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2. Holmes

Holmes entered the 2009 KHSAA Sweet 16 as the favorite to win the state championship. After a double overtime win against Central in the championship game, the Bulldogs walked off Rupp Arena floor victorious. With three starters back, including state tournament MVP Ricardo Johnson, can Holmes repeat in 2010?

The loss of Jamel Riley to graduation will hurt. The 5-foot-10 guard averaged 10.3 points per game last season. However, the back court will be very good.

Ricardo Johnson is one of the hottest prospects in the state. The 6-foot-5, 195 pound senior-to-be averaged 10.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game this past season. A number of Division I schools are recruiting him. Bradley University has already offered a scholarship. He could be the favorite to win the 2010 Mr. Basketball award.

Joining Ricardo in the back court will be his brother Jeremiah Johnson. Jeremiah Johnson averaged eight points per game last season.

Elijah Pittman will anchor the front court. The 6-foot-8, 210 pound forward senior-to-be averaged 14.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game this past season. Like Ricardo Johnson, Pittman has the potential to play Division I college basketball. Kentucky, Oklahoma and Xavier have shown interest in Pittman.

Look for Kevon Rice to see his minutes increase. The 6-foot-6, 185 pound forward averaged 3.9 points and 2.1 rebounds this past season. Rice, who will be a junior next season, has the potential to be a solid contributor.

Holmes has the talent to repeat as state champions. The key could be Pittman. He has the potential to be a great player. If he gets serious and really works at his game, the sky is the limit for him and Holmes.