[kywldcat01]

I don't think he would have seen much varsity time at Holmes over the next two years. Holmes has a lot ball players that are under classmen such as Tony Collins, D. Rice, and Lewis all three where freshman last year. Than you got McClendon, Beal, and Avery who where 7th and 8th graders last year. The depth at Holmes at his position is very deep. Imo this a very wise move for Jones. He will shine at Newport.

From speaking to Kevon, Jones wouldn't have saw much time which is the reason for him transferring back to Newport.

There is indeed a lot of underclassmen talent down there in Covington though. Look for Chris Hayes and Jaleel Gray to be regular varsity contributors this coming season off the bench at the guard position along with Pierre Mayfield who will battle it out with Avery for that 5th starting position. The junior class at Holmes is VERY GOOD with Rice, Mayfield, Hayes, and Gray. They kind of remind me of the c/o 2000 that was led by Marco Hallman, Al Huff, Deshaun Jackson, and Jerry Weaver. That team lost to a loaded Newcath team (led by Ronny Dawn) in the 9th region finals that year despite being guard oriented like this group.

In the sophomore class you have Collins, Lewis, and D. Rice. I've said it before and I'll say it again, Dontel Rice is going to be every bit as talented as his brother Kevon and may even end up being better. At 6'4, he is very explosive, has a smooth mid range game, and handles the ball very well for his size...not to mention the kid has unreal athleticism. Look for him to see some varsity action later in the year as well at the 3.

I don't see Mcclendon being a starter until his junior year, but he'll end up being a rare 4 yr varsity letterman for the Bulldogs. He'll contribute this coming season off the bench as the 8th or 9th man.

One name we haven't even mentioned in this thread is Willie Slusher. Willie has gotten bigger since last year (probably in the 6'4 range now) and should contribute at the 3 or 4 this coming season as well.

This very well could end up being one of Henley's deepest teams that he's ever had...and that includes the 2008 team with Henderson and co.