The View From Centercourt

Brackets Central - 2021

 

Class AA

Class A1

Class A2

Class B1

Class B2

Class B3

Class C1

Class C2

Class D

Manhattan Cup

 

-centercourt

 

Class B2 Bracket - 2021 Sectionals

 

Quarterfinals - Monday, March 22nd

(1) Medina 68, (8) Alden 48

(4) Newfane 70, (5) Depew 45

 

(2) Lackawanna 66, (7) Burgard 55

(6) Akron 42, (3) Springville 35

 

Semifinals - Wednesday, March 24th

(1) Medina 64, (4) Newfane 55 OT

(2) Lackawanna 47, (6) Akron 43

 

Final - Friday, March 26th

(1) Medina 68, (2) Lackawanna 57

 

2021 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Medina Mustangs

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Bracket - 2020 Sectionals

 

Class B1

First Round - Tuesday, February 25th at 7 pm

(12) City Honors 67, (13) Alden 44

 

(15) Springville 57, (10) Burgard 41

(11) Maryvale 63, (14) Dunkirk 53

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 26th at 7 pm

(8) Medina 68, (9) Tonawanda 60

(5) Lackawanna 62, (12) City Honors 59

 

(7) Olean 72, (15) Springville 43

(6) Albion 57, (11) Maryvale 49

 

Quarterfinals - Saturday, February 29th at 1 pm

(1) Bennett 68, (8) Medina 55

(4) East Aurora 67, (5) Lackawanna 52

 

(7) Olean 78, (2) Iroquois 56

(3) Depew 52, (6) Albion 48

 

Semifinals - Wednesday, March 4th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:15 pm & 6:45 pm

(4) East Aurora 65, (1) Bennett 54

(7) Olean 62, (3) Depew 36

 

Final - Saturday, March 7th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

(7) Olean 67, (4) East Aurora 32

 

2020 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

*******************************************

 

Class B2

First Round - Tuesday, February 25th at 7 pm

(12) Southwestern 51, (13) Eden 37

 

(11) Roy-Hart 66, (14) Buffalo Arts 54 

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 26th at 7 pm

(8) Wilson 52, (9) MST Seneca 31

(5) Maritime 64, (12) Southwestern 37

 

(7) JFK 52, (10) Akron 48

(11) Roy-Hart 67, (6) Cleveland Hill 57

 

Quarterfinals - Saturday, February 29th at 1 pm

(1) Olmsted 45, (8) Wilson 41

(4) Newfane 67, (5) Maritime 61

 

(2) Allegany-Limestone 74, JFK 40

(3) Fredonia 85, (11) Roy-Hart 43

 

Semifinals - Tuesday, March 3rd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:15 pm & 6:45 pm 

(4) Newfane 72, (1) Olmsted 48

(2) Allegany-Limestone 42, (3) Fredonia 40

 

Final - Saturday, March 7th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

(2) Allegany-Limestone 54, (4) Newfane 45

 

2020 Class B2 Champions - Allegany-Limestone Gators

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2018 Sectionals

Class B1

First Round - Tuesday, February 20th

(9) CSAT 57, (16) Tonawanda 31

(13) Fredonia 67, (12) Alden 45

 

(10) Albion 67, (15) I-Prep 58

(11) Burgard 80, (14) Springville 54

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 21st

(9) CSAT 42, (8) Depew 38

(13) Fredonia 57, (5) MST Seneca 54

 

(7) City Honors 66, (10) Albion 50

(6) Dunkirk 59, (11) Burgard 45

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 23rd

(1) Lackawanna 69, (9) CSAT 52

(4) Newfane 66, (13) Fredonia 41

 

(2) Olean 62, (7) City Honors 54

(3) Medina 67, (6) Dunkirk 60

 

Semifinals - Tuesday, February 27th & Wednesday, February 28th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 8:15 pm

(4) Newfane 54, (1) Lackawanna 53  

(2) Olean 59, (3) Medina 45 

 

Final - Saturday, March 3rd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

(1) Olean 48, (4) Newfane 35

 

2018 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies 

 

******        ******        ******        ******        

 

Class B2

First Round - Tuesday, February 20th

(9) Roy-Hart 59, (16) DaVinci 36

(12) Riverside 71, (13) Eden 38

 

(10) Southwestern 54, (15) Akron 30

(14) Oracle 49, (11) Buffalo Arts 46

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 21st

(8) Gowanda 62, (9) Roy-Hart 43

(5) Wilson 60, (12) Riverside 54

 

(10) Southwestern 53, (7) Cleveland Hill 45

(6) Maritime 62, (14) Oracle 58

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 23rd

(1) Middle College 72, (8) Gowanda 67

(4) Health Sciences 64, (5) Wlson 36

 

(10) Southwestern 54, (2) Olmsted 51

(3) JFK 74, (6) Maritime 65

 

Semifinals - Monday, February 26th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm 

(4) Health Sciences 62, (1) Middle College 42

(3) JFK 66,  (10) Southwestern 60

 

Final - Saturday, March 3rd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

 (4) Health Sciences 67, (3) JFK 35

 

2018 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Health Sciences Falcons 

 

-centercourt

The Schedule: 2017-2018 Season

(Buffalo State Sports Arena during Championship Week /Photo: Harry Scull,Buffalo News) 

 

Click HERE for the 2019 Schedule

 

-centercourt

Season Preview: 2017-2018

(The 2017 Manhattan Cup Final/Photo: Harry Scull,Buffalo News)

 

The 2017-2018 Pre-View From Centercourt contains:

- Commentary on returning talent  &  offseason news

- What's New

- Returning 2017 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2018

- A League-by-League look at the teams

(MMA, Yale Cup, ECIC,  NFL, N-O, CCAA, & Charters)

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools

- Predictions

*************************************************************

 Last year on a Sunday night late in March I was driving home from Glens Falls.  I'd just finished watching the Federation Tournament, which signals the official end to the high school basketball season, and I was going through the 2017 All-Centercourt Team in my mind.  I quickly began to realize something that got me thinking ahead to the 2018 season and just how cool the season would be. 

What was it?  Talent.  All sorts of returning talent.  An unprecedented amount of underclassmen had turned in seasons worthy of recognition in not just the Top 60, but the coveted Top 25.  In early April when the All-Centercourt Team was published, underclassmen accounted for over half of the Top 60.  But it was in the Top 25 that the numbers really popped.  Just nine seniors took up those slots, meaning an astonishing 16 underclassmen had represented the best 25 seasons in WNY.

While there are talented players back at every level and every league, there's a few teams that are downright filthy on paper coming into this season.  Canisius, Park, Health Sciences, and East each return nearly all of its production for highly successful seasons in 2017, while Franklinville and Ellicottville literally return their entire rotations.

 

Perhaps the biggest name back this season is Williamsville South's Greg Dolan, the lone returning First Team selection.  It's hard to believe it was already four seasons ago that I first watched Dolan take the court as a freshman point guard and lead his team to a road victory in his first ever game played at Class AA district rival Williamsville North, but over 1,000 points and two Section VI titles later, he's finally a senior.

 

Unfortunately for local fans, the biggest player won't be back in WNY this season following a standout junior year.  Joe Jones, a 6-8 force in the paint, made the decision to leave The Park School to play at Orangeville Prep.

 

While Dolan might be the biggest name locally, the biggest news was made by Davonte Gaines, who verbally committed to Tennessee prior to his senior season at Health Sciences.  The Ticket, as he's known in WNY basketball circles, visited the Vols during the offseason and liked what he saw.

 

The biggest incoming name to this season might be Tapestry freshman guard Tariq Eubanks.  After an offseason of training, AAU, and competing against top competition at Future150 camps, Eubanks is nationally ranked in the Class of 2021.

 

Tyron Lott is the player with the biggest question mark attached to his name as this season gets underway.  He's a 1,000 point scorer and a Top 25 All-Centercourt player that is currently not attached to a team.  After starring at Health Sciences and helping the team reach the state final four in Class B, it's very possible he does not play for the Falcons as a senior.  Stay tuned as we await word on where he will be.

 

So what about the biggest offseason transfer?  Since two of the players in the Top 60 changed teams, we can start there.  The highest ranking talent to move was Third Team All-Centercourt guard Julian Cunningham, who left St. Francis for the team's long standing rival at Timon.  Jalen Bradberry left Niagara Wheatfield following an 8th grade campaign at the varsity level that earned All-Centercourt Honorable Mention honors to play in the Monsignor Martin Association at Niagara Catholic, and it looks like he brought a few of his friends with him.

 

Another player that transferred was Juston Johnson, who ran the point for Timon in 2017.  But that transfer came as part of a major shakeup in South Buffalo that saw Timon Athletic Director Charlie Comerford resign from his positions in both administration and coaching.  That led to the resignation of Timon's basketball coach Des Randall, and ultimately the transfer of Johnson (Randall's brother).  Both Randall and Johnson are now at West Seneca West.

 

*************************************************

 

What's New ??

 

- After a decade of immersing myself in the local high school hoops scene, I finally organized an event.  The first ever Centercourt Classic will take place on Saturday, February 3rd at Williamsville South High School, featuring four games between top 10 teams from the 2017 season that brought back plenty of talent!

 

-  The Niagara Frontier League (NFL) will be split into two divisions this season. (Niagara Falls, Ken West, Lockport, Niagara Wheatfield, & North Tonawanda) AND (Grand Island, Lew-Port, CSAT, & Ken East).  Teams will play everyone in the league once and teams within their newly structured divisions twice.  The regular season will conclude with 'crossover' games between the two divisions (1 vs 1, 2 vs 2, etc.) with the team finishing 5th in the larger division playing at West Seneca East for its 20th game.

 

-  Lafayette will no longer host home games in its one-of-a-kind gymnasium that was far from a regulation court, but was an experience in-and-of itself.  The Violets will instead play their home games at Grabiarz School of Excellence on Lawn Ave.

 

- This season there are only 16 teams in Class C, meaning there will be no breakdown into Class C1  &  Class C2.  Just one Section VI Final for Class C.

 

-  Yale Cup varsity games will now have a 6:30 pm tip time.

 

- The Pastor-Cooper Showcase at Daemen College will only be two days this season - Thursday, December 7th  &  Saturday, December 9th.

 

- The ADPRO Public/Private Challenge returns to St. Mary's with another three-day, 11-game lineup.  This season's headliner is Canisius vs. Health Sciences.

 

-  The Manhattan Cup semifinals for Class B will be played on the same night as the 32 Section VI quarterfinals, in addition to the Manhattan Cup Finals for Class A & B conflicting with the Wednesday night of Buff State Week.

 

- Six teams have changed leagues from last season:

Starpoint returns to ECIC II, Iroquois & Springville move to ECIC III, Depew to ECIC IV, I-Prep to Yale Cup I, and Riverside to Yale Cup II.

 

 -  It's Section VI's turn to host the Far West Regionals.  A full slate of five games are scheduled for Saturday, March 10th at Buffalo State.

 

************************************************

 

The Players

*** 15 of the top 25 players from the 2017 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 16 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.  That's over half of the Top 60!

Returning First Teamer

 Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Senior

 Junior Season stats:

 23.0 PPG

8.9 RPG

4.3 APG

3.8 SPG

 Dolan is WNY's only current three-time All-Centercourt selection heading into his senior season.  The Billies' all-time steals leader and 1,000 point scorer will carry the load for his team more than ever this season in a quest for a fourth straight Class A1 Final appearance.

*All-Centercourt Defender*

  Returning Second Teamers

Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, Senior

Junior Season stats:

28.2 PPG

7.8 RPG

4.7 SPG 

3.8 APG

Pope is coming off a season that saw him attempt a staggering 221 free throw attempts and score over 700 points.  He led his Thunderbirds to their first ever Section VI title and helped advance the team to regionals.

• *All-Centercourt Defender *

 

Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, Senior

Junior Season stats:

17.7 PPG

12.1 RPG

3.8 BPG

2.9 SPG

The team's MVP scored a career-high 50 points in a victory last season and committed to play for Tennessee following his prep days.  Gaines led his school to its first ever Section VI title and beyond.

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Willard Anderson - East, Senior

Junior Season stats:

25.7 PPG

5.9 APG

3.9 RPG

3.4 SPG 

Anderson has an all-around game that led East in points, assists, steals, & blocks, but his specialty is filling up the rim.  During his junior campaign, he scored a career-high 42 points, while scoring at least 29 points in 11 of the Panthers' 23 games.

 

 

Returning Third Teamers

Bo Sireika - St. Francis, Senior

Junior Season stats:

14.0 PPG

3.9 RPG

1.9 APG

1.3 SPG

Already the school's all-time leader in 3-pointers made, Sireika took the Red Raiders to the Manhattan Cup Final in 2017.

*All-Centercourt Defender*

 

 

Julian Cunningham - Timon, Junior

Sophomore Season stats:

12.2 PPG

4.7 RPG

2.8 APG

1.6 SPG

Following a Manhattan Cup Final appearance with the Red Raiders, one of WNY's most crafty and competitive floor generals will suit up in Timon green this season.

* All-Centercourt Defender *

 

 

Trevor Book - North Tonawanda, Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

18.3 PPG

4.4 RPG

3.2 SPG

1.9 APG

 

After leading the Jacks to an overall Class A crown as a junior on a senior laden squad, Book is set to put the team on his back and erupt after a break-out junior year.

 

Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Senior

Junior Season stats:

11.3 PPG

8.3 RPG

5.3 APG

1.5 SPG

The 2016 Centercourt 6th Man of the Year became the Crusaders' go-to player in crunch time as a junior and delivered, leading Canisius to another Manhattan Cup after arriving to the postseason as the #4 seed.

*All-Centercourt Defender*

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Returning Fourth Teamers

Noah Hutchins - Junior, Park

Sophomore Season stats:

11.5 PPG

5.0 APG

4.0 RPG

3.6 SPG 

Perhaps the most talented player in all of WNY, Hutchins has never lost to a public school in his two seasons as the maestro for the Pioneers.

*All-Centercourt Defender*

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Dan Scott - Park, Junior

Sophomore Season stats:

16.0 PPG

4.7 RPG

3.0 APG

2.6 SPG

The intense two-way star is a returning First Team All-Catholic selection looking to help Park take the next step in the large school ranks.

*All-Centercourt Defender*

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville, Senior

Junior Season stats:

21.0 PPG

14.7 RPG

3.3 BPG

1.6 SPG

 

WNY's top returning big man enters his senior season as a two-time First Team All-State selection in Class D after earning the honor in both his sophomore & junior campaigns.

 

Sam Erickson - Franklinville, Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

20.4 PPG

10.2 RPG

2.7 APG

2.3 SPG

 

After leading the Panthers to the state final four in Class D last season, the do-it-all standout returns on a mission to take his team to the top of the state.

 

Returning Fifth Teamers

Tyron Lott - Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

18.4 PPG

6.0 APG

4.1 RPG

3.8 SPG

 

The 1,000 point scorer helped Health Sciences win the Class B Regional and advance to the state final four.  He will be a major addition to whichever team he ends up with for his senior season.

 

Jalin Cooper - Medina, Senior

Junior Season stats:

20.8 PPG

9.4 RPG

3.0 SPG

2.6 APG

The high-flyer will play football for Toledo in the fall after a run at a third straight N-O title for the Mustangs, who ran the table in league play last season.

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

 

Ryan Bradley - Canisius, Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

13.3 PPG

7.7 RPG

2.6 APG

1.2 SPG 

 

Became a vital piece in the Crusaders starting lineup thanks to his size & all-around talent and was instrumental in leading them to a third straight Manhattan Cup title.

 

Returning 2017 Honorable Mentions

Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, Sr:  20.2 PPG / 14.0 RPG / 4.8 APG  as a junior

Kyle DeVoogel - Newfane, Sr:  18.6 PPG / 5.9 SPG / 4.1 RPG / 2.8 APG / 0.9 BPG  as a junior

Chad Biersbach - Depew, Sr:  17.5 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 2.8 SPG / 2.1 APG / 0.9 BPG  as a junior

Ray Blackwell - Maryvale, Sr:  17.0 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 3.8 APG / 3.1 SPG  as a junior

Hakeem Dobbins - Middle College, Sr:  16.5 PPG / 2.8 RPG / 2.0 APG / 1.8 SPG  as a junior

Latrell Butler-Kemp - Walsh, Sr:  16.4 PPG / 7.5 RPG / 3.9 APG / 2.2 SPG  as a junior

Ray Mushat - South Park, Sr:  15.3 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 2.6 SPG / 1.2 APG / 0.6 BPG  as a junior

Max Weber - Newfane, Sr:  14.8 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 7.0 APG / 3.0 SPG / 1.7 BPG  as a junior

Christian Szablewski - St. Mary's, Sr:  13.4 PPG / 8.5 RPG / 2.3 APG / 2.0 SPG  as a junior

Darnell Butts - Dunkirk, Sr:  13.1 PPG / 4.5 RPG / 2.1 APG / 1.6 STL / 0.4 BPG  as a junior

Tazaun Rose - Niagara Falls, Sr:  11.0 PPG / 5.0 APG / 4.0 SPG / 3.0 RPG  as a junior

Mason Goodridge - Springville, Jr:  18.9 PPG / 2.5 APG / 2.1 RPG / 1.2 SPG  as a sophomore

Cam Sionko - Grand Island, Jr:  17.2 PPG / 4.0 RPG / 3.0 APG / 1.8 SPG  as a sophomore

Justin Hemphill - O'Hara, Jr:  16.4 PPG / 11.0 RPG / 5.1 APG / 2.4 SPG / 2.2 BPG  as a sophomore

Tyler Hind - Randolph, So:  17.6 PPG / 4.3 APG / 3.1 SPG / 2.8 RPG  as a freshman

Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Catholic, Fr:  14.7 PPG / 3.3 APG / 3.0 RPG / 1.5 APG  as an 8th grader

  

Player Watch List

Nick MacDonald - 12 (Canisius), Austin James - 12 (Canisius), Master Radford - 12 (Timon), Jack Capen - 12 (St. Joe's), Syquan Ralands - 12 (Niagara Falls), Jacob Genzel - 12 (Hamburg), Justin Allen - 12 (East), Liam Carey - 12 (Grand Island), Nick Baker - 12 (JFK), Ture Hassler - 12 (Gowanda), Griffin Chudy - 12 (Ellicottville), Austin Grinols - 12 (Ellicottville), Isaac Kopp - 12 (Franklinville), Jon Parks - 12 (Lake Shore), Noble Smith - 12 (Lackawanna), Anthony Whitfield - 12 (Hutch-Tech), Deon Spencer - 12 (McKinley), Kyle Ebert - 12 (Frontier), Alex Wayland - 12 (West Seneca West), Jared Gleason - 12 (Sherman), Jarmani Benton - 12 (Silver Creek), Jermaine Haynes - 11 (Cardinal O'Hara), Chris Stineman - 11 (Nichols), Noah Grabar - 11 (Lackawanna), Josiah Harris - 11 (Niagara Falls), Brady Woelben - 11 (Silver Creek), Lucas Theisen - 11 (St. Francis), River Reinhart - 11 (Clarence), Malik Brooks - 11 (Lockport), Mike Schmidt - 11 (Olean), Quentin Nnagbo - 11 (Park), Julian Eziukwu - 11 (Park), Earl Howard - 11 (MST Seneca),  Zamari Mitchell - 11 (West Seneca West), Devin Degree - 11 (Williamsville South), Kameron Briggs - 11 (Health Sciences),  Trent Scott - 11 (Lew-Port), Juston Johnson - 11 (West Seneca West), Adrian Baugh - 11 (West Seneca West), Mason Goodridge - 11 (Springville), Nate Shuart - 11 (Fredonia), Carson Christ - 11 (Maple Grove), Amir Radford - 11 (City Honors), Dwayne Vass - 10 (Canisius), Ishmael Fairclough - 10 (Canisius), Jaylen Stewart - 10 (Park), Eric Kegler - 10 (St. Mary's), Anthony Mack - 10 (South Park), Jahmal Lewis - 10 (McKinley), Terrell Mullen - 10 (Maryvale), Justin Hemphill - 10 (Cardinal O'Hara), Daesean Ashley - 10 (Amherst), Cameron Barmore - 10 (Panama), Cal Shifflet - 10 (Williamsville East), Aidan Horan - 10 (Nichols), Dom Jamison - 10 (Silver Creek), Jon Orugun - 10 (Park), Tariq Eubanks - 9 (Tapestry), Kyjuan Inabinett - 9 (Health Sciences, Javaughn Jones - 9 (Health Sciences), Tyler Putney - 9 (Fredonia)

 

*****************************************************

 

League-By-League

Monsignor Martin Association

Large Schools - CLASS A

Canisius has won seven of the last nine Manhattan Cup championships, including the last three.  After pulling it off last season as the #4 seed in the playoffs, the Crusaders are back once again in full force, returning a deep and talented lineup.  Canisius started five underclassmen for most of the season, so they will be a seasoned, veteran squad.  With vital pieces in all the right places, this team could be a complete buzz.  Jayce Johnson & Ryan Bradley both earned postseason honors last year, but the list of standouts at Canisius is lengthy.  Park has a new coach in Rich Jacob and all that underclassmen talent coming back, with the exception of Joe Jones who left for prep school.  The Pioneers played last season without any seniors - this season they'll have just two.  Expect them to be as formidable as ever with Noah Hutchins and Dan Scott leading the way and three players that are at least 6-8.  They'll look to finish strong and earn their first Class A Manhattan Cup.  St. Francis is coming off an outstanding season with some eye-popping wins and a finals appearance in the Manhattan Cup. The team returns one starter in senior Bo Sireika, who was Third Team All-Centercourt.  Despite replacing four starters Coach Ferris' squad might surprise - they are loaded with underclassmen that saw meaningful minutes last year and will be expected to step up as they look to repeat as regular season champions and get back to the Manhattan Cup Final.  St. Joe's returns eight players, led by senior Jack Capen.  Kevin Durkin will run the point for the Marauders, while 6-7 Alex D'Anniballe gives the team a presence in the middle.  Pat McCann will see plenty of court time as a junior, along with Will Ostrowski.  Tre Boling will miss some time at the start of the season following a football injury.

***

Canisius:  Jayce Johnson 12, Ryan Bradley 12, Austin James 12, Nick MacDolnald 12, Conner McCaffrey 12, Brendan Trapper 12, John Evans 12, Joe Jamison 11

Park:  Brandon Smith 12, Marques Lowe 12, Noah Hutchins 11, Daniel Scott 11, Quentin Nnagbo 11, Julian Eziukwu 11, Jordan Gompah 11, Jack Gompah 11, Q Johnson 11, Jai'den Dunn 11, Eman Wajed 11, John Orugun 10, Jaylen Stewart 10, Caleb Hutchins 9, Keyounjay Carter 9

St. Francis:  Bo Sireika 12, Owen Woyshner 12, Josh Palmer 12, Dan Busha 11, Dorion Ivey 11, Elijah Williams 11, Traevone Scott 10, Justin Poumpey 11, Lucas Theisen 11, Nicholas Reeb 11, Noah Unger 11, Reily Miller 11, Ryan Lacki 11, David Bartholomew 10, Jack Bickerstaff 10, Amiel Collins 9

St. Joe's:  Jack Capen 12, Jeremy Johnson 12, Trey Boling 12, Kevin Durkin 12, Keith Norward 12, John Galvin 12, Alexander D'Anniballe 12, Noah Hausbeck 12, Pat McCann 11, Will Ostrowski 11, Tino Martone 11, Kemychal Clark 11, Jack Wojtazsek 11, Hamzah Abdur-Rahman 11, Amari Gordon 10

Timon:  no information provided by coach

 

**********************************************

 

Small Schools - CLASS B 

St. Mary's is the defending champion in Class B and returns plenty of talent, led by seniors Christian Szablewski, Eric Brown, & Matt Ciezski.  Despite a veteran bunch, the Lancers will need to play hungry, as the other teams in the league made some key additions to already talented rosters.  There has yet to be a repeat champion in Class B.  Cardinal O'Hara is coming off its most successful season since 2002 and returns eight players, including the team’s top 3 scorers in Justin Hemphill (16.4 ppg), Jermaine Haynes (14.9 ppg), and Nasir Benton (10.3 ppg).  Hemphill enters his junior season with over 500 rebounds and 734 points.  Pat Clarke takes over as head coach at Nichols, where the Vikings finished second last season after narrowly losing a battle in the final to St. Mary's.  The team will benefit greatly from junior transfer Chris Stineman, a forward who averaged 13.6 ppg & 9.4 rpg as a sophomore.  He teams with returning starting point guard Trent Banaszak and Aidan Horan, who enjoyed a solid freshman season.  Niagara Catholic is looking to improve on their five-win season last year. With five  returning players and several new players added to the roster including notable transfer Jalen Bradberry, who earned All-Centercourt Honorable Mention honors as an 8th grader, the Patriots will look to find the cohesiveness to make them very competitive in a tough league.   Latrell Butler-Kemp, who was an All-Centercourt Honorable Mention and First Team All-Catholic last season, returns to Walsh as the team's lone senior.  The very young Eagles also have just two juniors - one that saw limited action a season ago and the other being a foreign exchange student from Germany who has never played.  In a league that is always challenging for this exceptionally small school that travels at least an hour for every road game, head coach Andy Moore may be tasked with his biggest challenge yet.

 ***

 St. Mary's:  Christian Szablewski 12, Eric Brown 12, Matt Ciezski 12, Ahmad Powell 12, Frank Propis 12, Jaelin Russell 12, Ben Mazurowski 12, Kofi Osei 12, Ja'Shawn Collins 12, Jake Lukasik 12, Brady O'Brien 11, Sean Melson 11, Alif  Dunbar 11, Eric Kegler 10

Cardinal O'Hara:  Nasir Benton 12, Michon Dudley 12, Justin Hemphill 11, Jermaine Haynes 11, Stephen Boyd 11, Brandon Broadnax 11, Matthew Buckley 11, Ibrahim Lewis 11, CJ Masters 11, Joe Turri 11, Remir Velazquez 11, Jaedin Cottman 10, Yehshua Lee 10, Quantrail Moss 10

Nichols:  TJ Banaszak 12, Antonio Jones 12, Ryan Peterson 12, Matthew Glinski 12, Michael Fredericks 12, Chris Stineman 11, Jonathan Goodloe 11, Clark Thrasher 11, Matt Raiff 11, Julian Freeman 11, Jake Bair 11, Aidan Horan 10, Hugh Purks 9

Niagara Catholic:  Nick Krupp 12, Mike Sanders 12, Harrison Abramaitys 11, Quinelle Burch 11, Raysean Smith 11, Haakim Siner 11, Jaden Turner 11, Roman Wright 11, Avion Harris 10, Jaemon Turner 10, Jalen Bradberry 9, Mehki Starks 9

Walsh:  Latrell Butler Kemp 12, George Lowry 11, Justus Lingott 11, Colin Yorke 10, Marcus Esposito 10, Kameron Ramadhan 10, Zayne Blacksnake 10, Max Garvin 9, Xavier Laverty 9, Ajhani Parks 9

CCA:   no information provided by coach

 

************************************************ 

 

Section VI

YALE CUP I

South Park enters the season as the defending Yale Cup champions for the first time in 31 years.  With all that's back, along with a couple key transfers, it looks like they could have the horses to do it again.  Ray Mushat, Anthony Mack, David Stroud, and Elijah Lewis are all back to make the Sparks formidable.  East led South Park in the final minute of the game that decided where the Yale Cup would reside, and returns three key pieces of its squad from last year.  The team has the city league's best player in Willard Anderson, back after earning Second Team All-Centercourt honors as a junior, along with Justin Allen who gives the team a strong presence in the paint, and three-year player Waunya Shaw.  The Panthers have also moved to Class D in Section VI after reaching the Class C2 Final last year.  McKinley is coming off a year in league play that ended a 28-game Yale Cup winning streak and saw the Cup leave Elmwood Avenue.  However, the Macks still reached Buffalo State in Class A1.  With plenty back and Zaire Dorsey behind the bench, they would be a tough team to bet against returning the city's trophy to the home its had for years.  Deon Spencer is back to play the point, Kavon Rogers will man the middle once again, and Emir Evans is a tough & physical defender.  Middle College has a new head coach in James Kane, who has been with the program at the JV level.  His Kats will once again be a contender in both league & sectional play, led by Nate Jackson, Aziyon Clemons, and Hakeem Dobbins.  Hutch-Tech has a group that has played together for the past couple seasons.  After playing together all offseason, the group has grown together to raise their basketball IQ's and are ready for the challenge presented in the rigorous Yale Cup.  Burgard head coach Willie Jones was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame during the offseason, so the Bulldogs are officially coached by a legend!  The team brings back six players and will carry ten underclassmen this season, led by junior Dejuan Williams.  Emerson will have to play smart and get its youth up to speed quickly as the team has just four seniors on this season's 15-man roster.  

***

South Park :  Raymond Mushat 12, Donte Ridgeway 12, Daquan Anderson 12, Justice Allen 12, Elijah Lewis 11, David Stroud 11, Devon White 11, Jalil Marris 11, Donald Stewart 11, Dabeyon Humphrey 11, Jayon Renfro 11, Anthony Mack 10, Jayson Armstead 10, Michael Crockett 10

East:  Willard Anderson 12, Justin Allen 12, Waunya Shaw 12, Xavier Turner 12, Emmanuel Wilson 12, Ibrahim Mberwa 12, Danny Carter 10, Juron Hill 10, Dontaye Miller 10, Eugene Robinson 9, Tynell Ruffins 9, Anthony Oberlander 9, Jaiden Green 9, Antonio Rivera 9

McKinley: Deon Spencer 12, Jaylin Windsor 12,  Kavon Rogers 12, Emir Evans 12, Marquese Thomas 12, Frank Bostic 12, Troy Coble 12, Ngendabanyikwa Elias 11, Jahmal  Lewis 10

Middle College:  Nate Jackson 12,  Azyion Clemons 12, Jules Stover 12, Zach Jones 12, Hakeem Dobbins 12, Donovan Queeno 12, Tereamell Stevens 11, Ja'Kari Nettles 11, James Barnes 11, Devonte Prince 10, Keyunte Jones 10, Malik Meadows 10, Jamond Jones 10, Keith Brown 10, Anthony Smith 9

Hutch-Tech:  Jayden Mitchell 12, Caleb Kash 12, Mohamad Nor 12, Frenchy Cook 12, Anthony Whitfield 11, Ke'Shawn Bennett 11, EJ Shahied 11, Khyree Jeader 11, David Bradshaw 11, Cyer Cyer 11, Emanuel Geegba 11, Elijah Smith 11, Kenneth Jacobs 10

Burgard:  Myles Morrison 12, Jeremiah Earley 12,, Brandon Myers 12, Jorge Villa 12, Kenyon Pringle 12, Isaiah Lee 12, Leander Hyshaw 12, Phillip Cooperwood 12, Dejuan Williams 11, Zak Griffin 11, Amarni Ray 11, Sonny Hollingsworth 11, Carlos Lewis 11, Arsie Carmichael 11, Greg Ruffin 11, Roshanali Hamza 11, Tyshawn Rosenthal 10, Tre'velle Mitchell 10 

Emerson:  John Tarver 12, Zakai Young 12, Jaquan Davis 12, Kam'ron Mootry 12, Lumumba Hough 11, Daquan Seltzer 11, Darshaun Sullivan 11, Quinton McClain 11, Mark Gist 11, Antonio McGee 11, Otis Houston 11, Nazir Moore 11, Calvin Smith 11, Luis Rodriguez 11, Christian McDowell 11

I-Prep: no information provided by coach

 

********************************************

 

YALE CUP II

MST Seneca returns two starters from last year in Earl Howard and Jason Chapman.  Howard is a strong and physical point guard that can handle, shoot, and defend for the Wolves.  The team will look to play solid defense and keep games close until they are able to have some new players step up and fill the roles of the departed seniors and try to use team speed and athleticism make up for a scoring lost to graduation.  Olmsted  returns Gabe Carr-Johnson and Joel Richards after reaching Buff State in Class B2 one season removed from a sectional crown in Class C1 in 2016.  The Owls assembled some challenging nonleague opponents to prepare for the postseason.   City Honors has a young team with three sophomores and a freshman, and its top player also an underclassmen in junior Amir Radford.  Riverside moves into Yale Cup II this season.  The Frontiers have three seniors back from last season, led by the talented Dialo Rivera Stevens, who is the team's captain.  At DaVinci, Nick Todaro is the new head coach and has hard-working group that will defend teams aggressively. They carry some freshmen with potential and could surprise a few teams along the way.  Lafayette is looking to build on last season following its come-from-behind sectional win over Roy-Hart, which marked the Violets' first playoff victory since 2010.  Returning starters Austin Grimes and Dayshawn Elliott will factor big in the Violets' backcourt, transition speed, and offensive output.  Senior LaMorris Elliott will give the team experience and strong perimeter shooting. 

***

MST Seneca:   Daylin Anderson 12, Daryl Costner 12, Diallo Gray 12, Marquel Hampshire 12, Saeviyon Livingston 12, James Myree 12, Warren Carter 11, Jason Chapman 11, JohnnyLee Cunningham 11, Earl Howard 11, Derrick Patterson 11, Nick Price 11, Xavier Werts 11, DeMario James 9

Olmsted:  Gabriel Carr-Johnson 12, Aaron Brown 12, Joel Richards 12, Chris Pettiway 12, Caleb Matthews 12, Marcus Roberson 11, Delmar Green 11, Deshaun Nikonowics 11, Chris Mosley 11, Trevor Young 11, Renard Siders 10, Marciano Lamar 10  

Riverside:  Dialo Rivera Stevens 12, Robert Kyle 12, Carlos Adorno Nunez 12, Dontae Hill 12, Michael Villegas 11, Asante Silva 11,   Julius Laureano 11, Jazed Maldonado Rivera 11, D'Yontai Williams 9, Ezequiel Rodriguez 9

City Honors:  Brendan Bulluck 12, Sebastian Flewellyn 12, Neftali Vazquez 12, Michael Ruggeiero 12, Amir Radford 11, Eliot Solomon 11, Xavion Baines 11, Jerimiah Chapman 10,  Nate Kahn 10, Kevion Taylor 10, Jayden Slaughter 9

Lafayette:  Austin Grimes 12, LaMorris Elliott 12, Dayshawn Elliott 11, Jiheed Robinson 11,  Kevin Maysonet 10, Kenneth Merced Ayala 10, Yabnel Calderon 10, Luis Betancourt 10, Zion Pannell 9, Yan Carlos Rodriguez 9

DaVinci:  Trevor Knight  12, Gregory Kulian 12, Cori Henning  12, Antres Garcia 12, Jordan Fonn 11, Eric Barton 11, Elijah Graham 10, Miyear White 10, Agatino Maccarrone 10, Kitara Joseph 9, Ademola Montrose 9, Hiram Abril 9, Angel Burgos 9

Buffalo Arts: no information provided by coach

 

 ***********************************************

 

ECIC I

West Seneca West will benefit greatly from the return of Juston Johnson, who played with the team as an eighth grader and the transfer of Adrian Baugh, both coming over from Timon.  The Indians also hired former Timon coach Des Randall, who starred for the school over a decade ago.  With Alex Wayland back, who led the team in scoring last year, this could be the surprise team of the season in both league play and Class A1. Williamsville North returns its starting backcourt from last season in Ryan Johnston, Jacob Belote, & Joe Nusall.  The Spartans also have a pair of bigs with talent and size with 6-5 Jonathon Abaya and 6-6 Greg Poland, and should contend for a league title and return to Buff State in Class AA.  Frontier has six players back from last season, including Kyle Ebert, who led the team with 14.5 ppg and Brandon Dunz who averaged nine ppg last year.  Jamestown has been a league champion in ECIC I for the last seven seasons.  With a young team that lacks experience, it will be a challenge to continue that streak.  The Red Raiders do have two starters back in Matt Hill and Marcus Rojas who combined for over 20 ppg last year, along with some young talent eager to continue the tradition.   Lancaster reached the Class AA Final last season, and returns a pair of talents from that team in senior Alec Tamburri and junior Jakob Jerebko.  Tamburri was a First Team selection in ECIC I, while Jerebko will help carry the load this season after battling through injuries last year.  Point guard duties will be handled by Ryan Mansell, a tough defender for the Legends.  Clarence returns its top three scorers (Joe Olivieri, River Reinhardt, & Jack Putney) from a team that won five of their last six games, with the loss occurring in overtime of the quarterfinals at Jamestown.  Orchard Park has three starters back (David Morris, Eric Liberatore, and Tino Mancabelli) however Mancabelli will begin the season on the shelf with injuries.  The Quakers will use that time to develop depth and find out who can step up into a greater role.  

***

West Seneca West:  Alex Wayland 12, Jesse Broad 12, Mike Borton 12, Jack Koller 12, Willie Morrison 12, Juston Johnson 11, Adrian Baugh 11, Bryan Ball 11, Kevin Link 11, Jack Breen 11, Anthony Espe 11, Nate Ryniec 10, Mike Glinski 10

Williamsville North:  Ryan Johnston  12, Justin Konotopskyj  12, Lucas Terry 12, Alex Steinwachs 12, Jonathon Abaya 11, Joe Nusall 11, Jacob Belote 11, Dylan Mann 11, Scott Becht 11, Jake Federio 11, Dylan Mann 11, Nick Maniscalco 11, Jacob Orlando 11, Greg Poland 10, Scott Hopkins 10

Clarence:  Joe Olivieri 12, Steve Kabayiza 12, Mike O'Brien 12, Matt Zuffranieri 12, Mike Scherrer 12, Jake Reger 12, Phil Simkin 12, Jack Putney 11, River Reinhardt 11, Jackson Wurtz 11, Brandon Ferris 11, Jon Stevens 11, Akilesh Ramakrishna 11, Peyton Metzger 10

Frontier:   Jacob Weiss 12, Tom Notto 12, Kyle Ebert 12, Alex Hiam 11, Brandon Dunz 11, Ben Taylor 11, Elliott Robinson 11, Tyler Bailey 11, Chris Jones 11, Tyler Jenkins 11

Jamestown:  Matt Hill 12, Noah Larson 12, Marcus Rojas 12, Henry Malarkey 12, Grant Moore 11, Kylen Faulkner 11, Grayson Holt 11, Daunte Garland 11, Kameron Grant 11, Nolan Butts 11, Shaheem Freeney 11, Jordan Crofoot 10, Elijah Rojas 9

Lancaster:  Alec Tamburri 12, Ryan Mansell 12, Jakob Jerebko 11, Matt Garry 11, John Kisker 11, GianLuca Fulciniti 10

Orchard Park:  Eric Liberatore 12, Alex Freilicher 12, Ben Shoop 12, Dave Morris 12, Nate Wereski 11, Matt Burney 11, Cayden Collins 11, Archie Bartolotti 11, Josh McTigue 11, Jordan Prince 11, Brad Fowler 10, Tino Mancabelli 10, Ethan Swiatek 10

 

********************************************

 

ECIC II

 Williamsville South will be the group that every other team in ECIC II gets up for.  The Billies saw their name added to the league championship banner for a third straight season and enter as the favorites to do so once again.  Greg Dolan enters his senior season with just two league losses since starting as a freshman and hopes to keep it that way.  Cody Sanford and Devin Degree also return to the starting lineup at South this year.  Amherst is a defending league and Class A2 champion that will look to be a hardworking & unselfish team.  The Tigers will be young and return no starters, but will be led by the 2017 Centercourt Sixth Man of the Year in Daesean Ashley, along with Jake Mullen, Ja’Kye Womack, and Jackson Tan who are ready to keep the Amherst tradition going.  Williamsville East will be a contender in league play thanks to a veteran squad that boasts 11 seniors, led by Patrick Ranallo, Sean Keenan, & Nicholas Kieffer, along with talented sophomore Cal Shifflet, who averaged 8.4 ppg as a freshman.  After a year away from coaching to enjoy the birth of his son, John Reinholz takes over as the head man at Hamburg.  The Bulldogs have a very young team with nine underclassmen that includes five sophomores, but do return a pair of seniors that started last season in Jacob Genzel and Mark Henry.   At Starpoint , Justin Mott is the lone starter that returns.  The Spartans welcome back four other players who saw time in last season's rotation and their experience will be needed, as the Spartans bounce back up to ECIC II after competing last season in ECIC III.  West Seneca East  will be young this season with just two returning players that played important minutes last season. Zamari Mitchell was Second Team All-ECIC II last season and led the Trojans in scoring, assists, steals, & 3-pointers, while Christian Rodriguez was one of the team's better rebounders & defensive players from last season who always guarded the other team's best player.   Sweet Home expects to take steps forward this season with their fast paced style and team defense.  They finally have older players in the program that offer experience at the varsity level, led by point guard and captain Evan John, along with Stephon Trueheart, Maurice Robertson, Matthew Nix, and returning sophomore Jamel Lucas.   

***

Williamsville South:  Greg Dolan 12, Cody Sanford 12, Josh Foster 12, Robert Richards 12, John Goetzmann 12, Paul Goetzmann 12, Dan Proch 12, Nick Geska 12, Ethan Fuhr 12, Anthony Lombardo 12, Devin Degree 11, Ryan Schouten 11, Caran Peterson 11, Ethan Heil 11, Mike DiGiulio 10

Amherst:  Chris Patterson 12, Charles Kilgo 12, Xavier Lewis 11, Jake Mullen 11, Ja’Kye Womack 11, James Moore 11, Deadrea Tyson, 11, Jackson Tan 11, Tyler Ross 11, Daesean Ashley 10, Noah Woldu 10, Aden Clemente 10, Marcus Hall 10

Williamsville East:  Sean Keenan 12, Cameron Williams 12, Connor Williams 12, Nicholas Kieffer 12, Daniel Doyle 12, Seth Blum 12, Brian Comerford 12, Justin O'Neal 12, Patrick Ranallo 12, Brian Suk 11, Joe Shifflet 12, Colin Fors 12, Dylan Moorhouse 11, Zach Rudewicz 11, Cal Shifflet 10

Hamburg:  Jacob Genzel 12, Mark Henry 12, Jack Rettig 12, Kevin McDermott 11, Connor McDonnell 11, Matthew Reagan 11, Nathan Severson 10, David Benningfield 10, Andrew Genzel 10, David Lambert 10

Starpoint:  Kyle Schreader 12, Jake Walters 12, Brandon Wunderlich 12, Aaron Chase 11, Azston Ford 11, Brendan Gawel 11, Nate Lang 11, Justin Mott 11, Adam Rankie 11, Rob Roetzer 11, Braden Zdrojewski 11, Dustin Wick 10, Dexter Brooks 9

West Seneca East:  Christian Rodriguez 12, Andrew Weiner 12, Greg Radka 12, Dylan Deneka 12, Zamari Mitchell 11, Marcus Barney 11, Matt Ibrahim 11, Alex Sarick 11, Trent Winfree 10, Michael Marcezin 10, Tommie Ferrell 10

Sweet Home:  Stephon Trueheart 12, Jewlian White 12, Dylan McDuffie 12, Ryan Harris 12, Brian Lovering 12, Tavionn Martin 11, KiAiir Brunner 11, Marjohn Manuel 11, Evan John 11, Maurice Robertson 11, Matthew Nix 11, Adrian Rice 11, Jamel Lucas 10, DaeQuan Hill 10

 

****************************************

 

ECIC III

Lake Shore will have a strong presence in the middle from Johnathan Park, who led the team in scoring & rebounding last season. Jay Brueckl and Josh Buchanan will lead a deep,experienced and talented back court.  Maryvale will put the ball in the hands of electric senior guard Ray Blackwell, who was called up as a freshman, and should eclipse the career 1,000 point total this season as a senior.  Terrell Mullen should be a strong and talented player for the Flyers, who also have third year varsity player Mark Bailey.  Chris Juergens takes over as head coach at Pioneer, after working as an assistant under Joe Pawlak at Roy-Hart.  Returning is the veteran backcourt trio of Kaleb Hurlburt, Nick Rinker and Kyle Burley, who all started last season, with Burley averaging 15 ppg last season.  Iroquois moves into the division from ECIC II with new head coach Todd Kleitz and only three players lost from last season.  Tyler Tait will be the team's top returning scorer, along with Josh Kowalski & Andrew Hetzendorfer and the talent that moved up from a JV team that went 16-4 last year.  A mix of experience and athleticism should make Cheektowaga a tough opponent. Alex Bryant, Rudy Bragg, Davon Brown & Terrance Bass are four seniors who will be looked at to lead the team, while junior Jason Salomon will also play a large role.  East Aurora has no returning starters and just four players back from last season's team that won a Section VI crown in Class B1.  Still expectations remain high for this squad with just two seniors from coach Chris Koselny, whose Blue Devils will be led by junior Kam Kmicinski.  Springville moves back into ECIC III this season and has a talented junior in Mason Goodridge, an All-Centercourt Honorable Mention selection as a sophomore.

***

Lake Shore:  Johnathan Park 12, Jacob John 12, Dakota Luke 12, Jay Brueckl 12, Bryce Toth 12, Ryan Utley 12, Ajay Cybulski 11, Josh Buchanon 11, Marcus Evans 11, Parker Jimerson 11, Nate Lockwood 11, Dezmond Wilson 11, Efrain Barreto 10

Maryvale:  Ray Blackwell 12, Dylan Casey 12, Zach Amato 12, Mark Bailey 12, Shamaar Braggs 12, Nathan Crombie 11, Ryan Smith 11, Sayvon Lash 11, Luke Mansa 11, Terrell Mullen 10, Xaier Mitchell 10, Devin Taylor 10, Christian Gueth 10, Andrew Dockery 9

Iroquois:  Tyler Tait 12, Andrew Hetzendorfer 12, S. Zachary Popovski 12, Josh Zon 12, Josh Kowalski 12, Charlie Ottomano 11, Max Derrick 11, Calvin Gawlick 11, Martin Fredia 11, Cole Augustine 11, Sean Holleig 11, Bailey Ertie 11, Matt Matia 10

Pioneer:  Kyle Burley 12, Joe Carlson 12, Kaleb Hurlburt 12, Jared Pemberton 12, Nick Rinker 12, Dylan Giboo 11, Gabe Higgins 11, Sam Hyman 11, Cole Pleace 11

Cheektowaga:  Alex Bryant 12, Davon Brown 12, Rudy Bragg 12, Keon White 12, Jaquan Pugh 12, Terrance Bass 12, Jason Salomon 11, Armondez Cleague 11

East Aurora:  Will Beavers 12, Kellan Wittman 12, Kam Kmicinski 11, Noah Denz 11, Connor Boss 10

Springville:  no information provided by coach 

 

******************************************

 

ECIC IV

Lackawanna enters the season as the defending league champion and sectional finalist in Class B1.  The Steelers hope to repeat those successes from last season and take the next step in March.  Noah Grabar is a slick passing and lights-out shooting junior, while Noble Smith is the team's leader who provides a strong presence at both ends of the floor.  The team is hopeful that London Smith is able to fully recover from a football injury before season's end - he was fantastic for them all of last year.  Depew slides back here after competing in ECIC III for the past several seasons.  The Wildcats will once again challenge opponents with perimeter shooting with an undersized lineup of shooters enjoying the green light from head coach Larry Jones.  Chad Biersbach is back to lead the way in his fifth varsity season and should become only the second player from Depew to break the 1,000 point barrier early in the year.  JFK has four starters back in Jake Braniecki, Nick Baker, Jordan Snyder, and Zack Manzella, who will be asked to shoulder the load for the Bears.   Cleveland Hill graduated several seniors from the team that lost in the Class C1 Final at JCC in March.  If the Golden Eagles, who return Fredrick Johnson, Aaron Wahler, and Kellvonta Harris, can start the year with the same energy they finished with last season, they will have an opportunity to return to the same place.  Alden will be led by a trio of seniors in Christian Snell, Joshua Jeziorski and Alexander Leigh. Snell and Jeziorski are two athletic wing players that have the ability to guard multiple positions, while Leigh is a knock down shooter who will be asked to provide a solid handle as well as timely scoring.   Tonawanda will be a very young squad with many fresh faces and is described by head coach Hank Hughes as a very hard working group with high energy that is eager to learn.  Holland will have a small roster this year in both numbers and size, and will need to rely on guard-oriented play at a fast pace.  The team will be led by Jordan Kolbmann, but the entire roster is ready to contribute and play multiple minutes.  At Eden, Paul O'Connor is the new head coach for both the varsity and JV teams.  Eight of the players on his varsity roster will be underclassmen.

 ***

Lackawana:  London Smith 12, Noble Smith 12, Robert Rice 12, Abdul Hamid Albaneh 12, Luis Aviles 12, Terrell Brower 12, Carlton Threeths 12, Juan Rodriguez 11, Noah Grabar 11, Jeremiah Caviness 11, Keyna Smith 11, Emmanual Land 11, Trenaje Giddens 11, Alfonso Rivera 11

Depew:  Chad Biersbach 12, Jeremy Clark 12, Jordan Cieselski 12, Dylan Cwiklinski 12, Augustine Arricale 12, Sean Miller 11, Matt Martin 11, Vunal Blair 11, Joe Pagano 11, Alex Neu 11, Cullen Johnson 11, Jacob Wentland 11, Max Cotton 11, Collin Bruencz 11, PJ Burns 10

JFK:  Jake Braniecki 12, Nick Baker 12, Jordan Snyder 12, Robert Burgstahler 12, Michael Nawojski 12, James Bailey 12, Leonard Fears 12, Zack Manzella 11, Nazier Childs 11, Kage Dauman 11, Mitchell Fischer 11, Mark Konczal 11, Alan Suarez 10

Cleveland Hill:  Kellvonta Harris 12, Fredrick Johnson 11, Aaron Wahler 11, Peyton Barker 11, D'Mario Grant 11, Khalil Jackson 11,  Carl Jackson 11, Alfred Walker 11

Alden:  Christian Snell 12, Riley Pastuszynski 12, Joshua Jeziorski 12, Bradley Kibler 12, Alexander Leigh 12, Matthew Schuh 12, Jacob Fairbanks 12, Maxwell Gilbert 11, Peter Jalovick 11, Lucas Jurek 11, Quinn Keller 11, Trey Samsel 10, Lucas Bush 10

Holland:  Josh Ratajczak 12, Paul Nellis 12, Jordan Kolbmann 12, Zach Pawlak 12, Brennan Lewandowski 11, Josey Rivera 11, Nolan Perry 10

Tonawanda:   Henry Palermo 12, Joshua Mouton 12,  Pat Carney 11, Noah Gross 11, Khristian Velazquez 11, Billy Zeughardt 11, Owen Baker 11, Austin Kislowski 11, Messiah Illas 10,  JJ Velazquez 9, Trevin Boling 8

Eden:  John Emel 12, Griffin Gill 12, Collin Rigley 12, Hayden Bromley 12, Jackson Carney 12, Charlie Bennett 12, Jared Sobsyk 11, Colton Stetz 11, Connor Blake 11, Zach Decarlis 11, Louis Decarlis 11, Tom Mcauly 11, Bryce Narbe 11, Tyreese Jackson 11

 

********************************************

 

Niagara Frontier League

Niagara Falls is the two-time defending champion of Class AA, and the talent back at NFHS should make it a three-peat.  Tazaun Rose & Syquan Ralands are the inside/outside combination that will lead a Wolverines team that is small with some very young players, but should be a lot of fun to watch.   Lockport graduated four starters, but still has some talent in the mix.  The Lions benefit from the return of guards Torree Cheatham and Devon Darrell, who each played in the Monsignor Martin Association last season.  They will combine with Malik Brooks, Luke Lawrence, and Devin Letherman for plenty of team speed.  North Tonawanda returns Third Team All-Centercourt standout Trevor Book, who had all his talents on full display at Buffalo State last March as the Jacks rolled through the competition en route to the team's first regional appearance.  Ryan Mountain is the reigning Coach of the Year, & along with returning seniors Sean Ferry, Kyle McNeill, and Cody Cronk, will groom newcomers from a successful JV team to continue the winning ways with defense as the backbone.  Grand Island has three straight seasons with sectional wins and reached Buffalo State in Class A1 last year.  Junior Cam Sionko is back after an All-Centercourt Honorable Mention season, along with a healthy Liam Carrey, a big and athletic player who dealt with injury last season.   Lew-Port played together a lot over the summer and gains some key talent from a JV squad that finished 18-2 last season.  They will combine with key returning players, led by Trent Scott, and look to get the Lancers back to Buff State in Class A2.   Kenmore West has some very good seniors to replace and will rely on playing  defense and getting out in transition.  The Blue Devils have Andrew Fron, Dylan James, and Erick Rainey back who all saw time last year.   Kenmore East has the talent back to compete in the NFL and take a run at reaching Buff State in Class A1.  The Bulldogs are led by the backcourt of D'Anzo Young and Kahlil O'Neil, along with Nate Murdie and Nic Calhoun inside.  CSAT  played its first season in the NFL in a year when they had a young team and the league was the strongest in Section VI.  For their second round of competition in the NFL, the Eagles have nine players back, eight of which are seniors, and plan to be a defensive-minded veteran group.   Niagara Wheatfield will be led by third year player Anthony Ruffino, who along with Davon Ware, Ben Davanteir and Zach Stanley, had very productive offseasons.

 ***

Niagara Falls:   Tazaun Rose 12, Syquan Ralands 12, Jamel Burton 12, Marques Miller 12, Quaran Dubois 12, Roderick Arrington 12,   Naim Bradley 12, Josiah Harris 11, Moran Montgomery 11, Joe Palka 10, Taylor Sanders 10, Roddy Gayle 8, Willie Lightfoot 8

Lockport:  Isiah Johnson 12, Rashaun Johnson 12, Luke Lawrence 12, Devin Leatherman 12,  Tivon White 12, Emmanual Hunt 12, Devon Darrell 12,  Malik Brooks 11, Torree Cheatham 11, Duane Barrow 11,  Jayln Jones 11, Marcus Shavers 11, Josh Cooper 10

Grand Island:  Liam Carey 12, Derek Callen 12, Cam Sionko 11, JJ Wilkes 11, Logan Sionko 9

North Tonawanda:  Trevor Book 12, Codie Cronk 12, Sean Ferry 12, Kyle McNeill 12,Colin Beach 11, Nick Casterline 11, James Holler 11, Donny LaVerdi 11, Dante Moultrie 10, Noah Fox 10, Sebastian Reid 10, Walter Wisniewski 9

Lew-Port:  Dylan Morrissette 12, William Duff 12, Brendan Perreault 12, Owen Licht 12, Tyler Maggard 12, Zach Raber 12, Joe Powers 11, Trent Scott 11, Jake Kasbaum 11, Zach Claybourne 11, Jason Boslet 11, Noah Coppins 11, Andrew Perrault 11, Aidan Salick 11

Kenmore West:  Erick Rainey 12, Jake Poummit 12, Ronnie Martinez 12, Andrew Fron 12, Jaylan Young 12, Jack Stoerr 12, Jake Robb 12, Noah Fisk 12, Dylan James 11, Christian Montes 11, Zach LaPlante 11, Anthony Dolce 11, Dom Schmidt 11, Kyle Schmidt 11, Zac Boyes 10  

Kenmore East:  Tyler Everett 12, Zach Price 12, Brandon Baker 12, Kahlil O'Neil 12, Jamichael Henderson 12, Billy Sautter 12, Nic Calhoun 12, D'Anzo Young 11, Bill Carvalho 11, Nate Murdie 11, Franc Schmoyer 11, Justin Harper 11, Brandon Beltran 11, Joey Brooks 11

CSAT:  James Stephens 12, Jayden Gulledge 12, Deshawn Williams 12, Mark Greamen 12, Devin Ashley 12, James Tyes 12, Jalen Walker 12, Nazir Austin 12, Makhi Love 12, Daighlyon Willoughby 11, Lenard Harris 11, Kavon Wright 11, Frank Williams 11, Mel'vhon Thomas 11, Jeffrey Bellamy 11

Niagara Wheatfield:  Anthony Ruffino 12, William Scullion 12, Ben Devantier 12, Nick Cloudin 12, Jared Domaradzki 12, Tom sommers 12, Davon Ware 11, Zach stanley 11, James McVay 11Jordan Parks 11, Cam Miller 11, Evan Rohring 11, Jordy Smith 11, 

 

****************************************

 

Niagara-Orleans

 Newfane has gone from a young team to a seasoned bunch with six seniors who have played three varsity seasons.  Max Weber & Kyle DeVoogel were each All-Centercourt Honorable Mention selections and First Team All-League following the 2017 season, and each enters the year near the 1,000 point mark.  Weber is also closing in on 500 assists, while DeVoogel broke the school's steals record in a season last year.  Medina is the league's two-time defending champ and ran the table against the competition last season.  The Mustangs lost a pair of returning starters to out-of-town transfers, but still have some experience and talent back in the fold, led by Toledo football commit Jalin Cooper, who was a Top 25 All-Centercourt standout as a junior.  Izaiah Rhim is also back after earning Second Team All-League as a sophomore, along with experienced guards Mason Lewis, Alex Allis, and Brendan Luthart.   Wilson graduated four starters and will rely heavily on returning point guard Steve Frerichs' experience in his third varsity season.  Mac Musall and Nate Fox are two players expected to make big contributions for the Lakemen.  Roy-Hart's leading scorer, Jake Bruning (15.2 ppg) is back, along with backcourt mate Noah Kindron - a top defender and the team's floor general.   Akron is coming off of a down year, but has several returning varsity players, along with the addition of underclassmen that were part of a successful JV team last year.  The goal will be to continue to improve, play solid team basketball, and get some talented athletes to make basketball their priority.  Albion is carrying three sophomores and will rely on its athletes stepping into bigger roles from last season to compete. 

***

Newfane:   Max Weber 12, Kyle DeVoogel 12, Chad Dunbar 12, Connor Hill 12, Brandon Gross 12, Drew Boudeman 12, Samuel Auernhamer 12, Thorne Geise 12, Cam Stanton 12, Trevor Moreland 12, Matt DiTullio 11, James Leibring 11, Jarrett Gilson 11, Jonah Wisniewski 11, Umaru Ibrihim 10 

Medina:   Jalin Cooper 12, Mason Lewis 12, Alex Allis 12, Brendan Luthart 12, Trenton Jones 12, Jorge Phillips 12, Izaiah Rhim 11, Daemon Shatara 11, Tavian Rhim 11, Tim Roy 11, Tanner Waldriff 11, Nate Sherman 10, Brian Fry 9, Tyler Chinn 9

Wilson:  Jared Carney 12, Mac Musall 12, Matt Daul 12, Nate Fox 12, Steve Frerichs 11, Jake Miller 11, Ian Evans 11, Jon Littere 11, Brayden Thompson 10, Julian Andreola 10, Mitch Mahar 10, Alex Martinez 10

Roy-Hart:  Jake Bruning 12, Jon Huntington 12, Noah Kindron 12, Brandon LaForme 12, Charlie Brigham 11, Charlie Bruning 11, Lance Krieger 11, Quinten Koch 11, Hunter Pratt 11, Ben White 11, Blake Halstead 11

Akron: Weylon Abrams 12, Owen Hill 12, Derek Holtz 12, Nelson Logan 12, Mason Schultz 12, Wyatt Martin 11, Stephen Wagner 11, Matt Delre 11, Nick Genovese 11, Carter Jensen 11, Tim Longwell 11, Donovan Nephew 11, Brandon Orr 11, Jake Siska 11, Adam Mietz 9 

Albion:  Hunter Webster 12, Bradley Sanford 12, Shyheim Jakes 12, Demetrius Gardner 12, Austin Dugan 12, Bryce Pritchard 11, Dylan Fox 11, Vincent Zona 11, Deyonci Farley 10, Kevin Hillman 10

Barker:  no information provided by coach

 

**************************************

 

CCAA I West 

Olean returns to Class B with a young team that features 10 juniors and returns a pair of starters in Mike Schmidt and Matt Droney.  Look for the Huskies to resemble a veteran group sooner than later behind a HOF coach in Jeff Anastasia who now sits at the top of WNY's all-time win list, and continue to value defense as their constant.  Andrew Krenzer is now the head coach of Dunkirk, who played a thriller with East Aurora in the Class B1 semifinal last season and brings most of its key contributors back.  The Marauders have speed, size, shooters, and depth, and will be led by Darnell Butts and Devaun Farnham DeJesus.  Chautauqua Lake is coming off a break through season that saw the program earn a pair of firsts: a victory over league champion Olean and an overall Class C title to advance to regionals in Class C.  The Thunderbirds return First Team All-State player Devin Pope, who enters the season with nearly 1,400 career points, along with Kyler Majka and Alex Gleason who also saw extended playing time last year. Fredonia will be led by Nate Shuart, who averaged 14 ppg & eight rebounds as a sophomore, along with dime-dropping point guard Reid Tarnowski.  The Hillbillies gain 10 players from last season's successful JV team that will provide depth to play an uptempo style.  Look for freshman guard Tyler Putney to contribute immediately.  Southwestern will look for points in transition, led by junior scoring leader Alex Card, who already has two years of varsity experience under his belt entering this season.   Maple Grove returns Carson Christ, along with the usual hard working athletes that are a staple of this team.  Other coaches in CCAA I West have all mentioned the Red Dragons as a team to beware of this season.

***

Olean: Zach Parr 12, Luke Chapman 12, Jaeden Harris 12, Thomas Klein 12, Mike Schmidt 11, Josh Bihler 11, Matt Droney 11, Brian Ramarge 11, Jack Dwaileebe 11, Alex Weakfall 11, Jarrett Prizel 11, Cameron Kitchen-Perez 11, Rheyquon Davis 11, DeySeann Garey 11

Dunkirk:  Darnell Butts 12, Devaun Farnham DeJesus 12, Issiah Velez 12, Andre Lockett 12, Noah Sobilo 12, Tyreese Kristan-Johnson 12, Felix Garcia 12, Jaziah Rivera 12, Sabien Smith 12, Kayin Odebralski 11, Jonathan Pedrogo 11, Ethan Yannie 11

Chautauqua Lake: Devin Pope 12, Collin Wood 12, JC McCroskey 12,  Kyler Majka 11, Alex Gleason 11, Jack Adams 11, Bryan Anderson 11, Dean McKane 11, Trey Sauerland 11, Blane Thomas 11, Sebastian Wescott 11, Nate Adams 10, Michael Anderson 9

Fredonia:   Matt Tintsman 12, Jared Kowalski 12, Reid Tarnowski 12, Brendan Plaister 12, Andrew Field 12, Nate Shuart 11, Nico Pucci 11, Trey Swartz 11, Parker Rivera 11, Keith Piper 11, Raziel Pearl 11, Owen Nicosia 11, Brayden Myers 11, Tyler Putney 9

 Southwestern:  Luke Heil 12, Derek Miller 12,  Anthony Vezina 12, Max Kane 12, Saad Meer 12, Alex Card 11, Faizan Munir 11, Mayson Mathews 11, Jake Hnatyszyn 11, Cooper Pannes 10, Mitchell Pascarella 10

Maple Grove: no information provided by coach

Falconer: no information provided by coach

 

*****************************************

 

CCAA I East

Silver Creek failed to reach a championship game at JCC for the first time in seven seasons last year, and the team has made its goal to return there in March.  Playing the up-tempo style the Black Knights are known for, along with the return of four starters and the addition of Gowanda transfer Jarmani Benton, should have them right back in the mix for both league and the section.  Gowanda lost its second leading scorer to transfer, but returns its top gun in two-time All-Centercourt Honorable Mention selection Nate Brawdy, a long & smooth scorer with an all around skill set. They also gained a big man in Ture Hassler who is sure to give teams fits with his size & style of play.  Randolph is the defending league and Class C2 champion after an inspired defensive performance in the sectional final against East last season.  While the Cardinals only return one starter, they are fed by a JV squad that finished 18-2 last season.  Tyler Hind, the team's playoff MVP, is back after averaging 17.6 ppg as a freshman, along with Isaac Wakefield and Andrew Bernard.    Allegany-Limestone returns most of its team that played plenty of minutes last year.  The Gators will be led by Sam Flanders and Sean McAfee, along with rising sophomores Casey Curran and Michael Wolfgang.  For Salamanca, despite the graduation of nine seniors, the Warriors roster is hardly void of talent.  With defense and rebounding remaining a constant, they will look to play a faster tempo and remain competitive in an always difficult league.  Portville has just one starter back and only four seniors on the roster this season.  Still, this Panthers squad brings length and athleticism to the table and looks to gain some quick seasoning.

***

Silver Creek: Chad Yochum 12, Tom Galfo 12, Jarmani Benton 12, Tucker Gates 11, Braeden Woleben 11, Ammon Jones 11, Jack Brennan 11, Dylan Snow 11, Dom Jamison 10

Gowanda:  Nate Brawdy 12, Ryan John 12, Uriah John 12, Ture Hassler 12, Nolan Rosier 11, Max Lindgren 12, Matias Rikka 12, Nolan Rosier 12, Tristan Jensen 11, Matt Smuda 11, Damen MacLeod 11, Aaron Colantino 11, Jonas Lindgren 9

Randolph:  Isaac Wakefield 12, Dakota Donaldson 12, Tres Sherman 12, Devin Foster 12, Calvin George 12, Andrew Bernard 11, Tyler Hind 10, Branson Morrison 10, Kaleb Steward 10, Gabe McCoy 8 

Allegany-Limestone:  Sean McAfee 12, Grant Davis 12, Roman Napoleon 12, Michael Nye 12, Tommy Moran 12, Sam Flanders 11, Conner Golley 11, Gabe Kellogg 11, Casey Curran 10, Michael Wolfgang 10, Gus Napoleon 10

Salamanca: Hercules Rasha 12, Braden Siebert 12, Mitchell Richardson 12, Nick Johnson 12, Tyler Hedlund 11, Ira John 11, Zariah Armstrong 11, Ryan Chiemara 11, Zach Helms 11, Hunter McAuley 11, Jarrett McKenna 10, Isaac Brown 9

Portville:  Jonah Watson 12, Brendan Tobola 12, Kyle Murray 12, Noah Swartwout 12, Nathan Kloc 11, Dalton Nuffer 11, Noah Pullins 11, Dawson Havers 11, Caden Keim 11, Brandon Murray 11, Cameron Lott 11, Jarrett Mathes 11, Dalton Tobola 10

 

**********************************************

 

CCAA II West 

Sherman returns Jared Gleason, who was a First Team selection in CCAA II West last season, along with Honorable Mention selection Tanner Ramsey.  The Wildcats have been a force in the Class D ranks for years, reaching JCC for at least the past seven seasons.   Westfield has two of the league's top performers in Shawn Horr & Julio Torres, along with three more players who saw significant minutes last season, and a player that will pose problems with his size - 6-5, 260 lb sophomore Andrew Baribeau.  Brocton would like to play a quick tempo style and bring a little showtime to the scene, with Bubba Brown leading the cast of contributors.  Clymer has six players returning from last years squad, four of which played significant time, and will start the season with a new point guard taking the reigns. Panama has just two players back this season with varsity experience.  The team will have seven juniors who all played together on JV last season, along with sophomore Cameron Barmore, who is poised for a strong season.   Frewsburg will be a young team with just two seniors and four returning players.  The Bears are led by Tyler Marchincin at both ends of the floor, along with Quinn Conlan and Brad Nelson.  

***

Sherman:  Jared Gleason 12, Caleb Burick 12, Gavin Kahle 12, Tanner Ramsey 12, Darren Kopta 12, Collin Ramsey 11, Jordan Caron 11, Kameron Ayers 11, Austin Tallman 11, Mike Beatman 11, Reece Bates 11, Chance Meeder 11, Hunter Cooper 11, John Swabik 9

Westfield:  Shawn Horr 12, Julio Torres 12, Brady Nusom 12, Cody Patterson 12, Christian Hammond 12, Brock Shuster 11, Coby Bills 11, Ryan Jafarjian 11, Evan Hauser 11, David Kircher 11, Matt See 11, Anthony Spann 11, Nathan Culbreth 10, Andrew Baribeau 10, Michael Johnosn 10

Brocton:   Hunter Rizzo 12, Charles Rexford 12, Gabe Rosas 12, Daniel Siragusa 12, Bubba Brown 11, Riley Rivera 11, Jordan Kyrstofiak 11, Derrick Burns 11, Darien Booker 11, Gabe Morello 10, Caleb Chelton 10

Clymer:  Corey Neckers 12, Dustin Neckers 12, Sam Wiggers 12, Jordan Wade 12, Spencer TeWinkle 12, Robert Overton 11

Panama:  Tom Delahoy 12, Carter Morse 12, Isaac Lawson 11, Dominic Spontaneo 11, Jack Sperry 11, Jake Harper 11, AJ Troyer 11, Mitch Hovey 11, Ryan Joslyn 11, Cameron Barmore 10

Frewsburg:  Tyler Marchincin 12, Bill Piazza 12, Jvyn Matve 11, Quinn Conlan 11, Dan Reinagel 11, Nolan Brink 11, Dylan Pearson 11, Conour Rodgers 11, Brad Nelson 10, Aaron Hair 10

Cassadaga Valley: no information provided by coach

 

**********************************************

 

CCAA II East 

Franklinville earned a share of the league crown with rival Ellicottville, but won the rubber match at JCC which led to a state run in Class D that saw the Panthers reach the final four in Binghamton.  The goal this season is clear - get back there, hope to finish what they started last season, and earn a state championship.  Fourth Team All-Centercourt forward Sam Erickson is the team's leader, while Isaac Kopp and Darren Clark are major contributors.  With the entire rotation back, it's possible the Panthers open the season ranked #1 in NYS Class D.  Ellicottville also comes back this season in force after splitting the league with Franklinville.  The Eagles also return all five starters and their top six players, led by 2017 Fourth Team All-Centercourt and two-time First Team All-State center Elliot Bowen.  Griffin Chudy and point guard Austin Grinols, along with Bowen, will all be four-year varsity starters and are hoping to go out with a sectional title and beyond.  Chris Buczek returns as head coach at Pine Valley, where he takes over for a team that has six seniors who all returned and will try to take advantage of the athleticism his roster offers. Forestville has just four players returning this season and plans to focus its efforts on the defensive end as the newcomers get up to speed at the varsity level.

***

Franklinville:  Sam Erickson 12, Isaac Kopp 12, Darren Clark 12, Brock Blecha 12, Dylan Burton 12, Kaleb Watts 12, Conner Burrell 12, Ben Mooney 11,Malakhai Holiday 11, John Yan 11, Vinny Marchese 10, Josh Haskell 8

Ellicottville:  Elliot Bowen 12, Griffin Chudy 12, Austin Grinols 12, Noah Stuve 12, Deric Leiper 12, Mitchell Sexton 12, Evan Palmatier 12, Robert Neumann 12, Parker Rieman 12, Cody Luder 12, Matt Grigsby 12, Vaugh Bomberry 12,  Steven Rowland 11, Brenden Chudy 11, Brennan Finn 11

Pine Valley:  Trent Mihalko 12, Zachary Mansfield 12, Stephen Crisanti 12, Bobby Clutter 12, Dakota Loop 12, Ben Distasio 12, Bayley Finch 11, Brady Andrews 11, Makiah Snyder 11, Ryan Snyder 11, Anthony Yaskow 11

Forestville:  Lewis Markham 12, Hector West 12, Phillip Narraway 12, Travis Drozdziel 11, Nikolas Lelonek 11, Orlando Soto 11, Skyler Christian 11, Jordan Fores 11, Gavin Christian 10, Dalton Hastings 10, Javier West 9

North Collins:  no information provided by coach

Cattaraugus/Little Valley:  no information provided by coach

 

********************************************

 

Charter Schools

Health Sciences broke through in 2017 and gave the school its first Section VI champion in Class B2.  The Falcons followed it up with a run to states in Class B.   Davonte Gaines, Kameron Briggs, Tayvion Nelson, and Josiah Haygood will lead a deep lineup that looks to run teams into the ground with pace and pressure.  Antwan Anderson takes the reigns at Global Concepts after serving as an assistant at Manhattan Cup finalist St. Francis.  Junior Luis Mercado will lead the Gators, along with talented freshman Andre Goldsmith.  At Oracle, Chris Castleberry takes the reigns as head coach and has an athletic team with the ability to get in your face defensively and push the ball up the floor offensively.  The Phoenix will look to make a strong playoff push at the end of the season.  BASCS, which stands for Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School, returns seniors Mian Tasnum and Trevor Mosley, and will be led by team captain Ibrahim Osmani.   

***

Health Sciences:  Davonte Gaines 12, Tayvion Nelson 12, Aquell Crosby 12, Shakir Cook 12, Tyseen Lott 11, Kameron Briggs 11, Josiah Haygood 11, Timothy Benton 11, Daciaire Riley 10, Kyjuan Inabinett 9, Javaughn Jones 9, Donovan Miller 9

Oracle:  Joe Perez 12, Gary Marshall 12, Delmareion White 12, Bonifasi Luundo 12, Khalil Kabia 12, Anthony Halton 12, Deontay Johnson 12, Shareef Murray 12, Jacquan Steele 12, Raekwon Graves 11, Shontez Asturias 11, Atem Bol 11, Kyle Tyler 11

Global Concepts:  Donovn Wallance 12, Bahadeen Aljari 12, Branden Coleman 12, Branden Gibson 12, Nick Kalimu 11, Luis Mercado 11, Mysome Johnson 11, Lee Kalimu 11, Jakiel Vamer 11, Anthony Miller 10, Andre Goldsmith 9

BASCS:  Mian Tasnum 12, Trevor Mosley 12,  Javier Melendez 12, Muhammad Maksudov 12, Ja’Quan Wingard 12, Amar Woodwiley 12, Josh Workman 12, Branton Morgan 12, Jayron Lewis 12, Ibrahim Osmani 11, Justin Hunt 11, Abdi Cali 11, Vote Wavote 11, Carlos Rodriquez 11, Adriel Powell 11, Sean Johnson 11

Maritime:  Ray Rich 12, KeSean Weston 12, Malachi Grimes 12, Amed Morales 12, Angel Canules 12, Jaerek Sopinski 12, Ian Henderson 12, Isaiah Donmore 12, Jalill Carpenter 12, Tyler Wilson 11, Tyress Hall 10, John Blevins 10

Tapestry: no information provided by coach

 

 

*****************************************

 

Teams with New Coaches

Rich Jacob - Park

Jason Rowe - Timon

Pat Clarke - Nichols

Tom Ford - CCA

Des Randall - West Seneca West

John Reinholz - Hamburg

Todd Kleitz - Iroquois

Chris Juergens - Pioneer

Paul O'Connor - Eden

James Kane - Middle College

Nick Todaro - DaVinci

Andrew Krenzer - Dunkirk

Michael Brooks - Barker

David Kozar - Albion

Antwan Anderson - Global Concepts

Chris Castleberry - Oracle

Mike Ester - Tapestry

 

 *********************************************

 

Classification Changes

Kenmore West moves down from Class AA to Class A1

Kenmore East moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

East Aurora moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Emerson moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Olean moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Lackawanna moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Medina moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Maritime moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

Riverside moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Cleveland Hill moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

DaVinci moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

East moves down from Class C2 to Class D

Westfield moves down from Class C2 to Class D

Frewsburg moves down from Class C2 to Class D

 

**********************************************

 

Preseason Polls

**   I checked back on last season's preseason poll and compared it to my final poll of 2017.  I correctly placed seven of the top ten large schools in the preseason Top 10, and had six of the 10 small schools.  My favorite part about doing this is being right and wrong all at the same time!  While I nailed it by having Canisius at the top to start last year, I blew it by not having North Tonawanda in the large school top 10, and the Jacks finished as the highest ranked public school.  Among the small schools, I started Health Sciences at #2 and the Falcons finished #1, but Class B Manhattan Cup champion St. Mary's was nowhere to be found in the preseason Top 10.  The Lancers were #2 when the dust settled.

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius

2. Park 

3. Niagara Falls 

4. Williamsville South 

5. St. Francis 

6. South Park 

7. McKinley 

8. Timon

9. West Seneca West 

 10. Williamsville North

 

Small Schools

1. Health Sciences

2. Olean

3. Franklinville

3. St. Mary's

4. East

6. Cardinal O'Hara

7. Dunkirk

8. Nichols

9. Middle College

10. Niagara Catholic

 

********************************************

 

Predictions

 MMA Class A - Canisius

MMA Class B - Cardinal O'Hara

Yale Cup I - South Park

Yale Cup II - MST Seneca

ECIC I - West Seneca West

ECIC II - Williamsville South

ECIC III - Lake Shore

ECIC IV - Lackawanna

NFL - Niagara Falls

N-O - Newfane

CCAA I West - Olean

CCAA I East - Silver Creek

CCAA II West - Sherman

CCAA II East - Franklinville

Charters - Health Sciences

 

*********************************************

 

Manhattan Cup (A)

 Last season, I predicted the Crusaders to win the Cup and it was the first time I got right since the 2013 season.  They basically bring the farm back and there were a couple stud sophomores that jumped off the page at me when watching their JV team last year.  If they enter Canisius' already loaded rotation, along with Austin James being back in the fold, I like my chances.  That said, I expect Park to be the Crusaders' equal this year - and it should make for three epic battles...like the ones we watched two seasons ago.

** Canisius **

 

Manhattan Cup (B)

I went with Nichols in this spot last season and was oh so close to being right - but it was St. Mary's that prevailed in a thrilling final.  With the talent the Lancers have back, they have to be the favorite to repeat in my opinion.  But the Class B race should be as fun as its been in years with four teams sitting on some real talent and hungry to knock the snot out of each other.  I'll go with the Lancers, but won't be shocked to see them bounced in the semifinals by O'Hara, Nichols, or Niagara Catholic.

** St. Mary's **

 

Class AA 

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

Niagara Falls, Williamsville North, Clarence, & Lockport

** Niagara Falls **

 

Class A1 

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:

 Williamsville South, McKinley, West Seneca West, & Grand Island

** Williamsville South **

 

Class A2  

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

South Park, Amherst, Lake Shore, & Maryvale

** South Park **

 

Class B1 

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

Olean, Dunkirk, Newfane, & Lackawanna

** Olean **

 

Class B2 

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:

Health Sciences, Middle College, Gowanda, & Cleveland Hill

** Health Sciences **

 

Class C 

Final Four to reach JCC:

Chautauqua Lake, Randolph, Silver Creek, & Maple Grove

** Silver Creek **

 

Class D

Final Four to reach JCC:  

Ellicottville, Franklinville, East, & Sherman

** Franklinville **

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2017 Sectionals

 

Class B1

First Round - Tuesday, February 21st

(16) Emerson 71, (9) Alden 53

(12) Albion 63, (13) City Honors 52

 

(10) Fredonia 57, (15) Tonawanda 39

(14) CSAT 86, (11) Riverside 72

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 22nd

(8) Burgard 69, (16) Emerson 44

(5) Dunkirk 78, (12) Albion  39

 

(10) Fredonia  61, (7) I-Prep 49

(6) Depew 61, (14) CSAT 55

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 24th

(1) East Aurora 47, (8) Burgard 34

(5) Dunkirk 69, (4) Springville 49

 

(2) MST Seneca 52, (10) Fredonia 39

(3) Newfane 78, (6) Depew 53

 

Semifinals - Monday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm

 (1) East Aurora 59, (5) Dunkirk 55

(3) Newfane 65, (2) MST Seneca 63

 

Final - Saturday, March 4th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

 (1) East Aurora 75, (3) Newfane 30

 

2017 Section VI Class B1 Champions - East Aurora Blue Devils

 

*************************************************

 

Class B2

First Round - Tuesday, February 21st

(13) Southwestern 51 (12) Buffalo Arts 38

(10) Roy-Hart 51, (15) Eden 45 

(11) Oracle 60, (14) Akron 54

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 22nd

(8) Gowanda 61, (9) JFK 52

(5) Middle College 57, (13) Southwestern 47

 

(7) Lafayette 58, (10) Roy-Hart 55 OT

(6) Wilson 57, (11) Oracle 43

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 24th

(1) Medina 69, (8) Gowanda 48

(4) Health Sciences 70, (5) Middle College 54

 

(2) Olmsted 67, (7) Lafayette 52

(3) Lackawanna 69, (6) Wilson 45

 

Semifinals - Thursday, March 2nd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm 

(4) Health Sciences 55,  (1) Medina 37

(3) Lackawanna 62, (2) Olmsted v49

 

Final - Saturday, March 4th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

(4) Health Sciences 60, (3) Lackawanna 48 

 

2017 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Health Sciences Falcons

 

- centercourt

Classifications for the 2017 Season

                      

 

Class AA (10 Teams)                                                        

Niagara Falls - NFL                                                                     

Jamestown - ECIC I                                                              

Kenmore West - NFL                                                                 

Lancaster - ECIC I                                                                       

Frontier - ECIC I                                                                         

Willaimsville North - ECIC I                                                            

Niagara Wheatfield - NFL                                                          

Orchard Park - ECIC I                                                              

Lockport - NFL                                                                             

Clarence - ECIC I

 

Class A1 (10 Teams)                                                              

Williamsville South - ECIC II                                                   

McKinley - Yale Cup I                                                                

North Tonawanda - NFL                                                           

Hamburg - ECIC II                                                               

Grand Island - NFL                                                                   

West Seneca East - ECIC II                                                      

Sweet Home - ECIC II                                                               

Williamsville East - ECIC II                                                 

West Seneca West - ECIC I                                                      

Hutch-Tech - Yale Cup I  

 

Class A2 (11 Teams)

Amherst - ECIC II

South Park - Yale Cup

Cheektowaga - ECIC III

Olean - CCAA I West

Maryvale - ECIC III

Lew-Port – NFL

Starpoint - ECIC III

Lake Shore - ECIC III

Pioneer - ECIC III

Iroquois - ECIC II

Kenmore East - NFL

 

Class B1 (16 Teams)                                                            

East Aurora - ECIC III                                                    

Newfane - N-O                                                                     

MST Seneca - Yale Cup II                                                   

Depew - ECIC III                                                                      

Dunkirk - CCAA I West                                                          

Burgard - Yale Cup I                                                                

Riverside - Yale Cup I                                                              

CSAT - NFL                                                                             

Emerson - Yale Cup I                                                            

Alden - ECIC IV                                                                  

I-Prep - Yale Cup II                                                                 

Fredonia - CCAA I West                                                        

City Honors - Yale Cup II                                                    

Albion - N-O                                                                           

Tonawanda - ECIC IV                                                           

Springville - ECIC IV

 

Class B2 (15 Teams)

Health Sciences - Charter

Middle College - Yale Cup I

Medina - N-O

Gowanda - CCAA I East

Lackawanna - ECIC IV

Olmsted - Yale Cup II

JFK - ECIC IV

Wilson - N-O

Roy-Hart - N-O

Akron - N-O

Oracle - Charter

Southwestern - CCAA I West

Eden - ECIC IV

Buffalo Arts - Yale Cup II

Lafayette - Yale Cup II

                                                                  

Class C1 (10 Teams)                                                    

Chautauqua Lake - CCAA I West                                            

Cleveland Hill - ECIC IV                                                           

Portville - CCAA I East                                                      

Salamanca - CCAA I East                                                       

Allegany-Limestone - CCAA I East                                        

Maritime - Charter                                                                     

DaVinci - Yale Cup II                                                               

Tapestry - Charter                                                                  

Falconer - CCAA I West                                                           

Cassadaga Valley - CCAA II West

 

Class C2 (11 Teams)

East - Yale Cup I

Randolph - CCAA I East

Barker - N-O

Silver Creek - CCAA I East

Maple Grove - CCAA I West

BASCS - Charter

Cattaraugus/Little Valley - CCAA II East

Frewsburg - CCAA II West

Holland - ECIC IV

Global Concepts - Charter

Westfield - CCAA II West

 

Class D (9 Teams)

Ellicottville - CCAA II East

Sherman - CCAA II West

Franklinville - CCAA II East

Clymer - CCAA II West

Pine Valley - CCAA II East

Panama - CCAA II West

Forestville - CCAA II East 

Brocton - CCAA II West

North Collins - CCAA II East

 

Monsignor Martin Class A

Canisius

Park

Timon

St. Francis

St. Joe's

 

Monsignor Martin Class B

Nichols

Cardinal O'Hara

St. Mary's

Walsh

CCA

Niagara Catholic

 

-centercourt                

Season Preview: 2016-2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Cheektowaga's Dominick Welch [above] and Olean's Jeff Anastasia [right] each have a chance to break historic WNY records before the end of the 2017 season / Photos by Nick LoVerde [above] & Dave DeLuca [right]) 

 

 

 The 2016-2017 Pre-View From Centercourt contains:

- Feature on Jeff Anastasia & Dominick Welch

- What's New

- Returning 2016 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2017

- A League-by-League look at the teams

(MMA, Yale Cup, ECIC,  NFL, N-O, CCAA, & Charters)

- CoachingChanges

- Classification Changes

- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools

- Predictions

******************************************

Every season begins with certain story lines.  They could be anything from a veteran head coach taking over a storied program, to major transfer news, to a team that appears built for a state run, and just about everything in between that we talk about in anticipation of another year.  Heading into the upcoming 2017 high school basketball season in Western New York, there are two prominent figures from the local scene that have shown a greatness since they first took the court with their respective teams, and now both are on the verge of history.  Jeff Anastasia, the Hall of Fame and two-time state champion head coach at Olean could become WNY's all-time winningest coach before the season ends.  Dominick Welch, already a Section VI champion and three-time All-Centercourt selection, could end his career at Cheektowaga as the area's all-time scoring leader.  While the legend of both of these greats is already well cemented in the minds of hoop fans, I'm anticipating reading each of their names at the top of the record books, in the respective categories.

 

Mel Palano and Ritchie Campbell are the two names that have been at the forefront of high school basketball in WNY for years.  Palano, the long time coach at Bishop Timon/St. Jude, retired with a resume that included 544 wins.  Campbell starred at Burgard in the late 80's and finished his high school career with 2,355 points.  For years, fans have looked at the two names at the top of those lists, marveled at their accomplishments, and wondered...will anyone ever touch those lofty marks?

 

For Anastasia, breaking Palano's record for career coaching wins is something you could see coming.  The consistent success his team's have enjoyed due to the program he has established are best illustrated by his wins per season.  Last season, there were a total of 10 teams (including Olean) from Section VI that recorded at least 17 victories.  In his 30 years behind the bench for the Huskies, Anastasia has averaged 17.29 wins per season.  For many coaches, a 17-win season would be the one they remember as their best year over a career.  However in Olean, Anastasia has made it par for the course.  Entering the 2017 campaign with 536 career victories to his credit, he needs just nine wins to reach the magic number of 545.

 

The path to Welch surpassing Campbell's career scoring mark won't be an easy one.  Cheektowaga plays in a competitive league and faces some very sharp coaches along the way.  The Warriors also play one of the most difficult nonleague schedules in WNY, so as he's always done, Welch will really have to earn it.  The high-flying senior who can do anything and everything on the court, has 1,708 career points after averaging 28.9 per contest as a junior in 21 games.  If he stays healthy and plays in every game, Welch is guaranteed another 21 games.  He is 648 points from owning the mark and would need to average 30.86 points over 21 games.  However, keep winning in the postseason, and it really starts to look attainable.  Reaching Buffalo State would get the Warriors to 22 games, where he'd need to average 29.45 points.  Reaching the Class A2 final takes 23 games and drops the needed average to 28.17, less than his output during junior year.  Welch has made it clear to me that his priority this year is to win with his friends, who he also calls teammates.  As the old cliche goes, winning takes care of everything.

*************************************************************

 

What's New

 

- After 35 years in Glens Falls, the NYSPHAA State Championships will now be played in Binghamton for at least the next three years.

 

- The NYS Federation Tournament of Champions, which features public, catholic, independent, and PSAL (NYC) champions, returns to its original home - Glens Falls, NY.

 

- WNY basketball says goodbye to Bennett High.  Those players who were to be seniors for the Tigers this season, will play for Middle College instead.

 

- Despite the folding of Bennett, there will still be 103 teams competing between Section VI and the MMA.  That's because Christian Central Academy of Williamsville, known as CCA, is now part of the Monsignor Martin Association for hoops.  Like Park once did, CCA formerly participated in the IAC.

 

- The Pastor-Cooper Showcase at Daemen College, long regarded as the official start to the high school hoops season each year, doesn't tip for the boys until December 7th & 8th.  That makes the Cataract City Classic at Niagara Falls High School the season's first major event, featuring seven games played over two days on December 2nd & 3rd, including an early clash of the titans -- Niagara Falls vs. Park.

 

- The ADPRO Public/Private Challenge, which has rotated venues the past three seasons, looks to have found a home at Depew High School.  The Challenge will take place at the Home of the Wildcats for a second straight season, with 11 games featured over three days (December 15th, 16th, & 17th), headlined by Canisius vs. Jamestown.

 

- The two defending public school state champions, Olean & Middle College, have zero chance to repeat as NYSPHAA Class B & Class C champs respectively.  That's because both teams were moved up to a higher classification this season.  The Huskies will compete in Class A2 this season, after winning the NYSPHAA Class B state title and the Kats jump up to Class B2 after winning it all in NYSPHAA's Class C.

 

- Six teams have changed leagues from last season:

Amherst to ECIC II, Starpoint & Lake Shore to ECIC III, Springville to ECIC IV, CSAT to the NFL, and Emerson to Yale Cup I.

 

 - It's Rochester's year to host the Far West Regionals again.  This season, all five games for the right to move on to Binghamton will be played at Rush-Henrietta High School.  In 2015, the regionals for Classes B, C, & D were held there.

 

************************************************

 

The Players

*** Four of the top 20 players from the 2016 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 12 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.

Returning First Teamers
 Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Senior

 * 28.9 PPG  /  11.6 RPG  /  3.6 APG  /  2.9 BPG  /  2.3 SPG *

 * as a junior

After eclipsing 1,000 career points as a sophomore, he surpassed the same mark with rebounds as a junior.  Entering his fifth and final varsity season, the dynamic talent has a chance to break the all-time WNY scoring mark and should finish as a 2,000 point scorer with over 1,000 rebounds - unheard of!  Not to mention he swats everything in his vicinity, while taking advantage of every sliver of space to cram the ball through the rim and bend the iron...#BOOM!  (Photo: James McCoy/Buffalo News)


 Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Junior

 *18.2 PPG  /  7.7 RPG  /  6.0 APG  /  3.2 SPG *

 * as a sophomore 

Made believers out any fans who weren't quite convinced of his greatness two years ago, with a sensational sophomore campaign that included leading South to its first regional title in Class A.  While the Billies were a talented veteran team, there's no question that Dolan was the straw that stirred their drink.  An underrated rebounder and a driven do-it-all point guard, he'll look to lead a whole new cast back to a third straight Section VI crown. (Photo: Harry Scull/Buffalo News)

 

Returning Second Teamer

 James Rojas - Jamestown, Senior

 * 21.8 PPG  /  10.1 RPG  /  2.7 APG  /  1.5 SPG  /  1.2 BPG *

 * as a junior

After playing a complimentary role for the Red Raiders as a sophomore, Rojas exploded on the scene last season and put the Red Raiders on his back - carrying them back to the Class AA final.  Expect another breakout season from the inside/outside threat who can put the ball on the floor, finish with ease at the rim, and look dominant in the process.  This is a Division I talent who should be held in the highest regard among returning players in the area. (Photo: James McCoy/Buffalo News)

 

Returning Fourth Teamer

Tavien Kemp - Walsh, Senior

 * 21.0 PPG  /  4.5 RPG  /  3.7 SPG  /  3.5 APG *

 * as a junior

Was the standout talent for the Eagles' team that took the number one seed into the Manhattan Cup playoffs a season ago.  Blends exceptional quickness with his high IQ for the game, to break down defenses as he slithers to the basket.  Has quick hands and plays with a subtle aggression, maintaining the same intensity all game.  Walsh will be back in the mix for the Manhattan Cup in Class B with him leading the charge. (Photo: Harry Scull/Buffalo News)

 

 

Returning 2016 Honorable Mentions

Chris Robson - Sr., Sherman -  19.7 PPG  /  5.3 RPG  /  3.2 APG  /  3.0 SPG  /  .5 BPG  as a junior

Shakur Harris - Sr., South Park -  16.2 PPG  /  2.9 SPG  /  2.1 RPG  /  1.9 APG   as a junior

Will Johnson - Sr., Nichols -  15.8 PPG  /  4.0 APG  /  4.o RPG  /  2.o SPG  as a junior

Marcellus Cooper - Sr., Amherst -  14.5 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  2.0 BPG  / 0 .7 APG  as a junior 

Davion Warren - Sr., Timon -  12.5 PPG  /  7.7 RPG  /  2.1 APG  /  1.8 SPG  as a junior

Nate Brawdy - Jr., Gowanda - 23.1 PPG  /  9.2 RPG  /  4.5 APG  /  2.3 SPG  as a sophomore

Elliot Bowen - Jr., Ellicottville -  19.3 PPG  /  12.2 RPG  /  2.5 BPG  /  1.3 SPG  as a sophomore

Devin Pope - Jr., Chautauqua Lake -  17.7 PPG  /  5.3 RPG  /  3.0 APG  /  3.0 SPG  as a sophomore

Willard Andreson - Jr., East -  15.7 PPG  /  3.0 RPG  /  3.0 APG  /  2.0 SPG  as a sophomore

Jalin Cooper - Jr., Medina -  15.5 PPG  /  10.2 RPG  /  2.5 APG  /  2.1 SPG  /  2.1 BPG  as a sophomore

Ray Blackwell - Jr., Maryvale -  14.5 PPG  /  3.5 SPG  /  3.4 RPG  /  3.0 APG  as a sophomore

Noah Hutchins - So., Park -  9.9 PPG  /  4.0 RPG  /  3.5 APG  /  2.7 SPG  as a freshman

 

Player Watch List:

Joe Jones - 11 (Park), Daniel Scott - 10 (Park), Ryan Bradley - 11 (Canisius), Austin James - 11 (Canisius), Master Radford - 11 (Timon), Bo Sireika - 11 (St. Francis), Julian Cunningham - 10 (St. Francis), Nick Montgomery - 12 (East Aurora), Charles Lamar - 12 (Niagara Falls), Syquan Ralands - 11 (Niagara Falls), Adam Braniecki - 12 (Williamsville South), Jacob Genzel - 11 (Hamburg), Chris Stineman - 10 (West Seneca East), Chad Biersbach - 11 (Depew), Davonte Gaines - 11 (Health Sciences), Tyron Lott - 11 (Health Sciences), Tyler Hind - 9 (Randolph), Trevor Book - 11 (North Tonawanda), Tyler Aquilina - 12 (Kenmore West), Nate Luckman - 12 (Barker), Kyle DeVoogel - 11 (Newfane), Max Weber - 11 (Newfane), Hakeem Dobbins - 11 (Middle College), Davonti Wardlaw - 12 (McKinley), Elijah Lewis - 10 (South Park), Justin Allen - 11 (East), Mike Schmidt - 10 (Olean), Sam Erickson - 11 (Franklinville), Naseer Jackson - 12 (St. Joe's), Amir Radford - 10 (City Honors), Kyle Ebert - 11 (Frontier), Devin Degree - 10 (Williamsville South), Christian Snell - 11 (Alden), Carlton Threeths - 10 (Lackawanna), London Smith - 11 (Lackawanna), Jarrett Lecceadone - 12 (Randolph), Jalen Bradberry - 8 (Niagara Wheatfield), Kameron Briggs - 10 (Health Sciences), Jarmani Benton - 11 (Gowanda), Nader Ngoopas Kompany - 11 (Middle College), Jayce Johnson - 11 (Canisius), Juston Johnson - 10 (Timon), Terrell Mullen - 9 (Cardinal O'Hara), Justin Hemphill - 10 (Cardinal O'Hara), Latrell Butler-Kemp - 11 (Walsh), Aidan Horan - 9 (Nichols), Daniel Reid - 12 (Olmsted), Daesean Ashley - 9 (Amherst)

 

*****************************************************

 

League-By-League 

Monsignor Martin Association

Large Schools - CLASS A

Canisius is now the two-time defending CHSAA state champion in Class A, and despite graduating another strong senior class that included a second straight CC MVP in Stafford Trueheart, expect the Crusaders' success to keep rolling.  Jayce Johnson and Colby Moultrie return with plenty of experience, while the additions of Ryan Bradley and Austin James help ensure the Crusaders remain elite.  Park has no seniors on its roster, but does have three of the best players in WNY in Noah Hutchins, Joe Jones, and Daniel Scott.  Brandon Smith is also back after missing last season due to injury and will make a big impact for the Pioneers, who have some considerable young size on their bench.  Timon has players at every spot on the floor and depth to back it up.  Davion Warren is back following his breakout season, and the Tigers hope to have William Lamar back in January following a football injury.  St. Francis has its best team in the last 10 years, with a very deep team that has realistic expectations of a Manhattan Cup.  The Red Raiders benefit from some key additions, along with returning their top eight from a year ago.  St. Joe's has seven players back, led by senior guard Naseer Jackson.  Caleb Cockrell, Mike Telesco, and Jack Capen all played extended minutes last season for the Marauders, and they'll look to Hunter Dimitroff for inside presence.

***

Canisius:  Colby Multrie 12, Jake Zeis 12, Pat Weir 12, Chris Topper 12, Mark Baldy 12, Jayce Johnson 11, Ryan Bradley 11, Austin James 11, Nick MacDolnald 11, Conner McCaffrey 11, Brendan Trapper 11, Peter Atkinson 11, Jack Collins 11, John Evans 11, Cam Hall 10

Park:  Joe Jones 11, Brandon Smith 11, Marques Lowe 11, Cam Hennings 11, Noah Hutchins 10, Daniel Scott 10, Jordan Gompah 10, Julian Eziukwu 10, Quentin Nnagbo 10, John Orugun 9, Jaylen Stewart 9

Timon:  Joe Harrison 12, William Lamar 12, Davion Warren 12, Tim Payne 12, Master Radford 11, Matt O'Brien 11, Steve Reinhardt 11, Cullen Tonge 11, Joey Rozeski 11, Juston Johnson 10, Adrian Baugh 10, Jaurney Boyland 10, Alero World 10, Jayon Renfro 10

St. Francis:  Roburt Welch 12, Sean Taggart 12, Jerry Hickson 12, Connor Cummings 12, Evan Mangan 12, Bo Sireika 11, Owen Woyshner 11, Josh Palmer 11, Dylan McDuffie 11, Retsen Daley 11, Devon Darrell 11, Julian Cunningham 10, Traevonne Scott 10, Justin Pomphey 10, Dorian Ivey 10, Lucas Theisan 10, David Bartholomew 9

St. Joe's:  Naseer Jackson 12, Mike Motley 12, Mike Telesco 12, Hunter Dimitroff 12, Razihque Sullivan 12, Caleb Cockrell 12, Jack Capen 11, Jeremy Johnson 11, Trey Boling 11, Kevin Durkin 11, Keith Norward 11, John Galvin 11, Alexander D'Anniballe 11, Noah Hausbeck 11, Casey Kelly 10

**********************************************

Small Schools - CLASS B 

Cardinal O'Hara has three starters back, led by Justin Hemphill, who averaged a double-double last season as a freshman.  The Hawks have a deep roster loaded with young talent that is ready to make a serious push for the Manhattan Cup in Class B. Nichols has one of WNY's best shooters in Will Johnson and will look for breakout years from both Myles Hervey and TJ Banaszak under new head coach Darren Fenn.  The Vikings also have a talented freshman in Aidan Horan who should turn some heads. St. Mary's has just three seniors, led by Daquan Hunt, but juniors Eric Brown and Christian Szablewski were both solid as sophomores.  The Lancers have a young team that got a taste of varsity action at the end of last season and will be eager to play hard under coach Paul Rath. Walsh will carry 10 players on its roster, with four of them being freshmen.  Still, the Eagles, who were state ranked in Class B all of last season, have Tavien Kemp and Latrell Butler-Kemp back and will continue to be strong.  Niagara Catholic has just two players back with any varsity experience, after a tough turnover following last season, while CCA becomes the newest member of WNY's most talented league and faces its most difficult schedule ever.

 ***

Cardinal O'Hara:  PJ Parker 12, Rene Velazquez 12, Adam Connelly 12, Nasir Benton 11, Mike Clark  11, Justin Hemphill 10, Jermaine Hayes 10, Brandon Broadmax 10, Jordan Fayson 10, Torree Cheatham 10, Jaedin Cottman 9, Terrell Mullen 9

Nichols:  Will Johnson 12, Paul Brinson 12, Myles Hervey 12, Harrison Serotte 12, Austin Ellis-Mohr 12, Amin Abubukar 12, TJ Banaszak 11, Ryan Peterson 11, Matthew Glinski 11, Antonio Jones 11, Jonathan Goodloe 10, Jake Bair 10, Aidan Horan 9

 St. Mary's:   Daquan Hunt 12, Colin Tyka 12, Zach Penska 12, Eric Brown 11, Matt Ciezski 11, Christian Szablewski 11, Ahmad Powell 11, Frank Propis 11, Jaelin Russell 11, Ben Mazurowski 11, Kofi Osei 11, Ja'Shawn Collins 11, Brady O'Brien 10, Gregory Poland 9

Archbishop Walsh:  Tavien Kemp 12, Claus Oren 12, Latrell Butler Kemp - 11, Slobodan Stojanovic 11, George Lowry 10, Cameron Kitchen-Perez 10, Colin Yorke 9, Marcus Esposito 9, Kameron Ramadhan 9, Zayne Blacksnake 9

Niagara Catholic:  Minh Hoang 12, Jonathan Phillips 12, Rico Mitchell 11, Nick Krupp 11, Jaden Turner 10, Thomas Owens 10, Harrison Abramaitys 10, Roman Wright 10, Kashus Bradley 10

CCA:  Noah Ewing 12, Caleb Hancock 12, Jacob Fusco 12, Pat Opferbeck 11, Alex Fink 11, Jared Moser 11, Josh Tyson 11, Ben Lekeuneu 11, Rick Miller 10, Zach Miller 10, Dan Tyson 9

 

************************************************ 

 

Section VI

YALE CUP I

South Park became a real factor last season and nearly upset McKinley at Buff State in Class A1.  With another deep team led by Shakur Harris that will benefit from some key transfers, the Sparks have realistic expectations of going after the Yale Cup. McKinley returns Davonti Wardlaw to its starting lineup, where he'll lead another another aggressive pack of Macks ready to make names for themselves. Zaire Dorsey's teams have won 26 straight in the Yale Cup and gone undefeated in the city in four of the five seasons.  Middle College joins Class B2 with a whole new group, led by Hakeem Dobbins, a junior who saw some quality minutes on the Kats' state championship team last season. Nader Ngoopas Kompany and Nathyia Jackson also saw time last year and will be counted on.  The team should benefit from the coaching addition of Fred Dupree, who will assist Randy Rich for a season, after 17 years playing and coaching at the Division I level.  East is now in Class C2 and hope the grind of the Yale Cup schedule, along with some big time nonleague foes, has them ready to run through JCC in March.  They have a star in junior Willard Anderson, primed for a breakout campaign.  Behind new head coach Geoff Hurley, Riverside will be lead by Gerald Bratton and Dialo Stevens.  Burgard has Markel Ford running the point, while Jeremiah Moss and Angel Carson control things in the post.  Deamontae Riley should offer both scoring and rebounding, while Cleveland Sweat will be counted on for his defensive energy.

***

South Park : Shakur Harris 12, Elijah Winston 12, Dwight Simpson 12, Khalil White 12, Jakari Woods 12, Raymond Mushat 11, Shy-Quan Brodie 11, Donte Ridgeway 11, Jalen Baker 11, DeJuan McCray 11, Daquan Anderson 11, Justice Allen 11, Elijah Lewis 10, David Stroud 10, Hakeem Humphries 10, Michael Crockett 9

McKinley: Davonti Wardlaw 12, Nakye Booze 12, Joe Johnson 12,  Deon Spencer 11, Jaylon Windsor 11,  Kavon Rogers 11, Emir Evans 11, Chris  LeCounte 11, Alvaro Mora 11,  Jahmal  Lewis 9

Middle College:  Shawn Goree 12, Allen McDuffie 12, Daquan Hamilton 12, Hakeem Dobbins 11, Nader Ngoopas Kompany 11, Nathyia Jackson 11,  Azyion Clemons 11, Donovan Queeno 11, Jules Stover 11, Zack Jones 11, Breh Daniels 10, Jamond Jones 9

East:  Shawndale Williams 12, Taijuan Littleton 12, Allen Wilson 12, Willard Anderson 11, Anthony Stevens 11, Justin Allen 11, Jahahd Maryon 11, Xavier Turner 11, Daniel Gray 11, Emmanuel Wilson 11, Ibrahim Mberwa 11, Waunya Shaw 10

Riverside:  Gerald Bratton 12, Maya Griffin 12, Carlos Rivera 12, Robert Kyle 11, Feysal Osman 11, Dialo Stevens 11, Carlos Adorno Nunez 11, Michael Deleon Vasquez 10, Asante Silva 10,   Julius Laureano 10, Hak Douth 10

Burgard: Deamontae Riley 12, Davon Callaway 12, Cleveland Sweat 12, Markel Ford 12, Myles Morrison 11, Jeremiah Early 11, Brandon Myers 11, Jorge Villa 11, Angel Carson 11, Kenyon Pringle 11, Jeremiah Moss 11, Dejuan Williams 10, Zak Griffin 10, Lavardi Mance 9

Emerson: no information provided by coach

Hutch-Tech: no information provided by coach

 

********************************************

 

YALE CUP II

MST Seneca is looking to improve on last years record and will have to play good defense to do it.  They'll need strong leadership from Davon Jones, David Anderson and Dom Prince.  Sophomore Earl Howard saw significant minutes last year and should take a big step forward.  Olmsted captured the Class C1 title last season and moves to Class B2 this year, hoping to benefit from the return of Daniel Reid and Naseem Baynes. City Honors returns two starters from last years team, led by sophomore Amir Radford, ready to take another big step forward.   I-Prep graduated the top seven in its rotation and rebuilds this season, led by senior Chad Forester and junior Cameron Williams-Scott.

***

MST Seneca:  Keivon Carter 12, David Anderson 12, Davon Jones 12, Solomon Jones 12, Dom Prince 12, Anthony Speed 12, Daylin Anderson 11, Jayden Brown 11, Daryl Costner 11, Diallo Gray 11, Marquel Hampshire 11, Saeviyon Livingston 11, Makhi Rodgers 11, Earl Howard 10

I-Prep: Chad Forester 12, Alijah Clark 12, Angel Rodriguez 12, Aaron Lewis 12, Greg Ngoma 12, Cameron Williams-Scott 11, Shemaar Braggs 11, Saequon Carlock 11, Brandon Wilson 11, Twandrell Dean 11, Daniel Santiago 11, Patrick Toe 10

Olmsted: Daniel Reid 12, Naseem Baynes 12, Abbas Abajobir 12, Drew Hough 12, Austin Parham 12, Austin Lowery 12, Stanley Simpson 12, Justin Evans 12, Gabriel Carr-Johnson 11, Aaron Brown 11, Joel Richards 11, Chris Pettiway 11, Jalen Johnson 11

City Honors:  Sam Battaglia 12, Talon Moody 12,  Gino Lotempio 12,  Saleem Salem 12, Brendan Bulluck 11, Sebastian Flewellyn 11, Joe Fisher 11, Gabe Morrisroe 11,  Neftali Vazquez 11, Amir Radford 10, Eliot Solomon 10, Nate Kahn 9, Kevion Taylor 9, Jayden Slaughter  8  

Lafayette: no information provided by coach

DaVinci: no information provided by coach

Buffalo Arts: no information provided by coach

 

 ***********************************************

 

ECIC I

Jamestown has just two players back who saw any significant time last season in James Rojas and junior Matt Hill.  Still, a player of Rojas' caliber playing for a program like Jamestown will have the Red Raiders right back in the mix for another league title and run in Class AA.  Marcus Rojas, the younger brother of James, is a 6-2 junior who will contribute immediately.  Lancaster lost nearly all of its scoring from last season, but should still have a strong team ready to challenge for the league title.  Vito Fulciniti will anchor this year's Legends, along with Noah Speyer and Tim Molik who saw time in 2016. Juniors Alec Tamburri and Tyler Sokolowski will bring some much needed scoring, while sophomore Jakob Jerebko will make an impact this season.  Williamsville North has Jairus Huggins and Anthony Maniscalco back, who both started for the Spartan's ECIC I title team last season, along with Corey Swiech. Jon Abaya and Joe Nusall are a pair of sophomores who should be counted on at North this season.  Clarence has a blend of returning players and new talent up from JV, led by seniors Jake Randall and Jake Ireland.  Orchard Park returns just four players from last year's 16-win team, and they will be counted on heavily.  Twins Dylan & Dan Anderson, along with Dan Olejnicazk, step into prominent roles for the Quakers, while Dan Kubik (6-7, 315 lbs) will man the middle.  Frontier started four different freshmen at times last year.  The Falcons return last season's leaing scorer, junior Kyle Ebert, along with their leading rebounder, sophomore Brandon Dunz.

***

Jamestown: James Rojas 12, Ryan Holdridge 12, Dennis Rosa 12, Matt Hill 11, Noah Larson 11, Marcus Rojas 11, Henry Malarkey 11, Austin Prunty 11, Steven Wofford 11, Anthony Gullo 11, Luis Cintron 11, Kylen Faulkner 10

Lancaster:  Vito Fulciniti 12, Collin Reformat 12, Connor Duck 12, Noah Speyer 12, Tim Molik 12, LG Castillo 12, Alec Tamburri 11, Tyler Sokolowski 11, John Rogowski 11, Kyle Backert 11, Andrew Glenn 11, Ryan Mansell 11, Jakob Jerebko 10

Williamsville North:  Matt Winkler 12, Willie Sturgis III 12, Jairus Huggins 12, Anthony Maniscalco 12,
Corey Swiech 12, Andrew Hwang  12, Jason Hwang  12, Anthony Smith 12, Blake Ferrell  11, Ryan Johnston  11, Justin Konotopskyj  11, Lucas Terry 11, Jonathon Abaya 10, Joe Nusall 10, Jacob Belote 10, Dylan Mann 10

Clarence:  Jake Ireland 12, Jake Randall 12, , Jon Trapp 12, Joe Szadek 12, Austin Knorz 12, Henry Payne 12, Joe Olivieri 11, Steve Kabayiza 11, Mike O'Brien 11, Matt Zuffranieri 11, Mike Scherrer 11, Jake Reger 11, Jack Putney 10, River Reinhardt 10

Orchard Park:  Dan Anderson 12, Dylan Anderson 12, Dan Olejniczak 12, Dan Kubik 12, Dave Crescente 12, Jake Graves 12, Eric Liberatore 11, Alex Freilicher 11, Ben Shoop 11, Dave Morris 11, Nate Wereski 10, Tino Mancabelli 9, Tristan Lancaster 9

Frontier:  Zach Gerken 12, Will Anderson 12, Trevor Govenettio 12, Jacob Weiss 11, Jacob Kumiega 11, Tom Notto 11, Alex Hiam 11, Jon Seier 11, Kyle Ebert 11, Desmond Carroll 11, Brian Norsen 10, Brandon Dunz 10, Ben Taylor 10

West Seneca West: no information provided by coach

 

********************************************

 

ECIC II

 After repeating in ECIC II and Section VI Class A, Williamsville South reached Glens Falls for the first time in school history. Hit hard by graduation, junior Greg Dolan, already a two-time All-Centercourt selection, will look to lead a new group that hopes to put its own stamp of success on the program.  Amherst joins ECIC II after all but owning ECIC III in recent seasons. Coming off a third straight Class A2 title, the Tigers will be led by returning starter Da'Shawn Hines and welcome standout Marcellus Cooper after spending the past couple seasons at Nichols. Freshman guard Daesean Ashley is going to be a good one over on Main Street.  West Seneca East has a trio of starters with three years of varsity experience and will also start a pair of talented sophomores.  The Trojans are coming off back-to-back winning seasons after 20 years of .500 or below campaigns.  The program's first ever trip to Buff State should be the goal this season. Hamburg will try to get back to Buffalo State for a third time in the last four seasons behind the leadership of junior Jacob Genzel.  In a season shortened due to injury, Genzel scored over 20 points in a third of his games played as a sophomore. Mark Henry and Patrick Hart will also be key for the Bulldogs, who hope 6-5 junior Marcus Wloch can be a presence in the paint.  Sweet Home is coming off a solid off season and the players are buying into coach Brandon Woods' system.  The Panthers will be led by senior captains, Luke Pappagallo and Darryl Barrons.  Williamsville East returns eight players to a team that likes to play fast and keep the pressure on its opponents.  Iroquois returns most of its team from last season.

***

Williamsville South:  Adam Braniecki 12, Dakota Wiley 12, Christopher Nelson 12, Mark Worthy 12, Greg Dolan 11, Cody Sanford 11, Josh Foster 11, Anthony Lombardo 11, Robert Richards 11, John Goetzmann 11, Jacob Weinstein 11, Dan Proch 11, Devin Degree 10

Amherst:  Marcellus Cooper 12, Da'Shawn Hines 12, Jordan Barr 12, Richard Kay 12, Michael Walsh 12, Will Alfieri 12, Jake Funderburk 12, Brian Fulford 12, Brandon Fowler 11, Chris Patterson 11, Jake Mullen 10, Ja'Kye Womack 10, Jackson Tan 10, Daesean Ashley 9

Hamburg:  Patrick Hart 12, Devon Crowley 12, Jack Lacina 12, Kevin Mahoney 12, Lucas Winslow 12, Jacob Genzel 11, Mark Henry 11, Brett Hall 11, Max Schuman 11, Jack Rettig 11, Evan Robillard 11, Marcus Wloch 11

West Seneca East:  Anthony Roncone 12, Justin Gospodarski 12, Dominic Farszmil 12, Ryan Jasinski 12, Cedric Paulfrey 12, Payton Mroz 11, Dylan Deneka 11, Andrew Weiner 11, Greg Radka 11, Nick Birke 11, Christian Rodriguez 11, Chris Stineman 10, Zamari Mitchell 10

Sweet Home: Luke Pappogallo 12, Darryl Barrons 12, Kelsey Lash 12, Titus Fairclough 12, Stephon Trueheart 11, Ryan Harris 11, Anthony Frascatore 11, Brian Lovering 11, Jahad Abdo 11, Evan John 10, Ki'aiir Brunner 10, Maurice Robinson 10, Matthew Nix 10, Jamel Lucas 9

Williamsville East:  Andrew Kleinmann 12, Drew Butler 12, Matt Gelder 12, Ali Khadra 12, Sean Keenan 11, Cameron Williams 11, Connor Williams 11, Nicholas Kieffer 11, Daniel Doyle 11, Seth Blum 11, Brian Comerford 11, Justin O'Neal 11, Patrick Ranallo 11, Brian Suk 11

Iroquois:  Jack Edwards 12, Matt Whalen 12, Daniel Quinn 12, Tyler Tait 11, Andrew Hetzendorfer 11, Chris Perillo 11, S. Zachary Popovski 11, Josh Zon 11, Josh Kowalski 11, Luca Amarena 11, Charlie Ottomano 10, Maxwell Derrick 10

 

****************************************

 

ECIC III

The last time Cheektowaga won a division title in ECIC was 1963.  With a talented, athletic, and experienced team led by the sensational Dominick Welch, the Warriors should be all in for a league title and more this season.  Add Adrian Baugh, Vaughn Burdette, Alex Bryant, & Rudy Bragg to the mix, who all saw extended action last season, and the Warriors chances are as good as they've ever been.  Maryvale may have just three seniors, but return seven players from a team that took two of three meetings against Cheektowaga last season.  Look for the Flyers to be in the large school poll conversation this year. East Aurora has a strong group of seniors and four starters back, all with at least three years on varsity.  Led by Nick Montgomery, the Blue Devils will grind through a very competitive league and be more than battle-tested when the sectional sparks start flying in Class B1.  Starpoint joins ECIC IV this season, coming off a narrow loss to Lew-Port in the Class A2 semifinals in 2016.  The Spartans return just one starter from that team, but the program has established an identity under coach Ben Scaffidi and should remain very competitive. Depew should be a fun team to watch, especially when its shots are falling as they attack from the perimeter.  The Wildcats are led by junior Chad Biersbach and hope for strong contributions from junior Jordan Cieselski and sophomore Sean Miller.  Jim Insley takes over as head coach at Pioneer and will have an opportunity to make the program his own - the team returns just four players with no experience in the starting lineup.   Lake Shore drops into ECIC IV and has three seniors back.  Eric Senior will be a dominant defensive player & a force on the boards, Andrew McDonagh will provide some offense, and Brave Williams is WNY's only player that is 7 feet tall.  John Park will work hard inside, while Jay Brueckl provides a perimeter threat.

***

Cheektowaga:  Dominick Welch 12,  Adrian Baugh 12, Vaughn Burdette 12, Myquan Barron 12, Dontay Cox 12, Kyle Monterro 12, Alex Bryant 11, Rudy Bragg 11, Davon Brown 11, Tyreek Gibson 11, Tim Moses 11, Jaquan Pugh 11, Keon White 11

Maryvale: Ted York-Brown 12, Brian Sullivan 12, Adam Meyerhofer 12, Ray Blackwell 11, Dylan Casey 11, Zach Amato 11, Marquez Greene 11, Mark Bailey 11, Rashad Law 10, Sayvon Lash 10, Jay Henley 10, Tahron Goudelock 10

East Aurora:  Josh Denz - 12, Nick Montgomery - 12, Joe Montgomery - 12, Cal McTigue - 12, Owen Smith 12, Liam Sheehan 12, Will Beavers 11, Kellan Wittman 11, Kam Kmicinski 10, Noah Denz 10, Connor Boss 9

Depew:  Eric Jarrett - 12, Jacob Mlodozeniec - 12, John Mietus - 12, Tyler Biersbach - 12, Nolan Jarmusz 12, Hunter Shipley 12, Austin Pilley 12, Chad Biersbach - 11, Jeremy Clark 11, Jordan Cieselski 11, Davion Henderson 11, Jordan Hibbs 11, AJ Hammer 11, Dylan Cwiklinski 11, Zac Dwyer 11, Sean Miller 10

Starpoint:  Adam Lasal - 12, David Clemons - 12, Derek Clemons - 12, Jeremy Arnold - 12, Hunter Lemieux 12, Austin Mennaghan 12, Kyle Schreader 11, Eric Schreader 11, Jake Walters 11, Brandon Wunderlich 11, Aaron Chase 10, Justin Mott 10, Brendan Gawel 10

Pioneer:  Josh Taylor 12, Hunter Witt 12, Ben Kaczmarek 12, Chris Flood 12, Kyle Burley 11, Kaleb Hurlburt 11, Marcus MacWilliams 11, Jared Pemberton 11, Nick Rinker 10, Jason Corbett 10

Lake Shore:  Andrew McDonaugh 12, Brave Williams 12, Eric Senior 12, Jacob John 11, Bryce Toth 11, Dakota Luke 11, Jay Brueckl 11, Kylie Mallory 11, Ryan Utley 11, John Park 11, Ajay Cybulski 10, Josh Buchanon 10

 

******************************************

 

ECIC IV

Lackawanna may be young with just three seniors, but they are not lacking for experience.  The Steelers return six players that earned either Second Team All League or HM last season. Add to that the additional talent from a 16-2 JV squad, and Lackawanna looks poised to take the league back.  Cleveland Hill defends ECIC IV league title with eight seniors on its roster. Veteran head coach Mike Trzybinski takes over at Alden, and will look to get the Bulldogs focused on every possession. With three of its top players back, Alden hopes to move into the top tier of its league. JFK graduated just one senior, but he will be a tough one to replace.  The Bears hope to build on strong defensive play from last season and will look to juniors Nick Baker and Jake Braniecki for scoring. Tonawanda returns seven players, led by Zachary Stapf.  Springville joins ECIC IV under second year coach Greg Miller with a deeper team at both the guard and post positions.

 ***

Lackawana:  Jaevon Nelson 12, Jordan Pacillo 12, Trequan Giddens 12, London Smith 11, Noble Smith 11, Khalil Horton 11, Robert Rice 11, Abdul Albaneh 11, Danny Elvers 11, Terrell Brower 11, Carlton Threeths 10, Harris Bekric 10, Juan Rodriguez 10, Noah Grabar 10

Cleveland Hill:  J'Son James 12,  Chase Johnson 12, Tyler Phillips 12, Paul Woodward 12, Izayah Walker 12, Naszir Nance 12, Rashawn Hicks 12, DeVonte McGee 12, Matt LaCourse 11, Kellvonta Harris 11, Freddrick Michael Johnson 10, Aaron Wahler 10

Alden:  Conrad Boucher 12, Gabe Kozak 12, Joshua Chester 12, Nathan Lund 12, Kyle Roy 12, Christian Snell 11, Riley Pastuszynski 11, Taylor Grad 11, Joshua Jeziorski 11, Bradley Kibler 11, Alexander Leigh 11, Matthew Schuh 11

JFK:  Thomas Isbrandt - 12, Brandon Kohl - 12, Dalton Fischer - 12, Austin Nowinski 12, Connor Ricotta 12, Donta Daniels 12, Khaleed Wallace 12, Ke'von Bell 12, Jake Braniecki 11, Nick Baker 11, Jordan Snyder 11, Robert Burgstahler 11, Michael Nawojski 11

Tonawanda:  Zachary Stapf 12, Trey Lilly 12, Nick Bitter 12, Adam Haentges 12, Charles Moore 12, Naz Gonzalez 12, Collin Smith 12, Henry Palermo 11, Marc Titterington 11, James Regdos 11, Joshua Mouton 11, Guage Considine 11, Khristian Velazquez 10, Hayden Lilly 10, Owen Baker 10

Springville:  John Domes 12, Greg Cooney 12, Austin Coon 12, Connor O'Brien 12, Marcus James 12, Lexus Pollard 12, Tyler Kostelny 11, Anthony Lasker 11, Matt Sion 11, Michael Place 11, Peter Cooney 11, Mason Goodridge 10, Adam Pruitt 10

Holland: no information provided by coach

Eden: no information provided by coach

 

********************************************

 

Niagara Frontier League

Defending Class AA Champion, Niagara Falls, returns several players that saw significant time during last season's run.  Syquan Ralands, who showed more than a few flashes as a sophomore, should emerge as one of the areas best interior players, with his combination of size, skill and intensity. North Tonawanda has much to be excited about, returning 12 players with varsity experience, led by junior Trevor Book. The Lumberjacks are deep, talented and play for each other with a unified team attitude. Kenmore West has an outstanding senior backcourt in Tyler Aquilina, Tal James, and Kyle LaPlante.  Look for the Blue Devils to play fast, create opportunities with a dialed-in defense, and run.  Grand Island has sectional wins in consecutive seasons and looks to extend that streak behind talented sophomore point guard Cam Sionko, who also quarterbacked the football team.  Garrett Robinson is a third-year starter for the Vikings, who will also seek strong contributions from Mario Wright and JB Wilkes.  Lockport has a good mix of juniors and seniors that will rely on speed to overcome a lack of any significant size.  Niagara Wheatfield has seven players back, led by 6-5 senior Jaeger Martino and junior Anthony Ruffino.  The Falcons point duties will be in the hands of 8th grader Jalen Bradberry, a player with a very big future in hoops, that will share the backcourt with sophomore Davon Ware.  Life after Jernard Jackson won't be easy at Lew-Port, but Dawson Bailey, Dylan Milbrand, William Duff, and Steve Mansour are all back for the Lancers.  CSAT is very young and athletic, excited to compete in the NFL.  They have a mix of skill, athleticism, and size that should allow them to play fast and hard for 32 minutes.   

 ***

Niagara Falls:  Charles Lamar 12, Devin Sanders 12, Tyler Sanders 12,  Jhamir Isom 12, Cortese Myles 12, Syquan Ralands 11, Jamel Burton 11, Marques Miller 11, Tazaun Rose 11, Quaran Dubois 11, Roderick Arrington 11

North Tonawanda:  Alex Quinn 12, Brandon Casterline 12, Zack Woodard 12, Jordan Fox 12, Alex Johnson 12, Joseph Kish 12, Rory Farkas 12, Patrick Milbrand 12, Vincent Trippi 12, Trevor Book 11, Codie Cronk 11, Sean Ferry 11, Kyle McNeill 11

Kenmore West: Tyler Aquilina - 12, Tal James - 12, Kyle Laplante - 12, Kevin Carpenter 12, Tyler White 12, Rob Burns 12, Erick Rainey 11, Jake Poummit 11, Ronnie Martinez 11, Andrew Fron 11, Jaylan Young 11, Jack Stoerr 11, Jacob Robb 11, Dylan James 10

Niagara Wheatfield:  Phillip Bassham - 12, Noah Klettke - 12, Emilio Tripp - 12, Jaeger Martino - 12, Matt Gibson - 12, Peter Mulcahy - 12, Anthony Ruffino - 11, William Scullion 11, Ben Devantier 11, Nick Cloudin 11, Jared Domaradzki 11, Davon Ware 10, Jalen Bradberry 8

Lockport:  Anthonyo Lloyd 12, Cordell McDowell 12,  Kyle Brown 12, Dorian Byrd 12, Tavon Chamber 12, Kya Doxey 12, Isiah Johnson 11, Rashaun Johnson 11, Luke Lawrence 11, Devin Leatherman 11,  Tivon White 11, Malik Brooks 10, Jayln Jones 10

CSAT:  Emeka Uzomba 12, Ricky Smith 12, Luis Dejesus 12, Mitch Middlebrooks 12, James Stehens 11, Jayden Gulledge 11, Deshawn Williams 11, Mark Greamen 11, Devin Ashley 11, Dayvion Johnson 10, Daighlyon Willoughby 10, 

Grand Island:  Conner Buzby 12, Garrett Robinson 12, JB Wilkes 12,  Roman Cacciatore 12, Mario Wright 12, Ray Cleveland 12, Devin Brandon 12, Liam Carey 11, Derek Callen 11, Cam Sionko 10, JJ Wilkes 10

Lew-Port:  Dylan Milbrand 12, Dawson Bailey 12, Liam Brennan 12, Gabe Colangelo 12, Steve Mansour 12, Ryan Swearengen 12, Dylan Morrissette 11, William Duff 11, Brendan Perreault 11, Joe Powers 10, Trent Scott 10

Kenmore East: no information provided by coach

 

****************************************

 

Niagara-Orleans

 Medina looks to defend its league title and make a return trip to Buffalo State, behind returning All-Centercourt HM Jalin Cooper.  The Mustangs will be tough in transition, and should benefit from the return of a pair of players who will play valuable minutes, after missing last season. With just two seniors, Newfane appears built for the future.  But the Panthers are optimistic the future is underway, and for good reason. Their talented backcourt of Max Weber & Kyle DeVoogel should rival that of any small school in WNY.  Barker has a new coach that is a veteran with a winning pedigree in Don Baker.  His job will be made easier with talented senior guard Nate Luckman, one of the league's very best who can shake you down and bury shots from all over. Wilson returns eight players and also will have Justin Daul this season, who was forced out of action last year with a knee injury.  Roy-Hart had its best season last year and played under the bright lights at Buffalo State in Class B2.  The Rams bring back three talented players from last season's team in Tim Moriarity, Matt Borel, and Jake Bruning.  Albion returns six players, including two that were part of the Purple Eagles' Section VI Class B1 title in 2015.  Between their height and depth, they should make things interesting in league play.  Akron fields a team with just two seniors, but returns several players as the Tigers look to see who will emerge for the program.

***

Medina:  Tyler Howard 12, Tyrellis Atkins 12, Jalin Cooper 11, Mason Lewis 11, Alex Allis 11, Brendan Luthart 11, Jorge Phillips 11, Trenton Jones 11, Johnny Salone 10, Izaiah Rhim 10, Vincent Montague 10

Newfane:  Caleb Russell 12, Albert Kramp 12, Max Weber 11, Kyle DeVoogel 11, Chad Dunbar 11, Connor Hill 11, Brandon Gross 11, Drew Boudeman 11, Samuel Auernhamer 11, Caleb Auernhamer 11, Thorne Geise 11, Cameron Stanton 11, Sam Kline 9

Barker:  Nathan Luckman 12, Jake Arnold 12, Eddie Wasnock 12, Kyle Moeller 12, Shawn Callaghan 12, Devon Mangan 12, Ryan Voss 12, Nick Sutch 12, Derek Uschold 12, Jake Meister 12, Jack Hopkins 12, Austin Sullivan 11, Evan Ecker 11, Malik Smith 11

Wilson:   Steve Lewis 12, Jonah Miller 12, Connor Seeley 12, Kevin Skavinsky 12, Kyle Wiesinger 12, Justin Daul 12, Mike Pazik 12, Jared Carney 11, Mac Musall 11, Matt Daul 11, Eric Britton 11, Nate Fox 11, Steve Frerichs 10

Roy-Hart:  DJ Davis 12, Eric Fitch 12, Tim Moriarity 12, Justin Czaja 12, Paul Ragonese 12, Cam Meadows 12, Brendon Hess 12, Matt Borel 11, Jake Bruning 11, Jon Huntington 11, Noah Kindron 11, Charlie Brigham 10

Albion: Tommy Mattison 12, Kory Reynolds 12, Chase Hall 12, Lamar Chambers 12, Jacob Buzard 12, Tanner Ferris 12, Jacques Harrison 11, Hunter Webster 11, Bradley Sanford 11, Shyheim Jakes 11, Demetrius Gardner 11, Bryce Pritchard 10, Liam Ward 9

Akron: Elias Johnson 12, Austin Ladd 12, Weylon Abrams 11, Owen Hill 11, Derek Holtz 11, Nelson Logan 11, Morgan Smith 11, Ethan Martin 11, Mason Schultz 11, Wyatt Martin 11, Stephen Wagner 11

 

**************************************

 

CCAA I West 

Olean mowed down the competition last season, took an undefeated record to Glens Falls, and left with its second state championship since 2008.  With just one starter back (Monty Shoemaker) and a move up to Class A2, things will be tougher for the Huskies this season. Sophomore Mike Schmidt takes over at the point after being a Sixth Man of the Year candidate as a freshman.  Chautauqua Lake is a team that should be on everyone's radar.  The Thunderbirds return four starters, including Devin Pope who was All-CC Honorable Mention as a sophomore, to the squad that eliminated East and dropped a three-point thriller in the Class C1 final to Olmsted.  Dunkirk will be young but hungry, coming off a great football season a the school.  They had a very good JV team last year and return some key contributors.  Fredonia will be very young and inexperienced at the varsity level, returning only one player (Lucas Voss) who saw significant time during last season's sectional run.  

***

Olean: Monty Shoemaker 12, Luke Rogers 12, Derek Dandrea 12, Johnathan Magro 12, Tristen Snyder 12, Zach Parr 11, Luke Chapman 11, Alex Jodush 11, Thomas Klein 11, Mike Schmidt 10, Josh Bihler 10, Matt Droney 10

Chautauqua Lake: Bryce Bentley 12, Drew Gleason 12, Nate Hammond 12, Tyler Meredith 12, Nate Rivera 12, Collin Sargent 12, Aaron Swan 12, Joel Vinciguerra 12, Reagan Ellis 11, Devin Pope 11, Collin Wood 11, Alex Gleason 10, Kyler Majka 11

Dunkirk:  Tyreek Buchanon Ruiz 12, Evon Hernandez 12, Caleb Rasmus 12, Seth Rasmus 12, Jarrett Waclawski 12, Devaun Farnham DeJesus 11, Darnell Butts 11, Issiah Velez 11, Andre Lockett 11, Noah Sobilo 11, Tyreese Kristan-Johnson 11, Rahleek Moseley 11, Felix Garcia 11, Quantavius Kleckley 10 

Fredonia:  Lucas Voss 12, Azeem Zaidi 12, Nick Ruckman 12, Nick Piper 12, Matt Tintsman 11, Jared Kowalski 11, Reid Tarnowski 11, Brendan Plaister 11, John Delrio 11, Bo Huggins 11, Andrew Field 11, Nate Shuart 10, Nicholas Pucci 10

Maple Grove: no information provided by coach

 Southwestern: no information provided by coach

Falconer: no information provided by coach

 

*****************************************

 

CCAA I East

Randolph has four starters back on the team that led Middle College at half of the Class C2 Final at JCC.  Add freshman sniper Tyler Hind to the mix, who spent his 8th grade season playing valuable minutes at Jamestown and the return of former head coach Kevin Hind, and the Cardinals could be dangerous.  They have a mix of everything, including size, toughness, scoring, and experience. With talent at all skilled positions, Gowanda is hoping to repeat as league champions and make a stronger showing during the playoffs this upcoming season.  The Panthers return a pair of starters in Nate Brawdy and Dakota Perdue, that will anchor the backcourt and post, respectively.  Silver Creek graduated four starters and lost a fifth to prep school for lacrosse.  The Black Knights have made it to the Section VI finals six concecutive years and will continue to play an uptempo style offense behind speedy Chris Williams, Tucker Gates and freshman Dom Jamison.  They will rely heavily on their bigs, Brady Woeleben and Bryant Jones, for leadership and points in the paint.  Allegany-Limestone has just one starter back in Zach Hemphill, but the Gators will have quality depth, thanks to the underclassmen additions from a 17-1 JV team.   Two seasons ago at Portville, the JV team finished 17-2. That same unit hits this varsity season with three returning starters and two of its three leading scorers back.  Salamanca is a senior laden team that returns seven players, including three starters, and will look to dictate the pace of games with defensive pressure.

***

Gowanda:  Matt Kruszka 12, Matthew Dodolak 12, Lauritz Predelli 12, Nate Brawdy 11, Dakota Perdue 11, Jarmani Benton 11, Ryan John 11, Stevie John 11, Nolan Rosier 11, Max Lindgren 11, Tristan Jensen 11, Damen MacLeod 10, Efrain Barreto 9

Randolph:  Jarrett Lecceadone 12,  Jake Beaver 12, Nick Martonis 12,  John Ling 12, Kaleb Frink 12, Isaac Wakefield 11, Kane Carlson 11, Dakota Donaldson 11, Tres Sherman 11, Jordan Higbee 11, Joe Carlson 11, Calvin George 11, Andrew Bernard 10, Tyler Hind 9

Portville: Ron Lott 12, Colin Kloc 12, Nick Stein 12, Donovan Gayton 12, Jaeden Harris 11, Jonah Watson 11, Brendan Tobola 11, Kyle Murray 11, Adam Wray 11, Izack Kauhl 10

Salamanca: Michael Collins 12, Zeus Enriquez 12, Derek McClure 12, Nelson Rivera 12, Jake DeKay 12, Chandler Armstrong 12, Marc Canella 12, Steve Jimerson 12, Jay Nosie 12, Joe Sherlock 12, Hercules Rasha 11, Braden Siebert 11, Tyler Hedlund 10 

Allegany-Limestone:  Zach Hemphill 12, Jordan Moore 12, Mike McMullen 12, Marcus Grove 12, Sean McAfee 11, Grant Davis 11, Roman Napoleon 11, Michael Nye 11, Tommy Moran 11, Brad Barton 11, Sam Flanders 10, Conner Golley 10, Casey Curran 9, Michael Wolfgang 9

Silver Creek:  Toby Daminguez 12, Noah Restivo 12, Chris Williams 12, Dylan Slaght 12, Eagle-Eye Stevens 12, Bryant Jones 12, Chad Yochum 11, Tom Galfo 11, Tucker Gates 10, Braeden Woleben 10, Dominic Jamison 9

 

**********************************************

 

CCAA II West 

Sherman has a lot of depth & speed, and will use both of those qualities to its advantage.  Senior Chris Robson is one of the very best shooters in WNY.  Panama is coming off its best season in program history - one that ended with a tough loss in Glens Falls.  The Panthers graduated all five starters from that team, one that could shoot the lights out.  Look for them to pound the ball inside more this season and for this group to find its own identity.   Brocton lost four key starters from last year that will be difficult to replace, and hope the leadership of Garrett McFadden & Johnethen Spicer are able to steady the ship as the younger players develop.

***

Sherman:  Chris Robson 12,  Kolby Parks 12, Kyle Carpenter 12, Mike Delcamp 12, Korey Ayers 12, Johnny Mendoza 12, Brandon Nickerson 12, Jared Gleason 11, Gavin Kahle 11, Tanner Ramsey 11, Dylan Mitchell 11, Caleb Burick 11, Darren Kopta 11, Chance Meeder 10

Clymer:  Dylan Neckers 12, Dylan Davis 12, Justin Svetz 12, Josh Van Earden 12, Henry Sullivan 12, Dan Gustafson 12, Colt Miller 12, James Wade 12, Mackenzie Bestine 12, Dustin Neckers 11

Panama: Tristen Frye 12, Nolan Eggleston 12, Dylan Marsh 12, Lucas Golden 12, Devyn Chase 12, Jacob Smith 12, Tom Delahoy 12, Carter Morse 12

Brocton:  Garrett McFadden 12, Johnethen Spicer 12, Tyler DeRosier 12, William Powless 12, Gabe Rosas 11, Hunter Rizzo 11, Charles Rexford 11, Jason Caldwell 11, Tim O'Dell 11, Riley Rivera 10, Ronald Brown 10

Westfield: no information provided by coach

Frewsburg: no information provided by coach

Cassadaga Valley: no information provided by coach

 

**********************************************

 

CCAA II East 

Ellicottville has its top three scorers back from a season ago, including junior big man Elliot Bowen, an All-Centercourt HM who also led the team in boards, averaging a double-double.  The Eagles lost to state semifinalist Panama in the Class D Final in March, and hope a beefed up nonleague schedule has them ready to defend their league title and then take the next step. Pine Valley will be fast and athletic, with four starters back.  The Panthers are led by Dylan Chase, an All-State Honorable Mention as a junior that averaged 15 ppg. Sam Erickson leads a Franklinville team that should contend in both league and Class D. Brock Blecha will add to the team's athleticism, while Isaac Kopp can really shoot the ball and will be counted on for more rebounding this year.  Cattaraugus/Little Valley has a core of seniors back, including Kellen Martin, along with some nice size from the junior class joining the team.  North Collins looks to improve upon scoring through a faster tempo and better defense, and improve upon last season's total in the win column.  Forestville has six players back after falling in the postseason to Panama and will look to improve its win total and make some noise in league play.

***

Ellicottville:  Chad Boldt 12, Elliot Bowen 11, Austin Grinols 11, Griffin Chudy 11, Deric Leiper 11, Noah Stuve 11, Mitchell Sexton 11, Matt Grigsby 11, Evan Palmatier 11, Cody Keller 11, Robert Neumann 11, RJ Alvarez 11, Steven Rowland 10

Franklinville:  Tyler Pitner 12, Dylan Pixley 12, DJ Pfeiffer 12, Tim Knight 12, Isaac Kopp 11, Sam Erickson 11, Brock Blecha 11, Dylan Burton 11, Kaleb Watts 11, Darren Clark 11, Josh Haskell 7

Pine Valley:  Dylan Chase 12, Austin Butcher 12, Trent Mihalko 11, Zachary Mansfield 11, Stephen Crisanti 11, Robbie Clutter 11, Dakota Loop 11, Ben Distasio 11, Marcus Cislo 11, Bayley Finch 10

Cattaraugus/Little Valley: Kellen Martin 12, Andrew Hutchison 12, TJ Southwick 12, Drew Stevens 12, Robert Blakely 12, Christian Given 12, Cooper Pritchard 12, Austin Baker 11, Andrew Minnekine 11, Jacob Goodenow 11, Tim Ulinger 11, Scott O'Donnell 11, Anthony Manning 11, Cody Luder 11

Forestville: Austin Pierce 12, Pat Parker 12, Trent Hartloff 12, Liam O'Brien 12, Bret Weaver 12, Kalvin Stanbro 12, Phil Narraway 11, Hector West 11, Brent Geise 11, Lewis Markham 11, Luke Szumigala 10, Travis Drozdziel 10, Macadam Gadewoltz 10

North Collins:  Harley Mehnert 12, Zachary Schroeder 12, Sabian Bosinski 12, Dylan Mercado 12, Eli Strauss 12, Michael Gullo 11, Trevor Mercado 11, Kevin Spicola 11, Tanner Loretto 11, Brandan Zielinski 11, Alec Pagels 11

 

********************************************

 

Charter Schools

Health Sciences will be a lot like they were last season - fast, athletic, deep, and talented.  The bad news for Falcons' opponents, they should be even better this year.  Juniors Tyron Lott and Davonte Gaines, along with sophomore Kameron Briggs, can all fill the net up.  At Oracle, Michael Ernst takes the reigns as head coach and will be led by Shakur Bridges, a Second Team All-charter selection as a junior.  

***

Health Sciences:  Kavon Fears 12, Wize Threat 12, Jaqon Renfro 12, Tajh Dickson 12, Antwan Stewart 12, Jaden Horn 12, Amon Smith 12, Jerome Costner 12, Davonte Gaines 11, Tyron Lott 11, Tayvion Nelson 11, Aquell Crosby 11, Shakir Cook 11, Tyseen Lott 10, Kameron Briggs 10

Oracle:  Shakur Bridges 12, Cheron Wilson 12, David Edwards 12, Abdi Ahmed 12, Joe Perez 11, Gary Marshall 11, James Myree Jr 11, Delmareion White 11, Bonifasi Luundo 11, Aaron Rogers 11, Steve Simpson Jr 11, Dontae Acker 11

BASCS:  Julian Johnson 12, Deonte Brown 12, Jovonte Davis 12, Wayne Carter 12, Georges Cortez 12, Jamie Eutsey 12,Milan Taznum 11, Trevor Mosley 11, Sean Johnson 10, Ibrahim osmani 10, Jabari Nettles 10, Jaquan Wingard 10

Tapestry: no information provided by coach

Maritime: no information provided by coach

Global Concepts: no information provided by coach

 

*****************************************

 

Teams with New Coaches

Darren Fenn - Nichols

Michael Trzybinski - Alden

Don Baker - Barker

Jim Insley - Pioneer

Kevin Hind - Randolph

Geoff Hurley - Riverside

Adam Bennett - Salamanca

Aaron Emley - Southwestern

Matt Marinaro - West Seneca West

Brian Ellsworth - Maritime

Russ Barnes - Global Concepts

Jeff Liebner - Tapestry

Michael Ernst - Oracle

Gerald Briggs - BASCS

Randy Rakowski - Emerson

 

 *********************************************

 

Classification Changes

West Seneca West moves down from Class AA to Class A1

South Park moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Olean moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Riverside moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Emerson moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

I-Prep moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

MST Seneca moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Fredonia moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Medina moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Lafayette moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Eden moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Buffalo Arts moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

Middle College moves up from Class C2 to Class B2

Olmsted moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

Falconer moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

DaVinci moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Portville moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

East moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Westfield moves up from Class D to Class C2

 

**********************************************

 

Preseason Polls

**  While I have a good idea of which teams will be good and challenge for league and sectional titles, putting the top 10 large & small schools together in order before I've seen anyone play is definitely shooting with my back to the basket.  I've included a group of teams outside of the top 10 in both polls that I think could be/should be/will be in the poll at some point this season.  It's going to be an ultra competitive season in every regard - there is not a  clear cut favorite in any league or class this season.

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MMA)

2. Park (MMA)

3. Niagara Falls (AA)

4. Timon (MMA)

5. Williamsville South (A1)

6. St. Francis (MMA)

7. South Park (A2)

8. Jamestown (AA)

9. Cheektowaga (A2)

10. McKinley (A1)

(Olean, North Tonawanda, Maryvale, Lancaster, St. Joe's, Kenmore West, Amherst)

 

Small Schools

1. East Aurora

2. Health Sciences

3. Middle College

4. Medina

5. Cardinal O'Hara

6. East

7. Nichols

8. Gowanda

9. Newfane

10. Randolph

 (Ellicottville, Chautauqua Lake, Lackawanna, Sherman, MST Seneca, Cleveland Hill, Olmsted, Dunkirk)

********************************************

 

Predictions

 

MMA Class A - Canisius

MMA Class B - Cardinal O'Hara

Yale Cup I - South Park

Yale Cup II - MST Seneca

ECIC I - Jamestown

ECIC II - Williamsville South

ECIC III - Cheektowaga

ECIC IV - Lackawanna

NFL - Niagara Falls

N-O - Medina

CCAA I West - Olean

CCAA I East - Gowanda

CCAA II West - Sherman

CCAA II East - Ellicottville

Charters - Health Sciences

***********************************************

Manhattan Cup (A)

This is as competitive as I've ever this league heading into a season, with all five teams capable of beating one another.  When all the dust settles, I'm predicting a rematch of last season's Manhattan Cup Final between Canisius & Park.  This has been an area of weakness for me, as I've missed on predicting the correct winner for three straight seasons.  In 2014, I went with Canisius, who was upset by eventual winner Nichols in the semifinals.  The following season I predicted Nichols to win it all, but they lost a thriller in the final to Canisius.  Last year I went with Park, who also lost a thriller to Canisius.  So this should be viewed as good news if you're Timon, St. Joe's, St. Francis, or Park, but I'm not picking against the Crusaders this year.

** Canisius **

 

Manhattan Cup (B)

Last season, Walsh and St. Mary's were both state ranked all season and appeared on a collision course to play for a third time in the Manhattan Cup Final.  But the Lancers were not the same team by the time the postseason began and Walsh was stunned in the semifinals by eventual champion Nichols.  While I feel uneasy picking against Walsh & St. Mary's, that's what I'm going to do.  I'm calling for a final between Nichols and Cardinal O'Hara, with the champ repeating.

** Nichols **

 

Class AA  

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

Niagara Falls, Jamestown, Kenmore West, & Lancaster

** Niagara Falls **

 

Class A1

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  Williamsville South, McKinley, North Tonawanda, & Hamburg

** Williamsville South **

 

Class A2  

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

South Park, Cheektowaga, Olean, & Maryvale

** South Park **

 

Class B1

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

East Aurora, Newfane, MST Seneca, & Depew

** East Aurora **

 

Class B2

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:

Health Sciences, Middle College, Medina, & Gowanda

** Health Sciences **

 

Class C1  

Final Four to reach JCC:

Chautauqua Lake, Cleveland Hill, Portville, & Salamanca

** Chautauqua Lake **

 

Class C2  

Final Four to reach JCC:  

East, Randolph, Barker, & Maple Grove

** East **

 

Class D

Final Four to reach JCC:  

Ellicottville, Sherman, Franklinville, & Clymer

** Ellicottville **

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2016 Sectionals

 

Class B1

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 16th

(12) City Honors 47, (13) Lafayette 41

(10) CSAT 54, (15) Eden 42 

(11) Tonawanda 40, (14) Springville 38 

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 17th

(8) Depew 72, (9) Buffalo Arts 38 

(5) Alden 78, (12) City Honors 46

 

(10) CSAT 71, (7) Albion 59

(6) Newfane 54, (11) Tonawanda 42

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 19th

(1) Olean 83, (8) Depew 38 

(4) Dunkirk 68, (5) Alden 46 

 

(2) Medina 54, (10) CSAT 46

(3) East Aurora 62, (6) Newfane 47

 

Semifinals - Thursday, February 25th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm

(1) Olean 59, (4) Dunkirk 41

(3) East Aurora 55, (2) Medina 46

 

  Final - Saturday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

 (1) Olean 67, (3) East Aurora 46

 

2016 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

***************************************************

 Class B2

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 16th

(12) Oracle 60, (13) Akron 32

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 17th

(8) JFK 65, (9) Wilson 48

(5) Emerson 66, (12) Oracle 61 

 

(7) MST Seneca 51, (10) Lackawanna 48 

(6) Fredonia 69, (11) Southwestern 42 

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 19th

(1) I-Prep 79, (8) JFK 47

(4) Health Sciences 61, (5) Emerson 56

 

(2) Roy-Hart 57, (7) MST Seneca 45

(6) Fredonia 68, (3) Gowanda 51

 

Semifinals - Wednesday, February 24th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:15 & 6:45 pm 

(4) Health Sciences 70, (1) I-Prep 57

(6) Fredonia 73, (2) Roy-Hart 30 

 

 Final - Saturday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

(6) Fredonia 53,  (4) Health Sciences 48

 

2016 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Fredonia Hillbillies

 

-centercourt

Top Game of the Week: 1/24/16 -- 1/30/16

(Alex Damiani and Lancaster host Jamestown on Monday / Photo by Mark Mulville)

 

Here's a list of what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, January 25th

Burgard @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm

Jamestown @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Portville @ Franklinville - 7:30 pm

Chautauqua Lake @ Pine Valley - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 26th

Walsh @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

Rochester East @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Tapestry @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm

Southwestern @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 27th

Pine Valley @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 28th

Health Sciences @ Timon - 6:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

Roy-Hart @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Aquinas @ Canisius - 7 pm

 

Friday, January 29th

Cardinal O'Hara @ Walsh - 6:30 pm

North Tonawanda @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

East Aurora @ Amherst - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Lew-Port - 7 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Alden - 7 pm

Niagara Catholic @ Nichols - 7:30 pm

Chautauqua Lake @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

Allegany-Limestone @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Gowanda @ Portville - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 30th

St. Mary's @ St. Joe's - 2 pm

Tapestry @ Health Sciences - 2:30 pm

Niagara Falls @ Bishop Kearney - 3 pm

RAP Classic at Aquinas

East Aurora vs. Livonia - 2 pm

Cheektowaga vs. West Irondequoit - 3:45 pm

Canisius vs. Greece Athena - 5:30 pm

Aquinas vs. Rush-Henrietta - 7:15 pm

 

Game of the Week - Jamestown @ Lancaster on Monday, January 25th

- On December 10, 2015, Lancaster won in Jamestown for the first time since Ben Drake took over as head coach of the Red Raiders in 1998.  It was also the first league loss Jamestown had suffered in 17 games.  Being that it was the league opener for the Red Raiders, they were suddenly 0-1 in ECIC I to start the season - something I cannot remember happening before then.

Meanwhile, the win for Lancaster propelled them to a 3-0 start in the league and a 7-0 start overall.  The Legends spent a couple weeks as a ranked large school in WNY, while Jamestown was uncharacteristically on the outside, looking in on the top 10 this season.

Coming into this game, Lancaster has a 9-4 mark overall, and a 5-1 record in league after an earlier loss to Orchard Park.  Jamestown has improved to 8-4 overall and is 5-2 in ECIC I after getting tripped up by league-leading Williamsville North, following the Lancaster loss.

While North is undefeated in ECIC I, there are still plenty of games that could effect the outcome of the league race, and this is definitely one of those games.  Lancaster is just one game behind North, and still has both its games against the Spartans coming up.  A win for Jamestown keeps the Red Raiders in contention for the league crown as well, with a rematch at North still upcoming in February.

Also impacted in this game will be the sectional seeding points.  Both teams compete in Class AA and the result of this game will help determine where the two get seeded and could be the difference between a home game & a road game in the Section VI quarterfinals.

When the Legends defeated Jamestown in December, it ended a 36-game winning streak the Red Raiders had held against Lancaster.  After Monday night, either Jamestown will have begun a new streak, or Lancaster will be boasting a 2-game streak against the defending ECIC I & Class AA champs.

 

-centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 1/3/16 -- 1/9/16

(Andrew Austin leads Lockport into Niagara Falls on Tuesday for the 'Game of the Week' / Photo by Lockport Star)

 

Here's a list of what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, January 4th

Dunkirk @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 5th

McKinley @ South Park - 6 pm

Walsh @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

St. Joe's @ Park - 6:30 pm

North Tonawanda @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

Canisius @ Timon - 6:30 pm

Niagara Catholic @ St. Francis - 7 pm

 

Wednesday, January 6th

Olmsted @ MST Seneca - 6 pm

I-Prep @ Emerson - 6 pm

East Aurora @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Willaimsville North @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Orchard Park @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Health Sciences @ St. Mary's - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 7th

Fredonia @ Olean - 7:30 pm

Salamanca @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 8th

Emerson @ Olmsted - 6 pm

Roy-Hart @ Newfane - 6:30 pm

Kenmore West @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Alden @ Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

St. Joe's @ Canisius - 7 pm

Medina @ Albion - 7 pm

Park @ St. Mary's - 7:30 pm

Maryvale @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

United Way Showcase at Jamestown HS

Tapestry vs. Randolph - 6 pm

Jamestown vs. Cardinal O'Hara - 7:45 pm

 

Saturday, January 9th

Willaimsville South @ Aquinas - 2:30 pm

United Way Showcase at Jamestown HS

Dunkirk vs. Bennett - 12:30 pm

Fredonia vs. Silver Creek - 2:15 pm

Maple Grove vs. Panama - 4 pm

Sherman vs. Randolph - 5:45 pm

Olean vs. Jamestown - 7:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Lockport @ Niagara Falls on Tuesday, January 5th

- In 2014 after getting hit hard by graduation, Niagara Falls rolled out a lineup of fresh-faced underclassmen that would carry them over the next three seasons.  That same year, Lockport boasted a senior-laden unit that would share league title honors in the NFL with Kenmore West.  That Lions team was the first to ever sweep the Wolverines in a season and wound up advancing to Buffalo State for the Class AA semifinals.

Last season, it was Lockport that turned to a new group in its rotation, while a year of seasoning had helped the young Wolverines to get back on top of the NFL, sharing league crown honors with North Tonawanda.  Niagara Falls returned to Buffalo State in Class AA last season and advanced to the sectional championship.

Entering this season, Niagara Falls came in with its best group since 2013 and were the preseason favorites to win both the NFL and Class AA.  The Wolverines second game of the season was against Park, the top-ranked Class A team in NYS, a game they only lost by two points.  That same night, Lockport caught the attention of area hoop followers with a 13-point win over St. Joe's.

Since that night, both Falls & Lockport have won all their league games.  But it was some nonleague results that really set the stage for the Game of the Week.  Starpoint played a game at Park and only lost by three points.  They followed that up with a win over Timon.  Then just three days later, the highly-regarded Spartans traveled to Lockport, and got thumped by 30 points.  That same week, Niagara Falls coughed up a late lead at the ADPRO Challenge and lost to the same St. Joe's team that the Lions beat.

Suddenly, Lockport was the only team from WNY ranked by NYS in Class AA and also moved ahead of Niagara Falls in the local large school poll.  The question that then arose - is Lockport now the favorite to win the NFL and Class AA this year? Maybe so, but I'm not making any proclamations just yet.  The Lions suffered their first loss of the season to Aquinas over the break in a complete rout, and followed it up with a loss the next night to small school East of the Yale Cup.  

Is Lockport back sliding or was it just a holiday slump?  Is Niagara Falls still the team to beat after allowing the St. Joe's comeback?  Thankfully we have the 'Game of the Week' to sort it all out, where I will be front & center(court) for - and yes, the winner will be the favorites in both the league and the section.

 

-centercourt

Season Preview: 2015-2016

 (Park & Canisius will once again be elite WNY programs, following a season where both won State & Federation titles /Photo by Dave DeLuca)

 

The 2015-2016 Pre-View From Centercourt contains:

 - What's New

- Returning 2015 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2015-2016

- A League-by-League look at the teams

(MMA, Yale Cup, ECIC,  NFL, N-O, CCAA, & Charters)

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools

- Predictions 

 

What's New

- Coaches.  All sorts of new coaches.  The largest coaching turnover I've ever witnessed.  In all, of the 103 teams between Section VI & the MMA, 22 of them have a new head coach this season.

 

- Section VI teams are finally back to playing a 20-game regular season.

 

- With the way Easter falls this year, the season will end a week earlier than normal.

 

- The Canisius/St. Joe's rivalry returns to a home-court advantage format, after playing the big games at the Canisius College Koessler Center the past couple seasons to accommodate the masses.  Get there early.

 

- Middle College will play its home games at Bennett this season.  The Kats had been hosting home games at ECC since 2010.

 

- After winning the Class B Federation Championship last season, Park will move up and compete with the big dogs in the CHSAA's Class A, while Nichols will return to Class B after playing up a year ago.

 

- It wouldn't be a season preview without some divisional realignments in the CCAA :  Maple Grove & Cassadaga Valley flip leagues, with the Red Dragons joining CCAA I West, while the Cougars move to CCAA II West.  In the East, Cattaraugus/Little Valley leaves Division I to compete in II.

 

- West Valley will not field a team this season.  Students from the school have the option to play for Ellicottville.

 

- This season, the Class A1 semifinals will be split up between the Tuesday & Wednesday nights of Buffalo State week, with the Class AA semis and then the Class B2 semis played prior to each A1 semifinal.  That means the Class A2 semifinals are Monday night, leaving the Class B1 semifinals for Thursday night.  

 

- Far West Regionals are back at Buff State this year.

 

- Niagara Falls HS will host a "Battle at the Border" in February, featuring three of Canada's top teams playing Timon, Aquinas, and the host Wolverines.

 

- Depew will host this season's ADPRO Public/Private Challenge from December 17th-19th.

 

 ******************************************************

 

The Players

*** Seven of the top 15 players from the 2015 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 10 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.   

 

Returning 2015 1st Teamers

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, Senior

   * 16.5 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  2.8 BPG  /  1.0 APG *  

     * as a junior

 - After leading the Crusaders to a story book season that included Manhattan Cup, State, and Federation Championships in Class A, the best Canisius big man in the last 20 years is back for his fourth and final varsity season.  Quick, agile, and very instinctual, he's a complete game changer against the areas top competition.  Already offered by Sienna, Trueheart will look to close out his career by keeping the Crusaders on top. (Photo by Buffalo News)

Jordan Nwora - Park, Senior

* 21.5 PPG  /  6.5 RPG  /  2.4 SPG  /  1.4 APG *

     * as a junior

-  After transferring from Amherst following his sophomore campaign, Nwora exceeded all expectations in a breakout junior season, leading the Pioneers to a Federation Championship in Class B.  He became an elite scorer and is equally dangerous in half court sets and in transition.  With multiple Division I offers already on the table (South Florida, Long Beach State, Fordham, & UB), the ceiling is high for a 6-7 wing that is still improving.  He'll look to lead his team back to the successes they enjoyed last season, only this season, they'll attempt to win it all in Class A.

 

 Returning 2015 Second Teamer

  Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Junior

* 21.6 PPG/12.5 RPG/2.7 BPG /2.6 APG/1.7 SPG *

            * as a sophomore

-  The best bargain going in WNY is a two dollar game ticket to watch this guy play for 32 minutes.  Entering his junior season, he has already scored 1,000 career points, and even more impressive, has over 800 rebounds already.  The scary part is that he's just now starting to compete against kids his own age.  Iona, Canisius, & UB have all made offers to the explosive forward who can do anything and everything on the court.  (Photo by Nick LoVerde)

 

Returning 2015 Third Teamers

Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Sophomore

* 13.0 PPG / 5.2 APG /4.0 RPG / 3.4 SPG *

            * as a freshman

-  One of the most impressive statistics from a season ago was his turnover total after 24 starts.  As a freshman point guard that played every crucial minute for the Billies, including two sectional title games and a regional final, he only committed 38 turnovers.  That kind of poise and decision making not only makes his team better - it's already landed him an offer from Canisius, which came during his freshman year.   (Photo by Harry Scull)

Takal Molson - St. Mary's, Senior 

* 19 .2 PPG /7.1 RPG  /2.3 APG  /2.2 SPG /1.1 BPG *

                   * as a junior

-  In my time covering high school basketball, I've never seen a better player in a Lancers uniform.  Shows raw talent and athletic ability, but it's his feel for the game, ease handling the ball, and smooth shot from all ranges that separates him. He'll be relied upon heavily to be a leader this season, which will be necessary for St. Mary's to win the Class B Manhattan Cup and beyond.

TC Brown - Amherst, Senior    

* 20.1 PPG  /  6.2 RPG  /  4.3 APG  /  3.0 SPG *

     * as a junior

- One of the most competitive players in the area who wants the ball in his hands, is fearless in crunch time, and always believes his team will win.  Led the Tigers to a third ECIC III title and sectional final in as many varsity seasons. Has his sights set on leading Amherst to its best season in school history - one that would include a trip to Glens Falls. (Photo by Buffalo News)

Gary Foster - Middle College, Senior

* 18.3 PPG /11.7 RPG  /3.0 BPG  /2.8 APG  /2.4 SPG *

                       * as a junior

 - The standout talent on a very deep Kats team.  A strong and intense player who is feisty inside, but has a great touch to his mid range game.  After leading Middle College to the Class C regionals last year, he's ready to take the Kats to Glens Falls in search of a state title after starting for the South Park football team that made a run all the way to the state championship game. (Photo by Expressed Images)

 

 

 

Returning 2015 Honorable Mentions

Maceo Jack - Sr., Williamsville North -  18.7 PPG  /  6.2 RPG  /  1.6 APG  /  1.1 SPG  as a junior

Jojo Staton - Sr., Middle College -   17.2 PPG  /  1.9 APG  /  1.7 SPG  /  1.7 RPG   as a junior

Terrell Ford - Sr., Kenmore West -   16.7 PPG  /  7.8 RPG  /  2.9 SPG  /  2.0 APG   as a junior

JaQuoine Fogan - Sr., Tapestry -   16.2 PPG  /  2.9 SPG  /  1.7 RPG  /  1.7 APG   as a junior

Christian Nodine - Sr., Starpoint -   15.4 PPG  /  9.0 RPG  /  2.9 APG  /  1.5 SPG    as a junior 

Davon Gant - Sr., I-Prep -  15.0 PPG  /  10.3 RPG  /  3.2 BPG  /  2.7 APG  /  1.2 SPG   as a junior

Brock Kroening - Sr., Starpoint -  14.4 PPG  /  9.7 RPG  /  1.3 APG  /  1.0 SPG   as a junior

Kyle Harris - Sr., Park -   10.6 PPG  /  3.6 APG  /  3.1 RPG  /  1.4 SPG   as a junior

Hunter Anderson - Sr., Park -   9.6 PPG  /  5.5 RPG  /  1.6 APG  /  1.5 SPG   as a junior

Justin Jones - Sr., Canisius -   8.0 PPG  /  6.0 RPG  /  2.0 APG  /  2.0 SPG   as a junior

 

Player Watch List:

 Joe Jones - 10 (Park),  Amadi Ikpeze - 12 (Amherst), Quinton Lamar - 12 (Timon), Madut Ayiy - 12 (Canisius), Nick Motley - 12 (St. Joe's), Grant Beyer - 12 (St. Joe's), Shaquan Jones - 12 (McKinley), Willard Anderson - 10 (East), Sean Hill - 12 (Williamsville North), Breon Harris - 12 (Niagara Falls), Isaiah Thomas - 12 (Dunkirk), Tavien Kemp - 11 (Walsh), Jake Cavana - 12 (Olean), Ben Eckstrom - 11 (Olean), Christian Snell - 10 (Alden), Jenard Jackson - 12 (Lew-Port), Kelly Brown - 12 (Lockport), Tyron Lott - 10 (Health Sciences), Graham Dolan - 12 (Williamsville South), Qeyion Williams - 11 (Niagara Falls), James Rojas - 11 (Jamestown), Charles Lamar - 11 (Niagara Falls), Brandon Roach - 12 (Olmsted), Michael Simpson - 12 (Emerson), Chad Biersbach - 10 (Depew), Shakur Harris - 12 (South Park), Andy Xaspos - 12 (Roy-Hart), Nathan Nielson - 12 (Niagara Wheatfield), Jaylin Cooper - 10 (Medina), Justin Morgan - 12 (Medina), Ryan Bradley - 10 (Wilson), Gates Abrams - 12 (Akron), Nate Luckman - 11 (Barker), Patrick Moore - 12 (Fredonia), Josh Eddy - 12 (Panama), Chris Robson - 11 (Sherman), Trevon Thompson - 12 (Silver Creek), Nate Brawdy - 10 (Gowanda)

 

**********************************************

 League-By-League 

Monsignor Martin Association

 

 

 

Large Schools - CLASS A

  Canisius capped off years of local dominance by winning the state's highest honor in Class A, a Federation Championship.  The Crusaders will continue to be elite and return 1st Team All-Centercourt standout Stafford Trueheart.  After winning a Federation title in Class B one day after the Crusaders were crowned, Park moves up to Class A.  The Pioneers return three starters, including 1st Team All-Centercourt pick Jordan Nwora, who is already stock piling D-I offers.  Timon has plenty back from last year's dangerous top ten team, along with a pair of key additions and former Crusader assistant, Des Randall, taking over as head coach.  St. Joe's should have one of the best backcourts in WNY with guards Nick Motley & Naseer Jackson, along with all-around threat Grant Beyer.  St. Francis has a very young team, but many are returning and hoping to build on last season's finish.  The Red Raiders will hand the reins over to freshman point guard Julian Cunningham, cousin of Howard Washington Jr.

***

Canisius:  Stafford Trueheart - 12, Justin Jones - 12, Madut Ayiy - 12, Will Atkinson - 12, Andrew Schake - 12, Charles Hart - 12, Colby Multrie - 11, Jayce Johnson - 10

Park:  Jordan Nwora - 12, Kyle Harris - 12,, Tony Ugboma - 12, Ethan Cotrell - 12, Mariano Baldon - 12,  Hunter Anderson - 12, Joe Jones - 10, Brandon Smith - 10, Marques Lowe - 10, Chris Efretuei - 10, Noah Hutchins - 9, Jordan Gompah - 9

Timon:  Quinton Lamar - 12, Paul Lancaster Jr - 12, Benny Yu - 12, Hunter Lancaster - 12, Tyler Ringwood - 12, Joe Harrison - 11, William Lamar - 11, Davion Warren - 11, Cameron Lamar - 11, Timothy Payne - 11, Jacob Mazurkiewicz - 11, Juston Johnson - 9, Hakeem Humphrey - 9, Adrian Baugh - 9

St. Joe's:   Grant Beyer - 12, Anthony Brophy - 12, Nick Motley - 12, Jordan Jenneve - 12, Naseer Jackson - 11, Mike Motley - 11, Mike Telesco - 11, Hunter Dimitroff - 11, Brad Allan - 11, Razihque Sullivan - 11, Caleb Cockrell - 11, Jack Capen - 10, Chris Stineman - 9

St. Francis:  John Steven Zhu - 12, Roburt Welch - 11, Sean Taggart - 11, Cody Smith - 11, Michael Casciano - 11, Bo Sireika - 10, Owen Woyshner - 10, Josh Palmer - 10, Julian Cunningham - 9

 

**********************************************

 

Small Schools - CLASS B 

 St. Mary's is young, lacks size, and is limited on varsity game experience.  What the Lancers do have is returning 3rd Team All-Centercourt selection Takal Molson, and if he embraces the leadership role that will be asked of him, they'd be my pick to win the Class B Manhattan Cup.  Niagara Catholic returns five of its top six players from last year's team, led by seniors Elijah Griggs, Jaceary Menes, & Zach Socha.  Sophomores Imean Davis and Nick Krupp will be important contributors in their second varsity season, while freshman Jaden Turner is expected to be an excellent addition to the backcourt for the Patriots.  Nichols has just three returning varsity players who were part of last year's team that beat Timon in the Class A semifinals before losing a two-point heart breaker to Canisius.  Back in Class B this season, the Vikings will be led by underclassmen Will Johnson & Marcellus Cooper.  Walsh has three starters back, including dynamic point guard, Tavien Kemp.  Cardinal O'Hara looks to improve from its 2-11 league mark last season.  The Hawks bring back a lot, returning eight players led by Nasir Benton and Charles Debose.

 ***

St. Mary's:   Takal Molson - 12, Kayson Hill - 12, Cam Dunning - 12, Joseph Stoj - 12, Daquan Hunt - 11, Colin Tyka - 11,  Kalial White - 11, Jaquari Woods - 11, Eric Brown - 10, Matt Ciezski - 10, Christian Schableski - 10

Niagara Catholic:  Elijah Griggs - 12, Jaceary Menes - 12, Zach Socha - 12, Noah Freeburger - 12, Imean Davis - 10, Nick Krupp - 10, Jaden Turner - 9

Archbishop Walsh:  Adam Moore - 12,  Christian Churakos - 12, Dom Ambroselli - 12, Tavian Kemp - 11, Noah Watson - 11, Jose Ortiz - 11, Latrell Butler Kemp - 10, Steven Watson - 9, George Lowry - 9, Cameron Kitchen-Perez - 9

Nichols:  Ted Roach - 12, Michael Hafner - 12, Brandon Rivers - 12, Luke Meyer - 12, Ed Halady - 12, Will Johnson - 11, Paul Brinson - 11, Maxwell Hall - 11, Myles Hervey - 11, Harrison Serotte - 11, Marcellus Cooper - 10, TJ Banaszak - 10

Cardinal O'Hara:  Charles Debose - 12, Curtis Johnson - 12, Ryan Hughes - 11, PJ Parker - 11, Deamontae Riley - 11, Rene Velazquez - 11, Cliff Zeigler - 11, Michon Dudley - 10, Nasir Benton-10, Mike Clark - 10, Elysee Hirwa - 10, Stephen Boyd - 9,  Justin Hemphill - 9

 

************************************************ 

 

Section VI

 

 

 

YALE CUP I

 With six of its top seven players back at Middle College, including 3rd Team All-Centercourt forward Fred Foster & Honorable Mention pick Jojo Staton, it's quite simply a state championship or bust season for the Kats.  Put me on record as predicting it happens, along with a third Yale Cup championship since  2010.  McKinley has a solid core of tenacious seniors that played a large role in the Macks winning the Yale Cup last season, led by Shaquan Jones.  East will be led by sophomore Willard Anderson, who started for the team's Class B championship team as a freshman. The Panthers look to reach a sectional title game for the seventh straight year.  Fresh off a run to the state championship in football, the pride of the city, South Park, will look to carry that momentum onto the court, led by Shakur Harris.   Burgard is coming off its best season since 2006 and returns team captain Isaiah Jamison.

***

Middle College:  Joseph Staton - 12, Gary Foster - 12, Billy Rivera - 12, Amir Jemes - 12, Brian Johnson - 12, Loronzo Truitt - 12, Claudius Thomas - 12, Terrell Jackson - 12, Dion Watkins - 12, Tyshawn Silas - 11, William Huitt - 11, Keaontea Townsend - 11, Nader Ngoopas Kompany - 10, Nathyia Jackson - 10, Hakeem Dobbins - 10, Azyion Clemons - 10

McKinley: Shaquan Jones - 12, Keyon Johnson - 12, Bruce Booker-12, Kesean Fisher-12, Raquan Goree-12

East:  Takeyo Burts - 11, Takeyo Burts-11, Romello Cox - 11, Jerimah Barney-11, Moses Hughes - 10, Willard Anderson - 10

South Park :  David Thomas - 12, Tony Robinson - 12, Daryl Moore - 12, Tyree Brown - 12, Mike McDonald - 12, Austin Neal - 12, Jaelin Watson - 12, Ellijah Winston - 11, Shakur Harris- 11, Raymond  Mushat - 10, Jeremiah Sanders - 10, Elijah Lewis - 9, David Stroud - 9

Riverside: Romero Gardner - 12, Jamal Wardlaw - 12, Alexander Johnson - 12, Asuquo "Junior" Efiong - 12

Burgard:  Isaiah Jamison - 12, Cordell Cain - 12, Keeane McCulley - 12, Diamond Allen - 12, Sharahem Austin - 12, Zion Hall - 11

Hutch-Tech

Bennett

 

**********************************************

 

YALE CUP II

After a run to the state semifinals in Class D, which ended in a devastating loss after leading by double figures, I-Prep remains the team to beat in Yale Cup II.  The Presidents return three starters, including standout Davon Gant (6-5), along with their sixth man, as they move up in Class to B2. Olmsted has a talented trio in Brandon Roach, Daniel Reid, & Naseem Baynes and has its sights set on dethroning I-Prep. City Honors returns two starter from last years team, Ryan Langhorne & Amir Radford, and hope to rebuild its roster through valuable experience this season.  MST Seneca wants to have balanced scoring & solid defense, and will need to work hard all game. The Indians are pleasantly surprised with some underclassmen additions and also return team leaders in rebounds, blocks, & steals. DaVinci has three players back from the team that turned the corner last year under head coach Karl Maggiore, including a win over the Class D champ, I-Prep.

***

I-Prep:  Jeffrey Townsel - 12, Davon Gant - 12, Daniel Santiago - 12, Zack Bashir - 12, Will Turner - 12

Olmsted: Brandon Roach - 12, Anthony Mendrysa - 12, Christian Barnes - 12, Kaelan Clouser - 12, Daniel Reid - 11, Naseem Baynes - 11, Abbas Abajobir - 11, Drew Hough - 11, Austin Parham - 11, Master Radford - 10, Gabriel Johnson - 10 

City Honors: Ryan Langhorne - 12, Andrew Hoenig - 12, Joe Alessi - 12, Jaylen Keith - 12, Sam Battaglia - 11,  Talon Moody - 11, Brendan Bulluck - 10, Amir Radford - 9

Lafayette: Miyaga Miyaga - 12, Eugenio Viera - 12, Cesar Medina - 11, Jerrery Felix - 11, Giovanny Carrasquillo Vargas - 11, Antwaine Woodard - 11, Nick Houston - 11, Amari Guilford - 10, Noah Miranda - 10, Kenneth Grimes - 10, Andre Reynolds - 9, Deshawn Elliott - 9, Shawndale Sanders - 9

MST Seneca:  Kehri Kirk -12, Keyonte Gayles -12, Alfonce Oyoyo -12, Jermaine Jemison -12, Dom Prince -11, David Anderson -11, Davon Jones -11, Solomom Jones -11, Steven Swaggard -11, Dayshone King -11, Diallo Gray -10, Earl Howard - 9

DaVinci:  Andrew Mertz - 12, Warren Richardson - 12, Hassan Ellis - 12

Emerson: Jason Dowell - 12, Justin Acker - 12, Jeremy Sims - 12, Julian Love - 12, Donald Morrow - 12, Dimitrius Simmons - 11, Anthony Hunter - 11, Tyreek Edwards - 11, Semir Smith - 11, Dayon Rice - 11, Brandon Lamar - 11

Buffalo Arts

 

 *************************************************

 

ECIC I

Williamsville North has the league's best player in Maceo Jack and an excellent floor general in Sean Hill.  Couple that with the talent that moves up from a strong JV squad, and the Spartans look like the team to beat in ECIC I.  Jamestown enters as the defending league and Class AA champs and welcome back a pair of starters from last year, in Zacc Kinsey and James Rojas. Lancaster has a quality core of seniors in Collin Murray, Alex Damiani, & Alex Konst, who saw extended action last season, and should be ready to make a push for a league title. Clarence returns only one starter, Adam Southern,  but adds three athletic seniors who did not play as juniors.  Jake Randall and Jake Ireland, who both gained valuable varsity experience last year as sophomores will be counted on as juniors.  Orchard Park has a new coach in Jim Gibson and eight returning seniors, led by Philip Marks & Kevin Looney.  

***

Williamsville North:  Maceo Jack - 12, Sean Hill - 12, Nick Maranto - 12, Nick Konotopskyj - 12, Matt Winkler - 11, Willie Sturgis III - 11, Jairus Huggins - 11, Connor Kelly - 11, Anthony Maniscalco - 11

Jamestown: Zacc Kinsey - 12, Jeremy Lockett - 12, Luke Kindberg - 12, Noah Johnson - 12, Aaron Watson - 12, Jesus Rodriguez - 12, James Rojas - 11

Lancaster:  Alex Damiani - 12, Collin Murray - 12, Alex Konst - 12, Danny Speyer - 12, Joe Powers - 12, Sean Gill - 12, Collin Reformat - 11, Connor Duck - 11, Noah Speyer - 11, Tim Molik - 11

Clarence: Adam Southern - 12, Spencer Dimitroff - 12, Anthony Olivieri - 12, Jake Ireland - 11, Jake Randall - 11, , Jon Trapp - 11

Orchard Park:  Dan Freilicher - 12, Philip Marks - 12, Wes Seigner - 12, Max Cerone - 12, Kevin Looney - 12, Bryan Somerville - 12, Hunter Harris - 12, Chris Liberatore - 12, Joe Losardo - 12, Ben Wereski - 12, Adam Frick - 12, Nate Burnard - 12, Dan Anderson - 11, Dylan Anderson - 11, Dan Olejniczak - 11, Dan Kubik - 11

West Seneca West:  Ben Hutton  - 12 

Frontier

 

**********************************************

 

ECIC II

 After winning the league and advancing to the regionals in Class A last season, Williamsville South has six players back from its eight man rotation.  Once again, the Billies lined up a difficult nonleague schedule to prepare for another postseason run, but will open their season without two of their key pieces as they recover from injury. Starpoint became a major player in the local hoops scene in 2015, splitting with South in league and reaching Buff State in Class A2.  The Spartans expectations are high coming into this season, with three key starters back, including a pair of All-Centercourt Honorable Mentions - Christian Nodine & Brock Kroening.  RJ Killinger takes over as head coach at Williamsville East, and inherits a balanced Flames team with five sophomores.    West Seneca East had its first winning season in 20 years last season.  The Trojans think they can make it two straight, and hope to add a trip to Buff State to this year's accomplishments.  Hamburg will look to Ryan Dils and sophomore Jacob Genzel for offensive production and leadership, as the Bulldogs will be without three-year starter Brendan Ryan for much of the season as he recovers from off-season shoulder surgery.   Iroquois has three starters back and will look for quickness and athleticism to key their 2015-16 campaign.   Lake Shore returns nine seniors this year and they bring a lot of experience.  Collin Fiutko, who was out with a torn ACL last year, he will be a big boost for a team that returns four out of five starters from last year.  Sweet Home will be a very young and energetic group, focused on implementing climate and culture.

***

Williamsville South:   Graham Dolan - 12, Matt Foster - 12, Myles Hall - 12, Jordan Buell - 12, Ryan Philips - 12, Luke Corona - 12, Owen Maley - 12, David Akanonu - 12, Christopher Nelson - 11, Adam Braniecki - 11, Greg Dolan - 10, Cody Sanford - 10, Josh Foster - 10, Anthony Lombardo - 10

Starpoint:  Brock Kroening - 12, Christian Nodine - 12, Ben Walters - 12, Garrett Longwell - 12, Chad Lang - 12, Hudson Earl - 12, Victor Bugenhagen - 12, Adam Lasal - 11, David Clemons - 11, Derek Clemons - 11, Jeremy Arnold - 11, Hunter Lemieux

West Seneca East:  Ed Radka - 12, Dan Picciano - 12,  Jake Klubek - 12,  Jared Kania - 12, Nick Streczywilk - 12, Anthony Roncone - 11, Justin Gospodarski - 11, Dominic Farszmil - 11, Ryan Jasinski - 11, Alec Schreckengost -11

Hamburg:  Brendan Ryan - 12, Ryan Dils - 12, Sean DeLellis - 12, Ian Chavanne - 12, Jeffery Salerno - 12, Dan Henry - 12, Patrick Hart - 11, Devon Crowley - 11, Jack Lacina - 11, Kevin Mahoney - 11, Lucas Winslow - 11, Jacob Genzel - 10, Mark Henry - 10

Iroquois:  Joe Bowen - 12, Dominic Allen - 12, James Carlin - 12, Jack Edwards - 11, Matt Whalen - 11, Daniel Quinn - 11, Will Williams - 11, Tyler Tait - 10, Andrew Hetzendorfer - 10, Chris Perillo - 10, S. Zachary Popovski - 10

Williamsville East:  Alex Pieri - 12, Mike Poturalski - 12, Mike Shanahan - 12, Alex Grano - 12, Kyle Gruber - 12, Andrew Kleinmann - 11, Drew Butler - 11, Matt Gelder - 11, Jonathan Spina - 11, Sean Keenan - 10, Cameron Williams - 10, Connor Williams - 10, Nicholas Kieffer - 10, Daniel Doyle - 10

Sweet Home: Kyle Tirone - 12, Jacob Serrano - 12, Melvin Williams - 11, Cameron Gates - 11, Luke Poppogallo - 11, Darryl Barrons - 11, Kelsey Lash - 11, Titus Fairclough - 11, Stephon Trueheart - 10, Ryan Harris - 10, Tahron Goudelock - 9, Evan John - 9

Lake Shore:  Mike Braeuner - 12, AJ Bergum - 12, Collin Fiutko - 12, Cory Fiutko - 12, Joe Friedhoff - 12, Ron John - 12, Nate Myers - 12, Kyle Wishman - 12, Ayden Jimmerson - 12, Andrew McDonaugh - 11, Brave Williams - 11, Eric Senior - 11

 

******************************************

 

ECIC III

If ever there was a preseason when Amherst was to believe 'this is our year', it would be this year.  With three-year starter and 3rd Team All-Centercourt star TC Brown leading the charge, St. Bonaventure commit Amadi Ikpeze patrolling the paint, and an excellent supporting cast (including Hutch-Tech transfer Jaylin Rose), the Tigers should have expectations of playing basketball in March.  If there's a team that'll play spoiler to Amherst, it'll be Cheektowaga.  The Warriors have rich recent history with the Tigers, that includes six classic battles in the last two seasons.  All-Centercourt 2nd Teamer, Dominick Welch, enters his junior season as a 1,000 point scorer and is already one of the best I've ever covered. He'll team with fellow juniors, Stephan Parker and Adrian Baugh in a quest for a second sectional crown in three years.  Maryvale should have one of its best teams in recent seasons, coming off a sectional final apppearance in Class B1.  The Flyers bring back one of last year's captains in Drew Crombie, along with talented underclassmen Ted York-Brown and Ray Blackwell.  Four out of five starters return to East Aurora, with three still being underclassmen.  Depew will focus on limiting turnovers and ball movement to find good shots.  The Wildcats need a another big step forward from sophomore Chad Biersbach, who averaged 10 per game as a freshman.  Pioneer has a new coach in Keith Junik but will rely on a very talented group of seniors to play traditional pioneer basketball.  Solid defense, hustle, and timely baskets will be the keys to victories in a very deep ECIC III.  Greg Miller takes over coaching duties at Springville and will look for a big season from senior Kyle Warner.

***

Amherst:  TC Brown - 12,  Amadi Ikpeze - 12,  Nick Foster - 12,   Rory Walsh - 12, Sean Andrews - 12, Nathan Woldu - 12, Da'Shawn Hines - 12, Sean Gibson - 12, Jake Maley - 12, Caleb Moore - 12, Jaylin Rose - 11, Jordan Barr - 11, Richard Kay - 11, Michael Walsh - 11, Will Alfieri - 11, Jake Funderburk - 11, Brian Fulford - 11

Cheektowaga:  Keith Weekly - 12, Dominick Welch - 11,  Adrian Baugh - 11, Stephan Parker - 11, Vaughn Burdette - 11, Alex Bryant - 10

Maryvale: Drew Crombie - 12, Marcus Ford - 12, Floyd Remley - 12,  Mike Ferguson - 12, Kwaine Davis - 12, Travon Spencer - 12, Ted York-Brown - 11, Ray Blackwell - 10

East Aurora:  Noah Thompson - 12, Cal Dis - 12, Josh Denz - 11, Nick Montgomery - 11, Joe Montgomery - 11, Cal McTigue - 11

Depew:  Jakob Grant - 12, Ryan Guay - 12, Matt Pablocki - 12, Eric Jarrett - 11, Jacob Mlodozeniec - 11, John Mietus - 11, Tyler Biersbach - 11, Chad Biersbach - 10

Pioneer:  Kyle Eigenbrod - 12, Jake Hyman - 12, Tyler Schick - 12, Zach Fronckowiak - 12, Caleb Sayvone - 12, Dominic Sayvone - 12, Austin Kossow - 12, Ravo Root - 12, Josh Foley - 12, Josh Taylor - 11, Hunter Witt - 11, Ben Kazmarek - 11, Kyle Burley - 10

Springville: Kyle Warner - 12, Parker Rice - 12,  Colin DeWitt - 12, Justin Morley - 12, Jimmy Schearer - 12, Matt Hartman - 12, Patrick Hannon - 12, John Domes - 11, Greg Cooney - 11, Austin Coon - 11, Connor O'Brien - 11, Zach Heary - 11

 

********************************************

 

ECIC IV

Cleveland Hill won a third straight league title last season, going unbeaten in ECIC IV.  They will attempt to pressure the opposition with solid defense, while balance between the perimeter shooting and post play is expected offensively.  Alden returns four starters, which include its two leading scorers & its top rebounder. JFK hopes to gain some seasoning quickly, with just three returning players and a very young team.  Holland has three starters back and will look to get the ball inside, as the Dutchmen's strength will be in the post.  First-year head coach, Benjamin Kopp, looks to rejuvenate the hoops program at Eden, where its eight-man roster includes just two seniors.  Lackawanna will carry five sophomores on its roster, including the talented Smith twins.  Tonawanda has a balance of seniors and underclassmen, led by Justin Holevinski, Cody Diaz, & Tyler Stapf.

 ***

Alden:  Dylan Riddoch - 12, Jordan Stockweather - 12, Conrad Boucher - 11, Jacob Fusco - 11, Gabe Kozak - 11, Christian Snell - 10, Riley Pastuszynski - 10

Cleveland Hill:  Ramah Lassiter - 12, Nick Gamble - 12, Daytwon Burney - 12, Rodney White - 12, Paul Majorowski - 12, Tyshawn Johnson - 12, Khalil Springs - 12, J'Son James - 11,  Chase Johnson - 11, Tyler Phillips - 11, Paul Woodward - 11, Cameron Oliver - 11

Holland:  EJ Staniszewski - 12, Laine Husman - 12, Cody Slocum - 12, AJ Perlino - 12, Jacob Ratajczak - 12, Jedrek Rahn - 11, Logan Pfister - 11, Coan Relyea - 11, Pierce Gardon - 11

JFK:  Kenai Jordan - 12, Stephon Parks - 12, Lexus Pollard - 11, Thomas Isbrandt - 11, Brandon Kohl - 11, Dalton Fischer - 11, Jordan Synder - 10, Kell-Vonta Harris - 10

Eden:  Drew Palmerton - 12, Shane Martinez - 12, Jason Porter - 11, Mitch Olds - 11, Joe LoTempio - 11, Gordon Grieble - 11, Andrew Bialy - 11, Griffin Gill - 10

Lackawana:  Nedjib Karagic - 12, Zaidin Mohsin - 12, Kejuan Harmon - 12, Malik Taylor - 12, Marquez Lofton - 11, Chris Hopkins - 11, Devon Feaster - 11, Jaevon Nelson - 11, Fred Hanyon - 11, Jordan Pacillo - 11, London Smith - 10, Noble Smith - 10, Khalil Horton - 10, Carlton Threeths - 10, Bekric Harris - 10

Tonawanda:  Cody Diaz - 12, Tyler Stapf - 12, Jordan Ulett - 12, Marshall Marsh - 12, Justin Holevinski - 12, Bryce Pieszala - 12, Zack Stapf - 11, Trey Lilly - 11, Nick Bitter - 11, Adam Haentges - 11, Charles Moore - 11, Collin Smith - 11, Henry Palermo - 10

 

**********************************************

 

Niagara Frontier League

Niagara Falls looks ready to strike fear into league opponents again, as used to be commonplace during the Wolverines NFL dominance in the years that followed the merger.  NFHS has its best team since 2013, and most have been together for three seasons now.  They feature an elite defender in Breon Harris and play a brutally difficult nonleague schedule.   Kenmore West may have the league's most athletic player in Terrell Ford, while junior Tyler Aquilina has good game instincts and a great touch from the perimeter.   North Tonawanda graduated some key pieces from last season's NFL champion & A1 finalist unit, but retools thanks impart from a JV team that finished 15-3 in 2015.  Last season, Grand Island won its first sectional game since 2008.  The Vikings look to keep the momentum going with a deep squad, led by returning starter Joe Kulikowski.  Lockport returns six players from last season, led by Kelly Brown.  Niagara Wheatfield will put the ball in the hands of senior leader and point guard, Nathan Nielson, and look for an even bigger contribution this year from 6-5 wing Denzel Fuller.  At Kenmore East, the Bulldogs have the talent to compete in the NFL and hope to put it all together this season.  Lew-Port will again be competitive in league play, led by senior Jenard Jackson.

 ***

Niagara Falls:  Breon Harris - 12, Daquan Hubbard - 12, Devin Sanders - 11, Tyler Sanders - 11, Charles Lamar - 11, Qeyion Williams - 11, Jhamir Isom - 11, Marques Miller - 10,  Syquan Ralands - 10

Kenmore West: Terrell Ford - 12, Aaron Tucker - 12, Jason Taylor - 12, Rob Kirsits - 12, Tyler Aquilina - 11, Tal James - 11, Kyle Laplante - 11

Lockport:  Lavette Warren - 12, Andrew Austin - 12, Kelly Brown - 12, Dakota Wiley - 11, Cordell McDowell - 11

Grand Island:   Kyle Burns - 12, Joe Kulikowski - 12, Garrett Robinson - 11, Jerry Wilkes - 11, JB Wilkes - 11,  Cam Sionko - 9

North Tonawanda:  Jacob Lemke - 12, Nick Krauss - 12, Alex Quinn - 11, Brandon Casterline - 11,  Zack Woodard - 11, Trevor Book - 10

Niagara Wheatfield:  Nathan Nielson - 12,  Denzel Fuller - 12,   Austin Wangler - 12, Tom Watroba - 12, Phillip Bassham - 11, Noah Klettke - 11, Emilio Tripp - 11, Jaeger Martino - 11, Matt Gibson - 11, Peter Mulcahy - 11, Cade Mangan - 11, Anthony Ruffino - 10

Lew-Port: Jenard Jackson - 12, Donald Allender - 12, Dominic Lindhurst - 12, Nathan Nashwinter - 12, Jeremy Saunders - 11, Dylan Milbrand - 11, Dawson Bailey - 11, Liam Brennan - 11, Gabe Colangelo - 11, Steve Mansour - 11, William Duff - 10, Joseph Power - 9

Kenmore East:  Jon Donoghue - 12, Dylan Leith - 12, Anthony Luparello - 12, Nick Rice - 12, Konner Flynn - 11, Tyler Horn - 11, Ryan Moccio - 11, Ryan Williams - 11, Kahlil O'Neil - 10, Tyler Everett - 10, Nathan Murdie - 9, D'Anzo Young - 9 

******************************************

 

Niagara-Orleans

 Medina has its deepest unit in recent years, ranging from seniors to freshmen, with a sophomore (Jalin Cooper) poised for a breakout season.  Wilson needs to replace five starters from the team that pushed Fredonia at Buff State last March, but has a bright future with sophomore Ryan Bradley.  Newfane will be young, carrying six sophomores.  The Panthers do have a pair of starters back, along with three seniors with court experience.  Barker has just three players back, but one is the team's scoring leader - junior Nate Luckman.  Under first year head coach Josh Kraft, the Raiders will look to work hard and earn a reputation for consistent toughness.  CSAT should possess a nice combination of experience and talent, returning six players in its bid to win a second N-O title after taking the crown in 2013.  Roy-Hart returns four starters, including Andy Xapsos, a 1st Team All-League selection who led the Rams with 17.9 ppg last season.  Akron returns Gates Abrams, who opposing defenses will look to locate every trip down the court, following a junior season that saw him knock down 59 treys.  Albion didn't win the league last season, but ended the year with the most storied season of all the N-O teams, winning section title in Class B1.

***

Medina:   Dylan Lewis - 12, Jared Zinkievich - 12, Tyler Ames - 12, Brad McPherson - 12, Justin Morgan - 12, Tyrellis Atkins - Junior - 11, Michael Cardone - 11, Darryl Haynes 11, Tyler Howard - 11, Jalin Cooper - 10, Mason Lewis - 10, Ronnie Koonce - 9, Johnny Salone - 9, Izaiah Rhim - 9

CSAT:  Juan Verdejo - 12, Savio Serrano - 12, Myron Banks - 12, Jahleel Burks - 12, Navi Rodriquez - 12, Damire Grant - 12, Marcus Mccloud - 12, Darius Carson - 11, Camron Scott Williams - 11, , James Stephens - 10

Newfane:  Chad Gilson - 12, David Krull - 12, Nick Schultz - 12, Zach Lajoie - 12, Connor Duncan - 12, Albert Kramp - 11, Nick Perry - 11, Matt Vogt - 11, Calib Russell - 11, Max Weber - 10, Kyle Devogal - 10, Chad Dunbar - 10, Connor Hill - 10, Brandon Gross - 10, Drew Boudeman - 10

Wilson:   Alex Fox - 12, Andrew Eames - 12, John Carney - 12, Jordan Stoelting - 12, Steve Lewis - 11, Steve Lyman - 11, Jonah Miller - 11, Connor Seeley - 11, Kevin Skavinsky - 11, Kyle Wiesinger - 11, Michael Pazik - 11, Ryan Bradley - 10

Roy-Hart: Andy Xapsos - 12,  Ben Maynard - 12, Justin Heschke - 12, Chris Anderson - 12,   Zack Srock - 12, Austin Dodge - 12, DJ Davis - 11, Eric Fitch - 11, Tim Moriarity - 11, Justin Czaja - 11, Paul Ragonese - 11, Cam Meadows - 11, Brandon Hess - 11, Austin Walker - 11, Matt Borel - 10

Barker:  Michael Snell - 12, Kyle Secore - 12, Jared Ginther - 12, Nathan Luckman - 11, Jake Arnold - 11, Eddie Wasnock - 11, Kyle Moeller - 11, Shawn Callaghan - 11, Devon Mangan - 11

Akron: Gates Abrams - 12, Lee Abrams - 12, Jake Burns - 12, Kingsley Jonathan - 12, Ryan Akin - 11, Elias Johnson - 11, Austin Ladd - 11, Weylon Abrams - 10, Owen Hill - 10, Derek Holtz - 10, Nelson Logan - 10

Albion:  Brady Meakin - 12, Tyler Rotoli - 12, Manwell Taylor - 12, Evan Pappalardo - 12, Scott Daniels - 12, Tommy Mattison - 11, Kory Reynolds - 11, Chase Hall - 11, Lamar Chambers - 11, Jacob Buzard - 11, Tanner Ferris - 11

 

****************************************

 

CCAA I West 

Olean has four players back who saw extended court time last year, including three starters, from its Class A2 title team.  The Huskies have moved down to Class B1 and are eyeing another season that extends into March.  Fredonia returns Patrick Moore and Jarod Burmaster, both starters for the Hillbillies Class B2 finalist team of a year ago.  Dunkirk will be long and athletic and returns nearly all of its scoring from last year.  Look for the Marauders to compete with Olean for both league and sectional titles, while being one of the area's more exciting teams to watch.  Chautauqua Lake is a young team in a tough league, but they do return four starters, looking to catch some attention this year.  At Falconer, Jamie Glatz takes over behind the bench, while Southwestern looks to improve under new head coach Mark Sleggs.  

***

Olean:  Jake Cavana - 12, Derek Schmidt - 12, Elijah Ramadhan - 12, Malakye Wofford - 12, Zack Ryan - 12, Ben Eckstrom - 11, Monty Shoemaker - 11, , Luke Rogers - 11, Derek Dandrea - 11, Dell Butler - 11, Joe Jedrosko - 11, Dylan Spencer - 11, Mike Schmidt - 9

 Dunkirk:  Isaiah Thomas - 12, Rashad Brown - 12, Chad Butts - 12, Kobe DeJesus - 12, Davonte Grayson - 12, Tyreek Buchanon Ruiz - 11, Shamon Stewart - 11, Evon Hernandez - 11, Caleb Rasmus - 11, Seth Rasmus - 11, Jarrett Waclawski - 11, Juan Damas - 10, Devaun Farnham DeJesus - 10

Fredonia:  Patrick Moore - 12, Jared Burmaster - 12, Eric Swoyer - 12, Jovany Ruiz - 12, Michael Pucci - 12

Chautauqua Lake:  Carter Davidson - 12,  Michael Lysek - 12, Aaron Swan - 11, Devin Pope - 10, Tyler Meredith - 11, Nate Hammond - 11, Joel Vinciguerra - 11, Bryce Bentley - 11, Collin Sargent - 11

Southwestern:  Ben Burk - 12, Nick Cooper - 12,  Brendan Kennedy - 12, Jake Brecht - 12, Niko Pannes - 11, Alex Card - 9, Faizan Munir - 9

Falconer:  Tavon Fisher - 12, Ryan DePietro - 12, Brandon Curtis - 12,  Sean Nord - 12, Trevor Dykstra - 12, Justin Boedecker - 12, Nick Bollman - 12, Chase Teboe - 11, Brandon Luke - 11, Hunter Blue - 11

Maple Grove:   Matt Roach - 12, Pat Nelson - 12,  Mitch Sandberg - 12, Jeff Clauson - 12

 

*******************************************

 

CCAA I EAST 

   Silver Creek has played in four straight Section VI championship games, and is optimistic they can keep the streak alive.  Look for "Chill Showtime" to keep the ball moving rapidly with a whole new cast from the team that ran all ther way to states in 2013.   Allegany-Limestone will challenge for the league hardware with seven players from its rotation back on the court, four of which started for the Gators in 2015.  Ike Morrison is the new head coach at Randolph, where the Cardinals are coming off back-to-back sectional final appearances.  Portville returns a pair of starters and welcomes in a young crop of talent from a JV squad that finished 17-2.  Gowanda will be led by Carter Benton & sophomore Nate Brawdy.  Salamanca fields a deep 15-man roster with 10 juniors.  The Warriors will try to win with all around solid team defense and look to run the floor to take control of games early.

***

Silver Creek:  Trevon Thompson - 12, Heron Snow - 12, Jacob Lewis - 12,  Chris Williams - 11, Chase Scanlan - 10, Bryce Shomper - 10, Tom Galfo - 10

Randolph:  Mason Bosley - 12, Tyler Stahley - 12,  Jarrett Lecceadone - 11,  Jake Beaver - 11, Nick Martonis - 11,  Ryan Shipperd - 11, John Ling - 11, Kaleb Frink - 11, Sam Jacoby - 11, Andrew Bernard - 9

Allegany-Limeston: Cole Davis - 12, Bailey Higby - 12, Brad McAfee - 12, Brad Reed - 12, Zach Hemphill - 11, Austin Dziennik - 12, Tyler Hines - 12,  Jordan Moore - 11, Mike McMullen - 11, Marcus Grove - 11

 Portville:  Nick Gehm - 12, Sean Harris - 12,  Noah Bartholomew - 12, Alek Gonzalez - 12, James Constanza - 12, Ron Lott - 11, Colin Kloc - 11, Nick Stein - 11, Donovan Gayton - 11, Jaeden Harris - 10, Jonah Watkins - 10

Gowanda:    Carter Benton - 12,  Shaun Irwin - 12, Adam John - 12, Leland John - 12, Joe Kruszka - 12, Kevin Stapleton - 12, Nate Brawdy - 10, Ryan John - 10, Dakota Perdue - 9

Salamanca:   Tate Reynolds - 12, Marcus Cooper - 12,  Luke Zurat - 12, Dylan Schwartz - 12, Zeus Enriquez - 11, Marc Canella - 11, Mike Collins - 11, Jake DeKay - 11, Derek McClure - 11, Zach Simsick - 11, Nelson Rivera - 11, Xander Edstrom - 11, Darcey Redeye - 11, Chandler Armstrong - 11, Hercules Rasha - 10

 

 

************************************************

 

CCAA II West 

Panama is ready to make some noise and go after a Class D title, with four starters back from a team that finished 16-5 and only lost to Glens Falls qualifier, I-Prep, in the sectional semifinals by four points.  Sherman lacks experience beyond Chris Robson & Kolby Parks, but the Wildcats run to three straight Class D Championship games suggests they'll be back in the mix again this season.  Clymer returns three of its top players from a season ago, the only seniors on the team, to compete in a deep league.  

***

Panama:    Jack Payne - 12,  Josh Odell - 12,   Josh Eddy - 12, Chris Blose - 12, Jarrett Yuchnitz - 12, Tanner Newman - 12, Cody Hadley - 12, Nolan Eggleston - 11, Dylan Marsh - 11, Tristen Frye - 11, Lucas Golden - 11, Anthony Frangione - 11

 Sherman:  Sam Vanvelkenburg - 12, Kyle Rhebergen - 12, Alex Foti - 12, Hunter Wynn - 12, Chris Robson - 11,  Kolby Parks - 11, Kyle Carpenter - 11, Mike Delcamp - 11, Ty Prarom - 11, Korey Ayers - 11, Johnny Mendoza - 11, Brandon Nickerson - 11, Jared Gleason - 10

Clymer:  Adam Honey - 12, Dylan Neckers - 11, Josh Summers - 12, Dylan Davis - 11, Justin Svetz - 11, Josh Van Earden - 11, Henry Sullivan - 11, Dan Gustafson - 11, Colt Miller - 11, James Wade - 11, Mackenzie Bestine - 11, Dustin Neckers - 10

Westfield:   Trevor North - 12,  Joe Quagliana - 12, Jon Wilson - 12, Greg Schroeder - 12, Luke Haskin - 12, David Grayson - 11, Eric Fermier - 11, Mike Poletto - 11, Max Bates - 11

Cassadaga Valley: Shane Parsons - 12,  Tyler Simpson - 12, James Cornelius - 12

Brocton:  Aaron Riforgiato - 12 

Frewsburg

 

************************************************

 

CCAA II East 

 Expectations are high in Ellicottville, where they bring back plenty of talent and have just one player new to the varsity level.   After an eight-win season last year, Pine Valley's team this season will be balanced, bigger, and more athletic.  Franklinville will start a pair of sophomores this season, along with three seniors - two of which were 2nd Team All-League last year.

***

Ellicottville:   Cole Lapi - 12, Cameron Eddy - 12, Robert Sawicki - 12, Matt Proctor - 12, Cameron Miller - 12, Justin Summers - 12, Tom Easton - 12, Austin Whitmer - 11, Chad Boldt - 11, Austin Gronols - 10, Griffin Chuddy - 10, Elliot Bowen - 10

Pine Valley: Kilian Abers- 12, Elijah Hall- 12, Richard Tabak- 12, Dylan Chase-11, Gilberto Ortiz- 11, Austin Butcher -11,  Trent Mihalko- 10

Cattaraugus/Little Valley:  Hunter Baker - 12, Caleb Hibit - 12, Devon Parmenter - 12, Alex Perkins - 12, Anthony Bernardi - 12, Kellen Martin - 11

Franklinville:  Dawson Bielecki - 12, Jordan Milks - 12, Wil Bays - 12, Drew Jackson - 11, Isaac Kopp - 10, Sam Erickson - 10

Forestville: Jackson Egan - 12, Tyler Spears - 12, Andrew Deszcz - 12, Derek Catalano - 12

North Collins

 

**********************************************

 

 Charter Schools

 Tapestry graduated nine players from its Class C1 championship squad, but the cupboard isn't bare.  The Thunderhawks have athletes all over the court and love to play aggressively on both ends.  Health Sciences added Jaylen Prophet from McKinley, a new head coach in former assistant Ty Parker, and brings back a depth of talent to make a run with in Class B2.  At Oracle, Dave Hardy takes over and inherits a strong program with plenty returning.   Maritime has four players back, including senior captain Mario Washington.  The Commodores are exited about the talent they have found in newcomer James Baker, also a senior captain for the team.  Buffalo Science is young and hungry, with just two starters back.  Global Concepts has a new coach in Chuck Mancabelli and just three seniors, led by Fabian Pierce.

***

Health Sciences:    Jaylen Prophet - 12, Amarri Funderburk - 12, Ja'Hod Robinson - 12, Carson Wiseman - 12, Bobby Oliver - 12, Wize Threats - 11, Amon Smith - 11, Travonte Smith - 11, Jaquan Renfro - 11, Antwon Stuart - 11, Tyron Lott - 10, Davonte Gaines - 10, Kameron Briggs - 9

 Tapestry:  JaQuoine Fogan - 12, DaVonte Cunningham - 12, Khoron Burton-Ferguson - 12, Amir Hennegan - 12, Dominic Moore - 12, Camren Hatten - 12, Tyler Henderson - 12, Anthony Wiley - 12, Paitwan Jenifer - 11, Allen McDuffie - 11, Christian Russell - 11, Jaylin Curry - 11, Marquise Jones - 11, Kyree Edwards - 11, Che Brown - 11, Rogerick Arrington - 10

Oracle:   Kenny White - 12, Rakim Graves - 12, Darius Embry - 12,   Jamal Woods - 12, Damani Washington - 12, Khalid Ross - 12, Amani Wallel - 12, Ziere Rodolph - 12,  Shakur Bridges - 11, Cheron Wilson - 11, David Edwards - 11, Samuel Rosenthal - 11, Joseph Perez - 10, Gary Marshall - 10

Buffalo Science:  Lauren Killian - 12, David Harris - 12, Roland Taylor - 12, Adrian Hester - 12, Jiuan Jones - 12, Julian Johnson - 11, Georges Cortes - 11, JaQuez McMullin - 11, Deonte Brown - 11, ,   Jamien Eutsey - 11, Lahai Suliman - 11, Jovante Davis - 11, JaQuan Wingard - 10, Josh Workman - 10, Amar Wood-Wiley - 10, Julian Allen - 10

WNY Maritime:  James Baker - 12, Mario Washington - 12, Tyler King - 12, Malik Saunders - 12, Spencer Rhyans - 12Sean Burks - 11, Da-jon Sharp - 11, Ryan Davis - 11, Jeremy Jackson - 11, Jorge Mercado - 11, Josiah Hall - 10, Ray Rich - 10, Ke'Sean Weston - 10, Elijah Smith - 9

Global Concepts:  Lincoln Billingslea - 12, Fabian Pierce - 12, Rashawn Anderson - 12, Jajuan Billingslea - 11, Lamiere Burrough - 11, Dwight Dilbert - 11, Brandon Parker - 11, Josh Kysocki - 11, Darell Elliott - 11, Anthony Florez - 11, Donovan Vuallance - 10, George Taylor - 10

 

*******************************************

 

Teams with New Coaches

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Ron Killinger Sr (above) retired after 13 seasons coaching in the Yale Cup at Riverside & South Park, while his son, RJ Killinger, got his 1st varsity head coaching position at Williamsville East)

 

Des Randall - Timon

Ty Parker - Health Sciences

Brandon Woods - Sweet Home

RJ Killinger - Williamsville East

Kevin Shadle - Lackawanna

Peter Hudecki - South Park

Doug Ratka - Clarence

Jim Gibson - Orchard Park

Andy Bush - Olmsted

Dave Hardy - Oracle

Ike Morrison - Randolph

Andy Jacobs - Iroquois

Josh Schauman - Cassadaga Valley 

Tim Buckenmeyer - Holland

Keith Junik - Pioneer

Josh Kraft - Barker

Mark Sleggs - Southwestern

Jamie Glatz - Falconer

Benjamin Kopp - Eden

Greg Miller - Springville

Jan Warren - North Collins

Chuck Mancabelli - Global Concepts

 

 ***********************************************

 

Classification Changes

West Seneca East moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

Kenmore East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Maryvale moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Olean moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Dunkirk moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

CSAT moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

I-Prep moves up from Class D to Class B2

Gowanda moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

MST Seneca moves up from Class C2 to Class B2

Bennett moves down from Class B1 to Class C1

Buffalo Arts moves down from Class B1 to Class C1

East moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Cleveland Hill moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Olmsted moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

Silver Creek moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Barker moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Cattaraugus/Little Valley moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Maple Grove moves up from Class D to Class C2

Franklinville moves down from Class C2 to Class D

 

************************************************

 

Preseason Polls

Large Schools

1. Park (MMA)

2. Canisius (MMA)

3. Amherst (A2)

4. Niagara Falls (AA) 

5. Williamsville South (A1)

6. Timon (MMA)

7. St. Joe's (MMA)

8. McKinley (A1)

9. Williamsville North (AA)

10. Cheektowaga (A2)

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1)

2. Middle College (C2)

3. St. Mary's (MMA)

4. East (C1)

 5. Health Sciences (B2)

6. I-Prep (B2)

7. Tapestry (C1)

8. Dunkirk (B1)

9. Silver Creek (C2)

10. East Aurora (B1)

 

**********************************************

 

Predictions

MMA Class A - Park

MMA Class B - St. Mary's

Yale Cup I - Middle College

Yale Cup II - I-Prep

ECIC I - Williamsville North

ECIC II - Williamsville South

ECIC III - Amherst

ECIC IV - Alden

NFL - Niagara Falls

N-O - Medina

CCAA I West - Olean

CCAA I East - Silver Creek

CCAA II West - Panama

CCAA II East - Ellicottville

Charters:  Health Sciences

 

Manhattan Cup (A) -  Park

Manhattan Cup (B) - St. Mary's

Class AA  -  Niagara Falls

Class A1  -  Williamsville South

Class A2  -  Amherst

Class B1  -  Olean

Class B2  -  Health Sciences

Class C1  -  East

Class C2  -  Middle College

Class D  -  Panama

 

- Amherst & Olean both make it to Glens Falls.

- Middle College makes it to Glens Falls, where they win a Class C State Championship. 

 

-centercourt

The Schedule: 2015-2016 Season

  (Williamsville South & Olean both look to repeat as Section VI champs/ Photo by Harry Scull)

                

****** To see the new schedule for the 2017 season, click HERE ******

-centercourt

All-League Teams - 2015

 

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION

Class A

Player of the Year:

LaTerrance Reed - Canisius, 12

 

All-Catholic

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, 11

Chris Miner - Nichols, 12

Cam Lewis - Nichols, 12

Marcell Davis - St. Joe's, 12

Kordell Holness-Lightbody, St. Francis, 12

Derick Simpson - Timon, 12

 

Class B

Player of the Year:

Jordan Nwora - Park, 11

 

All-Catholic

Takal Molson - St. Mary's, 11

Derek Cheatom - Park, 12

Randy Golda - Park, 12

Buzz Watson - Walsh, 12

Tavien Kemp - Walsh, 10

Donel Cathcart - Cardinal O'Hara, 12

Sean Wilson - St. Mary's, 12

 

************************************************

 

YALE CUP I

Co-Players of the Year:

Percy Bryant - East, 12 / Devin Morris - McKinley, 12

 

First Team

Juwan Tolliver - McKinley, 12

Shaquan Jones - McKinley, 11

Fred Foster - Middle College, 11

JoJo Staton - Middle College, 11

 

Second Team

Damone Brown - East, 12

Amir Jemes - Middle College, 11

Brian Johnson - Middle College, 11

Isaiah Jamison - Burgard, 11

Jovell Littlejohn - East, 12

 

Third Team

Keyshawn Ridgeway - McKinley, 12

Dion Morrison - East, 12

Shakur Harris - South Park, 10

Jaylen Hall - Burgard, 12

Dante Campbell - Hutch-Tech, 12

 

Honorable Mention

 McKinley:  Bruce Booker - 11, Keyon Johnson - 11, Kesean Fisher - 11, Jaylen Prophet - 11

East:  Willard Anderson - 9, Malik Doughty - 12, Jamil Reynolds - 12, Daquan Williams - 12

Middle College:  Isaiah Jenkins - 12, Billy Rivera - 11, Lorenzo Truitt - 11

Burgard:  Rodderick Morrow - 12, Emmanuel Moss - 12

South Park:  James Baker - 11

Riverside:  Alexander Johnson - 11, Damone McNamee - 12

Bennett:  Jose Rivera - 11, Alex Lofton - 12

Hutch-Tech:  Josh Bonilla - 12, Jaylen Rose - 11

 

************************************************

 

YALE CUP II

Player of the Year:

Xavier Maye - I-Prep, 12

 

First Team

Terrance James - I-Prep, 12

Michael Simpson - Emerson, 11

Aaron Woods - Buffalo Arts, 12

Matt Cieslik - City Honors, 12

Brandon Roach - Olmsted, 11

Kyle Davis - DaVinci, 12

 

Second Team

Davon Gant - I-Prep, 11

JeQuan Wilson - MST Seneca, 11

Dominic Prince - MST Seneca, 10

Demetrius Brown - Buffalo Arts, 11

Jason Dowell - Emerson, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Lafayatte:  Julio Muriel - 12

MST Seneca:  Alfonse Oyoyo - 11, David Anderson - 10

Emerson:  Justin Acker - 11

Olmsted:  Dan Reid - 10

City Honors:  Jordahn Summers - 12, Ryan Langhorne - 11, Amir Radford - 8

DaVinci:  Mike Horton - 10, Devonte Robinson - 12

 

*************************************************

 

ALL-ECIC

Player of the Year:

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

 

First Team

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

TC Brown - Amherst, 11

Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, 10

Clay Lewis - Holland, 12

Sam Castronova - Williamsville South, 12

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East, 12

 

Second Team

Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, 9

Dylan Lambert - Williamsville North, 12

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 12

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 12

Stephen Carlson - Jamestown, 12

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, 11

 

*************************************************

 

ECIC I

Player of the Year:

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

 

First Team

Stephen Carlson - Jamestown, 12

Dylan Lambert - Williamsville North, 12

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, 12

Jay Bergmann - Frontier, 12

Matt Sadowy - Clarence, 12

 

Second Team

Tyler Lis - Lancaster, 12

Alex Konst - Lancaster - 11

Frank Borzillieri - West Seneca West, 12

Sean Hill - Williamsville North, 11

Bryan Pulli - Clarence, 12

 

 Honorable Mention

Frontier:  David Estrada - 12, Jake Gleason - 12

Orchard Park:  Dan Freilicher - 11

Jamestown:  Zacc Kinsey - 11

 

****************************************************

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East 12

 

First Team

Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, 9

Sam Castronova - Williamsville South, 12

Christian Nodine - Starpoint, 11

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 12

 

Second Team

Nicholas Clough - Williamsville East, 12

Brock Kroening - Starpoint, 11

Jordan Heine - Sweet Home, 12

Ben Walters - Starpoint, 11

Brendan Ryan - Hamburg, 11

 

 Honorable Mention

Williamsville South:  Graham Dolan - 11, Matt Foster - 11

Sweet Home:  Brandon Smiley - 12

Hamburg:  Caleb Wood - 12

West Seneca East:  Ed Radka - 11, Matt Kumro - 12

Iroquois:  Zach Emer - 12, Lucas Tait - 12

 

****************************************************

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

TC Brown - Amherst, 11

 

First Team

Zak Cieszki - Cheektowaga, 12

Dominik Welch - Cheektowaga, 10

Dorian Billups - Amherst, 12

Darien Lowe - Amherst, 12

Collin Gemerek - Depew, 12

 

Second Team

Noah Thompson - East Aurora, 11

Amadi Ikpeze - Amherst, 11

Mike Kelleher - Maryvale, 12

Vince Nourse - Pioneer, 12

Kyle Warner - Springville, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Depew:  Tyler Anna - 12, Dylan Sekuterski - 12, Chad Biersbach - 9

Cheektowaga:  Patrick Plummer - 12, Devon Camel - 12

East Aurora:  Mike Coatsworth - 12

Maryvale:  Ray Blackwell - 9

 

**************************************************

 

ECIC IV

Player of the Year:

Clay Lewis - Holland, 12

 

First Team

Jeremiah Jones - Lackawanna, 12

Joe Braniecki - JFK, 12

Anthony Sullivan - Cleveland Hill, 12

Larry Fields - Lackawanna, 12

Jermaine Hairston - Cleveland Hill, 12

Tristan Boling - Tonawanda, 12

 

Second Team

Rodney White - Cleveland Hill, 11

Jordan Stockweather - Alden, 11

Christian Snell - Alden, 9

Cale Byczkowski - JFK, 12

AJ Perlino - Holland, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Alden:  Dylan Riddoch - 11

Holland:  Matt Farrant - 12, EJ Staniszewski - 11

JFK:  Brendan Fox - 12

Lackawanna:  Jaelin Watson - 11, Darius Cleveland - 12

Tonawanda:  Cody Diaz - 11, Larenz Jefferson - 12

 

***************************************************

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

First  Team

Chris Woodard - North Tonawanda, 12

Craig Paige - Lew-Port, 12

Jenard Jackson - Lew-Port, 11

Terrell Ford - Kenmore West, 11

Kelly Brown - Lockport, 11

 

Second Team

Breon Harris - Niagara Falls, 11

Nathan Nielson - Niagara Wheatfield, 11

Joe Kulikowski - Grand Island, 11

Qeyion Williams - Niagara Falls, 11

Ryan Gilbert - North Tonawanda, 11

 

Third Team

Mikey Bermudez - Niagara Falls, 12

Colin Carrey - Grand Island, 12

Trent White - Kenmore West, 12

Nathan Williams - Niagara Wheatfield, 12

Adam McNeill - North Tonawanda, 12

 

*******************************************************

 

NIAGARA-ORLEANS

First Team

Kyle Bradley - Wilson, 12

Jason Hellwig - Medina, 12

Dylanta Carson - CSAT, 12

Andy Xaspos - Roy-Hart, 11

Gates Abrams - Akron, 11

 

Second Team

Evan Shank - Wilson, 12

Chris Sweeney - Barker, 12

Clayton Stanton - Albion, 12

Kyle Burdick - Newfane, 12

Justin Morgan - Medina, 11

 

 Honorable Mention

Albion:  Desmond Blackmon - 12, Manny Thompson - 12, Austin Lloyd - 12, Alex Bison - 12, Tommy Mattison - 10

Barker:  Nate Luckman - 10, Tom Callaghan - 12

Roy-Hart:  Chris Anderson - 11, Nelson Andrade - 12

 

****************************************************

 

CCAA I WEST

Player of the Year:

John Piper - Fredonia, 12

 

First Team

Cam Voss - Fredonia, 12

Cody Johnson - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Patrick Moore - Fredonia, 11

Chucky Martin - Olean, 12

Isaiah Thomas - Dunkirk, 11

 

Second Team

Elijah Ramadhan - Olean, 11

Jake Cavana - Olean, 11

Ben Eckstrom - Olean, 10

Shamon Stewart - Dunkirk, 10

Ben Burk - Southwestern, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Chautauqua Lake:  Carter Davidson - 11, Aaron Swan - 10

Fredonia:  Jarod Burmaster - 11

Olean:  Connor Prizel - 12

Falconer:  Sean Nord - 11, Ryan DePietro - 11

Dunkirk:  Rashad Brown - 11, Richard Pickens - 12

 

***************************************************

 

CCAA II WEST

Player of the Year:

Graham Soffel - Maple Grove, 12

 

First Team

Jake Card - Sherman, 12

Nathan Ottaway - Sherman, 12

Liam Tennies - Westfield, 12

Josh Eddy - Panama, 11

Chris Robson - Sherman, 10

 

Second Team

Tanner Dahl - Westfield, 12

Matt Hair - Frewsburg, 11

Jake Card - Sherman, 11

Chris Blose - Panama, 11

Cordell O'Brien - Frewsburg, 10

Josh Odell - Panama, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Panama:  Jack Payne - 11

Sherman:  Jeremy Cole - 12, Stephen Walczak - 12, Kolby Parks - 10

Clymer:  Adam Honey - 11, Josh Summers - 11, Jared Dunnewold - 12, Dylan Neckers - 11, Evan Legters - 12

Brocton:  Aaron Rifigiato - 10, Bryan Graves - 12

Frewsburg:  Kole Brink - 11

Westfield:  Trevor North - 11

Maple Grove:  Pat Nelson - 11

 

**************************************************

 

CCAA I EAST

Player of the Year:

 Bill Brooks - Silver Creek, 11

 

First Team

Bryce Morrison - Randolph, 12

Trevon Thompson - Silver Creek, 11

Isaac Hilyer  - Portville, 12

Jared Fish - Salamanca, 12

Tyler Siperek - Salamanca, 12

Cole Davis - Allegany-Limestone, 11

 

Second Team

Mason Bosley - Randolph, 12

Connor Gates - Silver Creek, 11

Andy Crandall - Salamanca, 12

Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, 9

Randy Jimerson - Gowanda, 12

Dominic Conroy - Allegany-Limestone, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Portville:  Zach Ewings - 12, Andrew Sarber - 12

Cattaraugus/Little Valley:  Darnell Pritchard - 12

Silver Creek:  Sherman Williams - 12

Gowanda:  Les Young - 12

Randolph:  Derek Young - 12

Salamanca:  Austin Elliott - 12

Allegany-Limestone:  Bailey Higby - 11

 

*************************************************** 

 

CCAA II EAST

Player of the Year:

Dylan Granger - Pine Valley, 12

 

First Team

Phalla Musall - Ellicottville, 12

Logan Youngberg - Forestville, 12

Caleb Makuch - Forestville, 12

Elliott Bowen - Ellicottville, 9

Ben Erickson - Franklinville, 12

Dylan Granger - Pine Valley, 12

 

Second Team

Dylan Szumigala - Forestville, 11

Dawson Bielecki - Franklinville, 11

Jordan Milks - Franklinville, 11

Kilian Abers - PineValley, 11

Austin Grinols - Ellicottville, 9

Emil Erlandson - West Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Forestville:  Ryan Forbes - 12, Jeff Van Vlack - 12

Franklinville:  Isaac Kopp - 9, Drew Jackson - 10, Wil Bays - 11, 

Ellicottville:  Jonas Hurlburt - 11, Cole Lapi - 11, Griffin Chudy - 9

Pine Valley:  Russell Hayes - 12

West Valley:  Patrick Enser - 12. Jared Ras - 12, Justin Summers - 11, Chad Boldt - 10

 

*******************************************************

 

Charter Schools

Player of the Year:

Fred Searles - Global Concepts, 12

 

First Team

DeJuan Owens - Tapestry, 12

Tyrin Lott - Health Sciences, 9

Kenny White - Oracle, 11

Damon Glenn - Maritime, 12

Jordan Maxey - Tapestry, 12

 

Second Team

JaQuoine Fogan - Tapestry, 11

Kam Rashada - Health Sciences, 11

Naz Flood - Health Sciences, 12

Andre Bragg - Tapestry, 12

Fabian Pierce - Global Concepts, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Buffalo Science:  David Harris - 12

Oracle:  Shaundez Davis - 12, Shakur Bridges - 10

Global Concepts:  Dwight Dilbert - 10

Health Sciences:  Amarri Funderburk - 11

 

-centercourt

Sectional Preview - 2015

(It's that time of year again - High School basketball sectionals / Photo by Dave DeLuca)

 

The Section VI postseason begins tonight with first round games, and the winners move on to participate in the pre-quarterfinal games played on Wednesday.  Friday night is when the action really kicks up, as 32 quarterfinal games will decide which teams move on to Buffalo State and JCC for the semifinals. 

 

Below I take a look at some of the best matchups we could potentially see in the pre-quarterfinals, quarterfinals, semifinals, and even the championship games, along with sleepers, some winning streaks, and predictions.

 

** Please note that many of the games below are based on my predictions of who will win in prior rounds 

 

Teams who opted out of sectionals:

- Falconer

- Cattaraugus Little Valley

 

Most exciting bracket

Class A2

 

Sleepers for each bracket:

Class AA - Kenmore West

Class A1 - Williamsville East

Class A2 - Lew-Port

Class B1 - East Aurora

Class B2 - Emerson

Class C1 - Chautauqua Lake

Class C2 - Global Concepts

Class D - Maple Grove

 

 

Top 10 Pre-Quarterfinal Games (Wednesday, 2/25)

10. Niagara Wheatfield @ Clarence

9. Orchard Park @ Kenmore West

8. Akron vs. CSAT

7. Buffalo Science @ Olmsted

6. Southwestern vs. East

5. Bennett @ Buffalo Arts

4. JFK @ Lackawanna

3. Maryvale @ City Honors

2. DaVinci vs. Emerson 

1. Riverside @ West Seneca East

 

Top 10 Quarterfinal Games (Friday, 2/27) 

10. Williamsville East @ Sweet Home

9. Lockport @ Lancaster

8. Frontier @ Niagara Falls

7. Maryvale @ Depew

6. East Aurora @ Albion

5. Maple Grove @ Sherman

4. Kenmore West @ Williamsville North

3. Emerson @ Wilson

2. East vs. Health Sciences *at Nichols

1. Lew-Port @ Cheektowaga

 

Most Exciting Potential Semifinals

6. Tapestry vs. Salamanca

5. East/Health Sciences vs. Cleveland Hill

4. Niagara Falls vs. Williamsville North

3. Starpoint vs. Olean

2. Lew-Port/Cheektowaga vs. Amherst

1. McKinley vs. Williamsville South

 

Most Exciting Potential Championship Games

5. Class AA Final

4. Class B2 Final

3. Class C1 Final

2. Class D Final

1. Class A2 Final

 

Win Streaks heading into sectionals

Sherman 19 

Health Sciences 12 

Fredonia 11 

Silver Creek 10

Cleveland Hill 8 

Cheektowaga 8

McKinley 7

Amherst 7

Jamestown 6

 

Predictions

Class AA - Jamestown

Class A1 - McKinley

Class A2 - Amherst

Class B1 - Depew

Class B2 - Fredonia

Class C1 - Silver Creek

Class C2 - Middle College

Class D - Sherman

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2015 Sectionals

 

 

 Class B1

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 24th

 (12) Alden 75, (13) Springville 57

 

(10) Maryvale 69, (15) Lafayette 44

 (11) Newfane 64, (14) Eden 42

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 25th

(9) Bennett 46, (8) Buffalo Arts 44

(5) East Aurora 62, (12) Alden 40

 

(10) Maryvale 71, (7) City Honors 47

(6) Tonawanda 76, (11) Newfane 42

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 27th

(1) Burgard 65, (9) Bennett 53

(4) Albion 78, (5) East Aurora 62

 

(10) Maryvale 49, (2) Depew 47

(3) Medina 52, (6) Tonawanda 39

 

Semifinals - Wednesday, March 4th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:15 pm & 6:45 pm

(4) Albion 62,  (1) Burgard 54

(10) Maryvale 46, (3) Medina 43 

 

 Final - Saturday, March 7th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

 (4) Albion 65, (10) Maryvale 57

 

2015 Section VI Class B1 Champions:

Albion Purple Eagles

 

*****************************************************

 

Class B2

  

First Round - Tuesday, February 24th

 (12) Southwestern 56, (13) Oracle 51

 

 (11) JFK 50, (14) Roy-Hart 39

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 25th

(8) CSAT 48, (9) Akron 45

(5) East 84, (12) Southwestern 48

 

(7) Emerson 39, (10) DaVinci 37

(6) Lackawanna 54, (11) JFK 51 

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 27th

(1) Cleveland Hill 60, (8) CSAT 52

(5) East 62, (4) Health Sciences 51

 

(2) Wilson 58, (7) Emerson 49

(3) Fredonia 59, (6) Lackawanna 51

 

Semifinals - Tuesday, March 3rd 

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:15 & 6:45 pm 

(5) East 59,  (1) Cleveland Hill 44

(3) Fredonia 53, (2) Wilson 48

 

Final - Saturday, March 7th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

(5) East 54,  (3) Fredonia 51

 

2015 Section VI Class B2 Champions:

East Panthers

 

-centercourt

 

The Standings

 

* Overall record followed by league record

 

Yale Cup I

McKinley.................17-2  (12-0)

Middle College.........14-5  (9-3)

Burgard....................13-6  (9-3)

East.........................11-8  (8-4)

Bennett....................4-15  (3-9)

South Park...............6-12  (2-10)

Riverside..................5-14  (2-10)

Hutch-Tech..............3-16  (2-10)

 

 Yale Cup II

I-Prep.....................15-4  (11-1)

Emerson.................12-6  (8-4) 

MST Seneca............8-11  (7-5)

DaVinci...................8-6  (7-5)

City Honors............7-12  (6-6)

Buffalo Arts.............8-9  (6-6)

Olmsted..................7-12  (4-8)

Lafayette................0-18  (0-12)

 

ECIC I

Jamestown...........16-3  (12-0)

Will North............15-4  (10-2)

Lancaster...............11-8  (7-5)

Frontier.................10-8  (6-6)

Clarence...............5-14  (4-8)

Orchard Park..........6-13  (2-10)

W.Seneca West.......2-17  (1-11)

 

 ECIC II

Will South.............17-2  (13-1)

Starpoint..............16-3  (12-2)

Sweet Home...........10-9  (7-7)

Will East................9-10  (7-7)

Hamburg...............8-11  (6-8)

W.Seneca East.......10-9  (5-9)

Iroquois................7-12  (4-10)

 Lake Shore............4-18  (2-12)

 

ECIC III

Amherst............17-2  (12-0)

Cheektowaga.....15-4  (10-2)

Depew................10-9  (8-4)

East Aurora........8-11  (6-6)

Maryvale............9-10  (3-9)

Pioneer...............6-13  (3-9)

Springville..........3-15  (0-12)

 

 ECIC IV

Cleveland Hill............16-3  (12-0)

Lackawanna...............9-9  (9-3)

Holland......................9-10  (6-6)

Tonawanda................10-9  (6-6)

JFK.............................11-8  (6-6)

Alden.........................4-15  (3-9)

Eden..........................2-17  (0-12)

 

Niagara Frontier League

North Tonawanda...........15-4  (12-2)

Niagara Falls...................13-6  (12-2)

Lockport.........................11-8  (9-5)

Lew-Port.........................11-8  (8-6)

Kenmore West................7-12  (6-8)

Grand Island...................7-12  (5-9)

Niagara Wheatfield.........6-13  (4-10)

Kenmore East.................1-17  (0-14)

 

Niagara-Orleans

Wilson.................16-3  (13-1)

Medina................10-9  (10-4)

Akron..................11-9  (8-6)

CSAT...................10-7  (8-6)

Albion.................10-9  (8-6)

Newfane..............5-14  (4-10)

Roy-Hart.............6-13  (3-11)

Barker.................3-18  (2-12)

 

CCAA West I

Fredonia.......................17-2  (11-1)

Olean............................15-4  (11-1)

Dunkirk........................12-7  (8-4)

Southwestern................10-9  (5-7)

Chautauqua Lake..........5-14  (4-8)

Falconer.......................3-15  (2-10)

Cassadaga Valley..........6-14  (1-11)

 

CCAA East I

Silver Creek.......................17-2  (11-1)

Randolph..........................13-6  (10-2)

Salamanca.........................13-6  (9-3)

Portville............................12-7  (6-6)

Allegany-Limestone..........9-10  (4-8)

Gowanda...........................7-12  (2-10)

Catt Little/Valley...............2-17  (0-12)

 

 

CCAA West II

Sherman.......................19-0  (12-0)

Panama.........................15-4  (9-3)

Westfield.......................11-8 (8-4)

Maple Grove..................9-10  (7-5)

Frewsburg.....................4-15  (3-9)

Brocton.........................5-14  (2-10)

Clymer.........................5-14  (1-11)

 

 

 CCAA East II

Forestville.................12-7  (9-1)

Franklinville..............10-9  (8-2)

Ellicottville................12-7 (7-3)

Pine Valley................7-12  (3-7)

West Valley................8-11  (3-7)

North Collins.............0-18  (0-10)

 

Charter Schools 

Health Sciences...................16-3

Tapestry..............................15-3

Global Concepts...................10-9

Oracle..................................5-14

WNY Maritime.....................3-15

Buffalo Science.....................5-11

 

Monsignor Martin - Large Schools

Canisius.......................19-5  (13-0)

Nichols........................15-9  (8-5)

Timon.........................13-11  (7-6)

St. Joe's......................11-13  (7-6)

St. Francis....................5-19  (1-12)

 

Monsignor Martin - Small Schools

Park.............................17-3  (11-2)

St. Mary's....................15-9  (7-6)

Archbishop Walsh........14-10  (6-7)

Niagara Catholic...........10-13  (3-10)

Cardinal O'Hara............7-17   (2-11)

 

-centercourt

Season Preview: 2014-2015

 

(Nichols celebrates its 2014 Manhattan Cup Championship. Photo by Buffalo News)

 

Below, in this year's version of the Pre-View From Centercourt, you will find:

 - What's New

- Returning 2014 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2014-2015

- A League-by-League look at teams players 

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Predictions 

 

What's New

- Section VI teams got one of their games back and are now eligible to play a 19-game regular season.

- The Manhattan Cup is now a tournament for the Class A teams only.  The small schools in the MMA will now compete in a separate playoff, with the winner moving on in the CHSAA Class B postseason.

- Slight divisional realignments once again in the CCAA.  Based on geography...no, based on school size...no, let's try geography again.

- Buffalo Science is back.

- Falconer & Frewsburg are once again separate programs, and face each other in Round One of the Frewsburg Tournament.  Falconer's JV coach from last season, Dan Molfino, now leads the varsity squad at Frewsburg.

- Lake Shore moves back into ECIC II after playing in ECIC III last season.

- This season, the Class AA semifinals will be split up between the Tuesday & Wednesday nights of Buffalo State week, with the Class B2 semis and then the Class B1 semis played prior to each AA semifinal.  That means the Class A1 semifinals are Monday night, leaving the Class A2 semifinals for Thursday night.  

- JCC will squeeze all the magic of semifinal week into two nights.  The Class C1 semifinals will preceed the first Class D semifinal on Monday, with the Class C2 semifinals preceeding the second Class D semifinal on Tuesday.

- Far West Regionals are in Rochester this year

- A master schedule for every WNY team, along with regularly updated standings will be available on this site all season.

 

 ******************************************************

 

The Players

Nine of the top 25 players from the 2014 All-Centercourt teams return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 14 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.  In addition, many others are primed to have breakout seasons, while the influx of talented underclassmen continues to surface at multiple schools throughout WNY.

 

Reigning Player of the Year & Returning 2014 1st Teamer

Zack Panebianco - Sr., Jamestown:     19.1 PPG  /  4.1 APG  /  3.5 RPG  /  2.2 SPG   as a junior

- Elite two-sport athlete and the reigning Centercourt Player of the Year who led the Red Raiders to the Class AA state title game last year.  Deadly from outside, but equally effective knifing through defenses. Can score in bunches and is highly efficient on offense.  Looks to lead the Red Raiders to a third consecutive Section VI crown - something that has never been achieved in program history.

 

 Returning 2014 Second Teamer

 Stafford Trueheart - Jr., Canisius:  13.0 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  4.5 BPG   as a sophomore

-  Already receiving offers as he enters his junior year.  A polished big man with explosivness, touch around the rim, and outstanding anticipation.  Has a summer home in "Lob City".  Looks to get Canisius back to the status of Manhattan Cup champions and beyond.

 

Returning 2014 Third Teamers

Billy Brooks - Sr., Silver Creek:  19.1 PPG  /  14.4 RPG  /  6.7 BPG  /  4.2 APG  as a junior

- Will be getting looks from college coaches all season and turning the heads of local fans along the way.  Completely alters the game for the Black Knights' opponents with his post presence.  Led WNY in shots blocked as a junior and is also the best passing big man in the area.  Look for even bigger strides this season as he assumes the leadership role for his team.

Cam Lewis - Sr., Nichols:   16.1 PPG  /  7.7 RPG  /  2.0 APG  /  1.4 SPG   as a junior

- A star with a skill set tailor made for the next level.  At 6-8, Lewis is just as comfortable with the ball in his hands out on the perimeter as he is banging on the block down low.  Was selected as Manhattan Cup MVP after his big game performances in the postseason.  Already a career 1,000 point scorer.

Chris Miner - Sr., Nichols:   16.4 PPG  /  12.9 RPG  /  2.1 BPG  /  1.8 SPG    as a junior

- Uses his broad frame inside to out-muscle opponents for buckets and rebounds.  A double-double machine who led the Manhattan Cup champs in both scoring and rebounding a season ago.  Also already a career 1,000 point scorer.

 

Returning 2014 Fourth Teamer

Percy Bryant - Sr., East:    17.4 PPG  /  6.2 APG  /  4.7 SPG  /  3.5 RPG    as a junior

- An ultra-quick point guard with a masterful handle.  Provides equal energy on the defensive end and creates countless turnovers.  Led his team in both assists and steals last year, and may add scoring leader to that resume this season.  When his shot is falling, he's practically unstoppable.

 

Returning 2014 Fifth Teamers

Dominick Welch - So., Cheektowaga:  19.5 PPG  /  13.3 RPG  /  3.6 BPG  /  1.4 APG  /  1.2 SPG   as a freshman

- Led the Warriors to their first ever sectional crown as a freshman and averaged a double-double along the way.  Can play all five positions and will hurt you from anywhere on the court - a special talent in this area.  Will look to lead his team past Amherst in the division and then aim for a repeat in sectionals.

TC Brown - Jr., Amherst:   18.2 PPG  /  6.0 RPG  /  5.6 APG  /  3.9 SPG   as a sophomore

- Plays bigger than his size and older than his age.  Competitive and highly confident leader for the Tigers.  Looking to add a third ECIC III title to his resume in his third varsity season, and hopes to help return Amherst to the top of Class A2.

Devin Morris - Sr., McKinley:   15 PPG  /  11 RPG  /  2 BPG  /  2 SPG   as a junior

 - Stands out on a deep Macks team.  Moves fluidly with the ball and excels at getting his shot off in the face of the defense.  Excellent shooter and rebounds well for his size, thanks to good instincts.  Attempting to lead McKinley to a fourth straight Section VI title.

 

Returning 2014 Honorable Mentions

LaTerrance Reed - 12 (Canisius), Zak Cieski - 12 (Cheektowaga), Nicholas Clough - 12 (Williamsville East), Cort Williams - 12 (Williamsville East), Clay Lewis - 12 (Holland), Tanner Schmit - 12 (Nichols), Bryce Morrison - 12 (Randolph), Kordell Holness-Lightbody - 12 (St. Francis), Derick Simpson - 12 (Timon), Derek Cheatom - 12 (Timon),  Sam Castronova - 12 (Williamsville South), Jared Fish - 12 (Salamanca), Cody Johnson - 12 (Cassadaga Valley), Brandon Roach - 11 (Olmsted)

 

Player Watch List:  other names you'll hear from this season 

 Justin Jones - 11 (Canisius), Dorian Billups - 12 (Amherst), John Piper - 12 (Fredonia), JaQuoine Fogan - 11 (Tapestry), Greg Dolan - 9 (Williamsville South), Kam Varner - 12 (Williamsville South), Graham Dolan - 11 (Williamsville South), Maceo Jack - 11 (Williamsville North), William Lamar - 10 (Timon), Fred Foster - 11 (Middle College), Jordan Nwora - 11 (Park), Donell Cathcart - 12 (Cardinal O'Hara), Buzz Watson - 12 (Walsh), Qeyion Williams - 10 (Niagara Falls), Jaylin Rose - 11 (Hutch-Tech), Chris Woodard - 12 (North Tonawanda), Matt Cieslik - 12 (City Honors), Terrance James - 12 (I-Prep), Xavier Maye - 12 (I-Prep), Michael Simpson - 11 (Emerson), Jay Bergmann - 12 (Frontier), Christian Nodine - 11 (Starpoint), Nick Parucki - 12 (West Seneca East), Jordan Heine - 12 (Sweet Home), Tristan Boling - 12 (Tonawanda), Jermaine Hairston - 12 (Cleveland Hill), Craig Paige - 12 (Lew-Port), Jenard Jackson - 11 (Lew-Port), Kyle Bradley - 12 (Wilson), Jason Hellwig - 12 (Medina), Darius Carson - 10 (CSAT), Isaiah Thomas - 11 (Dunkirk), Patrick Moore - 11 (Fredonia), Tanner Dahl - 12 (Westfield), Fred Searles - 12 (Global Concepts), Corey Wiseman - 12 (Health Sciences)

 

**********************************************

 League-By-League

 

 MONSIGNOR MARTIN CLASS A

The defending Manhattan Cup champs, Nichols, are back in a BIG way.  Not only are three of its starters enormous (6-8, 6-7, 6-5), but they are also phenomenal basketball talents.  Cam Lewis & Chris Miner are both career 1,000 point scorers entering their senior campaigns, while Tanner Schmit is already commited to play at the D1 level for Central Arkansas.  Canisius lost the area's most highly touted player in Howard Washington to a transfer, but also benefited from the arrival of transfer Justin Jones from St. Joe's.  With the size and athleticism of what returns, including Second Team All-Centercourt selection Stafford Trueheart and HM LaTerrance Reed, the Crusaders will continue to be one of the most dominant programs in WNY.  Timon will focus on ball movement and defensive pressure in a bid to return to a third straight Manhattan Cup Final, with its goal being to win it this time.  St. Joe's welcomes back eight players (seven seniors) and adds Grant Beyer from Williamsville South.  With a deep bench and a focus on balance, the Marauders like their chances in the competitive and talent-rich MMA.  St. Francis has its leading scorer and All-Centercourt HM returning, Kordell Holness-Lightbody.  With Holness-Lightbody certain to be the focus of opposing defenses, the young Red Raider lineup will have to grow up quickly and contribute.

***

Nichols: Christopher Miner - 12, Cam Lewis - 12,  Tanner Schmit - 12, Zach Serotte - 12, Ken Williams - 12, Steve Foley - 12, Ben Sendziak - 12, Will Johnson - 10, Marcellus Cooper - 9

Canisius:  Stafford Trueheart - 11, LaTerrence Reed - 12, TJ Wheatley - 12, Josh Huffman - 12, Zachary Koch - 12, Andrew Heitzhaus - 12, Patrick Viola - 12, David Keil - 12, Patrick Crangle - 12,  Justin Jones - 11

St. Joe's:  Mathew Fritz - 12, Naseer Jackson - 10, Antonio Morreale - 12, John Scaglione - 12, David Maher - 12, Marcell Davis - 12, Edward Tabone Jr - 12, Grant Beyer - 11, Anthony Brophy - 11, Nick Motley - 11

Bishop Timon/St. Jude: Derick Simpson - 12, William Lamar - 10, Quinton Lamar - 11, Claudius Modi - 12, Hunter Lancaster - 11, Tyler Ringwood - 11, Joe Harrison - 10

St. Francis:  Kordell Holness-Lightbody - 12, Bo Sireika - 9, Roburt Welch - 10, John Steven Zhu - 11, Cody Smith - 10, Isiah Utley - 11

 

**********************************************

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN CLASS B 

Park brings back four starters and welcomes in Jordan Nwora from Amherst.  The Pioneers will focus on more consistent pressure defensively, as they have the talent to win the league.  If this new format had existed over the past several years, St. Mary's would have owned it.  The Lancers look to continue their recent success with a brand new starting lineup, as they've done in the past.  Tony Pulvirenti takes over the varsity reigns at Cardinal O'Hara after guiding the JV Hawks over the last three seasons.  He'll have a young team with just one senior, but that didn't stop him from bulking up O'Hara's nonleague schedule.  Walsh has a pair from the basketball-famed Moore family of Olean in head coach Andy and junior Adam.  Combine that with the return of 6-6 senior Buzz Watson (18.5 ppg), along with an Olean transfer, and the Eagles should be contenders.  Niagara Catholic's young team will look to grow under the leadership of a new coach with a pair of Class AA state championship game appearances on his resume, Giulio Colangelo.

 ***

Park:  Derek Cheatom - 12, Randy Golda - 12, Jordan Nwora - 11, Kyle Harris - 11, Hunter Anderson - 11, Tony Ugboma - 11, Ethan Cotrell - 11, Joe Jones - 9

St. Mary's:   Jake Concannon - 12, Takal Molson - 11, Sean Wilson - 12, Austin Oakes - 12, Mark O'Neill - 12, Chris Peete - 12, Kayson Hill - 11, Tony Robinson - 11, Jordan MacKinnon - 11, Cam Dunning - 11, Joseph Stoj - 11, Daquan Hunt - 10, Eric Brown - 9

Cardinal O'Hara:  Donel Cathcart - 12, Charles Debose  - 11, Clifford Ziegler - 10, William Turner - 11, Deamontae Riley - 10, Michon Dudley - 9

Archbishop Walsh:  Adam Moore - 11, John "Buzz" Watson - 12, Noah Watson - 10, Christian Churakos - 10, Ethan Clarke - 12, Tavian Kemp - 10

Niagara Catholic:  Elijah Griggs - 11, Jaceary Menes - 11, Jake Socha - 12, Zach Socha - 11, Connor Freeburger - 12

 

************************************************ 

 

YALE CUP I

McKinley has become the model of consistency for basketball programs in WNY.  Do I even need to tell you what the Macks will look like this season?  Fast, deep, and intense, are the first three words that come to mind.  They bring back plenty from another defending Section VI championship team.  Defending Yale Cup champion Middle College added one of the most athletically gifted players in all of WNY to its roster with the offseason addition of Park transfer Fred Foster (6-5).  He, along with another always deep roster, will have the Kats eyeing another Yale Cup & another run at states in Class C.  East has dynamic guard Percy Bryant back for his senior season and hopes to have O'Hara transfer Jovell Littlejohn ready to man the middle when the season tips.  The Panthers also have some talented underclassmen that should rapidly improve throughout the year.  South Park will rely on tempo and pressure defense, with no player on its roster over 6-feet tall.  Riverside has a pair of starters back, and a good amount of depth competing for the remaining spots.  Bennett & Burgard did not provide team information.

***

East:  Damone Brown - 11, Percy Byrant - 11, Jovell Littlejohn - 11, Takeyo Burts - 10, Malik Doughty - 12, Willard Anderson - 9

McKinley: Devin Morris - 12, Shaquan Jones - 11, Keyon Johnson - 11, Juwan Tolliver - 12, Jaylen Prophet - 11

Riverside: Romero Gardner - 11, Tim Manney - 12, Jamal Wardlaw - 11, Alexander Johnson - 11, Asuquo "Junior" Efiong - 11, Roberto Rodriguez - 12, Mohammed Ali - 12, Claudio Olympio - 12, Jewimaer Toussaint - 12, Damone McNamee - 12

Middle College:  Isaiah Jenkins - 12, Joseph Staton - 11, Fred Foster - 11, Billy Rivera - 11, Royce Burks - 12, Amir Jemes - 11, Brian Johnson - 11, Loronzo Truitt - 11, Claudius Thomas - 11, Dajon Johnson - 11, Dion Watkins - 11, Tyshawn Silas - 10, Nate Jackson - 9, Hakeem Dobbins - 9, Azyion Clemons - 9

Hutch-Tech: Jailyn Rose - 11

South Park : James Baker - 11, John Vallone - 12, D'Angelo Allen - 12, Shakur Harris - 10, Antonio Leonard - 12, Darrel Moore - 12, Mike McDonald - 12

Burgard

Bennett

 

**********************************************

 

YALE CUP II

I-Prep has its sights set on a repeat in Yale Cup II and a run in the Class D sectionals this year, with three key pieces back from the undefeated league championship team of '14.  City Honors will be a guard-oriented team, led by four-year varsity player, Matt Cieslik.  Olmsted will have a formidible backcourt and one of the top players in the city in Brandon Roach, but lack size.  Lafayette has a fill lineup of players this season, described as young, energetic, and optimistic, led by Jovanny Aviles-Vargas.  Emerson, MST Seneca, Buffalo Arts, & DaVinci did not provide any information.

***

I-Prep:  Xavier Maye - 12, Terrance James - 12, Jeffrey Townsel - 11, Davon Gant - 11

City Honors: Matt Cieslik - 12, Jordahn Summers - 12, John Seitz - 12, David Lippman - 12, Alfred Gary - 11, Caleb Lee - 12

Olmsted: Brandon Roach - 11, Dan Reid - 10, Athan Kaudeyr - 12, Anthony Mendrysa - 11, Austin Carter - 12

Lafayette: Jovanny Aviles-Vargas - 12, Christian Tarado-Suarez - 10, Erik Aponte - 9, Cesar Medina - 10, Justin Galvin - 11, Miyaga Miyaga - 11, Demetrius White-Zinermon - 9, Daniel Gonzales - 11, Abdi Malako - 11, Stephan Thomas - 10, Julio Muriel - 12, Eugenio Vira - 11, Derek Ramdhansingh - 12, Luis Plaza - 10

Emerson:  Michael Simpson - 11, Jason Dowell - 11

MST Seneca

Buffalo Arts

DaVinci

 

*************************************************

 

ECIC I

Three teams (Jamestown, Clarence, & Williamsville North) all shared the league title a season ago, so the Red Raiders settled things by advancing far past the others in the postseason - all the way to the Class AA state championship game.  Jamestown will be a step behind to start the season thanks to the success of the football team, but after the way Zack Panebianco finished the season last year, they shouldn't be overly concerned.  Lancaster should have its best and most balanced unit in several seasons.  The Redskins showed flashes last year with a very young team, and now they'll have eight players with a lot of varsity experience.  Clarence graduated all five starters from its Class AA finalist team, but does have a pair of returning players who saw considerable action.  Williamsville North will look different without Sterling Taplin in the starting lineup for the first time in five seasons, but the Spartans have no shortage of talent or experience, and will challenge for the top spot in ECIC I once again.  Orchard Park fields a young, defensive-minded team with three returnees.  Frontier & West Seneca West did not provide team information.

***

Jamestown: Zack Panebianco - 12, Stephen Carlson - 12,  Zacc Kinsey - 11, Ben Larson - 12

Lancaster:  Tyler Lis - 12, Griffin O'Brien - 12,  Alex Damiani - 11, Collin Murray - 11, Alex Konst - 11, Andy Fellner - 12, Matt Devic - 12, LG Castillo - 10

Williamsville North:  George Attea - 12, Maceo Jack - 11, Sean Hill - 11, Dylan Lambert - 12, Tim Kreuze - 12, Chad Steinwachs - 12, Sam Cimato - 12, Nick Maranto - 11, Jeff Calderon - 12

Clarence: Matt Sadowy - 12, Kyle Stevens - 12, Dave Cummisky - 12, Bryan Pulli - 12, Hunter Harris - 12, Adam Southern - 11, Jake Ireland - 10, Jake Randall - 10

Orchard Park:  Kevin Goltz - 12,  Jake Heath - 12, Dan Freilicher - 11, Phil Marks - 11, Wes Seigner - 11, Max Cerone - 11, Kevin Looney - 11, Bryan Somerville - 11, Hunter Harris - 11, Chris Liberatore - 11 

West Seneca West: Frank Borzillieri   - 12, DJ Ulmer – 12, Ben Hutton  - 11, Lou DiChristopher  - 12

Frontier

 

**********************************************

 

ECIC II

Williamsville South has plenty of pieces back from last year's team that fell short of finishing off McKinley in the Class A1 final last season.  The Billies have talent everywhere and will focus on cohesiveness and team-first basketball.  Williamsville East will play uptempo and look for mismatches.  The Flames should find plenty, with a pair of returning All-Centercourt HM selections and four-year varsity players back in Cort Williams and Nicholas Clough.  Sweet Home will be an experienced and athletic team, returning over 37 points per game from last season.  Starpoint has its best team in recent seasons, and with a good mix of seniors and underclassmen.  The Spartans have four starters back and should challenge the division's top squads.  West Seneca East may have the most experienced unit in the division, as last year's group was void of any seniors.  Both co-captains, along with the school's all-time 3-point leader, are back for the Trojans.  Hamburg returns four players that saw quality minutes during its run to the Class A1 semifinals last year.  Couple that with some talented additions from their 16-win JV team, and the Bulldogs optimistic about making a return trip to Buffalo State.  With just a single senior back, a young team, and a move up to ECIC II, Lake Shore hopes to rebuild its roster through valuable experience this season.  After two straight successful campaigns, Iroquois will look to its five seniors for leadership and rely on size & athleticism.

***

Williamsville East: Cort Williams - 12, Nicholas Clough - 12, Kyle Williams - 12, Joe Adcock - 12, Greg Cook - 12, Alex Pieri - 11, Mike Garafalo - 12, Mike Poturalski - 11

Williamsville South:  Sam Castronova - 12, Kam Varner - 12, Graham Dolan - 11, Greg Dolan - 9, Matt Foster - 11, Myles Hall - 11, Jordan Buell - 11, Dave Isselbaecher - 12, Ryan Phillips - 11, JP Rehak - 12

Iroquois: Zach Emer - 12, Coyote Sokolski - 12, Lucas Tait - 12, Kyle Seifert - 12, Joe Bowen - 11, Dominic Allen - 11, James Carlin - 11, Jack Edwards - 10, Matt Whalen - 10

Sweet Home: Jordan Heine - 11, Asa'd Myles - 12, Milton Zielger - 12, Brandon Smiley - 12, Jordan Evert - 12, Adrian Drake - 12, Josh Hammer - 12, Dylan McDuffie - 9

Hamburg: Joe DeGrood - 12, Brendan Ryan - 11, Kyle Munro - 12, Caleb Wood - 12, Mark Myles - 12, Doug Horbachewski - 12, Matt Snyder - 12, Ryan Dils - 11, Sean DeLellis - 11

West Seneca East: Matt Kumro - 12, Nick Parucki - 12, Ed Radka - 11, Dan Picciano - 11, DJ Schiersing - 12, Jake Klubek - 11, Dale Nicosia - 12, Evin Ksiezarczyk - 12, Jared Kania - 11, Anthony Roncone - 10, Justin Gospodarski - 10

Starpoint: Ian Emerick - 12, Dennis Held - 12, Eric Yaeger - 12, Brock Kroening - 11, Christian Nodine - 11, Ben Walters - 11, Adam Lasal - 10

Lake Shore:  Andrew Bush - 12, Brandon Buchanon - 12, Alec Lezama - 12, Mike Braeuner - 11, Alec Bergum - 11, Collin Fiutko - 11, Cory Fiutko - 11, Joe Friedhoff - 11, Ron John - 11, Nate Myers - 11, Kyle Wishman - 11, Andrew McDonaugh - 10

 

******************************************

 

ECIC III

Amherst has claimed the last three league titles and have reason to believe they're the favorites to do it again.  TC Brown leads a Tigers team that has confidence, size, and depth.  Despite Amherst winning ECIC III last year, it was Cheektowaga who edged them out in the postseason after sweeping them in the regular season.  The Warriors have nearly the entire squad back, including Dominick Welch & Zak Ciezki, and hope that by season's end, they'll have three more wins over Amherst.  The future looks great at East Aurora, and if they are able to compete with the top teams in this league - look out.  The Blue Devils have just one senior in their regular rotation, one that will include four sophomores.  Springville hopes to get strong guard play on an inexperienced team that returns just one starter.  Balance will be the theme at Maryvale after graduating its top three scorers.  The Flyers will use as many as 12 players in their rotation and keep the energy level up.  Depew will look to develop team chemistry and form an identity, after losing some key team leaders and significant size inside.  The Wildcats could be a team that blossoms in the later half of the season.

***

Cheektowaga:  Dominick Welch - 10, Zak Ciezki - 12, Patrick Plummer - 12, Khaya Dlodlo - 12, Drequon Trotter - 12, Devon Camel - 12, Hakiem Black - 12, Adrian Baugh - 10, Stephan Parker - 10

Amherst: Dorian Billups - 12, TC Brown - 11, Darien Lowe - 12, Amadi Ikpeze - 11, Nick Foster - 11, Nathan Russell-Webster - 12, Bryon Fowler - 12, Rory Walsh - 11, Sean Andrews - 11, Nathan Waldu - 11, Sean Gibson - 11, Jake Maley - 11, Da'Shawn Hines - 10, Jordan Barr - 10, Richard Kay - 10

East Aurora: Mike Coatsworth - 12, Noah Thompson - 11, Josh Denz - 10, Nick Montgomery - 10, Joe Montgomery - 10, Cal McTigue - 10

Depew: Tyler Anna - 12, Dylan Sekuterski - 12, Collin Gemerek - 12, Jakob Grant - 11, Ryan Guay - 11, Tyler Biersbach - 9

Maryvale: Drew Crombie - 11, Mike Kelleher - 12, Jeremia Pace - 12, Marcus Ford - 11, Eric Graham - 12, Floyd Remley - 11, Steve Mason - 12, Matt Mason - 12, Mike Ferguson - 11

Pioneer:  Bryce Little - 12,  Matt Haggerty - 12, Andrew Hyman - 12, Vince Nourse - 12, Ravo Root - 11, Caleb Sayvone - 11, Dominic Sayvone - 11

Springville:  Kyle Crotty - 12, Devin Pazzuti - 12, Kyle Warner - 11, John Domes - 10, Parker Rice - 11, Pat Emmick - 12, Colin DeWitt - 11

 

********************************************

 

ECIC IV

After two straight division titles, expectations remain high at Cleveland Hill.  Jermaine Hairston, who is one of six returning seniors for the Golden Eagles, is a prime candidate to have a breakout season.  Lackawanna would like to end Cleveland Hill's league run and reclaim ECIC IV.  The Steelers brought back all five starters to a team with nine seniors.  JFK finished at the bottom of the league last season, but has all five starters back, including size (6-6 & 6-4) and high hopes coming into the year.  Tonawanda has a pair of starters returning from the team that reached Buffalo State last season for the second time in four years.  Alden will have a presence inside and versatility, but will need its young backcourt to get acclimated with the varsity level as the year wears on.  Eden did not provide team information.

 ***

Cleveland Hill: Jermaine Hairston - 12, Anthony Sullivan - 12, Zach Lewandowski - 12, Ramah Lassiter - 11, Nick Gamble - 11

Lackawana: Larry Fields - 12, Jeremiah Jones - 12, Darius Cleveland - 12, Jaelin Watson - 11, Quinton Robinson - 12, Yousef Yahya - 12, Johan Santiago - 12

Tonawanda: Tristan Bolling - 12, Brandon Frye - 12, Larenz Jefferson - 12, Adrian Hall - 11, Cody Diaz - 11, Tyler Staff - 11

Holland:  Clay Lewis - 12, JR Kline - 12, Matt Farant - 12, Cooper Rahn - 12, EJ Staniszewski - 11, Laine Husman - 11, Pierce Gardon - 10

JFK:  Joe Braniecki - 12, Josh McMahon - 12, Cale Byczkowski - 12, Shawn McPhail - 12, Hunter Kowal - 12, Brendan Fox - 12, Aaron Urbanczyk - 12, Nathan Pazderski - 12, Lexus Pollard - 10, Aaron Poniwas - 12, Collin Snyder - 12

Alden:  Austin Zelasko - 12, Dylan Riddoch - 11, Jordan Stockweather - 11, Conrad Boucher - 10, Christian Snell - 9, Brandon Bojt - 12

Eden 

 

**********************************************

 

Niagara Frontier League

Niagara Falls brings back nearly its entire team, including four starters.  The Wolverines also welcome in sophomore point guard, Qeyion Williams, who transferred from Niagara Catholic, and should find themselves back in the company of WNY's elite teams.  Kenmore West has just one starter back, along with its sixth man who'll now enter the starting lineup.  They'll have to rely on athleticism and energy until experience is on their side.  Lew-Port has a pair of playmakers back on a team that reached Buff State last season.  The Lancers should make a return trip again this season, after making noise in the NFL first.  North Tonawanda will once again be difficult to rebound against or score inside on, as the Jacks return three players who are 6-4 or taller, including the active double-double machine, Chris Woodard.  Grand Island has improved its record over each of the past two seasons, and hopes to continue the trend with a deep rotation led by captain Colin Carrey.  Lockport's senior laden Class AA semifinalist team from last season gave way to a young squad with just one senior and limited experience, who hope to improve as the season goes on.  Niagara Wheatfield took its lumps during a winless season in NFL action last year, but now are back with all of its core players and a much more confident group.   As always, Kenmore East did not provide any team information.

 ***

Niagara Falls: Devin Scarbourough - 12, Mikey Bermudez - 12, Breon Harris - 11, Devin Sanders - 10, Tyler Sanders - 10, Charles Lamar - 10, Jamal Harris - 12, Qeyion Williams - 10

Kenmore West: Terrell Ford - 11, Trent White - 12, Aaron Tucker - 11, Jason Taylor - 11, Mark Taylor - 11, DeAngelo Walker - 11

Grand Island:  Colin Carrey - 12, Kyle Burns - 11, Joe Kulikowski - 11, Mark Montes - 12, Manny Montes - 11, Justin Figler - 12, Mike Podgorny - 12, Devin Brandon - 10, Colton Czajka - 12

North Tonawanda: Chris Woodard - 12, Donovin Book - 12, Adam McNeil - 12, Ryan Gilbert - 12, Ryan McDonough - 12, James Garavagli - 12, Drew Krantz - 12, Jacob Lemke - 11, Jacob Krauss - 11, Colby Moultrie - 10, Alex Quinn - 10, Brandon Casterline - 10

Niagara Wheatfield:  Nathan Nielson - 11, Nathan Williams - 12, Denzel Fuller - 11, Justin Eaton - 12, Brandon Funderburk - 12, Ty Parmentier - 12, Ken Camidge - 12, Austin Wangler - 11

Lockport:  Lavette Warren - 11, Andrew Austin - 11, Kelly Brown - 11, Dakota Wiley - 10

Lew-Port:  Craig Paige - 12, Jenard Jackson - 11, Jacob Eoute - 12, Dane Parlato - 12, Jacob Rizzo - 12, Jordan Willard - 12, Colton Stallard - 12, Anthony Dipasquale - 12

Kenmore East:

 

******************************************

 

Niagara-Orleans

Newfane & Wilson each enjoyed a string of success over several seasons, which made the local rivalry between the two that much more intense.  Both teams have returning players, expect to be compete for the league, and are looking forward to overflow crowds once again when they get together on the court.  Medina likes its combination of returning talent and mental toughness, and expects to compete for the league crown.  The Mustangs have beefed up their nonleague schedule to challenge this group. Barker returns five seniors - but just one starter from its unbeaten league championship team from last year.  CSAT has a new coach, along with a pair of Carson brothers, which make the Eagles contenders for that reason alone.  Roy-Hart welcomes first year head coach Joe Pawlak, who will look to put his own stamp on the Rams program, which he characterizes as an extremely hard working group.  With just four players back and two of those coming off surgery, Akron will have some work to put in before they're completely up tp speed.  The Tigers do have talented underclassmen and could be a dangerous team in the later half of the season.  

***

Akron: Larson Sundown - 12, Caleb Martin - 12, Chaunce Hill - 12, Brendan Weirerheiser - 11

Newfane: Sam Watkins - 12, Kyle Guerriera - 12, Chad Gilson - 11, Kyle Burdick - 12, Tyler Jordan - 12, MaxWeber - 9, Al Kramp - 10, David Krull - 11, Nick Schultz - 11, Zach Lajoie - 11

CSAT: Dylanta Carson - 12, Bryan Locke - 12, Darius Carson - 10, Will Fletcher - 12, Jahleel Burks - 11

Medina:  Jason Hellwig - 12, Dylan Lewis - 11, Aaron Feltz - 12, Brennan Zinkievich - 12, David Garrow - 12, Devonte Howard - 12, Jared Zinkievich - 11, Tyler Ames - 11, Dylan Lewis - 11, Brad McPherson - 11, Justin Morgan - 11, Jalin Cooper - 9

Barker: Chris Sweeney - 12, Sean Benoit - 12, Thomas Callaghan - 12, Tanner Gregorie - 12, Joshua Mead - 12, Tristan Payne - 12, Michael Snell - 11, Kyle Secor - 11, Nathan Luckman - 10

Roy-Hart: Andy Xapsos - 11, Sam White - 12, Nelson Andrade - 12, Bailey Hudson - 12, Aaron Metz - 12, Ben Maynard - 11, Justin Heschke - 11, Chris Anderson - 11, James DiLorenzo - 12, Zack Srock - 11, Austin Dodge - 11

Wilson:  Evan Shank - 12, Kyle Bradley - 12, Zac Sarratori - 12, Joe Littere - 12, Jarret Johnston - 12, Adam Murray - 12, Alex Fox - 11, Andrew Eames - 11

Albion:  Dez Blackmon - 12, Austin Loyd - 12, Emanuel Thompson - 12, Alex Bison - 12, Clayton Stanton - 12, Gary Moore - 12

 

****************************************

 

CCAA West I

Defending league champion, Fredonia, should be in great shape for another run this season.  The Hillbillies will start five players who are 6-feet or taller and have a combined 13 years of varsity experience between them.  Olean starts over after reaching the Class B state title game a year ago.  The Huskies graduated five senior starters and return just two players who saw any action.  Reining Centercourt Coach of the Year, Jeff Anastasia, will embrace the challenge and make household names out of the Huskies' players soon enough.  Southwestern lost some of its size, but brings back three starters, accounting for much of its scoring.  The Trojans will look to push the pace and wreak havoc on teams defensively.  Rich Clifford is back behind the bench for another season at Cassadaga Valley and the veteran coach returns three starters, including 2014 All-Centercourt HM Cody Johnson (20.5 ppg).  After two seasons coaching the JV team, Jack O'Brien takes over varsity duties at Dunkirk and will have some senior leadership, along with a trio of 6-3 juniors.  Chautauqua Lake fields a young & passionate group that hopes league competition will prepare them for the playoffs.  After being combined with Frewsburg in hoops a season ago, Falconer is back on its own, returning just four returning players, each with little varsity experience.

***

Fredonia: John Piper - 12, Cam Voss - 12, Anhel Epps - 12, Noah Voss - 12, Patrick Moore - 11

Olean: Connor Prizel - 12, Chucky Martin - 12, Blake Covert - 12, Colden Dwaileebe - 12, John Zamites - 12, Jake Cavana - 11, Derek Schmidt - 11, Levi Johnson - 11, Elijah Ramadhan - 11, Ben Eckstrom - 10

Southwestern: Pat Mogenhan - 12, Jack Carlson - 12, Mike Sandbloom - 12, Billy Johnston - 12, Ben Burk - 11, Brendan Kennedy - 11, Nick Cooper - 11, Niko Pannes - 10

 Dunkirk:  Isaiah Thomas - 11, Rashad Brown - 11, Chad Butts - 11, Shamron Stewart - 10, Richard Pickens - 12, Leroy Gilbert - 12, Gemaro Collazo - 12  

Cassadaga Valley:  Cody Johnson - 12, Chase Jones - 12, Shane Parsons - 11, Tony Mangine - 12, Jaquan Watts - 12, Jerimiah Jones - 12, Tyler Simpson - 11, James Cornelius - 11

Chautauqua Lake:  Carter Davidson - 11,  Michael Lysek - 11, Aaron Swan - 10, Devin Pope - 9, Tyler Meredith - 10, David Applegarth - 12, Erik Szymanowski - 12, Cody Latimer - 12, Ben Stahlsmith - 11

Falconer:  Gavin Beaumont - 12, Chris Elderkin - 12, Andrew Ward - 12, Tavon Fisher - 11, Ryan DePietro - 11, Jackson Teboe - 11, Brandon Curtis - 11, Drew Beckerink - 12, Sean Nord - 11, Trevor Dykstra - 11, Tareek Hannold - 12, Colin Boutelle - 12, Manny Machado - 12, Dillon Johnson - 12, Sean Dudenhoffer - 12

 

*******************************************

 

CCAA EAST I

Three of the seven teams in this league (Silver Creek, Randolph, Portville) have reached sectional title games in the last two years, and a fourth team (Salamanca) won its league last year.  Needless to say, this should be one of the more competitive league races in WNY this season.  Silver Creek looks forward to an above-the-rim season from 2014 3rd Team All-Centercourt selection Billy Brooks, but the Black Knights are even more excited about the energy and team commitment of their players at early season practices.  Salamanca returns a talented tandem in its backcourt, along with 6-6 2014 All-Centercourt HM Jared Fish, who together, accounted for 40 ppg last year.   Randolph, maybe Section VI's most storied football program ever, will again be a force on the court as well, once it gets its basketball legs under them.  Portville returns two of its three leading scorers for first year head coach Bill Torrey to work with.  Gowanda has athletes who can get up and down the floor, so transition offense will be key for the Panthers.  Cattaraugus/Little Valley has just four seniors on its young team.  Allegany-Limestone has a pair of starters back and will look to push the tempo and press.

***

Silver Creek:  Billy Brooks - 12, Sherman Williams - 12, Connor Gates - 11, Trevon Thompson - 11, Chance Gates - 12, Chris Williams - 10, Heron Snow - 11, Jacob Lewis - 11, James Corbin - 12

Salamanca:  Jared Fish - 12, Tyler Siperek - 12, Andrew Crandall - 12, Jake Dowdy - 12, Tate Reynolds - 11, Marcus Cooper - 11, Eric George - 12, Luke Zurat - 11, Zeus Enriquez - 10, Austin Elliott - 12

Randolph:  Bryce Morrison - 12, Connor McAllister - 12, Mason Bosley - 11, Jarrett Lecceadone - 10, Derek Young - 12, Nick Carpenter - 12, Kyle Beaver - 12, Tyler Stahley - 11

Allegany-Limeston: Dom Conroy - 12, Cole Davis - 11, Bailey Higby - 11, Brad McAfee - 11, Brad Reed - 11, Zach Hemphill - 10, Austin Dziennik - 11, Tyler Hines - 11, Garrett Johnston - 12, TJ McMullen - 12

Gowanda:  Jordan Young - 12, carter Benton - 11, Lucas Brawdy - 11, Randy Jimerson - 12, Les Young - 12

 Portville: Zack Ewings - 12, Isaac Hilyer - 12, Andrew Sarber - 12, Nick Stein - 10, Nick Gehm - 11, Sean Harris - 11, Chase Swetland - 12

Cattaraugus Little Valley: DJ Steven - 12, Darnell Pritchard - 12, Kodie Skeels - 12, Kyle O'Donnell - 12, Hunter Baker - 11, Caleb Hibit - 11, Devon Parmenter - 11, Alex Perkins - 11, Anthony Bernardi - 11, Kellen Martin - 10

 

************************************************

 

CCAA West II

Panama reached the Class D final with a young team last season , but fell to Sherman.  The Panthers have matured both mentally and physically, and should contend in league with a solid point guard, a sharp-shooter in Josh Odell, and 6-6 Josh Eddy inside.  Westfield returns five players that contributed in 2014, including one of the league's best in Tanner Dahl.  Sherman was hit hard by graduation following two consecutive Class D sectional championships, and will look to find a new identity with this year's team.  Maple Grove will be very good, they always are.  I can't tell you much else, because their very successful coach who's teams have received significant press from me over the years, never responds to email requests for information.  The Red Dragons listed below were listed as underclassmen in the 2014 Section VI program.   Brocton, Clymer, & Frewsburg did not send information.

***

Maple Grove:  Graham Soffel - 12, Matt Roach - 11, Jonah Tanner - 12, Pat Nelson - 11, Nolan Knipe - 12, Mitch Sandberg - 11, Jeff Clauson - 11

Westfield:  Tanner Dahl - 12, Liam Tennies - 12, Trevor North - 11, Nolan Hunt - 12, Steven DeMarco - 12, Joe Quagliana - 11, Jon Wilson - 11, Greg Schroeder - 11, Luke Haskin - 11

Panama:  David O'Dell - 12, Greg Delahoy - 12, Jack Payne - 11, Chris Blose - 12, Josh Odell - 11, Dillon Mescall - 12, Josh Eddy - 11, Chris Blose - 11, Jarrett Yuchnitz - 11

 Sherman:  Jake Card - 12, Nathan Ottaway - 12, Jeremy Cole - 12, Stephen Walczak - 12, Chris Robson - 10, Jake Ames - 12, Kolby Parks - 10, Kyle Carpenter - 10, Sam Vanvelkenburg - 11, Kyle Rhebergen - 11

Brocton:  Aaron Riforgiato - 11, Derek Walter - 12, Daultan Remington - 12

Clymer

Frewsburg

 

************************************************

 

CCAA East II 

After finishing 9-1 in league action last season Forestville, returns six players and has its sights set on a repeat.  Ellicottville will look to the dynamic Phalla Musall, a returning all-league selection, to guide a very young team.  No other teams from this league had coaches respond with the requested team information.  My apologies to the players in this league.

Ellicottville:  Phalla Musall - 12, Calum Watt - 12, Austin Gronols - 9, Griffin Chuddy - 9, Elliot Bowen - 9, Cole Lapi - 11, Jonas Hurlburt - 11, Cameron Eddy - 11

Forestville:  Caleb Makuch - 12, Dylan Szumigala - 12, Logan Youngberg - 12, Jeff VanVlack - 12, Ryan Forbes - 12, Chris Sheldon - 12, Jackson Egan - 11, Tyler Spears - 11, Andrew Deszcz - 11, Derek Catalano - 11

Pine Valley:  Dylan Granger - 12, Russell Hayes - 12, Kilian Abers - 11

North Collins

West Valley

Franklinville

 

**********************************************

 

 Charter Schools

Tapestry enters the season as the favorite to win the Charter Cup and make serious noise come sectional time, thanks to returning nine seniors and junior scoring machine, JaQuoine Fogan.   Oracle has length and quickness, and is excited about the potential growth of its young team with just three seniors back.  Health Sciences is the defending Charter Cup champion and the third-year program will seek a repeat, despite graduating 12 seniors.  Maritime has just one player back with varsity experience and will hand point guard duties over to a freshman.  After a season with just a JV squad, Buffalo Science returns to varsity competition, hoping that developing chemistry and playing smart will result in some wins.  Global Concepts will lean on the leadership and experience of returning First-Team All-Charter player Fred Searles.

***

Tapestry:  JaQuoine Fogan - 11, DeJuan Owens - 12, Jordan Maxey - 12, DaVonte Cunningham - 11, Marques Perkins - 12, Jesus McClain - 12, Poshine Jenifer - 12, Andre Bragg  - 12, Keith Littlejohn - 12, Joe Henderson - 12, Kaleb King - 12, Chemar Pilot - 12

Oracle:  Shaundez Davis - 12, Kenny White - 11, Shakur Bridges - 10, Rakim Graves - 11, Darius Embry - 11, Andra Austin - 12, Jamal Woods - 11

Health Sciences:  Malik Walker - 12, Nasir Flood - 12, Mikel Carr - 12, Dayquan Williams - 11, Tyquan Jordan - 11, Carson Wiseman - 11, Kam Rashada - 11, Tyrin Lott - 9

WNY Maritime:  Damon Glenn - 12, Arkeil Gaskins - 12, DeQuan Sanders - 9

Global Concepts:  Fred Searles - 12, Nick Moylan - 12, Lincoln Billingslea - 11, Fabian Pierce - 11 

Buffalo Science:  Joe Owens - 12, Neil squires - 12, Jazzmone Brown - 12, Abdullah Farah - 12, Aristotle Copeland - 12, Lauren Killian - 11, David Harris - 11, Roland Taylor - 11, Julian Johnson - 10, Georges Cortes - 10, JaQuez McMullin - 10, Deonte Brown - 10, Julian Allen - 9

 

*******************************************

 

New Coaches

Giulio Colangelo - Niagara Catholic

Tony Pulvirenti - Cardinal O'Hara

Karl Maggiore - DaVinci

Pat Foster - Lafayette

Joe Pawlak - Roy-Hart

Jack O'Brien - Dunkirk

Bill Torrey - Portville 

David Phiblad - Pine Valley

Camilo Hoyos - CSAT

Ben Ganschow - Buffalo Science

 

***********************************************

 

Classification Changes

South Park moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

Starpoint moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Iroquois moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

West Seneca East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

East Aurora moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Springville moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Albion moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Maryvale moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Olean moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Dunkirk moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Fredonia moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Falconer moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

City Honors moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Fredonia moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Falconer moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Salamanca moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Gowanda moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Middle College moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Holland moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Portville moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Maple Grove moves down from Class C2 to Class D

I-Prep moves down from Class C2 to Class D

Westfield moves down from Class C2 to Class D

 

************************************************

 

Predictions

MMA - Canisius

Yale Cup I - McKinley

Yale Cup II - I-Prep

ECIC I - Jamestown

ECIC II - Williamsville South

ECIC III - Cheektowaga

ECIC IV - Lackawanna

NFL - Niagara Falls

N-O - Wilson

CCAA I West - Fredonia

CCAA I East - Silver Creek

CCAA II West - Maple Grove

CCAA II East - Franklinville

Charters:  Tapestry

 

Manhattan Cup: Nichols

Class AA: Jamestown

Class A1: McKinley 

Class A2: Cheektowaga

Class B1: Depew

Class B2: East

Class C1: Silver Creek

Class C2: Middle College

Class D: Maple Grove

 

-centercourt

Where we left off: A look back at 2014

 (Olean's Wil Bathurst throws down an alley-oop dunk after a lob from Nick Schmidt during the 2014 Class B crossover game, where the Huskies defeated East, 62-59. Photo by Dave DeLuca )             

 

- Jamestown finished the regular season in a three-way tie for first place in ECIC I, before embarking on an improbable run through the Class AA state playoffs.   The Red Raiders made it all the way to the NYSPHAA Class AA state championship game and nearly won the whole thing, as they trailed eventual winner Green Tech by just two points with 13 seconds remaining.

 

- Nichols didn't bother to listen to anyone who had already handed Canisius the Manhattan Cup.  Instead, the Vikings sent shock waves through the WNY high school hoops community when they toppled the Crusaders on their home floor in the semifanals of the Manhattan Cup playoffs.  Nichols went on to win its third Cup in program history, defeating Timon in the final.

 

- Olean's team of the ages looked all-world in the Class B1 playoffs, winning its first three games by an average margin of 38 points.  Then, after surviving in the Game of the Year against East in the Class B crossover, the Huskies surged ahead, straight to the Class B state title game.  Once there, they fell victim to a red-hot Westhill team, in one of the most surreal games I've ever witnessed (Westhill led 49-18 at the half and won 93-55, led by a pair of juniors who combined for 79 points).

 

- Until Canisius was upset in the Manhattan Cup semifinal, they dominated the local competiton like we haven't seen in some time.  Its closest game of the season against a WNY team had been a 12-point win over Nichols in the regular season.  Following the season, the area's most highly touted player, sophomore point guard Howard Washington, transferred out of Canisius and now attends Montverde Academy in Florida.

 

- McKinley came off of its state championship season with a brand new starting lineup, and proceeded to win the overall Section VI Class A title, again.

 

- Cheektowaga & Amherst made both ECIC III and Class A2 exciting races to follow.  Amherst took the league championship, despite falling in both regualr season contests to the Warriors.  Then, in the Class A2 final at Buffalo State, they went at it in an overtime thriller that saw the Warriors take the third meeting as well and claim their first ever sectional crown.  

 

- Middle College finished ahead of both East & McKinley to win the Yale Cup and then rolled all the way to the Class C state championship game for the third time in school history, before falling to Hoosic Valley.

 

- St. Mary's once again represented the MMA as the Class B school in the CHSAA state final. The Lancers had a senior laden team that swept both Nichols & Park, beat Class C state finalist Middle College, Class B2 champ Fredonia, beat Class AA finalist Clarence, and swept St. Joe's.

 

- Sherman won its second straight Section VI Class D title.  Then, despite Batavia Notre Dame's best efforts to steal another Class D regional by playing in Class D with a private school, Sherman advanced to Glens Falls after knocking Batavia ND off.  The Wildcats bombed in 10 first half 3-pointers, to build a 20-point halftime lead.

 

- Canisius, Fredonia, I-Prep, Barker, and Sherman were all undefeated league champions.

 

- The 2014 All-Centercourt First Team:  Zack Panebianco, Jr. (Jamestown), Wil Bathurst, Sr. (Olean), Sterling Taplin, Sr. (Williamsville North), Johnathon Lewis, Sr. (East), Donte Williams, Sr. (Timon)

 

- 2014 CC MVP awarded to Player of the Year:   Zack Panebianco  (Jamestown)

 

- Sixth Man of the Year:  Josh Huffman  (Canisius)

 

- Coach of the Year:   Jeff Anastasia  (Olean)

 

- 2014 Centercourt All-Defensive Team:  Johnathan Lewis (East),  Ryan Richards  (Canisius), D'Andre Steward (McKinley),  TJ Scott  (Middle College),  Brian Stoldt (Alden)

 

-centercourt

Classifications for 2014-2015

    Class AA   (11 Teams)                                           Monsignor Martin Class A 

    Jamestown - ECIC I                                                      Canisius 

    Niagara Falls - NFL                                                        Nichols 

    Kenmore West - NFL                                                    Timon 

    Lancaster - ECIC I                                                          St. Joe's 

    Clarence - ECIC I                                                           St. Francis 

    Williamsville North - ECIC I                                                 

    Lockport - NFL                                                               Monsignor Martin Class B

    Frontier - ECIC I                                                            Park

    West Seneca West - ECIC I                                       St. Mary's

    Orchard Park - ECIC I                                                 Cardinal O'Hara

    Niagara Wheatfield - NFL                                          Archbishop Walsh

                                                                                                  Niagara Catholic                                                                          

   

 Class A1 (10 Teams)                                   Class A2 (11 Teams)

 

    McKinley - Yale Cup I                                                 Amherst - ECIC III        

    Williamsville South - ECIC II                                  Cheektowaga - ECIC III

    Williamsville East - ECIC II                                      Lew-Port - NFL

    North Tonawanda - NFL                                            Olean - CCAA

    Sweet Home - ECIC II                                                 Iroquois - ECIC II

    Hutch-Tech - Yale Cup I                                            Riverside - Yale Cup I

    South Park - Yale Cup I                                              West Seneca East - ECIC II

    Grand Island - NFL                                                       Starpoint - ECIC II

    Hamburg - ECIC II                                                       Lake Shore - ECIC II

    Kenmore East - NFL                                                    Pioneer - ECIC III

                                                                                                  Dunkirk - CCAA                                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                              

    Class B1 (15 Teams)                                                 Class B2  (15 Teams)    

    Maryvale - ECIC III                                                       East - Yale Cup I

    East Aurora - ECIC III                                                  Fredonia - CCAA I West

    Depew - ECIC III                                                             Cleveland Hill - ECIC IV

    City Honors - Yale Cup II                                            Lackawanna - ECIC IV

    Tonawanda - ECIC IV                                                   Oracle - Charter

    Bennett - Yale Cup I                                                       Health Sciences - Charter

    Medina - N-O                                                                     CSAT - N-O

    Newfane - N-O                                                                  Wilson - N-O

    Burgard - Yale Cup I                                                       Emerson - Yale Cup II

    Alden - ECIC IV                                                                Falconer - CCAA West I

    Buffalo Arts - Yale Cup II                                             Roy-Hart - N-O

    Lafayette - Yale Cup II                                                   Southwestern - CCAA West I

    Albion - N-O                                                                       Akron - N-O

    Springville - ECIC III                                                     JFK - ECIC IV

    Eden - ECIC IV                                                                  DaVinci - Yale Cup II   

 

     

   Class C1 (10 Teams)                                                       Class C2 (10 Schools)

    Silver Creek - CCAA East I                                          Middle College - Yale Cup I

    Tapestry - Charter                                                          Olmsted - Yale Cup II

    Salamanca - CCAA East I                                             Randolph - CCAA East I

    Allegany-Limestone - CCAA East I                          Holland - ECIC IV

    Cassadaga Valley - CCAA West I                              MST Seneca - Yale Cup II

    Chautauqua Lake - CCAA West I                              Global Concepts - Charter

    Maritime - Charter                                                          Portville - CCAA East I

    Gowanda - CCAA East I                                                Franklinville - CCAA East II

    Barker - N-O                                                                      Frewsburg - CCAA West II

    Cattaraugus/Little Valley - CCAA West I             Buffalo Science - Charter

 

 

   Class D (12 Teams)

    Maple Grove - CCAA West II

    I-Prep - Yale Cup II

    Westfield - CCAA West II

    Sherman - CCAA West II

    Clymer - CCAA West II

    Panama - CCAA West II

    Pine Valley - CCAA East II

    Brocton - CCAA West II

    Ellicottville - CCAA East II

    West Valley - CCAA East II

    Forestville - CCAA East II

    North Collins - CCAA East II

 

    -centercourt

The Schedule - 2014-2015

 

Saturday, March 28th

NYS Federation Semifinals at SUNY Albany 

Class B:

Park vs. Westhill - 1 pm

Dwight vs.  Maspeth - 3 pm

 

Saturday, March 28th

NYS Federation Championships at SUNY Albany

Class A:

Canisius vs. Albany Academy - 5 pm

Class AA:

Wings Academy vs.  TBD - 9 pm

 

Sunday, March 29th

NYS Federation Championships at SUNY Albany

Class B:

4 pm

 

-centercourt

The 2014 All-Centercourt Team: The Best in WNY

 

FIRST TEAM ALL-CENTERCOURT

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, Junior  *2014 Centercourt Player of the Year*

19.1 PPG  /  4.1 APG  /  3.5 RPG  /  2.2 SPG

 Simply stated, he's a gamer.  Seems to understand exactly what his team needs and then delivers it at the right moment.  As humble and level-headed a player as you will find.  Led Jamestown to the Class AA state championship game.  Voted 1st Team All-ECIC & 1st Team ECIC I.  Selected to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  Earned a spot on the NYSPHAA Class AA Tournament Team.  Shot 49% from the field & 41% from beyond the arc.  Averaged 24.3 points per game in six playoff outings.  Scored 30+ points in five games.  Scored a career-high 37 points in three quarters against Lancaster.  Scored 34 points in a regional win over Greece Athena and followed it up with a 31-point performance in the Class AA state semifinal win over Union-Endicott.  Broke the record for most 3-pointers in two games at the NYSPHAA Class AA Tournament.  Click here to read more on Zack's Player of the Year season.

 

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, Senior

22.6 PPG  /  4.9 APG  /  4.3 RPG  /  3.1 SPG

A 1st Team All-Centercourt selection for a record third-straight season.  A highly skilled player with the best court vision and passing of any player in the area.  Faced a defensive game plan designed to limit him everytime he took the court.  Chosen to play in the Jordan Classic Regional game.  Named All-ECIC Player of the Year.  Named to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  Selected as MVP of the Five Guys Holiday Tournament.  Scored a season-high 45 points against Frontier in 27 minutes of gameplay.  Shot 57% from the field on the season.  Led the Spartans to a share of the ECIC I league title.  Finishes his career 23rd on WNY's all-time scoring list and #1 in school history with 1,877 points.  Also the all-time leader at Williamsville North in assists (371) and steals (245).  A five-year starter who never missed a game during his 99-game varsity career and averaged 19 ppg, 3.7 apg, & 2.5 spg over that span.

 

Wil Bathurst - Olean, Senior

19.8 PPG  /  7.0 RPG  /  4.0 APG  /  1.7 SPG  /  1.0 BPG

One of the very best all-around players in WNY this season.  A fan favorite and high-riser who can do everything on the court.  Helped the Huskies capture a third straight Section VI Class B title and a 20-win season against a grueling independent schedule.  Scored over 30 points in a game three times this season, including a 36 point & 12 rebound effort against Greece Athena.  Selected to the NYSPHAA Class B All-Tournament Team.  Named MVP of the Section VI Class B1 Tournament.  Was MVP of the Olean Tip-Off Tournament.  Will play Division I basketball at Cornell next season.

 

 Johnathon Lewis - East, Senior

17.6  PPG  /  5.0 RPG  /  3.2 SPG  /  2.7 APG

Brings relentless energy on both ends of the floor all game.  Whether taking a big shot or driving to the basket, was absolutely fearless.  One of the top defenders in WNY.  Led East to the Section VI Class B2 championship.  Scored 11 points in the fourth quarter of a furious comeback attempt in the Game of the Year against Olean .  Named MVP of the Aquinas Tournament.  MVP of the Section VI Class B2 Tournament. Chosen as MVP of Championship Week at Buff State by Keith McShea of the Buffalo News.  Game MVP in win over Timon at the Pastor Cooper.  Voted 1st Team Yale Cup I.  Season-highs of 33 & 32 points in wins over Middle College & Aquinas.  Considering an offer from Daemen, going to Prep School, Juco, & Buffalo State College.

 

Donte Williams - Timon, Senior

 24 PPG  /  6.8 RPG  /  3 APG

One of the area's most talented players who is built to play at the next level.  Capable of taking a game over when he was dialed in.  A high-riser who threw down some spectacular dunks in traffic.  Finished the season with 652 points, the most in WNY by any player this season, and totaled 1,133 for his three-year varsity career.  Led Timon to the second seed in the Manhattan Cup playoffs, where the Tigers reached the final.  Voted All-Catholic Co-Player of the Year.  Named Player of the Game after leading Timon to an overtime victory over Williamsville North at the Cataract Classic, following his game-winning 3-pointer.  Eclipsed the 30-point mark four times this season, twice going over 40 points, with a season-high of 43 points against UPrep of Rochester.  Undecided regarding future plans.

 

*******************************************

 

SECOND TEAM ALL-CENTERCOURT

Bri'an Brown - Middle College, Senior

18 PPG  /  11 RPG  /  6 APG

Athletically gifted player with exceptional body control and the ability to knife through a defense to get to the basket.  Showed great timing when blocking shots.  Led the Kats to the NYSPHAA Class C state championship game after they captured their second Yale Cup in program history.   Named Yale Cup I Player of the Year.  MVP of the Section VI Class C1Tournament Team.  Selected to the NYSPHAA All-Tournament Team in Class C.  Scored 30 & 40 points in a pair of meetings with Bennett.  Considering Canisius College, Hartford University, and Prep School.

 

Howard Washington - Canisius, Sophomore

15.0 PPG  /  5.5 APG  /  4.0 RPG

The floor general of WNY's most dominant team this season.  Smooth shooter from the perimeter.  A pure point guard with a team-first style.  Tremendous court vision and passing.  Already the recipient of multiple major Division I offers.  Voted All-Catholic Co-Player of the Year.  MVP of the Crudaders' win in the RAP Classic over Webster Schroeder after a 24-point performance and his first ever high school dunk.  Controlled the tempo in an 18-point win over Olean with 13 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists.  Scored over 20 points in six games and seven or more assists in 10 games.

 

Quinn Lee Yaw - Jamestown, Senior

16.1 PPG  /  10.1 RPG  /  2.2 APG  /  1.4 BPG

A high-intensity player who was the team's emotional leader.  Improved significantly in each of three varsity seasons at Jamestown.  Was instrumantal in leading the Red Raiders to the NYSPHAA Class AA state championship game by being the teams major presence in the post.  Was dominant in the Section VI final against Clarence, posting 26 points and 15 rebounds and earned MVP honors of the Section VI Class AA Tournament.  Was one rebound against Greece Athena shy of having a double-double in all six of the Red Raiders' playoff games.  Named Co-Player of the Year in ECIC I, 1st Team All-ECIC, and was named to the NYSPHAA All-Tournament team in Class AA in Glens Falls.  Considering Edinboro, Hobart, & Exeter Prep after graduation.

 

Sam Eckstrom - Olean, Senior 

20.3 PPG  /  9.6 RPG  /  1.3 BPG

Smooth finisher around the basket with solid footwork.  Excellent at using pivot and going right or left.  Finishes career at Olean with 1,536 points, good for third on the school's all-time list.  His 790 career rebounds are a school record.  Shot 64% from the field on the season.  Scored over 30 points on five occasions this year, including a 38 point & 12 rebound effort in a win over Bishop Kearney and 34 points & 14 boards in a victory vs. Greece Athena.  He also netted 30 & 10 in the Class B state semifinal.  Selected to the NYSPHAA Class B and Section VI Class B1 All-Tournament Teams.  Will attend the College of St. Rose next year.

 

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, Sophomore

13.0 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  4.5 BPG

Provided the Crusaders with the best post presence I've ever seen at Canisius in just his sophomore season.  Exceptional timing as a shot blocker.  Plays above the rim.  Runs the floor better than any big man in WNY.  Voted 1st Team All-Catholic.  Named MVP of the Tom Keenan Memorial Tournament after Canisius upset defending CHSAA state champion Nazereth.  Selected to the Georgetown Prep All-Tournament Team.  Had a game-high 16 rebounds in the Crusaders' win over Olean.  Eclipsed the 20-point mark in four games and collected at least 15 rebounds on five separate occasions.

 

***********************************************

 

 THIRD TEAM ALL-CENTERCOURT

Billy Brooks - Silver Creek, Junior

19.1 PPG  /  14.4 RPG  /  6.7 BPG  /  4.2 APG

A highly coordinated 6-8 big man that completely dominated in the post.  Has the ability to get the fast break started with outlet passing after rebounds.  Superior ball movement skills - the best passing big man in WNY.  Aggressive shot blocker with more rejections than any other player in WNY.  Voted 1st Team CCAA West  I.  Selected to Section VI Class C1 All-Tournament Team.  Registered 18 double-doubles in 21 games.  Had a stretch of four straight triple-double games.  Scored all 16 of his team's fourth quarter points in a 31-point outing at Park.  Had 21 points, 24 boards, & nine blocks in a 14-point win against an unbeaten Barker team in the Class C1 semifinals.

 

Cam Lewis - Nichols, Junior

16.1 PPG  /  7.7 RPG  /  2.0 APG  /  1.4 SPG

A do-it-all big man who is comfortable in the paint, but routinely handles the ball.  Can serve as a press-breaker and will knock down shots from the perimeter.  Led the Vikings to a Manhattan Cup championship, where he was named MVP.  A career 1,000 point scorer heading into his senior season.  Scored a career-high 28 points in a win over Park.  Voted 1st Team All-Catholic.  Posted nine double-doubles.

 

Chris Miner - Nichols, Junior

16.4 PPG  /  12.9 RPG  /  2.1 BPG  /  1.8 SPG

A force inside for the Vikings who owns the glass and finishes with ease around the basket.  Led Nichols to the CHSAA Class A semifinal, after being the team-high scorer in the Manhattan Cup championship win.  A double-double machine, registering 20 this season after starting all 28 games.  Scored his 1,000th career point as a junior in the Manhattan Cup quarterfinals.  Voted 2nd Team All-Catholic.  Scored a career-high 27 points twice this season in wins over St. Francis & Park.

 

Colin Dougherty - Lockport, Senior

16.4 PPG  /  2.6 RPG  /  2.5 APG  /  1.6 SPG

A shifty player with an excellent handle and a high basketball IQ.  Has great shooting range and knows when to assert himself in a game.  Was a crowd favorite at Buff State after leading his team to the Class AA semifinals.  Helped Lockport earn a share of the NFL title.  Voted to 1st-Team in the NFL.  Selected to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  Had 28 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in the quarterfinals at Kenmore West to advance his team.  Scored a game-high 26 points in the semifinals against eventual state finalist Jamestown.  Considering an offer from Daemen, along with the possibility of Nazereth, Allegany, and Prep School.

 

Ryan Funk - Clarence, Senior

18.0 PPG  /  7.0 RPG  /  1.2 APG

Moves up from Fifth Team All-Centercourt last season.  Named 1st Team All-ECIC and ECIC I.  Led the Red Devils to the Section VI Class AA championship game.  Helped his team earn a share of the league title in ECIC I and capture the Clarence Holiday Tournament championship.  Named to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  One of WNY's deadliest shooters, made 43 three-pointers and shot 82% from the charity stripe.  Posted five double-doubles and scored 30 points twice in wins against Williamsville North and North Tonawanda.  Considering Daemen, Medaille, St. Thomas More Prep, & Lynchburg for next year.

 

***********************************************

 

FOURTH TEAM ALL-CENTERCOURT

Phil Bowen - Iroquois, Senior

 24.2 PPG  /  3.9 RPG  /  3.8 APG  /  2.1 SPG

Strong with the ball and able to penetrate.  Relied upon to both handle the ball and score for the Chiefs.  Put Iroquois on his back and carried them to the league title in ECIC II.  Voted ECIC II Player of the Year.  Had second highest scoring average in all of WNY this season.  Eclipsed the 30 point mark in a game three times.  Considering either Medaille or Hilbert for basketball next year.

 

Lester Diaz - Lafayette, Senior

31.4 PPG  /  7.0 APG  /  3.4 RPG  /  3.2 SPG

Outstanding court vision and basketball IQ.  Plays the game at full speed for 32 minutes.  In range the moment he steps over half court.  Voted Player of the Year in Yale Cup II.  Had highest scoring average in WNY while always finding an open teammate with a pass.  Had a season-high 43 points against Buffalo Arts.  Scored 41 points in a win over MST Seneca.  Finished with 39 points against top ten small school Park.  Scored 35 points against Yale Cup II champion, I-Prep.  Had 25 points at Class A2 semifinalist Lew-Port.

 

Percy Bryant - East, Junior

17.4 PPG  /  6.2 APG  /  4.7 SPG  /  3.5 RPG

Combines blistering quickness with excellent dribbling skills.  Slashes through defenses at will.  An unrelenting defender who consistently creates turnovers.  Part of the backcourt duo that led East to a second straight Class B2 championship.  Led his team in both assists and steals.  Had at least five steals in 13 games.  Voted 1st Team Yale Cup I.  Selected to the Section VI Class B2 All-Tournament Team.  Recorded a season-high 33 points, along with 10 steals, in a win at McKinley.  Scored 23 points and dished 10 assists in a sectional overtime win vs. Health Sciences.  

 

Kevin Briggs - Middle College, Senior 

17 PPG  /  6 APG  /  4 RPG  /  3 SPG 

A classic scorer who can hurt you from the perimeter or by slashing to the basket.  A high-motor player who thrived in transition.  Helped the Kats advance all the way to the NYSPHAA Class C state championship game where he was named to the state's All-Tournament Team.  Scored a game-high 31 points in a state semifinal win over Friends Academy.  Voted to 1st-Team Yale Cup I after helping Middle College capture the city's championship trophy.  Also selected to the Section VI All-Tournament Team for Class C1.  Had a pair of triple-doubles on the season, including 35 points, 11 assists, & 10 rebounds in a win over Hutch-Tech.  Will look to play JUCO following high school.

 

Nick Schmidt - Olean, Senior

17.0 PPG  /  3.1 APG

The best perimeter shooter in all of WNY.  A tough and underrated defender.  Takes care of the basketball and makes great decisions in helping to facilitate Olean's offense.  A luxury as a third option for the Huskies.  Finishes his career with 1,135 points. Ended up third all-time in steals at Olean with 198.  Shot a whopping 52% from 3-point land.  Connected on a WNY-leading and school record 97 3-pointers this season, the 4th most in a season all-time in WNY.  Named MVP of the IAABO Tournament after connecting on eight treys, including the game-winner, against Nichols.  Made seven of nine attempts from downtown in the Class B state semifinal win over Woodlands.

 

 ***************************************************

 

FIFTH TEAM ALL-CENTERCOURT

Jake Haight - Barker, Senior

18.1 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  4.3 SPG  /  4.2 APG

Combines size & athleticism with natural game instincts.  Well-rounded skill set allows him to play anywhere on the court.  Selected to the Section VI Class C1 All-Tournament Team.  Voted 1st Team N-O for a third consecutive season.  Led Barker to its first league championship since 1978, before they even played in the N-O.  Guided the Raiders to a 19-0 start and the last unbeaten team in WNY.  Broke the all-time scoring mark at Barker this season and finished with 1,338 for his career.

 

Dylan Meyer - Fredonia, Senior

21.7 PPG  /  4.2 RPG

Strong player inside with great instincts.  Can step out and shoot from the perimeter, or put the ball on the floor to get past you.  Voted Player of the Year in CCAA West I.  Selected to the Section VI Class B1 All-Tournament Team.  Scored a season-high 36 points against Greece Athena at the Jamestown Tournament.  Finished with 32 points in a win at Lackawanna.  Finished his career with 1,410 points and 438 rebounds for the Hillbillies.  His career point total is second only to Michael Heary in Fredonia history.  Will play D3 at Milwaukee School of Engineering.

 

Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Freshman

19.5 PPG  /  13.3 RPG  /  3.6 BPG  /  1.4 APG  /  1.2 SPG

The future of WNY basketball is in great hands with this young star.  Can play every position on the court.  Poised beyond his years.  Threw down the highlight dunk of postseason at Buff State.  Led the Warriors to their first ever sectional title as a freshman.  Voted 1st Team ECIC III.   Named to the Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team.  Set the single-season school record for blocks with 80.  Registered 19 double-doubles and one triple-double.

 

TC Brown - Amherst, Sophomore

18.2 PPG  /  6.0 RPG  /  5.6 APG  /  3.9 SPG

Confident team leader and fierce competitor who still has two varsity seasons remaining.  Led Amherst to a second straight ECIC III title and a return trip to the Section VI Class A2 final.  Voted 1st Team All-ECIC and POY in ECIC III.  Selected to the Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team.  MVP of the Jolly Boys Tournament.

 

Devin Morris - McKinley, Junior

15 PPG  /  11 RPG  /  2 BPG  /  2 SPG  

Excellent outside shooter with a knack for penetrating and finishing.  Led the Macks to a 3rd straight sectional title in Class A1 and back to the regionals for a second-straight year.  Voted 1st Team Yale Cup I.  Selected MVP of the Section VI Class A1 Tournament.  Logged 15 double-doubles and three triple-doubles on the season.  Connected on 36 3-pointers.  Scored a career-high 27 points against St. Joe's.

 

********************************************

  

HONORABLE MENTION

Justin Hollins - St. Joe's, Senior

 18.8 PPG  /  7.9 RPG  /    2.2 APG  /  1.3 SPG  -  1st Team All-Catholic - Eclipsed 30 pts three times

 

Tyler English - St. Mary's, Senior

15.3 PPG  /  6.0 RPG  /  2.6 APG  /  1.6 SPG  /  1.0 BPG -  1st Team All-Catholic

 

Matt Wrobel - St. Mary's, Senior

12.8 PPG  /  5.6 RPG  /  1.5 APG  -  25 pts, 14 rebs in win vs. Clarence - Led team in offensive reb.

 

D'Andre Steward - McKinley, Senior

14 PPG  /  8 RPG  /  3 SPG  - 1st Team Yale Cup I  -  4 triple-doubles - career-high 32 pts vs. Bennett

 

Varin Lenard - McKinley, Senior

13 PPG  /  8 RPG  /  2 SPG  - 2nd Team Yale Cup I  - Class A1 All-Tournament Team

 

Bryan Jost - Clarence, Senior

10 PPG  /  5 APG  /  3 SPG  /  3 RPG  -  1st Team ECIC I - Class AA All-Tournament Team

 

Willie Smith - Riverside, Senior

19.0 PPG  /  8.6 RPG  /  5.8 APG  /  3.3 SPG  - Career-high 38 pts, 15 rebs, 5 assists vs. East

 

Ryan Richards - Canisius, Senior

 10.0 PPG  /  7.0 RPG  /  2.0 SPG  /  1.5 BPG  -  Athletic, aggressive in post  & lockdown defender.

 

Luke Hennessy - Olean, Senior

5.7 PPG  /  6.5 APG  /  1.6 SPG -  Finished career with 421 assists & 194 steals

 

Noah Whalen - Kenmore West, Senior

17.3 PPG  /  3.8 RPG  /  2.1 SPG  - 1st Team NFL  -  Games highs 32 & 31 pts  - 64% 2 pt FGS

 

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, Senior

15.1 PPg  / 5.1 RPG  /  1.7 APG  /  1.3 SPG  -  1st Team ECIC III

 

Dylan Dussault - Alden, Senior

16.6 PPG  /  10.8 RPG  /  2.0 APG  /  2.0 SPG  /  1.5 BPG  -  1st Team ECIC IV

 

Ryan Lawrence - Lockport, Senior

13.6 PPG  /  6 RPG  -  1st Team NFL

 

Allen Wright Jr. - Health Sciences, Senior

 15.8 PPG  /  8.1 APG  /  5.2 RPG  -  Charter School Player of the Year

 

Derrick Sekuterski - Depew, Senior

11.8 PPG  /  8.9 RPG  /  4.3 APG  /  2.4 SPG  /  1.6 BPG  -  1st Team ECIC III

 

Aaron Phillips - Cleveland Hill, Senior

16.3 PPG  /  11.6 RPG  /  2.6 BPG  /  2.2 APG  /  1.4 SPG  -  ECIC IV Player of the Year

 

Dom Saglimben - Allegany-Limestone, Senior

20.9 PPG  /  3.8 RPG  /  3.6 SPG  /  3.2 APG  -  1st Team  CCAA I East 

 

Andrew Graham - Sherman, Senior

14.4 PPG  /  3.2 RPG  /  3.2 APG  /  2.0 SPG  -  1st Team CCAA II West

 

Joe Piotroski - North Tonawanda, Senior

13.0 PPG  /  2.6 APG  /  2.5 RPG  /  2.2 SPG  -  1st Team NFL

 

Ed Smith - Maryvale, Senior

17.1 PPG  /  6.6 RPG  /  4.5 APG  /  2.1 SPG  -  1st Team ECIC III

 

TJ Scott - Middle College, Senior

16 PPG  /  10 RPG  /  4 SPG  - 2nd Team Yale Cup I.  Scored 23 pts & 14 rebs in regional win.

 

LaTerrance Reed - Canisius, Junior

14.0 PPG  /  4.0 RPG  /  2.5 APG  /  2.5 SPG  -  2nd Team All-Catholic

 

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, Junior

15.4 PPG  /  8.9 RPG  /  3.7 APG  /  1.8 SPG  -  1st Team ECIC III, MVP of Sec VI Class A2 Tourney

 

Nicholas Clough - Williamsville East, Junior

20.3 PPG  /  4.2 RPG  /  1.7 APG  /  1.7 SPG  -  1st Team ECIC II

 

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, Junior

18.3 PPG  /  9.2 APG  /  4.0 APG  /  2.8 SPG  -  1st Team ECIC II

 

Clay Lewis - Holland, Junior

23.2 PPG  /  6.9 RPG  /  3.6 SPG  /  2.6 APG  -  1st Team ECIC IV  - 2nd Team All-ECIC

 

Tanner Schmit - Nichols, Junior

14.0 PPG  /  7.6 RPG  /  1.3 BPG  /  1.2 SPG  /  1.0 APG  -  2nd Team All-Catholic

 

Bryce Morrison - Randolph, Junior

 18.2 PPG  /  6.5 RPG  /  6.2 APG  /  3.0 SPG  -  1st Team CCAA I East

 

Kordell Holness-Lightbody - St. Francis, Junior

17.8 PPG  /  3.7 APG  /  2.5 RPG  /  2.4 SPG  -  2nd Team All-Catholic

 

Derick Simpson - Timon, Junior

13 PPG  /  12 RPG  - 2nd Team All-Catholic

 

Derek Cheatom - Park, Junior

 16.8 PPG  / 7.5  RPG  /  2.2 APG  /  2.2 SPG  /  2.0 BPG  -  2nd Team All-Catholic

 

Sam Castronova - Williamsville South, Junior

 17.6 PPG  /  5.7 RPG  /  3.7 APG  /  1.6 SPG  -  1st Team ECIC II

 

Jared Fish - Salamanca, Junior

19.3 PPG  /  13.2 RPG  /  2.7 APG  /  1.7 SPG  - CCAA East I Player of the Year

 

Cody Johnson - Cassadaga Valley, Junior

20.7 PPG  /  9.1 RPG  /  2.1 BPG  -  CCAA West II Player of the Year

 

Brandon Roach - Olmsted, Sophomore

16.9 PPG  /  6.5 RPG  /  4.0 APG  /  3.1 SPG  - 1st Team Yale Cup II - WNY Season-high 50 pt game 

 

-centercourt

All-League Teams - 2014

 

- Monsignor Martin

- Yale Cup I, II

- All-ECIC

-ECIC I, II, III, & IV

- NFL

- N-O

-CCAA West I, II

- CCAA East I, II

- Charter Schools

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION

Co-Players of the Year:

Donte Williams, Timon - 12

Howard Washington, Canisius - 10

 

First Team

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, 10

Tyler English - St. Mary's, 12

Cam Lewis - Nichols, 11

Justin Hollins - St. Joe's, 12

Derek Cheatom - Park, 11

 

Second Team

Chris Miner - Nichols, 11

LaTerrance Reed - Canisius, 11

Derick Simpson - Timon, 11

Tanner Schmit - Nichols, 11

Kordell Holness-Lightbody - St. Francis, 11

 

************************************************

 

YALE CUP I

Player of the Year:

Bri'an Brown - Middle College, 12

 

First Team

Johnathon Lewis - East, 12

Percy Bryant - East, 11

D'Andre Steward - McKinley, 12

Devin Morris - McKinley, 11

Kevin Briggs - Middle College, 12

 

Second Team

Shawn Young - East, 12

Aymanuel Ranford - Hutch-Tech, 12

Varin Lenard - McKinley, 12

Tarron Scott - Middle College, 12

Willie Smith - Riverside, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Dave Williams - Bennett, 12

AJ Ayala - East, 12

Dante Thompson - McKinley, 12

Keion Godson - South Park, 12

Austin Peach - South Park, 12

 

************************************************

 

YALE CUP II

Player of the Year:

Lester Diaz - Lafayette, 12

 

First Team

Terrance James - I-Prep, 11

Xavier Maye - I-Prep, 11

Michael Simpson - Emerson, 10

Ivan Harris - Buffalo Arts, 

Matt Cieslik - City Honors, 11

Brandon Roach - Olmsted, 10

 

Second Team

Damon Boykin - I-Prep, 12

Jamaal Felton - MST Seneca, 12

Jason Dowell - Emerson, 10

Jovanny Vargas - Lafayette, 10

 

Third Team

Isiah Griffin - Buffalo Arts, 12

Ballah burch - Olmsted, 12

Davon Grant - I-Prep, 10

Jordahn Summers - City Honors, 11

RaShawn Jones - MST Seneca, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Adam Figueroa - Lafayatte, 12

Jermaine Shelton - Buffalo Arts, 12

Dante Rivera - Emerson, 12

Nolan Megna - City Honors, 12

Griffin Tritto - Olmsted, 12

Divante Robinson - DaVinci, 11

 

*************************************************

 

ALL-ECIC

Player of the Year:

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 12

 

First Team

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

Quinn Lee Yaw - Jamestown, 12

Ryan Funk - Clarence, 12

Phil Bowen - Iroquois, 12

TC Brown - Amherst, 10

 

Second Team

Aaron Phillips - Cleveland Hill, 12

Dominik Welch - Cheektowaga, 9

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 11

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 11

Clay Lewis - Holland, 11

Jay Bergmann - Frontier, 11

 

*************************************************

 

ECIC I

Co-Players of the Year:

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 12

Quinn Lee Yaw - Jamestown, 12

 

First Team

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

Ryan Funk - Clarence, 12

Bryan Jost - Clarence, 12

 Joe Jankowski - Lancaster, 12

Jay Bergmann - Frontier, 11

 

Second Team

Emaure Williams - Clarence, 12

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, 10

Mike Spengler - Lancaster, 12

Stephen Carlson - Jamestown, 11

Nick Clancy - West Seneca West, 12

Dylan Lambert - Williamsville North, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Dave Rajski - Frontier, 12

Frank Borzillieri - West Seneca West, 11

Camron Murray - Orchard Park, 12

George Attea - Williamsville North, 11

Sean Hill - Williamsville North, 10

 

****************************************************

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Phil Bowen - Iroquois, 12

 

First Team

Sam Castronova - Williamsville South, 11

Nicholas Clough - Williamsville East, 11

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 11

James Nix - Sweet Home, 12

Griffin Ryan - Hamburg, 12

 

Second Team

Brandon Pierce - Hamburg, 12

Josh Pieczynski - Iroquois, 12

Christian Nodine - Starpoint, 10

Kam Varner - Williamsville South, 11

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East, 11

Jordan Heine - Sweet Home, 11

 

 Honorable Mention

Brandon Smiley - Sweet Home, 11

Matt Macomber - Williamsville South, 12

Graham Dolan - Williamsville South, 11

Brock Kroening - Starpoint, 10

 

****************************************************

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

TC Brown - Amherst, 10

 

First Team

Zak Cieszki - Cheektowaga, 11

Dominik Welch - Cheektowaga, 9

Ed Smith - Maryvale, 12

Brandon Cox - East Aurora, 12

Derrick Sekuterski - Depew, 12

 

Second Team

Logan Jung - Maryvale, 12

Jordan Nwora - Amherst, 10

Mike Lamb - Depew, 12

Colin Hart - Lake Shore, 12

Darien Lowe - Amherst, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Colin Gemerek - Depew, 12

Greg Beatty - Springville, 12

Preston Summers - Cheektowaga, 12

Wade Bergum - Lake Shore, 12

Noah Thompson - East Aurora, 10

Michael Coatsworth - East Aurora, 11

Bryce Little - Pioneer, 11

Dorian Billups - Amherst, 11

Denis Vanini - Depew, 12

 

**************************************************

 

ECIC IV

Player of the Year:

Aaron Phillips - Cleveland Hill, 12

 

First Team

Clay Lewis - Holland, 11

Dylan Dussault - Alden, 12

Larry Fields - Lackawanna, 12

Bradley Palmerton - Eden, 12

Tristan Boling - Tonawanda, 11

 

Second Team

Jermaine Hairston - Cleveland Hill, 11

Ben Stich - Tonawanda, 12

Connor Pumm - Tonawanda, 12

Jared Watkins - Cleveland Hill, 12

JR Kline - Holland, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Tyler Glaser - Alden, 12

Nick Kibler - Alden, 12

Dylan Riddoch - Alden, 10

Joe Braniecki - JFK, 11

Josh McMahon - JFK, 11

Jeremiah Jones - Lackawanna, 11

Darius Cleveland - Lackawanna, 11

 

***************************************************

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

First  Team

Noah Whalen - Kenmore West, 12

Alex Price - Kenmore West, 12

Colin Dougherty - Lockport, 12

Ryan Lawrence - Lockport, 12

Ryan Ross - Grand Island, 12

 

Second Team

Charlie Sobieraski - Lockport, 12

Joe Piotroski - North Tonawanda, 12

Craig Paige - Lew-Port, 11

Chris Woodard - North Tonawanda, 11

Mike Awad - North Tonawanda, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Adam Geib - Kenmore East, 12

Adam Fron - Kenmore West, 12

Zach Keegan - Lew-Port, 12

Jenard Jackson - Lew-Port, 10

Moziah Townsend - Lockport, 12

 

*******************************************************

 

NIAGARA-ORLEANS

First Team

Jake Haight - Barker, 12

Mungie Brown - Medina, 12

Mitch Luckman - Barker, 12

Alex Stoddard - Roy-Hart, 12

Josh Kneeland - Newfane, 12

Kyle Bradley - Wilson, 11

 

Second Team

Bryce Moeller - Barker, 12

Darrell Wesley - CSAT, 12

Noah Diebel - Akron, 12

Alex Santos - CSAT, 12

Christopher Sweeney - Barker, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Ryan Fannin - Albion, 12

Jason Hellwig - Medina, 11

Desmond Blackmon - Albion, 11

DeRon Woods - Roy-Hart, 12

Andrew Xapos - Roy-Hart, 10

Hayden Gooding - Barker, 12

Sean Costello - Newfane, 12

Darius Carson - CSAT, 9

Cedric Griffith - Medina, 12

Conner Barleben - Albion, 12

Evan Shank  - Wilson, 11

 

****************************************************

 

CCAA I WEST

Player of the Year:

Dylan Meyer - Fredonia, 12

 

First Team

Billy Brooks - Silver Creek, 11

Corey Wefing - Maple Grove, 12

Graham Soffel - Maple Grove, 11

Nick Johnston - Fredonia, 12

Michael Bess - Dunkirk, 12

 

Second Team

Josh Nelson - Falconer/Frewsburg, 12

John Piper - Fredonia, 11

Mitch Carter - Falconer/Frewsburg, 12

Isaiah Thomas - Dunkirk, 10

Kyle Moran - Southwestern, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Trevon Thompson - Silver Creek, 10

Patrick Moore - Fredonia, 10

Cam Voss - Fredonia, 11

Cody Cunningham - Fredonia, 12

Esmond Colvin - Dunkirk, 12

Kyle Peterson - Falconer/Frewsburg, 12

Mike Wilcox - Falconer/Frewsburg, 12

Riley Beaton - Maple Grove, 12

Riley Ribicki - Southwestern, 12

Jack Carlson - Southwestern, 11

Mike Sandbloom - Southwestern, 11

Patrick Mogenhan - Southwestern, 11

 

***************************************************

 

CCAA II WEST

Player of the Year:

Cody Johnson - Cassadaga Valley, 11

 

First Team

Andrew Graham - Sherman, 12

Ryan Robson - Sherman, 12

Tanner Dahl - Westfield, 11

Dan Odell - Panama, 12

Ian Clute - Chautauqua Lake, 12

 

Second Team

Mitchel Einink - Clymer, 12

Jake Card - Sherman, 11

Liam Tennies - Westfield, 11

Mike Lancaster - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Ricky Eddy - Panama, 12

Matthew Destevens - Clymer, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Gregory Delahoy - Panama, 11

Josh Odell - Panama, 10

Bryce Payne - Panama, 12

Jake Wiggers - Clymer, 12

Devin Moorehead - Sherman, 12

Ryan Myers - Sherman, 12

Jacob Gray - Westfield, 12

Jesse Rodriguez - Westfield, 12

Kyle Ruge - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Randy Dalaba - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Aaron Rifigiato - Brocton, 10

Macalum Buchanan - Brocton, 12

 

**************************************************

 

CCAA I EAST

Player of the Year:

 Jared Fish - Salamanca, 11

 

First Team

Bryce Morrison - Randolph, 11

Damien Taylor  - Salamanca, 12

Curtis Caya - Portville, 12

Dom Saglimben - Allegany-Limestone, 12

Ryan Vossler - Allegany-Limestone, 12

 

Second Team

Mitchell Maycock - Randolph, 12

Isaac Hilyer - Portville, 11

Chase Williams - Gowanda, 11

Any Crandall - Salamanca, 11

Mason Bosley - Randolph, 11

Zach Ewings - Portville, 11

Cole Davis - Allegany-Limestone, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Tyler Siperek - Salamanca, 11

Justin Forster - Cattaraugus/Little Valley, 12

Taylor Miller - Randolph, 12

Cody Oldro - Randolph, 12

Brennan Geiger - Gowanda, 12

 

*************************************************** 

 

CCAA II EAST

Player of the Year:

Ben Erickson - Franklinville, 11

 

First Team

Phalla Musall - Ellicottville, 11

Cameron Wilson - Ellicottville, 12

Wayne Hartloff - Forestville, 12

Jake Nosbisch - Forestville, 12

Collin Seamans - Franklinville, 12

 

Second Team

Caleb Makuch - Forestville, 11

Jordan Milks - Franklinville, 10

Jacob Wilcox - Pine Valley, 12

Emil Erlandson - West Valley, 11

Tanner Gregory - Ellicottville, 12

Derek Wells - West Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Ryan Forbes - Forestville, 11

Dylan Szumigala - Forestville, 11

Drew Jackson - Franklinville

Tom Easton - Ellicottville, 10

Kilian Abers - Pine Valley

Bryce Jay - Pine Valley

Thomas Raiport - Pine Valley

Patrick Enser - West Valley

Collin Proctor - West Valley

Zane Lloyd - North Collins

 

*******************************************************

 

 CHARTER SCHOOLS

Player of the Year :

Allen Wright Jr. - Health Sciences, 12

 

First Team

Allen Wright - Health Sciences , 12

 

Fred Searles - Global Concepts, 11

 

Antone Gulledge - Oracle, 12

 

JaQuoine Fogan - Tapestry, 10

 

Carl Goodwin - Health Sciences, 12

 

 

Second Team

 

Aaron Day - Health Sciences, 12

 

Corey Wiseman - Health Sciences, 11

 

DeJaun Owens - Tapestry, 12

 

Isaiah Padin - Maritime, 12

 

Nelson Modi - Oracle, 12

 

 

Honorable Mention

 

Jordan Maxey - Tapestry, 11

 

Chip Davis - Maritime, 12

 

Chemar Pilot - Tapestry, 11

 

Yousef Yahya - Global Concepts, 11

 

Kenny White - Oracle, 10

 

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2014 Sectionals

 

Class B1

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 18th

(12) Alden 60, (13) Dunkirk 34

(15) Burgard 54, (10) Falconer/Frewsburg 45

(11) City Honors 66, (14) Eden 37

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 19th

(8) Bennett 48, (9) Newfane 47

(12) Alden 65, (5) Lafayette 52

(15) Burgard 54, (7) Buffalo Arts 47

(6) Depew 79, (11) City Honors 68

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 21st

(1) Fredonia 76, (8) Bennett 43

(4) Tonawanda 41, (12) Alden 32

 

(2) Olean 79, (15) Burgard 41 

(6) Depew 54, (3) Medina 31

 

Semifinals - Tuesday, February 25th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 7 pm & 8:30 pm

 (1) Fredonia 59, (4) Tonawanda 39

(2) Olean 73, (6) Depew 29

 

Final - Saturday, March 1st

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

(2) Olean 80,  (1) Fredonia 48

 

2014 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

*****************************************************

 

Class B2

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 18th

(12) Southwestern 52, (13) JFK 48

(10) Gowanda 65, (15) DaVinci 48

(11) Oracle 47, (14) Akron 36

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 19th

(9) Wilson 47, (8) Emerson 44

(5) Roy-Hart 78, (12) Southwestern 71 OT

(10) Gowanda 77, (7) Lackawanna 67

(6) CSAT 61, (11) Oracle 54

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 21st

(1) East 83, (9) Wilson 40

(4) Health Sciences 81, (5) Roy-Hart 51 

 

(2) Cleveland Hill 77, (10) Gowanda 53

(3) Salamanca 85, (6) CSAT 73

 

Semifinals - Tues & Wed, February 25th & 26th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:30 pm both days

 (1) East 67, (4) Health Sciences 62 OT

(2) Cleveland Hill 59, (3) Salamanca 55 OT

 

Final - Saturday, March 1st

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

 (1) East 58, (2) Cleveland Hill 49

 

2014 Section VI Class B2 Champions - East Panthers

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

Wilson & Alden advance to quarterfinals

 

Wilson 47, Emerson 44

Kyle Bradley scored a game-high 22 points and Evan Shank added 18 points as the ninth seeded Lakemen defeated the eighth seeded Eagles at Hutch-Tech during the Section VI pre-quarterfinal round on Wednesday night.  With the victory, Wilson advances to the quarterfinals on Friday night, where they will face the top seed in Class B2, East High, at Grover Cleveland.

 

The Eagles led a close contest for nearly the entire first half, but never gained anymore than four points separation from the Lakemen.  Then during the final minute of the half, Wilson went on a 6-0 run to first tie, and then gain a lead heading into halftime.  Just six seconds before intermission, Evan Shank scored on a layup set up by a steal to give the Lakemen a 25-21 advantage at the break, the largest lead at that point in the game held by either team.

 

Early in the third quarter, consecutive baskets from Bradley (one being a three-point play) stretched the Lakemen lead to 30-23.  However, Emerson's Michael Simpson, who had scored 47 points in a league outing against Buffalo Arts a week earlier, scored nine of his team-high 22 points in the third quarter on three long treys, to bring the Eagles back to within three pooints, 37-34, heading into the final stanza.

 

A 10-2 run from Emerson over the first six minutes of the fourth quarter had the Eagles in the driver's seat & Lakemen fans on the edge of their seats, with a 44-39 lead, and just two minutes to play.  But after a five-minute field goal drought from Wilson, Joe Littere sank a 3-pointer from the left side with 1:46 to play, igniting the young Lakemen squad.  On the ensuing possession, Zach Sarratoria came up with a clutch steal on the defensive end for Wilson, which led to the Lakemen moving the ball to the other end in transition and finding an open Shank waiting on the perimeter, where he was money with the long-ball --- putting Wilson back in front, 45-44, with just over a minute remaining.

 

In the game's final minute, Wilson gained a defensive stop and then scored in its end on a putback from Bradley with 18 ticks left, making it 47-44.  As Emerson attempted to get a game-tying '3' to fall in the closing moments, Sarratoria was there again to rip the ball away from one of the Eagle players and seal the sectional victory for Wilson.

 

 

Alden 65, Lafayette 52

Dylan Dussault was an interior force to be reckoned with and Brian Stoldt was inspiring on the defensive end, as Alden dominated Lafayette from start to finish in the pre-quarterfinal round on Wednesday night at City Honors.  The victory vaults the Bulldogs into the quarterfinals on Friday night, where they will visit Tonawanda, a familiar ECIC IV foe who swept them in a pair of regular season meetings this season.

 

Before a large contingent of fans who made the trip in support of their Bulldogs, Alden got out to an early 16-7 advantage after one quarter.  After trading buckets to start the second stanza, the Bulldogs went on a 14-5 run that pushed their lead to 32-14.  Dussault scored 12 of his game-high 35 points in the second quarter and Alden enjoyed a comfortable 38-24 lead at the break.  Dussault netted another 11 points in the third quarter, as Alden's lead reached 20 points at one point during that frame.  Over the game's final eight minutes, the Bulldogs saw their lead top out at 22 points, before the Violets cut into it with a too-little-too-late push towards game's end.

 

Dussault was a matchup nightmare for Lafayette, who had no one to match his size or his intensity in the paint.  He was equally effective posting up in half court sets and scoring, as he was converting in transition for Alden.  Many of Dussaults transition points, along with a 14-point outing from Tyler Glaser, were made possible by Stoldt's lockdown defense on Lafayette standout Lester Diaz.  The Bulldogs employed a box & 1 to limit the Violets general, a strategy that worked almost to perfection.  With Stoldt attached at the hip to Diaz, the Violets did little to get the ball into his hands, and struggled to find any offense consistency, leading to missed shots that turned into fast break points for Alden.

 

Jovanny Vargas scored a team-high 19 points for Lafayette, while Adam Figueora added 13 points.  Diaz was held to a season-low 12 points in his final game.

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

Sectional Preview - 2014

 

The Section VI postseason begins tonight with first round games, and the winners move on to participate in the pre-quarterfinal games played on Wednesday.  Friday night is when the action really kicks up, as 32 quarterfinal games will decide which teams move on to Buffalo State and JCC for the semifinals. 

 

Below I take a look at some of the best matchups we could potentially see in the pre-quarterfinals, quarterfinals, semifinals, and even the championship games.  There's also my thoughts on the biggest favorite and the most competitive brackets, along with some winning streaks and predictions.

 

** Please note that many of the games below are based on my predictions of who will win in prior rounds 

 

Top 10 Pre-Quarterfinal Games (Wednesday, 2/19)

10. City Honors @ Depew

9. Burgard @ Falconer/Frewsburg

8. Wilson vs. Emerson ** at Hutch-Tech

7. WNY Maritime @ Portville

6. Springville @ South Park

5. Starpoint @ Hamburg

4. West Seneca West @ Frontier

3. Grand Island @ Hutch-Tech

2. Riverside @ Lake Shore

1. Alden vs. Lafayette ** at City Honors

 

Top 13 Quarterfinal Games (Friday, 2/21) 

13. MST Seneca @ Olmsted

12. Allegany-Limestone @ Holland 

11. Portville @ Barker

10. Lackawanna @ Cleveland Hill

9. Lafayette @ Tonawanda

8. Hutch-Tech @ Williamsville South

7. Lancaster @ Clarence

6. Tapestry @ Silver Creek

5. Sweet Home @ North Tonawanda

4. Hamburg @ Iroquois

3. East Aurora @ Lew-Port

2. Williamsville East @ McKinley

1. Lockport @ Kenmore West

 

Most Exciting Potential Semifinals

5. Salamanca vs. Cleveland Hill

4. Lockport/Kenmore West vs. Jamestown

3. North Tonawanda vs. Williamsville South

2. McKinley vs. Iroquois

1. Clarence vs. Williamsville North

 

Most Exciting Potential Championship Games

5. Class C2 Final

4. Class A2 Final

3. Class A1 Final

2. Class AA Final

1. Olean vs. East in the crossover

 

Win Streaks heading into sectionals

Barker 18 games

I-Prep 12 games

Kenmore West 7 games

Sherman 6 games

 

Predictions

Class AA - Jamestown

Class A1 - McKinley

Class A2 - Amherst

Class B1 - Olean 

Class B2 - East

Class C1 - Middle College

Class C2 - Randolph

Class D - Sherman

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

Final League Standings for 2014

 

 

Yale Cup I

Middle College.........11-1

East.........................10-2

McKinley..................9-3

Hutch-Tech..............5-7

Bennett....................5-7

South Park...............4-8

Riverside..................3-9

Burgard....................1-11

 

Yale Cup II

I-Prep.....................12-0  

Olmsted..................9-3

Lafayette................8-4

Buffalo Arts............7-5

MST Seneca...........4-8

City Honors...........4-8

Emerson................3-9   

 

ECIC I

Jamestown...........10-2

Clarence...............10-2

Will North............10-2

Lancaster...............6-6

Frontier..................3-9

W.Seneca West......2-10

Orchard Park.........1-11

 

ECIC II

Will South.............9-3

Iroquois................9-3

Sweet Home..........8-4

Will East...............7-5

Hamburg..............6-6

Starpoint..............3-9

W.Seneca East.....0-12

 

ECIC III

Amherst............12-2

Cheektowaga.....11-3   

Maryvale............9-5

East Aurora........8-6

Depew................7-7

Lake Shore.........4-10

Springville..........3-11

Pioneer...............2-12   

 

ECIC IV

Cleveland Hill...........11-1

Holland......................9-3

Tonawanda................8-4

Lackawanna...............6-6

Alden.........................4-8

JFK............................2-10

Eden..........................2-10

 

Niagara Frontier League

Lockport........................13-1

Kenmore West...............13-1

North Tonawanda...........9-5

Lew-Port.........................8-6

Niagara Falls...................6-8

Grand Island.................4-10

Kenmore East................3-11

Niagara Wheatfield.......0-14

 

Niagara-Orleans

Barker................14-0

Medina................9-5

Roy-Hart.............8-6

CSAT...................7-7

Albion.................6-8

Newfane..............6-8

Wilson.................4-10

Akron..................2-12

 

CCAA West I

Fredonia......................10-0

Silver Creek..................6-4

Maple Grove.................5-5

Falconer/Frewsburg.....4-6

Dunkirk........................3-7

Southwestern................2-8

 

CCAA East I

Salamanca........................9-1

Randolph..........................8-2

Allegany-Limestone..........6-4

Portville............................4-6

Gowanda...........................3-7

Catt Little/Valley..............0-10

 

CCAA West II

Sherman......................12-0

Panama.........................8-4

Cassadaga Valley...........7-5

Westfield.......................6-6

Clymer..........................5-7

Chautauqua Lake...........4-8

Brocton.........................0-12

 

CCAA East II

Forestville.................9-1

Ellicottville................7-3

Franklinville..............7-3

Pine Valley................5-5

West Valley...............1-9

North Collins.............1-9

 

Charter Schools

Health Sciences...................7-1

Tapestry..............................7-1  

WNY Maritime....................2-6

Global Concepts...................2-6

Oracle..................................1-7

 

Independent

Olean.............................15-3

 

 

Monsignor Martin - Large Schools

Canisius......................12-0   

Timon...........................9-3    

St. Joe's........................6-6   

St. Francis.....................3-9

 

Monsignor Martin - Small Schools

St. Mary's....................12-2    

Nichols.........................9-5   

Park.............................9-5    

Niagara Catholic...........2-12    

Archbishop Walsh........2-12

Cardinal O'Hara............2-12   

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

 

Top games of the week ending 2/9/14

 

Here's a list of what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, February 3rd

Niagara Catholic @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

St. Joe's @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Olean @ Timon - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Lake Shore @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, February 4th

Williamsville East @ Iroquois - 6:30 pm

Medina @ Barker - 6:30 pm

Kenmore West @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

Aquinas @ Canisius - 7 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Randolph @ Allegany-Limestone - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 5th

Middle College @ McKinley - 6 pm

Amherst @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Timon @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

 

Thursday, February 6th

Cardinal O'Hara @ Holland - 6:30 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

Depew @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm

Hamburg @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, February 7th 

Middle College @ East - 6 pm

Niagara Falls @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Alden @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Fredonia @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

Portville @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Allegany-Limestone @ Salamanca - 7:30 pm

Bishop Kearney @ Olean - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, February 8th

UPrep @ CSAT - 1:30 pm

Iroquois @ Hamburg - 1:30 pm

Depew @ East Aurora - 2:30 pm

Cathedral Prep @ Canisius - 3 pm

Nichols @ St. Mary's - 3:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Randolph - 6:30 pm

Middle College @ McKinley - 6:30 pm

 

 Sunday, February 9th 

Bishop Kearney @ Timon - 3 pm

Williamsville South @ St. Joe's - 4:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Williamsville East @ Iroquois on Tuesday, February 4th

- One of, if not the most competitive league in all of WNY this season, ECIC II has produced a compelling league race all season.  Not only did no team make it to the half-way point without a loss, but the first place team in ECIC II has two losses.

Iroquois is the team currently sitting atop the ECIC II standings, while Williamsville East is a spot behind in second place, locked in a tie with Sweet Home, Williamsville South, & Hamburg.  All the teams in second place in ECIC II have three league losses.

In the first meeting between the two, the Flames scored a nine-point home win over the Chiefs to account for one of the Iroquois losses.  The Chiefs later dropped a tight one at Williamsville South, but Iroquois has yet to lose on its home court this season.

A win for Williamsville East would force a five-way tie in the race for the ECIC II crown and make it more complicated than a three-legged burlap sack picnic race.  A win for the Chiefs over Williamsville East would all but ensure at least a share of the ECIC II title, while winning out would give Iroquois the title outright.

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

Top games of the week ending 2/2/14

 

 

Here's a list of what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, January 27th 

Alden @ Holland - 6:30 pm

St. Francis @ Lake Shore - 6:30 pm

Timon @ Canisius - 7 pm

East @ Middle College - 7 pm

Williamsville East @ Sweet Home - 7 pm

Cheektowaga @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 28th

Niagara Falls @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Batavia - 7 pm

Clymer @ Westfield - 7:30 pm

Maple Grove @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

Park @ Nichols - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 29th

Park @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

Olean @ Timon - 7 pm

St. Mary's @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

 

Friday, January 31st

Alden @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

North Tonawanda @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Lake Shore @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Williamsville North @ Sweet Home - 6:30 pm

McKinley @ Middle College - 7 pm

MST Seneca @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Cardinal O'Hara @ Nichols - 7:30 pm

Salamanca @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Sherman @ Cassadaga Valley - 7:30 pm

Panama @ Clymer - 7:30 pm

Amherst @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, February 1st

McKinley @ Clarence - 10:30 am

Silver Creek @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

RAP CLASSIC @ East High School in Rochester

Canisius vs. Webster Schroeder - 5:15 pm

Olean vs. Greece Athena - 7:00 pm

Jamestown vs East (Rochester) - 8:45 pm

 

Game of the Week - Take your pick between any of the three at the RAP Classic

- Canisius vs. Webster Schroeder:  After considerable routs of Olean, St. Joe's, & McKinley, the Crusaders face one of the better teams from Rochester.  Last season, Webster Schroeder beat Niagara Falls in the classic and were considered the best Class AA team in Section V, until Bishop Kearney put it all together at season's end and knocked them out in the Class AA1 title game, enroute to winning it all in NYS.

- Olean vs. Greece Athena:  This one will be a rematch of a game played in Olean a month prior.  The Huskies won round 1 convincingly, 87-71, behind a strong performance from Sam Eckstrom.  Not only was that the lone loss on the year for Athena, they haven't won a game by less than 17 points all season.  They are considered the top team in all of Section V, and between round 2 being in Rochester & Athena stinging a bit from its only loss, I expect the rematch to be a closer affair.

- Jamestown vs. East (Rochester):  East has long been a Class AA powerhouse in Section V.  This season, the Orientals drop down to Class A, meaning they are quite likely the team our Class A rep would see in the regionals come March.  How Jamestown fares on East's court in the event's headliner will provide some gauge for WNY fans as to the chances of our rep getting past this program if they are indeed the Section V Class A winner.  The polls say our Class A rep will be McKinley again, and the Macks have been ahead of Jamestown in the local polls all season.  A strong showing from the Red Raiders could get everyone excited about our chances of winning more games than not against Section V at regionals this year.

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

 

Top games of the week ending 1/26/14

 

Here's a list if what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, January 20th

East vs. Frankiln (Sec V) @ Monroe CC - 2:45 pm

St. Mary's @ Nichols - 3 pm

 

Tuesday, January 21st

Amherst @ Lake Shore - 6:30 pm

Tonawanda @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

North Tonawanda @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Park @ Timon - 7 pm

St. Francis @ Lancaster - 7 pm

Olean @ St. Mary's - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Williamsville South @ Williamsville East - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 22nd

Silver Creek @ Salamanca - 7:30 pm

Maryvale @ Depew - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 23rd

St. Mary's @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

Hamburg @ Iroquois - 6:30 pm

Holland @ Alden - 7 pm

 

Friday, January 24th

Kenmore West @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Iroquois - 6:30 pm

Hutch-Tech vs. Middle College @ ECC - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Maple Grove - 7:30 pm

Amherst @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

Williamsville South @ Olean - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 25th

Nichols @ Canisius - 3:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Kenmore West @ Lockport on Friday, January 24th

- The Niagara Falls Wolverines have dominated the Niagara Frontier League since becoming a team in 2001.  With the exception of 2005 & 2006 when Niagara Falls played an independent schedule, the Wolverines won the league (shared title with North Tonawanda in 2010 & Kenmore West in 2012) in every season they've competed for it.  However this season, that streak will come to an end, and for the first time since the Niagara Falls/LaSalle merger, someone will earn the distinction of being the first to beat out the Wolverines in the NFL.  Friday night's game will likely decide who makes history.

Kenmore West and Lockport currently sit in first and second place in the NFL, respectively.  At the midway point of league action, the Blue Devils are undefeated in league, having beaten every team once already.  For the Lions, their only defeat in the league this season was a three-point loss at Kenmore West on December 17th.  

While the winner of this game isn't guaranteed anything, the result of the contest is likely pivotal in deciding the champion.  The Blue Devils first face North Tonawanda on Tuesday, but even if they lost to the Jacks, a win over Lockport on Friday would keep them in first place.  For Lockport, winning out would ensure at least a share of the title, and the biggest step towards that process would be winning before what is sure to be a huge home crowd on Friday.  

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

Top games of the week ending 1/19/14

 

Here's a list of what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, January 13th

Salamanca @ Allegany-Limestone - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Lamcaster - 7:30 pm

Sherman @ Clymer - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 14th

Holland @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Canisius @ Bishop Kearney - 7 pm

Iroquois @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

Sweet Home @ Hamburg - 7:30 pm

Williamsville East @ Frontier - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 15th

McKinley @ East - 6 pm

 

Thursday, January 16th 

Lackawanna @ Alden - 7 pm

Williamsville South @ Hamburg - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 17th

Nichols @ Park - 6:30 pm

Niagara Falls @ North Tonawanda - 7 pm

Iroquois @ Sweet Home - 7:30 pm

Williamsville North @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

MLK Classic at City Honors High School

Tapestry @ City Honors - 4:30 pm

IPrep vs. Maritime Charter - 6 pm

Middle College vs. Cheektowaga - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 18th 

MLK Classic @ City Honors High School

St. Francis vs. Hutch-Tech - 11 am

East vs. Sweet Home - 12:30 pm

Canisius vs. McKinley - 2 pm

 

Game of the Week - McKinley @ East on Wednesday, January 15th

-  The Yale Cup is the name of Buffalo's city league, and also the name of the trophy every team competing in that league covets.  East and McKinley have combined to win five of the last seven Yale Cups, including the last three.  East won it in 2007, 2009, & 2011.  McKinley hoisted it back-to-back the last two seasons, 2012 & 2013.  The Cup was won by Grover in 2008, before McKinley knocked them out of the playoffs...only to have its season ended by East, who advanced to Glens Falls in Class A that year.  Needless to say, these two programs are the gold standard of city basketball.

Both teams will enter the game undefeated in league play.  In fact, McKinley has been unbeaten in the Yale Cup in each of the last two seasons and enters the game with a 29-game winning streak in the Yale Cup.  That would be a remarkable feat for any team in any league to win that many in a row, but especially in a talent-laden league like the Yale Cup.  The Macks winning streak is closing in on history - Riverside holds the benchmark at 34 games dating back to the Mike Williams era in 2005 & 2006.  If you include postseason & nonleague games against Yale Cup schools, McKinley has won 33 consecutively versus Buffalo Public Schools.

The Macks were ranked sixth in last week's large school poll, and will likely move up, possibly as high as #2, following a win over Williamsville North on Friday.  McKinley is also considered a top 20 team in NYS in Class A.  East will enter the game as not only the top ranked small school in WNY, but in all of NYS. 

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

Top games of the week ending 1/12/14

 

Here's a list of what I think are the top games to follow this week:

 

Monday, January 6th

Nichols @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Bishop Kearney @ Timon - 7 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Alden - 7 pm

Randolph @ Salamanca - 7:30 pm

East Aurora @ Batavia - 7:30 pm

McKinley @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

Canisius @ St. Mary's - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 7th

Barker @ CSAT - 6 pm

Niagara Falls @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Williamsville East @ Sweet Home - 7:00 pm

Maryvale @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Maryvale @ Depew - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 8th

Hutch-Tech @ McKinley - 6 pm

St. Mary's @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

East @ Middle College - 7 pm

Aquinas @ Canisius - 7 pm

Williamsville North @ Jamestown  - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 9th

Allegany-Limestone @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Williamsville South @ Sweet Home - 6:30 pm

Hamburg @ Williamsville East - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 10th

Williamsville North @ McKinley - 6:30 pm

Timon @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

Lancaster @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 11th

Canisius vs. St. Joe's - Round 1 @ Canisius College

Olean @ Aquinas - 5:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Olean @ Aquinas on Saturday, January 11th

- Yes, I'm picking this game even though the Canisius/St. Joe's rivalry renews just hours before on the same day.  For me, it came down to which game I'm most excited to attend in the upcoming week.   In a week of great matchups throughout, the finale on Saturday night should be a grand one.

By now, I think many are coming around to the notion that the game of the season will happen on a Tuesday night in March at Buffalo State - an Olean/East Class B crossover rematch.  Well the Huskies northeastern journey on Saturday to face Aquinas is as close as we're getting to that one for a couple of months.

East will be just two weeks removed from a win at Aquinas when the Huskies roll in to Rochester, and Olean will be just one week removed from an incredible showing at home against Greece Athena.  At this point, the speculation over which Class B school is better, Olean or East, is running rampant in WNY.  We know for sure that both schools are legit, but Saturday night will offer us a common opponent between the two schools, played at the same location.

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

Lancer win highlights Friday's games at the challenge

 

Friday was night two of the three-day AdPro Public/Private Challenge held at Canisius High School.  Following Friday's results, the Monsignor Martin Association held a 4-1 advantage through five games over the public school participants.

 

St. Mary's 58, Clarence 53

In a battle between both the third ranked large and small schools in WNY, it was the smaller neighbor of Clarence who scored a large win.  Matt Wrobel scored 10 of his game-high 25 points in the third quarter, helping his Lancers create a lead Clarence was unable to recover from.  After being locked at 24 apiece at the break, St. Mary's used a 10-0 run late in the third quarter to gain a 49-39 advantage heading into the final stanza.  The Lancers held Clarence's Ryan Funk in check most of the second half, limiting the scoring machine to one field goal and four points over the final 16 minutes.  St. Mary's dashed any hopes the Red Devils had of mounting a late comeback as they answered every basket scored by Clarence over the final eight minutes.

Cory Kiebzak and Latrell Tyson each finished with 12 points for St. Mary's.  Funk led Clarence with 16 points, while Bryan Jost scored 14 points. 

 

Lancaster 56, Walsh 53

The Redskins trailed by six points in the third quarter, when Mike Spengler canned his first of two treys during a 10-2 run that gave Lancaster some momentum as the teams headed into the fourth quarter, tied at 43.  With under three minutes remaining in the game, Lancaster was up by five, before a late push by Walsh tied things up at 53 each in the game's final minute.  As the final seconds ticked off the game clock, Spengler hoisted up a trey from the left side that swished through cleanly with 3.9 seconds showing, lifting Lancaster to the win.

Mike Spengler finished with 15 points to lead the Redskins, while Andy Fellner scored 12 points, and Collin Murray added 11 points.  Gregor Greer scored a game-high 20 points for the Eagles, Buzz Watson  added 18 points, and Adam Moore chipped in with 12 points.

 

Cardinal O'Hara 70, Alden 63

Zach Glowacki poured in a game-high 33 points for the Hawks, who pulled away in the fourth quarter.  O'Hara trailed in the third quarter, before gaining a three-point advantage after the third quarter.  The Bulldogs were paced by 22 points from Dylan Dussault.

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

Season Preview: 2013-2014

 

                                               HAPPY HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS SEASON!!!!!

 

Below in this year's version of the Pre-View From Centercourt, you will find:

 - What's New

- Returning 2013 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2013-2014

- A League-by-League look at returning players & newcomers

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Top Nonleague Games

- Predictions 

 

What's New

- During the season last year, I started tweeting. If you don't already, follow @centercourt42 

 - Park School is now a competing member in the Monsignor Martin Athletic Association

- Major divisional realignments in the CCAA, based on geography (See League-By-League below)

- Buffalo Science no longer fields a team

- Frewsburg and Ripley no longer field teams.  Frewsburg has combined with Falconer, while Ripley's talent pool plays at Chautauqua Lake

- Olean will play an independent schedule with, get this, a senior laden squad

- The Class AA semifinals will be played on the Monday of Buffalo State week, with B1 moving to Tuesday, A2 moving to Wednesday, and A1 moving to Thurday.  The B2 games will be split between Tuesday & Wednesday nights.

- The Class C1 and Class D semifinals flipped days at JCC, with Class C1 now playing Monday and Class D playing Wednesday

- Far West Regionals are back in Buffalo this year

- Sterling Taplin is finally a senior. Seriously.

- I-Prep returns to its school on 114th street for home games

 

******************************************************

 

  The Players

Five of the top 25 players from the 2013 All-Centercourt teams return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 17 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.  In addition, many others are primed to have breakout seasons, while the influx of talented underclassmen continues to surface at multiple schools throughout WNY.

 

Returning 2013 1st Teamer

Sterling Taplin - Sr., Williamsville North:   21.84 PPG  /  5.73  RPG  /  4.21 APG  /  2.94 SPG as a junior

- Already a two-time First Team All-Centercourt selection and two-time ECIC POY as he enters his senior campaign.  The school's all-time points leader has 1,425 to his credit prior to beginning his fifth season as the Spartans' starting floor general.  After he manipulates defenses to free up his teammates for easy baskets to the tune of another 41 assists, he'll own the school record for dimes as well.  Taplin will look to add Section VI champion to his resume this season.

 

 Returning 2013 Second Teamers

 Wil Bathurst - Sr., Olean:  18.4 PPG /  8.0 RPG  /  3.3 APG  / 1.9 BPG  /  1.8 SPG as a junior

- Already verbally committed to play D1 basketball at Cornell next season.  Moved up from Third Team All-Centercourt as a sophomore.  A thoroughly entertaining player to watch because he does every thing so well and with such flare.  This season, Bathurst looks to help Olean attain its goal from the past two seasons, a Class B state title.

Sam Eckstrom - Sr., Olean:  18.2 PPG /  8.0 RPG  /  1.9 BPG as a junior

 - Commited to continue his career at the College of St. Rose in Albany (D2) following his prep days.  Moved up from Third Team All-Centercourt as a sophomore.   Spent much of junior season battling injury, facing constant double-teams, and sitting most of the second half of games as his team built such commanding leads.  The Huskies beefed up their schedule and Eckstrom is healthy, so look for big things from Olean's big man, who should really get his chance to shine this year.

 

Returning 2013 Fifth Teamers

 Ryan Funk - Sr., Clarence:  18 PPG  /  6 RPG  /  2 APG  /  1 SPG as a junior

- Was the MVP of a very good Red Devils team that reached the Class AA semifinals last seson.  Has the size to hurt you down low, but thrives from mid-range and long distance.  Showed the ability to create his own shot, which when it's on, forget about it.  One of the very best shooters in WNY.  

Jake Haight - Sr., Barker: 20.2 PPG  / 13.2 RPG  /  3.1 SPG  /  2.3 APG as a junior

- Needs just 22 points to eclipse 1,000 for his career, something he'll likely get out of the way in game one.  Has been First Team all N-O after his sophomore and junior season efforts.  Combines size and athleticism, producing a well-rounded game that is, at times, dominant.  Such a big fish in a small pond, he is reminiscent of Chris Secky from his days torching the ranks at Maple Grove.

 

Returning 2013 Honorable Mentions

 Donte Williams - 12 (Timon), Dylan Meyer - 12 (Fredonia), Nick Schmidt - 12 (Olean), Luke Hennessey - 12 (Olean), Kevin Briggs - 12 (Middle College), Tyree Tyson - 12 (East), Johnathan Lewis - 12 (East), Brendan Cox - 12 (East Aurora), Kaine Kettle - 12 (Silver Creek), Derrick Sekuterski - 12 (Depew), Bryan Jost - 12 (Clarence), Zack Panebianco - 11 (Jamestown), Chris Miner - 11 (Nichols), Cam Lewis - 11 (Nichols), Bill Brooks - 11 (Silver Creek), Zak Ciezlik - 11 (Cheektowaga), Bryce Morrison - 11 (Randolph)

 

Other names to watch for this season 

 Howard Washington - 10 (Canisius), LaTerrence Reed - 11 (Canisius),  Stafford Trueheart - 10 (Canisius), Justin Hollins - 12 (St. Joe's), Justin Jones - 10 (St. Joe's), Tanner Schmit - 11 (Nichols), Derick Simpson - 11 (Timon), Jonathan Jackson - 12 (Niagara Catholic), Tyler English - 12 (St. Mary's), Rasheed Paul - 12 (East), Percy Bryant - 11 (East), Bri'an Brown - 12 (Middle College), Lester Diaz - 12 (Lafayette), Jared Watkins - 12 (Cleveland Hill), Derek Sekuterski - 12 (Depew), Matt Cieslik - 11 (City Honors), Colin Dougherty - 12 (Lockport), Charlie Sobieraski - 12 (Lockport), Moziah Townsend - 12 (Lockport), Dorian Billups - 11 (Amherst), TC Brown - 10 (Amherst), Randy Dalaba - 12 (Cassadaga Valley), Clay Lewis - 11 (Holland), Quinn Lee Yaw - 12 (Jamestown), Sam Castronova - 11 (Williamsville South), Griffin Ryan - 12 (Hamburg), Matt Kumro - 11 (West Seneca East), Julian Mott - 12 (Starpoint), John Piper - 11 (Fredonia), Jared Fish - 12 (Salamanca), Damien Taylor - 11 (Salamanca), Andrew John - 12 (Silver Creek), Andrew Graham - 12 (Sherman), JaQuoine Fogan - 10 (Tapestry Charter)

 

**********************************************

 

League-By-League

 

Independent

 Olean

 Returning: Sam Eckstrom - 12, Wil Bathurst - 12, Nick Schmidt  - 12, Luke Hennessey - 12, Dante Tarr - 11, Chris Gayton - 11, Zach Pfeiffer - 12

 New: Christian Churakos - 10, Connor Prizel - 11, Chucky Martin - 11

 

 MONSIGNOR MARTIN

Canisius

Returning:  Howard Washington - 10, Ryan Richards - 12, Josh Huffman - 11, Patrick MacDonald - 12, Stafford Trueheart - 10, Mike McCall - 12, Matt Klee - 12

New:  LaTerrence Reed - 11, Zachary Koch - 11, Andrew Heitzhaus - 11, Patrick Viola - 11, David Keil - 11, Patrick Crangle - 11

 

St. Joe's 

Returning:  Justin Hollins - 12, Tyler Hill - 12, Justin Jones - 10, Fritz - 11, Adam Killeen - 12, Philip Wells - 12, Alexander Kovacs - 12

New:  Naseer Jackson - 9, Antonio Morreale - 11, Jack Hawkins - 11, John Scaglione - 11, David Maher - 11, Marcell Davis - 11, Edward Tabone Jr - 11

 

Bishop Timon/St. Jude

Returning: Donte Williams - 12, Derick Simpson - 11, Kyler Hairston - 11

New:  William Lamar - 9, Quinton Lamar - 10, Tyree Coble - 11

 

St. Francis

Returning:  Treyvon Holness - 12, Maurice Burse - 12,  Dave Kennedy - 12, Austin Taylor - 12, Chris Shriver - 12

 New:  Kordell Holness - 11, Kiernan Barnes - 10, Joe Carbone - 10, Taurean Davis - 10, John Steven Zhu - 10

 

Nichols

Returning: Christopher Miner - 11, Cam Lewis - 11, Tom Nuttle - 12, Jack Vance - 12, Seth Meyer -12, Greg White - 12, Jordan Tyson - 12

New:  Tanner Schmit - 11 (Transfer from Clarence), Zach Serotte - 11

 

St. Mary's

Returning:  Tyler English - 12, Corey Kiebzak - 12, Matt Wrobel - 12, Latrell Tyson - 12, Dione Strong - 11, Jake Concannon - 11

New:  Takal Molson - 10 (Transfer), Sean Wilson - 11, Austin Oakes - 11, Mark O'Neil - 11

 

 Cardinal O'Hara

Returning:  Zack Glowacki - 12, Donel Cathcart - 11, Kevin Kobza - 12, 

New:  Jovell Littlejohn - 11, Darnell Hamilton - 11, Erich Wheeler - 11, Amir Jemes - 10, David Gariano - 10, Shakur Harris - 9, Clifford Ziegler - 9, Maurice Brown - 12

 

Archbishop Walsh

Returning:  Adam Moore - 10, Gregor Greer - 12, Ethan Clarke - 12, Kieze Hund - 12, Christian Daugherty - 12, Zach Everett - 12, John "Buzz" Watkins - 11

New:  Dom Ambroselli - 10, Noah Watkins - 9

 

Niagara Catholic

Returning:  Jonathan Jackson - 12

 

 Park

 

YALE CUP I

 East

Returning:  Tyree Tyson - 12,  Johnathan Lewis - 12, Damone Brown - 11, Percy Byrant - 11, Shaun Young - 12, Rasheed Paul - 12

New:  Aurielo Ayala - 12 (Transfer from Bennett)

 

McKinley

 Returning:  Dante Thompson - 12, Varin Lenard - 12, D'Andre Steward - 12, Kenny Walters - 12, Devin Morris - 11, Jorge Melendez - 12

Riverside

Returning:  Willie Smith - 12, Jarmel Caldwell - 12, Jevon Rosier - 12, Jovell Littlejohn - 11

 

Middle College

Returning:  Bri'an Brown - 12, Kevin Briggs - 12, TJ Scott - 12, Brandon Jefferson - 12, Isaiah Jenkins - 11, Joseph Staton - 10, Khoron Ferguson - 10, Devon Singleton - 12, X-Ray  Drayton - 12, Elijah Mingo - 12, Xavier Mathews - 12

New:  Billy Rivera - 10

 

Hutch-Tech

Returning:  Roman West - 12, Amanuel Radford - 12

New :  Jailyn Rose - 10

 

South Park 

Returning:  Keion Godson - 12, Austin Peach - 12, Tyler Mascio - 12, James Baker - 10

 

Bennett

 

YALE CUP II

I-Prep

Returning:  Damon Boykin - 12, Ezana Kahsay - 12, Xavier Maye - 11, Terrence James - 11

New:  Jeffrey Townsel - 10, Davon Gant - 10

 

City Honors

Returning: Matt Cieslik - 11, Jordahn Summers - 11, Pasquale Scaife - 12, Tomothy Banks - 12, Jeriff Sanchez - 12, Keith Fulcher - 12, Courtney Carr-Johnson - 12

New:  Nolan Megna - 12

 

MST Seneca

 Returning:  Rayshawn Jones - 12, Jamaal Felton - 12

New:  Roqawn Gossum - 11, Ray (Meko) smith - 12, Jalen Felton - 12

 

Olmsted

Returning:  Brandon Roach - 10, Ballah Burch - 12, Delenci Shannon-Brown - 12

 

Buffalo Arts

New:  Tremaine Shelton - 12 (Transfer from St. Joe's)

 

Lafayette

Returning:  Lester Diaz - 12

 

Burgard

Emerson

DaVinci

 

 ECIC I

 Jamestown

Returning: Quinn Lee Yaw - 12, Zack Panebianco - 11, Josh Colwell - 12, Stephen Carlson - 12, Brian Park - 12, Matt Hoaglund - 11

New:  Zacc Kinsey - 10, Ben Larson - 11

 

Williamsville North

Returning:  Sterling Taplin - 12, George Attea - 11, Maceo Jack - 10, Casey Davis - 12, Ryan Majewski - 12, Kolbe Hughes - 12, Sam Cimato - 12

New:  Sean Hill - 10, Dylan Lambert - 11, Tim Kreuze - 11

 

 Clarence

Returning: Ryan Funk - 12, Bryan Jost - 12, Elliott Case - 12, Shane Weedon - 12, Matt Sadowy - 11, Emaure Williams - 12, Evan Hoarof - 12, Marc Cange - 12

New: Kyle Stevens - 11, Dave Cummisky - 11, Bryan Pulli - 11

 

 Lancaster

Returning:  Joe Jankowski - 12, Tyler Lis - 11, Griffin O'Brien - 11, Eric Zimpfer - 12, Tony Marrano - 12, Mike Spengler - 12

New:  Alex Damiani - 10, Collin Murray - 10, Alex Konst - 10

 

West Seneca West

Returning:  Nick Clancy - 12, Chris Walker – 12,  Evan Koelher – 12, Frank Borzillieri   - 11, DJ Ulmer – 11, Ben Hutton  - 10, Lou DiChristopher  - 11

 

Orchard Park

Returning:  Danny Freilicher - 10, Cameron Murray - 12, Jack Atkinson - 12, Kevin Goltz - 11, Tyler Heath - 12, Brad Roman - 12

New:  Chris Murphy - 12, Matt Perla - 11

 

Frontier

 

ECIC II

Williamsville East

Returning: Cort Williams - 11, Nicholas Clough - 11, Kyle Williams - 11, Joe Adcock - 11, Colin Greenway - 12, Quinn Keenan - 12

New:  Greg Cook - 11, Alex Pieri - 11, Jaleel Battle - 11, Mike Garafalo - 11 (Transfer from Cheektowaga)

 

Williamsville South

Returning:  Matt Macomber - 12, Sam Castronova - 11, Kam Varner - 11

 

Iroquois

Returning:  Phil Bowen - 12, Zach Emer - 11, Coyote Sokolski - 11, Joshua Piesczynski - 12, Lucas Tait - 11, Kyle Seifert - 11

 

Sweet Home

Returning:  James Nix - 12, Jordan Heine - 11, Mark Walker - 12, Mark Fuller - 12, Justin Chatelle - 12

New:  Ron Woods - 12, Rob Siegler - 11, Asa'd Myles - 11, Milton Zielger - 11, Brandon Smiley - 11, Jordan Evert - 11, Adrian Drake - 11, Wayne McDonald - 11, Josh Hammer - 11

 

Hamburg

Returning: Griffin Ryan - 12, Jeremiah Bill - 12, Tim Kane - 12, Joe DeGrood - 11, Brandon Pierce - 12

New:  Brendan Ryan - 10, Kyle Munro - 11, Caleb Wood - 11, Mark Myles - 11, Doug Horbachewski - 11

 

West Seneca East

Returning: Matt Kumro - 11, Nick Parucki - 11, Ed Radka - 10, Dan Picciano - 10

New:  DJ Schiersing - 11, Jake Klubek - 10, Dan Nicosia - 11, Evin Ksiezarczyk - 11,

JakeWojciechowski - 11

 

Starpoint

Returning:  Julian Mott - 12, Ian Emerick - 11, Sam Terrazzino - 12, Logan Seiferth - 12, Alex Leubner - 11

New:  Mike Chase - 11, Dennis Held - 11, Josh Roselund - 11, Eric Yaeger - 11, Bryan Cheskiewicz - 12

 

ECIC III

Amherst

Returning: Dorian Billups - 11, TC Brown - 10, Jordan Nwora - 10, Kevin Waller - 12, Myron Harvey - 12

New:  Darien Lowe - 11, Amadi Ikpeze - 10

 

East Aurora

Returning:  Brendan Cox - 12, Grant Haffenden - 12, Mike Coatsworth - 11, Noah Thompson - 10

 

Cheektowaga

Returning:  Zak Ciezki - 11, Dominik Welch - 9, Patrick Plummer - 11, Preston Summers - 12, Raekwon Williams - 12

New:  Khaya Dlodlo - 11, Keith Weekly - 10, Drequon Trotter - 11, Devon Camel - 11, Adam Reichert - 11, Ricky Stoudmire - 11, Hakiem Black - 11, Alvis Colon - 11, Antonio Southern - 10

 

Depew

Returning:  Derek Sekuterski - 12, Jake Lamb - 12, Steve Kaspraczk - 12, Denis Vanini - 12, Tyler Anna - 11, Bobby Burns - 11

New:  Dylan Sekuterski - 11, Collin Gemerek - 11, Mike Thornton - 11, Kyle Ratajczak - 11, Jakob Grant - 10, Sean Stablewski - 12

 

Maryvale

Returning:  Logan Jung - 12, Ed Smith - 12, Jayln Putnam - 12

 

Pioneer

Returning:  Bryce Little - 11, Adam Benzel - 12, Matt Haggerty - 11, Andrew Hyman - 11, Cole Connolly - 12 

New:  Vince Nourse - 11, Ravo Root - 10, Caleb Sayvone - 10, Dominic Sayvone - 10

 

Lake Shore

Returning:  Wade Bergum - 12

New:  Matt Vona - 11, Colin Hart - 11

 

Springville

 

ECIC IV

Cleveland Hill

Returning:  Jared Watkins - 12, Aaron Phillips - 12, Jermaine Hairston - 11, Wayne Jones - 12, Andrew Huff - 12

New:  Anthony Sullivan - 11, Omari Inman - 11, Aaron Wesley - 11, Zach Lewandowski - 11

 

Lackawanna

Returning: Cam Smith - 12, Larry Fields - 11, Darius Cleveland - 11

New: Quinton Robinson - 11, Roosevelt Jones - 10

 

Tonawanda

Returning:  Ben Stitch - 12, Connor Pumm - 12, Tristan Bolling - 11

New:  Brandon Frye - 11, Larenz Jefferson - 11

 

Holland

Returning:  Clay Lewis - 11, JR Kline - 11

New:  Matt Farant - 11, Cooper Rahn - 11, EJ Staniszewski - 10, Laine Husman - 10, Pierce Gardon - 9

 

JFK

Returning:  Joe Braniecki - 11, Josh McMahon - 11, Cale Byczkowski - 11, Alex Bouttarath - 12

New:  Shawn McPhail - 11, Hunter Kowal - 11, Brendan Fox - 11, Aaron Urbanczyk - 11, Nathan Pazderski - 11, Lexus Pollard - 9, Aaron Poniwas - 11, Collin Snyder - 11

 

Alden

Returning:  Dylan Dussalt - 12, Nick Kibler - 12, Tyler Glaser - 12, Brian Stoldt - 12

New:  Phil Zobrest - 12, Austin Zelasko - 11, Dylan Riddoch - 10, Jordan Stockweather - 10

 

Eden 

Returning:  Brad Palmerton - 12

 

Niagara Frontier League

Niagara Falls

New: Devin Scarbourough - 11, Mikey Bermudez - 11, Deon Harris - 10, Elijah Griggs - 10, Devin Sanders - 9, Tyler Sanders - 9, Zach Walker - 12, Charles Lamar - 9

 

Kenmore West

Returning:  Alex Price - 12, Adam Fron - 12, Tyler Grandits - 12, Noah Whalen - 12, Terrell Ford - 10, Laquan Salter - 12, Nick Wojnar - 12

New:  Trent White - 11, Tim Stoerr - 11, 

 

Grand Island

Returning:  Ryan Ross - 12

 

North Tonawanda

Returning:  Nehemiah Stone - 11, Joe Piotroski - 12, Chris Woodard - 11, Alex Billie - 12, Michael Awad - 12, Donovin Book - 11, Adam McNeil - 11, Jake Ferry - 12, Christian Lemke - 12, Kiel Davignon - 12

New:  Ryan Gilbert - 11, Ryan McDonough - 11, James Garavagli - 11, Drew Krantz - 11

 

Niagara Wheatfield

Returning:  Tyler Gornicki - 12, Nathan Nielson - 10, Joe Ayers - 12, Nick Forcucci - 12, Nathan Williams - 11

New:  Denzel Fuller - 10, Justin Eaton - 11, Brandon Funderburk - 11, Ty Parmentier - 11, Kasey Hasley - 10, Ken Camidge - 11, Preston Miller - 11

 

Lockport

Returning:  Colin Dougherty - 12, Charlie Sobieraski - 12, Moziah Townsend - 12, Ryan Lawrence - 12, Phil Crenshaw - 12, Javon Jenkins - 12, Gerald Baker - 12

 

Kenmore East

Lew-Port

 

Niagara-Orleans

Akron

Returning:  Noah Diebel - 12, Austen Lauricella - 11, CJ Longwell - 12

New:  Chris Mayrose - 12, Nick Doria - 12, Dam Sansanese - 12, Wyn Blueye - 12, Larson Sundown - 11, Caleb Martin - 11, Jake McKenna - 11, Chaunce Hill - 11

 

Newfane

Returning:  Sean Costello - 11, Josh Kneeland - 11, Nathan Aurenhamer - 12

New:  Sam Watkins - 11, Kyle Guerriera - 11, Chad Gilson - 10, Kyle Burdick - 11

 

CSAT

Returning: Dylanta Carson - 11, Alex Santos - 12, Bryan Locke - 11, Jorge Brown - 12, Darrell Wesley - 12

New:  Darius Carson - 9

 

Medina

Returning:  Jason Hellwig - 11, Dan "Mungie" Brown - 12, Drake Grabowski - 12, Larry Bruning - 12, Kevin Arnold - 12, Cedric Griffith - 12, Adam Hoot - 12, Ben McPherson - 12, Josh Cuadro - 12

New: Dylan Lewis - 10, Aaron Feltz - 11, Brennan Zinkievich - 11, David Garrow - 11, Devonte Howard - 11

 

Barker

Returning:  Jake Haight - 12, Mitchell Luckman - 12, Bryce Moeller - 12, Chris Sweeney - 11, Hayden Gooding - 12, Jared Worthington - 12, Tyler Dent - 12

New:  Sean Benoit - 11, Thomas Callaghan - 11, Tanner Gregorie - 11, Joshua Mead - 11, Tristan Payne - 11

 

Roy-Hart

Returning:  Marc Roman - 12, Alex Stoddard - 12, Andy Xapsos - 10, Austin Heschke - 12, DeRon Woods - 12, Sam White - 11, Cory Breedlove - 12, Nelson Andrade - 11

New:  Bailey Hudson - 11, Aaron Metz - 11

 

Wilson

Returning:   Emmett Dinse - 11, Evan Shank - 11, Kevin Daunce - 12, Kyle Bradley - 11

 

Albion

Returning:  Connor Barleben - 12, Chris Rivers - 12, Christian Trevino - 12, Ryan Fannin - 12, Andrew Burroughs - 12

New:  Dez Blackmon - 11, Austin Loyd - 11, Emanuel Thompson - 11, Alex Bison - 11, Clayton Stanton - 11, Gary Moore - 11

 

CCAA I West

Fredonia

Returning: Dylan Meyer - 12, Nick Johnston - 12, John Piper - 11, Cam Voss - 11, Jake Lilly - 12, Cody Cunningham - 12, Eric Jabot - 12, Cody Smith - 12

New:  Anhel Epps - 11, Mike Johnson - 11, Patrick Moore - 10

 

Silver Creek 

Returning:  Kaine Kettle - 12, Bill Brooks - 11, Brennan White - 11

New:  Andrew John - 12, Connor Gates - 10, Ayden Jimerson - 11, Frank  Wolf - 11, Chance Gates - 11

 

Maple Grove

Returning:  Graham Soffel - 11, Corey Wefing - 12, Nick Swanson - 12, Graham Nelson - 12, Collin Stack - 12, Kyle Richardson - 12

 

Southwestern

Returning:  Kyle Moran - 12, Nathan Schrope - 12, Riley Ribicki - 12,  Nick Gustafson - 12, Derek Johnson - 12, Jake Hammond - 12, Pat Mogenhan - 11, Jack Carlson - 11

New:  Mike Sandbloom - 11, Billy Johnston - 11, Andy Bell - 12,  Ben Burk - 10

 

Falconer

Returning:  Brandon DePietro - 12, Nick Conti - 12

 

Dunkirk

Returning:  Emanuel (Manny) Masonet - 12

 

CCAA I EAST 

Randolph

Returning:  Bryce Morrison - 11, Mitchell Maycock - 12, Cody Oldro - 12, Lucas Brown - 12, Taylor Miller - 12

 

Allegany-Limestone

Returning:  Dom Saglimben - 12, Ryan Vossler - 12, Dom Conroy - 11

New:  Cole Davis - 10, Mackenzie Zemak - 12

 

Gowanda

Returning:  Chase Williams - 12, Brennan Geiger - 12, Zach Stevens - 12, Jordan Young - 11

 

 Portville

Returning:  Curtis Caya - 12, Brett Marcellin - 12, Ben Reynolds - 12, Ben Waugh - 12, Zack Ewings - 11, Isaac Hilyer - 11

 

Salamanca

Returning:  Jared Fish - 11, Damien Taylor - 12, Matt Crandall - 12, Joe Hinman - 12, Tyler Siperek - 11

New:  Andrew Crandall - 11

 

 Cattaraugus Little Valley

 Returning:  Justin Forster - 12, Colt Agnew - 12, DJ Steven - 11, Nate Reynolds - 12, Darren Hadley - 12

New:  Gavin Young - 11, Kodie Skeels - 11, Kyle O'Donnell - 11, Jayden Chop - 11

 

CCAA II West 

Cassadaga Valley

Returning:  Randy Dabala - 12, Cody Johnson - 11, Mike Lancaster - 12, Kyle Ruge - 12, Chase Jones - 11

New:  Shane Parsons - 10, Tony Mangine - 11, Jaquan Watts - 11, Will Borkowski - 11, Jerimiah Jones - 11

 

 Westfield

Returning:  Tanner Dahl - 11, Jacob Gray - 12, Liam Tennies - 11, Jesse Rodriguez - 12

New: Ty Benthham - 10, Trevor North - 10, Nolan Hunt - 11,   Brandon Johnston - 12, Chris Brooker - 12, Chris Rodriguez - 12

 

Panama

Returning:  Dan Odell - 12, Mike Rensel - 11, Nick Kirby - 12, Ricky Eddy - 12

New:  David O'Dell - 11, Greg Delahoy - 11, Bryce Payne - 12, Noah Coffaro - 11, Jack Payne - 10, Chris Blose - 11, Josh O'Dell - 11, Dillon Mescall - 11

 

Chautauqua Lake

Returning:  Ian Clute - 12, Carter Davidson - 10,  AJ Hulton - 11, Kyle Mayer - 12, 

New:  Eric Smyanowski - 12 (Transfer from Ripley), Michael Lysek - 10 

 

Sherman

Returning:  Ryan Robson - 12, Andrew Graham - 12, Devin Moorhead - 12, Ryan Myers - 12, Jake Card - 11, Nathan Ottaway - 11, Jordan Boland - 12, Trevor Gleason - 12, Chris Greiner - 12, John Luden - 12

New:  Jeremy Cole - 11, Stephen Walczak - 11, Jake Ames - 11, Collin Finch - 11, Ben Reed - 11, Ethan Lyon - 11, Dylan Scoutan - 12, Cory Alger - 12

 

Clymer

Returning:  Mitch Einink - 12, Jacob Wiggers - 12, Garrett McAfoose - 12, Denton Holthouse - 12, David Holmstrom - 12, Mathew DeStevens - 12

 

Brocton

Returning:  Anthony Riforgiato - 12, Aaron Riforgiato - 10, Bryen Graves - 12, Macalum Buchanon - 12, Conner Dolce - 12, Nash Delcamp - 12, Kyle Witmer - 12, Matt Siragusa - 12

New:  Derek Walter - 11, Daultan Remington - 11

 

CCAA II East

Pine Valley

Returning:  Bryce Jay - 12, Jacob Wilcox - 12, Michael Isula - 12, Andrew Miller - 12, Wil Nelson - 12, Thomas Raiport - 12, Dan Weaver - 12, Dylan Granger - 11, Russell Hayes - 11, Kilian Abers - 10

 

Ellicottville

Returning:  Cameron Wilson - 12, Phalla Musall - 11, Tom Easton - 10, Calum Watt - 11, Fletcher Macomb - 12, Alex Delity - 11

New:  Cole Lapi - 10, Dylan Paprocki - 12, Tanner Gregory - 12, John Alzate - 12, Cory Tomblin - 12, Kevin Bower - 11

 

Forestville

Returning:  Jacob Nosbisch - 12

 

North Collins

West Valley

 Franklinville

 

 Charter Schools

Oracle 

Returning:  Nelson Modi - 12, Jayson Jones-Johnson - 12, Antone Gullege - 12, Barry Bray - 12, Levon Dickson - 12

New:  Shaundez Davis - 11, Kenny White - 10, Brian Bradberry - 12

 

Tapestry

Returning:  Jon Spears - 12, JaQuoine Fogan - 10, DeJuan Owens - 11, DaQuan Lias - 12

New:  Jordan Maxey - 11, DaVonte Cunningham - 10, Marques Perkins - 11, Jesus McClain - 11, Poshine Jenifer - 11, Andre Bragg  - 11, Keith Littlejohn - 11, Joe Henderson - 11, Kaleb King - 11,Chemar Pilot - 11, Dallas Williams - 12

 

Health Sciences

Returning:  Allen Wright Jr - 12, Carl "Boonie" Goodwin - 12, Aaron Day - 12, Marquist Lumpkin - 12, Cory Wiseman - 12, Davion Washington - 12, Ja'Quan Sullivan - 12, Nasir Flood - 11, Jason Giles - 12, Shiloh Gibbs - 12, Ivory Prince - 12

 

WNY Maritime

 Returning:  Isaiah Padin - 12, Rodney Lee - 12, Charles Davis - 12, Marques DeBose - 12, Joseph Adeleke - 12, 

New:  Damon Glenn - 10, Brian Johnson - 10

 

Global Concepts

 Returning:  Fred Searles - 11

New:  Fabian Pierce - 10 (Transfer from Lackawanna)

 

*******************************************

 

New Coaches

Ron Killinger, South Park

Roland Davis, Riverside

David Nieves, Hutch-Tech

Brandon Woods, Global Concepts

Scott Gill, Eden

Justin Abel, Orchard Park

Brett Lyford, Lake Shore

Steve O'Brien, Dunkirk

Michael Putney, Chautauqua Lake

 Brennan Meakin, Albion

 

***********************************************

 

Classification Changes

North Tonawanda moves down from Class AA to Class A1

West Seneca East moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

Starpoint moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

Iroquois moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

East Aurora moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Springville moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Albion moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Maryvale moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Buffalo Arts moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Medina moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

City Honors moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Fredonia moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Falconer moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

 Salamanca moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

 DaVinci moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

 Oracle Charter moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

 Lackawanna moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Health Sciences moves up from Class C2 to Class B2

Portville moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

Silver Creek moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

Randolph moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

 

****************************************************

 

Top Nonleague Games 

 12/3 Salamanca @ Silver Creek

12/4 - Cleveland Hill vs. Nichols @ Lancaster

12/4 - Williamsville East vs. Oracle Charter @ Daemen College

12/5 - East vs. Timon/St. Jude @ Daemen College

12/5 - St. Mary's vs. Middle College @ Daemen College

12/5 - McKinley vs. Kenmore West @ Daemen College

12/5 - Randolph @ Maple Grove

12/6 - Clarence vs. North Tonawanda @ Amherst

12/6 - Oracle Charter @ Amherst

12/6 - Sir Edmund McNabb @ Niagara Falls

12/6 - Sherman @ Randolph

12/6 - Williamsville East @ Lockport

12/7 - St. Joe's vs. Will East/Lockport 

12/7 - Williamsville North vs. Timon @ NFHS

12/7 - Bishop Kearney @ Niagara Falls

12/7 - Consolation & Championship of Amherst Tourny

12/7 - Championship of Olean Tourny (potentially Silver Creek @ Olean)

12/9 - Oracle Charter @ Newfane

12/10 - Aquinas @ St. Joe's

12/10 - Timon @ Olean

12/11 - Maple Grove @ Randolph

12/13 - Fordham @ Canisius

12/13 - Aquinas @ Timon

12/13 - Olean @ Bishop Kearney

12/13 - Greece Athena vs. Fredonia @ Jamestown

12/13 - Oracle Charter @ City Honors

12/13 - Olmsted @ Sherman

12/14 - Greece Athena/Fredonia @ Jamestown

12/14 - Consolation & Championship of Tom Keenan Tourny @ Canisius

12/17 - St. Joe's @ Bishop Kearney

12/17 - Fredonia @ Lackawanna

12/19 - Nichols vs. Depew @ Canisius

12/20 - Clarence vs. St. Mary's @Canisius

12/21 - Randolph @ Sherman

12/21 - St. Joe's vs. McKinley @ Canisius

12/21 - Olean @ Canisius

12/21 - City Honors vs. St. Mary's @ Depew

12/21 - Lancaster @ Depew

12/23 - Consolation & Chanpionship Rounds of Depew Tournament (Beware of Transit Rd. holiday traffic!  I once missed the entire consolation game on 12/23 because of it.)

12/27 - Middle College vs. Tapestry @ St. Joe's

12/28 - Championship of Clarence Tourny (potentially Fredonia @ Clarence)

12/28 - University Prep @ Timon

1/3 - Greece Athena @ Olean

1/3 - Randolph @ Silver Creek

1/6 - McKinley @ Clarence

1/6 - Nichols @ Lackawanna

1/6 - Bishop Kearney @ Timon

1/8 - Canisius @ Aquinas

1/10 - Williamsville North @ McKinley

1/11 - Olean @ Aquinas

1/14 - Canisius @ Bishop Kearney

1/18 - Canisius vs. McKinley @ City Honors

1/18 - East vs. Sweet Home @ City Honors

1/18 - Cheektowaga vs. Middle College @ City Honors

1/18 - Sherman @ Olmsted

1/21 - Olean @ St. Mary's

1/22 - Silver Creek @ Salamanca

 1/24 - Williamsville South @ Olean

1/24 - Batavia @ Lackawanna

1/28 - Lockport @ Batavia

1/29 - Olean @ Timon

1/31 - MST Seneca @ Lackawanna

2/1 - Timon & Jamestown playing Sec V teams in RAP Classic @ Rochester's East High

2/1 - Olean @ Greece Athena

2/1 - Silver Creek @ Randolph

2/7 - Bishop Kearney @ Olean

2/8 - Cathedral Prep @ Canisius

2/9 - Willliamsville South @ St. Joe's

2/12 - St. Mary's @ Fredonia

2/13 - St. Joe's @ Kenmore West

2/14 - North Tonawanda @ Cleveland Hill 

 

************************************************

 

Predictions

 

MMA - Canisius

Yale Cup I - East

Yale Cup II - City Honors

ECIC I - Jamestown

ECIC II - Williamsville East

ECIC III - Amherst

ECIC IV - Cleveland Hill

NFL - Lockport

N-O - Barker

CCAA I West - Fredonia

CCAA I East - Randolph

CCAA II West - Sherman

CCAA II East - Pine Valley

Charters:  Oracle

 

Manhattan Cup: Canisius

Class AA: Jamestown

Class A1: North Tonawanda

Class A2: Amherst

Class B1: Olean

Class B2: East

Class C1: Middle College

Class C2: Randolph

Class D: Sherman

 

  -centercourt

@centercourt42

Ad Pro Sports Public/Private Challenge

 

The artist formerly known as the ECIC/MMA challenge has a new name and a new location, but its still a three-day, ten-game event played prior to the holiday break.  This season, the location has moved to Canisius High School after several years at St. Mary's in Lancaster, and has been more accurately named a public/private challenge.

 

As always, the event features some intriguing early season nonleague matchups between some of WNY's top programs, and the event's finale is a doozy: a rematch from last season's challenge between Canisius and Olean.  The two programs finished atop their respective polls (Canisius in the large schools and Olean in the small schools) following the 2013 campaign, and both are likely to open this year right where they left off - on top.

 

In last season's game, Olean built an astounding 47-21 halftime lead, then hung on for dear life as the Crusaders came storming back before ultimately falling, 76-73.  Here's a link to a complete game recap from last season's classic.

 

Thursday, December 19th

Park vs. Iroquois - 4 pm

Niagara Catholic vs. I-Prep - 5:30 pm

Nichols vs. Depew - 7 pm

 

Friday, December 20th

Cardinal O'Hara vs. Alden - 4 pm

Archbishop Walsh vs. Lancaster - 5:30 pm

St. Mary's vs. Clarence - 7 pm

 

Saturday, December 21st

St. Francis vs. Cheektowaga - 11 am

Timon vs. Sweet Home - 12:30 pm

St. Joe's vs. McKinley - 2 pm

Canisius vs. Olean - 3:30 pm

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

 

All-League Teams - 2013

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION

Player of the Year:

 Adam Weir - Canisius, 12

 

First Team

Matt MacDonald - Canisius, 12

Louie Oliveri - St. Joe's, 12

Paul Rath - St. Mary's, 12

Aaron White - Canisius, 12

Donte Williams - Timon, 11

 

Second Team

Jordan Glover - St. Joe's, 12

Demone Harris - Timon, 12

Cam Lewis - Nichols, 10

Chris Miner - Nichols, 10

Jaylen Morris - St. Joe's, 12

 

*************************************************************

 

 

YALE CUP I

Player of the Year:

Marcus Morris - McKinley, 12

 

First Team

Lovell Smith - McKinley, 12

Keir Anderson - Middle College, 12

Tyree Tyson - East, 11

Kevin Briggs - Middle College, 11

Reyjzon Jordan - McKinley, 12

 

Second Team

Tyrell Mitchell - South Park, 12

Johnathan Lewis - East, 11

Daequan Warren - McKinley, 12

Bri'an Brown - Middle College, 11

Willie Smith - Riverside, 11

 

Third Team

Percy Bryant - East, 10

Jovohn Owens - Hutch-Tech, 12

Tarron Scott - Middle College, 11

Aymanuel Radford - Hutch-Tech, 11

Samuel Smith - McKinley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Avrelio Ayala - Bennett, 11

Dante Thompson - McKinley, 11

Joseph Stanton - Middle College, 9

Jovell Littlejohn - Riverside, 10

Jonathan Kinley - East, 10

 

******************************************************************

 

YALE CUP II & III

Player of the Year:

Lester Diaz - Lafayette, 12

 

First Team

JaVaughn McNab - MST Seneca, 12

Lenny Dowell - Emerson, 12

Daquan Walker - Burgard, 12

Malcolm Hendrick - Olmsted, 10

Damon Boykin - I-Prep, 11

 

Second Team

 Jon Colon - Lafayette, 12

Tyler James - Buffalo  Arts, 12

Jamaal Felton - MST Seneca, 11

Jordan Garrett - Emerson, 12

Yusef Burgos - City Honors, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Burgard:  Sean Marshall - 12, Aaron Jones - 12

I-Prep:  Terrance James - 10, Willquan Burgess - 10

City Honors:  Matt Cieslik - 10

Buffalo Arts:  Ivan Harris - 11

MST Seneca:  Ben Bolden - 12

Olmsted:  Jalen Schumaker - 12

DaVinci:  Darius Henry - 12

 

*********************************************************************

 

ALL ECIC

Player of the Year:

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 11

 

First Team

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 12

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, 12

Nate Wilkinson - Iroquois, 12

Ryan Funk - Clarence, 11

Jordan Parker - Cleveland Hill, 12

 

Second Team

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, 11

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, 12

Ahmad Abdo - Lackawanna, 12

Alex Turecki - Amherst, 12

Derrick Sekuterski - Depew, 11

 

*****************************************************************

 

 ECIC I

Co-Players of the Year:

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 12  

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 11

 

First Team

Ryan Funk - Clarence, 11

David Berkun - Williamsville North, 12

Branden Kellam - Jamestown, 10

Quinn Lee Yaw - Jamestown, 11

Byran Jost - Clarence, 11

 

Second Team

Kevin Marcinkowski - Frontier, 12

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 1o

Matt Wheelock - West Seneca West - 12

Bobby Florio - Clarence, 12

Tanner Schmit - Clarence, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Lancaster:  Sean Murray - 12, Mac Garby - 12

Clarence:  Emarure Williams - 10

West Seneca West:  Nick Clancy - 11

Frontier:  David Rajski - 12

Williamsville North:  George Attea - 10

 

********************************************************************

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Nate Wilkinson - Iroquois, 12

 

First Team

Phil Bowen - Iroquois, 12

Chaq Nettles - Williamsville South, 12

Damien Powers - Williamsville South, 12

Mike Torrillo - Sweet Home, 12

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 10

 

Second Team

Khalid Barnes - Sweet Home, 12

Zachary Bischel - Williamsville East, 12

Kole Gilchrist - Sweet Home, 12

Andrew Rankie - Starpoint, 12

Griffin Ryan - Hamburg, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Nicholas Clough - Williamsville East, 10

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East, 10

Andrew Sardina - Hamburg, 12

Kyle Violanti - Hamburg, 12

 

*******************************************************************

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, 12

 

First Team

Derrick Sekuterski - Depew, 11

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, 11

Alex Turecki - Amherst, 12

Clark Brueckl - Lake Shore, 12

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 10

Ed Smith - Maryvale, 12

 

Second Team

Ian Allen - East Aurora, 12

Max Aiken - Maryvale, 12

Dion Lewis - Amherst, 12

Preston Summers - Cheektowaga, 11

Terik Lewis - Pioneer, 12

Denis Vanini - Depew, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Cheektowaga:  Dominick Welch - 11, Derek Clyburn - 12

Maryvale:  Demetri McCallie - 12

East Aurora:  Michael Coatsworth - 10

Lake Shore:  Ryan Joslyn - 12

Springville:  William Dickinson, 12

 

***********************************************************************

 

ECIC IV

Co-Players of the Year:

Jordan Parker - Cleveland Hill, 12

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, 12

 

First Team

Shaquille Brooks - Lackawanna, 12

Ahmad Abdo - Lackawanna, 12

Clay Lewis - Holland, 10

Richard Sotero - Cleveland Hill, 12

 

Second Team 

Damone Sylvers - Lackawanna, 10

Dylan Dussalt - Alden, 11

Aaron Phillips - Cleveland Hill, 11

Ben Stitch - Tonawanda, 11

Bradley Palmerton - Eden, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Lackawanna:  Cam Smith - 11, Deron Adams - 12

Alden:  Corey Barcyzkowski - 12, Tyler Glasser - 11, Nick Kibbler - 11

Holland:  Curtis Blendinger - 12, Storm Phillips - 12, JR Kline - 10

JFK:  Zack Walkowski - 12, Tyler Gabrielli - 12

 

*******************************************************************

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

 

First Team

Jermaine Crumpton - Niagara Falls, 12

Quinten Campbell - Kenmore West, 12

Jack Mulcahey - Niagara Wheatfield, 12

Ian Gilhousen - North Tonawanda, 12

Ramir Burton - Niagara Falls, 12

 

Second Team

JJ Wilkes - Niagara Falls, 12

Vinzell Watkins - Niagara Falls, 11

Nick Mansour - Lew-Port, 12

Moziah Townsend - Lockport, 11

Ryan Ross - Grand Island, 11

 

Third Team

Charlie Sobierski - Lockport, 11

Pat Schroeder - Kenmore East, 12

Nehemiah Stone - North Tonawanda, 10

Colin Dougherty - Lockport, 11

Ryan Lawrence - Lockport, 11

 

************************************************************

 

Niagara-Orleans League

 

First Team

Darnell Carson - CSAT, 12

Jake Haight - Barker, 11

Connor Sears - Newfane, 12

Brad Bobbit - Roy-Hart, 12

Connor Ladd - Akron, 12

 

Second Team

Blake Copella - Roy-Hart, 12

Austin Mietz - Akron, 12

Jaquille Peay - CSAT, 12

Reid Weber - Newfane, 12

Mitchell Luckman - Barker, 11

 

Honorable Mention

CSAT:  Alex Santos - 10

Newfane:  Bryan Geise - 12

Roy-Hart:  Ryan Farewell - 12, Alex Stoddard - 11

Akron:  Gowah Abrams - 12

Medina:  Mungie Brown - 11, Lonnie Taylor - 12

Albion:  Fred Koester - 12

Wilson:  Matt Baker - 12

 

*******************************************************************

 

CCAA I

Co-Players of the Year:

Wil Bathurst - Olean, 11

Sam Eckstrom - Olean, 11

 

First Team

Dylan Meyer - Fredonia, 11

Kyle Radack - Southwestern - 12

Max Portlow - Olean, 12

John Piper - Fredonia, 10

Alek Peck - Southwestern, 12

 

Second Team

Pat Scholla - Olean, 12

Domonic Saglimben - Allegany-Limestone, 11

Nick Conti - Falconer, 12

Ryan Vossler - Allegany-Limestone, 11

Nick Johnston - Fredonia, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Olean:  Nick Schmidt - 11, Luke Hennessey - 11, Evan Ryan - 12

Fredonia:  Jon Fletcher - 12

Dunkirk:  Michael Bess - 12, Alex Crossan - 12, Jacob Lockett - 12, Marquel Ruiz - 12

Falconer:  Mitch Carter - 12

Gowanda:  Zach Stevens - 11, Brennan Gieger - 11, Chase Williams - 11

Allegany-Limestone:  Caswell Stanton - 12

Southwestern:  Peter Trathen - 12

 

**************************************************************

 

CCAA II

Player of the Year:

Zach Blask - Portville, 12

 

First Team

Zed Williams - Silver Creek, 12

Kaine Kettle - Silver Creek, 11

Bill Brooks - Silver Creek, 10

Bryce Morrison - Randolph, 10 

 

Second Team

Stephen Marcey - Silver Creek, 12

Alex Elderkin - Frewsburg, 12

Nathan Beaver - Rndolph, 12

Tanner John - Salamanca, 12

Jared Fish - Salamanca, 10

Tim Bender - Cassadaga Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Silver Creek:  Brennan White - 10

Portville:  Curtis Caya - 11

Salamanca:  Bryce Stahlman - 12

Cassadaga Valley:  Randy Dalaba - 12, Mike Lancaster - 12

Randolph:  Mitchell Maycock - 11, Cody Oldro - 11

Frewsburh:  Josh Nelson

Cattaraugus/Little Valley:  Colt Agnew

 

****************************************************************

 

CCAA III

 Co-Players of the Year:

Will Soffel - Maple Grove, 12

Aaron Germain - Maple Grove, 12

 

First Team

Will Soffel - Maple Grove, 12

Aaron Germain - Maple Grove, 12

John Coe - Westfield, 12

Tanner Dahl - Westfield, 10

Alec Blose - Panama, 12

Ian Clute - Chautauqua Lake, 11

 

Second Team

Lucas Trombley - Pine Valley, 12

Austin Goerke - Maple Grove, 12

Dan O'Dell - Panama, 11

Colin Seamans - Franklinville, 11

Corey Wefing - Maple Grove, 11

Cody Thomas - Chautauqua Lake, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Chautauqua Lake:  A.J. Hulton

Forestville:  Caleb Makuch, Jake Nosbisch, Adam Pleva

Maple Grove:  Graham Soffel, Jeff Tampe

Pine Valley:  Spencer Sticek

Westfield:  Dylan MacCubbin, Dan Tofil

 

 

 

*****************************************************************

 

CCAA IV

Player of the Year:

Dan Lictus - Clymer, 12

 

First Team

Jordan Patterson - Brocton, 12

Andrew Graham - Sherman, 11

Jared Keppel - North Collins, 12

Dan Ferguson - Brocton, 12

Ryan Robson - Sherman, 11

 

Second Team

Mitchell Einink - Clymer, 11

Devin Morehead - Sherman, 11

Colton Myers - West Valley, 12

Jacob Wiggers - Clymer, 11

Alex Steinbroner - Ellicottville, 12

Mike Grigsby - West Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Brocton:  Aaron Riforgiato - 12, Macalum Buchanon - 11

Sherman:  Jake Card - 10

North Collins:  Todd Youngman - 12, Jordan Keough - 12

Ellicottville:  Cam Wilson - 12, Phalla Musall - 10

Clymer:  Garrett McAfoose - 11

Ripley:  Eric Horstman - 12

 

********************************************************************

 

Charter Schools

Player of the Year:

Gerald Bibbs - Oracle Charter, 12

 

First Team

Gerald Bibbs - Oracle, 12

Jamarr Cunningham - Oracle, 12

Julius Allen - Oracle, 12

Tom Lucas - Tapestry, 12

Allen Wright Jr. - Health Sciences, 11

 

Second Team

Eric Waters - Oracle, 12

Jon Spears - Tapestry, 12

Tyree Coble - Maritime, 10

Warren Mostiller - Maritime, 12

Randy Golda - Global Concepts, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Antoine Gulledge - Oracle, 11

Brandon McCants - Buffalo Science, 12

Aaron Day - Health Sciences, 11

Carl Goodwin - Health Sciences, 11

JaQuoine Fogan - Tapestry, 9

 

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2013 Sectionals

CLASS B1

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 19th

(13) Bennett 71, (12) Albion 53

(10) Dunkirk 65, (15) Springville 42  

(11) Alden 65, (14) Eden 44

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 20th

(9) Tonawanda 40, (8) Burgard 25

(13) Bennett 45, (5) Newfane 39

(11) Alden 59, (6) Lafayette 51

(7) Depew 63, (10) Dunkirk 36

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 22nd

(1) Olean 64, (9) Tonawanda 31

(4) Maryvale 54, (13) Bennett 41 

 

(2) Lackawanna 76, (7) Depew 57

(3) East Aurora 58, (11) Alden 48

 

Semifinals - Monday, February 25th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 7:15 pm & 8:45 pm

 (1) Olean  72, (4) Maryvale 51

(2) Lackawanna 68, (3) East Aurora 55

 

Final - Saturday, March 2nd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

 (1) Olean  82, (2) Lackawanna 68

 

2013 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

 

***************************************

 

CLASS B2

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 19th

(13) Gowanda 56, (12) JFK 47

(11) Medina 70, (14) Wilson 40

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 20th

(9) City Honors 63, (8) Emerson 62 OT

(5) Akron 61, (13) Gowanda 32

(6) Southwestern 74, (11) Medina 54

(7) Roy-Hart 58, (10) Buffalo Arts 38 

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 22nd

(1)  CSAT 56, (9) City Honors 44

(4) Fredonia 68, (5) Akron 37

 

(3) East 70, (6) Southwestern 43

(2) Cleveland Hill 75, (7) Roy-Hart 57

 

Semifinals - Monday & Tuesday, February 25th & 26th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:30 pm

(4) Fredonia 66,  (1) CSAT 62

(3) East 50, (2) Cleveland Hill 45

 

Final - Saturday, March 2nd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

(3) East 65, (4) Fredonia 56

 

2013 Section VI Class B2 Champions - East Panthers

 

***********************************

 

Overall Class B Championship

Tuesday, March 5th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 7:15 pm

(B1) Olean 62, (B2) East 50

 

Overall 2013 Section VI Class B Champions - Olean Huskies

 -centercourt

@centercourt42

Selection Tuesday - Ranking every team in Section VI

The most commonly asked question right now is "where can I find the brackets?"   Unfortunately, the answer continues to be...they're not ready yet.

 

Most coaches have a very good idea of which team or teams they are likely to draw, depending on how the last week plays out, and in turn their players and immediate fans of that team also know where the team they follow stands.  But I'm sensing that WNY basketball fans want to see where every team stands, so I took this route instead...Ranking every team in Section VI, by class.

 

** Please note these are not seedings and do not reflect actual power points.  This is simply how I rank the teams heading into sectionals, or, where I'd seed them if I ruled the world (the WNY basketball world).  It's not a prediction of how I think the seedings will end up.

 

Class AA

1. Niagara Falls

2. Jamestown

3. Williamsville North

4. Clarence

5. Kenmore West

6. Frontier

7. Lockport

8. North Tonawanda

9. Lancaster

10. Niagara Wheatfield

11. West Seneca West

12. Orchard Park

 

Class A1

1. McKinley

2. Williamsville South

3. Sweet Home

4. Hutch-Tech

5. Hamburg

6. Williamsville East

7. Grand Island

8. West Seneca East

9. Kenmore East

 

Class A2

1. Amherst

2. Iroquois

3. South Park

4. Cheektowaga

5. Lake Shore

6. Pioneer

7. Starpoint

8. Lew-Port

9. Riverside

 

Class B1

1. Olean

2. Lackawanna

3. Depew

4. Maryvale

5. Newfane

6. East Aurora

7. Lafayette

8. Burgard

9. Tonawanda

10. Bennett

11. Alden

12. Dunkirk

13. Albion

14. Eden

15. Springville

 

Class B2

1. East

2. Cleveland Hill

3. CSAT

4. Fredonia

5. Roy-Hart

6. Akron

7. City Honors

8. Emerson

9. Southwestern

10. Medina

11. Buffalo Arts

12. JFK

13. Wilson

14. Gowanda

15. Falconer

 

Class C1

1. Oracle Charter

2. Middle College

3. Holland

4. Randolph

5. Salamanca

6. Barker

7. Tapestry Charter

8. Allegany-Limestone

9. Cassadaga Valley

10. Maritime Charter

11. Cattaraugus Little Valley

12. Da Vinci

 

Class C2

1. Silver Creek

2. Maple Grove

3. Portville 

4. MST Seneca

5. I-Prep

6. Olmsted

7. Westfield

8. Frewsburg

9. Chautauqua Lake

10. Health Sciences

11. Franklinville

12. Buffalo Science

 

Class D

1. Brocton

2. Sherman

3. Clymer

4. North Collins

5. Pine Valley

6. Forestville

7. Panama

8. Ellicottville

9. West Valley

10. Ripley

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

Jack Silvernail Tournament

Tonight, the Jack Silvernail Coaches vs. Cancer Holiday Tournament tips-off at Akron High School.  The annual tournament has raised thousands of dollars in honor of the Tigers' former coach who lost his battle with cancer.  The same four teams return to the field again this year, a lineup which is sure to produce four competitive games.  Last season, St. Mary's won the championship round with a 57-42 win against Hutch-Tech.

 

Tuesday, December 18th @ Akron HS

St. Mary's vs. Alden - 6 pm

Akron vs. Hutch-Tech - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, December 19th @ Akron HS

Consolation Game - 6 pm

Championship Game - 7:30 pm

 

-centercourt

2013 Poll Ballots - Week 1

As a pollster for the Buffalo News, I'm asked to send in my weekly ballots ranking the top ten large and small schools.  The polls are based on games played through Sunday of each week.  Here's a look at how I see them and some of the rationale used to get there.

 

Large Schools

1. Niagara Falls (AA) - The Wolverines deserve this spot, this week, for slugging out an overtime victory against Section V Class AA favorite Bishop Kearney.  

2. Canisius (MMA) - A season, with expectations as high as they've ever been, starts for the Crusaders tomorrow against Olean at St. Mary's.  

3. Jamestown (AA) - In the second half against Williamsville South, the Red Raiders looked like I thought they would this season - much improved thanks to the growth of some key underclassmen. 

4. McKinley (A1) - Business as usual in the opener against Timon.  The Macks relentless style wears teams down, while the talented, fresh legs just keep coming. Host St. Joe's this Friday night.

5. St. Joe's (MMA) - Followed up a wild double overtime victory against Kenmore West with a pair of routs in the Lockport Rotary Tournament against Williamsville East and I-Prep.  Next up, a date with Jamestown tomorrow night at St. Mary's - part of an incredible double-header, as Canisius/Olean follows!

6. Williamsville North (AA) - Sterling Taplin was easily the best player on the floor as the Spartans rolled to victory against Batavia, but it was their team execution that was most impressive.  If they continue to play that well together, a Falls/Jamestown AA finale is no sure thing.

7. Kenmore West (AA) - After taking the Marauders to the brink of defeat last week, the Blue Devils can prove they deserve this spot tonight with a win over a talented Timon squad that has begun 0-3.

8. Clarence (AA) - A balanced team with a strong backcourt led by Bryan Jost and Bobby Florio that opened the year with an attention-grabbing Amherst Tournament championship.

9. Amherst (A2) - After falling to the Red Devils in their tournament, the Tigers were lucky to escape with a win over Depew.  But they do deserve credit for responding in overtime with their backs against the wall and this team should only get better as the year wears on.

10. Riverside (A2) - Difficult to gauge where they really are because they haven't played at full strength yet. Justice Feggans is now cleared to play, the biggest difference maker in that lineup.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - They still only start one senior.  Raced out to a 47-8 halftime lead against Bradford (PA) in their season opener.  

2. Middle College (C1) - Seeking a third trip to Glens Falls in four seasons, they won't face a Class C school until sectionals.  

3. Silver Creek (C2) - If you think this is too high for this team, you're wrong and probably haven't seen them play yet.  They are better than last year's team, the one that saw a win against Middle College and a trip to Glens Falls get away when a shot in the lane missed at the buzzer.

4. Depew (B1) - Every year, new players get plugged in and the system continues to work.  The Wildcats saw their stock rise in a loss to Amherst.

5. East Aurora (B1) - They lost Stan Wier, but return enough from the team that finished with wins against Riverside, Amherst, and McKinley, to be a force again this year after dropping down to Class B.

6. Lackawanna (B1) - Season opening victories against St. Francis and Frontier is as impressive a start as any small school had.

7. Nichols (MMA) - Well look who's off to a 4-0 start despite a pair of early injuries. The Vikings are gaining confidence and optimism, something that will continue if they are able to better Sweet Home tonight at St. Mary's.

8. Newfane (B1) - Who's going to win the N-O?  CSAT? Akron?  Too early to say for sure, but while CSAT fell to Niagara Catholic already, the Panthers started off their season by beating the Manhattan Cup finalists.

9. St. Mary's (MMA) - Loss to Newfane puts them here, after garnering a pair of wins over Yale Cup I schools, East & Riverside.  Wednesday night, they host Williamsville South in the ECIC/MMA Challenge finale. 

10. Cleveland Hill (B2) - Giving them this final spot because they led Nichols for over three quarters before falling at the end, despite Jared Watkins not playing, and then defeated Lancaster two nights later.  Alden was closely considered, but the Golden Eagles got the nod for being defending ECIC IV co-champs.

 

-centercourt

Preview: 2012-2013 Season

The Pastor-Cooper Showcase tips tonight, so it's official...high school hoops season is here!

 

Below in this year's version of the Pre-View From Centercourt, you will find:

 

- What's New

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Top Nonleague Games

- Returning 2012 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2012-2013

- A League-by-League look at top returning players & newcomers

- Predictions 

- Preseason Top 10 

 

What's New

- Middle Early College dropped the OTC, so in place of OTC/MEC, I'm going old school and calling them Middle College again

- Sweet Home moved from ECIC I to ECIC II

- Lake Shore moved from ECIC II to ECIC III

- Ellicottville moved down to CCAA IV, while Panama bumped up to CCAA III

- Sectional seeding points will be updated more regularly this year - details when they're available 

- There is now a Yale Cup I, II, & III, and Middle College will play up in League I with the big boys, despite its BEDS numbers

- Depew head coach Larry Jones has replaced former Lew-Port head coach Jim Walker as the Section VI Boy's Basketball Chairman

- The Canisius/St. Joe's rivalry games will both be played at the Canisius College Koessler Center this season

- In Section V, Bishop Kearney (who added another tower to its roster) moved up to Class AA and Batavia moved down to Class B1

- Williamsville South and Allegany-Limestone will finally play each other this year...twice

- Two new charter schools will compete in Section VI - Global Concepts & Health Sciences 

- Dunkirk has seriously stepped up its nonleague schedule: Home & home with Silver Creek (C2 champ),  at McKinley (A1 champ), and at Frontier (AA semifinalist).  

 

New Coaches

Gabe Michael, Williamsville South

Ben Scaffidi, Starpoint

Paul Rath, St. Mary's

John Reinholz, Nichols

David Nieves, Hutch-Tech

Matt Bradshaw, Lew-Port

Darren Kresge, Tapestry Charter

Dave Carson, Barker

Joe Mihalics, Bishop Timon/St. Jude

Brian Ferris, St. Francis

Ron Krysztof, Grand Island

Tim Anderson, Falconer

 

Classification Changes

North Tonawanda moves down from Class AA to Class A1

 West Seneca East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Starpoint moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Lake Shore moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Bennett moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

East Aurora moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Maryvale moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Albion moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Lafayette moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

East moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Medina moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Buffalo Arts moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Allegany-Limestone moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

DaVinci moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

Randolph moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

Olmsted moves up from Class D to Class C2

 

Top Nonleague Games 

12/5 - Williamsville East vs. Middle College @ Daemen College

12/6 - East vs. St. Mary's @ Daemen College

12/6 - Timon vs. McKinley @ Daemen College

12/7 - Bishop Kearney @ Niagara Falls

12/8 - Jamestown vs. Williamsville South @ NFHS

12/8 - Brunswick (OH) @ Niagara Falls

12/8 - East @ Olean (projected in round two of tournament)

12/11 - Jamestown vs. St. Joe's @ St. Mary's

12/11 - Canisius vs. Olean @ St. Mary's

12/12 - Williamsville South @ St. Mary's

12/12 - CSAT @ Middle College

12/14 - St. Joe's @ McKinley

12/18 - Bishop Kearney @ Canisius

12/20 - Middle College @ St. Joe's

12/22 - Timon @ Jamestown (projected in round two of tournament)

1/17 - Bishop Kearney @ St. Joe's

1/18 - Timon @ Bishop Kearney

1/19 - St. Joe's @ Aquinas

1/19 - Canisius vs. McKinley @ City Honors

1/19 - East vs. East Aurora @ City Honors

2/2 - Niagara Falls @ Bishop Kearney

2/4 - Oracle Charter @ Olmsted

2/6 - Timon @ Bishop Kearney

2/7 - Canisius @ Cathedral Prep

2/9 - Nichols @ Aquinas

2/12 - St. Joe's @ Frontier

2/12 - Aquinas @ Timon

2/13 - Olmsted @ Tapestry Charter

2/14 - Sweet Home @ St. Joe's

2/14 - Williamsville North @ Williamsville East

2/14 - Dunkirk @ Silver Creek

2/18 - Cleveland Hill @ St. Mary's

 

 

The Players

Nine of the top 25 players from the 2012 All-Centercourt teams return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with another 13 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.  In addition, many others are primed to have breakout seasons, while the influx of talented underclassmen continues to surface at multiple schools throughout WNY.

 

Returning 2012 1st Teamers

Adam Weir - Sr., Canisius:  18 ppg, 7 reb.  Helped lead the Crusaders to a second straight Manhattan Cup championship, where he earned MVP honors, while leading team in postseason scoring.  His familiarity with success on the Koessler Center floor should serve him well when he continues his hoops career with Canisius College after high school.

Sterling Taplin - Jr., Williamsville North:  19.1 ppg, 5.7  reb, 3.6 asst, 2.7 stl.  Sank five 3-pointers and scored 13 of his game-high 26 points in the fourth quarter of the AA semifinal in an effort that fell just short of an upset bid against eventual champion Niagara Falls.  Enters his junior season having already eclipsed 1,000 career points.

 

 Returning 2012 Second Teamer

Jermaine Crumpton - Sr., Niagara Falls:  17 ppg, 7 reb, 3 asst, 2 blk.   Helped to lead the Wolverines back to prominence as they recaptured the Class AA title, defeating Jamestown .  Played very well against top competition, including game-highs in points and rebounds when Falls faced Milton, a team that finished in the top ten nationally in 2012.  Crumpton will also continue playing hoops for Canisius College following graduation.

 

Returning 2012 Third Teamers

Tommy Campion - Sr., Jamestown:  18.6 ppg, 4.3 asst, 2.1 stls. The lone returning starter from the Class AA NYS runners-up in 2011, Campion's leadership and abilities on the court returned the Red Raiders to Class AA Section VI championship game.  He shared ECIC I Player of the Year honors with Taplin thanks to his contributions in all phases of the game for Jamestown.

Sam Eckstrom - Jr., Olean:  14.8 ppg, 9.2 reb, 2.0 blk.  Helped lead a Huskies squad loaded with expectations to the brink of a state title in just his sophomore campaign.  His footwork and positioning in the post, along with a soft touch around the rim, make him the most fundamentally sound junior big man WNY has seen since Will Regan.

Wil Bathurst - Jr., Olean:  11.8 ppg, 7.6 reb, 2.2 asst.  Complemented Eckstrom's talents wonderfully to give the Huskies a potent 1-2 punch.  Combines raw athleticism with a silky-smooth style that allows him to shoot from anywhere, get to the basket (and above) with ease, and snag every rebound within his radius that Eckstrom didn't already secure.

 

Returning 2012 Fourth Teamer

Zed Williams - Sr., Silver Creek

 

Returning 2012 Fifth Teamers

JJ Wilkes - Sr.,  Niagara Falls

Darnell Carson - Sr., CSAT

 

Returning 2012 Honorable Mentions

Johnathan Belton - Sr. (Amherst), Justice Feggans - Sr. (Riveride), Aaron White - Sr. (Canisius), Matt MacDonald - Sr. (Canisius), Quinton Campbell - Sr. (Kenmore West), Reyszon Jordan - Sr. (McKinley),  Marcus Morris - Sr. (McKinley), Lovell Smith - Sr. (McKinley), Jordan Glover - Sr. (St. Joe's), Chaquiel Nettles - Sr. (Williamsville South), Clayton Hess - Sr. (Tonawanda), Nick Scmidt - Jr. (Olean), Brendan Cox - Jr. (East Aurora)

 

Other names to watch for this season 

Jake Haight - Jr. (Barker), Steve Marcey - Sr. (Silver Creek), Jack Mulcahey - Sr. (Niagara Wheatfield), Kyle Radack - Sr. (Southwestern), Dylan Meyer - Jr. (Fredonia), Zach Blask - Sr. (Portville), John Coe - Sr. (Westfield), Louis Oliveri - Sr. (St. Joe's), Tyree Tyson - Jr. (East), Johnathan Lewis - Jr. (East), Fulton Bryant - Sr. (Timon), Bri'an Brown - Jr. (Middle College), Keir Anderson - Jr. (Middle College), Paul Rath - Sr. (St. Mary's), Brandon Kellam - So. (Jamestown), Kole Gilchrist - Sr. (Sweet Home), Jordan Parker - Sr. (Cleveland Hill), Ramir Burton - Sr. (Niagara Falls), Connor Sears - Sr. (Newfane), Lonnie Taylor - Sr. (Medina), Connor Ladd - Sr. (Akron)

 

League-by-league

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN

Canisius

Key Returnees: Adam Weir - 12, Aaron White - 12, Matt MacDonald - 12, Jamel Mosley - 12, Jake Cercone - 12, Ryan Raccuia - 12

Key Newcomers: Ryan Richards - 11, Josh Huffman - 10, Patrick MacDonald - 11, Howard Washington - 9 (Transfer from City Honors)

 

St. Joe's 

Key Returnees:  Jordan Glover - 12, Jalen Morris - 12, Mark Cerza - 12, Louis Oliveri - 12, Dan Maher - 12, Dylan Hall - 12

Key Newcomers: Justin Hollins - 11, Tremaine Shelton - 11 (Transfer from Buffalo Arts), Tyler Hill - 11

 

Bishop Timon/St. Jude

Key Returnees:  Bryant Fulton - 12, Donte Williams - 11, Manny Welch - 12, 

Key Newcomers:  Derick Simpson - 10, Kyler Hairston (Transfer from Park School), Brandon Donohue, Sean Murphy

 

St. Francis

Key Returnees: Cory Cullen - 12, Brennan Macey - 12, David Kennedy - 11, Wenny Xie - 12

Key Newcomers: Treyvon Holness - 11 (Transfer from Montreal), Maurice Burse - 11 (Transfer from Lackawanna),  Devantie Campbell - 11 (Transfer from Montreal), Austin Taylor - 11, Chris Shriver - 11

 

Nichols

Key Returnees: Liam Ryan - 12, Christopher Miner - 10, Cam Lewis - 10, Adam Noonan - 12

Key Newcomer:  Tom Nuttle - 11, Jack Vance - 11

 

St. Mary's

Key Returnees:  Paul Rath - 12, Latrell Tyson - 12, Quinn Gill - 12

Key Newcomers:  Tyler English - 11, Corey Kiebzak - 11, Matt Wrobel - 11, Dione Strong - 11, Jake Concannon - 10

 

 Niagara Catholic

Key Returnee:  Jonathan Jackson - 11

 

 Cardinal O'Hara

Archbishop Walsh

 

YALE CUP I

McKinley

Key Returnees:  Marcus Morris - 12, Lovell Smith - 12, Reyjzon Jordan - 12, Deonte Bell - 12, Samuel Smith - 12, DaeQuan Warren - 12, Stephen Johnson - 12

 

East

Key Returnees:  Tyree Tyson - 11, Johnathan Lewis - 11, Damone Brown - 10, Dajuan Quarles - 12

Key Newcomer:  Percy Bryant - 10 (Transfer from St. Mary's)

 

Riverside

Key Returnees:  Justice Feggans - 12, Shawn Johnson - 12, Willie Smith - 11, Jarmel Caldwell - 11

Key Newcomers: Jevon Rosier - 11, Jovell Littlejohn - 10

 

Middle College

Key Returnees:  Bri'an Brown - 11, Keir Anderson - 12, Kevin Briggs (formerly Reese) - 11, TJ Scott - 11, Brandon Jefferson - 11, Donavin McLean - 12, Aterah Dickinson - 12

Key Newcomers:  Isaiah Jenkins - 10, Joseph Staton - 9, Khoron Ferguson - 9, Devon Singleton - 11, X-Ray Xavier Drayton - 11, Elijah Mingo - 11

 

Hutch-Tech

Key Returnees:  Tim Whitehead - 12, Roman West - 11, Jovohn Owens - 12, Amanuel Radford - 11

 

South Park 

Key Returnees:  Zachary Kaczor - 11, Tyrell Mitchell - 12, Darius White - 12

 

Bennett

 Key Returnees:  Aurelio Ayala - 12

 

YALE CUP II

I-Prep

Key Returnees:  Justice Radford - 12, Damon Boykin - 11, DaQuan Evans - 10

 

City Honors

Key Returnees: Marqell Massey - 11, James Miller - 11, Yusef Burgos - 11, Matt Cieslik - 10, Jordahn Summers - 10

 

Burgard

Key Returnees:  Daquan Walker - 12

 

MST Seneca

 Key Returnees:  JaVaughn McNab - 12, RayShawn Jones - 12

Key Newcomers:  Adrian Blackmon - 11, Ben Bolden - 11

 

YALE CUP III

Olmsted

Key returnees: Jalen Schumaker - 12, Malcolm Hendrick - 10, Ballah Burch - 11

 

Buffalo Arts

Key Returnees:  Derek Simpson - 10

 

Lafayette

Key Returnees:  Jon Colon - 12

 

Emerson

Key Returnee:  Lenny Dowell

 

 DaVinci

 

 ECIC I

 Jamestown

Key Returnees: Tommy Campion - 12, Quinn Lee Yaw - 11, Brandon Kellam - 10, Zack Panebianco - 10

 

Williamsville North

Key Returnees:  Sterling Taplin - 11, David Berkun - 12, George Attea - 10, Aman Washington - 12

 

 Clarence

Key Returnees: Bobby Florio - 12, Ryan Funk - 11, Bryan Jost - 11, Elliott Case - 11

Key Newcomers: Tanner Schmidt - 10 (Transfer from Nichols), Matt Sadowy - 10, Emaure Williams - 11

 

 Lancaster

Key Returnees:  Sean Murray - 12, Jacob Plonka - 12, Joe Jankowski - 11, Steve Musso - 12, Mac Garby - 12, Colin Stotz - 12

Key Newcomers: Tyler Lis - 10, Griffin O'Brien - 10, Eric Zimpfer - 11

 

West Seneca West

Key Returnees:  Nick Clancy - 11

 

Orchard Park

Frontier

 

ECIC II

Williamsville East

Key Returnees:  Michael Spina - 12, Cort Williams - 10, Nicholas Clough - 10, Zachary Bischel - 12

 

Williamsville South

Key Returnees:  Damian Powers - 12, Pat Stasiak - 12, Chaquiel Nettles - 12, Trent Ferguson - 12, Jack Fitzpatrick - 12, Sam Castronova - 10

 

Iroquois

Key Returnees:  Nate Wilkinson - 12, Matthew Zimmerman - 12

 

Sweet Home

Key Returnees: Kole Gilchrist - 12, Khalid Barnes - 12

 

Hamburg

Key Returnees:  Kyle Violanti - 12, Andrew Sardinia - 12, Griffin Ryan - 11, Jeremiah Bill - 11, Tony Guzzetta - 12, Matt Odre - 12

Key Newcomers:  Tim Kane - 11, Kyle Munro - 10, Joe DeGrood - 10

 

West Seneca East

Key Returnees:  Alex Pacer - 12, Austin Spindler - 12, Corey Fermo - 12, Matt Kumro - 10

Key Newcomers:  Nick Parucki - 1o, Ed Radka - 9, Dan Picciano - 9

 

Starpoint

Key Returnees:  Andrew Rankie - 12, Julian Mott - 11, Ian Emerick - 10

 

ECIC III

Amherst

Key Returnees:  Johnathan Belton - 12, Dion Lewis - 12, Alex Turecki - 12, Dorian Billups - 10

 

East Aurora

Key Returnees:  Brendan Cox - 11, Ian Allen - 12, James Ritchie - 12, Grant Haffenden - 11

Key Newcomers:  Mike Coatsworth - 10, Kevin Tierney - 11

 

Cheektowaga

Key Returnees:  Zak Ciezki - 10, Derek Clyburn - 12, Dileon Pearsall - 12

 

Depew

Key Returnees: Derek Sekuterski - 11, Jake Lamb - 11, Nate Hyman - 12

 

Maryvale

Key Returnees:  Tyler Smith - 12, Demetri McCallie - 12, Max Aikin - 12, Tyler Graham - 12

Key Newcomers:  William Lamar - 8 

 

Pioneer

Key Returnees:  Terik Lewis - 12, Connor Johnson - 12, Dylan Souder - 12, Ryan Miller - 12

Key Newcomer:  Bryce Little - 10

 

Lake Shore

Key Returnees:  Clark Brueckl - 12, Ryan Joslyn - 12, Wade Bergum - 11

Key Newcomers:  Matt Vona - 11, Colin Hart - 11

 

Springville

 

ECIC IV

Cleveland Hill

Key Returnees: Jared Watkins - 11, Jordan Parker - 12, Rayshawn Smalls - 12, Richard Sotero - 12, Andrej Krajewski - 12

Key Newcomers: Aaron Phillips - 11, Jermaine Hairston - 10

 

Lackawanna

Key Returnees: Shaquille Brooks - 12, Cam Smith - 11, Norman Sweat - 12, Deron Adams - 12

Key Newcomer: Ahmad Abdo - 12

 

Tonawanda

Key Returnees:  Clayton Hess - 12, Ben Stitch - 11

Key Newcomer:  Tristan Bolling - 10

 

Holland

Key Returnees:  Clay Lewis - 10, Curtis Blendinger - 12

 

JFK

Key Returnees:  Nick Anderson - 12

 

Alden

Key Returnees:  Corey Barczykowski - 12

 

Eden 

Key Returnees:  Brad Palmerton - 11

 

Niagara Frontier League

Niagara Falls

Key Returnees: Jermaine Crumpton - 12, JJ Wilkes - 12, Ramir Burton - 12, Stefon Caffee - 12, Tikere Ralands - 12, Vinzell Watkins - 11

Key Newcomer: Jamar Waters - 10 (Transfer from Nichols)

 

Kenmore West

Key Returnees:  Quinton Campbell - 12, Alex Price - 11, Joel Northup - 12, Shay Cuadra - 12, Adam From - 11

Key Newcomers:  Terell Ford - 9, Tyler Grandits - 11

 

Grand Island

Key Returnees: Nick Soos - 12, Ryan Ross - 11, Jordan Jelks - 12, Corey Adamshick - 12

 

North Tonawanda

Key Returnees:  

 

Niagara Wheatfield

Key Returnees:  Jack Mulcahey - 12, Anthony Cappucilli - 12, Chris Galvano - 12

 

Lockport

Kenmore East

Lew-Port

 

Niagara-Orleans

Akron

Key Returnees:  Connor Ladd - 12, Austin Mietz - 12, Noah Diebel - 11, Gowah Abrams - 12, Steve Poodry - 12

Key Newcomers:  Sturgis Sundown - 12, Austen Lauricella - 11

 

Newfane

Key Returnees:  Connor Sears - 12, Bryan Geise - 12, Reid Weber - 12, Alex Intihar - 12, Jake O'Keefe - 12, Brian "Rat" Ratajczak - 12

Key Newcomers:  Jimmer Branca - 12, Ryan Doyle - 12, Sean Costello - 11, Josh Kneeland - 11

 

CSAT

Key Returnees: Darnell Carson - 12, Dylanta Carson - 10

Key Newcomers:  Alex Santos - 11, Quinton Lamar - 9, Bryan Locke - 10

 

Medina

Key Returnees:  Lonnie Taylor - 12, Dan "Mungie" Brown - 12, Jason Hellwig - 10

 

Barker

Key Returnees:  Jake Haight - 11, Mitchell Luckman - 11, Bryce Moeller - 11, Chris Sweeney - 10, Brett Cole - 12, Hayden Gooding - 11

Key Newcomer:  Jared Worthington - 11

 

Roy-Hart

Key Returnees: Brad Bobbitt - 12, Blake Copella - 12, Ryan Farewell - 12, Marc Roman - 11, Alex Stoddard - 11

Key Newcomers:  Andy Xapsos - 9, Austin Heschke - 11, DeRon Woods - 11, Sam White - 10

 

Wilson

Key Returnee:  Matt Baker

 

Albion

 

CCAA I

Olean

Key Returnees: Sam Eckstrom - 11, Wil Bathurst - 11, Nick Schmidt  - 11, Luke Hennessey - 11, Max Portlow - 12, Pat Scholla - 12, Evan Ryan - 12

Key Newcomers: Dante Tarr - 11, Chris Gayton - 11

 

Fredonia

Key Returnees: Dylan Meyer - 11, Nick Johnston - 11, John Piper - 10

 

Southwestern

Key Returnees:  Kyle Radack - 12, Alek Peck - 12, Peter Trathen - 12, Nick Baglia - 12, Jacob Pilling - 12, Kyle Moran - 11, Andrew Greenlee - 12

Top Newcomers: Riley Ribicki - 11, Nathan Schrope - 11

 

Falconer

Key Returnees:  Brandon DePietro - 11, Nick Conti - 11

 

Dunkirk

Key Returnees:  Marquel Ruiz - 12, Jacob Lockett - 12, Drew Messina - 12

Key Newcomer:  Emanuel (Manny) Masonet - 11

 

Allegany-Limestone

Key Returnees:  Dom Saglimben - 11, Ryan Vossler - 11, Caswell Stanton - 12

Key Newcomers:  Dom Conroy - 10, Trevin Barber - 12

 

Gowanda

 Key Returnees:  Chase Williams - 11, Brennan Geiger - 11, Zach Stevens - 11

Key Newcomer: Jordan Young - 10

 

 CCAA II

Silver Creek 

Key Returnees:  Zed Williams - 12, Kaine Kettle - 11, Steve Marcey - 12

Key Newcomers:  Bill Brooks - 10, Brennan White - 10

 

Portville

Key Returnees:  Zach Blask - 12, Josh Watson - 12

 

Randolph

Key Returnees:  Bryce Morrison - 10

 

Salamanca

Key Returnees:  Tanner John - 12

Key Newcomer: Damion Taylor - 11

 

Frewsburg

Key Returnees:  Alex Elderkin - 12

 

Cassadaga Valley

Key Returnees:  Randy Dabala - 12

 Cattaraugus Little Valley

 

CCAA III

Maple Grove

 Key Returnees:  Jeff Tampe - 12, Will Soffel - 12, Aaron Germain - 12, Austin Goerke - 12, Oliver Simpson - 12

 

Westfield

Key Returnees:  John Coe - 12

 

Panama

Key Returnees:  Alec Blose - 12, Dan Odell - 11, Brandon Lewis - 12

 

Chautauqua Lake

Key Returnees:  Ian Clute - 11, Cody Thomas - 12, Jeremiah Russin - 12, Jordan Briggs - 12

 

Pine Valley

Key Returnees:  Lucas Trombley - 12

 

Forestville

Key Returnees:  Jacob Nosbisch - 11

 

Franklinville

 

CCAA IV

Sherman

Key Returnees:  Ryan Robson - 11, Andrew Graham - 11, Devin Moorhead - 11

 

Clymer

Key Returnees:  Dan Lictus - 12, Connor Payne - 12, Mitch Einink - 11, Jacob Wiggers - 11, Caleb Clark - 12

 

Brocton

Key Returnees:  Dan Ferguson - 12, Jordan Patterson - 12, Macalum Buchanan - 11

 

West Valley

Key Returnees:  Mike Grigsby - 12, Colton Myers - 12

 

Ellicottville

Key Returnees:  Cameron Wilson - 11, Storm Wilson - 12, Alex Steinbroner - 12

 

North Collins

Ripley

 

 Charter Schools

Oracle 

Key Returnees:  Gerald Bibbs - 12, Julius Allen - 12, Jamarr Cunningham - 12, Eric Waters - 12

Key Newcomers:  Nelson Modi - 11, Jayson Jones-Johnson - 11, Antone Gullege - 11

Tapestry

Key Returnees:  Tom Lucas - 12, Tong Mawein - 12, Jon Spears - 11

Key Newcomers:  Gary Foster - 9, JaQuoine Fogan - 9 

WNY Maritime

Buffalo Science

Health Sciences

Global Concepts

 

Predictions

Manhattan Cup: Canisius

Class AA: Jamestown

Class A1: McKinley

Class A2: Amherst

Class B1: Olean

Class B2: East

Class C1: Middle College

Class C2: Silver Creek

Class D: Clymer

 

- McKinley, Olean, & Middle College will all advance to Glens Falls

- Olean will win the Class B State Championship

- Canisius will win the CHSAA Class A State Championship

- Section V "super power" Bishop Kearney will lose one of its games played against a WNY team this year (Falls, Canisius, St. Joe's, Timon)...or maybe Jamestown)

 

Preseason Top 10 - Large Schools

1. Canisius

2. Jamestown

3. Niagara Falls

4. McKinley

5. St. Joe's

6. Bishop Timon/St. Jude

7. Williamsville North

8. Clarence

9. Amherst

10. Riverside

 

Preseason Top 10 Small Schools

1. Olean

2. East

3. Middle College

4. Silver Creek

5. East Aurora

6. Depew

7. Nichols

8. St. Mary's

9. Cleveland Hill

10. CSAT

 

  -centercourt

Classifications for 2013 Season

 

Class AA                                                                      Class D                                                         

Lancaster                                                                         Panama                                                 

Niagara Falls                                                                  Pine Valley                                          

Lockport                                                                          Forestville

Clarence                                                                           Ellicottville

Frontier                                                                            North Collins

Orchard Park                                                                 Brocton

Jamestown                                                                      Sherman

Kenmore West                                                              Clymer

West Seneca West                                                       West Valley

Williamsville North                                                    Ripley

Niagara Wheatfield

 

Class A1                                                                       Class A2

North Tonawanda                                                       West Seneca East

Hamburg                                                                          Starpoint

Sweet Home                                                                    Iroquois

Williamsville East                                                        Riverside

McKinley                                                                         Lake Shore

Kenmore East                                                                South Park

Hutch-Tech                                                                    Amherst

Grand Island                                                                  Pioneer

Williamsville South                                                    Cheektowaga

                                                                                             Lew-Port

 

Class B1                                                                        Class B2

Bennett                                                                             Medina

Maryvale                                                                         Buffalo Arts

Albion                                                                               Buffalo East 

Springville                                                                      Fredonia

East Aurora                                                                   Roy-Hart

Olean                                                                                JFK

Dunkirk                                                                          City Honors

Burgard                                                                          Akron

Depew                                                                             CSAT

Lafayette                                                                       Cleveland Hilll

Alden                                                                               Southwestern

Newfane                                                                        Wilson

Tonawanda                                                                  Emerson

Eden                                                                                Gowanda

Lackawanna                                                                 Falconer

 

Class C1                                                                        Class C2

Salamanca                                                                     Silver Creek

Leonardo da Vinci                                                     Portville

Allegany-Limestone                                                 Buffalo Science

OTC/MEC                                                                    Health Sciences

Cassadaga Valley                                                      MST Prep Seneca

Oracle Charter                                                            I-Prep Grover

Barker                                                                            Frewsburg

Martime Charter                                                      Westfield

Tapestry Charter                                                     Maple Grove

Holland                                                                        Chautauqua Lake

Randolph                                                                    Olmsted

Cattaraugus/Little Valley                                    Franklinville

 

 -centercourt

2012 All-League Teams

 

 

Monsignor Martin Association

Player of the Year:

Reggie Agbeko - St. Joe's, 12

 

First Team

Matt Hart - Canisius, 12

Adam Weir - Canisius, 11

Ryan Whelpley - Archbishop Walsh, 12

Jordan Williams - Timon, 12

Kyle Kobis - Timon, 12

Erik Simmons - St. Mary's, 12

 

Second Team

Devin Redden - St. Mary's, 12

Joe Lowery - Niagara Catholic, 12

DeMilo Gibbs - Timon, 12

Jake Denz - St. Mary's, 12

Matt MacDonald - Canisius, 11

 

 

************************************************************************** 

 

YALE CUP I

Player of the Year:

Reyszon Jordan - McKinley, 11

 

First Team

Justice Feggans - Riverside, 11

Marcus Morris - McKinley, 11

Marcus Nelson - Hutch-Tech, 12

Lamont Little - Riverside, 12

Lovell Smith - McKinley, 11

 

Second Team

Denzell Washington - Hutch-Tech, 12

Tim Whitehead - Hutch-Tech, 12

Daquawn Griggs - East, 12

Mike Leonard - Riverside, 12

Daequan Warren - McKinley, 11

 

Third Team

Andrew Strug - Hutch-Tech, 12

Johnathan Lewis - East, 10

Mike Davis - McKinley, 12

Jon Colon - Lafayette, 11

Javon Fogan - Bennett, 12

 

Honorable Mention

East: Rashaan Brown - 12, Jayvon Vanoy - 12

Bennett: Ed Bishop - 12

Burgard: Justin Jennings - 12, Arzell Kaigler - 11

South Park: Zachary Kaczor - 10

Lafayette: Anthony Rodgers - 12

Hutch-Tech: Jovohn Owens - 11, Roman West - 10, Amanuel Radford - 10

Riverside: Willie Smith - 10, Walter Pryor - 10

McKinley: Deonte Bell - 11, Samuel Smith - 11

 

********************************************************************** 

 

YALE CUP II

Player of the Year:

Cordell Torres - OTC/MEC, 12

 

First Team

Aaron Frasier - MST Seneca, 12

Jamaal Carter - City Honors, 12

Maurice Cheatom - I-Prep, 12

Khalid Brown - OTC/MEC, 12

DeVonte Harper - OTC/MEC, 12

 

Second Team

Marquel Massey - City Honors, 12

Lenny Dowell - Emerson, 11

Bri'an Browm - OTC/MEC, 10

Devonte Witsett - I-Prep, 12

Kevin Reese - OTC/MEC, 10

 

Third Team

Jaleyn Pierson - MST Seneca, 12

Johnny Linton - Buffalo Arts, 12

Howard Washington - City Honors, 8

Keir Anderson - OTC/MEC, 11

Ameer Franklin - Emerson, 12

 

Honorable Mention

MST Seneca: Marquis Shaw - 12

City Honors: Matt Cieslik - 9

Buffalo Arts: Derek Simpson - 9

I-Prep: Duryll Anderson - 10

Emerson: Demetrius Hodge - 12

OTC/MEC: TJ Scott - 10

 

************************************************************************ 

 

ALL ECIC 

Player of the Year:

Stan Wier - East Aurora, 12

 

First Team

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 10

Connor Keenan - Williamsville East, 12

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 11

Jesse Lalka - Tonawanda, 12

Jordan Farrant - Holland, 12

 

**************************************************************************** 

 

ECIC I

Co-Players of the Year:

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 10 & Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 11

 

First Team

Matt McCormick - Orchard Park, 12

Matt Taylor - Frontier, 12

Stephen Hughes - Clarence, 12

Alex Warren - Frontier, 12

Adam Cecchini - Jamestown, 12

 

Second Team

Kareem Walker - Jamestown, 12

Neal Farrell - Orchard Park, 12

Jayson Moore - Sweet Home, 12

Sean Murray - Lancaster, 11

Justin Bangert - Willaimsville North, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Williamsville North: David Berkun - 11

West Seneca West: Nick Clancy - 10

Clarence: Bryan Jost - 10

Frontier: Remington Heil - 12

Sweet Home: Rashaad Rogers - 12, Kole Gilchrist - 11

Lancaster: Danny Emma - 10

 

************************************************************************* 

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Connor Keenan - Williamsville East, 12

 

First Team

Chaquiel Nettles - Williamsville South, 11

Nick Benningfield - Hamburg, 12

Michael Kyarunts - Williamsville East, 12

Nate Wilkinson - Iroquois, 12

 

Second Team

Madison Wesolowski - Iroquois, 12

Jim Caputi - Williamsville South, 12

Isaiah Kaudeyr - Williamsville East, XX

Damien Powers - Williamsville South, 11

Eric Moscato - Hamburg, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Lake Shore:  Carl Brueckl - XX, Tyler Mascio - XX, Wade Bergum - XX, Ryan Spears - XX

West Seneca East: Andy Smigera - XX, Alex Pacer - XX

Starpoint: Andrew Rankie - XX

Hamburg: Jeremiah Bill - XX, Kyle Violanti - XX

Iroquois: Ben Wutz - XX

 

************************************************************************** 

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

Stan Wier - East Aurora, 12

 

First Team

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, 11

Sean Weisansal - Maryvale, 11

Glenn Belton - Amherst, 12

Jonathon Gemerek - Depew, 12

Marquel Jackson - Cheektowaga, 11

Jaden Cotton - Depew, 12

 

Second Team

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, 10

Alex Turecki - Amherst, 11

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 9

Derek Clyburn - Cheektowaga, 11

Aaron Ertel - Depew, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Pioneer: Terik Lewis - 11, Mike Brass - 12, Connor Johnson - 11

Springville: Hunter Berry - 12

Amherst: Jonah Heim - 11, Dion Lewis - 11

East Aurora: Ian Allen - 11

 

************************************************************************ 

 

ECIC IV

Player of the Year:

Jordan Farrant - Holland, 12

 

First Team

Jesse Lalka - Tonawanda, 12

Daryl Spencer - Cleveland Hill, 12

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, 11

Miles Barker - Cleveland Hill, 12

Paul Matuszak - Alden, 12

 

Second Team

Zak Stone - Alden, 12

Shaquille Brooks - Lackawanna, 11

Jared Wilkins - Cleveland Hill, 10

Nick Anderson - JFK, 11

Ken Minorczyk - JFK, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Alden: Corey Barczykowski - 11, Ryan Sosnowski - 12

Eden: Joe Slisz - 12, Brad Palmerton - 10

Holland: Trevor Leach - 12, Curtis Blendinger - 11, Clay Lewis - 9

JFK: Jimmy Quinn - 12, Ben Zaccagnino - 12

Lackawanna: Norman Sweat - 11, Raytrel Finley - 12

Tonawanda: Jake Spencer - 12, Ben Stitch - 10

 

********************************************************************

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

First Team

Jermaine Crumpton - Niagara Falls, 11

Martin Bailey - Kenmore West, 12

Quinton Campbell - Kenmore West, 11

John Dziewit - Lew-Port, 12

Jack Mulcahey - Niagara Wheatfield, 11

 

Second Team

JJ Wilkes - Niagara Falls, 11

Taijay Williams - Niagara Falls, 12

Corey Mis - North Tonawanda, 12

PJ Blanch - Kenmore East, 12

DiAntre Cullens - Lockport, 12

 

Third Team

Quinn Carey - Grand Island, 9

Ryan Bradt - North Tonawanda, 12

Nick DiMartile - Lockport, 12

Jakai Daniels - Kenmore East, 12

Corey Pietkiewicz - North Tonawanda, 12

 

********************************************************************* 

 

NIAGARA-ORLEANS LEAGUE

First Team

Darnell Carson - CSAT, 11

Josh Haight - Barker, 12

Tyler Martin - Wilson, 12

Jake Haight - Barker, 10

Brad Bobbit - Roy-Hart, 12

 

Second Team

Connor Sears - Newfane, 11

Sean Seefeldt - Newfane, 12

Scott Kneeland - Newfane, 12

Pat Diez - Wilson, 12

Connor Ladd - Akron, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Newfane: CJ Knight - 12, Bryan Geise - 11

Wilson: Dustin DiLaura - 12, Pat Walch - 12

CSAT: Justin Black - XX

Medina: Lucas Evans - XX

Akron: Austin Mietz, 11

Albion: Nick Santos, 12

 

**********************************************************************************

CCAA I

Player of the Year:

Kevin Holmes - Dunkirk, 12

 

First Team

Sam Eckstrom - Olean, 10

 Dylan Meyer - Fredonia, 10

Ryan Nord - Falconer, 12

Zach Harrington - Allegany-Limestone, 12

Kyle Radack - Southwestern, 11

 

Second Team

Wil Bathurst - Olean, 10

Max Portlow - Olean, 10

Mike Donaldson - Dunkirk, 12

Nick Johnston - Fredonia, 10

Nick Huffman - Gowanda, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Olean: Nick Schmidt - 10, Luke Hennessy - 10, Pat Scholla - 11

Allegany-Limestone: Kyle Trietley - 12, Jeff Tang - 12

Southwestern: Jake Swan - 12, Peter Trathen - 11

Dunkirk: Josh Mleczko - 12, Evan Ahlstrom - 12

Falconer: Brandon DePietro - 11, Nick Conti - 11

Fredonia: John Piper - 9

Gowanda: Alex Sternisha - 12

 

*******************************************************************************

 

CCAA II

Player of the Year:

Zeddie Williams - Silver Creek, 11

 

First Team

Dustin Schauman - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Zach Blask - Portville, 11

Jevon Battle - Salamanca, 12

John Morgante - Randolph, 12

Brady Morrison - Randolph, 12

 

Second Team

Steve Marcey - Silver Creek, 11

Kaine Kettle - Silver Creek, 10

Mike Querrieo - Portville, 12

Zach Miles - Portville, 12

Gage Bird - Frewsburg, 12

Jackson John - Salamanca, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Silver Creek: Jon Jimerson - 12, Frank Brown - 12

Cassadaga Valley: Mike Lanphere - 12, Matt Woodward - 12, Kyle Pfeiffer - 12

Salamanca: Tanner John - 11, Bryce Stahlman - 12

Portville: Chris Querrieo - 12, Ryan Marcellin - 12, Josh Watson - 11

Cattaraugus-Little Valley: Hayden Griffith - 12

Frewsburg: Alex Elderkin - 11, Ian MacFarland - 12

Randolph: Bryce Morrison - 9

 

**********************************************************************************

 

CCAA III

Player of the Year:

Alex Grace - Maple Grove, 12

 

First Team

Austin Alonge - Westfield, 12

Jake Reynolds - Franklinville, 12

Skylar Liddell - Maple Grove, 12

Jason McMahon - Chautauqua Lake, 12

John Coe - Westfield, 11

 

Second Team

Nate Stott - Forestville, 12

Ian Clute - Chautauqua Lake, 10

Trey North - Westfield, 12

LucasTrombley - Pine Valley, 11

Colin Lapi - Ellicottville, 12

Joe Frazier - Maple Grove, 12

Jason Pembridge - Maple Grove, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Forestville: Jacob Nosbisch - 10

Chautauqua Lake: Dan Gleason - 12

Ellicottville: Connor Hellwig - 12, Josh Bower - 12

Westfield: Anthony Leone - 12

Pine Valley: Lyle Howard - 12, Nate Noble - 12

 

 -centercourt

Those two games are gone forever - let's deal with it!

The member schools of the NYSPHAA  just finished their second 18-game regular season.  Next year, those schools will be again limited to just 18 games - down two games from seasons past, down six games from what Monsignor Martin schools can schedule, and significantly down from what most states in this country allow. 

 

I've heard it discussed, read articles about it, and read ranting on blogs.  These last two  years, when the quality of basketball in WNY is questioned, (whether it's the players aren't as good anymore, we don't have the powerhouse teams we used to have, or there aren't enough marquee games) it always seems to come back to one thing - we have to get those two games back from the state.

 

I'm sorry, but those two games are gone and we're not getting them back.  It's a sad reality, but one that needs to be faced. I could sooner see the state taking more away, rather than restoring the basketball season to 20 games.   The biggest  impact of the restriction is felt in nonleague scheduling. 

 

With the exception of the charter schools, all public schools in Section VI are part of a league, and depending on which your team belongs to, league play gobbles up either 12 or 14 of the 18-game allowance.  In the Niagara Orleans league or the Yale Cup for example, teams play 14 league games.  League play began this year in January, but the season starts in the last week of November.  That leaves over a month of season, in which you're allowed to schedule four games.  One tournament played over two nights, and you're down to two games.  If you play in a tip-off tournament, you're left with two games to schedule over the course of 30 days.  That's unacceptable!  So let's stop accepting it.  If this is the fate we are dealt, it's time to work within it.

 

The only suggestion I've heard is teams face league opponents just once and rotate the home sight annually.  I have a solution that I think makes even more sense, and is the best compromise I've come up with to maintain the esablished leagues, while greatly improving the nonleague scheduling dilema.

 

I'll use the Yale Cup large schools (Yale Cup I) to illustrate this example.  Rather than all eight teams playing a home and home against each other, divide those large schools in half - by team strength, by location, etc. - however you want to divide them.  Say it's:

1. McKinley, Riverside, Hutch-Tech, & East

2. Bennett, Lafayette, South Park, Burgard

Teams from group one still play a home and home (six games), then group one plays each team from group two just once (four games).  Teams could even leave one game on their schedule "open" for a league showcase, which could also serve as a tiebreaker in some league races.  In this example, league games are reduced to 10 or 11 games, allowing seven or eight nonleagers.  That's four tournaments, one for every weekend in December.

 

The above formula is designed for leagues with eight teams, which include: Yale Cup I, Yale Cup II, ECIC I, NFL, and N-O.

 

Leagues with seven teams include: ECIC II, III, & IV, and all four CCAA divisions.  Those teams currently play six nonleague games and 12 league contests.  If you're okay with six nonleague game, then you're in good shape.  If you want more, here's what I've come up with:

 

- Move one team from CCAA I down to CCAA II and move a team from CCAA III down to CCAA IV.   Now CCAA I & III would have six teams (10 league games), while CCAA II & IV  would have eight teams and could follow the format above.

 

That leaves ECIC II, III, and IV all with seven teams.  If each league added one team, they'd all have eight teams and could also follow the eight-team league format outlined above.  But where do we come up with three teams to add?  Well, I can think of three independent charter schools off the top of my head: Oracle, Tapestry, and Maritime.  CSAT is a charter school and plays in the N-O.  It's not such a crazy concept.

 

 

I realize everything I wrote may sound complicated.  To me, it's logical and makes perfect sense. 

 

Is it a sensible solution to a situation that isn't going to get any better on its own or is it just a pipe dream?  For me, the answer depends on how badly the coaches want more nonleague games to schedule.

 

Call me crazy, call me brilliant, call me naive...just say something.  This is an issue that needs a productive discussion or there will never be any resolution - just a long December.  I want reason to believe maybe this year will be better than the last.

 

-centercourt

 

 

 

Class B1 Sectional Bracket

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 21st

(13) Springville 52, (12) Eden 47

 

Pre-Quarterfinals  - Wednesday, February 22nd

(9) Lackawanna  55 (8) Burgard 50

(5) East  65, (13) Springville 34

(7) Alden 62, (10) Buffalo Arts 36

(6) Depew 65, (11) Medina 49

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 24th

(1) Olean 68, (9) Lackawanna 39

(5) East 57, (4) Newfane 52

 

(2) Tonawanda 63, (7) Alden 56

(6) Depew 70, (3) Dunkirk 55

 

Semifinals - Monday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 7 & 8:30 pm

(1) Olean 48, (5) East 44

(6) Depew 47, (2) Tonawanda 39

 

Section VI Class B1 Championship - Saturday, March 3rd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm 

 (1) Olean 53, (6) Depew 47

 

2012 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

-centercourt

2011-2012 Season Preview

With high school hoops season now in full swing here in WNY, it's time to see what basketball fans have to look forward to in the upcoming season.

 

WHAT'S NEW THIS SEASON?  

- Yale Cup  games are now scheduled to begin at 6:00 pm instead of 5:30 pm

- East and Burgard will both play in Yale Cup I, the large school division, despite being classified as small schools

- Leonardo DaVinci will field a team in the Yale Cup II and Class C1

- Class C now has 21 teams, meaning there is now a C1 & C2

- Friday, March 2, 2012 will feature three sectional championship games at JCC beginning at 5:30 pm for classes D, C2, & C1

- Crossover Tuesday at Buffalo State on March 6, 2012 will feature three games this year beginning at 5:30 pm with the Class C1/C2 game

- The Far West Regionals are back at Buffalo State this season on March 10, 2012 beginning at 12:00 pm

- Sweet Home will play in ECIC I

- Lake Shore will play in ECIC II

- Forestville and Ellicottville will play in CCAA III

- Brocton and North Collins will play in CCAA IV

- 2011 POY Jaysean Paige will play his senior season at a high school in Kentucky

- Chad Kelly is not playing basketball this season

- Stan Wier returns to East Aurora for his senior season

 

CLASSIFICATION CHANGES

McKinley moves down from AA to A1

Lafayette moves down from A1 to A2

Bennett moves down from A1 to A2

Olean moves down from A2 to B1

East moves down from A2 to B1

Burgard moves down from A2 to B1

Springville moves down from A2 to B1

JFK moves down from B1 to B2

Akron moves down from B1 to B2

Roy-Hart moves down from B1 to B2

Cassadaga Valley moves down from B2 to C1

 

NEW HEAD COACHES

Lancaster - John Otto

West Seneca East - Dan Leutman

Barker - Michael O'Sullivan

Clymer - Dan White

Tapestry Charter - Tony Williams

Nichols - Jim MacKinnon

 

 

 THE PLAYERS

Although I don’t publish a preseason All-Centercourt team, there are four players in WNY this season that are Division 1 talents and worth some early discussion.  Stan Wier will be a UB Bull next year, Jermaine Crumpton has already given Canisius a verbal commitment despite being a junior, Reggie Abeko has yet to decide on the many colleges who have shown interest, and Sterling Taplin will undoubtedly be playing major college ball somewhere…after he finishes his last three years of high school.

 

After bringing some serious raw talent to the Monsignor Martin Association last year, Agbeko has developed into a top prospect in WNY for St. Joe’s.  The buzz all summer was about the 6-7 Agbeko’s dominance in AAU and major strides in the fundamental aspects of his game.  He was a force on the boards last year and had really begun to finish well around the basket (finishing as a Fifth Team All-Centercourt selection), before crashing to the floor with an ankle injury at the Koessler Center during the postseason and missing the Marauders final two games.  His size, coupled with his leaping ability, will give teams fits near the basket this year.

 

Wier returns to WNY for his senior season and will be back with his original alma mater, East Aurora.  As a sophomore, Wier was named Second Team All-WNY as he helped lead Nichols to a Class A New York State Federation championship and then spent his junior campaign at a high school in Indiana.  The Blue Devils are glad to have this inside/outside threat back and will rely on his all-around game this season.  Besides his obvious physical attributes, Wier is a tireless worker who gets in the gym early each morning and takes hundreds of shots.

 

Another inside/outside threat is Crumpton.  The NFHS big man showed some flashes of brilliance as a sophomore and by all accounts, has improved tremendously over the summer.  The Wolverines will ask Crumpton to play a much bigger role this year after graduating a pair of big men who kept him out of the starting lineup last season.

 

Possibly the most talented player in this area is still developing, and that’s a scary thought when you consider just how good Taplin was as a freshman at Williamsville North last year.  In the offseason, Taplin (Third Team All-Centercourt in 2011) added 12 pounds of muscle to his frame and worked hard to improve his outside shot, which was already one of the area’s best.  The Spartans will look for Taplin to attack the rim more this year and take another step forward as an underclassman leader of their team.

 

A player who landed a spot on the Fifth Team All-Centercourt after finishing the season with a flurry, is Holland’s Jordan Farrant.  In back-to-back games during sectionals last February, Farrant scored a combined 76 points against Salamanca and OTC/MEC.

 

The following players return this season after earning All-Centercourt Honorable Mention honors a year ago:

 

Martin Bailey (Kenmore West),  Matt Hart (Canisius), Jordan Williams (Timon), Kyle Kobis (Timon), Taijay Williams (Niagara Falls), Khalid Brown (OTC/MEC), Jamaal Carter (City Honors), Aaron Frasier (MST Seneca), Jesse Lalka (Tonawanda), Josh Haight (Barker), Nick Lenart (Panama), Alex Grace (Maple Grove), Justice Feggans (Riverside), JJ Wilkes (Niagara Falls).

 

 

Some other players that I anticipate having great seasons include Sam Eckstrom (Olean), Adam Weir (Canisius), Conner Keenan (Williamsville East), Tommy Campion (Jamestown), Daryl Spencer (Cleveland Hill), Darnell Carson (CSAT), Zeddy Williams (Silver Creek), Kevin Holmes (Dunkirk), and Clayton Hess (Tonawanda).

 

LEAGUE BY LEAGUE

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN

 

The Crusaders will be the favorites to repeat, thanks to the return of a very talented group that helped lift Canisius past St. Joe’s last year.  Matt Hart, Adam Weir, Aaron White, and Matt McDonald comprise the most dangerous quartet of shooters in WNY and all have plenty of big game experience as well.  Seniors Tim Schifferle and Brendan Tenney give head coach Kyle Husband some needed size inside.

 

Bishop Timon/St. Jude has four starters back from a year ago: Seniors Jordan Williams and Kyle Kobis, and juniors Ryan Dougherty and Fulton Bryant.  Williams and Kobis are two of the very best shooters in all of WNY, and when the Tigers are clicking on all cylinders, they’re capable being the top team in the area.

 

Following three consecutive appearances in the Catholic Class B state championship and a pair of titles, St. Mary’s once again has the horses to return.  Erik Simmons, Jake Denz, Devin Redden, and Nate Meyers are the key returnees for the Lancers and averaged a collective 36 points per game last season.  Also of note, former standout Joe Cellino joins the coaching staff this season.

 

The Marauders will need Agbeko to dominate the middle on both ends of the floor and open things up for the team’s shooters.  Mark Cerza transfers from Cardinal O’Hara and offers both size and finesse, while Jordan Glover, Kyle Briggs, and Jaylen Morris are all quick, aggressive, and athletic.  Junior Dylan Hall should have a major role for St. Joe’s this season also.

 

St. Francis returns six of its top eight players from last season, with each seeing time in the starting lineup.  Tyler Wagner, a three-year starter, will lead the Red Raiders this season from the guard position.  Both Brian Melisz and Cory Cullen started several games last year on varsity as sophomores.   Also returning are Brett Cawthorn, Matthew Morcio, and big Miles Bartholomew, who takes up a lot of space in the paint.  This very experienced and senior laden team looks to be a factor in a very talented and deep league.

 

Nichols brings back the Noonan brothers, Tommy and Adam, along with Eric Luko, Liam Ryan, and Sam Sendziak.  A quartet of tall and talented freshmen join the Vikings, as Jamar Waters, Cam Lewis, Chris Minor, and Tanner Schmit begin the process of returning Nichols to a power program in WNY.

 

Niagara Catholic has a pair of dynamic guards back in Joe Lowery and Jonathan Jackson and Walsh returns Ryan Whelpley.

 

YALE CUP

 

McKinley is led this season by guard Michael Davis, who saw plenty of action on last season’s AA semifinalist team.  Marcus Morris can shoot from anywhere in the gym, but missed most of last year with a knee injury.  Also back for the Macks are Lovell smith and Stephen Johnson, while Reyjzon Jordan will display his athletic talents on the hardwood as well.

 

Despite repeated success, the East Panthers seem to enter each season flying slightly below the radar.  After losing all five starters off the Section VI Class A regional representative, the same is sure to hold true again this year.  I still expect them to challenge for the Yale Cup in the large school division again this year.  Senior Rashaan Brown and sophomore transfer Tyree Tyson give East a pair of twin towers in the paint, while speedy sophomore Jonathan Lewis will run the point.  Seniors Daquann Griggs and Darnell Carr will also be key pieces this year.

 

Hutch-Tech is ready to make a run at the Yale Cup this year.  The Engineers bring back multiple players from the team that threatened Williamsville South in the A1 semis last year, including Marcus Nelson, Denzell Washington, Andrew Strug, and Tim Whitehead.  Sophomore Aymanuel Radford and junior Jovohn Owens will also be major factors.

 

Riverside features the electrifying Feggans and a much improved Lamont Little, along with returnees Mike Leonard and Mark Anderson. 

 

Bennett brings back 6-6 Derrick Quarles, gridiron start Javon Fogan, and Markei Miller.  The Tigers will also look for solid production out of Ed Bishop, Joe Nelson, Paris White, and Tylon Lynch.

 

OTC/MEC has two of its top players back in Khalid Brown and Cordell Torres, along with Davonte Harper and Kevin Reese.

 

MST Seneca has Jaleyn Pearson and Ben Bolden to go along with top area guard Aaron Frasier.

 

I-Prep returns Maurice Cheatom and Davonte Whitsett from last season's Class C state semifinalist squad.

 

ECIC I

 

The Red Raiders will look to defend both league and back-to-back sectional titles.  Leading the way for Jamestown will be junior Tommy Campion, a vital part of the team’s run to last season’s Class AA state title game.  Seniors Adam Cecchini and Kevin Diaz are also back, and both can light it up from the perimeter.  The future is already looking bright, as this ever re-loading team has three sophomores and two freshman

 

Sweet Home will be lead by junior Kole Gilchrist, who made second team ECIC II last season after averaging 13 points per game as a sophomore.  Senior Jayson Moore will run the point for the Panthers and will have Khalid Barnes, the JV’s leading scorer last year, to dish to.

 

Taplin will lead a Spartans squad that is determined to win ECIC I.  He’ll have help from tough defender Nick Konotopsky and three-point threat David Berkun, along with 6-3 forwards Brett Butler and Justin Bangert.  George Attea, a 6-3 freshman, could be one to keep an eye on as he develops at Williamsville North.

 

Clarence will be lead by a pair of guards in sophomore Bryan Jost and senior Stephen Hughes, Orchard Park welcomes Matt McCormick back, and Frontier has Alex Warren and Matt Taylor.

 

ECIC II

 

Conventional wisdom would have Williamsville South falling off the WNY basketball map after losing its entire starting lineup and fielding a team this season with just one senior.  However, optimism runs high for the Billies and their lone senior, Jim Caputi.  Jack Fitzpatrick takes over point guard duty, while Damien Powers will look to assume Joe Licata’s role as the team’s three-point threat.  South will also get contributions from Chaquiel Nettles, Trent Ferguson, Mike Calandra, Sam Castronova, and a player with a familiar last name…Pat Stasiak.

 

The league’s best player may be senior forward Conner Keenan at Williamsville East.  He, along with point guard Michael Kyarunts, will lead the Flames into battle this year.  Joseph Kleinmann and Mike Altman are back for their senior campaigns, while sophomore Jaleel Battle comes over from Riverside, along with a pair of out-of-state transfers.  Zack Bischel and Michael Spina will look to provide a spark coming off the bench.

 

Lake Shore varsity coach Dan Gerken returns four underclassmen and three seniors as the Eagles look to improve upon last season with experience and leadership.  Ryan Spears will captain the team, while senior guards Josh Sanchez and Mark Kennedy’s athleticism will be relied upon on both ends of the floor.

 

The Spartans will feature a very youthful group, with only two seniors on the team.  Starpoint’s offense will be directed by sophomore guard Julian Mott.  The Spartans also bring back Steve Cooper, Andrew Rankie, and sharp shooter Stan Speaker.

 

ECIC III

 

Maryvale has won league championships in each of the last two seasons, and will look to continue its winning ways.  Sean Weisansal, Tyler Smith, and the always energetic Joe Gabor are back for head coach Mark Kensey’s team, and the Flyers also gain Zack Walkowski fro JFK.  Demetri McCallie, Max Aikin, Ed Smith, and Jayln Putman all join the Flyers from the JV last year.

 

The addition of Wier will help to make East Aurora contenders, but they’re far from a one-man show.  Ian Allen has size and the ability to do things all over the court.  Mike Rhoades is a classic glue player who obviously works very hard, while Chris Bourne and Brendan Cox are both heady players.  Eli Melas and Cam Wier are both capable reserves for the Blue Devils.

 

Depew will occupy the paint with a pair of sturdy big men in 6-5 Jaden Cotton and 6-6 sophomore Mike Lamb.  Aaron Ertel can bomb away from the perimeter, while sophomore point guard Derrick Sekuterski can do a little of everything and continues to improve.  Mike Ballistrea and Jon Gemerek also return to the Wildcats.

 

Amherst will challenge for the ECIC III crown this season, due in large part to the returning contributions of Glenn and Johnathan Belton.  The two guards were leaders for the Tigers last year, as Glenn was the second leading scorer and Johnathan led in assists.  The Tigers also bring back 6-7 junior Alex Turecki to clog the middle, along with Steven Reynolds and Owen Lankes.  Juniors Dion Lewis and Jonah Heim are new to the team, but should see plenty of action.

 

Cheektowaga is led by Kyle McDuffie, Marquel Jackson, and Derek Clyburn.  The Warriors will also start Ernie Vann and freshman Zak Ciezki.

 

At Pioneer, senior Mike Brass returns poised to take a giant leap forward with a full year of starting varsity experience under his belt.  Able to play and guard any position 1-4, his court smarts and poise are his best attributes.  An ECIC III honorable mention as a sophmore, junior Terik Lewis is the leading returning scorer and after a stellar summer, appears ready to take the next step forward.  Team newcomers Dylan Souder and Connor Johnson look to make an immediate impact.

 

ECIC IV

 

Tonawanda enters this season with high hopes.  The defending ECIC IV champs bring back the league’s POY in Jesse Lalka, and also return the well-rounded Clayton Hess.  Completing the Warriors starting lineup should be Jake Spencer, Tyler Hughes, and Andy Smith.

 

Cleveland Hill will seek a third straight trip to Buffalo State this year, led by senior Daryl Spencer.  Despite missing four games at the start of last season, Spencer lead the team in shooting and free throw percentage, points scored (13.9 per game), rebounds (12.7 per game), blocked shots, and steals.  Senior point guard Miles Barker will need to lead his team on the floor and forward DeVonte Davis should be a presence in the paint. The team will also look for sophomore Jared Watkins to contribute on both ends of the court with his quickness.   

 

Lackawanna’s lone returning starter from last season’s Class B1 champ is Raytrel Finley.  The Steelers also bring back Norman Sweat, Admir Merhizic, and TJ Giddens.  Head coach Tim Foley’s group will look to run about ten deep this season and rely on athleticism to help counter a lack of experience as they seek a return trip to Buffalo State.

 

 JFK has Christian Boettcher back in its starting lineup again, and also returns Jimmy Quinn, Ken Minorczyk, Nick Sikora, and Ben Zaccagnino.  Nick Anderson and Joey Burkowski move up to varsity and should see plenty of action.

 

Paul Matuszak is the lone returning starter at Alden, who also welcome back shooting threat Phil Bifulco.  Juniors Corey Barczykowski and Jake McNamara, and sophomore Dylan Dussalt move up from the JV for head coach Andy Smith’s Bulldogs.

 

Holland will look to Jordan Farrant to do a lot of everything and he'll likely be up to that task once again this season.

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

 

Niagara Falls will once again be the heavy favorite to win in both its league and section, with five players returning that saw quality minutes on a team that lost by just three points in the AA sectional championship to state runner-up Jamestown.  Crumpton will be a force inside, while JJ Wilkes, Taijay Williams, and Jamere Ollison all started games for the Wolverines at guard last season.  Junior Ramir Burton will also be a key contributor at Falls this year.

 

Kenmore West would be the top threat to challenge the Wolverines again this year with Martin Bailey, Marcus Lobdell, and 6-6 junior Quintin Campbell.

 

After much time and effort in his inaugural year at the helm, head coach Nate Beutel will challenge his Vikings to take a big step forward this season.  Junior point guard Nick Soos, senior center Dylan Kelly, and senior forward Jon Voyzey return to Grand Island and are expected to make an impact as starters.  Corey Adamshick and Jordan Jelks move up to varsity and will be relied upon, while freshman Quinn Carey is full of potential to have a strong four years at the varsity level.

 

After finishing third in the NFL last year, Niagara Wheatfield will look to Ryan Elnicki and Jack Mulcahy to keep the wins coming.

 

Lockport has the 6-6 Nick DiMartile along with Ezra Nwachaku.  Lew-Port welcomes St. Joe's transfer guard John Dziewit, who pairs with Nick Mansour to lead the Lancers.  Kenmore East will look to PJ Blanch for much of its scoring, and North Tonawanda will do the same with Corey Mis.

 

 

 NIAGARA-ORLEANS LEAGUE

 

CSAT should be the favorites to win its first ever N-O crown, as the Eagles return some real talent.  Junior guard Darnell Carson leads an Eagles team that also brings back shot-blocking Arzell Kaigler and Justin Black.  After a year at OTC/MEC, Desmond Lamar transferred back to CSAT.

 

Wilson lost most of its starting lineup, but still returns enough talent to make another run at a third straight league title and a sixth straight trip to the B2 semifinals.  Tyler Martin is the court leader for the Lakemen, who also bring back 6-4 forwards Dave Littere and Dustin DiLaura, Pat Walch, Pat Diez, and Zack Moxham.

 

Newfane lost a ton to graduation, with Sean Seefeldt being the lone returning starter.  Scott Kneeland is the only other senior returning, so juniors Connor Sears and Bryan Geise will be relied upon heavily for the Panthers.

 

Over at Akron, Connor Ladd, last year's leading scorer and rebounder is back for his junior season.  Junior Austin Mietz gets a fresh start from football after battling back from a knee injury last winter.  Junior Gowah Abrams will be the big man in the middle after finishing the season strong on varsity last year.  The largest question mark is at the point, as the Tiger's graduated three-year varsity player Jaime Salcedo.

 

Roy-Hart will be improved this season, as the Rams return four starters.  Jake Klietz, Ryan Metz, Chris Luce, and Brad Bobbit return to head coach Mark Rydza’s unit, while Conner Baker will play this season after missing last year due to injury.

 

Barker has a very talented pair back this season in senior Josh Haight and sophomore Jake Haight.

 

Medina will continue to improve with behind Lonnie Taylor and Lucas Evans. 

 

CCAA I

 

Olean will very likely reclaim its dominance in the CCAA this year and with the team moving back to Class B, could be in for a lengthy postseason.  The Huskies return four starters, led by the man in the middle, Sam Eckstrom.  Nick Schmidt averaged 13 points per game as a freshman and will be back prowling the perimeter.  Luke Hennessy, Pat Scholla, Max Portlow, and Neil Shoemaker also return, while an impact should be felt from newcomers Wil Bathurst and Evan Ryan.

 

Dunkirk will try to contend with the Huskies, with Kevin Holmes and Mike Donaldson back from last year’s league champs.

 

Fredonia will be led by Dylan Meyer, Southwestern has Jake Swan back, Falconer returns Ryan Nord, and Zach Harrington will be the main threat for Allegany-Limestone.

 

CCAA II

 

Salamanca will try to capture the league crown behind the talented trio of Jevon Battle, Jackson John, and Tanner John.

 

Randolph has both Brady Morrison and John Morgante back, Cassadaga Valley has Dustin Schauman for one more season, Gage Bird leads Frewsburg, Portville has Zach Blask and Zach Miles, and Silver Creek has a very talented and athletic junior in Zeddy Williams.

 

 CCAA III

 

Senior Austin Alonge will lead the way for Westfield after averaging 15 points as a junior.  The Wolverines also return three other starters: Trey North, Jon Coe, and Anthony Leone.  Junior Dylan MacCubbin was the first man off the bench last year, and senior Brent Morrison returns to Westfield after being a key starter at Chautauqua Lake last year.

 

Maple Grove returns senior guard Alex Grace, along with senior forward Skyler Liddell.

 

Ellicottville has both Colin Lapi and Conner Hellwig returning.

 

Franklinville returns Jake Reynolds, while Jason McMahon will be the senior leader for Chautauqua Lake.

 

CCAA IV

 

Panama has the league’s top player in four-year starter Nick Lenart, along with Zach Lubi returning.

 

David Kelley, Andrew Graham, and Marcus Lindstrom are all back for Sherman.

 

Clymer will be tough with Dan Lictus and Adam Walker in its lineup, Dan Ferguson and Jordan Patterson will lead Brocton, and North Collins returns senior Jared Keppel.

 

PREDICTIONS

LEAGUE CHAMPS:

Yale Cup I - McKinley, Yale Cup II - OTC/MEC, ECIC I - Jamestown, ECIC II - Williamsville South, ECIC III - East Aurora,  ECIC IV - Tonawanda,  NFL - Niagara Falls,  N-O - CSAT,  CCAA I - Olean,  CCAA II - Salamanca,  CCAA III - Maple Grove,  CCAA IV - Panama

 

SECTIONAL CHAMPS:

AA - Niagara Falls, A1 - McKinley, A2 - Riverside, B1 - Olean, B2 - CSAT, C1 - OTC/MEC, C2 - Maple Grove, D - Panama

 

-centercourt

 

Random Smatterings - Semifinal Edition

 

Is Niagara Falls big man Jordan Street a contestant on American Idol this season?

 

On Tuesday night, blogger McShea is God suggested we order a pizza, so I pointed out the Mister Pizza advertisement on the front of the scorer's table.  Forty-five minutes later, Keith McShea, his devotee MIG, and myself were enjoying a freshly delivered pizza in the front row.

 

Cleveland Hill's name was abbreviated on the Buffalo State scoreboard as CHILL. 

 

The winner of Saturday's Class B2 title game between Wilson and Cassadaga Valley will earn its first ever sectional title.

 

The Class B1 semifinal between Newfane and Tonawanda was the only semifinal game between two schools who were league champs.

 

During the Class A2 semifinal between Riverside and Cheektowaga, blogger Hollywood was on press row.

 

McKinley head coach Zaire Dorsey requested this one.  His Macks arrived at Buffalo State at 4:30 pm on Thursday, but were not allowed into the locker room until 5:15 pm, something which he was none to pleased about.  My take - If that's a Section VI policy, so be it.  But teams should be informed ahead of time not to arrive before 5:15 pm, or they will have to stand waiting out in the hall.

 

Major props to the defensive efforts from both Newfane and Lackawanna this week.  The Panthers held Tonawanda scoring machine Jesse Lalka under ten points, while the Steelers did the same to Dunkirk's Vincent Bomasuto.

 

During the final minute of Lackawanna's win over previously unbeaten Dunkirk, one of the Steelers said to his teammate "undefeated what?...garbage schedule".

 

Clymer and Pine Valley will play for the Section VI Class D title tonight.  Prior to Maple Grove winning two staight in Class D, Pine Valley had won four of five, with Clymer winning the other year.

 

Tapestry Charter outscored Maple Grove, 26-10, in the fourth quarter of its 61-53 victory at JCC, to squash the Red Dragons hopes of winning a fifth consecutive Section VI title, or of making a fourth consecutive trip to Glens Falls. 

 

Cassadaga Valley senior guard Simeon Schauman is the uncle of the Cougars' leading scorer, junior forward Dustin Schauman.

 

This week at Buffalo State, I was greeted by someone who said "Hey, I didn't see you at any games this year".

 

Remember that great game between Lockport and Grand Island this year? There's a picture from it on the cover of the Section VI Boy's Basketball Championships program.

 

Nichols head coach Greg Plumb announced he will not return to the Vikings next season.  Should he decide to further his education, Plumb is already equipped with a backpack.

 

-centercourt

 

 

Random Smatterings - Week 10

During East's quarterfinal win over Depew on Friday, the referee turned from the action to tell Panther coach Starling Bryant (who was standing at half court) to stay in the coach's box.  "Watch the game", Bryant replied.

 

During an injury timeout, the Depew players huddled on the court around head coach Larry Jones...and East senior Jasen Oden, who joined the Wildcats.  Oden was just hunched over trying to be nonchalant and listen in on the opposition.  I couldn't hear what was said, but Jones seemed to have a sense of humor about it as Oden finally left to join his team with a smirk on his face.

 

Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Williams was part of a two-man cheering section for his alma mater Riverside, during the Frontiers exciting 60-58 win at Maryvale.  Williams stood and bellowed chants of "I'm blind, I'm deaf, I wanna be a ref" and also "I can't hear you" in response to the Flyers student section.

 

Two very good players that few have heard of will get an opportunity to shine at Buffalo State this week.  Bennett senior Forest Richardson and CSAT sophomore Darnell Carson are guys who are sure to have fans flipping through their programs to find out who they are.

 

The Class A1 semifinal between Bennett and Kenmore East could set records for the lowest attendance.  The game is competing with the Manhattan Cup championship only a few minutes away, and casual Kenmore fans may choose  to watch the team from Kenmore Avenue.

 

Holland junior Jordan Farrant finished the season on fire.  After scoring 43 points in a pre-quarterfinal win over Salamanca, Farrant scored 33 of his team's 41 points in a quarterfinal loss to OTC Middle College.

 

Joe Licata needs just two more 3-pointers to break the New York State record, which is likely to happen on Wednesday night when the Billies face Hutch-Tech at Buffalo State at 7:45 pm.

 

Silver Creek followed up a double-digit upset win over Portville, by nearly pulling off a shocker against four-time Section VI champion Maple Grove.  The Knights led the Red Dragons 46-40 heading into the fourth quarter on Friday night and wound up losing by just one point.

 

Some high scoring playoff performances from this past week include: 47 points by Vincent Bomasuto of Dunkirk in a win over Buffalo Arts, 35 points from Jaysean Paige of Jamestown in a win against Clarence, and 32 points from Dazmond Knight of Tapestry Charter in a win versus MST Seneca.

 

A player who probably won't earn an All-WNY honorable mention, but who's play was most deserving of praise this season, is Alex Nowocien of Lew-Port.  Nowocien had a motor that never quit, outworked everyone on the court, and he did all the little things that helped the Lancers to a winning record this year.  Grand Island head coach Nate Beutel said he'd be happy to start five Nowociens, an assessment that NCCC head coach Bill Beilein agreed with.

 

Whoever the announcer at the Koessler Center is, he's good.

 

Newfane better come out ready to play for the third quarter against Tonawanda.  The Warriors blew open a tight game against JFK a couple weeks ago, used a big third to gain the edge in a league title-clinching win against Lackawanna, and erased a halftime deficit in the third against Alden on Friday before eventually winning by eight.

 

-centercourt

 

 

 

 

Quarterfinals are on for tonight

Of the 28 scheduled quarterfinal games for tonight, only four have been postponed.  Even Allegany-Limestone is making the looonnnggg trip up north to play at Wilson.

 

Rescheduled for Saturday, February 25th

Class B1

Buffalo Arts @ Dunkirk - 2 pm

Class D

Olmstead @ Sherman - 2 pm

North Collins @ Panama - 2 pm

Ellicottville @ Clymer - 2 pm

 

That means a near full slate of games tonight to determine the participants of this season's semifinals at Buffalo State & JCC.

 

Let us know what you saw tonight and how it turned out.

 

-centercourt