When it comes to the Division IV tournament, there was a lot of people that “thought” they knew how things would go. If there is one thing the Division IV session taught us it was what would thought was not the case.
Lima Central Catholic and Berlin Hiland met up to start things off. Hiland was without 2 starters and had needed a massive comeback to win their Region. LCC however had found a way to win up to this point in the year. One would think the Thunderbirds would be the favorites. Hiland must not have heard that. Or cared. The Hawks started the game out with a patient, halfcourt focused offense which gave them a quick 8-0 lead. LCC was forcing shots and giving the Hawks the ball back. So much so that Hiland got a comfortable 18-7 lead early on. The Thunderbirds made adjustments, but none bigger than extending their defensive pressure full court. That they could control. What they couldn’t control would follow. HIland’s standout, Sammy Detweiler (Sr), who had scored 13 points in the opening quarter, picked up his 3rd foul at the 5:32 mark in the 2nd quarter. Suddenly, LCC had an 8-2 run started. But Hiland countered once the lead got to 6. The Hawks would go into the half up 34-24, but showed some vulnerabilities. In the 3rd quarter, Hiland had their biggest moment of adversity as Detweiler picked up his 4th foul at the 6:50 mark with their lead. Not only that, but the Thunderbirds came out on a 9-2 run out of the half. Their defensive pressure and sudden perimeter shooting gave them momentum and the T-Birds went into the final quarter down 42-39. Then Detweiler got his groove back. The Hawks came out on a 5-0 run behind Detweiler to extend 47-39. The T-Birds started matching behind Carson Parker (Sr) who semmingly made shots whenever they were needed. The Birds got the game back to a 51-51 tie in the final 2 minutes. Jayden Priddy (So) had a look from 3 to try and win the game, but missed it. Billy Bourk (Sr) then had a chance to get a putback, but also missed. So we enter OT. It went about how the last 2 minutes of regulation went…both teams trading blows. With 7 seconds left, Detweiler got a shot from about 16-feet. But missed long. Priddy came down with the board and went the length of teh floor; getting a layup attempt up before the buzzer. It was a little too strong. Into the 2nd OT, the theme continued. Lima Central Catholic answered every Hiland bucket until the final possession. Hiland possessed the ball with Detweiler, who attacked the right side beofre the help came over. A skip pass and then touch pass put the ball into the hands of Nick Wigton (Jr). The shot will be remembered for a long time as one of the biggest shots in Hiland history. Nothing but net, and Hiland punched their ticket to the State Finals. After the celebration, we got into the rematch. Russia and Richmond Heights were squaring up for the 2nd straight year with a chance to face the Hawks on the line. Russia was familiar and confident entering the game. But Richmond Heights was a little more prepared. The Spartans used their size and pressure defense to jump out early 11-3. Russia couldn’t get any open looks, and the shots they did take weren’t great. Finally, the Raiders settled in. Russia would get some shots to fall and went into the first break down 17-11. That’s when things got interesting. Russia started going shot-for-shot with the mighty Spartans. Brayden Monnin (Sr) and Braylon Cordonnier (Jr) were connecting from the perimeter. But for every bucket, Dorian Jones (Jr) seemed to counter. Then Hosea Steele (Sr) picked up his 3rd foul with 2:55 to play. You could sense some momentum building for the Raiders. When Jeremy Wilson (Sr) picked his 3rd foul up 52 seconds later, it was even more apparent. Jones picked up his 3rd foul at the 1:21 mark. The blood in the water was there. Game got tied at 29 until a free throw gave Richmond Heights a 31-29 lead at the half. After the half, the Spartans got another blow as Jones got his 4th foul less than two minutes into the quarter, which came with an ovation from the Russia faithful as they saw their team had a chance. Richmond Heights shifted to a 3-2 zone in an attempt to slow the Raiders down and allow them to get their defensive pressure up. Russia would find some layups and was going punch-for-punch. Richmond Heights still held it 42-39. Jones then picked up his 5th foul. At the 5:45 mark, Jones drove baseline but was called for a charge sending him to the bench. One would think with their best player on the bench, Richmond Heights was in trouble. DeErick Barber (Jr) said wait just a second. The 5-foot-11 PG started attacking the rim, finishing shots through contact. Russia couldn’t get shots to fall. Fatigue started to settle in. Richmond Heights got the lead back up to 8. Then it was 10. The Spartans would hold on and secure their 3rd straight appearance in the State Final. And they were going to have a chance to go for the 3-peat against a hungry Hiland team.
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Division I
St. Ignatius vs Delaware Hayes Iggy returns to Dayton for the first time since 2022 and is making their 3rd trip in the last 4 years. The Wildcats took a few losses with some transfer out in the offseason, but they had one of the most consistent teams this year with wins against Reynoldsburg, Centerville, Lutheran West and Lutheran East to name a few. Quinn Woidke (Jr) has returned after missing last year with injuries and has emerged as Iggy’s go-to guard. Damon Friery (Jr) and Cleveland State commit Reece Robinson (Sr) are both All-District finishers and bring size at 6’9 and 6’8. Hayes is making their first ever appearance in school history. The Pacers have not lost since December 22, 2023 to Westerville South. Jesse Burris (Sr), an Ohio University commit, and Landon Vanderwarker (Jr), a transfer from Northside Christian, form one of the best one-two punches in the state this year. Role guys Carter Piatt-Brown (Jr) and Jake Lowman (Sr) both also return giving the Burris/Vanderwarker combo support. Centerville vs Whitmer Centerville is back for the 4th straight year to Dayton as they arrived in dramatic fashion with a double OT victory over Moeller in the Regional Final. The Elks have had an up-and-down year, but found their rhythm come tournament time and have returned back to UD Arena. Jonathan Powell (Sr) has been the scoring go-to for Centerville all year and was the hero that gave the Elks their State appearance. Boboucarr Njie (Sr) has made massive strides and is a threat on both ends of the floor at 6’7. Eli and Ethan Greenburg provide guard and wing depth. Speaking of dramatic finish, Whitmer is familiar with this after needing a buzzer-beater to knock out Garfield Heights in the Regional Finals. Whitmer is returning to the State tournament for the first time since 2012 when they were State Runner-Up. The Panthers have one of the best scoring combos in Antoine West (Jr) and Makhi Leach (Jr) and have a strong nucleus around them to challenge the Elks. Division II Alter vs Ursuline Alter makes another trip to the State Final Four after convincing victories over Jonathan Alder and Wyoming in the Regionals. Alter has been considered one of the favorites in the D2 state title run since the beginning of the year and are making their first appearance since 2022. This group has a unique blend of guards. RJ Greer (Jr), who transferred over from Springboro and is a highly recruited prospect, leads them in scoring. Senior guards Gavin Leen and Joe Brand have impacted the game on both ends of the floor and add guard depth. Throw in size with Brady Conner (Jr) and Charlie Uhl (Jr) and the Knights have the pieces to be a tough out in Dayton. Ursuline is making their first State appearance since 1994 when they won a state title. The Fighting Irish dominated against Villa Angela-St. Joseph and Canfield to find their way to Dayton. Jaden Payne (Sr) is an interior nightmare and will give the Knights problems on both the glass and offensively in the paint. Jaylen Gunther (Fr) has been a huge addition as well giving the Irish more scoring firepower on the perimeter. Ursuline enters the tournament with plenty of momentum and are going to try and challenge Alter with their size and scoring. Maysville vs Shelby The 2nd semifinal features two teams making their first appearances at the State Final Four. Maysville made it to Dayton in dramatic fashion as Alex Bobb (Sr) made a buzzer beater to beat favorite Bishop Hartley, and then defeated Vincent Warren to punch their ticket. Bobb was the Southeast District Player of the Year in Division II and has been the go-to guy for the Panthers this whole season. Shelby makes their appearance after beating a young Lima Shawnee team and then stunning heavy state favorite Lutheran West, to make their first appearance in school history. Wright State commit Alex Bruskotter (Sr) was co-Northwest District Player of the Year in Division II. He has a strong senior heavy core including Casey Lantz (Sr) around him that makes this Whippets team very difficult to prepare for. Division III Harvest Prep vs Ottawa-Glandorf Harvest Prep is back at UD Arena for the 2nd straight year as the Warriors won double digit games against North Adams and previously undefeated Malvern to return to Dayton. Brandon Roddy (Jr) is the straw that stirs the drink for the Warriors and has length and athleticism in Adonus Abrams (Jr) and Ephraim Campbell (So). Harvest Prep has played a strong schedule that prepares them for these tournament runs and has the depth, size and skill to be a tough out. Ottawa-Glandorf returns to Dayton for the 4th straight season as the Titans defeated Emmanuel Christian and Margaretta in their Regional games. The Titans have a straight winner in Ohio State commit Colin White (Sr), who is a Mr. Basketball candidate and was Northwest District Player of the Year. White has been to the state tournament every year since he arrived at O-G, and now he will try to lead the Titans to another State title. Caden Ernford (Sr) has been White’s running mate all season and makes O-G a dangerous team to beat at UD. Lutheran East vs Preble Shawnee The defending champion Lue East is making their 7th straight appearance at the State tournament and this time similar to last season is extremely talented. Michigan State commit Jesse McColloch (Sr) was the Northeast District Player of the Year and is a Mr. Basketball candidate. At 6’10, there are few teams that can match the size and stretch ability he brings to the floor. Guards Chauncey Brashers (Sr) and Anthony Bruce (Sr), along with wing Ronald Taylor (Sr) were part of the state title team last year and bring experience to the floor. Chris Hill (Fr) has been a major addition in the backcourt as well. Preble Shawnee is making their first appearance at the State Final Four. Led by IPFW commit Mason Shrout (Sr), the Arrows have been a dangerous team in Southwest Ohio and defeated WOAC rival Tri-Village as well as Versailles in the Regional Semifinals. Shrout was the Southwest District Player of the Year and has several upperclassmen returning around him. Logan Hawley (Sr) brings size at 6’8 and Brayden Robinette (Jr) gives Shorut another option out in the backcourt. Division IV Lima Central Catholic vs Berlin-Hiland LCC makes their first appearance at the state tournament since 2016 when they won the Division III state title. Coach Sean Powell is no stranger to coaching in the state tournament, as he led Botkins to a state title in 2021. Powell and his group defeated Old Fort and then won a back-and-forth showdown with Toledo Christian to earn their spot in the Final Four. Jordan Priddy (So), Willie Foster (Jr), and Demarr Foster (Jr) have been contributors all year as LCC is a younger team entering this tournament. Hiland is back at UD Arena for the 3rd straight year after beating Northside Christian and then South Webster in OT. Mark Schlabach has one of the best players in the East District in Sammy Detweiler (Sr), who was a major contributor for the Hawks last season in their Final Four run. Hiland is down 2 starters due to injury, but the coaching and culture has helped them reach the Arena yet again. Richmond Heights vs Russia This might be the most highly anticipated rematch in Division IV tournament history. Richmond Heights returns to Dayton for the 4th straight year, and are the two-time defending champions in Division IV. The Spartans convincingly defeated Seneca East and then Warren John F. Kennedy in the Regional round to earn this spot back. Richmond Heights is loaded with talent, including Dorian Jones (Jr), DeErrick Barber (Jr), Hosea Steele (Sr), and Demarris Winters (Jr). They will be without their top prospect in TJ Crumble (So) as he is out due to transfer rules by the OHSAA. Even without him, Richmond Heights is going to be the heavy favorites to again win a state title. Russia is making their 2nd straight State appearance after defeating Fisher Catholic and Troy Christian to punch their ticket. The Raiders have several guys back that were part of the deep postseason run last season. Hayden Quinter (Sr), Brayden Monnin (Sr), Felix Francis (Sr) and Braylon Cordonnier (Jr) all played minutes in the Semifinals last year and have the length, physicality, and revenge factor to challenge the Spartans. Friday 1/12/24
Combine Academy 80, Canyon Academy 70 The Goats from Combine came to Kettering and knocked off the Scorpions from Canyon. 4 players were in double figures for Combine with Kansas commit- Rakease Passmore leading with 22 points. Canyon’s Jovan Milicevic, a New Mexico commit, led the Scorpions with 22 points as well on 5-of-9 perimeter shooting. Faith Family 74, Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary 54 Dru Joyce’s squad returned to Trent Arena and fought the Eagles from Faith Family to end the night Friday. The Irish received 13 points apiece from Jayson Walker and Rayshawn Hamilton in the loss. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi commit Isaiah Williams paced the Eagles with 20 points. Saturday 1/13/24 Dunbar 68, Walnut Ridge 61 Dunbar kicked off Saturdays action against the Scots from Columbus and used a defensive 2nd quarter to take out Ridge 68-61. Eric Brewer Jr exploded for the Wolverines with 33 points on 11-of-19 shooting from the field. Duquesne commit Dominique Aekins paced the Scots with 28 points. Wayne Trace 56, Miami East 43 The Raiders jumped out quick and didn’t look back as they defeated Miami East in a Division III showdown. Wayne Trace got 29 points from Brooks Laukhaf, an Ohio Dominican commit. Miami East got 11 points apiece from Wittenberg commit Jacob Roeth and Conner Apple. Western Reserve Academy 71, Canyon Academy 58 WRA made the trip down from Hudson, OH and used a tight defense to put away the Scorpions and hand them their second loss of the event. Marquette commits Royce Parham and Damarius Owens combined for 46 points for WRA. Canyon was led by Jalik Dinkley-Distant with 22 points. Lutheran East 55, Isidore Newman 36 Lue East, the defending Division III state champions in Ohio, came out quick and knocked off visiting Isidore Newman from Louisiana. Ronald Taylor led Lue East with 21 points on 7-of-9 shooting from 3PT range. Newman, who has famous alumni including the Manning family and OBJ, was led by Todd Jones Jr with 12 points. Garfield Heights 68, Faith Family 67 (OT) Garfield Heights, arguably Ohio’s top Division I program, needed OT to defeat the Eagles from Faith Family in one of the most exciting games of the day. Marcus Johnson went off for 40 points for Garfield and was scoring in any way he could. Colorado commit Doryan Onwuchekwa scored 29 points after having a quiet game against Akron SVSM the night before. Westminster Academy 72, Archbishop Alter 71 Westminster held off a furious comeback from the Knights as Alter nearly overcame an 18-point deficit in the Saturday finale. Alter made 16 3’s in the comeback attempt and was led by Gavin Leen with 23 points. Sunday 1/14/24 Newport 55, Middletown 42 Newport, who was without 2026 standout Taylen Kinney, took out the Middies from Middletown to start play on Sunday morning. James Turner paced Newport with 14 points. Middletown struggled from the field but was led by Jeremiah Landers with 17 points in the loss. Beavercreek 86, Woodward 76 Beavercreek won a “defense optional” game with Woodward, one of Ohio’s top Division II teams. The Beavers got 70 of their 86 points from the trio of Isaiah Williams, Liam Gluck, and Kaden Ellerbe. Lutheran West 42, Wayne 41 Wayne nearly handed Lutheran West their first loss of the season as Juan Cranford Jr missed a shot at the buzzer to win. Myles Perkins scored 21 points for the Warriors in the loss. Jayson Levis led the Longhorns with 13 points in this defensive battle. Pickerington Central 49, Lima Senior 46 Pick Central survived a 2nd half comeback attempt by the Spartans to pick up a big win between two of Ohio’s better Division I programs year in and year out. Pick Central was paced by standout guard Juwan Turner who scored 11 points in the win. The Spartans, who were without Jekel Cotton, was paced by freshman standout Shawn Foster who contributed 14 points. Oak Ridge 74, St. Ignatius 68 Oak Ridge stormed back to defeat one of Ohio’s best Division I programs Sunday afternoon. Jamier Jones and Tyler Johnson combined for 50 points in the victory. St. Ignatius had 4 guys in double figures, led by Quinn Woidke with 17 points. Centerville 64, Isidore Newman 59 (OT) The Elks of Centerville handed Newman their second loss of the weekend in overtime in the Sunday night finale. Xavier commit Jonathan Powell exploded for 24 points for the Elks. Chris Cenac Jr finished with a double-double for Newman with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Monday 1/15/24 Lloyd Memorial 66, Preble Shawnee 48 The Juggernauts used strong 2nd and 4th quarters to hand Preble Shawnee their first loss of the season to start action on Monday. EJ Walker scored 21 points on 8-of-12 shooting from the floor. IPFW commit Mason Shrout also went for 22 points for the Arrows. St. Xavier 58, Pickerington North 55 (OT) St. X needed extra time to defeat Pick North Sunday afternoon. Donovan Waleskowski went off for 15 points in the Bombers win. Arness Lawson scored 27 points for Pick North and nearly led a comeback win for the Panthers. Richmond Heights 73, Westminster Academy 65 Richmond Heights, the two-time defending Division IV state champions, took out Westminster in their 2nd game of the weekend. TJ Crumble scored 22 points on 9-of-15 shooting from the floor. Alex Lloyd scored 21 points for Westminster in the loss. Oak Ridge 75, Reynoldsburg 71 Oak Ridge needed overtime to defeat Reynoldsburg in their 2nd game of the weekend. Jamier James again had an incredible game scoring 29 points in a variety of ways. 4 Reynoldsburg players were in double figures led by Jordan Fisher with 18 points. Sycamore 56, Kettering Fairmont 46 Sycamore knocked off the host Firebirds in the Monday finale of Flyin to the Hoop. Tariq Kimbrough shot the ball well and scored 19 points for the Aves. Evan Gentile and Brock Baker combined for 37 points for the Firebirds in a losing effort. Findlay
16-9 (Northern Lakes League) Lost in District Semifinals 35-32 to Toledo St. John’s Who is Back: Will Cordonnier (Sr) - All District, Sam Ernst (Sr), Brady Lentz (Jr), Ryan Montgomery (Jr) Who is Gone: Jake Bishop- All District Burning Question: Can the Trojans start life in the Northern Lakes League positively? Outlook: The Trojans return plenty of pieces as they begin life in the NLL. Montgomery is a high level football prospect and will need to be monitored if he will play this upcoming season. Lima Senior 17-8 (Toledo City League) Lost in District Finals 80-42 to Perrysburg Who is Back: Jekel Cotton (Jr), Jagger Hutchins (Jr), Amari Addy (So), Shawn Foster (Fr), Noah Simpson (Fr) Who is Gone: Anthony Mosley- All District, Brandon Moore, Shalom Stout Burning Question: Will Lima forget about the disappointing District loss and bounce back? Outlook: Spartans are well coached and bring back plenty of offensive options in Cotton and Hutchins. If Addy can stay healthy and Foster brings what he has been hyped, there is no reason this team doesn’t win a District title. Sandusky 24-2 (Sandusky Bay Conference-Bay) Lost in Regional Semifinals 71-55 to Lutheran West Who is Back: Kobe Brown (Jr), Jason Henlon (Jr), AaZoriyon Bonner (Jr) Who is Gone: Daylen Green (1st Team All District), De’Mar Moore (2nd Team All District) Burning Question: How will the Flashes handle now in Division I? Outlook: If Sandusky was in Division II, they’d be a favorite in NW Ohio. Returning Brown and Henlon gives them a true chance to again win 20+ games and make some noise in Division I Toledo St. John's 20-9 (Catholic HS League-Michigan) Lost in State Semifinals 49-36 to Archbishop Hoban Who is Back: Jaylen Murphy (Sr), Jayden Jones (Jr), Nate Miles (So)- transfer from Emmanuel Christian, Kaeden Carruthers (So)- transfer from Emmanuel Christian, Race Kowalcyzk (So) Who is Gone: CJ Hornbeak (All-District), Mitchell Michalak, Marquez Frazier Burning Question: Can the Titans return to Dayton with the loss of Hornbeak? Outlook: Titans are joining a new league and will have a young core to build around. There is some talent in NW Ohio meaning the Titans could struggle to return to Dayton. Whitmer 16-9 (Northern Lakes League) Lost in District Finals 55-50 to Toledo St. John Who is Back: Antoine West (Jr)- All District, Makhi Leach (Jr)- transfer from Toledo Central Catholic, Tamarrion Davis (Sr), Elijah McLeod (Sr)- transfer from Wauseon, Tylin Patterson (Jr)- transfer from Emmanuel Christian Who is Gone: Pharell House, Deric Jaynes, Corvell Morgan, Ja’Vaughn Jones Burning Question: Is there a better combo in NW Ohio than West/Leach? Outlook: The Panthers will join the Northern Lakes League starting in 2023-24 and added several pieces through the transfer portal. Whitmer is the favorite to come out of NW Ohio and makes a strong case to make the State tournament in Dayton. Archbishop Hoban
26-3 Division I State Champions Who is Back: Jonas Nichols (Sr)- Akron Commit- NE Player of the Year, Sam Greer (So), Kenneth Scott (Jr)- transfer from GlenOak, Ace Brown (So) Who is Gone: Will Scott (1st Team All District), Logan Vowles, Andrew Griffith Burning Question: Can Hoban replace 3 starters and defend their title? Outlook: Nichols and Greer are a great 1-2 punch and can keep Hoban in the conversation with their defense. Replacing the 3 starters will be the biggest question mark, but the addition of Scott should help. Brecksville-Broadview Heights 23-4 (Suburban League National Division) Lost in District Finals 52-50 (OT) to St. Ignatius Who is Back: Luke Skaljac (Sr)- Miami (OH) commit- NE Player of the Year, Brady Ganley (Jr), Junior Kambomba (Sr)- transfer from Lutheran West Who is Gone: Chase Garito (2nd Team All District) Burning Question: Is Skaljac able to carry the Bees past the District Finals? Prediction: Bees return lots of scoring in Skaljac and Ganley. Addition of Kambomba brings defensive tenacity. Bees will be one of the best teams in the state and should be a contender to reach Dayton in March. Brunswick 17-7 (Greater Cleveland Conference) Lost in District Semifinals 63-56 to Cleveland Heights Who is Back: Tommy Morgan (Sr)- 1st Team All District, Quinn Barnett (Sr), Albert Shaker (Jr), Trey Drexler (So) Who is Gone: Maxx Dickinson (2nd Team All District) Burning Question: Does Brunwick have the “it” factor to get past the Districts? Outlook: The Blue Devils are going to be a favorite to win the GCC and will have enough experience to contend within the District. Brush 13-11 Lost in District Finals 49-43 to Walsh Jesuit Who is Back: Aliyy King (Sr), Daryl Bush (Sr), Yahir Hill (Sr), Damari Dammons (Jr) Who is Gone: Tyler Williams (All District), Marlon Barnes Burning Question: Will the Arcs get over the District hump? Outlook: Brush has been a standout program in NE Ohio but is losing two fantastic players from that team. King has a chance to be a breakout player and has good core pieces around him Garfield Heights 22-4 (Lake Erie League) Lost in Regional Finals 50-38 to Toledo St. John’s Who is Back: Marcus Johnson (So)- 1st Team All District, Calvin Little (Sr)- Fairmont State commit, Deandre Jones (Sr)- Kent State commit, Carter Jackson (Sr)- Canisius commit- transfer from St. Ignatius, Germainn Marshall (Jr), Chris Hill (Fr) Who is Gone: Jyles Brandon, Tommie Benn Burning Question: Is this the year the Bulldogs get over the hill and get to Dayton? Outlook: The Bulldogs are loaded with talent and bringing back so much. The additions of Jackson and Hill only make this team even more deadly offensively. Early favorites to reach Dayton. Glenoak 18-7 (Federal League) Lost in District Semifinals 81-46 to Archbishop Hoban Who is Back: Ja’Corey Lipkins (Sr)- 2nd Team All District, Jaylen Mcelroy (Sr), Bryce Broom (Jr), Reese Zerger (Jr) Who is Gone: Kenneth Scott- transfer to Archbishop Hoban Burning Question: Do the Eagles have enough returning to compete in a loaded NE Ohio? Outlook: GlenOak has one of the more exciting players in Lipkins and will bring back a core that should be one of the better teams in the Federal League Louisville 19-5 Lost in District Semifinals 49-48 to Walsh Jesuit Who is Back: Hayden Nigro (Sr)- 2nd Team All District, Beau Siegfried (Jr), Brayden Gross (Jr) Who is Gone: Will Aljancic (1st Team All District) Burning Question: Do the Leopards have the offensive firepower? Outlook: The Leopards defend well and run a half-court focused offense. A District title is not impossible, but will be tough without scoring. Maple Heights 18-6 (Lake Erie League) Lost in District FInals 40-39 to Medina Who is Back: Kenyon Giles (Sr)- 2nd Team All District- transfer from Rhodes, Alan Mallory (Sr)- transfer from Lutheran East, Davan Aniton (Jr), King Young (Fr) Who is Gone: Michael Lewandowski- transfer to Lutheran West, Darnell Aniton, Darius Davis, Jayvion Moore, Xavier Peterson Burning Question: Will the incoming players replace a talented senior class? Outlook: Mustangs look different with several incoming names to transfer and freshman but should be a competitive group. Massillon Jackson 19-7 (Federal League) Lost in District Finals 38-37 to Stow-Munroe Falls Who is Back: Kyle Monterrubio (Jr)- 2nd Team All District, Anthony Fuline (Sr), Mitch Finefrock (Jr) Who is Gone: Owen Woolbert (1st Team All District), James Bossart Burning Question: Can the Polar Bears repeat another District run? Outlook: Jackson is one of the better teams in NE Ohio year in and year out. Monterrubio could have a breakout season Mentor 19-6 (Greater Cleveland Conference) Lost in District Semifinals 64-58 to Nordonia Who is Back: Ian Ioppolo (Sr)- Findlay commit- 1st Team All District, Matt Biddell (Sr)- Walsh commit, Ryan Calo (Sr), Conner O’Brien (Sr), Kobe Frasure-Azzano (Jr) Who is Gone: Ryan Ioppolo Burning Question: How far will Ioppolo lead the Cardinals? Outlook: Mentor has plenty of seniors and is one of the best coached teams in the state. Could see this group winning a District title and battling for a Regional title. St. Edward 21-3 Lost in Regional Semifinals 44-40 to Archbishop Hoban Who is Back: Brian Sullivan (Sr), Wendell Henry (Sr), Max McClellan (Sr), Boden Grant (Jr) Who is Gone: Cameron Grant (1st Team All District), Lucas Perusek (3rd Team All District), Danny Lavelle, Ryan Hargett, Bevyn Coleman Burning Question: Who is the next big name to come out of Lakewood? Outlook: The Eagles always find a way to compete and will have to replace 2 All-District players. St. Ignatius 19-8 Lost in Regional Semifinals 38-37 to Garfield Heights Who is Back: Reece Robinson (Sr)- Cleveland State commit, Sam Springer (Sr)- Air Force commit, Jack Zapolnik (Sr), Damon Friery (Jr), Quinn Woidke (Jr), Sammy Dari (Fr) Who is Gone: Ace Buckner (1st Team All District)- transfer to La Lumiere (IN), Carter Jackson- transfer to Garfield Heights, Owen Macura, Bradyn Szczpaniak Burning Question: Can Joyce lead the Wildcats to the state title after 2 straight state appearances? Outlook: Iggy has the combination of guard play, size, and overall skill. Friery and Woidke have seen their stocks rise during AAU and the Wildcats have to be a favorite to reach Dayton yet again. St. Vincent St. Mary 19-7 Lost in District Semifinals 42-37 to Brush Who is Back: Jayson Walker (Sr), Sir Charles Gordon (Sr), John Whorton (Jr), Noah Chambers (Jr)- transfer from Shaker Heights, Aiden Monroe (Fr) Who is Gone: Lance Hayes (1st Team All District), Kevin Hamilton (1st Team All District), Darius Stratford Burning QUestion: Can the Irish replace a senior class that won 2 state titles during their run? Outlook: The Irish won’t look the same as previous seasons, but the addition of Chambers and Monroe as well as Whorton’s growth means the Irish will still compete for a District title. Big Walnut
13-11 (Ohio Capital Conference-Capital Lost in Sectionals 49-40 to Olentangy Berlin Who is Back: Trenton Minor (Sr), Conor Watters (Sr), Brody Hatfield (So), Owen Pollock (So) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Are the Eagles able to take the next step with experience back? Outlook: Big Walnut was a younger team a season ago with junior and freshmen leading them. Now a year experienced, could turn some heads with Minor especially taking bigger steps in his game Delaware Hayes 20-5 (Ohio Capital Conference-Capital) Lost in District Finals 54-39 to Olentangy Orange Who is Back: Jesse Burris (Sr)- Ohio commit- 1st Team All District, Landon Vanderwerker (Jr)- D4 District Player of the Year- transfer from Northside Christian, Jake Lowman (Sr), Carter Piatt-Brown (Jr), Chase Griggs (So) Who is Gone: Hezekiah Russell Burning Question: Is Vanderwerker the missing piece for the Pacers to get past the District Finals. Outlook: Hayes returns almost everyone and then added one of the best players in Columbus in Vanderwerker. Not only is this team a favorite in the OCC-Capital, they make a great case to win a District title. Hilliard Bradley 19-6 (Ohio Capital Conference-Central) Lost in District Finals 55-43 to Pickerington Central Who is Back: Cade Norris (Sr)- Illinois State commit- 1st Team All District, Jeb Bischoff (Sr), Ian Abrass (Sr), Gavin Lightning (So)- transfer from Bowling Green (KY), Ben Mirgon (Fr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Can the Jaguars get over the District/Regional hump? Outlook: Bradley is going to be one of the best teams in Columbus this year with Norris leading their backcourt. Easily can win a District title and makes a case to get to Dayton. Marysville 10-13 (Ohio Capital Conference-Cardinal) Lost in Sectionals 68-40 to Hilliard Bradley Who is Back: Jason Moore (Sr)- Ashland commit, 3rd Team All District, Ryker Bowman (Sr), CJ Collins (Jr)- transfer from Dublin Coffman Who is Gone: Connor Smith Burning Question: Are the Lions ready to compete in the OCC? Outlook: Marysville has size and experience and added one of the best shooters in Central Ohio with Collins. Lions could be a sleeper in Central Ohio this season New Albany 9-13 (Ohio Capital Conference-Ohio) Lost in Sectionals 58-36 to Newark Who is Back: Braylen Nash (Sr)- 3rd Team All District, Miles Jackson (Jr), Marco Mattucci (So) Who is Gone: Will Powell Burning Question: Can Coach Casey continue the strong showing in the Summer? Outlook: Tim Casey takes over as the coach for the Eagles and has a good core returning. New Albany should be improved after excelling over the Summer, but is going to face challenges battling with the other teams in the District. Newark 19-8 (Ohio Capital Conference-Buckeye) Lost in Regional Semifinals 64-38 to Olentangy Orange Who is Back: Steele Meister (Sr)- Findlay commit, Ethan Stare (Sr), Braylon Morris (Jr) Who is Gone: Grant Burkholder (2nd Team All District) Burning Question: Do the Wildcats replace Burkholder and return to Regionals? Outlook: One of the most consistent programs in the state, Newark is returning a good core of players from a Regional qualifier last year and should again be one of the area’s best teams Northland 14-8 (Columbus City League-North) Lost in Sectionals 59-58 to Reynoldsburg Who is Back: King Kendrick (So), Nehemiah McMorris (Jr)- transfer from Gahanna Lincoln, Jaden Shoultz (So)- transfer from Wellington School. Who is Gone: Davion Bridges Burning Question: Is the addition of McMorris and Shoultz enough to get the Vikings momentum come tournament? Outlook: Northland will again be one of the best teams in the Columbus City League, but need Kendrick to really take another step if they are going to get past the large amount of OCC teams contending this year. Olentangy Orange 21-4 (Ohio Capital Conference-Central) Lost in Regional Finals 57-53 to Pickerington Central Who is Back: Devin Brown (Jr), Dylan Joy (Sr), Levi Davis (So) Who is Gone: Elias Lewis (All District), Mikey McCollum, Jordan Edwards, Nick Chapman, Jacob Zingg Burning Question: Do the Pioneers replace such a successful departed senior class? Outlook: Orange is losing quite a class, but their underclassmen a year ago were standouts with Brown and Davis leading the charge as potential breakout candidates. Pickerington Central 24-6 (Ohio Capital Conference-Buckeye) Lost in State Finals 53-47 to Archbishop Hoban Who is Back: Juwan Turner (Sr), Braylin Wells (Sr), Amare Spiva (Jr), Mondale Bradley Jr (Jr)- transfer from Pickerington North, Landon Evans (Fr) Who is Gone: Devin Royal (District Player of the Year), Gavin Headings, Andrew Hedgepath, Markell Johnson, Xavier McKinney-transfer to Reynoldsburg Burning Question: How do the Tigers replace the district player of the year and 2 other starters? Outlook: Pick Central always competes and finds a way to keep with the top teams. Turner is going to need to really be a leader for the Tigers to get back to Dayton. Pickerington North 19-7 (Ohio Capital Conference-Ohio) Lost in District Semifinals 44-40 to Delaware Hayes Who is Back: Arness Lawson (Jr) 2nd Team All District, Mykell Murphy (Jr), Favor McFadden (Jr), JR Bates (So) Who is Gone: Jeff Amapps, Mondale Bradley- transfer to Pickerington Central Burning Question: Is North a year away, or can they crash the party this year? Outlook: Having a player like Lawson will make the Panthers a tough out every night, but they likely are a year away from getting back to the District Finals. Reynoldsburg 12-12 (Ohio Capital Conference-Buckeye) Lost in Sectionals 76-73 to Delaware Hayes Who is Back: Noah Smith (Sr)- Tiffin commit, Jordan Fisher (Jr), Toby Nwokolo (Jr), Jordan Bowens (So), Xavier McKinney (So)- transfer from Pickerington Central Who is Gone: Burning Question: Can the Raiders stay healthy and take advantage of their talent on the roster? Outlook: The Raiders have 4 D1 prospects on their roster and have one of the deepest rosters in the area. If they can stay healthy, Reynoldsburg can be a contender to Dayton. Walnut Ridge 7-15 (Columbus City League-South) Lost in Sectionals 58-44 to Westerville South Who is Back: Dom Aekins (Sr)- Duquesne commit- 1st Team All District, LJ Foster (Sr)- transfer from Mifflin, Bryden Hodge (Jr), Marquis Lucas (So)- transfer from Linden McKinley, Deon Johnson (Fr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Is the addition of Johnson and the transfers enough to help Aekins? Outlook: Aekins is one of the best players in Central Ohio and now has guys around him through transfer and adding Johnson. Scots should be one of the best teams in their division. Westerville Central 13-9 (Ohio Capital Conference-Ohio) Lost in Sectionals 53-50 (2OT) to Hilliard Davidson Who is Back: Devin Martin (Sr), Nick Patton (Sr), Dallas Tucker (Sr), Isaiah Brown (Sr), Josh Henderson (Jr), Maceo Harper (So) Who is Gone: Buba Bangura Burning Question: Do the Warhawks have the experience to compete with the amount of talent returning in Columbus? Outlook: The Warhawks have quite a few standout players and a strong overall core that they should be one of the better teams in Central Ohio as a whole Westville North 22-3 (Ohio Capital Conference-Capital) Lost in District Semifinals 60-55 to Westerville South Who is Back: Micah Young (Jr)- 3rd Team All District, Tai Perkins (Jr), Eyon Robinson (Sr), Navarion Adams (Sr), Tyson Perkins (Fr) Who is Gone: Carter Reese- 1st Team All District, Jordan Graham, Rex Mbouge Burning Question: Can North avenge the early postseason exit last year? Outlook: On paper, this is one of the most talented teams in Central Ohio. With Young and Perkins leading the backcourt, the Warriors make the best case to contend for a Regional title and could make a serious case to reach Dayton. Westerville South 21-6 (Ohio Capital Conference-Capital) Lost in Regional Semifinals 59-51 to Pickerington Central Who is Back: Kruz McClure (Jr)- 2nd Team All District, Tyler Kielmeyer (Jr), Amari Hodges (Jr) Who is Gone: Jadi Cunningham, Jujuan Ray, Jalen Wheeler Burning Question: Is South on pace for a multiyear run? Outlook: The Wildcats got to the Regionals a year ago and are returning a strong group of guys led by McClure, and are looking like a program that can put together another run this year. Bishop Hartley
12-10 (Central Catholic League) Lost in Sectionals 72-66 to Eastmoor Academy Who is Back: Jaden Calloway (Jr)- 2nd Team All District, Pharez Nicholas (Jr)- 3rd Team All District, Denim Cook (Jr), Khani Thomas (So), Jakhi Calloway (So) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Is Hartley ready to take the next step and compete for a league title? Outlook: Hartley is a young team but they have plenty of talent and are the team to beat in Central Ohio right now. Bishop Ready 28-1 (Central Buckeye League) Lost in State Semifinals 60-50 to Buchtel Who is Back: Micah Germany (Sr), Andreas Gordon (Jr), Kayden Schaffer (Jr), Uthman Sherif (So) Who is Gone: Luke Ruth (District Player of the Year), Kaleb Schaffer (1st Team All District), Charlie Russell (1st Team All District) Burning Question: Will Ready be able to replace 3 All-District players? Outlook: The Silver Knights start life in a new league without the 3-headed monster that got them to the State Semifinals a year ago. Ready brings back all their role guys from that team and should continue to be a team to monitor in Central Ohio Eastmoor Academy 10-16 (Columbus City League-South) Lost in District Finals 61-47 to Bishop Ready Who is Back: James Nowell (Sr)- 2nd Team All District, Elijah Watkins (Sr), Sebastian Nelson (Sr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Can Warriors replicate the tournament success again? Outlook: Eastmoor got hot in the postseason last year and return their top guys, including Nowell. Expect Eastmoor to compete again in the CCL. Granville 14-11 (Licking County League-Buckeye) Lost in District Finals 58-54 to River Valley Who is Back: Dante Varrasso (Sr)- 3rd Team All District, Jase Becker (Sr)- 3rd Team All District Who is Gone: Rex Rader Burning Question: How do the Aces look compared to Hartley and Eastmoor? Prediction: Aces should be the top team again in the LCL, but winning a District title will come down to their draw. River Valley 19-6 (Mid Ohio Athletic Conference) Lost in District Finals 62-54 to Bishop Watterson Who is Back: Carson Smith (Sr)- 2nd Team All District Who is Gone: Carson Myers (1st Team All District) Burning Question: Can Smith make up for the loss of Myers? Outlook: The Vikings made the District Finals a year ago with a powerful 1-2 punch in Smith and Myers. Now that the latter has graduated, it will be on Smith to continue for River Valley to return to the District Finals. Lexington
20-5 (Ohio Cardinal Conference) Lost in District Finals 75-67 to Sandusky Who is Back: Brayden Fogle (So)- 2nd Team All District, Elijah Hudson (Sr), Seven Allen (So)- transfer from Mansfield Madison Who is Gone: Baden Forup (1st Team All District), Hudson Moore Burning Question: Is Allen the missing piece the Minutemen need? Outlook: Lexington looked like the team to beat in NW Ohio last year but fell short. Fogle is bound for a breakout year, Hudson had a solid Summer, and Allen gives backcourt play to make Lexington the favorites out of NW Ohio and to claim a District title. Shelby 20-5 (Mid Ohio Athletic Conference) Lost in District Semifinals 76-74 (OT) to Lexington Who is Back: Alex Bruskotter (Sr)- Wright State commit- 1st Team All District, Casey Lantz (Sr), Bryson Baker (Sr), Isaiah Ramsey (Sr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Can Whippets get over the hump in the District/Regionals? Outlook: Shelby returns almost all their production from last year and is going to be a favorite in NW Ohio. Getting their revenge on Lexington will be priority. St. Mary's Memorial 16-6 (Western Buckeye League) Lost in District Semifinals 56-55 to Van Wert Who is Back: Evan Angstmann (Sr), Jace Turner (Sr) Who is Gone: Austin Parks (District Player of the Year) Burning Question: Will the Roughriders be in the mix without Parks? Outlook: Memorial loses one of the best players in their history in Austin Parks, but return a great player in Angstmann to build on. Tiffin Columbian 18-6 (Sandusky Bay Conference-Lake) Lost in Sectionals 77-47 to Toledo St. John’s Who is Back: Brayden Boggow (Sr)- 3rd Team All District, Bryce Boggow (Sr) Who is Gone: Logan Beaston (1st Team All District) Burning Question: Does Columbian continue their success now in Division II? Outlook: The Tornadoes lose their top player in Beaston and took an early exit in the Sectional tournament. Returning the Boggow’s will be helpful in the division drop. Toledo Central Catholic 20-5 Lost in District Finals 48-34 to Rossford Who is Back: Isaiah Brenneman (Sr)- 2nd Team All District, Manny Johnson (So), Isaiah Mack-Russell (Fr) Who is Gone: Michael Greenlee (3rd Team All District), Makhi Leach- transfer to Whitmer, Chico Johnson, Noah Langford, KJ Johnson Burning Question: Will the Irish be able to replicate the 20-win season with some younger names being leaned on? Outlook: Johnson and Mack-Russell have shown they can flat out play even though they are underclassmen. The Irish have plenty of talent but their youth could be holding them back beyond Districts. Willard 15-9 (Sandusky Bay Conference-Bay) Lost in Sectionals 58-56 to Lexington Who is Back: Max Dawson (Sr)- Ashland commit- 1st Team All District, Cam Robinson (Sr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Is Dawson able to carry this team through Districts. Outlook: Dawson has proven he’s one of the deadliest shooters in the state. His presence on the floor gives the Flashes a solid chance to be a challenger in NW Ohio. Buchtel
23-6 (Akron City Series) Division II State Champions Who is Back: Stevie Diamond (Jr), Zevin Gadson (Sr)- transfer from Firestone, Ebrahim Jabbi (Sr)- transfer from North Carolina Who is Gone: Khoi Thurmon (1st Team All District), Amire Robinson (1st Team All District). Marcel Boyce (1st Team All District), Jayden Maxwell, Malsi Pearson- transfer to Lutheran East Burning Question: Will the new additions replace 3 1st Team All District players? Outlook: Buchtel will again be the favorite in the Akron City League, but defending their title will depend on if Gadson and Diamond can replicate the scoring gone. Glenville 17-9 (Senate League) Lost in Regional Semifinals 64-56 (OT) to Gilmour Academy Who is Back: Damarion Witten (Sr)- Ohio State (football) commit, Ruel Tomlinson (Sr)- transfer from Walsh Jesuit, Lorenzo Staley (Jr), Theo Castro (So) Who is Gone: Damareyon Oliver- 2nd Team All District, Jakobi Laster Burning Question: How will the Tarblooders look with Castro out? Outlook: The Tarblooders might have to wait depending on their football team’s success. Depending on how long Castro is out, Glenville could be a challenger in NE Ohio again. Holy Name 21-2 (Great Lakes Conference-East) Lost in Sectionals 71-59 to Benedictine Who is Back: Max Bolin (Jr), Drew Styers (Jr) Who is Gone: Josh Pineiro (All District), Joey Abraham (All District), Dorrian Pettway, Keegan Fernlund Burning Question: Is Bolin ready to but the Green Wave on the map again? Outlook: Holy Name is losing a lot of production from a 2-loss team last year. Bolin and Styers are a great combo to lean on and can lead the Green Wave to a District title Jefferson Area 16-7 (Northeast 8) Lost in Sectionals 51-46 to West Geauga Who is Back: Joseph DeGeorge (Sr)- 2nd Team All District, Anthony Covetta (Jr)- 3rd Team All District Who is Gone: Grant Hitchcock Burning Question: Will the Falcons avenge their early loss in the postseason? Outlook: Jefferson is returning their top 2 players from a season ago. NE Ohio is more open this year and the Falcons can be a sleeper team. Lutheran West 25-4 Lost in State Championship 59-57 to Buchtel Who is Back: Jayson Levis (Sr)- 1st Team All Conference, Derek Fairley (Sr)- 1st Team All Conference, Matthew Meyer (Jr), Tino Yli-Junnila (Sr)- transfer from Hudson, Michael Lewandowski (Sr)- transfer from Maple Heights, Dylan Bartchak (Sr) Who is Gone: Boubacar Djigo, Junior Kambomba- transfer to Brecksville-Broadview Heights Burning Question: Is there a team in NE Ohio with the depth of the Longhorns? Outlook: If there is a favorite to start the season in Division II, it has to be the Longhorns. They have the depth and talent of any team in Division II. Preseason favorites to claim a state title. Tallmadge 15-9 (Suburban League) Lost in Sectionals 61-52 to East Cleveland Shaw Who is Back: Kaden Davis (Jr)- 2nd Team All District, Paul Rusinko (Jr) Who is Gone: Collin Dixon, Ty Hurst Burning Question: Can the Devils rebound from an early postseason exit a season ago? Outlook: Some of Tallmadge’s top talent were underclassmen last year. Now those guys are juniors and Davis had an exceptional Spring. Tallmadge might be a year away but could be a sneaky team Ursuline 22-3 (Steel Valley Conference) Lost in District Finals 74-68 to Gilmour Academy Who is Back: Jaden Payne (Sr)- 1st Team All District, Jared Klucinec (Jr), Jaylen Gunther (Fr) Who is Gone: Terrance Pankey (1st Team All District), Vinny Faluto (2nd Team All District), Dashaun Will Burning Question: Will the young players alleviate the loss of 2 All-District players? Outlook: Payne’s return will be huge for the Irish as they will have some young players to lean on this year. A return to the District title is completely doable. East Liverpool
17-8 (Buckeye 8) Lost in District Finals 72-51 to Maysville Who is Back: Preston Kerr (Sr)- 2nd Team All District, Cohen Pease (Jr)- 3rd Team All District, Preston Dawson (Sr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Can the Potters get over the edge and claim a District title? Outlook: East Liverpool has most of their production back and should make a strong case to contend for the District title. St. Clairsville 11-13 (Buckeye 8) Lost in District Semifinals 58-41 to Tri-Valley Who is Back: Tyson Pastor (Jr)- 1st Team All District, Cole Thoburn (Sr)- 2nd Team All District Who is Gone: Luke Porter Burning Question: Will the Red Devils rebound after facing a down year? Outlook: St. Clairsville returns their top 2 guys from last season and have the tradition and coaching to find themselves back in the mix in East Ohio Tri-Valley 19-8 (Muskingum Valley League) Lost in Regional Semifinals 37-33 to Fairfield Union Who is Back: Max Lyall (Jr)- 1st Team All District, Terrell Darden (Sr)- 3rd Team All District, Erik Neal (Sr) Who is Gone: Burning Question: Can the Scotties again return to the Convo? Outlook: One of maybe two teams in the East District that can challenge for a Regional title. |
Written by: Tony PetersEdited and Published by: Seth Keim Archives
March 2024
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