(Roy-Hart cuts the nets after winning the N-O for the first time in 26 years)
MMA - Canisius **
ECIC I - Jamestown
ECIC II - Amherst & Williamsville East
ECIC III - Pioneer
ECIC IV - Lackawanna **
NFL - Niagara Wheatfield **
N-O - Roy-Hart
CCAA I West - Olean **
CCAA II West - Westfield **
CCAA Central - Randolph **
CCAA East - Ellicottville & Pine Valley
Yale Cup I - McKinley
Yale Cup II - City Honors
Charters - Health Sciences **
** indicates an undefeated league champion
-centercourt
The 2022 Preview contains:
- Commentary
- What's New
- Player Movement
- Returning 2021 All-Centercourt Players
- 20 Players to watch in 2022
- A League-by-League look at returning All-League selections
(MMA, Yale Cup, ECIC, NFL, N-O, CCAA, & Charters)
- Coaching Changes
- Classification Changes
- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools
- Predictions
Commentary
The finish to the 2020 season and the start of the 2021 season had something in common - blindsides. Three nights prior to the March 2020 shut downs, I was watching games at Buff State. One week prior to the start of the 2021 season, I was sitting on my couch, watching college basketball games played in empty arenas, with no real optimism of high school sports being played in the near future.
The end of 2020 quite simply felt like we were robbed. There was just no opportunity to further the championship aspirations that our winning teams had. Then, after nearly a year of mandates and restrictions, the 2021 season initially felt like a gift. Coaches and players were just grateful for any sense of normalcy and the opportunity to compete. But the reality is, the 2021 season allowed for even less of a regular season, and an even shorter postseason. Initially, no fans were allowed, which was amended to a pair of family members per player for the last few weeks.
The 2021 season was truly unlike any other. No tournaments or major events, and no state rankings, because the only thing that mattered was how you stacked up in your own area. The photos commemorating the season show players wearing chin straps, with bleachers that were never pulled out in the background. And not a single repeat champion in any of the nine classifications in Section VI or in the Manhattan Cup, which has never happened in my 17 years on the scene.
But on the positive side of things, some teams had an opportunity to win their final game on their home court. The very best pictures that came out of last season are the ones of players cutting down the nets - something I had never seen before in high school basketball, and it was really cool! Much was made early in the pandemic of heroes, usually referring to healthcare workers or those who are still getting to work when most of the world was shut down. Well in the high school basketball world last year, I felt like the AD's & coaches were heroes. Administrators scrambled to put a schedule together and make everything work. The coaches demonstrated just how much they cared about their players and how dedicated they were to coaching the sport. And one thing I can testify to from the 49 games I was able to witness in person, along with countless live streams I watched from home, the product on the court wasn’t compromised. It was still basketball and the kids played their butts off! To all the coaches, players, and administrators who made last season possible, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you.
Having seen only about a third of the action I'd normally get to last year, and being forced to pick which championship game I would attend instead of seeing them all, my grasp of the high school basketball world isn’t what it normally is at this time of year. This is the latest I’ve ever produced a season preview, due at least in part, to the feeling that I’m shooting with my back to the basket. So if I didn’t predict your team to win anything, that might be a good thing.
*******************
What's New ??
- Fans are back! Events are back!! Even state playoffs are back!!!
- The Centercourt Classic lineup for this season is bigger & better than ever. The annual event is scheduled for February 4th & 5th at Hamburg High School.
- Regionals return to Buffalo for the first time since 2018!! The 2020 season ended unceremoniously one day before Buff State was set to host 5 Far West Regional games and 2021 was a condensed seven-week season ending with sectional championships.
- The Manhattan Cup is once again a single tournament with one champion and games will be hosted by the higher seed. The winner represents our area in the CHSAA Class A state playoffs. A Class B representative will also be determined via a knock out tournament as Class B teams in the Manhattan Cup Tournament are eliminated. The caveat being, if a Class B teams reaches the Manhattan Cup Final, they would then face a win-or-go-home scenario.
- Tapestry receives the charter school bump. For the first time, the Thunderhawks will compete in Class B, despite having Class C BEDS numbers. Health Sciences, the first Section VI charter school to be moved up in classification, originally from Class B2 to Class A2, and then all the way up to Class AA last year, returns to Class A2 for the 2022 campaign.
- Class B returns to its usual B1 & B2, after adding a Class B3 for the 2021 season. Class C loses its traditional C1/C2 split this season and will crown a single champion among the 17 teams on JCC Friday in March, with no Class C crossover game.
- The Lafayette Violets will not field a team this season. The talent pool has merged with the Riverside Frontiers, leaving seven teams in Yale Cup II.
- After winning Class A1 a season ago, Hamburg moves into ECIC I, joining West Seneca West as the only Class A1 teams competing against the Class AA squads of that division.
- Iroquois joins ECIC II this season, after earning a league crown in ECIC III last year.
- Tonawanda returns to ECIC IV after one season in ECIC III.
- Springville returns to ECIC III after winning ECIC IV last season.
- The league formerly known as CCAA I East will now be called CCAA Central. CCAA II East is now just CCAA East. CCAA West I and CCAA West II are still leagues.
- Maple Grove & Cassadaga Valley join CCAA Central from CCAA II West.
- Chautauqua Lake slides into CCAA II West after a year in CCAA I East (now CCAA Central).
- Global Concepts & BASCS are both back in the fold after a year without them.
- After exiting the MMA following the 2019 season and competing as a NYSAIS Class A (Independent) for two seasons, head coach Rich Jacobs (2018 Centercourt Coach of the Year) and AD Marcus Hutchins have both resigned. The Park School now returns to the IAC (New Life Christian, Stanley G Falk, Gow, CCA, etc) for the first time since 2013.
******************************************
Player Movement
Key Transfers
Jaiden Harrison: West Seneca East ----> Timon
Malachi Parker: Cheektowaga ----> Timon
Jacob Humphrey: Cheektowaga ----> Timon
Jimmie Green: Cardinal O'Hara ----> Health Sciences
Tyreke Hopkins: CSAT ----> Health Sciences
Kydale Staten: Cheektowaga ----> Health Sciences
Jalen Duff: Lew-Port ----> Nichols
Parker Rey: Orchard Park ----> Nichols
Luke Granto: North Tonawanda ----> Canisius
Johnny Esposito: Niagara Falls ----> Canisius
Rod Brown: Sweet Home ----> Niagara Falls
Nicco DiGiulio: St. Joe's ----> Williamsville South
Massimo Moretti: Italy ----> St. Mary's
Early Prep School Departures
Josh Haskell - St. Joe's
Kamar Goudelock - Timon
Massai Graham - Tapestry
Dom Phillips - East Aurora
Returning Studs
Joe Harrington (Lancaster) & Nick Whitfield (Fredonia) are back after missing their junior seasons (2021) due to injury. Gabe McCoy (Randolph) returns to the team after playing his junior season in Florida.
** 2021 All-Centercourt Defender Brady Kustra of Hamburg suffered a football injury that will force him to miss his senior hoops season **
The Players
*** 8 of the top 25 players from the 2021 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with 13 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.
Returning First Teamers
Justin Glover - St. Joe's, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
14.1 PPG
7.2 APG
4.6 RPG
2.1 SPG
The four year starter and WNY assist leader in 2021 picked up a D2 offer from Daemen in the offseason after leading the Marauders to their first Manhattan Cup in 13 years. The All-Centercourt Defender and quickest player in WNY consistently produces against the best teams in the area.
Max Schneider - Williamsville East, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
30.4 PPG
7.2 APG
2.7 SPG
1.9 RPG
After a two-week Covid pause during a seven-game season, he went on an absolute tear while playing back-to-backs and Sunday mornings. The 2021 WNY scoring leader is only the 2nd player along with Dom Welch to average 30 plus points per game in Class A in over a decade.
Returning Second Teamer
Trey Kleitz - Iroquois, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
26.5 PPG
7.3 APG
6.3 SPG
6.0 RPG
Does everything on the hardwood for Iroquois at both ends, stuffing the stat sheet while providing a great example of sportsmanship & leadership. Set the WNY record for TD passes in a season while leading the Chiefs to consecutive Section VI title games on the gridiron.
Returning Third Teamers
Jalen Duff - Nichols, Junior
Sophomore Season Stats:
28.3 PPG
5.0 RPG
3.8 APG
2.0 SPG
A proven scorer with over 1,000 already, Duff is always working and his game continues to flourish. His combination of shooting, body & ball control, and understanding of the game has him ready to lead the Vikings in the MMA.
Xander Fletcher - Niagara Wheatfield, Junior
Sophomore Season Stats:
20.3 PPG
4.8 APG
4.7 RPG
2.8 SPG
Handles the ball like it's on a string, sets up himself & his teammates for easy money, and knocks down shots. His defensive timing forces turnovers and gets the transition game going for the Falcons.
Returning Fourth Teamers
Jaiden Harrison - Timon, Sophomore
Junior Season Stats:
21.6 PPG
8.7 RPG
3.3 APG
1.8 SPG
A special talent and future D1 baller who played three varsity seasons at West Seneca East, arrives to keep the Tigers in the Manhattan Cup championship chase. That WNY scoring record is in big trouble come 2024.
Declan Ryan - Canisius, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
15.7 PPG
7.9 RPG
1.2 APG
0.5 BPG
0.5 SPG
Looked dominant early om in the 2021 season before suffering an injury on a hustle play. Outstanding hands & footwork in the paint and an automatic finisher.
Returning Fifth Teamer
Bryant Rosa - Riverside, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
24.5 PPG
4.2 APG
2.3 SPG
1.8 RPG
This BPS baller has flown under the radar despite All-State honors as a sophomore and leading the Frontiers to a league title & a sectional championship game appearance in 2021. A polished player offensively with a great shot.
Returning 2021 Honorable Mentions
Trevin Boling - Tonawanda, Senior
29.9 PPG / 4.1 RPG / 1.4 APG / 1.3 SPG - as a junior
Caleb Chapman - City Honors, Senior
20.1 PPG / 7.9 RPG / 4.1 APG / 3.6 SPG - as a junior
TJ Robinson - Niagara Wheatfield, Senior
19.8 PPG / 4.0 RPG / 1.9 APG / 1.6 SPG - as a junior
Tyler Curran - Allegany-Limestone, Senior
18.2 PPG / 3.7 RPG / 3.3 APG / 2.2 SPG - as a junior
Romeo Bell - Tapestry, Senior
13.8 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 4.8 APG / 3.5 SPG - as a junior
Dominic McKenzie - Niagara Falls, Senior
13.6 PPG / 9.3 RPG / 1.3 SPG / 1.0 BPG - as a junior
Benjamin Bill - Hamburg, Senior
13.2 PPG / 8.0 RPG / 2.6 BPG / 2.1 APG / 1.1 SPG - as a junior
Kevin Thompson - Timon, Senior
12.5 PPG / 5.4 RPG / 1.1 APG / 1.6 SPG / 2.6 BPG - as a junior
Jimmie Green - Health Sciences, Senior
12.5 PPG / 6.4 RPG / 2.6 APG / 1.8 SPG / 1.3 BPG - as a junior
Solomon Jackson - St. Joe's, Senior
10.1 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 2.1 APG / 0.9 SPG - as a junior
Nick Moore - Amherst, Junior
13.4 PPG / 4.8 RPG / 3.3 APG / 2.1 SPG - as a sophomore
Lucas Brown - Salamanca, Sophomore
18.3 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 2.4 APG / 2.1 SPG - as a freshman
Adam Chiacchia - Hamburg, Sophomore
12.2 PPG / 9.2 RPG / 2.9 APG / 1.8 SPG / 1.3 BPG - as a freshman
20 Players to Watch
Here's 20 players not mentioned anywhere above that will be difference makers in 2022
Seth Joba - Orchard Park, Senior
Chris Wright - Cardinal O'Hara, Senior
Lamar Matthews - Tapestry, Senior
Aidan Kennedy - Southwestern, Senior
Zion James - Olean, Senior
Nate Parker - CSAT, Senior
Teddy McDuffie - Amherst, Senior
Brendan Reid - St. Francis, Senior
Rod Brown - Niagara Falls, Senior
Tyreke Hopkins - Health Sciences, Senior
Nick Mogavero - Iroquois, Senior
Elijah Whitehead - McKinley, Senior
Dan Maku - Riverside, Senior
Darien Swanson - Westfield, Senior
Jasiah Jerocinski - Pioneer, Senior
Rashard Perry - Bennett, Junior
Dorian Facen - Williamsville East, Junior
Luke Granto - Canisius, Junior
Parker Rey - Nichols, Sophomore
Drew Hind - Randolph, Freshman
***********************************************
League-By-League: Returning All-League Talent
Monsignor Martin Association
Large Schools - CLASS A
Canisius - Declan Ryan
St. Joe's - Justin Glover
St. Francis
****************************************
Small Schools - CLASS B
Timon - Kevin Thompson
Cardinal O'Hara - Christopher Wright
Nichols
St. Mary's
************************************************
Section VI
Charter Schools
Health Sciences - Nasir West
Tapestry - Lamar Matthews, Romeo Bell
Maritime
Global Concepts
BASCS
*************************************
YALE CUP I
McKinley - Elijah Whitehead, Jahood Martin
South Park - Javany Rivera
Middle College - Amir Marble, Zamar Ashford
Bennett - Lebrun Northington, Rashard Perry
East -
Hutch-Tech - TJ Jacobs
I-Prep - Daryl Allen, Angel Serrano
******
YALE CUP II
Riverside - Bryant Rosa, Dan Maku, Desimon Elston
Olmsted - Ezekiel Alexander, Myrie Harris, Ricky Shanklin
MST Seneca - Nassir Williams, Marcelino Long
City Honors - Caleb Chapman
Buffalo Arts - Jordan Rodgers
Emerson - Hassan Muktar
Burgard
***********************************
ECIC I
Jamestown - Trey Drake, Jaylen Butera
Hamburg - Benjamin Bill, Adam Chiachia, Evan Chaffee
Orchard Park - Seth Joba, Keegan Mancabelli
Lancaster - Joe Harrington
Frontier
Clarence
Williamsville North
West Seneca West
********************************
ECIC II
Amherst - Nick Moore, Gary Johnson
Williamsville East - Max Schneider
Iroquois - Trey Kleitz
Sweet Home - Diar Fleming
Williamsville South
West Seneca East
Starpoint
**********************************
ECIC III
East Aurora - Ryan Esminger
Pioneer - Jasiah Jerocinski
Cheektowaga
Lake Shore
Maryvale
Depew
Springville
************************************
ECIC IV
Lackawanna - Julienn Clements, Archie Saeed, Ashlin Alexander
Alden - John Watson, Walker Wrest
Tonawanda - Trevin Boling
Cleveland Hill - Jordan Mann
JFK - Jacob Krotz
Holland - Jake Gailey
Eden
**************************************
Niagara Frontier League
Niagara Wheatfield - TJ Robinson, Xander Fletcher
Niagara Falls - Dom McKenzie
Kenmore West - Sean Hargrave
CSAT - Nate Parker
Lew-Port - Bobby Beilein
North Tonawanda
Lockport
Kenmore East
Grand Island
**********************************
Niagara-Orleans
Medina - Jarin Rhim, Joe Checchini
Roy-Hart - Aiden Petrie, Gavyn Boyle
Albion - Jahmeek Riley
Barker - Brad Cantrell
Newfane
Akron
Wilson
********************************
CCAA I West
Olean - Zion James, Kamdyn McClain
Fredonia - Nick Whitfield, Ethan Fry
Allegany-Limestone - Tyler Curran, Anthony DeCapua
Dunkirk - Timothy Brown, A'Marion Tell
Salamanca - Lucas Brown
Southwestern - Aidan Kennedy
***********************************
CCAA Central
Randolph - Jaiden Huntington, Drew Hind
Cassadaga Valley - Wyatt Harrington, Braden Lebaron
Frewsburg - Zach Winters, Connor Murray, Zach Carr
Maple Grove - Tucker Fenton
Portville - Maxx Yehl
Silver Creek - Matt Woleben
Gowanda - John Ondus
****************************************
CCAA II West
Westfield - Darien Swanson, Ethan Weingart, Cole Holland
Sherman - Gerald Carris, Elijah Kioko
Panama - Cooper Brown, Carter Brink, Gabe Roth
Clymer - Austin White, Micah Willink
Brocton
Falconer
Chautauqua Lake
**********************************************
CCAA II East
Cattaraugus-Little Valley - Josh Halterman, Johnny Visnesky
Pine Valley - Kordell Oakes, Bryce Sercu, Wayne Libby
Franklinville - Blake Frank, Connor Terwilliger
North Collins - Chris Smith
Ellicottville - Logan Grinols
Forestville
**************************************
Teams with New Coaches (17)
Nichols - Matt Bradshaw
St. Mary's - Ryan Gallo
Cheektowaga - Demario Rhodes
West Seneca West - Reuben Owens
Maritime - Donjuan Tyson
Tonawanda - Rod Middleton
City Honors - Demario Badger
Lew-Port - Pat Krawczyk
Westfield - Nolan Swanson
Cassadaga Valley - Greg Frank
Falconer - Jordan Goold
Forestville - Tom Dempsey
Holland - Matt Krotz
JFK - Sean McCowan
Portville - Josh Brooks
Springville - Chris Matthewson
BASCS - Chris Castleberry
***************************************
Classification Changes (17)
Lockport moves down from Class AA to Class A1
Williamsville East moves up from Class A2 to Class A1
Health Sciences moves down from Class AA to Class A2
Emerson moves up from Class B1 to Class A2
Lew-Port moves down from Class A2 to Class B1
Middle College moves up from Class C1 to Class B1
Riverside moves up from Class C1 to Class B1
Burgard moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
Depew moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
Lackawanna moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
Tonawanda moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
Springville moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
Bennett moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Tapestry moves up from Class C1 to Class B2
Wilson moves down from Class B2 to Class C
Ellicottville moves down from Class C2 to Class D
Westfield moves down from Class C2 to Class D
****************************************
Preseason Rankings
** Seven of the 10 teams that appeared in the 2021 Preseason Large School Rankings were Top 10 teams when the season ended, and I was 8 of 10 predicting Top 10 small schools in 2021
Large Schools
1. Health Sciences
2. Canisius
3. St. Joe's
4. Niagara Falls
5. Jamestown
6. Hamburg
7. Amherst
8. St. Francis
9. Niagara Wheatfield
10. CSAT
Small Schools
1. Timon
2. Nichols
3. Olean
4. Bennett
5. Randolph
6. St. Mary's
7. Cardinal O'Hara
8. Tapestry
9. Allegany-Limestone
10. Salamanca
**************************************
Predictions
MMA - Canisius
Yale Cup I - McKinley
Yale Cup II - Riverside
ECIC I - Jamestown
ECIC II - Amherst
ECIC III - Pioneer
ECIC IV - Lackawanna
NFL - Niagara Falls
N-O - Medina
CCAA I West - Olean
CCAA II West - Westfield
CCAA Central - Randolph
CCAA East - Ellicottville
*********************************************
I only predicted 3 of the 10 champions correctly in 2021 (Bennett, Fredonia, & Tapestry) - I blame the shutdown
Manhattan Cup
It's getting bad. The swami I am not when predicting the Manhattan Cup winner. In the last nine years, I've only gotten it right twice.
** Timon **
Class AA
Final Four:
Niagara Falls, Orchard Park, Jamestown, & Lancaster
** Niagara Falls **
Class A1
Final Four:
McKinley, Ken West, Hamburg, & Niagara Wheatfield
** Hamburg **
Class A2
Final Four:
Amherst, Health Sciences, Iroquois, & CSAT
** Health Sciences **
Class B1
Final Four:
Olean, Lackawanna, Lew-Port, & Riverside
** Olean **
Class B2
Final Four:
Tapestry, Allegany-Limestone, Bennett, & Fredonia
** Bennett **
Class C
Final Four:
Randolph, Salamanca, Global Concepts, & MST Seneca
** Randolph **
Class D
Final Four to reach JCC:
Sherman, Ellicottville, Westfield, & Clymer
** Westfield **
-centercourt
The 2021 CC MVP
Jalen Bradberry
Niagara Falls
Senior
24.2 PPG
6.7 RPG
6.0 APG
2.3 SPG
Class AA Champion
NFL Champion
NFL Player of the Year
(Photo: The Buffalo News)
First Team All-Centercourt
St. Joe's
Senior
20.5 PPG
6.4 RPG
4.7 APG
2.1 SPG
Manhattan Cup Champion
Manhattan Cup MVP
First Team All-Catholic
(Photo: Andrew Miller)
Jamyier Patton
Timon
Senior
24.5 PPG
4.5 RPG
3.3 SPG
2.9 APG
Manhattan Cup Finalist
All-Catholic Player of the Year
(Photo: Tom Burns)
Justin Glover
St. Joe's
Junior
14.1 PPG
7.2 APG
4.6 RPG
2.1 SPG
Manhattan Cup Champion
First Team All-Catholic
(Photo: Andrew Miller)
Max Schneider
Williamsville East
Junior
30.4 PPG
7.2 APG
2.7 SPG
1.9 RPG
ECIC II Player of the Year
First Team All-ECIC
(Photo: Buffalo News)
JaVaughn Jones
Health Sciences
Senior
23.8 PPG
8.1 RPG
6.8 APG
4.9 SPG
2.6 BPG
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Second Team All-Centercourt
Trey Kleitz
Iroquois
Junior
26.5 PPG
7.3 APG
6.3 SPG
6.0 RPG
All-ECIC Player of the Year
ECIC III Player of the Year
ECIC III Champion
(Photo: Renea Lauck)
Keonjay Carter
Park
Senior
22.9 PPG
7.6 RPG
2.2 APG
1.1 SPG
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jason Brooks
Olean
Senior
21.8 PPG
4.4 APG
4.0 RPG
2.6 SPG
CCAA I West Player of the Year
CCAA I West Champion
Peyton Consigli
St. Francis
Senior
19.9 PPG
7.3 RPG
3.1 APG
1.1 SPG
First Team All-Catholic
Caleb Hutchins
Park
Senior
14.8 PPG
10.5 RPG
3.0 APG
1.9 SPG
1.6 BPG
Third Team All-Centercourt
Timon
Junior
16.9 PPG
4.3 RPG
2.7 APG
2.3 SPG
Manhattan Cup Finalist
First Team All-Catholic
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jalen Duff
Lew-Port
Sophomore
28.3 PPG
5.0 RPG
3.8 APG
2.0 SPG
First Team NFL
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Xander Fletcher
Niagara Wheatfield
Sophomore
20.3 PPG
4.8 APG
4.7 RPG
2.8 SPG
First Team NFL
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Tyler Putney
Fredonia
Senior
20.2 PPG
8.2 RPG
2.8 APG
1.4 SPG
0.7 BPG
Section VI Class B3 Champion
First Team CCAA I West
(Photo: Scott Kindberg/Observer)
Josh Haskell
St. Joe's
Junior
13.4 PPG
4.4 RPG
2.1 APG
1.4 SPG
Manhattan Cup Champion
Second Team All-Catholic
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Fourth Team All-Centercourt
Max Dowling
Canisius
Senior
12.8 PPG
7.9 RPG
2.1 APG
1.0 BPG
0.6 SPG
Second Team All-Catholic
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Declan Ryan
Canisius
Junior
15.7 PPG
7.9 RPG
1.2 APG
0.5 SPG
0.5 BPG
First Team All-Catholic
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Damario James
Bennett
Senior
17.6 PPG
4.1 APG
2.1 SPG
1.9 APG
Section VI Class B1 Champion
First Team Yale Cup
(Photo: Harry Scull)
Tariq Eubanks
Tapestry
Senior
12.9 PPG
10.1 APG
7.1 SPG
3.7 RPG
Section VI Class C1 Champion
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jaiden Harrison
West Seneca East
Freshman
21.6 PPG
8.7 RPG
3.3 APG
1.8 SPG
First Team All-ECIC
First Team ECIC II
(Photo: West Seneca Bee)
Fifth Team All-Centercourt
Massai Graham
Tapestry
Junior
16.1 PPG
11.2 RPG
3.3 BPG
2.3 APG
Section VI Class C1 Champion
(Photo: Shawn Turri)
Zach Ianello
Clarence
Senior
15.3 PPG
3.0 RPG
1.9 APG
1.0 SPG
ECIC I Player of the Year
First Team All-ECIC
Tyler Chinn
Medina
Senior
17.8 PPG
5.4 APG
5.0 RPG
4.7 SPG
Section VI Class B2 Champion
Niagara-Orleans Champion
N-O Player of the Year
(Photo: Orleans Hub)
Bryant Rosa
Riverside
Junior
24.5 PPG
4.2 APG
2.3 SPG
1.8 RPG
Yale Cup II Champion
Yale Cup II Player of the Year
Bush Rieang
McKinley
Senior
16.4 PPG
5.0 APG
2.0 SPG
Yale Cup I Champion
Yale Cup I Player of the Year
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Honorable Mention
(Springville's Austin Boies was the ECIC IV Player of the Year and a First Team All-ECIC selection, leading the Griffins to an ECIC IV Championship / Photo: Harry Scull)
Austin Boies - Springville, Senior
* ECIC IV Player of the Year
24.4 PPG / 8.6 RPG / 4.5 SPG / 2.5 APG
Javier West - Forestville, Senior
* First Team CCAA II East
23.9 PPG / 7.8 RPG / 4.6 SPG / 2.0 APG
Christian Pagano - Depew, Senior
* First Team ECIC III
20.6 PPG / 4.5 RPG / 2.5 APG / 1.8 SPG / 0.8 BPG
Imario Douglas - Lockport, Senior
* First Team NFL
20.3 PPG / 8.7 RPG / 2.2 SPG
Jerrold Skillon - Bennett, Senior
* First Team Yale Cup I
18.7 PPG / 6.3 RPG / 1.5 APG / 1.0 SPG
Anthony Smith - Middle College, Senior
* First Team Yale Cup I
18.2 PPG / 16.6 RPG / 3.2 BPG / 1.8 SPG
Wally Wisniewski - North Tonawanda, Senior
* First Team NFL
17.1 PPG / 5.6 RPG / 3.8 SPG / 1.8 APG / 1.2 BPG
Hunter Wassink - Clymer, Senior
* CCAA II West Player of the Year
17.1 PPG / 3.7 APG / 3.7 RPG / 1.8 SPG
Lief Jimerson - Ellicottville, Senior
* First Team CCAA II East
16.8 PPG / 3.5 SPG / 3.1 RPG / 2.6 APG
Jaiden Green - East, Senior
* First Team Yale Cup I
15.6 PPG / 11.7 RPG / 2.4 SPG / 2.3 APG / 1.5 BPG
Zech Franklin - Iroquois, Senior
* First Team ECIC III
14.8 PPG / 11.7 RPG / 4.5 BPG / 2.0 SPG
Jackson Jerebko - Lancaster, Senior
* First Team ECIC I
14.5 PPG / 6.5 RPG / 2.1 APG / 1.2 SPG
Des Davis - Park, Senior
14.5 PPG / 8.7 RPG / 3.0 APG / 2.5 SPG
Brian Fry - Medina, Senior
* First Team N-O
13.7 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 4.2 APG / 2.9 SPG
Elijah Rojas - Jamestown, Senior
* First Team ECIC I
13.7 PPG / 4.5 APG / 2.9 RPG / 2.6 SPG
Amiel Collins - St. Francis, Senior
* Second Team All-Catholic
13.6 PPG / 3.6 RPG / 2.3 APG / 1.4 SPG / 1.1 BPG
Nevada Eldridge - Cheektowaga, Senior
* First Team ECIC III
13.5 PPG / 8.8 RPG / 1.6 APG / 1.0 BPG
Brandon Okie - Frontier, Senior
* First Team ECIC I
13.3 PPG / 9.6 RPG / 1.9 APG / 0.9 SPG
Jeremy Foltz - Newfane, Senior
* First Team N-O
12.8 PPG / 4.3 APG / 2.5 SPG / 1.6 RPG
Keonte Brown - Cheektowaga, Senior
* First Team ECIC III
12.4 PPG / 6.1 RPG / 4.1 APG / 3.0 SPG
Clayton Rowland - Ellicottville, Senior
* CCAA II East Player of the Year
12.0 PPG / 12.2 RPG / 5.2 APG / 3.2 SPG
Trevin Boling - Tonawanda, Junior
* First Team ECIC III
29.9 PPG / 4.1 RPG / 1.4 APG / 1.3 SPG
Caleb Chapman - City Honors, Junior
* First Team Yale Cup II
20.1 PPG / 7.9 RPG / 4.1 APG / 3.6 SPG
TJ Robinson - Niagara Wheatfield, Junior
* First Team NFL
19.8 PPG / 4.0 RPG / 1.9 APG / 1.6 SPG
Tyler Curran - Allegany-Limestone, Junior
* First Team CCAA I West
18.2 PPG / 3.7 RPG / 3.3 APG / 2.2 SPG
Dom Phillips - East Aurora, Junior
* First Team ECIC III
14.9 PPG / 3.5 RPG / 2.5 APG / 2.5 SPG
Romeo Bell - Tapestry, Junior
13.8 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 4.8 APG / 3.5 SPG
Dominic McKenzie - Niagara Falls, Junior
* Second Team NFL
13.6 PPG / 9.3 RPG / 1.3 SPG / 1.0 BPG
Benjamin Bill - Hamburg, Junior
* First Team ECIC II
13.2 PPG / 8.0 RPG / 2.6 BPG / 2.1 APG / 1.1 SPG
Kevin Thompson - Timon, Junior
* Second Team All-Catholic
12.5 PPG / 5.4 RPG / 1.1 APG / 1.6 SPG / 2.6 BPG
Jimmie Green - Cardinal O'Hara, Junior
* Honorable Mention All-Catholic
12.5 PPG / 6.4 RPG / 2.6 APG / 1.8 SPG / 1.3 BPG
Solomon Jackson - St. Joe's, Junior
* Second Team All-Catholic
10.1 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 2.1 APG / 0.9 SPG
Nick Moore - Amherst, Sophomore
* First Team ECIC II
13.4 PPG / 4.8 RPG / 3.3 APG / 2.1 SPG
Lucas Brown - Salamanca, Freshman
* First Team CCAA I West
18.3 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 2.4 APG / 2.1 SPG
Adam Chiacchia - Hamburg, Freshman
* Second Team ECIC II
12.2 PPG / 9.2 RPG / 2.9 APG / 1.8 SPG / 1.3 BPG
Sixth Man of the YearJack Harper - Hamburg, Senior
As a senior and captain of a team that rolled out five underclassmen in its starting lineup, Jack Harper was a true team leader for the Hamburg Bulldogs. The body language and energy he displayed, whether waiting to hear his number called for the first time, sprinting back after a made shot, or checking back out of the game remained constant and spoke to the team first concept that his senior leadership helped instill. His consistent contributions on the court were a key reason the Bulldogs won championships in both Section VI Class A1 and in ECIC II. The team always got a spark when he entered the game and there wasn't a more focused player on the floor. Harper rebounded, defended, and fit perfectly into the offense, where he never failed to deliver some big shots and timely scoring.
All-Centercourt Defenders
First Team
Jesse Hawkins - Cheektowaga, Senior
Malachi Williams - Niagara Falls, Senior
Justin Glover - St. Joe's, Junior
Shane Cercone - Canisius, Sophomore
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry, Senior
Second Team
Brady Kustra - Hamburg, Junior
Benjamin Bill - Hamburg, Junior
JaVaughn Jones - Health Sciences, Senior
Luke Granto - North Tonawanda, Sophomore
Caleb Hutchins - Park, Senior
Third Team
Brian Fry - Medina, Senior
Kevin Thompson - Timon, Junior
Zion James - Olean, Junior
Zech Franklin - Iroquois, Junior
Jaylen Butera - Jamestown, Junior
Centercourt #BOOM Squad
Anthony Smith - Middle College, Senior
Massai Graham - Tapestry, Junior
Caleb Hutchins - Park, Senior
Oliver Ngarikiyintwari - Hutch Tech, Senior
TJ Jacobs - Hutch Tech, Junior
Elijah Whitehead - McKinley, Junior
Wally Wisniewski - North Tonawanda, Senior
Gary Johnson - Amherst, Junior
Jaden Slaughter - St. Joe's, Senior
Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Falls, Senior
Jerrold Skillon - Bennett, Senior
Jaiden Green - East, Senior
Greg Sanders - CSAT, Junior
Austin Boies - Springville, Senior
Jimmie Green - Cardinal O'Hara, Junior
Centercourt Coach of the Year
John Reinholz - Hamburg
In 2014, the Manhattan Cup playoffs appeared to be a mere formality. A loaded Canisius team led by sophomore standout Howard Washington had spent the regular season destroying the local competition - so much so, that the closest regular season game against a WNY opponent for the Crusaders had been a 12-point win over Park. No one was touching Canisius, because not only had no team come close, but the first two rounds of the playoffs ran through Delaware Avenue as home games for Canisius.
John Reinholz was the head coach at Nichols in 2014 and despite entering the postseason as the #5 seed in the Manhattan Cup playoffs, the Vikings had been competitive in a regular season visit to Canisius, losing there by 13 points, and had been a steadily improving squad with talented underclassmen. After a win in the quarterfinals, Reinholz's squad faced that "mere formality", go lose at Canisius and try to keep it respectable. Instead, Nichols sent shock waves throughout WNY on a Wednesday night in late February and soon had an arena watching Section VI playoffs at Buff State busy refreshing their phones for updates. A seven-point win that night by Nichols sent them to the championship game, where they hoisted the hardware with a win over Timon. Two seasons later, Reinholz won a second championship at Nichols, before resigning as head coach.
After a season away from the boys varsity ranks, he was back behind the bench. This time, Reinholz was the man at Hamburg - much closer to his home in Orchard Park, but not exactly an annual championship program. The Bulldogs played in ECIC II, a league recently dominated by Williamsville & Amherst, and it had been 64 years since the last Section VI championship. That was all about to change.
His fourth season at Hamburg, the 2021 campaign that no one ever even knew for sure if we'd see, the team made history. Starting five underclassmen, including a freshman, the Bulldogs quickly got off to a 5-1 start and ended the season by winning 9 of their last 10 games. They won the ECIC II title outright and headed into the Section VI postseason as the #2 seed in the Class A1 bracket.
After a win in the quarterfinals over Hutch Tech, the Bulldogs faced an opponent that had recently ended its own long sectional drought in 2017 and played a similar defensive style in North Tonawanda. That night I attended a different playoff game in the city, but was so fascinated by the NT at Hamburg game that I powered my phone off for the ride home and stayed away from Twitter for the evening -- so I could watch the game on Youtube from start to finish without knowing the result prior. What unfolded on my big screen was a classic that went to overtime and came down to the game's final possession. A gutsy lob play that snuck Evan Chaffee behind NT's zone where he took a perfect lob pass from Adam Chiacchia for the game-winner left my jaw dropped towards my chest for a couple minutes. Then I powered my phone back on at 10:27 pm to text Coach Reinholz and commend him for going back to a call that I watched fail to the opposite side earlier that half.
The Class A1 championship game brought Niagara Wheatfield to Hamburg, where after a close opening quarter, the Bulldogs seized control and earned the title in convincing fashion, ending a 68-year drought in Section VI. The team was exceptionally cohesive at both ends of the floor. There was a team commitment at the defensive end and deliberate group that methodically executed at the offensive end. Some of the best interior passing against a zone I've watched in local high school ball. All while the man behind the Hamburg bench calmly orchestrated it all.
Following his team's final victory, Reinholz patiently answered question after question for the media until his players couldn't take it anymore. "Sorry to interrupt," one of his assistants finally approached and said, "the boys really want you in the locker room to celebrate!"
It was a most fitting finale to the 2021 season for the Centercourt Coach of the Year!
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(St. Joe's & Timon finish on top in the final 2021 rankings / Photo: John Hickey)
Large Schools
1. St. Joe's (A) - Monsignor Martin Association & Manhattan Cup Champions - 16-1
2. Niagara Falls (AA) - Section VI Class AA & NFL Champions - 19-1
3. Canisius (A) - Manhattan Cup Semifinalist - 13-4
4. Park (A) - NYS Assocoiation Independent Schools - 11-3
5. Hamburg (A1) - ECIC II & Section VI Class A1 Champions - 14-4
6. Cheektowaga (A2) - ECIC III & Section VI Class A2 Champions - 14-3
7. St. Francis (AA) - Manhattan Cup Semifinalist - 8-8
8. Clarence (AA) - Section VI Class AA Finalist - 12-6
9. Jamestown (AA) - ECIC I Champions & Section VI Class AA Finalist - 14-3
10. North Tonawanda (A1) - Section VI Class A1 Semifinalist - 7-5
Small Schools
1. Timon (B) - Manhattan Cup Finalist - 12-3
2. Bennett (B1) - Section VI Class B1 Champions - 12-3
3. Olean (B1) - CCAA I West Champions & Section VI Class B1 Finalist - 12-5
4. Tapestry (C1) - Charter Cup & Section VI Class C1 Champions - 9-5
5. Medina (B2) - Niagara-Orleans & Section VI Class B2 Champions - 14-1
6. Fredonia (B3) - Section VI Class B3 Champions - 11-6
7. Ellicottville (C2) - CCAA II East & Section VI Class C2 Champions - 15-2
8. Clymer (D) - CCAA II West & Section VI Class D Champions - 15-1
9. Newfane (B2) - Section VI Class B2 Finalist - 12-4
10. Southwestern (B3) - Won last four regular season games over Dunkirk, Fredonia, Salamanca, & Allegany-Limestone by an average margin of 16.8 pts. Swept Fredonia & defeated Olean. However, a Covid pause ended its postseason opportunity - 9-3
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Quarterfinals - Monday, March 22nd
(1) Randolph 70, (8) Holland 28
(4) Frewsburg 64, (5) Silver Creek 45
(2) Ellicottville 85, (7) Cassadaga Valley 54
(6) Westfield 70, (3) Maple Grove 52
Semifinals - Wednesday, March 24th
(1) Randolph 55, (4) Frewsburg 35
(2) Ellicottville 66, (6) Westfield 52
Final - Friday, March 26th
(2) Ellicottville 40, (1) Randolph 38
2021 Section VI Class C2 Champions - Ellicottville Eagles
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(Jaden Slaughter & St. Joe's are WNY's new #1 /Photo: Andrew Miller)
Large Schools
1. St. Joe's (A) - An impressive start to the season for the high-powered Marauders - and then came Sunday. St. Joe's win over Canisius ended a 20-game losing streak, but what was most telling was the 20-point lead they had for most of the second half.
2. Canisius (A) - The Crusaders are looking up in the MMA standings at St. Joe's for the first time in a very long time. They have games this week against St. Francis and at Timon and the league is once again a fun follow!
3. Jamestown (AA) - Fresh off a big win over the defending Class AA champs from Lancaster with their only loss coming at Canisius.
4. Park (A) - The Pioneers are 3-1, knocking off Rochester's East High, Leadership Academy, & Aquinas. If those sound like annual Section V powers, it's because they have been for awhile. Park's lone loss came against St. Joe's.
5. Health Sciences (AA) - Earned a pair of solid wins over Tapestry & Ken West, heading into a week where they'll visit Park & St. Francis.
6. Niagara Falls (AA) - The 3-0 Wolverines are a team in a similar plight as the Bucs were coming into the NFL season. Falls has some players. And now they have a hungry superstar added to the mix. As chemistry continues to develop, I expect them to get a lot better as the year wears on.
7. Lancaster (AA) - The Legends were tripped up for the first time Saturday afternoon at Jamestown, after starting 3-0 including a win at Amherst.
8. McKinley (A1) - If you're following all the scores in the Yale Cup and comparing common opponents, the Macks look like the early trophy favorites. I'm buying in.
9. Amherst (A2) - Already winners of five games and tied for first place in ECIC II, with their lone loss coming to Lancaster.
10. Sweet Home (A1) - A 3-0 start to the season for the Panthers with all wins coming by double figures.
Small Schools
1. Timon (B) - The Tigers are just 2-1 in this early part of the season, with the loss at St. Joe's by four points.
2. East Aurora (B1) - A 5-0 start to the season has seen the Blue Devils already hold three opponents under 40 points.
3. Cardinal O'Hara (B) - The Hawks are 2-3 on the season, but the two losses came at the hands of St. Joe's, Canisius, & St. Francis.
4. Tapestry (C1) - The Thunderhawks bounced back from a loss to Health Sciences with a solid team victory over Maritime.
5. Southwestern (B3) - The Trojans are already 5-0 this season, including victories over Olean & Fredonia.
6. East (B1) - After losing to McKinley by five points, the Panthers bounced back with a double digit win over South Park.
7. Bennett (B1) - This season began for the Tigers with a resounding victory over Hutch-Tech, who just knocked off Middle College.
8. Middle College (C1) - The three-time defending Yale Cup champs also own a win over South Park, and have a big game coming up on Monday with East High.
9. Medina (B1) - A 3-0 start for the Mustangs includes a win over Akron, who had began the season with a 20-point win at Maryvale.
10. Ellicottville (C2) - The Eagles have dominated their division recently, and on Friday night, they went into Randolph and took a 48-40 win to start the year 3-0.
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The 2021 Preview contains:
- Commentary
- What's New
- Returning 2020 All-Centercourt Players
- Player Watch List for 2021
- A League-by-League look at returning All-League selections
(MMA, Yale Cup, ECIC, NFL, N-O, CCAA, & Charters)
- Coaching Changes
- Classification Changes
- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools
- Predictions
Commentary
For the first time in the 12 seasons I've been doing this, WNY has no reigning state champions entering this season. So I'd like to start this preview off by taking some liberties and crowning a few squads from the 2020 season. Relying on years of watching these teams throughout the year and then following them to the state & fed tournaments in late March, I think I have a decent gauge of what a state championship team looks like - and I've even predicted a few months in advance. So when I look back on the 2020 season, we had four state champions, and you can't convince me otherwise. I have clairvoyance and this is how it would have all gone down:
- After winning the game of the year in the Far West Regional at Buff State, a thriller between Health Sciences and Rochester's East High, the state tournament seemed like a mere formality to the Falcons -- especially after routing their opponent in the state semifinal in Glens Falls. However, the state championship game was too close for comfort...that is until late in the fourth quarter when Jonezy went Jonezy, again, and took the game over. Ty Parker lost his voice. Daciare, Tyler, Jabari, & Deshaun were each given a key to the City of Buffalo upon their return home for being outstanding seniors. And Major announced his retirement at the victory parade, but Ty overruled that decision.
- Middle College had some unfinished business to tend to from the 2019 season and headed to Glens Falls hell bent on winning one for Jakari Nettles, who had helped them get so close in 2019. The weekend was reminiscent of the 2010 and 2016 seasons for the Kats. They destroyed a pair of opponents, who never saw it coming, in the state tournament. Parents of the losing teams in Class C wept and cried foul. But it had been all too legit. Jamond was too good. Speedy was too quick. Keith Brown & Keyunte Jones were too tough. And Anthony Smith became the first player to shatter a backboard at Glens Falls.
- Following an exhausting road trip to Long Island in the state semifinals, Canisius earned the right to come home and play for a state championship in Buffalo. The combination of playing in their hometown, unbiased officiating (as opposed to Long Island), Coach Husband shaving his beard, and having Dewayne Vass - clearly the best player on the court that day -was more than the Crusaders even needed. Though the scoreboard showed Canisius won by six points, they held a double figure lead most of the second half after a pair of backcourt steals by Shane Cercone ignited a late first half run that basically put the game away. Joe Ciocca connected four straight times from long range at one point and Max Dowling had a double-double by halftime.
- Finally, Timon caused the CHSAA to launch an investigation, after winning a state title while starting four underclassmen. Who is this General Jamyier Patton, they demanded to know, and how in the hell does he score like that in the paint amidst so many trees?? You're telling me Kamar Goudelock is only a sophomore, they asked? With that handle, range, and moxy? Hold up...Kevin Thompson is only a sophomore as well AND this Leo Camilloni (a junior) can shoot the '3'? Well, needless to say, Coach Rowe remained his usual quiet self and was unavailable for comment during the investigation, which turned up no wrong doing. Timon was indeed a state champion (they beat Canisius in the regular season for crying out loud!). And you better believe they will repeat this year...
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What's New ??
- Two-time All-Centercourt First Team selection Roddy Gayle made the decision to transfer out of state, a few weeks after announcing his commitment to play for Ohio State in a couple years. Greg Brooks has left the area after earning All-Centercourt Honorable Mention as a 7th grader at Maritime, and All-Centercourt Honorable Mention selection Gabe McCoy from Randolph also left the area.
- No fans at games (at least initially), no state playoffs, and no Federation Tournament
- All the major regular season events have been canceled, including tip-off & holiday tournaments, the Cataract Classic, the BSN Sports NFLvs. ECIC Challenge, the Pastor-Cooper Showcase, MLK Classic, and my baby, the Centercourt Classic (the 4th Annual would've been the best one yet)
- There will be no state rankings released during the 2021 regular season
- All postseason games in WNY will be hosted by the higher seed, including the Section VI Championship games. Championship Saturday is set for March 27th
- The Manhattan Cup this season will include all seven Monsignor Martin Association teams. With no CHSAA state playoffs, there is no need to determine a Class B representative. Only one teams will be crowned champion. The Manhattan Cup Championship is set for Saturday, March 20th
- Despite its Class B BEDS' numbers, Health Sciences is once again moving up. After being moved to Class A2 for the past two seasons, Section VI has bumped the Falcons up as high as they can go - Class AA. Tapestry will continue to compete in Class C and Maritime stays in Class B
- Joining Health in Class AA will be Four-time All-Centercourt standout Jalen Bradberry, who returns to his hometown Niagara Falls for his senior season. Bradberry will play for his father, Carlos, the new coach of the Wolverines. Talk about bolstering a lineup...Class AA is going to be a blast this year
- Instead of every team receiving an automatic bid to the Sectionals, only the top eight teams from each classification will move on to the postseason this year
- Class B will break into three sections this season (adding B3), instead of the traditional Class B1 & B2. As Class B is currently the largest classification in Section VI by 10 teams, this move will allow for an additional eight teams to qualify for the postseason
- Bennett moves up to Yale Cup I from Yale Cup II, while City Honors moves from Yale Cup I down to Yale Cup II
- Tonawanda joins ECIC III after competing in ECIC IV last season
- Springville moves from ECIC III to ECIC IV
- Salamanca and Chautauqua Lake are flipping divisions. Salamanca joins CCAA I West, while Chautauqua Lake joins CCAA I East
- Global Concepts & BASCS both opted out of competition for the 2021 season
- I will provide the play-by-play for all St. Joe's home games this season, which can be heard on the game's live stream
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The Players
*** 8 of the top 25 players from the 2020 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with 15 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.
Reigning CC MVP
JaVaughn Jones - Health Sciences, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
20.6 PPG
7.4 RPG
7.3 APG
4.9 SPG
The epitome of a four-year floor general who takes over at both ends
** All-Centercourt Defender **
Returning First Teamer
Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Falls, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
19.7 PPG
3.2 APG
3.1 RPG
1.4 SPG
Enters the 2021 campaign needing 599 points to become WNY's all-time leading scorer
** Centercourt #BOOM Squad **
Returning Second Teamers
Jamyier Patton - Timon, Senior
Junior Season Stats
22.1 PPG
3.2 RPG
2.7 APG
2.7 SPG
Slithers through defenders at the rim and finishes consistently, when he's not killing you from downtown
Jaden Slaughter - St. Joe's, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
18.1 PPG
5.3 RPG
2.7 APG
1.2 SPG
A highly efficient and unselfish talent that is now 6-5. He's smooth!
Returning Fourth Teamers
Demarri Jones - Jamestown, Senior
Junior Season Stats:
17.2 PPG
10.3 RPG
1.3 APG
1.3 SPG
High intensity baller who routinely outworks opponents
Trey Kleitz - Iroquois, Junior
Sophomore Season Stats:
20.7 PPG
7.5 APG
5.7 SPG
2.8 RPG
Two-sport standout with excellent court vision
Returning Fifth Teamers
Joe Harrington - Lancaster, Junior
Sophomore Season Stats
15.8 PPG
8.4 RPG
2.0 BPG
1.7 SPG
1.3 APG
Led the defending Class AA champs in scoring, rebounding, & blocks as a sophomore
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry, Senior
Junior Season Stats
13.3 PPG
7.3 APG
5.0 SPG
3.6 RPG
The combination of talent, quickness, and effort has made Mr. Excitement the straw that stirs the drink at Tapestry for three seasons
** All-Centercourt Defender **
Returning 2020 Honorable Mentions
Zach Ianello - Clarence, Senior
16.8 PPG / 4.0 APG / 2.0 SPG / 72 Made 3-pointers - as a junior
Tyler Putney, Fredonia, Senior
15.9 PPG / 8.0 RPG / 2.0 BPG / 1.8 APG / 1.1 SPG - as a junior
Peyton Consigli - St. Francis, Senior
14.6 PPG / 7.2 RPG / 1.7 APG / 1.4 SPG / 0.8 BPG - as a junior
Keonjay Carter - Park, Senior
14.3 PPG / 4.5 APG / 4.3 RPG / 1.0 SPG - as a junior
Joe Ciocca - Canisius, Senior
11.8 PPG / 1.9 RPG / 1.8 APG / 1.0 SPG - as a junior
Max Dowling - Canisius, Senior
11.0 PPG / 5.0 RPG / 0.9 SPG / 0.7 BPG - as a junior
TJ Robinson - Niagara Wheatfield, Junior
21.0 PPG / 4.3 RPG / 2.4 APG / 2.0 SPG - as a sophomore
Trevin Boling - Tonawanda, Junior
20.6 PPG / 2.3 RPG / 1.8 SPG / 1.6 APG - as a sophomore
Max Schneider - Williamsville East, Junior
16.5 PPG / 7.0 APG / 3.1 SPG / 2.3 RPG - as a sophomore
Kamar Goudelock - Timon, Junior
16.3 PPG / 4.3 RPG / 2.8 APG / 2.8 SPG - as a sophomore
Massai Graham - Tapestry, Junior
14.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 2.9 BPG / 1.6 APG / 1.4 SPG - as a sophomore
Josh Haskell - St. Joe's, Junior
12.9 PPG / 3.8 RPG / 1.8 APG / 0.7 SPG - as a sophomore
Justin Glover - St. Joe's, Junior
10.7 PPG / 4.0 APG / 2.9 RPG / 1.4 SPG - as a sophomore
Jalen Duff - Lew-Port, Sophomore
17.5 PPG / 3.9 APG / 3.4 RPG / 1.5 SPG - as a freshman
Shane Cercone - Canisius, Sophomore
9.0 PPG / 5.7 RPG / 1.1 APG / 1.0 SPG - as a freshman
Player Watch List
SENIORS
Malik Jemison (Canisius), Hugh Purks (Nichols), Jesse Adamu (Nichols), Amiel Collins (St. Francis), Jaden washington (Cardinal O'Hara), Jaiden Green (East), Anthony Smith (Middle College), Bush Rieang (McKinley), Koran Askia (McKinley), Chris Coleman (South Park), Mykell Hepburn (South Park), Damario James (Bennett), Jarold Skillon (Bennett), Jamai Jackson (Ken West), Martin Espinal (Hutch-Tech), Jaylen Hearon (Maritime), Davon Scott (Bennett), Elijah Rojas (Jamestown), Simeon Leeper (Jamestown), Faybion Prather (Niagara Falls), Arien Robinson (Niagara Falls), Caleb Tillman (Niagara Falls), Conor Foley (Frontier), Jackson Jerebko (Lancaster), Dexter Brooks (Starpoint), Sam Walters (Starpoint), Christian Pagano (Depew), Nevada Eldridge (Cheektowaga), Austin Boies (Springville), Jeff Koch (Amherst), Andrew Dockery (Maryvale), Ian Moog (East Aurora), Colin Herzog (Lake Shore), Keith White (Lake Shore), Jason Brooks (Olean), Deuce Capen (Newfane), Sam Capen (Newfane), Adam Mietz (Akron), Javier West (Forestville), Caleb Hutchins (Park), Desmond Davis (Park), Logan Sionko (Grand Island), Jarod White (Salamanca), Lief Jimerson (Ellicottville), Clayton Rowland (Ellicottville), Logan Frank (Franklinville), John Swabik (Sherman), Wally Wisniewski (North Tonawanda), Seth Joba (Orchard Park)
JUNIORS
Declan Ryan (Canisius), Jimmie Green (Cardinal O'Hara), Chris Wright (Cardinal O'Hara), Lamar Matthews (Tapestry), Romeo Bell (Tapestry), Jahodd Martin (McKinley), Bryant Rosa (Riverside), Dom Phillips (East Aurora), Aidan Kennedy (Southwestern), Tyler Curran (Allegany-Limestone), Zion James (Olean), Logan Sionko (Grand Island), Sean Hargrave (Ken West), Dominic McKenzie (Niagara Falls), Jorden Bynes (CSAT), Teddy McDuffie (Amherst), Isaiah Jean-Pierre (Health Sciences), Jaylen Butera (Jamestown), Roderick Brown (Sweet Home),
SOPHOMORES
Trey Drake (Jamestown), Nick Moore (Amherst), Xander Fletcher (Niagara Wheatfield), Luke Granto (North Tonawanda), Bobby Beilein (Lew-Port)
FRESHMEN
Jaiden Lewis (West Seneca East), Lucas Brown (Salamanca), Shawn Watson (Niagara Wheatfield), Jaiden Huntington (Randolph), Channing Francis (Lancaster)
8th GRADE
Drew Hind (Randolph)
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League-By-League: Returning All-League Talent
Monsignor Martin Association
Large Schools - CLASS A
Canisius - Max Dowling, Joe Ciocca
St. Joe's - Jaden Slaughter
St. Francis - Peyton Consigli
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Small Schools - CLASS B
Timon - Jamyier Patton, Kamar Goudelock
Nichols - Hugh Purks
Cardinal O'Hara
St. Mary's
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Section VI
Charter Schools
Health Sciences - JaVaughn Jones
Tapestry - Tariq Eubanks, Massai Graham, Romeo Bell
Maritime - Jaylon Hearon, John Washington
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YALE CUP I
McKinley - Bush Rieang, Koran Askia, & Jahood Martin
South Park - Chris Coleman
Middle College - Anthony Smith
Bennett - Damario James, Jerrold Skillon, Damone McClain, Jacob Pullins
East - Jaiden Green, Anthony Oberlander
Hutch-Tech - Martin Espinal, Oliver Ngarikiyintwari, Kenneth Jacobs
Emerson - Lawrence Russell
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YALE CUP II
MST Seneca - Terrell Craig
Buffalo Arts - Jordan Rodgers
Riverside - Bryant Rosa, Dan Maku
City Honors - Caleb Chapman
Burgard - Lafario Ross
I-Prep - Naesiah Woods
Lafayette - Kevin Calderon
Olmsted
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ECIC I
Jamestown - Demarri Jones, Elijah Rojas
Lancaster - Joe Harrington, Jackson Jerebko
Frontier - Brandon Okie, Conor Foley
Clarence - Zach Ianello
Orchard Park
Williamsville North
West Seneca West
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ECIC II
Amherst - Nick Moore
Williamsville East - Max Schneider
West Seneca East - Jaiden Lewis
Starpoint - Dexter Brooks
Sweet Home
Williamsville South
Hamburg
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ECIC III
Iroquois - Trey Kleitz
Cheektowaga - Nevada Eldridge, Keonte Brown
Depew - Christian Pagano
East Aurora - Ian Moog, Dom Phillips
Lake Shore - Noah Herzog, Keith White
Maryvale - Andrew Dockery
Tonawanda - Trevin Boling, JJ Velazquez
Pioneer
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ECIC IV
Springville -Austin Boies
Lackawanna - Jeremi'yhi Presley, AJ Turner
Cleveland Hill - Charlie Meredith
JFK - Josh Knox
Eden - Hunter Stetz
Alden - Matt Hay
Holland
**************************************
Niagara Frontier League
Niagara Wheatfield - TJ Robinson, Xander Fletcher
Lew-Port - Jalen Duff
Grand Island - Logan Sionko
Niagara Falls
North Tonawanda
Kenmore West
Lockport
CSAT
Kenmore East
**********************************
Niagara-Orleans
Newfane - Sam Capen, Michael Carmer
Akron - Adam Mietz, Mitchell Holtz, Jake Mazza
Roy-Hart - Gavyn Boyle, Tommy Ragonese, Rhett Goodwin
Medina - Brian Fry, Tyler Chinn, Jarin Rhim
Albion - Bailey Blanchard
Wilson - Mike Miller
Barker - Joey Brandt
********************************
CCAA I West
Olean - Jason Brooks, Zion James
Fredonia - Tyler Putney, Nick Whitfield
Salamanca - Jarod White, Lucas Brown
Allegany-Limestone - Tyler Curran
Southwestern - Aidan Kennedy, Nate Johnson, Calvin Ricker
Dunkirk - Christian Ortiz 11, A'Marion Tell
***********************************
CCAA I East
Randolph - Ashton Bushey
Chautauqua Lake - Luke Waters
Portville
Silver Creek
Falconer
Gowanda
****************************************
CCAA II West
Sherman - John Swabik, Keith Gormley, Gerald Carris
Cassadaga Valley - Wyatt Harrington, Braden Lebaron
Panama - Connor Cooper
Westfield - Darien Swanson
Clymer - Hunter Wassink
Brocton
Maple Grove
Falconer
**********************************************
CCAA II East
Ellicottville - Clayton Rowland, Leif Jimerson, Wyatt Chudy, Logan Grinols
Franklinville - Logan Frank , Blake Frank Matt Peters
North Collins - Chris Smith, Mitchell Warsaw, Matthew Sweet
Cattaraugus-Little Valley - Kordell Oakes, Josh Halterman, Gage Furl
Pine Valley - Wayne Libby, Bryce Sercu, Cameron Hayes
Forestville - Javier West
**************************************
Teams with New Coaches (14)
Niagara Falls - Carlos Bradberry
Ken West - Ryan Hogan
Grand Island - Chris Simpson
South Park - Kyle Perla
Middle College - Randy Rich
City Honors - Michael Mills
Medina - Eric Hellwig
Wilson - Rob Linhart
Barker - Jake Haight
Albion - Travis Downs
Tonawanda - Scott Foster
Rob Culver - Frewsburg
Robert Slisz - Pine Valley
Lucas Brawdy - Gowanda
***************************************
Classification Changes (31)
Health Sciences moves up from Class A2 to Class AA
South Park moves up from Class A2 to Class A1
Williamsville East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2
Ken East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2
Iroquois moves up from Class B1 to Class A2
Lake Shore moves down from Class A2 to Class B1
Emerson moves down from Class A1 to Class B1
East moves down from Class A2 to Class B1
Depew moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Medina moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Burgard moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Lackawanna moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Tonawanda moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Springville moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Alden moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Lafayette moves down from Class A2 to Class B3
Eden moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Olmsted moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Fredonia moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Roy-Hart moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Maritime moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
JFK moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Southwestern moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Wilson moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Cleveland Hill moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Allegany-Limestone moves down from Class B2 to Class B3
Salamanca moves up from Class C2 to Class C1
Riverside moves up from Class D to Class C1
Silver Creek moves down from Class C1 to Class C2
Cassadaga Valley moves down from Class C1 to Class C2
Franklinville moves down from Class C2 to Class D
****************************************
Preseason Polls
** Seven of the 10 teams that appeared in the 2020 Preseason Large School Poll were Top 10 teams when the season ended, and I was 8 of 10 predicting the Top 10 small schools in 2020
Large Schools
1. Canisius
2. Park
3. St. Joe's
4. Jamestown
5. Health Sciences
6. Niagara Falls
7. Lancaster
8. Amherst
9. South Park
10. McKinley
Small Schools
1. Timon
2. Tapestry
3. O'Hara
4. Middle College
5. Bennett
6. Newfane
7. Akron
8. East Aurora
9. Nichols
10. Randolph
**************************************
Predictions
MMA - Canisius
Yale Cup I - McKinley
Yale Cup II - Olmsted
ECIC I - Jamestown
ECIC II - Amherst
ECIC III - Cheektowaga
ECIC IV - Springville
NFL - Niagara Falls
N-O - Newfane
CCAA I West - Fredonia
CCAA I East - Randolph
CCAA II West - Maple Grove
CCAA II East - Ellicottville
*********************************************
Manhattan Cup
Only twice in the last seven seasons, have I accurately predicted the winner and both times I got it right, I picked Canisius. Well duh.
** Canisius **
Class AA
Final Four:
Niagara Falls, Health Sciences, Jamestown, & Lancaster
** Jamestown **
Class A1
Final Four:
McKinley, Ken West, South Park, & North Tonawanda
** South Park **
Class A2
Final Four:
Amherst, Cheektowaga, Williamsville East, & Lew-Port
** Amherst **
Class B1
Final Four:
Olean, Bennett, East Aurora, & East
** Bennett **
Class B2
Final Four:
Newfane, Akron, Depew, & Medina
** Newfane **
Class B3
Final Four:
Fredonia, Allegany-Limestone, Southwestern, & Maritime
** Fredonia **
Class C1
Final Four:
Tapestry, Middle College, Salamanca, & Riverside
** Tapestry **
Class C2
Final Four:
Randolph, Maple Grove, Holland, & Ellicottville
** Randolph **
Class D
Final Four to reach JCC:
Sherman, Franklinville, Pine Valley, & Clymer
** Sherman **
-centercourt
MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION
Class A
Player of the Year:
Dewayne Vass - Canisius
All-Catholic
Max Dowling - Canisius
Joe Ciocca - Canisius
Jaden Slaughter - St. Joe's
Daesean Ashley - St. Joe's
Peyton Consigli - St. Francis
Class B
Player of the Year:
Avion Harris - Cardinal o'Hara
All-Catholic
Jamyier Patton - Timon
Kamar Goudelock - Timon
Aidan Horan - Nichols
Hugh Purks - Nichols
Luke Szablewski - St. Mary's
***********************************
Charter Cup
Player of the Year:
JaVaughn Jones - Health Sciences
First Team
JaVaughn Jones - Health Sciences
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry
Greg Brooks - Maritime
Daciare Riley - Health Sciences
Massai Graham - Tapestry
Second Team
Jaylen Hearon - Maritime
Lavardi Mance - Global Concepts
Jabari Spencer - Health Sciences
Romeo Bell - Tapestry
Tyler Smith - Health Sciences
Third Team
Yeshua Lee - Health Sciences
Jesus Alvarez - Global Concepts
Carl Johnson - Tapestry
John Washington - Maritime
Deshaun Brown - Health Sciences
***********************************
YALE CUP I
Player of the Year:
Jamond Jones - Middle College, 12
First Team
Anthony Mack - South Park, 12
Devonte Prince - Middle College, 12
Danny Carter - East - 12
David Hughes - East - 12
Bush Rieang - McKinley, 11
Second Team
Jeremy McKitchen - East - 12
Kevion Taylor - City Honors, 12
Jayson Armstead - South Park, 12
Martin Espinal - Hutch-Tech, 11
Jaiden Cottman - Middle College, 12
Third Team
Kenneth Jacobs - Hutch-Tech, 11
Jaiden Green - East, 11
Koran Askia - McKinley, 11
Anthony Smith - Middle College, 11
Trevaughn Jackson - Emerson, 12
Honorable Mention
Middle College: Keith Brown 12, Keyunte Jones 12, Malik Meadows 12
South Park: Davon White 12, Chris Coleman 11
East: Dontaye Miller 12, Anthony Oberlander 11
McKinley: Jahmal Lewis 12, Jesse Snow 12, Jahodd Martin 10
City Honors: Jeremiah Chapman 12, Caleb Chapman 10
Hutch-Tech: Aric Mott 12, Oliver Ngarikiyintwari 11
Emerson: Daron Loder 12, Lawrence Russell 11
*****************************************
YALE CUP II
Player of the Year:
Marciano Lamar - Olmsted, 12
First Team
Damario James - Bennett, 11
Nolan Shephard - IPrep, 12
Jerrold Skillon - Bennett, 11
Jok Jok - IPrep, 12
DeVante Simmons - MST Seneca, 12
Second Team
Charles Slobert Buffalo Arts, 12
Bryant Rosa, Riverside, 10
Davon Scott - Bennett, 12
Renard Siders - Olmsted, 12
Dan Maku - Riverside, 10
Third Team
Lafario Ross - Burgard, 11
Kevin Maysonet - Lafayette, 12
Kane Gilliam - IPrep, 12
Damone McClain - Bennett, 11
DeVotie Pompey - MST Seneca, 12
Honorable Mention
Bennett: Jacob Pullins 11
Olmsted: Lawrence Jackson 12
IPrep: Naesiah Woods 11
MST Seneca: Terrell Craig 11
Buffalo Arts: Jordan Rodgers 9
Lafayette: Kevin Calderon, 11
************************************
All-ECIC
Player of the Year:
Jaylen Stewart - Amherst, 12
First Team
Jaylen Stewart - Amherst, 12
Demarri Jones - Jamestown, Junior
Cal Shifflet - Williamsville East, Senior
Trey Kleitz - Iroquois, Sophomore
Michael DiGiulio - Williamsville South, Senior
Second Team
Breht Swiech - Williamsville North, Senior
Tino Mancabelli - Orchard Park, Senior
Caron Marshall - Cleveland Hill, Senior
Joe Harrington - Lancaster, Sophomore
Nick O'Neil - Amhrest, Senior
Honorable Mention
Nate Ryniec - West Seneca West, Senior
Christian Pagano - Depew, Junior
Xaier Mitchell - Maryvale, Senior
Zach Ianello - Clarence, Junior
Max Schneider - Williamsville East, Sophomore
*****************************************
ECIC I
Player of the Year:
Demarri Jones - Jamestown, 11
First Team
Tino Mancabelli - Orchard Park, 12
Breht Swiech - Williamsville North, 12
Zach Ianello - Clarence, 11
Joe Harrington - Lancaster, 10
Nate Ryniec - West Seneca West, 12
Second Team
Scott Hopkins - Williamsville North, 12
Elijah Rojas - Jamestown, 11
Brad Fowler - Orchard Park, 12
Conor Foley - Frontier, 11
David Bass - Williamsville North, 12
Nate Hoellig - Frontier, 12
Honorable Mention
Lancaster: GianLuca Fulciniti 12, Jackson Jerebko 11, Trevor Reformat 12
Orchard Park: Ethan Swiatek 12, Chase Klein 12
West Seneca West: Connor Schermerhorn 12, Zach Fahey 12
Frontier: Brandon Okie 11
****************************************
ECIC II
Player of the Year:
Jaylen Stewart - Amherst, 12
First Team
Cal Shifflet - Williamsville East, 12
Mike Digiulio - Williamsville South, 12
Nick O'Neil - Amherst, 12
Max Schneifer - Williamsville East, 10
Trent Cordone - West Seneca East, 12
Second Team
DaeQuan Hill - Sweet Home, 12
Jaiden Lewis - West Seneca East, 8
CJ Bradley - Starpoint, 12
Nate Severson - Hamburg, 12
Jamel Lucas - Sweet Home, 12
Honorable Mention
Amherst - Myles Cooper 12, Nick Moore 9
Williamsville East - Kevin Early 12
Williamsville South - Nicco DiGiulio 9
Hamburg - Max Haney 12
Starpoint - Dexter Brooks 11, Sam Walters 11, Joe Dell'Oso 12
****************************************
ECIC III
Player of the Year:
Trey Kleitz - Iroquois, 10
First Team
Christian Pagano - Depew, 11
Xaier Mitchell - Maryvale, 12
Nevada Eldridge - Cheektowaga, 11
Will Covington - East Aurora, 12
Zach Evans - Lake Shore,12
Matt Matla - Iroquois, 12
Second Team
Austin Boies - Springville, 11
Matteo Duennebacke - East Aurora, 12
Nathan Kulesz - Depew, 12
Noah Herzog - Lake Shore, 11
Gavyn Mason - Pioneer, 12
Andrew Dockery - Maryvale, 11
Nick Bowen - Iroquois, 12
Honorable Mention
Depew: PJ Burns 12, Davion March 12
Lake Shore: Keith White 13
East Aurora: Ian Moog 11, Dom Phillips 10
Cheektowaga: Keonte Brown 11
Maryvale: Deondre Rice 12
Pioneer: Kaleb Phillips 12
*********************************************
ECIC IV
Player of the Year:
Caron Marshall - Cleveland Hill, 12
First Team
Trevin Boling - Tonawanda, 10
De'Marion Johnson - Lackawanna, 12
Jon Nellis - Holland, 12
Alan Suarez - JFK, 12
Kenny Avery - JFK, 12
Second Team
Hunter Stetz - Eden, 11
Matt Hay - Alden, 11
Noah Kirsch - Holland, 12
Charlie Meredith - Cleveland Hill, 11
JJ Velazquez - Tonawanda, 11
Honorable Mention
Holland: Nolan Perry 12, Tyler Scheffler 12, Josh Ostrowski 12
JFK: Josh Knox 11
Tonawanda: David Perry 12
Eden: Brandon Hallick 12
Lackawanna: Jeremi'yhi Presley 11, AJ Turner 10
Cleveland Hill: Jayden Krueger 12
******************************************
Niagara Frontier League
Player of the Year:
Roddy Gayle - Lew-Port, 10
First Team
Jaemon Turner - Niagara Falls, 12
TJ Robinson - Niagara Wheatfield, 10
Dante Moultrie - North Tonawanda, 12
Jalen Duff - Lew-Port, 9
Ceion McDowell - Lockport, 12
Second Team
Zac Boyes - Ken West, 12
Jordan Cutter - North Tonawanda, 12
Amari Gordon - Ken East, 12
Faybion Prather - Niagara Falls, 12
Xavier Alvarez - CSAT, 12
Third Team
Amir Morris - CSAT, 12
Noah Fox-Stoddard - North Tonawanda, 12
Logan Sionko - Grand Island, 11
Xander Fletcher - Niagara Wheatfield, 9
Pierre Gabart - CSAT, 12
***********************************
Niagara-Orleans League
Player of the Year:
Garrett Srock - Newfane, 12
First Team
Luke Bradley - Wilson, 12
Adam Mietz - Akron, 11
Nate Sherman - Medina, 12
Deyonci Farley - Albion, 12
Second Team
Kevin Hillman - Albion, 12
Josh Everett - Newfane, 12
Tom Ragonese - Roy-Hart, 11
Tyler Chinn - Medina, 11
Sam Capen - Newfane, 11
Honorable Mention
Newfane: Connor MacEvoy 12, Michael Carmer 11
Albion: Liam Ward 12, Bailey Blanchard 11
Wilson: Alex Martinez 12, Mike Miller 11, Brayden Thompson 12
Medina: Brian Fry 11, Jarin Rhim 10
Akron: Mitchell Holtz 11, Gage Willis 12, Jake Mazza 11
Roy-Hart: Rhett Goodwin 11, Gavyn Boyle 10, Reed Albee 12
Barker: Joseph Brandt 11
******************************************
CCAA I West
Player of the Year:
Casey Curran - Allegany-Limestone, 12
First Team
Covi James - Olean, 12
Jason Brooks - Olean, 11
Gus Napoleon - Allegany-Limestone, 12
Tyler Putney - Fredonia, 11
Nick Whitfield - Fredonia, 10
Second Team
Nate Adams - Chautauqua Lake, 12
Ben Giardini - Allegany-Limestone, 12
Aidan Kennedy - Southwestern 10
Kaleb Rybij - Fredonia, 12
Michael Wolfgang - Allegany-Limestone, 12
Honorable Mention
Allegany-Limestone: Tyler Curran 10
Fredonia: Alec Schrader 12, Dominic Gullo 11
Olean: Jah'Karee McClain 12, Dan Klein 12, Zion James 10
Southwestern: Nate Johnson 11, Calvin Ricker 11
Dunkirk: Christian Ortiz 11, A'Marion Tell 10
Chautauqua Lake: Luke Waters 11
******************************************
CCAA I East
Player of the Year:
Tyler Hind - Randolph, 12
First Team
Gabe McCoy - Randolph, 10
Jarod White - Salamanca 11
Kaleb Steward - Randolph, 12
Aaron George - Salamanca, 12
Dom Jamison - Silver Creek, 12
Second Team
Daslton Tabola -Portville, 12
Lucas Brown - Salamanca, 8
Jeremy Wilcox - Silver Creek, 12
Jeremy Harford - Silver Creek, 12
Ashton Bushey - Randolph, 11
*****************************************
CCAA II West
Player of the Year:
Cam Barmore - Panama, 12
First Team
Ryan Jafarjian - Westfield, 12
Michael Johnson - Westfield, 12
Brad Nelson - Frewsburg, 12
Peter Auer - Maple Grove, 12
John Swabik - Sherman, 11
Second Team
Aaron Hair - Frewsburg, 12
Nathan Culbreth - Westfield, 12
Darius Jones - Maple Grove, 12
Justiss Hannold - Sherman, 12
Hunter Wassink - Clymer, 11
Honorable Mention
Westfield: Dylan Scriven 12, Darien Swanson 10
Panama: Gerritt Hinsdale 12, Braden Cook 12, Connor Cooper 11
Maple Grove: Tyler McPherson 12, Ayden Reagle 12
Sherman: Keith Gormley 11, Gerald Carris 10
Frewsburg: Peyton Hayes 12, Jameson Sposato 12
Cassadaga Valley: Wyatt Harrington 10, Braden Lebaron 9
Brocton: Michael Steward 12
******************************************
CCAA II East
Player of the Year:
Tyler Robinson - North Collins, 12
First Team
Gavin Christian - Forestville, 12
Lief Jimerson - Ellicottville, 11
Clayton Rowland - Ellicottville, 11
Javier West - Forestville, 11
Logan Frank - Franklinville, 11
Second Team
Wyatt Chudy - Ellicottville, 11
Wayne Libby - Pine Valley, 10
Blake Frank - Franklinville, 10
Zach Wolfer - Franklinville, 12
Kordell Oakes - Cattaraugua-Little Valley, 10
Honorable Mention
Ellicottville: Jordan Grinols 12, Logan Grinols 10, Niklas Logel 12
Forestville: Jake Smith 12, Dalton Hastings 12
Franklinville: Tyler Clear 12, Matt Peters 11
North Collins: Chris Smith 10, Mitchell Warsaw 11, Matthew Sweet 9, Christian Loretto 12
Pine Valley: Bryce Sercu 10, Cameron Hayes 11
Cattaraugua-Little Valley: Josh Halterman 10, Gage Furl 10
-centercourt
(Covi James led Olean to its 12th Section VI title in 14 years / Photo: Harry Scull, TBN)
Class AA
Most Valuable Player
GianLuca Fulciniti - Lancaster
Jason Mansell - Lancaster
Tino Mancabelli - Orchard Park
Ethan Swiatek - Orchard Park
Demarri Jones - Jamestown
Faybion Prather - Niagara Falls
Class A1
Most Valuable Player
Dante Moultrie - North Tonawanda
Luke Granto - North Tonawanda
Nate Ryniec - West Seneca West
Zach Fahey - West Seneca West
Max Schneider - Williamsville East
Bush Rieang - McKinley
Class A2
Most Valuable Player
JaVaughn Jones - Health Sciences - MVP
Daciare Riley - Health Sciences
Jaylen Stewart - Amherst
Nick O'Neil - Amherst
Anthony Mack - South Park
Danny Carter - East
Class B1
Most Valuable Player
Covi James - Olean
Zion James - Olean
Dom Phillips - East Aurora
Tage Hoeg - East Aurora
Rashard Perry - Bennett
PJ Burns - Depew
Class B2
Most Valuable Player
Casey Curran - Allegany-Limestone
Ben Giardini - Allegany-Limestone
Garrett Srock - Newfane
Sam Capen - Newfane
Kaleb Rybij - Fredonia
Marciano Lamar - Olmsted
Class C1
Most Valuable Player
Jamond Jones - Middle College
Davonte Prince - Middle College
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry
Massai Graham - Tapestry
Nate Adams - Chautauqua Lake
Dom Jamison - Silver Creek
Class C2
Most Valuable Player
Tyler Hind - Randolph
Kaleb Steward - Randolph
Jon Nellis - Holland
Tyler Scheffler - Holland
Jarod White - Salamanca
Clayton Rowland - Ellicottville
Class D
Most Valuable Player
Justiss Hannold - Sherman
John Swabik - Sherman
Tyler Robinson - North Collins
Dominic Fricano - North Collins
Cam Barmore - Panama
Gavin Christian - Forestville
-centercourt
(Allegany-Limestone looks to repeat as Section VI champions)
The Section VI postseason begins tonight with six First Round matchups. The winner moves on to participate in the pre-quarterfinal round on Wednesday night, before 32 quarterfinal games between Friday night and Saturday afternoon 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.
Most exciting brackets, top to bottom:
8. D
7. C1
6. B2
5. B1
4. AA
3. A1
2. C2
1. A2
Class A2 & Class C2 are the most similar brackets of the postseason in 2020. Each has a clear favorite, Health Sciences in A2 and Randolph in C2. But after that, it looks like a battle royal between the remaining teams, with upsets that are sure to come. In Classes A1, AA, and B1, there are numerous teams that could wind up winning it all and no clear-cut favorites. Class B2 offers a favorite in Allegany-Limestone, but any of the top five seeds are built to clip the Gators on the big stage. I'd be very surprised if Class C1 didn't feature a Section VI title game between the top two seeds in the bracket, while I think Class D features #1 vs. #3.
Sleepers from each bracket
AA - Lancaster: The Legends have only lost five times all season and 15-5 is a very impressive record for a #5 seed. Among those 15 victories are wins over the #3 and #4 seeds, Orchard Park and Will North. They lost twice to Jamestown by a combined eight points and they've won big against some quality opponents this season, including a 68-49 triumph over Will North...the #4 seed they visit in the quarterfinals with Buff State on the line.
A1 - Ken West: Also a #5 seed, the Blue Devils enter the postseason with 10-10 mark after losing four of their last six games. So why are they the sleeper? Well I watched them play three times this season, and every game was a dramatic come-from-behind victory after being left for dead. These guys have serious grit, which has a little something to do with head coach Mike Meetze, who has announced this will be has last season. The Ken West theme song might as well be a Cypress Hill track -- 'We ain't goin out like that'!
A2 - East High: I had the Panthers in my preseason Top 10 after joining the large school ranks, up from Class C in 2019. While their record is just one game above .500 and likely the reason they haven't been receiving votes in the poll recently, you won't find any bad losses on their resume. What you will find - a pair of double figure wins over South Park and a five-point loss to Health Sciences. East High has length and talent and can play with anyone in Class A.
B1 - Olean: The easiest sleeper pick ever. For starters, it's Olean and the name alone has been known to strike fear into people. There's only been one time in the last two decades that Olean was in Class B and didn't win a Section VI title. They have wins this season over the likes of Jamestown, Allegany-Limestome, Depew, and East Aurora and are winners in eight of their last nine games. The biggest obstacle they will face might be the Saturday afternoon quarterfinal at #2 Iroquois. Find a way to knock off the Chiefs and suddenly you're at Buff State, where mail is still being sent for Jeff Anastasia, who doesn't even coach Olean anymore.
B2 - Maritime: The Commodores finished 13-7 on the season and enter as the #5 seed with a date at Newfane on the horizon. Some of Maritime's signature wins this year include West Seneca West, Williamsville South, Tapestry, and Bennett. Two of their seven losses came at the hands of Health Sciences, and a third just occured at Orchard Park by two points. I'll promise you no one is sleeping on these guys, but as the #5 seed, they qualify as a solid sleeper pick. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzz
C - Maple Grove: The Red Dragons come into the Class C2 bracket as the #7 seed with as good a chance as any other team in that classification to reach the final opposite Randolph. Despite a 2-4 start to the season, Maple Grove finished 14-6 on the year. They hit the postseason on an eight-game win streak that includes victories over a pair of teams seeded higher than them in Class C2. Their last three wins have come by an average margin of 23.3 points.
D - Riverside: They are the only Buffalo Public School in a seven-team bracket, where the other six teams are all Southern Tier schools. Facing different competition could benefit the Frointiers and a review of their results from this season shows improvement against every team they faced twice.
Top 10 Pre-Quarterfinal Games (Wednesday, February 26th)
10. (9) Tonawanda @ (8) Medina
9. (10) Akron @ (7) JFK
8. (12) City Honors @ (5) Lackawanna
7. (11) Roy-Hart @ (6) Cleveland Hill
6. (10) West Seneca East @ (7) Lake Shore
5. (12) Starpoint vs. (5) East
4. (11) Maryvale @ (6) Albion
3. (9) Hamburg @ (8) Niagara Wheatfield
2. (10) Ken East @ (7) Sweet Home
1. (9) Cheektowaga @ (8) Williamsville South
Top 5 Friday Quarterfinal Games (February 28th)
5. (6) Frewsburg @ (3) Ellicottville
4. (7) Maple Grove @ (2) Holland
3. (5) Ken West @ (4) West Seneca West
2. (5) Salamanca @ (4) Westfield
1. (7) Sweet Home @ (2) North Tonawanda
Top 6 Saturday Quarterfinal Games (February 29th)
6. (6) Albion @ (3) Depew
5. (5) East @ (4) CSAT
4. (6) South Park @ (3) Lew-Port
3. (5) Maritime @ (4) Newfane
2. (7) Olean @ (2) Iroquois
1. (5) Lancaster @ (4) Williamsville North
Top 5 Most Exciting Potential Semifinals
5. North Tonawanda vs. McKinley (A1)
4. Health Sciences vs. Lew-Port (A2)
3. East vs. Amherst (A2)
2. Williamssville East vs. West Seneca West (A1)
1. Jamestown vs. Orchard Park (AA)
Most Exciting Championship Games
5. Class B2
4. Class C1
3. Class A1
2. Class D
1. Class AA
Winning streaks heading into sectionals
Randolph - 17 (and 19 of the last 20)
Maple Grove - 8 (and 9 of the last 10)
Medina - 7 (and 9 of the last 10)
Bennett - 7 (and 11 of the last 12)
Fredonia - 6 (and 10 of the last 11)
Niagara Falls - 5 (and 6 of the last 7)
Salamanca - 5 (and 6 of the last 7)
Cleveland Hill - 5
Olmsted - 5
Health Sciences - 4 (and 19 of the last 20)
Olean - 4 (and 8 of the last 9)
Allegany-Limestone has won 12 of the last 14
Depew has won 10 of the last 11
Williamsville East has won 9 of the last 10 & 15 of the last 17
Jamestown has won 9 of the last 10
Amherst has won 8 of the last 9
Iroquois has won 7 of the last 8
Frewsburg has won 6 of the last 7
Albion has won 5 of the last 6
Ellicottville has won 5 of the last 6
Predictions
AA - Niagara Falls
I picked Jamestown in my Season Preview and feel crazy for going against that now. But betting against Falls seems equally loco, considering they are the four-time defending champs with a double figure win over Jamestown in hand already this season.
A1 - Williamsville East
The Flames have a standout in Cal Shifflet, a maestro in Max Schneider, and the experience of playing in the Class A1 Final last seasom.
A2 - Health Sciences
I told Ty Parker in early December that I thought this was the best Health team I'd ever seen.
B1 - Iroquois
The Chiefs were my preseason pick, but haven't even been a ranked small school for most of the season. And it looks like they'll need to beat Olean just to get to Buff State. This is a prediction that either makes me look really smart or very stubborn.
B2 - Allegany-Limestone
Of all the public schools in Section VI Class B, the Gators have looked like the best one to me, with just the right blend of everything.
C1 - Middle College
The Kats brought so much back from the crew that played for a state title last season and didn't disappoint this year, going undefeated in the city for a third straight Yale Cup.
C2 - Randolph
This one comes with a centercourt guarantee. There are some very tough teams in Class C2 and it's definitely the more talented bracket as a whole compared to the C1 competition, but the Cardinals are on another level in this bracket.
D - Panama
It will not be easy for the Panthers to get past Sherman, who they only beat by three points in both meetings between the two teams during the regular season. But I'm not betting against a Cam Barmore-led team in a Section VI postseason.
-centercourt
Class C1
Quarterfinals - Friday, February 28th at 7 pm
(1) Middle College 92, (8) Cattaraugus-Little Valley 21
(5) Chautauqua Lake 71, (4) Portville 56
(2) Tapestry 101, (7) Cassadaga Valley 40
(3) Silver Creek 101, (6) Gowanda 50
Semifinals - Monday, March 2nd
AT JCC - 5:15 pm & 6:45 pm
(1) Middle College 89, (5) Chatauqua Lake 57
(2) Tapestry 73, (3) Silver Creek 44
Final - Friday, March 6th
AT JCC - 8:15 pm
(1) Middle College 73, (2) Tapestry 50
2020 Section VI Class C1 Champions - Middle College Kats
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Class C2
Pre-Quarterfinal - Wednesday, February 26th at 7 pm
(8) Franklinville 50, (9) Global Concepts 43
Quarterfinals - Friday, February 28th at 7 pm
(1) Randolph 49, (8) Franklinville 40
(5) Salamanca 69, (4) Westfield 46
(2) Holland 77, (7) Maple Grove 67 in OT
(3) Ellicottville 60, (6) Frewsburg 49
Semifinals - Tuesday, March 3rd
AT JCC - 5:15 pm & 6:45 pm
(1) Randolph 59, (5) Salamanca 47
(2) Holland 54, (3) Ellicottville 51
Final - Friday, March 6th
AT JCC - 7:00 pm
(1) Randolph 49, (2) Holland 46
2020 Section VI Class C2 Champions - Randolph Cardinals
-centercourt
(Randolph's Gabe McCoy & Tyler Hind defend Cam Barmore of Panama / Photo:Alex Shipherd,Post Journal)
Tuesday, January 8th
South Park @ Middle College - 6 pm
Olmsted @ MST Seneca - 6 pm
Timon @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm
Sweet Home @ West Seneca East - 6:30 pm
CSAT @ Lockport - 6:30 pm
Lackawanna @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm
St. Francis @ Park - 7 pm
Clarence @ Frontier - 7 pm
Health Sciences @ Amherst - 7:30 pm
Williamsville East @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm
Chautauqua Lake @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm
Salamanca @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm
Williamsville North @ Orchard Park - 7:30 pm
Wednesday, January 9th
Ellicottville @ Forestville - 7:30 pm
Thursday, January 10th
McQuaid @ Park - 6 pm
Nichols @ St. Joe's - 6:30 pm
BASCS @ Southwestern - 7:30 pm
Friday, January 11th
Wilson @ Newfane - 6:30 pm
Williamsville East @ Sweet Home - 6:30 pm
Timon @ St. Francis - 7 pm
Orchard Park @ Clarence - 7:30 pm
Forestville @ Franklinville - 7:30 pm
Jamestown @ West Seneca West - 7:30 pm
Allegany-Limestone @ Randolph - 7:30 pm
Sherman @ Panama - 7:30 pm
Saturday, January 12th
Lockport @ Niagara Falls - 12:30 pm
Park @ Canisius - 2:30 pm
* Game of the Week - Allegany-Limestone @ Randolph on Friday, January 11th
For the past two seasons, the Southern Tier has given us Franklinville vs. Ellicottville. But there's another rivalry that started brewing down there last season between two of the last four teams left standing in Class C and they just happen to be in the same league.
-centercourt
(Mike DiGiulio and the South Billies host the Game of the Week / Photo: Harry Scull,Buff News)
Wednesday, January 2nd
Hutch Tech @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm
Sweet Home @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm
Thursday, January 3rd
Nichols @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm
Williamsville East @ West Seneca East - 6:30 pm
Medina @ Newfane - 6:30 pm
Orchard Park @ Frontier - 7 pm
West Seneca West @ Clarence - 7:30 pm
Jamestown @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm
Friday, January 4th
McKinley @ South Park - 6 pm
Middle College @ East - 6 pm
Amherst @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm
Fredonia @ Olean - 7:30 pm
Franklinville @ Ellicottville - 7:30 pm
Silver Creek @ Randolph - 7:30 pm
Westfield @ Panama - 7:30 pm
Maple Grove @ Chautauqua Lake - 7:30 pm
Saturday, January 5th
Health Sciences @ Tapestry - 3 pm
Canisius @ Aquinas - 3:30 pm
Sunday, January 6th
At Christian Brothers Academy (Syracuse)
St. Francis vs. Bishop Ludden - 1:45 pm
Timon vs. Bishop Grimes - 3:30 pm
St. Joe's @ Christian Brothers Academy - 5:15 pm
* Game of the Week - Amherst at Williamsville South on Friday, January 4th
In 2016, Williamsville South and Amherst were top five large schools in WNY and spent the season on a collision course to meet in the overall Class A Final at Buff State. When the big game finally came to fruition, large student sections from both schools filled the baseline bleachers at the Buff State Sports Arena and infused the place with a little something extra. Not only was the winning team to advance to regionals, but there was also a matter of geographic pride on the line. Separated by just 2.3 miles on Route 5 in Buffalo, this was dubbed the Battle of Main Street.
(Park's Noah Hutchins - top left, Olean ready for another state title run - top right, Manhattan Cup B Champion Niagara Catholic closes its doors - bottom left, Justin Hemphill & Haakim Siner are now teammates at O'Hara - bottom right / Photos: Harry Scull/BuffNews)
The 2018-2019 Preview contains:
- Commentary
- What's New
- Returning 2018 All-Centercourt Players
- Player Watch List for 2019
- 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
Commentary
Between the day I published the All-Centercourt Team and the day I started emailing requests to coaches for Season Preview information, there's been a flurry of activity related to high school basketball in WNY, and it will most certainly have a direct impact on the 2019 season. For starters, we've lost some very talented players that were underclassmen in 2018. Two of them held Division I offers and happened to be teammates on the Federation Championship team at Park, two of them were First Team All-Centercourt in 2018, and all of them were on the All-Centercourt Team.
Dan Scott earned a spot on First Team and was also made the Federation All-Tournament team after the Pioneers marched through NYS Class A, but has opted to transfer to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. His teammate, John Orogun, got better every time he took the floor as a sophomore last year and looked like a man among boys when playing in a freshmen/sophomore all-star game at the end of the season, ripping the rim nearly every time he touched the rock. The 6-10 big man with high major written all over him transferred to St. Benedict's. Park's sixth man, Julian Eziukwu, who was also the Centercourt Sixth Man of the Year last season as a junior, is no longer eligible due to his age. Needless to say, things will, at the very least, look different on Harlem Road this season.
Juston Johnson, a First Team All-Centercourt selection who led West Seneca West to a 24-0 record and the overall title in Class A before bowing out to Irondequoit in the Far West Regional, has been ruled ineligible. As of press time, the family was appealing the ruling and remains optimistic that Johnson will play this season. If he does, it drastically changes the landscape in ECIC I, Class A, and WNY hoops in general. The Indians beefed up their nonleague schedule tenfold from the one inherited by head coach Des Randall last year and will be a major contender without him, but with him, WSW becomes the favorite to return to the Far West Regional and beyond.
After following his sophomore campaign that earned Third Team All-Centercourt honors with a huge junior year that landed him on Second Team, leading Timon to a win over Park in the regular season, and eclipsing 1,000 career points, The Juice is now loose in Ontario. Julian Cunningham left South Buffalo this summer to head north of the border, transferring to Orangeville Prep, the same school WNY lost Joe Jones to after his junior year at Park in 2017.
I know, that's a lot to take in and a big blow to the talent pool in WNY, on the heels on graduating the likes of Greg Dolan, Davonte Gaines, Willard Anderson, Devin Pope, and all those boys from Canisius, including Ryan Bradley who is now at Daemen and Jayce Johnson, who was just on ESPN2 this week playing Division I ball for Middle Tennessee State. But that's not all - we've even lost teams from last year and seen some team-to-team player movement that will shake everything up even more.
Niagara Catholic closed its doors for good - the same Niagara Catholic that just built an overnight sensation of underclassmen that won the Class B Manhattan Cup. That left a lot of young players looking for a new home, or in one case, a return home. Third Team All-Centercourt pick and Manhattan Cup MVP Jalen Bradberry spent much of the summer running with St. Joe's, but ultimately wanted to play with his friends and return to his home school at Niagara Falls, where the Wolverines have won the last three Class AA titles. The same Niagara Falls that had those two young prodigies lead the team last year as a freshman (Roddy Gayle) & eighth grader (Willie Lightfoot) respectively. Wait, all three of those young studs are finally reunited? I've been hearing about Bradberry, Gayle, & Lightfoot since they started playing Biddy Ball. This could be the second coming of 2005 Falls!!! Well, not so fast.
While the arrival of Bradberry at Falls gives the Wolverines WNY's most dynamic backcourt, they won't have Roddy Gayle running in transition with them. Gayle left Falls this summer for another program in Niagara County and will run with the Lew-Port in 2019. For head coach Matt Bradshaw and the Lancers, it's a major jackpot! Gayle's presence at Lew-Port and in Class A makes them immediate contenders and must-see basketball.
Bradberry wasn't the only standout at Niagara Catholic. Haakim Siner was an Honorable Mention selection in 2018 and one of the best returning big men coming into this season. He has found a new home at Cardinal O'Hara, playing alongside the best returning big man, Justin Hemphill. Siner brought teammate Avion Harris with him, another starter at Catholic and one of the 15 All-Centercourt Defenders a year ago. With four starters back, some key reserves returning, the two key additions from Niagara Catholic, and a 6-5 shooting sophomore who joined the program, the Hawks suddenly look like not only the best team in their league, but maybe in WNY.
Remember, Cardinal O'Hara is a small school, so if they could get to and win the same game this season that Niagara Catholic lost in 2018, the CHSAA Class B State Championship, they'd be in the NYS Federation Tournament of Champions. That's the same tournament that Park won in Class A last year and also the tournament Olean reached after winning a state title in 2016. Yes, the same Olean that returns five starters to the group that held Health Sciences to 11 points in the first half last year and only lost to the Falcons by two in the overall Class B Final. Are you picking up what I'm trying to lay down yet??? I'll just spell it out - the possibility exists that both O'Hara and Olean could be two of the four teams showing up in Glens Falls during the last week of March in Class B. The last time two teams from WNY faced off in the Federation Tournament was in 2001, when Buffalo Traditional defeated Canisius. I can't imagine a much cooler scenario than driving to Glens Falls to watch two WNY teams play for the biggest prize in NYS.
*************************
What's New ??
- After consecutive trips to the state final four in Class B, Section VI has reclassified Health Sciences, despite BEDS numbers that reflect Class B. The Falcons will compete in Class A2 this season.
- The 2019 Centercourt Classic has shifted venues to Villa Maria College and will feature six games over two days on February 8th & 9th.
- After stockpiling a loaded young squad at Niagara Catholic in one offseason and winning the Class B Manhattan Cup, the school has closed its doors and all that talent has dispersed to other teams.
- Oracle Charter has also closed. The Phoenix enjoyed their best season in 2013, reaching the Class C1 Final.
- Varsity basketball is back at Bennett. The team will be coached by Khalil Cottman and compete in Yale Cup II for league and Class C2 in sectionals.
- Falconer & Frewsburg flipped leagues. The Golden Falcons drop down to CCAA II West, while the Bears move up to CCAA I West.
- Depew & Springville flipped leagues. The Wildcats move up to ECIC III, while the Griffins move down to ECIC IV.
- Yale Cup start times have changed, again. Varsity tip times are now slated for 6 pm.
- Williamsville North has changed start times to 7 pm which kills my ability to catch double-headers there on my way home from a 6 pm game. Not cool Chuck.
- The ADPRO Public/Private Challenge has added a pair of girls games to the 11-game lineup, while Canisius & St. Joe's have opted out.
- Class C1 & C2 are back. In 2018, there was 16 teams in Class C, which is the maximum number for one bracket. This season there are 20 teams in Section VI Class C.
- This will be the last year in Binghamton for the NYSPHAA state championships. Glens Falls won the bid to be the host and will once again be the venue beginning in 2020!
- The Pastor-Cooper Showcase at Daemen College returns to three days this season, December 5th through December 7th.
- Far West Regionals will be played at Greece Athena High School on Saturday, March 9th.
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The Players
*** 6 of the top 25 players from the 2018 All-Centercourt Team return to the WNY high school hoops scene, along with 15 players that received Honorable Mentions following last season.
Returning First Teamer
Noah Hutchins - Park, Senior
Junior Season stats:
13.1 PPG
6.6 APG
5.0 RPG
2.6 SPG
1.3 BPG
The MVP of the Federation Tournament showed he could take over games during the Pioneers championship run in 2018. He should be downright dominant in his fourth season as the starting floor general for The Park School.
*All-Centercourt Defender & Centercourt #BOOM Squad*
Returning Third Teamers
Mike Schmidt - Olean, Senior
Junior Season stats:
16.6 PPG
6.4 APG
5.2 RPG
3.5 SPG
Already a state champion from 2016, Olean's point guard looks to lead the Huskies back to the top of New York State's Class B and go out on top.
* All-Centercourt Defender *
Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Falls, Sophomore
Freshman Season stats:
20.3 PPG
4.6 RPG
2.4 APG
2.1 SPG
0.7 BPG
After leading Niagara Catholic to a Manhattan Cup in its final year in existence, Bradberry returns to NFHS after two years away, already approaching 1,000 career points before his sophomore campaign.
Justin Hemphill - Cardinal O'Hara, Senior
Junior Season stats:
20.5 PPG
13.5 RPG
3.5 APG
2.6 SPG
2.6 BPG
A Division I talent and a matchup nightmare in the post for opposing defenses. He can run the floor and absolutely soar.
* Centercourt #BOOM Squad *
Returning Fifth Teamers
Kam Briggs - Health Sciences, Senior
Junior Season stats:
12.9 PPG
3.1 SPG
1.8 APG
1.5 RPG
A two-way standout who sealed the 2018 Section VI title for Health Sciences with his defense and took over offensively in the Class B state semifinal.
* All-Centercourt Defender *
Tyler Hind - Randolph, Junior
Sophomore Season stats:
23.3 PPG
6.6 APG
4.2 RPG
3.1 SPG
0.5 BPG
Already a 1,000 point scorer, Hind does it all for the Cardinals. Deceptively strong & athletic, there isn't a better shooter in WNY.
Returning 2018 Honorable Mentions
Mason Goodridge - Springville, Senior
24.6 PPG / 3.1 RPG / 2.4 SPG / 2.0 APG / 0.5 BPG - as a junior
Zamari Mitchell - West Seneca East, Senior
22.5 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 4.2 SPG / 2.4 APG / 0.6 BPG - as a junior
Trent Scott - Senior
18.6 PPG / 6.1 RPG / 4.9 APG / 3.2 SPG / 1.1 BPG - as a junior
Adrian Baugh - West Seneca West, Senior
17.6 PPG / 7.4 RPG / 2.3 SPG / 2.0 APG / 1.2 BPG - as a junior
Earl Howard - MST Seneca, Senior
17.5 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 3.4 APG / 1.1 SPG - as a junior
Dorian Plummer - Tapestry, Senior
17.3 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 2.6 SPG / 1.4 APG - as a junior
Cam Sionko - Grand Island, Senior
16.3 PPG / 7.0 RPG / 5.2 APG / 1.5 SPG / 0.5 BPG - as a junior
River Reinhardt - Clarence, Senior
15.3 PPG / 4.6 APG / 3.3 RPG / 2.7 SPG - as a junior
Haakim Siner - Cardinal O'Hara, Senior
13.7 PPG / 10.6 RPG / 1.8 SPG / 1.3 APG / 0.8 BPG - as a junior
Chris Stineman - Nichols, Senior
12.5 PPG / 10.4 RPG / 2.8 APG / 1.5 BPG / 0.9 SPG - as a junior
Devin Degree - Williamsville South, Senior
11.8 PPG / 4.6 APG / 4.1 RPG / 2.7 SPG - as a junior
Quentin Nnagbo - Park, Senior
6.6 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 1.6 APG / 1.6 SPG / 1.5 BPG - as a junior
Daesean Ashley - St. Joe's, Junior
17.6 PPG / 6.4 RPG / 3.4 APG / 3.3 SPG - as a sophomore
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry, Sophomore
12.0 PPG / 4.2 APG / 3.5 RPG / 2.9 SPG - as a freshman
Roddy Gayle - Lew-Port, Freshman
12.8 PPG / 4.3 RPG / 3.2 APG / 1.0 SPG / 0.9 BPG - as an 8th grader
Player Watch List
SENIORS
Jermaine Haynes (Cardinal O'Hara), Noah Grabar (Lackawanna), Josiah Harris (Niagara Falls), Brady Woelben (Silver Creek), Lucas Theisen (St. Francis), Justin Poumpey (St. Francis), River Reinhart (Clarence), Malik Brooks (Lockport), Quentin Nnagbo (Park), Nate Shuart (Fredonia), Amir Radford (City Honors), Andrej Milinkovic (Iroquois), Alero World (Timon), Joe Jamison (Canisius), Anthony Whitfield (Hutch Tech), Ngenda Elias (McKinley), Ja'Kari Nettles (Middle College), Julius Laureano (Riverside), Jon Abaya (Williamsville North), Joe Nusall (Williamsville North), Jack Putney (Clarence), Grant Moore (Jamestown), Jakob Jerebko (Lancaster), Tysheen Lott (Health Sciences), Josiah Haygood (Health Sciences), Alex Card (Southwestern), Matt Droney (Olean), Brian Ramarge (Olean), Jake Mullen (Amherst), Evan John (Sweet Home), Noah Denz (East Aurora), Steve Frerichs (Wilson), Izaiah Rhim (Medina), Frederick Johnson (Cleveland Hill)
JUNIORS
Dwayne Vass (Canisius), Ish Fairclough (Canisius), Jaylen Stewart (Amherst), Anthony Mack (South Park), Jahmal Lewis (McKinley), Cameron Barmore (Panama), Cal Shifflet (Williamsville East), Aidan Horan (Nichols), David Hughes (East), Anthony Mack (South Park), Jamond Jones (Middle College), Nate Ryniec (West Seneca West), Daequan Hill (Sweet Home), Greg Poland (St. Joe's), Mike DiGiulio (Williamsville South)
SOPHOMORES
Javaughn Jones (Health Sciences), Amiel Collins (St. Francis), Tyler Putney (Fredonia), Jayden Slaughter (City Honors), Keonjay Carter (Park), Caleb Hutchins (Park), Logan Sionko (Grand Island), Isaac Brown (Salamanca), Tyler Putney (Fredonia), Andre Goldsmith (Global Concepts), Xavier Laverty (Walsh), Max Dowling (Canisius), Peyton Consigli (St. Francis), Samuel Moss (McKinley), Elijah Rojas (Jamestown), Walter Wisniewski (North Tonawanda)
FRESHMEN
Willie Lightfoot (Niagara Falls), Justin Glover (St. Joe's), Massai Graham (Timon), Trey Kleitz (Iroquois), Gabe McCoy (Randolph), Josh Haskell (Franklinville), Kegan Mancabelli (Orchard Park), Joe Harrington (Lancaster)
EIGHTH GRADER
Jalen Duff (Lew-Port)
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League-By-League
Monsignor Martin Association
Large Schools - CLASS A
Park enjoyed its greatest season in school history last year, knocking off Canisius for the Manhattan Cup, before claiming the CHSAA Class A state championship at Villa Maria College. Two weeks later, the Pioneers arrived in Glens Falls for the NYS Federation Tournament of Champions - an honor they had won as a small school in 2015. Once again, Park returned to WNY with the hardware, this time as champions of NYS Class A, after winning a thriller over Albany Academy as time expired. With the off-season transfers of Dan Scott to Oak Hill Academy and John Orogun to St. Benedicts, the Pioneers lost a pair of returning future Division I talents, but they still return Noah Hutchins and Quentin Nnagbo to the starting lineup and most certainly have a title to defend. Sophomores Caleb Hutchins and Keyounjay Carter will step in and be counted on immediately. St. Francis seems to be off the radar for many in the preseason, but the Red Raiders squad could soon be grabbing everyone's attention much like they did two years ago, when a cohesive group took all three meetings from Park and nearly ended a long championship drought. Lucas Theisen enters the season healthier than last year and should have a big campaign, while point guard Justin Poumpey is a perfect fit for the style the team plays. Dorion Ivey, David Bartholomew, and Amiel Collins all saw extended time for Frannies last year, and when you throw in some added depth on the bench, just don't say i didn't warn you about this group. You would have to go back to 2008 to find the last time Canisius went multiple seasons without winning the Manhattan Cup. That's not great news for the rest of the league, considering Park claimed the prize in 2018. Despite graduating all five starters, the Crusaders are hardly short on talent and will look to juniors Dwayne Vass and Ish Faircloth to take the reigns and get the team back to the top. Senior guard Joe Jamison is back for a third season, while junior Eric Kegler arrives from St. Mary's. Timon will undoubtedly miss the departure of guard and leader Julian Cunningham, who left the team for Orangeville Prep. Filling his role looks to be the biggest challenge for a team that has shooters and a pair of forwards that will be fun to watch. Alero World is back for his senior season and offers classic elements of a stretch four with his 6-7 frame, while freshman Massai Graham is so exciting, explosive, and athletically gifted that he's already been sized for a #BOOM Squad shirt. After six seasons at Williamsville South, Gabe Michael is the new head coach at St. Joe's, where he'll roll with five seniors who return to the program, along with a mix of underclassmen.
***
Park: Noah Hutchins 12, Quentin Nnagbo 12, Jai'den Dunn 12, Harrison Abramaitys 12, Luke Gozelski 11, Zachary Fahey 11, Caleb Hutchins 10, Keonjay Carter 10, Torian Wallace 10, Des Davis 10, Josh Bridges 10
St. Francis: Justin Poumpey 12, Lucas Theisen 12, Dorion Ivey 12, Elijah Williams 12, Nicholas Reeb 12, Noah Unger 12, Traevone Scott 12, Dan Busha 12, Ryan Lacki 12, David Bartholomew 11, Jack Bickerstaff 11, Chris Dempsey 11, Theodore Katholos 11, Amiel Collins 10, Peyton Consigli 10
Canisius: Joe Jamison 12, Andrew Hartnett 12, Joe Ingrando 12, Jason Martin 12, Jaurney Boyland 12, Dwayne Vass 11, Ish Faircloth 11, Eric Kegler 11, Christian Veilleux 11, Abdalla Masrour 11, Jihad Almadrahi 11, Max Dowling 10, Joe Ciocca 10
Timon: Alero World 12, Tahron Goudelock 12, John Shields 12, Jeremy Glinski 12, Ring Mobil 12, Sean Hayes 12, Nyan Chiagi 12, Simon Miazga 11, Brandon Lowry 11, Massai Graham 9, Kamar Goudelock 9, Kevin Thompson 9
St. Joe's: Pat McCann 12, Will Ostrowski 12, Tino Martone 12, Kemychal Clark 12, Jack Wojtazsek 12, Hamzah Abdur-Rahman 12, Daesean Ashley 11, Greg Poland 11, Nolan Phillips 11, Jack Shivinsky 11, DJ Luchey 11, James Carrington 11, Chris Carlone 10, Will Beilein 10, Justin Glover 9, Jimmy Scott 9
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Small Schools - CLASS B
Cardinal O'Hara has good reason to believe this is the year they breakthrough and win the Manhattan Cup after falling in the final to Niagara Catholic last year. Besides returning four starters, including Third Team All-Centercourt star Justin Hemphill, the team added two starters from Niagara Catholic when the school closed. That's six starters back from the Manhattan Cup Final! Among those is Haakim Siner, who was all over the glass every time he took the floor, along with Avion Harris - an All-Centercourt defender. Jermaine Haynes averaged 15 points per contest last year for the Hawks and has started the last two years. Joe Mihalics returns to coaching in the Monsignor Martin after three years away. The former Timon coach & player becomes the sixth head coach of Nichols since 2011 and takes over for a Vikings team that should be significantly better this year. Chris Stineman & Aidan Horan give the team one of WNY's best front courts with their athleticism, size, and versatile skill sets. The team is excited about sophomore guard Jesse Adamu, who along with fellow classmate Jaylen Hearon, are expected to make an immediate impact. St. Mary's was hit hard by graduation and will look to a new cast led by the lone returning starter, Brady O'Brien. Walsh has no seniors and just one junior on its roster, so the Eagles likely field the youngest team in WNY, while playing against some of the fiercest competition. Xavier Laverty averaged 20 points per game as a freshman, while connecting from long range over 80 times. CCA is a team that uses primarily guard play with a fast tempo. The Crusaders have three returning seniors and junior Daniel Tyson back, and will look to push the ball up the court and utilize all their players.
***
Cardinal O'Hara: Justin Hemphill 12, Haakim Siner 12, Jermaine Haynes 12, Brandon Broadnax 12, Joe Turri 12, Avion Harris 11, Jaedin Cottman 11, Yehshua Lee 11, Joe Bohlman 11, Ryan Kelly 10, Henry Smith 10, Jimmie Green 9
Nichols: Chris Stineman 12, Jonathan Goodloe 12, Clark Thrasher 12, Matt Raiff 12, Julian Freeman 12, Jake Bair 12, Marcus Ottaviano 12, Aidan Horan 11, Billy Locke 11, Brandon Scott 11, Jesse Adamu 10, Hugh Purks 10, Jaylen Hearon 10
St. Mary's: Brady O'Brien 12, Sean Melson 12, Alif Dunbar 12, Brendan Murty 11, Levi Taberski 11, David Persico 11, Luke Szablewski 11, Peter Duane 11, Jerome Stachura 11, Trenton Rumley 10, Nevada Eldridge 10, Sean Brown 10, Brandon Thome 10
Walsh: Marcus Esposito 11, Max Garvin 10, Xavier Laverty 10, Ajhani Parks 10, Patrick Tufino 10, Dominic Esposito 9, Russell Maine 9, Everett Swenson 9
CCA: Jabari Blodgett 12, Tyler Craven 12, Kyle Gold 12, Zach Miller 12, Brendan Cook 11, Cameron McKissic 11, David Ruhl 11, Daniel Tyson 11, Matthew Samuel 10
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Section VI
YALE CUP I
In a league that has a state champion East, a South Park team that nearly clipped West Seneca West for the overall Class A title, and resident bully McKinley...it was Middle College that raised the 2018 Yale Cup after winning the city's league race. The Kats will look to defend their Cup with a young team looking to prove themselves by playing a hard-nosed defensive style, looking to slow teams down and take them out of their comfort zone. The team will be led by Jamond Jones, Ja'Kari Nettles, Tereamell Stevens, Keith Brown, Devonte Prince, & Keyunte Jones. East is the reigning NYS Class D state champion after ending Moriah's bid to repeat and its 45-game win streak, which had been the longest in the state. This year's Panthers are back in Class C and return just one starter (Danny Carter), but remain optimistic that the victories will continue to pile up for the city's all-time winningest coach in Starling Bryant. Look for big seasons out of Dontaye Miller and 6-6 David Hughes. South Park is the defending Class A2 champ and has plenty back from last season, led by exciting point guard Anthony Mack. Jayson Armstead and Davon White will be counted on, while Elijah Lewis, Michael Crockett, and Jayon Renfro will give the team a strong presence on the boards. Willie Hutch Jones takes over as head coach at South Park, where the team has bought into his philosophy of "We Love Defense". McKinley's speed will once again be an asset this year. The Macks will be right in the thick of the race for the Yale Cup, led by smooth senior two guard Ngenda Elias, who can really heat up from the outside. Jahmal David-Lewis gives the team an inside/outside threat, while Samuel Moss is an up and coming sophomore on Elmwood Avenue. Sean Edinger takes over the Burgard program and has been really pleased with the group of young men he has to work with, saying the team is full of hard workers that never quit and are always at practice, hungry to learn the game.
***
Middle College: Tereamell Stevens Richardson 12, Ja'Kari Nettles 12, Alphonso Wysinger 12, Jayvaughn Swain 12, Jaheim Virgil 12, Keyunte Jones 11, Malik Meadows 11, Jamond Jones 11, Keith Brown 11, Deshoni Pickett 11, Anthony Smith 10, Devonte Prince 10, Zaire White 10
South Park: Elijah Lewis 12, Dabeyon Humphrey 12, Jayon Renfro 12, Anthony Mack 11, Jayson Armstead 11, Michael Crockett 11, Davon White 11, Julian Santiago 11, Andre Augustiniak 11, Donald Steward 11, Denzel Ward 11, Branden Paige 11, Tyek Griffin 11, Mykell Hepbum 11
East: Keyonya Harmon 12, Jawan Burse 12, Danny Carter 11, David Hughes 11, Juron Hill 11, Dontaye Miller 11, Aaron Smith 11, Gary Dobbs 11, Zephaniah Sanford 11, Eric Jones 11, Kabah Kabah 11, Tynell Ruffins 10, Anthony Oberlander 10, Jaiden Green 10, Christopher Walker 10
McKinley: Ngenda Elias 12, Elijah Strong 12, Tavionn Martin 12, Shahib Golden 12, Jaylen Colemen 12, Taj Rouse 12, Jahmal Lewis 11, Jesse Snow 11, Patrick Mootry 11, Jayshawn Austin 11, Alexander Johnson 11, Dominick Burgess 11, Shamere Farrow 11, Samuel Moss 10, Bush Rieang 10
Hutch-Tech: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
Emerson: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
I-Prep: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
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YALE CUP II
City Honors nearly made history during the 2018 postseason. The Centaurs traveled to Olean and nearly pulled the quarterfinal upset that would have ended a homwe winning streak that dates back to 2011. After an entire offseason to stew about it, Honors is back in force with its entire starting lineup. John Kudla's club should be the favorites to claim Yale Cup II and the major obstacle to Olean's bid to begin a state run in the playoffs. Amir Radford returns after earning co-POY honors in league as a junior, along with sophomore Jaden Slaughter, who is expected to start turning heads this year. MST Seneca is only returning three players from last year's team and will need leadership from Earl Howard to bring the team together and help build chemistry with new talent up from the JV ranks. Strong defense will need to carry the Wolves to success. Riverside returns Julius Laureano, one of the top players in the league. With the Frontiers moving into Class C2 this year, they should have their sights set on getting the team to JCC to make some postseason noise. Jarryd Austin takes over a team at Buffalo Arts that has lacked leadership at the top and will begin his efforts to build a model program. The team will be driven by returning seniors Jalen Carter-Keith & Cencear Benefield and focused on working hard to become better throughout the season. Lafayette is looking to build on last season under new head coach Brian Davis. Nick Todaro is done coaching at DaVinci after one season. As of press time, it was unknown for sure whether the school would even field a team or who would be coaching them if it did.
***
City Honors: Amir Radford 12, Eliot Solomon 12, Xavion Baines 12, Henry Nowak 12, Jerimiah Chapman 11, Nate Kahn 11, Kevion Taylor 11, Max Nowak 11, Marcale Patterson 11, Jack Galvin 11, Chia-Ho Huany 11, Dileon Campbell 10, Jayden Slaughter 10, Caleb Chapman 9
MST Seneca: Earl Howard 12, Nick Price 12, Ronald White 12, Dujuan Franklin 12, Anthony Manuel 12, Ibrahiem Lewis 12, Jihad Loynes 12, Isiah Reid 11, Morgan Eaton 11, Justus Stokes 11, Devante Simmons 11, Chad Lukas 11, DeMario James 10
Riverside: Julius Laureano 12, Javier Gonzalez 12, Asante Silva 12, Ashanti Thompson 12, Michael Villegas 12, Jean Velez 12, Ezequiel Rodriguez 10, Ali Mohammed 10, Daniel Staly 10, Ruben Casiano 10, Jaxel Cruz Figueroa 10
Lafayette: Kevin Maysonet 11, Kenneth Merced 11, Yabnel Calderon 11, Osvaldo Llanos 11, Yandell Soto 11, Arnadi Velasquez 11, Aaron Santana 11, Luis Cruz 10, Jonathan Torres 10, Yan Carlos Rodriguez 10, Edgardo Ortiz 9
Buffalo Arts: Jalen Carter-Keith 12, Cencear Benefield 12, Marquis Lacey 12, Andre Sawyer 12, Jayden Robinson 11, Drezale Mack 11, Charles Slobert 10, Corey Rodgers 10, Ezekiel Toomes 10
Bennett: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
Olmsted: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
DaVinci: Seriously, I don't know if they have a team or a coach
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ECIC I
Williamsville North is going to be a problem for the rest of the league this season. The Spartans reached the Class AA Final in 2018 and have plenty of size, muscle, & experience back with four returning starters (Jake Belote, Breht Swiech, Jon Abaya, & Scott Becht). They'll also get a big boost from the return of Joe Nusall, who started 18 games as a sophomore two years ago, but sat out all of last year due to injury. Orchard Park after leading the JV team to an undefeated season, Chris Frankowski moves up to take over as head coach of the varsity team that left everything on the court at Buff State during the 2018 Class AA semifinals. Back from that team are seniors Nathan Wereski, Josh McTigue, & Archie Bartolotti, along with juniors Tino Mancabelli & Ethan Swiatek . Juniors Chase Kline & Jack Sharp look to play a key role for the Quakers who will play aggressive pressure defense, while pushing & sharing the ball at the offensive end. Clarence returns a pair of three-year starters in River Reinhardt and Jack Putney and Brandon Ferris is back and will be counted on heavily at both ends of the floor after leading the team in 3-point shooting last year. The Red Devils will need some young guys to step up for the team to break through and make an appearance at Buff State. Jamestown's strength will be its inside play with Shaheem Freeney and Grant Moore. Sophomore point guard Elijah Rojas is a returning starter and Kameron Grant could surprise with his play this season. Lancaster should get a big season out of senior JJ Jerebko, who wasn't playing at full strength last season, but has a great all-around game. Juniors GianLuca Fulciniti, Trevor Reformat, and Justin Hughes, along with freshman Joe Harrington will all see big minutes for the Legends. Frontier has a solid big man in Brandon Dunz, along with three players who all logged big minutes and contributed last season in Tyler Bailey, Alex Hiam, and Ben Taylor.
***
Williamsville North: Jon Abaya 12, Joe Nusall 12, Jacob Belote 12, Dylan Mann 12, Austin Mann 12, Scott Becht 12, Jake Federio 12, Joe Hnat 12, Scott Hopkins 11, David Bass 11, Evan Richter 11, Breht Swiech 11, Gilad Symons 11, Michael Washington 11
Orchard Park: Nate Wereski 12, Matt Burney 12, Archie Bartolotti 12, Josh McTigue 12, Brad Fowler 11, Tino Mancabelli 11, Ethan Swiatek 11, Aidan Jennings 11, Aidan Shaw 11, Chase Kline 11, Jack Sharp 11, Jake Morris 11, Jonathon Lander 11, Thomas Callaghan 11, Kegan Mancabelli 9
Clarence: River Reinhardt 12, Jack Putney 12, Brandon Ferris 12, Akilesh Ramakrishna 12, Jon Stevens 12, Jackson Wurtz 12, Dominic Basile 11, Jake Chenevert 11, Joe DiMaio 11, Cole Harris 11, Peyton Metzger 11, Chris Stuhler 11, JD Brooks 10, Zach Ianello 10
Jamestown: Grant Moore 12, Daunte Garland 12, Kameron Grant 12, Shaheem Freeney 12, Grayson Holt 12, Justin Esquilin 12, Jordan Crofoot 11, Tyler Swegles 11, Evan Anderson 11, Andrew Dix 11, Elijah Rojas 10, Demarri Jones 10
Lancaster: JJ Jerebko 12, Jon Kisker 12, Max Molino 12, Matt Morgus 12, John Morgus 12, Nick Vacanti 12, GianLuca Fulciniti 11, Trevor Reformat 11, Justin Hughes 11, Lucas Jachimiak 11, Shane Schaefer 11, Connor Mahony 11, Joe Harrington 9
Frontier: Alex Hiam 12, Brandon Dunz 12, Ben Taylor 12, Tyler Bailey 12, Chris Jones 12, Tyler Jenkins 12, Brian Norsen 12, Jacob Nye 12, Jacob Minniefield 11, Tanner Fadale 11, Ethan Bevilacqua 11, Avery Kuryak 11, Nate Hoellig 11
West Seneca West: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
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ECIC II
Amherst will be a hungry team this season after a year that ended short of Buff State for the first time since 2011, after dropping a heart-breaker in the quarterfinals by one point in overtime to eventual champion South Park. The team's biggest loss was Daesean Ashley who transferred, but the Tigers gained a transfer in flashy guard Jaylen Stewart, who waited in the wings the past two years at Park and should be primed for a breakout season. Jake Mullen, Ja'kye Womack, Xavier Lewis, & Jackson Tan were all part of the rotation last year and return. Williamsville South has won five straight league titles and will seek a sixth under new head coach Mike Trybinski, who moves over from Alden. Trybinski was formerly a Williamsville coach at Will East and will have his work cut out for him with the loss of 2018 CC MVP Greg Dolan. The team returns starters Devin Degree & Ethan Heil, along with sixth man Mike DiGuilio, and looks for big contributions from Angel Torres and Kingsley Mitchell. The Billies will rely on a solid group of players thrust into more prominent roles, where controlling tempo and mixing defenses will be key. Sweet Home hope to build upon their performance last season, led by senior Evan John and junior big man Daequan Hill. The Panthers are coming off a 15-win season and look to continue to play with toughness & energy, seeking a trip to Buff State. West Seneca East won just five games last season, but that included a playoff upset at Williamsville East. Zamari Mitchell is back after scoring 22.5 per contest as a junior and earning First Team All ECIC honor, along with Trent Cordone, who was second on the team in scoring and assists. Starpoint will have more depth than in recent years and has five returning players who will be regulars in the rotation, led by three-year starter Justin Mott. Williamsville East will be a very young team with only three returning players, but one is the team's leading scorer in junior Cal Shifflet. Max Schneider will start at the point as a freshman for the Flames as part of an influx of talent up from last year's JV team that won 15 games. Hamburg carried six sophomores on the roster a season ago and will have just three seniors, but the Bulldogs hope the youth movement pays dividends this year in the form of more victories.
***
Amherst: Ja’Kye Womack 12, Xavier Lewis 12, Jake Mullen 12, James Moore 12, Deadrea Tyson 12, Jackson Tan 12, Matt Gramza 12, Jaylen Stewart 11, Noah Woldu 11, Aden Clemente 11, Marcus Hall 11, Nick O'Neil 11, Rayshawn Allen 11, Gavin Warren 11, Myles Cooper 11, Imari Jenkins 11
Williamsville South: Devin Degree 12, Ryan Schouten 12, Ethan Heil 12, Angel Torres 12, Jamelle Jones 12, Sean Kerr 12, Mike DiGiulio 11, Kingsley Mitchell 11, Demetrius Wells 11, X'zavion Galarza 11, Marshone Eggelston 10, Michael Kelly 10, Robert Kelly 10, Jeremy Matute 10
Sweet Home: KiAiir Brunner 12, Marjohn Manuel 12, Evan John 12, Matthew Nix 12, Kevin Gunn 12, Jevon Schumaker 12, Jamel Lucas 11, DaeQuan Hill 11, Brian Ferguson 11, Rhydell Griffin 11, Jaden King 11, Adriane Harris 11, Isaiah Killian 11, Jacob Chilvas 11
West Seneca East: Zamari Mitchell 12, Marcus Barney 12, Matt Ibrahim 12, Adam Wojciechowski 12, Ethan Bilski 12, Alex Sarick 12, Trent Cordone 11, Tommie Ferrell 11, Andrew Radka 11, Michael Marcezin 11, Carson Kelly 11, Jason Perillo 11, Cole Ignaszak 10, Devare Mathis 10, Jaiden Lewis 7
Starpoint: Aaron Chase 12, Brendan Gawel 12, Justin Mott 12, Adam Rankie 12, Rob Roetzer 12, Braden Zdrojewski 12, DJ Wick 11, Joe Carlson 11, Clevester Bradley 11, Aidan Davis 11, Joe Dell'Oso 11, Jack Putney 11, Ethan Wright 11, Harry Dhaliwall 11, Tim Olson 11, Dexter Brooks 10
Williamsville East: Dylan Moorhouse 12, Zach Rudewicz 12, Jaden Gerena 12, Dylan Lobdell 12, Cal Shifflet 11, Mark Greco 11, Kevin Early 11, Ethan Neu 11, Jack Gelder 11, Jake Skidmore 11, Cole Ronan 11, Yusuf Hashmi 10, Joee Mack 10, Jake Cloen 10, Max Schneider 9
Hamburg: Kevin McDermott 12, Connor McDonnell 12, Matthew Reagan 12, Nathan Severson 11, David Benningfield 11, Andrew Genzel 11, David Lambert 11, Jason Golembiewski 11, Maxwell Haney 11, Corey Munro 11, Nathan Neudeck 11
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ECIC III
Maryvale has Nathan Crombie, Rashaad Law, and Xaier Mitchell back, while senior Jay Henley returns after contributing two seasons ago. Sophomore Andrew Dockery enters his second varsity season for the Flyers. Cheektowaga won't have a lot of size or experience, but should entertain fans with their style of play. Get it & go and look to get to the rim to create as much havoc as possible is the goal of the Warriors and they have plenty of athleticism to help accomplish that, led by seniors Armondez Cleague and Jason Saloman. Iroquois reached Buff State in Class A2 last season and returns plenty of depth at the guard position from that team. Freshman Trey Kleitz looks poised for a breakout season in his second year with the varsity team, while 6-9 Andrej Milinkovic from Serbia brings a shooter's touch and the team hopes he can provide a major presence inside. Lake Shore hopes to be more than a one-year wonder after reaching the Class A2 Final in 2018. They bring back a pair of starters in Ajay Cybulski and Josh Buchanan who will be strong contributors at both ends. Efrain Barreto brings a high energy to the point, while the combo of Marcus & Zach Evans will handle the shooting gurad position and Nate Lockwood mans the post. Pioneer is coming off a 13-9 season and looking to build on that success with a run at Buff State. The Panthers will be led by returning starters Nick Rinker and Dillon Giboo and should benefit from the return of Jason Corbett. East Aurora has just three seniors and will rely on Noah Denz for leadership and scoring. Junior Will Covington returns to the backcourt after missing most of his sophomore season due to injury. Ian Moog is a 6-7 sophomore who should be a big contributor, while hard work in the offseason by senior Nate Mucci and freshman Dominic Phillips should earn them some opportunities. Depew returns to ECIC III after a year away. The Wildcats have a lot of scoring and leadership to replace with the graduation of five-year player Chad Biersbach and will likely improve as the season wears on. Expect their style to stay the same - moving the ball and looking for perimeter shots, while digging in defensively.
***
Maryvale: Nathan Crombie 12, Rashaad Law 12, Jay Henley 12, Ryan Smith 12, Nahjir Derby 12, Christian Gueth 12, Xaier Mitchell 11, Glenn Daniels 11, Deondre Rice 11, Andrew Dockery 10, Dean Orlowski 10
Cheektowaga: Jason Salomon 12, Armondez Cleague 12, KeShone Beal 12, Rayshawn Minter 12, Jaylen Wiliams 11, Latrell Stone 11, Jesse Hawkins 10, Keonte' Brown 10
Iroquois: Charlie Ottomano 12, Calvin Gawlick 12, Cole Augustine 12, Sean Holleig 12, Andrej Milinkovic 12, Ethan Bowen 12, Matt Matla 11, Andy Osuch 11, Sam Fones 11, Jon Reidel 11, Nick Parstch 11, Nick Bowen 10, Trey Kleitz 9
Lake Shore: Ajay Cybulski 12, Josh Buchanon 12, Marcus Evans 12, Nate Lockwood 12, Jack Perry 12, Efrain Barreto 11, Zach Cervola 11, Zach Evans 11, Tyler Hassel 11, Spencer Kwilos 11, Thomas Michael 11, Matt Mieszczak 11, Mahlik Thompson 10
Pioneer: Nick Rinker 12, Dillon Giboo 12, Jason Corbett 12, Gabe Higgins 12, Cole Pleace 12, Tra’e Hill 11, Colton Raiber 11, Kaleb Phillips 11, Denton Tilly 11, Skyler Kirsch 11, James Rupert 11, Gavyn Mason 11
East Aurora: Noah Denz 12, Nate Mucci 12, Andrew Cohn 12, Will Covington 11, David Morris 11, Jimmy Tanner 11, Chris Sieracki 11, Ryan Maloney 11, Tage Hoeg 11, Matteo Duennebacke 11, Ian Moog 10, Drew Kenney 10, Dominic Phillips 9
Depew: Sean Miller 12, Matt Martin 12, Joe Pagano 12, Jacob Wentland 12, Max Cotton 12, Collin Bruencz 12, Tyler Anderson 12, PJ Burns 11, Collin Coburn 11, Nathan Kulesz 11, Justin Losel 11, Daivon March 11, Christian Pagano 10
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ECIC IV
Cleveland Hill has an explosive three-year senior and captain in Fredrick Johnson. He's a dynamic player who can score inside and out and at 6-6, makes passing lanes difficult for opponents. Peyton Barker missed most of last season with an injury and his return should help in the paint at both ends of the floor. Springville moves back to ECIC IV this season and will have a deep bench with eight returning seniors from last year, led by all-around talent, Mason Goodridge. Adam Pruitt, Alex Francisco and Austin Boies will also be key for the Griffins, who play a fast-paced tempo and strong defense. JFK graduated three starters and a lot of points from the team that went to theClass B2 Final in 2018. The Bears have some good athletes, but lack size & varsity experience and will rely on Zack Manzella, Mitchell Fischer, and Alan Suarez for leadership & scoring. Alden has a new head coach in Tim Stone and will be a young team with little experience, returning only starter from last year. The Bulldogs will be led by Max Gilbert and Lucas Jurek. Tonawanda returns four starters and all but two players from a season ago. Though still young, Trevin Boling & JJ Valazquez played a lot last year, while Pat Carney , Owen Baker and Khristian Valazquez started most of the games. Holland has just three seniors, but should be a balanced team with decent depth, led by Brennan Lewandowski who made Second Team ECIC IV last year. Eden has a new head coach once again this season in Don Genco and he's set a lot of goals for the Raiders to accomplish this year, with competing in the area being a big part of that. The team is led by Jared Sobczyk & Alec Henry and has an abundance of three point shooters, led by Brandon Haller, CJ Sroda and Hunter Stetz.
***
Cleveland Hill: Fredrick Johnson 12, Aaron Wahler 12, Peyton Barker 12, D'Mario Grant 12, Alfred Walker 12, Thomas Jonson 11, Caron Marshall 11, Jayden Krueger 11, Rashad Spencer 11, Samuel Pitts 11, Pierre Brown 11
Springville: Mason Goodridge 12, Adam Pruitt 12, Tyler Attebery 12, Alex Francisco 12, Adam Ditchey 12, Mike Sobota 12, Zach Parker 12, Austin Lux 12, Nick Sullivan 11, Chris Smith 11, Austin Boies 10
JFK: Zack Manzella 12, Kage Dauman 12, Mitchell Fischer 12, Mark Konczal 12, Jason Leonarczyk 12, Scott Prell 12, Alan Suarez 11, Stuart McLeod 11, Jax Lighten 11, Jamaal Huff 11, Da'Rell Dabney 11, Kenny Avery 11
Alden: Lucas Jurek 12, Max Gilbert 12, Quinn Keller 12, Trey Samsel 11, Lucas Bush 11, Robby Motz 11, Tad Lacki 11, Matt Boucher 11, Joey Motz 10, Jacob Baker 9, Walker Wrest 9
Holland: Brennan Lewandowski 11, Josey Rivera 11, Logan Filipiac 12, Nolan Perry 11, Tanner Beicke 11, Joe Ferrara 11, Nolan Kirsch 11, Jon Nellis 11, Josh Ostrowski 11, Tyler Scheffler 11, Jon Staniszewski 11, Aidan Wrazen 11
Tonawanda: Owen Baker 12, Khristian Valazquez 12, Pat Carney 12, William Zeughardt 12, Hayden Lilly 12, David Perry 11, Rudy Warren 10, JJ Valazquez 10, Travis Davis 10, Mike Tantillo 10, Trevin Boling 9
Eden: Jared Sobsyk 12, Connor Blake 12, Jaden Rodriguez 12, Zach DeCardis 12, Louis DeCardis 12, Gavin Hill 11, Alec Henry 11, Brandon Haller 11, Robert Grunder 11, Matt Kobie 11, Jake Dimarco 11, Hunter Stetz 10, CJ Sroda 10
Lackawanna: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
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Niagara Frontier League
Niagara Falls made it a three-peat in Class AA last year and I can't see any reason why the fun would stop there. With Third Team All-Centercourt selection Jalen Bradberry returning home after already playing two varsity seasons and leading Niagara Catholic to the CHSAA Class B state championship game, along with the player I'm most excited to see this season in freshman guard Willie Lightfoot, stopping the Wolverines title run seems highly unlikely. Lightfoot is one of those rare talents who spent last season running the point at Falls and is ready to explode onto the scene this year. Add in the return of Josiah Harris, Moran Montgomery, and Taylor Sanders, along with Jaemon Turner back after Niagara Catholic closed, and get ready to watch NFHS wear teams down with speed, pressure, and all that talent. Lew-Port hit the local lottery of sorts, gaining future high major standout Roddy Gayle, a freshman who transferred in the offseason after starting for Class AA champion Niagara Falls. His presence immediately elevates the Lancers into serious contention for a sectional title in Class A2. The team returns its leading scorer in Trent Scott, who earned Honorable Mention as a junior, and also brings up 8th grader Jalen Duff - a sniper from the perimeter with big things ahead. North Tonawanda fielded a young team around Trevor Book last season, who is now at Daemen. Now the Jacks have plenty back on a balanced team with the experience of battling at Buff State. Dante Moultrie was Third Team NFL after staring the season as a sophomore point, while juniors Noah Fox-Stoddard and Sebastian Reid, along with sophomore Walter Wisniewski are developing into ballers at NT. Niagara Wheatfield benefits from the addition of a pair who came over from Niagara Catholic in Roman Wright and Raejuan Smith. While neither started for the Patriots last year, both are expected to contribute for the Falcons. Davon Ware returns as the team's point guard, while Zach Stanley looks to build on his seven points per game as a junior. The Falcons drop to Class A1 and should be right in the mix of teams vying for a spot at Buff State in February. Grand Island likes to run & gun and shoot the 3-pointer. They'll have four-year starter Cam Sionko leading the way, who should eclipse 1,000 career points early in the season. Jeremiah Wilkes gives the Vikings a physical scoring presence inside, while sophomore Logan Sionko cannot be left along on the wing. Kenmore East welcomes Jim Badgley as the new head coach, who will put the effort in to get the most oput of the talent at the school. The Bulldogs are not big, but very athletic and quick with a fairly deep bench. The top returning players are Nate Murdie and D'anzo Young, while juniors Austin McCullough, Amari Gordan, Dominic Ferguson and Dalton Gaughan should get plenty of playing time Kenmore West should be deeper and more athletic this season, looking to push the ball in transition and play aggressive defense. The Blue Devils are led by Dylan James, Kyle Schmidt, and Zac Boyes. Lockport will try to play uptempo and find scoring in transition to compensate for a lack of size. The Lions will be led by returning starters Malik Brooks, who just signed with UB for football, along with Torree Cheatom. CSAT will be a talented mix of youth and experience, led by the seniors of Lenard Harris, Daighlyon Willoughby and Kavon Wright. Sophomore Jamyier Patton and junior Amir Morris are ready for break out seasons.
***
Niagara Falls: Josiah Harris 12, Moran Montgomery 12, Jaden Turner 12, Naim Bradley 12, Taylor Sanders 11, Jaemon Turner 11, Joe Palka 11, Arthur Miller 11, Jalen Bradberry 10, Faybion Prather 10, Arien Robinson 10, Willie Lightfoot 9
Lew-Port: Joe Powers 12, Trent Scott 12, Jake Kasbaum 12, Zach Claybourne 12, Jason Boslet 12, Andrew Perrault 12, Aidan Salick 12, Cooper Krawczyk 12, JP Stewart 11, Noah Coppins 11, Joe Beatty 11, Jack Berstein 11, Roddy Gayle 9, Jalen Duff 8
North Tonawanda: Colin Beach 12, James Holler 12, Donny LaVerdi 12, Dante Moultrie 11, Noah Fox-Stoddard 11, Sebastian Reid 11, Tyler Macneil 11, Cameron Cutter 11, Jordan Cutter 11, Timothy Osborn 11, Jaxon Hummel 11, Walter Wisniewski 10
Niagara Wheatfield: Davon Ware 12, Zach Stanley 12, Roman Wright 12, Raejuan Smith 12, Cam Miller 12, Andy Devantier 11, Ben Solomon 11, Clay Ruhland 11, TJ Robinson 9
Grand Island: Cam Sionko 12, Jerimiah Wilkes 12, Will Soos 12, Nick Bibik 12, Easton Spear 12, Austin Webber 12, Tejpaul Sing 11, Luke Webb 11, Sean Murry 11, Sean Rustowicz 11, Ben Moskala 11, Trevor Knight 11, Logan Sionko 10
Kenmore East: D'Anzo Young 12, Bill Carvallio 12, Nate Murdie 12, Franc Schmoyer 12, Brandon Beltran 12, Joe Brooks 12, Amari Gordon 11, Mark Falzone 11, Dominic Ferguson 11, Dalton Gaughan 11, Emery Lang 11, Austin McCullough 11, Isiah Walker 11, Lathan Thompson 10, Alex Murdie 10
Kenmore West: Dylan James 12, Christian Montes 12, Zach LaPlante 12, Anthony Dolce 12, Dom Schmidt 12, Kyle Schmidt 12, Zac Boyes 11
Lockport: Malik Brooks 12, Torree Cheatham 12, Duane Barrow 12, Jayln Jones 12, Josh Cooper 12, Hayden Coackley 12, Nico Haney 12, Javon Ruffin 12, Anthony Haak 11, Ceion McDowell 11, Jonathon Rivera 11, Kameron Williams 11, Amier Mohammad 10, Dante Shellman 10, Julius Williams 10
CSAT: Daighlyon Willoughby 12, Lenard Harris 12, Kavon Wright 12, Jeffrey Bellamy 12, Lenard Harris 12, Cruz Mauricio 12, Xavier Alvarez 11, Quincy Drake 11, Khalil Davis 11, Keyontae Ricks 11, Jalen Johnson-Williams 11, Pierre Gabart 11, Richard House 11, Amir Morris 11, Nate Wilson 11, Jamyier Patton 10
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Niagara-Orleans
Medina is the league's three-time defending champ and will need to be a well-conditioned group to repeat for a fourth straight season. The Mustangs have just seven players on their current roster, but five of them bring extensive experience. Izaiah Rhim leads a Medina charge that also features Vincent Montague, Brian Fry, Nate Sherman, and Tyler Chinn. Albion carried a young team last year and now returns seven guys to a versatile squad. The Purple Eagles should gain a big boost from a healthy season out of Deyonci Farley, one of the league's top players. Newfane has reached the Class B1 Final each of the last two seasons and will have to rely on a new cast to keep that streak going. Graduation hit the Panthers hard, but a talented JV team from last year should keep the team in the mix. With quality size in the front court, it will be up to the development of their young guards to to keep them competitive. Wilson has seven players back from last season and most started at some point and saw plenty of time. Steve Frerichs is a four-year varsity starter and will lead the Lakemen from the point guard position. Roy-Hart will be deep and balanced, as all 12 guys can contribute and play. Charlie Brigham, Charlie Bruning, and Blake Halstead are all returning starters, while the Rams' JV team was tough in 2018. Akron fields a young roster with six of its players being sophomores or freshmen. The Tigers will be led by returning seniors Jake Siska and Brandon Orr, and look for Adam Mietz to take another big step forward after starting last season as a freshman.
***
Medina: Izaiah Rhim 12, Vincent Montague 12, Tavian Rhim 12, William Braswell 12, Nate Sherman 11, Brian Fry 10, Tyler Chinn 10
Albion: Bryce Pritchard 12, Dylan Fox 12, Vincent Zona 12, Jonathan DePuy 12, Deyonci Farley 11, Kevin Hillman 11, Liam Ward 11, Xavier Cornick 11, Michael DiCureia 11, Brilliance Johnson 11, Dominic Burton 11
Newfane: Jarrett Gilson 12, Matt DiTullio 12, James Leibring 12, Jonah Wisniewski 12, Garrett Srock 11, Josh Everett 11, Connor MacEvoy 11, Caden Gibson 11, Jaydon Clemons 11, Deuce Capen 10, Sam Capen 10, Zach Snow 10
Wilson: Steve Frerichs 12, Jake Miller 12, Ian Evans 12, Jon Littere 12, Andrew Hadsell 12, Brayden Thompson 11, Julian Andreola 11, Mitch Mahar 11, Alex Martinez 11, Drew Westmorland 11, Declan Faery 11, Luke Bradley 11, Bobby Atlas 11
Roy-Hart: Charlie Brigham 12, Charlie Bruning 12, Quinten Koch 12, Lance Krieger 12, Hunter Pratt 12, Ben White 12, Reed Albee 11, Austin Garrow 11, Blake Halstead 11, Canyon Wood 11, Peyton Rhinehart 10, Gavyn Boyle 9
Akron: Matt Delre 12, Donovan Nephew 12, Brandon Orr 12, Jake Siska 12, Daevyn Abrams 11, Gage Willis 11, Adam Mietz 10, Mitchell Dugan 10, Mitchell Holtz 10, David Kalinowski 10, Jake Mazza 10, Aiden Smith 9
Barker: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
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CCAA I West
Olean enters this season with high expectations and for a program this caliber, that means they are eyeing the top of the mountain in NYS Class B. All the major moving parts are back from a Huskies squad that had Health Sciences on the ropes for the overall Class B title before falling by two points in the final minute. A strong and disciplined rotation of seven players from that game are led by floor general Mike Schmidt, a Third Team All-Centercourt selection in 2018 who sees the floor better than any player in our area. Matt Droney serves as the team's 'big' and is vital piece that allows the Huskies to space the floor and crush you from the perimeter. Chautauqua Lake has a solid core back, with six players returning who saw extended time last season. The Thunderbirds will run 10 deep and expect contributions from their sophomores and freshman. Fredonia is looking to be competitive on both ends of the floor where they have seven returners who played significant time last year. the Hillbillies put together a tough nonleague schedule to prepare for the playoffs. Southwestern is led by four-year standout Alex Card, who guided his team to an appearance at Buff State in Class B2 last season. Frewsburg got 17 points per contest from Brad Nelson last year and a double-double from Quinn Conlan, who both return. The Bears hope for balanced scoring from Aaron Hair and Dylan Pearson as well, with the team's move into CCAA I West presenting a more challenging schedule. Maple Grove returns Carson Christ & Peter Auer and will have Rob Collver coaching the Red Dragons.
***
Olean: Mike Schmidt 12, Josh Bihler 12, Matt Droney 12, Brian Ramarge 12, Jack Dwaileebe 12, Alex Weakfall 12, Jarrett Prizel 12, Caden Keim 12, Rheyquon Davis 12, Matt Antonioli 12, Covi James 11, Jah'Karee McClain 11, Dan Klein 11
Chautauqua Lake: Kyler Majka 12, Zach Fisher 12, Bryan Anderson 12, Trey Sauerland 12, Alex Gleason 12, Zack Saunders 12, Andrew Kuhn 12, Nate Adams 11, Zach Martin 11, Will Stahlsmith 11, Michael Anderson 10, Luke Waters 10, Devin Putney 9
Fredonia: Nate Shuart 12, Parker Rivera 12, Keith Piper 12, Raziel Pearl 12, Owen Nicosia 12, Brayden Myers 12, Ka'Rim Levens 12, Joell Colon 12, Kaleb Rybij 11, Alec Schrader 11, Colton Kuzdzal 11, Patrick Reading 11, Tyler Putney 10, Nick Whitfield 9
Southwestern: Alex Card 12, Faizan Munir 12, Mayson Mathews 12, Jake Hnatyszyn 12, Cooper Pannes 11, Mitchell Pascarella 11, Dominic Certo 11, Cameron Calimeri 11, Jon Pearson 11, Charles Bailey 11, Brady Fye 11, Aiden Kennedy 9
Frewsburg: Quinn Conlan 12, Dan Reinagel 12, Nolan Brink 12, Dylan Pearson 12, Brad Nelson 11, Aaron Hair 11, Peyton Hayes 11, Caleb Carr 11, Jason Dustin 11, Traden Gray 10
Maple Grove: Peter Auer 12, Carson Christ 12, Jack Eimiller 12, Rivera Willfredo 12, Zach Hendricks 12, Austin Lindell 11, Lawton Tranum 11, Tyler McPherson 11, Cade Egan 11, Darius Jones 11, Ayden Reagle 11
Dunkirk: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
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CCAA I East
Allegany-Limestone returns all but one starter, including two all state players in Michael Wolfgang and Sam Flanders. Casey Curran is also poised for a breakout year after a great summer, while the JV players coming up have lost only one game in the last two seasons. This is a deep and experienced team that gave Tapestry everything they could handle at JCC last year. The Gators are now in Class B2 and I think they're the favorites, which would have them on a collision course for a date with their neighbors from Olean in a March crossover game at Buff State. Forget the Southern Tier small schools for a moment, Randolph has one of the best inside/outside combinations in all of WNY...and both are still underclassmen. Tyler Hind, a junior who enters the season having already scored 1,000 points, earned Second Team All-State in Class C and Fifth Team All-Centercourt last year after averaging over 23 per game as a sophomore. He'll team with freshman big man Gabe McCoy, who flashed a very bright future as an eighth grader and continues to add polish to his game every time he takes the court. Silver Creek has a solid core back, led by Brady Woleben, who is approaching 1,000 career points and gives the team great minutes in the post. Tucker Gates and Dom Jamison both return after starting for the Black Knights a season ago and both can heat up from beyond the perimeter. Salamanca will be guard oriented and play very fast. They return six players with meaningful varsity experience, who are fast, physical, and can shoot. Sophomore Isaac Brown set the school scoring record for a freshman and is a very skilled slasher who can get to the basket. Gowanda has a new head coach in Eric Ring, who is trying t0 build a program through consistent play, strong defense, and an uptempo offense. Portville brings back five players from last season and will be led by seniors Nathan Kloc and Jarrett Mathes.
***
Allegany-Limestone: Sam Flanders 12, Conner Golley 12, Michael Wolfgang 11, Casey Curran 11, Ben Giardini 11, Gus Napoleon 11, Chad Carlson 11, Colin Yorke 11, Jayden Gustafson 10, Tyler Curran 9, Corey Potter 9
Randolph: Andrew Bernard 12, Dylan Lydic 12, Deter Miinte 12, Dawson Bosley 12, Tyler Hind 11, Branson Morrison 11, Kaleb Steward 11, Ty Rosengren 11, Isaac Hind 10, Gabe McCoy 9
Silver Creek: Tucker Gates 12, Braeden Woleben 12, Ammon Jones 12, Jack Brennan 12, Dylan Snow 12, Dom Jamison 11, Spencer Harford 11, Jeremy Wilcox 11, Darren Jimenez 11, Nathaniel Parker 11, Luke Zybytek 11, Andre Rosario 10
Salamanca: Tyler Hedlund 12, Ira John 12, Xavier Taylor 12, Hunter McAuley 12, Zach Helms 12, Camaron Pratt 12, Aaron George 11, Jarrett McKenna 11, Ira Snyder 11, Kohl Ambuske 11, Isaac Brown 10, Lucas McKenna 10
Gowanda: Matt Smuda 12, Damen MacLeod 12, Aaron Colantino 12, Nick Weston 12, Ryan Gernatt 12, Tanner Olson 12, Nick Siragusa 12, Justin Kohn 12, Dylan John 11, Jason Dunning 11, Tyee Nagel 11, Austin Clark 11
Portville: Nathan Kloc 12, Dalton Nuffer 12, Noah Pullins 12, Cameron Lott 12, Jarrett Mathes 12, Arik Kavanaugh 12, Dalton Tobola 11, Cameron Kalsman 11, Addison Howard 11, Tyler Morris 11, Zayne Tarr 11, Hunter Griffin 10
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CCAA II West
Sherman reached the semifinals at JCC in Class D for the 10th consecutive season last year. With eight seniors back for head coach Cory Emory's team, the Wildcats are a great bet to extend the streak and look like the favorites in the section. Collin Mulcahy takes over as head coach at Brocton, and he's very pleased with the group he has to work with. "It's a great feeling to be a part of this program and coach this group," Mulcahy said. "I've got thirteen young men who are driven, want to work hard, and are passionate about playing. With seven returning players, leadership should be a strength for the team. Westfield has six players with varsity experience and the biggest is 6-5, 260 lb junior Andrew Baribeau. Falconer should see more wins this season after moving down from CCAA I, where they competed twice a year with the likes of Olean and Dunkirk.
***
Sherman: Collin Ramsey 12, Jordan Caron 12, Kameron Ayers 12, Austin Tallman 12, Mike Beatman 12, Reece Bates 12, Chance Meeder 12, Hunter Cooper 12, Gordon Caron 12, Jacob Eastham 12, Justiss Hannold 11, Paul Majchrak 11, Troy Lamoni 11, Richard Burgess 11, Blake Mitchell 11, John Swabik 10, Keith Gormley 10
Westfield: Coby Bills 12, Evan Hauser 12, Matt See 12, Nathan Culbreth 11, Andrew Baribeau 11, Michael Johnson 11, Ryan Jafarfian 11, Dylan Scriven 11, Hayden Backus 11, Randy Trippe 11, Zachary Roache 11, Kori Loutzenhiser 11
Brocton: Bubba Brown 12, Riley Rivera 12, Jordan Kyrstofiak 12, Derrick Burns 12, Darien Booker 12, Seth McFadden 11, Gabe Morello 11, Caleb Chelton 11, Michael Steward 11, Isaac Weaver 11, Nicholas Putcher 11, Dakota Planty 11, Connor Dispense 10
Falconer: Nate Seaholm 12, Chris Bollman 12, Ben Schrader 12, Bobby Samuelson 12, Brody Rowan 12, Adam Colon 12, Austin Buffone 12, Nate Abbey 12, Drew Troutman 11, Joe Youngberg 11, Nolan Bridges 11, Zach Micek 11
Clymer: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
Panama: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
Cassadaga Valley: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
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CCAA II East
Ellicottville was a Willard-Anderson-score-as-time-ran-out away from ending the eventual Class D state champ's season and advancing. Instead, the Eagles have said goodbye to a memorable senior class that compiled 35 wins the last two seasons. The Eagles will be a young team as only four players will have varsity experience. Steven and Clayton Rowland will serve as leaders to the newcomers up from a 17-1 JV team. Franklinville finds itself in the same place as Ellicottville, just as they have the last couple seasons. The Panthers graduated five starters that delivered the school 39 wins in two years. Freshman Josh Haskell, who is long and can really heat up from outside, is the most experienced returning player. Pine Valley graduated all five starters, but does have half its team back. The question for them will be who fills the leadership void left from last years team and who can make a big shot when the team needs it. Makiah Snyder, Anthony Yaskow, and Brady Andrews are all candidates to step up for the team. Josh Forster takes over as head coach at Cattaraugus-Little Valley and wants to see his team play fast and be aggressive at all times, hoping for a more competitive group. North Collins will hang its hat on defense and rebounding, trying to slow games down by being patient on offense and getting good looks at the basket, led by Tyler Robinson, David Gullo, and Christian Loretto. Forestville returns some players who saw a lot of time on the court last year and expects to be much more competitive in league play this year as they look to spread the ball around and not lean on one person.
***
Franklinville: Ben Mooney 12, John Yan 12, Vinny Marchese 11, Tyler Clear 11, Vincenzo Marchese 11, Jacob Torpey 11, Zack Wolfer 11, Hunter Helgas 11, Logan Frank 10, Josh Haskell 9, Blake Frank 9
Ellicottville: Steven Rowland 12, Brenden Chudy 12, Brennan Finn 12, Jordan Grinols 11, Nik Logel 11, Christian Hutchinson 11, Nate Ploetz 11, Leif Jimerson 10, Wyatt Chudy 10, Clayton Rowland 10
Pine Valley: Brady Andrews 12, Bayley Finch 12, Jesse Jenkins 12, Branden Libby 12, Makiah Snyder 12, Ryan Snyder 12, Anthony Yaskow 12, Connor Bentham 11, Corey Ellis 11, Curtis Goodwill 11, Wesley Lachut 11, Christian Ortiz 10
Forestville: Travis Drozdziel 12, Nikolas Lelonek 12, Orlando Soto 12, Skyler Christian 12, Luke Szumigala 12, Gavin Christian 11, Dalton Hastings 11, Angel Carabello 11, Michael Mulchinski 11, Gage Davis 11, Jake Smith 11, Deacon Congdon 11, Javier West 10
North Collins: David Gullo 12, Jewel Lee 12, Tome Filkov 12, Dominik Gebhardt 12, Wout Frees 12, Tyler Robinson 11, Christian Loretto 11, AJ Puntillo 11, Brody Klawinski 11, Hunter Petit 11, Dominic Fricano 11, Mitchell Warsaw 11, Tyler Lawson 11
Cattaraugus/Little Valley: Mike Perkins 12, Shane O’Neill 12, Damian Ly 12, Tyler Drewiega 12, Jordan Walters 12, Bryce Gearman 12, Derek Dechow 12, Nick Burroughs 11, Jason Young 11, Mason Snyder 11, Justin York 11, Elijah Perkins 10, Nick Savidge 10
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Charter Schools
Health Sciences made it back-to-back trips to the state final four in Class B last season. Their prize coming into this year was a bump in classification from Section VI, placing the Falcons in Class A2. Even with the new competition, I expect The Health to continue its winning ways and be among the teams vying for a sectional title once again at season's end. Kam Briggs, who earned a Fifth Team All-Centercourt selection in 2018 is back, along with Tysheen Lott, Josiah Haygood, Daciare Riley, and emerging standout Javaughn Jones. Tapestry is the defending champion in Class C and has plenty back for a run at a state championship second year head coach Mike Ester. The Thunderhawks will once again be led by the dynamic duo of Dorian Plummer and Tariq Eubanks, who both nabbed Honorable Mentions last year, along with returning starter Ramel Robinson. Global Concepts has only three varsity players back, but that includes talented guards Luis Mercado and Andre Goldsmith. The team gained six new players from transfer, most notably David Stroud from South Park, who will be a force in Class C. They have beefed up their nonleague schedule and plan to pressure teams right out of the opening tip until the final whistle. BASCS, which stands for Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School, has Don Marsh taking over as head coach. Marsh is active in developing young players and should attract some talent to his program. Ibrahim Osmani and Sean Johnson return to lead the team.
***
Health Sciences: Tysheen Lott 12, Kameron Briggs 12, Josiah Haygood 12, Daciare Riley 11, Jalil Harvey 11, Ja'Hon Massey 11, Miles Ladd 11, Tyler Smith 11, Javaughn Jones 10, Jabari Spencer 10
Tapestry: Dorian Plummer 12, Ramel Robinson 12, Frank Williams 12, Dejuan Baldwin 12, Anthony James 12, Lindell Long 12, Juan Rodriguez 12, Jelani McDade 11, Kaleb Thompson 11, Tre Johnson 11, Anthony Brown 11, Ryver Brooker 11, Tariq Eubanks 10, Romeo Bell 9
Global Concepts: Luis Mercado 12, David Stroud 12, Shontez Asturias 12, Raekwon Graves 12, Shawnery Jones 12, Mysonne Johnson 12, Alex Pagan 11, Andre Goldsmith 10, Shawn Mesi 10, Jahiem Knightner 10, Jayontae Coleman 10
BASCS: Ibrahim Osmani 12, Sean Johnson 12, Justin Hunt 12, JaVar Jones 12, Devante Rosado 12, Zach Gaik 12, Marvell Williams 12, Abraham Tarwo 12, Vote WaVote 12, Jeremy McKitchen 11, Damion Myricks 11, Devin Pope 10
Maritime: Requested information was not provided by the head coach
*************************************
Teams with New Coaches (22)
St. Joe's - Gabe Michael
Nichols - Joe Mihalics
South Park - Willie 'Hutch' Jones
Burgard - Sean Edinger
I-Prep - Pat Foster
Lafayette - Brian Davis
Buffalo Arts - Jarryd Austin
Bennett - Khalil Cottman
BASCS - Don Marsh
Maritime - Josh Parker
Orchard Park - Chris Frankowski
Williamsville South - Mike Trybinski
Lackawanna - Marcus Rivers
Alden - Tim Stone
Eden - Don Genco
Kenmore East - Jim Badgley
Fredonia - Nick Bertrando
Dunkirk - Luke Gullo
Gowanda - Eric Ring
Maple Grove - Rob Collver
Brocton - Collin Mulcahy
Cattaraugus-Little Valley - Josh Forster
*********************************************
Classification Changes
Niagara Wheatfield moves down from Class AA to Class A1
West Seneca East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2
I-Prep moves up from Class B1 to Class A2
Health Sciences moves up from Class B2 to Class A2
East Aurora moves down from Class A2 to Class B1
Buffalo Arts moves up from Class B2 to Class B1
MST Seneca moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Burgard moves down from Class B1 to Class B2
Lafayette moves up from Class C to Class B2
Allegany-Limestone moves up from Class C to Class B2
Middle College moves down from Class B2 to Class C1
East moves up from Class D to Class C1
Riverside moves down from Class B2 to Class C2
Westfield moves up from Class D to Class C2
Frewsburg moves up from Class D to Class C2
Ellicottville moves up from Class D to Class C2
**********************************************
Preseason Polls
** I checked back on last season's preseason poll and compared it to my final poll of 2018. I nailed all of the top ten large schools in the preseason Top 10, (went 10 for 10!!) but just had them out of order. I was also very close on the small schools, correctly picking 8 of the 10 that would be there in the end. I had Nichols & Dunkirk as preseason top 10 teams instead of Tapestry & Ellicottville who ended up there.
Large Schools
1. Park
2. Niagara Falls
3. St. Francis
4. Canisius
5. Health Sciences
6. Williamsville North
7. Lew-Port
8. West Seneca West
9. Amherst
10. South Park
Small Schools
1. Olean
2. Cardinal O'Hara
3. Tapestry
4. Middle College
5. Nichols
6. Randolph
7. Allegany-Limestone
8. East
9. City Honors
10. Global Concepts
********************************************
Predictions
MMA Class A - Park
MMA Class B - Cardinal O'Hara
Yale Cup I - South Park
Yale Cup II - City Honors
ECIC I - Williamsville North
ECIC II - Amherst
ECIC III - Maryvale
ECIC IV - Lackawanna
NFL - Niagara Falls
N-O - Medina
CCAA I West - Olean
CCAA I East - Allegany-Limestone & Randolph split
CCAA II West - Sherman
CCAA II East - Ellicottville
Charters - Health Sciences & Tapestry split
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Manhattan Cup (A)
Last year I picked Canisius and was wrong. History tells me I better pick them this year, since they haven't gone consecutive seasons without winning a Manhattan Cup since 2007 & 2008. However, history also shows that I've only predicted the Manhattan Cup winner correctly once over the last five seasons - in 2017 when I picked Canisius, who came in as a #4 seed and beat the St. Francis team that took all three meetings from Park that year. Logic tells me to pick Park, who I already have winning the MMA above. But there's something about that Red Raiders team that went just 13-13 last year. I think they'll be the surprise team of the season, so here comes my bold prediction...it's only been 41 years since they won it last. If I'm wrong, at least I'll have history on my side.
** St. Francis **
Manhattan Cup (B)
I see this as a clear two-horse race, but one of the horses looks like Seabiscuit coming it. Nichols will be really good this season, but if Cardinal O'Hara doesn't win it all with the squad they have this season, I'll be covering wrestling next year.
** Cardinal O'Hara **
Class AA
Final Four to reach Buffalo State:
Niagara Falls, Williamsville North, Clarence, & Orchard Park
** Niagara Falls **
Class A1
Final Four to reach Buffalo State:
West Seneca West, McKinley, Williamsville South, & North Tonawanda
** West Seneca West **
Class A2
Final Four to reach Buffalo State:
South Park, Amherst, Lew-Port, & Health Sciences
** Health Sciences **
Class B1
Final Four to reach Buffalo State:
Olean, City Honors, Lackawanna, & Medina
** Olean **
Class B2
Final Four to reach Buffalo State:
Cleveland Hill, Southwestern, Wilson, & Allegany-Limestone
** Allegany-Limestone **
Class C1
Final Four to reach JCC:
Tapestry, Middle College, East, & Silver Creek
** Tapestry **
Class C2
Final Four to reach JCC:
Randolph, Global Concepts, Maple Grove, & Riverside
** Randolph **
Class D
Final Four to reach JCC:
Franklinville, Sherman, Panama, & Brocton
** Sherman **
-centercourt
(Willard Anderson of East High is the NYS Class D Player of the Year /Photo: Harry Scull,Buffalo News)
Class B
First Team: Davonte Gaines (Health Sciences)
Second Team: Mike Schmidt (Olean)
Third Team: Justin Hemphill (Cardinal O'Hara)
Fourth Team: Kam Briggs (Health Sciences)
Fifth Team: Jalen Bradberry (Niagara Catholic)
Eighth Team: Nate Brawdy (Gowanda)
Ninth Team: Mason Goodridge (Springville)
Tenth Team: Jalin Cooper (Medina)
Eleventh Team: Hakeem Dobbins (Middle College)
Twelfth Team: Christian Szablewski (St. Mary's)
Fourteenth Team: Devaun Farnham (Dunkirk)
Honorable Mention: Nasir Benton (Cardinal O'Hara), Chad Biersbach (Depew), Aziyon Clemons (Middle College), Kyle DeVoogel (Newfane), Max Weber (Newfane)
Class C
First Team: Devin Pope (Chautauqua Lake)
Second Team: Tyler Hind (Randolph)
Third Team: Dorian Plummer (Tapestry)
Sixth Team: Tariq Eubanks (Tapestry)
Seventh Team: Sam Flanders (Allegany-Limestone)
Eighth Team: Carlos Rosa (Lafayette)
Ninth Team: Hercules Rasha (Salamanca)
Ninth Team: Michael Wolfgang (Allegany-Limestone)
Honorable Mention: Jarmani Benton (Silver Creek), Brady Woleben (Silver Creek)
Class D
Player of the Year: Willard Anderson (East)
First Team: Justin Allen (East)
First Team: Elliot Bowen (Ellicottville)
First Team: Sam Erickson (Franklinville)
Fifth Team: Isaac Kopp (Franklinville)
Seventh Team: Griffin Chudy (Ellicottville)
Honorable Mention: Darren Clark (Franklinville), Jared Gleason (Sherman), Austin Grinols (Ellicottville), Waunya Shaw (East), Jahahd Maryon (East)
To view the complete All-State Teams for Classes B, C, & D - Click HERE
-centercourt
The 2018 CC MVP
Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Senior
28.6 PPG / 8.8 RPG / 7.1 SPG / 6.9 APG
- The first ever four-time All-Centercourt player
- Voted All-ECIC Player of the Year
- Voted ECIC II Player of the Year
- Selected to the Section VI Class A1 All-Tournament Team
- Game MVP at the Centercourt Classic
- Selected to Chaminade All-Tournament Team
- Selected to Canisius' Tom Keenan All-Tournament Team
- Scored a career-high 47 points in a win at O'Hara
- Scored over 30 points in eight games & over 20 points in 20 games
- Sat the entire 4th quarter of nine games this season
- Holds school records for career points, rebounds, steals, & wins
- Two-time All-Centercourt Defender
- Career 2,000 point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
First Team All-Centercourt
Noah Hutchins - Park, Junior
13.1 PPG / 6.6 APG / 5.0 RPG / 2.6 SPG / 1.3 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- NYS Federation Class A Champion
- MVP of the NYS Class A Federation Tournament
- Scored 19 of 24 points in 2nd half of the Federation Final
- Scored 8 points in the last minute of the Federation Final
- Hit the game-winner at the buzzer of the Federation Final
- Game MVP at The Park School Showcase
- Dished 18 assists in a win over St. Mary's
- Scored a season-high 27 points in a win over Middle College
- Shot over 57% from the field on the season
- Two-time member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- Two-time All-Centercourt Defender
(Photo: Larry Scheur)
Dan Scott - Park, Junior
16.9 PPG / 2.8 APG / 2.7 RPG / 1.9 SPG / 1.0 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- NYS Federation Class A Champion
- NYS Class A Federation All-Tournament Team
- Scored over 20 points in nine games
- Scored a season-high 26 points in a win over Niagara Catholic
- Scored 25 points in a win over Canisius
- Efficient scorer that shot over 50% from the field
- Connected on 3-pointers 64 times this season
- Two-time member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- Two-time All-Centercourt Defender
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Larry Scheur)
Willard Anderson - East, Senior
25.7 PPG / 6.3 APG / 6.1 RPG / 3.2 SPG / 0.5 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- MVP of the NYSPHAA Class D State Championship
- MVP of the Section VI Class D Tournament
- Game MVP at the Centercourt Classic
- Game MVP at the Bishop Kearney Showcase
- Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic
- Scored a season-high 41 points in a win over I-Prep
- Scored over 30 points in seven games & 19 games over 20 points
- Career 1,000 Point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, Senior
18.0 PPG / 8.8 RPG / 5.2 APG / 4.2 SPG / 2.5 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Player of the Year in Charter Cup
- MVP of the Section VI Class B2 Tournament
- MVP of Lancaster Tip-Off Tournament
- MVP of St. Francis Christmas Tournament
- Game MVP at the Centercourt Classic
- Scored a career-high 52 points in a win over BASCS
- Scored over 30 points twice & 10 games over 20 points
- Had 22 double-doubles, 4 triple-doubles & 3 quad-doubles
- Two-time member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- Career 1,000 point Scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Juston Johnson - West Seneca West, Junior
24.8 PPG / 8.0 APG / 7.3 RPG / 3.4 SPG
- Voted First Team All-ECIC
- Voted ECIC I Player of the Year
- MVP of the Section VI Class A1 Tournament
- MVP of the Pioneer Motorsports Tournament
- Scored a career-high 43 points in a win over South Park (school record)
- Scored over 40 points twice, five games over 30 points, & 13 games over 20 points
- Registered four triple-doubles & 17 double-doubles
- Set the school record for points in a season (619)
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Second Team All-Centercourt
Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, Senior
30.2 PPG / 9.3 RPG / 4.3 SPG / 2.8 APG / 1.0 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted Player of the Year in CCAA I West
- Section VI Class C All-Tournament Team
- Game MVP Honors at the United Way Showcase
- Led all Section VI players in points per game
- Scored a career-high 52 points in a win over Panama
- Scored over 40 points four times, 13 games over 30 points, & 17 games over 20 points
- Had a triple-double (40 pts, 18 boards, & 12 steals) against Franklinville
- Career 2,000 point scorer
(Photo: Dunkirk Observer)
Ryan Bradley - Canisius, Senior
12.4 PPG / 8.0 RPG / 2.4 APG / 1.2 BPG / 1.0 SPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted Monsignor Martin Player of the Year
- Tom Keenan All-Tournament Team
- Scored a career-high 32 points in a win over St. Joe's
- Recorded a double-double in a win over Irondequoit
- Scored over 20 points in six games
- Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- WNY's top big man
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Senior
12.6 PPG / 6.1 RPG / 3.4 APG / 1.3 SPG / 0.9 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted First Team All-Catholic
- MVP of the Tom Keenan Tournament
- Scored a season-high 24 points in a win at Aquinas
- Two-time member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- Three-time All-Centercourt Defender
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Julian Cunningham - Timon, Junior
18.5 PPG / 4.1 APG / 4.0 RPG / 1.9 SPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted First Team All-Catholic
- Bishop Kearney Tournament All-Tournament Team
- Scored a career-high 28 points against Park
- Finished with 27 & 26 points in wins over St. Francis & St. Mary's
- Scored over 20 points in six games
- Shot 50% from 3-point range
- Team leader in points, assists, & steals
- Two-time All-Centercourt Defender
- Career 1,000 point scorer
Trevor Book - North Tonawanda, Senior
25.5 PPG / 9.1 RPG / 3.0 APG / 2.2 SPG / 1.4 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted First Team Niagara Frontier League
- Section VI All-Tournament Team
- MVP of the Jolly Boys' Bob Hettler Tournament
- Scored a career-high 40 pts w/ 8 treys in a win at Ken West
- Scored over 25 points in 11 games & 16 games over 20 points
- Holds school records for pts in a season (536) & career 3-pointers (144)
- Career 1,000 point scorer
Third Team All-Centercourt
Austin James - Canisius, Senior
13.8 PPG / 3.6 RPG / 3.0 APG / 1.2 SPG
- Voted First Team All-Catholic
- Tom Keenan All-Tournament Team
- Scored a season-high 28 points in a win - over Park
- Recorded a double-double in a win at St. Francis
- Scored over 20 points in five games
- Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
Master Radford - Timon, Senior
13.8 PPG / 9.8 RPG / 4.5 BPG / 1.2 APG / 0.8 SPG
- Voted First Team All-Catholic
- MVP of the Bishop Kearney Tournament
- Recorded one triple-double & eight double-doubles on the season
- Had 19 points, 11 boards, & 9 blocks in a win over St. Francis
- Led all WNY players in blocked shots
- Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- 2018 All-Centercourt Defender
- WNY's top post defender
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Mike Schmidt - Olean, Junior
16.6 PPG / 6.4 APG / 5.2 RPG / 3.5 SPG
- Voted Player of the Year in CCAA I West
- MVP of the Section VI Class B1 Tournament
- MVP of the Olean HS Tip-Off Tournament
- MVP of the IAABO Tournament
- Scored a season-high 29 points in a win over Gowanda & had seven games over 20 points
- Recorded 15 assists in a win over Chautauqua Lake
- Registered two triple-doubles on the season and six double-doubles
- 2018 All-Centercourt Defender
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Justin Hemphill - Cardinal O'Hara, Junior
20.5 PPG / 13.5 RPG / 3.5 APG / 2.6 SPG / 2.6 BPG
- Player of the Year in Monsignor Martin Class B
- Scored over 30 points in three games & 14 games over 20 points
- Scored a season-high 34 with 17 boards against Canisius
- Recorded 23 double-doubles on the year
- Had 27 points & 20 rebounds in a win over Niagara Catholic
- Holds school record for career rebounds (847)
- Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Catholic, Freshman
20.3 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 2.4 APG / 2.1 SPG / 0.7 BPG
- Selected MVP of the Manhattan Cup in Class B
- Voted First Team All-Catholic
- MVP of the Wilson Tip-Off Tournament
- Earned Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic
- Scored a season-high 31 points in a win over O'Hara
- Scored over 20 points in 11 games, including 29 & 27 twice
- Knocked down 65 treys on the season
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Fourth Team All-Centercourt
Justin Allen - East, Senior
15.0 PPG / 12.7 RPG / 2.8 SPG / 2.5 BPG / 2.5 APG
- NYSPHAA State Championship All-Tournament Team
- Section VI Class D All-Tournament Team
- Scored over 20 points in seven games
- Hauled in over 20 rebounds in 3 games
- Recorded 20 double-doubles on the season
- Erupted for 27 pts & 20 rebounds in Regional win over Clyde-Savannah
- Had 64 points & 49 boards over last 3 games (Regional & State Tournament)
- Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Sam Erickson - Franklinville, Senior
21.0 PPG / 11.2 RPG / 3.1 APG / 2.5 SPG / 2.1 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted Player of the Year in CCAA II East
- Section VI Class D All-Tournament Team
- MVP of Rick Hughes Memorial Tournament
- IAABO All-Tournament Team
- Game MVP at the Centercourt Classic
- Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic
- Scored a season-high 36 points & 13 boards in a sectional win over Panama
- Scored over 30 points twice & 12 games over 20 points
- Recorded 14 double-doubles
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville, Senior
19.7 PPG / 12.6 RPG / 2.7 BPG / 2.0 SPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- First Team All-State as a sophomore & as a junior
- Voted Player of the Year in CCAA II East
- Section VI Class D All-Tournament Team
- MVP of the Joe Decerbo Tournament
- MVP of the Holiday Valley Tournament
- Salamanca Tip-Off All-Tournament Team
- Game MVP Honors at the Centercourt Classic
- Had two games over 30 points & 20 rebounds
- Scored over 20 points in 13 games & eight games over 15 rebounds
- Registered 18 double-doubles
- Ellicottville's All-Time leader in points (1,586) & Rebounds (1,079)
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jack Capen - St. Joe's, Senior
24.4 PPG / 7.1 RPG / 1.3 SPG / 1.2 APG
- Voted First Team All-Catholic
- Game MVP at the Can/Am Showcase
- Selected to the Lockport All-Tournament Team
- Selected to the Ken-Ton All-Tournament Team
- Attempted 253 free throws on the season
- The Monsignor Martin's leading scorer
- Scored a career-high 37 points in three different games
- Scored over 30 points in eight games & over 20 points in 18 games
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Brandon Smith - Park, Senior
14.0 PPG / 2.4 RPG / 1.9 APG / 1.4 SPG / 1.0 BPG
- NYS Federation Class A Champion
- MVP of the Manhattan Cup
- Scored a combined 46 points in Manhattan Cup playoffs
- Finished with a season-high 27 points in a win over South Park
- Scored over 20 points in six games
- Connected on 3-pointers 62 times this season
(Photo: Larry Scheur)
Fifth Team All-Centercourt
Kam Briggs - Health Sciences, Junior
12.9 PPG / 3.1 SPG / 1.8 APG / 1.5 RPG
- Voted First Team Charter Cup
- NYSPHAA Class B All-Tournament Team
- St. Francis Christmas All-Tournament Team
- Lancaster Tip-Off All-Tournament Team
- Scored a team-high 23 points in the NYSPHAA Class B state semifinal
- Earned a pair of game-clinching steals in the final minute of the Regional qualifier
- 2018 All-Centercourt Defender
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Jalin Cooper - Medina, Senior
21.3 PPG / 9.5 RPG / 3.3 SPG / 2.2 APG / 2.2 BPG
- Returning All-Centercourt selection
- Voted Player of the Year in the Niagara Orleans League
- Game MVP Honors at the Centercourt Classic
- Game MVP Honors at the Cataract City Classic
- Scored a season-high 39 points in a win over Barker
- Scored over 30 points twice & had over 20 points in 13 games
- Registered 11 double-doubles
- Set school record for points in a season (468)
- Two-time member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, Senior
23.6 PPG / 15.0 RPG / 4.8 APG / 2.7 SPG
- Voted First Team CCAA I East
- Olean Tip-Off All-Tournament Team
- Turned in the stat line of the decade in a win at Roy-Hart, scoring a career-high 43 points and grabbing a career-high 31 rebounds
- Scored over 30 points four times & had 14 games over 20 points
- Recorded 19 double-doubles
- Led all of WNY in total rebounds (331) & rebounds per game (15)
- Finished his career with 1715 points, 888 rebounds & 361 assists
Tyler Hind - Randolph, Sophomore
23.3 PPG / 6.6 APG / 4.2 RPG / 3.1 SPG / 0.5 BPG
- Voted Player of the Year in CCAA I East
- Section VI Class C All-Tournament Team
- Rick Hughes Memorial All-Tournament Team
- Scored a season-high 40 points with 8 assists in a win over Gowanda
- Scored over 30 points in seven games & had 15 games over 20 points
- Canned at least seven 3-pointers in five games
- Led WNY in 3-pointers made on the season (88)
- Had 11 games with at least seven assists
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Post Journal)
Ray Mushat - South Park, Senior
17.4 PPG / 4.2 RPG / 1.8 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.4 BPG
- Voted First Team Yale Cup I
- Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team
- Park Tournament All-Tournament Team
- Maryvale Christmas All-Tournament Team
- Scored a career-high 39 points in a win over Emerson
- Scored over 30 points twice & nine games over 20 points
- Recorded 12 double-doubles on the season
- Career 1,000 point scorer
(Photo: Buffalo News)
Honorable Mention
Kyle Burley - Pioneer, Senior
22.2 PPG / 10.8 RPG / 3.1 APG / 2.3 SPG / 0.8 BPG - First Team ECIC III
Chad Biersbach - Depew, Senior
22.0 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 2.1 APG / 2.1 SPG / 1.0 BPG - First Team All-ECIC
Hakeem Dobbins - Middle College, Senior
20.5 PPG / 4.9 APG / 4.4 RPG / 3.2 SPG / 0.5 BPG - First Team Yale Cup I
Kyle DeVoogel - Newfane, Senior
19.7 PPG / 3.7 RPG / 3.5 SPG / 1.5 APG / 0.5 BPG - First Team Niagara-Orleans League
Kyle Ebert - Frontier, Senior
19.2 PPG / 5.0 RPG / 1.2 APG / 0.9 SPG / 0.5 BPG - First Team ECIC I
Devaun Farnham-DeJesus - Dunkirk, Senior
17.8 PPG / 7.4 RPG / 4.8 APG / 3.0 SPG / 1.0 BPG - First Team CCAA I West
Ray Blackwell - Maryvale, Senior
17.6 PPG / 4.0 RPG / 3.0 APG / 3.0 SPG - First Team ECIC III
Isaac Kopp - Franklinville, Senior
17.5 PPG / 5.1 RPG / 2.5 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.5 BPG - First Team CCAA II East
Johnathan Park - Lake Shore, Senior
16.7 PPG / 13.5 RPG / 3.3 BPG / 1.7 APG / 1.7 SPG - First Team ECIC III
Griffin Chudy - Ellicottville, Senior
16.6 PPG / 5.8 RPG / 4.3 APG / 3.6 SPG - First Team CCAA II East
Alex Wayland - West Seneca West, Senior
15.4 PPG / 4.0 RPG / 3.0 SPG / 2.9 APG - First Team ECIC I
Nasir Benton - Cardinal O'Hara, Senior
15.3 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 4.0 APG / 3.7 SPG - First Team All-Catholic
Christian Szablewski - St. Mary's, Senior
15.0 PPG / 8.2 RPG / 1.8 APG / 1.4 BPG / 1.1 SPG - First Team All-Catholic
Max Weber - Newfane, Senior
14.2 PPG / 7.3 RPG / 6.6 APG / 2.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG - First Team Niagara-Orleans League
Waunya Shaw - East, Senior
14.0 PPG / 7.0 RPG / 2.5 APG / 1.8 SPG / 0.7 BPG - NYSPHAA State Champion
Bo Sireika - St. Francis, Senior
13.8 PPG / 4.5 RPG / 2.6 SPG / 2.3 APG / 1.0 BPG - First Team All-Catholic
Quran DuBois - Niagara Falls, Senior
12.9 PPG / 3.9 RPG / 2.1 APG / 1.6 SPG - Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team
Nick MacDonald - Canisius, Senior
12.3 PPG / 2.7 RPG / 1.3 APG / 1.1 SPG - Led the MMA in 3-pointers made w/ school record 73
Mason Goodridge - Springville, Junior
24.6 PPG / 3.1 RPG / 2.4 SPG / 2.0 APG / 0.5 BPG - Player of the Year in ECIC III
Zamari Mitchell - West Seneca East, Junior
22.5 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 4.2 SPG / 2.4 APG / 0.6 BPG - First Team All-ECIC
Trent Scott - Lew-Port, Junior
18.6 PPG / 6.1 RPG / 4.9 APG / 3.2 SPG / 1.1 BPG - First Team Niagara Frontier League
Adrian Baugh - West Seneca West, Junior
17.6 PPG / 7.4 RPG / 2.3 SPG / 2.0 APG / 1.2 BPG - First Team ECIC I
Earl Howard - MST Seneca, Junior
17.5 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 3.4 APG / 1.1 SPG - Player of the Year in Yale Cup II
Dorian Plummer - Tapestry, Junior
17.3 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 2.6 SPG / 1.4 APG - First Team All-Charter
Cam Sionko - Grand Island, Junior
16.3 PPG / 7.0 RPG / 5.2 APG / 1.5 SPG / 0.5 BPG - First Team Niagara Frontier League
River Reinhardt - Clarence, Junior
15.3 PPG / 4.6 APG / 3.3 RPG / 2.7 SPG - First Team ECIC I
Haakim Siner - Niagara Catholic, Junior
13.7 PPG / 10.6 RPG / 1.8 SPG / 1.3 APG / 0.8 BPG - Recorded 12 double-doubles on the season
Chris Stineman - Nichols, Junior
12.5 PPG / 10.4 RPG / 2.8 APG / 1.5 BPG / 0.9 SPG - First Team All-Catholic
Devin Degree - Williamsville South, Junior
11.8 PPG / 4.6 APG / 4.1 RPG / 2.7 SPG - First Team ECIC II
Quentin Nnagbo - Park, Junior
6.6 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 1.6 APG / 1.6 SPG / 1.5 BPG - NYS Class A Federation Champion
Julian Eziukwu - Park, Junior
5.9 PPG / 6.5 RPG / 1.9 BPG / 1.6 SPG / 1.2 APG - NYS Class A Federation Champion
Daesean Ashley - Amherst, Sophomore
17.6 PPG / 6.4 RPG / 3.4 APG / 3.3 SPG - First Team ECIC II
John Orogun - Park, Sophomore
5.4 PPG / 6.6 RPG / 1.9 BPG / 1.6 SPG / 1.0 APG - NYS Class A Federation Champion
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry, Freshman
12.0 PPG / 4.2 APG / 3.5 RPG / 2.9 SPG - MVP of Section VI Class C Tournament
Roddy Gayle - Niagara Falls, 8th Grade
12.8 PPG / 4.3 RPG / 3.2 APG / 1.0 SPG / 0.9 BPG - First Team Niagara Frontier League
****** ****** ******
Sixth Man of the Year
Julian Eziukwu - Park, Junior
5.9 PPG / 6.5 RPG / 1.9 BPG / 1.6 SPG / 1.2 APG
Without question, a starter on any other team in WNY. An aggressive rebounder with a knack for staying with the play and finishing in the paint, Eziukwu's most impressive attribute was his work ethic. Not only did he willingly accept his role as Park's sixth man, he embraced it. Upon entering the game, you would immediately hear him talking on defense and notice a boost in the team's energy at that end due to his presence.
- NYS Federation Class A Champion
- Earned All-Centercourt Honorable Mention in 2018
(Photo: Buffalo News)
All-Centercourt Defenders
First Team
Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Senior
Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Senior
Master Radford - Timon, Senior
Noah Hutchins - Park, Junior
Dan Scott - Park, Junior
Second Team
Tazaun Rose - Niagara Falls, Senior
Griffin Chudy - Ellicottville, Senior
Dylan Burton - Franklinville, Senior
Kam Briggs - Health Sciences, Junior
Lucas Theisen - St. Francis, Junior
Third Team
Avion Harris - Niagara Catholic, Sophomore
Mike Schmidt - Olean, Junior
Kavon Rogers - McKinley, Senior
Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry, Freshman
Anthony Mack - South Park, Sophomore
Centercourt #BOOM Squad
Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, Senior
Austin James - Canisius, Senior
Noah Hutchins - Park, Junior
Master Radford - Timon, Senior
Jalin Cooper - Medina, Senior
Liam Carey - Grand Island
Justin Hemphill - Cardinal O'Hara, Junior
Roddy Gayle - Niagara Falls, 8th Grader
Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Senior
Johnathan Park - Lake Shore, Senior
Justin Allen - East, Senior
Dan Scott - Park, Junior
Ryan Bradley - Canisius, Senior
Coach of the Year
Rich Jacob - The Park School
-centercourt
(Noah Hutchins scores at the buzzer in Park's Federation Championship victory / Photo:Harry Scull,Buffalo News)
Large Schools
The final state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
(Niagara Falls 27)
Class A
Park #1
Canisius #3
West Seneca West #10
Williamsville South #12
Timon #23
Class B
Health Sciences #6
Olean #7
Middle College #17
Niagara Catholic #22
Class C
Tapestry #6
Allegany-Limestone #15
Class D
East #1
Franklinville #4
Ellicottville #5
Sherman #17
******** According to the rankings above........
- It's like I said all season - 'Section VI -- We Have The D's' !!! Three of the top five teams in the state and four of the top 20. Maybe we should be a Section VI party for when the All-State Teams are released, because in a power season like 2018 was, we should be well represented!
- Our Class A nearly as impressive, holding down four of the top 12 spots, including #1 Park and #3 Canisius. Five teams in the top 23.
- In Class B, Health Sciences finished at #6, but ended up as the fourth highest ranked public school. Olean finished one spot behind them at #7 with Briarcliff being the only non-private/non-charter school ranked ahead of them in NYS.
- Tapestry finished the year at #6 NYS Class C with Northstar Christian (who ended their season) and Pembroke (who played a closer game with Northstar) as teams from the Far West Region ahead of them. Allegany-Limestone, who was unranked all season, finished #15.
- Ultimately not too shabby for WNY this season. Between the five classifications, we finished with the best team in two of them, five top 5 teams, and nine top 10 teams! Oh yeah, and We Have The D's!!!
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA State Rankings
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(Juston Johnson scored a game-high 38 points in the Class A1 Final / Photo:Harry Scull,Buff News)
Class AA
MVP - Roddy Gayle - Niagara Falls
Quaran Dubois - Niagara Falls
Willie Lightfoot - Niagara Falls
Jonathan Abaya - Williamsville North
Nate Wereski - Orchard Park
Matt Hill - Jamestown
Class A1
MVP - Juston Johnson - West Seneca West
Alex Wayland - West Seneca West
Nate Ryniec - West Seneca West
Greg Dolan - Williamsville South
Trevor Book - North Tonawanda
Emir Evans - McKinley
Class A2
MVP - Anthony Mack - South Park
Ray Mushat - South Park
David Stroud - South Park
Johnathan Park - Lake Shore
Tyler Tait - Iroquois
Alek Bryant - Cheektowaga
Class B1
MVP - Mike Schmidt - Olean
Matt Droney - Olean
Max Weber - Newfane
Kyle DeVoogel - Newfane
Jalin Cooper - Medina
London Smith - Lackawanna
Class B2
MVP - Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences
Kam Briggs - Health Sciences
Tysheen Lott - Health Sciences
Jake Braniecki - JFK
Azyion Clemons - Middle College
Alex Card - Southwestern
Class C
MVP - Tariq Eubanks - Tapestry
Dorian Plummer - Tapestry
Mike Towns - Tapestry
Tyler Hind - Randolph
Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake
Sam Flanders - Allegany-Limestone
Class D
MVP - Willard Anderson - East
Waunya Shaw - East
Sam Erickson - Franklinville
Isaac Kopp - Franklinville
Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville
Jared Gleason - Sherman
-centercourt
The eleventh state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
(Niagara Falls 27)
Class A
Canisius #2
Park #5
West Seneca West #7
Williamsville South #11
Timon #19
Class B
Health Sciences #4
Olean #5
Middle College #19
Class C
Tapestry #9
Chautauqua Lake #20
Class D
East #2
Franklinville #3
Ellicottville #8
Sherman #19
******** According to the rankings above........
- Rome Free Academy reappeared in the Class AA rankings, one spot ahead of Falls. Not that anyone should or would really care about that, but since I've mentioned them multiple times this season (they beat Falls & St. Francis in late December), just keeping you up to date.
- Canisius is back at #2 in NYS Class A. Park, West Seneca West, & Williamsville South all inched up a spot also, meaning WNY now has four of the top 11 teams ranked in NYS Class A. And that doesn't include Timon, who just lost to LeBron's alma mater and sits at #19. We even have our top ranked public school ahead of Irondequoit now. That means Section VI is projected to get past Section V in Class A. Now that would be something! The state rankings might project it, but I wouldn't predict it.
- Health Sciences & Olean remain #4 & #5 in NYS Class B. If they play each other this season, it would be exactly two weeks from today. But Middle College is #19 in NYS Class B and hopes Health Sciences is there in two weeks...supporting them playing the Huskies. Less than a week away from Middle College vs. Health. In Section V last week, Northstar Christian (#3 in NYS Class C & 19-1 on the year) knocked off Leadership Academy, the #1 seed in Section V Class A. That's a huge win for Northstar and I bring it up here because their only loss on the season occurred on the road against Middle College.
- Besides Northstar Christian, Section V also has Pembroke who is ranked #4 in class C and is 20-0. The teams that represents Rochester in the Far West Regional will be the favorite to advance to the state final four.
- Tapestry only slipped two spots in the NYS Class C rankings for losing to Section VI Class C #8 seed Maple Grove. They must have earned a lot of credit this season to get such a pass for that loss.
- In NYS Class D, East and Franklinville are now #2 and #3. That would project one of them facing defending state champ Moriah at the state final four, something I've predicted all season. Last week, Prattsburgh was ranked ahead of both. But a loss for Prattsburgh in the Steuben County Championship game to Addison (unranked in NYS Class C) caused them to drop to #6. So not the best team from Steuben County, but the best team from Class D in the Far West Region? No. That honor will go to the Franklinville vs East winner. After they beat Clyde Savannah.
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA State Rankings
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(Williamsville South won a 5th straight ECIC II title this season/Photo Harry Scull,Buff News)
(Health Sciences is the only team in WNY to maintain the same poll ranking all season/Photo: Harry Scull,Buff News)
Large Schools
1. Canisius (MMA) - The defending champs got pushed to the brink last week in a double OT win at St. Francis. Now they wait to see if they'll draw them again, or rival St. Joe's, this Friday in the Manhattan Cup semifinals.
2. Park (MMA) - Winners of their last four, the Pioneers face Timon on Friday night in the semis, a team they split with, but took the more recent meeting in a rout.
3. Timon (MMA) - We find out on Friday night at the Koessler Center if the Tigers have solved their third quarter woes against the best in WNY.
4. West Seneca West (A1) - Now a perfect 20-0 and a top 10 team ranked in NYS Class A, the Indians are ready for another postseason run. The Fall season certainly went well enough for them.
5. Williamsville South (A1) - The Billies ride an 11-game win streak into the postseason, after capturing a fifth straight league title in ECIC II.
6. Niagara Falls (AA) - After a resounding win in the NFL championship game, the Wolverines head into sectional play with one thing in mind - three-peat!
7. Lockport (AA) - It's been a long time since the Lions played for a Class AA title, but after securing the #2 seed with a solid season, Lockport is the favorite to get there.
8. St. Francis (MMA) - The Red Raiders found plenty of reason to believe they could be this year's Manhattan Cup spoiler when they nearly defeated the Crusaders last week. A third win this season over St. Joe's on Tuesday would give them that opportunity.
9. Williamsville North (AA) - Finished the regular season off with a good win over a tough team from Cheektowaga. The Spartans are big and they can really defend, which should give them a legitimate chance in Class AA.
10. North Tonawanda (A1) - Started last week with a loss to CSAT, before rebounding with a win over Grand Island. They could draw Williamsville East on Friday night, which would be a an all 2-3 zone affair.
Small Schools
1. Health Sciences (B2) - They've been ranked #1 all season, but enter the postseason as the #4 seed in Class B2 thanks to a flawed seeding system. The implication is a collision course with Middle College in the semifinals.
2. Olean (B1) - The Huskies enter sectional play with the second longest win streak in the area at 15 games, along with the second best record of 19-1.
3. Middle College (B2) - The Yale Cup Champions would have to get past Health Sciences to win Class B2 regardless, but shouldn't have to worry about that game until the final, after earning the #1 seed.
4. East (D) - For the first time, the Panthers prepare for a postseason run in Class D and will have to get through a pair of ranked teams to win it.
5. Franklinville (D) - The Panthers won the coin toss against Ellicottville, which ultimately meant they could avoid East or Ellicottville until the final, provided they can get past the likes of Panama & Sherman first.
6. Cardinal O'Hara (MMA) - Came back to knock off Nichols on Friday to ensure themselves the top seed in the Class B Manhattan Cup playoffs. Now they may need a repeat victory over the Vikings to move on.
7. St. Mary's (MMA) - The Lancers have their squad back and healthy for a postseason run. Now the focus becomes playing playoff basketball.
8. Niagara Catholic (MMA) - Dropping two games to St. Mary's in the regular season doesn't mean much. These Patriots have as good a shot as any to emerge as tournament champions.
9. Tapestry (C) - The body of work throughout the year keeps them here for me, but an end of season loss at Maple Grove shakes up the whole way you look at Class C.
10. Ellicottville (D) - The Eagles get their postseason started with the winner of Frewsburg/Brocton on Friday night, where a win could earn them a possible date with East.
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(Niagara Falls is the only team in Section VI going for a three-peat/Photo: Harry Scull,Buffalo News)
The Section VI postseason begins Tuesday night with five First Round matchups. The winner moves on to participate in the Pre-Quarterfinal round on Wednesday night at 7 pm. On Friday, 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 predtictions.
** Please note that many of the games below are based on my predictions of who will win in prior rounds. I've been wrong before - just ask North Tonawanda
Most exciting brackets, top to bottom:
7. AA
6. B2
5. D
4. B1
3. A2
2. A1
1. C
- How exciting is the Class C bracket this postseason? So much so that I'm considering my first ever trip to JCC for the semifinals, which would have me missing opening night at Buff State. The Class C bracket is giving us Silver Creek at Chautauqua Lake and Maple Grove at Randolph for Quarterfinals!!! In case you missed it, Maple Grove just beat Tapestry. Tapestry has been the only ranked Class C team all season and Maple Grove is the #8 seed. If the brackets were to hold out, we'd have (1) Randolph, (2) Allegany-Limestone, (3) Tapestry, and (4) Chautauqua Lake at JCC. But honestly, who knows?!? Randolph split games this season with Silver Creek and Allegany-Limestone, losing the more recent meeting by 18. That Maple Grove team that just beat Tapestry lost three times to Chautauqua Lake this year. Last year, Class C was split into C1 & C2. Randolph beat East High to capture C2, before falling to Chautauqua Lake in the crossover. This year, they threw them all in one bracket and created an all-out royal rumble. Love the C bracket!!
Sleepers from each bracket
AA - Orchard Park: The Quakers would have to earn it right from the start, traveling to #2 seed Lockport for the Quarterfinals. But why can't these guys be the big splash team of the postseason? They are healthier than when the season began - a season that began with an emphatic win over St. Francis. They also just beat Clarence and won at Jamestown this year for the first time since Kyle Perla was distributing basketballs. I know the Lions are a tough & athletic matchup, but OP can take comfort in knowing they hung around twice in 11-point losses with another tough and athletic team from West Seneca West, who no one has beat this year.
A1 - McKinley: Maybe the easiest sleeper choice ever, considering the Macks are the #6 seed. No team wants to face them in the playoffs. While it's been an up & down year at Mack High, they have everything a team needs for success in the postseason. Coaching, guard play, size inside, defense, and all sorts of experience. So much so, that McKinley has reached Buff State in every season over the last 18 - the longest streak in Section VI.
A2 - Lew-Port: In a year where Class A2 is as wide open as this year is, the Lancers are prime candidates to catch you snoozing. They have the benefit of playing some tough competition in the NFL and showed they could hang with the likes of Niagara Falls and Lockport in losses this season. Remember a couple years ago when Lew-Port showed up and showed out at Buff State, playing in two of the week's most memorable games?
B1 - Burgard: Yes, the Bulldogs are just 9-11 on the season. But let's take a closer look at some of those losses - Middle College by 5, South Park by 8, East by 7, South Park by 2, McKinley by 2, and Franklinville by 3. They do have a win over Franklinville this year, along with a 27-point road win at Medina. Dunkirk hosts a dangerous team on Wednesday night.
B2 - Gowanda: It's admittedly tough to round up a sleeper in a bracket that has both Health Sciences and Middle College, because let's face it, one of them is winning Class B2. But I've seen the top eight seeds play this season and the Panthers have a good team with a standout in Nate Brawdy, along with a polished post player in Ture Hassler. Brawdy has enjoyed a nice career at Gowanda and this is his last shot at taking his squad to Buff State, so the stakes are high.
C - Maple Grove: I could write a bunch of catchy stuff here, but I'm picking the Red Dragons as the Class C sleeper for one simple reason - they just beat Tapestry by the same margin Health Sciences did and by more than Middle College did. Zzzzzzzzzz
D - Panama: The Panthers have a 6-3 sophomore in Cam Barmore who keeps getting better and they just pushed the #2 seed Sherman in a two-point loss at the end of the season. Head coach Ed Nelson led Panama to Glens Falls just two seasons ago.
Top 10 Pre-Quarterfinal Games (Wednesday, February 21st)
10. Salamanca @ Silver Creek
9. Kenmore West @ Hamburg
8. I-Prep @ City Honors
7. Niagara Wheatfield @ Frontier
6. Fredonia/Alden @ MST Seneca
5. CSAT @ Depew
4. Starpoint @ Iroquois
3. Kenmore East @ McKinley
2. Grand Island @ Hutch-Tech
1. Burgard @ Dunkirk
Top 12 Quarterfinal Games (Friday, February 23rd)
12. North Tonawanda @ Williamsville East
11. Amherst @ South Park
10. Orchard Park @ Lockport
9. MST Seneca @ Newfane
8. Silver Creek @ Chautauqua Lake
7. Burgard/Dunkirk @ Medina
6. Starpoint @ Maryvale
5. CSAT @ Lackawanna
4. Lew-Port @ Lake Shore
3. Clarence @ Jamestown
2. McKinley @ Sweet Home
1. Maple Grove @ Randolph
Most Exciting Potential Semifinals
8. East vs. Ellicottville (D)
7. Newfane vs. Lackawanna (B1)
6. West Seneca West vs. North Tonawanda (A1)
5. Lockport vs. Williamsville North (AA)
4. Cheektowaga vs. South Park (A2)
3. Randolph vs. Chautauqua Lake (C)
2. Allegany-Limestone vs. Tapestry (C)
1. Middle College vs. Health Sciences (B2)
Most Exciting Championship Games
5. Class AA
4. Class A2
3. Class C
2. Class D
1. Class A1
Winning streaks heading into sectionals
West Seneca West - 20
Olean 15 (and 19 of last 20)
Williamsville South - 11 (and 16 of last 17)
Sherman - 11 (and 12 of last 13)
Olmsted - 8
Maryvale - 6 (and 8 of last 9)
Franklinville - 5 (and 12 of last 13)
Middle College - 5 (and 9 of last 10)
Williamsville North - 5
Lackawanna has won 14 of last 15
Niagara Falls has won 12 of last 13
Ellicottville has won 10 of 11
MST Seneca has won 9 of 10
Allegany-Limestone has won 7 of 8
Cheektowaga has won 7 of 8
Newfane has won 7 of 8
Predictions
AA - Niagara Falls
A1 - Williamsville South
A2 - Maryvale
B1 - Olean
B2 - Health Sciences
C - Allegany-Limestone
D - Franklinville
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Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 21st
(9) Forestville 54, (8) Pine Valley 52
(5) Frewsburg 84, (12) Brocton 37
(7) Westfield 60, (10) Clymer 43
(6) Panama 67, (11) North Collins 52
Quarterfinals - Friday, February 23rd
(1) East 79, (9) Forestville 34
(4) Ellicottville 63, (5) Frewsburg 36
(2) Sherman 68, (7) Westfield 53
(3) Franklinville 81, (6) Panama 48
Semifinals - Tuesday, February 27th
AT JCC - 6 & 7:45 pm
(1) East 62, (4) Ellicottville 61
(3) Franklinville 61, (2) Sherman 45
Final - Saturday, March 3rd
AT JCC - 4 pm
(1) East 67, (3) Franklinville 59
2018 Section VI Class D Champions - East Panthers
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The tenth state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
(Niagara Falls 29)
Class A
Canisius #4
Park #6
West Seneca West #8
Williamsville South #12
Timon #16
Class B
Health Sciences #4
Olean #5
Middle College #20
Class C
Tapestry #7
Chautauqua Lake #20
Class D
East #3
Franklinville #4
Ellicottville #9
Sherman #19
******** According to the rankings above........
- Participation trophies continue bouncing around in the City of Niagara Falls. In Class AA, the Wolverines got theirs back again with a courtesy appearance in the late addition 26-30 slots, coming in at #29 this week. Falls is 15-4. Interestingly enough, Rome Free Academy, who traveled all the way to Buffalo to beat Falls and has a record of 16-3, is unranked and didn't get a trophy.
- Jumping down to Class B for a moment while staying with bouncing trophies in Niagara Falls, the other team in the city, Niagara Catholic, lost their trophy again. In the last four weeks, they've went...ranked - trophy - ranked - unranked.
- Canisius' big win over Park, followed by a big win at Timon (along with a road win at Aquinas) has them up one spot in NYS Class A at #4. Park slipped back from #3 to #6. Timon got the best treatment of all, remaining at #16 after taking one on the chin for a second straight week.
- West Seneca West & Williamsville South both continue to win games and creep up the NYS Class A rankings. They are now #8 and #12. South was unranked for much of the year.
- In Class B, Health Sciences got passes for close wins over East & Tapestry and another for the loss to Park. After all three of those results, along with last week's loss to Williamsville South, the Falcons continue to hold onto the #4 spot, one place ahead of Olean at #5. I'm sure the Huskies want their shot with Health. And I'm sure Middle College, who quietly hangs out at #20, is just waiting to break up the party. The Kats are in Class B2 with Health Sciences.
- Side note time. I think the MMA teams in Class B have a tough go with the state rankings because they schedule tough nonleague games and play the three teams ranked in Class A every year. The state rankings don't like to see a bunch of losses on your record, regardless where they occur. My case in point would be Cardinal O'Hara. Unranked all season. They are 12-9. I know, nine losses, yuck. Well those include state ranked Middle College, Will South, Canisius, & Timon. Formerly ranked Niagara Catholic & UPrep also. Two losses were in fact bad losses and I could only attempt to explain that away by saying they happened over Christmas break, when HS hoops should just take a vacation (the worst week of basketball all season, every year - kids off schedule, on vacation, etc * a conversation for another day). O'Hara is a good team that will be the #1 seed in the Manhattan Cup playoffs in Class B. They also earned wins over the following teams, who were all state ranked at the time the game was played: Tapestry, St. Mary's x 2, & Niagara Catholic.
- Tapestry & Chautauqua Lake remain the only teams ranked in Class C. Each slipped back one spot from last week.
- No movement in Class D. East, Franklinville, Ellicottville, and Sherman all remain in the top 20. Although a few comments came in last week after I boldly proclaimed 'Section VI, We Have The D's'. Or maybe it was me saying that I didn't think Prattsburgh could handle the pressure at McKinley the way East does (although East lost twice to McKinley this year). Or maybe it was when I said I didn't think they'd lambaste St. Mary's like East did. But hey, the comments were fun to read, even if some were a bit off base. Maybe we'll get some more this week. I hope so, because time is running out. No one wants to talk after their team losses the regional, and for Section V Class D, that happens on March 10th. And this year will make FIVE consecutive seasons that Section VI wins the Class D regional. That's quite a streak, but when 'We Have The D's,' what else would you expect?
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA State Rankings
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(McKinley's Chris LeCounte & Kavon Rogers try to trap the ball under the basket)
Large Schools
1. Canisius (MMA) - I'd say last week was pretty productive for the Crusaders. Their 24-point win over Park was the most lopsided loss the Pioneers have taken since joining the MMA in 2014. After a stop in Rochester to beat Aquinas, they followed the Park win with a 21-point win at Timon in a game they led by 29 points in the fourth quarter.
2. Park (MMA) - Bounced back from the Canisius loss in the second half against Health Sciences, when they started really defending and getting contributions from the big guys inside.
3. Timon (MMA) - After picking up a win at St. Joe's on Wednesday, the Tigers unraveled for a second time in the second half of a big game in the loss to Canisius. They need a strong finish to the regular season before the Manhattan Cup playoffs start, and have a rematch with St. Joe's, along with a Friday night trip to St. Francis coming up.
4. West Seneca West (A1) - The Indians are WNY's only unbeaten team heading into the postseason at 20-0. Now the two-week layoff begins as the #1 seed in Class A1 awaits their opponent in the quarterfinals.
5. Williamsville South (A1) - Wins over Hamburg and Starpoint pushed the Billies' win streak to nine games with two left before the postseason.
6. Niagara Falls (AA) - Wins over Lockport & Kenmore West last week have the Wolverines in the new NFL crossover championship game. Falls, the Niagara champ, will face the Frontier champ from Lew-Port. A win in Thursday night's game at Niagara Wheatfield would give NFHS an undefeated league title in NFL play.
7. Lockport (AA) - The Lions were right there with Niagara Falls on Saturday, before the Wolverines pulled away late in the game. Lockport's new focus will become finishing this week with a pair of wins and then trying to earn a rematch with Falls in the upcoming Class AA sectionals.
8. St. Francis (MMA) - The Red Raiders' schedule was back-loaded to say the least...before the win-or-go-home postseason gets underway, they have dates this week with Park, Canisius, & Timon.
9. North Tonawanda (A1) - Last season, the Jacks were unranked heading into Buff State Week and won the whole thing in Class A. This year they've been a mainstay in the top 10. For whatever that's worth.
10. McKinley (A1) - I went through a whole host of teams that could make an argument for this spot. Any team you vote here has losses you can point to in an attempt to argue it away. I went with the Macks, who could finish the season 16-4 with a win over Hutch-Tech this week.
Small Schools
1. Health Sciences (B2) - Picked up wins over a pair of top 10 small schools in Tapestry & East last week, with a loss to Park in between. But they hung around with the Pioneers for most of three quarters. They just got Josiah Haygood back and Ja'Vaughn Jones should be back for the playoffs.
2. Olean (B1) - Two more 20+ point wins for the Huskies last week. At 18-1, their only loss on the season came at Timon in December. It was the only game I saw Olean play this season. Last year, the only two times I saw the Huskies play were losses to Chautauqua Lake and Amherst. Rumor has it they are petitioning to have me banned from Buff State! I will remind them that I was along for much of the ride in 2016 when they went 27-0.
3. Middle College (B2) - The Yale Cup trophy is back with the Kats after a win over Emerson this week. All the talk centers around Health Sciences & Olean in Class B, but watch out for these guys in the playoffs, they are fearless.
4. East (D) - The Panthers went 1-2 last week, with the two losses coming by three points each to Health Sciences & Middle College. They finish the regular season with a trip to South Park, the team & place they lost the Yale Cup last season. That, along with not wanting to head into sectionals with three losses in four games should have them pretty fired up. They'll need to be with the way South Park has played as of late.
5. Franklinville (D) - The Panthers will be in Lackawanna on Monday night to play Global Concepts in their regular season finale. Then they'll wait to find out where they'll be seeded for sectionals in Class D.
6. Cardinal O'Hara (MMA) - The Hawks are coming off a great week that produced wins over St. Joe's and Niagara Catholic. They have a shot at the #1 seed in the Class B Manhattan Cup playoffs if they can win two of their final three games.
7. Niagara Catholic (MMA) - The new kids on the block will take another shot at the defending champs from St. Mary's on Tuesday night, after coming so close in a great battle the first time they played.
8. St. Mary's (MMA) - The return of Eric Brown to the lineup should give the Lancers a huge boost heading into the stretch run. They'll need it and a win over Niagara Catholic on Tuesday night, a team they will likely see for a third time in the playoffs.
9. Tapestry (C) - Like East, the Thunderhawks also dropped a pair to Health Sciences & Middle College last week. East lost the two games by a combined six points. Tapestry's losses were by a combined seven points.
10. Ellicottville (D) - Last week when I kept the Eagles here despite a loss to Newfane, I said we'd meet back here this week to re-examine things. Since then, Newfane dropped a second game to Medina, who Franklinville rolled through. And Ellicottville just beat Franklinville two weeks ago. The next wait-and-see for the Eagles holding on to this spot comes with results this week from their game against Gowanda, along with an eye on ECIC IV unbeaten Lackawanna, who could turn some heads in nonleague games against Clarence and Orchard Park.
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(Newfane's Max Weber penetrates the Wilson defense)
Monday, February 12th
Clarence @ Lackawanna - 6:30 pm
Maryvale @ Niagara Wheatfield - 6:30 pm
Canisius @ St. Joe's - 7 pm
Tuesday, February 13th
East @ South Park - 6:30 pm
Niagara Catholic @ St. Mary's - 7 pm
Chautauqua Lake @ Southwestern - 7:30 pm
Maple Grove @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm
Wednesday, February 14th
Lockport @ CSAT - 6:30 pm
North Tonawanda @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm
Kenmore West @ Kenmore East - 6:30 pm
Lake Shore @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm
Canisius @ St. Francis - 6:30 pm
Jamestown @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm
Orchard Park @ Clarence - 7:30 pm
Sweet Home @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm
JFK @ Depew - 7:30 pm
Gowanda @ Ellicottville - 7:30 pm
Thursday, February 15th
Newfane @ Wilson - 6 pm
Tapestry @ Maple Grove - 6:30 pm
Niagara Falls vs Lew-Port *at Niagara Wheatfield - 8 pm
Friday, February 16th
Timon @ St. Francis - 6:30 pm
Cheektowaga @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm
Lackawanna @ Orchard Park - 7:30 pm
Saturday, February 17th
JFK @ City Honors - 11 am
Medina @ Orchard Park - 12:30 pm
* Game of the Week - Newfane @ Wilson on Thursday, February 15th
Coming off a week that featured a three-part series of 'Game of the Week' because the biggest dogs in WNY were lining up to take swings at one another, I'm looking to wrap up the regular season with a small town battle that has big implications. Insert Newfane at Wilson.
Over the years, these two have given gymnasiums packed from wall-to-wall deep in Northern Niagara County, some of the most exciting games a two-dollar ticket can offer. There have been several sold out games between the Panthers & Lakemen, and the gatherings between these two communities that are all too familiar with each other always result in creative parking spots, narrowed fire exits, and extra game supervision. It's a night the JV teams get a taste of a varsity atmosphere. It's what high school basketball is all about. It's the rivalry that spawned my love of high school basketball.
With no disrespect meant to any teams or remaining matchups this week, I'll boil down where I see the Niagara-Orleans League race heading into this game. Medina & Newfane are tied for first place with two losses apiece. Wilson has three losses and sits in second place. I think Medina wins its two remaining games and Newfane enters its final game at Wilson having kept pace with Medina and needing a win to force a tie for the league title. I don't think Wilson has a real shot at a share of the league title because I don't see Medina losing another game, but they could certainly play spoiler to Newfane! Ultimately, Thursday should be a chance for Newfane to earn a co-championship with Medina (even though its two losses came at the hands of Medina).
Newfane pounded Wilson in the first meeting this year, but I don't see the rematch as a foregone conclusion. Wilson is more than capable of beating the Panthers, just ask Medina. Both of Medina's losses came at the hands of Wilson. You can spin the first loss to the Lakemen any way you like, but Wilson's second win over the Mustangs just happened last Tuesday. Maybe a bad matchup for Medina. Or maybe Wilson is just that good when they're healthy and inspired to play. Thursday's game can't help but inspire the Lakemen to win. The Zipp Gym at Wilson is a big facility and a great place to see a game when it's packed, which it will be for this one. Wilson will have a rowdy crowd behind them, with a chance to devastate their rivals. And Medina, who the Lakemen put in this position, is sure to be there in force, passionately rooting on the Wilson squad that clipped them twice.
A long-standing rivalry game with league championship implications played in front of a full house to end the regular season. It's a light night on the overall hoops schedule in WNY, so maybe it will even draw some casual fans craving an excellent atmosphere and some passionate play on the hardwood. This game will have it, and it's a great way to conclude 'Game of the Week' for the 2018 season.
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The ninth state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
No teams ranked
Class A
Park #3
Canisius #5
West Seneca West #10
Williamsville South #15
Timon #16
Class B
Health Sciences #4
Olean #5
Middle College #20
Niagara Catholic #25
Class C
Tapestry #6
Chautauqua Lake #19
Class D
East #3
Franklinville #4
Ellicottville #9
Sherman #19
******** According to the rankings above........
- Normally this is where I get pretty nit-picky about the movement from one week to the next and how irrational some of the reactions are to wins and losses when it seems perspective was not applied. But honestly as I look over this week's rankings, there's not much to disagree with. I see the logic in just about every change from last week, based on the results. So I say well done NYSSWA.
- Niagara Falls lost its participation trophy from a week ago. Maybe it's because they lost in the rematch on their home court to St. Michael's (Toronto) on Saturday, after winning there last week. Hopefully it had nothing to do with a game against a Canadian team, eh? It's not like any of us have the first clue how to apply the exchange rate on that one.
- Park and Canisius remained #3 & #5 respectively in NYS Class A. Translation, the biggest game of the week in NYS Class A is going down on Delaware Avenue on Tuesday night at 6:30 pm.
- West Seneca West's winning ways have seen them finally climb into the top 10 in NYS Class A. The Indians' 18-game win streak remains the third longest in the state.
- Williamsville South's win over Health Sciences at the Centercourt Classic earned them some love on the state level. Finally, the Billies who have quietly put together a solid season with a couple signature wins and have taken care of business in ECIC II, get more than just a participation trophy from the state.
- Timon's loss at Park caused them to slip from #14 to #16 in NYS Class A. That's all. No major sanction from the NYSSWA for losing to the #3 team in the state, just a couple spots. I saw it, rubbed my eyes to make sure they were working properly, and took another look. Yep, #16. Again I say, well done NYSSWA.
- Equally impressive is the fact that Health Sciences remained #4 in NYS Class B, one spot ahead of #5 Olean, despite losing on the road to Williamsville South. Rather than treat the Falcons like they're actually not a super power in NYS Class B, which they are, the state rewarded South for the win and placed the Billies more appropriately.
- Middle College & Niagara Catholic each fell back two spots in NYS Class B for losses last week to large schools, which was reasonable. The Kats fell to South Park, while the Patriots lost to Canisius and at St. Francis.
- Tapestry & Chautauqua Lake each held strong in their NYS Class C rankings, retaining the #6 and #19 slots.
- Franklinville's loss to Ellicottville last week caused the Panthers to slip from #2 in NYS Class D to #4. They are now behind East, who remained at the #3 spot and was leapfrogged by Prattsburgh out of Section V. That one is interesting and probably happened because East lost at McKinley, although they did blast St. Mary's by 30 points later in the week. Can you imagine Prattsburgh rolling into Mack High to take on McKinley? I think the pressure might get to them. I don't think they'd lambaste St. Mary's either. I guess what I'm saying is East is better. They're going to win a state championship in Class D this year. Unless Franklinville does instead. Or Ellicottville. However it shakes out round these parts, we're like the Arby's 'We have the meats' commercial here in WNY, except it would go...Section VI, we have the D's! And one of them will be taking a swing at Moriah and its 36-game win streak a month from now!
- Finally, welcome Sherman to the state rankings. The Wildcats are in, #19 in NYS Class D. Remember, 'Section VI, we have the D's!
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA State Rankings
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(Sam Erickson of Franklinville drives with Elliot Bowen of Ellicottville defending. The teams split their season series in CCAA II East again this year)
Large Schools
1. Park (MMA) - Collected three more wins by way of rout last week, and two of those came against Timon & St. Mary's. We've seen the switch flipped to on before from the Pioneers, and with the way they played in the second half against Timon on Friday, there might be a padlock guarding that switch. Noah Hutchins was unstoppable and Dan Scott was the stopper. Game over. This week has Park in a pair of 'Games of the Week' featuring #1 vs. #2 (Canisius) and #1 vs. #1 (Health Sciences).
2. Canisius (MMA) - The Crusaders are coming off four wins last week, all by double figures. The week ahead is a monumental one - Park, at Aquinas, and at Timon. It'll tell us a lot.
3. Timon (MMA) - A great first half of basketball got away from the Tigers quickly over the last two quarters at Park on Friday. I'm not going to overreact to that loss because the season as a whole tells me they're going to be just fine. Games this week at St. Joe's and against Canisius await.
4. West Seneca West (A1) - The Indians needed a competitive game and got one at Williamsville North on Tuesday. They handled it by rising up to the challenge and overcoming adversity. Juston Johnson was huge in the comeback and dictated the game in the final frame, finishing with a career-high 42 points.
5. Williamsville South (A1) - It's tough to not reward a team for the type of win the Billies scored in the headliner of the Centercourt Classic over Health Sciences. They looked great and were the better team. But it's also tough to move a team like West Seneca West who is playing like a team of destiny that began in the football season and never stopped. Maybe they can settle things at some point.
6. Niagara Falls (AA) - The Wolverines last two wins over Lew-Port and North Tonawanda came by a combined 13 points and included an overtime session on Friday night in the Lumberyard. Then they lost a rematch to St. Michael's (Toronto) after beating them in loonie land last week. They have Ken West and Lockport left on their schedule, both coming up this week. Then it's playoffs. Time to turn up Falls.
7. Lockport (AA) - The only local team to beat the Lions in their last 15 games is Niagara Falls. The rematch is Saturday at Falls. Lockport already has a pair of wins over North Tonawanda, who just took Falls to overtime. Stay tuned.
8. St. Francis (MMA) - Put together a strong defensive effort against Niagara Catholic to overcome a halftime deficit last week, before falling to Canisius in the game that followed. They get Nichols and St. Joe's at home this week.
9. North Tonawanda (A1) - By all accounts, the Jacks nearly pulled out one of the best games played this season in an overtime loss to Niagara Falls on Friday night. The defending champs from Class A1 are not a team that West Seneca West or Will South should be in any hurry to face.
10. South Park (A2) - Just like last year? Maybe so. Winners of four straight since losing to McKinley, with a big win in the rematch. They also took it to Middle College. The defending Yale Cup champs are not out of the city race and are coming together at just the right time with a wide open Class A2 sectional chase coming up in a couple weeks.
Small Schools
1. Health Sciences (B2) - Davonte Gaines turned in his third quadruple-double performance of the season in a win over Maritime last week. The Falcons have an important game in the Charter Cup on Monday night against Tapestry, looking to ensure the Thunderhawks don't earn a share. Then on Thursday night, they'll run with the big dogs from Park, before a game against East high on Saturday. Big week!
2. Olean (B1) - I got a text from a former coach about the Huskies this week that said "They're never down!" My replay, verbatim, was "They are the definition of a program. Model of consistency. Super impressive." In a year when it looked like Dunkirk might challenge for the CCAA I West title, Olean wins the series by a combined 43 points. Defense wins championships. So does Olean.
3. East (D) - The boys from East clobbered St. Mary's in the Centercourt Classic behind another double-double from Justin Allen and 36 points out of Willard Anderson. If they win out, they win the Yale Cup. Easier said than done with Middle College on Tuesday, Burgard on Thursday, and South Park next week. And then there's a nonleague game that should hold some interest in the City of Buffalo - versus Health Sciences on Saturday.
4. Middle College (B2) - Another team that can win the Yale Cup if they win out, and the Kats have an easier road with games against Hutch-Tech and Emerson left. The problem is, they draw East first on Tuesday night, who took the first round by 23 points. Another nonleague game coming up on Saturday that should be a good one has them playing Tapestry.
5. Franklinville (D) - The Panthers rebounded from a difficult one-point road loss at Ellicottville, by lighting up Medina in the Centercourt Classic to the tune of 13 treys. They also defended very well in that win and got an MVP performance out of Sam Erickson in the process.
6. Niagara Catholic (MMA) - Finished up the MMA large school tour by scoring an exciting win over St. Joe's. Now the Patriots will look to secure the top seed for the Manhattan Cup playoffs in Class B, beginning with games this week against O'Hara and at Nichols.
7. Cardinal O'Hara (MMA) - The Hawks look to bounce back from losses to Timon and Canisius on Monday night against St. Joe's. Then, it's on to Niagara Catholic. A pair of wins over St. Mary's this season has O'Hara in a good spot heading into this week, but they need wins in the next two games to keep inch ahead of Niagara Catholic in the standings. They also travel to Lancaster on Saturday.
8. St. Mary's (MMA) - Not a good look for the Lancers on Saturday at the Centercourt Classic. Having Eric Brown and Frank Propis out doesn't help, but that's hardly an excuse for their showing. I don't do this often, but I have to call St. Mary's out for Saturday. They quit. It might be because East broke their spirit, but c'mon now. An impressive resume of wins keeps them here this week, but in seven days from now, it'll be what have you done for me lately.
9. Tapestry (C) - They could put themselves in position to share the Charter Cup with a win on Monday night. Their opponent - Health Sciences coming off a loss at South, which is an order taller than Ticket.
10. Ellicottville (D) - A big win over Franklinville on Tuesday was followed by a loss to Newfane on Saturday at the Centercourt Classic. Up & down, so I met them in the middle and returned them to the same spot as last week. The reason I didn't replace them with Newfane, who just beat them, is because of body of work. The Eagles win over Franklinville deserves respect and the Panthers responded to that loss by cruising past Medina, who won by eight at Newfane. The Eagles also have two double figure wins over Randolph and one over Chautauqua Lake. Newfane is at Medina on Friday night for the rematch. Let's wait for that result and meet back here next week. Lackawanna might be listening in on that conversation. Burgard will have an ear out also.
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The eighth state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
(Niagara Falls 30)
Class A
Park #3
Canisius #5
West Seneca West #12
Timon #14
(Williamsville South #26)
Class B
Health Sciences #4
Olean #5
Middle College #18
Niagara Catholic #23
Class C
Tapestry #6
Chautauqua Lake #19
Class D
Franklinville #2
East #3
Ellicottville #8
******** According to the rankings above........
- Niagara Falls finally got its participation trophy. They are now #30 in the NYS top 25 of Class AA. That's right, not really ranked, just listed in the late edition expansion rankings that the state adds when too many teams (more than 25) deserve that coveted "shout out". Although in my experience, that's not who Falls is anyway. They don't need a bunch of love, just another title in Class AA with a shot at Rochester in the end. Besides they have bigger things to worry about than state participation trophies anyway...like starting stronger so they aren't trailing Lew-Port at halftime.
- Ok, let's get right to Timon. Either the state rankings crew were straight blown away by Timon's win over Frannies, or I finally got through. They jumped eight spors in NYS Class A from #22 to #14 with their only activity last week being the St. Francis win. It's fine, we'll call it progress. Or perhaps a very indirect way of saying, "yeah, we screwed up on Timon and saw how you kept raking us over the coals for it." Like I said, progress. Good enough for now, I guess. They deserve to ahead of Irondequoit, both on the strength of being crowned in the Rush-Henrietta Tournament both teams were in and the win over Park, which trumps any wins the Eagles can boast.
- Timon's opponent on Friday night is Park, now #3 in NYS Class A. Pay close attention to how that one is handled next week. When the Tigers beat Park in round one, they basically "so what" from the state rankings crew. Would a second win get the same treatment? I don't know, but I bet a loss gets the Tigers dragged straight to the guillotine.
- West Seneca West remained at #12 in NYS Class A, while Williamsville South received another participation trophy. The inscription on the gold plate reads "you're special.'
- Health Sciences and Olean remain #4 & #5 in NYS Class B. The Class B1/B2 crossover game is at 6 pm on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 at Buff State, just in case you were wondering.
- St. Mary's loss at Cardinal O'Hara was reason enough for the rankings to drop the Lancers altogether, despite the win at St. Francis two days earlier. Niagara Catholic, who St. Mary's and St. Francis have beat, is back in at #23 in NYS Class B after placing their shiny participation trophy (#27 last week) in the trophy case in the halls of NC.
- Tapestry remains at #6 in NYS Class C, looking up at a pair of teams from Section V ranked ahead of them - Northstar Christian & Pembroke. Those are two teams that play very different styles, but either will be tough get past in the Far West Regional.
- As the rankings currently stand in Class D, a Franklinville vs. East Class D Final would determine which team draws defending state champion Moriah in the NYSPHAA state tournament. Section V thinks I'm off my rocker to look past Prattsburgh or Clyde-Savanah and assume we send our Class D champ to the state final four, but I turn to a quote or lyrics from Rage Against the Machine - no matter how hard you try, you can't stop us now! By the way, Franklinville, East and Ellicottville - three teams in the top eight in NYS Class D - are all in the Centercourt Classic. Don't forget to check that out on Saturday!
Click HERE to see the complete NYSSWA State Rankings
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Reason #9 - 280 Twitter characters can't do it justice
- Twitter is a great way to stay informed, but nothing beats the real thing. You won't have to rely on my tweets for updates. Instead of scrolling through my timeline for scores or pulling out your phone after every notification, watch it all unfold live. Don't be surprised by the halftime point totals. See that #BOOM for yourself.
Dolan has put together a four-career at Williamsville South will have him mentioned among the very best to ever take the court in WNY. As a freshman he led the Billies to the Far West Regional in Class A. He was a First Team All-Centercourt selection as a sophomore after advancing South to Glens Falls. Last season, his Billies spent time as the #1 ranked team in the area. This year, he's been downright filthy with the things he does on the court and the numbers that accompany those performances, like 29.5 ppg and a season-high 47. Once again, he has his team piling up wins and regarded among the best teams in this area.
Gaines is in his third varsity season at Health Sciences and his accolades there during that span are eye-popping. As a sophomore, I remember watching 'The Ticket' & the Falcons play at Park, and it was glaringly obvious he was a future big time player that night, watching him shine against a bevy of talent on that Pioneers' team that included Jordan Nwora & Noah Hutchins. After a junior season that saw Gaines take his game to another level, he took his team to the next level as well. Health Sciences, just as South did the year prior, advanced to the state final four. Then came the offseason and the offer he was waiting for, which he accepted - Tennessee! His senior year has already produced the best numbers all the way around - a pair of quadruple-doubles and a WNY game season-high 52 points.
2018 Centercourt Classic at Williamsville South HS
Medina vs. Franklinville - 12 pm
Newfane vs. Ellicottville - 2 pm
St. Mary's vs. East - 4 pm
Williamsville South vs. Health Sciences - 6 pm
(Juston Johnson and the Indians are the lone remaining team in WNY without a loss)
Large Schools
1. Park (MMA) - Enjoyed their first week at #1 and capped it off with a 90-60 win over Niagara Catholic. Following a trip to St. Mary's on Wednesday, the Pioneers will look to avenge their only local loss on Friday when they host Timon.
2. Canisius (MMA) - After their fall from the number one ranking, Canisius got out of St. Mary's with a 12-point win and then pulled out a victory in Rochester against Bishop Kearney.
3. Timon (MMA) - The Tigers need to stay sharp in a couple potential trap games with St. Mary's & O'Hara that proceed their trip to Park on Friday for the rematch. They were definitely ready for St. Francis on Friday afternoon.
4. West Seneca West (A1) - The Indians broke a school record for most points scored in a game, only to break their own record again in the following game. A total of 207 points were scored in their last two games against competition in Classes AA & A1. They also now have the third longest win streak in the state at 16 games. And yet the pollsters seem to want to poke the bear!
5. Williamsville South (A1) - For this season, the Billies can safely lay full claim to ownership of Main Street after another handling of Amherst. Now they set their sights on the 'Game of the Week' against Health Sciences in the Centercourt Classic, which will be their biggest test since a loss to Chaminade from Long Island.
6. Niagara Falls (AA) - The Wolverines played three in a row last week and won three in a row. That included trips to Toronto & Rochester, built around a 107 point outburst in a win over Niagara Wheatfield. Friday night is the rematch with North Tonawanda at the Lumberyard.
7. St. Francis (MMA) - Tough week for the Red Raiders last week with road losses at St. Mary's and Timon. It doesn't get any easier with the two opponents ahead, Niagara Catholic and Canisius. Monday night's game at home with the Patriots feels like a must win because heading into a game at Canisius on a three-game skid is an unenviable position.
8. Lockport (AA) - The Lions have come a long way from where the season started for them and added two more wins to the column last week over Amherst and North Tonawanda.
9. Williamsville North (AA) - Spartans coach Chuck Swierski earned his 200th career victory on Friday night in the team's fifth straight win. They hope to make it six straight and 201 on Tuesday when they host West Seneca West in ECIC I.
10. North Tonawanda (A1) - The Jacks seven-game win streak ended in Lockport last week. They'll try to get another one started and if they do, it'll be impressive with Falls coming in on Friday night.
Small Schools
1. Health Sciences (B2) - The Falcons have been rolling teams heading into the stretch run of the season. The back end of their schedule is loaded, beginning with a showcase of future Division I players in Saturday's 'Game of the Week' at Williamsville South.
2. Olean (B1) - The last two wins for the Huskies have come against Maryvale and Williamsville East, good for a nine-game win streak which improved the team to 13-1. They visit Dunkirk on Friday night and could all but wrap up another league title with a win there.
3. East (D) - After dropping three of four heading into the New Year, the Panthers are 5-0 since the calendar flipped and gaining momentum. They need a win at McKinley on Tuesday night, who beat them by three in December, to stay in first place in Yale Cup I. On Saturday, the Panthers face St. Mary's in the Centercourt Classic.
4. Middle College (B2) - Watched the Kats get out to a big lead on McKinley early on Friday and never relinquish it. That win keeps them in a tie with East at the top of the Yale Cup. Tuesday they draw the defending champs from South Park and the Sparks are looking to play spoiler.
5. Franklinville (D) - Avenged one of their two losses on the season by beating Burgard last week. The Panther have a rematch against Ellicottville on Tuesday that will decide how CCAA II East is won and then head north on Saturday afternoon to take on Medina in the Centercourt Classic.
6. Niagara Catholic (MMA) - How good is Park to beat these guys by 30? The Patriots are in the heart of their MMA schedule right now, having just faced Timon & Park, while looking ahead to games at St. Francis and against Canisius & St. Joe's this week. No nights off is what you sign up for in the MMA.
7. Cardinal O'Hara (MMA) - Speaking of no nights off, the Hawks just won three in a row last week against MMA competition. Now they'll try to keep it going at Timon on on Wednesday and at Canisius on Saturday.
8. St. Mary's (MMA) - The Lancers gutted out a great win on Wednesday night over visiting St. Francis, but the victory came with a high premium. Regular starters Eric Brown and Brady O'Brien were both knocked out of action that night and a 25-point loss at O'Hara followed with the team still missing Brown. Not the best time to be banged up with games coming up against Timon, Park, and East.
9. Tapestry (C) - Two impressive wins for the Thunderhawks happened last week, as they handled their business against Maritime, followed by a 12-point road win at Randolph.
10. Ellicottville (D) - The Eagles also won at Randolph this season by 11 points and also boast a 17-point win over Chautauqua Lake. They'd like nothing more than to add to their collection of impressive victories this week, hosting Franklinville for the league hardware on Tuesday night and a nonleague date with Class B Newfane in the Centercourt Classic at Williamsville South on Saturday afternoon.
-centercourt
(Health Sciences' game at South on Saturday will be the hottest 'Ticket' in town)
Monday, January 29th
Medina @ CSAT - 6 pm
Niagara Catholic @ St. Francis - 6:30 pm
Tuesday, January 30th
Iroquois @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm
East @ McKinley - 6:30 pm
South Park @ Middle College - 6:30 pm
Franklinville @ Ellicottville - 7:30 pm
West Seneca West @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm
Jamestown @ Clarence - 7:30 pm
Amherst @ Williamsville East - 7:30 pm
Allegany-Limestone @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm
Wednesday, January 31st
Cardinal O'Hara @ Timon - 6:30 pm
Canisius @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm
Thursday, February 1st
Lancaster @ Clarence - 6 pm
Newfane @ I-Prep - 6:30 pm
Lackawanna @ Depew - 7:30 pm
Friday, February 2nd
Timon @ Park - 6:30 pm
Amherst @ Sweet Home - 6:30 pm
North Tonawanda @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm
McKinley @ South Park - 6:30 pm
City Honors - Riverside - 6:30 pm
St. Francis @ Canisius - 7 pm
Olean @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm
Iroquois @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm
Fredonia @ Chautauqua Lake - 7:30 pm
Gowanda @ Allegany-Limestone - 7:30 pm
Saturday, February 3rd
Centercourt Classic at Williamsville South HS
Medina vs. Franklinville - 12 pm
Newfane vs. Ellicottville - 2 pm
St. Mary's vs. East - 4 pm
Williamsville South vs. Health Sciences - 6 pm
* Game of the Week - Health Sciences @ Williamsville South on Saturday, February 3rd
For several years, I considered trying to arrange an event similar to the ones that fill up the calendar in December, but I wanted the concept to be a little different. Nothing ground breaking, just a lineup of games with matchups that were intriguing for different reasons. Well, heading into Saturday's Centercourt Classic, I love the four games that are being played, but the event's headliner is downright special.
Health Sciences against Williamsville South. Davonte Gaines against Greg Dolan. I could stop right there and say 'See you Saturday'.
Dolan has put together a four-career at Williamsville South will have him mentioned among the very best to ever take the court in WNY. As a freshman he led the Billies to the Far West Regional in Class A. He was a First Team All-Centercourt selection as a sophomore after advancing South to Glens Falls. Last season, his Billies spent time as the #1 ranked team in the area. This year, he's been downright filthy with the things he does on the court and the numbers that accompany those performances, like 29.5 ppg and a season-high 47. Once again, he has his team piling up wins and regarded among the best teams in this area.
Gaines is in his third varsity season at Health Sciences and his accolades there during that span are eye-popping. As a sophomore, I remember watching 'The Ticket' & the Falcons play at Park, and it was glaringly obvious he was a future big time player that night, watching him shine against a bevy of talent on that Pioneers' team that included Jordan Nwora & Noah Hutchins. After a junior season that saw Gaines take his game to another level, he took his team to the next level as well. Health Sciences, just as South did the year prior, advanced to the state final four. Then came the offseason and the offer he was waiting for, which he accepted - Tennessee! His senior year has already produced the best numbers all the way around - a pair of quadruple-doubles and a WNY game season-high 52 points.
The Billies & Falcons are two teams that can really defend and their points allowed per game combined is under 100, but they can fill it up too. Both teams are very comfortable playing fast and that's exactly what I think we're going to see. Fast in a good basketball kind of way, not out of control. One thing I'm very confident predicting about this game is entertainment. Look for some fun in the open court and a high scoring affair. If you've never watched Dolan or Gaines, this is your chance...and you're in for a treat.
See you on Saturday for a great afternoon of basketball during the Centercourt Classic at Williamsville South High School. I would come as early as possible to get a seat and enjoy all four games. You will not want be on the outside during this special presentation of 'The Game of the Week' !
-centercourt
The seventh state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
No teams ranked
Class A
Park #5
Canisius #6
West Seneca West #12
Timon #22
(Williamsville South #28)
Class B
Health Sciences #4
Olean #5
St. Mary's #15
Middle College #19
(Niagara Catholic #27)
Class C
Tapestry #6
Chautauqua Lake #20
Class D
Franklinville #3
East #4
Ellicottville #8
******** According to the rankings above........
- The Class AA saga rolls on for the entire Far West Region. However, Rome Free Academy, who has wins over Niagara Falls and St. Francis, has cracked the rankings at #25. So there's hope. The loss to RFA for Falls was the game that got them dropped.
- There's a new #1 in NYS Class A and it's not Park, who knocked off the former #1 Canisius this week. Park is now #5, while the Crusaders fell five spots to #6.
- Here's where it gets really interesting...When Timon defeated Park, they were #25 in NYS Class A and Park was #4. That win got Timon moved up two places to #23. They are currently #22 this week. So over in Section V last week, Pittsford Sutherland (#10 in NYS Class A at the time) losses to unranked Pittsford Mendon. So how do they handle a win over #10 when you're unranked? Well you come crashing into the rankings at #15 of course. That's right, previously unranked Mendon is now #15 for beating #10, while Timon who was #25 when they beat #4 only got to #23 for the win and still sits at #22. So Mendon jumped in over Timon. Are you freaking kidding me? Outrageous! Or uninformed? Or lazy? Or biased? It's one of those. Or a combination of those. There's only one logical explanation for this - we screwed up. Usually there's an attempt at a comedic undertone when I do this. I'm not trying to be funny today. This deserves an explanation! Otherwise, we should safely assume it's all about who you know - politics.
One last recap in case this gets confusing:
Since then, Timon has not lost, while Park has since knocked off #1 Canisius. Timon is currently #22
Unranked Pittsford Mendon beats #10 Pittsford Sutherland. That takes them to ---> #15 ???
** Neil Kerr, who compiles these state rankings, welcomes your feedback: [email protected]
- Williamsville South earned the equivalent of a participation trophy this week when the state rankings suddenly expanded the rankings to include 30 teams in Class A. The Billies are #28. You mean they could've been ranked all this time, possibly sitting at #30 last week. Or #33 the week prior, should you ever take it up to 35 spots? There's only even 20 teams ranked in Class C.
- Health Sciences falls from #2 in NYS Class B to #4 because they lost to an out-of-the-area team that the panel knows nothing about. The same thing happened to Mount Vernon last week, but they hung on to the top ranking in the whole state, #1 in NYS Class AA. Reports suggest Neil got a hoodie out of that deal, an upgrade from last year's tee shirt.
- Olean is now just one spot behind the Falcons, at #5 in NYS Class B. Those two should play each other this year.
- Niagara Catholic is another interesting case this week, but it should quickly become clear what's going on - it's the Timon Bias! After earning a big road win at O'Hara - the team who won at NYS Class B #15 St. Mary's, Niagara Catholic lost to Timon. The Patriots dropped from #24 in NYS Class B to #27 - another participation trophy. So rather than reward the O'Hara win and have perspective on the Timon loss, they apply the Timon Bias. Timon is a nobody in the state's eyes and a loss to them is a punishable offense.
- Chautauqua Lake hangs on to a state ranking in Class C, coming in at #20 this week after losing both its games last week. The Thunderbirds are now 8-5. Yet Silver Creek sees its 11-game win streak end to Class B Gowanda and slips to 11-2 on the season and falls out completely.
- We finally have the highest ranked teams in the Far West Region, as Franklinville and East both passed Prattsburgh of Section V who lost last week. Good. It's about time. Section VI is winning the Class D regional this year.
Click HERE for the complete NYSSWA State Rankings
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(John Orogun & Park reject the notion that any other teams deserves the #1 ranking/Photo: Larry Scheur)
Large Schools
1. Park (MMA) - To be the best, you have to beat the best. Or beat the team the pollsters have been ranking as the best. Well, the Pioneers did that and then some. In fact, they did so in dominant fashion for most of the game in their win over Canisius. Park led by as many as 18 points and were up by double figures for the majority of the game. Of the teams we're comparing Park to in this poll, only Timon has clipped them - by one point at home. I gave that game respect when it happened and I have to give Park its due now, they earned it.
The sixth state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
No teams ranked
Class A
Canisius #1
Park #11
West Seneca West #13
Timon #23
Class B
Health Sciences #2
Olean #8
St. Mary's #16
Middle College #23
Niagara Catholic #24
Class C
Tapestry #8
Chautauqua Lake #14
Silver Creek 19
Class D
Franklinville #4
East #5
Ellicottville #10
******** According to the rankings above........
- Same story again in Class AA this week, we got nothing. Neither does Section V. In fact, of the 25 teams ranked in NYS Class AA, only 10 teams play in the NYSPHAA. After seeing the talent from the PSAL, CHSAA, and AIS that arrives at the Federation Tournament each year, they might be on to something there.
- Canisius stays at the top of NYS Class A for another week.
- Timon climbed ALL THE WAY UP to #23 in NYS Class A for beating Park, who was ranked #4. That's quite the jump - two whole spots. Park is still way ahead of them in the state rankings at #11, although they were punished seven spots for the loss. Other teams ahead of Timon include Irondequoit (#9), Pittsford Sutherland (#10), Greece Athena (#12), West Seneca West (#13), and Leadership Academy (#14). Ready for the lengthy list of wins over state-ranked teams all of those teams have? I count two. Pittsford Sutherland beat Greece Athena AND Leadership beat East, our East ranked in Class D. That's it. A reminder that Timon beat Park, ranked #4 in Class A at the time, along with beating Rush-Henrietta who was ranked in Class AA at the time and had just defeated Irondequoit the night prior. They don't like you Timon. They think your wins are either lucky or easily explained away.
- Williamsville South also remains unranked. They were ranked until losing at Chaminade (#5 in NYS Class A) in Long Island.
- Health Sciences is now just one spot away from being the top-ranked team in NYS Class B following its win at Tapestry last week.
- St. Mary's fell five spots for losing at home to unranked Cardinal O'Hara. I think they got off easy for that one.
- Middle College also fell five spots in NYS Class B for getting rolled by East last week.
- Niagara Catholic moved up one place to #24 in NYS Class B. They also expanded Class B and only Class B to now include 30 teams instead of 25. That is a move to me that's lamer than a lame duck in heat. Maybe we should let three teams play for the NFC Championship because the Saints should have made that tackle and had a good season.
- Tapestry actually went down one spot to #8 in NYS Class C for its loss to Health Sciences, now #2 in a higher class. Why? You could have sooner made the argument for moving them up after playing a competitive game they led at halftime. Sigh.
- Chautauqua Lake moved up three spots to #14 in NYS Class C.
- Silver Creek finally cracked the top 20 in NYS Class C, debuting at #19 after winning its 10th straight game.
- East did not move up in NYS Class D. Even though they beat Burgard by 42 points, who beat the team one spot ahead of them (Franklinville). East also did not move up, even one spot, in Class D for beating Middle College by 23 points.
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA state rankings
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(Master Radford and Timon had the win of the week over Park)
Large Schools
10. Williamsville North (AA) - Picked up a win over Lancaster last week before Friday's game at Jamestown was delayed. This week they host Kenmore West, a team they always seem to draw in the Class AA sectionals. However, this year the Blue Devils are in Class A1, so the Spartans brought them in for a nonleague tilt.
(Franklinville's Isaac Kopp let's a 3-pointer fly)
The fifth state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
No teams ranked
Class A
Canisius #1
Park #4
West Seneca West #15
Timon #25
Class B
Health Sciences #3
Olean #9
St. Mary's #11
Middle College #18
Niagara Catholic #25
Class C
Tapestry #7
Chautauqua Lake #17
Class D
Franklinville #4
East #5
Ellicottville #7
******** According to the rankings above........
- For a second consecutive week, there's not a top 25 team from Buffalo or Rochester in NYS Class AA. I blame the Romans and their Free Academy.
- Canisius is #1 in NYS Class A once again this week, while Park jumped up from #10 to #4. Less than two weeks until they square off at The Park School for Round One (Saturday, January 20th). Chaminade, who defeated Williamsville South over break, is #2 in NYS Class A.
- West Seneca West crept up two more spots to #15 in NYS Class A. However, the Indians still have three teams from Section V ranked ahead of them. None have played as many games and two have more losses than undefeated WSW. Just when I thought it was all about the record...
- Timon fell from #19 to #25 in NYS Class A for a double figure loss at Canisius. The moral of the story is, win a big tournament in Rochester and the reward is minuscule. Lose to NYS Class A #1 on the road and the punishment is severe.
- Health Sciences is once again #3 in NYS Class B this week, with two NYSPHAA schools ahead of them. Hey panel - have you seen these Falcons play yet? The same ones that took Canisius to the end and beat Frannies on the road? If there's two NYSPHAA schools from Class B better than The Health, I'll start watching from the baseline.
- St. Mary's moved up one spot to #11 in NYS Class B for winning at Niagara Catholic, but the Patriots dropped four spots to #25 for the loss.
- Speaking of Niagara Catholic, they are "tied" for #25 with Center Moriches. That's right, tied. Even Tee-ball thinks that's whack! If Center Moriches played Niagara Catholic, they'd leave Center Morindebt.
- Tapestry is #7 in NYS Class C, while Chautauqua Lake is #17. More notable is there are two teams ahead of those two in the rankings from Section V. Maybe Northstar Christian, but Pembroke deserves a spot ahead of Tapestry? They are 9-0, but ask West Seneca West where that gets you.
- Section VI still has three teams (Franklinville, East, & Ellicottville) in the top seven of NYS Class D, but Section V still has one team ranked ahead of them all. We shall see, but I like our chances just fine in Class D this year.
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA state rankings
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(Trevor Book & the Jacks won the Bob Hettler Jolly Boys Tournament at Amherst)
Large Schools
10. Williamsville North (AA) - This was a tough spot to fill, mainly because there's a debate surrounding several teams in contention for the last place in the large schools. The Spartans won at Sweet Home on Saturday, which was one of the teams I was considering. Another was Clarence, who did just defeat North, but that came on the heels of five losses in six games, so the body of work just wasn't there. Then there was Jamestown, but they lack that one signature win. However, the Red Raiders host North on Friday night and that should help settle some of this debate.
(Buffalo State Sports Arena during Championship Week /Photo: Harry Scull,Buffalo News)
The second state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
No teams ranked
Class A
Canisius #2
Park #7
West Seneca West #20
Class B
Health Sciences #7
Olean #8
St. Mary's #17
Niagara Catholic #20
Class C
Tapestry #4
Chautauqua Lake #7
Class D
Franklinville #4
East #5
Ellicottville #7
******** According to the rankings above........
- Niagara Falls is still not one of the 25 best teams in NYS Class AA. Well, I certainly disagree! Meanwhile, Fairport has climbed up to the #14 spot, after debuting at #17 last week. Eventually, when Falls piles up a bunch of wins, they will be added. However, that simply makes these rankings way late to the party. The other way they will get in, and this one is my favorite, when the number of teams magically jumps to 30 instead of 25. Nothing like watering down the process. I mean, why not make it a top 50 so we can include those teams that hustle and try hard...everyone deserves a shoutout, right? Anyway, before this rant gets completely out of hand, JUST RANK FALLS ALREADY!!! It'll only make these rankings look informed once the season plays out. Trust me.
- The state is taking notice of West Seneca West, just like WNY is. The Indians moved up four spots in NYS Class A from #24 to #20.
- Williamsville South's home loss to St. Francis caused the Billies to drop from the state rankings in Class A for the first time since the 2015 season.
- The place to be in WNY on Tuesday night is 1180 Delaware Avenue. That's where Canisius, the highest ranked CHSAA team in the state and #2 overall in Class A, will host the defending NYSPHAA Class A state champions from Irondequoit, who will come into the game as the highest ranked public school in NYS Class A (#9 overall).
- We have reached the 'put some thought into this or you might as well have a hamster spin his wheel to determine these rankings' portion! Health Sciences was #3 in NYS Class B last week. But, they lost to Canisius in a game they briefly led in the fourth quarter. So the powers that be drop them to #7? Seriously, try hamsters running on a wheel...how much more ludicrous could things turn out if you did? I'm done, can't even keep going on this one because my blood pressure is rising. More nonsense to come in Class D...
- St. Mary's is a top 25 team in NYS Class B because they played a game. Unranked last week, apparently because they hadn't played yet, but now #17. They deserve to be ranked for sure, but they did last week as well. Something tells me if good old Mount Vernon was 0-0 and coming off sectional title with the vast majority of its talent returning, they'd have been ranked. After all, Neil Kerr does wear that Mount Vernon shirt.
- Middle College is not worthy of a state ranking in NYS Class B. Hahahahahaha!!! Let me guess, they have too many losses? Not allowed to lose at Park? UPrep & Bishop Kearney were bad losses? Niagara Catholic, who lost to Franklinville and who's best win looks to be Clarence, moved up to #19, but Middle College's wins over McKinley, South Park, Cardinal O'Hara, and Burgard didn't sway the panel? Give me a big fat break! Stop worshiping records, because they don't mean a damn thing unless you put them into context. Ughhh, there goes my blood pressure again! Just a reminder for the panel, you had Middle College way low two years ago when they won their second Class C state title by 40 points because you didn't like the record.
- Speaking of Middle College, they host NYS Class C #1 Northstar Christian on Thursday night if anyone is interested.
- Tapestry and Chautauqua Lake flipped spots in NYS Class C from last week. I can almost here Neil saying "we'll just flip 'em". By the way, they are the Thunderhawks and Thunderbirds respectively. Does anyone that doesn't attend one of those schools know which is which?
- OK, we will end with one last round of 'put some thought into this or you might as well have a hamster spin his wheel to determine these rankings'. In NYS Class D, Franklinville dropped from #2 to #4 because they lost on the road, by one point, to Burgard. Now, Clyde Savannah is ranked ahead of them. So because Franklinville lost that game, Clyde Savannah is better? Didn't Maple Grove teach us anything about Class D rankings after the football regional? Where are those hamsters?
Click HERE for the complete NYSSWA State Rankings
-centercourt
The first state rankings for the 2018 the season have been released by the NYSSWA. Below are the WNY teams that made the cut:
Class AA
No teams ranked
Class A
Canisius #2
Park #8
Williamsville South #18
West Seneca West #24
Class B
Health Sciences #3
Olean #9
Niagara Catholic #19
Class C
Chautauqua Lake #4
Tapestry #7
Class D
Franklinville #2
East #5
Ellicottville #7
******** According to the rankings above........
- That senior laden Fairport team that completely drubbed Niagara Falls by 30 points in the Class AA regional last season either had an awesome bench that didn't see much time or an undefeated JV team that moved up. They are the only team ranked (#17) from the Far West Region (Sections V & VI). I guess we will see, but I'll be surprised if Fairport shows up in March at Buff State for the regional and even more surprised if Falls doesn't beat them.
- Canisius' #2 ranking in NYS Class A would have them losing in the Federation championship to the PSAL team ranked ahead of them.
- There are six public schools ranked ahead of Williamsville South in Class A and nine publics ranked ahead of West Seneca West
- Health Sciences plays Westhill for a state title in Class B
- Olean loses its first game at Buff State to a team in Class B since the year 2000. Out of sight, out of mind?
- Niagara Catholic plays for a CHSAA state title in Class B, starting five underclassmen
- Chautauqua Lake draws Northstar Christian (yes a private school in Class C) in the regional again this season, with the same result - a private school advancing in the into the final four of the public state tournament in Class C. Please Northstar fans, spare me your enrollment numbers that "justify" it, or I'll mail you a yearbook from Walsh - a private school that competes in Class B, like all our small private schools do
- Franklinville returns to the state final four and wins its first game, before a loss in the final to defending champion Moriah
Click HERE for complete NYSSWA state rankings
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(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.
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*
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.
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)
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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
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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
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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
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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,
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
(Ellicottville junior Elliot Bowen is now a two-time First Team All-State selection)
Class B
First Team: Tavien Kemp (Walsh) & Davonte Gaines (Health Sciences)
Third Team: Tyron Lott (Health Sciences)
Fifth Team: Nick Montgomery (East Aurora)
Sixth Team: Jalin Cooper (Medina)
Eleventh Team: Max Weber (Newfane)
Thirteenth Team: Chad Biersbach (Depew) & Christian Szablewski (St. Mary's)
Honorable Mention: Justin Hemphill (Cardinal O'Hara), Will Johnson (Nichols), Nate Brawdy (Gowanda), Darnell Butts (Dunkirk), Mason Goodridge (Springville)
Class C
First Team: Devin Pope (Chautauqua Lake) & Willard Anderson (East)
Second Team: Nate Luckman (Barker)
Third Team: Tyler Hind (Randolph) & Cordell O'Brien (Frewsburg)
Sixth Team: Aaron Swan (Chautauqua Lake)
Eighth Team: Justin Allen ( East)
Honorable Mention: Jarrett Lecceadone (Randolph), Jake Beaver (Randolph), Shakur Bridges (Oracle Charter), Zach Hemphill (Allegany-Limestone)
Class D
First Team: Elliot Bowen (Ellicottville)
Second Team: Sam Erickson (Franklinville)
Third Team: Chris Robson (Sherman)
Sixth Team: Dylan Chase (Pine Valley)
Seventh Team: Isaac Kopp (Franklinville)
Eighth Team: Griffin Chudy (Ellicottville)
Honorable Mention: Darren Clark (Franklinville), Austin Grinols (Ellicottville)
To view the complete All-State Teams for Classes B, C, & D - Click HERE
- centercourt
First Team All-Centercourt
Dom Welch - Cheektowaga, Senior
30.4 PPG / 12.2 RPG / 3.7 APG / 3.0 BPG / 2.0 SPG
The CC MVP and a First Team All-Centercourt selection for a second consecutive season. The first four-time All-Centercourt selection. Brought a skill set to WNY high school basketball that was unmatched. Superior talent with supreme athleticism that could do anything on the court. Unselfish player that regularly enabled scoring opportunities for his teammates. A one-man fast break starter and a nightmare for opposing defenses in transition. Became a polished shooter from the perimeter with deep range and the rare ability to shoot over defenders. Led Cheektowaga to its first league title since 1963 and back to Buff State in Class A2. Voted Player of the Year in All-ECIC, along with the same honor in ECIC III. Selected to the Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team. Named Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic. A starter on the Centercourt #BOOM Squad for a record third straight season. Dropped a career-high 51 points in a win over Depew. Scored over 40 points in six games, including an epic 45-point performance in the Class A2 semifinal to break Ritchie Campbell's WNY scoring record. Went over 30 points nine times and over 20 points in 20 games. Averaged a double-double on the year in points & rebounds and also earned one triple-double. Finished his career as the all-time scoring leader in WNY with 2,376 points, along with an astonishing 1,200 rebounds, 287 blocks, 242 assists, and 166 steals. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Junior
23.0 PPG / 8.9 RPG / 4.3 APG / 3.8 SPG / 1.0 BPG
A First Team All-Centercourt selection for a second consecutive season. Superior defensive footwork always keeps him in great position. Penetrates with ease and finishes strong at the basket. Excellent on the boards at both ends of the floor. Was the leader of a group that spent time as WNY's top ranked team with four new starters. Led his team in all five statistical categories listed above. The best guard in WNY for a second straight year. For a third season in a row, led the Billies to a league title in ECIC II and back to the Class A1 Final. Voted First Team All-ECIC and earned Player of the Year in ECIC II for a second consecutive year. Selected to the Section VI Class A1 All-Tournament Team. Named Game MVP at the RAP Showcase following a win over UPrep. Scored a career-high 32 points in a win at Cheektowaga and went over 30 points in two games. Scored over 20 points in 19 games. Hauled in 18 rebounds in a win over Williamsville East. Became the school's all-time leader in steals (245) as a junior. First Team All-Centercourt Defender. Has multiple Division I offers. Career 1,000 point scorer.
James Rojas - Jamestown, Senior
27.1 PPG / 11.0 RPG / 3.5 APG / 2.6 SPG / 2.5 BPG
Davion Warren - Timon, Senior
22.0 PPG / 14.0 RPG / 3.0 APG / 2.0 SPG / 1.0 BPG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. Went from a standout performer to a dominant player for the Tigers. Improved his 3-point shooting and ball handling to become an elite inside/outside threat, making him a matchup nightmare. A relentless rebounder that collected more boards than any other player in WNY. Brought endless energy at both ends of the court and played with an edge. Led Timon to a Mosignor Martin Association regular season title. Scored a career-high 31 points in a win over Walsh. Scored over 20 points in 14 games. Hauled in a career-high 27 rebounds in a win against Canisius. Had over 20 rebounds in five games. Recorded two triple-doubles on the season, while piling up 15 double-doubles. Averaged a double-double in points & rebounds on the year. Scored the game-winning basket at the buzzer of an overtime win against Park. Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Tavien Kemp - Walsh, Senior
33.3 PPG / 10.8 RPG / 5.3 SPG / 3.7 APG
Moves up from the 2016 All-Centercourt Fourth Team. Carried an inexperienced team that struggled offensively. Composed leader that never lost his focus in adverse situations. A pure scorer that can fill the rim in every possible way. Crafty at creating shots and finding open space. Excelled at turning steals into points with exceptional timing. Led the Eagles to wins over top 10 small schools against St. Mary's, Franklinville, & Nichols. Voted Monsignor Martin Association Class B Player of the Year. Named MVP of the Adam Elliott Tournament at Portville. Averaged a double-double in points & rebounds on the year. Shot 53% from the field and 81% at the charity stripe. Scored over 40 points in six games, eclipsed the 30-point mark in 16 games, and had over 20 points in 23 outings. Scored a career-high 47 points against Section IV Class AA champion Corning. Finished the season with a WNY-high 799 points and set the single-season scoring mark in the Monsignor Martin Association. Graduates 7th on the all-time Monsignor Martin Association scoring list. Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo: Olean Times Herald)
Second Team All-Centercourt
Shakur Harris - South Park, Senior
22.0 PPG / 7.3 SPG / 6.3 APG / 6.2 RPG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. A fierce competitor that played much bigger than he was. Matured from his junior season to become a true team leader for the Sparks. Played his best in the biggest games. Displayed a toughness on both ends of the floor that inspired casual fans seeing him play for the first time. Led South Park to its first Yale Cup Trophy since 1986. Took the Sparks to the Class A2 Final, where they lost a thriller at the buzzer. Selected as MVP of the Section VI Class A2 Tournament. Voted Player of the Year in Yale Cup I. Shot a school-record 81% from the charity stripe on 177 attempts. Scored a career-high 40 points in a win at McKinley, with 34 of those coming in the second half. Recorded a triple-double in that same game, adding 10 rebounds & 10 steals. First Team All-Centercourt Defender. Scored over 30 points in three games and went over 20 points 13 times. Career 1,000 point scorer.
Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, Junior
28.2 PPG / 7.8 RPG / 4.7 SPG / 3.8 APG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. The secret is out on the best kept secret in the Southern Tier. Literally did anything and everything on the court for his team. Outstanding anticipation and timing at the defensive end. Able to attack the basket at top speed while finishing under control. A smooth jump shooter from all the mid range spots where most struggle. Strong while moving towards the paint and determined to finish once he gets there. Led Chautauqua Lake to its first ever title in Section VI behind a game-high 33 points, to win Class C1. Advanced to the Far West Regional after leading the Thunderbirds to the overall Class C title. Voted MVP in CCAA I West. Selected as MVP of the Section VI Class C1 Tournament. Named MVP of the Ellicottville Tip-Off Tournament. Named to the IAABO All-Tournament Team. Shot 49% from the field and 68% from the stripe on 221 attempts. Scored over 20 points in 23 games and over 30 points on 12 occasions, including a career-high 38 points in a win over Fredonia. Recorded six double-doubles. Had a career-high nine steals in two different wins. Third Team All-Centercourt Defender. After a 706 point season, became the only player in Chautauqua Lake history to eclipse 1,000. Enters his senior year with 1,358 points. (Photo: Post Journal)
Joe Jones - Park, Junior
15.0 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 3.6 BPG / 1.8 APG / 1.2 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Second Team. Has the size and ability to completely dominate in high school basketball. Owns his space in the paint and establishes position with ease. A very good passer from the post that quickly recognizes open shooters when the double comes. Has a smooth stroke from the baseline and a big-time powerful finish when he drives it. Sets one massive screen and is very effective rolling back to the basket. Led a Park team with no losses to a public school and no local losses in the regular season during regulation. Voted First Team All-Catholic. Named Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic. Averaged a double-double on the season in points & rebounds. Recorded 15 double-doubles on the year. Team leader in rebounds & blocks. Scored a career-high 28 points in a win over Walsh. Blocked 12 shots in a win over Elmira. Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. Has multiple Division I offers. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, Junior
17.7 PPG / 12.1 RPG / 3.8 BPG / 3.4 APG / 2.9 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Second Team. A highly coordinated 6-7 player that has offers rolling in after a stellar junior campaign. Alters every shot in his vicinity that doesn't get sent the other way. A nightmare in the high post for opposing defenses with his court vision and ability to knock down shots from mid range. His ability to run the floor allowed the Falcons to play fast and his leaping ability led to some emphatic finishes. Led Health Sciences to a third straight Charter Cup. Raised the first Section VI championship plaque in school history after The Health claimed the Class B2 title. Advanced his team out of Buffalo with an overall Class B title and led them to a Far West Regional victory to earn a trip to the state final four. Voted MVP, Offensive POY, & Defensive POY among charter schools. Named to the NYSPHAA All-Tournament Team in Class B. Selected as MVP of the Section VI Class B2 Tournament. Named to the All-Tournament Team at the Lancaster Tip-Off. Earned Game MVP at the Pastor-Cooper Showcase. Scored a career-high 50 points in a win over Oracle. A starter on the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. Has multiple Division I offers.
Willard Anderson - East, Junior
25.7 PPG / 5.9 APG / 3.9 RPG / 3.4 SPG / 0.7 BPG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. An offensive facilitator who understands where the ball needs to go. His handle and strength make him tough to stop in transition. Stays with the play on drives and finishes through contact. A scoring threat from the perimeter with deep range. Led East to the Section VI Class C2 Final. Selected to the Section VI Class C2 All-Tournament Team. Voted to First Team in Yale Cup I. Named Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic. Named MVP at the Can/Am Shootout. Recorded five double-doubles on the year. Scored over 20 points in 15 games. Had four games of 29 points. Scored over 30 points in seven games on the season. Led the Panthers in scoring, assists, steals, & blocks. Dropped a career-high 42 points in a win over Emerson. Career 1,000 point scorer.
Third Team All-Centercourt
Bo Sireika - St. Francis, Junior
14.0 PPG / 3.9 RPG / 1.9 APG / 1.3 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Third Team. Brings an endless amount of endurance to the game and never slows down. Scores in a variety of ways, including timely shots from the perimeter. Always drew his team's toughest defensive assignment. Very athletic player that can take players off the dribble and finish in a crowded lane. Led St. Francis to the Manhattan Cup Final for the first time since 2007, the first regular season title in the Monsignor Martin Association since 2000, and the school's first ever #1 local ranking for a period during the regular season. Voted First Team All-Catholic in Class A. Named to the Bella Pizza All-Tournament Team. Scored a career-high 24 points against Canisius and went over 20 points in five games. Second Team All-Centercourt Defender. School's all-time leader in 3-pointers made (155) entering his senior season. (Photo: Larry Scheur)
Julian Cunningham - St. Francis, Sophomore
12.2 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 2.8 APG / 1.6 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Third Team. Became one of WNY's top floor generals in just his sophomore season. Demonstrates toughness and confidence every time he takes the court and makes his assignment work for everything all game. Shows a great understanding of the game, moves the ball to the right spot, and knows when to score. Has good body control when driving to the basket. Led St. Francis to the Manhattan Cup Final for the first time since 2007, the first regular season title in the Monsignor Martin Association since 2000, and the school's first ever #1 local ranking for a period during the regular season. Voted First Team All-Catholic in Class A. Named to the Bella Pizza All-Tournament Team. Scored 12 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter of the Manhattan Cup Final, nearly leading a comeback attempt from 16-points down. Second Team All-Centercourt Defender. (Photo: Larry Scheur)
Trevor Book - North Tonawanda, Junior
18.3 PPG / 4.4 RPG / 3.2 SPG / 1.9 APG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Third Team. A fierce competitor that carries himself with an understated court demeanor. Deadly shooter from beyond the 3-point arc. Can step inside the arc and knock down mid-range jumpers from any spot on the floor. Quick hands and sharp instincts at the defensive end. Was at his best when the team faced top competition. Led North Tonawanda to a league title in the Niagara Frontier League. Raised the Section VI championship plaque after leading the Jacks to the title in Class A1. Took the Jacks to the Far West Regional after earning the overall Class A championship for the most successful season in school history. Voted to First Team in the Niagara Frontier League. Selected MVP of the Section VI Class A1 Tournament. Shot 46% from the field and 75% from the charity stripe. Led his team with 70 deflections. Scored over 20 points in nine games, including a career-high 37 points in a win at St. Mary's.
Marcellus Cooper - Amherst, Senior
17.6 PPG / 11.0 RPG / 3.6 SPG / 3.1 BPG / 2.2 APG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. A gifted athlete who does special things on the court that others can't. Elevates to shoot and has a nice touch on his jumpers. An underrated defender that used length and anticipation to regularly turn opponents over. The combination of style and power on dunks made his aerial assaults on the rim an event all their own. Led Amherst to a league title in ECIC II. Took the Tigers to the overall Class A championship game after leading the team to a Section VI title in Class A2. Voted to First Team All-ECIC and First Team in ECIC II. Selected to the Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team. Named Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic. Earned MVP of the Bob Hettler Classic. Shot 46% from the field. Averaged a double-double in points and rebounds. Recorded 16 double-doubles on the season. Scored over 20 points in seven games and over 30 points twice, including a career-high 37 points with 13 boards in a win over West Seneca East. A starter on the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Junior
11.3 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 5.3 APG / 1.5 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Third Team. A lock down defender and the best on ball defender in the area. Stepped into a leadership role at Canisius after graduating three top 25 players and kept the team on top. Penetrates the defense extremely well and is tough to stop near the basket. Combines effort and power to grab every rebound and loose ball in his vicinity. Led Canisius to its third consecutive Manhattan Cup in Class A, where he recorded 13 points and 13 rebounds in the win. Was one assist shy of a triple-double in the Crusaders' playoff win over St. Joe's. Scored a season-high 20 points, along with eight rebounds in the CHSAA Class A State Semifinal against Chaminade. A First Team All-Centercourt Defender. Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Fourth Team All-Centercourt
Noah Hutchins - Park, Sophomore
11.5 PPG / 5.0 APG / 4.0 RPG / 3.6 SPG / 0.5 BPG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. A team-first point guard who looks to facilitate. Excellent handle and control when driving to the basket. A ball hawk that creates countless transition opportunities with his defense. Uses his athletic ability to soar, leading to big rebounds & blocks and eye-popping finishes. Led a Park team with no losses to a public school and no local losses in the regular season during regulation. Named MVP at the Elmira Tournament. Scored 16 points with nine assists against Mount St. Michael. A starter on the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. Second Team All-Centercourt Defender. Has multiple Division I offers. (Photo: Larry Scheur)
Dan Scott - Park, Sophomore
16.0 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 3.0 APG / 2.6 SPG / 0.5 BPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fourth Team. Shoots with perfect form and gets it off quickly. A decisive shooter with a great rise and release point who is equally effective from both downtown and mid-range. A two-way player that plays with equal passion at both ends. Fast and strong in transition and finishes through contact. Led a Park team with no losses to a public school and no local losses in the regular season during regulation. Scored over 20 points in seven games. Voted First Team All-Catholic. Named Game MVP at the Pastor-Cooper Showcase. Second Team All-Centercourt Defender. Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. Has multiple Division I offers. Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo: Larry Scheur)
Joe Harrison - Timon, Senior
18.0 PPG / 3.0 RPG / 2.0 APG / 1.0 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fourth Team. One of the sharpest shooters in WNY. Drives his defender back and then pulls up over him to bury a jumper with regularity and ease. Capable of entering one of those shooting zones that make game plans look ineffective. Can slice through a defense to the basket and find a way to finish. Helped lead the Tigers to a Mosignor Martin Association regular season title. Voted First Team All-Catholic in Class A. Scored a career-high 30 points in a win at St. Joe's that included seven bombs from downtown. Scored over 20 points in six games. Finishes with 180 3-pointers made during his years at Timon. Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo: Tom Burns)
Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville, Junior
21.0 PPG / 14.7 RPG / 3.3 BPG / 1.6 SPG / 1.2 APG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. A dominant inside presence and complete game-changer in the post for the Eagles. Able to consistently gain position in the paint for entry passes. Near automatic at finishing from in close. A force on the glass and a rim protector. Has a consistent stroke from the charity stripe. Led Ellicottville to a league title in CCAA II East. Voted Player of the Year in CCAA II East. Selected to the Section VI Class D All-Tournament Team. Named to the All-Tournament Team at the Holiday Valley Tip-Off. Shot 64% from the field & 68% at the stripe. Scored over 30 points in four games, including matching his career-high of 34 points on three occasions. Averaged a double-double in points and rebounds. Recorded 18 double-doubles on the season. Scored 13 of his 21 points in the
4th quarter & added 20 rebounds in a win at Franklinville. Career 1,000 point scorer as a junior.
Sam Erickson - Franklinville, Senior
20.4 PPG / 10.2 RPG / 2.7 APG / 2.3 SPG / 1.8 BPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fourth Team. A lanky smooth lefty with an all-around game. An intense player that stays dialed in and never comes off the floor. Whether from long range, the elbow, or the baseline, he's a shooter with great form. The unquestioned leader of an underclassmen Panthers' team that enjoyed its most successful season ever. Led Franklinville to a league title in CCAA II East. Raised the Section VI championship plaque after his team earned the Class D title. Advanced the Panthers to their first state final four appearance with a victory in the Far West Regional. Voted to First Team in CCAA II East. Named MVP of both the Rick Hughes Memorial and the IAABO Tournaments. Selected to the Section VI Class D All-Tournament Team. Named to the NYSPHAA Class D All-Tournament Team. Averaged a double-double in points & rebounds. Recorded 19 double-doubles on the season. Scored over 20 points in 18 games and over 30 points three times, including a season-high 37 points in a win over Portville. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Fifth Team All-Centercourt
Tyron Lott - Health Sciences, Junior
18.4 PPG / 6.0 APG / 4.1 RPG / 3.8 SPG / 0.9 BPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fifth Team. A scorer that consistently creates his own scoring opportunities. Thrives in the transition game. Strong & confident with the ball in his hands, not afraid to pull up over or drive past his defender. High energy player that never tires and leads the team's constant pressure defense. His ability to run the floor allowed the Falcons to play fast and his leaping ability led to some emphatic finishes. Led Health Sciences to a third straight Charter Cup. Raised the first Section VI championship plaque in school history after The Health claimed the Class B2 title. Advanced his team out of Buffalo with an overall Class B title and led them to a Far West Regional victory to earn a trip to the state final four. Voted to First Team All-Charter. Named MVP of the Lancaster Tip-Off Tournament. Scored over 20 points in 13 games, including a season-high 31 points in a win over Global Concepts. Career 1,000 point scorer.
Nick Montgomery - East Aurora, Senior
15.8 PPG / 7.4 RPG / 2.0 BPG / 1.3 APG / 1.1 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fifth Team. A true team leader in every sense of the word. The ultimate effort player - his work ethic was never outdone in a game or at a practice. Well-rounded talent that could take you off the dribble and connect from beyond the arc. His focused and fundamentally sound defensive style always kept his man in front of him and took some major talents out of games this season. Led East Aurora to a league title in ECIC III. Took the Blue Devils back to the Class B1 Final and led a dominant performance to earn a sectional title. Selected as MVP of the Section VI Class B1 Tournament. Voted to First Team All-ECIC. Voted to First Team in ECIC III. Named MVP in the Southtowns Tournament. Scored in double figures in 22 games on the season. Led East Aurora in points, rebounds, blocks, 3-pointers, & FT %. First Team All-Centercourt Defender. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Jalin Cooper - Medina, Junior
20.8 PPG / 9.4 RPG / 3.0 SPG / 2.6 APG / 1.7 BPG
Moves up from 2016 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention. One of WNY's top athletes became one of its best basketball players this season. Explosive leaper that made a living around the rim. Uses quickness to create transition opportunities and speed to finish them. An unselfish team leader who keeps his teammates involved. Led Medina to an undefeated championship in the Niagara-Orleans League. Voted to First Team Niagara-Orleans League. Selected to the Section VI Class B2 All-Tournament Team. Named Game MVP at the Cataract City Classic. Scored over 20 points in 13 games and eclipsed 30 points twice. Finished with a career-high 34 points in a win over Elba. Tied a school record for most points in one season (458). Recorded 11 double-doubles. Threw down over 40 dunks on the season to earn his place as a starter on the Centercourt #BOOM Squad. (Photo: Orleans Hub)
Tyler Aquilina - Kenmore West, Senior
18.0 PPG / 7.3 RPG / 2.0 APG / 1.8 SPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fifth Team. A hardworking player who went after rebounds and scored a lot of tough points inside. Succeeded despite constant increased attention from opposing defenses. The team's go-to player in crunch time and a solid shooter from outside. Underrated defender who gave maximum effort at both ends. Led Kenmore West to a league title in the Niagara Frontier League. Voted to First Team Niagara Frontier League and received the most votes. Named to the All-Tournament Team at the Ken-Ton Tournament. Finishes career among the school's all-time scoring leaders.
Ryan Bradley - Canisius, Junior
13.3 PPG / 7.7 RPG / 2.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 1.0 BPG
Makes his All-Centercourt debut on Fifth Team. Became a welcomed addition to a Canisius team in need of his contributions. His combination of size and skill made him one of the area's top inside/outside threats. Able to consistently knock down shots from the perimeter and mid range. Scrappy inside and not afraid to mix it up against any of the competition he faced. Led Canisius to a third straight Manhattan Cup in Class A and back to the CHSAA State Semifinal. Scored a season-high 33 points, along with 16 boards in a win over Cardinal O'Hara. Scored over 20 points four times. Stepped up to deliver a game-high 20 points at Park when his team was down three starters. (Photo: Buffalo News)
Honorable Mention
Chris Robson - Sherman, Senior
24.1 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 3.4 APG / 3.2 SPG / 0.5 BPG - CCAA II West Co-Player of the Year
Cordell O'Brien - Frewsburg, Senior
23.6 PPG / 10.6 RPG / 2.0 APG / 2.0 SPG / 1.0 BPG - CCAA II West Co-Player of the Year
Shakur Bridges - Oracle Charter, Senior
22.7 PPG / 4.7 APG / 3.9 RPG / 3.6 SPG - First Team All-Charter
Nate Luckman - Barker, Senior
22.1 PPG / 5.2 RPG / 3.2 APG / 2.3 SPG / 0.4 BPG - First Team Niagara-Orleans League
Dan Reid - Olmsted, Senior
22.1 PPG / 2.9 RPG / 2.8 SPG / 2.6 APG - Co-Player of the Year in Yale Cup II
Monty Shoemaker - Olean, Senior
19.3 PPG / 1.1 RPG / 1.0 SPG / 0.5 APG - First Team CCAA I West
Aaron Swan - Chautauqua Lake, Senior
15.7 PPG / 6.4 RPG / 4.5 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.5 BPG - First Team CCAA I West
Will Johnson - Nichols, Senior
15.6 PPG / 3.9 RPG / 3.1 APG / 1.4 SPG - First Team All Catholic Class B
Dakota Wiley - Williamsville South, Senior
15.5 PPG / 5.0 RPG / 2.0 SPG / 1.5 APG - First Team ECIC II
Tal James - Kenmore West, Senior
15.0 PPG / 3.0 RPG / 2.0 APG / 1.5 SPG - First Team Niagara Frontier League
Vito Fulciniti - Lancaster, Senior
13.5 PPG / 5.0 APG / 4.0 RPG / 3.0 SPG - First Team ECIC I
Da'Shawn Hines - Amherst, Senior
13.1 PPG / 4.2 RPG / 3.7 APG / 3.0 BPG / 1.7 SPG - First Team ECIC II
David Anderson - MST Seneca, Senior
12.5 PPG / 11.8 RPG / 3.2 BPG / 2.5 SPG / 2.1 APG - Co-Player of the Year in Yale Cup II
Tavon Chambers - Lockport, Senior
12.2 PPG / 3.9 RPG / 1.8 APG / 1.6 SPG - First Team Niagara Frontier League
Caleb Cockrell - St. Joe's, Senior
11.6 PPG / 4.7 RPG / 1.6 APG / 1.4 SPG - Led team in scoring & steals, Scholarship to D-II Trevecca Nazerine University
Roburt Welch - St. Francis, Senior
11.4 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 1.4 APG / 1.4 SPG / 0.4 BPG - Led team in rebounds, Shot 51% FG
Daquan Hunt - St. Mary's, Senior
10.2 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 2.1 APG / 1.1 SPG / 0.6 BPG - First Team All Catholic Class B
Josh Denz - East Aurora, Senior
10.0 PPG / 5.0 RPG / 3.0 APG / 2.7 SPG / 1.0 BPG - First Team ECIC III
Vincent Tripi - North Tonawanda, Senior
6.3 PPG / 4.8 APG / 3.0 RPG / 2.1 SPG - Section VI Class A1 All-Tournament Team
Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, Junior
20.2 PPG / 14.0 RPG / 4.8 APG - Co-Player of the Year in CCAA I East
Kyle DeVoogel - Newfane, Junior
18.6 PPG / 5.9 SPG / 4.1 RPG / 2.8 APG / 0.9 BPG - First Team Niagara-Orleans League
Chad Biersbach - Depew, Junior
17.5 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 2.8 SPG / 2.1 APG / 0.9 BPG - First Team ECIC III
Ray Blackwell - Maryvale, Junior
17.0 PPG / 6.2 RPG / 3.8 APG / 3.1 SPG - First Team ECIC III
Hakeem Dobbins - Middle College, Junior
16.5 PPG / 2.8 RPG / 2.0 APG / 1.8 SPG - First Team Yale Cup I
Latrell Butler-Kemp - Walsh, Junior
16.4 PPG / 7.5 RPG / 3.9 APG / 2.2 SPG - First Team All-Catholic Class B
Ray Mushat - South Park, Junior
15.3 PPG / 5.5 RPG / 2.6 SPG / 1.2 APG / 0.6 BPG - First Team Yale Cup I
Max Weber - Newfane, Junior
14.8 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 7.0 APG / 3.0 SPG / 1.7 BPG - First Team Niagara-Orleans League
Christian Szablewski - St. Mary's, Junior
13.4 PPG / 8.5 RPG / 2.3 APG / 2.0 SPG / 0.7 BPG - First Team All-Catholic Class B
Darnell Butts - Dunkirk, Junior
13.1 PPG / 4.5 RPG / 2.1 APG / 1.6 STL / 0.4 BPG - First Team CCAA I West
Tazaun Rose - Niagara Falls, Junior
11.0 PPG / 5.0 APG / 4.0 SPG / 3.0 RPG - MVP of Section VI Class AA Tournament
Mason Goodridge - Springville, Sophomore
18.9 PPG / 2.5 APG / 2.1 RPG / 1.2 SPG - Player of the Year in ECIC IV
Cam Sionko - Grand Island, Sophomore
17.2 PPG / 4.0 RPG / 3.0 APG / 1.8 SPG / 0.8 BPG - First Team Niagara Frontier League
Justin Hemphill - Cardinal O'Hara, Sophomore
16.4 PPG / 11.0 RPG / 5.1 APG / 2.4 SPG / 2.2 BPG - First Team All-Catholic Class B
Tyler Hind - Randolph, Freshman
17.6 PPG / 4.3 APG / 3.1 SPG / 2.8 RPG - Co-Player of the Year in CCAA I East
Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Wheatfield, 8th Grade
14.7 PPG / 3.3 APG / 3.0 RPG / 1.5 APG - Scored a career-high 38 points at 'Battle at the Border'
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Sixth Man of the Year
Daesean Ashley - Amherst, Freshman
6.6 PPG / 3.5 RPG / 2.0 APG / 2.0 SPG
The future is bright for the Tigers with three varsity seasons ahead for this young floor general. Ashley came off the bench at Amherst, but stayed in the game once he did, only coming back out of the game to rest. The freshman made great decisions, provided scoring, and let the game come to him - showing an understanding of the game that extended far beyond his experience. When the Tigers beat Williamsville South, Ashley scored 12 points and played a huge role in the victory. In a win over McKinley at the MLK Classic, he scored 15 points, grabbed seven boards, and dished six dimes. He is certain to be a starter and team leader next season.
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All-Centercourt Defenders
First Team
Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Junior
Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Junior
Nick Montgomery - East Aurora, Senior
Zack Woodard - North Tonawanda, Senior
Shakur Harris - South Park, Senior
Second Team
Noah Hutchins - Park, Junior
Bo Sireika - St. Francis, Junior
Julian Cunningham - St. Francis, Sophomore
Dan Scott - Park, Junior
Tazaun Rose - Niagara Falls, Junior
Third Team
Colby Moultrie - Canisius, Senior
Dakota Wiley - Williamsville South, Senior
Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, Junior
Jarrett Lecceadone - Randolph, Senior
Griffin Chudy - Ellicottville, Junior
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Centercourt #BOOM Squad
The Starting Five:
Marcellus Cooper - Amherst, Senior
Jalin Cooper - Medina, Junior
Noah Hutchins - Park, Sophomore
Dom Welch - Cheektowaga, Senior
Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, Junior
The rest of the Squad
Dan Scott - Park, Sophomore
Joe Jones - Park, Junior
Davion Warren - Timon, Senior
Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Junior
Charles Lamar - Niagara Falls, Senior
Jaeger Martino - Niagara Wheatfield, Senior
James Rojas - Jamestown, Senior
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Coach of the Year
** Announced at the Prep Talk/BCANY Boys Basketball Banquet at Ilio Dipaolo's on Monday, April 24th
- centercourt
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