Brock Netter, Staff Writer
So … last week’s Power Rankings seemed to be a huge hit, and I’m incredibly thankful to every single person who read it.
I’m even more thankful to the coaches and athletes who used it for whatever reasoning, whether it be bulletin board material or simply just acknowledging what I think about their respective teams.
Remember, it’s all about conversation and spotlighting the athletes at the end of the day.
So with that being said, here are this week’s Power Rankings.
Once again, be sure to thank your athletic directors: Like an usher at church, they are doing the Lord’s work — yes, I will say this every week.
BOYS
1. New Boston (3-0)
Figuratively speaking, since we all can’t pack the gyms the way we did last year, but did anyone see the Tigers drop 102 points last week? I don’t care who you play, that’s downright impressive. And then to follow that up with a 33-point victory a couple of days later? Not bad at all. The train continues to roll in Glenwood.
2. Wheelersburg (3-0)
Balance, balance and more balance. The Pirates have had at least two players in double-digit scoring figures in every game this season, including four in their rout of Oak Hill. At this point, we’re just waiting for that Jan. 5th matchup at Waverly, because it doesn’t look like anyone is slowing down the Pirates anytime soon.
3. Adena (5-1)
I finally got the chance to see what Adena was all about, and this team looks to have all the elements of a championship team. Now whether that’s a SVC, sectional or district championship remains to be seen. Logan Bennett is a monster, Preston Sykes’ stock continues to rise and Nate Throckmorton might be the ultimate glue guy. Add in Dillon McDonald, Jarrett Garrison and Jacob Shipley, and you’ve got a solid six.
4. Waverly (3-0)
Waverly currently isn’t playing because of contract tracing … from six days ago. I have my own feelings about that, but this is about the Tigers on the court. And they still look incredibly formidable after pummeling Miami Trace. Once the Tigers are out of quarantine, they have matchups with Jackson and Wheelersburg. Those games will be must see TV.
5. Jackson (4-0)
Speaking of Jackson, the Ironmen are the class of the FAC and are just picking up where they left off last year. Three conference wins out of the gates, and a solid non-league win over Athens. They’re winning with unpredictable balance, and a tough defense that doesn’t foul a lot. Plus the Ironmen make their free throws. Good luck if you’re trailing them in the fourth quarter. If you are, it’s probably over.
ON THE RISE: Eastern Brown (3-0), Unioto (3-2), Hillsboro (2-1)
CREDIT: Derrick Webb/SOSA
GIRLS
1. Eastern Brown (6-0)
This is unquestionably the deepest team in our coverage area … boys or girls … and it’s not even close. Not only are they deep, playing 9-11 players a game, but there’s not much of a drop off. That’s what makes Eastern Brown dangerous. Rylee Leonard is one of the top five players in the area, Caitlyn Wills is as tough as they come, and Bailey Dotson and Emma Prine hit shots. And there’s so much more. I might have to rethink my SHAC champion pick.
2. Wheelersburg (3-0)
The Pirates were idle this week after their game with Northwest was postponed. But still, the Pirates are the class of the SOC II and that doesn’t look like it’s changing anytime soon. This team is deep, experienced, and reloaded for another run at a district title and beyond. But one game at a time.
3. Notre Dame (4-0)
The Titans enjoyed a little time off after dusting Ironton St. Joe last Monday. They’re gaining experience as they continue to work in some pieces in some key roles. But then again, it’s Notre Dame. They always figure it out. The Titans look to continue pummeling their opponents.
4. Adena (7-0)
It’s been a long time since the Warriors sat atop the SVC standings, let alone started a season 7-0. But here we are, and they’re only getting better. Remember, there are no seniors on this Warrior team and they’ve already ran through opponents with relative else so far. Buckle up SVC, the Warriors have arrived.
5. McClain (5-0)
McClain has been on lockdown for the past couple of weeks, but the Tigers are finally out of their cages (I’ll show myself out now) and ready to hit the floor again. They have shown little mercy on teams, winning every game so far by a double-digit margin. But now it’s time to knock the dust off and get back to business.
ON THE RISE: Fairfield (4-1), South Webster (2-2), New Boston (4-1)
