Thursday, September 28, 2017
Monday, October 24, 2016
My San Antonio Top 10 Girls HS Teams 10-24-16
It's about that time again. HS Girls Basketball with tryouts and practices already in full swing.
One thing I have learned over the past few seasons, anything is possible and everything is wide open when it comes to who is the best team or teams in the city.
I remember when anyone could pick from the top 2 or 3 teams to determine who was going to represent Region 4. The basketball landscape is entirely different now.
One thing for sure, a lot of young ladies have been putting a lot of work this off season!
One thing for sure, a lot of young ladies have been putting a lot of work this off season!
Much has changed during the last few years with the abundance of quality trainers and with the quality of AAU/Club teams that are willing to travel outside the city and most cases out of the state, to help prepare young ladies for an opportunity to play at the next level. There is a lot of gratitude that should go to Club teams and basketball trainers, in many cases, their hard work helps make HS Coaches jobs a lot easier and in turn help HS teams compete by preparing and instilling players with skill, talent, experience, etc
A lot of HS programs have come a long way and even though some HS teams have found comfort and joy in beating perennial power teams during the regular season, It has been the perennial power teams like Wagner and Steele that have dominated when it counts the most, the PLAYOFFS!
It almost seems that HS Coaches that let their best players play and put them in position to make things happen, have been traditionally the most successful programs.
And when coaches have some great floor leaders on the court especially from the point guard position, that always is going to help tremendously.
Before you start looking ahead on this season, let's reflect on last years top teams in the city. One thing that sticks out is how many quality floor leaders running the point have graduated!!!
Wagner's Amber Ramirez, Clark's Rea Gulley, Reagan's Mailee Jones, Antonian's Sandy Ramirez, Steeles Charisma Shepherd, Johnson's Tara Molina, O'Connor's Casey Saldana, IW Alexia Torres to name a few as well as some great shooters like Madison's Lexi Rich, Judson's Belle Tovar and O'Connor's Victoria Pena.
So this leads me to this season, you have to start with MVP candidates Gabby Connally and Kiana Williams, all around exceptional players, with outstanding playmaking abilities.
Their respective teams will look entirely polar opposite in that Brandeis with Connally, graduated virtually all her supporting cast and Wagner with Williams, might just very well have the best starting 5 of any team in the city with the addition of transfer Angel Hastings. Contenders!
Talk about transfers, Johnson now has Megan Valdez, a strong, tough, smart highly skilled PG with a ton of experience running the show. Add incoming freshman sensation Deja Kelly to the mix that includes Post Alyssa Adams and you have a bona fide Contender!
And how about IWHS, the Shamrocks have added, Post Makayla Mabry anchoring quite possibly the deepest team in the city with Sophia Ramos, a highly skilled scorer and playmaker, Ashley Adaszczyk a savvy guard, Olivia Balderas one of the most improved shooters, Alexis Retault a highly underrated PG. Almost every player in their roster playing with some type of Club team in the city. Contender!
Going back to playmakers and leaders, look out for Stevens and PG Destiny Jenkins, Lee HS with PG Jenesis Navarro, Madison with Charlene Mass and O'Connor's with PG Natalie McCoy. All could lead their HS teams to a successful season run.
Another playmaker East Central Brittany Rodgers teaming up with another MVP candidate, Nalyssa Smith definitely makes them Contenders!
Judson will have a stacked team as well that includes Desiree Lewis and Kyra White and you can never leave out the defending Region 4 Champs, Steele with Antonia Anderson. Both will be serious Contenders.
Watch for Brennan with Kenzie Heineman, Taft with Stephanie Ruiz, Lee with Blanca De Leon, Antonian with Bailey Boyle and Gabby Teneyuca, to make some noise!
Last HS season, Steele, Wagner, Johnson and Judson made it to the final 4. Each team has lost key pieces and gained some key pieces.
Now that's what's going to make this HS season a joy to watch and follow. So many different story lines, too many to cover at once, so we will see how the season unfolds.
I've been told, It's not how you start, it's how you finish.
So I will start by listing my Top 1O, as always just for fun!!!!!!
1) Wagner
2) IWHS
3) Johnson
4) Judson
5) Steele
6) Brandeis
7) Lee
8) East Central
9) O'Connor
10) Stevens
Games to watch to start the season:
Wagner vs O'Connor
Brennan vs Judson
Lee vs Taft
Clark vs Johnson
And I will finish with, Go Support HS Girls Basketball........
Last HS season, Steele, Wagner, Johnson and Judson made it to the final 4. Each team has lost key pieces and gained some key pieces.
Now that's what's going to make this HS season a joy to watch and follow. So many different story lines, too many to cover at once, so we will see how the season unfolds.
I've been told, It's not how you start, it's how you finish.
So I will start by listing my Top 1O, as always just for fun!!!!!!
1) Wagner
2) IWHS
3) Johnson
4) Judson
5) Steele
6) Brandeis
7) Lee
8) East Central
9) O'Connor
10) Stevens
Games to watch to start the season:
Wagner vs O'Connor
Brennan vs Judson
Lee vs Taft
Clark vs Johnson
And I will finish with, Go Support HS Girls Basketball........
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Who is the #1 Girls HS Team in San Antonio?
The playoffs are in full swing and Rankings are out the window!
It's literally anyone's game to lose or win, depending on how you look at it.
Clark and Steele, which were ranked #1 or #2 for the majority of the season wobbled into the playoffs.
Brandeis which lost to at least 8 teams that were ranked at one time or another in the Express News Top 10, is looking like they can be a contender. And why not, when you have a dynamic playmaker leading the way, and a capable surrounding cast, anything can happen.
Clark is looking to get a signature win in the playoffs. They have been a steady presence with real good teams in the past few years. It almost seems they graduated their whole team last year, but give them credit, they have had a real good season. They have a real nice inside out presence. Can they make some noise in the playoffs? They have a great opportunity tonight.
Judson has quietly been moving along all season steadily improving might just be the TEAM to beat! They ended the season with a bang which has fueled its confidence that they can beat anyone. They have a lot of athletes and a lot of capable shooters. What makes them dangerous is that they are deep and can wear an opposing team down.
Judson's District rival, Wagner is still very capable of representing Region IV, yes, AGAIN! When you have two kids that have the experience, skill and know how to take over a game at any time, you just can't count them out.
And you can't count Steele out as well. They cruised all season losing only once and avenging its only loss to Austin Bowie before losing to Wagner and Judson to end the season. But that might have been the best thing to happen. Sometimes losses takes the pressure off especially when nothing changed. They still remained the #1 seed. Losses also can refocus the team and the coach.
But then again, sometimes losses simply just expose weaknesses!
One team that is hard to pinpoint is Johnson. Sometimes teams go through stretches of not playing well and stretches of clicking on all cylinders. Well, with Johnson, they can have a bad loss that might signal trouble ahead and then they rebound the very next game with a big win. They can have a great game against a tough foe and you can say, watch out, here they come and then they lose the very next outing. Which team is going to show up in the playoffs?
O'Connor has just been steady moving along beating the teams they need to beat to stay alive. Nothing spectacular, the team has a very blue collar approach to games. Their backcourt is very capable of pulling off a surprise! They beat a talented Southwest squad in the first round.
Taft has been a feel good story all season. Along with Lee HS, they have shown that through hard work, it is possible to change programs around. I remember when this Taft Senior class were freshmen, their Varsity squad went 4-27 for the season and 0-16 in District play. They followed it up with 2-14 and 3-10 District records the following years. Now they stand at 30-7 for the year including a 9-4 District record. They beat a #1 Seed CC Carroll in the first round.
So Wagner vs Clark tonight and tomorrow you have O'Connor vs Steele, Brandeis vs Johnson, Taft vs Judson.
Gone are the days you had clear favorites and clear underdogs.
Who is going to advance? Which players and teams are going to step up?
And let's not forget Antonian and Incarnate Word are still finishing out District play this weekend and don't start playoffs till next weekend.
Wouldn't it have been something if you could have added them both to the whole mix and really get a True #1 in the city!
I don't know, does anyone KNOW? When is the last time two San Antonio private girls schools have risen to at least the #2 team in the city's Express News Rankings. You might and I say might have had one, but TWO Teams! That is quite impressive from both Antonian and Incarnate Word programs.
And how about Floresville, Devine and SA Cole all playing well and looking to go far in the playoffs!
Plus a lot of local smaller private schools trying to make their mark in the playoff scene!
It just shows and proves, Talent is everywhere!
And because of it, many more teams are more than capable which makes the girls basketball landscape that much more competitive!
So who is the #1 team in the city?
GO OUT AND SUPPORT GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL!
And maybe, just maybe, you will be able to determine it with your own eyes and not have to read about it!
It's literally anyone's game to lose or win, depending on how you look at it.
Clark and Steele, which were ranked #1 or #2 for the majority of the season wobbled into the playoffs.
Brandeis which lost to at least 8 teams that were ranked at one time or another in the Express News Top 10, is looking like they can be a contender. And why not, when you have a dynamic playmaker leading the way, and a capable surrounding cast, anything can happen.
Clark is looking to get a signature win in the playoffs. They have been a steady presence with real good teams in the past few years. It almost seems they graduated their whole team last year, but give them credit, they have had a real good season. They have a real nice inside out presence. Can they make some noise in the playoffs? They have a great opportunity tonight.
Judson has quietly been moving along all season steadily improving might just be the TEAM to beat! They ended the season with a bang which has fueled its confidence that they can beat anyone. They have a lot of athletes and a lot of capable shooters. What makes them dangerous is that they are deep and can wear an opposing team down.
Judson's District rival, Wagner is still very capable of representing Region IV, yes, AGAIN! When you have two kids that have the experience, skill and know how to take over a game at any time, you just can't count them out.
And you can't count Steele out as well. They cruised all season losing only once and avenging its only loss to Austin Bowie before losing to Wagner and Judson to end the season. But that might have been the best thing to happen. Sometimes losses takes the pressure off especially when nothing changed. They still remained the #1 seed. Losses also can refocus the team and the coach.
But then again, sometimes losses simply just expose weaknesses!
One team that is hard to pinpoint is Johnson. Sometimes teams go through stretches of not playing well and stretches of clicking on all cylinders. Well, with Johnson, they can have a bad loss that might signal trouble ahead and then they rebound the very next game with a big win. They can have a great game against a tough foe and you can say, watch out, here they come and then they lose the very next outing. Which team is going to show up in the playoffs?
O'Connor has just been steady moving along beating the teams they need to beat to stay alive. Nothing spectacular, the team has a very blue collar approach to games. Their backcourt is very capable of pulling off a surprise! They beat a talented Southwest squad in the first round.
Taft has been a feel good story all season. Along with Lee HS, they have shown that through hard work, it is possible to change programs around. I remember when this Taft Senior class were freshmen, their Varsity squad went 4-27 for the season and 0-16 in District play. They followed it up with 2-14 and 3-10 District records the following years. Now they stand at 30-7 for the year including a 9-4 District record. They beat a #1 Seed CC Carroll in the first round.
So Wagner vs Clark tonight and tomorrow you have O'Connor vs Steele, Brandeis vs Johnson, Taft vs Judson.
Gone are the days you had clear favorites and clear underdogs.
Who is going to advance? Which players and teams are going to step up?
And let's not forget Antonian and Incarnate Word are still finishing out District play this weekend and don't start playoffs till next weekend.
Wouldn't it have been something if you could have added them both to the whole mix and really get a True #1 in the city!
I don't know, does anyone KNOW? When is the last time two San Antonio private girls schools have risen to at least the #2 team in the city's Express News Rankings. You might and I say might have had one, but TWO Teams! That is quite impressive from both Antonian and Incarnate Word programs.
And how about Floresville, Devine and SA Cole all playing well and looking to go far in the playoffs!
Plus a lot of local smaller private schools trying to make their mark in the playoff scene!
It just shows and proves, Talent is everywhere!
And because of it, many more teams are more than capable which makes the girls basketball landscape that much more competitive!
So who is the #1 team in the city?
GO OUT AND SUPPORT GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL!
And maybe, just maybe, you will be able to determine it with your own eyes and not have to read about it!
Thursday, January 28, 2016
SAN ANTONIO GIRLS HS BBALL TOP 10 TEAMS 1-28-16
I am going to bring up last Monday's NBA match up between the San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors. Yes, you might say the game really doesn't matter in the large scope of things but it does in some respects. The Warriors have won 40 straight at home and the Spurs have their own home winning streak going. Where would you want to play a 7 game playoff series? Most definitely at Home! Yes people counter with the fact the Spurs are a veteran team and they can overcome that. True, but it didn't work last year when they lost in the first round.
Where am I going with this cause unlike the NBA, for the most part, High School teams don't have much of a home court advantage when they play in the larger venues, well playoff seeding does make a difference.
It's a long season, but every game has significance when things are so close. Last year the Spurs lost their last regular season game to the #8 seed and it cost them a higher seed as well as home court advantage in the first round. Things might have turned out different.
High School Girls Basketball is heading to the final stretch as teams are looking to clinch playoff berths and secure the best seeding possible. Would you want to face a team in the opening round of the playoffs thats a 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th seed? The road in the playoffs is definitely easier the higher seed you land in District play.
In District 25-6A, Steele seems to have firm control on the District title with a 2 game lead and only 4 games left to go. But with both Judson and Wagner still lurking right behind, anything can happen.
In District 26-6A, Reagan and Johnson meet this weekend. If Reagan wins, they will have a heavy advantage to take the District title. Johnson with only one loss to Reagan in District play need a win to force a tiebreaker if they both can win out. I'm sure Madison is going to have something to say before it is all over. Churchill has the inside track for the last playoff spot by beating Lee earlier. Lee needs to win out including beating Churchill the next time they meet to have a chance at the last playoff spot.
In District 27-6A, Six teams still have a viable shot at making the playoffs with only 4 slots available. Clark and Brandeis are both tied for first with one loss each and are virtually assured of two playoff spots with one of them seemingly the District Champ. They play each other next Wednesday, the 3rd of February. Out of both teams, Brandeis seems to have an easier schedule to finish out.
Taft and O'Connor have the inside track for the last remaining playoff spots with a two game lead over Brennan and Stevens. But Taft has a tough schedule to end the season including a match up with Brennan. Brennan has a softer schedule but needs to beat Taft to strengthen their chances of making the playoffs. Stevens will need to beat O'Connor when they play each other next time they meet to have an outside chance, plus they need to win out as well.
In District 28-6A, Corpus Christi Carroll and Southwest sit atop the District lead with one loss each. They both face off on Friday for seemingly the District title if the winner can win out. East Central and CC Ray are sitting pretty for the final two playoff spots.
In TAPPS 2-5A, Antonian and Incarnate Word meet again next week to determine the District Champion. Both teams are locks for the playoffs.
This is the way I see it going into this weekend's play.
My Top 10 are as follows:
1) Steele- WINS: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville, Brennan, O'Connor, Austin Bowie, Clemens, Judson, Wagner LOSSES: Austin Bowie
NOTES: Can anyone beat them from the San Antonio area? Only loss to Austin Bowie was avenged. The most consistent team plus loaded with talent. You better have some good guard play, strong inside presence and good shooting if you want to have a chance. That translates into Steele has a tough defense.
2) Clark- WINS: Incarnate Word, Brandeis, Brennan LOSSES: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian, Taft
NOTES: A very solid team with very strong guard play with a good inside presence. Didn't play many solid San Antonio teams outside their district which can hurt them once playoffs start. They have the talent to duplicate last years O'Connor great playoff run.
3) Incarnate Word- WINS: Westbury Christian(Twice), Kinkaid, Wagner, SA Cole, Johnson, Floresville, Antonian, St Stephens LOSSES: Georgetown, Westbury Christian, Richardson, Fayetville, AR
NOTES: Strong guard play with a mixture of veterans and young talent. A lot of capable shooters. If their defense is on, they have a strong fast break that can finish inside and out. Savvy floor general along with a bona fide scorer provides you a solid 1, 2 punch.
4) Judson- WINS: RR Westwood, Killeen, O'Connor(Twice), Wagner, Clemens LOSSES: Cedar Vista Ridge, Madison, Clemens NOTES: Talented and athletic club. Their defense provides sparks fast break opportunities. They have players that can hit the long ball at a moments notice which opens up the middle. At times, their overall intensity can be scary to opponents.
5) Antonian- Wins: Johnson (Three times), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo, St Stephens Losses: Johnson, Devine, Boerne, Incarnate Word NOTES: Overall its hard to find a team that gives you more effort and all out drive to compete than this group. They have shooters to compliment their aggressive defense. If you happen to play them, you better have some able guards cause you are going to be in for a long day if you don't.
6) Johnson- WINS Antonian, Wagner, Brandeis, Lee, Taft LOSSES: Antonian (Three times), Taft, Incarnate Word, Brennan, Reagan NOTES: A solid and very athletic front court. That is the key to their success. Offensive rebounds for second chance opportunities and defensive rebounds to start the fast break with a very capable point guard leading the way. They are most effective when they run the court getting to the bucket.
7) Wagner- WINS: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood, Clemens LOSSES: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson, Richardson, Cedar Hill, Plano, Judson, Steele NOTES: Guard play are playmakers extraordinaire. Injuries have hurt as well as of lack of depth.
8)Brandeis- WINS: Amarillo, Taft, Brennan, O'Connor Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan, Judson, Johnson, Clark, Clemens
NOTES: Another exceptional playmaking guard with some some nice solid players to go along with. They have taken their lumps early on in the season but seem to be clicking.
9) Reagan- WINS: Johnson, Clemens LOSSES: Wagner, Johnson, Brandeis, Brennan, Steele, RR Westwood, Pfurgerville, Killeen
NOTES: Solid and very capable starting unit inside and out. Another team that took their lumps early on but is clicking at the right team. Strong Senior leadership provides an essential ingredient of going deep in the playoffs.
Where am I going with this cause unlike the NBA, for the most part, High School teams don't have much of a home court advantage when they play in the larger venues, well playoff seeding does make a difference.
It's a long season, but every game has significance when things are so close. Last year the Spurs lost their last regular season game to the #8 seed and it cost them a higher seed as well as home court advantage in the first round. Things might have turned out different.
High School Girls Basketball is heading to the final stretch as teams are looking to clinch playoff berths and secure the best seeding possible. Would you want to face a team in the opening round of the playoffs thats a 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th seed? The road in the playoffs is definitely easier the higher seed you land in District play.
In District 25-6A, Steele seems to have firm control on the District title with a 2 game lead and only 4 games left to go. But with both Judson and Wagner still lurking right behind, anything can happen.
In District 26-6A, Reagan and Johnson meet this weekend. If Reagan wins, they will have a heavy advantage to take the District title. Johnson with only one loss to Reagan in District play need a win to force a tiebreaker if they both can win out. I'm sure Madison is going to have something to say before it is all over. Churchill has the inside track for the last playoff spot by beating Lee earlier. Lee needs to win out including beating Churchill the next time they meet to have a chance at the last playoff spot.
In District 27-6A, Six teams still have a viable shot at making the playoffs with only 4 slots available. Clark and Brandeis are both tied for first with one loss each and are virtually assured of two playoff spots with one of them seemingly the District Champ. They play each other next Wednesday, the 3rd of February. Out of both teams, Brandeis seems to have an easier schedule to finish out.
Taft and O'Connor have the inside track for the last remaining playoff spots with a two game lead over Brennan and Stevens. But Taft has a tough schedule to end the season including a match up with Brennan. Brennan has a softer schedule but needs to beat Taft to strengthen their chances of making the playoffs. Stevens will need to beat O'Connor when they play each other next time they meet to have an outside chance, plus they need to win out as well.
In District 28-6A, Corpus Christi Carroll and Southwest sit atop the District lead with one loss each. They both face off on Friday for seemingly the District title if the winner can win out. East Central and CC Ray are sitting pretty for the final two playoff spots.
In TAPPS 2-5A, Antonian and Incarnate Word meet again next week to determine the District Champion. Both teams are locks for the playoffs.
This is the way I see it going into this weekend's play.
My Top 10 are as follows:
1) Steele- WINS: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville, Brennan, O'Connor, Austin Bowie, Clemens, Judson, Wagner LOSSES: Austin Bowie
NOTES: Can anyone beat them from the San Antonio area? Only loss to Austin Bowie was avenged. The most consistent team plus loaded with talent. You better have some good guard play, strong inside presence and good shooting if you want to have a chance. That translates into Steele has a tough defense.
2) Clark- WINS: Incarnate Word, Brandeis, Brennan LOSSES: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian, Taft
NOTES: A very solid team with very strong guard play with a good inside presence. Didn't play many solid San Antonio teams outside their district which can hurt them once playoffs start. They have the talent to duplicate last years O'Connor great playoff run.
3) Incarnate Word- WINS: Westbury Christian(Twice), Kinkaid, Wagner, SA Cole, Johnson, Floresville, Antonian, St Stephens LOSSES: Georgetown, Westbury Christian, Richardson, Fayetville, AR
NOTES: Strong guard play with a mixture of veterans and young talent. A lot of capable shooters. If their defense is on, they have a strong fast break that can finish inside and out. Savvy floor general along with a bona fide scorer provides you a solid 1, 2 punch.
4) Judson- WINS: RR Westwood, Killeen, O'Connor(Twice), Wagner, Clemens LOSSES: Cedar Vista Ridge, Madison, Clemens NOTES: Talented and athletic club. Their defense provides sparks fast break opportunities. They have players that can hit the long ball at a moments notice which opens up the middle. At times, their overall intensity can be scary to opponents.
5) Antonian- Wins: Johnson (Three times), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo, St Stephens Losses: Johnson, Devine, Boerne, Incarnate Word NOTES: Overall its hard to find a team that gives you more effort and all out drive to compete than this group. They have shooters to compliment their aggressive defense. If you happen to play them, you better have some able guards cause you are going to be in for a long day if you don't.
6) Johnson- WINS Antonian, Wagner, Brandeis, Lee, Taft LOSSES: Antonian (Three times), Taft, Incarnate Word, Brennan, Reagan NOTES: A solid and very athletic front court. That is the key to their success. Offensive rebounds for second chance opportunities and defensive rebounds to start the fast break with a very capable point guard leading the way. They are most effective when they run the court getting to the bucket.
7) Wagner- WINS: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood, Clemens LOSSES: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson, Richardson, Cedar Hill, Plano, Judson, Steele NOTES: Guard play are playmakers extraordinaire. Injuries have hurt as well as of lack of depth.
8)Brandeis- WINS: Amarillo, Taft, Brennan, O'Connor Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan, Judson, Johnson, Clark, Clemens
NOTES: Another exceptional playmaking guard with some some nice solid players to go along with. They have taken their lumps early on in the season but seem to be clicking.
9) Reagan- WINS: Johnson, Clemens LOSSES: Wagner, Johnson, Brandeis, Brennan, Steele, RR Westwood, Pfurgerville, Killeen
NOTES: Solid and very capable starting unit inside and out. Another team that took their lumps early on but is clicking at the right team. Strong Senior leadership provides an essential ingredient of going deep in the playoffs.
10) Clemens- WINS: Judson, Brandeis LOSSES: Johnson, Brandeis, Wagner, Steele, Judson NOTES: Even if they come out as a 4th seed, look out for them. They can still make some noise.
GAMES OF NOTE:
FRIDAY
CC Carrol at Southwest 630pm
Judson at Wagner 7pm
Steele at Clemens 7pm
SATURDAY
Reagan at Johnson (LITTLETON GYM) 130pm
O'Connor at Clark (TAYLOR FIELDHOUSE) 2pm
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!!!!
GAMES OF NOTE:
FRIDAY
CC Carrol at Southwest 630pm
Judson at Wagner 7pm
Steele at Clemens 7pm
SATURDAY
Reagan at Johnson (LITTLETON GYM) 130pm
O'Connor at Clark (TAYLOR FIELDHOUSE) 2pm
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!!!!!!
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
SAN ANTONIO GIRLS HS BBALL TOP 10 TEAMS 1-13-16
Once upon a time, the Antonian vs Incarnate Word game would be a big deal in the Private School community. This season, it's turning out to be one of the biggest games in the city!
How did Private Schools get to the point here in San Antonio where they are able to compete against any team in the Public School system?
Take a look into both Antonian and Incarnate Word rosters and you will find most kids are also involved heavy into the AAU/Club basketball scene that runs pretty much as soon as High School season is over. The majority of both teams rosters actually started playing Varsity competition in their Freshman season.
A lot of these kids will be playing at the next level as well.
What makes this matchup interesting and very intriguing is the fact that most kids playing were teammates in Private School ever since elementary as well as teammates in AAU/Club Organizations either right now in the present or at different stages of their playing career.
It is rare in the Public School setting that a lot of the Parents know each other from opposing teams.
You cannot say that in this Private School setting, especially of some of the friendships that were formed as way back to when the players were enrolled in Day Care!
On Thursday 6pm at the Alamo Convocation Center, both teams will finally face off in their first matchup of the season. And for sure there is going to be the thrill of victory for one team and for at least a little while, the agony of defeat for the other!
But make no mistake, both teams have made themselves proud by their overall play and how they have represented their respective schools, family, friends and fan base all season long!
They have made Private Schools a Cool place to be! ........And to me that's a pretty cool thing!
Here are my Top 10 teams as of this week:
1) Steele- WINS: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville, Brennan, O'Connor, Austin Bowie, Clemens, Wagner LOSSES: Austin Bowie
2) Antonian- Wins: Johnson (Three times), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo Losses: Johnson, Devine, Boerne
3) Clark- WINS: Incarnate Word, Brandeis LOSSES: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian, Taft
4) Incarnate Word- WINS: Westbury Christian(Twice), Kinkaid, Wagner, SA Cole, Johnson, Floresville LOSSES: Georgetown, Westbury Christian, Richardson, Fayetville, AR
5) Judson- WINS: RR Westwood, Killeen, O'Connor(Twice), Wagner LOSSES: Cedar Vista Ridge, Madison, Clemens
6) Clemens- WINS: Judson, Brandeis LOSSES: Johnson, Brandeis, Wagner, Steele
7) Johnson- WINS Antonian, Wagner, Brandeis, Lee, Taft LOSSES: Antonian (Three times), Taft, Incarnate Word, Brennan
8) Wagner- WINS: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood, Clemens LOSSES: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson, Richardson, Cedar Hill, Plano, Judson, Steele
9)Brandeis- WINS: Amarillo, Taft Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan, Judson, Johnson, Clark, Clemens
Tied for 10): O'Connor, Brennan, Reagan,
Games to Watch
Friday 1/15/2016
Steele vs Judson 7pm
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!
How did Private Schools get to the point here in San Antonio where they are able to compete against any team in the Public School system?
Take a look into both Antonian and Incarnate Word rosters and you will find most kids are also involved heavy into the AAU/Club basketball scene that runs pretty much as soon as High School season is over. The majority of both teams rosters actually started playing Varsity competition in their Freshman season.
A lot of these kids will be playing at the next level as well.
What makes this matchup interesting and very intriguing is the fact that most kids playing were teammates in Private School ever since elementary as well as teammates in AAU/Club Organizations either right now in the present or at different stages of their playing career.
It is rare in the Public School setting that a lot of the Parents know each other from opposing teams.
You cannot say that in this Private School setting, especially of some of the friendships that were formed as way back to when the players were enrolled in Day Care!
On Thursday 6pm at the Alamo Convocation Center, both teams will finally face off in their first matchup of the season. And for sure there is going to be the thrill of victory for one team and for at least a little while, the agony of defeat for the other!
But make no mistake, both teams have made themselves proud by their overall play and how they have represented their respective schools, family, friends and fan base all season long!
They have made Private Schools a Cool place to be! ........And to me that's a pretty cool thing!
Here are my Top 10 teams as of this week:
1) Steele- WINS: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville, Brennan, O'Connor, Austin Bowie, Clemens, Wagner LOSSES: Austin Bowie
2) Antonian- Wins: Johnson (Three times), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo Losses: Johnson, Devine, Boerne
3) Clark- WINS: Incarnate Word, Brandeis LOSSES: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian, Taft
4) Incarnate Word- WINS: Westbury Christian(Twice), Kinkaid, Wagner, SA Cole, Johnson, Floresville LOSSES: Georgetown, Westbury Christian, Richardson, Fayetville, AR
5) Judson- WINS: RR Westwood, Killeen, O'Connor(Twice), Wagner LOSSES: Cedar Vista Ridge, Madison, Clemens
6) Clemens- WINS: Judson, Brandeis LOSSES: Johnson, Brandeis, Wagner, Steele
7) Johnson- WINS Antonian, Wagner, Brandeis, Lee, Taft LOSSES: Antonian (Three times), Taft, Incarnate Word, Brennan
8) Wagner- WINS: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood, Clemens LOSSES: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson, Richardson, Cedar Hill, Plano, Judson, Steele
9)Brandeis- WINS: Amarillo, Taft Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan, Judson, Johnson, Clark, Clemens
Tied for 10): O'Connor, Brennan, Reagan,
Games to Watch
Friday 1/15/2016
Steele vs Judson 7pm
GO SUPPORT GIRLS BASKETBALL!
Sunday, January 3, 2016
SAN ANTONIO GIRLS HS BBALL TOP 10 1-3-16
As I was watching Star Wars: The Force Awakens, I thought I had a better chance of finding out where Luke Skywalker was hiding than trying to figure out what the city's Top Ten teams look like.
One thing for sure, the dynamics of District races has changed through the years. It was almost a given to predict which teams were coming out from each District into the State playoffs. In some cases, it was a given in what numerical seeds those teams were going to be as well.
But with the emergence of Club ball around the city as well as with a lot of quality trainers, High School teams are getting more and more competitive because there are more quality players around the city.
For the record, in my opinion, the term "Elite Player" is used too loosely by some.
But it's almost starting to feel like the days where a team that fielded an "Elite Player" or "Players" that would just walk through all the competition are over for now. So many quality players all around the city are making a difference and also making it interesting in predicting who is going to win over who.
Looking at the box scores, many teams on the outside looking in have come close to posting so called upsets.
But in reality there is no such thing as upsets this High School girls basketball season because PARITY has taken hold.
Team A beats team B by 30pts and then Team B beats a team that beat Team A! What!!!!
But thats the beauty of sports, as long as you have a chance no matter how small and minute, your team has RELEVANCE!!!!
Most like and cherish the underdog role but deep down aim and long to be the TEAM to beat!
It's just Human Nature.
Aren't the best movies or stories about overcoming all odds and coming out on top!
Isn't that why Star Wars movies and characters are so adorned!
So District play has started for most teams and your team might be down or they might be up, remember the most important stretch is upon us!
I have some advice to all the teams
"May the Force be with YOU!"
Here are my Top 10 teams for the City....
1) Steele- Wins: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville, Brennan, O'Connor, Austin Bowie Losses: Austin Bowie
2) Clark- Wins: Incarnate Word, Brandeis Losses: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian
3) Antonian- Wins: Johnson (Twice), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo Losses: Johnson, Devine, Boerne
4) Incarnate Word- WINS: Westbury Christian(Twice), Kinkaid, Wagner, SA Cole, Johnson, Floresville LOSSES: Georgetown, Westbury Christian, Richardson, Fayetville, AR
5) Johnson- WINS Antonian, Wagner, Brandeis, Lee LOSSES: Antonian (Twice), Taft, Incarnate Word, Brennan
6) Wagner- WINS: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood, Clemens LOSSES: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson, Richardson, Cedar Hill, Plano
7) Clemens- WINS: Judson, Brandeis LOSSES: Johnson, Brandeis, Wagner
8) Judson- WINS: RR Westwood, Killeen, O'Connor(Twice) LOSSES: Cedar Vista Ridge, Madison, Clemens
9)Brandeis- WINS: Amarillo, Taft Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan, Judson, Johnson, Clark, Clemens
Tied: O'Connor, Brennan, Reagan, Taft
Special Shout Out to Devine and Floresville girls basketball teams playing some great basketball as well!
Games of note:
Tuesday January 5th, 2016
Clemens at Steele 7pm
Wagner at Judson 7pm
Taft at Clark 630pm
Johnson vs Reagan 630pm
Friday January 8th, 2016
Steele at Wagner 7pm
Don't underestimate the Power of Girls Basketball, its force is great!
GO SUPPORT GIRLS HS BASKETBALL!!!!!!!
One thing for sure, the dynamics of District races has changed through the years. It was almost a given to predict which teams were coming out from each District into the State playoffs. In some cases, it was a given in what numerical seeds those teams were going to be as well.
But with the emergence of Club ball around the city as well as with a lot of quality trainers, High School teams are getting more and more competitive because there are more quality players around the city.
For the record, in my opinion, the term "Elite Player" is used too loosely by some.
But it's almost starting to feel like the days where a team that fielded an "Elite Player" or "Players" that would just walk through all the competition are over for now. So many quality players all around the city are making a difference and also making it interesting in predicting who is going to win over who.
Looking at the box scores, many teams on the outside looking in have come close to posting so called upsets.
But in reality there is no such thing as upsets this High School girls basketball season because PARITY has taken hold.
Team A beats team B by 30pts and then Team B beats a team that beat Team A! What!!!!
But thats the beauty of sports, as long as you have a chance no matter how small and minute, your team has RELEVANCE!!!!
Most like and cherish the underdog role but deep down aim and long to be the TEAM to beat!
It's just Human Nature.
Aren't the best movies or stories about overcoming all odds and coming out on top!
Isn't that why Star Wars movies and characters are so adorned!
So District play has started for most teams and your team might be down or they might be up, remember the most important stretch is upon us!
I have some advice to all the teams
"May the Force be with YOU!"
Here are my Top 10 teams for the City....
1) Steele- Wins: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville, Brennan, O'Connor, Austin Bowie Losses: Austin Bowie
2) Clark- Wins: Incarnate Word, Brandeis Losses: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian
3) Antonian- Wins: Johnson (Twice), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo Losses: Johnson, Devine, Boerne
4) Incarnate Word- WINS: Westbury Christian(Twice), Kinkaid, Wagner, SA Cole, Johnson, Floresville LOSSES: Georgetown, Westbury Christian, Richardson, Fayetville, AR
5) Johnson- WINS Antonian, Wagner, Brandeis, Lee LOSSES: Antonian (Twice), Taft, Incarnate Word, Brennan
6) Wagner- WINS: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood, Clemens LOSSES: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson, Richardson, Cedar Hill, Plano
7) Clemens- WINS: Judson, Brandeis LOSSES: Johnson, Brandeis, Wagner
8) Judson- WINS: RR Westwood, Killeen, O'Connor(Twice) LOSSES: Cedar Vista Ridge, Madison, Clemens
9)Brandeis- WINS: Amarillo, Taft Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan, Judson, Johnson, Clark, Clemens
Tied: O'Connor, Brennan, Reagan, Taft
Special Shout Out to Devine and Floresville girls basketball teams playing some great basketball as well!
Games of note:
Tuesday January 5th, 2016
Clemens at Steele 7pm
Wagner at Judson 7pm
Taft at Clark 630pm
Johnson vs Reagan 630pm
Friday January 8th, 2016
Steele at Wagner 7pm
Don't underestimate the Power of Girls Basketball, its force is great!
GO SUPPORT GIRLS HS BASKETBALL!!!!!!!
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
SAN ANTONIO GIRLS HS BBALL TOP 10 12-16-15
Let's have a little fun this week with the rankings.
You always here from fans, parents, players etc., "Why is that team ranked higher than us? We beat that team and they still have them ranked higher than us. They don't know what they are doing!"
You might even hear something in the lines of the following "It's all politics!"
It's only politics until you are #1, then of course, you definitely EARNED the Ranking!
When it comes to Rankings, there are just so many moving parts, too many intangibles, too many circumstances and nothing is cut and dry until the playoffs happen where you win and you move on, you lose and you go home no matter what!
So let's take the following scenario where Incarnate Word High School is hypothetically ranked somewhere. And yes in the spirit of full disclosure, that's where my daughter plays at.
Incarnate Word beat SA Cole who beat Devine who beat Antonian who beat Brennan who beat Brandeis who beat Madison who beat Judson who beat Killeen who beat Clark who in turn beat Incarnate Word!!!!
So who is the better team?
Any team who lost in the above scenario can have a legitimate excuse why they lost! That's why this is so much fun.
Of course you can go deeper into each teams won-loss records to see the overall body of work, overall strength of schedule, comparisons to other teams head to head competition etc
This is the way I see it Right now. But you can ask me 15 minutes from now and I will probably have a completely different list.....
1) Steele
2) Clark
3) Judson
4) Antonian
5) Incarnate Word
6) Wagner
7) Brennan
8) Taft
tied Johnson, Clemens, Lee
The team I left out, Brandeis, has a legitimate chance to win it all in the end even though they have lost 4 out of their last 5 games.
You might say I'm crazy, but not as crazy as the following statement,,,
Did I mention that Madison beat Judson who beat Killeen who beat Clark who beat IWHS who beat Cole who beat Devine who beat Antonian who beat Brennan who beat Brandeis who beat Madison!
Ok, enough, I'm getting dizzy already.
Go Support Girls High School Basketball!!!!!
You always here from fans, parents, players etc., "Why is that team ranked higher than us? We beat that team and they still have them ranked higher than us. They don't know what they are doing!"
You might even hear something in the lines of the following "It's all politics!"
It's only politics until you are #1, then of course, you definitely EARNED the Ranking!
When it comes to Rankings, there are just so many moving parts, too many intangibles, too many circumstances and nothing is cut and dry until the playoffs happen where you win and you move on, you lose and you go home no matter what!
So let's take the following scenario where Incarnate Word High School is hypothetically ranked somewhere. And yes in the spirit of full disclosure, that's where my daughter plays at.
Incarnate Word beat SA Cole who beat Devine who beat Antonian who beat Brennan who beat Brandeis who beat Madison who beat Judson who beat Killeen who beat Clark who in turn beat Incarnate Word!!!!
So who is the better team?
Any team who lost in the above scenario can have a legitimate excuse why they lost! That's why this is so much fun.
Of course you can go deeper into each teams won-loss records to see the overall body of work, overall strength of schedule, comparisons to other teams head to head competition etc
This is the way I see it Right now. But you can ask me 15 minutes from now and I will probably have a completely different list.....
1) Steele
2) Clark
3) Judson
4) Antonian
5) Incarnate Word
6) Wagner
7) Brennan
8) Taft
tied Johnson, Clemens, Lee
The team I left out, Brandeis, has a legitimate chance to win it all in the end even though they have lost 4 out of their last 5 games.
You might say I'm crazy, but not as crazy as the following statement,,,
Did I mention that Madison beat Judson who beat Killeen who beat Clark who beat IWHS who beat Cole who beat Devine who beat Antonian who beat Brennan who beat Brandeis who beat Madison!
Ok, enough, I'm getting dizzy already.
Go Support Girls High School Basketball!!!!!
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
SAN ANTONIO GIRLS BBALL TOP 10 12/8/15
District play is rapidly approaching as well as the mid season point, yes already.
A lot of teams have definitely stepped up and some are still searching to find themselves.
As for my Rankings, they are definitely nothing that you can say are concrete and edged in stone but simply a snapshot of how things are going right now in my opinion.
Many experts have their own opinions, so that would mean everyone reading this! ha
One thing for sure, there is a lot of talent and a lot of hardworking young ladies throughout the city.
Let's enjoy and support them as everything plays out in the future.
TOP 10
1) Steele- They won a very tough Jack Frost Tournament in Georgetown. A tournament filled with all kinds of talent and State Ranked teams. Their defense is tough and cover a lot of space because of their overall team athleticism. When their inside game is going, watch out! If they can continue to hit timely outside shots, this team is a real tough out. You need to have skilled guards and shooters to have a chance.
They might be the team left standing when its all said and done. Wins: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville Losses: Austin Bowie
2) Antonian- They have won 2 Tournaments that have historically been some of the toughest tournaments around. Winning 1 is impressive, winning both speak volumes. This team is for Real. They do it as a TEAM! Led by Sandy Ramirez heart and grit, this team follows her lead. They play defense the whole court and make you work for every possession. They give themselves plenty of shot opportunities through their defense! You have to play every minute, every second because if you let your guard down, they will take advantage of it in a big way. Wins: Johnson (Twice), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo Losses: Johnson
3) Clark- They finally get knocked of the unbeaten ranks this past weekend. Maybe playing a soft schedule hurt them but no matter, this team is solid! They are led by Ria Gulley, who is just an all around tough kid on both ends of the court. She plays with passion to win and helps her team compete at a high level. Wins: Incarnate Word Losses: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian
4) Johnson- It seems every game is a totally different game for Johnson in the sense, different players step up at different times. It is still trying to get an identity as it continues to get better. Consistency like I said before is what they are searching for. Everyone loves to see box scores to see who scored what, but in reality some players do so many small thing that they are the glue that keeps everything together. That player for Johnson is Tara Molina. But in the meantime, they are slowly but surely getting the job done. Wins Antonian, Wagner Losses: Antonian (Twice), Taft
5) Incarnate Word- Their toughest challenge will be to overcome their lack of overall size! If they can't get rebounds on the defensive end, they can't get going on fast breaks. If they can't get offensive boards, its one shot and done. And this past week, they had a tough time finding the inside of the bucket. Led by Alexia Torres overall strong showing, the team felt short overcoming that size discrepancy. But they have shown they can compete, no matter what. Wins: Westbury Christian, Kinkaid, Wagner, Floresville Losses: Georgetown, Westbury Christian
6) Wagner- They had a win over Brandeis and enjoyed the rest of the week off! Don't forget about them, they can easily get in a roll! Sometimes teams perform better under the lights when it matters and some teams crumble under the pressure. My gut tells me when you have Amber Ramirez and Kiana Williams that you Respect this team Wins: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood Losses: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson
7) Brennan- They had a tough loss against Antonian in the Championship game in double overtime. Yes it might be a loss but does it really matter to them. In the end in my opinion, it's going to benefit them three fold because of the experience they will learn from playing arguably one of the toughest schedules in the city. Their Big 3, Mo Terry, Megan Valdez and Kinzie Heineman, make this team still a team to reckon with no matter what. Wins: Brandeis Losses: Wagner, Galena Park North Shore, Antonian, Vista Ridge
8) Judson- Like most teams in the city, Judson is still looking for an identity. They have a mixture of seasoned vets with young talent. I really enjoy watching Lena Wilson compete on the court. Still looking for that signature win against a quality opponent. Belle Tovar with a nice offensive game last game out vs O'Connor.
9)Brandeis- They have a played a nice schedule against some of the top teams in the city but they have come up short. Again, the experience that they will pick up will benefit them as the season rolls on. Gabby Connally has the skills and athleticism to take over a game. Wins: Amarillo Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan
10) Lee- How about those Lee Vols doing some work and getting the job done against the teams they needed to, sitting at 17-1. They are still looking for a signature win against a top 10 team. If you count them out, all I have to say is that confidence is a funny thing. Wouldn't it be something if they kept it up and rolled to a District Championship. Those kids have been working so hard, they deserve anything they can get.
Games to watch:
Steele at Brennan 7pm
Johnson at Incarnate Word 730pm
Go Support Girls Basketball!
A lot of teams have definitely stepped up and some are still searching to find themselves.
As for my Rankings, they are definitely nothing that you can say are concrete and edged in stone but simply a snapshot of how things are going right now in my opinion.
Many experts have their own opinions, so that would mean everyone reading this! ha
One thing for sure, there is a lot of talent and a lot of hardworking young ladies throughout the city.
Let's enjoy and support them as everything plays out in the future.
TOP 10
1) Steele- They won a very tough Jack Frost Tournament in Georgetown. A tournament filled with all kinds of talent and State Ranked teams. Their defense is tough and cover a lot of space because of their overall team athleticism. When their inside game is going, watch out! If they can continue to hit timely outside shots, this team is a real tough out. You need to have skilled guards and shooters to have a chance.
They might be the team left standing when its all said and done. Wins: John Tyler, Argyle, Brandeis, Floresville Losses: Austin Bowie
2) Antonian- They have won 2 Tournaments that have historically been some of the toughest tournaments around. Winning 1 is impressive, winning both speak volumes. This team is for Real. They do it as a TEAM! Led by Sandy Ramirez heart and grit, this team follows her lead. They play defense the whole court and make you work for every possession. They give themselves plenty of shot opportunities through their defense! You have to play every minute, every second because if you let your guard down, they will take advantage of it in a big way. Wins: Johnson (Twice), Brennan, Brandeis, Amarillo Losses: Johnson
3) Clark- They finally get knocked of the unbeaten ranks this past weekend. Maybe playing a soft schedule hurt them but no matter, this team is solid! They are led by Ria Gulley, who is just an all around tough kid on both ends of the court. She plays with passion to win and helps her team compete at a high level. Wins: Incarnate Word Losses: Killeen, Argyle Liberty Christian
4) Johnson- It seems every game is a totally different game for Johnson in the sense, different players step up at different times. It is still trying to get an identity as it continues to get better. Consistency like I said before is what they are searching for. Everyone loves to see box scores to see who scored what, but in reality some players do so many small thing that they are the glue that keeps everything together. That player for Johnson is Tara Molina. But in the meantime, they are slowly but surely getting the job done. Wins Antonian, Wagner Losses: Antonian (Twice), Taft
5) Incarnate Word- Their toughest challenge will be to overcome their lack of overall size! If they can't get rebounds on the defensive end, they can't get going on fast breaks. If they can't get offensive boards, its one shot and done. And this past week, they had a tough time finding the inside of the bucket. Led by Alexia Torres overall strong showing, the team felt short overcoming that size discrepancy. But they have shown they can compete, no matter what. Wins: Westbury Christian, Kinkaid, Wagner, Floresville Losses: Georgetown, Westbury Christian
6) Wagner- They had a win over Brandeis and enjoyed the rest of the week off! Don't forget about them, they can easily get in a roll! Sometimes teams perform better under the lights when it matters and some teams crumble under the pressure. My gut tells me when you have Amber Ramirez and Kiana Williams that you Respect this team Wins: Brandeis, Brennan, Plano Prestonwood Losses: Incarnate Word, South Grand Prairie, Galena North Shore, Johnson
7) Brennan- They had a tough loss against Antonian in the Championship game in double overtime. Yes it might be a loss but does it really matter to them. In the end in my opinion, it's going to benefit them three fold because of the experience they will learn from playing arguably one of the toughest schedules in the city. Their Big 3, Mo Terry, Megan Valdez and Kinzie Heineman, make this team still a team to reckon with no matter what. Wins: Brandeis Losses: Wagner, Galena Park North Shore, Antonian, Vista Ridge
8) Judson- Like most teams in the city, Judson is still looking for an identity. They have a mixture of seasoned vets with young talent. I really enjoy watching Lena Wilson compete on the court. Still looking for that signature win against a quality opponent. Belle Tovar with a nice offensive game last game out vs O'Connor.
9)Brandeis- They have a played a nice schedule against some of the top teams in the city but they have come up short. Again, the experience that they will pick up will benefit them as the season rolls on. Gabby Connally has the skills and athleticism to take over a game. Wins: Amarillo Losses: Antonian, Steele, Wagner, Brennan
10) Lee- How about those Lee Vols doing some work and getting the job done against the teams they needed to, sitting at 17-1. They are still looking for a signature win against a top 10 team. If you count them out, all I have to say is that confidence is a funny thing. Wouldn't it be something if they kept it up and rolled to a District Championship. Those kids have been working so hard, they deserve anything they can get.
Games to watch:
Steele at Brennan 7pm
Johnson at Incarnate Word 730pm
Go Support Girls Basketball!
Thursday, November 26, 2015
SAN ATONIO TOP 10 HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS
Who is the Number 1 team in the city? Time will eventually tell at the end of the season!
But first, let's enjoy the ride. So many teams jockeying for positioning, so many young players making names for themselves. We already have had some surprises in the win and loss columns, some surprise teams and a lot of excitement! You have to love it.
Ok, Is the name of the game, What your are doing or Who you are doing it against?
Let me make an effort to sort it out. First, Records are not a true indication of where every team is at right now, is it?
Brennan and Wagner already have at least 3 losses but have played more competitive teams than the majority of teams in the city will play all season combined.
Yes, you have to applaud and acknowledge a lot of teams for respectable starts in the season with even more respectable records. But, and I mean a big but, let's see what happens when they start matching up with more competitive teams and more importantly when District play start.
Not to say these cinderella teams cannot keep it up, let's just enjoy what they are doing right now and maybe their will be more to come in the days and weeks to come.
One great example will be Taft! Can they keep up what they have started going 10-2 and eventually knock off a favorite in District 27-6A to make the playoffs. Its hard to tell right now with the relative questionable competition they have played against. But they did beat Johnson who in turns goes the next time around to beat Wagner! Can Taft upset either Brandeis, O'Connor, Brennan or Clark to make the playoffs.
Let's just stay in that very same District, can Jay throw a wrench in anyone's parade? Possibly beat Taft and another District favorite. You just don't know, till the games are played.
For now, the way I look at it, this is what I have in my Top 10 as of RIGHT now!
Not as an Expert, but as a Fan......
1) Clark- Yes their strength of schedule hasn't been that great but they are undefeated! And they are taking care of business. They have beat the teams they need to beat convincingly. They have a good win over IWHS at the beginning of the season and over TABC Hoops ranked Harligen team. The tournaments they chose to play might hurt them at crunch time when it counts. They might go untested till District play unless they draw someone competitive at the New Braunfels Tournament.
2) Brennan- They have played a quality schedule against quality teams and that is a big plus irregardless of wins and losses because they are competitive. They have quality players at every position. They have quality players coming of the bench! They have height, guards, shooters and depth. Even with all that, they need to display cohesiveness and chemistry on the court in order to represent in State! Maybe Wagner just has their number but then again, maybe this will be their year. Wait a minute, it seems every year is Brennan's year!!!
Tied
3) Steele- They have played a good schedule and have some nice wins. They have enough talent to beat any team in the city any given night. They can be a defensive nightmare with all their athletic players up and down their roster. Down low, they can put a hurt on almost any team much less if your team doesn't have any height to match. Like any good team should, they will get stronger as the season moves forward.
3 )IWHS- The Shamrocks have had a real good 8 day stretch of basketball after losing in opening night to Clark. Maybe there best ever in school history! They have managed to roll into Houston and pick up nice wins over top quality and State Ranked Private Schools and followed it with nice wins here in San Antonio. They have a unique mixture of a lot of young talent contributing big minutes that might not know any better, a lot of seniors that help out especially with composure, a lot of players that are capable of hitting the long ball, the continual emergence of Sophia Ramos, the seasoned leadership of Point Guard Alexia Torres combined with an overall Team commitment to stingy defense!
So who will win between and Steele and IWHS, the team that can impose their will on the other. Sometimes easier said than done.
5) Wagner- They have played quite possibly the toughest schedule of any San Antonio HS team.They are who they are. They are still the defending Champs and in the end nothing else is going to matter only what happens in the playoffs. They are lacking depth, but that has been the case the last few years. But when you play the schedule they have played, it will catch up to you especially when you rely on 3 players for the majority of your offense. Teams that have enough can approach it this way, I have 6 that are going to outscore your 3.
6) Judson- They have a loss to a very good Vista Ridge team and have a nice win over TABC Hoops State Ranked RR Westwood. This team is going to use their defense to beat you. They have some athletes as well with the addition of some young shooters as well as Belle Tovar finding her stride, a bona fide scorer! They will get stronger as the season moves on and might very well be surprising a lot of people. Still very much under the radar, we will see what they have much more clearly when they play NSID/NEISD Tournament next weekend.
7) Johnson- With a couple of huge losses from last years team, Johnson has managed to keep on competing and maybe surprising some people. Consistency is what they need and are looking to achieve. They beat Taft and Antonian but also have lost to those same two teams. They have a great win over Wagner but need to expand from it. Tara Molina playing solid PG minutes. They have a lot of players that can run teams out the court. Are they going to be a team that plays to their level or one that is still growing, maturing and finding their stride as the season rolls by. Impressed with under the radar Josie Larson running the floor and finishing.
8) Antonian- Another Private School making some noise early in the season. They have beat Brandeis, overcoming about a 25 point lead in the process, and Johnson. They have also lost to Johnson. Another team playing in the NISD/NEISD Tournament. A lot more will be determined after the tournament is done. One thing this team has going for it is its depth. They can keep on coming at you with wave of players after players. They have a very capable bench. What they lack in size, they make up for in a defensive style that seem to play with relentless abandonment! High risk, high reward. They also have plenty of guards that can handle the ball, create, attach and shoot. The team plays Hard all the time!
9) Brandeis- Their best player is out for a few but still have been able and managed to compete well. They can very much can compete for the District title at full strength. Under the Radar Cindy Si has been steady as well as the whole team. Super athletic and talented Brianna Walker is another kid to watch out for. They will also compete in the NSIS/NEISD Tournament.
Tied for 10th.
Taft, Jay, Lee, Clemens, Southwest, Reagan, Smithson Valley, Madison, O'Connor
Ok it might be a cop out, but wanted to give teams an extra shout out that might normally not be getting any love!
And plus it's early, early morning Thanksgiving and my wife is already in the kitchen and I am already getting hungry!
Go Support High School Girls Basketball!!!!!!!!
But first, let's enjoy the ride. So many teams jockeying for positioning, so many young players making names for themselves. We already have had some surprises in the win and loss columns, some surprise teams and a lot of excitement! You have to love it.
Ok, Is the name of the game, What your are doing or Who you are doing it against?
Let me make an effort to sort it out. First, Records are not a true indication of where every team is at right now, is it?
Brennan and Wagner already have at least 3 losses but have played more competitive teams than the majority of teams in the city will play all season combined.
Yes, you have to applaud and acknowledge a lot of teams for respectable starts in the season with even more respectable records. But, and I mean a big but, let's see what happens when they start matching up with more competitive teams and more importantly when District play start.
Not to say these cinderella teams cannot keep it up, let's just enjoy what they are doing right now and maybe their will be more to come in the days and weeks to come.
One great example will be Taft! Can they keep up what they have started going 10-2 and eventually knock off a favorite in District 27-6A to make the playoffs. Its hard to tell right now with the relative questionable competition they have played against. But they did beat Johnson who in turns goes the next time around to beat Wagner! Can Taft upset either Brandeis, O'Connor, Brennan or Clark to make the playoffs.
Let's just stay in that very same District, can Jay throw a wrench in anyone's parade? Possibly beat Taft and another District favorite. You just don't know, till the games are played.
For now, the way I look at it, this is what I have in my Top 10 as of RIGHT now!
Not as an Expert, but as a Fan......
1) Clark- Yes their strength of schedule hasn't been that great but they are undefeated! And they are taking care of business. They have beat the teams they need to beat convincingly. They have a good win over IWHS at the beginning of the season and over TABC Hoops ranked Harligen team. The tournaments they chose to play might hurt them at crunch time when it counts. They might go untested till District play unless they draw someone competitive at the New Braunfels Tournament.
2) Brennan- They have played a quality schedule against quality teams and that is a big plus irregardless of wins and losses because they are competitive. They have quality players at every position. They have quality players coming of the bench! They have height, guards, shooters and depth. Even with all that, they need to display cohesiveness and chemistry on the court in order to represent in State! Maybe Wagner just has their number but then again, maybe this will be their year. Wait a minute, it seems every year is Brennan's year!!!
Tied
3) Steele- They have played a good schedule and have some nice wins. They have enough talent to beat any team in the city any given night. They can be a defensive nightmare with all their athletic players up and down their roster. Down low, they can put a hurt on almost any team much less if your team doesn't have any height to match. Like any good team should, they will get stronger as the season moves forward.
3 )IWHS- The Shamrocks have had a real good 8 day stretch of basketball after losing in opening night to Clark. Maybe there best ever in school history! They have managed to roll into Houston and pick up nice wins over top quality and State Ranked Private Schools and followed it with nice wins here in San Antonio. They have a unique mixture of a lot of young talent contributing big minutes that might not know any better, a lot of seniors that help out especially with composure, a lot of players that are capable of hitting the long ball, the continual emergence of Sophia Ramos, the seasoned leadership of Point Guard Alexia Torres combined with an overall Team commitment to stingy defense!
So who will win between and Steele and IWHS, the team that can impose their will on the other. Sometimes easier said than done.
5) Wagner- They have played quite possibly the toughest schedule of any San Antonio HS team.They are who they are. They are still the defending Champs and in the end nothing else is going to matter only what happens in the playoffs. They are lacking depth, but that has been the case the last few years. But when you play the schedule they have played, it will catch up to you especially when you rely on 3 players for the majority of your offense. Teams that have enough can approach it this way, I have 6 that are going to outscore your 3.
6) Judson- They have a loss to a very good Vista Ridge team and have a nice win over TABC Hoops State Ranked RR Westwood. This team is going to use their defense to beat you. They have some athletes as well with the addition of some young shooters as well as Belle Tovar finding her stride, a bona fide scorer! They will get stronger as the season moves on and might very well be surprising a lot of people. Still very much under the radar, we will see what they have much more clearly when they play NSID/NEISD Tournament next weekend.
7) Johnson- With a couple of huge losses from last years team, Johnson has managed to keep on competing and maybe surprising some people. Consistency is what they need and are looking to achieve. They beat Taft and Antonian but also have lost to those same two teams. They have a great win over Wagner but need to expand from it. Tara Molina playing solid PG minutes. They have a lot of players that can run teams out the court. Are they going to be a team that plays to their level or one that is still growing, maturing and finding their stride as the season rolls by. Impressed with under the radar Josie Larson running the floor and finishing.
8) Antonian- Another Private School making some noise early in the season. They have beat Brandeis, overcoming about a 25 point lead in the process, and Johnson. They have also lost to Johnson. Another team playing in the NISD/NEISD Tournament. A lot more will be determined after the tournament is done. One thing this team has going for it is its depth. They can keep on coming at you with wave of players after players. They have a very capable bench. What they lack in size, they make up for in a defensive style that seem to play with relentless abandonment! High risk, high reward. They also have plenty of guards that can handle the ball, create, attach and shoot. The team plays Hard all the time!
9) Brandeis- Their best player is out for a few but still have been able and managed to compete well. They can very much can compete for the District title at full strength. Under the Radar Cindy Si has been steady as well as the whole team. Super athletic and talented Brianna Walker is another kid to watch out for. They will also compete in the NSIS/NEISD Tournament.
Tied for 10th.
Taft, Jay, Lee, Clemens, Southwest, Reagan, Smithson Valley, Madison, O'Connor
Ok it might be a cop out, but wanted to give teams an extra shout out that might normally not be getting any love!
And plus it's early, early morning Thanksgiving and my wife is already in the kitchen and I am already getting hungry!
Go Support High School Girls Basketball!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Girls HS Basketball in San Antonio
Girls High School Basketball Season is finally here.
Club ball, AAU ball, Fall League is done!
Many HS teams have lost a lot of key players and I'm sure a lot of teams feel they are getting stronger with the emergence of its young players and some teams might feel it's their turn to make things happen! A lot of teams have to deal with some huge losses from graduation.
But before anyone can claim or brag about anything, there is one team that is still going to be the team to beat, Wagner!
No matter how your slice it, Wagner has the experience, a Coach that is dedicated to winning, 2 playmakers that can go off against anyone, a very capable supporting cast and a more importantly, a Mindset that no matter what, they are the best team out there!
And for now they are Number 1. Players to Watch : Amber Ramirez and Kiana Williams
And since the season hasn't started, we will give everyone the benefit of the doubt. I'm sure everyone is saying what about us. But it's not a sprint, it's a marathon.
So for now, Everyone else is tied for 2nd.
And as for Players to Watch, it's mostly based from last years top scorers returning to play.
Let's stay in District 25-6A.
Clemens was runner up last year but lost one of the best players in the country. They always have nice players and athletes and a respected Head Coach. How are they going to regroup to stay in contention remains to be seen.
Steele looks like a team that can challenge Wagner for District on paper with all their height and athleticism. Judging by Fall League play. players, parents and coaches have high expectations going into the season. If they can consistently hit from outside, that will open up the middle tremendously making this team a dangerous team. Their defense is always going to keep them in the game. PTW: Alexes Bryant, Charisma Shepherd, Antonia Anderson
Judson got into the playoffs with hard play and tough defense last year. They plan to take the next step with the same recipe plus the addition of Belle Tovar to add some firepower on offense. They also have some great young talent coming up that should have some immediate impact. PTW: Belle Tovar, Lena Wilson
Smithson Valley had a great start only to be left out of the playoffs last season. They look to make a playoff push this season with a little more experience under their belt. They also lost some key players from last season so it's going to be a wait and see situation with them.
Lets go into to District 26-6A. All four teams that made the playoffs lost their key players. One team that didn't make the playoffs, Reagan is returning most of their key players.
Reagan should be the favorite with their inside presence and strong guard play. Do they have enough of a bench to help them sustain wins? Time will tell. PTW: Sara Lewis, Mailee Jones, Emily Sandoval
Johnson was District Champ last year but also lose key players from their run. Tara Molina with her experience and basketball savviness, should be leading the way in running the team. They also have a young strong Post as well as some athletic players. PTW: Tara Molina, Alyssa Adams
Does Lee HS have enough to try and make a playoff run. They have a couple of experienced seniors in Julie Hernandez and Jennifer Sullivan with an abundance of real good young players including a point guard that can go and make things happen on both ends of the court. Confidence is essential as they haven't been in the playoffs for as it may seem forever. PTW: Jenesis Navarro, B. Deleon
Churchill also seems poised to reload after a successful run that have enabled them to make playoff pushes for at least 4 to 5 years straight. They have some young talent as well with height, athleticism and a strong senior guard. How are they going to adjust as a team without one of their main contributors from the last few years? Time will tell. PTW: Maiya Green
Roosevelt, Madison and MacArthur all have a lot of key players gone from last year. It should be interesting on how they come out the gate.
Madison should also be in the playoff hunt especially with the help of their senior guard that can go off at any one time! PTW: Lexi Rich
In District 27 6-A, Brennan should be the team to beat simply cause they are loaded again in almost every position, from top to bottom. They will definitely make another run in trying to lay stake as the best teams in the city! PTW: Kenzie Heineman, Megan Valdez, Monique Terry
O'Connor will try and reload from their great run last year. They did graduate some key pieces to the puzzle but have 2 heady and savvy guards to lead the team. Victoria Pena is poised for a great season as she has been steadily improving since her freshman year. Do they have enough down low on both ends of the court to make them viable as a threat to the city crown? PTW: Victoria Pena, Kasey Saldana
Clark lost a lot of talent with graduation but still are poised to challenge with the presence of a strong point guard and post combination that should enable them to compete. They also have some young talent coming in that should make an impact quickly. PTW: Ria Gulley, Emily Sims
Brandeis also lost a lot to graduation but you never can count them out. Led by a dynamic and athletic point guard that can light it up from anywhere on the court, they should be in contention for the district crown. She will be helped out by Cindy Si, who has grown leaps and bounds in the last year! Don't count them out on anything. PTW: Gabby Connally, Cindy Si
Jay is a super young team that is on the rise and should make a playoff push. They have a lot of kids that are playing together in the offseason which helps right off the bat with team chemistry. PTW: Ali Salina, Ariel Hernandez, Alex Alvarez
Marshall has a pair of guards that can keep them in playoff contention with the right scenarios. Bri Lane is ready to go after two seasons of setbacks due to injuries. They need to get some early season confidence to get them going. PTW: Abby Rolloque, Bri Lane
Stevens is looking to regroup after numerous losses due to graduation.
Taft looks to make a playoff push with some heady defense. A lot of kids have been playing together for a long time. They might surprise some people. PTW: Stephanie Ruiz
In District 28 6-A, East Central is led by one of the most dynamic players in the city that can play inside and out and a point guard that has experienced, strong to the basket and a baller. They also have a new head coach that should challenge them to make a run. PTW: Nalyssa Smith, Brittany Rogers
Southwest is loaded with talent that have been playing together since it may seem forever. At any time they can go off from beyond the line. This threat enables them to be a team to contend with. They will certainly be a playoff contender. PTW: Aaliyah Holmes, Alexandra Busby-Leija, Bri Longoria
On the Private School side, Antonian will keep going strong with virtually every key player coming back from last year's team. They are heavy guard dominated. On the inside look for Kayla Alvarado, undersized post with great footwork and nice shooting touch. PTW: Sandy Ramirez, Brittany Parker
Incarnate Word is looking to build from last year's playoff run with virtually every starter back and the addition of one of the city's leading scorers transferring in, plus the addition of some talented incoming freshmen that should add a lot of depth to the team. Jenna Villarreal has improved her game down low to add to her threat from outside the line. Point Guard Alexia Torres has a lot of kids around her that can shoot the ball which should open up things for her as well. PTW: Lexi Torres, Sophia Ramos, Olivia Balderas, Analisa Narro, Jenna Villarreal
Other players to watch from smaller schools around the city: Angel Hasttings, Mica Schneider, Katlyn Ghavidel, Makala Mabry, Aaliyah Prince, Baylee Quisenberry, Vanessa Oyola , Kayla Nunez, Skyler Reyna and hey, I have to give a shout out to my players from way out of town, Bri Soliz, Jordan Brooks and Alexis Worley, who will all be making a huge impact at their respective schools!
I'm sure everyone is ready and anxious to get going.
By next Wednesday, about half the teams will already have a loss!
By the end of next weekend, a lot of things will get a lot clearer with practically everyone playing in some kind of tournament.
Next Monday the 9th, some games of note:
630pm Churchill vs Brandeis
730pm Johnson vs O'Connor
8pm Incarnate Word vs Clark
Next Tuesday the 10th
7pm Brennan vs Wagner
7pm Southwest vs Steele
On one other note, San Antonio Girls Basketball has come a long way in the last few years.
So much so, that there is an influx of young freshmen players ready to make their mark for their respective HS teams and that's always a good thing. And soon we will be hearing more about them as well.
For now, Let's support our teams and our players but also let's give respect to one another where credit is due! There is tremendous amount of skill and talent all around the city. Let's enjoy all the hard work these young ladies have been putting in the gym.
But hey, don't take my word for it, I'm just a fan like anyone else, go out and check it out for yourself!
GO SUPPORT GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL!
Club ball, AAU ball, Fall League is done!
Many HS teams have lost a lot of key players and I'm sure a lot of teams feel they are getting stronger with the emergence of its young players and some teams might feel it's their turn to make things happen! A lot of teams have to deal with some huge losses from graduation.
But before anyone can claim or brag about anything, there is one team that is still going to be the team to beat, Wagner!
No matter how your slice it, Wagner has the experience, a Coach that is dedicated to winning, 2 playmakers that can go off against anyone, a very capable supporting cast and a more importantly, a Mindset that no matter what, they are the best team out there!
And for now they are Number 1. Players to Watch : Amber Ramirez and Kiana Williams
And since the season hasn't started, we will give everyone the benefit of the doubt. I'm sure everyone is saying what about us. But it's not a sprint, it's a marathon.
So for now, Everyone else is tied for 2nd.
And as for Players to Watch, it's mostly based from last years top scorers returning to play.
Let's stay in District 25-6A.
Clemens was runner up last year but lost one of the best players in the country. They always have nice players and athletes and a respected Head Coach. How are they going to regroup to stay in contention remains to be seen.
Steele looks like a team that can challenge Wagner for District on paper with all their height and athleticism. Judging by Fall League play. players, parents and coaches have high expectations going into the season. If they can consistently hit from outside, that will open up the middle tremendously making this team a dangerous team. Their defense is always going to keep them in the game. PTW: Alexes Bryant, Charisma Shepherd, Antonia Anderson
Judson got into the playoffs with hard play and tough defense last year. They plan to take the next step with the same recipe plus the addition of Belle Tovar to add some firepower on offense. They also have some great young talent coming up that should have some immediate impact. PTW: Belle Tovar, Lena Wilson
Smithson Valley had a great start only to be left out of the playoffs last season. They look to make a playoff push this season with a little more experience under their belt. They also lost some key players from last season so it's going to be a wait and see situation with them.
Lets go into to District 26-6A. All four teams that made the playoffs lost their key players. One team that didn't make the playoffs, Reagan is returning most of their key players.
Reagan should be the favorite with their inside presence and strong guard play. Do they have enough of a bench to help them sustain wins? Time will tell. PTW: Sara Lewis, Mailee Jones, Emily Sandoval
Johnson was District Champ last year but also lose key players from their run. Tara Molina with her experience and basketball savviness, should be leading the way in running the team. They also have a young strong Post as well as some athletic players. PTW: Tara Molina, Alyssa Adams
Does Lee HS have enough to try and make a playoff run. They have a couple of experienced seniors in Julie Hernandez and Jennifer Sullivan with an abundance of real good young players including a point guard that can go and make things happen on both ends of the court. Confidence is essential as they haven't been in the playoffs for as it may seem forever. PTW: Jenesis Navarro, B. Deleon
Churchill also seems poised to reload after a successful run that have enabled them to make playoff pushes for at least 4 to 5 years straight. They have some young talent as well with height, athleticism and a strong senior guard. How are they going to adjust as a team without one of their main contributors from the last few years? Time will tell. PTW: Maiya Green
Roosevelt, Madison and MacArthur all have a lot of key players gone from last year. It should be interesting on how they come out the gate.
Madison should also be in the playoff hunt especially with the help of their senior guard that can go off at any one time! PTW: Lexi Rich
In District 27 6-A, Brennan should be the team to beat simply cause they are loaded again in almost every position, from top to bottom. They will definitely make another run in trying to lay stake as the best teams in the city! PTW: Kenzie Heineman, Megan Valdez, Monique Terry
O'Connor will try and reload from their great run last year. They did graduate some key pieces to the puzzle but have 2 heady and savvy guards to lead the team. Victoria Pena is poised for a great season as she has been steadily improving since her freshman year. Do they have enough down low on both ends of the court to make them viable as a threat to the city crown? PTW: Victoria Pena, Kasey Saldana
Clark lost a lot of talent with graduation but still are poised to challenge with the presence of a strong point guard and post combination that should enable them to compete. They also have some young talent coming in that should make an impact quickly. PTW: Ria Gulley, Emily Sims
Brandeis also lost a lot to graduation but you never can count them out. Led by a dynamic and athletic point guard that can light it up from anywhere on the court, they should be in contention for the district crown. She will be helped out by Cindy Si, who has grown leaps and bounds in the last year! Don't count them out on anything. PTW: Gabby Connally, Cindy Si
Jay is a super young team that is on the rise and should make a playoff push. They have a lot of kids that are playing together in the offseason which helps right off the bat with team chemistry. PTW: Ali Salina, Ariel Hernandez, Alex Alvarez
Marshall has a pair of guards that can keep them in playoff contention with the right scenarios. Bri Lane is ready to go after two seasons of setbacks due to injuries. They need to get some early season confidence to get them going. PTW: Abby Rolloque, Bri Lane
Stevens is looking to regroup after numerous losses due to graduation.
Taft looks to make a playoff push with some heady defense. A lot of kids have been playing together for a long time. They might surprise some people. PTW: Stephanie Ruiz
In District 28 6-A, East Central is led by one of the most dynamic players in the city that can play inside and out and a point guard that has experienced, strong to the basket and a baller. They also have a new head coach that should challenge them to make a run. PTW: Nalyssa Smith, Brittany Rogers
Southwest is loaded with talent that have been playing together since it may seem forever. At any time they can go off from beyond the line. This threat enables them to be a team to contend with. They will certainly be a playoff contender. PTW: Aaliyah Holmes, Alexandra Busby-Leija, Bri Longoria
On the Private School side, Antonian will keep going strong with virtually every key player coming back from last year's team. They are heavy guard dominated. On the inside look for Kayla Alvarado, undersized post with great footwork and nice shooting touch. PTW: Sandy Ramirez, Brittany Parker
Incarnate Word is looking to build from last year's playoff run with virtually every starter back and the addition of one of the city's leading scorers transferring in, plus the addition of some talented incoming freshmen that should add a lot of depth to the team. Jenna Villarreal has improved her game down low to add to her threat from outside the line. Point Guard Alexia Torres has a lot of kids around her that can shoot the ball which should open up things for her as well. PTW: Lexi Torres, Sophia Ramos, Olivia Balderas, Analisa Narro, Jenna Villarreal
Other players to watch from smaller schools around the city: Angel Hasttings, Mica Schneider, Katlyn Ghavidel, Makala Mabry, Aaliyah Prince, Baylee Quisenberry, Vanessa Oyola , Kayla Nunez, Skyler Reyna and hey, I have to give a shout out to my players from way out of town, Bri Soliz, Jordan Brooks and Alexis Worley, who will all be making a huge impact at their respective schools!
I'm sure everyone is ready and anxious to get going.
By next Wednesday, about half the teams will already have a loss!
By the end of next weekend, a lot of things will get a lot clearer with practically everyone playing in some kind of tournament.
Next Monday the 9th, some games of note:
630pm Churchill vs Brandeis
730pm Johnson vs O'Connor
8pm Incarnate Word vs Clark
Next Tuesday the 10th
7pm Brennan vs Wagner
7pm Southwest vs Steele
On one other note, San Antonio Girls Basketball has come a long way in the last few years.
So much so, that there is an influx of young freshmen players ready to make their mark for their respective HS teams and that's always a good thing. And soon we will be hearing more about them as well.
For now, Let's support our teams and our players but also let's give respect to one another where credit is due! There is tremendous amount of skill and talent all around the city. Let's enjoy all the hard work these young ladies have been putting in the gym.
But hey, don't take my word for it, I'm just a fan like anyone else, go out and check it out for yourself!
GO SUPPORT GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL!
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