2015-16 Boys Basketball Preview
DISTRICT PICK’EM:
8A D1Sandalwood
7A D3First Coast
7A D4Oakleaf
6A D3Ed White
5A D3Ribault
5A D4Wolfson
4A D3Bolles
3A D2Providence
2A D2North Fl. Ed. In. (NFEI)
2A D3Eagle’s View Academy
1A D6Hawthorne
POWER RANKINGS- TOP TEN TEAMS IN AREA:
- Potter’s House Christian
- Providence
- Arlington Country Day
- Bolles
- Ribault
- Oakleaf
- Jackson
- Bishop Kenny
- Ed White
- Sandalwood
On The Bubble: Wolfson, First Coast, Duval Charter, University Christian
1A District- 6
Hawthorne Hornets, 2014-15 1A State Runner-up
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Greg Bowie
In his 9th season as the Hornets head basketball coach, Coach Bowie is looking to make another run at the State title after falling short last season. However, this year will be significantly different not because of lack of talent, but lack of size. “We will be young this year but we will be small, athletic and scrappy. Our lack of size forces us to play up-tempo on offense and press full court defensively.” says Bowie. As the only returning starter, senior guard Desmond Lawrence who averaged 7.5 points per game last season will be playing alongside his brother, Devin Lawrence who was a key player coming off the bench for the Hornets last year. With new transfers coming in, DJ Harris and Nick Baskin, Hawthorne is expected to have another highly powered offense after averaging 68 points per game last year as a team.
Newberry Panthers
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Edward Johnson
The Panthers finished in 2nd place in 1A District- 7 last season and with an overall record of 15-11. Newberry lost to Crescent City in the regional semi-finals.
Williston Red Devils, 2014-15 1A District- 7 Champions
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Larry Walker
After winning their district last season, the Red Devils are preparing for a new battle this season. Hawthorne, Hilliard, Fort White, and Baldwin will be new opponents coming into conference play.
Baldwin Indians
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Larry Auguste
The Indians will be relieved to enter into a new district this season after facing talented opponents such as Bolles and Episcopal last year. Baldwin also has a new head coach this year after posting an overall record of 7-22.
Hilliard Flashes
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Myron Sanders
Hilliard had impressive wins over Union County and West Nassau last season, but after losing senior Point Guard Phillip Smith, the Flashes will have to find a play-maker in a hurry.
Fort White Indians
2015-16 District Rank: 6th
The Indians went undefeated at home last season but couldn’t finish strong going 9-8 overall. They drop from classification 4A to 1A this year.
2A District- 3
Eagle’s View Academy Warriors
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Scott Kinlaw
Approaching 200 career wins, Head Coach Scott Kinlaw and the guard heavy Warriors are hungry for a 2A District title. For four straight years, EVA has faced a tough district schedule after going head to head with Providence, University Christian, and Duval Charter the last two seasons. Dropping from classification 3A to 2A, the Warriors are now in a new district and looking to gain early success for the upcoming season. Tanner Korn and Shane Sanderson are expected to lead EVA on both sides of the floor, while newcomers Vergil Stuart and Jason Yarborough will be given key roles to help the team make a playoff run. Korn averaged just over 14 points per game last year and also led the team in minutes played, rarely coming off the floor. “We really want to start a legacy here” said Assistant Coach Josh Martin, “and this is like a fresh start for us to achieve many goals for years to come.” The backcourt for the Warriors will carry a heavy load, but with more depth and talent they should walk away district champions.
Temple Christian Soldiers
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Aaron Daise
Temple had impressive victories over Beacon of Hope last season. The Soldiers also won a close game against Eagle’s View Academy due to full court pressure. However, EVA along with other district foes is rumored to have key transfers coming into this season that will make a difference in this new district.
Beacon of Hope Eagles
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Vernon Pinkney
The Eagles lose five seniors who contributed a significant amount of their 62.8 points per game last season. I expect the Eagles to rely on their young talent to lead the way in the upcoming season.
Cedar Creek Christian Saints
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
The Saints battled all last season but fell short to finish games. However, CCC was impressive on the road.
Cornerstone Cougars
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Thomas Gonzales
Coming off a 4-14 record, this team from Gainesville, Florida will embrace challenges in a new district.
First Coast Christian Knights
2015-16 District Rank: 6th
Last season the Knights were young but showed promise for the future. They hope to develop and improve from last season’s 3-13 record.
2A District- 2
North Florida Educational Institute, 2014-15 2A District- 2 Champions
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: M. Fields
NFEI is looking to repeat as district champions this season. After escaping an upset last season against Christ Church Academy, Coach Fields then took his team all the way to the Regional Finals falling short to Agape Christian. Will the Eagles be able to make it all the way this year and claim a State Championship?
Christ Church Academy Eagles, 2014-15 2A District- 2 Runner-up
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Shane Jones
The Eagles had a very impressive perimeter defense last season preventing top scorers to attack the rim. Losing by one point, CCA fought till the final buzzer against University Christian who totaled approximately 800 points last season. In his second year as Head Coach at CCA, Jones would like to see his team grow on and off the court stating “hopefully we can find many opportunities to use the game of basketball to help us learn about life.” The Eagles finished with a successful record of 18-12, and with returners Caleb Gay, Zac Appelo, Josh McDough, and Andy Varnes, I expect this team to do nothing but increase their winning percentage this year.
Harvest Community Warriors
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
The Warriors will have a few juniors returning from last year that put up 10 points per game. They are hopeful to have young guys step up in their program this year.
Espirit de Corps
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Dwayne Millbrook
Espirit took a beating throughout the season last year due to majority of their players lacking experience at the varsity level. But with key players coming back and a patient coach to lead the way, we should see improvement in this program every year.
Seacoast Christian Eagles
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Troy Boyer
Seacoast is another young team in 2A that will be hopeful to have a better season. The Eagles defeated other 2A schools such as First Coast Christian, and want to continue to compete every game.
Parsons Christian Academy
2015-16 District Rank: 6th
Coach: Scott Burger
Parsons played without any seniors last year which is good news coming into this season. I am anxious to see if they can take advantage of having everyone returning and turn things around.
3A District- 2
Providence Stallions, 2014-15 3A State Champions, MaxPreps.com Top 25
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Jim Martin
At number two in my Top Ten, Providence will carry over their success from last season to this season. Although the Stallions lost key players in seniors Wyatt Walker, Jason Burnell, and Ben Bobbitt, there isn’t any panic going on in this basketball program. Teddy Georgiadis, a 6’7 Forward who contributed to the State Champions last season, will be expected to step up and be a big presence in the paint. Averaging 10.0 points and 6.0 assists per game as a senior, Bobbitt was a true floor general for Coach Martin and the Stallions last season. Kyle Marion and transfer Zack Bryant are both listed at 6’1 point guards who should have no problem taking over the role that Bobbitt left after leaving to play ball at Flagler College. The non-conference schedule for Providence will be very tough as always, but playing opponents such as IMG Academy, Bolles, and The Rock could prepare them for another 3A State Championship. Via email, Associate Head Coach Brian Hoff and I discussed the expectations for this new look team, “we want to improve over the course of the year with a young group and compete for another State Championship” said Hoff.
University Christian
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Tim Murr
With much football success over the years, I see this basketball team also making a name for themselves this season. With returning guards Jacquez Harris and Aubrey Washington, the offense will have no problem scoring points. If UC can tighten up their defense, they will finish 2nd in district play and extend their season come playoff time.
Trinity Christian Academy Conquerors
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Ryan Cosson
Being placed in 3A District- 2 with Providence and University Christian is nothing new to TCA. From 2012-2014, they had to fight for 2nd place beating Eagle’s View Academy and UC to make the playoffs. With key returners on the rosters of Providence and UC this year, I have TCA falling just short. But don’t overlook the Conquerors, watch out for them to compete and seek upset wins over the two schools I have in front of them.
Bishop Snyder Cardinals
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
The Cardinals lose a lot of length from key seniors last season. Will they find a way to compete in this tough district?
St. Johns Country Day Spartans
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Phillip Hobbs
SJCD finished the season with a disappointing record of 3-13. This season will not get any easier for the Spartans having to face teams like Providence and UC all year.
4A District- 3
Bolles Bulldogs, 2014-15 4A District-3 Champions
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Anthony Candelino
My team to watch out for this year is the Bulldogs. Why? Because Coach Candelino has five seniors in his starting lineup, all in which have built impressive resumes coming off last season’s 24-3 finish. Not only is Candelino excited for what’s in store for the upcoming season, but also for the future of his seniors. Collin Smith is a George Washington University commit who averaged 14.5 points per game in 2015. 6’8 Power Forward Jonathan DeWane carries offers from Air Force and Navy. Dartmouth, Yale, among others who have offered Forward Austin Williams. Bolles could also have the best backcourt duo in the city with Lorenzo Lawrence and Nick Strawter. They take on Bishop Kenny, Providence, and Godby (2015 4A State Champ.) late on the schedule which will be matchups that you will not want to miss. It will be no surprise if this team wins its 4th State Championship in school history.
Jackson Tigers, 2014-15 4A District- 4 Champions
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: James Collins
The dominant defense led to 27 wins last season with only 4 losses. Jackson was known for creating scoring opportunities off of turnovers and we don’t expect that to change. However, they will see a much more discipline offense with Bolles and Episcopal coming into conference play this year.
Episcopal Eagles, 2014-15 4A District- 3 Runner-up
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Chip Stroud
Episcopal had impressive wins against St. Augustine and Bolles last year along with two separate winning streaks that led to a 19-6 finish. The Eagles will need to stay solid against conference foes like Raines and Jackson if they want to see the playoffs again this season. Isaiah Gibson is looking like the player to lead this team returning as the Eagles floor general. Gibson is a double-double caliber player who can attack the rim and create opportunities for others to score. He averaged 15 points per game and 5 assists per game in 2014-15.
Raines Vikings
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Doug White
Raines will have a young team this year and will be challenged throughout their tough schedule. I am anxious to see how they fair against rivals like Ribault and Jackson this season.
Duval Charter Panthers
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Koreen Burch
The Panthers showed promise last season with a few sophomores and juniors leading the way, especially against a nail biting victory over University Christian in the district tournament. They will need to find someone to replace Tyreke Jackson who averaged 14 points per game last season.
Fernandina Beach Pirates
2015-16 District Rank: 6th
Coach: Matt Schreiber
Losing senior workhorses DJ Wooten and Jacob Spence in the front court will do some damage to the Pirates offense this year. Wooten and Spence were rebounding machines that contributed to an impressive 18-8 overall record. Junior guard Antonio Vendola is a perimeter threat that put up good offensive numbers throughout the season, also appearing on the leaderboard for points per game in the city multiple times. Fernandina will need players to fill key roles if they want to stay alive in this highly competitive district. Unlike last year, lacking a pair of double-double guys on their roster, I have them finishing in the bottom half of 4A District- 3.
West Nassau Warriors
2015-16 District Rank: 7th
Coach: Jacob Mitchell
West Nassau is taking a “new coach, new beginnings” approach to this season. Coach Mitchell, a former Warrior himself, and his team has already gone through summer workouts and intense training this fall to be the best team they can become this year. Senior guard Bryan Motes is one of the few returning starters that experienced a 1-21 overall record last season. He will be a player that this program will count on to stay solid on both sides of the floor and could also “give the other guys opportunities to showcase their skills” says Mitchell, “He has a deceptive quick first step to the basket and is a streaky shooter.” Leadership through the coaching staff and players will be the obvious improvement for West Nassau. If they have a good start and gel early on, the Warriors can easily finish above .500.
5A District- 4
Wolfson Wolfpack, 6A District- 3 Champions
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Bruce Rosebrock
There is a lot of buzz going around about this team being overlooked this year. After going 27-4, Wolfson beat a talented Ed White team once to claim a district title, and twice to move on to the Regional Finals. I have heard from numerous coaches around the area that Wolfson has a group of seniors to watch out for this year. Just one game short of going to the Final Four last season, the Wolfpack are on the verge of being a top team in the city and winning the last game of the season.
Baker County Wildcats
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Charles Ruise
Averaging 22.4 points per game last year, Charles Ruise Jr. led this team to a 20+ win season and Regional Final finish. However, after losing seniors such as Ruise Jr., Darias Fisher, and Mike Evans I don’t expect the Wildcats to be as successful as past seasons have shown. They will have to battle it out with Wolfson and Westside to see the playoffs.
Westside Wolverines
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Henry Robinson
The Wolverines did not win many games last season, but with a few players returning and dropping to classification 5A they should show some improvement.
Orange Park Raiders
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Derek Kurnitsky
The Raiders finished just above .500 last season going 14-13. Anthony Abate and Tristan Keah-Tigh had a team high 11.0 points per game last year but will not be returning to the 2015-16 roster.
Ridgeview Panthers
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Rob Felnter
Ridgeview hopes to bounce back after going 0-9 in district play last year. The Panthers are expected to have a roster full of seniors this season which should lead to more wins.
5A District- 3
Ribault Trojans
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Dale Green
“This year’s team could be more athletic than the 2013-14 squad who went to State” said Coach Dale Green. Expectations are obviously high for the Ribault Trojans. When discussing the difference from last year to this year, defense will be the factor. With 6’10 Darious Hicks in the front court, attacking the rim will be difficult for many opponents offensively. It will be interesting to see how the Trojans handle a new district, especially with Bishop Kenny standing in their way. Green also is looking forward to hosting the MLK Tournament starting on February 14th. Teams from Jacksonville will go head to head with other schools from all over Florida including the Miami area.
Bishop Kenny Crusaders
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Jerry Buckley
Be prepared to hear the names “Chris Joyce” and “Christian Carlyle” throughout the entire season. Joyce, an Air Force commit, is a 6’5 wing who has no problem shooting the 3-ball. Carlyle, is committed to play at Florida Gulf Coast next year who averaged 22.6 points per game and grabbed 4.6 rebounds per game his junior year for BK. This season is full of promise with these two seniors leading the way. I wouldn’t be shocked if the Crusader win a district championship and compete deep in the playoffs.
Stanton Blue Devils
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Russell Powell
Deatry Lang and Bobby Iseley will be key players for Stanton this year. Both were sophomores last season who contributed offensively and look to do the same against tough matchups in 2015-16.
Terry Parker Braves
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Terry Parker had notable wins against Raines and Atlantic Coast last season. They will need to beat Stanton and Paxon if they want to finish at the top half of the district standings.
Paxon Eagles
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Coach: Toby Frazier
Similar to Parker, the Eagles have to compete all year long if they want to improve from going .500 in 2014-15. Paxon had a great off-season, winning the Westside Summer League. Andre Nelson seems to be the go to guy for the Eagles this season, posting four 30+ point performances last year. Nelson finished as a top ten scorer in the city.
Yulee Hornets
2015-16 District Rank: 6th
Coach: Patrick McKie
The Hornets lost seven seniors so they will most likely go through a rebuilding season with young players having to play in key roles.
6A District- 3
Ed White Commanders
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Ben Jones
Ed White has been very successful for many years since Coach Jones took over the program in 2011. In fact, since 2011 the Commanders have won 20+ games every season. Coach Jones also had another streak of three district titles in a row in his coaching career at Ed White. Confidence is still high for this upcoming season with new look opponents coming into their district. Can the Commanders achieve another 20+ win season?
Middleburg Broncos
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Michael Harrison
The Broncos will be a team to look out for in 6A. Junior guard Jalen Oliver averaged 8 points per game last season but I am expecting his average to increase since he will most likely be the go to guy for Middleburg this season. Oliver and senior Dean Harrison worked very well together in transition last year.
St. Augustine Yellow Jackets
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Tim Winter
The Yellow Jackets are still recovering from that 55-52 loss to Creekside last season in the first round of the district tournament. It looks as if they will need a few underclassmen to step up in big games this year if they want to compete to make the playoffs. Ryan Burkhardt should be one who makes an impact for the Yellow Jackets. Burkhardt is a 6’4 two-guard who has received an offer from the University of North Florida. Jahq Russell and Jacoby Feliciano are some other underclassmen that will be productive returners for Coach Winter.
Nease Panthers
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Joshua Bailen
Nease looks to bounce back after going through a losing streak that lasted too long. With the competition being slightly easier in the district this year, Nease should increase their winning percentage this year. They also will have more senior leadership this season.
Englewood Rams
2015-16 District Rank: 5th
Englewood was very one dimensional last season utilizing Drushaun McLaurn as their main offensive threat averaging 26 points per game. Losing 6 seniors will be hard to recover from especially with a difficult schedule ahead of the Rams in 2015-16.
7A District- 4
Oakleaf Knights
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: Jason Price
Nassir Little is far from little in size. He is a 6’6 Forward who can finish above the rim with ease. Playing alongside Little is Jonathan Bryant II, who is a very dynamic guard that can also finish strong at the rim. Recently, these two have received offers from locals University of North Florida and Jacksonville University. Little also has interest from national powerhouse Duke and Louisville while Bryant has attention from Vanderbilt, UCF, among others. The Knights return their two leading scorers and rebounders (Little, Bryant) along with leading assist man Andrew Harper. These three will be the only returning starters from last season, but Coach Price is confident in seniors Christian Larson and Brandon Aponte to fill the open positions. “Our starting five will be key, they work well together and have good chemistry” says Price. Their athleticism and skill from these guys could be what brings Oakleaf a district championship. The past two seasons, the Knights were district runners-up and regional qualifiers. Expect this group to get the job done this year.
Bartram Trail Bears
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Jeremiah Teuscher
The Bears were very good at spreading the wealth offensively throughout the season. Bryce Comernisky will return to the roster as a senior who averaged nearly 9 points per game last year. Bartram should have enough experienced players to reach the playoffs.
Creekside Knights
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Will Mayer
Chris Richardson looks to be the player that will bring senior leadership to the Knights. J’Michael Plummer saw some playing time as a freshman point guard last year, so I expect this duo to help Creekside fight their way for 2nd place to enter the playoffs.
Fleming Island Golden Eagles
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Chris Jackson
This team isn’t exactly a nonfactor in 7A District- 4. Fleming Island lost numerous games by a margin of 2-3 points, including matchups like Oakleaf (64-62), Buchholz (50-48), and Clay (43-42). That is an obvious sign of toughness and willingness to play until the final buzzer. This could be a underdog that surprises opponents early on.
7A District- 3
First Coast Buccaneers
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
Coach: LaTroy Strong
Despite their 9-14 record last season, the Bucs are in the process of becoming a top team in the city. With wins over Sandalwood, Raines, and Ribault it is just a matter of time before they find consistency and become a tough team to beat. Coach Strong knows how to build a successful basketball program, and in year two at First Coast I think this will be the start of something special if the Bucs get on a roll early on and establish confidence. However, a district championship will not come easy with Atlantic Coast and Fletcher after the same prize.
Atlantic Coast Stingrays
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: P. Gonzales
The Stingrays had a shaky season last year but ended up finishing with a 5-3 conference record. Unfortunately, they lost seven seniors but should have a few underclassmen to contribute this season. Their schedule should make them more aggressive when it counts come playoff time.
Fletcher Senators
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Brian Gilbert
The Senators were inconsistent last season winning big games then falling short to district opponents. They posted an 8-19 overall record and finished 3rd under Atlantic Coast. I would say their main focus is preparing for Lee and Atlantic Coast to have a solid season and possibly making the playoffs.
Lee Generals
2015-16 District Rank: 4th
Coach: Stephen Jenkins
Two guards to keep an eye on this year are Jacorie Archie and Saderious Aaron. Both were offensive threats throughout the season and will increase Lee’s numbers in the win column. This is not a team to sleep on with the amount of experience on their roster in 2015-16.
8A District-1
Sandalwood Saints
2015-16 District Rank: 1st
I am anxious to see how the Saints will bounce back this season after losing to Flagler Palm Coast in the district championship. It will not be an easy year for this team with FPC and Mandarin wanting to be at the top with Sandalwood. DeLand is an addition that Sandalwood should not take lightly despite their record last season. This district will be so competitive that every team has good odds at winning the championship. The Saints slide in at number 10 in the power rankings.
Flagler Palm Coast Bulldogs, 8A District- 1 Champions
2015-16 District Rank: 2nd
Coach: Gary McDaniel
The Bulldogs maintained a solid performance the entire regular season, but ended way too early losing in the first round of the playoffs. This team should get another chance at going further, however being back to back district champs will be a challenge.
Mandarin Mustangs
2015-16 District Rank: 3rd
Coach: Brian Roseberry
The Mustangs take on Bolles and Ed White way too early this season, but this could be beneficial. If they can sneak out with a couple of wins and create confidence in the beginning, this could be a team that gets on a roll and cant be stopped.
2015-16 Girls Basketball Preview
DISTRICT PICK’EM:
8A D1 Mandarin
7A D3 Lee
7A D4 Fleming Island
6A D3 St. Augustine
5A D3 Ribault
5A D4 Wolfson
5A D5 Palatka
4A D3 Fernandina Beach
3A D2 University Christian
2A D2 Harvest Community
2A D1 First Coast Christian
1A D6 Hilliard
POWER RANKINGS- TOP TEN TEAMS IN AREA:
- Potter’s House Christian
- Ribault
- Paxon
- Fleming Island
- University Christian
- St. Augustine
- Raines
- Fernandina Beach
- Oakleaf
- Providence
On The Bubble: Bartram Trail, Bolles, Hilliard, Lee,
Potters House Christian, 2014-15 SIAA State Champions
2014-15 Overall Record: 38-5
Coach: Tony Bannister
The 2014-15 season was nothing less than dominant for the Lady Lions. Not only was this team one the best in the state of Florida, but also a top team in the nation winning nearly 40 games. Still not convinced? Take a look at these numbers:
- 81.0 points per game
- 47.6 rebounds per game
- 17.9 assists per game
- 26.0 steals per game
In this case, numbers don’t lie and neither do championships. Potter’s House are back-to-back SIAA State Champions and was invited to the NACA Championships. With Rellah Boothe (20.7 ppg), Teyonna Williams (9.6 ppg), Jasmine Gaines (9.1 ppg), and Tesia Bannister (7.3 ppg) all returning this season, the Lady Lions will have more success in the near future.
Ribault Trojans, 2014-15 4A District- 4 Champions, Final Four State Semi-Finalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 27-3
Coach: Sheila Pennick
Last season as sophomores, Rennia Davis and Day’Neshia Banks were arguably the best duo in Northeast Florida. They were a force on both sides of the court throughout the entire season. Davis finished the season averaging 17.9 point per game with 8.8 rebounds per game while Banks recorded 16.1 points per game with 6.8 rebounds per game. Not only are these two returning, point guards Kayla Rodgers (9.5 ppg) and Praise Russell (6.5 ppg) will be back for their senior campaign. Winning a district championship and the Gateway Conference, the Trojans fell one game short at getting the opportunity to play in another state championship game. Coach Pennick has high expectations that her team will get back to Lakeland, however, also mentioned that her team being anxious last season prevented them from moving on. “We need to take it one game at a time” said Pennick, “and play every game as if it’s our last”. The schedule for Ribault will be more challenging this year especially when it is time to travel. The Trojans will play national powerhouse Miami Country Day along with many other notable schools throughout the season. Playing tougher competition will make this team stronger than they already are going into the postseason.
Paxon, 2014-15 5A District- 3 Champions, Final Four State Runner-up
2014-15 Overall Record: 24-7
Coach: Evan Jefferson
Paxon made an impressive run in 2014-15 being one of four teams in Northeast Florida to make it to the Final Four, a first in school history. In his 3rd season at Paxon, Coach Jefferson has an overall record of 45-12 and will surely increase his numbers in the wins column this year. Jefferson has many goals for his team this season, and winning the 5A State Championship is certainly one of them. Paxon has a pair of juniors in Jha’ne Wheeler and Kitana Stokes returning to their team that contribute to their flow of offense. Both Wheeler and Stokes averaged just under 10 points per game in 2014-15. Wheeler was All Area Honorable Mention and currently receiving interest from UMass Lowell, UNF, among others. Sophomore center Shania Edgecombe also has attention from schools such as Tulane, Georgetown, UF, among others. I expect the 5A State Championship winner to come out of this district, whether it’s this talented Paxon team or the high tempo Ribault Trojans.
Fleming Island, 2014-15 7A District- 3 Champions, Regional Semi-Finalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 21-5
Coach: Joey Williams
Coach Williams will have an impressive roster coming into this season, especially with Taylor Donald returning to their front court who averaged a team high 15 points per game last year. In the final game for Fleming Island in 2014-15, Donald finished with a game high 24 points against Wekiva who was the state runner-up. The Golden Eagles were just two points shy of beating Wekiva and advancing to the Regional Finals. Donald will certainly not be the only one who makes an impact for this team as Hanna McGrory, Summer Baer, Mallory Sinsel, and Katy Lomax all return to make another run in the playoffs this season. McGrory is a dynamic point guard who led the team in assists and rebounds in 2014-15. Both Donald and McGrory made the All-County team while Baer, Sinsel, and Lomax made Honorable Mention. Winning a district championship will be a tough challenge this year for the Golden Eagles as Bartram Trail and Oakleaf strive to claim the top spot.
University Christian, 2014-15 3A District- 4 Champions, Final Four State Semi-Finalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 26-3
Coach: Keith Stroud
University Christian will have new and improved competition in the realigned district this season with Trinity Christian and Bishop Snyder joining. However, Jatavia Tapley brings her length to the court once again as she enters her senior year and plans to lead this team back to the Final Four. The Christians will most likely repeat as district champions, but from losing key players from last year it will very difficult for this team to make another incredible playoff run.
St. Augustine, 2014-15 Regional Semi-Finalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 23-6
Coach: Eric Hancock
Coach Hancock is entering his 1st season at St. Augustine as the girls head basketball coach. The Yellow Jackets will be led by a skillful group of seniors in Alyssa Quixley, Courtney Cox, and Jessica Hagaman. Quixley was among the top scorers in the area last year with a stunning 18.8 points per game which made a huge impact toward their 20+ win season.
Raines, Regional Quarterfinalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 18-7
Coach: Tito Williams
Coach Williams is excited about his youthful team going into the season, and expectations are still high for this group even though they lack experience. Tania Williams is the Vikings’ lone senior who is returning as their point guard. Williams will have help from juniors Nazah Reddick and Keyondra Merritt. These three were reliable players in 2014-15 who each averaged about 6 points per game. Jasmine Davis and Arijon Jones are a pair of freshman that are still developing but will be expected to contribute as the season matures. Taking care of the basketball and limiting turnovers is something that Coach Williams is stressing this season. If the Vikings can be successful in that category, “sky is the limit” says Williams.
Fernandina Beach
2014-15 Overall Record: 22-6
Coach: Jacob Nantz
The Pirates were stuck in arguably the toughest district in 4A last year competing with Ribault and Raines to make the playoffs. Fernandina ranked 3rd in offense (68.1 ppg) and defense (22.2 spg) in North Florida last season and still want to improve if they want to make it to the postseason. Coach Nantz is confident in his team to make a good run in 2015-16, especially with the young talent on his roster such as Shanaya Thompson who averaged 9.6 points per game as a sophomore. “We are expecting a great season this year. Several of my players were on the 10th grade National AAU Final Four team” said Nantz. Look for the Pirates to be a serious contender this year in 4A.
Oakleaf, 2014-15 Regional Quarterfinalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 18-10
Coach: Frank Jenkins
Oakleaf will almost have their entire team back from last year, losing only two seniors. Jade Lewis will return this year after nearly averaging double-double numbers with 16.9 points per game and 7.0 rebounds per game. Destiny Arvinger and Baileigh Larsons are seniors that will also be key players for the Knights. There will no doubt be plenty of leadership throughout this team, which is the main reason why they are a top team in Northeast Florida.
Providence, 2014-15 Regional Finalists
2014-15 Overall Record: 17-11
Coach: Gigi Bistrow
Entering her 18th season at Providence, Coach Bistrow is expecting her girls to work harder this year to go deeper in the postseason. With Maria Kuhlman averaging 17 points per game last season, she is returning as a junior and should be the leader for this team. Kaylee Davis and Chloe Statkus will also be expected to be key returners to improve the outcome for the Stallions in 2015-16.
2015-16 Basketball Previews
By J. Kyler Wilson
