Western Region

By Brett Manney

SportsPower Correspondent

Ralph Tasker Arena (Hobbs, N.M.): The mecca of high school basketball resides in Hobbs, New Mexico. Ralph Tasker Arena is named after the hall of fame coach and seats 3,800. Tasker, who accumulated 1,222 wins and 11 state championships and coached at Hobbs for 49 years, was virtually unbeatable at home.  The court features team benches on opposing baselines similar to Vanderbilt University, so Tasker always had a better view for pressing.  Season tickets go fast for a team that wins nearly 90 percent of its home games.

Crenshaw High School (Los Angeles, CA): Legendary Crenshaw High has the history in its rafters to prove its place among the greatest gyms. With numerous Los Angeles city and state championships, Crenshaw can be an intimidating place for any opposing team. Under coach Willie West, Crenshaw has been a powerhouse in California since 1970.

The Corn Palace (Mitchell, S.D.): The Mitchell High School gym might have the most unique name on the list. This rural town takes great pride in its agriculture industry. The small town is also home to the state's best place to watch a basketball game. The Palace features murals made of corn and can seat 3,200 people. Perhaps the most notable player to make his mark at the Corn Palace is current NBA player Mike Miller.

Palo Verdes Peninsula (Rolling Hills Estates, CA): This public high school in California may have some of the craziest fans in the nation. Palo Verdes students have a long history of renting out animal costumes and other crazy outfits for games. The opposing team often wonders if they are involved in a circus rather than a basketball game.

Archbishop Mitty (San Jose, CA): The San Jose area basketball team has been successful on the hardwood for years and it may not just be because of talented players. Mitty fans -- who act like a sixth man -- have had the pleasure of watching Drew Gordon and other standout players over the years. Mitty’s successful athletic program has celebrated the raising of many championship banners in its prestigious gym.

North Region

By Adam C. Warner

SportsPower Editor

Barre Auditorium (Barre, VT): This Vermont shrine has been around since the 1930s and is the site for the boys and girls state semifinals and championships. With a capacity of just 1,850, it remains a top goal for youngster to always “get to Barre.” The court is so enclosed that red, white and blue mats are provided to soften the blow should any players run into the walls on the baseline. On one side of the court you can find the benches in front of the auditorium with a giant red curtain. One the other side, you have nearly 2,000 screaming fans presiding over a particular contest. The Barre Auditorium is truly one of a kind.

Dan Buckley Gym, LaSalle Academy (New York, NY): This New York City basketball mecca may only seat a few hundred people, but it's one of the more difficult venues to play in due to its tight corners. Thinking about a baseline three-pointer? Think again. There is barely enough room for a player to even fit his feet between the arc and sideline.

Memorial Fieldhouse, Canton McKinley (Canton, OH): With lower and upper level seating, Memorial Fieldhouse is one of the finest basketball venues in the country. The court is checkered tan and brown like the old Boston Garden. Meanwhile, the two-tier seating at this 5,000-seat masterpiece makes it seem that the crowd is right on top of the court.

Moeller (Cincinnati, OH): In '02, Moeller opened up its 1,350-seat, $5.5 million facility. While the old gym was well-liked by the community and considered a terrific basketball venue (despite just a 900-seat capacity), the Crusaders made a major upgrade. Now, Moeller’s latest digs includes two Jumbotron video scoreboards and practice and training areas for other sports, including volleyball and wrestling. It is now the envy of every other team in the Buckeye State.

Wilkinsburg (Wilkinsburg, PA): One would be hard-pressed to find a high school gym on the third floor of a building, but that’s the case for the Tigers of Wilkinsburg. The court dates back to the 1920s and is short and narrow, and often suffocates opposing teams playing there for the first time. Meanwhile, there is mezzanine seating on both sides for fans. Says Pittsburgh Post Gazette writer Rich Emert, the balcony seating gives the gym a “Roman Coliseum feel.”

Southern Region

By Ryan Rohde

SportsPower Correspondent

Reed Conder Gym, Marshall County HS (Benton, Kentucky): Marshall County is the host of the nationally heralded HoopFest where many of the country’s best high school teams come to compete each December. The 6,000-seat gym is nicknamed “Little Rupp Arena” after the Kentucky Wildcats' home digs. There is a waiting list for 964 armchair floor seats that have been sold out every game since 1980.

Central Gym, Central HS (Shelbyville, TN): It’s nicknamed "Rick’s Grill" after girls head coach Rick Insell, whose teams have only lost 20 games since 1977. All 2,600 seats are unreserved and fans aren’t allowed in until an hour before tip off, but many local senior citizens arrive early to place their seat cushions in the bleachers. Practice for the team is always open to the public, which invites everyone in town to see their team’s product.

Covington Catholic (Park Hills, KY): Covington Catholic could be home to the best student section in high school basketball. Each game is accompanied by a theme, whether it be toga, village people, etc. The students are the reason why this place is so hard to play in. The organization, spirit and chanting gives Covington Catholic home games an experience second to none.

The Hornets Nest, Roswell High (Roswell, GA):

The rotunda-shaped gym nicknamed the "Hornets Nest” has the feel of a small college arena. The gym features high ceilings and a hanging four-sided scoreboard above center court. There is also plenty of standing room above the bleachers where an indoor track encompasses the court. The most impressive part might be what you can’t see. The locker room is carpeted with individual wooden lockers and is also equipped with three leather coaches and a big screen TV.

Norcross High (Norcross, GA): There is nothing special about this gymnasium, except that it's home to the three-time defending state champs. The gym is small and home games are always sold out. The Norcross crazies are all dressed in white and sit so close that they define the meaning of sixth man.

By Ryan Rohde

SportsPower Correspondent

December 18, Arlington Country Day Apaches (FL) vs. Roman Catholic Eagles (PA): Arlington Country Day has won four consecutive Class 2A state titles and has the talent to make it a record five in a row. Roman Catholic is a traditional Philadelphia Catholic power and the program has featured some of the best teams in the city’s history. Roman Catholic point guard Maalik Wayns is

one of the best ball handlers in the country and has signed with Villanova. Country Day forward Walley Judge is a Kansas State recruit who stands 6-9 and is a great rebounder. Meanwhile, guard Rodney McGruder is smooth player in the open court. This game takes place in the exclusive City of Palms tournament.

Dec. 19, Montverde Academy Eagles (FL) vs. Boyd Anderson (FL): Montverde could be the most talented team in the state. The Eagles are ranked in most national polls, thanks in part to seven legit Div. I players. Ruslan Pateev has signed with Arizona State, Robert Chubb with Auburn and James Bell with Villanova. Meanwhile, Boyd Anderson fell five points short of a 6A state title last season and is ready to take that next step. This is a great match up of Public vs. Private schools and should turn out to be one of the best games of the year.

Jan. 9, Scott County Cardinals (KY) vs. Mason County Royals (KY): Two top teams in Kentucky square off in a matchup of storied programs. Mason County heads into the contest as the defending state champs and look to make another run at a title. Scott County bowed out early in the playoffs but returns a deep team that can make make it deep into the playoffs. Scott County get an early season test to see how good they are in the heralded Hoop Fest at Mashall County High. This game might be an early preview of the state championship

game.

Jan. 15, South Atlanta Hornets (GA) vs. Leflore Rattlers (AL): The best from Atlanta takes on the best from Alabama. Each team arguably features the best crop of players in their respective state. Derrick Favors vs. DeMarcus Cousins will be one of the best showdowns this season. South Atlanta was bounced out in the first round of the playoffs last season and Leflore looks to get back to the title game after winning it in ’06.

Jan. 19, Veritas Academy (NC) vs. Centennial Knights (GA): Centennial Guard Lorenzo Brown is the best in the state and is headed

to N.C. State next fall. Brown is a playmaker out on the court and possesses great vision. Veritas Academy is another North Carolina private school power. Sasha Borovnjak is a versatile forward and he can score both inside and out. The senior is considering N.C. State, Xavier and Cincinnati. This game is going to be an out of state classic.

Jan. 20 Gonzaga Eagles (DC) vs. DeMatha Stags (DC): The eyes of the WCAC will pay close attention to this game. DC’s top two teams play twice during the season with this being the first. This game will give good indication as to who is the frontrunner for the best squad in the city. DeMatha shooting guard Naji Hibbert is potent from the outside and is going to Texas A&M. These teams split the season series last year and look for this season to feature more of the same intensity. 

Jan. 21, Olympia Titans (FL) vs. Winter Park Wildcats (FL): These are two of Central Florida’s best. Winter Park’s Austin Rivers is

widely regarded as one of the state's best players. Only a sophomore, Rivers has already committed to Florida and is a preseason all-state selection. Olympia is a deep team that has four Div. I signees in the starting five. Olympia came up short in the playoffs after losing in the district semifinals and is poised to make a run this time around. This game in January could be a preview of the 6A state title game.

Feb. 14, Oak Hill Warriors (VA) vs. St. Patrick Celtics (NJ): Oak Hill has been a dominant force in high school basketball for a long time. The Warriors are known for producing NBA talent and winning national titles. Oak Hill also does not shy away from top teams around the nation. This year's schedule includes Veritas Christian (NC), South Atlanta (GA) and Christ School (NC), but it’s this game against St. Patrick’s that is the one to keep your eye on. St. Patrick’s is a traditional national power as well and fell to Oak Hill last season, 63-55. Celtics shooting guard Dexter Strickland is a North Carolina commit who has the ability to penetrate or shoot from the outside. Our preseason No. 3 and No. 6 teams showcase their talent this February. 

To contact correspondent Ryan Rohde, send an e-mail to ryan.rohde@activenetwork.com

By Ryan Rohde

SportsPower Correspondent

1. Scott County Cardinals (Georgetown, Kentucky): It's hard to say that the 2007 state champs are a surprise team, especially with the talent this group has. The Cardinals were bounced out in the first round of the playoffs last season by a solid Lexington Catholic team, and this year's Cardinals have redemption on their minds. Scott County has many opportunities to prove its worth as they play one of the hardest schedules in the nation.

2. Gastonia Huss Huskies (Gastonia, North Carolina): This young team made a statement by winning a game in last season’s playoffs. Sophomores Jarvis Anderson and T.J. Wilson are two of the Charlotte area's brightest young stars. This team still has some maturing to do, but they will learn fast in a city with great talent. If this team comes together, they can go deep into the playoffs.

3. White Station Spartans (Memphis, Tennessee): Last season's state runner up won’t sneak up on anyone this season. The Spartans are consistently one of the top teams in Tennessee and the nation. White Station has won four state titles since 2000 and wants to finish what they started last season. Junior guard Joe Jackson is emerging as star and senior forward Ferrakohn Hall is a strong post presence.

4. Austin East Roadrunners (Knoxville, Tennessee): Austin East made another appearance in the AA playoffs last season but look to go deeper this time around. The Roadrunners feature senior twins Chase (6-5, 210 lbs.) and Chance (6-0, 185 lbs.) Jones, two forces to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Travei Pryor has a nice post game that complements well with the Jones brothers. These three also play football, so it might take some time for the tem to gel, but they will be a force by season's end.

5. Bishop O’Connell Knights (VA): O’Connell is a traditional D.C. powerhouse and a four-time Virginia Independent school champion. The Knights came up short of the coveted WCAC title to Gonzaga last season. The D.C. league is one of the best in the nation and features other formidable teams like DeMatha, Good Counsel and Gonzaga. Gonzaga and DeMatha received all the hype last season, so look for O’Connell to try and steal some for themselves. They will get their chance against DeMatha on Feb. 17, which will be aired on ESPN.

6. Wheeler Wildcats (Marietta, Georgia): Wheeler has won four state titles and is favored again this season. The Wildcats posses one of the best frontcourts in the country. Forward Ari Stewart is a 6-7 wing man who can shoot the three, and 6-8 forward Richard Howell averaged 17 points and 11 boards last season. Wheeler will showcase its talents as they play one of the toughest schedules in country.

7. Porter Gaud Cyclones (Charleston, South Carolina): Small forward Khris Middleton has become one of the best outside shooting threats in the country. Porter Gaud fell short in the SCISA title game last season to Pinewood Prep and look to finish the job this year. Plus, they will have two shots at Pinewood Prep during the regular season and either of these two matchups could be game of the year candidates.

8. Redan Raiders (Stone Mountain, Georgia): The Raiders try to make another step in the playoffs after bowing out in round one last season. Power forward Kenny Hall is one of the toughest players in the state. The Tennessee commit averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds in ’07-’08. Redan looks to make its mark in the talent-rich state of Georgia.

9. Fayette County Tigers (Fayetteville, Georgia): The Tigers made a somewhat surprising run to the AAAA title game last season before falling to Columbia. Two-guard Noel Johnson is a great pull-up shooter in transition and has signed with USC. Fayette County has the depth and tools to make another title run.

10. Mt. Zion Christian Academy (Durham, North Carolina): Mt. Zion is just one more in a long list of great North Carolina private schools. At 6-11 and 240 lbs., center Bawa Muniru is physical specimen and is still developing his skills around the net. Muniru is signed to play at Indiana next fall. Mt. Zion plays a tough schedule and has plenty of opportunity this year to showcase its talent.

11. Lake Norman Wildcats (Mooresville, North Carolina): This team has the chance to open some eyes in the Charlotte area. Garinger transfer Reggie Price adds his 20 points per game to center Paul Larson’s potent inside game. This potent inside-outside threat could make some waves across the state.

To contact correspondent Ryan Rohde, send an e-mail to ryan.rohde@activenetwork.com.

By Adam C. Warner

SportsPower Editor

1. Jefferson Orange Wave (Brooklyn, NY): After going 23-8 last year, Keith Spellman, David Coley, Davontay Grace and Joel Wright all return to shape one of the top cores in the city. In ’09, there is no shortage of talent, so it’s championship or bust this season with many of the squad’s top players graduating in the spring. Last year, the Orange Wave blew a lead to rival Lincoln late in the PSAL semifinals, so you know that the potential is still there for greatness.

2. Lawrenceville Prep Big Red (Lawrenceville, NJ): After a 13-11 campaign last year, the Big Red has the potential to be one of the region’s top teams. With McDonalds All-American nominee Leonard Hayes leading the way and standouts Devin Figueroa and Will Kernan providing support, the Big Red possess quickness up and down their lineup. Team depth is another strength and you can expect to see a balanced scoring attack at Lavino Field House this year.

3. Bishop McNamara Mustangs (Forestville, MD): The Mustangs are coming off a 17-12 campaign, but can improve on that margin by perhaps eight games if the squad plays to its potential. This year’s team is headed by Talib Zanna, a 6-9 forward and Pittsburgh recruit who averaged 15 points per game, 13.5 rebounds per contest and 3.5 blocks per game last year. Rashard Whack, a 6-3 senior guard and George Mason recruit (16 ppg last year and 5.5 rpg) and Lawrence Smith (6-5 guard/forward and North Carolina A&T recruit) are two more headliners for this athletic team. The trio combines to make one heck of a unit and will likely propel the Mustangs towards an improved campaign.

4. Edison Inventors (Queens, NY): Edison went 17-8 last year en route to the PSA semifinals. This season, expectations will be even higher with Isiah Stokley and Stephon Hodges leading the way, in addition to big men Eddie Egharevba and Stephen Nwaukoni. Jevon Thomas and Kris Owens make up part of a deep bench for the squad – which should improve on last season’s record.

5. Archbishop Molloy Stanners (Queen, NY): After a 13-13 campaign in ’07-’08, Ashton Pankey left for St. Anthony and Devin Figueroa left for Lawrenceville Prep, but expect Sr. G Russ Smith and 6-6 forward Jim Hong to fill the void. Also, Ryan Dillon should provide some sharp shooting from the outside. Molloy should be a definite dark horse CHSAA contender.

6. DeMatha Stags (Hyattsville, MD): With a lineup blessed with talent, the Stags should be much improved from last year and have the potential to be one of the region’s most versatile teams. Texas A&M recruit Naji Hibbert heads the cast at shooting guard while junior guard Josh Selby is one of the nation’s elite scorers. Head coach Mike Jones believes that this season’s team may be the deepest in all of his years at DeMatha. With that said, expect this perennial basketball power to be frontrunners for another WCAC title.

7. Penn Wood Patriots (Lansdowne, PA): The Patriots offered a possible glimpse of the future after going 23-9 last year and earning a spot in the PIAA AAAA quarterfinals. Junior guard Tyree Johnson and forward Duane Johnson are back and will likely be the focus on offense, while newcomer Aaron Brown will provide additional support. Expect this team to emerge as one of the Keystone State’s best.

8. Northland Vikings (Columbus, Ohio): The Vikings are coming off one of their best campaigns in history after going 21-1 and are once again equipped to win a state championship. It’s no secret that center Jared Sullinger will be the talk of the team. The junior is one of the nation’s best players

9. Paterson Catholic Cougars (Paterson, NJ): After a 23-5 campaign, Paterson returns with a young but athletic squad that can compete with the state’s top programs. Forward Fuquan Edwin is the catalyst in the paint while T.J. Clemmings adds another imposing element as a 6-7 forward.

10. Neumann-Goretti Saints (Philadelphia, PA): The Saints went just 15-10 last season, but can certainly eclipse the 20-win plateau in ’08-’09. The dynamic trio of Andre Gillette, Daniel Stewart and Tony Chennault already make the Saints one of the city’s best, but with a tough Catholic League schedule, they will have to play to their capabilities to make a title run.

To contact editor Adam C. Warner, send an e-mail to adam.warner@activenetwork.com.

By Ryan Rohde

SportsPower Correspondent

1. John Wall, PG, Sr. (Word of God Academy, Raleigh, NC): With tremendous size and speed, Wall immediately draws comparisons to Dwayne Wade out on the court. His first step is second to none and the senior can take over a game either offensively or defensively. Wall is a once-in-a-generation athlete for a high school to have, as evidenced by his last season stats of 18 ppg, 10 assists and 7 rebounds and has received offers from Memphis, Baylor, Miami and N.C. State.

2.    Derrick Favors, PF, Sr. (South Atlanta Hornets, Atlanta, GA): A tough post player with soft hands, Favors plays center for South Atlanta, but at 6-9, 220 lbs. and with a pension for scoring, Favors will move to power forward in college. Few have the ability to finish like Favors. And his businesslike attitude has landed offers from Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Memphis.

3.    John Henson, PF, Sr. (Sickles Gryphons, Tampa, FL): Henson has a tremendous ability to run the floor for a player of his size. An extremely athletic player who averages 24 ppg, the North Carolina commit is also an excellent shot blocker. At 6-10, 200 lbs., Henson will be a dominant force at the next level when he fills out his body frame.

4. DeMarcus Cousins, PF, Sr. (Leflore Tigers, Itta Bena, AL): A very strong power forward who is  tough in the low blocks. Cousins averaged 17 ppg and 8 rebounds per as a junior. Cousins stands 6-9 and 245 lbs. and has an excellent feel for the basket and is not afraid to get physical. The Alabama native -- who will attend UAB next season -- is very tough to stop when he gets into a rhythm.

5.    Mason Plumlee, PF, Sr. (Christ School Greenies, Arden, NC): At 6-11 and 210 lbs., the power forward has a great ability to use his size to his advantage. The senior possesses outstanding rebounding skills and plays facing the basket. Plumlee's game is well rounded, as he produced 14 ppg, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks and 3 assists per game last year. The Duke commit has a great mid-range jumper and should fit very well in Coach Krzyzewski's system.

6. Ryan Kelly, PF, Sr. (Ravenscroft Ravens, Raleigh, NC): Another recruit going to play for the Blue Devils next season, Kelly has great perimeter shooting ability but is also not afraid to attack the basket. He averaged 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks per contest last season. Kelly also participated on the USA U-18 team this summer and also plays on the same AAU team as fellow state standout John Wall.

7.    Kenny Boynton, SG, Jr. (American Heritage Patriots, Plantation, FL): Boynton is widely considered one of the top scoring threats of his class. Think Allen Iverson when you hear Boynton’s name. The senior has averaged 30-plus points per game over the past two seasons. Boynton is a playmaker who demands the ball when the game is on the line. His pull-up jumper is tops in the state and his clutch shooting makes him a special package. Boynton will play for the Florida Gators next season.

8.    Milton Jennings, F, Sr. (Pinewood Prep Panthers, Summerville, SC): The Clemson-bound product might be the best Tiger recruit in the past decade. The 6-9, 210 lbs. forward has tremendous ability from the outside. He has a lot of upside too, but must improve his low post game to succeed at the next level. Lucky for Clemson, this kid has good values and work ethic.

9.    Leslie McDonald, SG, Sr. (Briarcrest Christian, Eads, TN): McDonald is one of the most versatile guards in the country. He has great ability to attack the rim and either dish it off or take it himself. He also plays well in a system and is good at hitting jumpers when coming off screens. His ability to play either shooting or point guard will give Roy Williams and the Tar Heels many options next season.

10.    Brandon Knight, G, Jr. (Pine Crest Panthers, Fort Lauderdale, FL): Knight possesses one the quickest first steps in the country. The junior guard has an innate ability to switch gears and blow by defenders. Knight can burn you either on penetration in the paint or via the pull-up jumper from the outside. Knight is an all-around great player and has outstanding vision. Knight is considering Florida, Miami, and UConn for college.

To contact SportsPower correspondent Ryan Rohde, send an e-mail to ryan.rohde@activenetwork.com.