[tezzy859]

Top to bottom, Highlands has more size and is deeper than Holmes, but I agree they don't have more talent.

Johnson Brothers, Pittman, Rice, and Avery are all top 10 players in the 9th region. The only Highlands player I'd put in the top 10 is Kowolonek, who is a top 5 player, IMO, behind only JJ, Rico, and Eli.

What separates Highlands from the other teams around the region is the depth they have in the front court. Grubbs (6'5), Watson (6'5), Dill (6'4), Smith-Keller (6'5), and Stewart (6'6) are going to make it very tough for opposing teams down low. All have size and are very strong.

I agree Highlands front court is stacked. As I stated in another thread I think Highlands has the best chance to beat Holmes in the 9th. I don't want to seem like I'm taking away from Highlands because I respect the players they have. But IMHO I think this will be Henley's most athletic and most talented team he has had at Holmes. That says a lot considering what they have done the last three years. Highlands is my number #2, but I think the gap between #1 and #2 will not be as close as it was last year. Now 2-5 will be just about even [Highlands, Boone, and Ryle]. With Highlands having a slight advantage over the other two. But I could see Rye giving Highlands everything they want and maybe even beating them. I think Highlands will handle Boone in a head to head match up.