[Olred]

The easiest road for a favorite is whitley. So much leadership. I believe they are the only team that can play well in both a fast paced game or in a half court game. Let's see if a new coach can get them over the hump.

The toughest road is Corbin. North will make them work just to then have to play Bell. If they make it through this draw they will be ready to play in the state tournament. They have the deepest group of guards and shoot the ball better than any other team in the region from 3. I'm a little biased. The Wilson's everyone knows but I think the key to this team is the Ashley girl. I love the scrappy gritty players. JMac has done a terrific job. I believe they are better right now than they were last year. I just worry some about if they have to adjust in game. I am also always concerned with teams who shoot the 3 a lot in the arena.

Bell has a good 1st round draw but has the team I think will give them the biggest challenge in the second round. With Morris though you typically have a go to player that can get you points when you have to and that is more important in games at the arena. The arena can slow you down with a big floor and sometimes some teams don't shoot well.

The most likely surprise to make noise is Harlan. The draw has made it very possible to get to a championship game this year. Good guard play always can make you dangerous. They have it in the fun to watch Brock and the heady Ledford.

If Clay can beat Whitley they should make it to the finals. They only have 4 players that can play dead but man they know how to win. They have learned it from Burchell who has done his best job coaching. It's one thing to win when you have the best players it's another when your average an your pg can go out if control at any point.

Barbourville I believe can win against Harlan but one game is the limit here. I hate that for a very fun group to watch.

North Laurel tries to play fast and shoot 3's. The problem is Corbin does it much better. I don't see an upset here and if they did Bell would kill them. With no seniors, only 1 Jr, and 3 8th graders that play a lot they will be back often. Expect a good future here but Corbin was the worst possible draw for this team, this year. I also worry about 8th graders playing well with the spot light on!

My predictions for 1st round games
corbin 15-20 points
Bell 20-25 points
Harlan 5-10 points
Whitley in a 4-9 point game.