The View From Centercourt

Brackets Central - 2021

 

Class AA

Class A1

Class A2

Class B1

Class B2

Class B3

Class C1

Class C2

Class D

Manhattan Cup

 

-centercourt

 

Class C1 Bracket - 2021 Sectionals

 

 

Quarterfinals - Tuesday, March 23rd

(1) Riverside 49, (8) Gowanda 39

(4) Portville 76, (5) Cattaraugus-Little Valley 67

 

(2) Chautauqua Lake 53, (7) Middle College 36

(3) Tapestry 62, (6) Salamanca 56

 

Semifinals - Thursday, March 25th

(1) Riverside 94, (4) Portville 86 2 OT

(3) Tapestry 82, (2) Chautauqua Lake 56

 

Final - Saturday, March 27th

(3) Tapestry 93, (1) Riverside 72

 

2021 Section VI Class C1 Champions - Tapestry Thunderhawks

 

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Class C1 & C2 Brackets - 2020 Sectionals

 

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

 

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Season Preview: 2018-2019

 

 

(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.

 

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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

Burgard:  Dejauhn Williams 12, Amarni Ray 12, Sunny Hollingsworth 12, Carlos Lewis 12, Gregg Ruffins 12, Ja'Kyi Jones 12, Davon Hester 12, Davon White 12, Tyshawn Rosenthal 11, Yezeal Small 11, Prentis Simpson 11, Ammarion Viverette 11, Brandon Bratton 11, Armani Ray 11, Reggie Bess 11  

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

The Schedule: 2018-2019 Season

(Photo: Harry Scull, BuffNews) 

 

Click HERE for the 2020 Schedule

 

-centercourt

All-State Teams 2018: Classes B, C, & D

(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 All-Centercourt Team: The Best in WNY

 

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 

• - Scored a career-high 34 pts & with 20 boards in a win over Notre Dame (Ontario) 

- 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

Sectional Preview - 2018

(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

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2018 Sectionals

Class B1

First Round - Tuesday, February 20th

(9) CSAT 57, (16) Tonawanda 31

(13) Fredonia 67, (12) Alden 45

 

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

(11) Burgard 80, (14) Springville 54

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 21st

(9) CSAT 42, (8) Depew 38

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

 

(7) City Honors 66, (10) Albion 50

(6) Dunkirk 59, (11) Burgard 45

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 23rd

(1) Lackawanna 69, (9) CSAT 52

(4) Newfane 66, (13) Fredonia 41

 

(2) Olean 62, (7) City Honors 54

(3) Medina 67, (6) Dunkirk 60

 

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

AT BUFFALO STATE - 8:15 pm

(4) Newfane 54, (1) Lackawanna 53  

(2) Olean 59, (3) Medina 45 

 

Final - Saturday, March 3rd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

(1) Olean 48, (4) Newfane 35

 

2018 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies 

 

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

 

Class B2

First Round - Tuesday, February 20th

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

(12) Riverside 71, (13) Eden 38

 

(10) Southwestern 54, (15) Akron 30

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

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 21st

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

(5) Wilson 60, (12) Riverside 54

 

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

(6) Maritime 62, (14) Oracle 58

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 23rd

(1) Middle College 72, (8) Gowanda 67

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

 

(10) Southwestern 54, (2) Olmsted 51

(3) JFK 74, (6) Maritime 65

 

Semifinals - Monday, February 26th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm 

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

(3) JFK 66,  (10) Southwestern 60

 

Final - Saturday, March 3rd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

 (4) Health Sciences 67, (3) JFK 35

 

2018 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Health Sciences Falcons 

 

-centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 2/12/18 -- 2/18/18

(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.

 

-centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 2/5/18 -- 2/11/18

(Noah Hutchins and Park are dominating the competition & the Games of the Week)

 

Monday, February 5th

St. Joe's @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

Tapestry @ Health Sciences - 7 pm

 

Tuesday, February 6th

Medina @ Wilson - 6 pm

Park @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

Lew-Port @ CSAT - 6:30 pm

Maryvale @ Lake Shore - 6:30 pm

Middle College @ East - 6:30 pm

Holland @ JFK - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

West Seneca West @ Orchard Park - 7:30 pm

Dunkirk @ Southwestern - 7:30 pm

Gowanda @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 7th

Cardinal O'Hara @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 8th

Park vs. Health Sciences * at Daemen - 6 pm

Wilson @ CSAT - 6 pm

Cheektowaga @ Iroquois - 6:30 pm

 

Friday, February 9th

Newfane @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Lake Shore @ Amherst - 6:30 pm

East @ Burgard - 6:30 pm

Olmsted @ MST Seneca - 6:30 pm

Canisius @ Timon - 6:30 pm

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

Nichols @ St. Mary's - 7 pm

Cheektowaga @ Pioneer - 7 pm

West Seneca West @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Williamsville North @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Randolph @ Allegany-Limestone - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, February 10th

 I Prep vs. WNY Maritime * at City Honors - 10 am

 Middle College vs. Tapestry * at City Honors - 11:30 am

 McKinley vs. Amherst * at City Honors - 2:00 pm

Lockport @ Niagara Falls - 2:30 pm

Cardinal O'Hara @ Lancaster - 3 pm

East vs. Health Sciences * at City Honors - 3:45 pm

 

* Game of the Week - There's three games in four nights this week that should have the diehards drooling.  

Park @ Canisius on Tuesday, February 6th

It's the rematch of #1 versus #2 in WNY.  Round One at The Park School was all Pioneers until a very late Crusader surge made things interesting in the closing minutes.  This game is big for the obvious reasons, but also from a mental standpoint for the Crusaders.  Although they are the storied program that has dominated the area for a decade, it's Park who has dropped the hammer on Canisius in three straight meetings.  Last year, the Pioneers crushed Canisius twice, but never got the opportunity to do it in a championship game.  Coming into this year, the prevailing thought was that the defending Manhattan Cup champs were a year more experienced and would continue collecting titles.  That is until they rolled into Park on a Saturday afternoon in January and were humbled.  Now heading into Tuesday, the same cast of Crusaders needs to prove to themselves that they can beat this Park team - something that hasn't happened since 2016 and has never happened without Stafford Trueheart in the lineup.

Health Sciences vs. Park at Daemen College on Thursday, February 8th

This is the battle of #1 versus #1, in a matchup of the area's top large & small schools.  The Pioneers will be just coming off a huge game on Delaware Ave, while The Health should be still stinging from a tough loss in the Centercourt Classic at the hands of Williamsville South.  Much like that game from Saturday night, I'd be willing to guarantee an exciting game at Daemen.  If there's one thing I've learned about the Falcons over the last three seasons under Ty Parker, they aren't afraid of anyone and they will come at you in waves for 32 minutes.  I think Health Sciences came into the season regarded as a top three team in all of WNY.  But with losses to Canisius & South already, a loss to Park would change that way of thinking for anyone.  Between Ticket, Noah Hutchins, & Dan Scott, there's three players who will be playing Division I ball within the next three years.  And both teams are completely loaded around their standouts with offers.

Canisius @ Timon on Friday, February 9th

The first meeting between these two was, by all accounts of the game I've heard from anyone in attendance, a total snooze fest!  So why would this be any different?  Location, location, location.  A Friday night in South Buffalo with Canisius in town to take on a Tigers' team that has a win over Park this year and the area's top post defender in Master Radford will be off the chain!  From what I understand, in the 13-point win Canisius had over Timon in the first meeting between the two teams, the game was sorely lacking for energy and atmosphere.  That absolutely will not be the case on Friday and I expect to see both schools well represented with student sections and a full auditorium of fans.  If you enjoy all those Super Bowl side bets, here's a fun one for you to make a prediction on for Friday night - Which number is higher by game's end:  Master Radford's blocks or Nick MacDonald's 3-pointers?

 

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Top Games of the Week: 1/29/18 -- 2/4/18

(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' !

 

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Late surge lifts Gowanda over Silver Creek

(Nate Brawdy protects the rim for Gowanda)

 

Gowanda 55, Silver Creek 44

In a key contest in CCAA I East between two of the top contenders in the league, Gowanda mounted a decisive run to close the game out and earn a road win at Silver Creek.  Trailing 41-40 after a 3-pointer from Jarmani Benton, the Panthers finished the game off with a 15-3 blitz over the last four minutes of the game.  Nate Brawdy scored nine points during that stretch, 14 in the fourth quarter, and 28 points in the game, along with 12 rebounds.  The victory ends an 11-game win streak for Silver Creek that was also the first league loss for the Black Knights.  Gowanda snapped a two-game skid with the win and hopes to get some momentum back over the second half of the season after winning seven straight earlier in the year. 

 

Gowanda       9 - 15 - 9 - 22 = 55

Silver Creek  16 - 5 - 15 - 8 = 44

 

Point Totals

Gowanda:  Nate Brawdy 28, Ture Hassler 13, Ryan John 7, Matias Rikka 4, Damen MacLeod 3 

Silver Creek:  Jarmani Benton 11, Brady Woleben 9, Dom Jamison 9, Ammon Jones 8, Tucker Gates 7

 

Records

Gowanda:  9-3, 3-2  /  Next game at Clymer Tuesday, January 23rd

 

Silver Creek:  11-2, 3-1  /  Next game at Randolph Friday, January 26th

 

 

Player of the Game

Nate Brawdy - Gowanda

 

 

Unsung Hero of the Game

Matias Rikka - Gowanda

 

 

Key Stats

Gowanda:  Nate Brawdy 12 rebounds, 4 steals, 3 assists, & 2 blocks / Matias Rikka 8 rebounds / Ture Hassler 7 rebounds

 

 

Key Runs

Silver Creek had an 11-2 close to the opening quarter to take a 16-9 lead.  Gowanda took a 24-18 advantage with a 15-2 start to the second quarter.  Silver Creek ended the third frame on an 11-2 clip for a 36-33 lead after three quarters.  Gowanda won the game with a 15-3 finish when trailing 41-40.

 

 

3-Pointers

Gowanda (4):  Nate Brawdy (3), Ryan John

 

Silver Creek (5):  Ammon Jones (2), Tucker Gates, Dom Jamison, Jarmani Benton

 

 

Coaches Quotes

Rob Catilino - Gowanda

On the defensive game planWe used a diamond & one against Jarmani and we sent a guy back with him.  He gets a lot of his points when they just send him free, he gets a lot of layups - he didn't get any tonight.

On why the zone was successful

Our zone worked well because they weren't shooting well.  Zones always work great when the other team is not making shots.

On the team's goal

Our goal is to get to Buff State in Class B2. We want a shot at Health Sciences and Middle College.

 

Rob Genco - Silver Creek

On his team's performance

If they're giving you outside shots, you have to make them pay for it.  We couldn't make them pay for it so they were able to just keep packing it in.

 

 

Random Smatterings

 

- Gowanda dared Silver Creek to shoot threes.  And there were plenty of wide open opportunities created by the Black Knights' zone offense.  They moved the ball well, but literally couldn't seem to throw it in the ocean at times.  I'm sure that was frustrating for a team that usually strikes from downtown often.

 

- If you've never seen Nate Brawdy play, I would compare his build & style of play to Kevin Durant.  He's long & slim and moves fast with the ball.  He's able to pull up from anywhere or get to the basket, and uses his length well on the glass.

 

- While I'm making comparisons, Ture Hassler has no flash to his game, but man, is he effective and sound.  Who does that sound like?  That's right, Ture is the Big Fundamental, Tim Duncan.

 

- Gowanda has some muscle on this team. Ture Hassler, Ryan John, and Matias Rikka are all thick, strong kids that don't leave a lot of room to maneuver around in the paint.

 

- Nate Brawdy scored 25 of his 28 pints in the second and fourth quarters.  Gowanda as a team scored 18 points in the first and third quarters combined.

 

- Despite Silver Creek's poor shooting performance, the effort and execution were there.  They didn't force too much, particularly with Jarmani Benton and Brady Woleben drawing so much extra attention.  Shots just were not falling.  

 

- Great atmosphere in Silver Creek for this game.  Stands were full in all four quarters and the fans made some noise.  That makes such a difference for the entertainment value.

 

- I took some time to look at the names on the Silver Creek Hall of Fame while I was there last night.  I didn't see Zed Williams up there.  Can't imagine too many better athletes, or people for that matter, have graced the halls of schools in WNY.  Zed was special.  I'll pay for the plaque. 

 

 

-centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 1/15/18 -- 1/21/18

(Julian Eziukwu and the Park Pioneers host Canisius on Saturday)

 

Monday, January 15th

Park vs. Pine Ridge Secondary  *at Park* - 3 pm

 

Tuesday, January 16th

Williamsville South @ Sweet Home - 6:30 pm

Cardinal O'Hara @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Grand Island @ North Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

South Park @ McKinley - 6:30 pm

City Honors @ MST Seneca - 6:30 pm

St. Mary's @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Amherst @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Kenmore West @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Randolph @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 17th

Park @ St. Francis - 7 pm

Southwestern @ Chautauqua Lake - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 18th

St. Mary's @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Iroquois @ Lake Shore - 6:30 pm

West Seneca West @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

Orchard Park @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Williamsville East @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

Allegany-Limestone @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Gowanda @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

Jamestown @ McDowell (PA) - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 19th

Wilson @ Newfane - 6:30 pm

Middle College @ Burgard - 6:30 pm

Olmsted @ Riverside - 6:30 pm

St. Francis @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Dunkirk @ Chautauqua Lake - 7:30 pm

Timon @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 20th

Niagara Falls @ Lockport - 2:30 pm

Canisius @ Park - 3:30 pm

 

* Game of the Week * - Canisius @ Park on Saturday, January 20th

 Was there even a question of which of the games out of this week's lineup would get the nod?

In 2015, both teams won Federation championships in Class A & Class B respectively.  Those followed CHSAA state championships, which followed each team winning the Manhattan Cup.  The two teams remain the only ones from WNY to win NYS high school basketball's highest honor in the last six years.

Following the two Monsignor Martin Association powers winning the Federation over the same weekend in Albany in 2015, Park was moved up in classification to compete in Class A.  The implications of the move were that now they would have to go head-to-head twice during the regular season and compete in the same playoffs for the Manhattan Cup.  

During the 2016 regular season, Canisius swept the two games against Park.  The first was a victory on the Pioneers' home floor, accomplished with a strong second half, after falling behind by double figures in the second quarter.  The second meeting of the regular season was a low-scoring defensive affair that favored the Crusaders style of play.  After both teams advanced to the Manhattan Cup Final, the Pioneers had a chance at redemption, but it was Canisius who won for a third time in an epic overtime title game.  The Crusaders would go on to win two more games and secure a second straight CHSAA Class A state championship.  Canisius and Park finished the 2016 season ranked and regarded by everybody as the top two teams in WNY.  The leaders and First Team All-Centercourt selections from each team landed in the Division I ranks - the Crusaders' Stafford Trueheart to Hofstra and Park's Jordan Nwora to Louisville.  

Last season, Park finally had the Crusaders' number, and it wasn't even close.  A 26-point pounding on Delaware Avenue was followed by a 28-point rout a month later at Park and it looked as if it was finally the year when the Pioneers would hoist its first Manhattan Cup in Class A.  But St. Francis dashed the hopes of Park with a victory in the Manhattan Cup semifinals, its third of the season over the Pioneers, before falling to Canisius in the final.  So even in a season when Park swept Canisius by an average margin of 27 points, the Crusaders still finished with all the glory.

 So now the rivalry resumes, and when you stop to consider it, very little has actually changed since they met last year.  Park has everything back from last season except Joe Jones, along with a new head coach.  Canisius graduated Colby Moultrie from last season's rotation.  Aside from that, we basically have all the key pieces back.  However, don't expect a rout to be the result this season.  Expect to see a pair of heavyweights beat on each other for 32 minutes.  It's Park versus Canisius and it's the 'Game of the Week'!

 

-centercourt

The Schedule: 2017-2018 Season

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

 

Click HERE for the 2019 Schedule

 

-centercourt

Season Preview: 2017-2018

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

 

The 2017-2018 Pre-View From Centercourt contains:

- Commentary on returning talent  &  offseason news

- What's New

- Returning 2017 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2018

- A League-by-League look at the teams

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

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools

- Predictions

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

What's New ??

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

- Six teams have changed leagues from last season:

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

 

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

 

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

 

The Players

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

Returning First Teamer

 Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Senior

 Junior Season stats:

 23.0 PPG

8.9 RPG

4.3 APG

3.8 SPG

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

*All-Centercourt Defender*

  Returning Second Teamers

Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, Senior

Junior Season stats:

28.2 PPG

7.8 RPG

4.7 SPG 

3.8 APG

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

• *All-Centercourt Defender *

 

Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, Senior

Junior Season stats:

17.7 PPG

12.1 RPG

3.8 BPG

2.9 SPG

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

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Willard Anderson - East, Senior

Junior Season stats:

25.7 PPG

5.9 APG

3.9 RPG

3.4 SPG 

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

 

 

Returning Third Teamers

Bo Sireika - St. Francis, Senior

Junior Season stats:

14.0 PPG

3.9 RPG

1.9 APG

1.3 SPG

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

*All-Centercourt Defender*

 

 

Julian Cunningham - Timon, Junior

Sophomore Season stats:

12.2 PPG

4.7 RPG

2.8 APG

1.6 SPG

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

* All-Centercourt Defender *

 

 

Trevor Book - North Tonawanda, Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

18.3 PPG

4.4 RPG

3.2 SPG

1.9 APG

 

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

 

Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Senior

Junior Season stats:

11.3 PPG

8.3 RPG

5.3 APG

1.5 SPG

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

*All-Centercourt Defender*

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Returning Fourth Teamers

Noah Hutchins - Junior, Park

Sophomore Season stats:

11.5 PPG

5.0 APG

4.0 RPG

3.6 SPG 

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

*All-Centercourt Defender*

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Dan Scott - Park, Junior

Sophomore Season stats:

16.0 PPG

4.7 RPG

3.0 APG

2.6 SPG

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

*All-Centercourt Defender*

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville, Senior

Junior Season stats:

21.0 PPG

14.7 RPG

3.3 BPG

1.6 SPG

 

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

 

Sam Erickson - Franklinville, Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

20.4 PPG

10.2 RPG

2.7 APG

2.3 SPG

 

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

 

Returning Fifth Teamers

Tyron Lott - Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

18.4 PPG

6.0 APG

4.1 RPG

3.8 SPG

 

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

 

Jalin Cooper - Medina, Senior

Junior Season stats:

20.8 PPG

9.4 RPG

3.0 SPG

2.6 APG

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

*Centercourt #BOOM Squad*

 

 

Ryan Bradley - Canisius, Senior

 

Junior Season stats:

13.3 PPG

7.7 RPG

2.6 APG

1.2 SPG 

 

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

 

Returning 2017 Honorable Mentions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  

Player Watch List

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

 

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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

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

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

I-Prep: no information provided by coach

 

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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

 

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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

All-State Teams 2017: Classes B, C, & D

(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

The 2017 All-Centercourt Team: The Best in WNY

 

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

 Moves up from the 2016 All-Centercourt Second Team.  Did everything for Jamestown from running the point and breaking presses, to manning the post.  Became a reliable shooter from the perimeter.  Attracted extra attention from defenses and moved the ball to open teammates.  Aggressive and decisive with the ball in his hands and able to dribble through the defense. Led the Red Raiders to their seventh straight league title in ECIC I.  Voted to First Team All-ECIC.  Named Player of the Year in ECIC I.  Selected to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  Named Game MVP at the United Way Showcase.  Scored a career-high 42 points in a Class AA sectional quarterfinal win over Clarence.  Went over the 30-point mark in six games.  Averaged a double-double on the season in points & rebounds.  Finishes his career at Jamestown fourth on the all-time scoring list after turning in the fourth highest single-season scoring average.  Member of the Centercourt #BOOM Squad.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo: Post Journal)

 

 

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'

 

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

 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.

 

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

 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

 

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

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

 

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

Coach of the Year

** Announced at the Prep Talk/BCANY Boys Basketball Banquet at Ilio Dipaolo's on Monday, April 24th

 

- centercourt

All-League Teams 2017

 

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION

Class A

Player of the Year:

Davion Warren - Timon, 12

 

All-Catholic

Joe Harrison - Timon, 12

Joe Jones - Park, 11

Bo Sireika - St. Francis, 11

Julian Cunningham - St. Francis, 10

Dan Scott - Park, 10

 

Class B

Player of the Year:

Tavien Kemp - Walsh, 12

 

All-Catholic

Will Johnson - Nichols, 12

Daquan Hunt - St. Mary's, 12

Christian Szablewski - St. Mary's, 11

Latrell Butler-Kemp - Walsh, 11

Justin Hemphill - Cardinal O'Hara, 10

 

 

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

 

YALE CUP I

Player of the Year:

Shakur Harris - South Park, 12

 

First Team

Willard Anderson - East, 11

Ray Mushat - South Park, 11

Hakeem Dobbins - Middle College, 11

Nakye Booze - McKinley, 12

Tyreek Edwards - Emerson, 12

 

Second Team

Deamontae Riley - Burgard, 11

Justin Allen - East, 11

Davonti Wardlaw - McKinley, 12

Deon Spencer - McKinley, 11

Anthony Mack - South Park, 9

  

Third Team

Derrick Bishop - Middle College, 12

Nader Kompany - Middle College, 11

Kavon Rogers - McKinley, 11

Elijah Lewis - South Park, 10

Gerald Bratton - Riverside, 12

 

Honorable Mention

South Park:  Jeremy Jackson - 12, Jakari Woods - 12, Khalil White - 12

East:  Waunya Shaw - 11, Jahahd Maryon - 11

McKinley:  Emir Evans - 11, Joe Johnson - 12

Middle College:  Shawn Goree - 12, Allen McDuffie - 12

Burgard:  DeJuan Williams - 10

Riverside:  Hak Douth - 11

Hutch-Tech:  Anthony Whitfield - 11

Emerson:  Anthony Hunter - 12

 

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

 

YALE CUP II

Co-Players of the Year:

Dan Reid - Olmsted, 12  / David Anderson - MST Seneca, 12

 

First Team

Earl Howard - MST Seneca, 10

Naseem Baynes - Olmsted, 12

Dom Prince - MST Seneca, 12

Carlos Rosa - Lafayette, 11

Amir Radford - City Honors, 10

 

 Second Team

Alijay Clark - I-Prep, 12

Takeylo Burts - Lafayette, 12

Javaughn Johnson - Buffalo Arts, 12

Jason Chapman - MST Seneca, 10

Austin Parham - Olmsted, 12

 

Third Team

Jeffrey Felix - Lafayette, 12

Talon Moody - City Honors, 12

Dreqwan Johnson - Buffalo Arts, 12

Greg Ngoma - I-Prep, 12

EB Lewis - DaVinci, 9

 

Honorable Mention  

City Honors:  Kevion Taylor - 9, Jaden Slaughter - 8

Lafayatte:  Austin Grimes - 11

Buffalo Arts:  Charles Slobert - 9

DaVinci: Mykel Hardgrove - 12

 

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

 

ALL-ECIC

Player of the Year:

Dominick Welch, Cheektowaga, 12

 

First Team

Dominick Welch, Cheektowaga, 12

Greg Dolan, Williamsville South, 11

James Rojas - Jamestown, 12

Marcellus Cooper - Amherst, 12

Nick Montgomery - East Aurora, 12

 

Second Team

Vito Fulciniti - Lancaster, 12

Mason Goodridge - Springville, 10

Ray Blackwell - Maryvale, 11

Da'Shawn Hines - Amherst, 12

Josh Denz - East Aurora, 12

 

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

 

ECIC I

Player of the Year:

James Rojas - Jamestown, 12

 

First Team

Vito Fulciniti - Lancaster, 12

LG Castillo - Lancaster, 12

Alec Tamburri - Lancaster, 11

Dylan Anderson - Orchard Park, 11

Jairus Huggins - Williamsville North, 12

 

Second Team

Jesse Wayland - West Seneca West, 11

Dan Anderson - Orchard Park, 12

Noah Speyer - Lancaster, 12

Marcus Rojas - Jamestown, 10

River Reinhardt - Clarence, 10

Jacob Belote - Williamsville North, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Frontier:  Kyle Ebert - 11, Brian Norsen - 10, Zack Gerken - 12

Williamsville North:  Corey Swiech - 11, Anthony Maniscalco - 12

Clarence:  Jack Putney - 10

Jamestown:  Matt Hill - 11

 

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

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, 11

 

First Team

Marcellus Cooper - Amherst, 12

Dakota Wiley - Williamsville South, 12

Da'Shawn Hines - Amherst, 12

Jake Genzel - Hamburg, 11

Drew Butler - Williamsville East, 12

 

Second Team

Chris Stineman - West Seneca East, 10

Zamari Mitchell - West Seneca East, 10

Evan John - Sweet Home, 10

Dominic Farszmil - West Seneca East, 12

Stephon Trueheart - Sweet Home, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Williamsville South:  Adam Braniecki - 12, Mark Worthy - 12

Williamsville East:  Matthew Gelder, 12

Iroquois:  Matthew Whalen, 12

Amherst:  Daesean Ashley, 9

Hamburg:  Patrick Hart, 12

 

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

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, 12

 

First Team

Nick Montgomery- East Aurora, 12

Josh Denz - East Aurora, 12

Ray Blackwell - Maryvale, 11

John Park - Lake Shore, 11

Chad Biersbach - Depew, 11

 

Second Team

Derek Clemons - Starpoint, 12

Cal McTigue - East Aurora, 12

Kyle Burley - Pioneer, 11

Vaughn Burdette - Cheektowaga, 12

Justin Mott - Starpoint, 10

Rudy Bragg - Cheektowaga, 11

Honorable Mention

Maryvale:  Brian Sullivan - 12

Lake Shore:  Jay Brueckl - 11

Starpoint:  Adam Lasal - 12

Cheektowaga:  Alex Bryant - 11

Depew:  Tyler Biersbach, 12

East Aurora:  Joe Montgomery - 12

 

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

 

ECIC IV

Player of the Year:

Mason Goodridge - Springville, 10

 

First Team

Paul Woodward - Cleveland Hill, 12

Coan Relyea - Holland, 12

Noah Grabar - Lackawanna, 10

Marcus James - Springville, 12

Christian Snell - Alden, 11

 

Second Team

Andy Bialy - Eden, 12

London Smith - Lackawanna, 11

Jacob Braniecki - JFK, 11

Tyler Phillips - Cleveland Hill, 12

Jordan Pacillo - Lackawanna, 12

Trey Lilly - Tonawanda, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Lackawanna:  Harris Bekric - 10, Noble Smith - 11

Tonawanda:  Charlie Moore - 12, Nick Bitter - 12

Holland:  Jordan Kolbmann, Pierce Gardon

JFK:  Thomas Isbrandt - 12

Alden:  Conrad Boucher - 12

Cleveland Hill:  J'Son James - 12

Eden:  Jason Porter

 

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

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

 

First  Team

Tyler Aquilina - Kenmore West, 12

Trevor Book - North Tonawanda, 11 

Tavon Chambers - Lockport, 12

Tal James - Kenmore West, 12

Cam Sionko - Grand Island, 10

 

Second Team

Syquan Ralands - Niagara Falls, 11

Kyle LaPlante - Kenmore West, 12

Kyle Brown - Lockport, 12

Mario Wright - Grand Island, 12

Malik Brooks - Lockport, 10

 

Third Team

Jalen Bradberry - Niagara Wheatfield, 8

Tazaun Rose - Niagara Falls, 11

Alex Quinn - North Tonawanda, 12

JB Wilkes - Grand Island, 12

Charles Lamar - Niagara Falls, 12

 

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

 

NIAGARA-ORLEANS

 

First Team

Jalin Cooper - Medina, 11

Nathan Luckman - Barker, 12

Max Weber - Newfane, 11

Johnny Salone - Medina, 10

Kyle DeVoogel - Newfane, 11

 

Second Team

Justin Daul - Wilson, 12

Izaiah Rhim - Medina, 10

Jacob Bruning - Roy-Hart, 11

Kory Reynolds - Albion, 12

Connor Seeley - Wilson, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Akron:  Mason Schultz - 11, Derek Holtz - 11

Albion:  Lamar Chambers - 12, Tommy Matison - 12, Chase Hall - 12, Tanner Ferris - 12

Barker:  Eddie Wasnock - 12, Jake Arnold - 12, Austin Sullivan - 11

Roy-Hart:  Daniel Davis - 12, Brendan Hess - 12

Newfane:  Caleb Russell - 12, Connor Hill - 11, Chad Dunbar - 11, Brandon Gross - 11

Medina:  Vincent Montague - 10, Brendan Luthart - 11, Mason Lewis - 12, Alex Allis - 12, Tyrellis Atkins - 12

Wilson:  Jonah Miller - 12, Steve Frerichs - 10

 

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

 

CCAA I West

Player of the Year:

Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, 11

 

First Team

Monty Shoemaker - Olean, 12

Aaron Swan -  Chautauqua Lake, 12

Darnell Butts - Dunkirk, 11

Lucas Voss - Fredonia, 12

Carson Crist - Maple Grove, 10

 

Second Team

Shamon Stewart - Dunkirk, 12

Mike Schmidt - Olean, 10

Nate Shuart - Fredonia, 10

Tristen Snyder - Olean, 12

Michael Padilla - Maple Grove, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Dunkirk:  Evon Hernandez - 12, Tyreek Ruiz - 12, Devaun Farnham - 11, Noah Sobilo - 11

Maple Grove:  Dalton Dubois - 12, Peter Auer - 9

Falconer:  Brandon Luke - 12, Brandon Crick - 11

Olean:  Matt Droney - 10, Luke Rogers - 12

Southwestern:  Niko Pannes - 12, Alex Card - 10

Chautauqua Lake:  Tyler Meredith - 12

 

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

 

CCAA II WEST

Co-Players of the Year:

Chris Robson - Sherman, 12  &  Cordell O'Brien - Frewsburg, 12

 

First Team

Justin Svetz - Clymer, 12

Josh Van Earden - Clymer, 12

Dustin Neckers - Clymer, 11

Jared Gleason - Sherman, 11

 

Second Team

David Grayson - Westfield, 12

Tristen Frye - Panama, 12

Brandon Chamberlin - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Johnethen Spicer - Brocton, 12

Shawn Horr - Westfield, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Sherman: Mike Delcamp - 12, Brandon Nickerson - 12, Kyle Carpenter - 12, Tanner Ramsey - 11

Frewsburg:  Nyle Bird - 12, Caleb Caldwell - 12, Tyler Marchincin - 11, Brad Nelson - 9

Clymer:  Dylan Davis - 12

Brocton:  Garrett McFadden - 12

Cassadaga Valley:  Conner Crabtree - 10, Adam Goot - 10

Westfield:  Julio Torres - 11

Panama:  Noah Eggleston - 12, Lucas Golden - 12

 

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

 

CCAA I EAST

Co-Players of the Year:

Tyler Hind - Raandolph, 9  &  Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, 11

 

First Team

Zeus Enriquez - Salamanca, 12

Jarrett Lecceadone - Randolph, 12

Zach Hemphill - Allegany-Limestone, 12

Jake Beaver - Randolph, 12

 

Second Team

Jarmani Benton - Gowanda, 11

Joe Sherlock - Salamanca, 12

Hercules Rasha - Salamanca, 11

Nick Stein - Portville, 12

Sam Flanders - Allegany-Limestone, 10

Brady Woelben - Silver Creek, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Portville:  Colin Kloc - 12, Jaeden Harris - 11

Gowanda:  Matt Kruszka - 12

Randolph:  Kaleb Frink - 12

Salamanca:  Derek McClure - 12, Michael Collins - 12

Allegany-Limestone:  Sean McAffee - 11

Silver Creek:  Chris Williams - 12

 

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

 

CCAA II EAST

Player of the Year:

Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville, 11

 

First Team

Sam Erickson - Franklinville, 11

Dylan Chase - Pine Valley, 12

Griffin Chudy - Ellicottville, 11

Isaac Kopp - Franklinville, 11

Darren Clark - Franklinville, 11

 

 Second Team

Austin Grinols - Ellicottville, 11

Brandon Zielinski - North Collins, 11

Kalvin Stanbro - Forestville, 12

Kellen Martin - Cattaraugus/Little-Valley, 12

Lewis Markham - Forestville, 11

Zach Mansfield, Pine Valley, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Franklinville:  Brock Belcha - 11, Dylan Burton - 11

Ellicottville:  Steven Rowland - 10, Noah Stuve - 11

Pine Valley:  Gilberto Ortiz - 12

Forestville:  Trent Hartloff - 12

Cattaraugus/Little-Valley:  Austin Baker - 11

North Collins:  Zachary Schroeder - 11

 

All-Charter

Player of the Year:

Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, 11

 

Offensive & Defensive POY:

Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, 11

 

First Team

Davonte Gaines - Health Sciences, 11

Tyron Lott - Health Sciences, 11

Shakur Bridges - Oracle Charter, 12

Dwight Dilbert - Global Concepts, 12

Paitwan Jenifer - Tapestry, 12

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2017 Sectionals

 

Class B1

First Round - Tuesday, February 21st

(16) Emerson 71, (9) Alden 53

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

 

(10) Fredonia 57, (15) Tonawanda 39

(14) CSAT 86, (11) Riverside 72

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 22nd

(8) Burgard 69, (16) Emerson 44

(5) Dunkirk 78, (12) Albion  39

 

(10) Fredonia  61, (7) I-Prep 49

(6) Depew 61, (14) CSAT 55

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 24th

(1) East Aurora 47, (8) Burgard 34

(5) Dunkirk 69, (4) Springville 49

 

(2) MST Seneca 52, (10) Fredonia 39

(3) Newfane 78, (6) Depew 53

 

Semifinals - Monday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm

 (1) East Aurora 59, (5) Dunkirk 55

(3) Newfane 65, (2) MST Seneca 63

 

Final - Saturday, March 4th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

 (1) East Aurora 75, (3) Newfane 30

 

2017 Section VI Class B1 Champions - East Aurora Blue Devils

 

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

 

Class B2

First Round - Tuesday, February 21st

(13) Southwestern 51 (12) Buffalo Arts 38

(10) Roy-Hart 51, (15) Eden 45 

(11) Oracle 60, (14) Akron 54

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 22nd

(8) Gowanda 61, (9) JFK 52

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

 

(7) Lafayette 58, (10) Roy-Hart 55 OT

(6) Wilson 57, (11) Oracle 43

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 24th

(1) Medina 69, (8) Gowanda 48

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

 

(2) Olmsted 67, (7) Lafayette 52

(3) Lackawanna 69, (6) Wilson 45

 

Semifinals - Thursday, March 2nd

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm 

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

(3) Lackawanna 62, (2) Olmsted v49

 

Final - Saturday, March 4th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

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

 

2017 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Health Sciences Falcons

 

- centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 2/13/17 - 2/19/17

 (Vito Fulciniti & Lancaster host Jamestown in a key ECIC I battle on Monday)

 

Monday, February 13th

East @ McKinley - 4:30 pm

South Park @ Middle College - 6 pm

Cardinal O'Hara @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

Batavia @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

Randolph @ Allegany-Limestone - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, February 14th

St. Francis @ Timon - 6:30 pm

Canisius @ Aquinas - 6:30 pm

Walsh @ St. Mary's - 6:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 15th

Lake Shore @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Cardinal O'Hara @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Orchard Park @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

East Aurora @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

Gowanda vs. Frewsburg **at JCC - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 16th

East @ South Park - 4:30 pm

Depew @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Park @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

Wilson @ Newfane - 7 pm

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

 

Friday, February 17th

Orchard Park @ Lackawanna - 6:30 pm

Timon @ Canisius - 7 pm

St. Francis @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

North Tonawanda @ St. Mary's - 7:30 pm

 

  * Game of the Week - Jamestown @ Lancaster on Monday, February 13th

 Between what's at stake pending the outcome of the game, along with the way the first meeting between the two went down last Tuesday night in Jamestown, the Red Raiders visit to Lancaster on Monday night is the place to be.

Over the past six seasons, Jamestown has enjoyed quite the run in league play.  The Red Raiders have been champs in all six campaigns, taking the title outright in four of those seasons, while being co-champs the other two years.

For Lancaster, the league title in ECIC I has been elusive for quite some time. You'd have to go all the way back to 1995 to find the last time Lancaster won the title.  If they can accomplish that this season, it would be the first time the Legends have ever won it, because back in 1995, they were still the Redskins.

Both teams entered the first meeting between the two undefeated against the competition from ECIC I.  After four quarters of intense play, nothing had been decided and an extra four minutes went up on the clock.  In the end, it was the hosts in Jamestown who took a one-point decision in overtime for a leg up in the league race.

Entering Monday's game, Jamestown will have a mark of 12-5 overall and 10-0 in league, while Lancaster comes in at 11-7 & 9-1.  I have voted the Legends as a top ten team this season and currently have the Red Raiders ranked #10.

A win for Lancaster on Monday would pull them even with Jamestown in the league standings with one game left to play.  The Legends last game is against Frontier, who they've already defeated 78-49.  If Jamestown wins, they will be the outright champions of ECIC I and lock up the #1 seed in the Class AA sectionals.  However a loss would make things very interesting because its last game is at Williamsville North on Wednesday and a win is far less of a sure thing.  The Red Raiders won the first meeting at home 59-50.  If Jamestown were to drop its last two contests, Lancaster would earn sole possession of first place and the top seed in Class AA.  

It's a great way to get the last week of the regular for Section VI season started - a Class AA battle with seedings and a league championship at stake.  Game of the Week time in Lancaster!

 

- centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 2/6/17 - 2/12/17

(Park visits the first place Red Raiders on Friday night)

 

Monday, February 6th

Middle College @ East - 6 pm

South Park @ Burgard - 6 pm

MST Seneca @ Olmsted - 6 pm

Gowanda @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Salamanca @ Allegany-Limestone - 7:30 pm

Franklinville @ Ellicottville - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, February 7th

Canisius @ Park - 6:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Niagara Falls @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm

Wilson @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Lancaster @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 8th

Sweet Home @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Timon @ Aquinas - 7 pm

Nichols @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 9th

East @ Burgard - 4:30 pm

McKinley @ Middle College - 6 pm

Newfane @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Chautauqua Lake @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm

Salamanca @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, February 10th

Tapestry @ I-Prep - 6 pm

Park @ St. Francis - 6:30 pm

Cardinal O'Hara @ Walsh - 6:30 pm

Grand Island @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Lackawanna - 6:30 pm

St. Joe's @ Canisius - 7 pm

Lancaster @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Maryvale @ Depew - 7:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, February 11th

Timon @ Olean - 2:30 pm

 

  * Game of the Week - Park @ St. Francis on Friday, February 10th

I try not to repeat teams when selecting a Game of the Week.  Park had its game with Canisius and St. Francis hosted Timon in 'Games of the Week' earlier this season.  But as I looked at the lineup of games that I'd be covering this week, I asked myself, why am I over-thinking this?  Park at St. Francis on Friday night is gonna be awesome!

For starters, let's look back at what happened when the two got together in Round One of the series on January 18th.  There was a nice crowd on hand at Park that night, but unfortunately not a sellout.  At the time, people were still sleeping on the Red Raiders.  They had never beat Park and at the time, were in a multiple season drought against both Timon and Canisius as well.  So why should anyone have expected that night could turn out the way it did?  Well, this geek who immerses himself in high school hoops for four months a year dubbed it the 'No Nights Off Monsignor Martin' in the preseason for a reason and was voting them #2 after Park before the game was even played...but I digress.

The first game was quite simply an epic evening.  Park took a 21-point lead in the first half and led by 19 points at the break.  St. Francis methodically chipped away in the third quarter to make it a two-point game heading to the fourth quarter.  The Pioneers quickly went back up by eight points to begin the final frame, but in the end, had to score last to take the Red Raiders to overtime.  Then another overtime.  When the smoke cleared, St. Francis was a 70-66 winner at the home of the top ranked Class A team in NYS.  For all the details of that game with point totals, box score, and quotes, click here.

Since that night, both teams have just one loss.  Frannies got clipped on their home court by Williamsville South and Park lost a second league game at Timon.  Also since that night, the Red Raiders have earned wins over Timon and Canisius.  The result: St. Francis now sits in first place in the league standings, ahead of Park, Timon, and Canisius, thanks to beating them all.  All of a sudden, Park finds itself in the position of needing a win on Friday night to avoid falling two games out of first place heading into the Manhattan Cup playoffs.  That's providing the Pioneers get past Canisius first on Tuesday night.  Remember, No Nights Off!  

 

- centercourt

 

Top Games of the Week: 1/9/17-1/15/17

(Canisius celebrates after defeating Park to win the Manhattan Cup)

 

Monday, January 9th

South Park @ East - 6 pm

 

Tuesday, January 10th

Medina @ Wilson - 6 pm

Park @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

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

Walsh @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Niagara Falls @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Lackawanna @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

Health Sciences @ St. Francis - 7 pm

Newfane @ Barker - 7 pm

Williamsville North @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Depew @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

Olean @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 11th

Burgard @ McKinley - 6 pm

 St. Mary's @ Walsh - 6:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 12th

Williamsville South @ Park - 6:30 pm

St. Francis @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

 MST Seneca @ BASCS - 7 pm

 

Friday, January 13th

Health Sciences @ Burgard - 6 pm

Grand Island @ North Tonawanda - 7 pm

Medina @ Newfane - 7 pm

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

Williamsville North @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Maryvale @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

Randolph @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

Dunkirk @ Chautauqua Lake - 7:30 pm

 

 

Saturday, January 14th

Tapestry @ Health Sciences - 2:30 pm

MLK Classic at City Honors HS

Sweet Home vs. Olmsted - 12 pm

Middle College vs. Canisius - 1:45 pm

East vs. Cardinal O'Hara - 4:30 pm

McKinley vs. Amherst - 6:15 pm

 

* Game of the Week - Park @ Canisius on Tuesday, January 10th

There may be more storied rivalries across WNY, but the game between Park & Canisius is still the hottest ticket in town!

Two seasons ago, both teams won Federation championships in Class A & Class B respectively.  Those followed CHSAA state championships, which followed each team winning the Manhattan Cup.  The two teams remain the only ones from WNY to win NYS high school basketball's highest honor in the last six years.

Following the two Monsignor Martin Association powers winning the Federation over the same weekend in Albany in 2015, Park was moved up in classification to compete in Class A.  The implications of the move were that now they would have to go head-to-head twice during the regular season and compete in the same playoffs for the Manhattan Cup.  

During the 2016 regular season, Canisius swept the two games against Park.  The first was a victory on the Pioneers' home floor, accomplished with a strong second half, after falling behind by double figures in the second quarter.  The second meeting of the regular season was a low-scoring defensive affair that favored the Crusaders style of play.  After both teams advanced to the Manhattan Cup Final, the Pioneers had a chance at redemption, but it was Canisius who won for a third time in an epic overtime title game.  The Crusaders would go on to win two more games and secure a second straight CHSAA Class A state championship.

Canisius and Park finished the 2016 season ranked and regarded by everybody as the top two teams in WNY.  The leaders and First Team All-Centercourt selections from each team landed in the Division I ranks - the Crusaders' Stafford Trueheart to Hofstra and Park's Jordan Nwora to Louisville.  But the cupboards never run bare for these two giants.  The Pioneers alone have three players already with Division I offers.

The Pioneers will enter the game on Tuesday as the #1 ranked team in WNY, Canisius will come in at #5.  Playing the underdog role is certain to fuel the fire burning on Delaware Avenue, as the Crusaders have never lost a game to Park.  Since the Pioneers joined the MMA in 2014, Canisius is 5-0 against Park.  An overflow crowd watched them battle in 2015 and many never got to see the games in 2016 after they sold out at both schools.  Get there early on Tuesday or else turn your notifications on!

 

- centercourt

Top Games of the Week: 1/2/17 - 1/8/17

(Ellicottville visits Franklinville to ring in the New Year on Wednesday)

 

Monday, January 2nd

McDowell @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 3rd

Park @ St. Joe's - 6 pm

Niagara Wheatfield @ Wilson - 6 pm

Williamsville South @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Grand Island @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

Depew @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

Lew-Port @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

East Aurora @ Lackawanna - 6:30 pm

Canisius @ Timon - 7 pm

Maryvale @ Frontier - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 4th

Fredonia @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm

Ellicottville @ Franklinville – 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 5th

Middle College @ Burgard - 6 pm

Depew @ Starpoint - 7 pm

Wilson @ Barker - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 6th

Timon @ Park - 6:30 pm

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

Walsh @ St. Francis - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm

Canisius @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Clarence @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Hamburg @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

Dunkirk @ Olean - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 7th

United Way Showcase at Jamestown HS

Panama vs. Salamanca - 12 pm

Fredonia vs. Tapestry - 1:45 pm

East vs. Randolph - 3:30 pm

Sherman vs. Silver Creek - 5:15 pm

Jamestown vs. Leadership Academy - 7 pm

 

 * Game of the Week – Ellicottville @ Franklinville on Wednesday, January 4^th

We were cruising along through the first month of the season and the results seemed to have a certain flow to them, until we hit that tricky week between Christmas & New Year’s and everything we thought we knew got a little shook up. 

Ellicottville opened its season with a win over Randolph, a team that battled with Middle College in the Class C2 semifinal last season and brought back four starters.  The Eagles continued adding to the win column, including a victory at Gowanda, a Class B2 team that won CCAA I East last season.  The Eagles lone loss was to Chautauqua Lake – a two-point heartbreaker to the #2 ranked team in NYS Class C who would go on to defeat Olean a week later.  Everyone took notice of Ellicottville, and the Eagles became a ranked small school locally. They also climbed to the #5 ranked school in NYS Class D, one of two teams along with Sherman from Section VI to be ranked by the state in Class D.

Franklinville’s schedule was equally challenging, if not more so, to get the season started.  The Panthers first hosted Burgard, one of the Yale Cup’s best teams, and took a three-point loss.  They rebounded to earn their first win over Randolph, who Ellicottville had also beaten, only by a larger margin.  Franklinville added a win over Portville, before suffering another three-point loss – this time at the hands of Tavien Kemp and Walsh on December 14^th.

Heading into the holiday break, I was calling for everyone to beware of Franklinville, but couldn’t sneak them into the small school poll due to the losses to Burgard & Walsh, also unranked.  But then came that tricky week I mentioned at the top, and plenty has changed.  The Panthers followed a win over Allegany-Limestone with a convincing victory over Chautauqua Lake.  Over the same two-day stretch, Ellicottville narrowly defeated Sherman to support its ranking above them, but fell the following night in a rematch with Randolph.  The combination of results from those four games is sure to change where WNY and NYS have these two slotted when the rankings come out early this week.  Two days after I show my hand with another small school poll and the day after the next state rankings come out, Ellicottville & Franklinville get it on to end the speculation.

Never mind where I rank them or what the state thinks, this game will be for first place in CCAA II East, as we have a pair of league rivals facing off.  This game effects the league race, sectional seeding points, rankings, and the mental state of both teams.  Both enjoyed success last season and returned their key talents.  And each team has one of WNY’s elite players – Elliot Bowen for the Eagles and Sam Erickson for Franklinville.  The Panthers also added a transfer from Fillmore with some height and talent, which certainly doesn’t hurt their chances.

 It looks like I’ll be making my first ever trip to Franklinville on Wednesday night and I’m very much looking forward to it.  Save me a seat, I like to sit right at…

 

- centercourt

Bowen leads Ellicottville over Gowanda

(Elliot Bowen was dominant in the post once again for Ellicottville)

 

In the same week the first small school poll and state rankings came out, Ellicottville faced a pair of opponents that occupied space in both.  The Eagles, voted #10 in the small school poll by myself and opening at #6 in NYS Class D, hosted Chautauqua Lake on Monday night, before traveling to Gowanda on Tuesday.  In heart-breaking fashion, the Eagles fell to Chautauqua Lake, voted #9 among small schools and ranked #3 in NYS Class C, after missing a pair at the stripe to win the game in a one-point loss.  Without a day to practice, it was off to Gowanda - a NYS Class B honorable mention and defending CCAA I East champ, who I voted #7 among small schools.  Despite the quick turnaround and the daunting task of jumping up two classes against a quality opponent, the Eagles left Gowanda with their biggest win of the season and the validation that they belong in the conversation of WNY's top small schools.

 

Ellicottville quickly built a lead and then never trailed, to earn a 61-53 nonleague win on the road.  The Eagles improve to 4-1 on the season, while Gowanda falls to 2-1.

 

"It's a huge win for us," Ellicottville coach Dave McCann said.  "They're all nice to get, but coming off the game we had last night which was an absolute battle, I was curious to see how we would respond...I thought the kids responded great."

 

Elliot Bowen, an All-Centercourt Honorable Mention selection as a sophomore, continued his strong play.  The junior scored a game-high 30 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and connected on eight of 11 from the charity stripe.  In the fourth quarter, he scored 10 of his points and even broke the press for a score, allowing his team to maintain its lead throughout.  Austin Grinols added 17 points, eight rebounds, and six assists for the Eagles in the victory and was key to Bowen's success as he repeatedly delivered perfect passes into the post, despite the Panthers' best efforts to deny them.

 

"We knew that we would need more than one guy to defend Elliot," said Gowanda coach Andy Bobseine.  "We tried to front him and get weakside help, but he was still finding ways to get the ball."

 

By the midway point of the opening quarter, the Eagles had soared out to a 13-2 advantage, with Grinols scoring seven points in the first four minutes.  Ellicottville showed no signs of tired legs in the early going.  Conversely, Gowanda seemed to lack defensive energy out of the gates and struggled to get going.

 

"We were kind of lackadaisical on defense and didn't make the proper rotations," said Bobseine.

 

As Ellicottville mounted its first quarter lead, the Panthers lacked patience with their offense and hurried some early shots.  Also disrupting the Gowanda attack was Eagles' junior Griffin Chudy (five points, nine assists, & eight boards), who drew the difficult assignment of defending Nate Brawdy, a natural scorer who is smooth with the ball and averaged 23.1 ppg as a sophomore.  

 

"Chudy did an amazing job," said Bobseine.  "It made it tough trying to set up our offense and our sets weren't as fluid."

 

After one quarter, Ellicottville led by nine points.  The Eagles' lead reached as many as 13 points early in the second quarter, following a three-point play by Bowen and a 3-pointer from sophomore Steven Rowland.  Despite Gowanda's Jarmani Benton scoring 11 of his team-high 20 points in the first half, Ellicottville extended its lead to 33-22 at the break, while limiting Brawdy to just five points in the first 16 minutes.

 

"Griff's a trooper and he's going to give you everything he's got for as long as he's got it," McCann said of Chudy's defensive efforts.  "He doesn't back down to any competition."

 

Gowanda looked like a different team coming out of halftime, with a noticable increase in intensity that led to some easy buckets and sparked the offense.  Dakota Perdue and Matthew Dodolak scored buckets for the Panthers to start the third quarter, followed by a '3' from Brawdy.  An 11-3 run cut the Ellicottville lead to three points, 36-33, midway through the quarter as Brawdy heated up, netting nine of his 17 points in the frame.  However a pair of 3-pointers from Grinols and the stanza's final bucket from Bowen sent Ellicottville into the fourth quarter with a 45-39 advantage.

 

Chudy and Bowen combined to push the Eagle lead back to nine, 51-42, three minutes into the last quarter.  But Perdue found his sweet spot a few feet away from the basket and swished three soft jumpers over the Ellicottville defense to make it a four-point game, 53-49, with under two minutes to play.  Ultimately, the Eagles defended well in the last two minutes and got on the boards to close the game out and overcome some late misses from the charity stripe.

 

"We definitely were showing some wear at the end, but we hung in there and gutted one out," McCann said.

 

Ellicottville  19 - 14 - 12 - 16 = 61

Gowanda     10 - 12 - 17 - 14 = 53

 

Point Totals

Ellicottville:  Elliot Bowen 30, Austin Grinols 17, Griffin Chudy 5, Deric Leiper 4, Steven Rowland 3, Mitchell Sexton 2

Gowanda:  Jamari Benton 20, Nate Brawdy 17, Dakota Perdue 10, Matthew Dodolak 4, Matt Kruszka 2

 

-centercourt

Poll Ballots 2017 - Week 1

(Jayce Johnson & Canisius are at the top of my opening Poll Ballot) 

 

As a pollster, I rank the top ten large and small schools in WNY each week.  These rankings are based on games played through Saturday of each week.  Here's how I see them and some of the rationale used to get there.

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MMA) - In the Season Preview, I said I'd learned my lesson and was done picking against the Crusaders.  Then I watched them twice this weekend, including a win over defending Class AA state champion Aquinas.  Different players stepped up in each game for Canisius.  They take on Jamestown this Saturday night in the ADPRO Challenge finale.

2. Park (MMA) - After grinding one out in an overtime win at Niagara Falls, the Pioneers looked like a well-oiled machine in a rout of East at the Pastor-Cooper Showcase.  Imagine the talent that will be on the floor when they face Dom Welch & Cheektowaga this Saturday at the ADPRO Challenge.

3. Timon (MMA) - The Tigers open their season at home tomorrow night against Bishop Kearney.  With all they have back, along with the addition of Master Radford playing next to Davion Warren in the paint, this could be the best Timon team in a while.

4. Williamsville South (A1) - I've had a lot of people telling me the Billies wouldn't be as good this season because they lost such a strong senior class.  I've been disagreeing with that sentiment.  Greg Dolan is like having three starters back and you know he's taking another big step forward from sophomore to junior season.  And his supporting cast is way more talented than skeptical fans realize.  We learn a lot more about the Billies tonight, off to a 2-0 start, and giving up their home game in the 'Battle of Main Street' to take on Amherst at Daemen.

5. North Tonawanda (A1) - One coach calls this the greatest NT team of all-time.  Time will tell, but a 3-0 start includes wins over Niagara Falls and Health Sciences.  They have size, chemistry, depth, and talent.  This group is fired up early and believing in itself.  And that defense...

6. Niagara Falls (AA) - Oh those Wolverines.  They take Park to overtime one night before a thrilling comeback win over completely loaded UPrep squad.  Then they head to the Lumber Yard in North Tonawanda and score 37 points.  I like this Falls team a lot, but they have to be the same team on the road.  Over the last four minutes at NT, they looked like the team I watched for 65 minutes at the Cataract City Classic last weekend (they played a total of 68 minutes last weekend, but stumbled for the first three minutes of the game against UPrep and then snapped out of it).  

7. St. Francis (MMA) - After Orchard Park won its first two games of the season by a combined 75 points, the Red Raiders smacked them by 34 points.  Then they took a West Seneca East team that owns a double-digit win over South Park, down by 48 points.  This seems to be the one team people are sleeping on the most.  Time to wake up, this is the best St. Francis team in the last 10 years.

8. Cheektowaga (A2) - The Warriors are playing a nonleague schedule that is beyond ambitious.  But early on, they found out they can hang with the likes of Class AA Bishop Kearney and perennial WNY powerhouse Canisius.  Then they knocked off Nazareth on Saturday by putting a solid 32 minutes together and getting a great game out of Vaughn Burdette.  The Warriors have been bringing the defensive intensity, getting some solid play from Adrian Baugh, and then there's this other kid who's pretty good for them too.

9. McKinley (A1) - Returning only Davonti Wardlaw to their starting lineup, the Macks took down a Kenmore West team with a very talented and experienced backcourt.  The team has some things to work on, but they are easily correctable.  As you would expect from a McKinley team, there was no lack of effort.  The Macks have gone undefeated in the Yale Cup for two straight seasons and I didn't pick them to win their league this season because, well, I'm an idiot.

10. Maryvale (A2) - I wrote in the Season Preview that I could see them spending some time in the large school poll this season.  Hey look, I was right.  The Flyers' win over Olean to start their season could be the start of something special.  Ray Blackwell played a big time game, but several players on that team made the big plays late in regulation and overtime. Remember, this is the team that kept Cheektowaga from reaching Buff State last season.  And it just so happens that they host the Warriors this Wednesday night.  

 

Small Schools 

1. Health Sciences (B2) - With the way the Falcons have started their season, they absolutely deserve this spot.  They beat a Dunkirk team that was beyond impressive in its win at Lancaster.  They blew out Cardinal O'Hara, and I don't think another small school could do that.  But most impressive may be the way they battled at North Tonawanda on Wednesday.

2. East Aurora (B1) - The Blue Devils have every reason to believe this is their season, despite being dealt a huge dose of humility from Olean in a 21-point loss.  I think they got caught in a barrage of momentum created by a defending state championship Huskies team playing in front of a home crowd and couldn't dig out of a first half hole.  They should have a game against Orchard Park coming up this Saturday if both teams advance in the Southtowns Tournament at EA.

3. Dunkirk (B1) - If you want to attribute Dunkirk's early success to a championship mentality created by the football team, that's fine.  But when I watched them, my take was these guys are really good and play their butts off.  The Marauders have a very intriguing matchup at St. Francis tomorrow night.

4. East (C2) - The Panthers haven't shown a lot of depth yet this season, but the guys who take the court for East make them the team to beat in Section VI Class C.  They stood toe-to-toe with Amherst in the Cataract City Classic and I think they'll make some noise in Yale Cup I as well, a league that will have them hardened for the postseason.

5. Lackawanna (B2) - The Steelers just dealt Alden a 44-point loss, winning by more points than they allowed.  That win followed a Hamburg Lions Club Tournament championship win over a good Hamburg team.  Keep an eye on these guys, who I'm expecting will take an undefeated record into the New Year.

6. Cardinal O'Hara (MMA) - The Hawks are very young, but they have a lot of guys who can play.  Opening the season against Health Sciences who is not only sitting at the top of this ballot, but also had four games under its belt, was a tall order that got away from them at the start of the second half.  They face Newfane in the ADPRO Challenge this week, who is a team sitting just outside of this ballot with a win over MST Seneca (who beat Middle College).  It's the perfect "take care of business" game for a team that wants to know where they stand.

7. Gowanda (B2) - The only thing we have to go on at this point is a 30-point win over Roy-Hart, which really doesn't tell us much, considering the Rams' other three games were against Section V teams.  Still, I had the Panthers as favorites to win CCAA I East and see them as a Buff State team and a notch above the other Southern Tier small schools, with the exception of Dunkirk.  A visit from Ellicottville tomorrow night will answer some questions.

8. Burgard (B1) - For me, this is the surprise team of the early season.  The Bulldogs began their season with a difficult road win at Franklinville. Before you dimiss that one, consider they are a team that could be your Class D champions this year.  Then over the weekend, Burgard won at Medina by 18 points - more than Williamsville North beat the Mustangs by on a neutral court.

9. Chautauqua Lake (C1) - The Thunderbirds began their season with a pair of 30-point wins over Westfield & Frewsburg.  Remember, this is the team that lost the Class C1 Final to Olmsted by three at JCC in March.  If there were two of me, one of them would be watching them play Ellicottville tonight (the other will be at Daemen to watch Amherst vs. Will South tonight at 7:30 pm).

10. Ellicottville (D) - The Eagles are 3-0 and each win has come against Class C schools.  My trip to Ellicottville was the first game I covered this season, and I can attest, these guys are good.  The bad weather forces the Eagles to make up a tournament championship game tonight against Chautauqua Lake (#9 on my ballot), then turn around and play at Gowanda (#7 on my ballot) tomorrow night.

 

-centercourt

Classifications for the 2017 Season

                      

 

Class AA (10 Teams)                                                        

Niagara Falls - NFL                                                                     

Jamestown - ECIC I                                                              

Kenmore West - NFL                                                                 

Lancaster - ECIC I                                                                       

Frontier - ECIC I                                                                         

Willaimsville North - ECIC I                                                            

Niagara Wheatfield - NFL                                                          

Orchard Park - ECIC I                                                              

Lockport - NFL                                                                             

Clarence - ECIC I

 

Class A1 (10 Teams)                                                              

Williamsville South - ECIC II                                                   

McKinley - Yale Cup I                                                                

North Tonawanda - NFL                                                           

Hamburg - ECIC II                                                               

Grand Island - NFL                                                                   

West Seneca East - ECIC II                                                      

Sweet Home - ECIC II                                                               

Williamsville East - ECIC II                                                 

West Seneca West - ECIC I                                                      

Hutch-Tech - Yale Cup I  

 

Class A2 (11 Teams)

Amherst - ECIC II

South Park - Yale Cup

Cheektowaga - ECIC III

Olean - CCAA I West

Maryvale - ECIC III

Lew-Port – NFL

Starpoint - ECIC III

Lake Shore - ECIC III

Pioneer - ECIC III

Iroquois - ECIC II

Kenmore East - NFL

 

Class B1 (16 Teams)                                                            

East Aurora - ECIC III                                                    

Newfane - N-O                                                                     

MST Seneca - Yale Cup II                                                   

Depew - ECIC III                                                                      

Dunkirk - CCAA I West                                                          

Burgard - Yale Cup I                                                                

Riverside - Yale Cup I                                                              

CSAT - NFL                                                                             

Emerson - Yale Cup I                                                            

Alden - ECIC IV                                                                  

I-Prep - Yale Cup II                                                                 

Fredonia - CCAA I West                                                        

City Honors - Yale Cup II                                                    

Albion - N-O                                                                           

Tonawanda - ECIC IV                                                           

Springville - ECIC IV

 

Class B2 (15 Teams)

Health Sciences - Charter

Middle College - Yale Cup I

Medina - N-O

Gowanda - CCAA I East

Lackawanna - ECIC IV

Olmsted - Yale Cup II

JFK - ECIC IV

Wilson - N-O

Roy-Hart - N-O

Akron - N-O

Oracle - Charter

Southwestern - CCAA I West

Eden - ECIC IV

Buffalo Arts - Yale Cup II

Lafayette - Yale Cup II

                                                                  

Class C1 (10 Teams)                                                    

Chautauqua Lake - CCAA I West                                            

Cleveland Hill - ECIC IV                                                           

Portville - CCAA I East                                                      

Salamanca - CCAA I East                                                       

Allegany-Limestone - CCAA I East                                        

Maritime - Charter                                                                     

DaVinci - Yale Cup II                                                               

Tapestry - Charter                                                                  

Falconer - CCAA I West                                                           

Cassadaga Valley - CCAA II West

 

Class C2 (11 Teams)

East - Yale Cup I

Randolph - CCAA I East

Barker - N-O

Silver Creek - CCAA I East

Maple Grove - CCAA I West

BASCS - Charter

Cattaraugus/Little Valley - CCAA II East

Frewsburg - CCAA II West

Holland - ECIC IV

Global Concepts - Charter

Westfield - CCAA II West

 

Class D (9 Teams)

Ellicottville - CCAA II East

Sherman - CCAA II West

Franklinville - CCAA II East

Clymer - CCAA II West

Pine Valley - CCAA II East

Panama - CCAA II West

Forestville - CCAA II East 

Brocton - CCAA II West

North Collins - CCAA II East

 

Monsignor Martin Class A

Canisius

Park

Timon

St. Francis

St. Joe's

 

Monsignor Martin Class B

Nichols

Cardinal O'Hara

St. Mary's

Walsh

CCA

Niagara Catholic

 

-centercourt                

Season Preview: 2016-2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 The 2016-2017 Pre-View From Centercourt contains:

- Feature on Jeff Anastasia & Dominick Welch

- What's New

- Returning 2016 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2017

- A League-by-League look at the teams

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

- CoachingChanges

- Classification Changes

- Preseason Top 10 Large & Small Schools

- Predictions

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

What's New

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

- Six teams have changed leagues from last season:

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

 

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

 

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The Players

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

Returning First Teamers
 Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Senior

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

 * as a junior

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


 Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, Junior

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

 * as a sophomore 

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

 

Returning Second Teamer

 James Rojas - Jamestown, Senior

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

 * as a junior

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

 

Returning Fourth Teamer

Tavien Kemp - Walsh, Senior

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

 * as a junior

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

 

 

Returning 2016 Honorable Mentions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Player Watch List:

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

 

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

 

League-By-League 

Monsignor Martin Association

Large Schools - CLASS A

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

Small Schools - CLASS B 

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

 ***

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Section VI

YALE CUP I

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

Emerson: no information provided by coach

Hutch-Tech: no information provided by coach

 

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

 

YALE CUP II

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

***

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

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

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

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

Lafayette: no information provided by coach

DaVinci: no information provided by coach

Buffalo Arts: no information provided by coach

 

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ECIC I

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

West Seneca West: no information provided by coach

 

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ECIC II

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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ECIC III

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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ECIC IV

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

 ***

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holland: no information provided by coach

Eden: no information provided by coach

 

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Niagara Frontier League

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

 ***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kenmore East: no information provided by coach

 

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Niagara-Orleans

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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CCAA I West 

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

***

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

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

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

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

Maple Grove: no information provided by coach

 Southwestern: no information provided by coach

Falconer: no information provided by coach

 

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CCAA I East

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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CCAA II West 

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

***

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

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

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

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

Westfield: no information provided by coach

Frewsburg: no information provided by coach

Cassadaga Valley: no information provided by coach

 

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CCAA II East 

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Charter Schools

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

***

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

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

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

Tapestry: no information provided by coach

Maritime: no information provided by coach

Global Concepts: no information provided by coach

 

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Teams with New Coaches

Darren Fenn - Nichols

Michael Trzybinski - Alden

Don Baker - Barker

Jim Insley - Pioneer

Kevin Hind - Randolph

Geoff Hurley - Riverside

Adam Bennett - Salamanca

Aaron Emley - Southwestern

Matt Marinaro - West Seneca West

Brian Ellsworth - Maritime

Russ Barnes - Global Concepts

Jeff Liebner - Tapestry

Michael Ernst - Oracle

Gerald Briggs - BASCS

Randy Rakowski - Emerson

 

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

 

Classification Changes

West Seneca West moves down from Class AA to Class A1

South Park moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Olean moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Riverside moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Emerson moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

I-Prep moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

MST Seneca moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Fredonia moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Medina moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Lafayette moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Eden moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Buffalo Arts moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

Middle College moves up from Class C2 to Class B2

Olmsted moves up from Class C1 to Class B2

Falconer moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

DaVinci moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Portville moves up from Class C2 to Class C1

East moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Westfield moves up from Class D to Class C2

 

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Preseason Polls

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

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MMA)

2. Park (MMA)

3. Niagara Falls (AA)

4. Timon (MMA)

5. Williamsville South (A1)

6. St. Francis (MMA)

7. South Park (A2)

8. Jamestown (AA)

9. Cheektowaga (A2)

10. McKinley (A1)

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

 

Small Schools

1. East Aurora

2. Health Sciences

3. Middle College

4. Medina

5. Cardinal O'Hara

6. East

7. Nichols

8. Gowanda

9. Newfane

10. Randolph

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

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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 - Jamestown

ECIC II - Williamsville South

ECIC III - Cheektowaga

ECIC IV - Lackawanna

NFL - Niagara Falls

N-O - Medina

CCAA I West - Olean

CCAA I East - Gowanda

CCAA II West - Sherman

CCAA II East - Ellicottville

Charters - Health Sciences

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

Manhattan Cup (A)

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

** Canisius **

 

Manhattan Cup (B)

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

** Nichols **

 

Class AA  

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

Niagara Falls, Jamestown, Kenmore West, & Lancaster

** Niagara Falls **

 

Class A1

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

** Williamsville South **

 

Class A2  

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

South Park, Cheektowaga, Olean, & Maryvale

** South Park **

 

Class B1

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:  

East Aurora, Newfane, MST Seneca, & Depew

** East Aurora **

 

Class B2

Final Four to reach Buffalo State:

Health Sciences, Middle College, Medina, & Gowanda

** Health Sciences **

 

Class C1  

Final Four to reach JCC:

Chautauqua Lake, Cleveland Hill, Portville, & Salamanca

** Chautauqua Lake **

 

Class C2  

Final Four to reach JCC:  

East, Randolph, Barker, & Maple Grove

** East **

 

Class D

Final Four to reach JCC:  

Ellicottville, Sherman, Franklinville, & Clymer

** Ellicottville **

 

-centercourt

The Schedule: 2016-2017 Season

CLICK HERE  FOR THE 2017-2018 SCHEDULE

All-State Teams for Classes B, C, & D

(Gary Foster was named New York State's Player of the Year in Class C / Photo by Harry Scull)

 

Class B

First Team:  Elijah Ramadhan (Olean)  &  Takal Molson (St. Mary's)

Second Team:  Ben Eckstrom (Olean)

Third Team:  Tavien Kemp (Walsh)

Fifth Team:  Patrick Moore (Fredonia)

Eighth Team:  Jake Cavana (Olean)

Ninth Team:  Davon Gant  (I-Prep)

Tenth Team:  Nate Brawdy (Gowanda)

Twelvth Team:  Jason Dowell (Emerson)  &  Andy Xaspos (Roy-Hart)

Thirteenth Team:  Marcellus Cooper (Nichols)

 

Honorable Mention:  Jalin Cooper (Medina), Noah Thompson (East Aurora), Will Johnson (Nichols), Christian Churakos (Walsh), Adam Moore (Walsh)

 

Class C

Player of the Year:  Gary Foster, Middle College

 

First Team:  JoJo Staton, Middle College

Second Team:  Brandon Roach (Olmsted)  &  Mason Bosley (Randolph)

Third Team:  JaQuoine Fogan (Tapestry)

Fourth Team:  Trevon Thompson (Silver Creek)

Fifth Team:  Willard Anderson (East)

 

Honorable Mention:  Ramah Lassiter (Cleveland Hill), Nathan Luckman (Barker), Master Radford (Olmsted), Devin Pope (Chautauqua Lake)

 

Class D

First Team:  Elliot Bowen (Ellicottville)

Second Team:  Chris Blose (Panama)

Fourth Team:  Josh Eddy (Panama)  &  Chris Robson (Sherman)

 

Honorable Mention:  Dylan Chase (Pine Valley), Sam Erickson (Franklinville), Josh Odell (Panama), Aaron Riforgiato (Brocton)

 

Click here to view the complete All-State Teams for Classes B, C, & D

 

-centercourt

The 2016 All-Centercourt Team: The Best in WNY

 

First Team All-Centercourt

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, Senior

20.8 PPG  /  10.5 RPG  /  2.7 APG  /  2.5 BPG

The 2016 CC MVP and a First Team All-Centercourt selection for the second consecutive season.  A dominant high school player who always delivered the biggest moments in the biggest games.  The unquestioned leader & best player on the best team in WNY.  Very good at interior passing and kick-outs to the perimeter.  Tremendous instincts and anticipation as a shot blocker.  Good decision maker that can dribble out of trouble and assist with breaking the press.  Led Canisius to back-to-back Manhattan Cups, after earning All-Catholic Player of the Year honors in Class A.  A two-time CHSAA state champion with the Crusaders.  Took Canisius to consecutive appearances in the Federation Tournament of Champions.  Undefeated against opponents from WNY in his junior and senior seasons.  Voted All-Catholic Player of the Year.  Selected MVP of the Tom Keenan Memorial Tournament. First Team Centercourt #BOOM Squad & First Team All-Centercourt Defender selections for a second straight season.  Career 1,000 point scorer.  (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Junior

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

Moves up from the 2015 All-Centercourt Second Team.  Took his game to another level as a junior with his team depending on him more than ever.  Slashes to the basket with ease.  Secures every rebound he decides is his.  Remained a reliable free throw shooter that gets to the line frequently and became a consistent threat from the perimeter.  Regularly destroyed defenses that spent hours in preparation just to slow him down.  Voted Player of the Year in ECIC III. Voted to First Team All-ECIC for a second straight season.  Selected to the McKinley All-Tournament Team.  Earned game MVP honors at the Cataract City Classic.  A First Team All-Bee selection.  Dunked his way back on to First Team Centercourt #BOOM Squad for a second straight season.  Played in 21 games and scored over 20 points in every contest.  Scored over 30 points in eight games and went over 40 points twice, including a career-high 45 points in a win over East Aurora.  Registered a season-high 24 rebounds and nine blocks against Maryvale.  Has more points (1708), rebounds (931), and blocks (222) through his junior season than any graduating senior. (Photo by James McCoy, Buffalo News)

 

 
Jordan Nwora - Park, Senior

23.4 PPG  /  10.1 RPG  /  2.3 SPG  /  1.8 APG

A First Team All-Centercourt selection for a second consecutive season.  At 6-8, his combination of size and agility makes him WNY's top inside/outside threat.  Deceptively fast and a great finisher in transition.  Has the ability to create shots in tight windows and makes difficult shots look easy.  Voted All-Catholic in Class A.  Led Park to the Manhattan Cup Final and the number six ranking in NYS Class A.  A Second Team Centercourt #BOOM Squad selection.  Named Game MVP at the Pastor-Cooper Showcase.  Knocked down a 3-pointer in every game played, including seven in one game.  Finished with a career-high 38 points in a win over St. Joe's.  Scored over 30 points five times, including three consecutive games.  Netted over 25 points in 13 games, and had at least 27 in six of his final eight outings. Logged 15 double-doubles, including an 18-rebound outing in a win at Walsh.  Has multiple high major and power conference Division I offers.  Career 1,000 point scorer.  (Photo by Larry Scheur)

 

Greg Dolan - Will South, Sophomore

18.2 PPG  /  7.7 RPG  /  6.0 APG  /  3.2 SPG

Moves up from the 2015 All-Centercourt Third Team.  Made believers out of any fans in WNY that were still not convinced of his talents with a stellar sophomore season.  Stepped up his scoring to fill that need for the Billies, while remaining the best passer in WNY.  Level-headed leader who always remains focused regardless of game circumstances.  Underrated rebounder who demonstrates toughness in the paint.  Led South to an undefeated league title in ECIC II.  After guiding the Billies to a repeat championship in the overall Section VI Class A, pushed the team to Glens Falls for the first time, advancing past the regional.  Voted All-ECIC Player of the Year, along with the same honor in ECIC II.  Selected as MVP of the Section VI Class A1 Tournament.  Chosen as the MVP of Championship Week by Miguel Rodriguez/Buffalo News.  Selected as All-Bee Team MVP.  Averaged 23 points, 8.5 rebounds, and six assists per game in four wins at Buff State during the postseason. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Gary Foster - Middle College, Senior

18.7 PPG  /  15.0 RPG  /  4.2 BPG  /  3.7 APG  /  2.2 SPG

Moves up from 2015 All-Centercourt Third Team.  Committed to his team this season, came back noticeably more focused, and finished strong.  An excellent rebounder that stays with the play.  Able to put the ball on the floor and start the fast break.  Thrives around the basket, but can also score from mid range & outside.  Named First Team All-High in Yale Cup I.  Selected to the Section VI Class C2 All-Tournament Team.  State Champion in both football and basketball this school year.  Scored over 20 points in 11 games and was in double figures 21 times, including a season-high 31 points.  Recorded at least 12 rebounds in 20 games, and had over 20 boards in four wins.  Had triple-doubles in wins over Bennett & Global Concepts.  Named MVP of the NYSPHAA Class C State Tournament after a 23 point & 17 rebound performance in the title game.  A two-time member of the First Team Centercourt #BOOM Squad.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

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

** If I released a preseason First Team, Takal Molson would have been on it.  At the time he played his last game at St. Mary's, he was still there.  It's unknown how things would have turned out, and I didn't want to take someone else's spot in the top 25.....however, the season he had through 21 games warranted recognition, which he is getting here in his own space, next to the First Team, where I think he was headed.**

Takal Molson - Senior

26.4 PPG  /  6.9 RPG  /  2.7 SPG  /  2.5 APG  /  1.0 BPG

A 2015 Third Team All-Centercourt selection. The best player I've ever seen in a Lancer uniform.  A multi-faceted talent with a complete game.  Dangerous from the perimeter, strong to the basket, and smooth everywhere in between.  Knows when to defer to teammates, and also when to assert himself.  Earned Game MVP honors at the Pastor-Cooper Showcase.  MVP of the Depew Holiday Tournament.  MVP of the Five Guys Tournament at Williamsville North.  Shot an astounding 67% from the field.  Scored over 20 points in 20 games and scored over 30 points in eight games.  Scored a season-high 37 points twice - in tournament championship wins over East Aurora and Williamsville North.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

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

Second Team All-Centercourt

Jernard Jackson - Lew-Port, Senior

25.9 PPG  /  7.o4 RPG  /  5.54 SPG  /  .7 BPG

Showed up at Buffalo State with his team and then showed out in two spectacular performances.  One of WNY's most elite scorers, despite the extra attention he received from opposing defenses in every game.  Brought relentless effort and energy to both ends of the floor for 32 minutes.  Excels at creating shots and can hit from anywhere.  Aggressive defender with quick hands that frequently turns opponents over.  Led Lew-Port to the Section VI Class A2 championship game, where he scored 26 points before halftime, after hitting the game-winner in the semifinal victory over Starpoint.  Selected as MVP of the Section VI Class A2 Tournament.  Named Niagara Gazette Player of the Year.  Led the voting for First Team NFL.  MVP of the James Walker Tournament.  Scored a WNY season-high 50 points in a win over Kenmore East.  Averaged over 31 points in three sectional games.  Scored over 30 points six times and over 20 points in 16 games.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

TC Brown - Amherst, Senior

22.9 PPG  /  6.8 RPG  /  5.4 APG  /  4.3 SPG  

Moves up from 2015 All-Centercourt Third Team.  Extremely efficient with shot selection and handling the ball.  Unselfish teammate that facilitated the Tigers' offense.  Brimming with confidence and relishes the role of being the team's go-to player.  Highly competitive and fearless in all situations.  Led the Tigers to a Section VI title in Class A2 and a second straight undefeated season in ECIC III.  Voted First Team All-ECIC for a third straight time. Named Co-Player of the Year in ECIC III.  Selected to the Section VI All-Tournament Team in Class A2.  Bob Hettler Tip-Off Classic MVP.  A First Team All-Bee selection.  Anthony Parlato Long Island Tournament MVP.  Named Game MVP in the Cataract City Classic and the 190 Hardwood Classic.  Scored significantly more points per game than shots taken (16.9 per game).  Knocked down 85 treys on the season while averaging over five assists per contest.  Shot over 55% on the season and over 40% from behind the arc.  Graduates as a four-time league champion and Amherst's all-time leader in points, assists, steals, and 3-pointers made.  Scored 1,482 points in four-year varsity career. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

James Rojas - Jamestown, Junior

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

One of WNY's most improved players from last season.  Became a force to contend with in the paint and ascended to becoming one of the area's top big men.  Can step away from the basket to knock down shots.  Able to beat defenders off the dribble.  Took on a leadership role as a junior.  Led the Red Raiders to a share of the league championship in ECIC I.  Advanced Jamestown back to the Section VI Class AA championship game.  Voted First Team All-ECIC.  Voted Player of the Year in ECIC I.  Named Game MVP in both of Jamestown's outings at the United Way Showcase.  Selected to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  Scored over 20 points in 15 games and went over 30 points four times, including a season-high 35 points in a win over Orchard Park.  Scored 29 points to go with 15 rebounds in a game at Williamsville North that earned Jamestown a share of the league title. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, Senior

23.2 PPG  /  7.2 RPG  /  2.2 SPG  /  1.8 APG  /  1.0 BPG

Moves up from the 2015 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention.  North's go-to player all season, who continually delivered.  Consistent perimeter threat that can elevate and shoot clean over defenders.  Able to create shots quickly off the dribble.  Strong going to the basket and a high-riser upon arrival.  Finishes off-balance shots in the lane after absorbing contact.  Always poised on the court and a great teammate.  Led the Spartans to a share of the league championship in ECIC I and back to Buff State in Class AA for a third consecutive season.  Voted First Team All-ECIC.  Voted Player of the Year in ECIC I.  Named to the Five Guys All-Tournament Team.  Earned game MVP honors at the Cataract City Classic.  Selected to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  A First Team All-Bee selection.  Scored over 20 points in 14 games this season and went over the 30-point mark in five games, including a career-high 33 points in a win over Orchard Park.  Had a memorable 19-point opening quarter against Cheektowaga to start the season.  A First Team Centercourt #BOOM Squad selection.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Elijah Ramadhan - Olean, Senior

 14.3 PPG  /  9.5 RPG  /  3.7 APG  /  2.5 SPG

Embodied the team-first concept Olean won with all season.  Excellent rebounder that could immediately put the ball on the floor to spur the fast break.  Played bigger than he was, filling a need in the post for the Huskies.  Soft touch around the basket and able to consistently hit from mid range.  Strong defender that moved well and always remained in good position.  Led Olean to a perfect 27-0 record in the NYSPHAA and a Class B state championship.  Voted Player of the Year in CCAA I West.  Selected MVP of OHS Tip-Off Tournament.  Selected MVP of IAABO Tournament.  Game MVP at Jamestown United Way Showcase.  Chosen as Big 30 Co-MVP.  Chosen as WDOE Player of the Game in a win at Fredonia.  Led the Huskies in scoring 11 times.  Selected to NYSPHAA All-Tournament Team in Class B.  Selected to Federation of Champions All-Tournament Team. (Photo by Ron Szott)

 

Third Team All-Centercourt

Amadi Ikpeze - Amherst, Senior

13.2 PPG  /  10.1 RPG  /  4.5 BPG  /  1.2 SPG

Added polish to his game to become a dominant high school center.  Tremendous footwork and post-up ability on the interior.  A force on the boards and able to use size to out-rebound players in better position.  An imposing presence in the lane that forced teams to change the way they played.  Developed an outside shot.  Led the Tigers to the overall Class A final with a monster triple-double performance in the Class A2 Final: 30 points, 13 rebounds, & 12 blocks.  Kept Amherst undefeated in ECIC III for two straight seasons.  Voted First Team All-ECIC and First Team ECIC III.  Selected to the Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team. First Team All-Bee selection. Chosen for the Bob Hettler Tip-Off All-Tournament Team.  Selected to the All-Tournament Team at Center Moriches.  Shot over 50% from the field on the season.  Graduates 2nd all-time in rebounds and blocks at Amherst.  (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Christian Nodine - Starpoint, Senior

20.0 PPG  /  9.5 RPG  /  2.7 APG  /  1.5 SPG

Moves up from 2015 All-Centercourt HM.  Confident and hard-working, the leader of the Spartans.  Strong with the basketball, whether in the open court or getting to the basket.  Soars for rebounds and secures everything he gets his hands on.  A firery competitor - basketball's version of beast mode.  Led Starpoint to back-to-back appearances at Buff State in Class A2, a level the program hadn't reached in over a decade.  Voted First Team ECIC II.  Voted Second Team All-ECIC.  Selected to the Section VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team.  Scored over 20 points 12 times on the season, including a stretch of eight consecutive games.  Scored a season-high 33 points in a win at Iroquois.  Registered nine double-doubles, including an incredible 27 point, 23 rebound performance at Buff State.  Graduates as the all-time scoring leader at Starpoint.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Graham Dolan, Will South, Senior

14.5 PPG  /  6.5 RPG  /  2.2 APG  /  1.7 BPG  /  1.1 SPG

 A heady player with an innate feel for the game of basketball.  A threat from the perimeter, whether spotting up, coming off a screen, or creating off the dribble.  A good rebounder and decision maker that quickly gets his team into transition.  A lock-down defender that always draws the toughest assignment from the opposition.  A team leader for the Billies on and off the court.  Led South to its best season in program history - going unbeaten in ECIC II to repeat as league champs, winning another overall Section VI Class A title, and advancing South to Glens Falls for its first time ever.  Voted First Team ECIC II.  Voted Second Team All-ECIC.  A First Team All-Bee selection.  Earned First Team All-Centercourt Defender for a second consecutive season.  Flushed his way to the Second Team All-Centercourt #BOOM Squad.  Selected to the Section VI Class A1 All-Tournament Team.  Made the Chaminade All-Tournament Team and hit the game-winning 3-pointer against Westbury to advance the Billies to the title game.  Scored 29 points to go with 16 rebounds in a win against Iroquois. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Justin Jones - Canisius, Senior

10.8 PPG  /  5.7 RPG  /  3.4 APG  /  2.2 SPG

Moves up from 2015 All-Centercourt HM.  An amazing athlete with the heart of a champion.  Plays with intensity at all times and has a motor that never quits.  Showed a knack for making big plays for his team in crucial moments.  Explosive near the basket and a finisher in traffic.  Led Canisius to a second straight Manhattan Cup Championship and then took MVP honors.  A two-time state champion in the CHSAA that took Canisius back to the NYS Federation Tournament of Champions in Class A.  Shot 54% from the field on the season.  Scored 18 points & eight rebounds in a win over Park. Had a triple-double in the CHSAA state championship victory.  Took his game to another level over the final weeks of the season, averaging 14.5 points, 7.5 rebounds,  6.5 assists, & 3 steals during the Crusaders' postseason run.  Selected as a Second Team All-Centercourt Defender. (Photo by Elliott Jerge)

 

Ben Eckstrom - Olean, Junior

15.6 PPG  /  6.5 RPG  /  2.0 SPG  /  1.2 APG

A pure jump shooter that can hit from anywhere on the floor.  Good size, great athleticism, and an aggressive mentality makes him an inside threat as well.  Can get out and move in transition and finishes at the basket.  Able to defend any type of player at any spot on the floor.  Led Olean to an undefeated season in the NYSPHAA Class B, which included a league title in CCAA I, another Section VI title, and a state championship. Named to the IAABO All-Tournament Team.  Voted First Team CCAA I West.  Earned Section VI Class B1 Tournament MVP honors.  Selected to the NYSPHAA All-Tournament Team in Class B.  Named WDOE Plater of the Game in a win at Dunkirk.  Chosen as Big 30 Co-MVP.  Led the Huskies in scoring 11 times.  Scored 57 points over the three Section VI Class B games at Buff State. (Photo by Bob Clark)

 

 Fourth Team All-Centercourt

Tavien Kemp - Walsh, Junior

21.0 PPG  /  4.5 RPG  /  3.7 SPG  /  3.5 APG 

Great instincts and timing on both ends of the court.  Wreaked havoc on opposing offenses from the top of the Eagles' zone.  Efficient shooter from long range.  Exceptional quickness while handling the ball and adept at moving through traffic.  Led Walsh to a top 10 state ranking for most of the season and to the regular season championship in the Monsignor Martin's Class B, where the Eagles were undefeated against WNY small schools and also registered wins over Timon, Lew-Port, & St. Joe's.  Named MVP of the Allegany County IAABO Tip-Off Tournament.  Chosen as MVP of the Adam Elliott Memorial Tournament at Portville.  Led his team in scoring, assists, steals, and 3-point shooting percentage.  Scored a career-high 43 points this season against Coudersport. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

JoJo Staton - Middle College, Senior

18.8 PPG  /  2.6 APG  /  2.0 RPG  /  1.5 SPG

Moves up from 2015 All-Centercourt Honorable Mention.  A lethal shooter from downtown that can get his shot off quicker than the defender can get his hands up.  Equally effective shooting off the dribble or spotting up and creates space to shoot with subtle & slick movements.  Torched defenses with the show-and-go, where he mastered the floater over the rotating defender.  Brought positive energy & leadership to his team and made sure they were focused on finishing the season strong.  Led Middle College to another Section VI title and back to the regional in Class C, where he advanced the Kats to Glens Falls with a game-high 20 points.  Led Middle College to the NYSPHAA state championship in Class C.  Voted First Team All-High in Yale Cup I.  Earned MVP honors in the Section VI Class C2 Tournament.  Selected to the NYSPHAA Class C All-Tournament Team.  Scored over 20 points in 13 games, including a 29-point performance in the Class C2 title game.  Scored a season-high 33 points in a win over Riverside.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

  

Patrick Moore - Fredonia, Senior

18.0 PPG / 6.6 RPG / 2.2 APG /1.7 SPG /1.5 BPG 

An excellent shooter that saw very few open looks all season.  Demonstrated a high basketball IQ and always seemed to have himself in the right place on the floor.  Became a finisher around the basket in traffic.  Delivered big game performances and timely baskets for his team all season.  Led the Hillbillies to their first Section VI title since 1994, winning Class B2.  Helped Fredonia to be the only public school in NYS Class B to play Olean within single digits, and did it all three times they played.  Voted First Team CCAA I West.  Earned MVP honors for the Section VI Class B2 Tournament.  Selected as MVP of the Clarence Tournament.  Third Team All-Centercourt Defender.  Scored over 20 points in eight games and eclipsed the 30-point mark four times.  Scored a season-high 36 points in a win over Maple Grove and scored 32 points in the Section VI class B2 Final. Finished career with 926 points. (Photo by Ron Szott)

 

Shaquan Jones - McKinley, Senior

16.4 PPG  /  9.1 RPG  /  3.1 SPG  /  3.1 APG

The epitome of McKinley Macks basketball.  A tough, hard-nosed player, that offers a little of everything to his team.  A tenacious defender with quick hands and quicker feet.  Shot the ball well from the perimeter, but thrived on getting to the basket and finishing.  Led the Macks to a second consecutive undefeated championship in Yale Cup I.  Took McKinley back to Buff State for a 17th straight season, where they advanced to the Class A1 Final.  Voted Player of the Year in Yale Cup I.  Named a First Team All-Centercourt Defender for a second straight season.  Selected to the Section VI Class A1 All-Tournament Team.  Scored over 20 points in six games, including a season-high 27 points in a win over Middle College.  Registered 12 double-doubles on the season.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Breon Harris - Niagara Falls, Senior

12.0 PPG  /  3.1 SPG  /  2.8 APG  /  2.1 RPG  

Plays on-ball defense like there's nothing else in the world he would rather be doing.  Plays every minute of the game at the same speed - full tilt.  A threat from beyond the 3-point line or to blow past you on his way to the basket.  Uses great instincts to create turnovers and opportunities in the offensive end.  Led the Wolverines to an undefeated league championship in the NFL.  Took the Falls on a postseason run that resulted in a string of double-digit victories and a Section VI title in Class AA.  Selected to the Section VI Class AA All-Tournament Team.  Earned Game MVP honors at the Cataract City Classic.  A First Team All-Centercourt Defender, and there were none better. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Fifth Team All-Centercourt

Brandon Roach - Olmsted, Senior

24.6 PPG  /  6.1 RPG  /  3.3 APG  /  2.8 SPG

A pure point guard with the ability to fill up the rim.  Always under control and shows great poise in pressure situations.  A smooth stroke from outside and an eye for the open man on the inside.  Led Olmsted to the Section VI Class C1 Championship.  Voted Co-Player of the Year in Yale Cup II.  Selected to the Section VI Class C1 All-Tournament Team.  MVP of the Akron Tournament.  Scored over 20 points in 19 games and went over 30 in four games, including a season-high 44 points in a win over Lafayette, when he shot 9 of 11 from beyond the arc.  Olmsted's all-time leader in points, assists, steals, rebounds,  and triple-doubles.  Had a career-high of 50 points in his sophomore season.  Career 1,000 point scorer. (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

Jake Cavana - Olean, Senior

10.0 PPG  /  3.0 APG  /  2.4 RPG  /  2.3 SPG

The floor general for the state champion Huskies was a gamer.  Took care of the ball and facilitated Olean's offense brilliantly.  Always plays within the game and knows just the right time to attack the defense.  Equally effective in half court sets and in transition.  Tough and tenacious on the defensive end with exceptional timing.  Led his team to the Federation title game in Class B after an undefeated NYSPHAA state championship campaign.  Voted First Team CCAA I West.  Selected to the Section VI Class B1 All-Tournament Team.  A Second Team All-Centercourt Defender.  All-Tournament Team selection in the OHS Tip-Off.  Game-winning steal & score in overtime win at Fredonia.  Scored game-winning points in Federation semifinal with 0.6 seconds left. (Photo by Jerry Trass)

 

Madut Ayiy - Canisius, Senior

11.2 PPG / 10.1 RPG / 1.8 BPG  /  1.4 APG/1.3 SPG

An underrated standout in the paint who would make any team an instant contender, and was a major part of what made Canisius so good.  A physical player that's strong & athletic with a long span.  A gritty defender on every possession and a rim protector that frustrated opponents to no end.  Aggressive to every loose ball and all over the boards at both ends.  Led the best interior defense in WNY that resulted in another Manhattan Cup and a repeat CHSAA state championship in Class AA.  A Second Team All-Centercourt Defender.  Scored the game-winning basket with two seconds remaining at Timon. (Photo by Mark Mulville, Buffalo News)

 

 

Quinton Lamar - Timon, Senior

16.4 PPG  /  5.0 RPG  /  2.9 APG  /  1.7 RPG   

A good long and mid-range shooter that was also adept at slashing through a defense on his way to the hole.  Can transition from scorer to passer.  Handled the ball well and showed good court sense. Was the Tigers' on court leader all season.  Led Timon to a third place finish in the Monsignor Martin Class A.  Voted All-Catholic in Class A.  Scored over 20 points seven times, including a season-high 32 points against U-Prep. (Photo by Tom Burns)

 

 

Kyle Harris - Park, Senior

13.3 PPG  /  3.5 RPG  /  2.3 APG  /  1.4 SPG

A lethal shooter from beyond the arc.  Can handle the ball or fill up the rim playing off the ball.  Saw his scoring role increase this season for the Pioneers.  Deceptively strong and runs the floor well in transition.  Led the Pioneers to a 20-4 record and to the Manhattan Cup Final in Class A.  Voted First Team All-Catholic in Class A.  Scored in double figures in 16 games.  Shot over 46% from the floor on the season.  Scored 16 points in one quarter against Aquinas, the most allowed by the Class AA Federation finalists to any player in one quarter on the season. (Photo by Larry Scheur)

 

Honorable Mention

Mason Bosley - Randolph, Senior

25.3 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  3.0 APG  /  3.0 SPG - First Team CCAA I East - Hit 113 treys this season, 2nd All-Time WNY

 

Trevon Thompson - Silver Creek, Senior

24.2 PPG  /  10.8 RPG  /  2.8 APG  /  1.8 SPG  -  First Team CCAA I East - Class C2 All-Tournament Team

 

Davon Gant - I-Prep, Senior

23.0 PPG  /  10.8 RPG  /  4.6 BPG  /  2.5 SPG  /  1.7 APG  -  Yale Cup II Co-Player of the Year

 

Andy Xaspos - Roy-Hart, Senior

22.5 PPG  /  5.7 RPG  /  3.2 SPG  /  3.1 APG  -  First Team Niagara-Orleans

 

Jason Dowell - Emerson, Senior

21.6 PPG  /  13.2 RPG  /  1.0 BPG  -  First Team All-High in Yale Cup II

 

JaQuoine Fogan - Tapestry, Senior

21.2 PPG  /  3.7 RPG  /  3.5 SPG  /  2.6 APG - Player of the Year from the Charter Schools

 

Ryan Dils - Hamburg, Senior

17.8 PPG  /  5.3 RPG  /  1.6 SPG  /  1.0 APG  -  First Team ECIC II

 

Avius Outlaw - McKinley, Senior

17.0 PPG  /  4.1 APG  /  4.0 RPG  /  3.0 SPG  -  First Team All-High in Yale Cup I - Class A1 All-Tournament Team

 

Chris Blose - Panama, Senior

16.7 PPG  /  9.6 RPG  /  4.8 APG  /  1.4 SPG  -  MVP of Section VI Class D Tournament 

 

Nathan Nielson - Niagara Wheatfield, Senior

15.9 PPG  /  5.5 RPG  /  3.6 APG  /  2.3 SPG  -  First Team Niagara Frontier League

 

Noah Thompson - East Aurora, Senior

15.7 PPG  /  4.7 RPG  /  2.0 APG  /  1.7 SPG  -  First Team ECIC III  -  Second Team All-ECIC 

 

Adam Moore - Walsh, Senior

15.0 PPG  /  7.8 RPG  /  2.5 APG  -  Shot 54% FG - 41% on 3-pointers - Career 1,000 point scorer

 

Brock Kroening - Starpoint, Senior

13.8 PPG  /  9.8 RPG  /  1.4 SPG  /  1.2 APG  /  1.0 BPG  -  First Team ECIC II - Sec VI Class A2 All-Tournament Team

 

Alex Konst - Lancaster, Senior

13.8 PPG  /  5.5 RPG  /  3.1 APG  /  2.9 SPG  -  First Team ECIC I

 

Josh Eddy - Panama, Senior

13.6 PPG  /  13.1 RPG  /  1.7 BPG  /  1.0 APG  -  First Team CCAA II West

 

Keyon Johnson - McKinley, Senior

13.5 PPG  /  5.3 RPG  /  4.2 APG  /  3.3 SPG  -  First Team All-High in Yale Cup I

 

Jarod Burmaster - Fredonia, Senior 

11.8 PPG  /  5.2 APG  /  4.0 RPG  /  2.5 SPG  - First Team CCAA I West - Class B1 All-Tournament Team

 

Will Atkinson - Canisius, Senior

10.8 PPG  /  2.8 RPG  /  2.6 APG  /  1.0 SPG  -  First Team All-Catholic in Class A

  

Hunter Anderson - Park, Senior

9.4 PPG  /  5.1 RPG  /  3.1 APG  /  1.3 SPG  -  Career-high 28 points in win over Amherst

 

Sean Hill - Williamsville North, Senior

9.2 PPG  /  7.0 APG  /  4.1 RPG  /  1.9 SPG  -  First Team ECIC I

   

 Derek Schmidt - Olean, Senior

7.5 PPG  /  4.7 RPG  /  3.0 SPG  /  2.8 APG  - Class B State Tournament MVP - 1st Team All-CC Defender

    

Chris Robson - Sherman, Junior

19.7 PPG  /  5.3 RPG  /  3.2 APG  /  3.0 SPG  /  .5 BPG  -  Player of the Year in CCAA II West

 

Shakus Harris - South Park, Junior

16.2 PPG  /  2.9 SPG  /  2.1 RPG  /  1.9 APG  - First Team All-High in Yale Cup I - Class A1 All-Tournament Team

 

Will Johnson - Nichols, Junior

15.8 PPG  /  4.0 APG  /  4.o RPG  /  2.o SPG  -  Manhattan Cup MVP in Class B

 

Christian Churakos - Walsh, Junior

14.6 PPG  /  7.6 RPG  /  1.8 APG  /  1.6 SPG  - All Catholic Selection in Class B

 

Marcellus Cooper - Nichols, Junior

14.5 PPG  /  10.0 RPG  /  2.0 BPG  / 0 .7 APG  -  Had 14 double-doubles, including Manhattan Cup Class B Final

 

Qeyion Williams - Niagara Falls, Junior

13.3 PPG  /  4.4 APG  /  1.5 RPG  /  1.0 SPG  - First Team NFL - Class AA Tournament MVP

 

Davion Warren - Timon, Junior

12.5 PPG  /  7.7 RPG  /  2.1 APG  /  1.8 SPG  -  Career-high 28 points & 15 rebounds in win vs. St. Joe's

   

Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, Sophomore

23.1 PPG  /  9.2 RPG  /  4.5 APG  /  2.3 SPG  -  Player of the Year in CCAA I East

 

Elliot Bowen - Ellicottville, Sophomore

19.3 PPG  /  12.2 RPG  /  2.5 BPG  /  1.3 SPG  - Player of the Year in CCAA II East 

 

Devin Pope - Chautauqua Lake, Sophomore

17.7 PPG  /  5.3 RPG  /  3.0 APG  /  3.0 SPG  -  First Team CCAA I West

 

Willard Anderson - East, Sophomore

15.7 PPG  /  3.0 RPG  /  3.0 APG  /  2.0 SPG  -  Second Team Yale Cup I

 

Jalin Cooper - Medina, Sophomore

15.5 PPG  /  10.2 RPG  /  2.5 APG  /  2.1 SPG  /  2.1 BPG  -  First Team Niagara-Orleans

   

Ray Blackwell - Maryvale, Sophomore

14.5 PPG  /  3.5 SPG  /  3.4 RPG  /  3.0 APG  -  First Team ECIC III

  

Noah Hutchins - Park, Freshman

9.9 PPG  /  4.0 RPG  /  3.5 APG  /  2.7 SPG - Led Pioneers in assists & steals, while shooting 46%

 

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

 

Sixth Man of the Year

Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Sophomore

 Came off the bench for the CHSAA Class A state champions and handled point guard duties, along with offering sensational minutes on the defensive end for the Crusaders.  A Third Team All-Centercourt Defender in his first varsity season.  (Photo by Harry Scull, Buffalo News)

 

 

All-Centercourt Defenders

First Team

Breon Harris - Niagara Falls, Senior

Graham Dolan - Williamsville South, Senior

Shaquan Jones - McKinley, Senior

Derek Schmidt - Olean, Senior

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, Senior

 

Second Team

Jake Cavana - Olean, Senior

Madut Ayiy - Canisius, Senior

Zacc Kinsey - Jamestown, Senior

Justin Jones - Canisius, Senior

Amir Jemes - Middle College, Senior

 

Third Team

Jake Lewis - Silver Creek, Senior

Nathan Woldu - Amherst, Senior

Jayce Johnson - Canisius, Sophomore

Patrick Moore - Fredonia, Senior

Nick Montgomery - East Aurora, Junior

 

Centercourt #BOOM Squad

First Team

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, Senior

Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, Junior

Gary Foster - Middle College, Senior

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, Senior

Marcellus Cooper - Nichols, Sophomore

 

Second Team

Charles Lamar - Niagara Falls, Junior

Jordan Nwora - Park, Senior

Madut Ayiy - Canisius, Senior

Graham Dolan - Williamsville South, Senior

Amadi Ikpeze - Amherst, Senior

 

Coach of the Year

Jeff Anastasia, Olean

 

-centercourt

Poll Ballots - 2016 - Week 10

(Jamestown turned a rebuilding year into another league title & another run at a crown in Class AA / Photo by James McCoy)

 

As a pollster for the Buffalo News, I'm asked to send in my weekly ballots ranking the top ten large and small schools.  The polls are based on games played through Saturday of each week.  Here's a look at how I see them and some of the rationale used to get there.

 

** This in the last poll until the 'Final Poll', which will be out after the season is over.

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MMA) - Three league wins away from a fourth consecutive undefeated regular season in the Monsignor Martin.  

2. Park (MMA) - It's crazy to me that any pollster has voted someone other than Park at the #2 spot.  It can't be Amherst - they lost on a neutral court to the Pioneers.  It can't be McKinley - they lost to Canisius by more points in one game than Park lost to Canisius in two games.  The Pioneers' only loses this season were all by single digits (Canisius x 2 & Aquinas).  No other team can touch their laundry list of quality wins either:  Bishop Kearney, a pair of 20-point wins over Timon, Niagara Falls, Starpoint, Walsh, St. Mary's, Middle College, & Health Sciences. 

3. Amherst (A2) - Finally got a some competition for the first time in two months, as Jamestown visited on Thursday night.  The Tigers won the game by nine points to tune up for a 'Glens Falls or bust' mission.

4. Williamsville South (A1) - Undefeated champions of ECIC II and the top seed in Class A1 after sweeping Starpoint with a 17-point win on Thursday.  The Billies' focus now shifts directly to McKinley.

5. McKinley (A1) - The Macks finished the regular season off with a second straight Yale Cup Championship, after winning their 26th straight city game.  They have revenge on their minds, after Will South ended their season in the Class A1 semifinals last season.  A rematch with the Billies would only be the third ranked large school McKinley played this year (the others were Canisius & North).

6. Timon (MMA) - Rebounded from a 12-point loss at Canisius to win by 14 points at St. Francis.  The Tigers will look to figure out a way past Park in the Manhattan Cup playoffs in a quest to reach a third final in four seasons.

7. Jamestown (AA) - They just keep creeping up as they continue to improve.  After gaining a share of the ECIC I title with North, the Red Raiders will go after what seemed nearly unthinkable in early December - another title in Class AA.  After winning five of the last six, I'm not betting against it.

8. Niagara Falls (AA) - Completed an undefeated campaign in the NFL and snagged the top seed in Class AA after their ECIC I foes took turns beating each other up.  The Wolverines find out if their nonleague schedule against teams like Vaughan, Park, Bishop Kearney, & Father Henry Carr made them better when they attempt to bring the Section VI hardware back to Falls.

9. Williamsville North (AA) - In a must-win regular season finale on senior night, the Spartans scored a convincing victory over Lancaster to earn a share of ECIC I with Jamestown.  Now they are a win away from potentially meeting up with the Red Raiders on the big court at Buff State for the ultimate rubber match.

10. Starpoint (A2) - At this point in the season, when you get to this last spot, there are several teams that could make an argument to be here.  I went with the Spartans, who I think are the best team after the nine ahead of them and who I project to be battling with Amherst on Championship Saturday at 3:30 pm.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - For just the second time in school history, Olean finished the regular season undefeated (20-0).  The last time was 2006, when they lost the Class A2 final to Maryvale.  I made a bold 25-0 arrival at Glens Falls prediction December 13th, that I'm very comfortable with.

2. Walsh (MMA) - Moved to 17-4 on the year with wins over Niagara Catholic and St. Joe's last week.  The Eagles host Timon on Thursday - a team that their neighbors in the city of Olean (yes, the undefeated Huskies) beat by 15 at Timon without Ben Eckstrom.  I throw that out there because I've heard much made of the matchup between Olean & Walsh that will never happen - with many believing Walsh would win it.  That leaves me to offer scores from common opponents as we speculate on how the game would go.  The only other common opponent this year was Maryvale.  Olean won at home by 35, Walsh won on a neutral court by eight.

3. St. Mary's (MMA) - Snow delayed the 'Game of the Week' that the Lancers were set to host on Friday.  Now, St. Mary's faces a week with games against Canisius & Walsh, before the Manhattan Cup playoffs begin on Sunday.

4. Health Sciences (B2) - Lost out on a game with Lancaster due to Friday's snow, which moved the Falcons to the #4 seed in Class B2.  That meant they avoided a quarterfinal matchup with Fredonia.

5. Middle College (C2) - I predicted the Kats to win the Yale Cup this year.  After losing in OT at McKinley and again by two at home on Thursday, they came up just short of that.  A run to Glens Falls in Class C to claim a state championship would make that a big fat whatever for Middle College, who came into this season with that goal in mind and the seniors to make it happen.

6. Fredonia (B2) - The best team in the sectionals with a #6 seed or lower will have to beat Southwestern for a second time (and for the first time at home after the Trojans won in Fredonia by two earliuer this year), then win at Gowanda to make it back to Buff State.  The Hillbillies road to a sectional title is not an easy one this year.

7. East (C1) - Not the same East team of recent years, with a very young group that plays up & down.  After leading McKinley all game and ultimately losing by two, the Panthers go to South Park and get beat up pretty handily.  A very intriguing quarterfinal against Chautauqua Lake and Devin Pope looms, and the Panthers are not used to long bus rides.  They have won eight sectional titles in the last nine years, but all those came at Buff State.  Now in Class C1, the road to 9 in 10 years now goes through the Southern Tier and ends at JCC.

8. Gowanda (B2) - The Panthers won CCAA I East, their first league title in hoops in 30 years.  After finishing with a 17-3 record, they will likely host Fredonia on Friday, who would easily be the best team they've faced all season.  That game seems to be calling me.

9. East Aurora (B1) - The Blue Devils have only won two of their last six games heading into sectionals, however, they've been facing Class A schools and state ranked Livonia in Class B during that stretch.  They could have to show the would have won the N-O to reach the Class B1 final, with potential matchups with Newfane & Medina setting up in the Class B1 bracket.

10. Tapestry (C1) - The defending Class C1 champions get a return trip to JCC with a win over Bennett on Friday night, and find themselves on the same side of the bracket as Olmsted if they make it back.

 

-centercourt

Sectional Preview - 2016

(Another Williamsville South vs. McKinley battle could highlight Buff State week / Photo by James McCoy)

 

The Section VI postseason begins Tuesday night with Akron facing Oracle.  The winner moves on to participate in the pre-quarterfinal round on Wednesday night at 7 pm.  Friday night is when the action really kicks up, as 32 quarterfinal games will decide which teams move on to Buffalo State and JCC for the semifinals.

 

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

 

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

 

Most exciting brackets, top to bottom:

8. A1

7. B1

6. C2

5. A2

4. D

3. C1

2. AA

1. B2

- The Class B2 bracket has league unbeaten I-Prep, who advanced to Glens Falls in Class D last season, as the #1 seed.  Roy-Hart's only league losses were to N-O champ Medina and the Rams have all the pieces to win it.  Gowanda won CCAA I East and finished with a 17-3 record.  Health Sciences has been the highest ranked team from this bracket all season, and boasts a win at Middle College & South Park. Emerson pushed I-Prep in both regular season and gave them their two closest games in Yale Cup I.  Fredonia has been a top 10 small school all season and nearly defeated Olean.  MST Seneca & Wilson are both well coached teams with good players that are capable of pulling off upsets within the bracket.

 

Sleepers from each bracket

AA - Lancaster:  Began the season with a win at Jamestown and did not lose a game until after Christmas.

A1 - South Park:  The Sparks have lots of athletes and finished third in Yale Cup I behind McKinley & Middle College.

A2 - Maryvale:  As the season has gone on, the Flyers have improved significantly. They won't be out-coached or out-worked and just beat Cheektowaga to help land the #4 seed.

B1 - East Aurora:  Can the #3 seed even be a sleeper?  My answer - the team in Olean's bracket with the best shot to beat them is the only team worth calling a sleeper, since no one is beating Olean. (Sorry Class B1, feel free to prove me wrong)

B2 - Fredonia:  It feels weird to call the Hillbillies sleepers, but since they're the #6 seed, they qualify.

C1 - Chautauqua Lake:  One of the best teams in Section VI that no one talks about.  These guys just beat Dunkirk by 12, and Dunkirk owns a win over Cleveland Hill - the top seed in Class C1.

C2 - Barker:  The Raiders may be the most improved team in Section VI after beginning the year 2-7.  They collected recent wins over Newfane and Wilson (the only team to beat Medina in the N-O).

D - Sherman:  The Class D champs in 2013 & 2014 and finalists in 2015, are the #4 seed and coming up on their favorite time of year.

 

Top 10 Pre-Quarterfinal Games (Wednesday, February 17th)

10. Buffalo Arts @ Depew

9. Oracle @ Emerson

8. Clarence @ Niagara Wheatfield

7. Sweet Home @ Grand Island

6. CSAT @ Albion

5. Maple Grove @ Portville

4. Salamanca @ Allegany-Limestone

3. Lackawanna @ MST Seneca

2. Southwestern @ Fredonia

1. Tonawanda @ Newfane 

 

Top 10 Quarterfinal Games (Friday, February 19th)

10. Alden @ Dunkirk

9. Lockport @ Williamsville North

8. Brocton @ Sherman

7. Frewsburg @ Silver Creek

6. Wilson @ I-Prep

5. Barker @ Randolph

4. MST Seneca @ Roy-Hart

3. East @ Chautauqua Lake

2. Kenmore West @ Lancaster

1. Fredonia @ Gowanda

 

Most Exciting Potential Semifinals

8. Middle College vs. Randolph (C2)

7. Tapestry vs. Olmsted (C1)

6. Starpoint vs. Lew-Port (A2)

5. Cleveland Hill vs. East (C1)

4. Roy-Hart vs. Fredonia (B2)

3. Ellicottville vs. Franklinville (D)

2. I-Prep vs. Health Sciences (B2)

1. Williamsville North vs. Jamestown (AA)

 

Most Exciting Championship Games

5. Class D

4. Class C1

3. Class B2

2. Class AA

1. Class A1

 

Winning streaks heading into sectionals

Olean - 20

Panama - 17 (and 18 of last 19)

Amherst - 13 (and 19 of last 20)

I-Prep - 12 (and 16 of last 17)

Williamsville South - 9 (and 11 of last 12)

Gowanda - 8 (and 15 of last 16)

McKinley - 7 (and 19 of last 20)

 * Medina has won 10 of its last 11

 * Jamestown has won 9 of its last 10

 * Ellicottville has won 7 of its last 8

 

Predictions

AA - Jamestown

A1 - Williamsville South

A2 - Amherst

B1 - Olean

B2 - Health Sciences

C1 - East

C2 - Middle College

D - Panama

 

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Brackets Central - 2016

 

Below are links to each bracket & the 2016 Sectional Preview, along with links to all postseason articles.

 

Brackets Central 2015  Brackets Central 2014  Brackets Central 2013  Brackets Central 2012  Brackets Central 2011

 

Buff State Week Viewing Guide

 Sectional Preview - 2016

Manhattan Cup

Class AA Bracket

Class A1 Bracket

Class A2 Bracket

Class B1 Bracket

Class B2 Bracket

Class C1 Bracket

Class C2 Bracket

Class D Bracket 

 

Olean Huskies - Undefeated State Champs

Middle College Kats - 2016 State Champs

South falls short in Glens Falls

Olean's on the brink of history

Middle College now one win away

Panama unable to finish at Glens Falls

Far West Regionals - 2016

Crossover Tuesday

Manhattan Cup Finals - 2016

Section VI All-Tournament Teams - 2016

Championship Saturday

JCC Friday - 2016

Olean & East Aurora are on to the B1 Final

McKinley wins in OT, Fredonia & Health Sciences for B2 title

Jamestown survives, Falls rolls, & South back in A1 Final

Class A2 Semifinals: Lew-Port & Amherst advance

Manhattan cup Play-in games

Walsh wraps up division title

Lancaster is going back to Buff State

Newfane advances to quarterfinals

State Rankings heading into postseason

Poll Ballots - Week 10

  

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Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2016 Sectionals

 

Class B1

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 16th

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

(10) CSAT 54, (15) Eden 42 

(11) Tonawanda 40, (14) Springville 38 

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 17th

(8) Depew 72, (9) Buffalo Arts 38 

(5) Alden 78, (12) City Honors 46

 

(10) CSAT 71, (7) Albion 59

(6) Newfane 54, (11) Tonawanda 42

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 19th

(1) Olean 83, (8) Depew 38 

(4) Dunkirk 68, (5) Alden 46 

 

(2) Medina 54, (10) CSAT 46

(3) East Aurora 62, (6) Newfane 47

 

Semifinals - Thursday, February 25th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 pm & 7:45 pm

(1) Olean 59, (4) Dunkirk 41

(3) East Aurora 55, (2) Medina 46

 

  Final - Saturday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

 (1) Olean 67, (3) East Aurora 46

 

2016 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

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 Class B2

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 16th

(12) Oracle 60, (13) Akron 32

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 17th

(8) JFK 65, (9) Wilson 48

(5) Emerson 66, (12) Oracle 61 

 

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

(6) Fredonia 69, (11) Southwestern 42 

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 19th

(1) I-Prep 79, (8) JFK 47

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

 

(2) Roy-Hart 57, (7) MST Seneca 45

(6) Fredonia 68, (3) Gowanda 51

 

Semifinals - Wednesday, February 24th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:15 & 6:45 pm 

(4) Health Sciences 70, (1) I-Prep 57

(6) Fredonia 73, (2) Roy-Hart 30 

 

 Final - Saturday, February 27th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

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

 

2016 Section VI Class B2 Champions - Fredonia Hillbillies

 

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Poll Ballots - 2016 - Week 9

(Fredonia nearly upset Olean last week, while St. Mary's prepares for Walsh on Friday / Photo by Ron Szot)

 

As a pollster for the Buffalo News, I'm asked to send in my weekly ballots ranking the top ten large and small schools.  The polls are based on games played through Saturday of each week.  Here's a look at how I see them and some of the rationale used to get there.

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MMA) - Not only the best team in WNY, but one of the best defensive teams I've ever watched.  Holding Park to 21 points over three quarters wasn't exciting to watch, but it sure was impressive.  Hosting Timon on Tuesday and then visiting St. Joe's Friday night.

2. Park (MMA) - Rebounded nicely from the Canisius loss with an interior-dominating win at Timon on Friday.  Tonight they travel to Aquinas to face the Lil Irish, ranked #8 in NYS Class AA.

3. Amherst (A2) - The Tigers haven't faced a team currently ranked in WNY's large school top 10 since losing to Park in December.  That changes Thursday night, when Jamestown arrives for a nonleague sectional tuneup against the ECIC III champs.  

4. Williamsville South (A1) - Last season, the Billies won ECIC II despite a home loss to Starpoint.  On Thursday night, the two will square off on Main Street again, where a South win would again give them the outright league title.

5. McKinley (A1) - The Macks escaped East High with a victory after trailing the Panthers all game on Tuesday night.  That means a win at Middle College on Thursday gives them the Yale Cup all to themselves.

6. Timon (MMA) - The Tigers have established themselves as a clear #3 in the MMA Class A after sweeping St. Joe's, but losing a second time to Park.  They get another shot at Canisius on Tuesday and then travel to play the red hot Red Raiders at St. Francis on Friday.

7. Niagara Falls (AA) - Had a more than respectable showing against Canadian power Father Henry Carr on Saturday night, after locking up another league championship in the NFL.

8. Jamestown (AA) - Put some pressure on ECIC I leader Williamsville North by handing the Spartans their first league loss of the season on Tuesday.  Zacc Kinsey's long 3-pointer at the buzzer scored a nonleague win over 2015 regional champ Leadership Academy on Saturday.

9. Williamsville North (AA) - Despite getting tripped up by Jamestown, the Spartans still control their own fate.  Wins tonight and Wednesday against Lancaster earn them the title in ECIC I & the top seed in Class AA.

10. Starpoint (A2) - Thursday is a big night for the Spartans.  The school's all-time scoring leader, Christian Nodine, will go for his 1,000th point as Starpoint attempts to force a co-championship in ECIC II.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - Prevailed in what was likely the most thrilling game of the year at Fredonia on Friday night.  The overtime win keeps the Huskies undefeated, ranked #1 in NYS Class B, and the top seed in Class B1.

2. Walsh (MMA) - After getting upset at home by St. Francis last week, the Eagles face a tough finish to the regular season, beginning this week with road trips to Niagara Catholic, St. Joe's, & the 'Game of the Week' at St. Mary's. 

3. St. Mary's (MMA) - The Lancers have had a great season and boast several quality wins along the way, but Friday's game against Walsh is the most important regular season game they play this year, especially after losing at their place in January.

4. Health Sciences (B2) - Finish the regular season against Class AA Lancaster on Friday night.  A regular season that includes wins over Middle College, South Park, and a sweep of Tapestry will earn the Falcons a home game in the sectional quarterfinals.  Only losses this season have come from ranked MMA schools Park, Timon, & St. Mary's.

5. Middle College (C2) - The Kats can claim a share of the Yale Cup with a win over McKinley on Thursday night.

6. Fredonia (B2) - The Hillbillies have no wins this season over any ranked teams, but claim this spot thanks to a pair of gritty showings against Olean, the only team to threaten the Huskies' undefeated season with a pair of single-digit losses.  They will look to avenge a home loss to Southwestern this week.

7. East (C1) - Another squad with no wins over ranked teams, but who has earned respect similar to how Fredonia has garnered it, with a pair of narrow losses to Middle College and nearly knocking off McKinley - the two schools playing for the Yale Cup.

8. Gowanda (B2) - The Panthers finally debut on my ballot after getting out to a 15-3 record and reaching the top of the standings in CCAA I East.  They'll deserve this spot if they close out the season with wins over Randolph and Silver Creek this week.

9. East Aurora (B1) - Losses in three of its last four games isn't an ideal way gear up for the postseason, but the Blue Devils still look like the best team in Class B1 after Olean.

10. Tapestry (C1) - Some pollsters went with Panama in this spot, whose only quality win came against Randolph - a team they then lost to four days later.  Tapestry also beat Randolph, twice, along with beating Medina, Roy-Hart, and Grand Island (who only lost to Niagara Falls by one point).

 

-centercourt

 

Top Games of the Week: 2/7/16 -- 2/13/16

(St. Mary's will host Walsh in the 'Game of the Week' )

 

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

 

Monday, February 8th

Park @ Aquinas - 6:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

Williamsville North @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

East Aurora @ Batavia - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, February 9th

East @ South Park - 6 pm

Wilson @ Roy-Hart - 6 pm

Barker @ Newfane - 6:30 pm

Timon @ Canisius - 7 pm

Kenmore West @ Lew-Port - 7 pm

St. Joe's @ St. Francis - 7 pm

Fredonia @ Southwestern - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 10th

Emerson @ MST Seneca - 6 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

Lancaster @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 11th

McKinley @ Middle College - 6 pm

Barker @ Roy-Hart - 6 pm

Kenmore West @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Wilson @ Newfane - 6:30 pm

Jamestown @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

Starpoint @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, February 12th

Cardinal O'Hara @ Nichols - 6:30 pm

Portville @ Silver Creek - 6:30 pm

Canisisu @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

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

Gowanda @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Panama @ Sherman - 7:30 pm

Lancaster @ Health Sciences - 7:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Walsh @ St. Mary's on Friday, February 12th

- The two teams that have occupied the #2 & #3 spots in the small school poll all season will get together on Friday night in my must see 'Game of the Week'.  While this could easily be a preview of the Manhattan Cup final for the Monsignor Martin Association's Class B, I can't wait that long to see these two - who feel no love loss for each other, get after it on the court.  Both are confident they have the better team.

St. Mary's got everyone's attention earlier in the season with a resounding victory over then #2 Health Sciences, who was fresh off a win at Middle College.  That win jumped the Lancers to #2 on my ballot, much to the dismay of Walsh, who felt they were not only better than the Lancers, but better than any small school, including #1 Olean.

The win over Health Sciences is just one of several quality wins for St. Mary's, who has quietly piled up quite an impressive resume this season.  The Lancers have wins over ranked schools like Williamsville North, Fredonia, Tapestry, and East Aurora.  They also own a 31-point win at St. Joe's, beat Section V Class A UPrep (who beat Timon & Middle College), and knocked off St. Francis (who just won at Walsh).  They have not lost to an unranked team.

The wins for Walsh this season have piled up consistently, though the quality of opponents on the nonleague side haven't measured up to the wins the Lancers have accumulated.  The Eagles' most notable nonleague wins this year came against Lew-Port & Maryvale.  Walsh does have one loss to an unranked team - the loss to St. Francis last week.

However, there's one result this year that trumps everything outlined above, and that's the head-to-head result from January 19th, when these two teams got together at Walsh.  That night, the Eagles won going away, taking a 63-47 victory.  That was the game that took Walsh to #2, where they've remained since.  

St. Mary's is eager to prove that they are better, and are confident that when the game is played in Lancaster, there will be a much different result.  Meanwhile, Walsh is doubtful that anything will change in a different venue.  To them, they've been the best small school in both Olean and WNY all season, and will be eager to get another crack at St. Mary's.  

And oh by the way, the result of this game should have a direct impact on the seedings heading into the playoffs.  It all sounds like 'Game of the Week' material to me. 

 

-centercourt

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

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

 

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

 

Monday, January 25th

Burgard @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm

Jamestown @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Portville @ Franklinville - 7:30 pm

Chautauqua Lake @ Pine Valley - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 26th

Walsh @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

Rochester East @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Tapestry @ Grand Island - 6:30 pm

Southwestern @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 27th

Pine Valley @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 28th

Health Sciences @ Timon - 6:30 pm

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

Roy-Hart @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Aquinas @ Canisius - 7 pm

 

Friday, January 29th

Cardinal O'Hara @ Walsh - 6:30 pm

North Tonawanda @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

East Aurora @ Amherst - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Lew-Port - 7 pm

Cleveland Hill @ Alden - 7 pm

Niagara Catholic @ Nichols - 7:30 pm

Chautauqua Lake @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

Allegany-Limestone @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Gowanda @ Portville - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 30th

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

Tapestry @ Health Sciences - 2:30 pm

Niagara Falls @ Bishop Kearney - 3 pm

RAP Classic at Aquinas

East Aurora vs. Livonia - 2 pm

Cheektowaga vs. West Irondequoit - 3:45 pm

Canisius vs. Greece Athena - 5:30 pm

Aquinas vs. Rush-Henrietta - 7:15 pm

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Top Games of the Week: 1/17/16 -- 1/23/16

(Round 1 is almost here - Canisius at Park on Saturday, January 23rd / Photo by Buffalo News)

 

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

 

Monday, January 18th

Cheektowaga @ St. Joe's - 4:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 19th

Health Sciences @ Tapestry - 6 pm

Timon @ Park - 6:30 pm

St. Mary's @ Walsh - 6:30 pm

Medina @ Newfane - 6:30 pm

Niagara Catholic @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

North Tonawanda @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

Niagara Wheatfield @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Gowanda @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 20th

Middle College @ South Park - 6 pm

St. Joe's @ Kenmore West - 6:30 pm

Orchard Park @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Chautauqua Lake @ Southwestern - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 21st

Silver Creek @ Portville - 6:30 pm

Nichols @ Niagara Catholic - 7:30 pm

Randolph @ Gowanda - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 22nd

East @ Middle College - 6 pm 

St. Mary's @ Timon - 6:30 pm

Nichols @ Cardinal O'Hara - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ Niagara Wheatfield - 6:30 pm

Williamsville South @ Starpoint - 7 pm

Lew-Port @ North Tonawanda - 7 pm

St. Francis @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Orchard Park - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

Southwestern @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 23rd

Cardinal O'Hara @ Cleveland Hill - 1:30 pm

Canisius @ Park - 3 pm

 

Game of the Week - Canisius @ Park on Saturday, January 23rd

- This weekend, the hottest ticket in town will be admission into The Park School on Harlem Road in Amherst on Saturday afternoon.  I can't remember a more highly anticipated regular season matchup in this area in my time of following high school hoops, and for good reason.  This game offers everything you could want out of a big time high school game.

Canisius & Park are the two top ranked large schools in WNY, and considered by most to be in their own tier of the top ten.  Both teams have compiled several wins over the best teams from this area already.  Canisius has beaten the likes of Aquinas, Williamsville South, McKinley, Timon, & St. Joe's.  Park owns wins over Amherst, Niagara Falls, St. Mary's, Middle College, St. Joe's, & Starpoint.  Both teams have beaten Bishop Kearney.

Last season, both teams reached the pinnacle of success for their respective classifications - NYS Federation Championships.  Canisius finished its 2015 season off by claiming the ultimate prize in Class A, while the Pioneers did the same thing in Class B, on the same weekend, one day after they watched and cheered the Crusaders on to victory.  It was likely the last time they will ever root for a Canisius victory.  While Park finished the year as the #1 ranked team in NYS Class B and Canisius earned the same distinction from Class A, the Pioneers moved up to Class A this season.  

Now that Park is in Class A with the Crusaders, both share space in the NYS rankings together.  Park has been the state's top ranked team in Class A all season, while Canisius is expected to be sitting at #3 when the new state rankings are released tomorrow.  With #1 vs. #3 getting it on in Class A this Saturday, Canisius @ Park is not only the 'Game of the Week' in WNY, we are talking about the biggest game in the entire Empire State.  Best of all, it should only be the first of an epic trilogy this season.

If you find yourself on the outside looking in this Saturday afternoon, I think you know where you can find updates.

 

-centercourt

The Schedule: 2015-2016 Season

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

                

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

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All-League Teams - 2015

 

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION

Class A

Player of the Year:

LaTerrance Reed - Canisius, 12

 

All-Catholic

Stafford Trueheart - Canisius, 11

Chris Miner - Nichols, 12

Cam Lewis - Nichols, 12

Marcell Davis - St. Joe's, 12

Kordell Holness-Lightbody, St. Francis, 12

Derick Simpson - Timon, 12

 

Class B

Player of the Year:

Jordan Nwora - Park, 11

 

All-Catholic

Takal Molson - St. Mary's, 11

Derek Cheatom - Park, 12

Randy Golda - Park, 12

Buzz Watson - Walsh, 12

Tavien Kemp - Walsh, 10

Donel Cathcart - Cardinal O'Hara, 12

Sean Wilson - St. Mary's, 12

 

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

 

YALE CUP I

Co-Players of the Year:

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

 

First Team

Juwan Tolliver - McKinley, 12

Shaquan Jones - McKinley, 11

Fred Foster - Middle College, 11

JoJo Staton - Middle College, 11

 

Second Team

Damone Brown - East, 12

Amir Jemes - Middle College, 11

Brian Johnson - Middle College, 11

Isaiah Jamison - Burgard, 11

Jovell Littlejohn - East, 12

 

Third Team

Keyshawn Ridgeway - McKinley, 12

Dion Morrison - East, 12

Shakur Harris - South Park, 10

Jaylen Hall - Burgard, 12

Dante Campbell - Hutch-Tech, 12

 

Honorable Mention

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

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

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

Burgard:  Rodderick Morrow - 12, Emmanuel Moss - 12

South Park:  James Baker - 11

Riverside:  Alexander Johnson - 11, Damone McNamee - 12

Bennett:  Jose Rivera - 11, Alex Lofton - 12

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

 

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

 

YALE CUP II

Player of the Year:

Xavier Maye - I-Prep, 12

 

First Team

Terrance James - I-Prep, 12

Michael Simpson - Emerson, 11

Aaron Woods - Buffalo Arts, 12

Matt Cieslik - City Honors, 12

Brandon Roach - Olmsted, 11

Kyle Davis - DaVinci, 12

 

Second Team

Davon Gant - I-Prep, 11

JeQuan Wilson - MST Seneca, 11

Dominic Prince - MST Seneca, 10

Demetrius Brown - Buffalo Arts, 11

Jason Dowell - Emerson, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Lafayatte:  Julio Muriel - 12

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

Emerson:  Justin Acker - 11

Olmsted:  Dan Reid - 10

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

DaVinci:  Mike Horton - 10, Devonte Robinson - 12

 

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

 

ALL-ECIC

Player of the Year:

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

 

First Team

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

TC Brown - Amherst, 11

Dominick Welch - Cheektowaga, 10

Clay Lewis - Holland, 12

Sam Castronova - Williamsville South, 12

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East, 12

 

Second Team

Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, 9

Dylan Lambert - Williamsville North, 12

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 12

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 12

Stephen Carlson - Jamestown, 12

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, 11

 

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

 

ECIC I

Player of the Year:

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 12

 

First Team

Stephen Carlson - Jamestown, 12

Dylan Lambert - Williamsville North, 12

Maceo Jack - Williamsville North, 12

Jay Bergmann - Frontier, 12

Matt Sadowy - Clarence, 12

 

Second Team

Tyler Lis - Lancaster, 12

Alex Konst - Lancaster - 11

Frank Borzillieri - West Seneca West, 12

Sean Hill - Williamsville North, 11

Bryan Pulli - Clarence, 12

 

 Honorable Mention

Frontier:  David Estrada - 12, Jake Gleason - 12

Orchard Park:  Dan Freilicher - 11

Jamestown:  Zacc Kinsey - 11

 

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

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East 12

 

First Team

Greg Dolan - Williamsville South, 9

Sam Castronova - Williamsville South, 12

Christian Nodine - Starpoint, 11

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 12

 

Second Team

Nicholas Clough - Williamsville East, 12

Brock Kroening - Starpoint, 11

Jordan Heine - Sweet Home, 12

Ben Walters - Starpoint, 11

Brendan Ryan - Hamburg, 11

 

 Honorable Mention

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

Sweet Home:  Brandon Smiley - 12

Hamburg:  Caleb Wood - 12

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

Iroquois:  Zach Emer - 12, Lucas Tait - 12

 

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

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

TC Brown - Amherst, 11

 

First Team

Zak Cieszki - Cheektowaga, 12

Dominik Welch - Cheektowaga, 10

Dorian Billups - Amherst, 12

Darien Lowe - Amherst, 12

Collin Gemerek - Depew, 12

 

Second Team

Noah Thompson - East Aurora, 11

Amadi Ikpeze - Amherst, 11

Mike Kelleher - Maryvale, 12

Vince Nourse - Pioneer, 12

Kyle Warner - Springville, 12

 

Honorable Mention

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

Cheektowaga:  Patrick Plummer - 12, Devon Camel - 12

East Aurora:  Mike Coatsworth - 12

Maryvale:  Ray Blackwell - 9

 

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

 

ECIC IV

Player of the Year:

Clay Lewis - Holland, 12

 

First Team

Jeremiah Jones - Lackawanna, 12

Joe Braniecki - JFK, 12

Anthony Sullivan - Cleveland Hill, 12

Larry Fields - Lackawanna, 12

Jermaine Hairston - Cleveland Hill, 12

Tristan Boling - Tonawanda, 12

 

Second Team

Rodney White - Cleveland Hill, 11

Jordan Stockweather - Alden, 11

Christian Snell - Alden, 9

Cale Byczkowski - JFK, 12

AJ Perlino - Holland, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Alden:  Dylan Riddoch - 11

Holland:  Matt Farrant - 12, EJ Staniszewski - 11

JFK:  Brendan Fox - 12

Lackawanna:  Jaelin Watson - 11, Darius Cleveland - 12

Tonawanda:  Cody Diaz - 11, Larenz Jefferson - 12

 

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

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

First  Team

Chris Woodard - North Tonawanda, 12

Craig Paige - Lew-Port, 12

Jenard Jackson - Lew-Port, 11

Terrell Ford - Kenmore West, 11

Kelly Brown - Lockport, 11

 

Second Team

Breon Harris - Niagara Falls, 11

Nathan Nielson - Niagara Wheatfield, 11

Joe Kulikowski - Grand Island, 11

Qeyion Williams - Niagara Falls, 11

Ryan Gilbert - North Tonawanda, 11

 

Third Team

Mikey Bermudez - Niagara Falls, 12

Colin Carrey - Grand Island, 12

Trent White - Kenmore West, 12

Nathan Williams - Niagara Wheatfield, 12

Adam McNeill - North Tonawanda, 12

 

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

 

NIAGARA-ORLEANS

First Team

Kyle Bradley - Wilson, 12

Jason Hellwig - Medina, 12

Dylanta Carson - CSAT, 12

Andy Xaspos - Roy-Hart, 11

Gates Abrams - Akron, 11

 

Second Team

Evan Shank - Wilson, 12

Chris Sweeney - Barker, 12

Clayton Stanton - Albion, 12

Kyle Burdick - Newfane, 12

Justin Morgan - Medina, 11

 

 Honorable Mention

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

Barker:  Nate Luckman - 10, Tom Callaghan - 12

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

 

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

 

CCAA I WEST

Player of the Year:

John Piper - Fredonia, 12

 

First Team

Cam Voss - Fredonia, 12

Cody Johnson - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Patrick Moore - Fredonia, 11

Chucky Martin - Olean, 12

Isaiah Thomas - Dunkirk, 11

 

Second Team

Elijah Ramadhan - Olean, 11

Jake Cavana - Olean, 11

Ben Eckstrom - Olean, 10

Shamon Stewart - Dunkirk, 10

Ben Burk - Southwestern, 11

 

Honorable Mention

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

Fredonia:  Jarod Burmaster - 11

Olean:  Connor Prizel - 12

Falconer:  Sean Nord - 11, Ryan DePietro - 11

Dunkirk:  Rashad Brown - 11, Richard Pickens - 12

 

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

 

CCAA II WEST

Player of the Year:

Graham Soffel - Maple Grove, 12

 

First Team

Jake Card - Sherman, 12

Nathan Ottaway - Sherman, 12

Liam Tennies - Westfield, 12

Josh Eddy - Panama, 11

Chris Robson - Sherman, 10

 

Second Team

Tanner Dahl - Westfield, 12

Matt Hair - Frewsburg, 11

Jake Card - Sherman, 11

Chris Blose - Panama, 11

Cordell O'Brien - Frewsburg, 10

Josh Odell - Panama, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Panama:  Jack Payne - 11

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

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

Brocton:  Aaron Rifigiato - 10, Bryan Graves - 12

Frewsburg:  Kole Brink - 11

Westfield:  Trevor North - 11

Maple Grove:  Pat Nelson - 11

 

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

 

CCAA I EAST

Player of the Year:

 Bill Brooks - Silver Creek, 11

 

First Team

Bryce Morrison - Randolph, 12

Trevon Thompson - Silver Creek, 11

Isaac Hilyer  - Portville, 12

Jared Fish - Salamanca, 12

Tyler Siperek - Salamanca, 12

Cole Davis - Allegany-Limestone, 11

 

Second Team

Mason Bosley - Randolph, 12

Connor Gates - Silver Creek, 11

Andy Crandall - Salamanca, 12

Nate Brawdy - Gowanda, 9

Randy Jimerson - Gowanda, 12

Dominic Conroy - Allegany-Limestone, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Portville:  Zach Ewings - 12, Andrew Sarber - 12

Cattaraugus/Little Valley:  Darnell Pritchard - 12

Silver Creek:  Sherman Williams - 12

Gowanda:  Les Young - 12

Randolph:  Derek Young - 12

Salamanca:  Austin Elliott - 12

Allegany-Limestone:  Bailey Higby - 11

 

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

 

CCAA II EAST

Player of the Year:

Dylan Granger - Pine Valley, 12

 

First Team

Phalla Musall - Ellicottville, 12

Logan Youngberg - Forestville, 12

Caleb Makuch - Forestville, 12

Elliott Bowen - Ellicottville, 9

Ben Erickson - Franklinville, 12

Dylan Granger - Pine Valley, 12

 

Second Team

Dylan Szumigala - Forestville, 11

Dawson Bielecki - Franklinville, 11

Jordan Milks - Franklinville, 11

Kilian Abers - PineValley, 11

Austin Grinols - Ellicottville, 9

Emil Erlandson - West Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

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

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

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

Pine Valley:  Russell Hayes - 12

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

 

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

 

Charter Schools

Player of the Year:

Fred Searles - Global Concepts, 12

 

First Team

DeJuan Owens - Tapestry, 12

Tyrin Lott - Health Sciences, 9

Kenny White - Oracle, 11

Damon Glenn - Maritime, 12

Jordan Maxey - Tapestry, 12

 

Second Team

JaQuoine Fogan - Tapestry, 11

Kam Rashada - Health Sciences, 11

Naz Flood - Health Sciences, 12

Andre Bragg - Tapestry, 12

Fabian Pierce - Global Concepts, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Buffalo Science:  David Harris - 12

Oracle:  Shaundez Davis - 12, Shakur Bridges - 10

Global Concepts:  Dwight Dilbert - 10

Health Sciences:  Amarri Funderburk - 11

 

-centercourt

Brackets Central - 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

Below are links to each bracket, along with some other postseason-related content:

 

Brackets Central 2014   Brackets Central 2013   Brackets Central 2012    Brackets Central 2011

 

 Manhattan Cup Playoffs

Class AA Bracket

Class A1 Bracket

Class A2 Bracket

Class B1 Bracket

Class B2 Bracket

Class C1 Bracket

Class C2 Bracket

Class D Bracket 

 

Far West Regional - 2015

Section VI All-Tournament Teams

All-League from every league - 2015

Schedule of remaining postseason games

Crossover Tuesday at Buff State

Championship Saturday - 2015 (with video)

JCC Friday - 2015

Crusaders advance to the CHSAA state championship

Canisius wins the Manhattan Cup

Park wins Class B Manhattan Cup

Amherst & Olean win Class A2 semifinals, will meet up in final

Class A1 semifinals: South & NT advance

Buff State Tuesday: East, Fredonia, & Jamestown march on

Buff State Week Viewing Guide

Manhattan Cup Semifinals Recap

Sectional Preview

Manhattan Cup Play-in games

Maryvale advances

Cheektowaga is going back to Buff State

My Poll Ballots heading into championship week

 Final regular season standings

WHO DESERVES A SPOT ON ALL-CENTERCOURT?

 

-centercourt

The Standings

 

* Overall record followed by league record

 

Yale Cup I

McKinley.................17-2  (12-0)

Middle College.........14-5  (9-3)

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

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

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

South Park...............6-12  (2-10)

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

Hutch-Tech..............3-16  (2-10)

 

 Yale Cup II

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

Emerson.................12-6  (8-4) 

MST Seneca............8-11  (7-5)

DaVinci...................8-6  (7-5)

City Honors............7-12  (6-6)

Buffalo Arts.............8-9  (6-6)

Olmsted..................7-12  (4-8)

Lafayette................0-18  (0-12)

 

ECIC I

Jamestown...........16-3  (12-0)

Will North............15-4  (10-2)

Lancaster...............11-8  (7-5)

Frontier.................10-8  (6-6)

Clarence...............5-14  (4-8)

Orchard Park..........6-13  (2-10)

W.Seneca West.......2-17  (1-11)

 

 ECIC II

Will South.............17-2  (13-1)

Starpoint..............16-3  (12-2)

Sweet Home...........10-9  (7-7)

Will East................9-10  (7-7)

Hamburg...............8-11  (6-8)

W.Seneca East.......10-9  (5-9)

Iroquois................7-12  (4-10)

 Lake Shore............4-18  (2-12)

 

ECIC III

Amherst............17-2  (12-0)

Cheektowaga.....15-4  (10-2)

Depew................10-9  (8-4)

East Aurora........8-11  (6-6)

Maryvale............9-10  (3-9)

Pioneer...............6-13  (3-9)

Springville..........3-15  (0-12)

 

 ECIC IV

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

Lackawanna...............9-9  (9-3)

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

Tonawanda................10-9  (6-6)

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

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

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

 

Niagara Frontier League

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Niagara-Orleans

Wilson.................16-3  (13-1)

Medina................10-9  (10-4)

Akron..................11-9  (8-6)

CSAT...................10-7  (8-6)

Albion.................10-9  (8-6)

Newfane..............5-14  (4-10)

Roy-Hart.............6-13  (3-11)

Barker.................3-18  (2-12)

 

CCAA West I

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

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

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

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

Chautauqua Lake..........5-14  (4-8)

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

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

 

CCAA East I

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

CCAA West II

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 CCAA East II

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Charter Schools 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Monsignor Martin - Large Schools

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

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

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

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

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

 

Monsignor Martin - Small Schools

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

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

Archbishop Walsh........14-10  (6-7)

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

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

 

-centercourt

Season Preview: 2014-2015

 

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

 

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

 - What's New

- Returning 2014 All-Centercourt Players

- Player Watch List for 2014-2015

- A League-by-League look at teams players 

- Coaching Changes

- Classification Changes

- Predictions 

 

What's New

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

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

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

- Buffalo Science is back.

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

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

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

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

- Far West Regionals are in Rochester this year

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

 

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

 

The Players

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

 

Reigning Player of the Year & Returning 2014 1st Teamer

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

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

 

 Returning 2014 Second Teamer

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

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

 

Returning 2014 Third Teamers

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Returning 2014 Fourth Teamer

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

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

 

Returning 2014 Fifth Teamers

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Returning 2014 Honorable Mentions

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

 

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

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

 

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 League-By-League

 

 MONSIGNOR MARTIN CLASS A

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN CLASS B 

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

 ***

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

YALE CUP I

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

***

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

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

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

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

Hutch-Tech: Jailyn Rose - 11

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

Burgard

Bennett

 

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YALE CUP II

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

***

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

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

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

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

Emerson:  Michael Simpson - 11, Jason Dowell - 11

MST Seneca

Buffalo Arts

DaVinci

 

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ECIC I

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frontier

 

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ECIC II

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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ECIC III

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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ECIC IV

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

 ***

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eden 

 

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Niagara Frontier League

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

 ***

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kenmore East:

 

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Niagara-Orleans

Newfane & Wilson each enjoyed a string of success over several seasons, which made the local rivalry between the two that much more intense.  Both teams have returning players, expect to be compete for the league, and are looking forward to overflow crowds once again when they get together on the court.  Medina likes its combination of returning talent and mental toughness, and expects to compete for the league crown.  The Mustangs have beefed up their nonleague schedule to challenge this group. Barker returns five seniors - but just one starter from its unbeaten league championship team from last year.  CSAT has a new coach, along with a pair of Carson brothers, which make the Eagles contenders for that reason alone.  Roy-Hart welcomes first year head coach Joe Pawlak, who will look to put his own stamp on the Rams program, which he characterizes as an extremely hard working group.  With just four players back and two of those coming off surgery, Akron will have some work to put in before they're completely up tp speed.  The Tigers do have talented underclassmen and could be a dangerous team in the later half of the season.  

***

Akron: Larson Sundown - 12, Caleb Martin - 12, Chaunce Hill - 12, Brendan Weirerheiser - 11

Newfane: Sam Watkins - 12, Kyle Guerriera - 12, Chad Gilson - 11, Kyle Burdick - 12, Tyler Jordan - 12, MaxWeber - 9, Al Kramp - 10, David Krull - 11, Nick Schultz - 11, Zach Lajoie - 11

CSAT: Dylanta Carson - 12, Bryan Locke - 12, Darius Carson - 10, Will Fletcher - 12, Jahleel Burks - 11

Medina:  Jason Hellwig - 12, Dylan Lewis - 11, Aaron Feltz - 12, Brennan Zinkievich - 12, David Garrow - 12, Devonte Howard - 12, Jared Zinkievich - 11, Tyler Ames - 11, Dylan Lewis - 11, Brad McPherson - 11, Justin Morgan - 11, Jalin Cooper - 9

Barker: Chris Sweeney - 12, Sean Benoit - 12, Thomas Callaghan - 12, Tanner Gregorie - 12, Joshua Mead - 12, Tristan Payne - 12, Michael Snell - 11, Kyle Secor - 11, Nathan Luckman - 10

Roy-Hart: Andy Xapsos - 11, Sam White - 12, Nelson Andrade - 12, Bailey Hudson - 12, Aaron Metz - 12, Ben Maynard - 11, Justin Heschke - 11, Chris Anderson - 11, James DiLorenzo - 12, Zack Srock - 11, Austin Dodge - 11

Wilson:  Evan Shank - 12, Kyle Bradley - 12, Zac Sarratori - 12, Joe Littere - 12, Jarret Johnston - 12, Adam Murray - 12, Alex Fox - 11, Andrew Eames - 11

Albion:  Dez Blackmon - 12, Austin Loyd - 12, Emanuel Thompson - 12, Alex Bison - 12, Clayton Stanton - 12, Gary Moore - 12

 

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CCAA West I

Defending league champion, Fredonia, should be in great shape for another run this season.  The Hillbillies will start five players who are 6-feet or taller and have a combined 13 years of varsity experience between them.  Olean starts over after reaching the Class B state title game a year ago.  The Huskies graduated five senior starters and return just two players who saw any action.  Reining Centercourt Coach of the Year, Jeff Anastasia, will embrace the challenge and make household names out of the Huskies' players soon enough.  Southwestern lost some of its size, but brings back three starters, accounting for much of its scoring.  The Trojans will look to push the pace and wreak havoc on teams defensively.  Rich Clifford is back behind the bench for another season at Cassadaga Valley and the veteran coach returns three starters, including 2014 All-Centercourt HM Cody Johnson (20.5 ppg).  After two seasons coaching the JV team, Jack O'Brien takes over varsity duties at Dunkirk and will have some senior leadership, along with a trio of 6-3 juniors.  Chautauqua Lake fields a young & passionate group that hopes league competition will prepare them for the playoffs.  After being combined with Frewsburg in hoops a season ago, Falconer is back on its own, returning just four returning players, each with little varsity experience.

***

Fredonia: John Piper - 12, Cam Voss - 12, Anhel Epps - 12, Noah Voss - 12, Patrick Moore - 11

Olean: Connor Prizel - 12, Chucky Martin - 12, Blake Covert - 12, Colden Dwaileebe - 12, John Zamites - 12, Jake Cavana - 11, Derek Schmidt - 11, Levi Johnson - 11, Elijah Ramadhan - 11, Ben Eckstrom - 10

Southwestern: Pat Mogenhan - 12, Jack Carlson - 12, Mike Sandbloom - 12, Billy Johnston - 12, Ben Burk - 11, Brendan Kennedy - 11, Nick Cooper - 11, Niko Pannes - 10

 Dunkirk:  Isaiah Thomas - 11, Rashad Brown - 11, Chad Butts - 11, Shamron Stewart - 10, Richard Pickens - 12, Leroy Gilbert - 12, Gemaro Collazo - 12  

Cassadaga Valley:  Cody Johnson - 12, Chase Jones - 12, Shane Parsons - 11, Tony Mangine - 12, Jaquan Watts - 12, Jerimiah Jones - 12, Tyler Simpson - 11, James Cornelius - 11

Chautauqua Lake:  Carter Davidson - 11,  Michael Lysek - 11, Aaron Swan - 10, Devin Pope - 9, Tyler Meredith - 10, David Applegarth - 12, Erik Szymanowski - 12, Cody Latimer - 12, Ben Stahlsmith - 11

Falconer:  Gavin Beaumont - 12, Chris Elderkin - 12, Andrew Ward - 12, Tavon Fisher - 11, Ryan DePietro - 11, Jackson Teboe - 11, Brandon Curtis - 11, Drew Beckerink - 12, Sean Nord - 11, Trevor Dykstra - 11, Tareek Hannold - 12, Colin Boutelle - 12, Manny Machado - 12, Dillon Johnson - 12, Sean Dudenhoffer - 12

 

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CCAA EAST I

Three of the seven teams in this league (Silver Creek, Randolph, Portville) have reached sectional title games in the last two years, and a fourth team (Salamanca) won its league last year.  Needless to say, this should be one of the more competitive league races in WNY this season.  Silver Creek looks forward to an above-the-rim season from 2014 3rd Team All-Centercourt selection Billy Brooks, but the Black Knights are even more excited about the energy and team commitment of their players at early season practices.  Salamanca returns a talented tandem in its backcourt, along with 6-6 2014 All-Centercourt HM Jared Fish, who together, accounted for 40 ppg last year.   Randolph, maybe Section VI's most storied football program ever, will again be a force on the court as well, once it gets its basketball legs under them.  Portville returns two of its three leading scorers for first year head coach Bill Torrey to work with.  Gowanda has athletes who can get up and down the floor, so transition offense will be key for the Panthers.  Cattaraugus/Little Valley has just four seniors on its young team.  Allegany-Limestone has a pair of starters back and will look to push the tempo and press.

***

Silver Creek:  Billy Brooks - 12, Sherman Williams - 12, Connor Gates - 11, Trevon Thompson - 11, Chance Gates - 12, Chris Williams - 10, Heron Snow - 11, Jacob Lewis - 11, James Corbin - 12

Salamanca:  Jared Fish - 12, Tyler Siperek - 12, Andrew Crandall - 12, Jake Dowdy - 12, Tate Reynolds - 11, Marcus Cooper - 11, Eric George - 12, Luke Zurat - 11, Zeus Enriquez - 10, Austin Elliott - 12

Randolph:  Bryce Morrison - 12, Connor McAllister - 12, Mason Bosley - 11, Jarrett Lecceadone - 10, Derek Young - 12, Nick Carpenter - 12, Kyle Beaver - 12, Tyler Stahley - 11

Allegany-Limeston: Dom Conroy - 12, Cole Davis - 11, Bailey Higby - 11, Brad McAfee - 11, Brad Reed - 11, Zach Hemphill - 10, Austin Dziennik - 11, Tyler Hines - 11, Garrett Johnston - 12, TJ McMullen - 12

Gowanda:  Jordan Young - 12, carter Benton - 11, Lucas Brawdy - 11, Randy Jimerson - 12, Les Young - 12

 Portville: Zack Ewings - 12, Isaac Hilyer - 12, Andrew Sarber - 12, Nick Stein - 10, Nick Gehm - 11, Sean Harris - 11, Chase Swetland - 12

Cattaraugus Little Valley: DJ Steven - 12, Darnell Pritchard - 12, Kodie Skeels - 12, Kyle O'Donnell - 12, Hunter Baker - 11, Caleb Hibit - 11, Devon Parmenter - 11, Alex Perkins - 11, Anthony Bernardi - 11, Kellen Martin - 10

 

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CCAA West II

Panama reached the Class D final with a young team last season , but fell to Sherman.  The Panthers have matured both mentally and physically, and should contend in league with a solid point guard, a sharp-shooter in Josh Odell, and 6-6 Josh Eddy inside.  Westfield returns five players that contributed in 2014, including one of the league's best in Tanner Dahl.  Sherman was hit hard by graduation following two consecutive Class D sectional championships, and will look to find a new identity with this year's team.  Maple Grove will be very good, they always are.  I can't tell you much else, because their very successful coach who's teams have received significant press from me over the years, never responds to email requests for information.  The Red Dragons listed below were listed as underclassmen in the 2014 Section VI program.   Brocton, Clymer, & Frewsburg did not send information.

***

Maple Grove:  Graham Soffel - 12, Matt Roach - 11, Jonah Tanner - 12, Pat Nelson - 11, Nolan Knipe - 12, Mitch Sandberg - 11, Jeff Clauson - 11

Westfield:  Tanner Dahl - 12, Liam Tennies - 12, Trevor North - 11, Nolan Hunt - 12, Steven DeMarco - 12, Joe Quagliana - 11, Jon Wilson - 11, Greg Schroeder - 11, Luke Haskin - 11

Panama:  David O'Dell - 12, Greg Delahoy - 12, Jack Payne - 11, Chris Blose - 12, Josh Odell - 11, Dillon Mescall - 12, Josh Eddy - 11, Chris Blose - 11, Jarrett Yuchnitz - 11

 Sherman:  Jake Card - 12, Nathan Ottaway - 12, Jeremy Cole - 12, Stephen Walczak - 12, Chris Robson - 10, Jake Ames - 12, Kolby Parks - 10, Kyle Carpenter - 10, Sam Vanvelkenburg - 11, Kyle Rhebergen - 11

Brocton:  Aaron Riforgiato - 11, Derek Walter - 12, Daultan Remington - 12

Clymer

Frewsburg

 

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CCAA East II 

After finishing 9-1 in league action last season Forestville, returns six players and has its sights set on a repeat.  Ellicottville will look to the dynamic Phalla Musall, a returning all-league selection, to guide a very young team.  No other teams from this league had coaches respond with the requested team information.  My apologies to the players in this league.

Ellicottville:  Phalla Musall - 12, Calum Watt - 12, Austin Gronols - 9, Griffin Chuddy - 9, Elliot Bowen - 9, Cole Lapi - 11, Jonas Hurlburt - 11, Cameron Eddy - 11

Forestville:  Caleb Makuch - 12, Dylan Szumigala - 12, Logan Youngberg - 12, Jeff VanVlack - 12, Ryan Forbes - 12, Chris Sheldon - 12, Jackson Egan - 11, Tyler Spears - 11, Andrew Deszcz - 11, Derek Catalano - 11

Pine Valley:  Dylan Granger - 12, Russell Hayes - 12, Kilian Abers - 11

North Collins

West Valley

Franklinville

 

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 Charter Schools

Tapestry enters the season as the favorite to win the Charter Cup and make serious noise come sectional time, thanks to returning nine seniors and junior scoring machine, JaQuoine Fogan.   Oracle has length and quickness, and is excited about the potential growth of its young team with just three seniors back.  Health Sciences is the defending Charter Cup champion and the third-year program will seek a repeat, despite graduating 12 seniors.  Maritime has just one player back with varsity experience and will hand point guard duties over to a freshman.  After a season with just a JV squad, Buffalo Science returns to varsity competition, hoping that developing chemistry and playing smart will result in some wins.  Global Concepts will lean on the leadership and experience of returning First-Team All-Charter player Fred Searles.

***

Tapestry:  JaQuoine Fogan - 11, DeJuan Owens - 12, Jordan Maxey - 12, DaVonte Cunningham - 11, Marques Perkins - 12, Jesus McClain - 12, Poshine Jenifer - 12, Andre Bragg  - 12, Keith Littlejohn - 12, Joe Henderson - 12, Kaleb King - 12, Chemar Pilot - 12

Oracle:  Shaundez Davis - 12, Kenny White - 11, Shakur Bridges - 10, Rakim Graves - 11, Darius Embry - 11, Andra Austin - 12, Jamal Woods - 11

Health Sciences:  Malik Walker - 12, Nasir Flood - 12, Mikel Carr - 12, Dayquan Williams - 11, Tyquan Jordan - 11, Carson Wiseman - 11, Kam Rashada - 11, Tyrin Lott - 9

WNY Maritime:  Damon Glenn - 12, Arkeil Gaskins - 12, DeQuan Sanders - 9

Global Concepts:  Fred Searles - 12, Nick Moylan - 12, Lincoln Billingslea - 11, Fabian Pierce - 11 

Buffalo Science:  Joe Owens - 12, Neil squires - 12, Jazzmone Brown - 12, Abdullah Farah - 12, Aristotle Copeland - 12, Lauren Killian - 11, David Harris - 11, Roland Taylor - 11, Julian Johnson - 10, Georges Cortes - 10, JaQuez McMullin - 10, Deonte Brown - 10, Julian Allen - 9

 

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New Coaches

Giulio Colangelo - Niagara Catholic

Tony Pulvirenti - Cardinal O'Hara

Karl Maggiore - DaVinci

Pat Foster - Lafayette

Joe Pawlak - Roy-Hart

Jack O'Brien - Dunkirk

Bill Torrey - Portville 

David Phiblad - Pine Valley

Camilo Hoyos - CSAT

Ben Ganschow - Buffalo Science

 

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

 

Classification Changes

South Park moves up from Class A2 to Class A1

Starpoint moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

Iroquois moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

West Seneca East moves down from Class A1 to Class A2

East Aurora moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Springville moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Albion moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Maryvale moves down from Class A2 to Class B1

Olean moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Dunkirk moves up from Class B1 to Class A2

Fredonia moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

Falconer moves down from Class B1 to Class B2

City Honors moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Fredonia moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Falconer moves up from Class B2 to Class B1

Salamanca moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Gowanda moves down from Class B2 to Class C1

Middle College moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Holland moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Portville moves down from Class C1 to Class C2

Maple Grove moves down from Class C2 to Class D

I-Prep moves down from Class C2 to Class D

Westfield moves down from Class C2 to Class D

 

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

 

Predictions

MMA - Canisius

Yale Cup I - McKinley

Yale Cup II - I-Prep

ECIC I - Jamestown

ECIC II - Williamsville South

ECIC III - Cheektowaga

ECIC IV - Lackawanna

NFL - Niagara Falls

N-O - Wilson

CCAA I West - Fredonia

CCAA I East - Silver Creek

CCAA II West - Maple Grove

CCAA II East - Franklinville

Charters:  Tapestry

 

Manhattan Cup: Nichols

Class AA: Jamestown

Class A1: McKinley 

Class A2: Cheektowaga

Class B1: Depew

Class B2: East

Class C1: Silver Creek

Class C2: Middle College

Class D: Maple Grove

 

-centercourt

Classifications for 2014-2015

    Class AA   (11 Teams)                                           Monsignor Martin Class A 

    Jamestown - ECIC I                                                      Canisius 

    Niagara Falls - NFL                                                        Nichols 

    Kenmore West - NFL                                                    Timon 

    Lancaster - ECIC I                                                          St. Joe's 

    Clarence - ECIC I                                                           St. Francis 

    Williamsville North - ECIC I                                                 

    Lockport - NFL                                                               Monsignor Martin Class B

    Frontier - ECIC I                                                            Park

    West Seneca West - ECIC I                                       St. Mary's

    Orchard Park - ECIC I                                                 Cardinal O'Hara

    Niagara Wheatfield - NFL                                          Archbishop Walsh

                                                                                                  Niagara Catholic                                                                          

   

 Class A1 (10 Teams)                                   Class A2 (11 Teams)

 

    McKinley - Yale Cup I                                                 Amherst - ECIC III        

    Williamsville South - ECIC II                                  Cheektowaga - ECIC III

    Williamsville East - ECIC II                                      Lew-Port - NFL

    North Tonawanda - NFL                                            Olean - CCAA

    Sweet Home - ECIC II                                                 Iroquois - ECIC II

    Hutch-Tech - Yale Cup I                                            Riverside - Yale Cup I

    South Park - Yale Cup I                                              West Seneca East - ECIC II

    Grand Island - NFL                                                       Starpoint - ECIC II

    Hamburg - ECIC II                                                       Lake Shore - ECIC II

    Kenmore East - NFL                                                    Pioneer - ECIC III

                                                                                                  Dunkirk - CCAA                                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                              

    Class B1 (15 Teams)                                                 Class B2  (15 Teams)    

    Maryvale - ECIC III                                                       East - Yale Cup I

    East Aurora - ECIC III                                                  Fredonia - CCAA I West

    Depew - ECIC III                                                             Cleveland Hill - ECIC IV

    City Honors - Yale Cup II                                            Lackawanna - ECIC IV

    Tonawanda - ECIC IV                                                   Oracle - Charter

    Bennett - Yale Cup I                                                       Health Sciences - Charter

    Medina - N-O                                                                     CSAT - N-O

    Newfane - N-O                                                                  Wilson - N-O

    Burgard - Yale Cup I                                                       Emerson - Yale Cup II

    Alden - ECIC IV                                                                Falconer - CCAA West I

    Buffalo Arts - Yale Cup II                                             Roy-Hart - N-O

    Lafayette - Yale Cup II                                                   Southwestern - CCAA West I

    Albion - N-O                                                                       Akron - N-O

    Springville - ECIC III                                                     JFK - ECIC IV

    Eden - ECIC IV                                                                  DaVinci - Yale Cup II   

 

     

   Class C1 (10 Teams)                                                       Class C2 (10 Schools)

    Silver Creek - CCAA East I                                          Middle College - Yale Cup I

    Tapestry - Charter                                                          Olmsted - Yale Cup II

    Salamanca - CCAA East I                                             Randolph - CCAA East I

    Allegany-Limestone - CCAA East I                          Holland - ECIC IV

    Cassadaga Valley - CCAA West I                              MST Seneca - Yale Cup II

    Chautauqua Lake - CCAA West I                              Global Concepts - Charter

    Maritime - Charter                                                          Portville - CCAA East I

    Gowanda - CCAA East I                                                Franklinville - CCAA East II

    Barker - N-O                                                                      Frewsburg - CCAA West II

    Cattaraugus/Little Valley - CCAA West I             Buffalo Science - Charter

 

 

   Class D (12 Teams)

    Maple Grove - CCAA West II

    I-Prep - Yale Cup II

    Westfield - CCAA West II

    Sherman - CCAA West II

    Clymer - CCAA West II

    Panama - CCAA West II

    Pine Valley - CCAA East II

    Brocton - CCAA West II

    Ellicottville - CCAA East II

    West Valley - CCAA East II

    Forestville - CCAA East II

    North Collins - CCAA East II

 

    -centercourt

The Schedule - 2014-2015

 

Saturday, March 28th

NYS Federation Semifinals at SUNY Albany 

Class B:

Park vs. Westhill - 1 pm

Dwight vs.  Maspeth - 3 pm

 

Saturday, March 28th

NYS Federation Championships at SUNY Albany

Class A:

Canisius vs. Albany Academy - 5 pm

Class AA:

Wings Academy vs.  TBD - 9 pm

 

Sunday, March 29th

NYS Federation Championships at SUNY Albany

Class B:

4 pm

 

-centercourt

Class B1 & B2 Brackets - 2014 Sectionals

 

Class B1

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 18th

(12) Alden 60, (13) Dunkirk 34

(15) Burgard 54, (10) Falconer/Frewsburg 45

(11) City Honors 66, (14) Eden 37

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 19th

(8) Bennett 48, (9) Newfane 47

(12) Alden 65, (5) Lafayette 52

(15) Burgard 54, (7) Buffalo Arts 47

(6) Depew 79, (11) City Honors 68

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 21st

(1) Fredonia 76, (8) Bennett 43

(4) Tonawanda 41, (12) Alden 32

 

(2) Olean 79, (15) Burgard 41 

(6) Depew 54, (3) Medina 31

 

Semifinals - Tuesday, February 25th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 7 pm & 8:30 pm

 (1) Fredonia 59, (4) Tonawanda 39

(2) Olean 73, (6) Depew 29

 

Final - Saturday, March 1st

AT BUFFALO STATE - 1:45 pm

(2) Olean 80,  (1) Fredonia 48

 

2014 Section VI Class B1 Champions - Olean Huskies

 

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

 

Class B2

 

First Round - Tuesday, February 18th

(12) Southwestern 52, (13) JFK 48

(10) Gowanda 65, (15) DaVinci 48

(11) Oracle 47, (14) Akron 36

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 19th

(9) Wilson 47, (8) Emerson 44

(5) Roy-Hart 78, (12) Southwestern 71 OT

(10) Gowanda 77, (7) Lackawanna 67

(6) CSAT 61, (11) Oracle 54

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 21st

(1) East 83, (9) Wilson 40

(4) Health Sciences 81, (5) Roy-Hart 51 

 

(2) Cleveland Hill 77, (10) Gowanda 53

(3) Salamanca 85, (6) CSAT 73

 

Semifinals - Tues & Wed, February 25th & 26th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 5:30 pm both days

 (1) East 67, (4) Health Sciences 62 OT

(2) Cleveland Hill 59, (3) Salamanca 55 OT

 

Final - Saturday, March 1st

AT BUFFALO STATE - 12 pm

 (1) East 58, (2) Cleveland Hill 49

 

2014 Section VI Class B2 Champions - East Panthers

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

Final League Standings for 2014

 

 

Yale Cup I

Middle College.........11-1

East.........................10-2

McKinley..................9-3

Hutch-Tech..............5-7

Bennett....................5-7

South Park...............4-8

Riverside..................3-9

Burgard....................1-11

 

Yale Cup II

I-Prep.....................12-0  

Olmsted..................9-3

Lafayette................8-4

Buffalo Arts............7-5

MST Seneca...........4-8

City Honors...........4-8

Emerson................3-9   

 

ECIC I

Jamestown...........10-2

Clarence...............10-2

Will North............10-2

Lancaster...............6-6

Frontier..................3-9

W.Seneca West......2-10

Orchard Park.........1-11

 

ECIC II

Will South.............9-3

Iroquois................9-3

Sweet Home..........8-4

Will East...............7-5

Hamburg..............6-6

Starpoint..............3-9

W.Seneca East.....0-12

 

ECIC III

Amherst............12-2

Cheektowaga.....11-3   

Maryvale............9-5

East Aurora........8-6

Depew................7-7

Lake Shore.........4-10

Springville..........3-11

Pioneer...............2-12   

 

ECIC IV

Cleveland Hill...........11-1

Holland......................9-3

Tonawanda................8-4

Lackawanna...............6-6

Alden.........................4-8

JFK............................2-10

Eden..........................2-10

 

Niagara Frontier League

Lockport........................13-1

Kenmore West...............13-1

North Tonawanda...........9-5

Lew-Port.........................8-6

Niagara Falls...................6-8

Grand Island.................4-10

Kenmore East................3-11

Niagara Wheatfield.......0-14

 

Niagara-Orleans

Barker................14-0

Medina................9-5

Roy-Hart.............8-6

CSAT...................7-7

Albion.................6-8

Newfane..............6-8

Wilson.................4-10

Akron..................2-12

 

CCAA West I

Fredonia......................10-0

Silver Creek..................6-4

Maple Grove.................5-5

Falconer/Frewsburg.....4-6

Dunkirk........................3-7

Southwestern................2-8

 

CCAA East I

Salamanca........................9-1

Randolph..........................8-2

Allegany-Limestone..........6-4

Portville............................4-6

Gowanda...........................3-7

Catt Little/Valley..............0-10

 

CCAA West II

Sherman......................12-0

Panama.........................8-4

Cassadaga Valley...........7-5

Westfield.......................6-6

Clymer..........................5-7

Chautauqua Lake...........4-8

Brocton.........................0-12

 

CCAA East II

Forestville.................9-1

Ellicottville................7-3

Franklinville..............7-3

Pine Valley................5-5

West Valley...............1-9

North Collins.............1-9

 

Charter Schools

Health Sciences...................7-1

Tapestry..............................7-1  

WNY Maritime....................2-6

Global Concepts...................2-6

Oracle..................................1-7

 

Independent

Olean.............................15-3

 

 

Monsignor Martin - Large Schools

Canisius......................12-0   

Timon...........................9-3    

St. Joe's........................6-6   

St. Francis.....................3-9

 

Monsignor Martin - Small Schools

St. Mary's....................12-2    

Nichols.........................9-5   

Park.............................9-5    

Niagara Catholic...........2-12    

Archbishop Walsh........2-12

Cardinal O'Hara............2-12   

 

-centercourt

@centercourt42

 

 

All-League Teams - 2013

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN ASSOCIATION

Player of the Year:

 Adam Weir - Canisius, 12

 

First Team

Matt MacDonald - Canisius, 12

Louie Oliveri - St. Joe's, 12

Paul Rath - St. Mary's, 12

Aaron White - Canisius, 12

Donte Williams - Timon, 11

 

Second Team

Jordan Glover - St. Joe's, 12

Demone Harris - Timon, 12

Cam Lewis - Nichols, 10

Chris Miner - Nichols, 10

Jaylen Morris - St. Joe's, 12

 

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

 

 

YALE CUP I

Player of the Year:

Marcus Morris - McKinley, 12

 

First Team

Lovell Smith - McKinley, 12

Keir Anderson - Middle College, 12

Tyree Tyson - East, 11

Kevin Briggs - Middle College, 11

Reyjzon Jordan - McKinley, 12

 

Second Team

Tyrell Mitchell - South Park, 12

Johnathan Lewis - East, 11

Daequan Warren - McKinley, 12

Bri'an Brown - Middle College, 11

Willie Smith - Riverside, 11

 

Third Team

Percy Bryant - East, 10

Jovohn Owens - Hutch-Tech, 12

Tarron Scott - Middle College, 11

Aymanuel Radford - Hutch-Tech, 11

Samuel Smith - McKinley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Avrelio Ayala - Bennett, 11

Dante Thompson - McKinley, 11

Joseph Stanton - Middle College, 9

Jovell Littlejohn - Riverside, 10

Jonathan Kinley - East, 10

 

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

 

YALE CUP II & III

Player of the Year:

Lester Diaz - Lafayette, 12

 

First Team

JaVaughn McNab - MST Seneca, 12

Lenny Dowell - Emerson, 12

Daquan Walker - Burgard, 12

Malcolm Hendrick - Olmsted, 10

Damon Boykin - I-Prep, 11

 

Second Team

 Jon Colon - Lafayette, 12

Tyler James - Buffalo  Arts, 12

Jamaal Felton - MST Seneca, 11

Jordan Garrett - Emerson, 12

Yusef Burgos - City Honors, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Burgard:  Sean Marshall - 12, Aaron Jones - 12

I-Prep:  Terrance James - 10, Willquan Burgess - 10

City Honors:  Matt Cieslik - 10

Buffalo Arts:  Ivan Harris - 11

MST Seneca:  Ben Bolden - 12

Olmsted:  Jalen Schumaker - 12

DaVinci:  Darius Henry - 12

 

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

 

ALL ECIC

Player of the Year:

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 11

 

First Team

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 12

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, 12

Nate Wilkinson - Iroquois, 12

Ryan Funk - Clarence, 11

Jordan Parker - Cleveland Hill, 12

 

Second Team

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, 11

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, 12

Ahmad Abdo - Lackawanna, 12

Alex Turecki - Amherst, 12

Derrick Sekuterski - Depew, 11

 

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

 

 ECIC I

Co-Players of the Year:

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 12  

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 11

 

First Team

Ryan Funk - Clarence, 11

David Berkun - Williamsville North, 12

Branden Kellam - Jamestown, 10

Quinn Lee Yaw - Jamestown, 11

Byran Jost - Clarence, 11

 

Second Team

Kevin Marcinkowski - Frontier, 12

Zack Panebianco - Jamestown, 1o

Matt Wheelock - West Seneca West - 12

Bobby Florio - Clarence, 12

Tanner Schmit - Clarence, 10

 

Honorable Mention

Lancaster:  Sean Murray - 12, Mac Garby - 12

Clarence:  Emarure Williams - 10

West Seneca West:  Nick Clancy - 11

Frontier:  David Rajski - 12

Williamsville North:  George Attea - 10

 

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

 

ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Nate Wilkinson - Iroquois, 12

 

First Team

Phil Bowen - Iroquois, 12

Chaq Nettles - Williamsville South, 12

Damien Powers - Williamsville South, 12

Mike Torrillo - Sweet Home, 12

Cort Williams - Williamsville East, 10

 

Second Team

Khalid Barnes - Sweet Home, 12

Zachary Bischel - Williamsville East, 12

Kole Gilchrist - Sweet Home, 12

Andrew Rankie - Starpoint, 12

Griffin Ryan - Hamburg, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Nicholas Clough - Williamsville East, 10

Nick Parucki - West Seneca East, 10

Andrew Sardina - Hamburg, 12

Kyle Violanti - Hamburg, 12

 

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

 

ECIC III

Player of the Year:

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, 12

 

First Team

Derrick Sekuterski - Depew, 11

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, 11

Alex Turecki - Amherst, 12

Clark Brueckl - Lake Shore, 12

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 10

Ed Smith - Maryvale, 12

 

Second Team

Ian Allen - East Aurora, 12

Max Aiken - Maryvale, 12

Dion Lewis - Amherst, 12

Preston Summers - Cheektowaga, 11

Terik Lewis - Pioneer, 12

Denis Vanini - Depew, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Cheektowaga:  Dominick Welch - 11, Derek Clyburn - 12

Maryvale:  Demetri McCallie - 12

East Aurora:  Michael Coatsworth - 10

Lake Shore:  Ryan Joslyn - 12

Springville:  William Dickinson, 12

 

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

 

ECIC IV

Co-Players of the Year:

Jordan Parker - Cleveland Hill, 12

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, 12

 

First Team

Shaquille Brooks - Lackawanna, 12

Ahmad Abdo - Lackawanna, 12

Clay Lewis - Holland, 10

Richard Sotero - Cleveland Hill, 12

 

Second Team 

Damone Sylvers - Lackawanna, 10

Dylan Dussalt - Alden, 11

Aaron Phillips - Cleveland Hill, 11

Ben Stitch - Tonawanda, 11

Bradley Palmerton - Eden, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Lackawanna:  Cam Smith - 11, Deron Adams - 12

Alden:  Corey Barcyzkowski - 12, Tyler Glasser - 11, Nick Kibbler - 11

Holland:  Curtis Blendinger - 12, Storm Phillips - 12, JR Kline - 10

JFK:  Zack Walkowski - 12, Tyler Gabrielli - 12

 

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

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

 

First Team

Jermaine Crumpton - Niagara Falls, 12

Quinten Campbell - Kenmore West, 12

Jack Mulcahey - Niagara Wheatfield, 12

Ian Gilhousen - North Tonawanda, 12

Ramir Burton - Niagara Falls, 12

 

Second Team

JJ Wilkes - Niagara Falls, 12

Vinzell Watkins - Niagara Falls, 11

Nick Mansour - Lew-Port, 12

Moziah Townsend - Lockport, 11

Ryan Ross - Grand Island, 11

 

Third Team

Charlie Sobierski - Lockport, 11

Pat Schroeder - Kenmore East, 12

Nehemiah Stone - North Tonawanda, 10

Colin Dougherty - Lockport, 11

Ryan Lawrence - Lockport, 11

 

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

 

Niagara-Orleans League

 

First Team

Darnell Carson - CSAT, 12

Jake Haight - Barker, 11

Connor Sears - Newfane, 12

Brad Bobbit - Roy-Hart, 12

Connor Ladd - Akron, 12

 

Second Team

Blake Copella - Roy-Hart, 12

Austin Mietz - Akron, 12

Jaquille Peay - CSAT, 12

Reid Weber - Newfane, 12

Mitchell Luckman - Barker, 11

 

Honorable Mention

CSAT:  Alex Santos - 10

Newfane:  Bryan Geise - 12

Roy-Hart:  Ryan Farewell - 12, Alex Stoddard - 11

Akron:  Gowah Abrams - 12

Medina:  Mungie Brown - 11, Lonnie Taylor - 12

Albion:  Fred Koester - 12

Wilson:  Matt Baker - 12

 

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

 

CCAA I

Co-Players of the Year:

Wil Bathurst - Olean, 11

Sam Eckstrom - Olean, 11

 

First Team

Dylan Meyer - Fredonia, 11

Kyle Radack - Southwestern - 12

Max Portlow - Olean, 12

John Piper - Fredonia, 10

Alek Peck - Southwestern, 12

 

Second Team

Pat Scholla - Olean, 12

Domonic Saglimben - Allegany-Limestone, 11

Nick Conti - Falconer, 12

Ryan Vossler - Allegany-Limestone, 11

Nick Johnston - Fredonia, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Olean:  Nick Schmidt - 11, Luke Hennessey - 11, Evan Ryan - 12

Fredonia:  Jon Fletcher - 12

Dunkirk:  Michael Bess - 12, Alex Crossan - 12, Jacob Lockett - 12, Marquel Ruiz - 12

Falconer:  Mitch Carter - 12

Gowanda:  Zach Stevens - 11, Brennan Gieger - 11, Chase Williams - 11

Allegany-Limestone:  Caswell Stanton - 12

Southwestern:  Peter Trathen - 12

 

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

 

CCAA II

Player of the Year:

Zach Blask - Portville, 12

 

First Team

Zed Williams - Silver Creek, 12

Kaine Kettle - Silver Creek, 11

Bill Brooks - Silver Creek, 10

Bryce Morrison - Randolph, 10 

 

Second Team

Stephen Marcey - Silver Creek, 12

Alex Elderkin - Frewsburg, 12

Nathan Beaver - Rndolph, 12

Tanner John - Salamanca, 12

Jared Fish - Salamanca, 10

Tim Bender - Cassadaga Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Silver Creek:  Brennan White - 10

Portville:  Curtis Caya - 11

Salamanca:  Bryce Stahlman - 12

Cassadaga Valley:  Randy Dalaba - 12, Mike Lancaster - 12

Randolph:  Mitchell Maycock - 11, Cody Oldro - 11

Frewsburh:  Josh Nelson

Cattaraugus/Little Valley:  Colt Agnew

 

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

 

CCAA III

 Co-Players of the Year:

Will Soffel - Maple Grove, 12

Aaron Germain - Maple Grove, 12

 

First Team

Will Soffel - Maple Grove, 12

Aaron Germain - Maple Grove, 12

John Coe - Westfield, 12

Tanner Dahl - Westfield, 10

Alec Blose - Panama, 12

Ian Clute - Chautauqua Lake, 11

 

Second Team

Lucas Trombley - Pine Valley, 12

Austin Goerke - Maple Grove, 12

Dan O'Dell - Panama, 11

Colin Seamans - Franklinville, 11

Corey Wefing - Maple Grove, 11

Cody Thomas - Chautauqua Lake, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Chautauqua Lake:  A.J. Hulton

Forestville:  Caleb Makuch, Jake Nosbisch, Adam Pleva

Maple Grove:  Graham Soffel, Jeff Tampe

Pine Valley:  Spencer Sticek

Westfield:  Dylan MacCubbin, Dan Tofil

 

 

 

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CCAA IV

Player of the Year:

Dan Lictus - Clymer, 12

 

First Team

Jordan Patterson - Brocton, 12

Andrew Graham - Sherman, 11

Jared Keppel - North Collins, 12

Dan Ferguson - Brocton, 12

Ryan Robson - Sherman, 11

 

Second Team

Mitchell Einink - Clymer, 11

Devin Morehead - Sherman, 11

Colton Myers - West Valley, 12

Jacob Wiggers - Clymer, 11

Alex Steinbroner - Ellicottville, 12

Mike Grigsby - West Valley, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Brocton:  Aaron Riforgiato - 12, Macalum Buchanon - 11

Sherman:  Jake Card - 10

North Collins:  Todd Youngman - 12, Jordan Keough - 12

Ellicottville:  Cam Wilson - 12, Phalla Musall - 10

Clymer:  Garrett McAfoose - 11

Ripley:  Eric Horstman - 12

 

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Charter Schools

Player of the Year:

Gerald Bibbs - Oracle Charter, 12

 

First Team

Gerald Bibbs - Oracle, 12

Jamarr Cunningham - Oracle, 12

Julius Allen - Oracle, 12

Tom Lucas - Tapestry, 12

Allen Wright Jr. - Health Sciences, 11

 

Second Team

Eric Waters - Oracle, 12

Jon Spears - Tapestry, 12

Tyree Coble - Maritime, 10

Warren Mostiller - Maritime, 12

Randy Golda - Global Concepts, 10