Prep Zone

By still a fan

March 15, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this

Class AAAAA is very deep, you are correct and I’d say that Regional 6AAAAA is one of the toughest, if not the toughest regions in the state. I agree with all your choices for players. Haven’t seen the guy from Newnan play, can’t comment on him.

By Joe

March 15, 2009 6:20 PM | Link to this

Georgia Tech got some great players coming to the program I hope the yellow jackets can get back on top in the ACC.

By kennyg

March 15, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this

Joe

DUH…….Tech has nowhere to go but up.

By Ernest

March 15, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

Just commentin on your AAAA 1st team selections, I would say it look good. Yes, 4 of the 5 play in the always tough 6 AAAA but when you consider the history of that region, you can understand why.

Just a heads up Todd, don’t forget to put your preliminary girls list together. The ladies can shoot the rock also… :)

I also think SW DeKalb girls are not getting enough credit. They have lost 4 games in the past two years to teams in GA, Stephenson twice (2008 AAAAA champions) and Marist twice (2009 6 AAAA Region champions). They are loaded and should be a preseason number one next year.

By Todd Holcomb

March 15, 2009 10:16 PM | Link to this

OK, time for the girls. Let me know if someone is missing. This comes from stats and info I’ve gotten from coaches and from Internet recruiting sites, not to mention several players I’ve had the honor to watch:

Class AAAAA

G Monique Willis, Beach (South Carolina)

F Lauren Coleman, Parkview, Jr.

F Tamika Willis, Westlake (Georgia)

F Telia McCall, Marietta (Virginia)

F Kyra Crosby, McEachern (West Virginia)

Others:

G Nicolle Thomas, Colquitt County (Auburn)

G Khaalidah Miller, Douglass, Jr.

G Olivia Trowers-Solis, Mill Creek, Sr.

G Khalilah Watson, Beach (UAB)

F Nia Evans, Redan, Jr.

F Tiffany Clarke, Norcross (Vandy)

Class AAAA

G Tessah Holt, Fayette County (Florida)

G Morgan Toles, Sandy Creek (Auburn)

G Tesia Davis, Marist, Sr.

F Kayla Lewis, SW DeKalb, Jr.

C Courtney Freeman, Madison County, Sr.

Others:

G Alexis Burke, Bainbridge, Jr.

F LaKenya Drayton, Hephzibah, Sr.

F Anma Onyeuku, Fayette County, Jr.

Class AAA

G Ashley Harris, Franklin County, Sr.

G Karisma Boykin, Carrollton, Sr.

G Elan Brown, Woodward Academy (Vandy)

G Kayla Weaver, Lakeview-FO, Sr.

F Pascale West, Troup (Auburn)

Others:

F Benedria Colbert, Mary Persons, Sr.

F Teshia Griswold, Baldwin, Sr.

F Kendra Grant, Rutland, Sr.

Class AA

F Blanche Alverson, Buford (Auburn)

F Porschia Hadley, Macon County (Virginia Tech)

F Janaye Jasper, Model, Jr.

G Jocelyn Danley, Buford (Valdosta State)

G Chaney Means, GAC, Jr.

Others:

G Brianna Eubanks, Laney, Sr.

C Taylor Ayers, Laney, Sr.

Class A

G Chantel Kennedy, Wesleyan (Colorado State)

G Erin Hall, Wesleyan, Jr.

F Anne Marie Armstrong, Wesleyan (Georgia)

F Katherine Dotson, Savannah Country Day, Sr.

C Mariah Chandler, SACA (Baylor)

Others:

F Katie Covington, Calvary Day, Sr.

F Destiny Mitchell, Randolph-Clay, Jr.

By Kris

March 15, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this

Hey just wanted to let you know that Westover is not in AAAA its in AAA

By Reginald Jones

March 15, 2009 11:56 PM | Link to this

Y’all left off Tiffany Anderson from Dougherty High School, out of Albany, Ga from the Class AAA and Elan Brown teammate Janae Davis from Woodward Academy from the Class AAA team. Two outstanding young ladies on and off the court.

By Dan

March 16, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this

Your entire 5AAAAA team is from the same region. How strong is that? Milton will be top 3 pre-season with 4 of 5 returners.

By Patrick

March 16, 2009 3:20 AM | Link to this

Wow at Region 6-AAAAA. That region is flat out ridunkulous.

And Ryan Harrow-Glen Rice may have been the best combo in AAAAA this year (along with Howell and Stewart from Wheeler, of course).

By Golly

March 16, 2009 8:03 AM | Link to this

great final standings

By GaSouthAlum

March 16, 2009 8:06 AM | Link to this

Todd, I talked with Chunk Reed of Vidalia this weekend down in Macon. Someone needs to get in touch with him, because he said he had a girl that was worthy of all-state and when he says it, it is usually true.

By COO

March 16, 2009 8:32 AM | Link to this

I agree with your All-State selections, except for the mention of Kenny Hall as the first team big. The kid can play.. As far as the top five overall schools..

Wheeler can remain as the top team in the state because of the fact they won in the highest classification. Miller Grove should be a legit number two team because they defeated South Atlanta by more than 10 points (exhibition) but played a tougher schedule than anyone on the list. Miller Grove defeated Westlake, Marist (which should be on the list), Centennial and a few top teams in the nation. Some schools like Centennial, are given to much credit. How could you be ranked in the top five when you lost in the second round.. New suggested Rankings..

1. Wheeler
2. Miller Grove
3. South Atlanta
4. Marist
5. Norcross Dublin, Columbia, Whitefield Academy, Milton, Walton

What is your thought?

By Raider's Fan

March 16, 2009 8:47 AM | Link to this

With 5A how can you forget about Alisha Andrews one of the best point guards in the state? Give her some credit she is fast. Please give the South Side more highlights. In 4A Kendra Long has done a grat job this year. Last I heard Tamika Willis was going to UGA.

By BLUE COLLAR

March 16, 2009 8:54 AM | Link to this

I agree that region 6-AAAAA is definitely tough….but how tough is region 6-AAAA???? the last 4 state champs have all come from this region. During the season Miller Grove was ranked #1, Marist #4, Chamblee #8, and Tucker #10…..During the playoffs Tucker, Marist, and Miller Grove all made it to the elite 8(no other region can say that!!) and Tucker and Miller Grove played for the state title.Then you through in a team like Lakeside who was the only team in GA to beat Miller Grove, this region is stacked. Also Miller Grove pounded Centennial, a team most thought was the best in AAAAA. Be on the lookout next season with Miller Grove bringing back a number of key players, Lakeside bringing back 4 starters, Tucker, Marist and Chamblee to be tough as well. I also believe Lakeside has a point guard that should at least been given honorable mention consideration…..Sheldon Strickland, 20pts..4ast..3stl..(15-11 record)

By UgaDawgGrad

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

The girls name from Vidalia is Shikana Henry - Avg 16.6 ppg; 15.5 rpg; 6.5 blocks per game. Also had 3 triple doubles and countless double-doubles on a team who played without two starters for the majority of the regular season due to injuries. Trust me when I say she is the real deal. Only downside…she shoots around 50% from the charity stripe. Oh, and is just a Jr.

By TRU

March 16, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this

To COO

South Atlanta played the toughest schedule in GA this year….especially playing the always dominate Oak Hill Academy….which had luck on their side with the flurry of 3 pointers in the last mins to squeak by South Atlanta at the end.

Miller grove did win against South Atlanta in exhibition but it was not by more than 10…and SAHS played that game as a exhibition thats why they were not mad……did you see the next game against Centennial(highly ranked AAAAA team) that was the start of the regular season???? South Atlanta beat them like they stole something!!!

I still would say Miller Grove is the second best team in the state even though they have a WEAK lost to Lakeside(bad day i guess).

By Bill from Dublin

March 16, 2009 9:32 AM | Link to this

Mr. Holcomb; It is obvious that you were not in Macon (or at least not watching the games) because you could not have missed Andraya Carter from Buford. Absolutely the best freshman female player I’ve ever witnessed, and one of the most dynamic of the weekend! And, don’t Dublin’s boys belong at least in the top 10 overall?

By BLUE COLLAR

March 16, 2009 9:44 AM | Link to this

I still would say Miller Grove is the second best team in the state even though they have a WEAK lost to Lakeside(bad day i guess).

Very funny TRU!!!! but thats what happens when you run up on region 6-AAAA…….yes it was an exhibition game, but all the players played and it was more than ten! Just the facts….Also, SAHS should be ashamed of playing in that region?!? Kinda reminds me of Memphis in Conference USA lol…

By Todd Holcomb

March 16, 2009 9:58 AM | Link to this

Mr. Holcomb; It is obvious that you were not in Macon (or at least not watching the games) because you could not have missed Andraya Carter from Buford. Absolutely the best freshman female player I’ve ever witnessed, and one of the most dynamic of the weekend! And, don’t Dublin’s boys belong at least in the top 10 overall?

I saw Dublin, and while I was impressed, I really don’t think the Irish are a top-10 team overall. I don’t think they’d qualify for the state playoffs out of Region 6-AAAAA. Very good team, though. I don’t mean to take anything about from Dublin.

Regarding Andraya Carter, you might be right, but I’d be curious to see how Buford fans would rate the players on their team. Do they have 3 of the top 10 players in Class AA? It’s possible. Wesleyan has 3 of the top 10 in Class A.

Miller Grove vs. South Atlanta

I don’t think what happened in an exhibition or in November-December means much. I don’t think Wheeler was the best team through the season, but I think they would be the best team right now, mainly for having played so many good teams over the last several weeks.

The reason I picked South Atlanta at #2 was Favors. Question would be whether South Atlanta could get Favors the ball consistently against Miller Grove’s defense.

By Will

March 16, 2009 10:05 AM | Link to this

Hey Todd, don’t forget about Kendra Long from Mays HS in AAAA. She has been a starter since her Freshman year and is more than worthy of All State Honors.

By TRU

March 16, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this

BLUE COLLAR

Check your records, Miller Grove did not win by more than 10, but it dont matter if it was 30, the game was a scrimmage!

As on being in AAA, well you know South Atlanta cant control that due to the schools population but if you looked at their non-conference schedule…you’d see that it was one of the toughest in the NATION….maybe thats why South Atlanta is the ONLY Georgia team NATIONALLY RANKED!

On a lighter side of things….South Atlanta’s football team probably wish they were in Class A after winning only one game in AAA lol!

But Miller Grove gets much props from me!

By hamma

March 16, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

Todd, Brittany Carter {Newton High School} graduated two years ago then went to UGA. Not sure where she enrolled in school now.

By BLUE COLLAR

March 16, 2009 11:31 AM | Link to this

Well said TRU!!! congrats on getting over the hump.

By FATMAN

March 16, 2009 11:34 AM | Link to this

Todd, the best player at Buford is Alverson—then Carter, Danley is very good—she had the game of her life Saturday night but did not has a good year as she played with bone spurs all year long (Valdosta State is getting a good Player)We will miss all EIGHT of our SR. Carter is one of the best FR. to play( Point) in the state ever and yes she is that good— ARMSTRONG is the best player in the state—next year WESLEYAN will win it all again with Hall and Morris returning !

By wheelerfan

March 16, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this

TRU- S Atlanta has not played the hardest schedule, when your schedule has 4 teams ranked in the top 9 USA today super 25 like wheelers’ does, then come talk to me….one game against oak hill doesnt make your schedule high and mighty

By COO8987

March 16, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

TRU-

I am not doubting South Atlanta’s out of state schedule, but in state, their region was not as tough as Region-6 (AAAA). Miller Grove, playing against tough teams, rose to the occassion on any challenge. Had a 3rd place finsih and runner up finish at two prestigious tournaments. I wish we could play the game again, but I am happy for all teams, especially S. Atlanta, Miller Grove, Redan (girls) and SWD girls. Now another topic.. DeKalb County is best when it comes to the hardwood.. point blank period..

Note: Lakeside is a very talented team, they were just a casualty in a tough loss to Tucker in the Region playoffs

By kush

March 16, 2009 12:55 PM | Link to this

What? Dublin couldn’t compete in 6-AAAAA? Get real. I watched all those teams from the elite eight to the Championships and Dublin can hang with or beat any of them.

Dublin called off the dogs on both GAC and BT when they got a double digit lead. What impresses you? Those teams who are up by 17 points and still have their starters in running and shooting threes? Thats exactly what your supposedly great top ten did. Yea, first class and they really impressd!! Dublin could have waxed GAC and BT by 30 points if they would have kept running and not subed. They are a top ten team and its a shame you media know nothings can’t even see past the Metro area! I’m glad I stopped subscribing to your fish wrapper years ago and that is one reason for the down fall of newspapers in general. You want cater to your customers needs. You let your on opinions and agendas get in the way while reporting only local BIASED coverage.

I’d take Dublin against any state champion and odds are they would go 4-1 or 5-0. And that is a fact. There is no team in this state that has three guards that can cover Dublin’s three guards or shoot like them and Dublin’s big man has as good a jump shot as Flavor. He just happens to live outside of the Metro area thus he gets little attention and he’s only a jr.

Dublin was by far the best team I saw in Macon and from what I watched on GPTV on the AAAA and AAAAA games. Dublin could beat any of those teams.

By CHFanatic

March 16, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

Collins Hill played Norcross and we both loss to and beat them. I will say that Dublin by far was the best team we played even though we beat them. If not for how the game was rescheduled I don’t know how different the out come would have been. We Collins Hill played at 9:00 am the morning before, where Dublin’s game didn’t get over until after 11:30 pm. We played them in the championship game the following day at 2:00 pm do to the Tournament wanting Florida teams playing in the prime time spot (Championship game spot) because it would draw more fans. I understand this because the tournament was held in Florida. Dublin got very little rest and still gave us all we could handle. We had to hang on for dear life after having them down by 16 points early. They are the best team we played in any classification. Take that from a player! Dublin would compete and could win 6AAAAA.

By TRU

March 16, 2009 1:21 PM | Link to this

To COO

I didnt count 9 nationally ranked teams on Wheeler’s Schedule but nevertheless they did have more than the 4 on South Atlanta’s schedule and I throughtout Oak Hill because they are the best of all of them….SA did play most of the best in GA….so they tried to take all comers including a Wheeler and Norcoss. SA’s program is good but not quite the program of “Stealers,” I meant Wheeler’s(had to throw that in lol). STIX had everything to do with them getting the exposure that they got so I’m just glad a inner city school got a chance to show they belong in the mix.

As for that USATODAY’s ranking…..I only noticed one GA team ranked……have any idea who it is???? I’ll give you a clue…… SA lol!

By Eagle 1

March 16, 2009 2:03 PM | Link to this

Columbia will be playing a national schedule2009-2010. Probably Oak Hill ,St.Patricks,De Matha etc.. 29-3 Congrates!!!! Lead by 6’5 junior guard JerShon Cobb

By truthhurts

March 16, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

To Tru. As I recall Andre Malone did not play for South Atlanta last year. Check yourself before you go checking Wheeler for their transfers. It happens, get over it.

By truthhurts

March 16, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

To Tru. As I recall Andre Malone did not play for South Atlanta last year. Check yourself before you go checking Wheeler for their transfers. It happens, get over it.

By MotorMouth

March 16, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s talk about the S. Atlanta vs Columbia game. Do you realize that S. Atlanta shot 41 free throws to Columbia’s 13? WHO PAID WHO??? Anytime Columbia got close Favors got a foul, he shot 21 of those free throws and ended with ONLY 26 points. You do the math. Congrats to Miller Grove,but Thanks to Columbia for going down to AAA and allowing Mufon to get a ring.

By Solve the Problem

March 16, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this

Seed the teams from 5 classifications by records:

Dublin - 1 Miller Grove - 2 S. Atlanta - 3 Wheeler - 4 Whitfield Aca - 5 Tues: 4 vs 5 play in game Thurs: 2 vs 3 & 1 vs Winner 4/5 Sat: Problem Solved - Finals and Consolation Game

The season ends one week later call GHSA.

Miller Grove tried to play Columbia Motormouth but someone running scared bc of those young guards. No need to say Thank you to Columbia - Championship earned 6 FG’s - 2 pts first Quarter - Defense wins Championships!

By Todd Holcomb

March 16, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

What? Dublin couldn’t compete in 6-AAAAA? Get real.

I didn’t say Dublin couldn’t compete. I just don’t think Dublin would’ve been one of the top four teams in that particular region. I could certainly be wrong. I’d like to hear more opinions about that. I don’t think I’m slighting Dublin. I predicted Dublin would win Class AA.

But as for 6-AAAAA, the Big Four - Wheeler, Centennial, Milton and Walton - each have at least one major D-1 recruit, going to an ACC or SEC school. All have starting lineups of future college players for the most part, with a franchise player on top of that. Before it’s all done, I think those four will have put six or seven guys in the ACC or SEC. I just don’t see how Dublin would contend with that.

By MountainMama

March 16, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this

I’d add Towns County Sr. Nikki Winn to the Girls Class A list. I don’t know how many points she ended the season with but I do know that she broke the school record of 1753 (I think that was the number) at the end of the regular season, and she added on a bunch more during the region and state tournament games. She was a 1st Team All-State Player last year….and certainly the catalyst for the Lady Indians this year. Coach Jim Melton still has a loaded group of girls coming up….so even though Nikki will be off to bigger and better places, the Lady Indians will be a force in Class A girls basketball for years to come!

By William

March 16, 2009 6:28 PM | Link to this

Miller Grove, South Atlanta and Wheeler would destroy Dublin. Also, to Mr. Holcomb’s point, Dublin would never have left 6AAAAA into the AAAAA playoffs. As far as a reasonable 6AAAAA comparison, I would put Dublin on the level with Campbell, two good teams with good basic skills and above average athleticism, but not nearly at the level of Centennial, Walton, Milton and Wheeler.

By Columbia Fan

March 16, 2009 6:40 PM | Link to this

MILLER GROVE VS. SOUTH ATLANTA

LISTEN IM TIRED OD ALL THE OPINIONS. THE FACTS ARE THAT THAT MILLER GROVE TEAM IS GOOD. THE BEST IN THE STATE REGARDLESS OF CLASS AND CAN BE LISTED AMONG THE BEST TEAMS GA HAS SEEN. I CANT STAND THEM LIKE I CANT STAND KOBE BRYAND BUT REALITY IS THAT THEY ARE THE BEST. I PERSONALLY WITNESSED THEM DEMOLISH S. ATLANTA BY 9 AND MISSED 28 FREETHROWS. YES THATS A FACT. CHECK THE STATS. HAD THEY MADE FOUL SHOTS, THEY COULD HAVE BEAT THEM BY 40+. STOP BEING BIASED. THEY ARE KIDS AND PLAY HARD ESPECIALLY A MFON VS FAVORS SO BLOW UR BRAINS OUT WIT THE SCRIMMAGE GAME EXCUSE. THE GAME WAS 2 DAYS BEFORE THE START OF THE SEASON ANF FAVORS, MFON, AND THE OTHER 6 D1 PLAYERS THE GROVE HAS PLAYED THE WHOLE GAME. SOUTH ATLANTA WAS DOWN 18 AT ONE POINT AND NEVER HAD THE LEAD IN THE GAME AND NEITHER DID CENTENNIAL, WESTLAKE, MARIST(TWICE)TUCKER(3 TIMES)OR CHAMBLEE. STOP MAKING SCRIMMAGE EXCUSES. WHAT KIND OF GAME WOULD HAVE MADE IT BETTER 4 U. A CHRISTMAS TOURNEY GAME. LOL. WESTLAKE,

By Jacob Deary

March 16, 2009 6:53 PM | Link to this

This has to be a questionable claim. I know the guy is yonung but i just got wind from a friend at Miller Grove that Coach Eddie Johnson and his 3 man staff are all just 26 years of age. Please anyone confirm. This is phenominal if found to be true that a bunch of guys that young could coach a team 2 that level talented or not. Has there ever been a younger coach 2 win it all? In any state?

By South Atlanta Fan

March 16, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this

im sorry columbia fan cause yall would have lost to millar grove and yall did lose to south atlanta but the fact is south atlanta DID NOT lose a in state game and millar grove did and the point with the scrimmage game is that is was a SCRIMMAGE game who will wanna play hard in a SCRIMMAGE game so claim down Cause yall might win next year.I knew that it was going to be some kind of excuse for them losing.

By pop

March 16, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this

Eddie Johnson is a 1999 graduate of Lithonia High, a member of that squad that should have defeated the Westlake team that featured A.J. Moye. He is an excellent individual and has proven himself a great basketball coach. Also, Alisha Andrews of Redan has proven that size doesn’t matter. She is the best point guard in the state.

By TRU

March 16, 2009 8:57 PM | Link to this

Ok let me defend the boys from Zone 3 once again….yes Andre Malone DID NOT play for South Atlanta last year but North Clayton…HOWEVER he WAS NOT recruited there…..he came due to the mess in Clayton County School System. Now speaking of Wheeler…they have tried to recruit right out of South Atlanta’s own gym and thats no lie but I aint mad especially when trying keep their level of standards.

On playing Columbia…..well that was Favors WORST game of the season….so I dont think you want a rematch…it would be a nightmare for the Eagles!

As for Miller Grove….well I’ll say be Happy with your scrimmage victory…..because thats how it was played from SA’s end and I’m sure it was a great learning experience for them…Andre Malone had like 0 points didnt he??? Thank you Miller Grove for getting the butterflies out of Malones stomach so he could be ready for the regular season:)

Congrats again to the NATIONALLY ranked South Atlanta Hornets!!!

And much love to Miller Grove, Columbia, and the rest of the great teams in GA!

Columbia has some nice stock returning….its gonna be interesting!!!

By big dee

March 16, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this

I will give Miller Grove their props they won the state playing against the tough region in the state. But remember Tucker played their first 12 games without their starting center in Brandon Dawson out with a broken forearm and Manny Adkins played with a bad thumb all year long and made it to the finals. They ran out of gas and didn’t get any help that night. Look for them to be back next year with three starters coming back. Its hard to replace a Manny Adkins but they have a solid player in Dawson to carry the torch. Region 6 watch out next year.

By Ga Fan

March 16, 2009 10:11 PM | Link to this

Columbia stop crying about recuited players. If you check the records Darrly Session and Peier Tyson don’t live in your district. Their parents still live in Griffin. They both played down the road last year so it took you to go out of town to help you get over the hump and then you ran from AAAA to three AAA where you wouldn’t see any really fire until the state and South Atlanta busted your bubble. lol

By bodoglefty

March 16, 2009 11:59 PM | Link to this

TODD, THE BEST TEAMS WON ON A GIVEN NITE, AND THAT IS THE WAY IT SHOULD BE. tHERE WERE SOME OUTSTANDING PLAYERS ON ALL THE PLAY-OFF TEAMS….ALL CLASS……….ALSO THEY DESERVE ALL THE RECOGNITION THEY CAN GET…….gOD GIVES THEM EACH ONE THE TALENT TO PLAY THIS GAME, AND I HOPE THEY WILL REMEMBER THAT FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIFE……..BASEBALL IS IN FULL SWING; SOME AWFUL GOOD TEAMS THIS YEAR. I BELIEVE COLUMBUS IN 2-AAA CAN COMPETE WITH ANY CKASS ON ANY GIVEN DAY……GOD BLESS TODD, AND KEEP UP THE GOOD FORUMS, AND REPORTING ON ALL OUR HIGHSCHOOL TEAMS.

By Eagle 1

March 17, 2009 7:10 AM | Link to this

To All S.Atlanta Fans Congratulations on a heckuva season,Doesnt it feel darn good to be State Champs!!! You are the State Champs, we lost and thats it. No excuses!!!! Columbia will regroup and come back next season. We will be ready. Will S.Atlanta be? Now that Favors ,Malone and Nick are gone.What in the world are they gone do now???? 99% of your offense is gone and 100% of your defense is too. There will be no question about where Columbia gonna be ranked and sittin next year. 100% of our offense is back??? Columbia youngsters look a whole lot betta than S.Atlanta and the Whole State of Georgia saw that!! Just Facts!! Please dont say Nick Jacobs????? Congrats to the Hornets!!!!

By Victoria Wins

March 17, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

Nice Job Dekalb County.. I’m not a big fan of Dekalb County Athletics, Outside of Southwest Dekalb and Columbia High Boys team, I feel like Dekalb County coaching is poor and the athletes are wild and out of control. But I have a new opinion of the county teams this year. FIRST COLUMBIA boys and girls deserve to be in the conversation for top teams this year and next, they run a CLASSY program. The girls team really deserve credit, for handling the lost to Carrolton in a tripple over time with so much class. That game was a classic and I think really gave Carrolton the boost needed to win state. I really like the fact that when the players Fouled out they shake the hands of the coaches & players they are playing agianst thats big time sportsmanship, great job coaches!Now SOUTH ATLANTA- lets be real, you had 1 good season.. lets not get ahead of yourselves! Next year you will be back to being BASICALLY nothing! Be careful about kissing your own butt, you don’t have a good program- you had a good team this year and thats it..Next year your back to being that Old Ghetto School you have always been. Getting a ring doesen’t bring Class..I wish it did, but oh well..Back to the Projects you go! Columbia’s boys dominated 4AAAA and Really Dominated 3AAA this year too, I believe they will be back in that big game again soon…surly before South Atlanta will. Anyway, My TOP TEAMS ARE in GIRLS-1.REDAN, SOUTHWEST DEKALB, Weselyan, Buford, Carrolton, Stephenson, Columbia Boys- Wheeler,South Atlanta, Columbia, Centennial,Miller Groove

By jimmy

March 17, 2009 10:30 AM | Link to this

todd,

could you also provide college choices for boys? All this players why can’t UGA get some?

By tj

March 17, 2009 12:15 PM | Link to this

I saw all the 1A, 2A, AND 3A championship games. Dublin looked good. I would love to see them against Whitefield academy. I don’t know who would win but I do know Dublin would not have half as many wide open shots as they did aganist Blessed Trinity. Unless Derick favors got in early foul trouble Dublin could not beat South Atl. Just my opinion. I have been wrong once. Go WOLF PACK!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Todd Holcomb

March 17, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

todd, could you also provide college choices for boys? All this players why can’t UGA get some?

I’ll go back up and edit in the colleges. Good idea.

This has to be a questionable claim. I know the guy is yonung but i just got wind from a friend at Miller Grove that Coach Eddie Johnson and his 3 man staff are all just 26 years of age. Please anyone confirm. This is phenominal if found to be true that a bunch of guys that young could coach a team 2 that level talented or not. Has there ever been a younger coach 2 win it all? In any state?

Great question. I’m sure there has been a younger coach, but it’s pretty rare. Norman Carter was right out of college when he won a title with Taylor County’s boys in the 1960s. He went on to coach six state championship girls teams at Taylor, and won 132 straight games, a state record.

By ?

March 17, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

doesnt lamichael fanning play 2a ball at callaway with jaquan bray?

By Mike

March 17, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

Without a doubt Khaalidah Miller of Douglass High is hands down the best combo gaurd in the state.If not for the the lack of coverage and a subpar team she could have been a viable choice for Miss Georgia Basketball. As a junior she out ranks any gaurd in the state in most catogories and has done so since entering H.S as a 13 yr.old fresh.thats right,she should be a soph.From 1st team all State,County,and City last year including Atlanta Tip-Off Club last year and this year this kids stat stay consistant since her fresh.year on a team whose talent has declined. Those who know the game(College Coaches) know this kid,Why don’t we?Why should she be a mystery here in Atlanta,her home town…why ???

By JEWELL ROLLEN

March 17, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this

TODD, I SAW KENNY HALL PLAY 4 TIMES. NEEDS SOME WEIGHT, HAS NO OUTSIDE SHOT WHATSOEVER! REDAN SHOULD HAVE BEAT NEWNAN, BUT THEY HAD MORE TURNOVERS THAN FIELD GOALS….AND ALISHA ANDREWS IS THE TRUTH. SHE PUT ON A SHOW IN THE AAAAA GIRLS FINAL.

By C.J

March 17, 2009 4:01 PM | Link to this

KUDOS TO MIKE,YES I KNOW KHAALIDAH MILLER AND PRESS THIS YEAR HAS ALLUDED HER LOCALLY,BUT JUST GOOGLE HER NAME AND BEHOLD HOW MUCH IS ON THIS KID. I’VE BILLED AS THE BEST PLAYER IN GEORGIA SINCE MAYA MOORE. I WATCH THIS KID AS AN 11 YR. OLD HIT 10 STRAIGHT 3 PTRS.IN AN AAU SUPER REGIONAL GAME AT SPRAYBERRY HS. WITH THE LOST OF MORGAN JENNINGS (AUBURN) SHE STILL CWAS STRONG ENOUGH TO CARRY THE ASTRO TEAM TO THE S STATE SWEET 16 WITH AN IMPRESSIVE PERFORMACE AT BBEACH BRINGING HER TEAM BACK FROM 23 POINTS DOWN TO TO 5 WITH 3 MINUTES TO PLAY AND THE cOACH COULD NOT PULL IT OUT. EVEN THEN SHE WAS CLEARLY THE BEST PLAYER ON THE FLOOR INCLUDING MONIQUE WILLIS. THE GIRL CAN PLAY AND SHE IS HUMBLE AS WELL. SHE WILL GO FAR, MAYBE OUT OF GEORGIA “WHERE NOBODY KNOWS HER”

By Seven AAA

March 17, 2009 6:34 PM | Link to this

The question is who should be all state not what team is all state. In the 7AAA girls I put these stats up against anyone for Ashley Brown career. 1555pts, 609rbs, 149blks, 317steals and 286assist.

By Tee

March 17, 2009 8:53 PM | Link to this

I have too say that I am fed up with you AJC so-called sports people. First, you pick 3 of the 4 Final Four participants from girls AAA and the one you miss was Carrollton (the state champion at 32-2), then you pick Baldwin to beat Rutland to win the whole thing. Carrollton beat Rutland by 17 and LFO beat Baldwin by 40. Then Carrollton beats LFO by 20. You then pick your AAA girls team and you have the girl from Rutland and Baldwin on the team, but missed the girl from Carrollton named Janyce Ealey who only scored 33 in the semi-final against Rutland (vs 14 from Grant, who she guarded all night)and she averages 18ppg. Why won’t you guys give this team the credit it deserves. They are only 116-10 in 4 years. You guys never cease to amaze me. Carrollton has 2 All State caliber players in Boykin and Ealey.

By Tee

March 17, 2009 8:54 PM | Link to this

Come on guys!!!

By TRU

March 18, 2009 9:27 AM | Link to this

To Eagle 1 and Victoria Wins:

Thanks Eagle 1 for giving props where due because South Atlanta rarely gets it….and Victoria I guess thanks to you too for giving SA “one good season” of credit!

Now as for South Atlanta not having a program….you got to be CRAZY!!!!! South Atlanta’s problem had always been not winning the BIG game! They should have 7 state titles right now honestly (2002 and 2003 Vincent Banks Junior n Senior yrs, 2004 and 2005 and 3 out of the 4 years of D. Favors era)….ALL those years South Atlanta were the dominate team of the class but would always lose the big game…as if they were cursed! Check the records…..this is NOT the first time SA has been this dominate!

As for Columbia next year…I agree…they have to be the favorites to win it all…they have some beast coming back….SA will be good but I’m not sure how good(SA had and undefeated JV season).

If you’re a long time Columbia fan, you should remember when South Atlanta was in the same region with you and were the Dominate team of the pack(1.SA 2.Creekside and MLK,Stone Mtn, Columbia)…that region was like the ACC back then(2002-2004). Then Columbia tookover as the dominate power.

Columbia has been great every since…..I’m glad Columbia dropped down because SA was having no fun dragging everyone they played! Also I can’t forger about that Westover team…they may have something to say next year as well…after all they were the dominate team of the 90’s!!!

By HSturd

March 18, 2009 9:54 AM | Link to this

It’s ashame so many good players games are sacrificed for the favored players of the coaches. I saw a player at the Newton county playoffs play against Redan and with all the ball I watched this season I know has to be one of the best players I saw all season. I even went to the Westlake playoffs to watch her but saw her on crutches. I could only get her first name as I am a recruiter but will find out all information. She played with Stephenson High school and I am positive Redan and Douglass will agree that she is one of the best players in the state.

By Destiny

March 18, 2009 10:39 AM | Link to this

Kendra Long is by far the best shooters in the $A anyone will tell you that. Todd just check out who will be honored next Monday at the Atlanta Tip-Off Club Naismith Awards Banquet…. she will be there!!! AND SHE’S ONLY A JUNIOR!!!!

By John McDonald

March 18, 2009 10:51 AM | Link to this

The best shooting F/G in the state of all classes has to be Manny Atkins from Tucker High School. The young man can shoot the lights out. He was born to shoot. He will be a great player at Virginia Tech. Manny will also be a great student. Tucker is one of the best programs in the state. Coach James Harty led the Tucker Tigers to the Championship Game with only one true talented player. “Way Go Coach!!!!” Tucker over came a lot of problems this year. They played the whole year without a gym. “Way Go Tucker!!!!”

By Kenny

March 18, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

Tod,afterreading the words of Mike and CJ I took it apon myself to find out just who Khaalidah Miller is. As advised I: googled,MaxPreped,4Shoted,GaSported,Dawgposted and HoopedGirlzed her and I think you migt want to take a look. Khaalidah Miller: SCORING PTS. REB.O/D STLS. ASST. 3PT. BLKS. 08-09 21.8pg 610 81/129 91 95 65 64 07-08 16.4 361 51/54 57 121 49 29 06-07 13.9 418 21/54 26 99 55 14 Ranked 13 on Mcdonalds All-American list,20 on Hoopgirlz top 100,ect.ect.ect. I know who she is now and so should you Tod,THIS GIRL CAN REALLY PLAY.WHERE YOU AT AJC?

By BLUE COLLAR

March 18, 2009 12:13 PM | Link to this

No love for Sheldon Strickland of Lakeside-Dekalb? The only Junior point guard to average 20pts 4ast 3stl in the rugged 6-AAAA going up against Miller Grove, Marist, Tucker, Chamblee etc….Combined with Algie Key(who was voted top sophomore in AAAA by georgiahoops.blogspot.com) and Nick Murphy for one of the best backcourts in AAAA!!

By Eagle 1

March 18, 2009 1:07 PM | Link to this

To TRU I Agree!!!!!!

By The Watcher

March 18, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

your class A team really needs some work, Nick Marshall and Kentavious Caldwell have been two of it’s best players all year and both deserve to be first teamers!!!!

By number15

March 19, 2009 9:53 AM | Link to this

I am simply amazed, better yet disappointed by the fact that the Jonesboro High School Girls basketball team is continually snubbed! What else is left for a group of youg ladies to do? A 30-2 season that ended in a 2 point loss (State Semi-Final) to Fayette County, a team that most polls heralded as the best team in the southeast. remember Fayette was held to 12, count them, 12 second half points. Ask Fayette. If they are the least bit honest, they should applaud our girls. The Lady Cardinals should be commended! By the way, the team’s average G.P.A is above 3.50. What an accomplishment considering the foolishness that lingered concerning our Fool Board, pardon me, Our School Board and Accreditation woes. Kudos to the Players, Coaches, Parents, Fans!

“Jones-Boro, Jones-Boro, Jones-Boro, Jonesboro! We Rock This House!”

By North Georgia

March 19, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

Todd,

Did you know that they play basketball north of the Perimeter?? Beleive it or not, their is good quality basketball played in North Georgia in many classifications! Class A has more teams in it than Wesleyan and they are home grown products. You need to put Nikki Winn from Towns County on the All-State Team, she mad it last year as a Junior and was even better this year as a Senior. She scored 1870 career points for the All-Time Scoring Leader at Towns. Here are some of her stats and accomplishments:

Nikki has the All-Time Scoring Record at Towns County with 1,870 points for her career.

Career Record: 88-29

2009 Stats: Gms 32 PPG 18.0 Pts High 30 Shooting % .49 3 Pts Made 85 3 Pt % .45 Assists PG 5.5 Reb PG 4.5 Reb High 8 Steals PG 5.5 Gms 117

Career Pts High 37 Other awards: 2009 Region 8A Player of the Year 2009 Battle of the States All Tournament Team Led Towns County Lady Indians to 2009 Elite Eight Towns County High School Womens Basketball All-Time Leading Scorer (1870pts) 2008 Region 8A Player of the Year 2008 Atlanta Journal Constitution 1st Team 2008 Georgia Sportswriters 1st Team 2008 Battle of the State Christmas Tournament All Tournament Team Led Towns County Lady Indians to 2008 Class A Final Four Scored her 1000th career point as a Junior and also set school individual scoring record in same game (37 points)

Nikki is a very deserving young lady and should be considered and placed on this team.

By North Georgia

March 19, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

Todd,

Did you know that they play basketball north of the Perimeter?? Beleive it or not, their is good quality basketball played in North Georgia in many classifications! Class A has more teams in it than Wesleyan and they are home grown products. You need to put Nikki Winn from Towns County on the All-State Team, she mad it last year as a Junior and was even better this year as a Senior. She scored 1870 career points for the All-Time Scoring Leader at Towns. Here are some of her stats and accomplishments:

Nikki has the All-Time Scoring Record at Towns County with 1,870 points for her career.

Career Record: 88-29

2009 Stats: Gms 32 PPG 18.0 Pts High 30 Shooting % .49 3 Pts Made 85 3 Pt % .45 Assists PG 5.5 Reb PG 4.5 Reb High 8 Steals PG 5.5 Gms 117

Career Pts High 37 Other awards: 2009 Region 8A Player of the Year 2009 Battle of the States All Tournament Team Led Towns County Lady Indians to 2009 Elite Eight Towns County High School Womens Basketball All-Time Leading Scorer (1870pts) 2008 Region 8A Player of the Year 2008 Atlanta Journal Constitution 1st Team 2008 Georgia Sportswriters 1st Team 2008 Battle of the State Christmas Tournament All Tournament Team Led Towns County Lady Indians to 2008 Class A Final Four Scored her 1000th career point as a Junior and also set school individual scoring record in same game (37 points)

Nikki is a very deserving young lady and should be considered and placed on this team.

By POMPEY

March 21, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

I just want to show sum lovvve to the lady wolverines of miller grove Conisha HIck junior gaurd argubaly the best in the state has 1,017 points in her junior year look 4 her to show out next year as a senior

By Joe

March 23, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

Whitney Hagan deserves to be on AAAA all-state team.

By JoAnn

March 23, 2009 10:17 AM | Link to this

Todd,

I can’t find the scores of the Georgia High School Boys game anywhere online!…who won the game between the north and south allstars? Box scores??

Thanks for any assistance…

JoAnn

By Say What

March 26, 2009 9:46 AM | Link to this

I would definitely nominate NIKKI WINN (Towns County) for the All State Team. She is dynamic on the basketball court. Among many outstanding plays with the pressure on, one I will always remember is her “coming through” with the winning points with only 2 seconds on the clock. Not only can she shoot the “lights out”, but she can handle the ball like you have never seen. When it comes to reading the court, she is the best. The game is never about her; it is always about playing smart and playing your best as a team! Again, definitely, should be on the All State Team!!!!!