Preseason 2022-23 FAB 50: Teams No. 31-50!

Right now Ballislife.com ideas off its 2022-23 highschool basketball protection with our first installment of the preseason 2022-23 FAB 50 Nationwide Group Rankings. We start with groups No. 31-50.

Observe: The FAB 50 powered by Ballislife.com is a continuation of the Nationwide Sports activities Information Service rankings that started in 1952. These have been the primary nationwide highschool rankings and the late Artwork Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They have been compiled for a few years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 23 years in the past.

Preseason 2022-23 FAB 50 Nationwide
Group Rankings Powered by Ballislife.com

By Ronnie Flores

(Remaining 2021-22 rating in parentheses; *Signifies forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Signifies forfeits and defaults not included; Search for preseason Area-By-Area Prime 20 Rankings on Wednesday, November 9 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Tuesday, November 22.)

GO TO: No. 31 / No. 32 / No. 33 / No. 34 / No. 35 / No. 36 / No. 37 / No. 38 / No. 39 / No. 40 / No. 41 / No. 42 / No. 43 / No. 44 / No. 45 / No. 46 / No. 47 / No. 48 / No. 49 / No. 50

31. (35) Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, Pa.) 23-4
Key Gamers: PG Rob Wright III 6-0 2024 (No. 26 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Baylor commit), PG Khaafiq Myers 5-11 2024, PF Sultan Adewale 6-8 2023, SF Amir Williams 6-6 2024.
Why This Rating: The Saints crack the preseason FAB 50 for the primary time since 2019-20 and the defending PIAA Class 4A champions have loads of expertise and weapons. Coach Carl Arrigale counts three returning starters and 5 lettermen again from a membership that captured the 2021-22 Philadelphia Catholic League title after bouncing again from a two week shutdown in January on account of COVID-19 protocols. It begins with Wright, a professional All-American candidate who averaged 19.3 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 4.3 apg and might beat groups as a arrange man or by taking up down the stretch. Adewale (11.7 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 2.1 bpg), initially from London, England, excelled in his first 12 months within the PCL along with his rebounding and shot-blocking and can make an excellent greater affect this season. Myers (9.7 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.3 apg) compliments Wright within the backcourt, whereas Williams will tackle an expanded function. “Our power is our protection, ball-handling and three level capturing,” Arrigale stated.
 The Skinny: The Saints are a strong No. 2 in Pennsylvania behind No. 10 Imhotep Constitution and the favorites within the PCL over Roman Catholic and West Catholic after coming into the playoffs because the No. 4 seed final season. The expertise Neumann-Goretti gained final season will repay and the workforce has added items that may contribute. Chester switch Lorenzo Jerkins (6-5, 2024) will assistance on the boards along with his relentless motor and is an enhancing offensive expertise. 4-year veteran Bruce Smith (6-2, 2023) and Stephon Ashley-Wright (5-11, 2026), the youthful brother of Wright III, provides depth to a workforce seeking to seize this system’s thirteenth PCL title underneath Arrigale. If this workforce could be constant on the boards towards the ranked groups on its schedule, it is going to be a powerful candidate to crack the Prime 25. The Saints will take part within the Iolani Basic in Hawaii (Dec. 16-21) and play No. 20 Vashon (Jan. 15) on the Spalding Hoophall Basic.

32. (32) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 26-5
Key Gamers: SG LeBron James Jr. 6-5 2023 (No. 35 ESPN.com), SG Isaiah Elohim 6-5 2024 (No. 13 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SF Ashton Hardaway 6-6 2023 (No. 123 Rivals.com), PG Dylan Metoyer 6-0 2023, PF Jimmy Oladokun 6-9 2023, PF Noah Williams 6-6 2024 .
Why This Rating: The Trailblazers are preseason FAB 50 ranked for the eighth consecutive season, however for the primary time in 5 years they don’t open because the No. 1 California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) membership. In actual fact, Sierra Canyon is available in at No. 4 in California due to its heavy personnel losses and the standard of returnees to the state’s prime groups. James (8.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.8 apg, 1.9 spg) has been within the nationwide highlight since coming into highschool and has been a contributor to 3 FAB 50 ranked groups, however for the primary time would be the chief and one in every of two go-to offensive gamers. The opposite is Elohim (10.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg in 17 video games), one of many nation’s greatest juniors and an skilled participant in strain video games. Metoyer (4.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 2.4 apg) is a veteran on the lead guard place and is rarely afraid of the large moments. There’s a advantageous line for this workforce between profitable the CIF open crown and the uphill battle of attempting to reclaim the title as a possible third-place workforce in its league.
The Skinny: The Trailblazers have the substances to maneuver up from the spot they completed within the rankings final 12 months, however the circumstances are a lot completely different. This system has joined the Mission League, which incorporates No. 15 Harvard-Westlake, the workforce it misplaced to within the CIFSS open playoffs, and No. 38 Notre Dame. Sierra Canyon did rebound to beat the Wolverines within the SoCal open playoffs, however Harvard-Westlake has extra skilled personnel again so it does need to be ranked greater. Notre Dame has terrific personnel, however Sierra Canyon has completed extra from a nationwide perspective so it’ll begin because the league’s No. 2 workforce. To ensure that Sierra Canyon to win CIF Southern Part open and state crowns, it’ll want James to double his manufacturing from final season and have constant scoring performances. Elohim batted nagging accidents in the summertime and fall; if he has an enormous junior season it ought to take a number of the strain off James and open up ending lanes for transfers Hardaway (a reserve for 2022 FAB 50 champ Duncanville), Oladokun and Williams. Sierra Canyon will play within the Les Schwab Invitational (Dec. 27-30), the place it may doubtlessly face No. 16 Bishop Gorman within the semifinal and No. 8 Duncanville within the closing. That’s the one tourney it is going to be concerned in (in addition to the Mission League tourney) and has single video games with No. 17 Christ the King, St. Vincent-St. Mary of Ohio and No. 18 Columbus.

33. (NR) St. John’s (Washington, D.C.) 15-13
Key Gamers: PG Malik Mack 6-1 2023 (Harvard commit), PF Donnie Freeman 6-9 2024 (No. 26 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Daquan Davis 6-1 2024 (No. 87 247Sports.com).
Why This Rating: This 12 months within the highly effective Washington Catholic Athletic Convention (WCAC), No. 3 Paul VI is the clear favourite and we go together with the Cadets because the No. 2 workforce in a detailed name over Gonzaga of Washington, D.C., and DeMatha of Hyattsville, Md., with Bishop McNamara of Forestville, Md., and Bishop O’Connell of Arlington, Va., additionally within the combine. That quartet of groups is considerably interchangeable and will knock one another off and it wouldn’t be a shock to see one bounce into the rankings as Bishop McNamara did final season. Coach Pat Behan returns three starters and eight lettermen off a aggressive WCAC workforce that was in a position to take Paul VI into three overtimes earlier than shedding one recreation and swept Gonzaga earlier than falling to No. 21 Sidwell Buddies within the District of Columbia Faculties Athletic Affiliation (DCSAA) Class AA semifinals. Mack is a artful lefty with a superb really feel for the sport and a excessive basketball IQ on the courtroom to go with his good grades off it. He was a primary workforce all-WCAC selection final season and Freeman is without doubt one of the most proficient gamers within the Convention. Freeman, who was born within the Bahamas, gained loads of confidence this summer time in main Group Takeover to the Nike EYBL Peach Jam title recreation. Davis, who can excel each on and off the ball, comes over from Baltimore St. Frances Academy, the place he was an all-DMV selection and a Peach Jam 16U champ for Group Takeover. “We now have among the finest backcourts within the DMV and an skilled entrance courtroom,” Behan stated.
The Skinny: For now, we begin off the Cadets within the FAB 50 for the second consecutive season (they have been No. 44 final season) after they performed just one sanctioned recreation throughout the COVID-19 season of 2020-21. Shedding Christian Watson (Miami) to commencement hurts, however the expertise the entrance courtroom brings that Behan talked about ought to ease a few of that misplaced manufacturing. Anthony Davenport (6-7, 2023) and Tim Barton (6-5, 2023) get it performed inside and Ray Watts (6-3, 2023) brings his soccer mentality to the hardwood. The longer term appears to be like brilliant, too, as St. John’s welcomes a proficient freshmen group that features 5 gamers who ought to earn a varsity letter and push the veterans. The Cadets clearly have to chop down on the loss complete to stay on this vary within the rankings and must pull out WCAC highway wins to stay close to the highest of the convention standings. They may also look to seize the title on the Torrey Pines Vacation Basic in San Diego, Calif. (Dec. 26-30).

34. (NR) Lake Highlands (Dallas, Texas) 32-5
Key Gamers: SG Tre Johnson 6-6 2024 (No. 1 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), C Samson Aletan 6-10 2023 (Yale commit), SG Quinton Perkins 6-1 2023, PG Jaylen Washington 6-0 2024.
Why This Rating: There was an abundance of high quality College Interscholastic (UIL) groups within the FAB 50 in latest seasons and that culminated in Duncanville capturing the 2021-22 FAB title. The Wildcats and No. 37 Beaumont United are two of the groups with an opportunity to finish Duncanville’s five-year stranglehold on the No. 1 spot within the Texas polls together with Class 6A groups resembling Allen, San Antonio Brennan and Shadow Creek, 5A membership Dallas Kimball, and defending Class 4A champ Oak Cliff Religion Household plus main 4A contender Dallas Carter. With three returning starters and 7 lettermen, together with a possible famous person in Johnson, we just like the Wildcats because the No. 2 UIL workforce to start the season. Some revered evaluators really feel Johnson (23.7 ppg, 5.8 rpg) is the perfect junior within the nation and towards the schedule coach Joe Duffield (183-112) has lined up, he’ll have an opportunity to show he’s among the finest gamers within the nation, interval. This guard-oriented workforce areas the ground effectively and might knock down the perimeter shot. Each Perkins and Washington are fast with the ball and transfer their toes on protection. The duo will make groups pay ought to they focus on Johnson an excessive amount of. Elite groups normally have at the very least one above-the-rim inside presence and Aletan is that, as he rim protects and runs the ground effectively. “We now have proficient guards on the perimeter with capability to shoot the ball and Aletan strikes his toes effectively on protection,” Duffield stated.
The Skinny: The Wildcats are a proficient workforce and in addition hungry after a season by which it was a UIL Class 6A regional semifinalist. They’ll clearly need to advance additional within the UIL playoffs to take care of this rating, however they’ll have loads of huge video games to arrange for a playoff run and to doubtlessly transfer into the Prime 25. Whereas there may be depth on the perimeter with gamers resembling Warren Hamilton (6-3, 2023), Khaleel Thomas (6-2, 2023) and Lewis Racine (6-3, 2025), it lacks within the inside. There isn’t a lot margin for error, so Aletan should keep wholesome as a result of Duffield feels his workforce may very well be susceptible to groups with elite measurement. Lake Highlands additionally must be prepared out of the gate as a result of there’s a showdown with No. 8 Duncanville at The Matchup on Nov. 19. The Wildcats additionally play No. 19 Cardinal Hayes and Little Rock Parkview on the Thanksgiving Hoopfest and Purple River Hoopfest. Lake Highlands then travels to Ft. Myers, Fla., to take part within the Metropolis of Palms Match (Dec. 16-21) and open with highly-regarded Newton (Ga.). Ought to it win that recreation a probable matchup with No. 3 Paul VI awaits.

35. (NR) Grovetown (Grovetown, Ga.) 29-3
Key Gamers: SF Frankquon Sherman 6-7 2023 (Winthrop commit), SG Malik Ferguson 6-5 2023 (Georgia State commit), SF Derrion Reid 6-7 2024 (No. 33 Rivals.com), SG Markel Freeman 6-4 2023.
Why This Rating: The Warriors make a splash into the FAB 50, returning their workforce en masse after capturing this system’s first ever GHSA title. Coach Darren Douglas (127-41) simply doesn’t return his lineup, he’s received college-bound abilities, together with AAAAAA Participant of the Yr Sherman, who averaged 17.0 ppg and seven.9 rpg. He was nails within the playoffs, upping his averages to 22 ppg and 11 rpg. Reid (9.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.2 spg) additionally has all-state potential and is understood for his versatile abilities. Ferguson (12.9 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3.8 apg) has terrific really feel and I.Q. and might run a workforce at his measurement, whereas Khaleed Heywood (6-0, 2023) may rating (7.3 ppg) and distribute (3.6 apg). Douglas has an enormous beginning lineup rounded out by Freeman (11.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg) and veteran D.J. Douglas (6-9, 2023). “Not solely do we’ve measurement, we’re good in transition,” Douglas stated.
The Skinny: Grovetown didn’t get a lot notoriety in 2021-22 preseason polls and plenty of felt they have been a 12 months away. The timetable received moved up 12 months and now the Warriors are getting some deserved nationwide acclaim. Simply because the Warriors have been hungry to indicate Peach State followers they might win the GHSA AAAAAA title, they’re keen to indicate the flexibility to compete on a nationwide degree in 2022-23. Not solely did Sherman have 23 factors and 13 rebounds within the state title recreation win over Buford, E.J. Kency (5-10, 2023) had three 3-pointers within the second quarter to spark the workforce. He leads a bench that features Aaron Nomel (6-8, 2023) and Kevin Curtis (6-11, 2026). Grovetown must be able to go popping out of the block, because it has a showdown with AAAAAAA energy and No. 12 Wheeler on the Vacation Hoopsgiving (Nov. 26) in Atlanta. The Warriors additionally play on the Battle of the Bluff in Memphis and within the Kingdom of the Solar Match (Ocala, Fla.) which additionally contains No. 16 Pickerington Central, Dec. 27-30.

36. (11) La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 20-5
 Key Gamers: SF Kaleb Glenn 6-6 2023 (No. 69 247Sports.com, Louisville commit), PG Tybo Bailey 6-3 2024 (No. 102 247Sports.com), PG Trenton Walters 5-6 2023 (Radford commit), SG Zaide Lowery 6-3 2023 (Marquette commit), C Gus Yalden 6-9 2023 (No. 93 247Sports.com, Wisconsin commit).
Why This Rating: The Lakers have been a FAB 50 staple for a decade, capturing GEICO Nationals in 2016-17 and ending as runner-up in 2018-19, ending one win in need of a FAB 50 title twice. Since then, LaLu hasn’t been again to that degree however has rebounded properly from its 10-10 mark throughout the shortened 2020-21 season. This group can transfer up from this spot if it stays-injury free and proves it may possibly rebound with the upper-echelon groups within the NIBC. Glenn is an effective athlete and bodily, which makes him a go-to kind scorer on this membership. Walters is a fast guard who makes ball-handlers work the complete recreation whereas on the offensive finish is a 40 % 3-point shooter. Bailey can rating, rebound and has loads of expertise in huge video games. Lowery strikes effectively with out the ball and excels in catch-and-shoot conditions. “Our guys know tips on how to play and in our motion-based offense, we wish to let the ball discover the suitable shot,” coach Pat Holmes stated. “This group desires to get higher.”
The Skinny: LaLu is the seventh and closing of the ten NIBC golf equipment within the preseason FAB 50, as Wasatch Academy of Utah, Legacy Early Faculty of South Carolina and Bishop Walsh of Maryland have work to do with a purpose to keep afloat within the convention standings and transfer up into the FAB 50. Coach Holmes is aware of precisely what it takes to win on the highest NIBC degree and has a coachable group, however the prime seven gamers from final season are gone, together with two elite guards to switch, so there may be a lot to show. Rebounding is what separated the 2017 and 2019 LaLu golf equipment from its competitors and he’s relying on Yalden to be a key rebounder and for the guards to do their justifiable share, too. The 2 holdovers from final 12 months are Christian Humphrey-Rembert (6-7, 2024) and Hampton Dauparas (6-6, 2023). Holmes is aware of the margin for error for a profitable NIBC season is small, particularly with two new groups and the actual fact the three groups his membership has to play twice are No. 1 Montverde Academy, No. 2 Dawn Christian Academy and No. 30 Oak Hill Academy.

37. (29) Beaumont United (Beaumont, Texas) 36-3
Key Gamers: SG Wesley Yates III 6-4 2023 (No. 23 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Washington commit), SF Trealyn Porchia 6-5 2023, PG Kayde Dotson 6-2 2024, SF Clarence Payia 6-5 2024.
Why This Rating: The Timberwolves have been among the finest tales of the 202-21 season, profitable the Texas College Interscholastic League (UIL) Class 5A state title on the power of last-second heroics by Terrance Arceneaux (Houston). They opened up at No. 19 final season, and performed to that degree when it counted, capturing their second consecutive title as Arceneaux netted 10 of his 14 factors within the closing two minutes of the title recreation. Coach David Inexperienced Jr. loses an All-American, however has one other potential one in Yates (19.7 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 2.8 spg), a bodily specimen who can put the ball within the gap in addition to any huge guard within the nation. Yates had a standout summer time and is primed to steer this workforce on one other deep playoff run. Porchia (12.9 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 2.4 spg) has high quality provides in soccer as a large receiver, however has labored laborious to enhance his basketball expertise. Dotson (8.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 1.2 spg) is an skilled flooring normal who has been a key a part of the previous two state title-winning golf equipment. Payia (9.0 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.7 spg) is minimize out to be a D1 wing, and on this workforce his versatility is an enormous asset, as he can deal with the ball or play a ahead spot and work the boards.
The Skinny: A workforce’s classification has no bearing on its preseason positioning, nevertheless it may have an effect on its closing rating due to the power of the playoff division. Beaumont United is the two-time defending UIL Class 5A champs, however this 12 months are in Class 6A, Area III. That impacts the Timberwolves as a result of No. 8 Duncanville has been the kingpin of Class 6A for the previous 4 years and that classification incorporates a deeper area of high quality groups in its post-season match than Class 5A. The lack of Arceneaux drops this workforce a couple of spots within the rankings, however the Timberwolves do have super depth and get after it defensively to create simple scoring alternatives and make up for his or her lack of an elite huge. Function gamers Paul Anderson (6-3, 2023), Mark Roach (5-10, 2023), Jacori Smith-Jackson (6-2, 2023), Cameron Mickles (5-10, 2023) and David Johnson (6-4, 2025) are all again extra skilled and proficient and that depth ought to repay within the huge video games down the road. Beaumont United could have an opportunity to see the place it stands straight away on the RCS Season Opener vs. Cypress Falls (Nov. 12). It performs highly-regarded Dallas Carter on the RCS Hoopsgiving Basic (Nov. 23) and Fort Bend Marshall on the Thanksgiving Hoopfest (Nov. 26).

44. (NR) North Laurel (London, Ky.) 28-6
Key Gamers: SG Reed Sheppard 6-2 2023 (No. 22 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Kentucky commit), SF Ryan Davidson 6-4 2023, PG Brody Brock 6-0 2023.
Why This Rating: The Jaguars superior to the KHSAA Candy 16, falling within the first spherical to Pikeville, 59-51. North Laurel has the motivation, and extra importantly, the expertise to seize this system’s first state title and loads of alternative to show its rankings value. Coach Nate Valentine (185-70) counts three returning starters, together with Sheppard, the son of former two-time NCAA champ Jeff Sheppard of Kentucky. The Bluegrass State’s largest recruit in latest reminiscence averaged 25.5 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 7.6 apg, and 4.4 spg whereas capturing over 54 % from the sphere and 38 % from 3-point vary. Sheppard is the returning Gatorade State Participant of the Yr and has scored 2,931 profession factors with one season to go. Davidson, who scored 23 factors and grabbed 11 rebounds within the loss to Pikeville, is a superb scholar and versatile participant who can beat groups inside and outside. He’s a 20 ppg scorer and averaged over 6 rpg as a junior. The third returning starter is Brock (8.2 ppg), who quarterbacks the membership and is deft at ensuring the Jaguars get a top quality shot.
The Skinny: The Jaguars not solely have a proficient base, they excel due to familiarity, as a majority of the gamers on this small city roster have been enjoying collectively since elementary faculty. This helps make them extraordinarily environment friendly and a FAB 50 worthy workforce regardless of the general lack of top with Davidson the tallest participant on the roster. “Have been among the many state’s leaders in factors per recreation, area aim, 3-point and free throw share,” Valentine stated. That effectively and lack of top might be put to the check greater than ever this season. North Laurel will play No. 10 Imhotep Constitution within the Kentucky Play-By-Play Basic at Freedom Corridor in Louisville on Dec. 11. The Jaguars will then journey to the distinguished Metropolis of Palms Basic in Ft. Myers, Fla., the place they open towards Charlotte (Punta Gorda, Fla.) and can meet No. 26 Myers Park ought to they win that opener. North Laurel may also play on the Spalding Hoophall Basic towards No. 28 Mt. St. Joseph on Jan. 15.

45. (NR) Jackson-Reed (Washington, D.C.) 27-5
Key Gamers: SF Rob Dockery 6-6 2024 (No. 61 Rivals.com), PG Marvin Brimage 6-2 2023.
Why This Rating: There are many deserving FAB 50 groups within the DMV, and we appeared strongly at a bunch of them for the ultimate spot from the East Area, together with longtime FAB 50 powers Gonzaga and DeMatha Catholic from the WCAC. Bishop McNamara and Bishop O’Connell may also give ranked groups suits and have been listening to good issues about Rosedale Christian in Baltimore, however we couldn’t pass over the Tigers. Coach David “Tee” Johnson (a Gonzaga graduate) has three returning starters and 7 lettermen off a membership that captured the DC Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (DCIAA) title for the fourth time in 5 seasons with a 59-47 victory over Coolidge of D.C. The massive gun is Dockery, a returning All-Met choice who averaged 14 ppg and 5 rpg. Brimage (11.5 ppg, 2.0 apg) is one other honors candidate whereas Joseph McRae (5-11, 2024) is a clutch performer and had some huge moments within the Tigers’ 2021-22 playoff run. “We’re a superb defensive ball membership,” Johnson stated.
The Skinny: Not a lot separates Wilson from the No. 3 workforce from the WCAC and we may simply have Gonzaga or DeMatha within the rankings. In spite of everything, for the ten seasons previous to this one, we had three WCAC groups ranked within the preseason 9 instances. Jackson-Reed (which was referred to as Wilson final faculty 12 months) defeated Gonzaga within the District of Columbia Faculties Athletic Affiliation (DCSAA) Class AA semifinals and have been favored within the title recreation earlier than falling on the buzzer to No. 21 Sidwell Buddies. The lack of All-Met Participant of the Yr Darren Buchanan Jr. (Virginia Tech) does drop the Tigers a notch or two, however this workforce might be hungry to atone for that loss and the roster is bolstered by three newcomers. Justin Gilmore (6-0, 2024) is a speedy guard who transferred in from Gonzaga, Kai Settles (6-7, 2024), a switch from St. John’s, and Jayden Fort (6-7, 2025) add wanted measurement and depth. In Southern California on the inaugural SoCal vs. DMV Tip-Off Showcase (Dec. 3-4), the Tigers will play Campbell Corridor (North Hollywood, Calif.) and No. 40 St. Frances Academy. Additionally they have a showdown with No. 22 John Marshall and tangle with Sidwell Buddies on Jan. 19.

46. (NR) Isidore Newman (New Orleans, La.) 28-5
Key Gamers: SG Chris Lockett 6-5 2023 (No. 150 Rivals.com), PG Canin Jefferson 6-1 2023, PF Todd Jones 6-8 2024 (No. 112 247Sports.com), SF Chris Leman 6-7 2024.
Why This Rating: There are some high quality Louisiana Excessive Faculty Athletic Affiliation (LHSAA) groups resembling Port Allen, Archbishop Hannan and Madison Prep, however we tab the Greenies because the workforce to beat from the Pelican State. Coach Randy Livingston (a two time first workforce All-American at Newman in 1992-93) welcomes again 4 starters and 7 lettermen off a workforce that captured the LHSAA Division III state crown. Lockett (16 ppg, 6 rpg, 5 apg) has been a nationally-known participant since center faculty, has been all-state twice and was named 2021-22 state participant of the 12 months by Louisiana sportswriters. Jefferson (17 ppg, 4 apg) was named second workforce all-state and is a clutch performer who Livingston depends on to provoke offense. Jones (10 ppg, 8 rpg, 2 bpg) not solely patrols the paint, however is an effective sufficient athlete to make an affect in transition whereas Leman (9 ppg, 4 rpg) offers the lineup loads of versatility. “The power of our workforce is our senior guards and our defensive capability up entrance,” Livingston stated.
The Skinny: This isn’t solely a proficient workforce, however one with loads of measurement and shot-blocking capability that might be robust to beat if all of the items come collectively. Newcomers Chris Cenac Jr. (6-8, 2025), Chris Birden (6-7, 2025) and Kobe Butler (6-4, 2025) might be counted on in some unspecified time in the future throughout a nationwide schedule, particularly Cenac along with his inside capability. Livingston (who led Newman to 3 of its 10 state titles) stated final 12 months’s membership was the perfect workforce the varsity has ever produced. This workforce has an opportunity to be higher, however from a nationwide perspective nonetheless has a lot to show. Newman will get its alternative to do exactly that. The Greenies will play Frisco Memorial on the Thanksgiving Hoopfest in Dallas and also will take part within the Metropolis of Palms Match earlier than Christmas. In arguably the perfect first spherical recreation of the loaded bracket, Newman faces No. 10 Imhotep Constitution.

47. (NR) Pewaukee (Pewaukee, Wis.) 27-3
Key Gamers: PF Milan Momcilovic 6-9 2023 (No. 31 ESPN.com, Iowa State commit), SG Nick Janowski 6-3 2024 (No. 89 247Sports.com).
Why This Rating: The Pirates price as No. 1 amongst Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (WIAA) golf equipment and for good cause. Pewaukee captured the Division 2 state crown with a dominant 67-48 win over La Crosse Central. Each golf equipment misplaced firepower off final 12 months’s items, however the Pirates returnees embrace two of the perfect gamers within the nation of their respective class, so it’s not a tough name to go together with coach David Burkemper’s membership as state preseason No. 1. Momcilovic is without doubt one of the greatest capturing forwards within the nation, coming off a junior season by which he averaged 18.1 ppg 7.7 rpg and a couple of.6 apg, along with having a standout summer time on the Nike EYBL circuit for Group Herro. Janowski, who netted 19 factors within the state title recreation as Momcilovic did, averaged 17 ppg, 4 rpg, and three apg. He’s a left-hand sharpshooter that makes groups pay from the surface, canning 85-of-188 (45.2 %) of his 3-point makes an attempt.
The Skinny: Pewaukee is extra than simply two gamers and it’s truly the two-time defending state champs. The workforce returns eight lettermen from final 12 months’s membership regardless that Kaeden Osterman (6-3, 2024) is the one different returnee to get vital time within the state title recreation. The Pirates are going to wish to develop the reserves and hope the 2 huge weapons keep wholesome of their quest for a 3-peat. The sport vs. No. 41 Totino-Grace on the Breakdown Border Battle might be huge from a nationwide perspective and the loss depend should stay low to ensure that this membership to maneuver up within the FAB 50. The Pirates are the ultimate workforce from the Midwest Area to crack the rankings, as Ben Davis of Indianapolis, and Chicago golf equipment Whitney Younger, St. Rita and Curie have been additionally strongly thought of.

48. (NR) Grissom (Huntsville, Ala.) 24-5
Key Gamers: PG R.J. Johnson 6-3 2023 (No. 149 247Sports.com, Alabama commit), SG Izzy Miles 6-2 2023, SG D.J. Thompson 6-2 2023.
Why This Rating: The Tigers are the workforce to beat amongst Alabama Excessive Faculty Athletic Affiliation (AHSAA) golf equipment. Grissom counts 4 returning starters and 7 lettermen again from a membership that fell within the Class 7 Space 7 semifinals to Sparkman of Harvest, 65-58. Legendary coach Jack Doss has coached 5 state Mr. Basketball winners and Johnson is proficient sufficient to be the sixth. He was a 3rd workforce Class 7A all-state honoree as a junior after averaging 16 ppg, 6 rpg and a couple of.4 apg whereas accumulating 67 steals. Miles is an aggressive offensive participant with a top quality mid-range recreation, whereas Thompson excels each on and off the ball. “We now have a strong all-around workforce and play nice workforce protection,” Doss stated.
The Skinny: Grissom isn’t solely proficient, it’s motivated after coming into the 2021-22 post-season because the No. 2 ranked workforce in Class 7A. This workforce can be bolstered by two newcomers: Bren Martin (6-5, 2024), who has a pleasant mix of athleticism and talent, and Justin McCall (6-2, 2024), a participant who makes use of his physicality on each ends of the ground to affect the sport. Doss has captured an AHSAA file 10 state titles as a coach, so he is aware of what it takes to win and his workforce has constructive momentum coming into the season after enjoying effectively throughout the NCAA June Scholastic Stay interval towards Georgia golf equipment. The Tigers will play within the King Cotton Basic in Pine Bluff, Ark., Dec. 27-30. Coach Doss’ membership additionally will meet highly-regarded Starkville, one in every of two Mississippi golf equipment thought of for the FAB 50 together with Tupelo.

49. (NR) Bartlett (Bartlett, Tenn.) 33-7**
Key Gamers: SF Christian Alston 6-5 2024, PG Ok.J. Neville 6-2 2025, PF Matthew Stokes 6-9 2023, C Javar Daniel 6-10 2023.
Why This Rating: The Southeast Area has been the deepest in recent times and there are a bunch of golf equipment we thought of for this spot. Georgia golf equipment resembling McEachern, Grayson and Newton are deserving and it received’t shock us if a few these golf equipment be a part of No. 12 Wheeler and No. 35 Grovetown within the rankings. We wished to get the No. 1 Tennessee Secondary Faculty Athletic Affiliation (TSSAA) membership within the combine and the Panthers are deserving. Alston is a big-time shooter and might play inside if coach Dion Actual goes with a smaller and faster lineup. Stokes and Daniel give this membership a formidable inside presence, and Stokes specifically, is keen to show he’s one of the underrated prospects within the nation after lacking the 2021-22 common season on account of damage.
The Skinny: This membership has loads of expertise and measurement to play with ranked golf equipment and in addition has loads of motivation. Bartlett certified for the state match final season for the primary time since 2000-01 and superior to the TSSAA Class 4A semifinals earlier than shedding by one level in extra time on a buzzer-beater to Dobyns-Bennett. Guards Amarr Knox (Alabama State) and J.R. Jacobs have been the center and soul of the membership, however there may be expertise and firepower within the backcourt. Regale Moore (6-2, 2023) is anticipated to step up and is starting to get observed by school recruiters, whereas Neville has an opportunity to be a big-time participant. Rashad Williams (6-6, 2024) is one other participant who’ll make this workforce robust to beat and already has D1 provides. Bartlett has to maintain the loss depend pretty low and hope the bounces go its method this 12 months with a purpose to keep its place and doubtlessly transfer up within the FAB 50.

50. (NR) Owyhee (Meridian, Idaho) 24-3
Key Gamers: SG Liam Campbell 6-5 2024 (No. 73 Rivals.com), PF Jackson Rasmussen 6-7 2025, SF Titus Bailey 6-2 2023.
Why This Rating: We wished to make a slash with the ultimate workforce on this 12 months’s preseason rankings and having the Storm occupy the ultimate spot within the trade’s longest-running weekly rankings accomplishes that. Owyhee narrowly edged Arizona Interscholastic Affiliation membership Perry and Brophy Prep and Nevada Interscholastic Actions Affiliation golf equipment Liberty and Durango within the West Area pecking order. Led by top-notch junior guard Dedan Thomas Jr., Liberty has an opportunity to be terrific however Owyhee has a proficient junior of its personal in Campbell and extra skilled inside gamers than the 2 Vegas golf equipment. Rasmussen, a future D1 participant on the mid-major plus degree, might be joined up entrance by two gamers shifting from the JayVee in Reece Sasser-Gunson (6-6, 2023) and Daniel Paskewitz (6-8, 2024). Bailey goes to play past highschool and Jayce Allen (6-0, 2025) goes to assist this membership in some unspecified time in the future throughout the season in a key second. “We now have plenty of expertise and tons of capturing surrounding our playmakers, however we have to do a greater job with our inside protection,” coach Andy Harrington stated.
The Skinny: Rating Owyhee is unquestionably going to show heads, as no Idaho workforce has ever been preseason ranked within the FAB 50 or Nationwide Prep Ballot in 36 years of forecasting the nation’s greatest groups. In actual fact, the very best ranked workforce ever from the state was Meridian in 1991-92, when it completed No. 7 within the Midlands Area. Owyhee is greater than deserving, nonetheless, primarily based on its expertise degree, monitor file and the nationwide schedule it has lined up. The Storm will face highly-regarded Rainier Seaside on the Nike Northwest Invitational (Dec. 10) and for the second consecutive season play in The Basic as Damien in Southern California (Dec. 26-30) the place they’ll have a possibility to knock off a number of the West Area’s higher groups. They’ll additionally journey to Florida to take part within the Montverde Academy Invitational Match (MAIT) Jan. 27-29 towards the likes of the top-ranked Eagles, No. 18 Columbus, St. Rita of Chicago and Durango.

Ronnie Flores is the nationwide Grassroots editor of Ballislife.com. He could be reached at ronnie@ballislife.com. Don’t overlook to comply with him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

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