MaxPreps 2013-14 Preseason Top 25 high school basketball rankings presented by the Army National Guard

After two seasons of a divided house in the MaxPreps high school basketball rankings, we are reopening the Xcellent 25 to all-comers.

While there is merit to recognizing the advantages and limitations of programs across the country, the proliferation of crossover games between teams in our Xcellent 25 and now-defunct Academy Top 10 would suggest coaches are eager to measure themselves against the best regardless of those factors.

The new-look/old-look Xcellent 25 will reflect that desire by returning to an all-encompassing approach to identifying the top high school basketball teams in the United States.



Below is a look at past MaxPreps national champions:

2013 – Xcellent 25: Lone Peak (Highland, Utah), Academy Top 10: Montverde Academy (Fla.)
2012 – Xcellent 25: St. Anthony (Jersey City, N.J.), Academy Top 10: Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.)
2011 – St. Anthony (Jersey City, N.J.)
2010 – Yates (Houston)
2009 – Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.)

Click through to begin sizing up this year's contenders with in-depth previews for all the nation's elite in our Preseason Xcellent 25 High School Basketball Rankings presented by the Army National Guard.{PAGEBREAK} 25. Carlisle School (Martinsville, Va.)
Head coach: Jason Niblett
2012-13 record: 23-2
Players to watch: Kevin Cuesta (6-4, Sr., F), Adrian Hatfield (6-0, So., G), Eric Johnson (6-2, Sr., G), Kaleb Johnson (6-6, Jr., G/F), Sebastian Kruger (6-7, Sr., F), Thon Maker (7-0, So., F/C), Yesid Mosquera (6-5, So., F), Malcolm N'Diaye (6-2, Sr., G)

Breaking down Carlisle

Carlisle returns virtually everybody from last year's 23-2 team and even added a few key pieces. So why isn't the elite academic institution ranked even higher?

Niblett's team is going to be taking a huge step up in competition, going from playing primarily other Virginia independent schools to a full-blown national schedule.

The presence of 7-foot sophomore Maker should make that transition a bit easier. A native of Sudan by way of Australia, Maker is one of the most tantalizing prospects to come along in years with his size, length and ever-expanding skill set.



As a freshman at Carlisle, Maker averaged 23.4 points, 12.9 rebounds and 4.9 blocked shots per game.

"The improvement just over the last six months has been unreal," Niblett said of Maker. "The sky is the limit for him. Off the floor, he is a great kid, very respectful, not a head-case. Thon really studies the game and doesn't mind asking questions – you want that in a player."

There is a chance Maker could be joined by brother Matur – a 6-9 freshman – on the varsity roster this season. Paperwork clearing up his status is in process.

Senior guard Eric Johnson is back and was Carlisle's second-leading scorer a year ago at 16 points per game to go along with 8.3 assists.

The international feel continues with Colombians Cuesta (13 points per game in 2012-13) and Mosquera, N'Diaye of Sweden (11.3) and Spaniard Kruger – a newcomer to the program.

Stepping up



Niblett says college coaches have thrown out comparisons to Jalen Rose for Kaleb Johnson, who played high school ball in Southfield, Va., last season.

"He's a lefty and can play the one, two or three spot, hit the three ball or go to the rack," Niblett said. "He is from a small town and didn't get the pub last year but I think his stock could really go through the roof."

Auburn, South Florida and East Carolina are among the programs showing interest in the first-year Carlisle player.

Key dates
Nov. 27 – vs. Huntington St. Joseph Prep (W.Va.)
Dec. 19-23 – Chick-fil-A Classic
Dec. 26-28 – HighSchoolOT.com Invitational
Jan. 3 – vs. Oldsmar Christian (Fla.) at Chance Harman Classic
Jan. 7 – at Quality Education Academy (Winston-Salem, N.C.)
Jan. 10 – vs. Curie (Chicago) at McCracken County Festival of Hoops
Jan. 11 – vs. Marian Catholic (Chicago Heights, Ill.) at McCracken County Festival of Hoops
Jan. 25 – vs. Quality Education Academy
Feb. 5 – at Huntington St. Joseph Prep{PAGEBREAK}

No. 24 Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park, Kan.)
Head coach: Ed Fritz
2012-13 record: 25-0, Class 6A state champions, No. 14 final Xcellent 25 national ranking
Players to watch: Clayton Custer (6-0, Sr., G, Iowa State verbal commitment), Vince Fritz (6-2, Sr., G, Sacred Heart verbal commitment), Kyle Harrison (5-10, Sr., G), Ben Richardson (6-2, Sr., G), David Salach (6-6, Sr., F)

Breaking down the Huskies



After three consecutive losses in the state championship game, Blue Valley Northwest broke through in a big way last March. The Huskies not only ran the table en route to the state title, but did so in dominating fashion with only three opponents all season keeping the final margin to less then 10 points.

Leading the way is a senior foursome that has been playing together since the third grade in Custer, Fritz, Harrison and Richardson.

Custer, who committed to Iowa State as a sophomore, is the headliner after posting 22.2 points per game last season en route to first team All-State and MaxPreps Junior All-American honors. The Huskies are 71-4 since he entered the program as a freshman.

Richardson (first team) and coach's kid Vince Fritz (third team) also earned All-State honors as juniors. Richardson has offers from the likes of Massachusetts, Indiana State and Richmond.

While BVN will be a heavy favorite to repeat in Kansas, the program's national fortunes will largely hang on a meeting with Tyus Jones and No. 23 Apple Valley (Minn.) at the Target Center in Minneapolis on Jan. 4.

Key dates
Dec. 14 – vs. Kickapoo (Springfield, Mo.) at Ozark Mountain Shootout
Dec. 21 – vs. Lee's Summit West (Mo.) at Hy-Vee Shootout
Jan. 4 – vs. Apple Valley (Minn.) at Timberwolves Shootout
Jan. 23-25 – Valley Center Invitational{PAGEBREAK}



No. 23 Apple Valley (Minn.)
Head coach: Zach Goring
2012-13 record: 30-1, Class AAAA state champions
Players to watch: Dennis Austin (6-3, Sr., F), Brock Bertram (6-9, So., F), Tyus Jones (6-0, Sr., G), Robert Tobroxen (6-6, Sr., F)

Breaking down the Eagles

Though the Eagles return plenty of complimentary pieces from last year's state championship run, 2013-14 will be best known as the high school curtain call for one of Minnesota's most beloved prep athletes ever in Jones.

The point guard prodigy was named to the MaxPreps All-American second team as a junior after averaging 20 points and seven assists per game. His scoring dipped from 28 points per outing as a sophomore but Apple Valley benefited from his willingness to dial back the scoring.

Jones is pegged as the No. 5 overall senior prospect by 247Sports.com and is nearing a decision between Baylor, Duke and Kansas.

Apple Valley was dominant down the stretch in 2012-13, winning its last six postseason contests by an average margin of more than 26 points per game. The Eagles avenged their only loss of the season in the AAAA final, beating Park Center (Brooklyn Park) by 17.

That late surge bodes well for this winter with Austin (13.3 points per game), Bertram (11) and Tobroxen (6.1) also returning to join the quest for back-to-back titles.



Key dates
Dec. 7 – vs. DeLaSalle (Minneapolis)
Dec. 10 – vs. Hopkins (Minnetonka, Minn.)
Dec. 12 – vs. Whitney Young (Chicago)
Jan. 4 – vs. Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park, Kan.) at Timberwolves Shootout{PAGEBREAK} No. 22 Miller Grove (Lithonia, Ga.)
Head coach: Sharman White
2012-13 record: 30-3, Class AAAAA state champions, No. 19 final Xcellent 25 national ranking
Players to watch: Gamaun Boykins (5-11, Jr., G), Deven Dorsett (6-5, Sr., G/F), Alterique Gilbert (5-11, So., G), Josh Jackmon (6-0, Fr., G), Keith Pinckney (6-1, Sr., G, Tulane verbal commitment), Raylon Richardson (6-5, So., G/F), Omar Venable (6-7, Sr., F), James Walker (6-5, Sr., F), Kendall Williams (6-1, Jr., G)

Breaking down the Wolverines

Instead of beginning full-throttle preparation for Miller Grove's run at six consecutive state titles, White is trying to lead his team and community through an unimaginable tragedy.

Promising Wolverine freshman Terrell Coleman collapsed and died following a game little more than a week ago. While the cause of death is undetermined at the moment, reports indicate he had been diagnosed with a heart condition.

Needless to say, national rankings and state titles aren't the center of attention in Lithonia at the moment.

"He was just a perfect fit for our program," White said of Coleman. "He was a tremendous kid, incredible player and an even better person. I don't say that lightly, he had relationships and took interest in everybody at school from the custodians, cafeteria workers, teachers, police officers – everybody. He had a great outlook on life and worked extremely hard."

In the early going, basketball has been part of the healing process for the Wolverines.



"Basketball has been a refuge for these guys," White said. "And I think once we get past the initial shock and begin to move forward, the focus will be about trying to do this (win a sixth state title in a row) for Terrell. There is extra incentive or motivation placed upon us because of his passing. These guys have not only rededicated themselves to work harder on the basketball, but the whole scope of life in general."

When Miller Grove does regroup, expect the winning tradition to continue. White returns eight players who saw extensive time a year ago, including a pair of lead guards in Pinckney and Gilbert.

"It's a tremendous luxury to have both of those guys back," White said.

Williams will also see time in the backcourt while Dorsett and Richardson will man the wings. Venable and Walker give Miller Grove a big, physical presence in the paint.

Key dates
Nov. 23 – vs. Buford (Ga.) at Jared Cook Classic
Dec. 7 – vs. Wheeler (Marietta, Ga.) at Nike Explosion
Dec. 14 – vs. St. Francis (Alpharetta, Ga.) at Greater Atlanta Christian Showcase
Dec. 26-31 – Beach Ball Classic
Jan. 20 – vs. Roselle Catholic (N.J.) at Flyin' to the Hoop{PAGEBREAK}

No. 21 Mentor (Ohio)
Head coach: Bob Krizancic
2012-13 record: 25-5, Division I state champions, No. 25 final Xcellent 25 national ranking
Players to watch: Kent Berger (6-4, Sr., F, Ohio football commitment), Brandon Fritts (6-4, Sr., G/F, North Carolina football commitment), Kyle Hagey (5-11, Sr., G), Conner Krizancic (6-2, Sr., G, Cincinnati football commitment), Kade McClure (6-6, Sr., F, Louisville baseball commitment), Caleb Potter (6-3, Sr., F, West Virginia baseball commitment)



Breaking down the Cardinals

Mentor might be the most athletic team in the country. Not necessarily combine-type athleticism, but simply the ability to play multiple sports well.

Ohio's defending big school state champs have five seniors committed to Division I schools – but none for basketball. It's an unthinkable oddity in today's high school basketball landscape where prospects tend to flock together, a nationally ranked team with no Division I prospects.

But that's a testament to the program Krizancic has built in 21 years at Mentor. After years of playoff frustration, the Cardinals finally broke through and won the Division I state crown last season.

Though Mentor will miss leading scorer and lone All-State pick Jeff Foreman, the 2012-13 Cardinals were balanced with eight different players reaching double digits on a regular basis. That group showed the program can compete with the nation's elite by taking Huntington St. Joseph Prep (W.Va.) to the wire in a two-point loss at the Dunk 4 Diabetes Shooout (a rematch is slated for the same event this season).

Plenty of production returns for the high-scoring Cardinals, who averaged 84 points per game last season. Potter (14 points per game), Conner Krizancic (13.3) and Fritts (13.3) all averaged double figures and contributed to the team's astounding total of 331 3-point field goals.



Key dates
Dec. 6 – at Garfield Heights (Ohio)
Dec. 12 – Shaker Heights (Ohio)
Dec. 26-31 – Arby's Classic
Jan. 24 – Garfield Heights
Jan. 26 – vs. Huntington St. Joseph Prep (W.Va.) at Dunk 4 Diabetes Shootout
Jan. 31 – at Shaker Heights{PAGEBREAK} No. 20 Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.)
Head coach: Kyle Lindsted
2012-13 record: 29-1, No. 6 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
Players to watch: Nathan Bain (6-6, 195, Sr., G/F), Moataz Hosny (6-9, Sr., F/C), Dusan Kovacevic (6-10, Jr., F/C), Travis Munnings (6-7, 195, Sr., G/F), Jerry Myles Jr. (6-5, So., G/F), Lourawls Nairn Jr. (5-10, Sr., G, Michigan State verbal commitment), Keanu Pinder (6-8, Sr., F, Nebraska verbal commitment), Roman Young (5-10, So., G)

Breaking down the Buffaloes

Five years ago, Sunrise Christian Academy was a name few outside of the Wichita area would recognize.

That's changed in a big way thanks partially to an influx of talented international students and a signature win over Prime Prep last season.

The 2013-14 Sunrise roster will include players from Australia, Bahamas, Egypt, Serbia and Spain.

"I like our team a lot," Lindsted said. "It will be a little bit of the same M.O. for us in that we have guys that are probably under the radar a little bit, international guys who don't have a big name here."

SCA's headliner is certainly a well-recognized prospect. Point guard Nairn Jr. is a Top 100 2014 recruit headed to play for Tom Izzo at Michigan State.



Fellow Bahamians Bain and Munnings – a defensive stopper – along with local sensation Young give the Buffaloes a backcourt that Lindsted believes will be the foundation of everything the team does this winter.

"I don't know where we will be as far as beating the top teams, but I think we will be really hard to beat," Lindsted said. "With the guys that we have, they are going to run our sets, play the type of basketball we want to play and we aren't going to beat ourselves."

Stepping up

MaxPreps ran a short story in August about Hosny, a talented Egyptian player struggling to leave his home country to pursue his basketball dreams. He ended up at Sunrise Christian and Lindsted expects him to make a major contribution right away as a likely starter.

"The first few days he struggled to even get through practice," Lindsted said. "He had never done anything that hard in his life, but he's getting better. He can really defend and rebound and he is super long and athletic."

Hosny averaged 10.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game at the FIBA U17 World Championship while representing his country in the summer of 2012.



Key dates
Nov. 28-30 – State Farm Tournament of Champions
Dec. 20-22 – City of Palms Classic
Jan. 10 – vs. Prime Prep (Dallas) at McCracken County Festival of Hoops
Jan. 11 – vs. Huntington St. Joseph Prep (W.Va.) at McCracken County Festival of Hoops
Jan. 19 – vs. Thurgood Marshall (Dayton, Ohio) at Flyin' to the Hoop
Jan. 24-25 – Penny Hardaway Hoopfest
March 7 – at Prime Prep{PAGEBREAK}

No. 19 Northland (Columbus, Ohio)
Head coach: Sean Taylor
2012-13 record: 28-1
Players to watch: Ty Hairston (6-1, Sr., G), Derick McKeithen (6-3, Sr., G), Donte' Smith (5-10, Sr., G), Doug Taylor (6-8, Jr., F), Seth Towns (6-7, So., F), Jalen Tucker (6-7, Sr., F), Shemar Waugh (5-9, Sr., G)

Breaking down the Vikings

One of the nation's winningest programs in recent years with a 171-9 record since 2006, Northland is back with another state title contender.

Much of that success was achieved with Satch Sullinger on the sideline and stars like son Jared and Trey Burke in the starting lineup. But Taylor was named Ohio's Division I Co-Coach of the Year last winter and is showing no signs of letting off the gas.

The Vikings return nine of their top 10 scorers from a year ago, including seniors McKeithen (10.9 points per game), Tucker (10.8) and Hairston (10.2).



Point man Waugh contributed 8 points and 6.8 assists per game while sophomore Towns may be the team's top prospect. The young forward already has offers from Dayton, Virginia Tech and Xavier.

The 2012-13 Vikings saw their season end in the Division I semifinals against No. 21 Mentor. A state playoff rematch this year would be a must-see event in the Buckeye State.

Northland has won 106 consecutive games in Columbus City League play, a streak that seems unlikely to end this year. The Vikings also haven't lost more than two games in a season since 2005.

The latter accomplishment will be put to the test in December at the Beach Ball Classic in South Carolina, where a 16-team field that includes powerhouses like Bishop O'Connell (Arlington, Va.), No. 22 Miller Grove (Lithonia, Ga.), Norcross (Ga.) and Providence (Jacksonville, Fla.) awaits.

Key dates
Dec. 7 – vs. Thurgood Marshall (Dayton, Ohio) at Clark Kellogg Classic
Dec. 26-31 – Beach Ball Classic
Jan. 18 – vs. Roselle Catholic (N.J.) at Flyin' to the Hoop{PAGEBREAK} No. 18 Arlington Country Day (Jacksonville, Fla.)
Head coach: Rex Morgan
2012-13 record: 30-4
Players to watch: Dante Buford (6-8, Sr., G/F), Brandone Francis (6-6, Sr., G, Florida verbal commitment), LaDamion Keys (6-9, Sr., F), Nate Mason Jr. (6-0, Sr., G, Minnesota verbal commitment), K.J. Maura (5-8, Sr., G), Terrell Miller (6-8, Sr., F), D.J. Russell (6-6, Fr., G/F, Miami verbal commitment), Ali Sinera (6-9, Sr., F/C), Lamonte Turner (6-2, So., G)

Breaking down the Apaches



Will there be enough shots to go around at ACD? That's about the only hole you can poke in the Apaches' preseason national rankings viability.

The Apaches have potentially a dozen future Division I players on the roster and have added a couple of lengthy international players who are intriguing mysteries. Sinera is from Ghana and received positive reviews at the Florida Fall Festival while 7-footer Antanas Krimelis came to Jacksonville from Lithuania.

Francis, who is from the Dominican Republic, is a key returner who can play some point guard at 6-5. Mason, another ballhandler that can fill it up, appeared headed for Montrose Christian in Maryland this fall but took a late detour and will hook up with Francis in the ACD backcourt.

Turner averaged 13 points per game last year for Sparkman (Harvest), which reached the 6A championship game in Alabama.

The wing and forward spots are loaded. Buford, Keys, Miller and likely Sinera are all 30-minute-per-game players in most programs but will be timesharing at ACD.

Stepping up

Russell, a freshman who committed to Miami in July long before ever playing a high school game, will have to be special to get minutes with the aforementioned group of forwards, but early reports indicate he may be just that.



According to Michael Casagrande of the Sun Sentinel, Russell took an unofficial visit to Miami last season during a blowout win over North Carolina. He was seated for the game about 10 feet from his idol – LeBron James.

Well played, Hurricanes.

Key dates
Nov. 30 – vs. St. Francis (Alpharetta, Ga.) at Orlando, Fla.
Dec. 7 – vs. Providence (Jacksonville, Fla.) at Southside Showdown
Dec. 14 – vs. Prime Prep (Dallas) at Florida Hoops Challenge
Dec. 21-23 – Chick-fil-A Classic
Jan. 9 – at Oldsmar Christian (Fla.)
Jan. 14 – vs. The Rock (Gainesville, Fla.)
Jan. 19 – vs. St. Benedict's Prep (Newark, N.J.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Jan. 25 – vs. Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.) at Penny Hardaway Classic
Jan. 29 – vs. Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) at Beckley, W.Va.
Feb. 4 – vs. Oldsmar Christian
Feb. 6 – at The Rock{PAGEBREAK} No. 17 Wheeler (Marietta, Ga.)
Head coach: Douglas Lipscomb
2012-13 record: 21-9
Players to watch: Jaylen Brown (6-6, Jr., G), Daniel Giddens (6-9, Jr., F/C), Jerron Love (5-11, Jr., G), Avery Patterson (6-2, Sr., G), Elijah Staley (6-7, Sr., F, Mississippi State verbal commitment), Trevin Steede (6-3, Sr., G)

Breaking down the Wildcats

Lipscomb made it clear last month via phone that he didn't want to engage in wild speculation about how good his team could be or give glowing depictions of his players' individual potential.

After two years of waiting patiently for young stars Brown and Giddens to mature and develop, it's time for the Wildcats to deliver.

"Our game has to do the talking," said Lipscomb, who has won five state championships at Wheeler and is no stranger to the national rankings. "Don't get me wrong, we have a lot of talented and hard-working young men, but you can go to the final four here at Wheeler and some people would say that is a bad season."



The Wildcats did just that last year by reaching the AAAAAA semifinals with a starting lineup that included two sophomores and two juniors.

Staley, who may be Mississippi State's quarterback of the future, earned All-State honorable mention last season. Fellow seniors Patterson and Steede will join him in bringing a dose of experience and leadership to the squad.

Wheeler has some incredible basketball bloodlines on the roster. Senior twins Bilal and Malik Abdur-Rahim are the younger brothers of 12-year NBA pro Shareef Abdur-Rahim. Senior Maleek Catchings is the nephew of current WNBA player and Tennessee Lady Vol legend Tamika Catchings.

Staley is also the half-brother of Greek pro basketball player Patrick Ewing Jr.

Stepping up

Junior stars Brown and Giddens are both regarded as Top 15 prospects nationally in the Class of 2015.



Brown is a big wing ranked No. 8 overall in the 2015 Top 247. Kansas, Louisville and Ohio State are among the schools at the forefront of his recruitment.

Giddens is a 6-foot-9 intimidator who spent part of his summer with USA Basketball's U16 team. He has offers from Kansas, Louisville, Maryland, Texas and UCLA among others.

The duo will have to turn potential into production for Wheeler to live up to lofty expectations this season.

Key dates
Dec. 7 – vs. Miller Grove (Lithonia, Ga.) at Nike Explosion
Dec. 18-23 – City of Palms Classic
Dec. 26-28 – HighSchoolOT.com Invitational
Jan. 25 – vs. Wenonah (Birmingham, Ala.) at Hilton Invitational{PAGEBREAK} No. 16 White Station (Memphis, Tenn.)
Head coach: Jesus Patino
2012-13 record: 22-6
Players to watch: LeRon Black (6-8, Sr., F, Illinois verbal commitment), Chris Chiozza (6-0, Sr., G, Florida verbal commitment), Curtis Phillips (6-4, Sr., G), Davell Roby (6-5, Sr., G/F, Saint Louis verbal commitment), Nych Smith (5-11, Jr., G), Blake Williams (5-10, Fr., G)

Breaking down the Spartans

From last year's preseason Xcellent 25, where White Station was slotted in the No. 20 spot:



"Are the Spartans still a year away? Going from 15-15 to preseason Xcellent 25 is a big step. Is Patino's team ready to contend, or will this simply be the run-up to a potentially special 2013-14 campaign?"

Turns out the Spartans were still a year away, at least in terms of measuring up nationally.

But now players like Black, Chiozza, Phillips and Roby are seniors. White Station has played in nine state championship games since 1996 and won five of them, so the Spartans won't fall off the map after the aforementioned group's departure, but this is their final shot at doing something big.

Black was White Station's leading scorer and rebounder a year ago at more than 18 and 10 per game. The Illinois pledge is a dynamic forward who has been a national name since his freshman year due to his play with the Spartans and club outfit Team Thad.

Chiozza, a future Florida Gator, provides some sizzle at the point guard position. He's fun to watch unless you happen to be on the other bench.

Phillips, Roby and Smith are all experienced performers while Williams is one of the nation's most highly touted freshmen.

Key dates
Dec. 3 – vs. Ridgeway (Memphis, Tenn.)
Dec. 7 – vs. Prime Prep (Dallas) at Marshall County Hoopfest
Dec. 17-21 – Iolani' Classic
Jan. 11 – at Ridgeway
Jan. 16-18 – Bass Pro Shops Tournament of Champions
Jan. 23 – vs. Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.) at Penny Hardaway Hoopfest
Jan. 25 – vs. Hamilton (Memphis, Tenn.)
Jan. 27 – at Hamilton{PAGEBREAK} No. 15 Germantown (Wis.)
Head coach: Steve Showalter
2012-13 record: 28-0, Division 1 state champions, No. 2 final Xcellent 25 national ranking
Players to watch: Jon Averkamp (6-6, Sr., F), Brian Bearden (6-1, Sr., G), LaMonte Bearden Jr. (6-2, Sr., G, Buffalo verbal commitment), Dearionte Hudson (5-8, Sr., G), Jake Showalter (6-3, Sr., G, North Dakota State verbal commitment), Evan Wesenberg (6-7, Sr., F, North Dakota State verbal commitment)



Breaking down the Warhawks

Germantown was a bit of a hot topic after finishing No. 2 in our national rankings last season.

Could a team that never stepped outside of Wisconsin or played a nationally ranked opponent be that good?

It's impossible to know for sure, but what is certain is that no other team in America has dominated in-state competition like Germantown has the past two years. The Warhawks have won 56 games in a row and back-to-back Division 1 state titles. Of those 56 wins, 42 have come by 20 points or more and 32 have come by 30 or more.

While Germantown will miss 6-10 Luke Fischer – now a freshman at Indiana – in the middle, Showalter brings back 13 players from last year's championship run.

The backcourt is loaded with Junior All-American LaMonte Bearden (13 points per game), brother Brian, coach's kid Jake Showalter (12 ppg) and Hudson. Wesenberg and Averkamp combined to team for around 15 points per game last season and give the Warhawks some size down low.

Key dates
Dec. 14 – vs. Dominican (Whitefish Bay, Wis.) at NY2LA Sports Classic
Dec. 21 – vs. Pius XI (Milwaukee) at Al McGuire Center
Dec. 27-28 – WBY Shootout
Jan. 4 – La Follette (Madison, Wis.) at #SwingFam Showcase
Jan. 14 – at Brookfield Central (Brookfield){PAGEBREAK} No. 14 Plano West (Texas)
Head coach: Anthony Morgan
2012-13 record: 19-14
Players to watch: Tre Anderson (6-3, Sr., G), Chris Giles (6-2, Fr., G), D.J. Hogg (6-8, Jr., G/F), Soso Jamabo (6-3, Jr., G/F), Avery Johnson Jr. (5-10, Sr., G), Mickey Mitchell (6-8, Jr., G/F, Ohio State verbal commitment)

Breaking down the Wolves



A couple of key transfers helped transform West from a team that finished third in its district last season and lost 14 games to the preseason favorite to capture the 5A state title in Texas.

Mitchell, a Top 20 prospect in the 2015 class, is the newcomer with the biggest reputation. The point-forward missed last season with a torn ACL but teamed with Kentucky freshman Julius Randle to lead Prestonwood Christian (Plano) to the City of Palms Classic crown and a private school state title as a freshman.

Johnson's transfer was a bit more of a long-distance affair. He attended Cooper (The Woodlands) last season, more than a three-hour drive from Plano. He is the son of the former NBA point guard and Mavericks and Nets coach of the same name.

A third transfer – 6-9, 270-pound junior Tyler Davis – was ruled ineligible. The common denominator between Mitchell, Johnson and Davis is that they all played for the Texas Titans club program.

But not all the excitement at Plano West revolves around transfers. Hogg, a tall wing who garnered rave reviews at the Elite 14 preseason event last weekend, posted 16.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game last season as a sophomore. Multi-sport star Jamabo, a highly recruited football player, contributed 14.7 points and 4.3 rebounds.

Chemistry is about the only knock on the Wolves. That might not be much of a factor considering most of the rotation has played together extensively with the Titans.

Key dates
Nov. 29 – vs. Hamilton (Memphis, Tenn.) at Thanksgiving Hoopfest
Dec. 26-28 – Whataburger Tournament{PAGEBREAK} No. 13 St. Joseph (Metuchen, N.J.)
Head coach: Dave Turco
2012-13 record: 27-5, Non-Public Group A champions
Players to watch: Wade Baldwin (6-3, Sr., G, Vanderbilt verbal commitment), Raven Owen (5-11, Sr., G, Canisius verbal commitment), Karl Towns Jr. (6-11, Sr., F/C, Kentucky verbal commitment), Marques Townes (6-3, Sr., G/F)

Breaking down the Falcons

St. Anthony under Bob Hurley and St. Patrick during the Kevin Boyle era have dominated the high school basketball headlines in New Jersey for the better part of the last two decades.

But neither program was involved in last season's Tournament of Champions final, which saw Turco's Falcons fall to Roselle Catholic. Both teams appear to be primed for repeat runs.

St. Joe's doesn't appear to be particularly deep, but the team wasn't last year either en route to a 27-5 record.

And depth isn't all that important when you have one of the nation's top big men in Towns, a dynamic athlete who can run the point in Baldwin and a strong, tough utility man in Townes. Owen will play Division I college ball at Canisius.

Towns was New Jersey's Gatorade Player of the Year as a junior and Baldwin was a first team All-State selection.

One matchup that deserves special mention will come late in the season at the Metro Classic as St. Joseph welcomes Boyle back to the Garden State in his second year at Montverde Academy (read on for more on Boyle and the Eagles).



Key dates
Dec. 27 – vs. Archbishop Wood (Warminster, Pa.) at Shooting Touch Shootout
Dec. 28 – vs. Central (Springfield, Mass.) at Shooting Touch Shootout
Jan. 11 – vs. Wilbraham & Monson Academy (Wilbraham, Mass.) at Under Armour Invitational
Jan. 19 – vs. DeMatha (Hyattsville, Md.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Feb. 16 – vs. Montverde Academy (Fla.) at Metro Classic{PAGEBREAK} No. 12 Roselle Catholic (N.J.)
Head coach: Dave Boff
2012-13 record: 25-5, NJSIAA Tournament of Champions winner
Players to watch: Isaiah Briscoe (6-3, Jr., G), Matt Bullock (6-4, So., G/F), Ganlandou Cisse (6-9, Jr., F/C), Asante Gist (5-11, So., G), Pierre Sarr (6-7, Jr., F), Chris Silva (6-9, Jr., F/C)

Breaking down the Lions

Though it wasn't enough to get Roselle Catholic in our final national rankings (much to the chagrin of Boff), Roselle Catholic went on one of the more impressive state playoff runs in the entire country last March.

First, Roselle Catholic handled The Patrick School (Elizabeth) by 16 in the Non-Public B semis. Then came an upset of a nationally ranked St. Anthony (Jersey City) team that entered with a 28-1 record.

The final statement victory was an impressive 65-49 win over Karl Towns and St. Joseph (Metuchen) in the NJSIAA Tournament of Champions title game.

Tyler Roberson, now a freshman at Syracuse, is gone along with outgoing transfer Malachi Richardson, but the ceiling for this year's Lions could be even higher than it was with that duo in the lineup.

Much of that optimism goes to Briscoe, a powerful junior guard who transferred to Roselle from St. Benedict's Prep (Newark). The floor general has a linebacker body and a winning track record. Gist, though just a sophomore, gives Briscoe a dangerous running mate in the backcourt after playing a big role for the Lions as a freshman.



Cisse and Sarr are new to the program but should make Roselle Catholic a matchup nightmare at the forward spots along with Silva – a Top 100 prospect with several big-time offers.

Key dates
Dec. 20 – vs. The Patrick School (Elizabeth, N.J.)
Jan. 18 – vs. Northland (Columbus, Ohio) at Flyin' to the Hoop
Jan. 20 – vs. Miller Grove (Lithonia, Ga.) at Flyin' to the Hoop
Feb. 9 - vs. St. Peter's Prep (Jersey City, N.J.) at PrimeTime Shootout
Feb. 15 – vs. Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.){PAGEBREAK} No. 11 Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.)
Head coach: Glenn Farello
2012-13 record: 23-8
Players to watch: Marcus Derrickson (6-8, Jr., F, Georgetown verbal commitment), Kevin Dorsey (6-0, Jr., G), Franklin Howard (6-4, Jr., G), Curtis Jones (6-3, So., G), Quadree Smith (6-7, Sr., F), Evan Taylor (6-3, Sr., G)

Breaking down the Panthers

It's hard to believe that a team with wins over national champ Montverde Academy (Fla.) and Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) plus section or state titlists Callaway (Jackson, Miss.), Lake Highland Prep (Orlando, Fla.) and St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) didn't finish last season as a consensus national Top 25 pick.

Such were the ups and downs of a young team at Paul VI in 2012-13. Consistency and getting a break or two in the daunting Washington Catholic Athletic Conference will be key to improving upon that 23-8 campaign.

Of the 15 players listed on Paul VI's roster, just two are seniors. If Derrickson, Dorsey and Howard can take a big step forward after promising sophomore campaigns, the Panthers should be in the thick of the national picture for the next two seasons.

Smith, who possesses the build of a SEC offensive lineman, goes overlooked with all the young talent despite posting some monster double-doubles as a junior. The 285-pounder had 13 points and 19 boards in the win over Oak Hill Academy.



Taylor will bring experience to the backcourt and is receiving attention from Division I programs. Jones was a huge transfer addition via Highland Springs (Va.). As a freshman, the skilled guard averaged 14.7 points per game.

There are three other promising sophomores new to the roster in 6-6 Tyler Scanlon, 6-9 Jalen Melvin and 6-7 Corey Manigault.

Key dates
Dec. 14 – vs. Life Center Academy (Burlington, N.J.) at High School Hoops Festival
Dec. 18-23 – City of Palms Classic
Jan. 3 – vs. Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.)
Jan. 9 – at Bishop O'Connell (Arlington, Va.)
Jan. 16-18 – Bass Pro Shops Tournament of Champions
Jan. 20 – vs. St. Anthony (Jersey City, N.J.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Jan. 31 – at Gonzaga
Feb. 7 – vs. Bishop O'Connell
Feb. 9 – at DeMatha (Hyattsville, Md.)
Feb. 17 – vs. DeMatha{PAGEBREAK} No. 10 St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.)
Head coach: Derrick Taylor
2012-13 record: 24-7, CIF Southern Section Division 3A champions
Players to watch: Lorne Currie (6-2, Jr., G), Tyler Dorsey (6-4, Jr., G), Brian Enriquez (6-2, Sr., G), Daniel Hamilton (6-6, Sr., G/F, Connecticut verbal commitment), Vance Jackson (6-8, So., G/F), Billy Preston (6-7, Fr., F), Joseph Tate (6-4, So., F), Denzel Williams (6-2, Fr., G/F)

Breaking down the Braves

In most leagues around the country, Bosco would be the team with the target on its back entering 2013-14.

But the Trinity isn't most leagues.

Taylor's squad will be on the hunt to unseat Mater Dei, which swept the Braves in two meetings a year ago and has won 25 straight league titles (wow).



"We like our team and our chances but knocking off the Big Red Machine – that's no easy task," Taylor said.

The backcourt combination of Dorsey – who developed into a certified star on the summer circuit – and Hamilton should make just about anything possible for Bosco. That duo will be joined by Fairfax (Los Angeles) transfer Currie, another future Division I player.

La Salle (Pasadena) transfer Jackson is another huge addition. The versatile 6-8 sophomore was a MaxPreps Freshmen All-American last season after putting up 19 points per game.

"He is a big-time shooter," Taylor said. "He can really shoot it from deep and is a very savvy basketball player."

Stepping up

Expect to hear a lot about Preston over the next four years. Taylor expects the freshman manchild to earn a spot in the starting lineup.



"He's far from a finished product but he works at it all the time and is really improving," Taylor said.

Key dates
Dec. 7 – vs. Whitney Young (Chicago) at Chicago Elite Classic
Dec. 18-23 – City of Palms Classic
Jan. 11 – vs. Modesto Christian (Calif.)
Jan. 15 – at Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.)
Jan. 18 – vs. St. Frances Academy (Baltimore) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Feb. 1 – vs. Etiwanda (Calif.) at Nike Extravaganza
Feb. 7 – vs. Mater Dei{PAGEBREAK} No. 9 Whitney Young (Chicago)
Head coach: Tyrone Slaughter
2012-13 record: 27-4, Class 4A sectional finalist, No. 10 in final Xcellent 25 national rankings
Players to watch: Erwin Henry (6-1, Sr., G), Rodney Herenton Jr. (6-1, So., G), Jahlil Okafor (6-10, Sr., C), Miles Reynolds (6-1, Sr., G, Saint Louis verbal commitment), Paul White (6-8, Sr., F, Georgetown verbal commitment)

Breaking down the Dolphins

Had L.J. Peak (who returned to his native South Carolina) and Joseph Toye (transfer to La Lumiere) returned to Whitney Young this season, the Dolphins would have been a legitimate preseason national No. 1 contender.

"We still have the same high expectations," Slaughter said. "The goal is always to win a state championship."

Slaughter still has plenty of talent in the fold, including arguably the nation's top big man in Okafor. He's won gold medals with USA Basketball and is the most celebrated player in program history (which is saying a lot at Whitney Young) but is still missing the hardware that would complete his high school career.

"The last piece of the puzzle for him is becoming a state champion," Slaughter said.



Okafor was a second team All-American pick as a junior and helped the Dolphins hold the No. 1 national ranking for several weeks last winter. He won't be overwhelmed by the pressure of going out on top, according to Slaughter.

"There's a tendency to define players based on championships, but he's never been impacted by that kind of talk," Slaughter said. "He goes about his business, never is too big on himself, just steady as you go. He plays the game, lives his life and has a great family situation that I think has helped insulate him from a lot of the trappings of basketball stardom."

Stepping up

White has always been an intriguing prospect at nearly 6-9 with the ability to play on the wing. But he developed into a prime time player as a junior at Whitney Young and carried his play over to the summer.

The Georgetown pledge is the No. 87 overall prospect in the 2014 class according to 247Sports.com and had offers from programs like Arizona, Connecticut, Florida and Ohio State.

Key dates
Dec. 7 – vs. St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) at Chicago Elite Classic
Dec. 12 – at Apple Valley (Minn.)
Dec. 18-23 – City of Palms Classic
Dec. 27-30 – Les Schwab Invitational
Jan. 4 – vs. Prime Prep (Dallas) at Cancer Research Classic
Jan. 11 – vs. White Station (Memphis, Tenn.) at Penny Hardaway Hoopfest
Feb. 1 – vs. Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) at Nike Extravaganza{PAGEBREAK} No. 8 La Lumiere (LaPorte, Ind.)
Head coach: Alan Huss
2012-13 record: 26-6, No. 7 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
Players to watch: Jo Jo Anderson (6-2, Jr., G), Jalen Coleman (6-3, Jr., G), Sadiq Inuwa (6-6, Sr., F), Sam Logwood (6-6, Sr., G/F, Auburn verbal commitment), Alex Olesinski (6-9, Jr., F), Joseph Toye (6-7, Jr., G/F), Munis Tutu (6-0, Jr., G)



Breaking down the Lakers

While much was made over the summer about the flow of talent to La Porte, Huss thinks one of his few returners could be the key to success for the Lakers in 2013-14.

Logwood, a well-built wing headed to Auburn next year, will be counted on to produce and lead.

"He's really undervalued nationally," Huss said. "He played center as a freshman and has made the transition into becoming a really solid wing player. He can still play on the block and we will ask him to do that some but he scores in a variety of ways and can really finish."

Logwood helped La Lumiere notch a signature win over Oak Hill Academy last December at the Iolani Classic in Hawai'i. In order for more wins like that to occur, the Lakers will need a talented cast of newcomers to get comfortable in a hurry.

"We have a lot of young, hungry kids that are really fighting for spots," Huss said. "It's a competitive environment and a great mix."

The backcourt looks to be in good hands with Anderson, Coleman and Tutu – another returner. Toye, a star on the court and in track and field (jumps) at Chicago's Whitney Young last year, joins Logwood on the wing.

Coleman was a standout as a sophomore at Indianapolis Cathedral, ironically leading the Fighting Irish to a 70-59 win over La Lumiere last February. The junior guard will be joined at his new school by freshman brother Isaiah, who Huss expects to see minutes this year.



Stepping up

Olesinski is an intriguing player at 6-9 with the ability to do damage from the outside. The New Mexico native has a chance to significantly raise his stock with a productive two years at La Lumiere.

"He's added 14 or 15 pounds already since he has been here," Huss said. "Still got to get physically stronger but he's a stretch four who could be very difficult to deal with."

Key dates
Nov. 26-30 – State Farm Tournament of Champions
Dec. 18-22 – Tarkanian Classic
Dec. 28 – vs. West Oaks (Orlando, Fla.) at Mike Miller Classic
Jan. 19 – vs. Our Savior New American (Centereach, N.Y.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Jan. 25 – vs. Cleveland Central Catholic at Dunk 4 Diabetes Shootout{PAGEBREAK} 7. Prime Prep (Dallas)
Head coach: Ray Forsett
2012-13 record: 37-2, No. 4 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
Players to watch: Davontae Bailey (6-4, Sr., G), Terrance Ferguson (6-5, So., G), Emmanuel Mudiay (6-4, Sr., G, SMU verbal commitment), Micah Seaborn (6-5, Sr., G/F), Sean Williams (6-0, So., G)

Breaking down the Truth

A first-year program last season, Prime Prep legitimized itself on the court instantly with wins over powers like Blanche Ely (Pompano Beach, Fla.), Huntington St. Joseph Prep (Huntington, W.Va.), Scotlandville (Baton Rouge, La.), Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.) and Yates (Houston).

Forsett's squad was minutes away from playing in the de facto national championship game but fell to eventual No. 1 Montverde Academy 57-55 at the National High School Invitational.

"Last year was a special group," Forsett said. "I'm not sure if we are quite as strong as last year, but we are right there with everybody else."



While the program has suffered some big losses with departed big men Karviar Shepherd and Jordan Mickey, it probably won't slide much with the nation's top prospect still on the roster.

Mudiay is 247Sports.com's No. 1 and was the leading scorer on Prime Prep's 37-win team a year ago. The multi-dimensional guard was pursued by powerhouse programs nationwide but stunned many by electing to stay close to home and play for head coach Larry Brown at SMU.

"He's grown tremendously," Forsett said of Mudiay. "He's matured into being a leader and worked his butt off so he can get stronger and carry the load a little bit more for us."

Bailey and Seaborn add additional firepower in the backcourt. The frontcourt is not as settled. Prime Prep took another hit there in addition to Shepherd and Mickey as star 2015 forward Elijah Thomas left the school for nearby Lancaster High School.

Stepping up

Ferguson was overshadowed a bit as a freshman by the deep assortment of talent on the Prime Prep roster. But the sophomore scorer made a statement over the summer by earning a spot on USA Basketball's U16 team that won a gold medal at the FIBA Americas Championship.



Ferguson played nearly 20 minutes per game and averaged 5.8 points per game on a team that also featured young stars like Malik Newman, Diamond Stone and Ivan Rabb. That experience should pay dividends for Prime Prep this winter.

Key dates
Nov. 11 – vs. Yates (Houston) at RCS Season Opener
Nov. 15 – at Triple A Academy (Dallas)
Dec. 7 – vs. Quality Education Academy (Winston-Salem, N.C.) at Marshall County Hoopfest
Dec. 18-21 – Tarkanian Classic
Jan. 14 – vs. Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.)
Jan. 18 – vs. Huntington St. Joseph Prep (Huntington, W.Va.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
March 7 – vs. Sunrise Christian Academy{PAGEBREAK} No. 6 Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas)
Head coach: Grant Rice
2012-13 record: 29-3, Division I state champions, No. 11 final Xcellent 25 national ranking
Players to watch: Nick Blair (6-5, Jr., G/F), Zach Collins (6-8, So., F), Tanner Leishman (6-6, Jr., F), Obim Okeke (6-1, Sr., G/F), Chase Jeter (6-9, Jr., F), Miles Loupe (5-8, Sr., G), Noah Robotham (5-10, Sr., G), Richie Thornton (6-1, Jr., G), Deon Whiteside (6-5, Jr., F), Stephen Zimmerman (6-11, Jr., F/C)

Breaking down the Gaels

Rebuilding isn't part of the plan at Bishop Gorman.

The Gaels actually improved their record last winter by a game over 2011-12, a team that featured Shabazz Muhammad and a celebrated senior class.

"I was probably more proud of my team last year than I have been in my 13 seasons here," Bishop Gorman head coach Grant Rice said. "It was a total group effort."

With most of the key contributors from last year's state championship team back in the fold, Gorman will once again be a team with a target on its back nationally.



"I think they will handle it okay," Rice said. "We've been through this before with all the preseason stuff and high expectations. I think we will be ready to go by the time December hits."

Leading the way are junior twin towers Zimmerman – a first team All-State pick as a sophomore – and Jeter. Both are Top 20 prospects according to 247Sports.

"They have played a lot together," Rice said of his potentially dominating duo. "They have played some AAU together and have just been in the gym working together and getting better a lot. They are good friends and hang out together off the court."

The schedule will be as challenging as any program in the country will face. Depending on the way tournaments sandwiched around Christmas shake out, the Gaels could face at least a half-dozen teams ranked in the preseason Xcellent 25.

"Obviously we would like to win every game but our goal has never been to go undefeated," Rice said. "We aren't going to shy away from taking on top programs. The main thing for us is to be playing in the final game of the season and doing well in Nevada."

Stepping up



Robotham, a lethal shooter and capable ballhandler, should bring a steady veteran presence to the backcourt.

"It seems like he has been with our program for eight years," Rice said of Robotham's longevity on the Gaels varsity squad. "He has been an underappreciated guy at times but he does things the right way and will bring a lot of leadership to the team."

Key dates
Dec. 13 – vs. Orange Lutheran (Calif.) at Hoophall West
Dec. 14 – vs. Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) at Hoophall West
Dec. 18-22 – Tarkanian Classic
Dec. 27-30 – Les Schwab Invitational
Jan. 3 – vs. Villa Angela-St. Joseph (Cleveland) at Cancer Research Classic
Jan. 4 – vs. Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.) at Cancer Research Classic
Jan. 25 – vs. Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) at Big City Showcase
Feb. 1 – vs. JSerra Catholic (San Juan Capistrano, Calif.) at Nike Extravaganza{PAGEBREAK} No. 5 Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.)
Head coach: Gary McKnight
2012-13 record: 34-2, Open Division state champions, No. 4 final Xcellent 25 national ranking
Players to watch: M.J. Cage (6-9, So., C), Stanley Johnson (6-6, Sr., G), Lavette Parker (6-0, Jr., G), Rex Pflueger (6-5, Jr., G), Dwight Ramos (6-3, So., F), Mario Soto (6-6, Sr., F), Bailey Stout (6-1, So., G), Matthew Weyand (6-4, Fr., F)

Breaking down the Monarchs

Entering his 31st year as head coach at the school, McKnight owns an overall record of 960-85 with 10 state titles. By any measure, he's among the most successful coaches in high school basketball history.

Mater Dei has produced an endless line of All-Americans under McKnight's tutelage, but he hasn't had a star quite as bright as Johnson.

The MaxPreps National Junior of the Year last season and a first team All-American pick, Johnson has already started in three state championship game victories. He aims to make it four this year while operating as the team's point guard.



Joining Johnson in the backcourt will be transfer Pflueger, an athletic Top 100 junior who should thrive in Mater Dei's user-friendly offense.

After disappointing upset losses that cost the Monarchs a shot at the national title the last two seasons, McKnight hopes to keep his squad locked in this winter.

"Staying consistent is not an easy thing," McKnight said. "For everybody we play, this is their biggest game."

Stepping up

McKnight loves what he is seeing from sophomore big man Cage. The son of 15-year NBA vet Michael Cage, M.J. recently landed a monumental scholarship offer.

"M.J. is extremely talented," McKnight said. "When Kentucky offers you as a sophomore, you are probably pretty good."

Key dates
Dec. 14 – vs. Yates (Houston) at Hoophall West
Dec. 18-21 – Tarkanian Classic
Jan. 15 – vs. St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.)
Jan. 20 – vs. Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Feb. 1 – vs. Whitney Young (Chicago) at Nike Extravaganza
Feb. 7 – at St. John Bosco{PAGEBREAK} No. 4 Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.)
Head coach: Steve Smith
2012-13 record: 32-6, No. 8 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
Players to watch: Tony Anderson (6-7, Jr., F), Rokas Gustys (6-9, Sr., C/F), Trevor Manual (6-9, Jr., F/C), Caleb Martin (6-6, Sr., G/F, North Carolina State verbal commitment), Cody Martin (6-6, Sr., G/F, North Carolina verbal commitment), Rodney Miller (6-11, So., C), Shelton Mitchell (6-3, Sr., G, Wake Forest verbal commitment), Terrence Phillips (5-11, Jr., G), B.J. Stith (6-5, Sr., G, Virginia verbal commitment), Khadim Sy (6-9, So., C)



Breaking down the Warriors

Smith was a bit reserved in his outlook for this year's Warriors.

"We should be much improved over last year," Smith said. "Not sure we will be where we were two years ago, but we'll have a chance every night out."

With a pair of experienced point guards, a wealth of versatile wings and size and length in the paint, the legendary coach might be attempting to disarm future opponents a bit with that rhetoric.

The point guard position is in good hands with Shelton and returner Phillips, the brother of Pistons floor general Brandon Jennings.

"They go after each other," Smith said. "It's good for each of them. We could start either one of them, probably go with Shelton as a senior but Terrence will play a lot."

Stith and the Martin twins – all headed to the ACC – give Oak Hill an embarrassment of riches on the wings. They have experience playing with each other on the club circuit and will be a major matchup problem on most nights.



Gustys, a native of Lithuania, joins touted newcomers Anderson and Manual as options in the post.

Stepping up

Smith clearly likes what he sees in Miller, a St. Benedict's Prep (Newark, N.J.) transfer who is every inch of 6-11 according to the legendary coach.

"When we first saw him he was out of shape and had never lifted weights. I couldn't tell, thought maybe he was a year away," Smith said. "But he is out here working hard and we are excited about him. He's going to be a pro one day."

Key dates
Dec. 4 – vs. Carlisle (Martinsville, Va.)
Dec. 13 – vs. Yates (Houston) at Hoophall West
Dec. 14 – vs. Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) at Hoophall West
Dec. 19-23 – Chick-fil-A Classic
Jan. 20 – vs. Whitney Young (Chicago) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Jan. 29 – vs. Arlington Country Day (Jacksonville, Fla.) at Beckley, W.Va.
Feb. 15 – at Benedictine (Richmond, Va.){PAGEBREAK} No. 3 Huntington St. Joseph Prep (W.Va.)
Head coach: Rob Fulford
2012-13 record: 30-3, No. 5 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
Players to watch: Miles Bridges (6-6, So., G/F), Thomas Bryant (6-9, Jr., F), Levi Cook (6-10, Jr., C, West Virginia verbal commitment), Angel Delgado (6-8, Sr., F, Seton Hall verbal commitment), Ivan Gandia (6-1, So., G), Montaque Gill-Ceasar (6-7, Jr., G/F), Jalen Lindsey (6-7, Sr., G/F, Providence verbal commitment), JaQuan Lyle (6-5, Sr., G), Josh Perkins (6-3, Sr., G, Gonzaga verbal commitment)

Breaking down the Express



After bidding adieu to the likely No. 1 pick in the 2014 NBA Draft in Andrew Wiggins, the Express will rely on a more collective effort this winter.

"It's tough to say we will be better without Andrew Wiggins, but we are a lot deeper," Fulford said. "We have nine guys that will start games."

Perkins is one of the nation's top point guards and should pile up gaudy assist numbers with senior Top 100 talents like Delgado, Lindsey and Lyle to distribute to.

Fulford has to be regarded as one of the top recruiters in basketball at any level. The upstart Huntington St. Joseph Prep program features no fewer than eight high major prospects. Talent won't be an issue for the 2013-14 Express.

Stepping up

At 6-10 and in the 290-pound range, Cook is going to be a handful.

"If they (officials) allow him to post up the way he has been in workouts, he's a problem," Fulford said. "He's very physical and has great hands and great feet. He's been the biggest surprise so far."



Cook is a West Virginia native who committed to the home state Mountaineers as a freshman. He joined the program over the summer from Glen Daniel, an unincorporated community about two hours south of Huntington.

Key dates
Nov. 27 – at Carlisle (Martinsville, Va.)
Dec. 7 – vs. Arsenal Technical (Indianapolis) at Marshall County Hoopfest
Dec. 13 – vs. Walnut Hills (Cincinnati) at Boyd County Shootout
Jan. 9 – vs. Our Savior New American (Centereach, N.Y.) at Festival of Hoops
Jan. 11 – at Montverde Academy (Fla.)
Jan. 18 – vs. Prime Prep (Dallas) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Feb. 5 – vs. Carlisle{PAGEBREAK} No. 2 Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.)
Head coach: Jerome Williams
2012-13 record: 35-1, No. 3 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
Players to watch: Lucas Antunez (6-2, Sr., G), Jonah Bolden (6-8, Sr., F), Dillon Brooks (6-6, Jr., F), Justin Jackson (6-8, So., F), Renathan Ona Embo (6-1, So., G), Kelly Oubre (6-6, Sr., G, Kansas verbal commitment), Horace Spencer (6-8, Jr., F), Derryck Thornton Jr. (6-1, So., G), Rashad Vaughn (6-6, Sr., G), Craig Victor (6-7, Sr., F, Arizona verbal commitment)

Breaking down the Pilots

It's tempting to go with Findlay Prep in the top spot but three head coaches in three years is typically not a recipe for success at any level of basketball.

Jerome "Junkyard Dog" Williams of Pistons and Raptors fame steps in to replace Todd Simon, who left after one year as head coach to take a position at UNLV. Michael Peck led Findlay Prep to an incredible 157-8 record the previous five seasons before taking over the NBDL's Idaho Stampede.

The transition should be eased with plenty of familiar faces still on staff. Williams is in his fifth year with the program while assistants Andy Johnson, Brett Price and Michael Smalley are all mainstays.

If that group can coach as well as it attracts talent, the Sin City superpower should be in for another successful campaign.



"I think we have high-character kids that consistently push themselves to get better. Those characteristics really stand out about this group so far," said assistant coach Andy Johnson.

Guards Oubre and Vaughn are 247Sports Top 10 prospects in the 2014 class and both are on the short list for MaxPreps National Player of the Year honors. Skilled and versatile forward Victor brings a winning legacy from New Orleans as well.

Newcomers Bolden (from Australia), Ona Embo (France) and Jackson (Canada) all spent time over the summer on age group national teams. Antunez (Spain), Brooks (Canada) and freshmen O'Shae Brissett (Canada) and Chidozie Nnamene (Nigeria) add to the international flavor.

The Pilots will make two trips to Canada during the season.

Stepping up

Findlay Prep is typically loaded with talented upperclassmen. But sophomore Thornton Jr. could be the rare youngster to make a major impact.



"He's one of our hardest workers and a very good on-ball defender," Johnson said.

Thornton spent his freshman year at Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) and has been on the national radar since seventh grade.

Key dates
Dec. 19-21 – Tarkanian Classic
Dec. 28 – vs. DeLaSalle (Minneapolis) at Mike Miller Classic
Jan. 3 – vs. Pinnacle (Phoenix) at Rancho Solano Arizona Showcase
Jan. 4 – vs. Corona del Sol (Tempe, Ariz.) at Rancho Solano Arizona Showcase
Jan. 11 – vs. Atlanta Sports Academy at Las Vegas Prep Showcase
Jan. 20 – vs. Wesleyan Christian Academy (High Point, N.C.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Jan. 25 – vs. Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) at Big City Showcase{PAGEBREAK} No. 1 Montverde Academy (Fla.)
Head coach: Kevin Boyle
2012-13 record: 25-2, National High School Invitational champions, Academy Top 10 national champions
Players to watch: Justin Bibbs (6-4, Sr., G, Virginia Tech verbal commitment), Brendan Boyle (6-1, Sr., G), Jordan Caroline (6-6, G/F, Southern Illinois verbal commitment), Chris Egi (6-8, Sr., F, Harvard verbal commitment), Jean Marc Koumadje (7-4, Jr., C), Makinde London (6-8, Sr., F, Xavier verbal commitment), Jalyn Patterson (6-0, Sr., G, LSU verbal commitment), Ahmaad Rorie (6-0, Sr., G, California verbal commitment), D'Angelo Russell (6-4, Sr., G, Ohio State verbal commitment), Ben Simmons (6-8, Jr., G/F, LSU, verbal commitment)

Breaking down the Eagles

After winning a national title and saying goodbye to Kasey Hill (Florida), Dakari Johnson (Kentucky) and Devin Williams (West Virginia), it would be natural to assume Montverde Academy might take a slight step back in 2013-14.

Don't count on that happening this year – or any year as long as Boyle remains on the sideline at the Orlando-area school.

The Eagles have seven seniors already committed to Division I programs and Simmons – an Australian import firmly on the NBA radar – has already delivered a pledge to LSU.



"I feel that we can definitely be as good, but we will be different (than last year's team)," Boyle said. "We had a big, physical presence down low last year with Dakari Johnson and Devin Williams but this year's team will be quicker and more athletic."

The backcourt is stocked with experienced winners in Russell, Bibbs, Rorie, Patterson and coach's kid Brendan Boyle – who should become an eighth senior Division I signee at some point.

Caroline and Simmons add versatility as 3/4 combos while Canadian import Egi and London will man the post. Egi was being pursued by Duke before electing to pursue his education and hoops career at Harvard.

Two years after leaving St. Patrick in New Jersey for Montverde, Boyle sounds like a man just getting started at his new school.

"I have great affection and love for St. Pat's," Boyle said. "That being said, I'm in such a great situation here at a school with great academics and athletic facilities, the campus, the weather. I can't imagine a better high school job than this."

Stepping up



Fans got just a brief glimpse of Simmons last season. The 6-8 wing arrived after Christmas and didn't debut until Montverde made its run at the National High School Invitational.

247Sports has Simmons rated the No. 7 prospect in the 2015 class and Boyle described him as "Kyrie Irving-good" – referencing one of his former pupils at St. Patrick.

Key dates
Dec. 18-23 – City of Palms Classic
Dec. 27-30 – Wild Wings Café High School Hoops Classic
Jan. 11 – vs. Huntington St. Joseph Prep (W.Va.)
Jan. 16-18 – Bass Pro Tournament of Champions
Jan. 20 – vs. Curie (Chicago) at Spalding Hoophall Classic

Continue reading to see 75 teams worth looking at for national rankings consideration{PAGEBREAK}Best of the Rest
A state-by-state glance at 75 more teams that could make a run at the national rankings this season.

ALABAMA
Carver (Montgomery): Seniors Brandon Murphy (Indiana State) and Demetrius Houston (Mississippi State) and junior Brandon Austin (Alabama) are all committed to Division I programs and should take Wolverines a long way.
Wenonah (Birmingham): Dragons looking for fourth state title in a row behind dynamic point man Justin Coleman.

ARIZONA
Corona del Sol (Tempe): Back-to-back state champs looked to have best team during that run until 6-8 senior transfer and Arizona State verbal Connor MacDougall was denied eligibility.



ARKANSAS
Bentonville: Received huge boost when elite sophomore Malik Monk transferred in over the summer.
North Little Rock: Defending 7A state champs added Arkansas Razorback commitment Anton Beard to backcourt that already featured standout junior KeVaughn Allen.

CALIFORNIA
Bishop O'Dowd (Oakland): Six-foot-9 forward Ivan Rabb is one of the nation's top juniors and helped Dragons go 26-4 in 2012-13.
Etiwanda: Eagles added some size to roster that includes All-American point guard Jordan McLaughlin.
Loyola (Los Angeles): Plane crash survivor and Michigan pledge Austin Hatch could be huge addition to team that already featured Parker Jackson-Cartwright and 6-11 Thomas Welsh.
Redondo Union (Redondo Beach): Sea Hawks started 7-8 a year ago before running the table from that point on to win Division II state title.
Westchester (Los Angeles): Nick Hamilton, Elijah Stewart, Myles Stewart and Joshua Rideau give Comets a fearsome foursome of gritty, experienced seniors.

COLORADO
Denver East: Trip to City of Palms Classic should help flesh out where the Angels stack up nationally.

CONNECTICUT
Fairfield Prep (Fairfield): Jesuits flew under national radar last year with all-Connecticut schedule but 7-1 Providence verbal Pascal Chukwu should help bring them some attention this season.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Coolidge: Colts went 27-6 last season and the roster looks even better on paper this time around.
Gonzaga: Bryant Crawford and Jordan Abdur-Ra'oof will lead this Eagles squad into grueling Washington Catholic Athletic Conference play.

FLORIDA
Blanche Ely (Pompano Beach): Senior point guard Lance Tejada II and junior forward Therrell Gosier are key returnees for a program that is 57-5 over past two seasons.
Norland (Miami): Zachary Johnson, Tyrell Williams and Dewan Huell (a 6-10 sophomore) all return after playing a big role for 26-5 team last season.
Lake Highland Prep (Orlando): Highlanders were undefeated with North Carolina commitment Joel Berry in the lineup last year en route to 4A state title.
Oak Ridge (Orlando): Junior transfers Antonio Blakeney and Alex Owens make Pioneers instant contender.
Oldsmar Christian: Seniors Jeff Garrett, Troy Holston (South Florida pledge) and Isaiah Manderson (Oregon State) will all play big-time college basketball.
Providence (Jacksonville): Tough team to leave out of the Top 25 but Duke-bound Grayson Allen and the Stallions will get to prove they belong at the City of Palms Classic.
The Rock (Gainesville): Program had dream season a year ago – can new look maintain high standard?
Sagemont (Weston): Shooting guard Prince Ali is among the nation's top juniors and Hungarian import Gyorgy Goloman recently committed to UCLA.



GEORGIA
Greenforest (Decatur): Juniors Faisal Abdul-Malik and Justin Ravenel, sophomores John Ogwuche and Precious Ayah and highly touted 6-9 freshman Victor Enoh should make the Eagles very tough to beat – especially a year from now.
Norcross: Defending AAAAAA champs will have to play waiting game a bit with several football players expected to contribute, but should be up to challenge of repeating once at full strength.
St. Francis (Alpharetta): If juniors Kaiser Gates and Malik Beasley plus sophomore Kobi Jordan-Simmons stay together for next two years, lots of wins will be coming Knights way.

ILLINOIS
Benet Academy (Lisle): Sean O'Mara, a 6-9 Xavier commitment, is back for one of the state's most consistent winners in recent seasons.
Marian Catholic (Chicago Heights): Kentucky's point guard of the future Tyler Ulis runs the show for the Spartans after earning first team All-State honors as a junior.
Morgan Park (Chicago): Mustangs return nine players from a team that went 33-3 and finished season ranked No. 15 nationally.
Simeon (Chicago): Don't be surprised if the four-time defending 4A state champs retool on the fly and return to national rankings.
Stevenson (Lincolnshire): Juniors Jalen Brunson and Connor Cashaw led Patriots to 27-4 record and 4A state title game last year.

INDIANA
Arsenal Technical (Indianapolis): Trey Lyles is one of the top post players in the country and has a lot of help in 6-8 Rashaun Richardson and 6-3 Jeremie Tyler – both Ball State commitments.
Carmel: Greyhounds are 50-6 with a pair of 4A state titles over the past two seasons.
Greensburg: Trio of Bryant McIntosh, Sean Sellers and Ryan Welage led Pirates to 27-1 record, 3A state title a year ago.
North Central (Indianapolis): Sophomore Eron Gordon – brother of Pelicans guard Eric Gordon – is the headliner but the development of 6-8 senior Perry Poindexter could determine how far Panthers go this year.
Park Tudor (Indianapolis): Former UCLA commitment Trevon Bluiett is back after earning Associate Press first team All-State honors as junior.

IOWA
Iowa City West: Lost some studs from last season's undefeated juggernaut but senior Wyatt Lohaus should keep the Trojans in state championship contention.

KENTUCKY
Ballard (Louisville): Experienced seniors Quentin Snider and Kelan Martin give the Bruins a shot to land Kentucky's single-class "Sweet 16" state title.

LOUISIANA
Riverside Academy (Reserve): Probably a year away still with young backcourt trio of Von Julien, Malik Crowfield and Herbert McGee.



MARYLAND
Clinton Christian (Upper Marlboro): Program to watch under new head coach Mike Sumner, who attracted a number of talented transfers over the summer.
DeMatha (Hyattsville): Stags looking to bounce back in a big way following uncharacteristic losing season in 2012-13.
Milford Mill Academy (Baltimore): Staff is high on this squad, which includes junior point man Justin Jenifer and senior Towson commitment Allen Costley.
Montrose Christian (Rockville): Could be boom or bust for Mustangs in wake of Stu Vetter's departure. Junior guard Allonzo Trier is big-time.
Riverdale Baptist (Upper Marlboro): A powerhouse on the girls side, boys program should make some noise with 6-10 senior Chinanu Onuaku and 6-9 junior Taron Oliver.
St. Frances Academy (Baltimore): UNLV pledge Dwayne Morgan leads deep cast of Division I recruits that made appearance in national rankings last winter.
St. James (St. James): With 6-8 Obi Enechionyia already on roster, Saints scored big in Montrose Christian fallout by landing Therence Mayimba and Justin Robinson.

MICHIGAN
Consortium College Prep (Detroit): Sophomore Joshua Jackson gaining some momentum as top 2016 prospect in America.
Pershing (Detroit): Seniors Mory Diane (a transfer from Detroit Country Day), Justin Tillman and Darsean Woodson make the Doughboys the team to beat in the Motor City.

MINNESOTA
DeLaSalle (Minneapolis): Reid Travis and the Islanders were one of the last teams left out of the Top 25 after going 30-1 and winning Minnesota's Class AAA state title a year ago.

MISSISSIPPI
Callaway (Jackson): Everybody knows about 247Sports Class of 2015 No. 1 prospect Malik Newman, but look out for 6-10, 250-pound freshman Damien Moore.

NEW JERSEY
Life Center Academy (Burlington): A bit of a wild card but the additions of 7-footer Trayvon Reed (Maryland pledge) and Mississippi native Malcolm Evans makes them worth watching.
St. Anthony (Jersey City): 2012-13 Friars went 28-2 in "off year" that didn't end with Tournament of Champions crown.
St. Benedict's Prep (Newark): Stars Isaiah Briscoe and Rodney Miller transferred out during puzzling offseason for program seemingly headed to the top under Mark Taylor.

NEW YORK
Christ the King (Middle Village): Senior big man Adonis De La Rosa and sophomore wing Rawle Alkins are back to lead head coach Joe Arbitello's perennial Big Apple power.
Long Island Lutheran (Brookville): Montverde Academy transfer Robyn Missa was a huge summer addition.
Our Savior New American (Centereach): OSNA has always taken on all comers but might actually have the talent to get over the hump against the big boys this year with 6-9 junior star Cheick Diallo.



NORTH CAROLINA
Hough (Cornelius): Junior forward Luke Maye put up nearly 19 points and 14 rebounds per game as a sophomore.
Northside Christian Academy (Charlotte): Standout senior guards James Demery and Keyshawn Woods return from team that quietly went 32-2 and won NCISAA state title last season.
Olympic (Charlotte): Defending 4A state champs enter season riding 30-game win streak and feature talented senior guard in C.J. Jackson.
Quality Education Academy (Winston-Salem): Always a tough program to peg, Pharaohs certainly have experienced talent with seniors Jerrelle DeBerry, Imani Miller and D'Marques Tyson and junior Kwinton Hinson.
Trinity Christian (Fayetteville): Sophomores Kwe'Shaun Parker and Dennis Smith Jr. comprise one of the most promising – and exciting – backcourts in the country.
Wesleyan Christian Academy (High Point): Defending NCISAA 3A champs would be Top 10 contender with super sophomore Harry Giles, who will miss the season with injury.
Winston-Salem Prep (Winston-Salem): Small school superpower went 32-1 and captured state title a year ago, return a trio of productive studs in Aaron Lipscomb, Mike Hughes and Coye Simmons.

OHIO
St. Vincent-St. Mary (Akron): LeBron's alma mater will be led by talented sophomore V.J. King.

OREGON
West Linn: Defending 6A state champions featuring strong 1-2 punch in backcourt with junior Anthony Mathis and sophomore Payton Pritchard.

PENNSYLVANIA
Archbishop Carroll (Radnor): Favored to take Class AAA state title behind junior trio of Derrick Jones, Nick Jones and Ernest Aflakpui.
Math Civics & Sciences (Philadelphia): Could be the new big dog in Philly with at least a half-dozen Division I prospects and a cool nickname (Mighty Elephants).
Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia): Senior Ja'Quan Newton (Miami commitment) is one of the nation's top floor generals and brings a wealth of big-game experience to the table.

TENNESSEE
Christ Presbyterian Academy (Nashville): A budding powerhouse under Drew Maddux, Lions aren't going away despite being dealt a tough blow with departure of Jalen Lindsey to Huntington Prep in West Virginia.
Hamilton (Memphis): If brothers K.J. and Dedric Lawson continue to mature and develop, the Wildcats should be tough to beat.

TEXAS
DeSoto: Seniors Julian Green, Terry Maston (Baylor verbal pledge) and Devin Wyatt (Loyola Marymount) will keep the program flying high despite the loss of Matt Jones to Duke.
Kimball (Dallas): Kimball was mired in controversy last season over eligibility issues but should be ready to get back to its winning ways this winter.
Yates (Houston): The Lions were stung by a couple of transfers leaving the program but are still the preseason favorite to win 3A title.

VIRGINIA
Bishop O'Connell (Arlington): Even with star guard Romelo Trimble back in the mix, it will be tough to duplicate last year's double of winning the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference tournament title and the Alhambra Catholic Invitational crown.



UTAH
Lone Peak (Highland): Defending Xcellent 25 national champs are still loaded by Beehive State standards, including senior guard and BYU commitment T.J. Haws.

WASHINGTON
Jackson (Mill Creek): Reigning Gatorade POY and MaxPreps Junior All-American Jason Todd returns along with most of teammates from 26-1 4A runner-up campaign.
Rainier Beach (Seattle): Vikings hungry for three-peat, about the only accomplishment storied program hasn't achieved under Mike Bethea.