Prep Zone

By Devil Lover

February 18, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Good to see you back at work.

OBVIOUSLY IF YOU ARE LUCKY TO BE THE HOME TEAM IT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD. AT NORCROSS WE WILL HAVE OUR BAND, STEP TEAM AND MORE FANS TO SUPPORT THE TEAM. OUR OPPONENTS PROBABLY WISHED THEY DID NOT HAVE TO PLAY US IN “THE HOUSE OF BLUE”. WHILE WE HAVE ONLY LOST 6 GAMES IN THREE YEARS, NORCROSS HAS NOT LOST A HOME GAME IN OVER THREE OR MAYBE FOUR YEARS. SO WE ARE ALL FOR IT IF WE ARE THE HOME TEAM.

By May the best team win

February 18, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

If the GHSA wanted a fair way to determine the state champion they would have all games at neutral sites with neutral refs. Some schools have a significant advantage when playing at home either because of favorable officiating or the comfort of their own gym. There are regions where the number 4 seed is a better team than the number 1 seed from another region, so why should you be rewarded for winning a weak conference. Also the GHSA should consider mixing the region match ups as they do in other sports. In that way one region could have all 4 of their teams in the state semi finals.

By Jake

February 18, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

What exactly is favorable officiating? Further, what is a “neutral ref”? Do you really think officials care who wins a game? Also, do you really think that officials who are of the caliber of playoffs are swayed by working in front of a home crowd?

Get a clue.

By ehall1987

February 18, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

I liked the old format where you would have four boys games at a nuetral site. Now that was worth the price of admission. Now you only get one game instead of four.

By charles

February 18, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Get a grip. First, if you earn the right to host a playoff game then you should. Second if youre a fan of “basketball” and you want to see a game, go to the game. As for Norcross, it is illegal for your band to perform at a playoff game. Doing so can cost your team a technical foul. I like the system, even though my team as to travel this weekend. I still love it..

By no perfect way

February 18, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

I remember the old days of crowding into one high school gym for 4-8 games in one day. It did NOT work. The gyms would be completely overcrowded, as fans of 4-8 teams would be in a 2000 seat gym simultaneously. I saw parents of players of teams playing locked out of gyms until halftime of their games when the fire code limit was reduced. It was a nightmare.

The current system doesn’t seem quite fair, and it doesn’t garner as much excitement. However, nobody with a pre-purchased ticket to a game should never be locked out of a game because a gym can’t hold enough people.

Here’s how I’d rate the options for the first 2 rounds:

1) Use a neutral site that can hold atleast 8,000 fans. Each year, the region hosts changes. When its a region’s year to host, they can pick the site as long as it meets a minimum of seats (5,000? 8,000? I don’t know). For example, when region 7 hosts, they could use Gwinenett arena. Region 2 could try to use Georgia Tech or Macon Coliseum, etc. etc. (most fair, and exciting)

2) Play at home gyms (so-so)

3) Play region vs region in a high school gym appointed by the region host. (worst idea)

By Devil Lover

February 18, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

AS IMPORTANT IS THE SEEDING FOR THE STATE TOURNAMENT. WHY CAN’T GHSA RANK ALL 32 TEAMS ACCORDING TO THEIR RECORD. IN THE OTHER WORDS LIKE COLLEGES RANK 1 THROUGH 32 AND LET N01 PLAY NO32 AND SO ON. THEN YOU WOULD HAVE TOPS TEAMS FACING OFF IN THE FIRST OR SECOND ROUNDS LIKE THIS YEAR AND LAST YEAR. I KNOW THAT THEY ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE DISTANCES SOME TEAMS WOULD HAVE TO TRAVEL BUT SINCE THE STATE GAMES ARE SO SPREAD OUT, I AM NOT SURE THAT THIS WOULD BE AS BIG OF A PROBLEM.

By bud king

February 18, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

i like the old way better it’s more exciting that way

By May the best team win

February 18, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Jake, either you are a referee yourself or naive to think that at some schools the refs call the game for the home team, even refs officiating the playoff games. As sad as that may seem it happens so why provide for the opportunity. All the GHSA has to do is have refs officiating a region 2 game for example be from another region. Doesn’t seem like to difficult to coordinate.

By Atlanta Blue

February 18, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

For playoff games, officials ARE assigned by the GHSA, and the GHSA makes every attempt to use officials who did not work home games for either team all season (i.e., officials from Multi County Officials Assoc (primarily Gwinnett County) make work games in Cobb County, while Atlanta Area Officials Association may work in Gainesville or Dalton).

And at Norcross, you won’t have your band, or at least you won’t have them playing music. No artificial noisemakers are allowed, and that includes musical instruments.

As for 8,000 seat areans, how many of those do you think are in this state? Gwinnett, Philips, the Dome, Macon Coliseum, Ga Tech and Stegeman in Athens, that’s it! Rental costs and availability make using these facilities for all but the finals impractical.

By LD

February 18, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

I thought that Pep bands weren’t allowed at GHSA basketball playoff games. At least that was what we were told last year. If that’s the case then Norcross shouldn’t have their pep band and step team performing.

By LD

February 18, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

If our team is fortunate enough to make it to the semi finals and finals at Gwinnett Area, I sure hope the GHSA does a little more about crowd control than they did last year. The fans from the girls game prior to our game stayed around to watch, then when our fans got there and our opponents fans got there, there weren’t allowed in for a while. Some were told there were no tickets left. I think after the prior game, they should empty the arena, then allow everyone back in. That would give the fans of the team that is playing a fair chance.

By LD

February 18, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

If our team is fortunate enough to make it to the semi finals and finals at Gwinnett Area, I sure hope the GHSA does a little more about crowd control than they did last year. The fans from the girls game prior to our game stayed around to watch, then when our fans got there and our opponents fans got there, there weren’t allowed in for a while. Some were told there were no tickets left. I think after the prior game, they should empty the arena, then allow everyone back in. That would give the fans of the team that is playing a fair chance.

By hsfan

February 18, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

The home game format for the first 2 riunds is not new this year. This is the 4th year of this format.

By Jim

February 18, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

I am an old purist. My high school won a state championship in 1961. In those days you went through a sub-region tournament at a gym in the that sub-region. Then a region tournament at a location that would accomodate the crowds. It could be a school in the region or a another centrally located location. Then on to state at Alexander Memorial.

There was exitement to get “to state”. Sixteen teams got to state and they played eight games the first day. I would skip school and stay all day.

Just an old guy’s opinion.

By Chris Grammer

February 18, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

I love the new format i think it gives the ultimate playoff feel, fans filling up their home gym and giving their team real home court with rally towels ,thundersticks , etc…thats what playoffs are about.

By CobbBlueDevil

February 18, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

I would like to see 2 games played at the #1 seeds gym in the first round. This way the fans are happy to see 2 games, the #1 seed is still rewarded, and the teams and fans get to see who they’ll play next.

By Silver Salmon

February 18, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

I was a fan of the eight games in two days at one site.

We hosted in 2002. We didn’t have the overcrowding problem, but that may mainly be because the the closest team (other than us) was 12 miles away. Some drove three hours.

Overall, it probably boosted attendance, though, as some people just like to go out and see a game, regardless of who’s playing. You want more than a single game for your $10.

The officials weren’t local. I believe one said he was from Augusta. The state game I saw last year at Eastman involved Valdosta Association refs. Dodge’s opposition was a team that used the Valdosta Association. Dodge won handily, though, and the officials did a good job.

It’s much more convenient to have one site. Some fans are having to travel to two distant locations. Stephens County is going to Carrollton and Cartersville.

Another advantage of eight in two days is the scorebook situation. There’s more pressure to find a reliable bookkeeper. The book would neutral for at least six of the eight games. It’s not neutral in the current situation. While the vast majority of bookpeople try to do their best, they’re still rooting for the home team. A neutral book would negate that and the issue of an opposing book being inept, a pain in the posterior, or both (as a neutral book can legally kick both home and away books off the table).

By greensnake

February 18, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

the whole playoff format is in place to make money. the closer a team is to the site means more fans hence more money. teams who make it to the ‘central’ sites have to use the money from the home site locations to be able to travel to those other locations. all officals, including bookkeepers, timers and floor are assigned by the GHSA. this should ensure unbiased work at all levels. in regard to the money situation previously mentioned, after the taxes and GHSA cuts, the visiting team is paid a travel fee and the rest is divided by the number of teams playing.

By Andre

February 18, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

I’m really mad that Region 2-5A is considered a region in the south when only two of the schools are south of I-20 and 2 are within 5 minutes of it. GHSA if any of those schools make it to the sweet 16 and have to travel to Savannah, be ready to foot the bill!

By Dave

February 18, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

Norcross sure used their “home cooking” to cheat Wheeler in the final seconds of their playoff game last season. I’m really looking forward to Wheeler beating Norcross this season. Coach Lipscomb needs a championship ring for his thumb too.

By Dave's an idiot

February 18, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

did Chatahoochee or Marietta have some “home cooking” last year? Did Beach have “home cooking” in the Arena the year before?

shut up Dave. Wheeler plays no defense. That’s all the “home cooking” good teams need.

By Devil Lover

February 18, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Now Dave don’t be so angry. So when Wheeler win its because of their skills and when they lose by the referee not calling a foul on the last play of the game (when your center jumped into his opponent) its Norcross’ fault. You better hope they don’t start thinking about their last two years of not being able to reach the final game. I know that Lipcomb will be thinking about it. Dave,you know that winning state tounament games is a lot different that beating teams in your region. The last two years Wheeler took both Norcross and Beach too lightly and they paid for it.

By Dave's an idiot

February 18, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

did Chatahoochee or Marietta have some “home cooking” last year? Did Beach have “home cooking” in the Arena the year before?

shut up Dave. Wheeler plays no defense. That’s all the “home cooking” good teams need.

By Dave's an idiot

February 18, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

did Chatahoochee or Marietta have some “home cooking” last year? Did Beach have “home cooking” in the Arena the year before?

shut up Dave. Wheeler plays no defense. That’s all the “home cooking” good teams need.

By Michael Bishop

February 18, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

When I played basketball in Alabama the winner of the area tournament hosted the sub-region and after that the winner went to region on a neutral site where you could see 6 games in 2 days then the winner went to state in Birmingham. That’s how it should be done.

By Dave

February 18, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Keep talking, Norcross.

Last time I checked, Region 6-AAAAA is a little tougher than Norcross’ soft region.

Each time Wheeler wins state, it’s as an underdog. And Wheeler’s record vs. Norcross in title games is 1-0.

Keep talking, fools.

By Phildawg

February 18, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Last year Wheeler didn’t take Norcross too lightly. Wheeler was the underdog in that game since Norcross was the defending state champs and the higher seed in the toruney. So you should get your facts straight Devil Lover and realized that JJ Hickson got fouled not only once on the last play, but twice. He went up, got hacked, then got his own rebound and was hacked again. The refs, knowing that they blew it, ran straight to the locker room as soon as the game was over. As far as Wheeler not playing any defense, obviously you haven’t watched them play this year. They blew out multiple state ranked teams without scoring more than 80-85 themselves. TO me that means good defense when you’re holding a ranked team in the 50’s.

By post7cf

February 18, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

Key word is “tournament”. One game in any gym is not a tournament. GHSA needs to get a grip and make this what it should be. Quit making it about the money.

By Just Like GA High School Football

February 19, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

stupid is as stupid does….just like the GA high school football playoffs. play neutral court throughout the playoffs. just as in football home field playof wins, home court playoff wins mean nothing.

By Richard Lowe

February 19, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

The word tournament denotes more than one team playing at a site no matter how many sites that you may have. I understand the economic reasoning at this time with gas prices contually go up instead of down and the expense involved with transporting teams and entourages that normally travel with them. Not only that, when the larger facilities don’t want you in their gyms or they try to charge too much to use those facilities. At one time it was beneficial for the schools (colleges) to have the many teams come to their facilities but then not being able to control the behaviors and the distruction of property became a big issue. I can understand GHSA moving to the present format. I don’t like it but I can understand it. Good luck to all of the teams who have made it.

By cgatlanta

February 19, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

Basketball would be better with more white players.

By kdog

February 19, 2008 4:27 AM | Link to this

To cgatlanta: Basketball at this level is not about how many players you have of a certain race. It is about the best players, playing at the highest level. Your comment would hold water if we were talking about rec ball or upward bound. I think the sport has been stereotyped to one race, its not. If you are good enough and have the heart you can compete in any sport at any level you wish. Oh yeah,my son,who is a junior,has played high school since the 9th grade. And yes he is WHITE!

By 4AFan

February 19, 2008 7:14 AM | Link to this

Ignore cg. S/he is just trying to get something started.

By Atlanta Blue

February 19, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this

The home game format for the first 2 riunds is not new this year. This is the 4th year of this format.

No, it IS new. Last year, higher seeded teams hosted FIRST round games, then the schools went to central sites.

This is the first year where the first TWO rounds will be played in higher seeded school gyms.

Part of this is simply a matter of logistics. It’s hard to get areans that can accomodate large crowds, and get them for 3-4 days at a time. Remember, there are 5 classifications of schools, and two genders per class. With the second and third rounds in a single site, that was four sites per class, meaning the GHSA had to come up with (and staff) 20 sites, all running (basically) simultaneously, each running 12 games in three days. It was a logistical nightmare.

And when running multiple games at a single site, it’s not practical to clear the stands between games. Currently, games are scheduled with approximately 15 minutes between games, 30 for the championship rounds. To empty an arena and allow another group of fans to enter, that would have to be increased to more than an hour, and now you can’t get the same number of games in per day. It’s not a practical solution.

Just like football, basketball playoffs are becoming a victim of their own popularity. The answer in football is moving games away from small school stadiums to larger neutral fields. It’s possible that the answer in basketball is the exact opposite.

By GC

February 19, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

Atlanta Blue, Technically the GHSA would only need 10 sites, because girls and boys could play regionals at the same site. Like Michael Bishop articulated, Alabama’s setup seems to work for schools and fans. Higher seeds host first-round games, then all six classes play second-round and quarterfinal games at four “regional host” sites — college campuses that fit seating requirements. Then the final four for all six classes is held in the same venue.

OR…

Send the eight remaining teams to the state tournament in each class and start it a day earlier.

By GC

February 19, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

Atlanta Blue, Technically the GHSA would only need 10 sites, because girls and boys could play regionals at the same site. Like Michael Bishop articulated, Alabama’s setup seems to work for schools and fans. Higher seeds host first-round games, then all six classes play second-round and quarterfinal games at four “regional host” sites — college campuses that fit seating requirements. Then the final four for all six classes is held in the same venue.

OR…

Send the eight remaining teams to the state tournament in each class and start it a day earlier.

By whatever

February 19, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Basketball?????

Who CARES! This is a FOOTBALL state!

By girls basketball fan

February 19, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

I highly disagree with the notion that it is disappointing to see the first two rounds of playoff games played at the higher seeds home gym. You said it, the teams playing home games this weekend have EARNED that right. I attend a Cobb County school whose girls basketball team is making their first trip to state in nearly 9 years. Having posted a 23-5 record,it’s not fair for a team of that stature to have to travel to play a post season contest. Sure you basketball “purist” may feel disappointed about this fact,but high school basketball is not about you purist even the slightest bit.It is about those young men and women who put in so much of their precious time and hard-work to be able to get to this point in their season and play in front of their friends and family in a post season game,rather than some reporters and a high school principal who couldn’t even name the county in which they reside in. The atmosphere and experience they will get from having the chance to play a home playoff game will be one they never forget. And the buzz generated within a school and in and around a community with a home state playoff game coming up is unmatchable and is one that the students, faculty, parents, and most importantly the players of the hosting high school should be able to enjoy and remember for the rest of their lives.

By Rock Clayton

February 19, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

As you all are aware it was a pack house at South side high and everyone was there to see Bless Trinity win the Region But I knew that with discipline and playing defensive Dunwoody would be able to win the division I was overly impress and I had not been for So long with any team but the Wildcat showed us that working together and playing as a team brings about result. The Guard #12 Was exciting to watch he shut bless Trinity Guard down and pressed him all the way to end, this kid game has so excitement so it was good to see a kid like #12 bringing the excitement back to basket ball and to high school. He is so quick and if they had given out a MVP award it should Be awarded to Grayson, he was the glue that held this team together and every one I talked to agrees with me. Delwan and Chris Singleton was on point and played the like the star that they are The venue had lots of scouts in the place the GT coach was in the house, priest and even the press and although Bless Triny lost they Played a hell of a game. Dunwoody is on it’s way to gaining the champtionship in Macon.

By chuck B

February 19, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Well DJ whatever did I not tell you that they would win in case you forgot who I was talking about Dunwoody and I saw that your team lost but its all good it’s time to congratulate not hate as I stated before We bout to do the darn thing take it all the way and we will win the Championship in Macon Congratulate Delwan, Chris and Grayson you all are Great ball players and Champtions. KDog why is this always about race leave that out of these game it is about the best players who can compete at the highest level black or white’ You Dig”

By Referee

February 19, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

The officials will have no bearing on the games because all the officials will be coming from all over the state. Some officials will have to travel over 150 miles to do just one game. Some farther than that. The way it will work out is no official should have ref’ed any of the games for the teams they will be seeing in the first two rounds during the regular season.

By Devil Lover

February 19, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Hey Phildawg. I could not find where Wheeler has held a ranked teams in the 50’s. Wheeler give up on avg 62 a game. And the so called “ranked teams” scored 84, 69, 75 and 70 pts. Also, Wheeler only kept 5 out of the total 28 teams below 50.

Wheeler is an excellent team who hasn’t had to play good defense to win yet.

By Josh

February 19, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Told you, Told you kid” that Dunwoody would win there Division they played as a team with great defense and the point guard Grayson # 12 gave the crowd a show like he always does, this kid is off the chart, if schools are not looking at him they should. A poll was done and the odds was stack up against Dunwoody 74-40 that they would not win, what people didn’t realized that Dunwoody secret weapon was Grayson the Guard and his ability to bring the team to victory which is amazing, Great skill, talented and a must watch In the future. To Bless Trinity I say keep your Heads up you kept dunwoody on it’s toes but you all could not press #12 he is too quick and the yelling from the crowd ring over and over in my ears that boys is dangerous You Heard**Some times i wonder though about the officials and how some calls were made and at first it seems they were making calls to have Bless Trinty win but when you are good it always shows in the end.

By Eric woods

February 19, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Why is basketball always about race Cgatlanta give us your kids name and who he plays for. Basketball is about being the best at any level I have seens some good white players example of that is Bless Trinity players whom are mostly white and and has maybe one black player but we still beat them twice in a row it’s not about Black and White is is about WHO GOT Game. have you seen Dunwoody Starting five Delwan, grayson Chris come on give me a break if case you are wondering I am also white i dont play but I know talent.

By Mr Moe

February 19, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

I just finish reading Dunwoody crie paper and it did not mention one bit about #12 grayson as being a triumph for the win against Bless Trinity. maybe they were not at the same game that i or other spectors were and saw that without Graysons skill it would not have been possible. Grayson “listen up watch your back you got some real hating going on in your own camp and it is that coach of yours. We could use a talented Guard like yourself at our school where you will get the respect you deserve’ come Get at us Kid”. They can’t stop you from shinning ‘you will contiune to shine believe that”.

By mom4-3

February 19, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Home gym advantage for the first two games is a great idea. I would also like to realign the brackets so that 1 and 3 seeds and 2 and 4 seeds from the same region do not play each other before the final 4. Each side of the bracket should have one team from each region. Example region AAA. sounds like politics as usual

By angel

February 19, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

WE ALL KNOW NORCROSS IS GONNA TAKE IT ALL HOME AGAIN!!!!!!!!! THIRD YEAR IN A ROW BABY!!!!!!!!

By angel

February 19, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

WE ALL KNOW NORCROSS IS GONNA TAKE IT ALL HOME AGAIN!!!!!!!!! THIRD YEAR IN A ROW BABY!!!!!!!!

By angel

February 19, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

WE ALL KNOW NORCROSS IS GONNA TAKE IT ALL HOME AGAIN!!!!!!!!! THIRD YEAR IN A ROW BABY!!!!!!!!

By jeff

February 19, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

I am with you Mr Moe on the hating going on at Dunwoody and the coach s only focus is getting Black Boys who are talented to come to his school so they can win games for him make him look good and put another ring on his finger,he could care less about one of them for sure. I know that kid you all are talking about Grayson he is off the Chart for real but he young and got a while to graduate so maybe Dunwoody dont want to put him on Blast just yet for fear of him not being around to pick up the pieces next year.Anyway you heard it from me this kids is all that talented, Smart and has a great attitude and he is our school favorite. if I was him I would not show up for the finals it sound mean but that would prove a major point knowing that kid he is a team player and he would not do that.

By inquiring mind

February 19, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

To all Wheeler fans, what do you think about the possible semi-finals matchup between Wheeler and Johnson of Sav.

Johnson is pretty strong from what I hear and matches well with Wheeler’s height, size, and talent. Their strength in their scheduleds were fairly even, given just a slight advantage to Wheeler. But both have played national ranked teams and ranked teams from other states.

Both have McDonalds All-Amercians nonminee’s on their teams. Let me hear your comment.

By nysouth

February 19, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Mr. Moe and Jeff, whoever you guys may be, I just read the same Dunwoody Crier article and Grayson is mentioned, in fact it says “Issiah Grayson had two clutch three-point baskets to build Dunwoody’s lead in the 3rd quarter.” Stop trying to make up some riff between Dunwoody’s coach and Issiah. You guys are way off base.

By southside finest

February 19, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

watch out for mundys mill high school. the boys and girls won their region championship. the girls are ranked # 5 and the boys are ranked #7. the girls beat 3 ranked teams this year and the boys gave savannah their first lost of the season! watch out for jonesboro boys and girls, and don’t forget about riverdale! all of these basketball teams represent clayton county well!!

By Dunwoody Crier

February 19, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

C’mon Moe & Jeff, it’s hard to read your posts as it is, but what you write about is blasphemy!!! You guys don’t know basketball as well as you think you do! I am a Dunwoody resident with no ties to the school but attend games for the excitement and I see that their coach knows how to coach, period. He gets his players hyped up for a challenge and exploits other teams’ weaknesses, I’m surprised he’s been there as long as he has and not jumped to the next level. Athletes want stay at Dunwoody for the education AND to be seen by scouts. They see many players make it to the next level by means of Dunwoody Basketball, it has nothing to do with white or black or who looks good. How is that possible if there is hating going on, if you ask me, the guy must go the extra mile to invite schools in to see the talent. It’s all about winning championships and getting noticed by college scouts…..you want that, D-Wood is the means!

By gakat1

February 19, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

As long a the GHSA runs the basketball tourney, it will continue to be a joke. Without question, the worst HS association for tournaments in the Southeast. Go to North Carolina, South Car, Tenn and especially Ky and see how a tournament should be run. These officials know nothing about “tournament ” feel or tournament period. Playing at Morehouse for the 5A quarters last year was the biggest boondogle in Georgia history. Anyone that was there as I was will know what a joke it was. This year again, STILL not sure where the 5A quarters will be. Just a joke!!!!!

By uptown

February 20, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this

There should be some strong consideration as to playoff tournament time I think region tournaments shold be played at neutral sites. The region tourn. at stephenson was terrible The administration there was bias and it caused a lot of problems.Also playing at morehouse was a joke.No parking and a host of other problems Very bad area The final four should be at the phillips arena ,central location people flying in have a source of transportation etc.

By fosterjoiner

February 20, 2008 2:44 AM | Link to this

It is about time that Norcross finally plays a tough side of the state bracket. Each of the last four years Norcross might have had one tough game in their side of the bracket. This year Norcross will have to earn the state championship spot. They play one tough team after another. Wheeler did get robbed by the refs last year and Norcross knows it. That was their one tough game before the state championship. This time they will face 3 teams which could beat them before the state championship. I also do not like the money from all tickets sold goes in the GHSA’s pocket instead of to the schools. At the home sites all money should be split between the schools. At the neutral courts 60 percent of the take at the door should be split between the schools. The GHSA wants all the money for themselves. Some of the games should be a sellout and the schools should get the majority of the money.

By Devil Lover

February 20, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Hey fosterjoiner…check your memory because it is not working. Last yr norcross had one of the most difficult schedule of all times. All top ten ranked teams last yr and this yr.

6 wheeler 2 meadowcreek 4 marietta 9 tift county 3 centennial

By JPS

February 20, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

As for the state format, no this isn’t the 4th year of a two game home format. As a high school coach and member of GHSA, I’ve been involved in hosting a state playoff game and when moving to the second round, the game was played on the road at a larger venue. I do not agree with the two game home format as it does deny playoff atmosphere and excitement. The fans are not the only losers. The kids are the ones missing out on the excitement and thrill of a lifetime. For many kids, this is all they’ll ever know of this level of competion. I wish all teams the very best this weekend as we begin the run to the championships.

By LD

February 20, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

If Norcross beats Harrison Friday night and Centennial beats Meadowcreek, then we are going to have quite a game the next round. Centennial still hasn’t forgotten the heartbreak of losing to Norcross by 1 point in the Championship game last year and they will be playing their hearts out to knock off Norcross. Devil fan don’t underestimate Wheeler, they have an awesome team this year and will be hard to beat.

By Devil Lover

February 20, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

LD you better get to Norcross’ gym early on Tuesday if you want to see the game.

By Mr Moe

February 20, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

To my haters did I stuck a nerve or expose you Guys” what’s up I’m very intelligent when it comes to basketball I am only speaking on what I have noticed in the past and future Everyone knows this kid Grayson is Talented” it would take a rocket science not to see that and on any given day he can match up against the best of the best that same kid was the one that beat Dunwoody At Southside High School last year and took his prior school to the state which they had not been In over twenty three (23) years, funny he ended up at that very school. Like I said before I don”t hate on anyone this is a country with free speech, I am looking forward to the State Championship and wish Dunwoody all The best but sincerity feels that if they did not have Grayson they would not have gotten that far.

Sign:Fan for Life”

By BamaBoy

February 20, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

I’m from AL & played in a format where we played the same format that GA has now. The Idea being win twice to get to a central location. I loved playing in my own gym for the opportunity to advance to a central location. It was a reward for winning our region. To us it emphasized the importance of WIN or go Home. Having a central location is very time consuming & boring when u have to wait for all these games before you play. You have to remember the players are waiting for these games to finish before they hit the court. You’re at the mercy of the team fouling very play and he game has been decided(down by 20) . A 8PM start leads to 10PM. Having smaller groups of teams advance is much more gratifying & more of an elite group them jamming 8 games in one day. In front of people who are not cheering you on & keeping your fans up in the rafters because they don’t want to move.

By black

February 20, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Well Mr Moe you are kind of right. Druid Hills beat Dunwoody last year for the region championship. Actually, we went to the sweet 16 and elite 8 with Grayson. Now, how did he end up at Dunwoody. Well, ask the coaches over there that called him every night for two years. They clearly recruited him to dunwoody. Now, a real coach will coach his players. Name any player that grew up in the Dunwoody area. Let’s see they stole Riverwood’s players, Druid Hill, etc. All those guys played ball at the south side of dekalb. grayson needs to watch his back from stupid AAU coaches that needs to get a life and a job. Bracco is using all those boys. it’s a shame that Dekalb and GHSA is letting this happen. Selling our souls to the devil. I heard dunwoody coach is looking at a particular school. UUUUUUMMMMMM that school is playing them on Saturday. Let’s see if I am right. Wait and see.

From: Inside source

By black

February 20, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Well Mr Moe you are kind of right. Druid Hills beat Dunwoody last year for the region championship. Actually, we went to the sweet 16 and elite 8 with Grayson. Now, how did he end up at Dunwoody. Well, ask the coaches over there that called him every night for two years. They clearly recruited him to dunwoody. Now, a real coach will coach his players. Name any player that grew up in the Dunwoody area. Let’s see they stole Riverwood’s players, Druid Hill, etc. All those guys played ball at the south side of dekalb. grayson needs to watch his back from stupid AAU coaches that needs to get a life and a job. Bracco is using all those boys. it’s a shame that Dekalb and GHSA is letting this happen. Selling our souls to the devil. I heard dunwoody coach is looking at a particular school. UUUUUUMMMMMM that school is playing them on Saturday. Let’s see if I am right. Wait and see.

From: Inside source

By black

February 20, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

Well Mr Moe you are kind of right. Druid Hills beat Dunwoody last year for the region championship. Actually, we went to the sweet 16 and elite 8 with Grayson. Now, how did he end up at Dunwoody. Well, ask the coaches over there that called him every night for two years. They clearly recruited him to dunwoody. Now, a real coach will coach his players. Name any player that grew up in the Dunwoody area. Let’s see they stole Riverwood’s players, Druid Hill, etc. All those guys played ball at the south side of dekalb. grayson needs to watch his back from stupid AAU coaches that needs to get a life and a job. Bracco is using all those boys. it’s a shame that Dekalb and GHSA is letting this happen. Selling our souls to the devil. I heard dunwoody coach is looking at a particular school. UUUUUUMMMMMM that school is playing them on Saturday. Let’s see if I am right. Wait and see.

From: Inside source

By Black Don;t Know

February 20, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

Black, don’t talk about what you don’t know…..the coaches calling Grayson were the CHAMBLEE coaches! How come THEY were offering him and his fam all kind a deals and the D-wood coaches woud NOT even talk to him until he was enrolled there….even with his mom contacting the school everyday????? He bipassed the Chamblee deals and promises to instead play for a winner with the only posible incentive being a scolarship to the next level!

By Roseann

February 21, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

I think there’s both a positive and negative aspect. i think the players look forward to advance and in advancing they look forward to playing in the big gym’s. At the same time a home game and be to their advantage. Me as a fan I would rather have 8 to 10 teams playing in the big gym, that way I get to see all the games considering i have a lot of players I support within the metro Atlanta area (Dekalb, Cobb, Fulton, and Gwinette).

By Roseann

February 21, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

I think there’s both a positive and negative aspect. I think the players look forward to advance and in advancing they look forward to playing in the big gym’s. At the same time a home game and be to their advantage. Me as a fan I would rather have 8 to 10 teams playing in the big gym, that way I get to see all the games considering I have a lot of players I support within the metro Atlanta area (Dekalb, Cobb, Fulton, and Gwinnett).

By black

February 21, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

man you are out of your mind. I know what I am talking about. So, you are telling me that Dunwoody coaches never talked to him. Please!!!! I know for a fact. So don’t call out Chamblee because they were not in the picture. Bracco and his assistant called him his freshman and sophomore year. Please!!! What about delwan transferring from Riverwood. I think you better check yourself before they really get exposed. How do you know. Who are you? I don’t write gossip. You know damn well they called him. The black assistant coach called all the time. The old AD knew it, but that’s a different story. Well, since you know it all, it was not a legit move. You are probably that sorry aau boy or another wanna be booster club memberfrom Dunwoody. You coach can’t coach out of a paperbag. I know there are some people in the dunwoody era that’s had enough of their kid geting cut from the team because illegel players are brought in yearly. Dunwoody talked to grayson while he was at DRUID hills. let’s look at it this way, Zac Swansey played well against Dunwoody, Zac is recruited to dunwoody. Grayson plays well for Dunwoody beats them for the championship and Grayson plays for Dunwoody. The same for Riverwood. Well asked the Towers coach, he will tell you. Why don’t you put their address out there. Why is graham address Atlanta Ga? What’s grayson? Please don’t be a fool now. I know what I am talking about. Get your facts straight!!!!

By Josh

February 21, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

You guys needs to quit it stop slinging mud No one called No one and if players choose to move it is there right to do so. Black you seem like a real hater and probably is that short coach that could not cut it at Druid Hill and transfered to Chamblee you have always been a hater leave Grayson and Delwan out of your hating these boys talents speak loudly you just mad cause you dont have any great players at you can couch.Pop off’ you know me kid Pop off.in case you are wondering what pop off in New york terms means it means You want to get something started) you are dumb so I had to explain.

By sparkle

February 21, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

if you want my address Punk call me I am Grayson mother “you know how to reach me. I aint scared remember that.You have got the nerve to start some messlike this when these kids are trying to stay focus for the champtionship only a looser start some mess like this. like I said get at me kid you know me you know where I stay at Dunwoody Cables Apartment. You know where I hang out and who I hang with. You have truly talking out of your face revielve yourself let me know who you are I have.

looser””

By Blacks a Fool

February 21, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

Black, you don’t know what you talkin about!!! Them boys at Dunwoody run a clean program. It ain’t their fault that players want to play for a winning team. You can’t expose nobody b/c this is only what you THINK! I know that program well and know for a FACT that those coaches don’t talk to kids before they go to Dunwoody. It’s their OWN parents that blow them up non stop to make sure they will play and get recruited. If you were at the game you talk of, you will know that Zacs Dad came to the coaches hiself to tell them that his son wants to live with him instead of his mom. Why don’t you find out his address too if you wanna break ballz! Stay off this post if you gonna spit out your own theories!!! P.S. who cares about the Towers coach….he will say anything b/c his program STINKS as bad as you, hhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah!

By black aka Mr. Jermaine

February 21, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

First of all, no disrepect to Issiah, but this is a blog and watch who you are talking too boy. I will say what I want whenever I want. The truth hurts. If you say they run a clean program then that’s cool, but it’s more than me. I wasn’t the first to say it and I am not the last. So shut that noise up!!!! Josh who are you!!! The truth is the truth. What you going to say when they report the truth? If dunwoody win it’s because of grayson and delwan. if you can read, there is nothing negative stated about them. So shut that noise up. You are living in Ga, not New York. So watch yourself boy. Josh why are you calling out somebody? Are you a short man lil man? You can’t cut it. I am in Lithonia and I am a fan not a COACH. Aint that hard to find. I watch basketball like you. You don’t like it go back where you came from. Oh yeah you are the hater that do a lot of talking behind peoples back. Step up and be a man.You know what that mean? Too many big words for you.

By jamal

February 21, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

I agree with you black. Whew they are mad at you? Whatever, right. If it’s false then oh well, but the intensity in their writing is strange. There were no disrespect towards any players. Boy, grown people act your age not your shoe size. Black it’s cool, let it go. You maybe right. For God’s sake let’s not upset them again HA HA!!!

By Josh

February 22, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

jamal you have no room to talk Wanna be* basket ball player with no skills you and Black attend the same school medow creek Right? Are you upset cause you cant cut it or bring it at the games are you the kid with the braids.Dont hate what you can never have” you heard* see you at the game Kid”“”” Dont hate congratulate people that made it it was not in the plan for you HAAAAAAAAAAAA.

By JJ

February 22, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

I agree with “may the best team win” in that GHSA should split the four teams that advance from the region across all four brackets. This prevents teams from having to face teams they’ve already faced in the region and makes it more likely that the four best teams in the state actually make it to the semis. This current system favors teams coming from weak regions or on the flipside hurts teams coming from very strong regions. The state has to stop worrying about travel times and start putting together a tournament that facilitates the advancement of the best teams. This is the playoffs and the teams and fans would be willing to travel if the system was fair. Also, the person who suggested going by record alone is way off…this would encourage teams to play a weak schedule and would also favor teams in easy regions.

By black

February 22, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

You got me!!!! wrong. I am just venting so don’t get upset. This is America right. Free Speech. How I feel and that’s it. Come on sorry to put your business out there, but I am not the only one. There’s a problem with Ga sports and you and I both know it. So let’s fix it. I am just stating my opinion. You know it’s my opinion. You can’t tell me what to say and how to say things. Like when Bush speaks for America, I don’t agree with him and I don’t like him so that’s that. My opinion not I am not hating. Some people are so dumb they don’t take the time to read. Sign off not hating!!!!

By cc

February 23, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this

They need to have a neutral site…The South Atlanta-East Hall game was Extremely bias. Half of Favors fouls were not good calls by the ref. I hope Coach Reddick files a greivance, this is the 2nd time in less than 2 weeks that’s happened. I don’t think it wouldve been that unfait at a neutral site.

By Banks

February 23, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Aduts souldnot se wods like get at me kid. That’s ghetto!!!!

By cory

February 23, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

black, Jamal and Banks get a life looser stop wasting ink on the ajc web you are all GETTO”“” and Banks are you in School please learn to spell before listing your views did your graduate or left back “learn how to spell when you are attacking someone. I agree with CC we do need a good neutral site for these games some are very bias the game against South Atlanta was unfair.

By cory

February 23, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

black, Jamal and Banks get a life looser stop wasting ink on the ajc web you are all GETTO”“” and Banks are you in School please learn to spell before listing your views did your graduate or left back “learn how to spell when you are attacking someone. I agree with CC we do need a good neutral site for these games some are very bias the game against South Atlanta was very unfair.

By cory

February 23, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

black, Jamal and Banks get a life looser stop wasting ink on the ajc web you are all GETTO”“” and Banks are you in School please learn to spell before listing your views did your graduate or left back “learn how to spell when you are attacking someone. I agree with CC we do need a good neutral site for these games some are very bias the game against South Atlanta was very unfair.

By banks

February 23, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Do you know how to click the button one time or are you that stupid. I realized I mispelled some words idiot. Are you in school? We use period after sentences. Learn how to spell when you are trying to correct someone George Bush!!! Wasting ink, shut up lil boy or girl which ever you prefer.

By banks

February 23, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Let me know Cory what you want to do!!! Other than that shut up. I may have more education than you lil girl!

By Corey

February 25, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

I am all Man Ms Banks “AJC this sounds like a threat coming from Ms Bank I will take this serious if i were you guys she does not seem stable at all.

By Mr. Banks III

February 25, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Ther’s no threat boy. What are you talking about? Do write stuff to me if you can’t take the heat. Using words like loser and learn how to spell. Are you insane? This is a blog. If they don’t stop this cursing on here, then there’s nothing wrong with what I said. Please, don’t answer to my blogs if you can’t stand the heat. There’s no threat!!!! Please do not respond to my blogs. You called me out first!!! Runtellthat!!!!!!!

By Mr. Banks III

February 25, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Ther’s no threat boy. What are you talking about? Don’t write stuff to me if you can’t take the heat. Using words like loser and learn how to spell. Are you insane? This is a blog. If they don’t stop this cursing on here, then there’s nothing wrong with what I said. Please, don’t answer to my blogs if you can’t stand the heat. There’s no threat!!!! Please do not respond to my blogs. You called me out first!!! Runtellthat!!!!!!!

By Corey

February 25, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Ms Banks I took that treat seriously I think if I was you I would stop writing and keep your mouth close You sound very angry no telling what a person like you may do “AjC keep this one real close. Ms Banks is venting out anger She has hidden for quite some time. Blogs are discussions Ms Banks not frustration or angry ok for future reference.

By black

February 25, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

What?…… Please do not respond to my blogs.

By wildcat

February 27, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Wow people are very emotional about all this basketball. At the end of the day does it matter who goes where? If your coach and your players do what they suppose to do then everything will be cool. Leave the kids out of adult arguements and may the best team win. People transfer to be around winners and if that will help these kids futures wouldnt you want it like that why try to stop people who want to give the kids their opportunities to live their dreams. Lets face it some schools have no school pride and dont care whether they win or lose so just play ball where ever your at and give it your all.