Wallace Prather Memorial Classic

adidas Celtic Summer Kickoff

Sophomores of note

Georgia Hoops has traveled far and wide this season to see all of the top talent in the Peach State. In the process, we've been watching closely for the top sophomores of note. Here is a list of notable performers from the 2010 class. The listing isn't a ranking. Please keep that in mind. It is just merely a list from A to Z. If you feel like someone is missing, please let me know at georgiahoops@gmail.com and state your case.

Adarius Fulton, PG, Miller Grove
Adonis Harrison, SF, South Gwinnett
Adrian Hubbard, PF, Peachtree Ridge
Adrian Rogers, SF, Cass
Aloys Cabel, PG, Mays
Arthur Williams, SF, Appling County
Blake Sims, PG, Cass
Brandon Dawson, PF, Tucker
Brandon Mobley, PF, Windsor-Forest
Brian Vogler, PF, Brookstone
Byron Dickerson, SG, Druid Hills
Chris Grier, SG, Chamblee
Chris Spears, PF, Turner
Corey Crawford, PF, Columbus Carver
Daniel Coursey, C, Benedictine Military
Darneilous Sessions, PF, Griffin
David Mason, SF, Chamblee
Deleon Gist, SF, McEachern
DeVonta White, PG, Central Gwinnett
Donte Williams, PF, Morrow
G'Mitri Rice, SG, Walton
Heath Houston, PF, Hillgrove
Ishmael Hollis, PF, Flowery Branch
Jalen Kendricks, SF, Southwest Atlanta Christian
James Ellis, C, Marist
Jareal Smith, SG, Johnson
Jeff Quartermann, SG, Shiloh
Jeremy Burgess, SG, Athens Academy
Jershon Cobb, SG, Columbia
Jonathan Dabel, PG, North Cobb Christian
Jordan McRae, SG, Liberty County
Kameron Belin, PF, Centennial
LaTerrance Carter, PG, Redan
Malcolm McDonald, SF, Norcross
Malik Reynolds, SF, Westminster
Marcus Thornton, PF, Westlake
Matt Brabham, PG, Central Macon
Michael Kvam, PG, Cherokee
Montaveous Smith, C, Burke County
Myles Johnson, SG, Southwest Atlanta Christian
Nic Wilson, PF, Decatur
Patrick White, C/PF, GAC
Phil Taylor, PG, Wheeler
Pierre Tyson, PF, Luella
Quintavious Houston, SG, Banneker
Rion Brown, SG, Liberty County
Robert Sampson, SF/PF Northview
Sam Kim, SF, St. Francis
Tawaski King, PF, Dublin
Trae Golden, SG, McEachern (Ohio State)
Trent Widerman, SF/PF, GAC
Trevis Simpson, SF, Coffee County
Vincent Bailey, SF, East Paulding
Vincent Wallace, SG, Southwest Atlanta Christian
Zach Bradley, PG, North Clayton
Zavier Ottman, PF, Macon Northeast

Sandy Creek opens up region lead

CARTERSVILLE -- It was senior night at Cass High School but it was an underclassmen show on Tuesday night in a tough Region 6-AAA battle as Sandy Creek picked up an important 73-66 win over the host team.

Sandy Creek improved to 11-0 in Region 6-AAA thanks to a balanced effort and a strong surge in the second quarter that ultimately swung the moment to the Patriots and the Tyrone team never looked back.

Junior Malcolm Jackson (pictured) scored a team high 22 points while senior Blake Brewer added 14 points in the wing.

Jackson, a 6-1 junior, did a little bit of everything in the match-up and was the catalyst down the stretch with his athletic bursts to the basket where he either scored at the rim or converted the foul shots.

"Our kids are so mentally tough," Sandy Creek head coach Rashad Muhyee said. "I love this group of guys so much. They just don't lay down. They love to attack the basket and that was so important for us to win."

Jackson also grabbed seven rebounds, collected four steals and handed out four assists. Brewer collected eight rebounds, blocked four shots and handed out three assists.

Cass was led by it's underclassmen in the defeat. Sophomore Adrian Rogers scored 22 points while fellow sophomore Blake Sims, a 6-1 point guard, added 18 points. Junior Cory Warn added 14 points and was a defensive presence in the second half, taking away Jackson's effective jumper.

Sandy Creek (15-7) sits alone on top of Region 6-AAA while Cass dropped to 6-4 in region play and 13-8 overall on the year. The Patriots have a light stretch to close out the year as the final three games come against teams that are within the bottom four of the region standings. Cass has a difficult stretch with four straight road games.

Region tournament venues - help fill in the blanks

I'm trying to put together region tournament information. Listed below is what I've collected so far. I'm obviously missing quite a few. I'd like to fill it up as soon as possible. If you know of a venue for the missing region tournaments, email me at georgiahoops@gmail.com.

AAAAA

8 – At South Gwinnett

7 – At Collins Hill/Norcross

6 – At Sprayberry

5 - At Kennesaw Mountain

4 – At East Coweta

3 -

2 – At Stephenson

1 – At Coffee County

AAAA

8 - At Dacula

7 - At Rome

6 - At North Springs

5 - At Lithia Springs

4 – At Stockbridge

3

2 – At Fayette County

1

AAA

8 – At Stephens/Monroe Area

7 - At West Forsyth/Gainesville

6 – At Haralson County

5 – At Southside

4 – At Peach County

3 - At Burke County

2 – At Northside

1

AA

8 – At Putnam County

7 – At Georgia Highlands College

6 – At GAC/Pace

5

4 - At Brewton-Parker

3 – At Jefferson County

2

1 - At Randolph-Clay

A

8 - At Prince Ave./Towns Co.

7

6 - At Bremen

5 - At Whitefield/Eagle's Landing Christian

4

3

2 – At Hawkinsville

1

Power poll - Ranking the top 20 teams in GA

GEORGIAHOOPS

Top 20 Power Poll – Jan. 28, 2008

1. Wheeler (18-2)
Notable victories: McEachern 87-78, Centennial 93-64, Bishop O'Connell (Va.) 76-70, Boys & Girls (N.Y.) 77-75, Miller Grove 82-77, Word of God (N.C.) 98-84
Notable losses: Findlay Prep (Nev.) 54-68, Duncanville (Texas) 57-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. Pope, Feb. 1 vs. Lassiter, Feb. 2 at Roswell
Last rank: 1
Notes: It was a busy week for the Wildcats, playing four games in six days, including one in Raleigh, N.C. against Word of God, a nationally-ranked opponent. The Wildcats are playing big time basketball of late and scoring points like there is no tomorrow. Junior Ari Stewart had 34 points in North Carolina while Dequan Jones is throwing down some incredible dunks this year. Need proof? Click HERE. Sophomore Phil Taylor and Richard Howell were the anchors in the big win over Miller Grove last Monday.

2. Norcross (18-1)
Notable victories: Collins Hill 76-43, South Forsyth 77-30, Westlake Prep (Fla.) 81-44, Westlake 62-57, Helen Cox (La.) 59-48, Collins Hill 65-54, South Forsyth 61-47
Notable loss: Kathleen (Fla.) 45-51
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 at North Forsyth, Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at Mountain State Coal Classic in Beckley, W.V.
Last rank: 3
Notes: The Blue Devils continue to climb up the power poll as other top teams drop in-state games. Norcross has two in-state games remaining on the regular season schedule. It looks like the team will go undefeated against state foes in the regular season for the second straight year. There is a strong chance that Norcross will win the Coal Classic this week in West Virginia, too.

3. Columbia (19-2)
Notable victories: Antioch (TN) 85-62, Miller Grove 82-64, Mays 56-54, LaSalle (Ohio) 65-62, Stone Mountain 70-61, Miller Grove 61-59, Tucker 66-60
Notable losses: Archbishop Carroll (D.C.) 38-43, McEachern 69-79
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 at Stone Mountain, Feb. 1 vs. Washington
Last rank: 2
Notes:: For the first time in two and a half years, Columbia lost to a non-region foe. McEachern bested the top team in AAAA on Monday. The Eagles may have needed that wake-up call as the region tournament will certainly be a major test. Don't write the team off yet. We haven't. Columbia has the tools to win a state championship.

4. Westlake (18-2)
Notable victories: Creekside 76-61, Fayette County 65-59, IMG (Fla.) 60-55, Riverdale 53-52, Wenonah (Ala.) 45-43, Creekside 79-59, Fayette County 64-59
Notable losses: Neumann-Goretti (Pa.) 58-65, Norcross 57-62
This week's schedule: Feb. 1 vs. Whitewater, Feb. 2 at Banneker
Last rank: 4
Notes: Ray Willis, a serious contender for AAAA Player of the Year, scored a team high 23 points in a big region win over Fayette County last Friday. The win help break the gap open for the No. 1 seed in the Region 2-AAAA tournament, too. The only in-state foe Westlake lost to was Norcross in Florida. The remaining four games are very winnable for the Lions.

5. South Atlanta (19-1)
Notable victories: Douglass 83-68, Jeanette (Pa.) 96-57, Lincoln (N.Y.), Southside 85-55, Booker T. Washington (Va.) 90-46, Campbell Hall (Calif.) 78-77 (2 OT)
Notable loss: St. Benedicts (N.J.) 43-57
This week's schedule: Jan. 25 at Clarkston, Jan. 26 vs. North Atlanta (at Price MS)
Last rank: 5
Notes: The average margin of victory for the Hornets was 54 points this week for the AAA powerhouse. Derrick Favors averaged a triple double, putting up 57 points, 42 rebounds and 24 blocks over the two game stretch. He is our Mr. Georgia Basketball selection going into February. No one has a bigger impact on the game than the 6-9 junior.

6. Dunwoody (17-3)
Notable victories: Rome 67-65, Chamblee 78-72 (OT), Scott County (Ky.) 86-65, Jackson (Fla.) 85-61, Lee (Fla.) 78-59, Chamblee 75-50, Druid Hills 77-54, Meadowcreek 91-66
Notable loss: Blessed Trinity 68-73, Pace (Fla.) 67-72, Bishop O'Connell (Va.) 67-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 at Riverwood, Feb. 1 vs. Westminster
Last rank: 7
Notes: The Wildcats are rolling. Since the New Year, Dunwoody is playing as good as any team in the state and look strong going down the home stretch. Chris Singleton recorded a monster triple-double against Meadowcreek, going for 17 points, 21 rebounds and 11 blocked shots. Delwan Graham went for 30 and 23, respectively, in the other two wins last week.

7. Savannah (17-1)
Notable victories: Liberty County 88-82 OT, Beach 65-50, Windsor Forest 89-78, Richmond Academy 72-53, Savannah Johnson 89-75, Jonesboro 61-45, Irmo (S.C.) 62-38, Tallahassee Lincoln (Fla.) 87-67, Bradwell Institute 76-69 (OT), Savannah Johnson 55-52
Notable loss: Mundy's Mill 69-71
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 at Bradwell Institute, Feb. 1 vs. Groves, Feb. 2 vs. Beach (Civic Center)
Last rank: 6
Notes: The Blue Jackets saw their 17-game winning streaked was snapped on Saturday at Mundy's Mill a day after a big win over city and region rival Johnson. Kevin Williams and Norris Rumph continue to shine as the 1-2 punch. The loss should be an eye-opener for both Savannah and future opponents. Bigger teams could give them problems.

8. Randolph Clay (21-0)
Notable victories: Eufaula (Ala.) 90-75, Terrell Count 84-79, Eufaula (Ala.) 91-69, Terrell County 74-54, Wilkinson County 79-73
This week's schedule: Jan. 25 vs. Cook County, Jan. 26 at Albany
Last rank: 9
Notes: The Red Devils continue to roll. A pair of region wins against Cook County and Albany highlighted last week's schedule. It looks like the regular season schedule could end in three more wins for the AA powerhouse.

9. Blessed Trinity (20-0)
Notable victories: Dunwoody 73-68; Marietta 50-35, Chamblee 75-68, Chamblee 79-72
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 at Druid Hills, Feb. 1 vs. Grady, Feb. 2 at Marist
Last rank: 10
Notes: Jordan Callahan and Arris Brundidge combined for 46 points in big win against Chamblee. For the last two years, the Titans are now sitting at a tremendous 42-6 record. That's saying something. The real test is still down the stretch for the Titans.

10. Jordan (21-0)
Notable victories: Shaw 71-69, Northside 74-69, Shaw 64-58, Northside 88-70
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 at Spencer, Feb. 1 vs. Troup
Last rank: 13
Notes: The Red Jackets can't be slept on any longer by us. The defending AAA state champions are a great team with star power in Terrence Hill, Steve Peterson and Winfred Ivey. The team is quick, great in the open floor and a very well oiled and disciplined team that is clearly the best team in Columbus. Jordan has dismantled it's opponents this year and one of the legit powers in the Peach State this year.

11. Marietta (18-2)
Notable victories: Campbell 56-45, Harrison 59-53, Kansas City Ruskin (Mo.) 60-55, San Diego (Calif.) 58-46, McEachern 74-58, Centennial 63-59
Notable losses: Blessed Trinity 35-50, Whitefield Academy 54-66
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. Harrison, Feb. 1 vs. Kennesaw Mountain, Feb. 2 vs. Campbell
Last rank: 14

12. Miller Grove (17-4)
Notable victories: Redan 51-50, Tucker 70-62, Wesleyan 53-51, Stone Mountain 83-81, Jeannette (Pa.) 76-65, Stone Mountain 65-46, Redan 57-47
Notable losses: Columbia 64-82, Archbishop Moeller (Ohio) 48-51 (OT), Columbia 59-61, Wheeler 77-82
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. SW Dekalb, Feb. 1 at Cedar Grove
Last rank: 8

13. Glenn Hills (18-2)
Notable victories: Josey 64-53, Richmond Academy 75-60, Laney 67-52, Laney 69-52, Washington County 43-40 (OT), Thomson 76-64
Notable losses: North Augusta (S.C.) 47-49, Craigmont (Tenn.) 58-59
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. Washington County, Feb. 1 at Butler
Last rank: 15

14. Centennial (16-4)
Notable victories: Whitefield Academy 51-43, Craigmont (Tenn.) 81-79 (OT), La Cueva (N.M.) 64-63, Rose Hill Academy (Ky.) 55-53, Northview 57-55
Notable losses: Wheeler 64-93, Lone Peak (Utah) 57-75, Mason County (Ky.) 57-81, Marietta 63-59
This week's schedule: Jan. 28 vs. Milton, Jan. 29 vs. Chattahoochee, Feb. 1 vs. Northview, Feb. 2 vs. Sprayberry
Last rank: 11

15. Lithia Springs (19-2)
Notable victories: Villa Rica 88-80, Alexander 85-67, Newnan 74-58, Pebblebrook 58-55, Hiram 93-74, Decatur 55-54 (OT), Woodland 81-52, Alexander 68-51, Cherokee 66-50
Notable loss: Spartanburg 72-73 (OT), Pebblebrook 65-77
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. Hillgrove, Feb. 1 at Chapel Hill
Last rank: 12

16. Hancock Central (19-1)
Notable victories: Washington County 45-41, Washington County 50-37, Greenforest Christian 47-44
Notable loss: Wilkinson County 52-64
This week's schedule: Jan. 31 vs. Wilkinson County, Feb. 1 at Twiggs County, Feb. 2 at Greene County
Last rank: 17

17. Appling County (19-1)
Notable victories: Bacon County 66-52, Bacon County 51-36, Long County 69-67 (OT),
Notable loss: Worth County 55-56
This week's schedule: Feb. 1 vs. Jeff Davis, Feb. 2 at Long County
Last rank: 18

18. Wesleyan (16-3)
Notable victories: Collins Hill 72-52, Dacula 55-48, Collins Hill 72-52, Decatur 62-41
Notable losses: Christ School (N.C.) 72-74, Miller Grove 51-53, Tucker 69-73
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. Cross Keys, Feb. 1 vs. Greater Atlanta Christian
Last rank: 16

19. East Laurens (18-1)
Notable victories: Montgomery County 96-85
Notable loss: West Laurens 77-79
This week's schedule: Jan. 29 vs. Dublin, Feb. 1 at Dodge County, Feb. 2 vs. Bleckley County
Last rank: 20

20. Pebblebrook (19-2)
Notable victories: Jonesboro 72-50, Stephenson 87-84, Lithia Springs 77-65
Notable losses: Lithia Springs 55-58, Osborne 74-77
This week's schedule: Jan. 30 vs. Sequoyah, Feb. 1 at Alexander
Last rank: NR

Looking for information

Region tournaments fast approaching

Believe it or not but the region tournament schedule is nearly here. We at Georgia Hoops hope to provide the most up-to-date and correct information for the region tournament week.

Coaches, players, parents are those in the know, feel free to email us the following information:

Region tournaments dates
Location
Brackets when they become available

Up next?

We are also trying to collect information on the top rookies in the state for our post-season awards. There have been a couple of notable freshmen in the state this year, most notably Milton's Julian Royal. But who else is out there playing well? We'd like to know.

If you know of a top freshman or sophomore, please email us the following information:

Player
School
Position
Height/Weight
Statistical information

Email all information to georgiahoops@gmail.com.

Thanks!

Watch out for Jordan

COLUMBUS, GA -- Jordan High School showed why the defending AAA state champions remain perfect on Saturday night.

Thanks to a three-headed monster of Steve Peterson, Winfred Ivey and Terrence Hill, Jordan knocked out region foe Northside 88-70 on the road.

Jordan improved to 21-0 in convincing fashion. Peterson, a 6-foot-5 wing, was everywhere on the floor in the victory. The Morehead State bound prospect scored a game high 31 points. Peterson also recorded five rebounds, five steals and five assists in the win.

Ivey added 22 points while Hill put in 15 points. Jordan broke the game open in the middle of the second quarter thanks in large part to the scoring punch of Peterson while Ivey turned up the pressure in the second half, scoring in the lane and challenging Jordan's backcourt.

Northside was paced by big men John Drew (22 points) and Torin Walker (15 points, 13 rebounds and five assists).

Vincent, a 6-foot-9 junior, showed his worth from the high block and worked well with Drew, a commanding 6-3, 270-pound post. Vincent showed off a great set of hands and was a keen passer.

Northside was missing 6-10 junior James Vincent, who was out with a knee injury.

What we learned:

- Jordan is the real deal. The team loves to push the ball but it remains calm, cool and collected. It is organized speed with a team full of unselfish players. The AAA division is deep and the defending state champs could very well be making the trip to Macon. The only concern is the depth. Jordan doesn't go deep into the bench and relies on Peterson, Ivey and Hill to play 32 minutes each night.

- This was not Hill's best game but it is easy to see why the locals have called him the best senior in the area. The 6-foot guard can flat out shoot the ball with text book form and confidence.

- Morehead State has a major steal in Peterson.

- Northside has a star in the making in Walker. The 6-9 junior is skilled and turning the corner in his improvement. Physically, he's stronger. Mentally, he's smarter. His hands, as we mentioned, are great, and if and when Vincent returns to the rotation, watch out. Few teams in the state have that kind of 1-2 punch inside.

Savannah improves to 18-0

Savannah High is doing a pretty good impression of the New England Patriots.

The Blue Jackets faced one of hte toughest challenges on Friday night at Savannah Johnson, falling behind to the host team but eventually overcame a small deficit and held on for a hard fought 55-52 win on the road.

Savannah, the top ranked team in the state according to the GaSports.com coaches poll, improves to 18-0 on the year and has another challenge on Saturday when the team travels to Mundy's Mill.

Tim Jordan's club is riding the scoring punch of Kevin Williams and Norris Rumph, both seniors, all season. The duo combined for 36 points on Friday night. Williams, a 5-11 speedster, and Rumph, a strong 6-2 combo, have both been important pieces of the puzzle for Savannah for the last three years and will certainly be a challenge in the state tournament.

Johnson was paced by Colorado bound forward Toby Veal, who scored 16 points while sophomore Jareal Smith, the next star from the Savannah area, added 13.

The Savannah News was all over this game. The paper broke the game down with a great recap and a passionate column on the match-up also ran with the coverage.

5-AAA is the top region in Georgia basketball

After two weeks of counting down the top regions in the state, we have come to the final region. There isn't a more talented group in the state than 5-AAA. The region features the best player in the state in South Atlanta's Derrick Favors, the state's best overall dynasty in Dunwoody and the state's biggest surprise in Blessed Trinity.

1. 5-AAA

Power teams: South Atlanta, featuring the best player in the state in junior Derrick Favors, is coming together as a collective whole at the right time. The Hornets learned a lot about themselves in Charlotte at the Bojangles Shootout when Favors was out with fouls and came back against Brooklyn (N.Y.) Lincoln and overcame a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter as well as a huge double overtime win over Campbell Hall (Calif.) at UCLA. There isn't a team in the state that can stop Favors.

Dunwoody has one of the best starting five in the state and one of the hardest players to defend in the nation in Chris Singleton. The core of the team has tasted state championship success. The Wildcats are coming together at the right time and will be a scary, scary team down the stretch. Scott Bracco has his team playing tough basketball right now.

Blessed Trinity, the biggest surprise team in the state, beat Dunwoody on the road to spring board the team into the season. The Titans have a favorable schedule ahead of them and a well-balanced attack that seems to be ready for anything. The guard play is great and there is just enough size at the center spot and just enough athleticism at the power forward position to make some noise deep into the playoffs.

Sleepers: Chamblee, Riverwood, Druid Hills

Notes: There isn't a deeper and stronger region in the state than this one. There are three legitimate state championship contenders and three other teams that could pull a surprise. With the region split into two divisions, teams like Dunwoody, Blessed Trinity, Chamblee, Riverwood and Druid Hills will all be fighting for the two playoff spots.

Random thoughts: I worry that Blessed Trinity's light schedule may hurt them come tournament time. However, in the biggest tests this year, BT has shined in the challenges. Both South Atlanta and Dunwoody are gaining steam as the season rolls along.

Don't sleep on Chamblee. Brandon O'Brien and Brandon Armstrong are two of the top sleepers in Atlanta.

There might not be a better potential match-up in the state when the region tournament comes around, pairing Favors and Singleton together in the championship game if all works out.

Playoff projection: South Atlanta, Dunwoody, Blessed Trinity and Druid Hills

Counting down the regions

2. 6-AAAA

3. 6-AAAAA

4. 4-AAAAA

5. 2-AAAA

6. 2-AAAAA

7. 5-AAAA

8. 2-AAAA

9. 5-AAAAA

10. 6-AA

Ranking the regions: #2 6-AAAA

2. 6-AAAA

Power teams: From top to bottom, there may not be a deeper and more talented team than Columbia. With a near all-senior starting lineup and players that have tasted the state championship celebration before, the Eagles know what it takes to claim the region and a state crown. Try this one for size – Columbia hasn't lost a region game in over three years. The team boasts major size inside with Darrius Morrow, Kenny Mitchell and Travis Leslie. Guards David Forrest and Jershon Cobb can go for 20 or more on any given night, too. The loss to McEachern at the start of the week could be the cautionary loss that keeps Columbia undefeated all the way to the state title.

Miller Grove isn't intimidated by Columbia or any team in the state for that matter. The Wolverines will play anyone, anywhere and compete until the final minute of every game. Miller Grove is dangerous no matter the location or time. Junior guard Mfon Udofia makes the team go and he's one of the toughest players to guard in the Peach State because of his explosive first step. The supporting cast of Justin Allen, Stephen Hill and Obi Edwards aren't too shabby either.

Don't forget that Tucker was the state champions last year. Funny how we soon forget. The Tigers are quietly laying low under the radar behind Columbia and Tucker but don't discount them at all. James Hartry has a team that can withstand pressure (see the Wesleyan game on Monday) and star power in junior Manny Atkins. All of the remaining games are certainly winnable and with guards Aric Miller and John Perez playing as well as they are playing, watch out.

Sleepers: Because of the depth in the region, it is easy to overlook teams like Stone Mountain and Marist. Stone Mountain has quietly laid low under the radar but certainly capable of beating anyone with the exception of Columbia on any given night. Marist is a well-executed team with a number of under-the-radar prospects, including juniors Dee Goins and J.J. Mann.

Playoff projection: Columbia, Miller Grove, Tucker, Marist

Counting down the regions

3. 6-AAAAA

4. 4-AAAAA

5. 2-AAAA

6. 2-AAAAA

7. 5-AAAA

8. 2-AAAA

9. 5-AAAAA

10. 6-AA

Ranking the regions: #3 6-AAAAA

3. 6-AAAAA

Power teams: Wheeler has a head and shoulders edge over the other teams in this deep region. With a starting five of Division I prospects, four of which are underclassmen, Doug Lipscomb has a team that can do some damage in the AAAAA state tournament. The Wildcats will most likely be the team to beat in the big boys bracket. Senior Dequan Jones is a game-changing athlete while sophomore point guard Phil Taylor and junior forward Richard Howell are consistent and stable forces in the starting rotation. Junior Ari Stewart has big time potential while Tahj Tate is an athletic and explosive two guard. The bench is young and unproven and that could be the thing that haunts Wheeler down the stretch.

Led by dynamic junior Lorenzo Brown, Centennial is a team that can beat just about anybody on any given night. Brown, a 6-4 multi-position guard, is a big timer. There are pieces of the puzzle around him in shooter Alex Coxworth, sophomore Kameron Belin is the rebounder, Dalonte Doles is the speed and senior Robbie Johnson is a versatile wing. The question is, when will they all play well on the same night? The Knights did last year en route to the state championship game.

Keep an eye on Northview. The Titans are quietly going about their business and winning important games along the way. Led by Minnesota bound senior Ralph Sampson III, Northview has the size. The question with Northview is guard play. Can the guards balance the team out in tournament play?

Sleepers: The gap from the top to the bottom is pretty significant in this region and it wouldn't be a big surprise to see a couple of teams make a push in the region tournament. Sprayberry gave Wheeler a scare last week after a big win against region rival Walton. The Yellow Jackets have a balanced team that could very well put it all together come February. Walton, led by Glen Rice, Jr., is right behind. Like Sprayberry, the east Cobb school nearly knocked off Wheeler. Both teams could be dangerous if the perimeter game is working.

Notes: To get a gauge on what kind of state playoff team Wheeler will be, keep an eye on the Wildcats in the region tournament. Wheeler will have a scare. The regular season schedule has proven that.

Playoff projection: Wheeler, Centennial, Northview, Walton

Counting down the regions

4. 4-AAAAA

5. 2-AAAA

6. 2-AAAAA

7. 5-AAAA

8. 2-AAAA

9. 5-AAAAA

10. 6-AA

McDonald's All-American nominees

I received the McDonald's All-American nominations today. All of the listed players are eligible to be voted for the national post-season all-star game in Milwaukee, Wisc. on March 26 at the Bradley Center.

Al-Farouq Aminu Norcross High School Norcross GA
Chase Anderson Mill Creek High School Hoschton GA
Ebuka Anyaorah North Gwinnett High School Swuanee GA
Demetrius Bates Martin Luther King, Jr. High School Lithonia GA
Jeremy Bennett Randolph-Clay High School Cuthbert GA
Cecil Bent Swainsboro High School Swainsboro GA
Brian Bryant Dougherty Comprehensive High School Albany GA
Devon Carter Rome High School Rome GA
Ben Evelyn Sol C. Johnson High School Savannah GA
James Fields Alfread Ely Beach High School Savannah GA
Gideon Gamble Westlake High School Atlanta GA
Darrius Garrett McEachern High School Powder Springs GA
Jimmy Gaskins Ware County High School Waycross GA
Delwan Graham Dunwoody High School Dunwoody GA
Yaw Gyawu Parkview High School Lilburn GA
Dennis Harris Mundy's Mill High School Jonesboro GA
Greg Henry Martin Luther King, Jr. High School Lithonia GA
Dontae Jackson Central High School Macon GA
Kenneth Johnson Tri-Cities High School Eastpoint GA
Dequan Jones Wheeler High School Marietta GA
Pierre Jordan Dunwoody High School Dunwoody GA
Joel Lamb SW Atlanta Christian Atlanta GA
Travis Leslie Columbia High School Decatur GA
Kelvin Martin Cook County High School Adel GA
Tyler McDaniels Meadowcreek High School Norcross GA
Reggie Middleton Glenn Hills High School Augusta GA
Tony Mitchell Swainsboro High School Swainsboro GA
Darius Morrow Columbia High School Decatur GA
Kevin Murphy Creekside High School Fairburn GA
Moody Norris R.L. Osborne High School Marietta GA
Patrick Parker Statesboro High School Statesboro GA
Steven Peterson Jordan High School Columbus GA
Chris Reynolds Glenn Hills High School Augusta GA
Ralph Sampson III Northview High School Duluth GA
Reggie Shepherd Kendrick High School Columbus GA
Chris Singleton Dunwoody High School Dunwoody GA
Dorian Smith SW Atlanta Christian Academy Atlanta GA
Tanner Smith Wesleyan School Norcross GA
Jerel Stephenson Glenn Hills High School Augusta GA
Howard Thompkins Wesleyan School Norcross GA
Toby Veal Sol C. Johnson High School Savannah GA
Dustin Ware North Cobb Christian School Kennesaw GA
Donnell Webb Thomasville High School Thomasville GA
Teondre Williams Meadowcreek High School Norcross GA
Raymond Willis Westlake High School Atlanta GA
Wesley Witherspoon Berkmar High School Lilburn GA
Tony Woods Rome High School Rome GA
Cashmere Wright Urban Christian Academy Savannah GA
Andre Young Deerfield-Windsor School Albany GA

Notes from Tuesday night

I was able to catch a double-header on Tuesday night, a rarity around Atlanta because of tight game schedules and our favorite metro area traffic.

That being said, I found my way to Douglass High School to see the Astros play host to Redan. The 2-AAAAA teams scrummed together enough buckets to come up with a 41-40 game in favor of the Astros.

Douglass was led by senior guard Jarrett Stokes, who stroked it in the second half with four three-pointers. Stokes was the only guard in the game that had it rolling.

Redan was successful early in the game, as the team looked to Kenny Hall, one of the elite big men in the state, but never seemed to follow up in the second half. Hall scored 15 points, with 12 coming in the first half. He also added 10 rebounds in a difficult defeat.

This was an ugly game, and quite frankly, a difficult game to watch because of the turnovers, bad guard play and officiating that was highlighted by a "five-seconds in the lane" call.

The Lithia Springs-Cherokee game was a little better but not by much. The 5-AAAA teams, at least on paper, are two of the top teams in their respective region. The 66-50 Lithia Springs win was hard to translate.

Lithia Springs guard Devoron Ashmon scored a game high 26 points, and hit six three-pointers in the victory for Lithia Springs. He scored however and whenever he wanted against Cherokee and shined on the defensive end of the floor.

Cherokee struggled and is a playmaker away from being a team that can do some damage in the playoffs. Big man Shawn Kemp worked well above the rim and finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Ryan Fleming scored 13 points as well.

After watching four of the best games I've seen all year on Monday at the Tribute to a King Holiday Hardwood Classic (try saying that five times in a row), it was hard to sit through two sluggish games on Tuesday night.

Random thoughts

- Did you realize that there were 21 schools represented at Centennial on Monday? Keep in mind there were only eight teams in the four-game event. Talk about a great message to the talent level in Georgia.

- Lithia Springs may not have a lot of size of a great go-to player but don't discount the AAAA school. They defend as well as anyone in the state and pick up the full court defense as soon as the opposition inbounds the ball. The fresh-baked cookies at the concession stand are a great touch, too. Hey, what else would expect from me? You know I love some good food!

- Congratulations to Parkview senior Yaw Gayawu for becoming the school's all-time leading scorer. The Colgate bound forward scored 25 points and grabbed 17 rebounds in a win over Grayson on Tuesday night.

- Just in case you were wondering…Derrick Favors is our choice for Mr. Georgia Basketball now, tomorrow and in mid-March. And it isn't even close.

- I'm incredibly excited to make the trip to Columbus on Saturday to see Jordan and Northside go at it. Jordan, the defending AAA state champs, are one of the most underappreciated teams in the state. Northside boasts a lineup of two 6-9 juniors. This one will be exciting.

- The region tournaments are almost here. Who will play Cinderella and what state ranked team will lose it's luster down the home stretch? It happens every year.

Tribute to a King is major success

Whew, what a great day of basketball at Centennial. I've filed my report for Rivals.com and it can be read FREE on our national page.

Two upsets and two important wins in the four games of action. The Power Poll certainly has some changes in the works as Columbia lost to McEachern and Centennial was knocked out by Marietta. Wheeler survived a scare and Tucker overcame one of the best individual performances all season from Trey Thompkins.

Here are my top 10 players from Monday's action:

1. Trey Thompkins, Wesleyan (44 points, 16 rebounds)
2. Trae Golden, McEachern (26 points, 7 assists)
3. Lorenzo Brown, Centennial (18 points, 10 assists, 9 rebounds)
4. Phil Taylor, Wheeler (22 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists)
5. Darrius Garrett, McEachern (17 points, 12 rebounds, 8 blocks)
6. Richard Howell, Wheeler (14 points, 10 rebounds)
7. DeAndre Cannon, Marietta (13 points, 7 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 assists)
8. Aric Miller, Tucker (17 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks)
9. Manny Atkins, Tucker (25 points, 11 rebounds)
10. David Forest, Columbia (22 points)

Power poll: Jan. 20

GEORGIAHOOPS

Top 20 Power Poll – Jan. 20, 2008

Two teams dropped out of the power poll (Douglass and Mundy's Mill) while two new faces join the race.

1. Wheeler (15-2)
Notable victories: McEachern 87-78, Centennial 93-64, Walton 81-72, Bishop O'Connell (Va.) 76-70, Boys & Girls (N.Y.) 77-75

Notable losses: Findlay Prep (Nev.) 54-68, Duncanville (Texas) 57-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 21 vs. Miller Grove at Centennial, Jan. 22 at Walton, Jan. 25 at Kell
Last rank: 1
Notes: The Wildcats had a scare from Sprayberry on Friday night as former Wheeler assistant Marc Carver returned to Doug Lipscomb Gymnasium. Wheeler won 85-79 as Richard Howell scored 26 while Dequan Jones added 18.

2. Columbia (17-1)
Notable victories: Antioch (TN) 85-62, Miller Grove 82-64, Mays 56-54, LaSalle (Ohio) 65-62, Stone Mountain 70-61, Miller Grove 61-59, Tucker 66-60,

Notable loss: Archbishop Carroll (D.C.) 38-43
This week's schedule: Jan. 21 vs. McEachern at Centennial, Jan. 22 at Cedar Grove, Jan. 25 vs. Lakeside Dekalb
Last rank: 2
Notes:: A six-point win over region rival Tucker on Tuesday highlighted the week's action for the Eagles. The AAAA powerhouse has yet to lose to a state foe this year and the region schedule is mighty light this week for Phil McCrary's club. Monday's game against McEachern will be exciting.

3. Norcross (15-1)
Notable victories: Collins Hill 76-43, Peachtree Ridge 70-37, Westlake Prep (Fla.) 81-44, Westlake 62-57, Helen Cox (La.) 59-48, Collins Hill 65-54

Notable loss: Kathleen (Fla.) 45-51
This week's schedule: Jan. 22 vs. Peachtree Ridge, Jan. 25 at South Forsyth, Jan. 26 at Mill Creek
Last rank: 3
Notes: The Prime Time Shootout was cancelled unfortunately this week and because of that, the highly anticipated match-up between the Blue Devils and Dillard (Fla.) never happened. Collins Hill gave the Blue Devils a run for their money from Collins Hill in an 11-point win on Tuesday. The margin of victory tied the second closest game this season against Norcross. North Gwinnett also came within 11 of winning. Needless to say , Norcross is rolling.

4. Westlake (16-2)
Notable victories: Creekside 76-61, Fayette County 65-59, IMG (Fla.) 60-55, Riverdale 53-52, Wenonah (Ala.) 45-43, Creekside 79-59

Notable losses: Neumann-Goretti (Pa.) 58-65, Norcross 57-62
This week's schedule: Jan. 22 at Northgate, Jan. 25 vs. Fayette County
Last rank: 4
Notes: No games last week due to the cancellation of the Prime Time Shootout. Friday's game against Fayette County will be a packed house at Westlake.

5. South Atlanta (17-1)
Notable victories: Douglass 83-68, Jeanette (Pa.) 96-57, Lincoln (N.Y.), Southside 85-55, Booker T. Washington (Va.) 90-46, Campbell Hall (Calif.) 78-77 (2 OT)

Notable loss: St. Benedicts (N.J.) 43-57
This week's schedule: Jan. 25 at Clarkston, Jan. 26 vs. North Atlanta (at Price MS)

Last rank: 6

Notes: The Hornets traveled to Los Angeles and gave the SoCal hoop heads a show to remember. Derrick Favors, the state's top player regardless of class, scored 32 points and grabbed 29 rebounds in a 78-77 double overtime win at Pauley Pavilion on the campus of UCLA Favors is our clear cut leader for Mr. Georgia Basketball this season and continues to shine on the biggest stage possible.

6. Savannah (16-0)
Notable victories: Liberty County 88-82 OT, Beach 65-50, Windsor Forest 89-78, Richmond Academy 72-53, Savannah Johnson 89-75, Jonesboro 61-45, Irmo (S.C.) 62-38, Tallahassee Lincoln (Fla.) 87-67, Bradwell Institute 76-69 (OT)
This week's schedule: Jan. 25 at Savannah Johnson, Jan. 26 at Mundy's Mill
Last rank: 5
Notes: This week's two-game schedule might be the toughest all year for the Blue Jackets. A game on the road at region foe Johnson on Friday and the day after, the team makes it's annual trip to Atlanta for a non-region game. This one comes against Mundy's Mill. Both games are big ones and Savannah will be challenged.

7. Dunwoody (14-3)
Notable victories: Rome 67-65, Chamblee 78-72 (OT), Scott County (Ky.) 86-65, Jackson (Fla.) 85-61, Lee (Fla.) 78-59, Chamblee 75-50
Notable loss: Blessed Trinity 68-73, Pace (Fla.) 67-72, Bishop O'Connell (Va.) 67-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 22 at Druid Hills, Jan. 25 vs. Grady, Jan. 26 at Meadowcreek

Last rank: 7
Notes: The Wildcats are turning the corner and look like a very dangerous team right now. The team was a victim to the Prime Time cancellation. In fact, Dunwoody is playing as strong as any team in the state right now and the schedule is favorable for a clean sweep to Feb. 5 when they travel to Blessed Trinity.

8. Miller Grove (14-3)
Notable victories: Redan 51-50, Tucker 70-62, Wesleyan 53-51, Stone Mountain 83-81, Jeannette (Pa.) 76-65

Notable losses: Columbia 64-82, Archbishop Moeller (Ohio) 48-51 (OT), Columbia 59-61
This week's schedule: Jan. 21 vs. Wheeler at Centennial, Jan. 22 vs. Ston Mountain, Jan. 25 at St. Pius, Jan. 26 at Redan

Last rank: 8
Notes: Miller Grove has kept games close all season long and this week's schedule is a tough one as the Wolverines play three state playoff teams this week in a four games in six days set.

9. Randolph Clay (19-0)

Notable victories: Eufaula (Ala.) 90-75, Terrell Count 84-79, Eufaula (Ala.) 91-69, Terrell County 74-54, Wilkinson County 79-73
This week's schedule: Jan. 25 vs. Cook County, Jan. 26 at Albany

Last rank: 9

Notes: Another week, another pair of blow out wins. The Red Devils continue to steam roll through Southeast Georgia with lop-sided victory against under-matched opponents. This week's opponents dropped the previous match-ups by an average of 45 points.

10. Blessed Trinity (17-0)
Notable victories: Dunwoody 73-68; Marietta 50-35, Chamblee 75-68
This week's schedule: Jan. 22 vs. Chamblee, Jan. 25 at North Atlanta, Jan. 26 at Therrell

Last rank: 10
Notes: Keep an eye on the Chamblee game on Tuesday. Blessed Trinity won the first match-up 75-68 while Chamblee is coming off the first two-game losing streak all season. Emotions will be running high as both programs are looking for a big region win. It is one of the week.

11. Centennial (13-3)
Notable victories: Whitefield Academy 51-43, Craigmont (Tenn.) 81-79 (OT), La Cueva (N.M.) 64-63, Rose Hill Academy (Ky.) 55-53, Northview 57-55

Notable losses: Wheeler 64-93, Lone Peak (Utah) 57-75, Mason County (Ky.) 57-81

This week's schedule: Jan. 21 vs. Marietta, Jan. 22 vs. Milton, Jan. 25 at Alpharetta, Jan. 26 at Lassiter

Last rank: 11

12. Lithia Springs (17-1)

Notable victories: Villa Rica 88-80, Alexander 85-67, Newnan 74-58, Pebblebrook 58-55, Hiram 93-74, Decatur 55-54 (OT), Woodland 81-52, Alexander 68-51

Notable loss: Spartanburg 72-73 (OT)

This week's schedule: Jan. 22 vs. Cherokee, Jan. 25 vs. Pebblebrook, Jan. 26 vs. Dougals County

Last rank: 12

13. Jordan (18-0)
Notable victories: Shaw 71-69, Northside 74-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 22 vs. Shaw, Jan. 25 vs. Hardaway, Jan. 26 at Columbus Northside
Last rank: 13

14. Marietta (15-2)

Notable victories: Campbell 56-45, Harrison 59-53, Kansas City Ruskin (Mo.) 60-55, San Diego (Calif.) 58-46, McEachern 74-58,

Notable losses: Blessed Trinity 35-50, Whitefield Academy 54-66

This week's schedule: Jan. 21 at Centennial, Jan. 22 at Etowah, Jan. 25 vs. Woodstock

Last rank: 14

15. Glenn Hills (15-2)

Notable victories: Josey 64-53, Richmond Academy 75-60, Laney 67-52, Laney 69-52, Washington County 43-40 (OT)

Notable losses: North Augusta (S.C.) 47-49, Craigmont (Tenn.) 58-59

This week's schedule: Jan. 22 at Thomson, Jan. 25 vs. Cross Creek, Jan. 26 at Richmond Academy

Last rank: NR

16. Wesleyan (14-2)
Notable victories: Collins Hill 72-52, Dacula 55-48, Collins Hill 72-52
Notable losses: Christ School (N.C.) 72-74, Miller Grove 51-53
This week's schedule: Jan. 21 vs. Tucker at Centennial, Jan. 22 vs. Decatur, Jan. 25 at Avondale
Last rank: 18

17. Hancock Central (16-1)

Notable victories: Washington County 45-41, Washington County 50-37

Notable loss: Wilkinson County 52-64

This week's schedule: Jan. 21 vs. Greenforest Christian at Ben Hill, Jan. 22 at Monticello, Jan. 26 vs. Warren County

Last rank: 19

18. Appling County (16-1)

Notable victories: Bacon County 66-52, Bacon County 51-36, Long County 69-67 (OT),

Notable loss: Worth County 55-56

This week's schedule: Jan. 22 vs. Brantley County, Jan. 25 vs. McIntosh County Academy, Jan. 26 at Toombs County

Last rank: 20

19. Dacula (17-1)

Notable victories: Parkview 71-55, Annadale (Va.) 64-44, Greater Atlanta Christian 62-49, Loganville 64-60

Notable loss: Wesleyan 48-55

This week's schedule:

Last rank: NR

20. East Laurens (16-1)

Notable victories: Montgomery County 96-85

Notable loss: West Laurens 77-79

This week's schedule: Jan. 22 vs. Vidalia, Jan. 25 at Toombs

Last rank: NR

Snowed out: Prime Time not happening

The 2008 Prime Time Shootout has been canceled today due to inclement weather. The games will not be made up.

Ranking the regions: #4 4-AAAAA

4. 4-AAAAA

Power teams:

Led by the great guard play of unsigned seniors Stewart Clark and Justin Garner, the Hiram Hornets are taking care of business in a big way. With a pair of big wins over region foe Mundy's Mill and only two losses by a bucket, Hiram is putting together a season worth noticing. The team will contend for a No. 1 seed out of 4-AAAAA and could be a major headache in the state playoffs. Don't sleep on them in the post-season.

Mundy's Mill is one of the biggest teams on the south side of Atlanta and big man Dennis Harris is starting to come into his own. The future LSU Tiger isn't doing it alone. Unsigned point guard Todd Salter is having a big season, much like Clark and Garner at Hiram. The Tigers have a big lineup and close the season out with six straight home games.

Newnan is young and the Cougars find ways to win ball games. Perhaps the team's best asset is it's quickness. They don't shy away from getting into teams defensively either. Newnan seems to have the number for Hiram and Tri-Cites as the team has picked up wins against each of those teams already this season. The team's quarterback, Russell Powell, is also one heck of a basketball player.

Tri-Cities, like Mundy's Mill, is big on size and has a group of guars that are quick and pesky to boot. The Johnsons – Kenny and Deondre – are 6-6 and athletic inside while William Anderson can go for 20 points or more on any given night. Tri-Cities is a dangerous team simply because you don't know what to expect from them each game out.

Notes: We will be at tonight's game at Tri-Cities as the Bulldogs play host to Mundy's Mill. Between the two teams, there are 24 wins and a number of things to keep an eye on. Both teams are big, too.

Playoff projection: Mundy's Mill, Hiram, Newnan, Tri-Cities

Counting down the regions

5. 2-AAAA

6. 2-AAAAA

7. 5-AAAA

8. 2-AAAA

9. 5-AAAAA

10. 6-AA

Ranking the regions: #5 2-AAAA

5. 2-AAAA

Power teams:Westlake has proven themselves this year as one of the top powerhouses in the state. One of the reasons for the team's success is the strength of the region. Raymond Willis is one of the most dynamic players in the state and can flat out score the ball with the best of them. He is a contender for the class AAAA Player of the Year. His supporting cast isn't too shabby either. In fact, Westlake's starting five might be the best in the state. Gideon Gamble, a Winthrop signee and fellow senior Khamori Watts hold down the backcourt while underclassmen Javoris Bryant, a junior, and Marcus Thornton, a sophomore, are a tough 1-2 punch on the blocks.

Led by one of the state's top juniors in Noel Johnson, Fayette County can't be counted out on any given night. With Johnson on the floor, the Tigers have 30 points at all times with him. Brandon Boykin, a Georgia football signee, and Addison Flynn hold down the backcourt. Fayette County will play the three other likely state playoff teams in the next two weeks. They will determine their own destiny with a great finish.

Pay close attention to Creekside. The Seminoles are anchored by Kevin Murphy, one of the most dynamic scorers on the south side of Atlanta. The 6-foot-5 guard can score with the best of them. All of the team's losses have come at the hands of state playoff contending teams and odds are, the Seminoles look strong in the home stretch within region play.

Sleepers: The middle of the pack is deep in 2-AAAA. McIntosh, Banneker and Woodward Academy are all trying to make the fourth place spot for the state playoffs.

Notes: There might not be a better home court advantage in Atlanta than Westlake's gym. The days of getting to the school 20 minutes before the girls game to guarantee a parking spot on campus are almost over as the new school and new gym will open next year. It has been over a year since the Lions lost a home. Keep an eye on the Jan. 25 game against Fayette County. Get there early or else you'll be walking a long time to get to the gym because of the lack of parking.

Three of the best pure scorers in the state call 2-AAAA their home region, too. Westlake's Willis, Fayette County's Johnson and Creekside's Murphy, all 6-foot-5 or taller, are tremendous scoring wings.

Playoff projection: Westlake, Fayette County, Creekside, McIntosh

Counting down the regions

6. 2-AAAAA

7. 5-AAAA

8. 2-AAAA

9. 5-AAAAA

10. 6-AA

Primed for a big weekend

Prime Time packs a punch

The Prime Time Shootout is back in Atlanta for the second year in a row and the five game slate looks strong once again. Norcross High School will be the place to be on Saturday.

1:00 p.m. – East Hall vs. Whitefield Academy

The two storied programs meet up in what should be a high-scoring affair. East Hall can score with the best of them and defense has been the only real constant so far this year for the Wolfpack.

Georgia Hoops pick: East Hall

2:30 p.m. – Westlake vs. Arlington Country Day (Fla.)

This one won't be close. Westlake has too many weapons, including the best player that metro Atlanta has yet to see in Raymond Willis. the future Oklahoma Sooner is having a huge year and a very strong contender for Mr. Georgia Basketball. Arlington Country Day has talent but has struggled nationally this year.

Georgia Hoops pick: Westlake

4:00 p.m. – Our Savior New American (N.Y.) vs. Savannah Johnson

OSNA has had a lot of roster turnover this year and the lack of stability will certainly come into play. Johnson, however, has underachieved a little this year, but has been looking forward to the trip to the Atlanta all year. The team is athletic and an anchored by Toby Veal, a Colorado signee.

Georgia Hoops pick: Savannah Johnson

6:15 p.m. - Dunwoody vs. American Christian (Pa.)

After a rough start to the season, the Wildcats are coming on strong. Delwan Graham is playing like his old self again while Chris Singleton remains one of the toughest players to guard in this class nationally. Guards Pierre Jordan and Isaiah Grayson have remained steady all year, too. They will be challenged by American Christian if Tyreke Evans, one of the best players in the nation, suits up. He suffered a concussion last week in Virginia and has been out since. Louisville commitment Lamont "Mo Mo" Jones is having a great year scoring the ball. This will be a fun one.

Georgia Hoops pick: Dunwoody

7:45 p.m. - Norcross vs. Dillard (Fla.)

The night cap will pin one of the top teams from Georgia in the host Blue Devils against one of the top teams in Florida in Dillard. Norcross has fared well against national teams this year, including a big time win over Helen Cox on national television. Al-Farouq Aminu broke the Prime Time Shootout rebounding record last year at the event with 20 boards. What will have up his sleeve this year?

Georgia Hoops pick: Norcross

Dream match-ups

Jeff Haws of the Atlanta Journal Constitution blogs about the top 10 dream match-ups in Georgia High School basketball history. We love the idea and like the match-ups.

Food for thought, I'd love to see these match-ups:

Derrick Favors, South Atlanta vs. Dwight Howard, Southwest Atlanta Christian
Al-Farouq Aminu, Norcross vs. Josh Smith, McEachern
Trae Golden, McEachern vs. Louis Williams, South Gwinnett

Return of the Power Poll

GEORGIAHOOPS

Top 20 Power Poll – Jan. 15, 2008

The Power Poll is back after a month out of commission. A number of new teams have cracked the top 20 overall state rankings and a couple of familiar faces remain at the top.

1. Wheeler (14-2)
Notable victories: McEachern 87-78, Centennial 93-64, Walton 81-72, Bishop O'Connell (Va.) 76-70, Boys & Girls (N.Y.) 77-75
Notable losses: Findlay Prep (Nev.) 54-68, Duncanville (Texas) 57-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at Lassiter, Jan. 18 vs. Sprayberry
Last rank: 1
Notes: The Wildcats finished second at the Beach Ball Classic, losing to the nation's second best team Duncanville out of Texas in Dec. While in S.C., senior Dequan Jones looked like a McDonald's All-American and clearly separated himself from the rest of the pack. He's on a roll right now and there isn't a player in the senior class playing with as much confidence as he is right now.

2. Columbia (15-1)
Notable victories: Antioch (TN) 85-62, Miller Grove 82-64, Mays 56-54, LaSalle (Ohio) 65-62, Stone Mountain 70-61, Miller Grove 61-59
Notable loss: Archbishop Carroll (D.C.) 38-43
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at Tucker, Jan. 18 vs. SW Dekalb
Last rank: 5
Notes:: The Eagles could very easily sit atop the top spot in the state power rankings. Seniors Travis Leslie, Darius Morrow and Kenny Mitchell pose such a problem with their size and strength. The homestretch won't be easy for the AAAA powerhouse but the pumped up national schedule should help them in tournament play.

3. Norcross (13-1)
Notable victories: Collins Hill 76-43, Peachtree Ridge 70-37, Westlake Prep (Fla.) 81-44, Westlake 62-57, Helen Cox (La.) 59-48
Notable loss: Kathleen (Fla.) 45-51
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at Collins Hill, Jan. 18 at Forsyth Central, Jan. 19 vs. Dillard (Fla.)
Last rank: 4
Notes: The Blue Devils, particularly Al-Farouq Aminu, shined on the nationally-televised game against Helen Cox (La.) last week. Aminu dominated the match-up against Greg Monroe, the nation's top big man and certainly earned some respect with regards to Mr. Georgia Basketball. Florida powerhouse Dillard comes to Georgia this week and Norcross's tremendous defensive attack will be tested.

4. Westlake (15-2)
Notable victories: Creekside 76-61, Fayette County 65-59, IMG (Fla.) 60-55, Riverdale 53-52, Wenonah (Ala.) 45-43, Creekside 79-59
Notable losses: Neumann-Goretti (Pa.) 58-65, Norcross 57-62
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Woodward Academy, Jan. 19 vs. Arlington Country Day (Fla.) at Norcross
Last rank: 2
Notes: The Lions won the Peach State Classic and Oklahoma bound wing Ray Willis was named tournament MVP. He was also impressive at the Amare Stoudamire Invitational in Florida, where he was one of the top five players in the field. While there, the team met up with Norcross in a tremendous battle between two of the Peach State powers. The Lions lost it 62-57.

5. Savannah (14-0)
Notable victories: Liberty County 88-82 OT, Beach 65-50, Windsor Forest 89-78, Richmond Academy 72-53, Savannah Johnson 89-75, Jonesboro 61-45, Irmo (S.C.) 62-38, Tallahassee Lincoln (Fla.) 87-67, Bradwell Institute 76-69 (OT)
This week's schedule: Jan. 18 vs. Windsor Forest, Jan. 19 vs. Jenkins
Last rank: 20
Notes: Don't look now but the Blue Jackets are rolling. Led by guards Kevin Williams and Norris Rumph, the traditional power is the top team in talent-rich Savannah and will be a contender when the state tournament rolls along.

6. South Atlanta (16-1)
Notable victories: Douglass 83-68, Jeanette (Pa.) 96-57, Lincoln (N.Y.), Southside 85-55, Booker T. Washington (Va.) 90-46
Notable loss: St. Benedicts (N.J.) 43-57
This week's schedule: Jan. 19 vs. Campbell Hall, Calif. (at UCLA)
Last rank: 10
Notes: The Hornets have the best player in the state on the roster in junior center Derrick Favors and letting the big men do what he does best. The only loss came to the nation's top team at the Bojangles tournament in N.C. after Christmas. South Atlanta is beating teams from Georgia by an average of 30 points a game this year.

7. Dunwoody (12-3)
Notable victories: Rome 67-65, Chamblee 78-72 (OT), Scott County (Ky.) 86-65, Jackson (Fla.) 85-61, Lee (Fla.) 78-59
Notable loss: Blessed Trinity 68-73, Pace (Fla.) 67-72, Bishop O'Connell (Va.) 67-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at North Atlanta, Jan. 18 at Chamblee, Jan. 19 vs. American Christian (Pa.) at Norcross
Last rank: 8
Notes: Dunwoody looks to be back on the right track after a couple of tough losses, all of which came within five points or less. The Wildcats have one of the best starting five in the state and can contend with any team from Georgia. The region play is a major test and Scott Bracco and company will have their hands full with Tyreke Evans this Saturday.

8. Miller Grove (12-3)
Notable victories: Redan 51-50, Tucker 70-62, Wesleyan 53-51, Stone Mountain 83-81, Jeannette (Pa.) 76-65
Notable losses: Columbia 64-82, Archbishop Moeller (Ohio) 48-51 (OT), Columbia 59-61
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Lakeside Deklab, Jan. 18 vs. Washington
Last rank: 6
Notes: Miller Grove head coach Sharman White has a boyish face but look closely at his hair and you'll probably see a lot of gray hair sprouting up. His team likes to keep the games close. For the most part, the Deklab County school gets the win in the end. Guard play is the strength, led by junior Mfon Udofia and Justin Allen.

9. Randolph Clay (17-0)
Notable victories: Eufaula (Ala.) 90-75, Terrell Count 84-79, Eufaula (Ala.) 91-69, Terrell County 74-54, Wilkinson County 79-73
This week's schedule: Jan. 18 vs. Fitzgerald, Jan. 19 at Brooks County
Last rank: NR
Notes: One of the most storied programs in the state continues to win by big margins and knock off the top teams on the schedule. Head coach Joe Williams reached 1,000 wins in midseason.

10. Blessed Trinity (15-0)
Notable victories: Dunwoody 73-68; Marietta 50-35, Chamblee 75-68
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Riverwood, Jan. 18 vs. Westminster
Last rank: 7
Notes: The Titans have three major victories under their belt and have taken care of every challenge since the start of the year. In order to move up further the power poll and pass Dunwoody, a team they beat on the road, Blessed Trinity will need to rack up more notable victories. So far, so good in that department.

11. Centennial (11-3)
Notable victories: Whitefield Academy 51-43, Craigmont (Tenn.) 81-79 (OT), La Cueva (N.M.) 64-63, Rose Hill Academy (Ky.) 55-53
Notable losses: Wheeler 64-93, Lone Peak (Utah) 57-75, Mason County (Ky.) 57-81
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at Northview, Jan. 18 vs. Roswell, Jan. 19 vs. Walton
Last rank: 3

12. Lithia Springs (15-1)
Notable victories: Villa Rica 88-80, Alexander 85-67, Newnan 74-58, Pebblebrook 58-55, Hiram 93-74, Decatur 55-54 (OT), Woodland 81-52,
Notable loss: Spartanburg 72-73 (OT)
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at South Paulding, Jan. 18 vs. Alexander, Jan. 19 at Osborne
Last rank: NR

13. Jordan (16-0)
Notable victories: Shaw 71-69, Northside 74-69
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Harris County, Jan. 18 vs. LaGrange
Last rank: 12

14. Marietta (14-2)
Notable victories: Campbell 56-45, Harrison 59-53, Kansas City Ruskin (Mo.) 60-55, San Diego (Calif.) 58-46, McEachern 74-58,
Notable losses: Blessed Trinity 35-50, Whitefield Academy 54-66
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at North Cobb, Jan. 19 vs. Campbell
Last rank: NR

15. Mundy's Mill (14-1)
Notable victories: Shaw 54-51, Druid Hills 67-60, Southwest Atlanta Christian 61-47, Riverdale 70-62, Tri-Cities 54-46, Newnan 76-62
Notable losses: Hiram 64-77
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 at Hiram, Jan. 18 at Tri-Cities, Jan. 19 vs. North Clayton
Last rank: NR

16. Douglass (12-1)
Notable victories: Newton 51-47, Stephenson 75-72, Redan 51-48, Newnan 53-44, Southside 72-49
Notable losses: South Atlanta 68-83
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Newton, Jan. 18 at Stephenson
Last rank: NR

17. Glenn Hills 13-2
Notable victories: Josey 64-53, Richmond Academy 75-60, Laney 67-52, Laney 69-52, Washington County 43-40 (OT)
Notable losses: North Augusta (S.C.) 47-49, Craigmont (Tenn.) 58-59
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Butler, Jan. 18 at Harlem, Jan. 19 vs. Hephzibah
Last rank: NR

18. Wesleyan (13-2)
Notable victories: Collins Hill 72-52, Dacula 55-48, Collins Hill 72-52
Notable losses: Christ School (N.C.) 72-74, Miller Grove 51-53
This week's schedule: Jan. 18 vs. Buford, Jan. 19 at GAC
Last rank: 15

19. Hancock Central (14-1)
Notable victories: Washington County 45-41, Washington County 50-37
Notable loss: Wilkinson County 52-64
This week's schedule: Jan. 15 vs. Twiggs County, Jan. 18 vs. Georgia Military, Jan. 19 vs. Wilkinson County
Last rank: NR

20. Appling County (14-1)
Notable victories: Bacon County 66-52, Bacon County 51-36, Long County 69-67 (OT),
Notable loss: Worth County 55-56
This week's schedule: Jan. 18 at Pierce County, Jan. 19 at Charlton County
Last rank: NR