[HOOPFAN]

[quote="Bandit29" pid="2465979" dateline="1725541098"]
* Ashland's dominance in the regional championship is unquestioned. What will it take to dethrone the Tomcats?

* Boyd County has a fierce rivalry with Ashland. Can the Lions finally topple their nemesis when the title is on the line?

* Last year, Fleming, Rowan, and Morgan emerged as strong contenders. Can they maintain their momentum and challenge Ashland and Boyd County for the championship?

* Russell's young Devils have a reputation for being fierce competitors. Are they ready to make a statement and upset the top teams?

* The Carter County 'Civil War' between West and East is always intense. Is West poised to reclaim its dominance over East?


1. Boyd County- 4 returning starters, best team in the Region for the past two years, Won 5 of the last 8 games played per Khsaa website. They also have the best player in the Region in Spurlock. The 6'8' transfer has added size to compliment great guard play.

2. Ashland-3 returning starters. 4 new transfers, 6 straight regional titles, Won 3 of the last 8 games vs Boyd per Khsaa website. Carter is a very good player and a close second as the best player in the Region. Will be the front runner for 16th region player of the year.

3. Russell- Everyone returning and the addition of a couple of transfers. They can beat either Boyd or Ashland if playing well and the other does not. Still young but getting better every year. They will be out to prove themselves this year.

4. Lewis - Returning 3/4 starters and have a very solid big in Noble and PG. Again, if coach slows it down and they are hitting. They can be a sleeper.

5. Fleming- Hickerson and Jolley are very solid players and will give Carter a run for his money for the Region player of the year. Both kids play extremely hard and are competitors. I don't know if they have enough depth.