By will

January 17, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

do you think walton and the rice brothers will make the playoffs

By mr cassius

January 17, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

If you get a chance watch this young phenon khaalidah miller ,I swere if she was about 10 pounds heavier she could compete with the boys nation wide the girl got air aim wind and of coarse smart s th ky ingrediants for a true fenon i personally found out thats this girl is carrying a 33.87 grade point avg. Hay man im tired of showing you georian the next light and leader in your own back yard and you continuasly choose to reckless eyeball darkness.ps. i dont no if its the coach the school or the news paper ajc mostley but some bodies down playing this girls greatness for her young age or there on bias reason.BUT I KNOW MY REASON I LIVE IN LAS VEGAS AND ITS OUR DUTIES TO WATCH THE PEOPLE WE RE GOING TO BET THE HOUSE ON IN THE NEAR FUTURE .So i sugest you georgian follow suit your going to have cassinos very SOON GET SMART.OH YEAH RESPECT THE PURETY IN HIGH SCHOOL ATHELTICS AND THE KIDS BUT WONDER DO YOU KNOW WHAT THE COLLAGES DO ON THOSE KIDS EVERY YEAR MAKE MILLIONS WHAT IS A EDUCATION WITH NO FINANCE THEY ER NOT COACHING FOR FREE THINK PEOPLE TEACH THE KIDS THE TRUTH.

By Mr. Miller Grove

January 17, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Its about time Miller Grove gets a little respect from the AJC. Is Miller Grove ready to be counted among the elite teams in the state? Lets revisit that in March after its all said and done

By donna

January 17, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Lithia Springs High Scool Varsity boys are undefeated!!! let’s Go LIONS

By Donna

January 17, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Lithia Springs High School Varisty’s boys are undefeated!!! Let’s go LIONS!!!

By Derrick Mahone

January 17, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Will

I think Walton has a shot. Look at the region, Wheeler is clearly the favorite, but after that, its probably anybody’s shot. Northview will probably be tough with the Sampson brothers. Rice is putting up some super numbers.

Mr. Cassius

Khaalidah Miller is a god player. Had a chance to see her last season and again Tuesday night. Douglass has a real solid, athletic team that could again reach the final four and possible beyond. The Douglass-Stephenson game will be a real good matchup Friday on both the boys and girls side. Morgan Jennings is a super player and should fit in at Auburn well. Douglass will need for center Tiffany Butler to come through Friday against Stephenson’s Taylor Turnbow. If she dominates , Douglass will be in trouble.

Mr. Miller Grove

The Wolverines have been in the top 10 in the poll all season. They started out tied with Rome at No. 6. If they make it out of region this season, Miller Grove stands a good chance of making the final four. If not for South Atlanta’s Derrick Favors, Mfon would probably be the No. 1 junior in the state. Solid PG play goes a long way in the state playoffs. He has a solid supporting cast with Stephen Hill and Obitaiya Edwards. Monday’s match up against Wheeler should be fun. If you are there, stop by and say “hello”.

By Lion's Pride

January 17, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

How can Franklin County Boys be left out of consideration in AAA? They are the only team unbeaten in 8AAA region play and have already beat Hart County once!

By Cory

January 17, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

I would like to say that in all sports there all places outside of metro Atlanta that have good teams from Macon to Savannah please can we get some respect not just in football but basketball and baseball.

By matt

January 17, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

THAT IS BULL CRAP THAT PUTNAM COUNTY BOYS ARE NOT IN THE TOP 3 TEAMS IN AA. YA’LL NEED TO COME TO PC THIS SATURDAY TO SEE THEM SCHOOL SOME BOYS FROM GREENE CO. OH BY THE WAY FRED HARGROVE’S STOCK IS RISING RAPIDLY!!!!!!!

By Derrick Mahone

January 17, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Lion’s Pride

Will take note of Franklin County and when I send out my advisory to the rest of the pollster will point out the Lions accomplishments. Thanks.

Cory

Not exactly sure what you are trying to say. The poll, which is voted on by writers throughout the state, has a balance of teams from throughout the area.

By MissManners

January 17, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

Wow, I can remember coming up the highschool teams were all over the local news, but it has been awhile since I’ve seen much about high school at all, if it ain’t death involved. Continue to support the students; give them something to talk about. Get neighbors out to see what’s going on in the high school. There are stars all around us.

By Jay

January 17, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Where can I find the $@%#^ schedule for the Prime Time Shootout?????????????????

By Falcon Fever

January 17, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

I DON’T KNOW WHO DOES THESE RANKINGS, BUT HOW CAN PEBBLEBROOK NOT RECEIVE ANY VOTES AND THEY BEAT JONESBORO BY 22 AND ONLY LOST TO LITHIA SPRINGS BY 3. I THINK YOU GUYS SHOULD ADD A FAN POLL WITH A LIMIT OF 1 VOTE PER PC. WHOEVER IS DOING THIS NOW HAS NO CLUE. PEBBLEBROOK HAS ALMOST THE SAME TEAM THEY HAD LAST YEAR THAT WENT TO THE ELITE EIGHT AND LOST TO 2006 CHAMPION AND 2007 RUNNER-UP COLUMBIA. VOTERS DO YOUR HOMEWORK. NO DISRESPECT INTENDED, BUT IF DACULA IS THE FIFTH BEST TEAM IN THE STATE, GEORGIA BASKETBALL IS IN SAD SHAPE.

By Swamp

January 17, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Derrick Mahone how is Fayette still ranked and they lost to Whitewater. They play Creekside tomorrow that all should change!

By Lion's Pride

January 17, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Mr. Mahone - Thanks for responding. And thanks to whomever did the video on Jeremy Peebles from Apalachee. He is a class act and Franklin County is praying for his continued recovery.

By screaming eagle

January 17, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Jay, here you go

http://www.primetimeshootout.net/

By ice man

January 17, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

khaalidah miller from douglass has a nice game but the real miller is at campbell high school.the team is struggling a little bit but look for freshman sensation Kecia Miller to be one of the top players in the state within a year or so.she is averaging almost 14 points a game and carries a 4.37 gpa(yes 4.37).

By screaming eagle

January 17, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Collins Hill Boys!

By Derrick Mahone

January 17, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Jay

Session 1

1:00 pm – East Hall (GA) vs. Whitefield (GA) 2:30 pm –Westlake (GA) vs. Arlington Country Day 4:00 pm – Our Savior New American (NY) vs. Johnson (GA)

Session 2 6:15 pm - Dunwoody (GA) vs. American Christian (PA) 7:45 pm - Norcross (GA) vs. Dillard (FLA)

Falcon Fever As stated before, the poll is done by writers from all over the state. I didn’t give Jonesboro a vote, but five other writers did, which got them in at No. 10. Yes, they did lose to Pebblebrook, but it was earlier (Dec. 8) in the season, so there is a chance they could have recovered. They don’t any losses to any bad teams and have beaten a few good ones. Jonesboro other losses were to 5A and No. 3 Savannah and Cedar Shoals, all pretty good teams and all before January. Pebblebrook had recently losses to Osborne and had a two-point win over a struggling Woodland team, that has lost four of its last five games to drop to 10-7. I think Dacula might be alittle too high, but probably definitely with a top 10. They only one loss, by seven to a very good Wesleyan team, and a good win over No. 6 Parkview (5A).

Swamp Obviously a Creekside fan. I think some of the voters might have missed the Whitewater score on Tuesday. I still voted for Fayette County No. 7. For some reason I still believe in them. Should be a good game tomorrow at Creekside. For the fans, hopefully Noel Johnson and Kevin Murphy will put on a show. That was one of the games I was going to check out Friday, but probably do the Mundy’s Mill-Tri-Cities game.

Lion’s Pride No problem.

By iluvmccann

January 17, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Lithia Springs boys have not lost a region game in two years. They lost in the playoffs to the eventual state champs. The only loss this year was a one-point buzzer-beater to a top ranked SC team. I know they are not the powerhouse of Columbia and Tucker and they are on the westside of Atlanta (no one pays attention to any team over here), but they are a solid team that doesnt get enough recogntion.

By iluvmccann

January 17, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Lithia Springs boys have not lost a region game in two years. They lost in the playoffs to the eventual state champs. The only loss this year was a one-point buzzer-beater to a top ranked SC team. I know they are not the powerhouse of Columbia and Tucker and they are on the westside of Atlanta (no one pays attention to any team over here), but they are a solid team that doesnt get enough recogntion.

By smart

January 17, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

How can Stockbridge boys be an honorable mention and were beaten by Upson-Lee who is at the top pf the division and they not get an honorable mention.

By smart

January 17, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

How can Stockbridge boys be an honorable mention and were beaten by Upson-Lee who is at the top pf the division and they not get an honorable mention.

By tigerfan

January 17, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

Did you see how well the AAAA Fayette County GIRLS did against nationally ranked teams and past state champions in their Christmas tourney in South Carolina??Not to mention they are beating everyone by 30+ points each game. And they aren’t ranked???

By Brad

January 17, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Who votes on this? What a joke. Wilco is #1 solely on reputation.

By Brad

January 17, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Who votes on this? What a joke. Wilco is #1 solely on reputation.

By Dacula

January 17, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

FALCON FEVER: What’s wrong with Dacula? Think just because they’re a bunch of white boys they can’t play basketball? They’re 17-1 and blew an 11 point lead to a good Wesleyan team in their only loss. Go watch them before you make any statements. They are not a team that will overwhelm anyone with their talent. They have to play well in order to win and they are probably the most well coached team you will ever watch. Justin Grant is a rising star in the coaching profession and a credit to Dacula because of the class his team shows.

By Ernest

January 17, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Derrick:

We’ve got to find that writer that has this love affair with the Marist girls. In the latest writers poll, Marist got one first place vote, In the first writers poll, the SWD Lady Panthers were unanimous #1. How can someone in good conscious give Marist a first place vote over SWD when they lost to these same Lady Panthers by 18 points.

We the readers may request to see the entire ballot of the writers, to make this process more transparent. It would also let readers know who to direct charges of bias and allow that writer to explain themselves.

Go Panthers and AtomSmashers!!!

By Marietta Fan

January 17, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

* I will not give up Derrick I’m reposting this again… at some point you will respond *

hey Derrick,

Can you see Marietta competing with the powers of class 5-AAAAA? They have size in Seniors DeAndre Cannon (6’6), JC Ward (6’5), and Scott Bartlemay (6’6). As well as range in Bartlemay and Senior Stanley Jennings who combine for 6.4 3-pointers per game by themselves. Point Guard Chris Tanzy is a spark plug who was the key missing in the early to losses, the Devils are 12-0 with him. Stanley Jennings actually outscored Trae Golden in the game against McEachern with 25 points and 6 3-pointers. They also are undefeated on the road with a good win over Harrison but will be severely tested on Monday against Centennial. (Hope to see you there) Also, what exactly do you make of the girls losses to Wesleyan and McEachern?

By thegreenpaw

January 17, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

There is no way AAA Hart Co. is in the top 15. Does anybody accually go and watch these teams. I don’t think so.

By Columbia Alumni

January 17, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Let’s Go Columbia. Do your thang. Everyone knows that Columbia High School has that basketball dynasty.

By Mr. Miller Grove

January 17, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Derrick I must admit, the polls have been pretty accurate to the Wolverines. I think Miller Grove is in a pretty good position to make a run for the State Title. I will see you on Monday. Another question, does Westlake really play enough quality teams to be ranked above the Wolverines?

By Derrick Mahone

January 18, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

Just checking back in.

Brad I think Wilkinson County is worthy of a first place vote and that is why that got mines. All four of their losses have come to quality teams. Last week, they were No. 2 in the rankings and then beat the No. 1 team Hancock Central.

Tigerfan Fayette County seems to be playing well lately. They started the season at No. 7, but had some losses in their and dropped out the top 10. They garnering votes and probably start getting a few more if they keep winning. They had wins over state-ranked teams from South Carolina and a loss to a nationally ranked team from Florida. I think they will be a team to reckon with come tournament time. Will probably see them in a couple weeks against Westlake, which should be a good boys and girls game.

Marietta Fan Still think the Blue Devils are the team to beat in the region. Seems they have recovered from two early season losses to win 13 in a row going into Friday (Jan. 18). The McEachern win was huge (was coming to game, but went somewhere else instead). Don’t know how good the Missouri teams are, but winning on a neutral floor out-of-state is a good sign. Big rematches against Harrison and McEachern coming up. Monday will definitely be a good test at Centennial. I’ll definitely be there Monday. As far as girls, I still think they are a final four team. Wesleyan is good, so don’t let the fact that they are a Class AA team fool you. Remember, Marietta played the last part without its key players and still almost won. I don’t know as much about McEachern, but hear they are good.

Ernest Will try to send the two pollster that voted for Marist an e-mail. The loss to SWD was earlier and maybe the way Marist has played lately has restored their confidence in the War Eagles. Big game Saturday for the Panthers. Since it is a non-region game, IF the Panthers lose do they still get my vote for No. 1. I said IF its within six or seven points, yes.

Mr. Miller Grove The big thing for the Wolverines is not to slip up again in the region tournament like last season. As you know, it is always tough coming out of that region. There are about seven teams in that league that would do extremely well at state if they make it out. I think Marist might be the sleeper in the region this season. As far as Westlake, they are for real. Showtime is back at the Lion’s Den. They have size, quickness, coaching and some good basketball players. They have played a solid schedule. Westlake lost to top-ranked Norcross by only five points in a tournament in Fla. As far as region, Region 2-AAAA would rank behind Region 6-AAAA as far as the two best in 4A.

By Danielle

January 18, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Congrats Vidalia 18-0.

By Mr. Newton Man

January 18, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Newton is 13-4, and defeated a Douglass team at Douglass. Show the Schools outside of the Metro Area a little respect.

By Will

January 18, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Mr Newton, you won 1 game against a ranked opponent. 1. On a last second shot at the buzzer. You also lost to 4A Hillgrove by 11pts.No other quality wins on the schedule. You get nothing!!!!!!!

By Millcreek Mom

January 18, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

It is great to see Mill Creek Lady Hawks listed as #1. They should rightfully be undefeated this season but the loss to Hoover was officiating only. Out of 66 points 33 were made on the free throw line. 47 fouls were called by the home refs. I would like to see us play Hoover again on Neutral ground.

By Golden Fan

January 18, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Derrick, When will the AJC write an article about St. Pius X that is not about Kelly Cain, but about the tremendous players they have now? Do you know that they have two girls who have already signed w/ schools and had offers from many schools. They also have others who are being offered daily. Enough about the past, let’s look at the present.

By Ernest

January 18, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Derrick:

As always, thanks for the follow-up! I’m sure you understand my concern. The SWD Lady Panthers are undefeated in AAAA yet lost a first place point to a team they defeated convincingly. It does make on wonder.

You also have to give props to Coach Walton. Her team is far superior to many of their opponents. She typically pulls her starters early and allows the bench to get a LOT of playing time. She tries to keep the margin of victory down while preparing her team for next year when she loses her seniors to graduation.

BTW, GREAT article in the Friday (1/18) AJC on Region 6AAAA. You know my biases but those teams are collectively worthy of the additional attention. Just to jerk your chain a little, had you also written about the equal success of the girls teams, it would have been complete… :)

Thanks again for providing this outlet for HS Basketball fans…

By wildcatfan

January 18, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Im sooo surprised at my Lady Cats of Duluth! They really need to step up there game! Im wondering if its a coaching problem or some chemistry gone bad with the girls? I just dont see how a team with 4 D1 prospects, 3(Walker,Adebayo,Phillips} who stand over 6ft and a LEFT HANDED point guard (Brown) are barely getting by Forsyth County teams! Ive been watching this girls play a long time and they know the game well! Has to be the coaching! These girls are a high school coaches dream, what is really going on? Come on Cats show and PROVE!!! Ill b watching!!!

By knights33

January 18, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

bill what do you think about centennial boys?

By B-balleye

January 18, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

When you talk basketball in the state of Georgia you must say these words(SCJ). The atomsmashers from Johnson is a very high talented team. They feature 6’7 - PF - Univ. of Colorado, signee - Toby Veal.

6’8 - C - Khariy Clarke - SSU 6’6 - SF - Josh Smith - VCU 6’5 - PF - Ben Evelyn - GSU

I watch basketball all over the state. They will be the sleeper. Not to mention, when I visted the Fl. St. camp, how they pounded S. ATL and Derrick Favors. For all you b-ball fans keep and eye out for the Atomsmashers they are for real.

By the way they will be playing in the prime-time shootout, in Norcross against OSNA prep that features a 7’5, on Jan 19, 2008. I will be there to see some good basketball.

By Marietta Fan

January 18, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

Thanks man love your column… I’m actually the sports editor at the high school and I really appreciate the writers that follow high school sports. I thought the same thing about the Devils but thought I might be being a homer. Good to hear it from an informed writer.

By Bill

January 19, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

Will

Hillgrove has a 6’7 and two 6’5s and has won 11 out of their last 12, since losing first 2 w/out football players at beg of season. Hillgrove is a very good team and will go deep into 4A state if stays healthy. Newton also beat Redan who has 6’9 Kenny Hall a major D 1 and two other guys 6’7, but that win isn’t quality. Not! Newton also play in tough region 2-AAAAA, who has had 4 teams get to the Final Four in AAAAA the last 3 years, be who’s counting.

By Falcon Fever

January 19, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this

Dacula: There is nothing wrong with Dacula. I stated that no disrespect was intended, but they have only beaten 3 teams with winning records. I am white so what does having a bunch of white players have to do with anything!! You think just because Pebblebrook has an all black team that they don’t have any white supporters. Wesleyan, who they lost to, is very average. I don’t like to talk about high school players, because they are still kids, but for sake of argument, Wesleyan has two overranked, over-hyped players and absolutely no guard play. They may be a good AA team, but they’re not one of the best 50 teams in the state. A little pressure on them and they are done. Why do you assume that I have not seen them play?? How would I know as you stated that Dacula has “a bunch of white guys” if I have never seen them play?? I have seen them play and they do some nice things. I just don’t think that they are strong enough or have been tested enough to be ranked #5 in the state. They do some nice things with their post players and they did appear to be well coached, but come on, this is Georgia. Too much talent here to believe they are top 5. Dacula, you seem to be passionate about your team and that is great, but don’t make assumptions and do your homework before you submit your post.

Derrick: Lithia Springs is ten times as good as Wesleyan and Pebblebrook only lost by 3, and Dacula’s win over Parkview was also early in the year so that kind of kills that argument. Anyway, all I am saying is there is no way that Dacula is ranked #5 and Jonesboro (which Pebblebrook beat by 22!!) is ranked #10 and Pebblebrook does not receive ANY votes. That’s INSANE!!

By mike

January 19, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this

Sad and wrong commentary about Dacula and Georgia basketball. Not only did Dacula have a good win over Parkview, they beat them by 20+ and dominated the game at a neutral site, Philips Arena. Parkwiew is

As a former college player it’s always interesting to read a comment by a basketball uneducated fan.

To say that Wesleyan’s Tanner Smith (Clemson signee) 6’6” point guard and Howard Tompkins (Georgia signee and #5 small forward nationally) 6’9” forward are overrated proves your basketball IQ.

You exemplify the exact reason a fan poll won’t work. I guess the AJC and the Georgia coaches both have it wrong.

By andre

January 19, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

turner county boys basketball rank #1 in coaches poll and #3 IN AJC POLL.WE ARE ROLLING,WE GOT TO BE BEST DEFENSIVE TEAM IN CLASS A AND BEST ALL AROUND TEAM TO, PLAY 10 DEEP

By Ernest

January 19, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Of all the weekends for this ‘wintry mix’, why did it have to be this one? :( This would certainly been a GREAT weekend of HS basketball in the state. Oh well….

By Falcon Fever

January 19, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

IT IS AMAZING TO ME THE ASSUMPTIONS THAT PEOPLE MAKE WHEN TRYING TO MAKE AN ARGUMENT. DACULA: YOU ASSUMED THAT I HAVE NOT SEEN DACULA PLAY. MIKE: YOU ARE ASSUMING THAT I HAVE NOT PLAYED COLLEGE BALL. BOTH ARE GROSS MISTAKES.

MY ORIGINAL POINT WAS AND REMAINS THAT THERE IS NO WAY THAT DACULA IS #5 IN THE STATE AND PEBBLEBROOK DOES NOT RECEIVE ANY VOTES. ALL ARGUMENTS I MADE WERE IN AN EFFORT TO PROVE THAT POINT.

IT IS ALSO FUNNY WHEN PEOPLE FEEL A NEED TO STATE THEIR CREDENTIALS WHEN MAKING AN ARGUMENT AS IF THAT MAKES THEM AN AUTHORITY ON A SUBJECT. THIS IS NOT SCIENCE; THIS IS SPORTS. THE ONLY THING IN SPORTS THAT IS FACT ARE THE NUMBERS. EVERYTHING ELSE IS OPINION.

SO MR. BASKETBALL IQ, HERE ARE THE FACTS: FACT, DACULA HAS BEATEN THREE TEAMS WITH A WINNING RECORD. FACT, THEIR SIGNATURE WIN IS AGAINST PARKVIEW WHICH IS NO LONGER RANKED IN EITHER POLL. FACT, THEIR ONLY LOSS WAS TO WESLEYAN, AN AA SCHOOL. HERE ARE SOME MORE FACTS: FACT, PEBBLEBROOK HAS BEATEN SIX AAAAA SCHOOLS. FACT, PEBBLEBROOK BEAT JONESBORO, WHICH IS CURRENTLY RANKED #10 AJC AND #9 IN COACHES POLL, BY 22 POINTS. FACT, PEBBLEBROOK LOST TO LITHIA SPRINGS, #8 IN AJC AND #5 IN COACHES POLL, BY ONLY 3 POINTS. FACT, PEBBLEBROOK HAD TWO LACKLUSTER PERFORANCES IN A 3 POINT LOSS TO A SCRAPPY OSBORNE TEAM AND A TWO POINT WIN AGAINST A STRUGGLING WOODLAND TEAM. FACT, DACULA IS #5 IN AJC AND #8 IN COACHES POLL. FACT, PEBBLEBROOK IS UNRANKED IN AJC AND #7 IN COACHES POLL. FACT, PEBBLEBROOK HAS BEEN RANKED AS HIGH AS #5 IN COACHES POLL AND HAS BEEN RANKED HIGHER THAN DACULA ALL YEAR IN THE COACHES POLL. FACT, THE OVERWHELMING MAJORITY OF COACHES HAVE SPENT MORE TIME PLAYING THE GAME AND COACHING THE GAME THAN MOST WRITERS (CAN BE PROVEN THROUGH RESEARCH).

THESE ARE THE FACTS. AND BASED ON THESE FACTS, I ASK YOU, MIKE, TO BE REFERRED TO FROM HERE ON OUT AS MR. BASKETBALL IQ, WHICH POLL HAS MORE CREDIBILITY?

QUITE FRANKLY, FACTS DON’T ALWAYS TELL THE WHOLE STORY AND THEY CAN BECOME BORING, BUT THEY STILL REMAIN TO BE FACTS. BUT LET’S HAVE SOME FUN. OPINIONS ARE ALWAYS FUN BECAUSE NOBODY’S OPINION CAN BE WRONG NO MATTER HOW OUTLANDISH IT MAY BE. IN MY OPINION, THE FACT THAT YOU TRY EQUATE WHERE A PLAYER GOES TO SCHOOL TO WHETHER OR NOT HE HAS TALENT SHOWS YOUR LACK OF A BASKETBALL IQ. SINCE YOU PLAYED COLLEGE BALL, YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT MAJOR D1 IS ABOUT SIZE MORE THAN IT IS ABOUT TALENT. IN MY OPINION, TALENT IS SOMEONE WHO DOES MANY THINGS WELL OR DOMINATES IN A FEW AREAS ON ANY LEVEL. IF YOU ARE 6’6” OR BETTER IN HIGH SCHOOL YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO PUT UP NUMBERS. AND ON THE AA LEVEL YOU SHOULD DOMINATE. ANYTHING LESS THAN THAT MAKES YOU BELOW AVERAGE.

SO TO RETURN TO MY ORIGINAL POINT, BASED ON THE FACTS IT IS MY PERSONAL OPINION THERE IS NO WAY THAT PEBBLEBROOK SHOULD NOT AT LEAST RECEIVE SOME VOTES. I AM NOT SAYING THAT PEBBLEBROOK IS BETTER THAN DACULA; ALL I AM SAYING IS HOW CAN THE TWO POLLS BE SO DIFFERENT. SEEMS TO ME THAT THE AJC VOTERS HAVE ABOUT THE SAME BASKETBALL IQ AS YOU. BEFORE YOU CHALLENGE SOMEONE’S “EDUCATION” YOU SHOULD DO “YOUR” HOMEWORK FIRST. IT IS OBVIOUS TO ME THAT YOUR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE DID NOT EDUCATE YOU ON THE GAME. I GUESS YOU ARE RIGHT; A FAN POLL WOULD NOT WORK; THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH PEOPLE, AS YOU HAVE PROVEN, THAT ARE WILLING TO DO THEIR RESEARCH BEFORE THEY CAST THEIR VOTES. OH WELL, I’LL JUST DO WHAT I HAVE BEEN DOING AND FOLLOW THE POLL OF THE EDUCATED, THE COACHES POLL.

By mike

January 19, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

OK as a forwarning this will be my last response to your comments.

Your original comment was directed at Dacula and the state of Georgia basketball. I have not made a negative comment toward Pebblebrook as it relates to anything.

You have some of your so called facts wrong. Dacula has beaten 7 teams with winning records, 2 of those rank in the top 10 in the state in their classes. (The second is GAC by 15 or so. Dacula plays in a mediocre region. It’s not their fault its the way they are divided.

Your IQ is clearly stated with your comment “major D1 is more about size than talent”. Actually it’s about both sometimes and sometimes it’s about talent alone.

If you’ll notice, not once have I denegrated your Pebblebrook team. Their a fine team. You are the one who chose to berate Dacula.

So far I have convinced you that a fan poll would not work. I do agree agree that the coaches are the most knowledgeable.

However, you seem to speak out of both sides of your mouth. You say that there’s no way Dacula is #5 in the state but yet you want to use only the coaches poll when it’s to your advantage.

OK I give. Let’s use their poll: Dacula #5. Pebblebrook #7.

Good luck the remainder of the season.

By Steve

January 20, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

I attended every game in the Deep South Classic and I think Dacula is a very strong TEAM. They have everything needed to make a run at the state title, size, coaching and two guards that can hurt you from the outside. This is the EXACT SAME TEAM from last year that took Lithia Springs into overtime in the state tournament at Lithia Springs. They all appear to have improved from last year which obviously shows from their 18 - 1 record. Its not Dacula’s fault that they are in a weak region. They are doing what they should which is dominating every team. They will have there chance to prove themselves against the so called powers Colombia, Miller Grove, and Peeblebrook, in the state tournament.

By Sam

January 20, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

I also attended every game at the Deep South and you are so right. I watched Dacula play and they appear to have the entire package, size, speed, shooters, defenders and coaching.
Their bench is very deep. Also, they beat Loganville on their floor. Loganville is an honorable mention above.

As you say Steve, the tournament will tell it all.

By Derrick Mahone

January 20, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Falcon Fever you have the typical response of most fans if their team doesn’t appear in one poll and not the other - the one with my team is the one with the most creditibility. I will admit that Pebblebrook probably should have appeared on someone’s ballot, but it didn’t, but as you said this isn’t science.

Just to defend the Georgia Sportswriters Association (GSWA) Poll, look at the coaches AAAA poll. I am sure you will probably agree. Is Ridgeland, which recently lost to a decent Rome team and a below average Dalton, the No. 4 team in the state? Do you think they are better than Lithia Springs and your Pebblebrook Falcons? Dacula? TUCKER? Last week, Tucker wasn’t even in the top 10 in the coaches poll. Tuesday, Tucker lost by only six points to top-ranked Columbia, who everybody will probably agree has a good team that is a legit state championship caliber team.

By KDaDon

January 20, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Derrick

What are your thought on Johnson-SAV and Beach? Will losing James Fields hurt Beach that bad? And I didn’t realize the ‘Smashers had four D1 signees (Savannah Mourning News is slipping). Maybe it’s just me, but either Johnson, even with their tough (non-region) schedule, is somewhat underacheiving, or Savannah High, as usual, are playing well over their heads. I just seems that Johnson should be the once beaten (that LA school they played is just too good) team from the SAV.

By B-balleye

January 21, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Hey Earnest, tuff times with the wheather, it would have been a great week foe HS b-ball. However I hear that Johnson and Norcross are in communications for a make up game. An early look at Toby Veal and Al Foqui could be possible. The game would probably have to be played somewhere in the area of the first or that week due to region play being right around the corner.

By B-balleye

January 21, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

Johnson of sav, at this time is playing average basketball. To some degree you could say they were underacheiving according to their talent level. Most assumed they would be unbeaten at this point. They currently have three losses, one loss to Savannah high, two other to teams faced in x-mas tourney basketball, Westchester, N.J. and Irmo, S.C. a 3OT loss.

But never the less they are still one of the most dangerous teams in the state. To see these kids play on a high level of Basketball is one of the greatest shows on earth.

Savannah high has always played consistance basketball. In the same camp at Fl. St. that I saw Johnson play S. ATl, Savannah high was there as well. Given all the top teams over Flordia and Georgia that were present, did you know that Savannah High won the camp. They have one of the best back court duo’s in gaurds Kevin Williams and Norris Rumph, who seem to never be mentioned in basketball talk.

I just found out that they will be playing on Jan. 25, 2008 at Johnson High, I’m sure the semi metro city will be shut down for that game. I will be there. GHSA coaches poll has them both ranked in the state. Again be wathfull all you basketball fans, Savannah’s region is for real.

By Ernest

January 21, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

B-balleye:

Thanks for the heads up! I know we can count of Derrick and Jeff to let us know if this becomes a reality. I’ve lived in the metro area for almost 30 years now but my heart is still in the ‘Sugar City’ with those AtomSmashers!!!

By B-balleye

January 21, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Hey Derrick and KDaDon, the story concerning former Beach high basketball standout has caused alot of mix feelings and emotions. James Fields transfered from Beach citing academics reasons. He said he was going to Urban christian academy for a better education.

Understanding this, Urban christian is a private school that has approx. 5 seniors and 6 juniors. The highest paid teacher on staff makes approx. 6,000.00 per yr. This is a school that has tried to get certified through GHSA and GSIA on numerous times and has been rejected for various reasons. They have no academic standards or qualifications levels.

Fields left Beach, for one reason, he could not pass the GHSA graduation test. Being in danger of losing his scholarship to Ga. St. because of his inability to pass the test he transfered to a school where the test is not required.

Urban Christian is so bad, you could have a 2 average and transfer to Urban christian and be elgilble to play the same week. This has been done several times. If he, Fields, is allowed to play at a D-1 level next year, it is going to be trouble in Savannah. It will begin to teach kids that they don’t have to work hard, they can just take the easy way out and everything will be o.k. Imagine what that is going to do with public school basketball. WOW!!!

By Derrick Mahone

January 21, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

King Classic @ Centennial

Wesleyan is up 38-31 in the first half as Trey Thompkins of Wesleyan and Manny Atkins of Tucker are putting on a show. Thompkins has 22 points, including a couple thunder dunks. Atkins has 16 points including three 3-pointers.

By Lion's Den

January 29, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

When it comes to boys basketball Westlake is number one in the state and should be ranked nationally. Was up 14 on Norcross but lost by 5 in the Amare Stoudemire tourney. After they lost there best post the game before to a highly sprained ankle. He did average 17 and eight. Westlake all the way!!!!!!!