Prep Zone

By Devil Lover

February 16, 2009 7:50 AM | Link to this

Todd…I am confused. I don’t see a Milton/ Lassiter game for Monday. My brackets show a Milton/Walton game on Wednesday because A3 is playing B2 and a Lassiter/Roswell game becuase B3 plays A2.

By HouseOfBlue

February 16, 2009 8:04 AM | Link to this

More importantly is the region 6’s 2nd rd games Wed. I have Milton vs Walton and Campbell vs Centennial. The losing teams will not go on to the state championship tournament which is wrong. Three of the four are in the top ten teams and Campbell a top ten team earlier in the season. Don’t forget that Campbell took Centennial to a double OT earlier in the season. I am perdicting that the two winners will play Lassiter and Wheeler in the semi finals on Friday.

By Devil Lover

February 16, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this

Here are some interesting stats………………… Team………….Avg Pts…Avg Pts Given….Net Pts. Norcross………..75……….54………….21…. McEachern……….71……….56………….15…. Centennial………77……….63………….14…. Wheeler…………75……….65………….10…..

By William

February 16, 2009 8:56 AM | Link to this

I have the same info as Devil Lover and HOB.

By WheelerFan

February 16, 2009 9:45 AM | Link to this

heres what i founf for region 6 tourney

Region 6-AAAAA tournament schedule 6-AAAAA Monday, Feb. 16 GAME 1 7:00 p.m. Pope at Kell GAME 2 7:00 p.m. Alpharetta at Campbell

Wednesday, Feb. 18 GAME 3 7:00 p.m. Winner GAME 1 at Wheeler GAME 4 7:00 p.m. Lassiter at Milton GAME 5 7:00 p.m. Roswell at Walton GAME 6 7:00 p.m. Winner GAME 2 at Centennial

Friday, Feb. 20 all games at Alpharetta GAME 7 6:00 p.m. Winner GAME 3 vs. Winner GAME 4 GAME 8 7:30 p.m. Winner GAME 5 vs. Winner GAME 6

Saturday, Feb. 21 all games at Alpharetta GAME 9 4:30 p.m. Loser GAME 7 vs. Loser GAME 8 (3rd place game) GAME 10 7:30 p.m. Winner GAME 7 vs. winner GAME 8 (Championship game)

By NorcrossMom

February 16, 2009 10:42 AM | Link to this

Jodie Meeks has to be the best player that has come from Gwinnett County and Maya Moore is not only a great player but a player with humility and a true team spirit!!!!

By ickyhead

February 16, 2009 10:42 AM | Link to this

Dontonio Wingfield ,Westover high School(Albany GA) 4 straight state championsips in the 90’s.Dominated James Forrest of southside in second championship.6’10 250 dribbles like an guard,shoots the three and just an freak of nature.Broke Oscar freshmans record of scoring 30 in first college game. later played for the super sonics and trailblazers.

By HSBBall

February 16, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

Anne Marie is an outstanding player! Unfortunate she is playing on a Single A team. I do appreciate that she is committed to her school. Unlike Jordan, Wilcox and Hanks who all transferred to Norcross. Don’t get me started on the recruiting that goes on in High School basketball. Down right a shame. Anne Marie showed how dominate she can be at the pre-Christmas Nike tournament. Not sure she will shine at Georgia unders Landers as he has clearly passed his prime.

By Larry

February 16, 2009 1:08 PM | Link to this

Can someone please post a link to find the 6-AAAAA tournament bracket.

Seems to be some confusion regarding who is playing who. Thanks!

By Todd Holcomb

February 16, 2009 1:37 PM | Link to this

The Milton-Lassiter game is Wednesday. Maybe someone can confirm this.

Monday, 7 p.m.

GAME 1 - Pope at Kell

GAME 2 - Alpharetta at Campbell

*Wednesday, 7 p.m.

GAME 3 - Pope/Kell winner at Wheeler

GAME 4 - Lassiter at Milton

GAME 5 - Roswell at Walton

GAME 6 Alpharetta/Campbell winner at Centennial

Friday semifinals at Alpharetta

Saturday finals at Alpharetta (4:30 and 7:30)

By Todd Holcomb

February 16, 2009 1:40 PM | Link to this

Also, please note I’m not asking for the best player you’ve ever seen. Just the guy who was the most fun to watch.

And is Jody Meeks better than Louis Williams? It’s hard to compare when one takes the college rout and becomes a star there and the other labors in the NBA out of high school but is beginning to establish himself now. Louis would be a college senior this season.

By R T Johnson

February 16, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

BEST BOYS PLAYER WAS BOBBY MARION…AVERAGED TRIPLE DOUBLE FOR THREE YEARS AT BACON COUTY IN EARLY 70’S…GOT INTO TROUBLE AFTER SIGNING WITH ARKANSAS AND NEVER ATTENDED…INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THREAT…

By Nike1

February 16, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

It really stinks one of Milton/Lassiter will not get to be in the state tourney. Region 6 has 5 teams that should without a doubt be in the tournament seeing as all 5 are ranked top 10 in the state. And then you will ahve some teams from other regions that have no business playing in it, but will because their regions are weak.

Hoping Lassiter can find a way to win Wed at Milton.

By maxxisdawg

February 16, 2009 3:10 PM | Link to this

Louis Williams was way better than Meeks!! I think Tony Akins was better than meeks as well.

By Len

February 16, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

Can anyone tell me what is the times for games at woodlandstockbridge region AAA

By Comeon

February 16, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

DWIGHT HOWARD JOSH SMITH both are better and more fun to watch the jodie nd louis..

By Buck Wilderman

February 16, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

Westover’s Dontonio Wingfield must be included in any discussion of the state’s all-time best (and exciting) players. Four seasons, four Class AAA state championships … nuff said.

Greg Tinch, another Westover star, was the definition of a warrior. Listed at 6-5, he was closer to 6-3, but he dominated like he was 6-10. Unlike a lot of so-called “elite” players, he gave 100 percent at both ends of the floor ALL OF THE TIME. Went on to play basketball AND football at Louisville, where he led the Big East in receiving as a senior.

Other great (and exciting) players from Southwest Georgia included Dougherty’s Alexander Johnson, Randolph-Clay’s Donnell Harvey, and Mitchell-Baker’s Jumaine Jones.

As for the best regions in history, the “old” Region 1-AAA - aka, the city of Albany - is worthy of consideration.

During a span of 12 seasons (1989 through 2001), Albany’s four public high schools produced 16 Final Four teams, eight state champions, and four state runners-up.

What makes this feat even more impressive is that they did it with home-grown players who were playing for their neighborhood schools (unlike certain schools in metro Atlanta that depend heavily on the transfer of major elite players).

By Todd Holcomb

February 16, 2009 11:31 PM | Link to this

I saw Josh Smith play as a junior at McEachern. I saw him go up against Demario Davidson of Wheeler twice. I’d have to say Josh Smith & Morris Almond might’ve been the best 1-2 that I’ve seen. Or Louis Williams & Mike Mercer.

By Todd Holcomb

February 16, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

No guesses on the Georgia player with the best-ever scoring average?

I’m saying that nobody will guess the answer without looking it up. And it’s not a trick question.

By Vincent

February 17, 2009 12:45 AM | Link to this

Georgia Player withe best ever scoring average has to be Dominique Wilkins or Jeff Malone.

By Slinger

February 17, 2009 1:10 AM | Link to this

Vincent, Dominique is from North Carolina, not Georgia.

Best scoring average…let’s try Dale Ellis of Marietta.

By Tony

February 17, 2009 4:05 AM | Link to this

For all of you oldsters. The best womens basketball player to come out of the state was Cindy Brogdon from GACS and later Tennessee.

By Betta' Beleive

February 17, 2009 7:56 AM | Link to this

Todd, I don’t know who has the highest scoring average in the state,but I’m willing to bet that it’s some one from Dekalb Co.Here’s why; In the past they have had some of THE most prolific scorers in Georgia bb history.And second,Yall never cover Dekalb Co.basketball (girls or boys)until they show up down the stretch,therefore it would make it hard to guess at something you never here about. I’m sure this may not be logical but it sure gives me a chance to throw a jab and a body blow at the AJC an it’s coverage (or lack there of)of Dekalb Co.basketball and their elite programs and players.

By Bulldog Parent

February 17, 2009 9:02 AM | Link to this

Anton Reese 94’from Lithonia and Pathica Hartman’01 from Tri city

By Todd Holcomb

February 17, 2009 9:50 AM | Link to this

Georgia Player withe best ever scoring average has to be Dominique Wilkins or Jeff Malone.

Malone is a nice guess, but no. Dominique is from North Carolina. Jeff Malone ranks #2 at 19.0 for his career.

Todd, I don’t know who has the highest scoring average in the state,but I’m willing to bet that it’s some one from Dekalb Co.Here’s why; In the past they have had some of THE most prolific scorers in Georgia bb history.

Nope, not a DeKalb player. The top DeKalb scorer would be Matt Harpring of Marist, at about 11 ppg.

Best scoring average…let’s try Dale Ellis of Marietta.

Dale Ellis #7 at 15.7. I would’ve thought he’d be top 5. He’s #1 in 3’s, for sure.

By bravesfan

February 17, 2009 9:51 AM | Link to this

Louis Williams was the most entertaining high-school player I ever saw, but Dwight Howard was the best player by a mile. He and Crittendon were the best 1-2 punch.

Maya Moore is the best all-around player I’ve ever seen, boys or girls.

Pendleton must go

By Todd Holcomb

February 17, 2009 9:52 AM | Link to this

DWIGHT HOWARD JOSH SMITH both are better and more fun to watch the jodie nd louis.

Dwight was great, but all-court players are more fun to watch for me. I like watching speed in the open court and the ability to score inside and out.

By Derms

February 17, 2009 10:40 AM | Link to this

Highest average I’m guessing DA Layne. He was the truth. Stephen Goolsby was a bad dude too. If anyone thinks there was a better girls player than Maya Moore, than they never saw Maya play. She is unbelievable.

By thebull35

February 17, 2009 10:51 AM | Link to this

Shareef Abdur-Raheem was the most exciting post player that I have ever seen in person at the high school level in the state of Georgia. He dominated at both ends of the court. He would led Wheeler to back to back state crowns had he not ran into one of the best high school teams I’ve ever seen in the metro area in Dunwoody I believe back in 1994 or 1995.

By thebull35

February 17, 2009 10:51 AM | Link to this

Shareef Abdur-Raheem was the most exciting post player that I have ever seen in person at the high school level in the state of Georgia. He dominated at both ends of the court. He would have led Wheeler to back to back state crowns had he not ran into one of the best high school teams I’ve ever seen in the metro area in Dunwoody I believe back in 1994 or 1995.

By Dan

February 17, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

can someone please tell me where I can find all the scores from last night’s HS games? I’m looking for a South Forsyth boy’s HS score…thanks

By Ladyballer

February 17, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Look HSBBall! There must be some resentment on your part. None of the girls from Norcross were recruited. They simply couldn’t stand the situation they were in. Horrible conference, horrible competition and at times horrible coaching. Why can’t a kid be happy? Why play through misery. All situations are better for everyone. When your put up on a pedestal like Ann Marie no one can see past her. There are other talented players out there.

By Tiger Time

February 17, 2009 11:39 AM | Link to this

Darryl LaBarrie and Shenard Long were two very good players from Tucker’s 1996 State Champs. Always fun to watch and both put up a good amount of points while playing solid defense. LaBarrie could shoot the lights out from all over the floor. Long would thrill the crowd with high flying dunks. They had to be the best backcourt in DeKalb County for years.

By Carrington

February 17, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

Louis Williams and Mike Mercer were a nice 1-2 punch. Josh Smith and Morris Almond were lethal together. I saw a game between McEachern and Campbel during Josh’s junior year ….best game I have ever seen up close and personal.

Hisghest scoring average guess…I’m not from here, so I haveto go on what I have seen…so my guess.._Louis Williams. Dude started every year, and was the focal point of his team.

By hamma

February 17, 2009 12:20 PM | Link to this

REGION 2 5A TOURNAMENT ALL GAMES TO BE PLAYED AT NEWTON HIGH SCHOOL 02-17-09 MLK GIRLS VS. LUELLA 4PM 02-17-09 DOUGLASS BOYS VS. UNION GROVE BOYS 530PM 02-17-09 UNION GROVE GIRLS VS. REDAN GIRLS 7PM 02-17-09 STEPHENSON BOYS VS. LUELLA BOYS 830PM 02-18-09 GREENBRIER GIRLS VS. DOUGLASS GIRLS 4PM 02-18-09 NEWTON BOYS VS. GREENBRIER BOYS 530PM 02-18-09 NEWTON GIRLS VS. STEPHENSON GIRLS 7PM 02-18-09 REDAN BOYS VS. MLK BOYS 830PM

By noneya

February 17, 2009 12:32 PM | Link to this

Where do I go to get the schedules and locations for Region Tournaments.

Maya Moore is the best/most exciting female player I’ve seen in Georgia.

Shareef for the boys. I saw him win the tip, come get the ball to set up the offense and then shoot a three. He was unstoppable. Dunwoody just had a better overall team the year they beat Wheeler

By noneya

February 17, 2009 12:39 PM | Link to this

highest scoring avg…maybe Walt Frazier?

By Todd Holcomb

February 17, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

highest scoring avg…maybe Walt Frazier?

Frazier was #3 at 18.9.

Hisghest scoring average guess…I’m not from here, so I haveto go on what I have seen…so my guess.._Louis Williams. Dude started every year, and was the focal point of his team.

We’re talking about highest scoring average in the NBA over a career. I don’t know the highest average in high school. Too bad those kinds of records aren’t kept. But Louis would be pretty high. Here’s a wild guess: Lavon Mercer, Metter. He was playing Class A ball. He probably scored anytime he wanted.

By Greenwave 4 life

February 17, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

I would have to go back to 90’s and say Lynrrick Rodgers and Tavares Stephens were a great 1-2 punch at Terrell County and I can’t for get Jerry Braswell at Randolph-Clay. Oops… Lets not forget Chris Cameron and Pertha Robinson at Doughtery. Melvin Drake and Micheal Spruell. South Georgia Produced probaly the best basketball players in the 90’s. We just didn’t get any looks from major colleges.

By noneya

February 17, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

Jeff Malone and Clyde Frazier were my two guesses but Father knows best and his choice is Mike Mitchell who attended Price High School in Atlanta.

By Betta' Beleive

February 17, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

C’mon Todd,time to give up the answer to the highest scoring average. Can’t be Shareef because he didn’t put in serious work till his jr. and sr. year.Same with Louis Williams.didn’t hear bout him till his Jr.year.Wingfield thumped that rock a few years and is a good pick.Hancock played major minutes as a frosh or sophmore.Dale Ellis put in major work but yall gotta remember,they weren’t shootin’ three’s in 1976-1978.How about Vincent Atkins or somethin like that.Dude was from S.Atl.Na,Na,Na,it’s Norm Nixon!!Nope,your readers are too young to go there.I figure your givin’ us a legit chance.Hmmmm how bout Octavius Brown?James Forrest?Naw he scored as a jr.and sr.Um comin with a knuckle ball…Darrell Gresham.Na,he’s Dekalb Co.If You say somebody like Glen Rice Jr.I’m gonna get physical with everybody in jabbin’ distance.

Alright,Alright,I GIVE UP Who is it? I’m gonna go get lunch,come back and BLOG on your answer.

By noneya

February 17, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this

The question is which Georgia High School B’Ball player had the highest scoring avg in his NBA career. No high school

By WheelerFan

February 17, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

smith and almond and williams and mercer both denied state titles by wheeler :)

By noneya

February 17, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

Rebounds: Dwight Howard (You didn’t put a minimum on games played) Assists: Norm Nixon FG %: Dwight Howard

By WheelerFan

February 17, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

oops let me correct myself, forgot south gwinnett did win in 2004, but lost to wheeler the next year in a great game at tech

By Betta' Beleive

February 17, 2009 2:33 PM | Link to this

Noneya, thanks for gettin me on the right track…My bad

By hamma

February 17, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

The best basketball region for the past three years was region 6-AAAA Columbia final four last three years{two state championship} Tucker H/S{state champ} Miller Grove H/S{final four} Back in 1983 Tracey Waites out of Rockdale H/S{UGA} was the most exciting female bball player. Chris Morris{Auburn, NBA} out of Douglass H/S was the best boys bball player.

By Todd Holcomb

February 17, 2009 2:58 PM | Link to this

Jeff Malone and Clyde Frazier were my two guesses but Father knows best and his choice is Mike Mitchell who attended Price High School in Atlanta.

We have a winner.

Top Five:

Mike Mitchell, Price: 19.8

Jeff Malone, SW Macon: 19.0

Walt Frazier, Howard: 18.9

Shareef, Wheeler: 18.1

Dwight Howard, SWAC: 17.0

Congrats to noneya for that correct answer. He also is correct that Dwight Howard’s 12.5 rebounding avg is best among Georgia high schoolers in the NBA. Howard also has highest FG percentage, and Norm Nixon has the highest assist average.

Most total points is Dale Ellis.

How about most total rebounds?

Here’s a good one: Who was the first Georgia player to play in the NBA? Walt Frazier was the second in 1968.

By upsetcity

February 17, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this

Region 6 predictions: Lassiter over Milton Wheeler over Kell Centennial over Campbell Walton over Roswell

By noneya

February 17, 2009 6:23 PM | Link to this

Total Rebounds: Horace Grant-Hancock Central

First GA High School Player from Georgia…You got me on that one.

By Eagle 1

February 17, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this

Walter F. George high school Atlanta Octavious “Oct” Thomas 6’2 pointguard hands down would have to be in the conversation about greatest Players in Georgia!! Pure high school fans will recognize the name! He has to be in the top guards alltime in Georgia!! If you dont know who he is ask anyone with knowledge of highschool basketball in this state!! He only average 44pts his junior season!! Oct and Jason Kidd were the top 2 guards in the country that year 91-92!!

By AJC Needs to do better

February 17, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this

with their coverage of prep basketball. Take a note from the augustachronicle.com (Sports—>basketball—>prep) REAL articles and even highlight video footage. At the very least feature a boys/girls game each week.

By FATMAN

February 17, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this

TODD— DID YOU SEE JEFF MALONE PLAY??? DID YOU SEE MAYA MOORE OR CINDY BROGDON PLAY ??? I CAN NAME FIVE LADY PLAYER THAN WOULD START AHEAD OF ANNE MARIE (SHE MAY NOT BE IN THE TOP TEN) MOORE IS THE BEST WITH BROGDON 2ND—ON THE BOYS SIDE MALONE IS ONE— WITH MAYBE WILLIAM 2ND.

By Milton Boi

February 17, 2009 10:21 PM | Link to this

Why is everyone doubting Milton ?

Lets remember Milton has played Wheeler and Centennial close. And not to mention they have beaten Walton and murder Campbell by 20.

By ScottyG

February 17, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

Eagle 1 So true Octavius Thomas was amazing! SAw him play @91 in a holiday tounament at Ga State!! Douglas HS counldn’t stop him! What ever happened to him? Great GA high school players Jeff Shepard, Eric Burks, Shawn Lastinger, Ricky Moore, Darien Hancock

By ATL historian

February 17, 2009 10:45 PM | Link to this

The most exciting and electrifying player I EVER witnessed was a guy named Gibson from Rockdale Co. This guy could do anything with a basketball and was way ahead of his time. He could shoot, handle, jump, defend and was only around 6 ft tall. This guy was a phenom during the early to mid 70’s if everyone could have had the opportunity to watch him perform. unbelievable. All around athlete who excelled in football and baseball too!! JUST AN UNBELIEVABLE BALL PLAYER!!!!

By Todd Holcomb

February 17, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

I CAN NAME FIVE LADY PLAYER THAN WOULD START AHEAD OF ANNE MARIE (SHE MAY NOT BE IN THE TOP TEN)

So can I. But Anne Marie is just a player I enjoy watching. Didn’t say she was the best. Same for Louis Williams. He wasn’t better than Dwight Howard. But he was more fun to watch. For me, anyway.

Walter F. George high school Atlanta Octavious “Oct” Thomas 6’2 pointguard hands down would have to be in the conversation about greatest Players in Georgia!!

Coach Don Dollar once told me that Octavious was the best player he ever faced as a coach. That’s quite a statement. Last I heard, he was still playing in some local leagues.

Total Rebounds: Horace Grant-Hancock Central. First GA High School Player from Georgia…You got me on that one.

Grant is correct.

The first Georgia player in the NBA appears to have been Charlie Hardnett of Atlanta’s Carver High.

http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/hardnch01.html

By buck

February 17, 2009 11:23 PM | Link to this

Blogs are nice and enjoyable. But we are at the beginning of regionals: WHERE ARE THE SCORES, there were games Monday night, WHO WON! I’m gridiron out, not hooped out as the poll states.

By Big Buck

February 18, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

What are yall people talking about. Dale Ellis played 18 years in the NBA. When at Marietta tohere were weeks he would go without missing shots. Shot 65percent from the floor at Tennessee. Made NBA all star game and scored 27. Enough said

By Joe

February 18, 2009 12:36 AM | Link to this

I have seen Walton play on multiple occasions (6) as a fan this season as just an on looker (no formal connection to the team) and I must say they are the most un-disciplined, cry baby, unsportsmanlike team and players I have ever seen play high school basketball. Their coach should be ashamed. They do not play defense, run their mouths to officials, and antics like taking a flop drawing a foul were met with doing pushups on the court. Mouthing off to the opposing student body, other parents, and cussing also are unbelievable. Walton should be ashamed and the administrators should be ashamed as well. Ryan Hollow (guard) and the center are the exception. Glen Rice Jr. is a terrible sportsman, never seen anyone so crass ever play. The fact they have 2 division signee’s and have lost so many games points directly to how poorly they are coached and how they are not a team. Rice Jr. I predict will NOT play at GA Tech. He is simply immature and does NOT play any form of defense. Walton is a disgrace as far as I have seen. The coach has no control over the players and I have not seen him one time teach or tell the players their behavior is terrible. These players do not get the one lesson in life about sports, it is always about who wins and having class should be taken as a lesson in life.

By William

February 18, 2009 7:50 AM | Link to this

It is easier to get camel racing results from Yemen than it is to get local high school basketball scores in Metro Atlanta. The scores from Round 1 regionals hae still not been reported or mentioned in any way by the AJC. What’s the deal? Will we get reports on Rund 2?

By beeballman

February 18, 2009 7:54 AM | Link to this

Forget all this talk man!!! Where is the scores from last night’s action!?! Where’s the updates??!! Worst sports section in the country unless it’s football!

By win

February 18, 2009 5:11 PM | Link to this

Kenny “Sky” Walker. highest scoring average and rebounding avg

By wheelerfan

February 18, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this

anyone got any scores to report? couldnt make it to the wheeler game tonight, bad weather

By Old Head Coach

February 18, 2009 11:26 PM | Link to this

Let’s poll the best Georgia Team Ever as well. It had Mr. Georgia who went to Indiana to play for Bob Knight. Although Coach Knight got released that year. I’m talking about that 1999 Westlake High School team that went 33-0. It’s the only boys team to ever do that. I think Westover and Marist went 32-0, but no one has ever gone 33-0 except those mighty Lions. Led by AJ Moye (Indiana, and Pro ball in Europe), Kerry Willis (University of San. Texas), Shannon Chambers (College of Charleston), Keyaron Fox (GT, and Pittsburg Steelers) and Alexis “Bo” McMillan (JUCO) All-American; Stenson University). That is just the starting five. That team had 13 players out of 16 to receive athletic scholarships to play either football or basketball in college. Sean Jones (UGA and Cleveland Browns, Adam “Pacman” Jones. I can keep going but I’ll stop here. I think you get the picture.

By hjerter

February 19, 2009 8:49 AM | Link to this

Hey, Upsetcity, what about Lassiter? I think the 6-AAAAA regional is going to be a war. I’ve seen all 4 teams beat up on each other, adn a neutral site is just what the Dr ordered. Probably Wheeler has to be the favorite ‘cause that big dude (Howell) is hard to defend. He’s got great post moves and footwork when his head is in the game. I read the comments about the Walton players, and I have seen some of that show boating/classeless stuff (esp from Glen rice, Jr), but i think that Wheeler can be worse when it comes to that. Although a great team, Wheeler can be beaten (ala Centennial)on a neutral floor if Howell doesn’t play well. Does anyone know what happened to Taj Tate? He didn’t play in the last game at Walton. My predection: Centennial wins it all, Wheeler #2, followed by Walton at #3. Should be a good show!

hjerter

By KRSONE

February 19, 2009 8:51 AM | Link to this

You can not forget Darrin Hancock from Griffin as the most exciting player ever! He won STATE PLAYER OF THE YEAR AS A SOPHMORE! He later played for Kansas, Charlotte, Atlanta and a brief stint overseas. Dick Vitale called him the most exciting player to ever come out of GA!!!! That is what we are talking about - right, the most FUN TO WATCH!

By Jim n Buckhead

February 19, 2009 8:52 AM | Link to this

I remember seeing a pretty good player one year when the games were at GT…Shandon Anderson had a great post season…which led to a pretty good college and pro career

By William

February 19, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this

Well, I’ll break the ice and provide a score: Milton over Lassiter 61-51. Of the five times that I’ve seen Lassiter play this year, they played their worst game by a good bit, except for Phillp Lutz., who played his best. Blaise White, although leading Lassiter in scoring, was rattled a few times and didn’t run the offense nearly as well as in the other games. Milton has a lot of young talent, starting 3 sophs and a scaringly good freshman. It was also the one of the most PATHETICALLY officiated games I have ever seen, although it seemed to be of no particular benefit to either team. But, the officiating was just shameful.

Does anybody have the Walton or Centennial scores? Can anybody attending Wheeler’s game tell us what kept the score so low, 60-42, and also whether Taj Tate showed up?

Thx.

By checking the facts

February 19, 2009 10:22 AM | Link to this

Todd, 2008-09 Dekalb county stats list Adrien Coleman of Stephenson High School in DEKALB CO. is averaging 30.1 points…..

By imtmac

February 19, 2009 12:49 PM | Link to this

I think Sherill Baker at GAC was the best I ever saw. Went on to play at UGA and WNBA. Plus no doubt Dwight Howard was the man at SACA, and NBA.

By William

February 19, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

More AAAAA Region 6 Scores: Walton over Roswell 82-60 and Centennial over Campbell 88-59.

This sets up one whale of a match-up between Walton and Centennial. Their one meeting this year at Centennial won by Cent 91-90 as the clock ran out, was one of the best games I’ve ever attended.

I’m going out on a limb and predict a surprise Region 6 finish: 1. Walton 2. Milton 3. Centennial 4. Wheeler. Wheeler just has too much off-the-court drama going on and might not have the heart and/or teamwork to win at this level this year. Walton has an excellent shot at beating Centennial and, if they do, they’ll beat Milton.

But, Milton given their outstanding young talent (3 sophs and a fresh as very talented starters) will be a FORCE to be reckoned on both a region-wide and statewide basis with for the next two years at least. Milton could dominate Region 6 with these four guys. But, that’s what I also thought about Wheeler last year with Howell, Tate, Stewart and Taylor returning. but perhaps Boyd is just a more effective coach than Lipscomb now.

By ct

February 19, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

I’ve seen Ellis, Hancock, Wingfield, Rahim, Howard, Williams, etc…as far as the most exciting player in Georgia History, my vote would go to OCTAVIUS THOMAS of George High School. He dropped 49 pts. the first time I ever saw him in a AA State playoff game and followed it up with a 37 pt. performance the next round. At maybe 6’1”, this guy was electric to watch. He had a “street ball” style that guaranteed excitement every night.

He may have the highest pt/game average of high schoolers in state history. I think he averaged 37 points his junior season. If you never say him play, just believe the hype!

By ex-wheelerballer

February 19, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

It is a shame that people cant remember the all-american shereef abdul rahim. he was pac 10 player of the year as a freshmen, number 3 overall pick in the nba draft behind ai and marbury, he opened the NATIONS EYES to wheeler high school and Doug Lipscomp has kept them open ever since. and no Georgia born player has had a nba career as good as his in the last 3 decades. oh yeah Dominique is not from Ga. and what GA team has been as consistant as wheeler over the last two years?

By ATLborn

February 19, 2009 4:17 PM | Link to this

Octavious Thomas was the best HS baller I’ve ever seen play as well. He averaged 37 points, 10 assists and 7 steals a game as a junior. He didn’t play his senior year as he was academically ineligible and eventually dropped out of school.

Dude’s a sad case. He’d have coaches from several major powerhouse college b-ball programs come over to our neighborhood to talk with him but he could care less, loved the streets too much.

You can see him now at the old Run & Shoot, Center Court or any other local hoops hotspots that host rec league b-ball. He still has game but its sad when you think he could have become if he applied himself academically and actually cared about leaving the ghetto life. I think he would have easily been a multiple time NBA all star if not one of the all time greats. Dude was just that good.

By Wheelerfan09

February 19, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

Tahj is still done, I think that Wheeler will have him back for Milton. They played good half court D for the first time all season last night and the 18 point spread is closer than the game actually was Kell scored most of their points with their starters on our JV. Milton will be tough but don’t discount Wheeler’s experience, As for the drama, every team has it but ours just happened to make local news. Milton has some drama too from parents against their transfers. Howell is better than Royal and completely made Royal a non-factor in the first match-up at Milton. This game will be tight no matter what, but to say Lipscomb is ineffective as a coach or that Wheeler has given up on the season is absurd and is an insult to a man who’s in his 40’s and already has 4 rings.

By gwinnett realist

February 19, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this

All discussions about Georgia’s all-time greatest hoopsters begin and end with two words: MAYA MOORE

By William

February 19, 2009 7:34 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the info on Tate and the game WheelerFan09.

To clarify, I am not saying that Lipscomb is ineffective. Rather, I am speculating whether Boyd is more effective right now.

Also, I am not saying Wheeler has “given up”. I’m sure the individual players have no thought whatsoever of “giving up” in their respective individual minds. Rather, I am speculating whether they can play as a team effectively enough to win this tournament and especially get to the state final 4. They sure have the talent to do so.

You’re right in that Friday’s game will likely be close. But, if Wheeler can pull off a stellar defensive game, they could win big given Milton’s youth. I just don’t expect them to pull off a stellar defensive effort.

By Wheelerfan09

February 19, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

The thing is, Wheeler downed at Milton by 13. It’s a neutral site too. Granted it was Kell, but that was the first game in a while where Wheeler looked as if they had something to prove which is good. I think Lipscomb had the discussion with the seniors after the Walton debacle that they have won nothing yet and aren’t entitled to anything. Kell was the first game all season where ari actually played great defense and looked intense on both ends of the floor, Am I saying Wheeler is going all the way in region or state? No, but if they can keep their fire lit then they have all the tools to succeed.(especially if Tate is back). Will wheeler beat Milton? I hope. I’d really prefer as would they a 1 or 2 seed for state.

By Saul

February 19, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

6-AAAAA is one of the greatest one year regions…Ive seen alot of region games (Centennial alum) and its been better basketball than the Hawks have EVER put on the floor. CHS/Walton is going to be a war and the winner plays Wheeler!! Im there!!

By Gerald

February 20, 2009 6:54 AM | Link to this

Though not quite as good as Williams and Mercer, William Avery and Ricky Moore played on the same Augusta Westside team, then faced off against each other in the NCAA finals for Duke and Connecticut, respectively.

But has there ever been a better trio—ANYWHERE—than Aminu, Lawal, and Meeks? All three will play in the League, and all three will likely get drafted in the first round, possibly even the lottery, of the same year’s NBA Draft, which is a claim I’m betting no high school in the country can ever have made.

By Devil Lover

February 20, 2009 7:44 AM | Link to this

Good point Gerald with the Norcross trio however Aminu did not get to play with Meeks because GHSA made him sit out one year from playing on the vasity team because they were mad at Martin and they didn’t want him to have a run at the national title.

By Crossalum

February 20, 2009 12:41 PM | Link to this

Can anyone Al-Faruq Aminu. Massive dunks every game. Was on 2 state championship teams. Played with possibly the greatest collection of Georgia basketball talent ever on the 06-07 team which included Div-1 players Tony Neysmith, Jordan Demercy, and lets not forget Gani Lawal all on one team. Then he went McDonald’s all American. Now in college he is already on fantasy draft lists in the first round. I think he has accomplished way more than Lewis williams and will big a big star in the NBA.

By maxxis dawg

February 20, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Meeks will not be a first round draft pick. I think Dwight Howard, Javaris Crittenton and J.J. Hickson (he went to SACA his freshman year) was better than the norcross trio.

By jandrew

February 20, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this

The best region ever was the old 5-AA featuring the likes of Decatur, Avondale, Atlanta’s Southwest, and West. In its prime( mid 70’s - 1980), it was known as the ACC og high school basketball. You have to know your HS ball to remember.

By GT NUPE

February 20, 2009 6:37 PM | Link to this

Decatur’s Melvin “Hollywood” Howard was definitely one of the best high school players ever. He graduated high school in 1983 and led the Bulldogs to 57 straight wins! Yes, 57. Then, Octavius “Oct” was unreal. I went to a game that they ran a Box-and-One on him and he still dropped 49. Just ridiculous.

By Big Man

February 20, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

In my lifetime the only player in GA that I saw that could compare to Louis Williams in terms of excitement was Darrin Hancock. Hancock had the opposing gyms rocking. There have been many great players, but Louis was exciting to watch. Senario Hillman was exciting too as well as Michael Spruell. I can’t leave out Will Avery and Shernard Long.

By Fin

February 20, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Great posts from everyone…y’all are bringing back some old names too..that’s awesome!

Ok, this is more a focus on one of the better teams I ever saw play and that was the Wheeler High School teams of 97 and 98. Although they didn’t win a championship, that was the first school I saw that had the firemarshalls shutting doors and hundreds of fans outside. D.A. Layne, Antoine Dixon, Russ Wheeler, etc etc were like rock stars wherever they went. As many dunkers as I have seen in h/school, I don’t think anyone could dunk like Dixon. He and Layne had some sick connection and could throw oops from ANYWHERE on the court..LOL!

Keep the names coming, this is great GA basketball history!

By Fin

February 20, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this

With all this talent that we are naming, isn’t it a shame that UGA/GaTech have NO NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS to show for it. All that talent that has left the state…that stinks!

By Fin

February 20, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

And one more thing..anyone read the article about how kids are leaving one high school to go to another to play sports and how it’s not fair to the other kids there?

I disagree with that blog/article! Kids transfer schools all the time to get a better education to get to a better college, so what is wrong with kids transferring schools to get on a better team to get more exposure to get into a better college?

Just throwing that out there…

By lover of H.S.Bball

February 21, 2009 12:52 AM | Link to this

I’ve enjoyed H.S.basketball for over 20yrs. and I think its hard to name just one player. Wheeler has had some of the most entertaining players in high school basketball. It’s a toss-up between Shariff, D.A.Layne,A.Dixon or D.A.Layne,Russ Wheeler,A.Dixon.I became addicted to basketball after seeing these guys leap through the air with dunks and alley-oops all night. They were amazing how they all worked together. Wheeler’s accomplishments prove they are a team to be reckoned with year after year. Bottom line, Coach Lipscomb is some kind of Coach!!

By gahsfan

February 21, 2009 6:18 AM | Link to this

NBADraft.net now has in their 2009 mock draft Al-Farouq Aminu going #5 to Memphis, Gani Lawal going #12 to New York and Jodi Meeks going early in the 2nd round as the #33 pick in the draft to the LA Clippers. No team in Georgia history can top that. Wheeler has had some great ones but Norcross gets the edge with these 3 guys over the past 3 years. Meeks will move up from the #33 spot, he is making a run at National Player of the Year and is carrying the Kentucky Wildcats on his back.

By Tarheel Blue

February 21, 2009 7:25 AM | Link to this

It is hard to say who is the best or the best. Does anyone remember Al Wood from Jones County High in Gray, GA and Jeff Malone, Southwest (Macon). Al Wood had a game out of this world for a kid at that age. Not enough local and state recognition because of where he lived. This country boy went at it with the best in the state and his game convinced Dean Smith to give him a Carolina scholarship. Just ask Donald (Duck) Richardson, Southwest(Macon), argubly the best men’s b-ball coach in GA basketball history, about his game. Jeff Malone was so cool and under control at all times. As a kid growing up in Macon, I once saw Jeff Malone shoot what would have been a deep three in game as the clock was ticking down before half and he didn’t even watch it go in. He just turned and jogged to the locker room. I remember seeing the look on the other teams face. They couldn’t believe how deadly and cool that shot was. As a kid looking at that, I was in awe. I couldn’t believe it. From that point forward all I wanted to do was play basketball. Chris Morris and Cedric Henderson has to be two of the top 5 best players ever in metro Atlanta. These guys were studs. Shariff Abdul Rahim had the total game. He was so disciplined and had an NBA post game in high school.

By ZMONEY

February 21, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

OLD SCHOOL Terry Fair (Macon) Pervis Ellison (SAV),Kenny Holmes(AUG) just to name a few.

By chad

February 21, 2009 2:33 PM | Link to this

My favorite all time player is player that played for a class A school that doesn’t exist anymore. His name is Timmy Starr of Fairmount High School in Gordon County. He played in the early nineties. He was a real high flyer, a good passer and defender. Incredible athelet is all I can say. Had a sister named Tammy Starr that was a great ball player as well.

By chad

February 21, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

Two players I loved watching were Timmy “Sky” Starr of the former Fairmount Bull Dogs and Myron Pace of the Ceadartown Bull Dogs. Both were electric, high flying scorers. They both played hard defense also. Athletic beyond belief, very entertaining to watch.

By SouthGaRules

February 21, 2009 3:52 PM | Link to this

ex wheelerballer: How about Norcross?

By Mr Cobb County

February 21, 2009 9:06 PM | Link to this

Cedric Henderson and Brian Oliver are probably the two best basketball players to ever play in the state, Cedric Henderson could handle the ball like a guard and he was 6-9, he used to dominate Chris Morris when Douglass played Marietta, and Brian Oliver was just awesome he could post you up at 6-4 or he could take you out on the wing and kill you, his first step was as quick as anyone in the state, this guy averaged 32pts and 12reb a game before the 3 point line was put in place, the three point line was instituted the year after Oliver graduated, if they had the 3 point line when he was in school, he would have averaged close to 40 a game.

By HSBBall

February 22, 2009 9:09 AM | Link to this

LadyBaller you’ve got to be one of the parents of the three girls who were recruited to Norcross. Yes recruited! It happens all over High School Basketball in Georgia. Relative to these girls playing in a horrible conference or with horrible competition. Hmmm! Last I checked the Region 6S-AA was one of the best AA regions over the past several years. Several Division I players as well. Not to mention Ms. Georgia Basketball. Oops forgot — you think Anne Marie has been put on a pedestal. Seems to me that that happens when your the best player in the state. Hanks has played at 3 schools in 3 years. Not sure how one chalks that up to horrible anything either. Obviously the kid or her parents can’t make up their minds. What’s next, Jordan is going to join her dad in Colorado and play for Regius Jesuit since the AAAAA competition isn’t good enough for her in Georgia. In the end it was recruiting and as I stated earlier it happens all across Georgia HS Basketball.

By Wheelerfan09

February 22, 2009 9:26 AM | Link to this

I know I’m biased but my favorite Wheeler player ever is Dequan Jones! He was and is an athletic FREAK OF NATURE. Measured 42’ standstill vertical at miami. Best dunk in Wheeler high school history on John Wall (Rivals no. 1 ranked player) last year! Has my college dunk of the year for the reverse baseline windmill on UNC. Last year his dunks literally changed the flow of games. Rivals did a stat after one Wheeler game last year where Wheeler went on a run of at least 6-0 after a Dequan Jones dunk. He was a late bloomer so his name didn’t get thrown around a lot, but any man who blocks Ralph Sampson’s dunk attempt (he’s 6’11) then goes down the court then dunks over Ralph Sampson is an exciting player to watch in my eyes.

By JustMyOpinion

February 22, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

Dion Glover- Cedar Grove High School

By astrob

February 22, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this

Played with Chris Morris and Cedric Henderson did not dominate him. Cedric was a hustle guy not exciting at all lots of put backs. Chris was more exciting and polished but not a hustler. Terry Martin was more exciting than both. I have seen Terry have 13 dunks in one game against Washington High and their guy Ice man in a dunk-a-thon. Terry 13 dunks, Ice man 10.

By Tim Stanley

February 22, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

When you ever talk about GA. High School basketball, do’nt ever forget about the great players in Savannah,GA,60’s,70’s,80’s,90’s.The city of Savannah produced some serious talent.

By Tim Stanley

February 22, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

Top player in Ga: DONALD HARTRY-MILLEGEVILLE,GA

By Hoops

February 22, 2009 5:31 PM | Link to this

Anybody remember Martice Moore??????

Sick skills——messed up in the head like so many others….

Darn shame……

By dagrapevine

February 22, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

there’s one hot player in south ga. you need to keep your eye’s on.his name is jay rome and he’ll proably be the number one recuited player in both fb and bb.his dad was the graet stan rome out of valdosta high.

By highschoolfan

February 25, 2009 6:16 PM | Link to this

as for best TEAMS, i liked the 05 Wheeler Team. That team was amazing. They had no particular star player, but their chemistry was amazing. They had Shuraud Curry(Providence), JT Tiller (Missouri) Bejay Corley (Mercer), James Florence (Mercer), David Gonzalvez (Richmond) and Chris Hanna. None of which are star players for their current schools (except for Florence who is the heart and sole of Mercer) but all who attend college play a major role for their team.

That team played lock down D every play, their 4 guard line up made them exceptionally quick therefor they could come up with a lot of steals. They ran the fast break virtually the entire game and dunked on everyone. And lets not forget that they took down South Gwinnet who had the Louis Williams some people say was the “best player in Georgia” even though he scored 44 points!

And then they went on to the finals and beat Norcross, by a score of 63-47 who by the way had Jodie Meeks, another guy people are saying is “the best player”.

By fan

February 26, 2009 7:59 AM | Link to this

10th grader Ashley Watts from 3-AAAA Butler High School Augusta, Ga. Is definitely up there with great girl players in Georgia.

By TWURK SUMTHIN

February 26, 2009 10:17 AM | Link to this

FOR CRYING OUT LOUD…DON’T FORGET ABOUT TREE ROLLINS OUT OF CORDELE (CRISP COUNTY)!! NOT A DOMINANT NBA PLAYER, BUT PLAYED 18 SEASONS!

By OLDSCHOOL PLAYER

February 28, 2009 2:15 AM | Link to this

One of the biggest upset in Dekalb Co. men’s BB in the 70’s Columbia 67 Douglas 66. Douglas was number one team in the state until that walked into the Eagles gym and spotlight that night. Skip Longino, Melvin Cody, and Reginal McKenzie and their role players was just too much for the Astros that night.

By coachj

February 28, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

Does anybody remeber Donald Brock, Jackie Dorsey, Ronald Fuller, Stanley Woods, where did they go?

By lisa Jennings

February 28, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this

where’s the story for the Roswell High Girls Varsity Basketball Region Champs! There was a state playoff game this weekend too. A first in over 20 years and the players did this on their own.

By the man

March 14, 2009 10:49 PM | Link to this

i thought ya’ll knew the history of ghsa but i see you dont. all i am going to say is DION GLOVER