Did you know its much more difficult to come up with the best 20 girls in the area. I had to look high and low to find them and finally I would say that everyone of these girls deserves to be on the list. Did I leave a few out maybe ? Why yes I probably did, but I promise it was not on purpose. I just didn't find them this time. But let me know of anyone who is deserving and I will be glad to research them.
So here we go with the top 20 girls players in the area.
20)Carey Woodcock- Stratford deserves three girls on the team because they are 20-2 and this young lady has the capability of stepping out and hitting a three or banging inside against the other teams best post player. Plus she has been playing basketball for Stratford for about 13 years so I am not sure what Ed Smith will do without her.
19)Jada Brown- She is Rutland's second leading scorer with 11 points a game and also gets 6 rebounds a game. Rutland is a playoff team once again so they deserve two girls in the top 20.
18)Jakaria Moore- Southwest can be overlooked because they don't have anyone that scores in double figures, but Moore is the closest thing they have to a consistent scorer. She has been really good lately, hitting 11-of-21 three's over the last three games. And yes the Patriots will make the playoffs.
17)I'Uana Slaughter- This girl can have amazing games and then some not so amazing games. Lately things have been pretty good and the sister of Ivy Slaughter, a FSU standout is playing her best basketball of the year. Tattnall has had success late in the season and will be the number two team in the sub-region so if Slaughter can continue her good play, the Trojans will make some noise.
16)Deja Holland- Peach County is 17-7 and Deja has had a strong year with 14.3 points per game and 38 3-pointers.
15)Chandler Shepherd- Veterans just wins games even though they lose players and Shepherd is having a solid season for coach Nikki Miranda. The Warhawks are poised for another playoff run and Shepherd is a big part of it, averaging 11 points per game and 8 rebounds.
14)Jenya Wilder- One of Central's big three, the senior is having another solid year and Central is having a special year and should be expected to make a deep playoff run.
13)Allie Gordon- She scores inside like she is 6'0 tall when she is really 5'8 and she is the perfect fit for a Tattnall team that needs some consistency to it. She never leaves the floor in a game and Tattnall will ride her as long as they are still playing.
12)Danasia Shaw- One of those Peach County girls who have made it a solid season. She aveages 14.6 points per game.
11)Mary Elaine Mitchell- Stratford has two poisons to deal with every game. If you try to stop one of them you have to take the other poison and many games Mitchell is that poison. She shoots the three like its comfortable and gets to the rim like she has done it all her life. She is only a sophomore and probably deserves to be ranked higher.
10)BreAsia Davis- Rutland's leader averages over 13 points a game.
9)Stacie Jones- She is a sophomore and averages a double double for Veterans. Do I need to say more ?
8)Tamia Sapp- Northside has a very good basketball team this year and Sapp is a big part of that . She leads the team in scoring at 14 points per game and also grabs 8 rebounds per game.
7)Brittany Reeves- We don't hear much about this young lady because Howard is struggling to win games. But this senior is also averaging a double double and has already signed with West Florida.
6)Niaira Dawson- She leads Westside in scoring with 16 points per game and Westside is still alive for a playoff berth mainly because of her.
5)Nadia Reese- This Stratford sophomore is coming into her own as the second piece of poison in the Eagles backcourt. She schooled Tattnall last Friday with 23 points and then scored 30 against Wilkinson County on Tuesday. Teams may have one stopper but not many have two, and one wont stop Reese and Mitchell.
4)Tyleia Williams- Part two of Central triple threat seniors, Williams scores rebounds handles the ball and does a little bit of everything for the Chargers. Shelia Toombs has done a great job with her three main seniors.
3)Asjah Harrell- This girl can play and over her last three games she is scoring at a 25 point per game clip, hitting 11-of-15 threes over that span. That has lifted her average for the year to 17 points per game.
2)Jada Clowers- Central has a legitimate post player who is a savior on defense because she has a knack for blocking shots. She also has a knack for rebounding and while I didn't think she could really score, that part of her game has improved greatly this year. She seems to love the game this year and I was impressed that she stayed for a boys game a few Saturdays ago to watch them play Northeast. A player becomes a student of the game by watching and Jada watched and cheered. I don't know, there is something about that that I just like because I see so many girls players leaving after their game.
1) Shynia Jackson- The WRHS stud has played second fiddle at times with all the seniors she played with last year but it has been all on her this year. She seems to be rounding into form at the right time and this ETSU signee will help her team make a deep playoff run.
Now ask me what would happen if Stratford played Warner Robins? Well Warner Robins would win. Central would also beat Stratford, but I am not sure anyone else around here does. Maybe Veterans does but really that is how far Stratford has come this year.
Luckily or unluckily they don't have to worry about each other heading into the playoffs.
More tomorrow so tell your friends about THE place to find info on area high school basketball
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
hearing from a friend the one and only Luke Hetirck
It’s the greatest job in the world, if you let it.
The rush consuming ever cell in your body when the light turns red can be your greatest power, if you allow it.
It’s the easiest job there is, if you do it right.
To put it in the simplest of terms, going on TV and talking sports is every fanatic’s fantasy at some point. Sounds great but beware the sacrifices; low pay, exhausting hours, starting your career in the middle of nowhere.
Those issues pale in comparison to the biggest issue there is. An opponent so unlikely and daunting the challenge of outlasting it can drive people straight out of the business for good.
A power that is greater than Superman’s kryptonite with burns that heals worse than one’s on Freddy Kruger’s face.
That opponent is you. Not your boss, your coworkers, the competition. Just you.
But here’s the beauty of everything, if you can defeat “you” everything I promised in the first couple of paragraphs become true.
Still not sold? Follow me on this one.
We’ve seen the bright lights on the SportsCenter set. The ones illuminating the work of our favorite sports anchors (my allegiance to Scott Van Pelt), and we feel that same power from the first run-through on your campus newscast.
Mine was SportsBuzz at Sacred Heart University, and that show sucked you know what. It wasn’t anyone’s fault; we were like Average Joes without Peter. Misfits if you will. (I was Steve the Pirate)
But the craziest thing happened after that first show. It’s what’s called a critique (duck for cover). It’s a time where you take turns sinking lower in your chair and the thought of stabbing yourself in the eye with a pencil crosses your mind a handful of times. Why? Because your professors, professionals, and classmates rip your work to shreds.
Your catchy Drake lyric on a highlight read was tossed aside while your pacing, posture, appearance, and personality are violated like the shadow monster did to Will Byers in Stranger Things. It’s three hours of “no”, “never do this again”, and “what the f#$% were you thinking?”
By the way, this doesn’t stop. A highly-regarded mentor of mine just torched me so bad, for 10-minutes after our conversation I almost threw in the towel.
Are you ready for the light at the end of the tunnel? Yes? Okay here it goes.
This will be the best thing that happens to you, if you let it. Can you take the critique or will you fold? Is it someone else’s fault or will you learn from your mistake?
We all say we want to get better, but at what cost? No one likes getting scolded especially in this day in age. Kid get used to it because tough love runs this business, especially in sports.
That’s round one. Embrace the criticism and learn from your mistakes.
Round two is something different. The stakes are raised and this is where you separate from the pack.
You’re willing to do whatever is necessary. Get better. Talk not read. Write tighter. Shoot better video. Put together that reel and apply to every job you can think of.
Here’s where “you” lands a jab-cross combo from hell. Almost every professional or mentor will give you a different piece of advice, most contradicting what the other has said.
It’s the subjectivity that can drive a man insane. Who should I listen to? What should I do?
“You” is toying with your head. Sinking doubt deeper and deeper into your mind while confusion sets in and you don’t know whether or not you’re ready for the evening news or a 3x5 solitary cell at the state asylum.
Kid, wrap your knuckles and fight back. Trust yourself and the wisdom of the mentors you trust most. Listen to what everyone has to say but you determine what’s most important.
Because guess what, it only takes one. There will be one person willing to give you a shot. One person who likes your stuff and wants you to join their team.
For me that was WGXA, the #2 station in the Macon market which ranks in the 120’s out of 212 media markets across the nation. Not a bad place to start.
(To any aspiring sports anchor, Macon is an awesome market. Great high school athletics, awesome local college scene, rich sports history, plus UGA-Tech-Masters and ATL sports. Trust me there are worse places.)
So like all my mentors stressed before, I finally got “my foot in the door.”
And now we’re in round three. The two best and worst years of your life.
Small market television can be a lot like a college party. Your first few you’re rocking your best kicks and going all in until the cows come home. By the homestretch you feel like throwing on sweats and a vintage NBA jersey while drinking straight from your fifth of fireball.
Basically what I’m trying to say is it can get old pretty quick, if “you” let it. Racing around hitting lifeless softball games and dueling wing-t high school football games might put you too sleep. You’ll mess up a name in the teleprompter on more than one occasion, mess up a catchy line, get scolded by your news director for forgetting to read an email, and I PROMISE your live shot will die.
I’m not done. You’ll work with people you aren’t fond of and be told on more than one occasion, you aren’t good enough to move up.
Round four is here. What are you going to do? Are you going to be drug down by the mundane and negativity that you give up for good? There’s nothing wrong with tapping out at this point. You’re going to deal with some crap and for a lot of really good and talented people, it’s best for them to pursue something else.
I have know plenty of people who switched to a different aspect of news or have gotten out of the business for good and it was the right decision for them. Not because they didn’t have it, but they knew they could be happier doing something else.
So that brings us back to the young sports anchor. Ready to make some lemonade?
It’s sports. You get to film, write, talk, debate, laugh, love, read, and deliver sports every night. How is that not the best job in the world?
Do you know how many people are sitting at a bar right now wishing they were you? Do you know how many people bribe you for credentials? Dude you’re getting paid to do this.
Compartmentalize the bull. It won’t go away and sometimes it will get ugly. Be strong in your stance but be willing to admit our mistakes.
Back to the good stuff. Every night you’re talking football, hoops, hockey baseball, soccer, track, and even the weird sports no one thinks about. We’re seeing lives change on signing day, athletes make once in a lifetime plays, and fans that sometimes tip toe the line of “oh my god that’s hilarious” and “dear lord you need Jesus in your heart.”
You get to tell the story off the field. The inspirational anecdote that lifts all of us up.
If you’re like me, you can’t get enough of this stuff. You’ll care about it so much you’ll want to get better. And trust me, that taste of humble pie you were served in grad school won’t taste as bad this time around.
If you work hard enough, smart enough, act professional, let your personality shine, and love what you’ll do, you’ll get the reward.
I got my reward, twice actually. Two job offers in larger markets that were great opportunities for some, but not right for me.
That’s why I write this today not out of bitter but out of inspiration. My next step will come. Why? Because all it takes is one. Like that cheesy line in Little Giants, “one time.”
It’s going to come. For that kid out there reading this. Don’t be scared and don’t cry for me. I’ll be okay. Every now and then “you” comes back for a sparing match, and sometimes I’ll need a hand (thanks Karli and my family for the help).
At the end of the day I believe in myself. I’m still standing. I’m not going anywhere. I tip my cap to the Wes Blankenships and Patrick Welters of the world, storytellers who don’t realize the impact they’ve had on my career. I tip my cap to the thousands of people who have offered me feedback on clips, reels and stories (I’ve fixated on your words). I tip my cap to the sports anchor in market whatever grinding just like me.
I know what you’re going through. Keep your chin up bro.
My final word to anyone in this business or thinking of getting into sports media is this; Believe in yourself when others won’t and always look for ways to get better. At the end of the day it is sports. Don’t overthink it.
P.S. I’m available for hire.
Monday, January 29, 2018
top players
I just know straight up that it is time to pick up my game and the fact of the matter is that there does not seem to be any end in sight when it comes to that fact
High school sports coverage is at an all time low in this area and the market is wide open to do more, and right now that is my goal.
I will attempt to get a story out almost every day but to do this I will need ideas from the people who read it. I have thought about making it a much better blog with different folks writing on it and that is a definite possibility in the near future. You all can help me by telling me what you want to read.
Feel free to text me anytime and I will put that number on the bottom of the page. If you want to help send me a message.
My focus today will be the top 20 boys players in this area. Now doing that is very difficult because we have a lot of talent in this area. But I feel like some just stand out a little more than others. These guys don't always play for the best team, but they still find a way to excel.
My top 20 would have to go like this.
22) Yes I know, I said 20 but in the end I couldn't decide who to leave off so I stretched it to 22. I am going to go with a big man who puts rebounding numbers up most games and scoring numbers up sometimes. I saw him go for 30 against Wilkinson County, but I have also seen him not score in double figures several times. But the Stratford Eagles are nothing without Nathan Hunt.
21)One of three Northeast Raiders on the list, Cameron Cherry is a 3 point shooter who can get hot and lead his team to a win. Northeast will need that as they are in a fight for a playoff spot right now despite a 15-9 record this year.
20) I have seen Tattnall play a lot this year and I don't think I could complete this list without having Lance Franklin on it. He has really been the only consistent player for Tattnall and that is why the Trojans are desperate for wins to make the top 24 in GHSA class A. Franklin is fairly streaky but when he is at hos best he is one of the better point guards in the area.
19)Rutland is also in the mix for a playoff spot and they would not be anywhere near this without Jordan Stephens, who is averaging 13 points a game.
18)Central has responded well this year despite new starters all over the place and received a great Christmas gift in the emergence of Tymir Robinson, He has only played in about six games but he has given the Chargers a much needed scoring boost.
17)Stratford is full of very good players obviously because they are winning almost every single game. Christian Palmer, in my opinion is the glue of this team. The junior guard does not have to score to be successful, but he scored 16 first half points to help put Tattnall away early on Friday night. Every team needs one of these kids.
16)As I just stated every team needs one of these guys and most good teams do have one of them, Warner Robins High has Champ Dawson who has those qualities. He can score but does not have to and fills up the other stat lines quite often.
15)Jones County is another team fighting for a playoff spot and that is mainly because of Garrian Wade, who averages 13 points and 8 rebounds a game.
14)Perry High is also having a very solid year and if not for Upson Lee and Mary Persons it would be even better. Jake Smith leads the way with 12 points a game for the 14-7 Panthers.
13)Here comes the third player for Stratford and that would be Jaden Harris, who is only a freshman. Jaden is a little up and down but he is just a kid and has tremendous upside. I like him best when he is working hard and playing defense and not so worried about scoring. Stratford needs him when they get to the playoffs.
12) In my eyes FPD has been a disappointment. I thought they would take a step towards improvement and I thought they would be better than Stratford. That has not happened but they still have time. Maurice Gordon is the man who must lead a late season surge.
11)Northeast also has several weapons in their battle to make the playoffs and Tyree Gilbert is a big part of that . He goes for 14 points a game for the Raiders.
10) Being considered as one of the top 10 players in this area is a big honor and I have compiled this list by studying numbers and talking to coaches. I feel like LaMontis Moore from Rutland deserves to be in the top 10. He scores at almost a 17 point clip every game against a strong schedule and Rutland still has a chance at slipping in the playoffs.
9)Darius Dunn makes Northeast go. He plays almost the entire game, he isn't a great shooter but he is a very good basketball player. He probably weighs 145 pounds but he rebounds and defends as well as anyone around here. I like watching Northeast play and I like watching this kid play.
8)I will admit that I did not know much about this guy until I kept hearing his name on the news . Tre Edge is having a great year and he is a big reason that Mary Persons is currently 21-2. I have to see these guys play before long and that is a must. Tre is averaging 17 points a game and doesn't have to play second fiddle to anyone. He is a first fiddle type of guy.
7)Poor Brice Paster is going to have his season come to an end very soon as Peach County has struggled to a 7-17 record. Paster however has been excellent as he aveages 21 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists per game. Yes ladies and gents the 6-foot-4 Paster is a college basketball player .
6)Ok Ok one more Stratford kid and that is Devon Butts. The guard is explosive and has unlimited range and has that little swag to him. He was so hot the other night against Stratford that he didn't really know what to do with it. I mean the Eagles scored 35 IN THE FIRST QUARTER and I think Devin had 14 of those. He is a very talented kid who will only better.
5)What happens when a team loses its superstar for the year with an injury ? Well if it's Josh Grube and Westside they win the next four games. While it is true that the Seminoles have busted out a few stud freshmen, it is Holloway that is now the glue of this team. After the Central loss on Saturday, Holloway apologized to his team on twitter. I LOVE THAT STUFF and it shows me that this kid GETS IT. Count him as a member of the Koknowsports gets it team.
4)Jacolbey Owens and the Warner Robins Demons are having a 19-3 year and I am sure many of them would tell you that that is not quite good enough. I am sure coach Jamal Garman would tell you that. Owens however is having another nice year and it will only get better down the stretch .He is a total gamer who rises to the occasion in big games. Watch out for the Demons in the playoffs.
3)Kylan Hill is the hard working guy that makes Central go. He has the ability to shoot the three and to bang inside and I think he is the biggest surprise of the year. I seriously do not even remember him last year and the kid is going for 20 and 11 this year. He is physical and he is a leader and I look forward to seeing him in the playoffs and in college. His best years are definitely ahead of him.
2)The number two guy could be number one and he is definitely a kid who will be a star at the next level. Nelson Phillips got to WRHS as a soph on a very good team and by the end of the season he may have been that teams best player. I love to watch him play and he will be a starter next year at Georgia State. You can bet on that.
1) Did you know that we have a player in the Middle Georgia area that goes for 29 points a game ? That's a huge freaking number for any level but Can Holden is dealing for Mary Persons and needs to be recognized on a daily basis. If it were not for Upson Lee, who I don't dare touch, Mary Persons and Cam Holden would be the biggest story around here. To me though its still a big story. Do your thing Cam Holden.
That's it hope you like it and feel freee to text with me approval or hate or whatever you got.
478-394-1155
High school sports coverage is at an all time low in this area and the market is wide open to do more, and right now that is my goal.
I will attempt to get a story out almost every day but to do this I will need ideas from the people who read it. I have thought about making it a much better blog with different folks writing on it and that is a definite possibility in the near future. You all can help me by telling me what you want to read.
Feel free to text me anytime and I will put that number on the bottom of the page. If you want to help send me a message.
My focus today will be the top 20 boys players in this area. Now doing that is very difficult because we have a lot of talent in this area. But I feel like some just stand out a little more than others. These guys don't always play for the best team, but they still find a way to excel.
My top 20 would have to go like this.
22) Yes I know, I said 20 but in the end I couldn't decide who to leave off so I stretched it to 22. I am going to go with a big man who puts rebounding numbers up most games and scoring numbers up sometimes. I saw him go for 30 against Wilkinson County, but I have also seen him not score in double figures several times. But the Stratford Eagles are nothing without Nathan Hunt.
21)One of three Northeast Raiders on the list, Cameron Cherry is a 3 point shooter who can get hot and lead his team to a win. Northeast will need that as they are in a fight for a playoff spot right now despite a 15-9 record this year.
20) I have seen Tattnall play a lot this year and I don't think I could complete this list without having Lance Franklin on it. He has really been the only consistent player for Tattnall and that is why the Trojans are desperate for wins to make the top 24 in GHSA class A. Franklin is fairly streaky but when he is at hos best he is one of the better point guards in the area.
19)Rutland is also in the mix for a playoff spot and they would not be anywhere near this without Jordan Stephens, who is averaging 13 points a game.
18)Central has responded well this year despite new starters all over the place and received a great Christmas gift in the emergence of Tymir Robinson, He has only played in about six games but he has given the Chargers a much needed scoring boost.
17)Stratford is full of very good players obviously because they are winning almost every single game. Christian Palmer, in my opinion is the glue of this team. The junior guard does not have to score to be successful, but he scored 16 first half points to help put Tattnall away early on Friday night. Every team needs one of these kids.
16)As I just stated every team needs one of these guys and most good teams do have one of them, Warner Robins High has Champ Dawson who has those qualities. He can score but does not have to and fills up the other stat lines quite often.
15)Jones County is another team fighting for a playoff spot and that is mainly because of Garrian Wade, who averages 13 points and 8 rebounds a game.
14)Perry High is also having a very solid year and if not for Upson Lee and Mary Persons it would be even better. Jake Smith leads the way with 12 points a game for the 14-7 Panthers.
13)Here comes the third player for Stratford and that would be Jaden Harris, who is only a freshman. Jaden is a little up and down but he is just a kid and has tremendous upside. I like him best when he is working hard and playing defense and not so worried about scoring. Stratford needs him when they get to the playoffs.
12) In my eyes FPD has been a disappointment. I thought they would take a step towards improvement and I thought they would be better than Stratford. That has not happened but they still have time. Maurice Gordon is the man who must lead a late season surge.
11)Northeast also has several weapons in their battle to make the playoffs and Tyree Gilbert is a big part of that . He goes for 14 points a game for the Raiders.
10) Being considered as one of the top 10 players in this area is a big honor and I have compiled this list by studying numbers and talking to coaches. I feel like LaMontis Moore from Rutland deserves to be in the top 10. He scores at almost a 17 point clip every game against a strong schedule and Rutland still has a chance at slipping in the playoffs.
9)Darius Dunn makes Northeast go. He plays almost the entire game, he isn't a great shooter but he is a very good basketball player. He probably weighs 145 pounds but he rebounds and defends as well as anyone around here. I like watching Northeast play and I like watching this kid play.
8)I will admit that I did not know much about this guy until I kept hearing his name on the news . Tre Edge is having a great year and he is a big reason that Mary Persons is currently 21-2. I have to see these guys play before long and that is a must. Tre is averaging 17 points a game and doesn't have to play second fiddle to anyone. He is a first fiddle type of guy.
7)Poor Brice Paster is going to have his season come to an end very soon as Peach County has struggled to a 7-17 record. Paster however has been excellent as he aveages 21 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists per game. Yes ladies and gents the 6-foot-4 Paster is a college basketball player .
6)Ok Ok one more Stratford kid and that is Devon Butts. The guard is explosive and has unlimited range and has that little swag to him. He was so hot the other night against Stratford that he didn't really know what to do with it. I mean the Eagles scored 35 IN THE FIRST QUARTER and I think Devin had 14 of those. He is a very talented kid who will only better.
5)What happens when a team loses its superstar for the year with an injury ? Well if it's Josh Grube and Westside they win the next four games. While it is true that the Seminoles have busted out a few stud freshmen, it is Holloway that is now the glue of this team. After the Central loss on Saturday, Holloway apologized to his team on twitter. I LOVE THAT STUFF and it shows me that this kid GETS IT. Count him as a member of the Koknowsports gets it team.
4)Jacolbey Owens and the Warner Robins Demons are having a 19-3 year and I am sure many of them would tell you that that is not quite good enough. I am sure coach Jamal Garman would tell you that. Owens however is having another nice year and it will only get better down the stretch .He is a total gamer who rises to the occasion in big games. Watch out for the Demons in the playoffs.
3)Kylan Hill is the hard working guy that makes Central go. He has the ability to shoot the three and to bang inside and I think he is the biggest surprise of the year. I seriously do not even remember him last year and the kid is going for 20 and 11 this year. He is physical and he is a leader and I look forward to seeing him in the playoffs and in college. His best years are definitely ahead of him.
2)The number two guy could be number one and he is definitely a kid who will be a star at the next level. Nelson Phillips got to WRHS as a soph on a very good team and by the end of the season he may have been that teams best player. I love to watch him play and he will be a starter next year at Georgia State. You can bet on that.
1) Did you know that we have a player in the Middle Georgia area that goes for 29 points a game ? That's a huge freaking number for any level but Can Holden is dealing for Mary Persons and needs to be recognized on a daily basis. If it were not for Upson Lee, who I don't dare touch, Mary Persons and Cam Holden would be the biggest story around here. To me though its still a big story. Do your thing Cam Holden.
That's it hope you like it and feel freee to text with me approval or hate or whatever you got.
478-394-1155
Monday, January 22, 2018
top 10 girls teams
I have to give some love to girls basketball don't I?
I mean we have some quality teams in the area and everyone is battling for state playoff births and region championships.
I am thinking we have at least 10 teams with great chances to make it to state in basketball.
So I am going to tell you who the top 10 teams are in this area.
10) Southwest- The Patriots are 10-8 and are holding their own this year against some pretty good teams. They are led by Shygeria Williams, who is just a sophomore and goes for almost 10 points a game and Jasmine Billue, who doesn't score much but goes for 11 rebounds a game. They are in good position to make it to the tournament.
9)Tattnall Square- They looked absolutely lost early in the season but they are 9-9 and in second place in their region behind Stratford. The team is strong inside with Allie Gordon and Briana Glover, but it's Iuana Slaughter that will complete this teams story. She has played great basketball over the last 2 weeks.
8)Westside-They have a losing record at 9-13 but they are a very dangerous team with Niaira Dawson having a big year with 16 points a game and 6 rebounds. Look for Westside to finish strong.
7)Rutland- Not sure how the Canes get it done almost every year so I guess its that Johnny Dixon guy who finds a way to win every year. Breasia Davis gives them 13 points a game and the Hurricanes are looking to make some noise.
6)WRHS- The Demonettes have struggled a bit this year after losing so many players last year and they have had their best player ill , but look for Shynia Jackson to lead the way for them and get back into the picture.
5)Peach County- The Trojans are 13-7 and are firmly second in the region behind Central, who they could not handle a few weeks ago. Danasia Shaw has had a big year and averages 15 points and 10 rebounds a game, while Deja Holland scores also scored about 15 points a game.
4)The final four on here gets tight. I am listing Stratford at number 4 despite the fact that they are 16-2 and may be the best team in the area. Mary Elaine Mitchell and Nadia Reese are a dynamic twosome at guard and they have other girls that hit threes and do the dirty work. Can they win region ? Yes they are the heavy favorites, Can they win state ? Hold on guys, not happening with the big private schools in Atlanta.
3)Northside- I didn't even know this until I saw it but the Eagles are having a big year with a 15-5 record. Tamia Sapp leads the way with 14 points and 8 rebounds a game.
2) Hmmm I have two schools left here and I choose to go with Veterans next. The Warhawks are 15-5 and Coach Miranda always fins a way to win and this year is no exception. Sophomore Stacie Jones is doing work in the paint with 12 points and 10 rebounds a game and leads the way, while Chandler Shepherd also scored 11 points a game. This is the time that Veterans just continues to get better.
1) The Central Chargers made a deep run in the playoffs a year ago and they are 15-2 this year so we can definitely call them the top team in this area. Jada Clowers is a rebounder and shot blocking machine and she continues to improve as a scorer, while Tyleia Williams and Jenya Wilder give the Chargers excellent guard play. Don't be surprised at another deep playoff run. Coach Sheila Toombs is one of the best kept secrets in Macon and that is evident from how far they went a year ago. All three of these girls mentioned will play at the next level. Can they win a state championship ? Why yes, I think they can.
I mean we have some quality teams in the area and everyone is battling for state playoff births and region championships.
I am thinking we have at least 10 teams with great chances to make it to state in basketball.
So I am going to tell you who the top 10 teams are in this area.
10) Southwest- The Patriots are 10-8 and are holding their own this year against some pretty good teams. They are led by Shygeria Williams, who is just a sophomore and goes for almost 10 points a game and Jasmine Billue, who doesn't score much but goes for 11 rebounds a game. They are in good position to make it to the tournament.
9)Tattnall Square- They looked absolutely lost early in the season but they are 9-9 and in second place in their region behind Stratford. The team is strong inside with Allie Gordon and Briana Glover, but it's Iuana Slaughter that will complete this teams story. She has played great basketball over the last 2 weeks.
8)Westside-They have a losing record at 9-13 but they are a very dangerous team with Niaira Dawson having a big year with 16 points a game and 6 rebounds. Look for Westside to finish strong.
7)Rutland- Not sure how the Canes get it done almost every year so I guess its that Johnny Dixon guy who finds a way to win every year. Breasia Davis gives them 13 points a game and the Hurricanes are looking to make some noise.
6)WRHS- The Demonettes have struggled a bit this year after losing so many players last year and they have had their best player ill , but look for Shynia Jackson to lead the way for them and get back into the picture.
5)Peach County- The Trojans are 13-7 and are firmly second in the region behind Central, who they could not handle a few weeks ago. Danasia Shaw has had a big year and averages 15 points and 10 rebounds a game, while Deja Holland scores also scored about 15 points a game.
4)The final four on here gets tight. I am listing Stratford at number 4 despite the fact that they are 16-2 and may be the best team in the area. Mary Elaine Mitchell and Nadia Reese are a dynamic twosome at guard and they have other girls that hit threes and do the dirty work. Can they win region ? Yes they are the heavy favorites, Can they win state ? Hold on guys, not happening with the big private schools in Atlanta.
3)Northside- I didn't even know this until I saw it but the Eagles are having a big year with a 15-5 record. Tamia Sapp leads the way with 14 points and 8 rebounds a game.
2) Hmmm I have two schools left here and I choose to go with Veterans next. The Warhawks are 15-5 and Coach Miranda always fins a way to win and this year is no exception. Sophomore Stacie Jones is doing work in the paint with 12 points and 10 rebounds a game and leads the way, while Chandler Shepherd also scored 11 points a game. This is the time that Veterans just continues to get better.
1) The Central Chargers made a deep run in the playoffs a year ago and they are 15-2 this year so we can definitely call them the top team in this area. Jada Clowers is a rebounder and shot blocking machine and she continues to improve as a scorer, while Tyleia Williams and Jenya Wilder give the Chargers excellent guard play. Don't be surprised at another deep playoff run. Coach Sheila Toombs is one of the best kept secrets in Macon and that is evident from how far they went a year ago. All three of these girls mentioned will play at the next level. Can they win a state championship ? Why yes, I think they can.
Friday, January 19, 2018
middle georgias top 10 boys
When researching for this story I found that we have a bunch of area teams not doing so well. Hopefully we will have some turnarounds late in the season and they can have some success in the region and state tournaments. That's not to say however, that we don't have some very good teams, many that have a chance to win a state tournament, or at least do well.
Now remember, I do not include Upson Lee or Baldwin in this because I simply know nothing about them.
TOP 10 BOYS TEAMS
10)Rutland- 9 wins so far against a fairly tough schedule. Expect them to continue to improve as the year goes on
9)FPD- A team of role players who can beat most teams in their region. Henry Middlebrooks is a three shooting fool, but they need more from other guys.
8)Jones County- They have 10 wins against a pretty tough schedule. Time for the Hounds to make a move
7) Stratford- They are 12-4 with loads of talent, but I have seen them play twice and they just aren't very consistent and that is why they are only at 7. Devin Butts leads the way but other guys are capable. Nathan Hunt its time to step up like you did against WILCO.
6)Perry- coasting along at 11-6
5)Northeast- I love these guys but that region they are in is so so tough. Darius Dunn, Tyree Gilbert and Cameron Cherry are leading the way to the best Northeast year in awhile.
4)Central-The Chargers are reloaded and ready to play. Kylan Hill is having a monster year, and they had Westside on the ropes on Tuesday before Westside pulled away. Look for Andre Taylor to continue to win games with this team.
3)Westside- The next week or so will be interesting because the Seminoles have to find a way to hold it together without Khavon Moore, who is out for the year. Coach Josh Grube thinks they can do it.
2) Warner Robins- They are 14-3 but may be a bit disappointed with that record. Watch for these Demons to make a deep playoff run because that's what Jamal Garman's teams do. By the way he has like 30 seniors to choose from but Nelson Phillips and Jacolbey Owens might be the best 1-2 combination in the area
1)Mary Persons- its shaping up to be a Cam Holden type of year. He goes for 28 a game with a high of 46 and besides Upson Lee, have the best team in this area.
So sad to see Khavon Moore go down with a leg injury. Hopefully he will get back to full speed and have a great college career.
I wil have the girls top 10 early next week
Now remember, I do not include Upson Lee or Baldwin in this because I simply know nothing about them.
TOP 10 BOYS TEAMS
10)Rutland- 9 wins so far against a fairly tough schedule. Expect them to continue to improve as the year goes on
9)FPD- A team of role players who can beat most teams in their region. Henry Middlebrooks is a three shooting fool, but they need more from other guys.
8)Jones County- They have 10 wins against a pretty tough schedule. Time for the Hounds to make a move
7) Stratford- They are 12-4 with loads of talent, but I have seen them play twice and they just aren't very consistent and that is why they are only at 7. Devin Butts leads the way but other guys are capable. Nathan Hunt its time to step up like you did against WILCO.
6)Perry- coasting along at 11-6
5)Northeast- I love these guys but that region they are in is so so tough. Darius Dunn, Tyree Gilbert and Cameron Cherry are leading the way to the best Northeast year in awhile.
4)Central-The Chargers are reloaded and ready to play. Kylan Hill is having a monster year, and they had Westside on the ropes on Tuesday before Westside pulled away. Look for Andre Taylor to continue to win games with this team.
3)Westside- The next week or so will be interesting because the Seminoles have to find a way to hold it together without Khavon Moore, who is out for the year. Coach Josh Grube thinks they can do it.
2) Warner Robins- They are 14-3 but may be a bit disappointed with that record. Watch for these Demons to make a deep playoff run because that's what Jamal Garman's teams do. By the way he has like 30 seniors to choose from but Nelson Phillips and Jacolbey Owens might be the best 1-2 combination in the area
1)Mary Persons- its shaping up to be a Cam Holden type of year. He goes for 28 a game with a high of 46 and besides Upson Lee, have the best team in this area.
So sad to see Khavon Moore go down with a leg injury. Hopefully he will get back to full speed and have a great college career.
I wil have the girls top 10 early next week
Tuesday, January 16, 2018
the best of basketball in middle georgia
Lets just be honest with each other
Its damn hard to stay up with high school sports without having box scores to look at.
I for one spent a lot of time looking at the newspaper and seeing who did what the night before or online to see who did what hours after they did it.
Seems like those days are dead and gone and that is sad.
Now the only way I can figure out how to keep up with everyone in the area is to look at max preps where many schools load team stats.
Unfortunately many teams do not use this to put stats up. I am really not sure of the reason why they would not put stats up but I have heard reasons like well I don't want to give the teams we are playing the advantage of seeing who our best players are.
Really ?
NO I mean Really ?
Guys everyone knows who your best player is night in and night out. It is just too east to find out and that is just not a great excuse.
I would rather hear , it is just our schools decision not to publish our stats.
Fair enough.
So
I go searching to find out who the top players are in the area to write this story
THE BIG THREE
Probably the easiest decision I will make today because Khavon Moore, Nelson Phillips and Cam Holden are by far the best three players in the area. Moore is finally a senior for Westside and has the choice to go anywhere he wants to go. Phillips is a Warner Robins standout who will start for Georgia State next year and Holden is basically putting Mary Persons basketball on the map this year. I mean he scored 46 last game and is averaging 29 points a game. That's pretty solid.
THE NEXT FIVE
Greg Holloway- The Westside senior is having a huge year, going for 18 points and 11 boards a game. He has given the Seminoles another option and will probably lead them to a nice playoff run.
Jacolbey Owens: This kid is so good for WRHS and I am betting his best days will be at the next level.
Kylan Hill: He is a Central standout and the leader of a very good basketball team , but I will admit I don't know much about him because I haven't seen them play and I haven't seen stats on him. But all I hear about this kid is good
Darius Dunn: Dunn is the leader of a strong Northeast team that will make the playoffs and he does it with 18 points a game.
Brice Pastor; It doesn't look like Peach County is very good but Pastor is putting up 21 points a game to go with almost 8 rebounds, numbers that must be recognized.
THESE GUYS ARE GOOD TOO
Devin Butts: I thought I would have him in the next five column but he did not have a good game against Wilkinson and that bumped him down a bit. This Stratford guard has talent galore and he could lead the Eagles to a nice playoff run.
Ty'Ree Gilbert: He plays at Northeast and everyone needs to get to know Northeast because they are pretty good. Gilbert gives them 14 points a game.
LaMontis Moore: Nothing much is heard about Rutland, but Moore is quietly have a 16 point a game type of year.
Maurice Gordon: I expected more from a veteran FPD team but Gordon still has a chance to put the team on his back and get going. He averages 13 points and 8 rebounds a game
BEST OF THE REST
THE entire WRHS TEAM
Christian Palmer and Jaden Harris from Stratford.
Lance Franklin from Tattnall
Wesley Wilson from FPD
Jake Smith from Perry.
Go ahead and go watch some of these talented kids in the area.
Oh yeah I did dare get into Upson Lee because they are a little too far away and a little too good for me to talk about when I don't really know anything except 51 straight,
Its damn hard to stay up with high school sports without having box scores to look at.
I for one spent a lot of time looking at the newspaper and seeing who did what the night before or online to see who did what hours after they did it.
Seems like those days are dead and gone and that is sad.
Now the only way I can figure out how to keep up with everyone in the area is to look at max preps where many schools load team stats.
Unfortunately many teams do not use this to put stats up. I am really not sure of the reason why they would not put stats up but I have heard reasons like well I don't want to give the teams we are playing the advantage of seeing who our best players are.
Really ?
NO I mean Really ?
Guys everyone knows who your best player is night in and night out. It is just too east to find out and that is just not a great excuse.
I would rather hear , it is just our schools decision not to publish our stats.
Fair enough.
So
I go searching to find out who the top players are in the area to write this story
THE BIG THREE
Probably the easiest decision I will make today because Khavon Moore, Nelson Phillips and Cam Holden are by far the best three players in the area. Moore is finally a senior for Westside and has the choice to go anywhere he wants to go. Phillips is a Warner Robins standout who will start for Georgia State next year and Holden is basically putting Mary Persons basketball on the map this year. I mean he scored 46 last game and is averaging 29 points a game. That's pretty solid.
THE NEXT FIVE
Greg Holloway- The Westside senior is having a huge year, going for 18 points and 11 boards a game. He has given the Seminoles another option and will probably lead them to a nice playoff run.
Jacolbey Owens: This kid is so good for WRHS and I am betting his best days will be at the next level.
Kylan Hill: He is a Central standout and the leader of a very good basketball team , but I will admit I don't know much about him because I haven't seen them play and I haven't seen stats on him. But all I hear about this kid is good
Darius Dunn: Dunn is the leader of a strong Northeast team that will make the playoffs and he does it with 18 points a game.
Brice Pastor; It doesn't look like Peach County is very good but Pastor is putting up 21 points a game to go with almost 8 rebounds, numbers that must be recognized.
THESE GUYS ARE GOOD TOO
Devin Butts: I thought I would have him in the next five column but he did not have a good game against Wilkinson and that bumped him down a bit. This Stratford guard has talent galore and he could lead the Eagles to a nice playoff run.
Ty'Ree Gilbert: He plays at Northeast and everyone needs to get to know Northeast because they are pretty good. Gilbert gives them 14 points a game.
LaMontis Moore: Nothing much is heard about Rutland, but Moore is quietly have a 16 point a game type of year.
Maurice Gordon: I expected more from a veteran FPD team but Gordon still has a chance to put the team on his back and get going. He averages 13 points and 8 rebounds a game
BEST OF THE REST
THE entire WRHS TEAM
Christian Palmer and Jaden Harris from Stratford.
Lance Franklin from Tattnall
Wesley Wilson from FPD
Jake Smith from Perry.
Go ahead and go watch some of these talented kids in the area.
Oh yeah I did dare get into Upson Lee because they are a little too far away and a little too good for me to talk about when I don't really know anything except 51 straight,
Monday, January 8, 2018
yes i am still here
I know it is hard to keep my numbers up when I all of a sudden take a month off, but hey, sometimes, one just has to step back and take a little time to clear the head.
I have this constant tugging asking me why I am bothering with this blog when only about 100 people on average read the damn thing but I am always pulled back in because, well, I just don't think we have anything else around here anymore.
Sure there are other blogs, but they are different and more professionally done that mine.
We have sports radio, but most of the time they have different objectives than I do, and I wont get into that.
Where else can one read about local sports ?
Well nowhere
I must talk about the DAWGS for a minute or two because it has been an amazing season and a lot of it is because of Kirby Smart. Kirby convinced all of those seniors to come back which is the main reason why they are in a position to win a national championship. Kirby got a commit from Jake Fromm, who is as polished as a pair of new shoes, and Kirby assembled a coaching staff that is as good as any in the country.
Thank you Kirby for giving UGA fans this gif of Monday night.
It was a year ago that I was telling everyone that Jake Fromm would be the starter by mid-season. It is not that Jacob Eason is not a great qb who will probably be a better professional than Jake will be, its just the poise thing. Jacob is20 years old going on 20 years old and Jake is 19 going on 24. The maturity thing comes at different times, esp for boys, I think we all know that. But Jacob Eason has handled this difficult situation like a man, and I hope he decides to stay at UGA and battle it out for the job.
One word about Mark Richt. I firmly believe he is in the top 10 percent of coaches in the NCAA and anyone who doesn't think so needs to take a strong look at his career. It is true he didn't offer Fromm a scholarship but he was just all in with Eason at the time. Sure it was a mistake, but coaches have to make those judgement calls all of the time....
Oh you want a final score ?
UGA 24 Alabama 20.
Congrats to Ed Smith for getting his 500th win last Friday night and congrats the Stratford for making it a big deal. That's why Stratford is Stratford.
We should be moving into some very good high school basketball this month and I will make sure to get a top 10 list for teams and players out very soon, but it is a difficult thing to do because getting stats is more difficult every day. But I will do my best. .
Everyone stay safe out there, its a little bit cold and everyone is sick right now.
I have this constant tugging asking me why I am bothering with this blog when only about 100 people on average read the damn thing but I am always pulled back in because, well, I just don't think we have anything else around here anymore.
Sure there are other blogs, but they are different and more professionally done that mine.
We have sports radio, but most of the time they have different objectives than I do, and I wont get into that.
Where else can one read about local sports ?
Well nowhere
I must talk about the DAWGS for a minute or two because it has been an amazing season and a lot of it is because of Kirby Smart. Kirby convinced all of those seniors to come back which is the main reason why they are in a position to win a national championship. Kirby got a commit from Jake Fromm, who is as polished as a pair of new shoes, and Kirby assembled a coaching staff that is as good as any in the country.
Thank you Kirby for giving UGA fans this gif of Monday night.
It was a year ago that I was telling everyone that Jake Fromm would be the starter by mid-season. It is not that Jacob Eason is not a great qb who will probably be a better professional than Jake will be, its just the poise thing. Jacob is20 years old going on 20 years old and Jake is 19 going on 24. The maturity thing comes at different times, esp for boys, I think we all know that. But Jacob Eason has handled this difficult situation like a man, and I hope he decides to stay at UGA and battle it out for the job.
One word about Mark Richt. I firmly believe he is in the top 10 percent of coaches in the NCAA and anyone who doesn't think so needs to take a strong look at his career. It is true he didn't offer Fromm a scholarship but he was just all in with Eason at the time. Sure it was a mistake, but coaches have to make those judgement calls all of the time....
Oh you want a final score ?
UGA 24 Alabama 20.
Congrats to Ed Smith for getting his 500th win last Friday night and congrats the Stratford for making it a big deal. That's why Stratford is Stratford.
We should be moving into some very good high school basketball this month and I will make sure to get a top 10 list for teams and players out very soon, but it is a difficult thing to do because getting stats is more difficult every day. But I will do my best. .
Everyone stay safe out there, its a little bit cold and everyone is sick right now.
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