And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Meaning of Christmas Charlie Brown
Sunday, December 21, 2014
TOP 10 TEAMS HIGH SCHOOL SA GIRLS BASKETBALL 12-21-14
The clock has struck midnight as District play is underway for the majority of teams in the San Antonio area Girls Basketball.
Lightning notes:
Lightning in the form of Amber Ramirez struck Clemens for 42 points in a Wagner Win! That's after a 40 point performance the week before. Wagner after early season woes is becoming a serious threat to repeat as City Champs. Wagner is essentially doing it with 3 players getting all the scoring done. That's amazing.
O'Connor gets a tough win over Brennan to open up District play. With Amber Vidal leading the way, O'Connor has 5 players averaging over 6 points a game. They have a legitimate chance of going to state. They might have one of the best defensive teams in the city in terms of scoring after creating turnovers.
Clark has 6 players averaging over 7 points a game! After their matchup with Brandeis, they should cruise all the way till 24th of January when they play Brennan then. When they press, this team can create havoc with all their athletes they can put on the floor. Their lack of strength of schedule might hurt when it counts. Time will tell.
Brennan is just so tough with their bigs inside. Inside out game going, can hit the long ball, kids that can drive and create. If they can will their half court style of play, its over! Plus their strength of schedule will help tremendously when its all said and done. It is just hard to imagine this team will lose to a team they are heavy favorite against. You can't say that about any team.
Johnson team can be dangerous. They have decent size, great athletes, can shoot it beyond the 3 plus Erica Saunders can be the difference. When they started pressing the ball, they turned the game around against Brennan even though they came up short with some timely missed Free Throws. They can match up against most teams, they have ball handlers, kids that can create AND kids that can fly on the court. Another team that can match up against any team.
Side notes
In another example of how everything is going, Brandeis beats Antonian which beat Churchill which beat Brandeis!
You can find plenty of same examples over and over. Enough to make your head spin.
Looking ahead at Private Schools with Antonian playing great basketball and IWHS trying to compete with some of the larger schools as well, this years matchup is shaping up to be an exciting game to go see.
Here is my Top 10
1. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill, Stevens twice, Killeen, Belton, Boerne. Losses- Liberty Christian
2. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison, Reagan, Steele, Brennan. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele, Johnson. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo, O'Connor
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo, Brennan
5. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
6. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Steven, Brandeis, Schertz Clemens Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Argyle, Reagan, Cedar Ridge, Austin Westlake, Pflugerville
7. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Wagner
8. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor
9. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro, Brennan, O'Connor
Just for fun, 3 way tie for 10th
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson, Clemens Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice, Antonian, Johnson
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson, Churchill. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Honorable Mention
Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson, Wagner, Madison, Clark
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR, Cole Losses-Steele, Johnson, Madison
Judson
Smithson Valley
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL
Lightning notes:
Lightning in the form of Amber Ramirez struck Clemens for 42 points in a Wagner Win! That's after a 40 point performance the week before. Wagner after early season woes is becoming a serious threat to repeat as City Champs. Wagner is essentially doing it with 3 players getting all the scoring done. That's amazing.
O'Connor gets a tough win over Brennan to open up District play. With Amber Vidal leading the way, O'Connor has 5 players averaging over 6 points a game. They have a legitimate chance of going to state. They might have one of the best defensive teams in the city in terms of scoring after creating turnovers.
Clark has 6 players averaging over 7 points a game! After their matchup with Brandeis, they should cruise all the way till 24th of January when they play Brennan then. When they press, this team can create havoc with all their athletes they can put on the floor. Their lack of strength of schedule might hurt when it counts. Time will tell.
Brennan is just so tough with their bigs inside. Inside out game going, can hit the long ball, kids that can drive and create. If they can will their half court style of play, its over! Plus their strength of schedule will help tremendously when its all said and done. It is just hard to imagine this team will lose to a team they are heavy favorite against. You can't say that about any team.
Johnson team can be dangerous. They have decent size, great athletes, can shoot it beyond the 3 plus Erica Saunders can be the difference. When they started pressing the ball, they turned the game around against Brennan even though they came up short with some timely missed Free Throws. They can match up against most teams, they have ball handlers, kids that can create AND kids that can fly on the court. Another team that can match up against any team.
Side notes
In another example of how everything is going, Brandeis beats Antonian which beat Churchill which beat Brandeis!
You can find plenty of same examples over and over. Enough to make your head spin.
Looking ahead at Private Schools with Antonian playing great basketball and IWHS trying to compete with some of the larger schools as well, this years matchup is shaping up to be an exciting game to go see.
Here is my Top 10
1. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill, Stevens twice, Killeen, Belton, Boerne. Losses- Liberty Christian
2. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison, Reagan, Steele, Brennan. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele, Johnson. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo, O'Connor
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis, Churchill. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo, Brennan
5. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis, Stevens, IWHS. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
7. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis, Wagner
8. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor
9. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro, Brennan, O'Connor
Just for fun, 3 way tie for 10th
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson, Clemens Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice, Antonian, Johnson
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson, Churchill. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Honorable Mention
Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson, Wagner, Madison, Clark
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR, Cole Losses-Steele, Johnson, Madison
Judson
Smithson Valley
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL
Sunday, December 14, 2014
TOP 10 TEAMS HIGH SCHOOL SA GIRLS BASKETBALL 12-14-14
Christmas Holidays are upon us and High School girls basketball action has just about heated up, keeping local temperatures nice and warm. In High School gyms around the city, you can go catch some heated, competitive girls basketball action just about any night of the week.
I said it before, your team can beat a team by 20 and then go lose to a team your team thinks it's better than.
Anytime, Anywhere, Any Team can lose.
Whoever you follow and support, it doesn't matter, you have to love the suspense of what is going to happen when Team A plays Team B.
Some teams have some dominating skilled players. Some teams are loaded with athleticism. Few teams have both but don't have a bench. With some teams, it seems Coaching makes all the difference in the world.
What's that old saying, Team A's Coach beats Team B and goes on and state, If I was coaching Team B, I would still win!
Some teams have the backcourt but don't have much of a frontcourt. Some teams have a great frontcourt but need help with the backcourt.
Some teams have the talent, but lack the experience! Some teams have the experience but lack the skill and talent!
How about this, Private School Antonian has beaten Judson, Wagner and Churchill, all power house programs the last few years!
Great match ups make for great games.
The following week will not be any different. It's shaping up to be one great week for girls basketball action.
Games of interest:
What stands out, how about Clemens vs Wagner at Clemens Friday 730pm, where two of the highest scoring players in the city square off with their respective teams. 2015 Kyra Lambert (Clemens) and 2016 Amber Ramirez (Wagner) might go for 40 each.
Then you have Monday action with Johnson going into Brennan at 730pm. 2015 Erica Saunders can simply take over the game without scoring and she can do it scoring as well. 2017's Megan Valdez and Kenzie Heineman are putting up all around great numbers. If Brennan's grueling schedule is not enough, they open up District play on Friday against O'Connor at 830pm at Taylor gym. Has anyone played a more intense schedule?
O'Connor has only lost to State Ranked teams. They host Steele on Tuesday at 730pm. Then take on Brennan on Friday. They seem to be just rolling along.
Johnson has Brennan on Monday and open up against Churchill in District play on Friday at Littleton gym 8pm. Both contests should be down to the wire match ups.
Stevens goes to Madison HS to take them on Monday 730pm and open District play vs Clark at O'Connor gym. Clark has been steady all season long. Who has the advantage? Time will tell.
Madison finishes the week by hosting IWHS Friday at 730pm. 2018 Sophia Ramos (IWHS) went for 23pts against Johnson in a losing effort and 2016 Alexia Torres (IWHS) is coming off a dramatic 3 pt buzzer beater to win the game at Cole. 2015 Moriah Creswell (Madison) is putting up great numbers helping her team get some good wins.
If your team has had a great Non District and go lose Lose their first District game, then what?
You have to take into account strength of schedule, who your team has beaten, who they have lost to.
That's what makes this fun! And just for fun, following are my Top 10
1. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill twice, Killeen, Belton, Boerne. Losses- Liberty Christian
2. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison, Reagan. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo
5. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis
6. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
7. Wagner: Wins- Johnson, Steven, Brandeis, Losses-Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Argyle, Reagan, Cedar Ridge, Austin Westlake, Pflugerville
8. Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson, Wagner
9. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor
10. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro, Brennan
Honorable Mention
Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice, Antonian
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson, Churchill. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson, Clemens Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR, Cole Losses-Steele, Johnson
Others to watch: Southwest, Roosevelt, Highlands, MacArthur, Jay, Smithson Valley, Boerne, Devine, Hondo, Boerne Champion, Alamo Heights,
Go Support Girls Basketball!
I said it before, your team can beat a team by 20 and then go lose to a team your team thinks it's better than.
Anytime, Anywhere, Any Team can lose.
Whoever you follow and support, it doesn't matter, you have to love the suspense of what is going to happen when Team A plays Team B.
Some teams have some dominating skilled players. Some teams are loaded with athleticism. Few teams have both but don't have a bench. With some teams, it seems Coaching makes all the difference in the world.
What's that old saying, Team A's Coach beats Team B and goes on and state, If I was coaching Team B, I would still win!
Some teams have the backcourt but don't have much of a frontcourt. Some teams have a great frontcourt but need help with the backcourt.
Some teams have the talent, but lack the experience! Some teams have the experience but lack the skill and talent!
How about this, Private School Antonian has beaten Judson, Wagner and Churchill, all power house programs the last few years!
Great match ups make for great games.
The following week will not be any different. It's shaping up to be one great week for girls basketball action.
Games of interest:
What stands out, how about Clemens vs Wagner at Clemens Friday 730pm, where two of the highest scoring players in the city square off with their respective teams. 2015 Kyra Lambert (Clemens) and 2016 Amber Ramirez (Wagner) might go for 40 each.
Then you have Monday action with Johnson going into Brennan at 730pm. 2015 Erica Saunders can simply take over the game without scoring and she can do it scoring as well. 2017's Megan Valdez and Kenzie Heineman are putting up all around great numbers. If Brennan's grueling schedule is not enough, they open up District play on Friday against O'Connor at 830pm at Taylor gym. Has anyone played a more intense schedule?
O'Connor has only lost to State Ranked teams. They host Steele on Tuesday at 730pm. Then take on Brennan on Friday. They seem to be just rolling along.
Johnson has Brennan on Monday and open up against Churchill in District play on Friday at Littleton gym 8pm. Both contests should be down to the wire match ups.
Stevens goes to Madison HS to take them on Monday 730pm and open District play vs Clark at O'Connor gym. Clark has been steady all season long. Who has the advantage? Time will tell.
Madison finishes the week by hosting IWHS Friday at 730pm. 2018 Sophia Ramos (IWHS) went for 23pts against Johnson in a losing effort and 2016 Alexia Torres (IWHS) is coming off a dramatic 3 pt buzzer beater to win the game at Cole. 2015 Moriah Creswell (Madison) is putting up great numbers helping her team get some good wins.
If your team has had a great Non District and go lose Lose their first District game, then what?
You have to take into account strength of schedule, who your team has beaten, who they have lost to.
That's what makes this fun! And just for fun, following are my Top 10
1. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill twice, Killeen, Belton, Boerne. Losses- Liberty Christian
2. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison, Reagan. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan, Steele. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo
4. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (3 times), Stevens, Reagan, IWHS, Brandeis. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo
5. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt, Round Rock. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian, Brandeis
6. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
8. Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson, Wagner
9. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson, Smithson Valley. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson, O'Connor
10. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro, Brennan
Honorable Mention
Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice, Antonian
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson, Churchill. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson, Clemens Losses-Churchill, Johnson (3 Times), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR, Cole Losses-Steele, Johnson
Others to watch: Southwest, Roosevelt, Highlands, MacArthur, Jay, Smithson Valley, Boerne, Devine, Hondo, Boerne Champion, Alamo Heights,
Go Support Girls Basketball!
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
SA ISLANDERS ALEXIA TORRES SCORES 1000 POINTS
Congrats to Alexia Torres for reaching the milestone of scoring 1000 points for her High School career. She played her freshman year in the very tough District 27-5A with the Marshall Rams transferring to Incarnate Word High School her sophomore year.
As she would say herself, she couldn't do it without all her teammates! We also like to thank everyone who has supported her, family, friends, coaches, trainers, players and so on.
Below is a small tribute to her reaching the milestone. Congratulations!
click following link
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
TOP 10 TEAMS HIGH SCHOOL SA GIRLS BASKETBALL
What do you get when you have a flurry of basketball tournaments all over the area, you get a lot of match ups between the Top Area Teams.
In the after math of this weekend, did anything clear up? You had every top team in the area losing at least one game this past week.
State Ranked Amarillo came down ftp the Alamo City and beat MacArthur, O'Connor, Brennan and Johnson to win the Tournament Championship. That was quite an accomplishment, reminiscent of what CC Carroll did a few weeks ago beating a line of San Antonio Teams in the Corpus Tournament.
Schertz Clemens lost in Championship game to State Top Ranked Private School Liberty Christian which also beat Clark, the last undefeated team in the large Classification in San Antonio.
A couple of observations looking at the TABC Hoops page, Clark moves to #13. San Marcos moves in at #22 in 5A. Devine and Hondo are both in the Top 10 in 4A.
http://www.tabchoops.org/rankings/team-rankings/
SA Express News latest Rankings
http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/high_school/high_school_basketball/article/Girls-basketball-E-N-Area-rankings-top-players-5943479.php
The action heats up today with a lot of great action around the city.
Games of interest Tuesday 12-9-14
5pm Wagner vs Stevens (Paul Taylor) Very interesting match up. This could be a very high scoring game. Some of the areas top scorers in action.
6pm Clemens vs Brandeis (O'Connor) Can Brandeis get a big win against their former coach? Clemens looking to bounce back after 2nd loss of the season. How about Gabby Connally vs Kyra Lambert matching up.
6pm IWHS vs Johnson (Littleton) Two of the best 2018's in Johnson's D. Caldwell and IWHS's Sophia Ramos in action. They both can light it up in a hurry.
7pm Brennan at Steele. How many teams can play Brennan's grueling schedule and still be up for the challenge.
730pm Reagan vs O'Connor This could be the days best game. A lot of talent on the court.
There is very little movement in my Rankings compared to last week
1. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian
2. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill twice, Killeen, Belton Losses- Liberty Christian
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo
4. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
5. Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice
6. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (Twice), Stevens, Reagan. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo
7. Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson
8. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
9. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson
10. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro
Honorable Mention
Wagner: Wins-Johnson, Brandeis, Leander, Houston Westbury Christian. Losses- Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Reagan, RR Cedar Ridge, Argyle, Austin Westlake
Smithson Valley- Wins- Brenham, Boerne Champion Losses- Cedar Vista Ridge, Highlands
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson Losses-Churchill, Johnson (Twice), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR Losses-Steele
District games are already starting for some and getting here before you know for others.
Go Support High School Girls Basketball!!!!
In the after math of this weekend, did anything clear up? You had every top team in the area losing at least one game this past week.
State Ranked Amarillo came down ftp the Alamo City and beat MacArthur, O'Connor, Brennan and Johnson to win the Tournament Championship. That was quite an accomplishment, reminiscent of what CC Carroll did a few weeks ago beating a line of San Antonio Teams in the Corpus Tournament.
Schertz Clemens lost in Championship game to State Top Ranked Private School Liberty Christian which also beat Clark, the last undefeated team in the large Classification in San Antonio.
A couple of observations looking at the TABC Hoops page, Clark moves to #13. San Marcos moves in at #22 in 5A. Devine and Hondo are both in the Top 10 in 4A.
http://www.tabchoops.org/rankings/team-rankings/
SA Express News latest Rankings
http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/high_school/high_school_basketball/article/Girls-basketball-E-N-Area-rankings-top-players-5943479.php
The action heats up today with a lot of great action around the city.
Games of interest Tuesday 12-9-14
5pm Wagner vs Stevens (Paul Taylor) Very interesting match up. This could be a very high scoring game. Some of the areas top scorers in action.
6pm Clemens vs Brandeis (O'Connor) Can Brandeis get a big win against their former coach? Clemens looking to bounce back after 2nd loss of the season. How about Gabby Connally vs Kyra Lambert matching up.
6pm IWHS vs Johnson (Littleton) Two of the best 2018's in Johnson's D. Caldwell and IWHS's Sophia Ramos in action. They both can light it up in a hurry.
7pm Brennan at Steele. How many teams can play Brennan's grueling schedule and still be up for the challenge.
730pm Reagan vs O'Connor This could be the days best game. A lot of talent on the court.
There is very little movement in my Rankings compared to last week
1. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele, Roosevelt. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll, Liberty Christian
2. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill twice, Killeen, Belton Losses- Liberty Christian
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison (Twice), Reagan. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore, Amarillo
4. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson, Madison. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall, Amarillo
5. Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice
6. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis (Twice), Stevens, Reagan. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll, Amarillo
7. Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Austin Westlake. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson
8. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis. Losses-Brennan, Clark, O'Connor
9. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele, Judson. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens, Johnson
10. Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest, IWHS, San Marcos. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro
Honorable Mention
Wagner: Wins-Johnson, Brandeis, Leander, Houston Westbury Christian. Losses- Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Reagan, RR Cedar Ridge, Argyle, Austin Westlake
Smithson Valley- Wins- Brenham, Boerne Champion Losses- Cedar Vista Ridge, Highlands
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson. Losses-MacArthur (Twice), CC Ray, Roosevelt, Brandeis
Brandeis: Wins- Highlands, Antonian, Judson Losses-Churchill, Johnson (Twice), Steele, Madison, Wagner, Madison
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion, RR Losses-Steele
District games are already starting for some and getting here before you know for others.
Go Support High School Girls Basketball!!!!
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Top 10 Teams San Antonio Girls High School Basketball
Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving Holiday.
There was plenty of action for Girls Basketball around the area this past week but a lot more action coming in the next week with plenty of Tournaments going on in the area featuring some of the best Girl Basketball teams in the area.
I am going to keep this week short and simple. Some teams still have not been tested seriously while some teams like Brennan and Wagner have played some of the toughest competition around. You can argue that every team they have played is an above average contender in the whole scheme of things. Well, you can argue, but its true. Reagan has played at least 7 games against worthy opponents as well.
Madison, Steele and Johnson are not too far behind in their strength of schedules.
So now we get to the point of teams schedules where Team A beat Team B which beat Team C which beat Team A. Who is the better team?
You can click the following link to see what TABC Hoops thinks
http://www.tabchoops.org/rankings/team-rankings/
The good thing about High School Rankings is that they don't determine the eventual Champions. A committee doesn't decide who is the best. In the end, High School basketball playoffs determine eventually who is playing the best in a single elimination format. Again, what is the Coaches stragedy to get their teams as well prepared for that scenario, Playing the tougher schedule or a lighter schedule.
Quick recap as of today 12-3-2014 and the way I see it as of today.
1. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll
2. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill twice. Only large San Antonio School Still Undefeated! Will be tested this weekend.
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore
4. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall
5. Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice
6. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis, Stevens. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll
7. Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson
8. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis. Losses-Brennan, Clark
9. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens
Tied for 10th
10. Wagner: Wins-Johnson, Brandeis. Losses- Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Reagan, RR Cedar Ridge
10. Smithson Valley- Wins- Brenham, Boerne Champion
Honorable Mention
Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson. Losses-MacArthur, CC Ray, Roosevelt
Brandeis: Losses-Churchill, Johnson, Steele, Madison, Wagner
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion
Southwest
As far as schedules, Clemens, Clark, Churchill are some of the teams in NB Canyon Basketball Tournament to look out for.
Stevens and Wagner will be representing at Georgetown Basketball Tournament.
Steele, Smithson Valley, Highlands and Incarnate Word will be facing some stiff competition at Buda Hays Basketball Tournament
And one of the best places to catch some great action will be at the Northside/NEISD Basketball Tournament featuring some of the best San Antonio teams in Johnson, O'Connor, Brennan, Madison, Reagan, Antonian and Southwest.
It is likely we will know more come next week of where teams stand....... or maybe not.
That's the beauty of the sport!
Go Support Girls Basketball!!!!!
There was plenty of action for Girls Basketball around the area this past week but a lot more action coming in the next week with plenty of Tournaments going on in the area featuring some of the best Girl Basketball teams in the area.
I am going to keep this week short and simple. Some teams still have not been tested seriously while some teams like Brennan and Wagner have played some of the toughest competition around. You can argue that every team they have played is an above average contender in the whole scheme of things. Well, you can argue, but its true. Reagan has played at least 7 games against worthy opponents as well.
Madison, Steele and Johnson are not too far behind in their strength of schedules.
So now we get to the point of teams schedules where Team A beat Team B which beat Team C which beat Team A. Who is the better team?
You can click the following link to see what TABC Hoops thinks
http://www.tabchoops.org/rankings/team-rankings/
The good thing about High School Rankings is that they don't determine the eventual Champions. A committee doesn't decide who is the best. In the end, High School basketball playoffs determine eventually who is playing the best in a single elimination format. Again, what is the Coaches stragedy to get their teams as well prepared for that scenario, Playing the tougher schedule or a lighter schedule.
Quick recap as of today 12-3-2014 and the way I see it as of today.
1. Schetz Clemens: Notable wins-Reagan, FW Timble Tech, Killeen Harker Heights, Stevens, Steele. Losses-Corpus Christi Carroll
2. Clark: Wins-Madison, Cedar Park, Churchill twice. Only large San Antonio School Still Undefeated! Will be tested this weekend.
3. Brennan: Wins- Wagner, Manvel, Madison. Losses- Reagan, Georgetown, #1 5A Vista Ridge, #1 6A North Shore
4. O'Connor: Wins- Johnson, Judson. Losses- Waco La Vega, #1 3A Wall
5. Churchill: Wins-Brandeis. Losses-Clark twice
6. Johnson: Wins-Brandeis, Stevens. Losses- O'Connor, Wagner, Carroll
7. Stevens: Wins- Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights. Losses-Clemens, Judson, FW Trimble Tech, Johnson
8. Madison: Wins-Wagner, Brandeis. Losses-Brennan, Clark
9. Reagan: Wins- Wagner, Brennan, Steele. Losses- Stevens, Carrol, MacArthur, RR Cedar Ridge, Clemens
Tied for 10th
10. Wagner: Wins-Johnson, Brandeis. Losses- Brennan, Madison, Antonian, Reagan, RR Cedar Ridge
10. Smithson Valley- Wins- Brenham, Boerne Champion
Honorable Mention
Steele: Wins-Brandeis, Southwest. Losses-Reagan, Clemens, San Marcos, Stevens, Carroll, Navarro
Antonian: Wins- Wagner, Judson. Losses-MacArthur, CC Ray, Roosevelt
Brandeis: Losses-Churchill, Johnson, Steele, Madison, Wagner
Incarnate Word: Wins-Marion
Southwest
As far as schedules, Clemens, Clark, Churchill are some of the teams in NB Canyon Basketball Tournament to look out for.
Stevens and Wagner will be representing at Georgetown Basketball Tournament.
Steele, Smithson Valley, Highlands and Incarnate Word will be facing some stiff competition at Buda Hays Basketball Tournament
And one of the best places to catch some great action will be at the Northside/NEISD Basketball Tournament featuring some of the best San Antonio teams in Johnson, O'Connor, Brennan, Madison, Reagan, Antonian and Southwest.
It is likely we will know more come next week of where teams stand....... or maybe not.
That's the beauty of the sport!
Go Support Girls Basketball!!!!!
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Top 10 Teams San Antonio Girls High School Basketball
There was a whirlwind of action all over the place with most teams participating in tournaments all over Texas. From McDonalds Invitational, Floresville Classic, San Marcos, South San, SAISD, Marble Falls, McAllen, San Antonio area teams were representing in full force.
A couple things come to mind as I see scores being posted.
I don't recall seeing so many blowouts all over the place. Some scores are so lopsided that it is hard to imagine there is so much discrepancy among area teams. And yet everything is so unpredictable that anything goes at any time.
Did Steele really lose to Navarro and San Marcos?
Did Antonian beat both Judson and Wagner back to back in the same week?
Is Wagner still looking for its first win after two whole weeks of playing basketball?
When is the last time that ever happened? Maybe Never.
How good is Waco La Vega? They beat 6A power San Antonio O'Connor not once but twice. Yes they are defending Champs but still 2 classes lower. What about Wall, they are defending Champs as well but 3 classes lower and they get the win over OConnor as well. I had never even heard of a town named Wall.
So as the HS Girls Basketball Landscape unfolds, I observe a couple of rules of thought from coaches setting schedules.
Let's either play the toughest non district schedule possible against some of the toughest competition to better prepare the team in many ways for a later run in the playoffs or play some possibly easier competition to build team chemistry, instill confidence etc and possibly make a run later at the top teams after they knock each other out.
Both scenarios might be positive depending on each individual team. But I'm starting to get the feeling that the teams that play the most experienced, balanced, most skilled and talented players and teams, are in the end, the teams that are going to come out on top come playoff time. Only time will tell of course. What we know now could possibly be totally upside down in a matter of no time at all.
Some Notes
2017 Stephanie Ruiz from Taft HS is a very Under Rated player cause a lot of people haven't seen her play. She has game and is fun to watch her play and compete. She doesn't back down at all. Very Crafty young player. Taft might surprise someone this year in District.
Marshall Rams are competing well with what they have. 2016 Abby Rolloque has stepped up under adverse situations since last year to show she is a threat at any point of the game. She is smooth and steady. 2016 Bri Lane out this year hurts the team but Marshall is still managing to hang in there. Last year they upset a talented Clark team and they can possibly do the same this year to another opponent that takes them lightly.
San Antonio Lee only won 3 games all of last year. They are on their way to a decent and respectable showing. They have a lot of new kids with a lot of energy on the court led by 2018 Jenesis Navarro avg 11 points a game. Add them to the mix of Juniors Jennifer Sullivan and Julie Hernandez plus other kids, don't be surprise if they get a District victory that has eluded them in recent memory.
Smithson Valley off to a great start. Maybe next year was going to be their year with a lot of young talent. Their new Head Coach is having the team believe that maybe this year is their year! Play Boerne Champion on Monday.
Looking around the area and its amazing how many players from different teams are having 20 plus point games. And not just once but multiple times. There are also players closing in on 30 pt games or exceeding that, seemingly without much effort. A lot of offense out there and a lot of points.
Looking ahead at District games for fun, some good teams are going to be left out of the playoffs.
In District 25-6A, Smithson Valley, Schertz Clemens, New Braunfels Canyon, perennial powers Judson, Wagner, Steele, who will be home for the playoffs? Could Wagner or Judson be sitting home come playoff time or possibly both
Just as intriguing is 27-6A, Brennan, Clark, Brandeis, OConnor and Stevens are the favorites, but that still leaves 1 team out and that doesn't include perennial power Jay and teams like Taft and Marshall wanting to make some noise. Someone is definitely going to be feeling down if they don't make it to the playoffs especially with so much talent in each team. That will be definitely tough.
Then we have District 26-6A, Reagan, Churchill, Johnson, Madison, Mac, Roosevelt and Lee. Who is sitting home for the playoffs? There might be a 5 way tie for first in this District.
You gotta love it.
This is how I see it as of right now. All in fun.
1. Brennan-Beats Madison handily and gets a great win over Defending State Champ Manvel. Feel they just have many different ways of beating you. Different player can definitely step up at any given moment. They have a great tough schedule that should bode well down the stretch. Game of the week will be #1 Class 5A Ranked Cedar Vista Ridge vs Brennan on Tuesday at 230pm. There will be talent galore all over the court in that match up. Best of Austin vs Best of SA. Doesn't get much better.
2. Scherts Clemens- They are tough team. Their Coach is constantly pushing them. The team plays a relentless attacking style. They might have one of the best pressing teams when they use it. What's best is that no matter who they are playing against if they stay close, they definitely have a go to player to go to at the end. They already beat Steele, Stevens, FW Trimble, Killeen Harker Heights, Reagan, Southwest and lost to Carroll. Just look at the competition they have played already. Looking down the road, they might not lose again till the playoffs.
3. Stevens- Have beaten Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Steele, Navarro, lost to FW Trimble and Schertz.
4. Clark- Picked up nice Wins vs Churchill then traveled to the Valley and won McAllen Tourney Championship beating Cedar Park and Churchill again. They are very deep. Just look how many kids are averaging over 6 points a game. Interesting match up vs MacArthur on Tuesday at 130pm at OConnor HS.
5. Churchill- Two very tough loses to Clark leaves Churchill to regroup some what. They have a favorable schedule heading into District play.
6. OConnor- Had some tough loses in a couple of tournaments to some great talented smaller schools. Looking down the road, first half of December is shaping up to be a real test for them.
7. Johnson- Had a relatively easy time winning the South San Tournament. Quality win over Brandeis to show and loses to OConnor and Carroll. Game vs Wagner on Tuesday at 530pm. Let's see if Wagner can get their first Win or if Johnson continue to roll.
8. Steele- They have played a lot of quality teams even though they have come up short some, they have been close. Nice win over Brandeis and have a win over Southwest. Loses to Schertz Clemens, Carroll.
9. Brandeis- Another team unchallenged winning Floresville Tournament with relative ease. Still in search of nice win. Losses to Churchill, Johnson, Steele.
Tied
10. Madison- Lost to Brennan and had a nice showing at the McDonalds Invitational winning Gold Bracket in Division 2. Good Matchup vs Brandeis on Tuesday
10. Smithson Valley- You have to acknowledge their strong start no matter who they have played. They have offensive weapons inside and out but what might surprise their opponents is that they play solid defense. Down the road looking forward to seeing them have a strong performance at Hay's Tournament.
Outside looking in
Reagan- played strong vs Schertz Clemens. Again we have to see their body of work even though they have come up short. Games vs Stevens, Carroll, Wagner and Clemens. 2016's Mailee Jones and Emily Sandoval are playing strong.
Antonian- Nice wins over Wagner and Judson. Good matchup vs Highlands on Tuesday. 2016 Sandy Ramirez taking the lead with her quickness and instincts.
Wagner- Searching for their first Win.
IWHS- Win over Floresville. Only two losses so far when 6 players (3 Starters) out due to School Function. One of losses to Laredo Alexander by 1 pt, 51 to 50. Still work in progress but you can start seeing guards 2016 Alexia Torres and 2018 Sophia Ramos read each other and starting to play like they have been playing with each other for a long time. They compliment each other really well and only should get stronger.
Games to Watch
Cedar Vista Ridge vs Brennan at Brennan Tuesday 230pm
Clark vs MacArthur at Oconnor HS Tuesday 130pm
Reagan vs Steele at Littleton gym Tuesday 7pm
Brandeis vs Madison at Littleton gym Tuesday 5pm
Many well wishes to all and safe travels during Thanksgiving Holidays.
Hope everyone has a great day together with family and friends and plenty of hot delicious food!
Get ready for a lot more action of Girls Basketball. Things will be heating up with more and more interesting Match ups of the top teams in San Antonio.
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!
A couple things come to mind as I see scores being posted.
I don't recall seeing so many blowouts all over the place. Some scores are so lopsided that it is hard to imagine there is so much discrepancy among area teams. And yet everything is so unpredictable that anything goes at any time.
Did Steele really lose to Navarro and San Marcos?
Did Antonian beat both Judson and Wagner back to back in the same week?
Is Wagner still looking for its first win after two whole weeks of playing basketball?
When is the last time that ever happened? Maybe Never.
How good is Waco La Vega? They beat 6A power San Antonio O'Connor not once but twice. Yes they are defending Champs but still 2 classes lower. What about Wall, they are defending Champs as well but 3 classes lower and they get the win over OConnor as well. I had never even heard of a town named Wall.
So as the HS Girls Basketball Landscape unfolds, I observe a couple of rules of thought from coaches setting schedules.
Let's either play the toughest non district schedule possible against some of the toughest competition to better prepare the team in many ways for a later run in the playoffs or play some possibly easier competition to build team chemistry, instill confidence etc and possibly make a run later at the top teams after they knock each other out.
Both scenarios might be positive depending on each individual team. But I'm starting to get the feeling that the teams that play the most experienced, balanced, most skilled and talented players and teams, are in the end, the teams that are going to come out on top come playoff time. Only time will tell of course. What we know now could possibly be totally upside down in a matter of no time at all.
Some Notes
2017 Stephanie Ruiz from Taft HS is a very Under Rated player cause a lot of people haven't seen her play. She has game and is fun to watch her play and compete. She doesn't back down at all. Very Crafty young player. Taft might surprise someone this year in District.
Marshall Rams are competing well with what they have. 2016 Abby Rolloque has stepped up under adverse situations since last year to show she is a threat at any point of the game. She is smooth and steady. 2016 Bri Lane out this year hurts the team but Marshall is still managing to hang in there. Last year they upset a talented Clark team and they can possibly do the same this year to another opponent that takes them lightly.
San Antonio Lee only won 3 games all of last year. They are on their way to a decent and respectable showing. They have a lot of new kids with a lot of energy on the court led by 2018 Jenesis Navarro avg 11 points a game. Add them to the mix of Juniors Jennifer Sullivan and Julie Hernandez plus other kids, don't be surprise if they get a District victory that has eluded them in recent memory.
Smithson Valley off to a great start. Maybe next year was going to be their year with a lot of young talent. Their new Head Coach is having the team believe that maybe this year is their year! Play Boerne Champion on Monday.
Looking around the area and its amazing how many players from different teams are having 20 plus point games. And not just once but multiple times. There are also players closing in on 30 pt games or exceeding that, seemingly without much effort. A lot of offense out there and a lot of points.
Looking ahead at District games for fun, some good teams are going to be left out of the playoffs.
In District 25-6A, Smithson Valley, Schertz Clemens, New Braunfels Canyon, perennial powers Judson, Wagner, Steele, who will be home for the playoffs? Could Wagner or Judson be sitting home come playoff time or possibly both
Just as intriguing is 27-6A, Brennan, Clark, Brandeis, OConnor and Stevens are the favorites, but that still leaves 1 team out and that doesn't include perennial power Jay and teams like Taft and Marshall wanting to make some noise. Someone is definitely going to be feeling down if they don't make it to the playoffs especially with so much talent in each team. That will be definitely tough.
Then we have District 26-6A, Reagan, Churchill, Johnson, Madison, Mac, Roosevelt and Lee. Who is sitting home for the playoffs? There might be a 5 way tie for first in this District.
You gotta love it.
This is how I see it as of right now. All in fun.
1. Brennan-Beats Madison handily and gets a great win over Defending State Champ Manvel. Feel they just have many different ways of beating you. Different player can definitely step up at any given moment. They have a great tough schedule that should bode well down the stretch. Game of the week will be #1 Class 5A Ranked Cedar Vista Ridge vs Brennan on Tuesday at 230pm. There will be talent galore all over the court in that match up. Best of Austin vs Best of SA. Doesn't get much better.
2. Scherts Clemens- They are tough team. Their Coach is constantly pushing them. The team plays a relentless attacking style. They might have one of the best pressing teams when they use it. What's best is that no matter who they are playing against if they stay close, they definitely have a go to player to go to at the end. They already beat Steele, Stevens, FW Trimble, Killeen Harker Heights, Reagan, Southwest and lost to Carroll. Just look at the competition they have played already. Looking down the road, they might not lose again till the playoffs.
3. Stevens- Have beaten Reagan, Killeen Harker Heights, Steele, Navarro, lost to FW Trimble and Schertz.
4. Clark- Picked up nice Wins vs Churchill then traveled to the Valley and won McAllen Tourney Championship beating Cedar Park and Churchill again. They are very deep. Just look how many kids are averaging over 6 points a game. Interesting match up vs MacArthur on Tuesday at 130pm at OConnor HS.
5. Churchill- Two very tough loses to Clark leaves Churchill to regroup some what. They have a favorable schedule heading into District play.
6. OConnor- Had some tough loses in a couple of tournaments to some great talented smaller schools. Looking down the road, first half of December is shaping up to be a real test for them.
7. Johnson- Had a relatively easy time winning the South San Tournament. Quality win over Brandeis to show and loses to OConnor and Carroll. Game vs Wagner on Tuesday at 530pm. Let's see if Wagner can get their first Win or if Johnson continue to roll.
8. Steele- They have played a lot of quality teams even though they have come up short some, they have been close. Nice win over Brandeis and have a win over Southwest. Loses to Schertz Clemens, Carroll.
9. Brandeis- Another team unchallenged winning Floresville Tournament with relative ease. Still in search of nice win. Losses to Churchill, Johnson, Steele.
Tied
10. Madison- Lost to Brennan and had a nice showing at the McDonalds Invitational winning Gold Bracket in Division 2. Good Matchup vs Brandeis on Tuesday
10. Smithson Valley- You have to acknowledge their strong start no matter who they have played. They have offensive weapons inside and out but what might surprise their opponents is that they play solid defense. Down the road looking forward to seeing them have a strong performance at Hay's Tournament.
Outside looking in
Reagan- played strong vs Schertz Clemens. Again we have to see their body of work even though they have come up short. Games vs Stevens, Carroll, Wagner and Clemens. 2016's Mailee Jones and Emily Sandoval are playing strong.
Antonian- Nice wins over Wagner and Judson. Good matchup vs Highlands on Tuesday. 2016 Sandy Ramirez taking the lead with her quickness and instincts.
Wagner- Searching for their first Win.
IWHS- Win over Floresville. Only two losses so far when 6 players (3 Starters) out due to School Function. One of losses to Laredo Alexander by 1 pt, 51 to 50. Still work in progress but you can start seeing guards 2016 Alexia Torres and 2018 Sophia Ramos read each other and starting to play like they have been playing with each other for a long time. They compliment each other really well and only should get stronger.
Games to Watch
Cedar Vista Ridge vs Brennan at Brennan Tuesday 230pm
Clark vs MacArthur at Oconnor HS Tuesday 130pm
Reagan vs Steele at Littleton gym Tuesday 7pm
Brandeis vs Madison at Littleton gym Tuesday 5pm
Many well wishes to all and safe travels during Thanksgiving Holidays.
Hope everyone has a great day together with family and friends and plenty of hot delicious food!
Get ready for a lot more action of Girls Basketball. Things will be heating up with more and more interesting Match ups of the top teams in San Antonio.
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!
Thursday, November 20, 2014
APRIL MATTHEWS, LUNDEN PATTERSON AND ARIANNA CRAVER
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| APRIL MATTHEWS, LUNDEN PATERSON AND ARIANNA CRAVER |
These young ladies are there for each other through thick and thin. They have been with me for 2 plus years and it has been a pleasure watching them grow and mature on and off the court. They come away reserved and shy but have very outgoing personalities. They all come from great families and if you come to watch one of their games you will certainly hear one or all of their dads from the stands CHEERING loud and clear!
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| APRIL, ARI AND LUNDEN |
I asked the all the girls a few questions.
Here is what they had to say.
First up, Lunden Patterson.
She is a 1st team Academic All District as a Junior, NHS member, ranked 9th in her Class about 700 and a 101.9 GPA.
1. What were your first impressions of Islanders Basketball Club when you joined?
Lunden- My first impression was amazement, and honestly intimidation because of the high skill level and discipline. But I could see it was a close knit organization and that I was becoming part of a family.
2. What is your best memory of playing with the Islanders?
Lunden- My best memory is playing at the Basketball at the Bayou tournament in New Orleans, especially all the fun times we had off the court eating great food and touring the city.
3. What are some important lessons you have learned playing with the Islanders?
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| LUNDEN PATTERSON |
4. What would you say being an Islanders player represents?
Lunden- A hard working, smart player, and that together we can get through anything.
5. What are looking forward most for this upcoming High School Basketball season?
Lunden- I want to have fun and a successful senior season. I know I'm going to have great times and create many memories with my friends, but I also want to be a top team that collects wins and makes a deep run in the playoffs.
6. What do you enjoy most about the game of basketball?
Lunden- I love the feeling of winning close games and that I get to do it with my closest friends.
7. What does it mean getting to play with April and Arianna?
Lunden- It's hard to believe that this is our last year together and it is bitter sweet for sure, but I am so excited to finish my high school career with my two best friends.
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| ARI CRAVER AND APRIL MATTHEWS (MVP'S) |
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| ARI, LUNDEN AND APRIL |
1. What were your first impressions of Islanders Basketball Club when you joined?
Ari-Everyone worked extremely hard no matter what they did, and that they were pushed to do their best at all times.
2. What is your best memory of playing with the Islanders?
Ari-Playing in al of the close, edge-of-your-seat, nail biter games we were able to finish with a win.
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| ARI CRAVER |
Ari-I have learned to stay positive and to play with confidence every time I step out on the court.
4. What would you say being an Islanders player represents?
Ari- Hard work, dedication and heart
5. What are looking forward most for this upcoming High School Basketball season?
Ari-I am looking forward to plain as a team, and being able to compete with my Islander teammates.
6. What do you enjoy most about the game of basketball?
Ari-I love the feeling I get while I'm playing. I can't describe it, but it's one of the best feelings in the world.
7. What does it mean to play with April and Lunden your senior year?
Ari-Being able to play with my Best Friends. Senior year is great because I get to continue to make memories while playing the game I Love!!
Next up, April Matthews.
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| APRIL MATTHEWS |
April-That this team means business and that this is the team that is going to push me to become a better player.
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| APRIL DOING HER BEST LEBRON IMPRESSION |
2. What is your best memory of playing with the Islanders?
April-My best memory is playing in tournaments and always coming together as one big family
3. What are some important lessons you have learned playing with the Islanders?
April-I learned that hard work really does pay off in the end, to always pay attention, commit to the game and always be respectful in everything that I do.
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| ALL BUSINESS! |
4. What would you say being an Islanders player represents?
April-It represents being a hardworking, determined, respectable, humble player and to always enjoy the game of basketball.
5, What are looking forward most for this upcoming High School Basketball season?
April-I look forward to winning the State Championship.
6. What do you enjoy most about the game of basketball?
April-The competitiveness, excitement, the togetherness as a team and applying some of the situations on the court to everyday life
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| APRIL WITH HER #1 FAN, DAD RICHARD |
Wow, IMPRESSIVE young ladies. When you hear what these young ladies have to say, there is no doubt in mind, they are going places!
It is a pleasure to have them and their families a part of our Organization.
They are intelligent, poised, high character, goal orientated young ladies!
They make me proud!
SA Islanders... La Familia!
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Top 10 Teams SA Girls Basketball High School
So the first week of Girls High School Basketball is in the books. There were some intriguing match ups and a lot of great games.
And as I said before, under the lights and against other top teams and players in the city, you find players and teams finding their identity.
So I have to start with 2015 Mikki Flores and Churchill Chargers. Time, time and again Flores showed last year what she can do. Well, she continued where she left off from last year and led her team to a good win over Brandeis. Then Flores went on to win MVP for Harlandale Tournament. How about Churchill teammate 2016 Maiya Green? After 5 games she is averaging right over 19 points a game. Churchill with new Head Coach, is grooving along.
Let me jump to Stevens, they beat Reagan with their best player on the bench. But Stevens Point guard 2016 Ariel De Los Santos played solid going for 12 points playing a lot of quality minutes. Nice job for her.
Let me jump to Corpus Christ Carroll. They won CC Mira's Riviera Basketball Tournament with SA big Schools Reagan, Johnson, Clemens, Cibolo Steele, Brandeis in the mix. That is impressive.
Does that say anything about the state of affairs in San Antonio High School Girls Basketball. Compared to Corpus, here in San Antono, there is a ton more resources here in San Antonio, quality trainers, Elite and real good basketball Clubs, seemingly endless supply of quality talent.
I said it before, a lot of great young ladies graduating with immense leadership ability leaving a Temporary void. As the season progresses, players and teams will mature, step up and fill the voids.
In short, so many teams are in the mix that anything can happen.
How about Smithson Valley going 5-0 before losing in Championship game in Dripping Springs Tournament?
MacArthur beats Reagan. Madison gets by Wagner.
Great examples of teams trying to fill in voids and not settling for how it used to be last year.
Still a long season to go for sure but it makes for intriguing match ups for down the road.
Many times when teams have injuries, people point out, yeah but so and so wasn't playing. More time than not that is true, but not always. Hypothetically, Lebron James and Cleveland could lose to the Philadelphia 76ers any given night. The odds would be highly unlikely but still possible. But if Cleveland lost to the 76ers without Lebron, out for any reason, then the mantra would be, yeah but Lebron didn't play. Fair enough, my point is you have to play the game with what you got. A win is a win and a loss is a loss. Following is just a snapshot of right now in my view just for FUN! Still plenty of games left.
1. Brennan- Only game played this week vs Wagner. They get the Win with huge game from 2016 Monique Terry. She just brings so much energy to the court. Try and contain her and fellow post 2015 Deja Mason and then it will start raining 3's with 2017's Megan Valdez and Kenzie Heineman. Plus they have a nice bench that can play quality minutes. Tough team. They beat Wagner. Monday vs Madison.
2. Churchill- They are unbeaten no matter what the schedule has been so far. Same script from last year, different Coach. Time will tell if they can keep improving and growing and more importantly keep winning. And the Time is soon, they play unbeaten Clark Tuesday.
3. Stevens- They beat Reagan and rested the rest of the week. Game vs Cibolo Steele on Tuesday. Coach Hastings gets more from her players than most people can even try to. Intriguing match up and fun game to go see.
4. Clark- They are unbeaten and UNTESTED! But we will know more about them when they face Churchill. 2016 Ria Gulley and 2015 Kirsten Kramer are leading the way but have a lot more weapons including a deep bench. Keep an eye on 2015 April Matthews. Interesting to see how the Matchup with Churchill unfolds. Another fun game to see.
5. Clemens- 2015 Kyra Lambert is going to will her team to wins. I would not want to play Clemens early in the playoffs. Play Reagan Tuesday.
6. O'Connor- They had a nice win over Johnson with 2015 Amber Vidal and 2016 Kasey Saldana leading the way. Vidal seemingly scored at will and Saldana was relentless to the basket. Had a nice showing at Copperas Cove Tournament. They lost twice to Waco La Vega, defending 3A State Champion coming in Runner-up.
7. Johnson- Lost to O'Connor and to Carroll in the CC Championship game. This team is just going to grow and mature and get better as the season wears on. 2018 D. Caldwell made some great shots and plays against O'Connor and is leading the team in scoring. Very athletic team that can run as well.
2015 Erica Saunders is just fun to watch attacking the basket and playing defense. A confident 2016 Tara Molina can help with opening up the lanes with her midrange and outside shots.
8. Madison- Beat Wagner and face top ranked team Brennan on Monday. They have an opportunity to show what they got. 2015 Moriah Creswell runs the floor well and can make things happen. 2016 Lexi Rich can definitely light it up. They should be fired up going into Monday's game.
9. Wagner- Two losses, no sweat. Games have been tight and close. Wagner have a lot of new faces in the team lineup. But they also have a lot of familiar faces as well. And you can never count out 2016 Amber Ramirez in any matchup. They play Antonian, a private school trying to make a name of itself with a solid line up of Club players led by 2016's Sandy Ramirez and Brittany Parker.
10. Steele- Beat Southwest and lost to Carroll. 2016 Alexis Bryant is scoring close to 20 points a game. They will get stronger as the season progresses.
Honorable Mention
Smithson Valley- nice start. Knocking on the door. Can they kick it in?
Brandeis- Losses to Churchill, Steele and Johnson. Looking to win Floresville Tournament this coming weekend
Reagan- Losses to Stevens, Carroll and Mac. Can they rebound vs Schertz Clemens on Tuesday
Other Notes
Devine 2016 Baylee Quinsenberry goes for 29pts against Express News ranked Navarro.
Incarnate Word- 2018 Sophia Ramos goes for 18 pts in her debut against SMH. She should have a great year and career. Very dynamic and fun player to watch.
Games of Interest
Monday- Brennan at Madison at Littleton gym 5pm
Tuesday- Clark vs Churchill at Littleton gym 6pm
Cibolo Steele ve Stevens at Paul Taylor gym 630pm
Clemens vs Reagan at Littleton gym 730pm
Wagner at Antonian 730pm
Incarnate Word vs Express News Ranked Floresville at Incarnate Word HS 730pm (GYM SHOULD HAVE A PACKED HOUSE!)
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!
And as I said before, under the lights and against other top teams and players in the city, you find players and teams finding their identity.
So I have to start with 2015 Mikki Flores and Churchill Chargers. Time, time and again Flores showed last year what she can do. Well, she continued where she left off from last year and led her team to a good win over Brandeis. Then Flores went on to win MVP for Harlandale Tournament. How about Churchill teammate 2016 Maiya Green? After 5 games she is averaging right over 19 points a game. Churchill with new Head Coach, is grooving along.
Let me jump to Stevens, they beat Reagan with their best player on the bench. But Stevens Point guard 2016 Ariel De Los Santos played solid going for 12 points playing a lot of quality minutes. Nice job for her.
Let me jump to Corpus Christ Carroll. They won CC Mira's Riviera Basketball Tournament with SA big Schools Reagan, Johnson, Clemens, Cibolo Steele, Brandeis in the mix. That is impressive.
Does that say anything about the state of affairs in San Antonio High School Girls Basketball. Compared to Corpus, here in San Antono, there is a ton more resources here in San Antonio, quality trainers, Elite and real good basketball Clubs, seemingly endless supply of quality talent.
I said it before, a lot of great young ladies graduating with immense leadership ability leaving a Temporary void. As the season progresses, players and teams will mature, step up and fill the voids.
In short, so many teams are in the mix that anything can happen.
How about Smithson Valley going 5-0 before losing in Championship game in Dripping Springs Tournament?
MacArthur beats Reagan. Madison gets by Wagner.
Great examples of teams trying to fill in voids and not settling for how it used to be last year.
Still a long season to go for sure but it makes for intriguing match ups for down the road.
Many times when teams have injuries, people point out, yeah but so and so wasn't playing. More time than not that is true, but not always. Hypothetically, Lebron James and Cleveland could lose to the Philadelphia 76ers any given night. The odds would be highly unlikely but still possible. But if Cleveland lost to the 76ers without Lebron, out for any reason, then the mantra would be, yeah but Lebron didn't play. Fair enough, my point is you have to play the game with what you got. A win is a win and a loss is a loss. Following is just a snapshot of right now in my view just for FUN! Still plenty of games left.
1. Brennan- Only game played this week vs Wagner. They get the Win with huge game from 2016 Monique Terry. She just brings so much energy to the court. Try and contain her and fellow post 2015 Deja Mason and then it will start raining 3's with 2017's Megan Valdez and Kenzie Heineman. Plus they have a nice bench that can play quality minutes. Tough team. They beat Wagner. Monday vs Madison.
2. Churchill- They are unbeaten no matter what the schedule has been so far. Same script from last year, different Coach. Time will tell if they can keep improving and growing and more importantly keep winning. And the Time is soon, they play unbeaten Clark Tuesday.
3. Stevens- They beat Reagan and rested the rest of the week. Game vs Cibolo Steele on Tuesday. Coach Hastings gets more from her players than most people can even try to. Intriguing match up and fun game to go see.
4. Clark- They are unbeaten and UNTESTED! But we will know more about them when they face Churchill. 2016 Ria Gulley and 2015 Kirsten Kramer are leading the way but have a lot more weapons including a deep bench. Keep an eye on 2015 April Matthews. Interesting to see how the Matchup with Churchill unfolds. Another fun game to see.
5. Clemens- 2015 Kyra Lambert is going to will her team to wins. I would not want to play Clemens early in the playoffs. Play Reagan Tuesday.
6. O'Connor- They had a nice win over Johnson with 2015 Amber Vidal and 2016 Kasey Saldana leading the way. Vidal seemingly scored at will and Saldana was relentless to the basket. Had a nice showing at Copperas Cove Tournament. They lost twice to Waco La Vega, defending 3A State Champion coming in Runner-up.
7. Johnson- Lost to O'Connor and to Carroll in the CC Championship game. This team is just going to grow and mature and get better as the season wears on. 2018 D. Caldwell made some great shots and plays against O'Connor and is leading the team in scoring. Very athletic team that can run as well.
2015 Erica Saunders is just fun to watch attacking the basket and playing defense. A confident 2016 Tara Molina can help with opening up the lanes with her midrange and outside shots.
8. Madison- Beat Wagner and face top ranked team Brennan on Monday. They have an opportunity to show what they got. 2015 Moriah Creswell runs the floor well and can make things happen. 2016 Lexi Rich can definitely light it up. They should be fired up going into Monday's game.
9. Wagner- Two losses, no sweat. Games have been tight and close. Wagner have a lot of new faces in the team lineup. But they also have a lot of familiar faces as well. And you can never count out 2016 Amber Ramirez in any matchup. They play Antonian, a private school trying to make a name of itself with a solid line up of Club players led by 2016's Sandy Ramirez and Brittany Parker.
10. Steele- Beat Southwest and lost to Carroll. 2016 Alexis Bryant is scoring close to 20 points a game. They will get stronger as the season progresses.
Honorable Mention
Smithson Valley- nice start. Knocking on the door. Can they kick it in?
Brandeis- Losses to Churchill, Steele and Johnson. Looking to win Floresville Tournament this coming weekend
Reagan- Losses to Stevens, Carroll and Mac. Can they rebound vs Schertz Clemens on Tuesday
Other Notes
Devine 2016 Baylee Quinsenberry goes for 29pts against Express News ranked Navarro.
Incarnate Word- 2018 Sophia Ramos goes for 18 pts in her debut against SMH. She should have a great year and career. Very dynamic and fun player to watch.
Games of Interest
Monday- Brennan at Madison at Littleton gym 5pm
Tuesday- Clark vs Churchill at Littleton gym 6pm
Cibolo Steele ve Stevens at Paul Taylor gym 630pm
Clemens vs Reagan at Littleton gym 730pm
Wagner at Antonian 730pm
Incarnate Word vs Express News Ranked Floresville at Incarnate Word HS 730pm (GYM SHOULD HAVE A PACKED HOUSE!)
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!
Thursday, November 13, 2014
ERIN ASHLEY AND ERIN WIMBERLEY
Erin Ashley and Erin Wimberley have been playing with the Islanders since the young ladies started middle school. They also happen to play together at Smithson Valley HS, the mighty fighting Rangers I might add.
Since they are two of my original players, I wanted to share a little insight on them.
They are both great kids with great families that have helped the Organization tremendously in every way possible. I am grateful to them for given me an opportunity to be part of their lifes.
As you might imagine, having two kids with the same name can create some problems. At practice, I would yell out Erin and both would turn around hence nicknames were in order.
Erin Ashley aka Awesome, Erin Wimberley aka Winner.
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| Coach Jesse with Winner and Awesome |
I asked the girls to answer a few questions to share with everyone. I posed the same questions to both of them.
First up, Erin Ashley aka Awesome.
She won 1st Team Academic All-District in her sophomore season. She has a GPA of 96.1 and in the Top 15 Percentile of her Class. She has played Varsity Basketball since her Freshman year.
1. What were your first impressions of Islanders Basketball Club when you joined?
Ashley: That the expectations were very high and that it was a very passionate program
2. What is your best memory of playing with the Islanders?
Ashley: Going all the way to Nationals and playing on the Spurs court, AT&T Center.
3. What are some important lessons you have learned playing with the Islanders?
Ashley: I have learned to give it all you've got no matter what and to be strong in every situation.
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| Erin Ashley |
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| Awesome Catch! |
Ashley: Integrity, strength and determination
5. What are looking forward most for this upcoming High School Basketball season?
Ashley: To be able to aid my team as best I can. I hope to impress people and make my Parents Proud.
6. What do you enjoy most about the game of basketball?
Ashley: The intensity it demands.
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| Awesome! |
Next Erin Wimberley aka Winner.
She is ranked #14 out of 584 and has a GPA of 4.0 with a 97.16 avg. She received 1st Team Academic All-District her sophomore season at Smithson Valley HS as well. She also has been playing with Varsity team since her Freshman year.
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| Erin Wimberley |
Wimberley: Islanders are a family and would stick together.
2. What is your best memory of playing with the Islanders?
Wimberley: When we won Prime Time Nationals in Dallas.
3. What are some important lessons you have learned playing with the Islanders?
Wimberley: Working as a team is crucial to success and your team helps you get through difficult times.
4. What would you say being an Islanders player represents?
Wimberley: Represents being part of a family who will always be there for you.
5. What are looking forward most for this upcoming High School Basketball season?
Wimberley: Playing with all my friends at school and playing against Islander players.
6. What do you enjoy most about the game of basketball?
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| Winner celebrating Bday with team |
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| Lexi and Winner |
Click to read about Erin Wimberley on GirlzPrepReport
Click for ERIN WIMBERLEY YOUTUBE VIDEO
I want to thank both of them and let them know how PROUD I am of Both!!!!
La Familia.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
SA High School Girls Basketball Top Teams
High School Girls Basketball is here and excitement is in the air for those die hard followers.
As a fan, I enjoy to watch good basketball being played especially at the High School level.
As I try and look at the girls basketball landscape in its entirety, there is not much you can say with clarity. It almost seems PARODY exists life and well in San Antonio High School GBB.
You can thank the Class of 2014 for that. Such a talented class of players. A lot of leadership left with them. Once they graduated, it left a huge void of uncertainty in many of the top teams.
But as the season progresses, players will find their identity and rise to the challenges and so will their teams.
Teams to watch for
1. Wagner- Coaching, Tradition, seemingly endless pipeline of athletes coming in to the school every year. Two of the best players in the City, State and Country, in Kiana Williams and Amber Ramirez, play in the same backcourt literally the whole year. They have chemistry and compliment each other well. This team will be playoff ready real quick and will be a tough out in the playoffs regardless of record in the regular season.
2. Brennan- What is amazing about this team and not to be taken lightly, is that they Graduated at least 6 players that are playing in College, moved up in classification, and still have the potential of going unbeaten in District play. Would you expect anything different, they have gone unbeaten in District play since forever. Start with Coaching, setting the culture and environment for success, raising the bar for everyone involved with the program. You have players and Parents buying in. As far as players, they have a huge inside presence with Mason and Terry. Strong guard play with Megan Valdez and Kenzie Heineman plus a lot more.
3. Reagan- A strong Class 2016 will be leading the team. A dominating presence inside with Sara Lewis and strong guard play led by Mailee Jones, Emily Sandoval and Anya Curtiss. We will know early on if they can keep up where they left off last year. They have a strong non-district schedule.
4. Brandeis- Seemingly a strong team from top to bottom led by sophomore Gabby Connally and a tough inside presence. Should be a solid team all around. Look for their bench to beat out opposing teams bench.
5. OConnor- This team can beat any team at any time with their starting 5. But how much depth are they going to have? They have athletic Shelby Miller in the inside complimented with tough savvy athletic guards in Amber Vidal, Victoria Pena and Kasey Saldana that can penetrate to the basket, hit from deep and play defense. They should start off strong out the gates.
6. Clark- This team has a lot of promise. The Roster is loaded with players that can bring a lot to the table that you might know like Ria Gulley, Kristen Kramer, Emily Sims and some you might not know like Shayla Pollard, April Matthews, Lunden Patterson, Arianna Craver to name some. Confidence is key when they play against stiff competition.
7. Steele- Very young athletic team. This team will get better and stronger as the season rolls. Inside presence is going to be fun to watch. The team will be led by Bri Millett who is poised for a great run in her senior year.
8. Clemens- I just have to say, Kyra Lambert. She is such a dynamic player. Everyone should go watch her play before she graduates. She can will the team to a great season.
9. Churchill- New Coaching. Look for Mikki Flores to continue where she left off last season. She does a lot for the team and brings intensity and fire to her game. Let's see how they get off the gates. Last year they had a great start.
I am being diplomatic here and heck would you blame me.
Tied for 10 and Honorable Mention
Johnson- New coach, new atmosphere. Look for Tara Molina to continue where she left off last season especially in scoring and leadership. Erica Saunders can play any position in HS, very versatile and athletic. Look out for new addition in the form of incoming freshman. Might possibly make the difference to get them over the hump.
Southwest- Looking to build from last season's run. Very scrappy team that plays the whole court and like to shoot the 3. If it is falling, then watch out.
Madison- Very savvy athletic point guard, Moriah Creswell will lead the team. Lexi Rich can dial it up from anywhere on the court. Very tough overall team.
Stevens- Last years District Champs lost a lot of key players to graduation. Who is filling in the voids? Still capable of making a run.
Smithson Valley- A lot of upside with new additions and the maturation of its young players will pose a strong challenge to teams. They have a nice inside presence with Liz Cathart and Erin Wimberley coming back strong. Guards Vanessa Oyola and Jenna Mehlbreck are capable of going off at any given moment. Love the tenacity of Erin Ashley plus a lot of incoming young talent.
Antonian- Coaching and some additions to their team that competed well last year. Look for Sandy Ramirez and Brittany Parker to do well and lead the team.
Incarnate Word- Coaching is always a strong point. With a year under her belt, Alexia Torres has the addition of incoming freshman Sophia Ramos to work with, a dynamic scoring guard, to form a very capable backcourt and fun duo to watch play. Torres will also have more weapons to work with including Jenna Villarreal, who can light it up. It might take a while for things to click but look for them to make a playoff run.
Judson- Lost a lot of key players to graduation. Still plenty of talent and athleticism in the team. Having Belle Tovar out hurts but she might be back just in time to save the day
MacArthur- This team just competes. I see them improving from last years competitive showing.
East Central- Love to see Brittany Rodgers play. She is fun to watch. Has some help in the post. Let's see if they can surprise anyone.
Jay- Can never count this team out for anything. Always great coaching.
It's going to be a long season, so I am sure everything will change in the first week of action. A good place to start, Monday Nov 10, 2014 at Littleton gym.
Brandeis vs Churchill
OConnor vs Johnson
Stevens vs Reagan
And not to be outdone Nov 11th at 730pm
Wagner at Brennan
How fun should that be?
Go out and support Girls Basketball!
As a fan, I enjoy to watch good basketball being played especially at the High School level.
As I try and look at the girls basketball landscape in its entirety, there is not much you can say with clarity. It almost seems PARODY exists life and well in San Antonio High School GBB.
You can thank the Class of 2014 for that. Such a talented class of players. A lot of leadership left with them. Once they graduated, it left a huge void of uncertainty in many of the top teams.
But as the season progresses, players will find their identity and rise to the challenges and so will their teams.
Teams to watch for
1. Wagner- Coaching, Tradition, seemingly endless pipeline of athletes coming in to the school every year. Two of the best players in the City, State and Country, in Kiana Williams and Amber Ramirez, play in the same backcourt literally the whole year. They have chemistry and compliment each other well. This team will be playoff ready real quick and will be a tough out in the playoffs regardless of record in the regular season.
2. Brennan- What is amazing about this team and not to be taken lightly, is that they Graduated at least 6 players that are playing in College, moved up in classification, and still have the potential of going unbeaten in District play. Would you expect anything different, they have gone unbeaten in District play since forever. Start with Coaching, setting the culture and environment for success, raising the bar for everyone involved with the program. You have players and Parents buying in. As far as players, they have a huge inside presence with Mason and Terry. Strong guard play with Megan Valdez and Kenzie Heineman plus a lot more.
3. Reagan- A strong Class 2016 will be leading the team. A dominating presence inside with Sara Lewis and strong guard play led by Mailee Jones, Emily Sandoval and Anya Curtiss. We will know early on if they can keep up where they left off last year. They have a strong non-district schedule.
4. Brandeis- Seemingly a strong team from top to bottom led by sophomore Gabby Connally and a tough inside presence. Should be a solid team all around. Look for their bench to beat out opposing teams bench.
5. OConnor- This team can beat any team at any time with their starting 5. But how much depth are they going to have? They have athletic Shelby Miller in the inside complimented with tough savvy athletic guards in Amber Vidal, Victoria Pena and Kasey Saldana that can penetrate to the basket, hit from deep and play defense. They should start off strong out the gates.
6. Clark- This team has a lot of promise. The Roster is loaded with players that can bring a lot to the table that you might know like Ria Gulley, Kristen Kramer, Emily Sims and some you might not know like Shayla Pollard, April Matthews, Lunden Patterson, Arianna Craver to name some. Confidence is key when they play against stiff competition.
7. Steele- Very young athletic team. This team will get better and stronger as the season rolls. Inside presence is going to be fun to watch. The team will be led by Bri Millett who is poised for a great run in her senior year.
8. Clemens- I just have to say, Kyra Lambert. She is such a dynamic player. Everyone should go watch her play before she graduates. She can will the team to a great season.
9. Churchill- New Coaching. Look for Mikki Flores to continue where she left off last season. She does a lot for the team and brings intensity and fire to her game. Let's see how they get off the gates. Last year they had a great start.
I am being diplomatic here and heck would you blame me.
Tied for 10 and Honorable Mention
Johnson- New coach, new atmosphere. Look for Tara Molina to continue where she left off last season especially in scoring and leadership. Erica Saunders can play any position in HS, very versatile and athletic. Look out for new addition in the form of incoming freshman. Might possibly make the difference to get them over the hump.
Southwest- Looking to build from last season's run. Very scrappy team that plays the whole court and like to shoot the 3. If it is falling, then watch out.
Madison- Very savvy athletic point guard, Moriah Creswell will lead the team. Lexi Rich can dial it up from anywhere on the court. Very tough overall team.
Stevens- Last years District Champs lost a lot of key players to graduation. Who is filling in the voids? Still capable of making a run.
Smithson Valley- A lot of upside with new additions and the maturation of its young players will pose a strong challenge to teams. They have a nice inside presence with Liz Cathart and Erin Wimberley coming back strong. Guards Vanessa Oyola and Jenna Mehlbreck are capable of going off at any given moment. Love the tenacity of Erin Ashley plus a lot of incoming young talent.
Antonian- Coaching and some additions to their team that competed well last year. Look for Sandy Ramirez and Brittany Parker to do well and lead the team.
Incarnate Word- Coaching is always a strong point. With a year under her belt, Alexia Torres has the addition of incoming freshman Sophia Ramos to work with, a dynamic scoring guard, to form a very capable backcourt and fun duo to watch play. Torres will also have more weapons to work with including Jenna Villarreal, who can light it up. It might take a while for things to click but look for them to make a playoff run.
Judson- Lost a lot of key players to graduation. Still plenty of talent and athleticism in the team. Having Belle Tovar out hurts but she might be back just in time to save the day
MacArthur- This team just competes. I see them improving from last years competitive showing.
East Central- Love to see Brittany Rodgers play. She is fun to watch. Has some help in the post. Let's see if they can surprise anyone.
Jay- Can never count this team out for anything. Always great coaching.
It's going to be a long season, so I am sure everything will change in the first week of action. A good place to start, Monday Nov 10, 2014 at Littleton gym.
Brandeis vs Churchill
OConnor vs Johnson
Stevens vs Reagan
And not to be outdone Nov 11th at 730pm
Wagner at Brennan
How fun should that be?
Go out and support Girls Basketball!
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
2016 ALEXIA TORRES
Going into the Future Stars Showcase, Alexia Torres was feeling under the weather. With only 2 other guards available to the SA Islanders, she pushed through and still played.
She is a big part in help making the SA Islanders engine go.
I am proud of the player and most importantly, the PERSON she is maturing into.
I AM TRULY BLESSED!
Click below for some highlights from the Future Stars Showcase including assists to almost every teammate (some not shown), expanded 3 point shot and court presence.
SA ISLANDERS ALEXIA TORRES
SA ISLANDERS ALEXIA TORRES
Thursday, October 9, 2014
2015 APRIL MATTHEWS
April Matthews game is just simply taking off. What she has been doing in practice the last few months is paying off dividends and showing in her performances at games. She has shown she can go into spurts offensively and defensively. And when she gets going, it is a sight to see. Graceful long strides down the court, effortless in her demeanor, ferocious at attacking the basket. Her skill set is getting stronger as well as her confidence. She should make a solid contribution to Clark HS as they get going on their basketball season.
She has a basketball frame, nice size and athleticism, and is learning how to best utilize it to her advantage. She is right there to be able to jump and touch the rim. Pretty impressive.
Another kid that brings a lot to the table, rebounding, blocks, deflections, hard nose defense, running the court, finishing around the basket! Great personality and hard worker!
You can click below to see some highlights of her performance at the Future Stars Showcase
SA ISLANDERS APRIL MATTHEWS
She has a basketball frame, nice size and athleticism, and is learning how to best utilize it to her advantage. She is right there to be able to jump and touch the rim. Pretty impressive.
Another kid that brings a lot to the table, rebounding, blocks, deflections, hard nose defense, running the court, finishing around the basket! Great personality and hard worker!
You can click below to see some highlights of her performance at the Future Stars Showcase
SA ISLANDERS APRIL MATTHEWS
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
SA ISLANDERS ALEXIS,ERIN,HANNAH, ARIANNA (POSTS AND WINGS)
For the SA Islanders this AAU Club season, it surely wasn't FUN competing against teams with a lot of height especially when your two tallest posts are down with injuries for over 6 months each. 2015's Hannah Murray and Arianna stepped up all year to help as best as they could, Hannah with the Black team and Arianna with both the Black and White teams.
2016 Erin Wimberley was able to play a couple of Tournaments at the end of the year getting more comfortable after each game.
2017 Alexis Worley had just got released to play at the Future Stars Showcase in Frisco the week before. With just one practice under her belt in 6 months, she attended because she wanted to play real bad.
All these kids have tremendous hearts. They performed admirably all tournament. As HS season approaches, they are looking forward to get some more work in.
As the next AAU season comes, anticipation awaits as the three Posts Hannah, Alexis and Erin, look to get stronger, better and stay 100% healthy.
And as for our Wing Arianna, look for her to contribute quality minutes as she helps Clark HS make a playoff run.
Click on below to catch some highlights from the Future Stars Showcase.
SA ISLANDERS ALEXIS , ERIN, HANNAH, ARIANNA HIGHLIGHTS
2016 Erin Wimberley was able to play a couple of Tournaments at the end of the year getting more comfortable after each game.
2017 Alexis Worley had just got released to play at the Future Stars Showcase in Frisco the week before. With just one practice under her belt in 6 months, she attended because she wanted to play real bad.
All these kids have tremendous hearts. They performed admirably all tournament. As HS season approaches, they are looking forward to get some more work in.
As the next AAU season comes, anticipation awaits as the three Posts Hannah, Alexis and Erin, look to get stronger, better and stay 100% healthy.
And as for our Wing Arianna, look for her to contribute quality minutes as she helps Clark HS make a playoff run.
Click on below to catch some highlights from the Future Stars Showcase.
SA ISLANDERS ALEXIS , ERIN, HANNAH, ARIANNA HIGHLIGHTS
Sunday, October 5, 2014
2016 TARA MOLINA
Tara Molina is ready to make an impact this coming HS basketball season with her smarts, creativity, ball handling, all around shooting and defense.
She is the ultimate teammate ON and OFF the Court! Her smile is constantly on display and is a great example of kids that I love to have around.
Hard work is exemplified and demonstrated in a lot of ways and used to describe many athletes. Tara Molina is a product of hard work! Her dedication and commitment to the game is right up there with anyone.
She brings enjoyment and excitement to the game.
I am a huge fan of Tara Molina, ON and OFF the Court.
Click below to see the on court version,
SA ISLANDERS TARA MOLINA
She is the ultimate teammate ON and OFF the Court! Her smile is constantly on display and is a great example of kids that I love to have around.
Hard work is exemplified and demonstrated in a lot of ways and used to describe many athletes. Tara Molina is a product of hard work! Her dedication and commitment to the game is right up there with anyone.
She brings enjoyment and excitement to the game.
I am a huge fan of Tara Molina, ON and OFF the Court.
Click below to see the on court version,
SA ISLANDERS TARA MOLINA
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