Prep Zone

By David

March 3, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

Can we get a confirmation on the Peachtree Ridge/Wheeler start time? The PR school site shows it at 7; you guys have it at 6.

Thanks!

By Chris

March 3, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

I think Centennial is ripe for an upset. South Gwinnett is a fairly athletic team and I think they have the ability to contain, not stop, Lorenzo Brown and neutralize the remainder of the team. The key is to keep the Centennial PG (White)and Brown from penetrating and making the other three average players look like stars.

By Wheelerfan

March 3, 2009 3:31 PM | Link to this

Wheeler site says 7 as well

By Boywonder

March 3, 2009 4:11 PM | Link to this

Why is everyone in the AAAA basketball world sleeping on Jonesboro this year? They will raise the hardwear when all is said and do

By Ronnie

March 3, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this

The front office at Wheeler says that the doors will open at 6 PM and the game is at 7 PM not 6 PM. Clarification please??

By Rolltide23

March 3, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this

Come on AJC. Someone need to cover the games in Single A too. There are some great 2nd round games tonight and tomorrow in single A boys and girls.

By Milton Boi

March 3, 2009 6:25 PM | Link to this

any update on tha milton girls game

By Michael Carvell

March 3, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this

MILTON THREATENS THE UPSET. The Milton girls are hanging with mighty Parkview, which is leading 29-22 at halftime. Milton is keeping within striking range. More updates later, including post-game report.

By Michael Carvell

March 3, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

HIRD QUARTER SCORE: Parkview girls 39, Milton 33. Milton is hanging tough, threatening the upset. Danielle Pasquerello drilled a 3-pointer with 8 seconds left in 3Q to give the Eagles momentum.

By Michael Carvell

March 3, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

HIRD QUARTER SCORE: Parkview girls 39, Milton 33. Milton is hanging tough, threatening the upset. Danielle Pasquerello drilled a 3-pointer with 8 seconds left in 3Q to give the Eagles momentum.

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

OK, we’re just before tipoff in Fayetteville in what figures to be a huge test for No. 1-ranked Fayette. Osborne is 23-3 and two of its losses are to Northwest Whitfield.

Starting lineups: Starting lineups Osborne (23-3) 3 Sherrisa Jobnnson 15 Shay Jackson 21 Flo Brown 23 Bena Hanyard 15 Ashlee Allen

Fayette County (28-0) 11 Dekota Walton 21 Tessah Holt 24 Sasha Sims 40 Anma Onyeuku 45 Chasity Welch

Haven’t seen anyone famous in the house, unless you count former NBA player Cheese Johnson, who these days probably isn’t the most famous person in his own house (his son Noel signed with USC to play hoops). I have noticed the other county schools represented, though. Starr’s Mill girls coach Whit Jones is taking in the game and I’ve seen a couple of Sandy Creek t-shirts.

Kind of a midling crowd, but it is a Tuesday night. I’ll say this … it beats sitting at the soccer game across the street at Tiger Stadium. It’s 40 degrees out, folks. I’ll take the gym.

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this

Hello, we’re also covering the Class A Sweet Sixteen match between top-ranked Wesleyan and well…it doesn’t really matter. Just kidding. We see you there Darlington. The Tigers are 13-15 and the No. 3 seed from Region 6. Darlington pulled a bit of an upset in the opening round of the state tourney with a 51-41 victory over Walker.

Wesleyan, you’ve probably heard of before. The Wolves are 25-4 and new to Class A this season after a stint in Class AA. I’m sure that made everyone in Class A very happy. Jan Azar’s team is led by super senior Anne Marie Armstrong, who has signed with Georgia, plays every position on the court and destroys small villages in her wake.

It’s 12-4 Wesleyan at the 5:08 mark.

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s just me, but both teams look a little tight. Fayette can’t get a shot to fall, and the Lady Tigers have four turnovers the first four minutes. A couple of things are obvious about Osborne — they don’t have the inside presence Tucker had Friday night, but they’re much more intent on shooting the three.

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

Back-to-back baskets by Fayette’s Anma Onyeuku have revealed the PA guy as a yodeler (Ahnmaaaaa On-yooo—KOOOOO!!)

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

I would like to point out Wesleyan has an incredible campus. You might expect this from a small private school, but still, it’s ridiculous. And they have enough banners in the gymnasium that I’m sure they wouldn’t notice is I took a few. I have my eyes on “Sports Illustrated #1 Athletic Program For The State of Georgia” and a Wesleyan hoops banner with some sort of James Bond silhouette.

18-8 Wesleyan at the 2:00 mark in the first quarter

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:20 PM | Link to this

Osborne’s Flo Brown has five points and the first quarter ends 12-12.

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this

For what it’s worth, I think Jay Stone and I are seeing the best two players in the state right now. Don’t take that at face value. It’s difficult to define MVP. Anne Marie Armstrong does everything for Wesleyan and is likely the best all-around player in the state. But there’s a good reason Fayette County is undefeated, and that reason is Tessah Holt. I’ve seen her twice, and you can’t discount what she means to that team.

I’d like to see what everyone thinks of Westlake’s Tamika Willis. She is probably in the discussion, but I haven’t seen her numbers. Where do you place the value on the best player in state? Is it the best overall player (Armstrong) or the one that means the most (Holt)?

Is there anyone I’m forgetting?

28-8 Wesleyan at the end of the first

By Michael Carvell

March 3, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this

FINAL SCORE: Parkview girls 59, Milton 47. Parkview holds off fast-charging Milton to win in the second round of the state playoffs. Parkview had an 8-0 run late in the fourth quarter to cement the victory. We’ll have the AJC’s postgame report, sponsored by the AJC, coming up later tonight. Drive safe. Ice on the road out there.

By Mays Class of 95

March 3, 2009 7:25 PM | Link to this

Does anybody have a update on the Benjamin E. Mays vs. NW Whitfield?

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:29 PM | Link to this

I think Darlington does many of the little things right. The Tigers are just struggling to find points and stop Armstrong, who seems to get every rebound. A minute ago, AMA grabbed a defensive board, was left alone by her teammates, lost the ball against two Darlington defenders and then caused a miss and grabbed another rebound and moved the ball up the court. She then scored on a rebound off a teammate’s miss. This all took about 37 seconds. She could have a triple-double by halftime.

36-8 at the 4:54 mark in the second quarter

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:31 PM | Link to this

Fayette up 21-19 with 2:16 left in the half…

By Kevin

March 3, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know the score of the East Hall Dunwoody game?

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

Ebony Carter just got Darlington into double figures with an eight-foot jumper. The ball nailed the back of the goal and bounced on the rim four times before finally falling and making the score 47-11 with just under two minutes to go before the half at Reeder Court.

It’s just been that kind of night for Darlington. Nothing has come easy.

49-11 Wesleyan at the half

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

I haven’t seen Armstrong play this year but I’m assuming she’s still pretty unstoppable. Holt won’t ever score at the same level, but she gets everybody involved. They’re two very different players.

23-23 at the half here. We’ll be back after this from our sponsors …

By r bankston

March 3, 2009 7:45 PM | Link to this

Does anyone have the update on the Douglass vs. Beach game?

By rickeygross

March 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this

how bount the druid hill red devels from dekalb co are for real boy team they played a tough time thris year

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this

Bena Hanyard has 10 points for Osborne, which has kept Holt under wraps to this point. Holt has five points, while Onyeuku, Sasha Sims and Chasity Welch have six each. The entry passes to the post from Holt to Onyeuku that have become a staple of Fayette’s offense simply haven’t been there. This game was a street fight in the first half.

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this

Halftime stats from Wesleyan: Anne Marie Armstrong (who I’ve nicknamed “MacGyver”) had 11 points, while teammate Erin Hall led everyone with 15 and a pair of 3-pointers. Ebony Carter topped Darlington with four points. She’s a quick guard, who always seems to be around the ball. The Tigers just need to find her some lanes. Not an easy task against these Wolves.

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

No word on Douglass, Beach or Mays yet. Working on it, but no one wants to pick up their cell phone tonight. I’m sure everyone is just rewatching the season finale of “The Bachelor.” I know I would be…

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this

Midway through the third period and it’s 27-27 in Fayetteville, and neither team has led by more than four points. If you’re a Fayette fan, this has to make you nervous: Osborne turned the ball over on four of its first five possessions of the half, and the Lady Tigers couldn’t capitalize.

By Laura

March 3, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this

Rabun girls beat Manchester by 12 in AA second round. On to Rome!

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this

soon as I typed my last post, Fayette pushed it to 34-29, and Onyeuku took control of the game, scoring nine in the quarter. Fayette leads 38-33 after three.

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this

This may be something only sports writers count, but there have been eight ties and eight lead changes in this one, though Fayette’s Sasha Sims scored the opening basket of the fourth period to make it 40-33.

By Laney Girls 70 - Mitchell Girls 38

March 3, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this

Way to go Wildcats.

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

Two free throws by Osborne’s Bena Hanyard cuts it to 42-41 with 4:17 to play.

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

I don’t know how to describe this anymore. It wouldn’t be fair. Instead, I’ll just make fun of Michael Carvell. Did annoy hear about that time Michael Carvell [post edited by AJC staff]. Man, that was hilarious.

Just kidding, Carvell. I wish I could have seen Parkview tonight. I’m convinced they’re going to win Class AAAAA, but they have a tough road. Redan is an interesting team as well as Mill Creek. Anyone have thoughts on that classification? Here are my picks:

Class AAAAA: Parkview Class AAAA: Fayette County Class AAA: Baldwin Class AA: Buford Class A: Wesleyan

68-22 Wesleyan after three quarters

By Glenn LaFollette

March 3, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Anne “MacGyver” Armstrong just sat down for the final time in her home gym. There was a welcomed response from the home crowd, but not enough to appreciate one of the best players in the history of the program. It’s a small crowd, that’s all. I would say “best” but this school has five state titles, and I’d need to ask Azar to be sure. Great coach there, and someone who could go down as one of the best girls coaches in the history of the state. She should certainly take the record for most titles.

77-28 Wesleyan with 2:01 to go

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 8:15 PM | Link to this

47-43 in the final minute, Fayette leads

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this

Osborne’s Shay Johnson with a three-point play to cut it ti 48-46. Fayette missed a shot on the other end and Osborne called timeout with 10 seconds left. So the Cards get a last-second chance at the upset.

By Jay Stone

March 3, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

Flo Brown scored to tie with six seconds left, Tessah Holt raced to the other end and hit a running three to beat the buzzer for a 51-48 Fayette win.

By Michael Carvell

March 3, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this

The Parkview-Milton game story will be linked somewhere else on this website. Drive safely.

By Dan H.

March 3, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this

Northwest Whitfield defeated Mays 56-51.

By bruin47

March 3, 2009 8:55 PM | Link to this

NORTHWEST WHITFIELD: 56 MAYS: 51 FINAL!! NORTHWEST STARTING TO MAKE SOME NOISE!! GO LADY BRUINS!!!

By oldlady7

March 3, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

Lady Devils of Model defeat Lovett Lions 59-34. AA game

By bruin47

March 3, 2009 9:01 PM | Link to this

NORTHWEST: 56 MAYS: 51 FINAL!! NORTHWEST MAKING SOME NOISE!! GO LADY BRUINS!

By bruin47

March 3, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

any news on the SW DeKalb-Madison County game?

By xavier

March 3, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

Columbia pulled it off tonight and made it to the elite 8 by getting past hart county 62-59, on to dalton

By MountainMama

March 3, 2009 9:21 PM | Link to this

In Class A..way up in the North Ga mountains, Towns County has defeated Bremen by a score of 60 - 36….and it wasn’t as “close” as that score indicates. Bremen scored first and that was the only lead they held all night. Senior Nikki Winn, Freshman Gabby Arencibia, and Junior Missy Conrad rocked tonight! They’ll have to do that again this Saturday because it looks like we’re playing Wesleyan.

By FATMAN

March 3, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

GOOD JOB RABUN LADIES—NOW IT’S BUFORD IN ROME— WOLVES RULES AA

By Titus Andronicus

March 3, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

Games played so far: 34 Games won by visiting team: 7 Games in the “south Georgia” bracket: 18 Games won by visiting team: 3

All things are not equal. The further the distance, the worse it is on visiting teams.

I know the GHSA will not abandon this model because it a) makes them money (one game at $7 instead of four games at $7) and is b) no rent for the building

But Harlem should not have to lose two days of school to travel to Bainbridge.

By Scott

March 3, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

Anyone know a Paideia/SW Atlanta Christian score?

By Boywonder

March 3, 2009 9:52 PM | Link to this

Jonesboro AAAA Girls making noise and will play at Fort Valley State on Friday in the elite 8. See all doubters there, wear your red and watch the Lady Cardinals fly all over their next victim.

By common sense

March 3, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

Anything at all on the SWD - MC game?

By Justin

March 3, 2009 10:19 PM | Link to this

Come Madison County pull it out! Give me an update please!!

By Cardinal Fan

March 3, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this

The Jonesboro Lady Cardinals just beat Brunswick by 20 points. The AJC never mentions them; however, their record speaks for itself (only one loss). They are on their way to Fort Valley to continue their quest for the state title. We are very proud of the Lady Cardinals as a total team.

“It is great to be in the elite 8”

By Bill, Tourney Fan

March 3, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this

Titus, I feel your pain, the ghsa is the WORST managed athletics association in the Southeast. Been to games in other states and know basketball folks around. It’s common knowledge that the clowns that run this for basketball are a disgrace.

For a state to have the best talent in the south and more, they treat it like a scared third grader would. Oh well, I love the game and coached years ago but it’s frustrating.

I know the folks in Cobb, Gwinnett and Fulton are looking forward to a drive across the state to meet in Alabama for a chance to play in Gwinnett again. Somebody needs to fire the lot, don’t any of the AD’s in this state have balls. Use them!!!!!

Yep I’ll still be in Bama for the quarters, just a disgrace!

By Ronnie

March 3, 2009 10:52 PM | Link to this

We have verified that the Wheeler - Peachtree Ridge game Wednesday night at Wheeler defintely starts at 7:00 not 6:00.

By AuntieEm

March 3, 2009 11:13 PM | Link to this

Wesleyan won. Glann, what’s this MacGyver stuff about Anne Marie? Yes, the crowd was a bit thin - but with soccer and other games going on, a lot of people were pulled in multiple directions.

We’re very proud of Anne Marie, and our other senior, Chantel Kennedy. Chantel doesn’t get many mentions, but she’s very strong at both ends of the court, and has a vertical leap that most guys would kill for. She’s heading to Colorado State on a basketball scholarship next year.

Watch the juniors: Erin Hall, Aysia McKenzie, Kennington Groff, Megan Coole, Grace Cowart,, Hayley Hughes, and Logan Morris. As a group, they’ll make teams very unhappy again next year. Add in some stellar sophs and freshman - Grace Leah Baugh, Nyaa Davis, Jordan Frazier, Holli Wilkens and Kedlyn Causwell, and they will continue to reign in A.

By daltondawg

March 3, 2009 11:22 PM | Link to this

Way to go lady Bruins! Looks like a good rematch with SW Dekalb & Lady Bruins! Good job tonite! I still think the Bruins played a so so game. Nothing like the game vs Osborne in Region Championship. Seems like NW plays better on the road this year! Just my observation!

By dback16

March 4, 2009 12:06 AM | Link to this

Mays/ NW game was horrible!!! They will get beat against SW!!! Mays coach didn’t have a clue!!! Being at their home didn’t help either. The same refs that were at Mays the past two games, changing only 1. Homecookin!!!

By daltondawg

March 4, 2009 8:49 AM | Link to this

dback16 I think its hard to call homecooking when the refs are from Atlanta and not from up here. Nw played a horriable game but won. Mays has 1 GREAT player and a great press. And NW may loose to SW but they are there and thats what counts! NW is a young team losing just 1 player so maybe thats a sign of things to come! People always blame the refs I guess it is a way to get closure! They were ok but if you know basketball they made as many calls both ways! Good Luck to all the teams left!

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

The Peachtree Ridge/Wheeler game tonight at Wheeler tips at 7 p.m., according to Wheeler head coach Doug Lipscomb.

Sorry for any inconvenience caused by the confusion.

I look forward to blogging from Wheeler tonight, and talking to everyone then. As always, thanks for reading and blogging!!

S. Thomas Coleman AJC Sports

By Karon

March 4, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this

I told the Atlanta Schools to get ready for them Lady Bulldogs-Beach High School out of Savannah.

By **MAYS ALUMNI**

March 4, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

DBACK 16 and DALTONDAWG….. I think you are both right to a degree….I will be the first to admit that the Mays Coach is absolutely clueless! When you looked out on the floor it was OBVIOUS to everyone involved that NWWHS could not handle the press….the Lady Raiders have quicker feet and quicker hands. When they pressed the Lady Bruins came undone - the coach (in her infinite wisdom) went away from the press! Mays does not have ONE great player - but a team FULL of GREAT players and one that may be considered extraordinary in MS. KENDRA LONG (4) who you could visibly see the will and determination on her face to carry her team on her back in the end. I would not be surprised that if you polled our players whether or not they would even agree with the game plan in the fourth quarter of their coaching staff….. you could see in them that they KNEW better than the coach what would work!

LARISSA CARTER (25) will be back and her game will be even better next year….I am impressed with her play. I hate that JALEAH HOLSEY (11) and QOUSTON CRAWLEY (32) were not able to finish the season in a blaze of glory….they are both excellent players and deserved to be playing for a State Title. MORGAN GOSS (3) is an excellent ball handler and could have made the biggest difference in the game by being relentless in her drive to the basket. NWWHS’s #44 was in foul trouble with 4 fouls at the end of the 3rd period…..a real game changer would have been to go at her and MORGAN would have been the personnel to do that. I wonder if the coach (Natasha Harrigan) asked her to pull up each time she came down the floor. What a difference that foul would have made!

I know that we will be back with the same determination and intensity next year to battle again….BUT man THIS WAS OUR YEAR!!!!!

PS. The refs were awful and those were the same awful jokers that we saw in the REGION at Lithia Springs! There is no love for the Columbia Blue and Gold!!!!!!!

AND YES - you are right that the most important thing is that the Lady Bruins are still playing - but we will get satisfaction in knowing that the SWD coach will not make the same idiotic mistakes as the Mays coach did! They WILL cream you!!!!!!!!!

By **MAYS ALUMNI**

March 4, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

DARN…. Blame it on my head and not my heart but I forgot to give DAVINA HIGH (10) her just do for her relentless defense and her persistant efforts on offense….she will be missed by the Lady Raiders next season!

By DHS parent

March 4, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

Last night at the Dunwoody -vs- East Hall girls basketball game I saw one of the worst diplay of sportsmanships by parents I have ever seen. The East Hall parents game into the gym and sat mid court facing both teams, however when told that this was the student section and that it reserved for their seating the parents became very upset and made very unpleasant remarks. The principle at Dunwoody showed the East Hall parents the section reserved for them which was directly behind their team. Before the move was request which was not requested until halftime a few Duwoody students that were sitting in the student section with the East Hall parents, stood up as this was their tradition a couple of East hall parents pulled them down in their seat. Had this been one of my children those East Hall parents would have been walked out without the help of the police. No parent should ever touch a child that is not theirs, if you have a problem with a student get the attention of a teacher, security or someone else in charge, but do not touch a child. Every school has certain setups for the visiting teams and they will never be for the benifit of the vistors. Remember teams play through out the year for home court advantage. So next time you are in Wildcat den remember you have to sit were designated. It’s call Home for a reason. Oh yea Dunwoody girls won and move on to the Elite Eight.

By SportsFan31313

March 4, 2009 5:12 PM | Link to this

Is it possible for Region 3-AAAAA Beach High l Lady Bulldogs and Bradwell Institute Lady Tigers will meet again for the 4th time this season? Beach Lady Bulldogs beat Bradwell in the regular season, and Bradwell returned the favor by severely whipping the lady bulldogs in the regular putting them number 1 in the Region.

Bradwell Institute Lady Tigers wins the Sub Region, and then Beach beats Bradwell in redemption to claim the Region 3-AAAAA Title in their 3rd matchup. Beach advances to the elite eight beating Douglass by 10 points. Bradwell edges out Luela by one advancing to the elite eight as well.

In the February 22, 2009 blog, Todd Holcomb suggest that Redan will make it to the final four. Isn’t funny that how the Metro Schools get all the publicity, and the Schools down South hardly ever get mentioned?

While Redan Lady Basketball Team may be a good team, I suggest you take a good look at Region 3-AAAAA as you have Region 3’AAAAA Sub Region Champions Bradwell Institute Lady Tigers, and Region 3-AAAAA Region Champions Beach Lady Bulldogs.

The two are not just a good basketball team, they are two GREAT teams. If the two win in the elite eight, those two team from the same region whom have a lot of respect for each other will play game four in the final four. the Both Beach and Bradwell colors are Blue and Gold so it will be a hard fought Battle between the Blue and Gold.

By dback16

March 4, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this

Kendra, Davina, Larissa(Juniors), and Mariah(#50-Freshman) will be back next year.
As far as them making calls about even both ways, timing is everything. Refs can keep you in the game, and if its close, can take you out. That’s why if the coach from Mays would have pressed from the jump they could have easily won by 15 to 20. Congrats to you, but on a neutral site, you’re done! She(Mays coach) only half court pressed you second half midway through the 3rd, and came out of it after 4 turnovers(why, know one knows), come on!

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

Just moments from tipoff at Norcross, where the Blue Devils are hosting Walton in the second round. Funny, but Raiders coach Joe Goydish felt his team and fans travel sufficiently well that being in Norcross’ gym wasn’t as daunting as it could be for some.

Devils coach Jesse McMillan chuckled at that notion, adamant home court always matters. “I’m glad to be here, in this building,” he said.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this

It’s filling up here at Norcross. If you’re trying to hear introduction of Norcross’ starting five, you better be able to read the announcer’s lips. Don’t know what this place holds, but I’d judge it’s about three-quarters full.

By CC

March 4, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

Give an update on the Milton/Central Gwinnett game.

By Rob Morton AJC

March 4, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this

Preview of tonight’s boys’ second-round game between Central Gwinnett (15-14) at Milton (21-7).

No. 2 seed Central entered the state tournament having lost three of its last four games before stunning No. 1 seed Collins Hill Saturday. The victory gave the Black Knights their first state tournament win since 2002.

Milton’s blowout win over Marietta Saturday gave the Eagles their first state tournament victory since 2006. A win tonight would mark their first quarterfinal appearance since 1959, according to the Georgia High School Basketball Project (ghsbp.com). Milton’s best season came the year before (1958) when it reached the state semis.

The teams rely heavily upon some of the state’s top underclassmen. Central is led by 6-3 Jordan Adams, who had 22 points during last week’s upset. Milton is led by three sophomores in forward Julian Royal and point guard Shannon Scott and wing Dai Jon Parker. Freshman forward Evan Nolte has evolved into a difference-maker for the Eagles as well.

The winner of this game meets the Centennial-South Gwinnett winner Saturday at West Georgia College.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

It’s been run ‘n gun for the first five minutes at Norcross. Problem is, nobody’s gun is working. Both teams are throwing up bricks. Finally Glen Rice’s authoritative dunk in the lane for Walton with 3:20 left in the period was something that finally went through the net. It’s 7-7 and Norcross is inbounding from a timeout…

By Rob Morton AJC

March 4, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

Milton 18, Central Gwinnett 6, End of 1st Quarter…..Milton opens by scoring game’s first nine points. Sophomore guard Shannon Scott ignited it all with three buckets from short range.

By Wheelerfan

March 4, 2009 7:21 PM | Link to this

Ugly 1st quarter so far, wheeler down 12 10 after one

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this

Threes by Norcross’ Taariq Muhammed, Jeremy Lamb and Denzail Jones have offset consecutive dunks by Walton’s Glen Rice, helping the Devils finish the first quarter ahead 18-12.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 7:31 PM | Link to this

Sorry folks. A little bit of technical difficulties here at Wheeler.

Anywhoo, it’s 16-14 Wheeler early in the second quarter. The scored was tied at the end of the first, 12-12.

Peachtree Ridge isn’t intimidated one bit by Wheeler, playing them man-to-man for the most part. C.J. Blackwell for Peachtree Ridge is going right at Richard Howell.

Wheeler is up 18-14 now, but I don’t think they’ll be able to run away with this one.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 7:32 PM | Link to this

A lot of second, third and fourth tries, but not much dropping here at Norcross. Maybe it’s over-inflation of the ball, but really, shots are bounding over the backboard. Tip, tip, tip, tip, tip, up and down the court, but nothing’s dropping. 26-22 Norcross with 1:18 left in the half.

By CC

March 4, 2009 7:34 PM | Link to this

Milton’s off to another fast start. Look out for the next 5A state champion.

By Wheelerfan

March 4, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

One of the ugliest halves I have seen in a while, wheeler leads 20-18

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this

Wheeler is starting to turn up the pressure on defense a bit and has jumped up 20-16. The Wildcats went into a zone for a possession, but Peachtree Ridge solved it and got a short jumper by C.J. Blackwell.

I still don’t think Wheeler will be able to blow the Lions out. Their guards Hayden Walsh, Darnel Jones and Daryan Griffin look pretty comfortable against Wheelers pressure.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this

Walton’s Ryan Harrow caught fire with a three and three deuces in the second quarter, including one fast break dunk, to draw the Raiders within 28-25 at intermission. Maybe both teams will warm their hands in the locker room, I’ve nearly lost track of missed shots. I could probably come closer from the scorer’s table. LOL…

By Rob Morton AJC

March 4, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this

Milton 33, Central Gwinnett 16, End of 1st Half……Neither team playing particularly well but Milton appears to have just too many horses…Milton led by sophomore Shannon Scott’s 10 and sophomore forward Julian Royal’s 8 and 3 blocks…Central led by freshman guard Jordan Adams’ 10.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

OK, half time now and it’s Wheeler 20, Peachtree Ridge 18.

Wheeler’s largest lead has been just four points. Both teams are pretty athletic and are getting after each other defensively.

CJ Blackwell and Khalid Mutakabbir lead Ridge with 8 apiece. Phil Taylor has 9 for Wheeler.

And amazingly, not one of the fans who have gone out onto the court for the halftime three point shooting contest has managed to hit a shot yet.

By Wheelerfan

March 4, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

Quick spurt for wheeler outta the halftime gate, up 28-20

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

Wheeler has started the third quarter on an 8-2 run to surge ahead 28-28 at the 5 minute mark.

They’re pressuring the ball and holding Ridge to one shot.

Ari Stewart just posterized the entire Ridge front line with a putback, where he skied over everybody to jam home an offensive rebound. He and Howell are touch to deal with inside on both ends of the floor.

We’ll see if Ridge can weather the storm.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 7:57 PM | Link to this

Walton’s Rice just made a pretty reverse layup on a baseline drive and Harrow followed with a bucket for the game’s first tie at 34. Then, after Norcross’ Muhammad put the Devils back ahead, a layup by Walton’s Williams knotted us again at 36, generating a Norcross timeout.

This place is going nuts.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this

Wheeler looked like it was about to prove me wrong the blow Ridge outta here a minute ago. The Wildcats went up 32-20.

But the Lions won’t go away. It’s 34-26 after a short jumper by CJ Blackwell, who is a very good player. Obviously, football gets ALL the props at Ridge, but the basketball team is pretty good. Blackwell (6-foot-5) is just a sophomore.

By Rob Morton AJC

March 4, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this

Milton 51, Central Gwinnett 27….End of 3rd..….Sophomore guard Dai Jon Parker wakes up a sleeply crowd with an emphatic one-handed jam with 2:22 left in the 3rd. Senior reserve Erik Schuelke follows that with a nice drive and lay in and, a steal and another easy bucket

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this

Ryan Harrow found nothing but net on a three-pointer with two seconds left in the third quarter to put Walton ahead at Norcross, 44-42, after three.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:03 PM | Link to this

Hillgrove 44, Tucker 36, end of three

Darius Baugh leads Hillgrove w/ 12. Manny Atkins has 17 for Tucker.

Hillgrove has been in control from the start, once led by 13.

Hillgrrove an is giving me a hard time for picking Marist to make the Final Four out of this quarter.

By Wheelerfan

March 4, 2009 8:04 PM | Link to this

Wheeler up12 with seven minutes to go in game, the ridge is playing hard but they don’t appear to be very talented

By Rob Morton

March 4, 2009 8:05 PM | Link to this

Milton 56, Central Gwinnett 32….4:43 remaining…Central Gwinnett’s fine freshman Jordan Adams is the only reason this one isn’t really ugly

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this

At the end of the third, Wheeler is up 10, 38-28. And Phil Taylor just made it 40-28 with a drive the the basket five seconds into the quarter.

Taylor and Ari Stewart teamed up on a nice alley-oop play to end the half.

When the p.a. guy announced that Walton is beating Norcross, Stewart came over the table to ask if the score was accurate, as if to say “Walton over Norcross?” are you serious.

It’s 44-32, Wheeler now, with just over six minutes left to play.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

Manny Atkins, the Va Tech, signee is keeping Tucker in.

47-43 now, H’grove leads. JeRae’ Johnson just got a steal and layup for Tucker.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

Norcross’ Marty Johnson took a football pass down court for a layup all alone, as the Devils have pulled from four points down three times to within 50-48 with 5:06 to go.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

Wheeler’s version of the “Cameron Crazies” has chosen their victim for the night — Ridge front court sub Matt Beatty. They chant “YOU ARE TERRIBLE!” every he touches the ball, after he missed two contested put backs.

Poor kid!

By Fin

March 4, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me? West GA for one game??? Good grief, why not Kennesaw State University? I mean, not one of the schools that could potentially make the elite 8 are even close to that area. This is bad management by the GHSA. There are so many other places this game could have been held…K.S.U., Southern Poly holds a lot of people. I would have rather they just played at one of the home gyms than to make the ride way out to West GA. Of course, I’ll be there if my team makes it though..LOL!!

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this

Timeout, 54-52, Walton ahead of host Norcross.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

Hillgrove leads Tucker 53-49 w/ 3:19 left, trying to hold the ball.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Tucker’s Atkins scores inside, cuts Hillgrove lead to 53-51 w/ 2:20 left.

By Rob Morton AJC

March 4, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

Milton 68, Central Gwinnett 45 Final

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:15 PM | Link to this

Atkins hits a 3 for the lead !! Tucker up 54-53 w/ 1:30 left. Hillgrove calls a TO. Hillgrove getting anxious.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this

OK, 2:30 left and Wheeler is up 52-41. The Wildcats’ largest lead has been 13 points.

I don’t know who Wheelerfan is, but we obviously aren’t watching the same game. Ridge has PLENTY of talent!! I’ll check the book when we’re done, but CJ Blackwell has at least 15 points. Their guards are tough and quick, and the team is playing hard and won’t go away.

1:28 left now, Wheeler is up 54-46.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this

Norcross timeout after Rice’s follow dunk for Walton. Norcross inbounding, ahead 58-56, with 1:38 left.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:17 PM | Link to this

Hillgrove threw the ball away again, 1:20 left, then commits a foul. Tucker up 54-53, at the line.

By Big Man

March 4, 2009 8:17 PM | Link to this

Why is Ari Stewart worried about another game’s score when his game is still being played. Block that out young man and take care of business at home first.

By DRB

March 4, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this

60-58 Norcross with a minute left!

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this

Tucker’s Quinton Brown calmly makes 2 FT’s. Hillgrove nervously throws the ball away for a third straight possession.

Now Atkins at the line, misses first, makes second. Tucker up 57-53. Hillgrove is folding.

By CC

March 4, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this

Great job Milton!!!

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

Walton’s Harrow, who’s been on fire, just missed the back end of a 1-plus-1 that would have tied. Instead, Norcross is inbounding after a timeout, ahead 60-59 with 38 ticks left…

By DRB

March 4, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

60-59 Norcross with :38 left. Timeout Norcross ball.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

We’re down to FT’s at Hillgrove.

0:37 left. Jamaal Pryor of Hillgrove just made 1-2. Tucker leads 58-55, w/ ball.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:23 PM | Link to this

Kerrick Motoyer just hit 2 FT for Tucker. 60-55, 0:21 left, all but over.

By DRB

March 4, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this

61-61 Norcross ball with :14 left.

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this

Walton’s G’Mitri Rice hits a shot among towering defenders low. We’re tied 61-61 at Norcross with the Devils inbounding with 14 seconds to go…

By Rob Morton AJC

March 4, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this

Milton 68, Central Gwinnett 45. Final….Milton has certainly pieced together a better stretch of basketball but the result was just as ugly as the score indicated. Central had no inside presence while Milton’s man-to-man proved to be too much. The MVP was certainly Milton point guard Shannon Scott who sliced and diced his way through the Knights’ defense for 18 points.

His fellow sophomore mates in Dai Jon Parker and Julian Royal chipped in with 15 and 10, respectively. Central was led by freshman Jordan Adams’ 15 and junior guard Ayo Madamidiola’s 11.

Milton (22-7) now awaits the survivor of tonight’s Centennial-South Gwinnett. This marks the Eagles’ first appearance in the state quarterfinals since 1959.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this

Darius Baugh off Hillgrove just banked in a 3 to keep hopes alive.

It’s Tucker 61, Hillgrove 59, w/ 0:12 left. TUcker’s Manny Atkins at the line. Not the guy you want to foul here, but Hillgrove can’t be choosy.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Atkins makes 1 of 2, Hillgrove has chance to tie —

Hillgrove’s Darius Baugh misses 3 at the buzzer, not close.

Tucker 62, Hillgrove 59, final.

By DRB

March 4, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Norcross wins 64-61.

By Wheelerfan

March 4, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

I’ll give you my take Seth- this was the ultimate trap game for wheeler, round 3 wheeler either gets Cobb rival Walton or state tourney rival norcross…regardless of whether they should or shouldn’t, 16-18 year old kids will almost always look past a lesser opponent, and I firmly believe that was the case here tonight…. Wheeler had some of the ugliest turnovers tonight, not ones forced by ridge pressure but by making dumb passes like trying to force lobs to Stewart when it was simply not the pass to make, they must have missed on at least 5 lobs attempts with careless passes… The ridge played hard and made some shots but to call them talented is a stretch in my opinion

By AJC's Michael Alpert

March 4, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

Walton inbounded the length of the floor with 1.4 seconds left, but Glen Rice’s 3-pointer from just over the half-court line as time expired barely missed. Norcross wins, 64-61, and advances to face Wheeler, a 64-53 winner over Peachtree Ridge.

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this

Atkins finished w/ 28 points for Tucker. Hillgrove’s Darius Baugh had 23. No other Hillgrove player in double figures.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 8:37 PM | Link to this

Final, Wheeler 64, Peachtree Ridge 53.

Now, the P.A. guy, who is getting feeds from the Walton-Norcross game, has about 50 or 60 Wheeler parents, students and fans huddled around him at the scorers table, waiting to hear the latest update.

It looks like it’s the 1930’s and everybody in the neighborhood is crowded up on the porch of the only family in town with a radio, so they can hear the blow by blow of championship fight!

Anyway, here’s the scoring breakdown: Ridge: Khalid Mutakabbir, 21; C.J. Blackwell, 20; Rasheed Fischer, 8; Daryan Griffin, 4

Wheeler: Ari Stewart, 25; Phil Taylor, 19 (including 8-for-8 from the free throw line … now THAT’s guard play!); Richard Howell, 10; Tahj Tate, 6; Joey Jerome 4.

And a Wheeler cheerleader just asked me to included them, so here goes …. The cheerleaders were loud and stayed in the game the whole way.

I’ll opine more a little later. Gotta make deadline now!

By Deals

March 4, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this

Anyone have a score on the Centennial/S. Gwinnett game?

By aryan

March 4, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this

dang good season raiders

By William

March 4, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this

Back from Wheeler. What a mess. From looking at scores, it looks like this wasn’t the only stinker.

Other than Milton, it looks like no high scoring in 5A tonight. I heard Centennial was only up 30-27 at halftime over South Gw.

By William

March 4, 2009 8:55 PM | Link to this

Just heard Centennial and SW are in double OT now.

By Bob

March 4, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

South Gwinnett 79 - 77 in double overtime

By William

March 4, 2009 8:59 PM | Link to this

Heard Centennial lost at the buzzer. SW advances.

By Linda Allen

March 4, 2009 9:05 PM | Link to this

Any scores on the Dutchtown Bulldogs girls game? Any scores on the Stockbridge High School boys game?

By Rick

March 4, 2009 9:07 PM | Link to this

Any girls scores from AAAAA

By Todd Holcomb

March 4, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

Tucker coach James Hartry felt defense and experience playing under duress was the difference in the upset over Hillgrove.

Hillgrove was up 6 w/ 4 minutes left but was outscored 9-0 before stopping the bleeding, but lost 62-59.

“When we bear down on defense, we didn’t think they could shoot so well all night long. That’s tough for high school guys.”

Hillgrove finally started missing.

But Hartry’s main message was his team’s schedule. Tucker has played Miller Grove, Columbia, Marist, Centennial. Only one loss to a team not in the Top 10.

Bottom line: Hillgrove got tight in the end, and Tucker had the best player on the court, Manny Atkins. He’s as good an all-court player as I’ve seen.

By devil lover

March 4, 2009 9:15 PM | Link to this

64-61 Devil beat Walton!!!! A true epic. A friend of mine said it was the best high school basketball game he has ever seen and he has seen all of the wheeler/norcross battles.

By CC

March 4, 2009 9:16 PM | Link to this

Does anyone have an update on the Marietta/Norcross girls game?

By Wheelerfan

March 4, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

Centennial loses? Wow thought they would make a deeper run with an easier draw on paper

By Title9

March 4, 2009 9:22 PM | Link to this

Girls’ scores, AJC??

By Title9

March 4, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

Girls’ scores, AJC?

By S. Thomas Coleman

March 4, 2009 9:32 PM | Link to this

OK, game story is done.

Wheeler will face Norcross in the quarterfinals Saturday at West Georgia in what could easily be a state title game. Wheeler’s Ari Stewart made no bones about the fact that he wants Norcross, after losing to the Blue Devils in the playoffs the last two years — including last year’s final. Should be a great game!

And we’ll just agree to disagree, Wheelerfan. Yes, I’m sure the Wildcats were looking ahead to Saturday and Norcross, but I can see why Ridge won 18 ball games this season. Their guards are tough and quick — Daryan Griffin picked Phil Taylor’s pocket twice tonight, and Taylor is one of the best juniors in the state — and Mutakabbir and Blackwell can play with anybody. They went for 20 and 21, respectively, tonight.

Wheeler is Wheeler. Of course teams look less talented when matched up against them … probably because 95 percent of the teams in Georgia ARE less talented than the Wildcats. Doug Lipscomb is one of the best high school coaches in the southeast.

But all that said, there’s NO WAY that anyone can say Ridge doesn’t have any talent.

Before I go, gotta give a shout out to the janitorial crew at Wheeler. It took them a little over an hour to clear the gym, mop the floor and have the place looking like no game was even played here … and they brought your faithful corespondent an ice cold bottled water to boot!

Thanks for reading! And feel free to get at me at scoleman@ajc.com.

S. Thomas Coleman

By titan fan

March 4, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this

In AA action, Blessed Trinity 47-43 over Riverside Military Academy, they’ll play the state’s 4th ranked AA team Dade County who beat Callaway 103-99 in double OT.

By George

March 4, 2009 9:46 PM | Link to this

Hey, Where’s my Walton Buddy now. Crying all the way back to Cobb county. Norcross, spanked you upside the head.. Yea, Wait til next year and the next and the next…you got the picture..let it sink in.

By WheelerFan

March 4, 2009 9:48 PM | Link to this

Devil love- will you be making the trip to west georgia? i’m thinking about going myself…should be another good one

By WheelerFan

March 4, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

nice comments seth, i enjoyed reading your updates throughout the game

By SCOUTOFTHEYEAR

March 4, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

SOUTH ATLANTA WILL BLOW EVERYONE OF THESE TEAMS YALL TALKIN BOUT BY 20!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By cbs

March 4, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

Newnan/Redan?

By Mr. Top Hat

March 4, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this

West Georgia’s gym is going to be shaken by the wildcat faithful…we want revenge from the last two years.

GOOOOOOOOO CATS!!!!!!!!

By still a fan

March 4, 2009 10:02 PM | Link to this

Just got home from the Centennial/S. Gwinnett game. S. gwinnett does have a good team but Centennial got robbed at the end of the 1st OT. Ryan Flemming put up a shot at the buzzer that would have won it for Centennial but the ref with the ugly hair disallowed it. If there were instant replay in high school, it would have shown that the shot had left his hands before time ran out. S. gwinnett had a player hit a couple of NBA 3’s in OT and unfortunately Lorenzo Brown missed a couple of free throws that would have meant the difference. Milton may give S. Gwinnett a run for their money but if they survive that round, they will have a rough time beating Wheeler or Norcross.

By bruin47

March 4, 2009 10:03 PM | Link to this

To all the people hating on Northwest Whitfield girls team. We havent been able to penetrate the press all season long. But the fact of the matter is, Northwest DID figure it out towards the end of the game last night.

and the whole neutral site thing, yeah the school is letting all the students out at 1:00 to go to the game. We are taking as many buses as we need down there and many people are students and adults are driving themselves. You can count on everyone from last night being there friday. Jordi Cook only hit two three’s all night compared to the 4-5 she usually hits. SW DeKalb is a good team, but that one girl that went to S Car. isnt there and she’s the main reason they won state last year. NORTHWEST WILL BE READY!!!

Go Lady Bruins!!

By still a fan

March 4, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

oh and one last thing, well maybe two - First, the AJC had our start time at 7:30 and the game actually started at 7:00 p.m. A lot of our fans missed part of the game. Second - Who in the world picked West Georgia as a neutral site for the next round? Surely they could have picked something a little better?

By Fin

March 4, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

Silly question…why not televise the games since they are all in the most inconvienent locales? I’m still confused as to why in the world ANY of the region games are out at West Georgia? Good grief! That’s a long way to drive..and let’s keep in mind that there are going to be a LOT of teenagers on the road. That can lead to dangerous driving conditions.

Gonna be another Wheeler Norcross battle…WOOOWEE!!

By CougarDan

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

One other final, although I forgot the score!! Newnan over Redan (something like 46 - 32) and will meet the winner of Valdosta-Riverdale Saturday at 5:30 at Ft. Valley State. Bummer if Riverdale wins and both teams have to travel down there since they’re from the same region.

By Tee

March 4, 2009 10:44 PM | Link to this

Who was the winner of the Valdosta/Riverdale game?

By Pat Summitt

March 4, 2009 10:45 PM | Link to this

SO I GUESS THERE IS NO GIRL’S BASKETBALL IN GEORGIA!

By Joyce

March 4, 2009 10:49 PM | Link to this

Cedartown beat North Hall . North Hall came back from down19 to make a good game, but the Dawgs held on by 4 to make the Elite 8

By Fayette Fan

March 4, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

Hey did Fayette COunty win tonight, i can not see the scores anywhere. I wish i could have been there but i am on the road. Does anyone know who won, and how did Noel do tonight?

By bruin47

March 4, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

Girls AAAA scores: Marist: 47 / Clarke Central: 41. Dutchtown: 65 / Hardaway: 64.

By reply to patsummitt

March 4, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

Yes there is girls basketball in GA, just not tonight. Most games were all boys tonight, a few double headers but tonight was for the big boys.

By MiltonFan

March 4, 2009 11:18 PM | Link to this

Is the Milton/S.Gwinett game at West Georga also? If not, where is it?

By WheelerFan

March 4, 2009 11:28 PM | Link to this

MiltonFan- i think it is at west georgia, at 530 if the bracket is correct

By fchs#1fan

March 4, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

Fayette County 75 Clarke Central 50. Noel played well considering, had 12 points.

By PC

March 4, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

Walton vs. Norcross was a very good game. I think Walton would have won if they would have gone to overtime. The coach at Walton lost it for them. He should have stuck with the press when the game was tied with only 14 seconds on the clock. He gave Norcross a chance to come down and get a shot off. Too bad for the Walton team. They were ready to play Wheeler again.

By Eagle 1

March 5, 2009 12:37 AM | Link to this

Columbia 65- Jershon Cobb 28pts 6reb West Hall 45 Good game Eagles!!!!!

By truestory

March 5, 2009 7:37 AM | Link to this

Walton should have never been in that game anyways

By devil lover

March 5, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

WheelerFan I would not miss the wheeler/norcross game unless I was dead. They say it is extremely hard to beat a good team three times in a row so Norcross has a up hill battles ahead of them in a rebuilding year. That said, beating a good walton team that was playing good in the last 4 seconds should give the devils a lot of confidence.

By wheelerstudent

March 5, 2009 10:26 AM | Link to this

I agree I”m ready for rd. 3 in the last three years. Hopefully Wheeler can pull it out this time. It should be a great game though. Another game of contrasting styles. Wheeler likes to run and Norcross likes to slow down and play D. This is the state championship game pretty much.

By Just Nasty & Mean

March 5, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

Make NO mistake! Centennial WON the game against So. Gwinnett!

EVERYONE who is a fan of fair and honest play in high school sports should be Outraged at what happened at the Rd. 2 game Wednesday night.

The officiating was horrific and so one-sided the GHSA should investigate. Centennial players were knocked to the ground, mugged under the basket, pushed out-of-bounds on rebounds, elbows and fists flying, and in the end, were SCREWED out of victory by an overtime basket for the win that was discounted by ONE of the 3 refs. TWO refs claimed the basked counted, ONE ref overrode the others, and LITERALLY took away the win.**

I know. I know. This sounds like sour grapes and bad sportsmanship. I know it sounds like a one-sided perspective. Folks, let me tell you—the game-calling was so one sided it would make a maggot puke.

ALL of the adults associated with organizing this game, ALL Georgia officials, ALL GHSA executives should be ashamed and embarrassed that adult involvement directly influenced the outcome of this game instead of letting the kids play on the floor.

It is sickening, shameful, and a slam against ALL fair-minded people to let this atrocious display of unfairness stand.

Shame on ALL of you! I hope you ALL lose sleep to your conscience telling you how pathetic and WRONG you are.

By Just Nasty & Mean

March 5, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

And NOW for the ‘coup de gras”.

In double overtime, the game ended in the last 5 seconds by the Centennial point guard being held by the jersey, knocked-to-the-ground, the ball stolen and an easy layup with no time on the clock.

Folks. this was a theft of fairness and sportsmanship

I know. I know.. Waaa, Waaa and all that. But if it can happen to Centennial, it can happen to your team.

By AJC's S. Thomas Coleman

March 5, 2009 12:07 PM | Link to this

Thanks, WheelerFan! Be safe heading down I-20 to Carrollton for your quarterfinal against Norcross!

S. Thomas Coleman AJC Sports

By Bill, Tourney Fan

March 5, 2009 12:09 PM | Link to this

Wasn’t at the Centennial game last night so can’t comment on the officials. But being an avid fan that goes to 40 to 50 HS games a year, and has witnessed Centennial in the tourney and season the last 4 years, i can say with all honesty that the student fans from Centennial are the most rude, undisciplined bunch I’ve ever seen in 50 years of watching basketball. The worst was at the Gwinnett arena 3 years ago when Norcross beat them. I even sent an email to the Principal of the school about their behavior. Sooooo from that standpoint, we’re happy they’re Gooooone! And no i’m not from Norcross, actually south of Atlanta.

By Just Nasty & Mean

March 5, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

So, Bill Tourney Fan

So, let me get this straight…..

It is your opinion that the Centennial fans are rude. Let’s say you are right—they are more rude than most HS kids.

Does that somehow give latitude to an albatross of an officiating crew STEALING a playoff game? You are changing the subject. I could make a point that ALL HS kids are rude at these games.

BUT—it does NOT negate the fact that the one-sided thieving, low-down, slime-ball officials stole the game from the appropriate winners?

Please—tell me you have more justification than—the fans are rude.

I already know. Boohoo, Waa, Bwaa, and all that. Maybe you’ll be crying the next time these sick ba$tards steal a critical game from you.

By Mr. KnowItAll

March 5, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this

Bill, TourneyFan,

By Mr. KnowItAll

March 5, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

Bill, TourneyFan,

It doesn’t bother you that the best team didn’t win because of adult involvement in the outcome of the game?

It doesn’t bother you that your team won’t be proved to be the best team because others were potentially cheated out of their chance to win (or lose)?

It doesn’t bother you that the entire playoff system—including whomever wins the champions— have been stained and invalidated because of some bias by an officiating crew?

Well, if that’s the case—-YOU are as bad as the crooked refs.

By Eagle 1

March 5, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

I take my hat of to the West Hall team and community who came into the Hostile Columbia Eagle House and played their Butts off.West Hall would have beaten any team in AAA last nite in my opinion. Their fans were great alive. So thanks to West Hall for giving Columbia a good game to help us prepare for the Qtr finals!!!

By Bill, Tourney Fan

March 5, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

Well to Nasty and Knowitall, yes I know officials can be thieves. I coached years ago in HS and I know many are just dishonest and biased. I’m sure,Cent did get the short end, don’t deny but wasn’t there. What I attested to is the inconsiderate kids at Centennial and yes I’ll say it again, the worst we’ve ever seen. I go to many of these tourneys with some friends and we all agreed a year or so ago, they are the worst.

Nope, don’t consider that reason for the officials to steal it, but as I said many are just dishonest. The review system that the GHSA has for officials is really a joke. Won’t get into that. Anyway if you’re a real fan of the game, you’ll be in Bama to watch the quarter round on Saturday.

Sorry about your team, but I saw Miller Grove,4A, blow out Centennial earlier and you didn’t appear to have the studs to win it all. And I know South Gwinnett doesn’t, but that’s why they play the game.

May I suggest you take a group and meet with the GHSA on the game, find somebody that has DVD and raise hell.

By Cry me a river

March 5, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

No one even you Centennial can complain about officials because ultimately a missed basket here a turnover there if those don’t happen Centennial wins I heard Lorenzo choked on some free throw a la region championship last yeay vs. Wheeler. Wheeler fans are still upset that Gani Lawal got away with a full body tackle on JJ 2 years ago but what’s done is done there’s always next year as all sports fans live by that mantra.

By Are you serious

March 5, 2009 3:03 PM | Link to this

I also attended the south game and I’d like to know how the refs cheated when they clearly were in the penalties first and had tons of fouls on them all night.. Yes the end of the first OT was very close and personally idk if he made it before the buzzer or not.. But if a team is consistant like cen is suppose to be.. Ranked 5 in state.. Then they had a whole other quarter.. You can’t just blame the refs because of close calls.. Refs are human and not perfect.. That being said it was definatley not a one sided game

By still a fan

March 5, 2009 3:30 PM | Link to this

Dear Bill, a tourney fan:

I was at the Centennial/Norcross championship game at the Gwinnett Arena two years ago and I don’t know how you can say that the Centennial fans were the worst, etc. They cheered their hearts out for their team all the way to the end when they lost by 1 point. I know some people complained about how they yelled at the Norcross players, but hey that was only AFTER the Norcross player came in front of the Centennial fans tauting them, showing his jersey, etc. He provoked it so you get what you get. As far as the kids being loud, etc. in their own building, it’s a tough place to play but so are a lot of the other buildings. Have you ever been to a game at Norcross? They were BRUTAL in last year’s 2nd round last year. They made foul remarks about the players girlfriends, shouted obscene phrases, blew up a life size of the championship ring while chanting “You’ll never get one”, and on and on. I’ve been to every Centennial home this year except one and I never saw the kids get out of line any more than any of the other teams we played like Walton, Wheeler, Milton, etc.

As far as the game last night, the officiating was not that great. I’ve heard from a friend in Valdosta who said that even though they won their officiating was horrendous as well. Last night’s game was not the first time the refs blew several calls. I wish we could get ahold of a video to see if they blew that call at the end of overtime.

However, that said if our guys had made some clinch free throws and a 3 point at the end, we wouldn’t be having this discussion at all.

S. Gwinnett could possibly beat Milton, we beat them twice this year. However, if and that’s a BIG IF…they make it to the finals, I don’t see them beating either Norcross or Wheeler whoever the winner may be.

By Just Nasty & Mean

March 5, 2009 3:37 PM | Link to this

Are you serious*

You cannot be serious! Even a BLIND MAN could see the bias in the foul calling You had to be out in the parking lot when #24 from South pushed 2 Centennial players in the back—-OFF THE COURT to get a rebound in the 2nd overtime and score an easy 2’s. Once he learned he could get away with—he DID IT ALL NIGHT and the refs didn’t do a thing! Tell me you didn’t see that?

Now, Serious, add to THAT—-the refs called 7 CONSECUTIVE FOULS on Centennial in the 4th—all the while South was all OVER the backs of our players under South’s goal.

THEN—the basket TWO REFS counted but ONE didn’t—Costing Centennial the Win—

If you are Serious—tell me that with 12.8 seconds left, tie game, Centennial has the ball—-that South didn’t grab the jersey of our point guard, push him to the ground—steal the ball and win the game. —-No CALL! Tell me that didn’t happen?

Even you can’t tell a lie that bold faced! I wouldn’t think you would.

Centennial fans would have booed MORE but their voices were blown out it was SO, SO BAD!

Basketball is just too interpretive. The refs can have WAY too much influence on the outcome of the game with harsh calls on one side and No calls on the other. It leave it open to crooks and slimy, lowdown, spineless, cheating sphincter Ba$tards like the turds that refed last night’s game.

The best team won—-but the refs overruled it. Sick. Sick Sick!

By Love this game

March 5, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

It really disturbs me that we have folks that are doubting South Gwinnett. The starting 5 all have many scholorship offers and should not be down graded because the ref’s made some bad calls. South Gwinnett also were done wrong by the ref’s. What about after the 1st quarter the foul count was 10 SG and Cent 3 and that continued all thru the game - idiots… I am a basketball fan of all great players, especially Lo Brown!! He is a class act and would agree that he lost to a great team. FYI - Lo Brown, Ryan Fleming and Cam from Cent are best friends with Mario Vasser, Kevon Jenkins, Xavier Chargois and Reggie Brice. So no matter who would of won last nite - the boyz were and are cheering for one another. Get ur stories together and get the facts right!! South Gwinnett is going nowhere no time soon..So all you SG haters, please keep hating, you are motivating “dem comet boyz”.. Fo sho!!! Hollar back after Saturday’s game…

By Are you serious

March 5, 2009 4:04 PM | Link to this

So.. basically what i’m hearing from you Just Nasty & Mean is that cent is the best, and the comets had no chance.. first off.. those seven fouls you are talking about most of them were taking intentionally by your team if you weren’t paying attention.. and if cent is the BEST like you say.. they wouldn’t have let south come back from a 10 point lead that you guys had.. dont blame the refs for your teams lack of play.. you cant rely on the refs to win or cost you a game.. it is the teams responsibility to play well enough so situations dont happen like this.. and for your number 24 comment.. sorry that players in gwinnett county aren’t soft and actually fight for rebounds.. if you were to look at any gwinnett team you would see the same kind of aggressiveness.

By love this game

March 5, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

The comment about Lo’s jersey being grabbed - are you really serious!!! the PG for SG got fouled everytime he went to the basket and he never got a call, fool…. What about Reggie out jumping Cent for rebounds and the ref calling a foul on Reggie… I guess when your team looses you have to exagerate to get your point across. I understand, not.. Ref’s are horrible in Ga. I will agree, but they did not win the game for South. There were plenty of College coach’s at the game that will agree that the team that won the game deserved to win.. I did question the shot Ryan put up so I reviewed the film and he did not get it out of his hands in time. Sorry “charlie”. lol.. Go South

By Just Nasty & Mean

March 5, 2009 4:14 PM | Link to this

Love this game

I think you need to re-read what has been said here. It is not at issue that the kids are friends. I don;t question the skillset of a single one of SG players. I don’t “HATE” SG or their players.

The So. Gwinnett players did exactly what they were supposed to do—whatever they could get away with to win the game. And they had GREAT LATITUDE compared to Centennial. IT was cheating!

What I am complaining about is the inconsistent application of the rules by the refs.

I presume that you agree that your stating there were “bad calls” calling the refs “idiots” you, too, agree the refs were an abomination and a pox on the whole game.

After the game, SG kids stormed the floor and swarmed the refs—shaking their hands—pats on the back. Does THAT sound normal to you? Does that tell you anything?

It was a pathetic display of partisan game calling. Sick adults becoming too involved in a kids game—and too involved to make fair calls.

I would bet that if the truth were known—these refs—particularly the tall white guy with the gray bozo-the-clown haircut—the one that overruled his TWO counterparts that Centennial had won the game—-had some connections, associations or skin in the game.

It is enough to make any fair-minded adult ashamed that adults would do that to kids.

Sickening……

By still a fan

March 5, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

Dear love this game: How were you able to “review the film”?

Both teams fought hard last night and it definitely was a great game. Our aggravation was that one ref was not calling fair while one seemed to just be oblivious. The one black ref called a pretty good game but he was the only one. We had another game earlier in the year where fouls were blatantly being committed and one of the refs was continuing not paying attention, he was looking into the stands, etc. instead of concentrating on the game. We’ve heard from several guys who ref other sports and they say the reffing basketball is very political and the ones who are chosen are not always the best. It’s a shame.

I still say let the players play, call it fair and whoever wins wins. We could have and should have won that game last night and you’re right we shouldn’t have blown a 10 point lead. Hopefully the guys who return next year will be better for it and the seniors will have great memories of their high school years. Now that Lorenzo is going to NC State, I’ll be an NC State fan now…especially since Georgia is rebuilding still.

The Wheeler/Norcross game will have all the makings a title game. I’m not counting S. Gwinnett out but beating either of those teams will mean they will have to play the game of their lives. I’m not a big fan of Wheeler and like Norcross even less so I definitely wouldn’t be upset if S. Gwinnett ended up prevailing.

By love this game

March 5, 2009 4:43 PM | Link to this

I viewed the game film because one of the parents films every game - that’s how… duh??

Lo Brown is NC State and I will be at as many games as possible. He is the truth - but cant win a game by himself, although he almost did it last night…

Please stop doubting SG “still a fan”- they are capable of beating Wheeler and Norcross. Watch and see..

By love this game

March 5, 2009 5:01 PM | Link to this

I really dont need to re-read anything Just Nasty and Mean. I was just making a general comment for anyone that is not aware of the friendships shared between these 2 teams. All year long the ref’s have been horrible and it probably will not get any better. Again, SG won the game and we won because we fought hard for the win. The ref’s were horrible but they were horrible to both teams. We had key players foul out early in the game and Cent players that fouled out were later in the game because the foul count was one sided. Lo had 3 fouls the first half and never got another foul called on him the rest of the game and we know that Lo fouled plenty of players, especially SG point guard. Lo also had offenssive fouls while he pushed off going to rim… but..I am not mad - he did what he got away with and what he needed to do to score. You gotta love the intensity that both teams played with..oh excuse me - South’s team and 3 players from Cent.. the rest of the team is horrible.

By still a fan

March 5, 2009 5:09 PM | Link to this

When SG beats the winner of Norcross/Wheeler, I’ll stop doubting.

As far as your “duh”, how would we know that a parent films every game?

I will be following Zo’s career at NC state although I don’t know that I can travel to the games. He is a great player and a great kid on and off the court. I wish him well.

We (kids and adults alike) are all disappointed in the outcome of the game last night but we’ll get over and look forward to some exciting basketball next year. We wanted to go further, a lot further but there’s nothing to be ashamed of because there are a lot of high school teams who didn’t even make it into the tournament. We are very proud of our guys!

By Just Nasty & Mean

March 5, 2009 5:14 PM | Link to this

Still a Fan and Love this Game

Do us all a favor and post a copy of the Centennial layup showing the clock expired. It’s easy to win an argument when you don’t have to produce the evidence.

I agree with Love this Game, the black ref seems extremely even-handed, fair and balanced. He didn’t hesitate and called the layup good and within the time. There were MANY delayed whistles from the curly-headed pimp white guy.

If you have a copy of the game, then you should easily see at the end of the game the jersey pull, push down that was a no-call by the refs—the 2nd call that cost Centennial the game (one that caused Centennial not to win, and another that caused Centennial to lose.)

As you say-Still a Fan—there is absolutely no doubt in my mind—-there was something political, or otherwise that influenced these/this ref to screw Centennial. Again, nothing against SG.

But the refs are stupid low-life, scum-sucking A*******holes and shouldn’t be a part of the human race, much less such a negative influence on decent young men and a ruining a wholesome family sport.

By Bill, Tourney Fan

March 5, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this

Still a Fan: I was at the whole tourney 2 years ago and yes my friends and I saw the Centennial kids run, push, argue and curse fans that wouldn’t move from seats they had sat in for the games before. They were running the aisles while other games were being played, trying to antagonize fans into moving. So I repeat THE CENTENNIAL STUDENTS ARE THE WORST BEHAVED IN THE STATE. Is that clear enough? I’m sorry they’re spoiled brats but sometimes the truth just hurts. The Gwinnett Arena sherriffs on hand even had a hard time with them and I know some of deputies.

And yes I’ve been to many games at Norcross, at least 15 to 20 over the last 5 years. And I saw Louis Williams at South probably 30+ times over his career. And all their tourney games so I’ve seen hundreds of games around the state and therefore have much to draw from history. BTW Louis was probably the most fun to watch of all.

The last 2 games I saw Centennial play, they got blown out, Miller Grove and Wheeler. They just aren’t as good as 2 years ago.

By love this game

March 6, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

JUST NASTY AND MEAN.. STILL A FAN..

I am a SG fan and have been since Louis was a freshman. I know many South parents and I am friends with many South parents - that is how I know the games are filmed every game. South also has a person that films every game. The film has been looked at by many and even a Cent. basketball parent has viewed and the truth of the matter is the ball was not out of the Ryan’s hand in time. It is very sad and I agree that the Ref probably did not know it when he called it a “no basket” but the release of the ball was not quick enough. Sorry.. I am realistic enough to know that SG will have to fight tooth and nail to beat Wheeler, as they dont match up that well with them, but it is not impossible, only because SG dont have a Richard Howell. Everyone else on Wheeler will easily be matched up. Norcross, please…The most overrated team because of their past. They will not beat Wheeler and if SG had to play them - SG would beat them. FYI - summer league - SG beat Norcross by 10 or more at GA State. And.. SG Head Coach took his starting 5 out when they played Norcross.. The only thing holding SG up is their Coach. He maybe the worst Coach in Gwinnett County besided Shiloh’s coach.

Lorenzo Brown - I know him and have known him since he was a little boy. He has a great family and gets major support all over Ga. My family will continue to watch him grow and support his career path no matter where it leads him. If you know him - ask him why they lost the game - he will not say because of the ref’s - he will not say that Ryan got the shot off in time. He is a true player of the game and he knows why they lost. He doesnt run from the truth.. So stop crying Mean and Nasty and face the facts. Please talk to me after Saturday and see what everyone has to say. I am confident that South will beat Milton and they will move into the final 4!! And it will be well deserved since noone even thought they could win Region!!

By still a fan

March 7, 2009 9:22 PM | Link to this

Dear Bill, a tourney fan: The way the GHSA set up the finals at Gwinett Arena two years ago, with the back to back games, it made it VERY DIFFICULT for fans to get seats. The Centennial/Norcross game was the last game, with the Collins hill girls playing their final game before us. After the Collins Hill game, their fans did not leave and stayed to cheer for Norcross. A huge group of the Centennial fans were waiting outside because the arena people would not sell them a ticket or let them in until some of the fans cleared out. You can imagine how that would make these kids feel - your team gets to the Championship game, you are outside the arena and you are told you might not get in! Once they finally got in, they all wanted to sit together obviously so they came down the aisles and poured into a couple of sections. They didn’t plan on sitting during the game anyway but the Arena ushers came down and said there had to be one seat per kid. They were scrambling to find seats. My husband and I were there with our kids and some of their friends and we were lucky to get seats ourselves. Our kids and their friends finally got seats with the other students. These kids wanted to sit as a student section like the Norcross kids on the other side but being first timers, they didn’t know to get their really early and grab a section. Anyway, we can argue this back and forth all day but I just hate to see our kids branded as bad fans, etc. There are good and bad kids at every school but we have a lot of great kids at our school. Everyone has this idea that because our school is in North Fulton, that automatically means that every kid is some spoiled, rich brat. That is totally not the case at Centennial. We have a very diverse student population with many nationalities, kids from well off families, kids from middle class and kids who are on free lunch. We have very high SAT scores and our school just won a grant from Siemens as one of the top AP Math and Science schools in the nation. No other school in Georgia won that. As I said before, we attended almost every home game this year and our kids cheered loudly but I don’t consider them bratty.

To the SG fan: I knew Milton had a good team and I felt they could beat you. We beat Milton twice this year but they played their hearts out. I don’t know that Milton can get past Valdosta if that’s who they play. As far as talking to Lorenzo, my son is in his math class and as you can imagine no one wanted to do much talking about the game. They all know they let that one slip away and should have won. But we’re still proud of these guys and look forward to next year.

By Vanguard Basketball

March 10, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this

The VANGUARD BASKETBALL SKILLS CLINIC will be held at Walton High School on saturday and sunday March 14th and 15th. Registration will be saturday March 14th 8:30 to 9:30am, and camp will be from 10am to 6pm. Camp hours sunday March 15th are 10am to 6pm. The cost is $139 per camper for both days and $85 for a singe day if you have scheduling issues that weekend. The camp is open to BOYS and GIRLS ages 8 to 18 years old. Head instructor MARK EDWARDS trains top GA players like RYAN HARROW and LORENZO BROWN. For more information call 678-521-4100 or email visionary38@gmail.com