The View From Centercourt

The 2012 All-Centercourt Team: The Best in WNY

COACH OF THE YEAR:

Chris Koselny, East Aurora

 

CC MVP:

Stan Wier, East Aurora

 

FIRST TEAM

Stan Wier - East Aurora, Senior

Matt Hart - Canisius, Senior

Reggie Agbeko - St. Joe's, Senior

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, Sophomore

Adam Weir - Canisius, Junior

 

SECOND TEAM

Jermaine Crumpton - Niagara Falls, Junior

Ryan Whelpley - Archbishop Walsh, Senior

Aaron Frasier - MST Seneca, Senior

Cordell Torres - OTC/Middle College, Senior

Connor Keenan - Williamsville East, Senior

 

THIRD TEAM

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, Junior

Jordan Williams - Bishop Timon/St. Jude, Senior

Sam Eckstrom - Olean, Sophomore

Wil Bathurst - Olean, Sophomore

Erik Simmons - St. Mary's, Senior

 

FOURTH TEAM

Jordan Farrant - Holland, Senior

Jesse Lalka - Tonawanda, Senior

Kyle Kobis - Bishop Timon/St. Jude, Senior

Zeddie Williams - Silver Creek, Junior

Martin Bailey - Kenmore West, Senior

 

FIFTH TEAM

Nick Lenart - Panama, Senior

Darnell Carson - CSAT, Junior

Matt McCormick - Orchard Park, Senior

Jamaal Carter - City Honors, Senior

JJ Wilkes - Niagara Falls, Junior

 

HONORABLE MENTION

Taijay Williams - Niagara Falls, Senior

Joe Lowery - Niagara Catholic, Senior

Devin Redden - St. Mary's, Senior

Jake Denz - St. Mary's, Senior

Matt Taylor - Frontier, Senior

Alex Warren - Frontier, Senior

Khalid Brown - OTC/Middle College, Senior

DeMilo Gibbs - Bishop Timon/St. Jude, Senior

Austin Alonge - Westfield, Senior

Tyler Wagner - St. Francis, Senior

Dustin Schauman - Cassadaga Valley, Senior

Maurice Cheatom - I-Prep, Senior

Alex Grace - Maple Grove, Senior

Jon Gemerek - Depew, Senior

Jaden Cotton - Depew, Senior

Kevin Holmes - Dunkirk, Senior

Adam Cecchini - Jamestown, Senior

Lamont Little - Riverside, Senior

Daquan Griggs - East, Senior

Marcus Nelson - Hutch-Tech, Senior

Tyler Martin - Wilson, Senior

Glenn Belton - Amherst, Senior

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, Junior

Justice Feggans - Riverside, Junior

Aaron White - Canisius, Junior

Matt MacDonald - Canisius, Junior

Quinton Campbell - Kenmore West, Junior

Reyjzon Jordan - McKinley, Junior

Marcus Morris - McKinley, Junior

Lovell Smith - McKinley, Junior

Jordan Glover - St. Joe's, Junior

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, Junior

Chaquille Nettles - Williamsville South, Junior

Nick Schmidt - Olean, Sophomore

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, Sophomore

 

-centercourt

2012 All-League Teams

 

 

Monsignor Martin Association

Player of the Year:

Reggie Agbeko - St. Joe's, 12

 

First Team

Matt Hart - Canisius, 12

Adam Weir - Canisius, 11

Ryan Whelpley - Archbishop Walsh, 12

Jordan Williams - Timon, 12

Kyle Kobis - Timon, 12

Erik Simmons - St. Mary's, 12

 

Second Team

Devin Redden - St. Mary's, 12

Joe Lowery - Niagara Catholic, 12

DeMilo Gibbs - Timon, 12

Jake Denz - St. Mary's, 12

Matt MacDonald - Canisius, 11

 

 

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YALE CUP I

Player of the Year:

Reyszon Jordan - McKinley, 11

 

First Team

Justice Feggans - Riverside, 11

Marcus Morris - McKinley, 11

Marcus Nelson - Hutch-Tech, 12

Lamont Little - Riverside, 12

Lovell Smith - McKinley, 11

 

Second Team

Denzell Washington - Hutch-Tech, 12

Tim Whitehead - Hutch-Tech, 12

Daquawn Griggs - East, 12

Mike Leonard - Riverside, 12

Daequan Warren - McKinley, 11

 

Third Team

Andrew Strug - Hutch-Tech, 12

Johnathan Lewis - East, 10

Mike Davis - McKinley, 12

Jon Colon - Lafayette, 11

Javon Fogan - Bennett, 12

 

Honorable Mention

East: Rashaan Brown - 12, Jayvon Vanoy - 12

Bennett: Ed Bishop - 12

Burgard: Justin Jennings - 12, Arzell Kaigler - 11

South Park: Zachary Kaczor - 10

Lafayette: Anthony Rodgers - 12

Hutch-Tech: Jovohn Owens - 11, Roman West - 10, Amanuel Radford - 10

Riverside: Willie Smith - 10, Walter Pryor - 10

McKinley: Deonte Bell - 11, Samuel Smith - 11

 

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YALE CUP II

Player of the Year:

Cordell Torres - OTC/MEC, 12

 

First Team

Aaron Frasier - MST Seneca, 12

Jamaal Carter - City Honors, 12

Maurice Cheatom - I-Prep, 12

Khalid Brown - OTC/MEC, 12

DeVonte Harper - OTC/MEC, 12

 

Second Team

Marquel Massey - City Honors, 12

Lenny Dowell - Emerson, 11

Bri'an Browm - OTC/MEC, 10

Devonte Witsett - I-Prep, 12

Kevin Reese - OTC/MEC, 10

 

Third Team

Jaleyn Pierson - MST Seneca, 12

Johnny Linton - Buffalo Arts, 12

Howard Washington - City Honors, 8

Keir Anderson - OTC/MEC, 11

Ameer Franklin - Emerson, 12

 

Honorable Mention

MST Seneca: Marquis Shaw - 12

City Honors: Matt Cieslik - 9

Buffalo Arts: Derek Simpson - 9

I-Prep: Duryll Anderson - 10

Emerson: Demetrius Hodge - 12

OTC/MEC: TJ Scott - 10

 

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ALL ECIC 

Player of the Year:

Stan Wier - East Aurora, 12

 

First Team

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 10

Connor Keenan - Williamsville East, 12

Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 11

Jesse Lalka - Tonawanda, 12

Jordan Farrant - Holland, 12

 

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ECIC I

Co-Players of the Year:

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, 10 & Tommy Campion - Jamestown, 11

 

First Team

Matt McCormick - Orchard Park, 12

Matt Taylor - Frontier, 12

Stephen Hughes - Clarence, 12

Alex Warren - Frontier, 12

Adam Cecchini - Jamestown, 12

 

Second Team

Kareem Walker - Jamestown, 12

Neal Farrell - Orchard Park, 12

Jayson Moore - Sweet Home, 12

Sean Murray - Lancaster, 11

Justin Bangert - Willaimsville North, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Williamsville North: David Berkun - 11

West Seneca West: Nick Clancy - 10

Clarence: Bryan Jost - 10

Frontier: Remington Heil - 12

Sweet Home: Rashaad Rogers - 12, Kole Gilchrist - 11

Lancaster: Danny Emma - 10

 

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ECIC II

Player of the Year:

Connor Keenan - Williamsville East, 12

 

First Team

Chaquiel Nettles - Williamsville South, 11

Nick Benningfield - Hamburg, 12

Michael Kyarunts - Williamsville East, 12

Nate Wilkinson - Iroquois, 12

 

Second Team

Madison Wesolowski - Iroquois, 12

Jim Caputi - Williamsville South, 12

Isaiah Kaudeyr - Williamsville East, XX

Damien Powers - Williamsville South, 11

Eric Moscato - Hamburg, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Lake Shore:  Carl Brueckl - XX, Tyler Mascio - XX, Wade Bergum - XX, Ryan Spears - XX

West Seneca East: Andy Smigera - XX, Alex Pacer - XX

Starpoint: Andrew Rankie - XX

Hamburg: Jeremiah Bill - XX, Kyle Violanti - XX

Iroquois: Ben Wutz - XX

 

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ECIC III

Player of the Year:

Stan Wier - East Aurora, 12

 

First Team

Jonathan Belton - Amherst, 11

Sean Weisansal - Maryvale, 11

Glenn Belton - Amherst, 12

Jonathon Gemerek - Depew, 12

Marquel Jackson - Cheektowaga, 11

Jaden Cotton - Depew, 12

 

Second Team

Brendan Cox - East Aurora, 10

Alex Turecki - Amherst, 11

Zak Ciezki - Cheektowaga, 9

Derek Clyburn - Cheektowaga, 11

Aaron Ertel - Depew, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Pioneer: Terik Lewis - 11, Mike Brass - 12, Connor Johnson - 11

Springville: Hunter Berry - 12

Amherst: Jonah Heim - 11, Dion Lewis - 11

East Aurora: Ian Allen - 11

 

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ECIC IV

Player of the Year:

Jordan Farrant - Holland, 12

 

First Team

Jesse Lalka - Tonawanda, 12

Daryl Spencer - Cleveland Hill, 12

Clayton Hess - Tonawanda, 11

Miles Barker - Cleveland Hill, 12

Paul Matuszak - Alden, 12

 

Second Team

Zak Stone - Alden, 12

Shaquille Brooks - Lackawanna, 11

Jared Wilkins - Cleveland Hill, 10

Nick Anderson - JFK, 11

Ken Minorczyk - JFK, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Alden: Corey Barczykowski - 11, Ryan Sosnowski - 12

Eden: Joe Slisz - 12, Brad Palmerton - 10

Holland: Trevor Leach - 12, Curtis Blendinger - 11, Clay Lewis - 9

JFK: Jimmy Quinn - 12, Ben Zaccagnino - 12

Lackawanna: Norman Sweat - 11, Raytrel Finley - 12

Tonawanda: Jake Spencer - 12, Ben Stitch - 10

 

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NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

First Team

Jermaine Crumpton - Niagara Falls, 11

Martin Bailey - Kenmore West, 12

Quinton Campbell - Kenmore West, 11

John Dziewit - Lew-Port, 12

Jack Mulcahey - Niagara Wheatfield, 11

 

Second Team

JJ Wilkes - Niagara Falls, 11

Taijay Williams - Niagara Falls, 12

Corey Mis - North Tonawanda, 12

PJ Blanch - Kenmore East, 12

DiAntre Cullens - Lockport, 12

 

Third Team

Quinn Carey - Grand Island, 9

Ryan Bradt - North Tonawanda, 12

Nick DiMartile - Lockport, 12

Jakai Daniels - Kenmore East, 12

Corey Pietkiewicz - North Tonawanda, 12

 

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

 

NIAGARA-ORLEANS LEAGUE

First Team

Darnell Carson - CSAT, 11

Josh Haight - Barker, 12

Tyler Martin - Wilson, 12

Jake Haight - Barker, 10

Brad Bobbit - Roy-Hart, 12

 

Second Team

Connor Sears - Newfane, 11

Sean Seefeldt - Newfane, 12

Scott Kneeland - Newfane, 12

Pat Diez - Wilson, 12

Connor Ladd - Akron, 11

 

Honorable Mention

Newfane: CJ Knight - 12, Bryan Geise - 11

Wilson: Dustin DiLaura - 12, Pat Walch - 12

CSAT: Justin Black - XX

Medina: Lucas Evans - XX

Akron: Austin Mietz, 11

Albion: Nick Santos, 12

 

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

CCAA I

Player of the Year:

Kevin Holmes - Dunkirk, 12

 

First Team

Sam Eckstrom - Olean, 10

 Dylan Meyer - Fredonia, 10

Ryan Nord - Falconer, 12

Zach Harrington - Allegany-Limestone, 12

Kyle Radack - Southwestern, 11

 

Second Team

Wil Bathurst - Olean, 10

Max Portlow - Olean, 10

Mike Donaldson - Dunkirk, 12

Nick Johnston - Fredonia, 10

Nick Huffman - Gowanda, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Olean: Nick Schmidt - 10, Luke Hennessy - 10, Pat Scholla - 11

Allegany-Limestone: Kyle Trietley - 12, Jeff Tang - 12

Southwestern: Jake Swan - 12, Peter Trathen - 11

Dunkirk: Josh Mleczko - 12, Evan Ahlstrom - 12

Falconer: Brandon DePietro - 11, Nick Conti - 11

Fredonia: John Piper - 9

Gowanda: Alex Sternisha - 12

 

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CCAA II

Player of the Year:

Zeddie Williams - Silver Creek, 11

 

First Team

Dustin Schauman - Cassadaga Valley, 12

Zach Blask - Portville, 11

Jevon Battle - Salamanca, 12

John Morgante - Randolph, 12

Brady Morrison - Randolph, 12

 

Second Team

Steve Marcey - Silver Creek, 11

Kaine Kettle - Silver Creek, 10

Mike Querrieo - Portville, 12

Zach Miles - Portville, 12

Gage Bird - Frewsburg, 12

Jackson John - Salamanca, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Silver Creek: Jon Jimerson - 12, Frank Brown - 12

Cassadaga Valley: Mike Lanphere - 12, Matt Woodward - 12, Kyle Pfeiffer - 12

Salamanca: Tanner John - 11, Bryce Stahlman - 12

Portville: Chris Querrieo - 12, Ryan Marcellin - 12, Josh Watson - 11

Cattaraugus-Little Valley: Hayden Griffith - 12

Frewsburg: Alex Elderkin - 11, Ian MacFarland - 12

Randolph: Bryce Morrison - 9

 

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

 

CCAA III

Player of the Year:

Alex Grace - Maple Grove, 12

 

First Team

Austin Alonge - Westfield, 12

Jake Reynolds - Franklinville, 12

Skylar Liddell - Maple Grove, 12

Jason McMahon - Chautauqua Lake, 12

John Coe - Westfield, 11

 

Second Team

Nate Stott - Forestville, 12

Ian Clute - Chautauqua Lake, 10

Trey North - Westfield, 12

LucasTrombley - Pine Valley, 11

Colin Lapi - Ellicottville, 12

Joe Frazier - Maple Grove, 12

Jason Pembridge - Maple Grove, 12

 

Honorable Mention

Forestville: Jacob Nosbisch - 10

Chautauqua Lake: Dan Gleason - 12

Ellicottville: Connor Hellwig - 12, Josh Bower - 12

Westfield: Anthony Leone - 12

Pine Valley: Lyle Howard - 12, Nate Noble - 12

 

 -centercourt

What would your All-Centercourt teams look like?

The high school basketball season in WNY is officially over and now it's time to honor the very best for the seasons they've turned in.  Sometime in the next couple of weeks, I will publish my second annual All-Centercourt Team and Coach of the Year.  The All-CC Team will consist of 5 five-player teams and 35 honorable mention selections.  That may sound like a lot, but try limiting things to just 60 players when you are dealing with 100  teams, and there are several quality players who miss the cut.

 

Use the comments section below to tell us who you think should make which team.  You could even tell us why.  If you're really ambitious, try coming up with the HM selections.

 

Please keep all commentary appropriate when discussing high school athletes.

 

-centercourt 

Wednesday's semifinals produce a pair of Yale Cup vs. ECIC sectional finals

 

McKinley 58, Hutch-Tech 53

The Macks started strong against league foe Hutch-Tech, but quickly found themselves in a dog fight.  After taking an early 13-4 advantage in the first quarter, McKinley was outscored 24-10 in the second by the Engineers, who led 34-27 at halftime.  However, the second ranked school in WNY limited Hutch-Tech to just one field goal during a 16-3 third quarter that put the Macks in front for good.  McKinley advances to its sixth Class A1 title game in the last seven years, with the only year they missed being last year, when they played in Class AA.  Lovell Smith led the Macks with 14 points.

 

Williamsville East 46, Williamsville South 38

Clinging to a one-point lead at halftime, the Flames blew the game open in the third quarter, outscoring South, 19-7, to advance to the Class A1 title game on Saturday at 6:30 pm.  Williamsville East forced the Billies to commit repeated turnovers as they continually attempted to dribble into the Flames' zone defense.  Connor Keenan scored 11 points and was all over the glass, finishing with 16 boards.  Michael Kyraunts added 10 points for Williamsville East.  Freshmen Cort Williams (10 points) and Nicholas Clough (5 points) showed the future was bright for the Flames, as both were major contributors in the game and seemed to have chemistry with each other.

 

OTC/MEC 81, Cassadaga Valley 47

Led by a 19 point/20 rebound performance by 6-3 sophomore Bri'an Brown, the Kats had no trouble disposing of last year's overall Class B champion, Cassadaga Valley.  It was a rematch of the 2010 Class C final won by OTC, 71-35.  The Kats went on after that to win a state championship.  Dustin Schauman scored 24 points for the Cougars in the loss.

 

Holland 55, Oracle Charter 53

Trailing by 10 points entering the fourth quarter, The Phoenix was able to mount a rally.  With just 23 seconds remaining, Jamarr Cunningham hit a 3-pointer for Oracle Charter to bring them all the way back and tie the game.  But with seven seconds remaining in the game, Holland senior Jordan Farrant sank a pair of free throws to break the tie and advance the Dutchmen to the Class C1 final against OTC/MEC on Friday at JCC.  Farrant finished with a game-high 25 points in the win.

 

-centercourt

Those two games are gone forever - let's deal with it!

The member schools of the NYSPHAA  just finished their second 18-game regular season.  Next year, those schools will be again limited to just 18 games - down two games from seasons past, down six games from what Monsignor Martin schools can schedule, and significantly down from what most states in this country allow. 

 

I've heard it discussed, read articles about it, and read ranting on blogs.  These last two  years, when the quality of basketball in WNY is questioned, (whether it's the players aren't as good anymore, we don't have the powerhouse teams we used to have, or there aren't enough marquee games) it always seems to come back to one thing - we have to get those two games back from the state.

 

I'm sorry, but those two games are gone and we're not getting them back.  It's a sad reality, but one that needs to be faced. I could sooner see the state taking more away, rather than restoring the basketball season to 20 games.   The biggest  impact of the restriction is felt in nonleague scheduling. 

 

With the exception of the charter schools, all public schools in Section VI are part of a league, and depending on which your team belongs to, league play gobbles up either 12 or 14 of the 18-game allowance.  In the Niagara Orleans league or the Yale Cup for example, teams play 14 league games.  League play began this year in January, but the season starts in the last week of November.  That leaves over a month of season, in which you're allowed to schedule four games.  One tournament played over two nights, and you're down to two games.  If you play in a tip-off tournament, you're left with two games to schedule over the course of 30 days.  That's unacceptable!  So let's stop accepting it.  If this is the fate we are dealt, it's time to work within it.

 

The only suggestion I've heard is teams face league opponents just once and rotate the home sight annually.  I have a solution that I think makes even more sense, and is the best compromise I've come up with to maintain the esablished leagues, while greatly improving the nonleague scheduling dilema.

 

I'll use the Yale Cup large schools (Yale Cup I) to illustrate this example.  Rather than all eight teams playing a home and home against each other, divide those large schools in half - by team strength, by location, etc. - however you want to divide them.  Say it's:

1. McKinley, Riverside, Hutch-Tech, & East

2. Bennett, Lafayette, South Park, Burgard

Teams from group one still play a home and home (six games), then group one plays each team from group two just once (four games).  Teams could even leave one game on their schedule "open" for a league showcase, which could also serve as a tiebreaker in some league races.  In this example, league games are reduced to 10 or 11 games, allowing seven or eight nonleagers.  That's four tournaments, one for every weekend in December.

 

The above formula is designed for leagues with eight teams, which include: Yale Cup I, Yale Cup II, ECIC I, NFL, and N-O.

 

Leagues with seven teams include: ECIC II, III, & IV, and all four CCAA divisions.  Those teams currently play six nonleague games and 12 league contests.  If you're okay with six nonleague game, then you're in good shape.  If you want more, here's what I've come up with:

 

- Move one team from CCAA I down to CCAA II and move a team from CCAA III down to CCAA IV.   Now CCAA I & III would have six teams (10 league games), while CCAA II & IV  would have eight teams and could follow the format above.

 

That leaves ECIC II, III, and IV all with seven teams.  If each league added one team, they'd all have eight teams and could also follow the eight-team league format outlined above.  But where do we come up with three teams to add?  Well, I can think of three independent charter schools off the top of my head: Oracle, Tapestry, and Maritime.  CSAT is a charter school and plays in the N-O.  It's not such a crazy concept.

 

 

I realize everything I wrote may sound complicated.  To me, it's logical and makes perfect sense. 

 

Is it a sensible solution to a situation that isn't going to get any better on its own or is it just a pipe dream?  For me, the answer depends on how badly the coaches want more nonleague games to schedule.

 

Call me crazy, call me brilliant, call me naive...just say something.  This is an issue that needs a productive discussion or there will never be any resolution - just a long December.  I want reason to believe maybe this year will be better than the last.

 

-centercourt

 

 

 

Previewing the Sectionals

 

The Section VI postseason begins tonight with a pair of first round games to get things going.  JFK will host Gowanda, while Springville travels to Eden.  As of right now, I haven't decided where I'll be tonight.

 

Several pre-quarterfinal games will be played on Wednesday, including a double-header at Bennett HS beginning at 6 pm.  Grand Island plays at Hamburg, while Roy-Hart facing Emerson at Grabiartz look to be the most compelling of the games on the evening.

 

Friday night is when the action really kicks up, as quarterfinal 32 games will decide which teams move on to Buffalo State and JCC for the semifinals.  Assuming things shake out the way I think they will before Friday, there are some great potential matchups on the way, and an upset or two certain to shake up the big picture before next week.

 

Most likely quarterfinal upsets

Class A1

(5) Hutch-Tech @ (4) Iroquois - The Chiefs scored a big win late in the season at then league-unbeaten ECIC II co-champ Williamsville East.  The Engineers stumbled against Bennett in the same week. 

Class B1

(5) East @ (4) Newfane - We knew there would be some quality quarterfinal games in the B1 bracket, and here's one of them.  East battled through the large schools in the Yale Cup, and came away with a win over Riverside and gave McKinley a close game in February.  They also have a distinct size advantage with Rashaan Brown and Tyree Tyson inside.

(6) Depew @ (3) Dunkirk - We couldn't have more opposite situations.  Depew played in a large school league (ECIC III), scheduled Williamsville North (Class AA), and defeated St. Mary's in its tournament.  Dunkirk has plowed through its competition not named Olean.  The problem is, there really was no competition for the Marauders.  Another lousy nonleague schedule, along with CCAA I being less than a meat grinder, and Dunkirk hasn't won a game by less than 15 all year.

Class B2

(5) Akron vs. (4) CSAT **at Kenmore West ** - Has anyone noticed how good these two teams have played in the last month?  Both beat Wilson this month, Akron also topped Newfane.  CSAT already owns two victories over Akron.  However, Tigers head coach Justin Gerstung has shown the ability to come up with a great scheme and pull off a stunner in sectionals before...just ask Wilson.

(6) City Honors @ (3) Allegany-Limestone - Another case of a team playing well late in the season and picking up some good wins against quality opponents.  The Centaurs beat I-Prep twice this year and also tripped up MST Seneca.

Class C2

(7) I-Prep @ (2) Maple Grove - The Red Dragons played some stiff competition to start the year, but haven't seen too many quality opponents recently, with the exception of Westfield and CG Finney.  I-Prep had the benefit of meeting some quality opponents in the city, including a pair of epic battles with the #3 seed, MST Seneca.

 

Top 5 Quarterfinal Games

5. Class B1 - East @ Newfane

4. Class AA - North Tonawanda @ Frontier

3. Class AA - Williamsville North @ Kenmore West

2. Class C2 - I-Prep @ Maple Grove

1. Class B1 - Depew vs. Dunkirk **at Silver Creek**

 

Most likely to avance to Glens Falls

Olean (Class B) and OTC/MEC (Class C)

 

Biggest favorite to win its bracket

OTC/MEC in Class C1

 

Best Bracket stop-to-bottom

Class B1 & Class C2

 

Most exciting potential championship matchups

Class C2 - MST Seneca vs. Silver Creek

Class AA -  Niagara Falls vs. Jamestown

 

Streaks & Stats heading into sectionals

- Olean has won 16 straight games and has no losses to any team from WNY

- OTC/MEC hasn't lost to a small school this season

- Maple Grove has won 15 straight games and has averaged 78.6 ppg over its last eight games

- Kenmore West has yet to lose a game in the calendar year and has won 15 straight.

- Frontier has won nine straight games

- McKinley's only losses this season were to Canisius and St. Joe's

 

-centercourt

Poll Ballots - Week Nine

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

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MMA) - Survived an emotional night in South Buffalo on Thursday and then owned all four quarters against the former number one to win the league.  Even as the Marauders have been ranked ahead of Canisius the last three weeks, there has been a strong sentiment from many that the Crusaders were the best team in WNY.  They're back here right now, let's see where they finish.

2. St. Joe's (MMA) - Things were rolling along wonderfully for the Marauders until last week, when the wheels fell off.  Moving them behind Canisius was easy after Saturday's game.  But at first, I wasn't sure how to treat the surprising one-point loss to St. Francis, the team's only suspect loss of the year.  I decided to keep Joe's here because of its wins this season, which include: Aquinas, Canisius, McKinley, Timon x 2, St. Mary's, OTC/MEC, Walsh, East, and Williamsville East. 

3. Niagara Falls (AA) - They might have a great list of wins too, if they were allowed to schedule a great list of games. 

4. McKinley (A1) - For the first time in their history, the Macks went undefeated in the city.  McKinley is the Yale Cup champion for the first time since sharing the honor with City Honors in 2002.  It's the first time ever they've staked a sole claim to the Cup. 

5. Jamestown (AA) - Still giving them just the slightest of edges over Ken West for this spot.  They may host an Orchard Park team on Friday that has come on as of late, winning four of its last five, which includes a triumph at Williamsville North to end the season.

6. Kenmore West (AA) - After playing their best season in years, the Blue Devils reward is a possible date with Sterling Taplin and the Spartans.  Bailey vs. Taplin - that could be fun. 

7. Riverside (A2) - Loss to McKinley dropped them to the second seed in A2, certainly not the side of the bracket they wanted to be on.  It means a first round date with Mark Kensy and the Flyers, who no one likes playing this time of year, regardless of their record.  Last season, the Frontiers escaped a thriller on Maryvale Drive in the quarterfinals.

8. Frontier (AA) - The Falcons ride a nine-game win streak into the postseason, the longest streak of any ECIC team in all four divisions.

9. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - The Tigers losing streak against Canisius & Joe's extends to nine games after they dropped three of their last four to finish the regular season. 

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - The Engineers cling to this last spot after a less than spectacular finish to the regular season.  We'll soon find out how they stack up against the competition from ECIC II, which would be their first two sectional games.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - This young group has met all the expectations placed on them to this point.  They're the only team left from WNY that hasn't lost to another team from WNY.

2. St. Mary's (MMA) - After doing the same thing to Walsh that was done to them, they traveled to Newfane on Friday and handed the Panthers their worst home loss in years.  

3. OTC/MEC (C1) - Unbeaten winners of Yale Cup II are a huge favorite in all of Class C after a second convincing win against MST Seneca.

4. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - I was more impressed than ever with Ryan Whelpley in the Eagles' loss at St. Mary's.  A tough task lies ahead with a long trip for an early tip at Canisius, where they'll face Timon on Saturday.

5. Dunkirk (B1) - The season is about to get a whole lot tougher for these Marauders, who haven't won a game by less than 15 points this season.

6. Tonawanda (B1) - After a second straight ECIC IV title, the Warriors are looking to take the next step this year and win a game at Buffalo State. 

7. Silver Creek (C2) - The top seed in Class C2 likes to put points on the board.  They've been held under 70 points just twice in their last nine games.

8. MST Seneca (C2) - The Indians likely await a visit from Randolph on Friday, who defeated Maple Grove at the start of the season and are the only team to defeat Silver Creek this year.

9. East (B1) - If they beat the winner of Eden/Springville, they'll return to Newfane where they last played (and won) in the 2006 quarterfinals.

10. Cleveland Hill (B2) - Closed the season with eight consecutive wins and an ECIC IV title.

 

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Class A1 Sectional Bracket

 

Pre-Quarterfinals - Wednesday, February 22nd

(9) Kenmore East 77, (8) Lake Shore 71

(5) Hutch-Tech 70, (12) Starpoint 31

(7) Sweet Home 56, (10) West Seneca East 37

(6) Hamburg 52, (11) Grand Island 51

 

Quarterfinals - Friday, February 24th

(1) McKinley 94, (9) Kenmore East 46

(5) Hutch-Tech 90, (4) Iroquois 51

 

(2) Williamsville South 56, (7) Sweet Home 48

(3) Williamsville East 78, (6) Hamburg 29

 

Semifinals - Wednesday, February 29th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6 & 7:45 pm

(1) McKinley 58, (5) Hutch-Tech 53

(3) Williamsville East 46, (2) Williamsville South 38

 

Section VI Class A1 Championship - Wednesday, February 29th

AT BUFFALO STATE - 6:30 pm

 (1) McKinley 59, (3) Williamsville East 56

 

2012 Section VI Class A1 Champions  - McKinley Macks

 

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Random Smatterings - Round 6

Prior to Timon hosting St. Joe's, an older gentleman took the microphone and sang a great rendition of the National Anthem.  When he finished, Marauder coach Mark Simon said "That was like having Louie Prima in the house", to which the gentleman responded "I hope I sounded better than him, he's dead".

 

Speaking of anthems, the best I've heard sung live this year was at Depew on Monday night.

 

Two nights after Iroquois handed Williamsville East its first league loss of the season, they were defeated by Lake Shore, 82-77.  Lake Shore then fell to Dunkirk by 59 points.

 

Jesse Lalka and Clayton Hess posted identical stat lines, 15 points & 10 rebounds, in Tonawanda's ECIC IV title clinching 53-41 win against Lackawanna.

 

When Riverside played at Hutch-Tech, the Frontiers scorekeeper yelled something at head coach Ron Killinger, to which he responded "What are yelling at me for?  I should be yelling at you".  The two later celebrated Valentine's Day together.

 

Matt McCormick of Orchard Park scored 36 of his team's 65 points in a win against West Seneca West, including nine 3-pointers.  He followed that performance up by netting 30 of his team's 52 points in a loss to Frontier. 

 

Wilson has lost three of its last four after beginning 9-0 in the N-O.  Two of those loses were by identical 45-42 scores.

 

CSAT has won seven straight games heading into tonight's game at Newfane.  If they win and Wilson loses to Roy-Hart, there would be a three-way tie for the N-O league title.

 

Amherst's win over Pioneer earned the Tigers the ECIC III crown, their first league championship in six years.

 

Skylar Liddell hit a 3-pointer to force overtime and then scored 10 of his game-high 35 in the extra session, to lead Maple Grove to a 79-75 victory over CG Finney of Section V.

 

Clarence finished the regular season 9-9.  Following an 8-1 start, the Red Devils dropped their final eight games.

 

Jordan Farrant had 15 points and 12 boards in Holland's 64-52 win against Eden.  Those totals pushed him past 1,500 career points and 600 career rebounds.

 

Sam Eckstrom scored 28 points with nine boards and two blocks in just over a half of Olean's 76-47 win over Southwestern.

 

St. Mary's PA announcer, Sean Bruso, uses an inaudible mumble reminiscent of Jim Rome's imitation of Bill Belichick, to acknowledge baskets scored by the opposition.

 

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Poll Ballots - Week Eight

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

 

Large Schools

1. St. Joe's (MMA) - Their place atop the large school poll again this week, makes the Marauders the first team this season to hold down that spot for three consecutive weeks.  They are also the only unanimous number one this year, which they've been in all three weeks.

2. Canisius (MMA) - Picked up its best win of the season at Bishop Kearney this weekend.  A huge week lies ahead for the Crusaders with games against both Timon and St. Joe's.  Win them both and Canisius is co-champion of the MMA for a second straight season.

3.  Niagara Falls (AA) - Since losing to Kenmore West, the Wolverines have won their last four games by an average of 30 points. 

4. McKinley (A1) - The Macks can end a long Yale Cup drought tonight, and clinch the league's trophy with a win at Lafayette.  They could add unbeaten to the title Yale Cup champs by beating Riverside on Thursday.

5. Jamestown (AA) - After nearly falling to Williamsville North, they suffer their first league loss of the season to Frontier.  The Red Raiders will need to get their swagger back in a hurry with one game left before sectionals.  After scoring over 70 in 10 of its first 14 games, Jamestown's last three games yielded 52, 66, & 51 points.

6. Kenmore West (AA) - The ability to repeat what has defined this season for the Blue Devils may determine how far they can advance this year.  As of now, West appears on track for a third meeting with Niagara Falls on the big stage at Buffalo State.

7. Riverside (A2) - Put a complete game together in it win against Hutch-Tech and have seen Feggans get loose a couple times recently.  A win against McKinley on Thursday would set a great tone heading into sectionals.

8. Frontier (AA) - Huge win over Jamestown on Thursday has to get the attention of the others in AA.  They also swept Williamsville North, the only other team to threaten the Red Raiders this year.  Winners of six straight and haven't lost since its trip to Jamestown.

9. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - For two consecutive seasons, the Tigers have built their resume for the poll on good loses.  Losing to St. Mary's at home on the heels of this year's three-game skid (eight overall) to Joe's/Canisius has me looking to reward the teams I placed above them, all with wins against another top ten large school this season.  The Tigers are just one of two teams that have occupied a place in the poll this season without a win against a ranked team.  The other is...

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - the Engineers, who after looking great in a win against East, regressed big time against Riverside.  Then, Tech fell to Bennett in the same week. 

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - Anxious for the sectionals to begin and so are the fans up north who have yet to see these Huskies.

2. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - I doubt they'll be bringing a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates to Lancaster tonight for the date with St. Mary's.

3. OTC/MEC (C1) - Was a little surprised to see that Emerson hung around with the Kats, but outside of the East Aurora loss, they've responded well to every challenge before them.  Also looking for the title of unbeaten attached to Yale Cup (II) champs, and will need to beat MST Seneca again to earn it.

4. St. Mary's (MMA) - We should see the most motivated Lancers team of the season tonight, looking to avenge a bad loss and restore their place above Walsh in the MMA seedings.

5. Dunkirk (B1) - Scored 104 points in a 59-point win against Lake Shore last week.  Lake Shore then went on to beat Iroquois, who just won at Williamsville East.

6. Tonawanda (B1) - The Warriors first loss dropped them a good amount on this ballot.  The wins over NT, Clev Hill, and EA, coupled with being undefeated was only outdone by Olean. 

7. Silver Creek (C2) - The champs of CCAA II are just one of several teams that could make its bracket the most exciting in sectionals this year.

8. MST Seneca (C2) - Completed a sweep of I-Prep this year in what were two of the most thrilling games I watched this year. 

9. East (B1) - Played its best game of the season in a loss to McKinley last week.

10 Cleveland Hill (B2) - Replaced the Lakemen as the only representative from the B2 bracket after a big win over previously unbeaten Tonawanda.

 

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Random Smatterings - Round 5

I love it when a player comes in during a Prep Talk chat using some johnny-come-lately name and asks a question about himself.  It's always like "Hey Keith, what do you think of that so-and-so kid from XYZ.  I see he scored 27 the other night, making a case for All-WNY".  

 

Here are the last four point totals from junior Darnell Carson of CSAT: 32, 27, 29, & 20.

 

One of my favorites is when a player jumps out of bounds to save a ball, only to throw it against the back of the backboard.

 

There are only three teams in WNY that haven't lost to a team from WNY: St. Joe's, Jamestown, and Olean.

 

Stan Wier dropped 37 points on the Warriors in East Aurora's 71-44 win over Cheektowaga, Quinten Campbell scored 33 points to lead Kenmore West past Lew-Port, 62-49, and Jon Gemerek finished with 31 points to lift Depew past Maryvale, 66-59.

 

Cheektowaga trailed Springville, 45-31 after three quarters of play.  The Warriors then used a 31-9 fourth quarter to comeback and win, 62-54.

 

Akron saw four of its players score a team-high eight points and held Wilson to single-digits in all four quarters of a 53-25 stunner in the N-O.

 

Kyle Kobis led Bishop Timon/St. Jude with 24 points, as the Tigers earned a 62-42 victory against St. Francis.  During the win, Kobis sank a 3-pointer that lifted him past 1,ooo points for his career.

 

Olean is New York State's #1 ranked team in Class B.

 

I see a lot of the same faces at the big games each week, including one of the players.  If the Warriors aren't practicing or playing, Clayton Hess of Tonawanda can be found at a high school basketball game somewhere. 

 

Grand Island picked up its first league win of the season over Niagara Wheatfield on Friday, outscoring the Falcons 15-6 in the fourth quarter to comeback and win, 49-47.  It was the Vikings second straight victory.

 

Williamsville South topped Iroquois, 77-67, in a game with a high-scoring finish.  The Chiefs outscored the Billies, 31-30 in the fourth quarter.

  

Joe Lowery finished with 37 points in Niagara Catholic's loss to Walsh, Connor Keenan scored 37 points in a 76-72 loss to Iroquois, Barker sophomore Jake Haight put up 35 points & 21 rebounds on Newfane in a 74-64 loss, Sean Weisensal had 34 points for Maryvale in a loss to Depew, and Stan Wier of East Aurora scored 32 points in a losing effort at Amherst.

 

St. Joe's sophomore, Tyler Hill, a starter for the varsity football and JV basketball teams, was spotted cheering for the Panthers in the Blue Zone when Newfane beat Wilson on Thursday night.

 

Junior Zeddie Williams scored 18 points, grabbed 15 boards, and dished seven assists as Silver Creek avenged its only loss this season, beating Randolph, 57-54.

 

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Poll Ballots - Week Seven

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

 

Large Schools

1. St. Joe's (MMA) -  Hosted Timon last week, visit them this week.  The last two regular season meetings between these two have gone to OT and both times, the Marauders overcame a late six-point deficit to force, and win in, the extra session. 

2. Canisius (MMA) - Held Timon's sharp shooters in check and went two games up on the Tigers, trailing only St. Joe's by a game in the MMA. 

3. Jamestown (AA) -They've only been held under 60 points in two of their 14 wins - the only two Red Raider games I've seen.  In 10 of their 15 games, they've scored at least 70 points.  I still think they're at least third in the large schools, despite only seeing their two worst performances of the season.

4. Niagara Falls (AA) - The NFL makes it really difficult to gauge how the Wolverines are responding to losing at home to Kenmore West.  We'll have to wait a few weeks to really see what this team is made of, but if they aren't playing for the AA title in March, their season would be a colossal disappointment.

5. McKinley (A1) - Moved the Macks up two spots because I think they play harder than and would beat any team I have below them.

6. Kenmore West (AA) - Another slow start last week against Lew-Port (tied at halftime).  The Blue Devils need to start games the same way come out of the locker room for the second halves of games.

7. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - Drop to number seven on this ballot with recent MMA losses to St. Mary's, St. Joe's, and Canisius.  The number seven spot is pretty good for the Tigers, considering the last time they beat a ranked large school from WNY was in February 2010.

8. Riverside (A2) - They've been the only A2 ranked all season, and aside from that early season hiccup at East, have been the second best in the Yale Cup behind McKinley.

9. Hutch-Tech (A1) - The Engineers were very impressive against East on Friday.  I like this year's team even more than last year's, and think they have more chemistry this season.

10. Amherst (A2) - I voted for the the Tigers instead of Williamsville East for a few reasons.  They have won 11 of their last 12, and the two games before the aforementioned 12 were losses to St. Mary's and a three-point loss to OTC/MEC.  I think ECIC III is a better league than ECIC II this season, so the Tigers are facing more competition.  The Flame's best wins this season are by two against Clarence (lost five of last six) and Will South by one.  Amherst has a pair of double-digit wins against Depew and one against Cheektowaga.  The two have one common opponent in Nichols: Amherst beat them by 30, Will East by 12.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - The last time a NYSPHAA Class B team from WNY advanced to Glens Falls was in 2008, when the Huskies won a state championship.  Guess who's ranked number one in NYS again?

2. Tonawanda (B1) - The unbeaten Warriors topped East Aurora (who beat OTC/MEC), North Tonawanda by 16 (who beat Amherst and every team in the NFL not named Falls or Ken West), and West Seneca West (who just beat Clarence).  They absolutely deserve to be ranked number two.  Nevermind who you think might be better, the season's results at this point in the season warrant Tonawanda being number two!

3. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - If any team could make an argument for number two over Tonawanda, it would be these guys.  They manhandled St. Mary's in a 19-point win and their only losses are to Joe's, Canisius, Timon, and Olean. 

4. OTC/MEC (C1) - The Kats are crushing the competition in Yale Cup II, and recently rolled up 109 points against Buffalo Arts.

5. St. Mary's (MMA) - Winning at Timon had the Lancers feeling pretty good, maybe too good.  I don't think they realized just how good the Eagles would be, although they found out.  It's hard to believe that the four teams ahead of the Lancers on this ballot all have less small school losses than the Lancers do.

6. Dunkirk (B1) - Having seen them in person, I can say they are right there with the other non-Olean teams in Class B1.  They are extremely aggressive and quick, and produce a lot of points due to their pressure defense.

7. Wilson (B2) - The Lakemen's results this season warrant a spot ahead of the teams below, even with the loss at Newfane.

8. Silver Creek (C2) - A chance to avenge its lone loss of the season tonight when they visit Randolph.

9. Depew (B1) - Travel to face a Pioneer squad tonight that recently beat East Aurora. 

10. East (B1) - After seeing them on Friday at Hutch-Tech, the Panthers fall a few spots.  Their defense and decision making are working against their length and athleticism.

 

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Top games of the week ending 2/12/12

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

 

Monday, February 6th

City Honors @ OTC/MEC - 7 pm

 

Tuesday, February 7th

Cleveland Hill @ Tonawanda -  6:30 pm

Clarence @ Frontier - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ East Aurora - 7:30 pm

Iroquois @ Williamsville East - 7:30 pm

Hamburg @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Sherman @ Panama - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 8th

Riverside @ Hutch-Tech - 6 pm

 

Thursday, February 9th

MST Seneca @ I-Prep - 6 pm

Cheektowaga @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

St. Joe's @ Bishop Timon/St. Jude - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, February 10th

McKinley @ East - 6 pm

MST Seneca @ City Honors - 6pm

North Tonawanda @ Kenmore West - 7 pm

Williamsville North @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

Cassadaga Valley @ Portville - 7:30 pm

Westfield @ Maple Grove - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, February 11th

Canisius @ Bishop Kearney - 3 pm

 

Sunday, February 12th

St. Joe's @ Aquinas - 4 pm

 

Game of the Week - St. Joe's @ Bishop Timon/St. Jude on Thursday, February 9th

- One of the experiences I most look forward to each year are the trips to South Buffalo for the Timon home games against St. Joe's and Canisius.  From the unique auditorium-style gymnasium, to the herds of fans that turn out , to the wildly entertaining Timon student section - there are few environments that can top it.

The last two regular season meetings between the Marauders and the Tigers were decided in overtime.  St. Joe's has won four in a row over the Tigers and have come out on top in their last two visits at Timon.

St. Joe's hopes to maintain its place as the top ranked large school in WNY with a good showing.  A win on Thursday would likely ensure at least a tie for the Monsignor Martin championship.  The Tigers remain a formidable opponent despite their struggles the last two seasons against St. Joe's and Canisius (0-7).  

 

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Random Smatterings - Round 4

During the St. Joe's/Canisius rivalry game, renowned bloggers hoopster & Bullsfan snuck into a pair of seats on press row, pretending to be photographers for Max Preps.  The pair were soon ejected from their seats when they were unable to produce any cameras or neccessary credentials.

 

Roy-Hart scored just 27 points against Wilson in a 25-point loss.  In the same week, the Rams scored 75 points against Medina in a 38-point win.

 

Tommy Campion of Jamestown  scored 28 points, grabbed eight boards, had five steals, and four assists in a 74-43 win over Lancaster.

 

Hutch-Tech outscored South Park, 22-0, in the second quarter of its 83-24 victory.

 

I'm not a fan of gyms that only have bleachers on one side.

 

Darnell Carson scored 32 of CSAT's 59 points in a victory over Akron.

 

Stephen Hughes scored 33 of Clarence's 59 points in a loss to Jamestown.

 

A win against East Aurora Friday night would give Amherst a two-game lead in the ECIC III race.

 

As the Marauders' lead against Canisius reached double-digits, the Rowdies' chants of recent sports dominance made it all the way to "just like bowling".

 

Niagara Catholic held Cardinal O'Hara to just 17 points in a recent win.  The Hawks are just the latest school to fall victim to that trademark Patriot defense.

 

Martin Bailey scored 19 of his 26 points during the second half, to lead Kenmore West to its first ever victory over the Wolverines.

 

Aaron Frasier had a triple-double (13 points, 10 assists, 10 rebounds) to lead MST Seneca past Holland, 51-47. 

 

In Olean's gymnasium, there's a large mural of a pack of Huskies busting through a wooden wall, painted on a cement wall.

 

Bishop Timon/St. Jude trailed by one point at halftime of its 78-44 victory over Niagara Catholic.

 

Olean held Gowanda to just five points in the first half of its 83-18 win.

 

Brady Morrison scored 13 points during Randolph's 63-58 overtime win against Cassadaga Valley to become just the fourth Cardinal to eclipse the 1,000 career point total.  The school's all-time leader is his older brother, Blake, who finished with 1,440 career points.  The next Cardinal to reach 1,000 may be his younger brother Bryce, a freshman starter at Randolph.

 

McKinley recorded 37 team steals in its 63-52 win against visiting Riverside.

 

Sherman handed Clymer its first league loss of the season last night, with a 50-47 victory over the Pirates.

 

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Poll Ballots - Week Six

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

 

Large Schools

1. St. Joe's (MMA) - The Canisius/Falls debate was fun while it lasted, but there is no argument for any team other than the Marauders at number one right now .

2. Canisius (MMA) - Not an enjoyable weekend for the Crusaders, who followed up a rivalry loss with a loss at Rochester East on Saturday.   Hosting Timon on Thursday is a must-win for both the league race and team morale.

3. Jamestown (AA) -  I considered the Red Raiders for number two because of the relative ease they've had in their victories this year. 

4. Niagara Falls (AA) - Now there's only five schools in the NFL that have yet to beat the new Falls.  They were without starter Ramir Burton and his backup, Stefon Caffee, in loss to Ken West.   It's still a game the Wolverines are capable of winning, and should have won.

5. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - Very impressive win against Bishop Kearney, even if they didn't have 6-10 Chinonso Obokoh.  Still only number five because of home loss to St. Mary's just days earlier, and still behind NFHS, who beat them head-to-head.

6. Kenmore West (AA) - The sentiment this year has been that there is a clear top six in WNY.  When your resume reads only losses to Canisius & Falls and key win against Falls, it's time they joined the party...make it a top seven.

7. McKinley (A1) - The quality of the Ken West win trumps what the Macks have to offer and bumps them down a spot for now. Key Yale Cup matchup tonight has them hosting.....

8. Riverside (A2) - the Frontiers, who need to win tonight to avoid falling two games behind the Macks in the battle for the Cup. 

9.  Williamsville East (A1) - The Flames will attempt to run the table in ECIC II and grab the top sectional seed over the next three weeks.

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - Picked up a nonleague win against Orchard Park on Friday and host East in a rematch of a one-point game the Engineers won earlier this year, this Friday.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - Looking forward to seeing the Huskies in action again tonight for the biggest game Olean has hosted in a long time.

2. St. Mary's (MMA) - Looking forward to seeing the Lancers tonight as well (at Walsh  at 6:30, which is right around the corner from Olean).   They were so impressive in their win at Timon, that I honestly think they have a legitimate chance of being the first small school to win the Manhattan Cup since Nichols did in 2007.

3. Tonawanda (B1) - They continue to trail OTC/MEC in the poll and I'm not sure why.  The Warriors are unbeaten, including a win over East Aurora, who beat OTC/MEC.

4. OTC/MEC (C1) - Continue to show separation between them and the rest of Yale Cup II with a solid win against MST Seneca on Friday.

5. Depew (B1) - The Wildcats need a big second half in ECIC III for any shot at the title, beginning this Friday when they host Amherst, who already handed them one loss.

6. East (B1) - The last time the Panthers were sitting this far under the radar, WNY basketball blogs were non-existent.

7. Wilson (B2) - The Lakemen must be feeling a little uneasy about the week ahead - at Medina, who took Wilson to OT in the first meeting, and at Newfane, who has rolled through the N-O since losing at Wilson and has a score to settle.

8. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - If the Eagles are primed for an upset, this is the week to do it with St. Mary's coming to their little gym.

9. Silver Creek (C2) - The Black Knights suffered long enough for their loss to Randolph (their only loss of the season) and return to this ballot after picking up a big win against Portville.   

10. Dunkirk (B1) - With Silver Creek returning to my top ten, it only left one spot open.  I couldn't see having one but not the other between MST Seneca and I-Prep, and since Seneca just lost again on Friday, I dropped both.  That made room for these Marauders, who are very highly touted by those who have watched them.  Only one loss (to Olean by three) and a lot of blowout wins.  I will finally see them tonight, so expect some movement in one direction or another next week, based on what I see tonight.

 

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Top games of the week ending 2/5/12

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

 

Monday, January 30th

Bishop Timon/St. Jude @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

 

Tuesday, January 31st

Riverside @ McKinley - 6 pm

City Honors @ I-Prep - 6 pm

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

Wilson @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Lockport @ North Tonawanda - 7 pm

Dunkirk @ Olean - 7:30 pm

Amherst @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Cassadaga Valley - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 2nd

East @ Riverside - 6 pm

Hutch-Tech @ McKinley - 6 pm

I-Prep @ Emerson - 6 pm

Bishop Timon/St. Jude @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

Wilson @ Newfane - 6:30 pm

 

Friday, February 3rd

East @ Hutch-Tech - 6 pm

City Honors @ Emerson - 6 pm

North Tonawanda @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

I-Prep @ OTC/MEC - 7 pm

Jamestown @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

East Aurora @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Dunkirk @ Olean on Tuesday, January 31st

- For nine consecutive years, the Olean Huskies were the league champions in CCAA I.  That streak was ended last season, when Dunkirk swept its two-game series with the Huskies and ran the table during league play.

It didn't take Olean long to return to not only the top of its league, but to the highly regarded powerhouse program you associate with Husky basketball.  They've sat at the top of the small school poll all season, with a win at St. Mary's and rout of East reaffirming their ranking.

  Aside from their loss to Section V's Batavia, the Huskies have plowed through the competition with one exception - the first meeting with the Marauders.  Olean's visit at Dunkirk was its closest game of the season, and although they led by nine after three quarters, they only got out of there with a three-point win.

Dunkirk seems to have picked up right where they left off last year, when they won 19 straight games.  With the exception of their loss to Olean, the Marauders are once again a clear cut above the teams they have faced.  They have an overall record of 12-1, and their closest game was a  15-point win. 

This game will feature two teams starving for some competition.  Neither team has faced a real test in a month, and likely won't again before the start of sectionals.  This is the one that both schools have been waiting for.  Dunkirk wants to at least keep a share of the league title, while Olean has a nine-year streak to begin chasing...and they don't want any company.  Not to mention, the top seed in Class B1 is also at stake.

Two words - road trip!

 

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The Next Level: Tracking WNY's Former Prep Stars

Something that's been suggested to me many times is a post on the college careers of WNY's former high school players.  So I decided to provide a list of any former player currently on a college roster.  Those who wish to, can now use the comments section to provide updates on the players and discuss their progress at the next level. 

 

If you know of someone who played high school basketball in WNY and is now currently on a college roster, but isn't listed below, send me an email at: [email protected]  Please include the high school attended the player attended and the year he graduated.

 

 

NCAA Division I

North Dakota

Jamal Webb - East, 2008

 

Michigan

Blake McLimas - Hamburg, 2008

 

University @ Buffalo

Will Regan - Nichols, 2010

Dave Barnett - East Aurora, 2006

 

St. Bonaventure

Jake Houseknecht - Olean, 2008

Zach Moore - Olean, 2007

 

University of Toledo

James Ewing - Cardinal O'Hara, 2008

 

Youngstown State

Fletcher Larson - Jamestown, 2010

 

South Carolina State

Keron Briggs - Sweet Home, 2010

 

University of Idaho

 Mansa Habeeb - McKinley, 2009

 

Niagara University

Paul Kowalski - St. Joe's, 2008

 

Alabama A & M

Jerome Hunter - Buffalo Arts

Reginald Martin - Cardinal O'Hara

 

Canisius

Tyler Funk - Clarence, 2011

 

 

NCAA Division II

LeMoyne

Chris Secky - Maple Grove, 2010

 

West Virginia Tech

Rashon Tabb - Niagara Falls, 2008

 

Edinboro University

Sam Moore - Olean, 2008

Alex Moore - Olean, 2010

 

Urbana University

Dyrell Dolson - Niagara Catholic, 2008

 

 

NCAA Division III

Medaille

Phil Maiarana - St. Joe's, 2008

Steve Bryant - Timon, 2008

Dave Shuey - Newfane, 2008

Anthony Battaglia - Depew, 2009

Tyler Stevens - Depew, 2009

Joe Palumbo - Olean, 2010

Alec Short - Akron, 2010

Sean Bellomo - Lake Shore, 2010

Nate O'Donnell - Kenmore West, 2010

Phil Stasiak - Williamsville South - 2011

 

SUNY Fredonia

Damien Goodwin - East, 2008

Julius Bryant - Hutch-Tech

Nick DeWaters - Roy-Hart, 2008

Devin Case - Roy-Hart, 2008

Markus Williams - Niagara Wheatfield

Amir Billups - Starpoint, 2008

 

Alfred University

Terrell Rankin - Sweet Home, 2007

Josh Parker - Sweet Home, 2006

 

Nazereth

Dominique Kendrick - Jamestown, 2007

Jake Fladd - Frontier, 2008

 

SUNY Geneseo

Gordon Lyons - Canisius, 2011

Abe Miller - City Honors, 2008

 

Utica College

Aaron Nevins - Cansisus, 2011

 

Hobart

Connor Rehbaum - St. Joe's, 2011

 

Pitt-Bradford

Tyler North - Westfield, 2010

Jeff Engels - West Valley, 2010

Derrek LeBlanc - Salamanca, 2009

 

Buffalo State

Justin Mitchell - Timon, 2008

Justin Stokes - OTC/MEC, 2010

Maurice Miles - Hutch-Tech, 2011

Seth Runge - Springville

 

D'Youville

Greg Osika - Depew, 2008

Erik Prophet - City Honors, 2008

Jake Maryniewski - Depew, 2010

Ricky Coburn - Depew, 201o

Raysean Johnson - Grover Cleveland

Jeff Curry - Lafayette

Anthony Wiechec - St. Francis

Kenny Farley - Buffalo Arts

Josh Domros - Hutch-Tech

Kevin Ford - Amherst

 

 Midland CC (TX)

Kelvin Agee - Niagara Falls, 2009

 

Hilbert College

Dan McFarland - St. Mary's, 2009

Mike Jones - West Seneca West, 2011

Cody Troutman - Pine Valley, 2008

Mike Maritato - Kenmore West, 2008

Barry Mason - Cassadaga Valley, 2010

Chris Hoak - St. Francis, 2008

 

RIT

Ron Canestro - Nichols, 2010

Brendan Reinert - Starpoint

 

Vassar College

Jonathan Safir - Williamsville North, 2011

 

St. John Fisher

Thad Wier - East Aurora, 2009

Ryan Andrew - Cattaraugus Little Valley, 2010

Peter Notaro - St. Mary's, 2011

Grant Wrap - Frontier, 2009

Jason Norsen - Frontier, 2009

 

NAIA Division 1

Union University

AJ Roberts - Niagara Catholic, 2008

 

 

NAIA Division 2

Daemen College

Devon Dawson - St. Joe's, 2006

Jim Regan - Nichols, 2008

Chandler Williams - McKinley, 2008

Troy Nowak - Orchard Park, 2010

Aaron Davis - North Tonawanda, 2010

Mark Coppola - Williamsville South, 2010

 

Houghton

Michael Bova - Westfield, 2011

Chris Enlow - Panama, 2011

 

 

NJCAA

Monroe College (Bronx)

Davon Marshall - Niagara Falls, 2010

 

NCCC

Tyler Trusdell - Wilson, 2011

Connor Vandegriff - Nichols, 2010

Lorenzo Joseph - Niagara Catholic, 2010

Dave Pascucci - Niagara Falls, 2011

Vince Kazmierczak - St. Mary's, 2010

Marc Morreale - Lew-Port, 2011

Jake Hughes - Niagara Wheatfield, 2011

Jerome Matthews - Niagara Catholic

 

ECC

Darale Young - OTC/MEC, 2010

Shannon Haynes - Lockport, 2010

 

JCC - Jamestown Campus

Kenny Stokes - Niagara Falls, 2010

Corey Raymond - Frewsburg, 2011

 

JCC - Cattaraugus Campus

Ryan Carney - Olean, 2010

 

Monroe CC

Marcus Feagin - Niagara Falls, 2011

Isaiah Jefferson - Riverside, 2010

   

Alfred State

Darin Butts - Jamestown, 2011

Antonio Avery - McKinley, 2011

Kadeem Hillman - I-Prep @ Grover, 2011

 

 

  

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Poll Ballots - Week Five

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

 

Large Schools

1. Canisius (MAA) - Watching the Crusaders fourth quarter scoring surge against Cathedral Prep erased any doubt I had left as to which team deserved to be ranked number one.  I wrote last week that Canisius passed the ball better than any team in WNY, and that's exactly how they defeated the Ramblers.  Whether in transition or a half court set, the Crusaders unselfishly find the open shooter and bury their shots.  Even when Matt MacDonald was scorching the basket in the fourth quarter, he passed up a good look to swing it to Matt Hart, who had an even better look, and drilled it. 

2. Niagara Falls (AA) - I asked Cathedral Prep's AD and Burger King Classic director, Bill Flannigan, which team he thought was better during the Canisius game.  He said the two were so close, we were lucky to have that topic up for debate.  I agree, and think the Canisius/Falls...Falls/Canisius topic has been the best topic of debate this season.  For now, NFHS deserves to fall a spot.

3. St. Joe's (MMA) - The Marauders are the proud new owners of the most significant win by a WNY team this season.  Trust me, the Aquinas team they beat is a really good one - just ask Bishop Kearney or Canisius.  The Lil Irish have four players on their team who will play Division 1 athletics next year.  There's room at the top of this ballot if the Marauders win on Friday night. 

4. Jamestown (AA) - Drop one spot as St. Joe's moves up.  If the Red Raiders had beaten Aquinas, they'd have gotten a bump too.

5. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - The stretch run begins this week for the Tigers with St. Mary's visiting tonight and Bishop Kearney coming in on Friday.

6. McKinley (A1) - Handed East its biggest league loss in the last two seasons.

7. Kenmore West (AA) - Unbeaten through a round of the non-Falls portion of the NFL schedule.  Visit the Wolverines on Friday with a share of first place at stake.

8. Riverside (A2) - With both meetings against McKinley still ahead, the Frontiers top win remains against Hutch-Tech. 

9. Williamsville East (A1) - The Flames are amidst a 10-game win streak since losing to St. Joe's in early December.

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - May need to run the table in the second half of its league schedule for a shot at the Yale Cup.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - Let's see, I mentioned they should go independent next year and that they will likely top the polls for the next three years.  I'm running out of things to say in this space, so I'll just quote their fans - Huskies, Huskies, Go-Go-Go!

2. St. Mary's (MMA) - Lost to St. Joe's by six and to Canisius by three.  The Lancers get their last chance to knock off one of the "Big 3" tonight when they travel to Timon. 

3.  Tonawanda (B1) - The only team in WNY that has yet to taste defeat. 

4. OTC/MEC (C1) - If the Kats can take care of business Friday against MST Seneca, they'll have completed the first round of league play unscathed.

5. Depew (B1) - After second straight loss this week, the Wildcats have lost the momentum of their tournament championship win against the Lancers.

6. East (B1) - Were really missing speedy point guard Johnathon Lewis in their loss at McKinley.  I'm keeping them here, ahead of the Lakemen, for beating Riverside - who beat Wilson by 19.

7. Wilson (B2) - There are some very good players in the N-O league, but I think the Lakemen benefit from having the league's best player in point guard Tyler Martin.

8. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - Led at halftime and trailed by just a point entering the fourth quarter at St. Joe's last week.

9. MST Seneca (C2) - The loss to City Honors dropped them two spots 0n this ballot.  The Indians will be on the move again on next week's ballot - which direction depends on how they do against OTC/MEC on Friday.

10. I-Prep (C2) - Slide down a spot to stay behind MST Seneca and to allow Walsh to move up. 

 

-centercourt

Top games of the week ending 1/29/12

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

 

Monday, January 23rd

Nichols @ Walsh - 6:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 24th

St. Mary's @ Bishop Timon/St. Jude - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 25th

MST Seneca @ Holland - 6:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 26th

North Tonawanda @ Kenmore East - 7 pm

 

Friday, January 27th

Orchard Park @ Hutch-Tech - 5:45 pm

Kenmore West @ Niagara Falls - 6:30 pm

Canisius @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Bishop Kearney @ Bishop Timon/St. Jude - 7 pm

MST Seneca @ OTC/MEC - 7 pm

Newfane @ Albion - 7 pm

Portville @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

Jamestown @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 28th

Canisius @ Rochester East - 8:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Canisius @ St. Joe's on Friday, January 27th

- On a Friday night loaded with games I'd like to see, there's an easy choice for the one to be at.  WNY's biggest rivalry returns to the hardwood for round one, on the heels of a big Saturday for both teams.

The last time these two faced each other was the 2011 Manhattan Cup championship game, a thriller won by Canisius, 57-53.  The regular season saw the teams split their two meetings, with the road team victorious in both.

Canisius has owned the series recently, winning nine of the last 11 against the Marauders and four in a row at Kenmore Avenue.  The Crusaders have also played for the last three Manhattan Cups, winning in 2009 and 2011, while St. Joe's last won it in 2008.

If you want to be part of the experience on Friday, you'll need to arrive early - this game is a guaranteed sell out. The tip is scheduled for 7 pm, part of a freshmen & JV triple-header.

 

-centercourt

 

Random Smatterings - Round 3

 The Aquinas Lil Irish have an actual irish adult little person dressed as a leprechaun, and during timeouts, the team's mascot would come on the court to invoke the crowd.  I think more schools should use real mascots.  Hopefully schools like Maple Grove, Timon, or JFK read this and take action.

 

Grand Island freshman Quinn Carey scored a game-high 25 points in a 62-57 loss to North Tonawanda.

 

Depew trailed Springville 7-0, before a 26-0 run propelled the Wildcats to a 61-34 win.

 

Blake Fisher of Iroquois tied the school record for 3-pointers in a game with six, as the Chiefs defeated Lake Shore, 69-60.

 

At the MLK Classic against City Honors, a Lackawanna guard brought the ball a few feet over half court and as his defender sagged off of him, Steelers' coach Tim Foley called out to his guard "don't pick up your dribble".  The dribble was picked up, almost on cue, and the player was trapped.  Foley had a seat next to him waiting for the player. 

 

Lamont Little had 22 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists to lead Riverside past Bennett, 60-48.

 

During the Section V thriller between Aquinas and Bishop Kearney, AQ guard Jahmahl Pardner and BK guard Antwoine Anderson were near the sideline, awaiting an inbounds pass.  Some AQ fans yelled to Pardner, "make him go right, he can't go right, he has no right".  Anderson turned to the fans, and with a wink and a smile, said "I know".

 

Aaron Frasier scored 29 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished eight assists in MST Seneca's 76-75 win over I-Prep.

 

Jesse Lalka became Tonawanda's all-time leading scorer with a 21-point effort in the Warriors 46-41 win at Lackawanna.

 

At the MLK Classic, I watched a player do the slap the ground thing, to indicate he was really going to D-up.  Then the guy he was guarding blew past him, scored, and drew a foul.  What's up with the ground slap anyway?

 

East Aurora senior Stan Wier scored 28 points and ripped 20 boards to will his Blue Devils past OTC/MEC in overtime, 68-61.

 

Riverside big man Mike Leonard had 16 rebounds and 11 blocks in the Frontiers' 68-63 win against Hutch-Tech.

 

OTC/MEC coach Randall Rich needs a normal sized dry erase board.  He brought a massive board that needed a tripod to prop it up to the MLK Classic.  It had to be placed sideways between chairs during the game and served as a partition between two players.

 

Justin Bangert had 19 points and 15 rebounds, both career-highs, to lead Williamsville North past Clarence, 68-59.

 

If Olean doesn't lose again before March, what would St. Mary's have to do to move past them in the small school poll?  If they had beaten Canisius?  If they win at Timon?

 

Milton's Shaquille Johnson dunked seven times against Niagara Falls, in going 9-11 from the floor.  Three of those dunks are the top three dunks I've ever seen in a high school game.  They included a take-off from the free throw line, a windmill, and a soaring two-hander where his face was level with the rim before throwing it down.

 

Stan Wier was awarded "McShea is God 2012 POY" after being named 2nd Team All-WNY in 2010.  Congratulations to Stan.  Only one spot remains on his first team next  to Wier, Aaron White, Jonathan Lewis, and Sterling Taplin. 

 

 

-centercourt

 

 

 

Poll Ballots - Week Four

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

 

Large Schools

1. Niagara Falls (AA) - A busy week for the Wolverines saw them play four games in five nights.  I can't see another team from WNY competing with Milton as well as NFHS did, and that was without the services of starter Tikere Ralands, who missed this week with an ankle injury.  It's difficult to gauge the loss to Cathedral Prep, who used the stall ball tactic thanks to no shot clock in PA.  I'm happy to report that there is a fully functional three-point line in gyms throughout PA.

2. Canisius (MMA) - The Crusaders found themselves in a couple battles with local teams this week.  I haven't seen a team locally that passes the ball as well as Canisius. They welcome a team to Deleware Ave. on Saturday in Cathedral Prep, that also moves the ball very well.

3. Jamestown (AA) - Frontier has been one of the better teams in ECIC I, and the Red Raiders beat them by 46 points.

4. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - The news that Jim Palano plans to retire after this season should give the Tigers extra incentive for the rest of this year.   Timon's remaining schedule is back-loaded, meaning we'll have to wait a couple more weeks for things to really heat up in South Buffalo.

5. St. Joe's (MMA) - Hopefully they got all that good will out of their systems after the China game, because Aquinas visits on Saturday and they'll need their grittiest performance of the season to beat the Lil Irish.

6. McKinley (A1) - The Macks  are off and rolling in the Yale Cup with a 4-0 mark and East coming to town on Wednesday.  They backed up their ranking with a solid showing against the Crusaders.

7. Kenmore West (AA) - Took care of NT last week, the team in the NFL that is contending for second place with them.

8. Williamsville East (A1) - The Flames look poised to take complete control of ECIC II tonight when they visit the Billies.

9. Riverside (A2) - Move ahead of the Engineers after beating them at home last week.  The loss at East keeps them from moving any higher at this point.

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - A better body of work than East Aurora for the final spot.  Lost to St. Mary's by less and beat Cheektowaga, who beat the Blue Devils.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - Does anyone out there think the Huskies will move from this spot before December 2014?

2. St. Mary's (MMA) - The Lancers are riding a three-game losing streak and moved back to number two on this ballot.  The strong finish against Canisius was impressive, and looking back, so is their body of work - A 15-point win over Hutch-Tech and 20+ point wins over Frontier, Wilson, East Aurora, Alden, Burgard, and City Honors.

3. Tonawanda (B1) - Still unbeaten and after they face Holland, will be halfway through the ECIC IV schedule.  They aren't a deep team and they lack size across the board, but they do have one of the best players in WNY in Jesse Lalka.

4. Depew (B1) - The loss at East Aurora drops the Wildcats behind Tonawanda, who beat them.

5. OTC/MEC (C1) - The Kats were unable to close out East Aurora at the MLK Classic and then fell victim to a "put the team on my shoulders" finish from Stan Wier.

6. East (B1) - Who are these guys? The team that beat Riverside and lost by one to Hutch-Tech, or the team that went to OT against Burgard?  The answer is both, something they'll have to work out before sectionals.

7. MST Seneca (C2) - Survived a thriller last week against I-Prep to stay unbeaten, thanks to 29 points from Aaron Frasier and a buzzer-beater by Javaughn McNab.

8. Wilson (B2) - The Lakemen make their debut on this ballot after 20-point wins over Newfane and Akron last week.  Their only losses are to Riverside and St. Mary's. 

9. I-Prep (C2) - Saw them twice in three days - a last second loss to MST Seneca and a win over Cheektowaga (who beat East Aurora).  The thought I had after seeing them...they're a top ten small school.

10. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - Trailed St. Joe's by just one point after three quarters on Sunday before falling, 69-60.

 

 

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Poll Ballots - Week Three

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

 

Large Schools

1. Niagara Falls (AA) - After seeing how good Bishop Kearney played without Chinonso Obokoh against Joe's, I place even more value on how well Falls played that BK team at full strength.  On Friday they get the herculean task of facing Milton (GA) in the Burger King Classic.  Check out these  highlights of Auburn bound Shaquille Johnson, just one of four Division 1 starters for Milton.

2. Canisius (MMA) - The Crusaders are ready for a test after throttling O'Hara and St. Francis by a combined 87 points.  We'll see if St. Mary's or McKinley is able to give them one this week.

3. Jamestown (AA) - One of the better stories of this season is the Red Raiders success despite losing two first-teamers from last season. 

4. Bishop Timon-St. Jude (MMA) - One of the best surprises this season has been the inside play the Tigers have gotten from DeMilo Gibbs.  He led Timon to a win as he scored 25 points against Walsh, who put its focus on limiting Kobis and Williams (a combined 16 points).

5. St. Joe's (MMA) - The Marauders own 20-point wins against Williamsville East and Buffalo East.  This week they go global, welcoming China's Shanghai Nanyang high school to Kenmore Avenue on Tuesday.

6. McKinley (A1) - The Macks passed the first of several tests in the Yale Cup with a win at Hutch-Tech.  They'll  have their hands full on Saturday.

7. Kenmore West (AA) - Only losses to the top two schools in WNY.  No other team has gotten to within 12 points of the Blue Devils.

8. Williamsville East (A1) - Hamburg totally stole the Flames' thunder by ending Williamsville South's ECIC II win streak.  Will East will now have to focus on ending the Billies league championship streak instead.

9. Clarence (AA) - After a big win over Frontier, the Red Devils are tucked in right behind Will East with a one-point head-to-head loss. 

10. Hutch Tech (A1) - Followed up a tough loss to McKinley by going into East and winning a tightly contested battle.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - Is it outrageous to suggest that the Huskies should consider petitioning to play an independent schedule in the two seasons following this one?

2. Depew (B1) - After stunning the Lancers with a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, the Wildcats dominated league rival Maryvale on the road. 

3. St. Mary's (MMA) - If there's a universal formula to apply when a team only losses by one on the road that would keep the Lancers in the second spot, I'm unaware of it.  For now, the Depew loss costs them one spot.

4. OTC/MEC (C1) - The Kats will have a chance to show everyone what they are made of when they face Stan Wier and the Blue Devils at the MLK Classic on Saturday.

5. East (B1) - How many small schools could beat Riverside?  Probably the four above the Panthers.  Like I said during the December beat downs, East will be just fine in the race for the Yale Cup.

6. Tonawanda (B1) - The first of three unbeatens in WNY.  I got my first look at the Warriors on Friday and came away quite impressed.  The best player in WNY that isn't being mentioned is Jesse Lalka.  More to come on him in the comments section.

7. Silver Creek (C2) - The second of WNY's unbeatens.  The unselfish style of the Black Knights is fun to watch.

8. MST Seneca (C2) - And the third.  Aaron Frasier is on a mission this year, and it continues Thursday when the Indians host I-Prep.

9. Newfane (B1) - They could have debuted much higher on this ballot if not for the loss to Albion.  They will fall off this ballot if they fail to end their five-year losing streak at Wilson.

10. Archbishop Walsh (MMA) - Wins over Portville, CSAT, Lackawanna, and Nichols was enough of a resume for me to give them the final spot.  Congratulations to Whelpley on his 2,000 career points.  The last guy to do that was Will Regan.

 

** With so many quality small schools vying for a place in the top ten, Panama and Dunkirk are left on the outside looking in.  For Panama, I had to consider whether the ten teams that got in would also have registered a pair of wins against Cassadaga Valley.  I believe they would have.

With Dunkirk, I wasn't ready to celebrate a loss.  Heck, in theory, a three-point loss to Olean makes them number two right?  Not really, or then we'd have to find a spot for Portville who only fell to the Huskies by nine (St. Mary's lost to Olean by eight).  East lost by 29, and I doubt anyone ranked Dunkirk ahead of them. 

A three-point loss to Olean would mean a lot more if there were any good wins to coincide with it.  Here's the list of schools Dunkirk has beat: Falconer, Eden, Brocton, Gowanda, Lake Shore, Frewsburg, and Southwestern.  Those seven schools have a combined 12 wins. 

 

-centercourt

Top games of the week ending 1/15/12

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

 

Monday, January 9th

Maple Grove @ Westfield - 7:30 pm

Panama @ Sherman - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, January 10th

Newfane @ Wilson - 6:30 pm

Amherst @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Shanghai Nanyang @ St. Joe's - 7:30 pm

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

Frontier @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 12th

I-Prep @ MST Seneca - 6 pm

Hutch-Tech @ Riverside - 6 pm

Depew @ East Aurora - 6:30 pm

Tonawanda @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Dunkirk @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

Portville @ Cassadaga Valley - 7:30 pm

 

Friday January 13th

CSAT @ Medina - 6:30 pm

Akron @ Wilson - 6:30 pm

Newfane @ Barker - 6:30 pm

Burger King Classic @ Gannon University

Niagara Falls vs. Milton (GA) - 7 pm

 

Saturday, January 14th

MLK Classic @ City Honors

St. Francis vs. Tapestry Charter - 10 am

Lackawanna @ City Honors - 11:30 am

Cheektowaga vs. I-Prep - 1 pm

East Aurora vs. OTC/MEC - 3 pm

Canisius vs. McKinley - 4:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Newfane @ Wilson on Tuesday, January 10th

- The Niagara-Orleans league is WNY's most competitive this season from top to bottom.  Any team in this league has the ability to beat another this year, and based on the nonleague results in the month of December, those are some quality teams. 

Now take a competitive league game and sprinkle a heated rivalry between last season's co-champs into the mix, and you've got your game of the week.  This one will once again live up to its billing with an electric atomosphere, no open seats, event staff all over the place, and a game on the court where every single possesion is treated by both the players and fans like the most important possesion of the season. 

For all the good teams Newfane has had in recent years, the Panthers haven't won a game at Wilson since 2006.  Since the 2005-2006 season, Wilson leads this series, 8-4 and has won two league titles, while Newfane has won four.  The Lakemen have taken 8 of the last 10, and five of the last six. 

Though this will be just the third of 14 league games for each team, the results of this one are certain to have a major impact on who takes the 2011-2012 N-O title.

 

-centercourt

Ranking the small schools is no easy task

Voting in a high school basketball poll is supposed to get easier as the season goes on and results pour in.  The large school poll looks like it will be fairly straight forward, barring any major upsets before week's end.  The placement of teams 3, 4, & 5 and then 7, 8, 9, & 10 will vary among pollsters, but I think the top ten should be pretty clear cut by this weekend.

 

But the small school poll is an entirely different story.  After slotting Olean at the top, the grand debate can begin. 

 

Knowing that I have a ballot due this Sunday after a couple of weeks off, I tried to get an early jump on things by examining the results since the last Buffalo News polls were published on December 20, 2011.  Based on everything that has happened since the last polls, there are at least a couple teams who have made a strong case for poll consideration, but will get the snub.  Beyond some teams being left off entirely, I'd be willing to bet that the order of 2-10 is different on all ten ballots.

 

Last season, no ranked large school lost to a small school the entire season.  It has already occured three times this year - St. Mary's beat Hutch-Tech, Newfane beat Williamsville South, and East beat Riverside.

 

I have an idea of which direction I'm going as of today, until the games on Friday screw everything up again.  But I'm interested in what everyone else thinks about how the latest results should impact things.

 

Here's a look at how the small schools were ranked in the Buffalo News poll from December 20th and some things to consider since the last ballots were tallied on December 18th:

1. Olean

 2. St. Mary's lost at Depew and at St. Joe's - they beat Hutch-Tech, Alden, & City Honors

3. OTC/MEC  lost to St. Joe's, beat Buffalo Arts

4. Depew lost at Amherst, then beat Lancaster, St. Mary's, & Maryvale

5. MST Seneca beat Olmsted

6. Tonawanda improved to 8-0 with wins against Roy-Hart, East Aurora, and West Seneca West

7. East lost at St. Joe's and beat Riverside

8. Archbishop Walsh lost to Olean, beat CSAT, Pioneer, and Nichols

9. Panama lost a pair to teams from PA in a tourney, beat Brocton and Ripley

10. Silver Creek beat Salamanca and Cassadaga Valley

 

One thing is for sure, if St. Joe's were a small school, they'd be at least second with recent wins over St. Mary's, OTC/MEC,  and East.

 

Teams that weren't ranked include:

Newfane - won the Williamsville Holiday Tournament with wins at Williamsville South and against St. Francis, then lost to Albion.

Dunkirk - lost by three against Olean, beat Brocton and Frewsburg.

I-Prep - beat Tapestry and Emerson.

Maple Grove  - beat Pine Valley.

 

Digest all those results and tell me which teams should be ranked and in what order. 

Should St. Mary's fall for losing to Depew?  Does Tonawanda get a bump for being unbeaten and winning the West Seneca Tournament? How much stock do you put into East beating Riverside? Were the two big wins enough for Newfane, or was the loss against Albion a deal breaker (and what do we even know about Albion? 3-1 vs. Section V)? Is a close loss as good as a lack of quality wins for Dunkirk?  There are 14 teams listed above.  Which four should get the snub and why?

 

 

-centercourt

Top games of the week ending 1/8/12

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

 

Tuesday, January 3rd

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

 

Wednesday, January 4th

Riverside @ East - 6 pm

McKinley @ Hutch-Tech - 6 pm

Depew @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 6th

Hutch-Tech @ East - 6 pm

OTC/MEC @ I-Prep - 6 pm

Tonawanda @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

Maryvale @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

Frontier @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, January 7th

St. Joe's @ Bishop Kearney - 1:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - St. Mary's @ St. Joe's on Tuesday, January 3rd

- The Lancers began the season on fire and quickly earned the respect of the WNY basketball community as not only an elite small school, but also a team that could contend in the Monsignor Martin this year.  Even after losing at home to Olean, St. Mary's remained the second ranked small school, as there seemed to be a separation between the top two and the rest.  Then the Lancers fell over the break to Depew in the Wilcats Tournament.

St. Joe's was thought to be a bit down this season, but so far, they have been anything but down.  The Marauders traveled to Syracuse over the break and scored a pair of wins against two quality opponents in Bishop Grimes and Syracuse CBA.  Not only has Reggie Agbeko been a cut above the talent pool in WNY this year, but his teammates have also been more than complimentary to his talents .

Tonight, league play begins in WNY's catholic league.  We'll find out if St. Mary's can rebound from its third loss and be a contender in the MMA or if the Marauders are a notch above them.

 

-centercourt

 

 

Poll Ballots - Week Two

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

 

Large Schools

1. Niagara Falls (AA) - Opened league play by holding Grand Island to just 24 points.  A good gauge of where these guys are at will come tonight at Kenmore West.

2. Canisius (MMA) - The Crusaders already own 77-53 win against Kenmore West and could move up on this ballot after the New Year, depending on how tonight goes.

3. Jamestown (AA) - The Class AA state finalists are now 3-0 and most recently defeated Williamsville South after taking a 24-point lead into the fourth quarter. 

4. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - Slip behind the Red Raiders after struggling to finish off the Billies.

5. St. Joe's (MMA) - The gaudy double-double stat lines are piling up for Reggie Agbeko and so are the wins for the Marauders, now 5-0 against opponents from WNY.

 6. McKinley (A1) - The Macks didn't play this week and their next game isn't until January 4th at Hutch-Tech.

7. Riverside (A2) - Moved them up to this spot after seeing...

8. Kenmore West (AA) - the Blue Devils loss to Canisius.  Don't get me wrong, I like these guys and I think their size inside with Campbell, along with their athleticism will present problems for most teams they face.  But I'd give Riverside a slight edge at this point.  They have a chance to turn all sorts of heads tonight when they host Falls.

9. Hutch-Tech (A1) - Hoping to beat Akron tonight and gain a matchup with St. Mary's for their efforts.

10. Williamsville South (A1) - The additions of Chaquille Nettles and Trent Ferguson, along with the players who have come up through the Billies basketball program have combined to make this team a contender for a third straight Class A1 title.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - The easiest choice on either ballot, hands down.

2. St. Mary's (MMA) - As much as I was impressed by Olean last week, I thought the Lancers showed a lot of character in their loss to the Huskies.  They have talent all over, but they are also tough - as evidenced by the way they refused to go away.  The "Big 3" large schools in the MMA have a big time challenge in front of them when they face the Lancers this year.

3. OTC/MEC (C1) - Talented team with early losses to a pair of top large schools.  Beat Amherst for their lone win.

4. Depew (B1) - Took care of business against Niagara Catholic.  Travel to Amherst tonight, before hosting Lancaster in their Holiday Tournament over the break with a potential matchup against St. Mary's on the line.

5. Tonawanda (B1) - The Warriors are now 5-0, including a 50-34 win over cross-town rival North Tonawanda.

6. East (B1) - Should be ready to challenge for the Yale Cup after taking some lumps early - losses to Timon, Olean, & Aquinas, and a game at St. Joe's on Thursday.

7. Silver Creek (C2) - Another squad off and rolling with a 5-0 start.  The Black Knights early results include wins over Salamanca, Portville, and Westfield.

8. Panama (D) - Last year, the Panthers split with Cassadaga Valley in two nonleague games.  This season, the Class D favorites opened its season by sweeping last season's overall Class B champs.

9. Maple Grove (C2) - Avenged a near poll-exiting loss to Randolph with a dominating win on Friday.  From what I saw in their win over the Cardinals, the Red Dragons looked like a very cohesive unit that still deserved poll consideration from this pollster.  But the loss to Randolph still costs them a spot.

10. I-Prep (C2) - I gave them the nod after considering the competitive nature of its two losses to quality large schools (St. Joe's & Lockport). 

 

** Walsh almost made this ballot, but beating Lackawanna by 12 looked much less impressive after I saw that Holland did the same thing by nine points.  MST Seneca was also considered, but I thought the quality of I-Prep's losses trumped the Indians' resume of wins.  Dunkirk's results with Olean couldn't be considered for this ballot, but they will for the next one - they trailed by nine after three quarters and lost 53-50.

 

-centercourt

Poll Ballots - Week One

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

 

Large Schools

1. Niagara Falls (AA) - After watching Falls and Canisius twice each, including seeing both lose in the same day, I was no closer to knowing who was better than in September.  I really think the two teams are in toss-up territory...if they played ten times, I think it's a 5-5 split.  Ultimately, I went back to last year, when Falls won by 19 at Canisius and also considered that the Wolverines were the team that beat Jamestown and Aquinas last year, before falling by three to state finalist Jamestown in the rematch.  Both Falls and Canisius graduated two key seniors, and in my mind, Canisius lost more from last season, while Falls gained more this season.

Time will tell - although they won't play each other this year, they will have some common opponents to look at...Timon, Ken West, and Bishop Kearney.  Other possiblilties include Cathedral Prep and Aquinas (Canisius plays each, while Falls is likely to wind up seeing both depending on its results in the Burger King Classic and sectionals).

2. Canisius (MMA) - See Above.

3. Bishop Timon/St. Jude (MMA) - No shame in the loss at Niagara Falls.  Scheduling those type of games this year (they also host Bishop Kearney in January and travel to Aquinas in February) will only help them.

4. St. Joe's (MMA) - Only loss is to Dallas Jesuit and already boast wins over McKinley, Lockport, and Williamsville East.

5. Jamestown (AA) - They lost enough from last season that I don't think they'll be back in the state title game.  But the two-time defending AA champs bring back enough to be a top ten team once again.  Besides, when's the last time these guys weren't a top program?

6. McKinley (A1) - In a season with no clear cut favorites in Class A or the Yale Cup, I'll give the Macks the early nod over the other teams in each. 

7. Williamsville North (AA) - The Spartans get tucked in behind the team that ended their season last year.

8. Kenmore West (AA) - On paper, the Blue Devils look like a team that could wind up higher on this ballot, but with no games played yet and a quarterfinal exit last year, they start out here.

9. Riverside (A2) - They have talent, but lack depth. 

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - Only result so far is a 12-point win over Cheektowaga, which was a better resume than any other team vying for this last spot.

 

Small Schools

1. Olean (B1) - In the Huskies 80-51 win over East, 72 of their points came from underclassmen.  Most people by now are at least familiar with the names Sam Eckstrom and Nick Schmidt.  But wait until you see Max Portlow, who reminds me of Blair Helton, or Wil Bathurst, who didn't even play varsity last year and came off the bench to drop 20 on East. 

2. St. Mary's (MMA) - A 5-0 start against teams from WNY, and the closest of those games was a 14-point win against Amherst.

** Programming Note - I can't wait until 6:30 tonight!!! (Olean @ St. Mary's)

3. Depew (B1) - I liked what I saw from these Wildcats in their season opening loss to Class AA Will North enough to put them here.

4. OTC/MEC (C1) - They got rattled big time in the opening eight minutes against Canisius.  But to their credit, they played them even the rest of the way and that included outscoring the Crusaders by five in the second quarter. 

5. Tonawanda (B1) - The defending ECIC IV champs have opened 3-0. 

6. East (B1) - The defending overall Class A champs have opened 0-3.  A little perspective is all that's neccasary.

7. Lackawanna (B1) - The Steelers looked every bit as good as last season's B1 champs in their pounding of CG Finney.

8. Maple Grove (C2) - Batavia head coach Buddy Brasky couldn't say enough good things about the Red Dragons, who played his team closer than Olean did. 

9. Silver Creek (C2) - In what looks like a loaded CCAA II, I picked these Black Knights for this spot after a 3-0 start.  Remember the name Zeddy Williams.

10. Panama (D) - There might be other teams who deserve this spot, but I thought the Class D favorites deserved the early nod after beating last year's overall Class B champ, Cassadaga Valley.

 

** Ranking the small schools was especially difficult this early.  I didn't rank any N-O teams, City Honors hasn't played yet, I-Prep is 0-2 but faced two quality opponents, don't know what to make of MST Seneca beating West Seneca West & Pioneer, Salamanca & Westfield could be better than Silver Creek, and I won't see Archbishop Walsh until they play Lackawanna tonight.  This poll could look entirely different in a month after more results roll in.

 

-centercourt

2011-2012 Season Preview

With high school hoops season now in full swing here in WNY, it's time to see what basketball fans have to look forward to in the upcoming season.

 

WHAT'S NEW THIS SEASON?  

- Yale Cup  games are now scheduled to begin at 6:00 pm instead of 5:30 pm

- East and Burgard will both play in Yale Cup I, the large school division, despite being classified as small schools

- Leonardo DaVinci will field a team in the Yale Cup II and Class C1

- Class C now has 21 teams, meaning there is now a C1 & C2

- Friday, March 2, 2012 will feature three sectional championship games at JCC beginning at 5:30 pm for classes D, C2, & C1

- Crossover Tuesday at Buffalo State on March 6, 2012 will feature three games this year beginning at 5:30 pm with the Class C1/C2 game

- The Far West Regionals are back at Buffalo State this season on March 10, 2012 beginning at 12:00 pm

- Sweet Home will play in ECIC I

- Lake Shore will play in ECIC II

- Forestville and Ellicottville will play in CCAA III

- Brocton and North Collins will play in CCAA IV

- 2011 POY Jaysean Paige will play his senior season at a high school in Kentucky

- Chad Kelly is not playing basketball this season

- Stan Wier returns to East Aurora for his senior season

 

CLASSIFICATION CHANGES

McKinley moves down from AA to A1

Lafayette moves down from A1 to A2

Bennett moves down from A1 to A2

Olean moves down from A2 to B1

East moves down from A2 to B1

Burgard moves down from A2 to B1

Springville moves down from A2 to B1

JFK moves down from B1 to B2

Akron moves down from B1 to B2

Roy-Hart moves down from B1 to B2

Cassadaga Valley moves down from B2 to C1

 

NEW HEAD COACHES

Lancaster - John Otto

West Seneca East - Dan Leutman

Barker - Michael O'Sullivan

Clymer - Dan White

Tapestry Charter - Tony Williams

Nichols - Jim MacKinnon

 

 

 THE PLAYERS

Although I don’t publish a preseason All-Centercourt team, there are four players in WNY this season that are Division 1 talents and worth some early discussion.  Stan Wier will be a UB Bull next year, Jermaine Crumpton has already given Canisius a verbal commitment despite being a junior, Reggie Abeko has yet to decide on the many colleges who have shown interest, and Sterling Taplin will undoubtedly be playing major college ball somewhere…after he finishes his last three years of high school.

 

After bringing some serious raw talent to the Monsignor Martin Association last year, Agbeko has developed into a top prospect in WNY for St. Joe’s.  The buzz all summer was about the 6-7 Agbeko’s dominance in AAU and major strides in the fundamental aspects of his game.  He was a force on the boards last year and had really begun to finish well around the basket (finishing as a Fifth Team All-Centercourt selection), before crashing to the floor with an ankle injury at the Koessler Center during the postseason and missing the Marauders final two games.  His size, coupled with his leaping ability, will give teams fits near the basket this year.

 

Wier returns to WNY for his senior season and will be back with his original alma mater, East Aurora.  As a sophomore, Wier was named Second Team All-WNY as he helped lead Nichols to a Class A New York State Federation championship and then spent his junior campaign at a high school in Indiana.  The Blue Devils are glad to have this inside/outside threat back and will rely on his all-around game this season.  Besides his obvious physical attributes, Wier is a tireless worker who gets in the gym early each morning and takes hundreds of shots.

 

Another inside/outside threat is Crumpton.  The NFHS big man showed some flashes of brilliance as a sophomore and by all accounts, has improved tremendously over the summer.  The Wolverines will ask Crumpton to play a much bigger role this year after graduating a pair of big men who kept him out of the starting lineup last season.

 

Possibly the most talented player in this area is still developing, and that’s a scary thought when you consider just how good Taplin was as a freshman at Williamsville North last year.  In the offseason, Taplin (Third Team All-Centercourt in 2011) added 12 pounds of muscle to his frame and worked hard to improve his outside shot, which was already one of the area’s best.  The Spartans will look for Taplin to attack the rim more this year and take another step forward as an underclassman leader of their team.

 

A player who landed a spot on the Fifth Team All-Centercourt after finishing the season with a flurry, is Holland’s Jordan Farrant.  In back-to-back games during sectionals last February, Farrant scored a combined 76 points against Salamanca and OTC/MEC.

 

The following players return this season after earning All-Centercourt Honorable Mention honors a year ago:

 

Martin Bailey (Kenmore West),  Matt Hart (Canisius), Jordan Williams (Timon), Kyle Kobis (Timon), Taijay Williams (Niagara Falls), Khalid Brown (OTC/MEC), Jamaal Carter (City Honors), Aaron Frasier (MST Seneca), Jesse Lalka (Tonawanda), Josh Haight (Barker), Nick Lenart (Panama), Alex Grace (Maple Grove), Justice Feggans (Riverside), JJ Wilkes (Niagara Falls).

 

 

Some other players that I anticipate having great seasons include Sam Eckstrom (Olean), Adam Weir (Canisius), Conner Keenan (Williamsville East), Tommy Campion (Jamestown), Daryl Spencer (Cleveland Hill), Darnell Carson (CSAT), Zeddy Williams (Silver Creek), Kevin Holmes (Dunkirk), and Clayton Hess (Tonawanda).

 

LEAGUE BY LEAGUE

 

MONSIGNOR MARTIN

 

The Crusaders will be the favorites to repeat, thanks to the return of a very talented group that helped lift Canisius past St. Joe’s last year.  Matt Hart, Adam Weir, Aaron White, and Matt McDonald comprise the most dangerous quartet of shooters in WNY and all have plenty of big game experience as well.  Seniors Tim Schifferle and Brendan Tenney give head coach Kyle Husband some needed size inside.

 

Bishop Timon/St. Jude has four starters back from a year ago: Seniors Jordan Williams and Kyle Kobis, and juniors Ryan Dougherty and Fulton Bryant.  Williams and Kobis are two of the very best shooters in all of WNY, and when the Tigers are clicking on all cylinders, they’re capable being the top team in the area.

 

Following three consecutive appearances in the Catholic Class B state championship and a pair of titles, St. Mary’s once again has the horses to return.  Erik Simmons, Jake Denz, Devin Redden, and Nate Meyers are the key returnees for the Lancers and averaged a collective 36 points per game last season.  Also of note, former standout Joe Cellino joins the coaching staff this season.

 

The Marauders will need Agbeko to dominate the middle on both ends of the floor and open things up for the team’s shooters.  Mark Cerza transfers from Cardinal O’Hara and offers both size and finesse, while Jordan Glover, Kyle Briggs, and Jaylen Morris are all quick, aggressive, and athletic.  Junior Dylan Hall should have a major role for St. Joe’s this season also.

 

St. Francis returns six of its top eight players from last season, with each seeing time in the starting lineup.  Tyler Wagner, a three-year starter, will lead the Red Raiders this season from the guard position.  Both Brian Melisz and Cory Cullen started several games last year on varsity as sophomores.   Also returning are Brett Cawthorn, Matthew Morcio, and big Miles Bartholomew, who takes up a lot of space in the paint.  This very experienced and senior laden team looks to be a factor in a very talented and deep league.

 

Nichols brings back the Noonan brothers, Tommy and Adam, along with Eric Luko, Liam Ryan, and Sam Sendziak.  A quartet of tall and talented freshmen join the Vikings, as Jamar Waters, Cam Lewis, Chris Minor, and Tanner Schmit begin the process of returning Nichols to a power program in WNY.

 

Niagara Catholic has a pair of dynamic guards back in Joe Lowery and Jonathan Jackson and Walsh returns Ryan Whelpley.

 

YALE CUP

 

McKinley is led this season by guard Michael Davis, who saw plenty of action on last season’s AA semifinalist team.  Marcus Morris can shoot from anywhere in the gym, but missed most of last year with a knee injury.  Also back for the Macks are Lovell smith and Stephen Johnson, while Reyjzon Jordan will display his athletic talents on the hardwood as well.

 

Despite repeated success, the East Panthers seem to enter each season flying slightly below the radar.  After losing all five starters off the Section VI Class A regional representative, the same is sure to hold true again this year.  I still expect them to challenge for the Yale Cup in the large school division again this year.  Senior Rashaan Brown and sophomore transfer Tyree Tyson give East a pair of twin towers in the paint, while speedy sophomore Jonathan Lewis will run the point.  Seniors Daquann Griggs and Darnell Carr will also be key pieces this year.

 

Hutch-Tech is ready to make a run at the Yale Cup this year.  The Engineers bring back multiple players from the team that threatened Williamsville South in the A1 semis last year, including Marcus Nelson, Denzell Washington, Andrew Strug, and Tim Whitehead.  Sophomore Aymanuel Radford and junior Jovohn Owens will also be major factors.

 

Riverside features the electrifying Feggans and a much improved Lamont Little, along with returnees Mike Leonard and Mark Anderson. 

 

Bennett brings back 6-6 Derrick Quarles, gridiron start Javon Fogan, and Markei Miller.  The Tigers will also look for solid production out of Ed Bishop, Joe Nelson, Paris White, and Tylon Lynch.

 

OTC/MEC has two of its top players back in Khalid Brown and Cordell Torres, along with Davonte Harper and Kevin Reese.

 

MST Seneca has Jaleyn Pearson and Ben Bolden to go along with top area guard Aaron Frasier.

 

I-Prep returns Maurice Cheatom and Davonte Whitsett from last season's Class C state semifinalist squad.

 

ECIC I

 

The Red Raiders will look to defend both league and back-to-back sectional titles.  Leading the way for Jamestown will be junior Tommy Campion, a vital part of the team’s run to last season’s Class AA state title game.  Seniors Adam Cecchini and Kevin Diaz are also back, and both can light it up from the perimeter.  The future is already looking bright, as this ever re-loading team has three sophomores and two freshman

 

Sweet Home will be lead by junior Kole Gilchrist, who made second team ECIC II last season after averaging 13 points per game as a sophomore.  Senior Jayson Moore will run the point for the Panthers and will have Khalid Barnes, the JV’s leading scorer last year, to dish to.

 

Taplin will lead a Spartans squad that is determined to win ECIC I.  He’ll have help from tough defender Nick Konotopsky and three-point threat David Berkun, along with 6-3 forwards Brett Butler and Justin Bangert.  George Attea, a 6-3 freshman, could be one to keep an eye on as he develops at Williamsville North.

 

Clarence will be lead by a pair of guards in sophomore Bryan Jost and senior Stephen Hughes, Orchard Park welcomes Matt McCormick back, and Frontier has Alex Warren and Matt Taylor.

 

ECIC II

 

Conventional wisdom would have Williamsville South falling off the WNY basketball map after losing its entire starting lineup and fielding a team this season with just one senior.  However, optimism runs high for the Billies and their lone senior, Jim Caputi.  Jack Fitzpatrick takes over point guard duty, while Damien Powers will look to assume Joe Licata’s role as the team’s three-point threat.  South will also get contributions from Chaquiel Nettles, Trent Ferguson, Mike Calandra, Sam Castronova, and a player with a familiar last name…Pat Stasiak.

 

The league’s best player may be senior forward Conner Keenan at Williamsville East.  He, along with point guard Michael Kyarunts, will lead the Flames into battle this year.  Joseph Kleinmann and Mike Altman are back for their senior campaigns, while sophomore Jaleel Battle comes over from Riverside, along with a pair of out-of-state transfers.  Zack Bischel and Michael Spina will look to provide a spark coming off the bench.

 

Lake Shore varsity coach Dan Gerken returns four underclassmen and three seniors as the Eagles look to improve upon last season with experience and leadership.  Ryan Spears will captain the team, while senior guards Josh Sanchez and Mark Kennedy’s athleticism will be relied upon on both ends of the floor.

 

The Spartans will feature a very youthful group, with only two seniors on the team.  Starpoint’s offense will be directed by sophomore guard Julian Mott.  The Spartans also bring back Steve Cooper, Andrew Rankie, and sharp shooter Stan Speaker.

 

ECIC III

 

Maryvale has won league championships in each of the last two seasons, and will look to continue its winning ways.  Sean Weisansal, Tyler Smith, and the always energetic Joe Gabor are back for head coach Mark Kensey’s team, and the Flyers also gain Zack Walkowski fro JFK.  Demetri McCallie, Max Aikin, Ed Smith, and Jayln Putman all join the Flyers from the JV last year.

 

The addition of Wier will help to make East Aurora contenders, but they’re far from a one-man show.  Ian Allen has size and the ability to do things all over the court.  Mike Rhoades is a classic glue player who obviously works very hard, while Chris Bourne and Brendan Cox are both heady players.  Eli Melas and Cam Wier are both capable reserves for the Blue Devils.

 

Depew will occupy the paint with a pair of sturdy big men in 6-5 Jaden Cotton and 6-6 sophomore Mike Lamb.  Aaron Ertel can bomb away from the perimeter, while sophomore point guard Derrick Sekuterski can do a little of everything and continues to improve.  Mike Ballistrea and Jon Gemerek also return to the Wildcats.

 

Amherst will challenge for the ECIC III crown this season, due in large part to the returning contributions of Glenn and Johnathan Belton.  The two guards were leaders for the Tigers last year, as Glenn was the second leading scorer and Johnathan led in assists.  The Tigers also bring back 6-7 junior Alex Turecki to clog the middle, along with Steven Reynolds and Owen Lankes.  Juniors Dion Lewis and Jonah Heim are new to the team, but should see plenty of action.

 

Cheektowaga is led by Kyle McDuffie, Marquel Jackson, and Derek Clyburn.  The Warriors will also start Ernie Vann and freshman Zak Ciezki.

 

At Pioneer, senior Mike Brass returns poised to take a giant leap forward with a full year of starting varsity experience under his belt.  Able to play and guard any position 1-4, his court smarts and poise are his best attributes.  An ECIC III honorable mention as a sophmore, junior Terik Lewis is the leading returning scorer and after a stellar summer, appears ready to take the next step forward.  Team newcomers Dylan Souder and Connor Johnson look to make an immediate impact.

 

ECIC IV

 

Tonawanda enters this season with high hopes.  The defending ECIC IV champs bring back the league’s POY in Jesse Lalka, and also return the well-rounded Clayton Hess.  Completing the Warriors starting lineup should be Jake Spencer, Tyler Hughes, and Andy Smith.

 

Cleveland Hill will seek a third straight trip to Buffalo State this year, led by senior Daryl Spencer.  Despite missing four games at the start of last season, Spencer lead the team in shooting and free throw percentage, points scored (13.9 per game), rebounds (12.7 per game), blocked shots, and steals.  Senior point guard Miles Barker will need to lead his team on the floor and forward DeVonte Davis should be a presence in the paint. The team will also look for sophomore Jared Watkins to contribute on both ends of the court with his quickness.   

 

Lackawanna’s lone returning starter from last season’s Class B1 champ is Raytrel Finley.  The Steelers also bring back Norman Sweat, Admir Merhizic, and TJ Giddens.  Head coach Tim Foley’s group will look to run about ten deep this season and rely on athleticism to help counter a lack of experience as they seek a return trip to Buffalo State.

 

 JFK has Christian Boettcher back in its starting lineup again, and also returns Jimmy Quinn, Ken Minorczyk, Nick Sikora, and Ben Zaccagnino.  Nick Anderson and Joey Burkowski move up to varsity and should see plenty of action.

 

Paul Matuszak is the lone returning starter at Alden, who also welcome back shooting threat Phil Bifulco.  Juniors Corey Barczykowski and Jake McNamara, and sophomore Dylan Dussalt move up from the JV for head coach Andy Smith’s Bulldogs.

 

Holland will look to Jordan Farrant to do a lot of everything and he'll likely be up to that task once again this season.

 

NIAGARA FRONTIER LEAGUE

 

Niagara Falls will once again be the heavy favorite to win in both its league and section, with five players returning that saw quality minutes on a team that lost by just three points in the AA sectional championship to state runner-up Jamestown.  Crumpton will be a force inside, while JJ Wilkes, Taijay Williams, and Jamere Ollison all started games for the Wolverines at guard last season.  Junior Ramir Burton will also be a key contributor at Falls this year.

 

Kenmore West would be the top threat to challenge the Wolverines again this year with Martin Bailey, Marcus Lobdell, and 6-6 junior Quintin Campbell.

 

After much time and effort in his inaugural year at the helm, head coach Nate Beutel will challenge his Vikings to take a big step forward this season.  Junior point guard Nick Soos, senior center Dylan Kelly, and senior forward Jon Voyzey return to Grand Island and are expected to make an impact as starters.  Corey Adamshick and Jordan Jelks move up to varsity and will be relied upon, while freshman Quinn Carey is full of potential to have a strong four years at the varsity level.

 

After finishing third in the NFL last year, Niagara Wheatfield will look to Ryan Elnicki and Jack Mulcahy to keep the wins coming.

 

Lockport has the 6-6 Nick DiMartile along with Ezra Nwachaku.  Lew-Port welcomes St. Joe's transfer guard John Dziewit, who pairs with Nick Mansour to lead the Lancers.  Kenmore East will look to PJ Blanch for much of its scoring, and North Tonawanda will do the same with Corey Mis.

 

 

 NIAGARA-ORLEANS LEAGUE

 

CSAT should be the favorites to win its first ever N-O crown, as the Eagles return some real talent.  Junior guard Darnell Carson leads an Eagles team that also brings back shot-blocking Arzell Kaigler and Justin Black.  After a year at OTC/MEC, Desmond Lamar transferred back to CSAT.

 

Wilson lost most of its starting lineup, but still returns enough talent to make another run at a third straight league title and a sixth straight trip to the B2 semifinals.  Tyler Martin is the court leader for the Lakemen, who also bring back 6-4 forwards Dave Littere and Dustin DiLaura, Pat Walch, Pat Diez, and Zack Moxham.

 

Newfane lost a ton to graduation, with Sean Seefeldt being the lone returning starter.  Scott Kneeland is the only other senior returning, so juniors Connor Sears and Bryan Geise will be relied upon heavily for the Panthers.

 

Over at Akron, Connor Ladd, last year's leading scorer and rebounder is back for his junior season.  Junior Austin Mietz gets a fresh start from football after battling back from a knee injury last winter.  Junior Gowah Abrams will be the big man in the middle after finishing the season strong on varsity last year.  The largest question mark is at the point, as the Tiger's graduated three-year varsity player Jaime Salcedo.

 

Roy-Hart will be improved this season, as the Rams return four starters.  Jake Klietz, Ryan Metz, Chris Luce, and Brad Bobbit return to head coach Mark Rydza’s unit, while Conner Baker will play this season after missing last year due to injury.

 

Barker has a very talented pair back this season in senior Josh Haight and sophomore Jake Haight.

 

Medina will continue to improve with behind Lonnie Taylor and Lucas Evans. 

 

CCAA I

 

Olean will very likely reclaim its dominance in the CCAA this year and with the team moving back to Class B, could be in for a lengthy postseason.  The Huskies return four starters, led by the man in the middle, Sam Eckstrom.  Nick Schmidt averaged 13 points per game as a freshman and will be back prowling the perimeter.  Luke Hennessy, Pat Scholla, Max Portlow, and Neil Shoemaker also return, while an impact should be felt from newcomers Wil Bathurst and Evan Ryan.

 

Dunkirk will try to contend with the Huskies, with Kevin Holmes and Mike Donaldson back from last year’s league champs.

 

Fredonia will be led by Dylan Meyer, Southwestern has Jake Swan back, Falconer returns Ryan Nord, and Zach Harrington will be the main threat for Allegany-Limestone.

 

CCAA II

 

Salamanca will try to capture the league crown behind the talented trio of Jevon Battle, Jackson John, and Tanner John.

 

Randolph has both Brady Morrison and John Morgante back, Cassadaga Valley has Dustin Schauman for one more season, Gage Bird leads Frewsburg, Portville has Zach Blask and Zach Miles, and Silver Creek has a very talented and athletic junior in Zeddy Williams.

 

 CCAA III

 

Senior Austin Alonge will lead the way for Westfield after averaging 15 points as a junior.  The Wolverines also return three other starters: Trey North, Jon Coe, and Anthony Leone.  Junior Dylan MacCubbin was the first man off the bench last year, and senior Brent Morrison returns to Westfield after being a key starter at Chautauqua Lake last year.

 

Maple Grove returns senior guard Alex Grace, along with senior forward Skyler Liddell.

 

Ellicottville has both Colin Lapi and Conner Hellwig returning.

 

Franklinville returns Jake Reynolds, while Jason McMahon will be the senior leader for Chautauqua Lake.

 

CCAA IV

 

Panama has the league’s top player in four-year starter Nick Lenart, along with Zach Lubi returning.

 

David Kelley, Andrew Graham, and Marcus Lindstrom are all back for Sherman.

 

Clymer will be tough with Dan Lictus and Adam Walker in its lineup, Dan Ferguson and Jordan Patterson will lead Brocton, and North Collins returns senior Jared Keppel.

 

PREDICTIONS

LEAGUE CHAMPS:

Yale Cup I - McKinley, Yale Cup II - OTC/MEC, ECIC I - Jamestown, ECIC II - Williamsville South, ECIC III - East Aurora,  ECIC IV - Tonawanda,  NFL - Niagara Falls,  N-O - CSAT,  CCAA I - Olean,  CCAA II - Salamanca,  CCAA III - Maple Grove,  CCAA IV - Panama

 

SECTIONAL CHAMPS:

AA - Niagara Falls, A1 - McKinley, A2 - Riverside, B1 - Olean, B2 - CSAT, C1 - OTC/MEC, C2 - Maple Grove, D - Panama

 

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Pastor-Cooper Showcase matchups announced

There may be other games played before it, but high school season in WNY officially gets underway each year at the Daemen Athletic Facility.  The Pastor-Cooper Showcase, formerly known as the Al & Rose Pastor Tournament, is held each year as a memorial tribute to Al Pastor, Rose Pastor, and Jerry Cooper.  This prestigious annual event has been committed to bringing in some of the area's top programs for over 25 years, and in doing so, it also brings WNY's hoop-heads back together again.

 

The event's director, David Cooper, said the reason for a change in format from a tournament to a showcase was due to public schools losing two regular season games.  Moving to a showcase format was the best way to ensure the quality of games would continue in the same tradition this event has always provided.  This year's event will unfold over the course of three nights, with a girls game proceeding two boys games on each night.  On the boys side, four of the six matchups have a Yale Cup squad facing a MMAA team.  As is always the case with this event, there will be major poll implications and free admission to watch it all unfold.

 

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Rose Pastor Bracket

Girls  5:15 pm  Frontier vs. Cardinal O'Hara

Boys 7:00 pm  Frontier vs. St. Mary's

Boys  8:30 pm  Riverside vs. St. Francis

 

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Al Pastor Bracket

Girls  5:15 pm  Hutch-Tech vs. Nardin

Boys  7:00 pm  Hutch-Tech vs. Cheektowaga

Boys 8:30 pm  OTC/MEC vs. Canisius

 

Friday, December 2, 2011

Jerry Cooper Bracket

Girls  5:15 pm  Grand Island vs. Sacred Heart

Boys 7:00 pm  McKinley vs. St. Joe's

Boys 8:30 pm  East vs. Timon

 

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The 2011 All-Centercourt Team: The Best in WNY

 

FIRST TEAM

Jaysean Paige - Jamestown, Junior  -  CC MVP

Tremmell Fisher - East, Senior

Connor Rehbaum - St. Joe's, Senior

Chris Holland - I-Prep, Senior

Darin Butts - Jamestown, Senior

 

SECOND TEAM

Gordon Lyons - Canisius, Senior

Phil Stasiak - Williamsville South, Senior

Blair Estarfaa - Maryvale, Senior

Aaron Nevins - Canisius, Senior

Maurice Miles - Hutch-Tech, Senior

 

THIRD TEAM

Marcus Feagin - Niagara Falls, Senior

JJ Harrington - Lancaster, Senior

Dazmon Knight - Tapestry Charter, Senior

Kevin O'Connell - Williamsville South, Senior

Sterling Taplin - Williamsville North, Freshman

 

FOURTH TEAM

Vincent Bomasuto - Dunkirk, Senior

Rohn Pierce - Newfane, Senior

Michael Bova - Westfield, Senior

Joe Licata - Wiliamsville South, Senior

Brennan Moxham - Wilson, Senior

 

FIFTH TEAM

Reggie Agbeko - St. Joe's, Junior

Jordan Street - Niagara Falls, Senior

Jordan Farrant - Holland, Junior

Davon Alexander - OTC Middle College, Senior

Kadeem Hillman - I-Prep, Senior

 

HONORABLE MENTION

Darius Edwards - Frontier, Senior

David Hill  - Clarence, Senior

Tyler Funk - Clarence, Senior

Dustin Schauman - Cassadaga Valley, Senior

Jake Hughes - Niagara Wheatfield, Senior

John Black - McKinley, Senior

Antonio Avery - McKinley, Senior

Andre Jackson - East, Senior

Jasen Oden - East, Senior

William Vanoy - Bennett, Senior

Zak Plonka - Lancaster, Senior

Dondre Alexander - Lackawanna, Senior

Joey Campion - Jamestown, Senior

Marc Morreale - Lew-Port, Senior

Eric Stolzenburg - Williamsville East, Senior

Dan Hambruch - Newfane, Senior

Brian Tobolla - Portville, Senior

Matt DeBoy - Salamanca, Senior

Davon Ferguson - Lafayette, Senior

Aswad Jones - Cheektowaga, Senior

Ryan Grandits - Kenmore West, Senior

Martin Bailey - Kenmore West, Junior

Matt Hart - Canisius, Junior

Jordan Williams - Timon-St. Jude, Junior

Kyle Kobis - Timon-St. Jude, Junior

Taijay Williams - Niagara Falls, Junior

Khalid Brown - OTC Middle College, Junior

Jamal Carter - City Honors, Junior

Aaron Frasier - Seneca, Junior

Jesse Lalka - Tonawanda, Junior

Josh Haight - Barker, Junior

Nick Lenart - Panama, Junior

Alex Grace - Maple Grove, Junior

Justice Feggans - Riverside, Sophomore

JJ Wilkes - Niagara Falls, Sophomore

 

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Poll Ballots - 2011 Season Finale

As a pollster for the Buffalo News, I'm asked to send in my weekly ballots ranking the top ten large and small schools.  This is the last vote of the 2011 season.  Below is a look at where I have the teams ranked at season's end, and some of the rationale used to get there.

 

Large Schools

1. Jamestown (AA) - A spectacular breakthrough season for the program that was loaded with highlights and accomplishments. In my opinion, the biggest of all was coming from behind to knock off the undefeated Class AA state champions in overtime and advancing to the state championship.

2. Niagara  Falls (AA) - At the end of the day, I think the Wolverines were as good a team as most of us thought they were all season.  Their season included wins over Jamestown, Aquinas, Canisius, and McKinley (in a game they led most of the way by double-digits despite the worst free throw shooting performance since Dr. Naismith thought to hang bushel baskets in the air), and they gave the Red Raiders all they could handle in the Class AA final.

3. East (A2) - The Panthers registered wins over four different teams ranked in this top ten, won the most competitive large school league in Section VI, and played Aquinas closer than any other team in WNY besides NFHS.

4. Williamsville South (A1) - The only blemishes on the Billies resume are a three-point road loss at Jamestown and a double OT loss to East.  If not for Tremell Fisher banking a contested 3-p0inter, they finish number three.  The Billies set a school record for wins in a season, including triumphs over Canisius, Hutch-Tech, Timon-St. Jude, Williamsville North, and a pair of wins against Bennett.

5. Canisius (MMAA) - The Crusaders comeback win in the Manhattan Cup championship was a testament to the balance, depth, and cohesiveness that Canisius possessed this season.  Losses to Niagara Falls and Williamsville South, coupled with their only wins over a top ten school being the two against St. Joe's, keep them outside the top four.

6. St. Joe's (MMAA) - The wave of momentum the Marauders rode after knocking off Niagara Falls, helped them to roll Timon-St. Jude without Reggie Agbeko and build a 17-point lead on the Crusaders in the first half of the championship game.  Unfortunately for them, that momentum found its way into the wrong locker room at halftime.

7. Bennett (A1) - The Tigers split with Hutch-Tech, won both meetings with McKinley, and had a good showing in the Class A1 final against the Billies.

8. McKinley (AA) - Not even a move up to Class AA could keep the McKinley from a 12th consecutive appearance in the semifinals.  The only teams to defeat the Macks this season are all ranked ahead of them - Falls, East, and Bennett.

9. Hutch-Tech (A1) - After a slow start to the season, the young Engineers gained steam and beat the likes of East and Bennett, and held a ten-point fourth quarter advantage against Williamsville South in the semifinals.

10. Lancaster (AA) - The Redskins played Jamestown three times this season and lost by a combined 27 points...one point less than Williamsville North lost by at Jamestown.  Lancaster's season included sweeps of Clarence and Frontier, along with wins against Kenmore West and Williamsville North.

 

Small Schools

1. I-Prep at Grover (C) -Finished the season two wins shy of where they wanted to be, but were still an easy choice as the top small school in WNY.  The Presidents success this season included a Yale Cup II title, a pair of wins over Tapestry Charter, three wins against OTC Middle College, a victory over St. Mary's, and a trip to Glens Falls following a regional triumph versus East Rochester.

2. Cassadaga Valley (B2) - An early loss to Class D Panama and a league schedule that yielded two additional losses against teams in a lower class (C), kept Cassadaga Valley from being ranked until the final poll.  But the Cougars postseason run opened everyone's eyes up north to the quality of CCAA II and was one of the best stories of the season. 

 I really hope that in the near future, Southern Tier small schools start scheduling more games against opponents to the north.  It would provide more exposure for those teams and give fans and pollsters like myself a better gauge of where teams are really at.  It's unfair to label a northern school as overrated at season's end because they were ranked all season and lost to a school that wasn't.  It would be much more appropriate to label the Cougars and other teams from the CCAA as underrated...but how were we really to know? At the start of the season, we knew Cassadaga Valley had lost to Panama and Wilson had beaten St. Mary's. 

3. Lackawanna (B1) - In February, I said that I couldn't see the Steelers winning Class B1 because of different issues that had plagued the team during the season and a strong competition within the bracket.  Not only did they win Class B1, they did so by stunning unbeaten Dunkirk in a convincing performance, before looking even stronger against Newfane and dominating them in the fourth quarter.

4. Wilson (B2) - Even without one of their marquee players, the Lakemen advanced to the Class B2 final and dueled with Cassadaga Valley until the bitter end.  The co-champs of the N-O had wins against St. Mary's, Newfane, Cleveland Hill, and swept CSAT.

5. St. Mary's (MMAA) - For a third straight season, the Lancers were the top small school in the MMAA after routing Archbishop Walsh to earn that distinction.  In nonleague games, St. Mary's had wins against Newfane, Clarence, Hutch-Tech, Depew, Cleveland Hill, and City Honors.

6. Tapestry Charter (C) - Wore opponents down by dictating the pace of games, including against Maple Grove, who they outscored 26-10 in the fourth quarter of a comeback victory.  The speed and depth of the Thunderhawks might not have been enough to upset I-Prep, but they pushed them until the game's end. 

7. Dunkirk (B1) - From the two times I saw them play this season, they were clearly a very talented team with a dynamic player.  Things may have gone differently for the Marauders if they were more battle tested and a little less confident from so many lopsided wins.  Still a top ten team with a pair of wins over Olean this season.

8. Newfane (B1) - Co-champs of the N-O after spilitng regular season meetings with Wilson.  Advanced to the Class B1 title game with a commanding win against ECIC IV champ Tonawanda, and then shot 2 of 18 from behind the arc when they got there. 

 9. Maple Grove (C) - The CCAA III champs were on their way to the Class C title game, before succombing to a Tapestry rally.  A win over Olean gets the 2010 Class D state champs this spot over...

10. OTC Middle College (C) - the 2010 Class C state champs, who lost to Olean by ten this season.  They were competitive all three times they played I-Prep, but I can't rank them any higher than ten when the Kats best win was in November, and the next best win was against City Honors...who beat OTC in the rematch.

 

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All-Centercourt & CC MVP - Let the discussion begin

 

In November, 101 teams between Section VI and the Monsignor Martin Athletic Association began preparation for the 2010-2011 season.  Now with just two left standing, I'm sure most people have some idea about who they think deserves some recognotion for postseason honors.

 

Sometime in early April, I will release the All-Centercourt Team (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th team, along with 35 honorable mention selections).  I will also select a Player of the Year and Coach of the Year.

 

One thing that I've noticed from taking a preliminary glance, this season there were a lot of good teams with balance, which makes the players more difficult to separate.  Who's the best player on McKinley? Canisius? Timon? Will South? Bennett? Maple Grove? Newfane? Clarence? Niagara Falls?  Ken West?  I could keep going, but I'm sure you get the point. 

 

I also think there will be quite a bit of discrepancy in how everyone will look to fill out the first and second team.  Once you get to third team and beyond, it'll be all over the place.  There's plenty to debate about where the players will get slotted after this season...and it's going to be a lot of fun.

 

In the comments section below, let us know your thoughts on where you think the players should be placed.  Remember that it's always a better argument if you can say who you would have in a spot, rather than to simply state a player should not be there.

 

I'm looking forward to the discussion, as this is always one of the best topics to close out each season with. 

 

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Random Smatterings - Semifinal Edition

 

Is Niagara Falls big man Jordan Street a contestant on American Idol this season?

 

On Tuesday night, blogger McShea is God suggested we order a pizza, so I pointed out the Mister Pizza advertisement on the front of the scorer's table.  Forty-five minutes later, Keith McShea, his devotee MIG, and myself were enjoying a freshly delivered pizza in the front row.

 

Cleveland Hill's name was abbreviated on the Buffalo State scoreboard as CHILL. 

 

The winner of Saturday's Class B2 title game between Wilson and Cassadaga Valley will earn its first ever sectional title.

 

The Class B1 semifinal between Newfane and Tonawanda was the only semifinal game between two schools who were league champs.

 

During the Class A2 semifinal between Riverside and Cheektowaga, blogger Hollywood was on press row.

 

McKinley head coach Zaire Dorsey requested this one.  His Macks arrived at Buffalo State at 4:30 pm on Thursday, but were not allowed into the locker room until 5:15 pm, something which he was none to pleased about.  My take - If that's a Section VI policy, so be it.  But teams should be informed ahead of time not to arrive before 5:15 pm, or they will have to stand waiting out in the hall.

 

Major props to the defensive efforts from both Newfane and Lackawanna this week.  The Panthers held Tonawanda scoring machine Jesse Lalka under ten points, while the Steelers did the same to Dunkirk's Vincent Bomasuto.

 

During the final minute of Lackawanna's win over previously unbeaten Dunkirk, one of the Steelers said to his teammate "undefeated what?...garbage schedule".

 

Clymer and Pine Valley will play for the Section VI Class D title tonight.  Prior to Maple Grove winning two staight in Class D, Pine Valley had won four of five, with Clymer winning the other year.

 

Tapestry Charter outscored Maple Grove, 26-10, in the fourth quarter of its 61-53 victory at JCC, to squash the Red Dragons hopes of winning a fifth consecutive Section VI title, or of making a fourth consecutive trip to Glens Falls. 

 

Cassadaga Valley senior guard Simeon Schauman is the uncle of the Cougars' leading scorer, junior forward Dustin Schauman.

 

This week at Buffalo State, I was greeted by someone who said "Hey, I didn't see you at any games this year".

 

Remember that great game between Lockport and Grand Island this year? There's a picture from it on the cover of the Section VI Boy's Basketball Championships program.

 

Nichols head coach Greg Plumb announced he will not return to the Vikings next season.  Should he decide to further his education, Plumb is already equipped with a backpack.

 

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Poll Ballots - Week 10

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

 

Large Schools

1. Niagara Falls (AA) - The NFHS Pep Band makes its return to Buffalo State on Thursday.

2. St. Joe's (MMAA) - Had no trouble disposing of the Tigers without Agbeko, but will welcome him back for the Manhattan Cup final.

3. Jamestown (AA) -  Sixth straight appearance at Buffalo State for the semifinals, and this time they're the defending champs.

4. Williamsville South (A1) - The champs of ECIC II might have to prove they could have won the Yale Cup to advance to Rochester.

5. Canisius (MMAA) - The Crusaders will appear in the Manhattan Cup title game for a third straight year on Wednesday.

6.  East (A2) - This year's version is the most focused Panther team since 2008.

7. Bennett (A1) - The Tigers should have little trouble with Kenmore East and could be a daunting task for the Billies if the play them on Saturday.

8. McKinley (AA) - The Macks looked dominant at times on Friday at Williamsville North.  They'll face a Niagara Falls team this week that matches up with them athletically.

9. Lancaster (AA) - Regardless of the result with Jamestown on Thursday, the Redskins can be proud of this season, the program's best in years.

10. Hutch-Tech (A1) - Weathered an early storm against Sweet Home, then cruised to victory in the second half.  Maurice Miles will need a huge game this week to get his Engineers to the final on Saturday.

 

Small Schools

1. I-Prep at Grover (C) - Still a solid number one, but have to be uneasy about a third game with the defending Yale Cup and state champs.

2. Dunkirk (B1) - The Marauders made Buffalo Arts the latest victim of a rout on Saturday afternoon.  Tonight's game with Lackawanna will tell us a lot.

3. Newfane (B1) - Also won convincingly in the quarterfinals.  The Panthers made it to Buffalo State two years ago, only to have current Medaille College big man Dave Shuey go down in the early going with an injury.

4. Wilson (B2) - Lakemen senior Brennan Moxham watched Wilson advance to the semifinals five years ago, then helped lead them there the last four years.

5. St. Mary's (MMAA) - The Lancers are a win away from a three-peat in the CHSAA Class B.

6. Tonawanda (B1)  - Should be a great matchup for Newfane after winning the league in the tough ECIC IV.

7.  Tapestry Charter (C) - Racked up the best record of any charter school in WNY history.  Now they look to end Maple Grove's run on Section VI titles.

8. OTC Middle College (C) - The Kats are undefeated at JCC and Glens Falls.

9. Maple Grove (C) - Survived a scare against Silver Creek.  The games don't get any easier this week.

10. Lackawanna (B1) - Dondre Alexander will have to be at his best tonight if the Steelers are going to have any chance to pull the upset on an undefeated Dunkirk squad.

 

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Random Smatterings - Week 10

During East's quarterfinal win over Depew on Friday, the referee turned from the action to tell Panther coach Starling Bryant (who was standing at half court) to stay in the coach's box.  "Watch the game", Bryant replied.

 

During an injury timeout, the Depew players huddled on the court around head coach Larry Jones...and East senior Jasen Oden, who joined the Wildcats.  Oden was just hunched over trying to be nonchalant and listen in on the opposition.  I couldn't hear what was said, but Jones seemed to have a sense of humor about it as Oden finally left to join his team with a smirk on his face.

 

Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Williams was part of a two-man cheering section for his alma mater Riverside, during the Frontiers exciting 60-58 win at Maryvale.  Williams stood and bellowed chants of "I'm blind, I'm deaf, I wanna be a ref" and also "I can't hear you" in response to the Flyers student section.

 

Two very good players that few have heard of will get an opportunity to shine at Buffalo State this week.  Bennett senior Forest Richardson and CSAT sophomore Darnell Carson are guys who are sure to have fans flipping through their programs to find out who they are.

 

The Class A1 semifinal between Bennett and Kenmore East could set records for the lowest attendance.  The game is competing with the Manhattan Cup championship only a few minutes away, and casual Kenmore fans may choose  to watch the team from Kenmore Avenue.

 

Holland junior Jordan Farrant finished the season on fire.  After scoring 43 points in a pre-quarterfinal win over Salamanca, Farrant scored 33 of his team's 41 points in a quarterfinal loss to OTC Middle College.

 

Joe Licata needs just two more 3-pointers to break the New York State record, which is likely to happen on Wednesday night when the Billies face Hutch-Tech at Buffalo State at 7:45 pm.

 

Silver Creek followed up a double-digit upset win over Portville, by nearly pulling off a shocker against four-time Section VI champion Maple Grove.  The Knights led the Red Dragons 46-40 heading into the fourth quarter on Friday night and wound up losing by just one point.

 

Some high scoring playoff performances from this past week include: 47 points by Vincent Bomasuto of Dunkirk in a win over Buffalo Arts, 35 points from Jaysean Paige of Jamestown in a win against Clarence, and 32 points from Dazmond Knight of Tapestry Charter in a win versus MST Seneca.

 

A player who probably won't earn an All-WNY honorable mention, but who's play was most deserving of praise this season, is Alex Nowocien of Lew-Port.  Nowocien had a motor that never quit, outworked everyone on the court, and he did all the little things that helped the Lancers to a winning record this year.  Grand Island head coach Nate Beutel said he'd be happy to start five Nowociens, an assessment that NCCC head coach Bill Beilein agreed with.

 

Whoever the announcer at the Koessler Center is, he's good.

 

Newfane better come out ready to play for the third quarter against Tonawanda.  The Warriors blew open a tight game against JFK a couple weeks ago, used a big third to gain the edge in a league title-clinching win against Lackawanna, and erased a halftime deficit in the third against Alden on Friday before eventually winning by eight.

 

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Quarterfinals are on for tonight

Of the 28 scheduled quarterfinal games for tonight, only four have been postponed.  Even Allegany-Limestone is making the looonnnggg trip up north to play at Wilson.

 

Rescheduled for Saturday, February 25th

Class B1

Buffalo Arts @ Dunkirk - 2 pm

Class D

Olmstead @ Sherman - 2 pm

North Collins @ Panama - 2 pm

Ellicottville @ Clymer - 2 pm

 

That means a near full slate of games tonight to determine the participants of this season's semifinals at Buffalo State & JCC.

 

Let us know what you saw tonight and how it turned out.

 

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Class A1 Sectionals

Dates and times of postseason games for both Section VI and the MMAA can be found here.

 

1st Round

(12) Grand Island 64, (13) Lake Shore 63

 

Pre-Quarterfinals

(8) Iroquois 59, (9) Hamburg 36

(5) Sweet Home 78, (12) Grand Island 53

(7) Kenmore East 71, (10) Starpoint 63

(6) West Seneca East 63, (11) Lafayette 60

 

Quarterfinals

(1) Williamsville South 78, (8) Iroquois 71

(4) Hutch Tech 59, (5) Sweet Home 43

 (7) Kenmore East 51, (2) Williamsville East 42

(3) Bennett 62, (6) West Seneca East 45

 

Semifinals @ Buffalo State

(1) Williamsville South 61, (4) Hutch Tech 52

(3) Bennett  57, (7) Kenmore East 50

 

Class A1 Final @ Buffalo State

(1) Williamsville South 56, (3) Bennett 49

 

2011 Section VI Class A1 Champions - Williamsville South Billies

 

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Random Smatterings - Week 9

During McKinley's loss to Bennett on Tuesday, Mike Davis hit a 3-pointer to pull the Macks within five points with just eight seconds remaining.  During a timeout, the guy doing the McKinley book said to the scoreboard operator, "We can do this, we've done it before".  The scoreboard operator said he'd bet him a buck it didn't happen, but was refused.  Then the scoreboard operator said he'd bet him a slice at Buffalo State it wouldn't happen, and the reply was "no way, slices are like three bucks there".  (Of course, they were joking and there was no actual wagering going on)

 

After beating Lew-Port on Wednesday night, Niagara Falls earned a league championship for the 11th straight time.  The only season they weren't unbeaten in the NFL was last year.

 

Westfield's Michael Bova scored 24 points in a win against Brocton, and in doing so, broke the school's scoring record of 1,360 points.

 

During Lafayette's 79-37 loss to Hutch Tech on Tuesday, only three players scored for the Mighty Violets.

 

Lafayette's game at West Seneca East on Wednesday could be its last.  The school closes after this school year.

 

Wnhen I traveled to Jamestown on Saturday night to watch the Red Raiders host Williamsville North, I got kicked out of my seat by the "Event Staff", Jamestown's student section.

 

Vincent Bomasuto scored 42 points and had 15 assists in Dunkirk's 103-39 win against Falconer last week.

 

Bishop Timon-St. Jude is the only team to have been in the Buffalo News large school poll every week without a single victory over another ranked large school and a record of 0-5 in those games.   Most recently, schools like Riverside (beat St. Joe's), Bennett (beat McKinley twice), and Williamsville North (beat Jamestown and Batavia...who beat Timon) sat outside the poll while Timon occupied a spot at number eight. 

 

Olean defeated Southwestern on Tuesday, 61-18.  The score was 16-0 after the first quarter and 43-7 at halftime.

 

Tapestry Charter led WNY in scoring during the regular season this year, averaging 81.5 points per game.  That's up 30 points from the team's scoring average a season ago.

 

Jake Hughes of Niagara Wheatfield posted a double-double in all 18 regular season games this season.

 

Without naming the player or team, here's a story of karma.  Trailing by eight with about three minutes left on Friday night, a player penetrated and kicked the ball out to his teammate, who missed a 3-pointer.  The player proceeded to yell at his teammate during game play, saying "c'mon, you gotta hit that".  The next possesion down, the scolding player went to the free throw line and missed both attempts, then on the possesion after that, missed an open look from downtown. 

 

I watched a game this week where a team lead by nearly 40 after three quarters, yet still sent the starters back into the game.  Even after the lead exceeded 40, starters continued to push the tempo and shoot 3-pointers.

 

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Top games of the week ending 2/20/11

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

 

Tuesday, February 15th

Bennett @ McKinley - 5:30 pm

Lackawanna @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

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

Newfane @ CSAT - 7 pm

Canisius @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Frontier @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Southwestern @ Olean - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Cassadaga Valley - 7:30 pm

Dunkirk @ Fredonia - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 17th

Riverside @ East - 5:30 pm

OTC Middle College @ I-Prep at Grover - 5:30 pm

McKinley @ Hutch Tech - 5:30 pm

Orchard Park @ Frontier - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Jamestown - 7:30 pm

Lancaster @ West Seneca West - 7:30 pm

Westfield @ Silver Creek - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, February 18th

Bishop Timon-St. Jude @ Canisius - 6:30 pm

Niagara Falls @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Cleveland Hill @ St. Mary's - 7 pm

Williamsville East @ Willaimsville North - 7:30 pm

 

 

Game of the Week - Niagara Falls @ St. Joe's on Friday, February 18th

- In a week when Canisius visits its rival on Kenmore Avenue, there's a game that has this blogger even more excited.  It's been a few weeks since the Wolverines have had to pass a test, but they'll face a big one on Friday when they put their undefeated record on the line.  The Marauders are as hot as any team in WNY, currently amidst a 13 game win streak.  If they can complete a sweep of the Crusaders, they would enter Friday's game as unbeaten league champs.    The last time any team ran the table in the Monsignor Martin was 2006, the same year that St. Joe's beat the Jonny Flynn led NFHS, 62-61.  

The Wolverines will be looking to solidify their number one ranking both locally and statewide, and enter sectional play with a full head of steam.  Falls is number one for a reason, including an early season win over Aquinas, a team viewed by many as the top team in all of Section V, who handed the Marauders an 81-58 loss.

  It's very rare that we get a nonleague matchup between large schools ranked in the top four of WNY, this close to the postseason.   What an outstanding way to send off the regular season and gear up for the exciting weeks ahead!

 

-centercourt

 

Random Smatterings - Week 8

Tuesday night, Williamsville East was at the free throw line in its game against the Billies.  A Williamsville South cheerleader began performing a series of back flips on the opposite end and made it all the way to half court.  The Flames' Trenton Miller, who was facing the free throw situation on the middle of the court at the center line, realized she was coming at him a second before she would have taken him out, and moved.  Definitely one of the crazier things I've seen this season.

 

It was upset Thursday in the Yale Cup yesterday, as three ranked schools fell to unranked league opponents, with two of the games having a major impact on the league race.  Ninth ranked large school Bennett was beaten by Riverside, sixth ranked large school East lost at Hutch Tech, and sixth ranked small school OTC Middle College fell to City Honors.  The league implications are that East falls back into a tie with McKinley in Division I, while I-Prep at Grover can now clinch the Division II title with a win at MST Seneca on Tuesday.

 

On Thursday night, JFK held Eden to four points in the second half, while scoring 44.

 

Wilson's quest for its first ever Section VI title will be even more difficult moving forward.  The team just learned yesterday that they will be without the services of senior Tyler Truesdell for the remainder of the season.  Truesdell will have knee surgery this month.  He started at forward for Wilson this season and has been a major part of the team's success this year.

 

Lakemen senior Brennan Moxham surpassed 1,ooo points for his career in a 24-point performance in the Lakemen's win over CSAT.  He is just the third player in school history to achieve that honor.

 

Moxham also became the school's all-time leader in 3-pointers made, surpassing the previous mark of 120 held by former teammate and current Medaille College player Ethan Baker.  Moxham now has 122 and only needs 197 more to overtake Williamsville South's Joe Licata as the all-time leader in WNY.

 

Maryvale's Blair Estarfaa scored 28 points in a win over Lake Shore on Friday to surpass 1,000 points in his career.

 

Niagara Falls (NFL), Dunkirk (CCAA I), Williamsville South (ECIC II), I-Prep at Grover (Yale Cup II), and St. Joe's (MMAA) are the only teams that remain unbeaten in league play as the teams prepare to enter the final week of the regular season.

 

Holland junior Jordan Farrant is already just 28 points shy of 1,ooo in his career after a stat-stuffing performance on Tuesday in a win over East Aurora.  Farrant finished with a triple-double that included 20 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists, six steals, and four blocks.

 

After three quarters on Tuesday, Dunkirk lead Gowanda 74-17.

 

After blowing a five-point lead in the final seconds of its loss at McKinley, Riverside overcame a six-point deficit with 1:37 remaining against Bennett to win the game.

 

And now for the Riverside @ McKinley portion of Random Smatterings:

After one of his players was whistled for a foul, McKinley coach Zaire Dorsey said to the scoreboard operator, who is also the high school PE teacher, "this week in class, can you teach him how to run up from behind and not bump into someone".

 

When Riverside's Deon Artis attempted to follow a miss with a dunk, the break-away rim was  left bent down, but no one on the court noticed.  The action quickly went the other way, but then the Frontiers' Willie Jefferson came back on a break and missed a lay-up because of the rim being bent. 

 

Riverside coach Ron Killinger raced onto the court from the opposite end to plead for the points after the bent rim incident.  As he came back towards his bench, he was limping badly and the trainer ran over to see what he had done.  "Oh, I pulled my hamstring last week, I'm alright", Killinger said.

 

Justice Feggans stole an inbounds pass and scored...on the wrong basket.  Referee Steve Allen ran to the scorer's table and said "Count the basket and give the points to (he turned around to see who was closest) number five".  That was two points in a game that went to overtime. 

 

When the McKinley concession stand finished up before the game ended, the remaining pizza was brought to the scorer's table.  Steve Allen told everyone at the table, "I don't want you eating pizza right now, this (the game) is too important".

 

-centercourt

Top games of the week ending 2/13/11

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

 

Monday, February 7th

Bennett @ East - 5:30 pm

Jamestown @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

 

Tuesday, February 8th

Riverside @ McKinley - 5:30 pm

Starpoint @ Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

Niagara Wheatfield @  Kenmore West - 7 pm

Williamsville East @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, February 10th

Riverside @ Bennett - 5:30 pm

East @ Hutch Tech - 5:30 pm

Bishop Timon-St. Jude @ St. Joe's - 7 pm

Williamsville North @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

Lancaster @ Frontier - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, February 11th

Tonawanda @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Niagara Wheatfield @ Lew-Port - 7 pm

Bishop Timon-St. Jude @ Williamsville South - 7:30 pm

Portville @ Cassadaga Valley - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Maryvale - 7:30 pm

 

Saturday, February 12th

Canisius @ Bishop Kearney - 3 pm

Williamsville North @ Jamestown - 6:30 pm

 

Game of the Week -   Tonawanda @ Lackawanna on February 11th

- The first place Warriors of ECIC IV can clinch their first division title since 1963 with a win on Friday night.  Led by scoring machine Jesse Lalka, inside/outside threat Clayton Hess, and floor general Steve Stich, the Warriors are a top ten small school that is now regularly mentioned among the teams to look out for in Class B1.  Tonawanda's only league loss of the season came at the hands of Lackawanna earlier this season, 46-35.  The suddenly resurgent Steelers scored a big win against JFK last week, before making a huge statement in an upset win at Batavia.  The talent at Lackawanna has never been a question, but keeping that talent on the court has certainly been a problem.  After walking out on his team at halftime of the MLK Classic three weeks ago, 2010 All-WNY honorable mention guard Dondre Alexander is back in the lineup again and leading his team to victories.  Alexander, along with teammate Maurice Cheatom, make the Steelers a dangerous team when they are both eligible, which they were when Lackawanna won the first meeting with the Warriors.

 

-centercourt

 

 

 

Top games of the week ending 2/6/11

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

 

Monday, January 31st

East @ Riverside - 5:30 pm

Hutch Tech @ McKinley - 5:30 pm

 

Tuesday, February 1st

Hutch Tech @ Riverside - 5:30 pm

JFK @ Lackawanna - 7 pm

Amherst @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Portville @ Randolph - 7:30 pm

Silver Creek @ Salamanca - 7:30 pm

Southwestern @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm

Orchard Park @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, February 2nd

St. Mary's @ Bishop Timon-St. Jude - 7:30 pm

 

 

Thursday, February 3rd

McKinley @ East - 5:30 pm

Hutch Tech @ Bennett - 5:30 pm

 

Friday, February 4th

JFK @ Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

Jamestown @ Lancaster - 7:30 pm

Williamsville East @ Sweet Home - 7:30 pm

Canisius @ Bishop Timon-St. Jude - 7:30 pm

Cheektowaga @ Amherst - 7:30 pm

Panama @ Sherman - 7:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - East @ Riverside on Monday, January 31st

- This one will impact both the seedings in Class A2 and the league race in Division I of the Yale Cup.  With the emergence of Bennett as a contender, every game is that much more critical in the city's large school league.   The Panthers are tied with McKinley for first place in league and need a win to maintain that standing for the rematch with the Macks on Thursday.  After a losing a pair of games two weeks ago and falling out of the Buffalo News large school poll because of it, Riverside needs this win to avoid falling into third place in the Yale Cup Division I.  The Panthers and Frontiers both feel they're primed for a run.  The two schools are evenly matched, like to push the tempo, and have played some thrillers in the past. 

 

-centercourt

 

Top games of the week ending 1/23/11

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

 

Tuesday, January 18th

Kenmore East @ Kenmore West - 5:30 pm

Depew @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Salamanca @ Portville - 7:30 pm

Jamestown @ Clarence - 7:30 pm

 

Wednesday, January 19th

Hutch Tech @ East - 5:30 pm

Olean @ Southwestern - 7:30 pm

 

Thursday, January 20th

Kenmore West @ Lockport - 6:30 pm

BishopTimon-St. Jude @ Batavia - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 21st

JFK @ Cleveland Hill - 6:30 pm

Jamestown @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

Maryvale @ Depew - 7:30 pm

Olean @ Dunkirk - 7:30 pm

Clymer @ Panama - 7:30 pm

Cassadaga Valley @ Salamanca - 7:30 pm

 

Game of the Week - Clymer @ Panama on Friday, January 21st

- This is the game of the year in CCAA IV and the biggest game in Class D until sectionals begin.   The winner of this game moves into sole possesion of first place in league and will likely be the top seed in the playoffs.  In the first meeting between these two teams, Clymer owned the middle quaters, outscoring the Panthers by a combined 18 points in the second and third.  Then the Pirates withstood a late rally from Panama and hung on to earn a 71-67 victory.  I know most readers would have picked Jamestown at Williamsville North, and that's the game I'll be at, but the implications of the small school game in the southern tier got them the nod this week.  

 

-centercourt

Top games of the week ending 1/9/11

Whether it's a rivalry game, a contest between a pair of top teams, or a key league matchup, each week has several games to get excited about.  As a new weekly feature, I'll list what I think are the top games that you should consider checking out, or at least look for the box score when it's over.

 

Tuesday, January 4th

Wilson @ Newfane - 7 pm

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

Clarence @ Frontier - 7:30 pm

Amherst @ Cheektowaga - 6:30 pm

Tonawanda @ JFK - 7 pm

 

Wednesday, January 5th

Riverside @ Lafayette - 5:30 pm

Randolph @ Portville - 7:30 pm

 

Friday, January 7th

Riverside @ Hutch Tech - 5:30 pm

Jamestown @ Orchard Park - 7:30 pm

Clarence @ Williamsville North - 7:30 pm

West Seneca East @ Williamsville East - 7:30 pm

Lackawanna @ Tonawanda - 6:30 pm

 

Game of the week - Wilson @ Newfane on Tuesday, January 4th

- A pair of small schools ranked in the top five in WNY that just happen to be bitter league rivals.  This is the first time in the history of this rivalry that both schools were ranked this high prior to the game.  The winner of this game gains the early edge in the quest for the Niagara-Orleans league title.  Not too many high school basketball games sell out, but when these two team meet, that's usually what happens.  Three years ago, Keith McShea made the trip up north from Buffalo and said it was worth the trip. 

 

-centercourt

 

 

Classifications & Leagues

    Class AA                                                                         Class A1

    Niagara Falls - NFL                                                       Hamburg - ECIC II

    Lancaster - ECIC I                                                         Sweet Home - ECIC II

    Lockport - NFL                                                               Williamsville East - ECIC II

    Frontier - ECIC I                                                            Kenmore East - NFL

    Clarence - ECIC I                                                           Hutch-Tech - Yale Cup I

    Orchard Park - ECIC I                                                 Bennett - Yale Cup I

    Jamestown - ECIC I                                                      Grand Island - NFL

    Kenmore West - NFL                                                   Williamsville South - ECIC II

    Williamsville North - ECIC I                                     Lafayette - Yale Cup I

    West Seneca West - ECIC I                                        Iroquois - ECIC II

    North Tonawanda - NFL                                             West Seneca East - ECIC II

    Niagara Wheatfield - NFL                                           Starpoint - ECIC II

    McKinley - Yale Cup I                                                   Lake Shore - ECIC III

 

    Class A2                                                                          Class B1

    Amherst - ECIC III                                                        Tonawanda - ECIC IV

    Riverside - Yale Cup I                                                   Lackawanna - ECIC IV

    Buffalo East - Yale Cup I                                              Newfane - N-O

     Albion - N-O                                                                     Dunkirk - CCAA I

    Lew-Port - NFL                                                                 Alden - ECIC IV

    Cheektowaga - ECIC III                                               Medina - N-O

    Pioneer - ECIC III                                                          Eden - ECIC IV

    Maryvale - ECIC III                                                       JFK - ECIC IV

    Burgard - Yale Cup I                                                      Buffalo Arts - Yale Cup II

    South Park - Yale Cup I                                                Akron - N-O

    Olean - CCAA I                                                                 Roy-Hart - N-O

    East Aurora - ECIC III

    Springville - ECIC III

    Depew - ECIC III

 

    Class B2                                                                      Monsignor Martin

    Fredonia - CCAA I                                                         Canisius - A

    Cleveland Hill - ECIC IV                                             St. Joe's - A

    Emerson - Yale Cup II                                                 Bishop Timon-St. Jude - A

    City Honors - Yale Cup II                                          St. Francis - A

    Southwestern - CCAA I                                               St. Mary's - B

    Wilson - N-O                                                                    Cardinal O'Hara - B

    Gowanda - CCAA I                                                         Nichols - B

    Falconer - CCAA I                                                          Niagara Catholic - B

    Allegany-Limestone - CCAA I                                  Archbishop Walsh - B

    CSAT - N-O

    Cassadaga Valley - CCAA II

 

    Class C                                                                             Class D

    Salamanca - CCAA II                                                   Pine Valley - CCAA III

    Oracle Charter - Independent                                  Brocton - CCAA III

    OTC Middle College - Yale Cup II                          North Collins - CCAA III

    Maritime Charter - Independent                            Ellicottville - CCAA IV

    Holland - ECIC IV                                                         Forestville - CCAA IV

    I-Prep at Grover - Yale Cup II                                 Panama - CCAA IV

    Silver Creek - CCAA II                                                Olmsted - Yale Cup II

    Cattaraugus-Little Valley - CCAA II                      Sherman - CCAA IV

    Tapestry Charter - Independent                             Clymer - CCAA IV

    Randolph - CCAA II                                                      West Valley - CCAA IV

    Frewsburg - CCAA II                                                     Ripley - CCAA IV

    Portville - CCAA II

    Westfield - CCAA III

    Buffalo Science Charter - Independent

    Maple Grove - CCAA III

    MST Prep at  Seneca - Yale Cup II

    Chautauqua Lake - CCAA III

    Franklinville - CCAA III

    Barker - N-O

Random Smatterings - Week 1

When I wrote a preview for Prep Talk, I gave a preseason top ten for the large and small schools.  The hardest part was easily the first four large schools, which I had: 1. St. Joe's; 2. Williamsville South; 3. Jamestown; 4. Canisius.  Then I saw the Crusaders play twice.  Now I'm not changing anything yet, because I haven't seen the other three, and I'm confident they will all be quite impressive as well.  But I do think those four schools are bunched together at the top and it will be a lot of fun watching that sort out.  Oh yeah, then there's Niagara Falls, who might be quietly hiding in the shadows of a team that underachieved a year ago.  If they are (I'm guessing that's the case), make it a top five.

 

After seeing multiple city schools from Buffalo this week, I think the Yale Cup large schools will be a lot of fun to watch this year and very competitive.  East and McKinley both won at the Pastor-Cooper Tournament, while Riverside and Hutch Tech each looked good as well.   Bennett brings back a lot from last year and under the new format, every team plays a home-and-home, meaning Lafayette gets everyone once in its gym - never an easy place to win at.

 

St. Mary's hopes to rebound this week after losses to McKinley and Grover.  The Lancers next face a pair of top ten small schools and the elite of the N-O League, when they host Newfane tomorrow and play against Wilson on Saturday.  Then next week, they get Class AA finalist Clarence.  No other small school opened its season with a tougher schedule.

 

I was chatting with a fellow hoops junkie who questioned what Maple Grove had back to make them competitive.  When I began rattling names off, he said "now you're just reading names from their roster".  Now I realize that Chris Secky was nothing short of phenomonal in leading the Red Dragons to the Class D title last season, but I also saw them play seven times and there are a lot of good players back from that championship team.  They all benefitted from playing a grueling independent regular season schedule and finished by defeating the top Class D teams in the state. 

Well I'm not sure how many noticed, but Maple Grove opened its season by going on the road and defeating the defending four-time overall Class B champion Olean Huskies, 50-43.   Go ahead and tell me Olean is down this year...my response...Olean is Olean and they are a Class A2 school.

 

Tremmell Fisher was awesome in his 34 point effort against OTC Middle College, leading his East High Panthers back from a 10-point halftime deficit.  He plays strong inside, handles the ball well, shoots the three, and is very good defender.  Look for a big-time season from Fisher.

 

Davon Alexander gets most of the hype at OTC Middle College and he was very effective in the Kats first two games.  But OTC has several weapons on the team hoping to repeat as Class C champs.  Junior Khalid Brown has averaged 17 points in the first two games, Emmit Middlebrooks came off the bench to score a team-high 20 points in the loss to East, and Curtis Harper is solid player running the point.

 

Looking for this year's version of Clarence, a team that surprises many with its vast improvement?  Well it just may be the Williamsville East Flames, who interestingly enough started the season with a double-digit win over Clarence and won the Amherst tournament. 

 

Tomorrow the Buffalo News high school basketball preview is out.  Check out these team previews from the Niagara Gazette: Niagara Falls, Grand Island, Lew-Port, Niagara Wheatfield, Lockport, and Niagara  Catholic.

 

A player who is primed for a breakout season is Connor Rehbaum from St. Joe's.  He has all the tools to be one of the top guards in WNY and is coming off a solid performance in the Empire State Games this summer.  I heard that new Marauder Reggie Agbeko turned heads with a nasty baseline dunk on Friday night, as St. Joe's beat host Lockport, 60-43. 

 

The Barker Raiders got a pair of double-doubles from a pair of underclassmen in their 67-44 victory over Section V's Byron Bergen.  What makes it more interesting is that the pair are brothers.  Junior Josh Haight scored 28 points and grabbed 10 boards, while freshman Jake Haight netted 18 points and 13 rebounds. 

 

Kenmore East defeated Alden and host Iroquois to win the Greg D. Martin Tipoff Tournament.

 

Lackawanna opened its season with a one-point victory over St. Francis, while Frontier cruised past Hamburg in the first round of the Hamburg Lions Tournament. 

Starpoint lost a hard fought battle at Lew-Port on Saturday night.  The Spartans started freashnman Julian Mott at point guard after the former starter, senior Lucas Smith, left the team.

 

I found this pretty interesting: Section V's CG Finney is back is Class D after playing up in B2 last year.  On Saturday night, Finney defeated McQuaid, a Class AA school, 63-58.  McQuaid will be in Buffalo on December 17th to play Canisius and December 18th to play St. Mary's as part of the Tom Keenan Memorial Tournament.  Finney opened its season by winning the Allegany IAABO Tournament.  In the championship game, Finney beat Portville (Section VI Class C) by five - the same margin as the win over McQuaid.  Portville held an early 10-point lead in that contest.

 

Hinsdale has joined Section V and will compete in Class D2 there.

 

* Tomorrow night, I'll be at St. Mary's to watch the Lancers take on the Newfane Panthers.  It should be a very good game.  If you can't make it out, I'll have a post on the game.

 

By the way, there's a comments section on this blog.  Pick a name, use an email address, and say something.  It's that easy - no registration required.  

 

-centercourt

Game on...game off...game on

The Pastor-Cooper Memorial Tournament has postponed tonight's games as well and rescheduled the consolation and championship rounds for this weekend at Daemen College as follows:

 

Saturday, December 4, 2010

St. Mary's vs. Grover - 10:30 am

Nichols vs. Hutch Tech - 2:00 pm AT Hutch Tech

 

Sunday, December 5, 2010

McKinley vs. Orchard Park - 1:30 pm

East vs. OTC Middle College - 3:00 pm

 

The Wilson Tipoff Tournament will be played tonight

Riverside vs. Wilson - 6:30 pm

Canisius vs. Brunswick, OH - 8:00 pm

 

The Amherst Tipoff Tournament will be played tonight

Clarence vs. Williamsville East - 6:00 pm

Grand Island at Amherst - 7:30 pm

 

The Lockport Rotary Tournament has been cancelled.  However, Lockport will host St. Joe's tonight at 7 pm.

 

Lafayette vs. Starpoint at Lew-Port as part of the James Walker Tournament has been postponed.

 

Round two of the Lancaster Tipoff Tournament has been postponed.

 

 -centercourt

Tonight's games at Daemen postponed, other postponements, two games still on

Tonight's consolation matchups at Daemen College have been postponed due to weather cancelling school for all four teams.  It is a strong possibility that the same thing could happen tomorrow night.

 

As of right now, a decision on a makeup date and time has not been made, but tournament officials and coaches are looking into options for making games up on Saturday. 

 

UPDATE - A tentative plan is in place for making up the boys consolation games.  The games are currently rescheduled for Saturday morning, begining at 9:30 am.   However, that plan is contingent on the Buffalo Public Schools being plowed out and back in class tomorrow.  If the Buffalo Schools are closed again tomorrow, the championship games would also be postponed...which could wind up changing everything.

 

FINAL UPDATE 12/3/10 

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

The Greg D. Martin Tipoff Tournament at Iroquois (Alden, Kenmore East, East Aurora, Iroquois) has been postponed.

 

The Town of Hamburg Lions Tipoff tournament at Frontier (St. Francis, Lackawanna, Hamburg, Frontier) has been postponed.

 

The James Walker Tournament at Lew-Port (Lafayette, Starpoint, Lew-Port) has postponed the first game between Lafayette and Lew-Port.  ** This is a round robin tournament format with only three teams.  Friday's game between Lafayette and Starpoint will be contingent on whether the Buffalo Public Schools are in session.  Saturday night's contest between Starpoint and Lew-Port will take place @ 7 pm.

 

Cheektowaga @ Emerson has been postponed.

 

Clymer @ Pine Valley and Falconer @ Cassadaga Valley are both still being played this evening at 7:30 pm.

 

-centercourt

Day two - Cooper Division: OTC wins late; East routs Nichols

They might not be the same Kats team that obliterated the competition in Class C a season ago, but this year's version of OTC Middle College showed tonight that they will be right back in the mix again this year.

 

Junior Khalid Brown scored 10 straight points for the Kats in the fourth quarter, including back-to-back 3-pointers, to put OTC up for good aginst Hutch Tech.  The Engineers never lead over the final eight minutes, but evened the score up three times before Brown's scoring outburst.  During the final seconds, Hutch Tech missed a go-ahead '3'.   Brown finished with a team-high 17 points for the Kats, while Marcus Nelson had a game-high 25 points for Hutch Tech.

 

Curtis Harper did a nice job running the point, Desmond Lamar was money shooting treys from the corner, and Cordell Torres showed a good all around game for the defending state champion Kats.

 

With 6:34 remaining in the second quarter, Davon Alexander took his warm-ups off and entered the game for the first time, with OTC MiddleCollege trailing Hutch Tech, 18-13.  By halftime, the Kats held a 33-29 advantage.

 

Final Score: OTC Middle College 67, Hutch Tech 63

 

In the second game of the Cooper Division, East had no trouble with Nichols.  The Panthers pressured the Vikings into countless turnovers right out of the gate and lead 32-8 after the first quarter and 53-14 by halftime.  Andre Jackson of East led all scorers with 25 points.

 

Final Score: East 77, Nichols 30

 

* The matchups are all set for Thursday and Friday, and are as follows:

 

Thursday Consolation Games

Pastor Division - St. Mary's vs. Grover Cleveland 6:45 pm

Cooper Division - Hutch Tech vs. Nichols 8:15 pm

 

Friday Championship Games

Pastor Division - Orchard Park vs. McKinley 6:45 pm

Cooper Division - East vs. OTC Middle College 8:15

 

 

 

 

-centercourt

Pastor-Cooper Memorial Tournament, day one - Pastor Division

When I first saw the Pastor division of the Pastor -Cooper memorial tournament, I was immediately looking forward to a second round matchup between the top two small schools in my preseason poll, Grover Cleveland and St. Mary's.  Well, I'll get to see the game I wanted, in the second round, but not on the day I was anticipating.

 

After a 66-51 victory for McKinley over St. Mary's and Grover falling to Orchard Park by a score of 57-52, the top two small schools will meet on Thursday night around 8:15 pm, in the consolation game.  One of them will open its season with a mark of 0-2.

 

Early on, the Lancers looked good in transition and ran well with the fast-paced Macks.  Peter Notaro in particular, stood out because the big guy was finishing on the break.  But as the game wore on, McKinley settled in after some early erratic shooting and started hitting shots against the zone defense of St. Mary's.   Offensively, the Lancers ball movement needs to be faster in half court sets.

 

 Antonio Avery should have a very nice season for the Macks.  He plays aggressive defense, showed he can hit from outside, and can get up and throw it down (although the rim got the better of him early on).  John Black was also impressive for McKinley, playing strong inside and away from the basket.  The Macks should fair very well in both the Yale Cup and Class AA.

 

Orchard Park played good team basketball, looked patient on offense and were very consistent on the defensive end.  Matt McCormick had a nice game for the Quakers and Kyle Witkowski showed a nice touch from outside, knocking down several from beyond the arc.

 

OP head coach Bob Rumschik came in with a solid game plan and definitely had his team ready to play.  During the game, Roger Weiss of Inside High School Sports, said of Rumschik "if he's not the best coach in the area, he's the finest". 

 

It's hard to put my finger on exactly what was wrong with Grover, but generally speaking, they have to play a lot better than they did last night and want to play defense every trip down the court.  Maybe the losses of Ricky Alejandro and Jahnel Tobias from last years team will hurt them more than expected.  The Presidents aren't lacking for talent and Holland is capable of taking over games. 

 

Grover is sporting new jerseys with new colors and a new name.  I don't like them.  Grover is Grover and Grover is green.  But instead, now they're blue and called I-Prep at Grover.  Then you see Earl Schunk watching the game, sporting the green team color of his new team, Tapestry Charter.  It's all so confusing.

 

I'm excited about the first game tonight, with Hutch Tech taking on OTC Middle College.  I'm curious to see what is left of the defending Federation champs, Nichols in the second game.  Since I'm 0-2 on picks this year, don't put much stock in these picks:

Hutch Tech over OTC Middle College and East over Nichols

 

See you back at Daemen tonight.

 

-centercourt