[The Scoop]

I love how so many people are sleeping on Johnson Central still. Pikeville is, in my opinion, 10-15 points better than the next best group of team in the region when everyone is playing to expectation. After Pikeville, you have a group of 4-5 teams that I could see stealing the region on a hot night.

1. Pikeville -- If they show up and play to their full potential they aren't contested.
2. Johnson Central -- Coach Mckenzie, as usual, has his team peaking at the right time.
3. Lawrence County -- How will they be w/o Johnson?
4. Betsy Layne -- How will they handle the lack of depth in a tournament run?
5. Paintsville -- As good as just about anyone when they play together and keep their composure.
6. Martin County -- A solid team that will go as far as Brady goes.
7. East Ridge -- Veteran team that can win in a multitude of ways, have some regional experience.
8. Pike Central -- Du Toit and Rigdon are good players that can take over any game.
9. Shelby Valley -- I haven't been able to see them play in several weeks but they seemed very balanced.
10. Belfry -- Hot and Cold, really don't know what to expect from game to game. A dangerous team.