sharpstown v Houston Wheatley... Wheatley
Lamar Consolidated v Friendswood... Consolidated
Rosenberg Terry v Texas City... Texas City
Houston Washington v Houston Furr... Washington

REGION 4

Pflugerville Hendrickson v Austin Reagan... Hendrickson By 15
Alamo Heights v San Antonio Brackenridge... Brackenridge By 4
Kerrville Tivy v San Antonio Lanier... Tivy By 5
Hutto v Austin LBJ... LBJ By 7

Floresville v Foy Moody... Floresville
Laredo Nixon v Roma... Roma
Corpus Christi Flour Bluff v Mercedes...Flour Bluff
San Antonio McCollum v Corpus Christi Miller... Miller

Killeen v Austin Crockett... Killeen By 12
Boerne Champion v San Antonio Edison... Champion By 20+
Schertz Clemens v Burbank... Clemens By 1
Austin Lake Travis v Dripping Springs... Lake Travis By 12

Medina Valley v Rockport-Fulton... Medina Valley
Corpus Christi Calallen v Mission... Calallen
Laredo LBJ v Weslaco East... Weslaco East
Harlandale v Port Lavaca Calhoun... Harlandale

Texas UIL Girls Playoffs 4A/5A

Heading into tonight's 4A games there are 8 teams left vying for the State Championship in each Region. 11 of the 32 are from our area of the State.

Is there any doubt about the superior caliber of gals hoops in Waco? In Region 2 Waco High will take on Waxahachie. Also, in Region 2 Waco Midway behind McDonald's All American C 6'4" Cokie Reed will battle Forney.

In Region 3 Del Valle, led by 2009 Baylor signee Shanay Washington will take on Livingston & Manor will tangle with Buda Hays.

In Region 4 we have plenty of representation from the CenTex/South Texas area as Marble Falls takes on favorite Canyon, Moody v. Corpus Christi Ray, Cibolo Steele v. Killeen & Gregory-Portland v. Corpus Christi Flour Bluff.
=============================================================
In 5A they Girls are also down to 32 teams. 11 of the 32 teams are from our area.

In Region 1, West will take on Irving MacArthur.

In Region 2, Copperas Cove takes on Garland Naaman Forest & Cedar Park will tackle The Woodlands College Park.

In Region 4, San Antonio Jay faces Corpus Christi Carroll, while Rio Grande Valley rivals McAllen and Wesalco will get after it. San Antonio Wagner faces Pflugerville while Laredo Alexander will play Harlingen South.

Tapps Private School Roundup (4A-5A)

Leading scorer, The Baby Faced Assassin" Jake Kocher leads his Austin St. Michael's team into the State Semi Final game in TAPPS-5AThe Boys TAPPS playoffs for the State of Texas are down to their Final 4. In 4A San Antonio Christian is repping the 210, as they take on Houston Westbury Christian on February 27th.

In 5A it's Austin St. Michael's holding it down for the 512 as they head into their semifinal against Addison Trinity Christian Academy. St. Michael's played a very tough non conference schedule against 4A-5A public schools and more than held their own. They'll be led by the Kocher Brothers; 2009 PG Chase, and by sophomore scoring sensation Jake who will merit serious consideration for Cen Tex Newcomer of the Year at any classification. St. Michael's looks to be on a collision course for a State Championship versus Plano Prestonwood Christian Academy. They boast 6'9" freshman Zach Peters who is labeled by some as one of the Top 10 players in the Class of 2012 in the entire country.

The Girls TAPPS playoffs for the State of Texas are down to 4 teams in each Divsion. The only Cen Tex/South Texas school still left representing the area is in 5A. San Antonio Antonian will play Dallas Bishop Lynch on February 27th in the State Semi Finals.

Ambassadors Classic

2015 Chad President of Salado Slam-Hankamer2014 Kyle Heiner of Salado Slam-Spears led his squad to the Championship at the Ambassadors Classic. 2015 Harrison Hackney of Westlake HoopsFive quality teams participated in this past weekend's Ambassadors Classic Tournament held in Austin at Paredes MS. Salado Slam-Spears captured the championship by beating the Westlake Hoops in the finals.

Ones To Watch:

Austin Warriors
2015 F Sean Wimbush had 20, 8, 20, & 16 points in his 4 games. He showed nice range on his shot, and was aggressive in his moves to the basket. He used a combination of power & finesse moves as well as hitting his free throws.

Cen Tex Hall Stars

2015 Bryce Thomas had consistent scoring games of 11, 6, 12 & 10. Looks to be a kid that can grow to 6'4" with a power game down low.

Salado Slam-Spears

2014 Kyle Heiner showed a quality game including the ability to hit the three.

Salado Slam-Hankamer

2015 Chad President shows great court vision and looks to grow into a big point guard.

Westlake Hoops

Harrison Hackney is clearly the top player in the Class of 2015 in the Austin area based on the kids I have seen. Nice shot, aggressive and fundamnetally sound.

San Antonio Southwest 54 Laredo United 52

Nearing the end of 4 star studded years playing at the varsity level, 2009 Kendric Robinson of San Antonio Southwest hit the game winning shot with just under a minute to play securing the 1st seed in District 29-5A. It's been a lot of fun coaching Kendric during the summer and watching him chase former San Antonio Spur Devin Brown's career scoring mark for the City of San Antonio.

2010 G Daniel Rosas of Laredo United fell just short of leading his team to victory on the road last night. The Laredo United star had 16 tonight in a 54-52 loss to San

2009 PG Kendric Robinson (shown here with the Texas D-1 Ambassadors, driving around a Team Arizona player.

Some may question as to why you'd bother playing a game, rather than just flipping a coin for seeding as many schools do. But neither San Antonio Southwest nor Laredo United would prefer to face powerful McAllen High any earlier than necessary.

After tying for the District 29-5A best record, the two teams strapped it on one last time at the Alamo Convocation Center. Southwest won it in the last minute on a jumper from the short corner by who else? Kendric Robinson. The UT-San Antonio signee was quiet through 3 quarters with 11 points but when it came to money time there was no doubt who was "The Man".

The game was back and forth with SW holding a 28-22 lead at the half & then Laredo United up 37-33 after the 3rd. In fact, United led 45-39 with 5:00 left to play.

After the end of the 3rd I bounded up to the rafters to give a quick hello and a hug to Kendric's mom. She said, "Coach, what's wrong with Kendric?" I just chuckled and said, " you know he'll hit several shots in a row before it's all over". Sure enough, he did. A long three erased Laredo's last lead, 55-52 to knot the game at 55. Robinson poured in 16 4th quarter points, including the game winner.

Time flies when you're having fun. Kendric first played in the Texas D-1 Ambassadors program as a 6th grader & I remember all the other parents moaning that we had to be cheating because this kid was so advanced. As a 9th grader, Kentucky Coach Billy Gillispie (then at Texas A&M) offered Kendric a scholarship as a freshman. Many other marquee schools followed suit, but Robinson wanted to stay close to home near his family. UT-San Antonio Coach Brooks Thompson has gotten a steal in this kid who will be a dangerous scoring point guard at the next level.

Others to watch:

2010 5'9" PG Laredo United's Daniel Rosas. Solid ballhandler, who has good court vision, to go along with deep range on his shot.

2011 6'6" P Laredo United's Freddie Juarez. Likely has stopped growing, so he'll need to continue to develop his face up game. Has skills.

2009 6'7" P Justin Alexander of San Antonio Southwest. Had 9 reounds and 4 blocks. Big body, needs to work on strength and footwork. Can play somewhere though as he goes hard and takes up space in the paint.

McDonald's All American Game Rosters

6'10" John Henson of Round Rock (now at Sickles HS in Tampa, FL) has followed up last week's invitation to the Jordan Classic Game with an invite to the prestigious McDonald's All American contest. John is the first member of the Texas D-1 Ambassadors to earn this recognition. Congratulations to John & his Family.

Six Texans have made the prestigious McDonald's All American Games which will be played April 1st in Miami Florida. Texas Basketball Inc. provided a complete list of the Texas nominees several weeks ago. Here are the 2009 participants.

Girls Game

6'5" C Kelsey Bone Fort Bend Dulles uncommitted

6'4" C Cokie Reed Waco Midway Texas

6'8" C Brittney Griner Aldine Nimitz Baylor

Boys Game

5'11" G Tommy Mason-Griffin Houston Madison Oklahoma

6'9' P Keith "Tiny" Gallon Humble Atascocita (Oak Hill Academy) Oklahoma

6'10" F John Henson Round Rock, TX (Sickles HS Tampa, FL) North Carlolina

Littleton Fieldhouse-San Antonio

A big shot at the buzzer in OT by Coppin State signee Jonathan Landry allowed San Antonio Madison to go through District 26-5A undefeated.San Antonio Madison put the final touch on an undefeated 26-5A season with an exciting win over a young San Antonio Reagan squad in Overtime tonight. Coppin State signee 2009 Jonathan Landry hit a turnaround baby hook at the buzzer for the win. Madison had to work like crazy to sew this one up as Reagan almost stole it in regulation but missed 4 straight free throws down the stretch to keep the Mavs alive. A three pointer at the buzzer in regulation by 2010 Jamaal Johnson of Madison tied it, and sent it to the extra 5 minutes.

Reagan was led by 2011 G 6'2" Trey Demps who had 14 points & 5 rebounds. They are a year away from being really good with 2010 6'6" Ray Chase and 2 other sophs in 6'8" P Darrious Hamilton & 6'4" W Max Yon. They are headed to a first round playoff matchup v Austin Bowie. Tonight they played mainly a 1-3-1 zone, daring Madison to shoot it. Madison was mediocre from beyond the arc going 6 for 25. The top perimeter threat turned out to be 6'5" Freshman Christopher Campbell who is beginning to gain confidence. He finished with 9 points in about 8 minutes as he went 3-5 from three point land for the Mavs.

Props have to go to Madison for their early season accolades. They are a veteran team and even when playing poorly find ways to win at the end. This is what a champion must do, but in my opinion they are not peaking at the right time and need to be very careful heading into the playoffs. They beat a middle of the road MacArthur team by one recently and could easiliy have lost this evening. For them to make a run to State for the third consecutive season they need to refocus.

The 3 point shot is exciting but not always reliable. Jonathan Landry's energy makes this team go. Tonight he had 15 points and 10 boards. However, he had to be frustrated watching guys jack up 3 point shot after s point shot. Get the ball down low to Landry & Steven Baird if you want to get to the Drum in March. My guess is that Coach Valenzuela will tighten up the shot selection as they head into the playoffs.

Depending on tonight's outcome in Austin, Madison will open with Austin Akins, or Austin Bowie. Neither team is a slouch as they are both well coached. Madison definitely has several challenges ahead for sure as they're likely to play Wagner in the 2nd round and then are on a collision course with Stevens in the 3rd round. No patsies for Madison to gain momentum with in this bracket. I expect any one of these games to be a battle.

Mike Byron (Shown below with twin brother Ben) led Churchill to a huge upset of Lee tonight.I popped into the NEISD double header tonight in San Antonio and caught the last quarter of the San Antonio Churchill v San Antonio Lee game. Churchill was up by 11 but almost blew it with sloppy ballhandling and turnovers at the end. The final was 60-55 and puts Churchill into a three way tie for a playoff spot in District 5A along with MacArthur & Roosevelt.

Churchill was led by 2010 6'9" Mike Byron with 15, and G Chris Fisher who had 21. Lee standout 2010 Paul Garnica was held to 22, 4.1 below his San Antonio area leading scoring average of 26.1. 2010 Ryan Pierce had 17 for Lee who had already clinched 2nd place in 26-5A.

San Antonio Area Player of the Week-Jonathan Perry

2010 G Jonathan Perry of Kerrville Tivy2010 6'4" Combo Guard Jonathan Perry of Kerrville Tivy was selected as SanAntonio Area Player of the Week by the San Antonio Express News. Perry, still a Junior plays his club basketball with the Texas D-1 Ambassadors. He is going to make a fine college player, able to shift from the point to the shooting guard position with ease. He also rebounds the ball well enough to play the three and post up other guards as well.

He scored 31 in a 51-48 win against Schertz Steele and then led Tivy with 15 in a tight 37-34 win over Alamo Heights which secured a playoff spot for Coach Brian Young's squad.

Texas Basketball Inc's Valentine's Day Tournament

Coach Lance Carter's 2015 Lake Travis Select won their 2nd consecutive Texas Basketball Inc. tournament of the young season by edging the Round Rock dragons in a close, well played contest.

2015 Foster Allen was the top performer for his 2nd place Round Rock Dragons crew as he scored 17, 11 & 10 in his three games.

2015 Robert Salinas burst on the scene with his 3rd place K.T. Toros team scoring 15, 22, & 18 in his three contests.

2015 Jake Budde had his second strong tournament in a row in leading his Lake Travis Select squad to the championship. He scored 28, 8 & 28 in the three games and was clearly the tournament MVP.

San Antonio/Austin Wrap Up February 13th

Cedar Park Vista Ridge scored an upset over Leander 51-50 despite 13 points from 2009 6'6" A.D. Jones.

Round Rock Stony Point beat Round Rock Westwood in OT behind 2010 P Chris Clements 24 points.

Del Valle beat Manor 70-63 clinching the District 17-4A championship behind 2010 G Braylon Thomas' 20 points.

Austin Akins smashed Austin Anderson 81-40 behind Kevin McFarlane's 22 points.

Austin Lake Travis keeps steamrolling with a 93-51 win over Marble Falls. 2010 Cole Vucurevich had 25 for the Cavs.

In what has to be considered an upset, Pflugerville Hendrickson beat Killeen 69-64 despite 28 points from Baylor signee 6'9" Cory Jefferson.

2010 PG 6'2" Cody Doolin dropped 18 on Austin Bowie in a 58-52 win. This split the season series between the two teams vying for 2nd place in the District.

2010 Combo Guard Jonathan Perry scored 15 to lead Kerrville Tivy to a hard fought road win over San Antonio Alamo Heights.2009 UT San Antonio signee Kendric Robinson scored 37 in a big overtime win as San Antonio Southwest beat Laredo Martin 76-72.

2011 6'2" Combo Guard Trey Demps had 12 in leading San Antonio in a squeaker over San Antonio MacArthur. The game had huge playoff implications as the 4th place finisher in that district gets Pflugerville in the 1st round. Nobody wants that.2012 Frosh W 6'5" Christopher Campbell led nationally ranked San Antonio Madison over San Antonio Roosevelt 86-53

2010 PG Paul Garnica had 41 last night (his 6th 40point plus performance on the year) in Leading San Antonio Lee past Smithson Valley 85-59

Jordan Brand Classic

John Henson, shown here with the Texas D-1 Ambassadors in 2007 has been selected to play in the Jordan Brand Classic in April along with 19 of the best high school players in the country.

The 7th Annual Jordan Brand Classic will be held April 18th at New York's Mecca of Basketball. This year it will feature (to my knowledge) the first time ever that Central Texas has had a player in the game.

6'10" John Henson formerly of Round Rock HS (TX) who signed this past November with Coach Roy Williiams North Carolina Tar Heels will be one of the marquee names in this prestigious game. He is currently ranked Top 5 in the country by most recruiting services. I personally have John rated as the top potential future NBA player & #2 behind John Wall, in the high school Class of 2009. (Wall is a 5th year prep school player).

I had the pleasure to coach John at the end of his sophomore year as his recruiting went from nothing to his first offer (by Baylor) at the end of April in 2007. From that point forward it was like a dam breaking as nearly every major college coach in the country followed us around to watch every game the Texas D-1 Ambassadors played through the summer of 2007. These included Florida, Kansas, UCLA, USC, Texas, Ohio State etc.

The casual observer usually sees the finished product. However, aside from his God given talent and heighth I know how hard he has worked to reach this point. Countless camps & private training sessions (many of them with aching knees as his body changed from 6'1"-6'10" seemingly overnight) have led him to where he is today.

So many of today's talented players have a less than ideal demeanor, work ethic or character. John is the antithesis of the selfish, self centered player. He was always smiling and he loves the game of basketball. I believe this is what will make him a great pro as well after his career at North Carolina.

Henson's dad, Matt took a job in Tampa, FL this past summer so John is attending Sickle HS. However, we're going to continue to proudly claim him as one of Central Texas' own as we watch him continue to garner accolades and continue to be an ambassador to the game, long after his tenure with the Texas D-1 Ambassadors.

Best of luck John

Coach Max & The Texas D-1 Ambassadors Family

Pflugerville 51 Austin Bowie 37

Texas Basketball Inc. will be at Austin Bowie tonight for the big District matchup between the Pflugerville Panthers & the host Bulldogs, led by former Texas State Coach Celester Collier. We will be streaming the audio broadcast live at http://www.nhsbn.com/ Once you get to that site, just click on the game. My color commentator/sidekick for today's game will be Chris Blevins who runs the Cen Tex Shooters summer program.

Pflugerville is looking to all but salt the District Championship away with a win on the road, while Bowie wants to continue to make it a dog fight, or at the very least maintain 2nd place over Austin Westlake.

Austin Bowie will get senior leadership from PG Aaron Urbanus and W Isiah Collier. Pflugerville will counter with W Brian Todd and their two D-1 signees PG Jonathan Garza and 6'8" P Osas Ebomwonyi. Both have inked with Lamar University in the Southland Conference.

The contrasting styles should make for a great matchup as Bowie will look to run a matchup zone and control the pace while Mike Murphy's hosses will look play man to man & run and gun their way to victory.
=============================================================
In what turned out to be a somewhat lack luster game, Pflugerville jumped out to an early 10 point lead and really never relinquished it. There was no subsequent run by Bowie at anytime on their home court. They cut it to 8 at one point early in the 4th quarter, but could not squeeze Pflugerville. The Panthers showed great composure on the road, limiting their turnovers ina hostile road environment over a solid Bowie team. The result all but sews up 16-5A for The Ville.

2011 G Deion Mitchell led the Panthers offensive attack as he was fearless in going to the basket. Isiah Collier had 15 points & was the only offensive bright light for the Bulldogs who are now back in a dogfight with Austin Westlake for the 2nd playoff spot in 16-5A. You can tell it's getting near to that time of year as Coach Tommy Hines & his staff were on hand from San Antonio Lee scouting their potential playoff opponent. (Lee will face either Bowie or Westlake in a first round playoff game.)

Big Osas Ebomwony, all 6'8" of him made the Bulldogs ineffective all night. He had 4 blocks but altered countless other shots. The Lamar signee also had 8 points on the evening.

All American Prodigy Camp March 14-15th

All American Prodigy Camp gear which every player receives.
JERSEY, SHORTS, & NIKE SHOES

We've been getting great feedback about the new player database that's being developed for kids in the Texas & Louisiana area. You can access it either at our site www.texasbasketballinc.com or directly at www.texasbasketballrankings.com

We've already got D-1 schools subscribing. There is a growing interest in Texas & Louisiana players. With the recent NCAA decision to not allow a live recruiting period this spring there is no better way for you to generate recruiting action than to be recognized and evaluated on our site. We'll be sure to see you if you attend camp!

The All American Prodigy Camp, now in it's 3rd year takes on even more significance than ever. It will be held in Austin the weekend of our Boys State Basketball Tournament, March 14-15th. ALL players at the camp will have their evaluation posted online at http://www.texasbasketballrankings.com/

The tuition is $295. Each player will receive their custom jersey and shorts, which they keep, a pair of Nike LeBron shoes (or similar), 2 days of instruction, games and competition as well as their addition to our recruiting database. Many of our instructors/contributing evaluators are high school coaches, former/current college players and some with pro experience.

There will only be 20 players per Class Year admitted to the camp, first come, first served. All registration is online at www.texasbasketballinc.com

Recruiting Scoop: Hill College to Marquette

Marquette continues to build under Coach Buzz Williams as he lands the top Junior College Big in the country. 6'10" Monterale Clark, originally from Milwaukee is shown here in his Hill Colege (TX) uniform is headed to the Big East with huge expectations according to his current Coach Swede Trenkle of Hill.

Just got off the phone with my buddy, Hill College (TX) Head Coach Swede Trenkle. The best unsigned Junior College Big Man in the country is now off the board. Coach trenkle informed me that 6'10" Monterale Clark who is from Milwaukee, WI has committed to one of the hardest working coaches in the country.

That's right, Buzz Williams is at it again. Whether he's at Colorado State, Texas A&M, New Orleans, or now at Marquette the tireless Williams has feathered his cap again. The Big East got bigger with the addition of Clark to the Marquette Golden Eagles.

Pflugerville 89 Austin Akins 68

2010 W 6'5" Demetrious "Cleveland" Smith (shown here at the www.TexasRecruit.com combine) helped his Pflugerville Panthers to a convincing win tonight. Smith's wingspan has been measured at 6'9". His perimeter shot is improving and he's turning into a sure fire prospect.

Texas Basketball Inc's correspondent was in the house tonight at Pflugerville to see the Panthers dominating win over Austin Akins. Pflugerville came out of the gate early and held a 50-34 edge at the half, emptied their bench and coasted to an 89-68 victory.

Akins is no slouch team either as Coach David Peavey has his troops playing aggressive basketball. What makes Pflugerville scary good is that they've never been healthy all season. The Ville has been the victim of assorted nagging injuries to 2010 W Cleveland Smith, and two both their D-1 signees; 2009 Osas Ebomwonyi (still getting in shape after suffering a broken leg, returning to the lineup just before New Year) and 2009 PG Jonathan Garza (only played 2 minutes tonight with a broken hand).

If the Panthers can get healthy there's no telling what they can accomplish. A deep playoff run is in the cards for them in my opinion. They've already beaten Judson, and lost in double OT to San Antonio Madison this year WITHOUT Smith and Ebomwonyi in the lineup.

Akins was led by Kevin McFarland with 13, Brandon Wooley with 11 and 2011 PG Yolonzo Moore with 11.

Pflugerville, who seems to have a different hero everytime out got 20 points and 11 rebounds, including 2 big dunks from 2009 W Brian Todd, 17 from 2011 G Deion Mitchell, and 16 points from 2010 W Cleveland Smith who is showing much improved range on his shot. Ebomwonyi clogged up the middle and blocked 5 Akins shots.

San Antonio Warren 73 San Antonio Taft 62

2010 Sean Harris (pic a little out of focus) came close to a triple double tonight in leading his San Antonio Warren team to victory over San Antonio Taft.

2011 PG 6'0" Dylan Elias looks to lead San Antonio Taft v. San Antonio Warren in tonight's matchup at Paul Taylor Fieldhouse.I'll be at Paul Taylor Fieldhouse in San Antonio tonight for what should be a great matchup between Taft & Warren. The winner will be in the cat bird seat for 3rd place in the District behind frontrunners Clark & Stevens.

Of interest to me will be the evaluation and progress shown of three talented underclassmen. Warren will need leadership from 2010 6'6" Sean Harris down low and on the boards, and from 2011 W Chris Freeman, while 2011 PG Dylan Elias one of Texas' best in the Class of 2011 will show his ability to run a team and also score from the point position for Coach Weaver's Taft squad.

1st Quarter Taft 18 Warren 16

The highlight of the period was a nice dunk in transition by Warren's 2009 Anthony Johnson. Senior Patrick Barton had 8 points as he dropped two from behind the arc. Big Sean Harris of Warren has the body of a D-1 tight end and nimble feet to match. I'd like to see him play with a little bit of an attitude though and have him dunking everything. Having said that, he has a nice soft touch.

Halftime Taft 27 Warren 27

Harris must have read my mind because he came out like his butt was on fire in the first few minutes of the quarter and had three blocked shots, tied up a guard in a held ball and then trailed on the break and cleaned up the missed layup with a rim rattler. I see him being a mid major three man if he continues to work on his conditioning and his intensity. He also finished the quarter by pinning another one at the top of the square. Nice job, Big Fella.

3rd Quarter Warren 52 Taft 46

2009 Anthony Johnson has started the 3rd with consecutive 3 pointers for Warren. Taft Answered back with triples by 2009 Dray Baker & 2011 G Carlos Gutierrez. Sandwiched in between 2010 W Akhenaton Zakariyyaa has swished the nets from beyond the arc for Warren. Zakariyyaa is explosive and can get to the rim as well. TO Taft as Warren opens up a 47-40 lead with 2:19 to go in the 3rd.

FINAL San Antonio Warren 73 San Antonio Taft 62

During a 4 minute stretch Zakariyyaa's slashing and Harris' work on the boards put Warren in front 60-49. Taft has now begun to pressure the Warren backcourt causing consecutive turnovers and 2 layups off steals. TO Warren as they try to regroup with 3:20 left and the score 60-53 in their favor. Great offensive board and subsequent tip by Harris to stop the Taft mini run. Game over, as Harris tries to tear down the backboard with all 230 plus pounds. That's power folks! Warren 66-53. Taft was just too undersized on the boards in this one.

Leading Scorers

Taft Carlos Gutierrez 19 Patrick Barton 15 Dylan Elias 12

Warren Akhenaton Zakariyyaa 15 Anthony Johnson 20

Sean Harris 14 points & 7 blocks as well as double digit rebounds.

San Antonio O'Connor 49 San Antonio Holmes 37

Earlier in the evening San Antonio O'Connor had 26 from 2009 P 6'5" Travis Gipson as he torched Holmes on the boards and on the block in his second dominating performance in a row that I've witnessed. A steady diet of him turning down low, with great foot work and solid finishes with power layups and bank shots put Holmes away. Once again, this kid can play somewhere. He's fundamentally sound and he's tough.

Louisiana "Hall fo Fame" Games

2009 W 6'3" Joevoskie Mitchell plays above the rim. He led his Zwolle team to a big win over Reserve Christian in the Hall of Fame Game this past weekend in Lafayette, LA.

I spent the weekend in Lafayette, LA at the Louisiana High School Athletic Ass'n Hall of Fame Games. This is an exhibition series held annually with all proceeds going to the LHSAA Hall of Fame. Even the officials donate their services for the game. It's a great cause.

There were 5 games played. The scores, along with a brief snyopsis were as follows (Individual player wrap ups will be in a separate post to follow:) Anyone interested in hearing the broadcasts, and the basketball chatter over the course of the 9 hours can do so by going to http://www.nhsnb.com/ Once there, look for the archived game by the name of the competing teams. Lots of coaches interviews, player interviews as well as commentary on the games by myself and http://www.pelicanpreps.com/ rep Bobby Sibley. I also had a great interview with Nike South's Ron Briscoe.

Point Coupee Central (12-11) 63 Lafayette Comeaux (19-12) 49

This was a heck of a ballgame, with several runs in it. At one point the young host Comeaux squad had a 19 point lead in the middle of the 3rd quarter on the strength of 2011 G Kenry Lewis (19 points) who was connecting from deep and going blow for blow with Comeaux's 2010 G 6'0" D.J. Cobb. The 4th quarter was all Cobb's as he finished with 31 points including a key steal at midcourt and subsequent layup that was a back breaker. Coach Melanson of Comeaux has a heck of a future though as he started 4 sophomores.

Many (26-7) 74 Lafayette St. Thomas Moore (30-2) 67

Many had to battlle at the end as STM kept coming at them, making baskets in a flurry in the last 1:30. Many did what all great teams do, they hit their free throws and never allowed their opponent to see light at the end of the tunnel. STM was led by 2009 G 6'1" Nick Cortese, along with 18 from 2010 6'6" Will Norman, and heralded 2010 F 6'4" Xavier Blackburn with 12.

Many had a great team effort with 2010 P 6'6" manchild Nic Jacobs banging in the post. He's one of Louisiana's top football prospects. 2009 PG 6'0" D.J. Palmer had 21 points and did a great job of distributing the basketball. 2011 F 6'3" Rod Davis (11pts) & 2010 6'3" G Dantrell Thomas (15pts) carried their fair share of the load as well. They were above the rim, with Thomas having a particularly nasty dunk. They play their summer ball with Louisiana Nike Select.

Zwolle 103 Reserve Christian 92

I've seen over 100 high school games so far this season and this may have been the most exciting one so far. Reserve Christian, always a powerhouse with alumni the likes of Tweety Carter (Baylor) had their hands full with Zwolle who at one point won 7 straight Louisiana State Titles. Reserve Christian's impressive outside shooting was no match for Zwolle's high flying show as they had to have somewhere around 15 dunks.

They were led by 2009 Joevoskie Mitchell with 29 points. Interestingly Mitchell has many other famous athletic brothers in 2010 6'6" P JaDarius Davis of Lufkin, TX, Jermichael Finley (University of Texas football) and Jevorskie Lane (Texas A&M football.) He has a bright future ahead of him. JuCo's need to beware, and D-1's take note as we await his test scores.

2009 6'5" Antonio Holmes had 20 points on 10 dunks, 2009 G 6'3" Darius Montgomery had 25, while Northwestern State signee 6'3" PG Eric Cutright had 25. Cutright reminded me of Canadian National star and Marquette signee, Junior Cadougan of Hunble Christian Life (TX).

Reserve Christian could really have used the services of the #1 2012 P in the country, Ricardo Gathers who sustained a broken finger at a tournament in Alaska last month. Having said that, the cupboard wasn't exactly bare for Coach Tim Byrd's crew as 2010 G 6'5" Ed Gallina of Brazil (29 pts) & 2010 G 6'2" Cedric Jenkins (33 pts) can both really play. Frosh F 6'3" Louis Dabney showed a great desire to compete and battled all night in scoring 22. He's one to watch.

New Orleans Country Day 64 Sulphur 46

After the Zwolle-Christian Life affair, it would be hard for anyone to follow that act. The game itslef had no real runs to it with Country Day controlling things from the opening minute however it was fun watching 4 future D-1 guys battle. The edge has to go to Country day, with their twin towers 2009 6'7" Eddie Ludwig who signed with LSU and his 2010 sidekick Matt Derenbecker who's been offered already by LSU & Wichita State. He's seeing his stock rise after dropping 49 v Florida signee Kenny Boynton last month.

Sulphur has two quality guys in 2010 G 6'8" Matt LeBato & 2010 G 6'3" Chip Armelin. I see both these guys as solid mid majors.


Baton Rouge Christian Life (22-6) 63 Lafayette Northside (22-4) 52

Another game chock full of top prospects in Christian Life's high major Langston Galloway, and mid majors 2010 G Corey Self, 2010 W Pat Robinson, 2010 P 6'7" Kaleb Knight & Polish National team member Grajon Suzba. Northside has two tremendous 2011 prospects in PG 5'11" Nick Syrie, and 6'6" Jonathon Tolivar.