#5 IN ACTION TONIGHT

5.   Westtown (West Chester)

(Previously 6)

The Skinny: One through five, show me more talent. The Pennsylvania Independent School State Champions were a force in 2020. On any given night.

Top Performers: 7’0 Derrick Lively II, 6’11 Franck Kepnang, 6’8 Noah Collier, 6’5 Jalen Warley, 6’4 Wade Chiddick, 6’4 Tyler Berger.

PENNSYLVANIA STATEWIDE RANKINGS

December 22, 2019 

PREP SCENE weekly rankings include the entire state of Pennsylvania: 5th year prep schools and high schools, regardless of governing body affiliations. Our next rankings is in two weeks (January 5th, 2020).

1.    WHO WILL BE IN THE FIELD

( Who’s 1)

The Skinny: PREP SCENE will be bringing back it first statewide rankings since the global pandemic occurred for the 2022-2023 season.

Early Vote Getters: Keystone Academy, First Love, Imhotep, Nuemann Goretti, Scotland, Phelps, George, Roman Catholic, Archbishop Ryan, Pittsburg Central Catholic, Reading, Parkland, Trinity

2.   Neumann-Goretti  (Philadelphia)

(Previously 2)

The Skinny: Coach Arrigale possesses the weapons and championship pedigree to beat anyone in the state, including 5th year prep schools in a one and done situation. Very hard call to not have a co-number 1 in 2020.

Top Performers: 6’1 Hysier Miller, 6’7 Chaz Evans, 5’10 Hakim Byrd, 6’2 Chris Evans, 6’7 Blaise Vespe, 6’6 Cameron Young, 6’8 Jordan Hall

3.   Archbishop Wood (Warminster)

(LAST WEEK 3)

Wood’s 4 game stint in Hawaii at Iolani Classic culminated in a 3-1 record and 5th place finish. The Vikings defeated Moanalua (HI) 73-38, before losing to Wasatch (WA) 89-77. They won both consolation games, over Garfield (WA) 75-70, and Mt Vernon (NY) 86-68.

3.  First Love Christian Academy (Washington)

(Previously 4)

The Skinny: First Love played a national prep schedule, arguably the toughest in the entire state. This group was talented and hard to beat when at full strength.

Top Performers: 5’11 Isaiah Wilson, 6’6 DJ Gordon 6’2 Mason Manning, 6’7 Jahijah Grant, 6’2 Olsen Nicholson, 6’10 Madior Seye, 6’4 Jett Roesing, Kymahni Bent.

5. Bishop McDevitt (Wyncote) 

(LAST WEEK 5)

McDevitt defeated Palmetto (FL) 47-45 at the “King of the Bluegrass, in Kentucky,” before losing to Ballard (KY) 69-63. The Lancers also lost to Madisonville (KY) 64-58.

5.   Westtown (West Chester)

(Previously 6)

The Skinny: One through five, show me more talent. The Pennsylvania Independent School State Champions were a force in 2020. On any given night.

Top Performers: 7’0 Derrick Lively II, 6’11 Franck Kepnang, 6’8 Noah Collier, 6’5 Jalen Warley, 6’4 Wade Chiddick, 6’4 Tyler Berger.

6. Roman Catholic  (Philadelphia)

(Previously 7)

The Skinny: Roman showed their might and determination making it to the PCL finals before falling to NG. Coach Griffin’s squad had a date I’m Hershey, PA in mid March.

Top Performers: 6’1 Lynn Greer III, 5’10 Xavier Brown, 7’0 Jalen Duren, 6’5 Justice Williams, Quadir Brown.

8. McDowell (Erie)

(LAST WEEK 9)

McDowell won three straight games in Orlando at the KSA events behind 108 points for ’21 Will Jeffress . The Trojans took down West Orange (FL) in OT 76-73, Jeffress dropped 41 after forcing the extra session. He then threw in 39 points in a lopsided 74-27 contest, before scoring 28 in a 52-35 win over Melbourne (FL).

9. Methacton (Eagleville),

(Previously 9)

The Skinny: The sleeper in the wide open 6A field has the poise and style to punish opponents. Offensive weapons all over the floor make them a tough out!

Top Performers: 6’9 Jeff Woodward, 6’4 Erik Timko, Owen Kropp, Brett Eberly, Brett Byrne, Ryan Baldwin.

10. Cheltenham

(Previously 10)

The Skinny: Cheltenham has continued to rise to the occasion all season long, and the post season is no different. Tough out 4sure.

Top Performers: 6’4 Jaelen McGlone, 6’4 Sean Emfinger, 6’1 J. Moore

11. Butler

(LAST WEEK 18)

The Skinny: Gatorade player of the year and favorite for the PREP SCENE POY has shown his ability to put the Tornado’s on his back when it counts. Bracket’s are made for stars and their is non bigger in any classification.

Top Performers: 6’6 Ethan Morton 6’2 Mattrix Clement

12. Coatesville

(LAST WEEK 18)

The Red Raiders 6-0 after defeating two SUPER 25 teams and Downingtown West 66-58, #20 West Chester East and #25 Reading High 69-42 at Unionville HS.

19. Mt. Lebanon (Pittsburgh)

(LAST WEEK HM)

14.  Perkiomen School (Pennsburg)

(LAST WEEK 6)

The Panthers begin their season 7-2, with wins over Covenant Prep 70-56, Mercersburg Academy 64-47, West Nottingham Academy 67-56, Olympus Prep 70-59 and Sprinfield Chestnut Hill 68-40, before eventually losing to #1. Scotland Campus at Mt. Zion, in the GAC’s Session II of their triple-header series 96-62 and NJ powerhouse Blair Academy.

12. Wilson (West Lawn)

(Previously 15)

The Skinny: Guards win at any level, and you will have to look far and wide to find a better one in the state of PA. Mitchell leads a disciplined offense that looks to bring Berks County Gold!

Top Performers: 6’2 Stevie Mitchell, 6’4 Evan Timochenko

22. Milton Hershey

(Previously 16)

The Skinny: Forthcoming…

Top Performers: 6’6 Joshua Parra, 6’7 Ahvon Cross, 6’0 Ka’ron George, Nate Boyd

15. Lincoln Park (Midland)

(Previously 17)

Top Performers: 6’4 Andre Wilder, 6’0 Isaiah Smith, 6’0 Johnnie Bryant, 6’5 Montae Reddix, 6’5 Daquan Bradford

Upcoming Games: 1/24 7:00 PM @ New Brighton, 1/26 4:30 PM Kennedy Catholic

18. Math Civics Sciences (Philadelphia)

(LAST WEEK 21)

MCS is 5-1 with its only loss to NJ powerhouse St. Benedict’s Prep at the Fred Pickett Classic. The Mighty Elephants have posted wins over Pottsville, Constitution and #22 Friends’ Central, along with Philadelphia and at NY powerhouse Lincoln (s) 72-64 and 82-77 respectively.

24.   Kennedy Catholic (Hermitage)

(Previously 19)

Top Performers: 6’6 Ike Herster,

Upcoming Games: 1/24 L 65-53 @ #8 McDowell

20. West Chester East,

(Last Week #23)

The Vikings are 6-1 after going into State College and winning the Skip Coleman Classic, besting Bartrum, Downingtown East. and Academy of New Church. Future Delaware Blue Hen, Andrew Carr went for 40 points against ANC. However, they did lose to #12 Coatesville 64-40.

21. Fox Chapel (Pittsburgh)

Fox Chapel begins the season at 5-0 with wins over Hampton, Bethel Park, Woodland Hills, #23 Penn Hills and Seneca Valley.

22. Archbishop Carroll (Radnor)

Carroll has posted wins over Pennbury, Bayard Rustin, Wilkes-Barre, and previously ranked West Catholic in the early part of the season to remain undefeated.

23. Penn Hills

(LAST WEEK 24)

The Indians are 5-1 taking down Pine-Richland 66-55, Highlands 84-69 and Perry Traditional Academy 72-32, Gateway 77-61, and Laurel Highlands 74-71 in 2 OT’s. Their only blemish to date is stumbling at #21 Fox Chapel.

24. Easton

After losing their first game of the season at #15 Wilson, the Red Rovers have ran off five straight wins over Louis E. Dieruff, William Allen, Liberty and Freedom, Quakertown.

18.   Imhotep Charter (Philadelphia)

(Previously 20)

Top Performers: 6’8 Elijah Taylor, Sam Wylie,

20. Reading

(LAST WEEK HM)

Previously Ranked-

Last Week #22
(Last Week #25
(12/9 #17)
(12/9 #20)
(12/9 #21)

Freedom (Bethlehem)

Friends Central (Wynnewood)

Hill School (Pottstown)

Upper St. Clair

West Catholic (Philadelphia)

Honorable Mention:

Aliquippa

Allderdice

Allentown Central Catholic

Archbishop Ryan (Philadelphia)

Bishop Guilfoyle (Altoona)

Bishop McDevitt (Harrisburg)

Brentwood (Pittsburgh)

Cedar Cliff (Camp Hill)

Central York

Chester

Crestwood (Mountain Top)

Cumberland Valley (Mechanicburg)

Executive Charter (Allentown)

Gettysburg

Highlands (Natrona Heights)

Johnstown

Kiski Prep

Malvern Prep

Mercersburg Academy

New Castle

Parkland (Allentown)

Phelps (Malvern)

Pine-Richland (Gibsonia)

Simon Gratz (Philadelphia)

Springside Chestnut Hill Academy (Philadelphia)

St. Joe’s Prep (Philadelphia)

Trinity (Camp Hill)

Vincentian (Pittsburgh)

______________

______________

Previous HM: Chambersburg, Constitution

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The current #2 Saints are set to tip off in Vegas in a few hours.

2.   Neumann-Goretti  (Philadelphia)

(Previously 2)

The Skinny: Coach Arrigale possesses the weapons and championship pedigree to beat anyone in the state, including 5th year prep schools in a one and done situation. Very hard call to not have a co-number 1 in 2020.

Top Performers: 6’1 Hysier Miller, 6’7 Chaz Evans, 5’10 Hakim Byrd, 6’2 Chris Evans, 6’7 Blaise Vespe, 6’6 Cameron Young, 6’8 Jordan Hall

New weekly SUPER 25 drops tomorrow evening…

Games of the Day 12/17

PLACE TO BE TODAY… #BESCENE

Central PA

Reading, PA

Non-League

7:30

HM. Chester Clippers

VS.

#15. Reading Red Knights

The Chester Clippers (3-0) sail into Reading, PA undefeated having beaten Lancaster McCaskey, Newark, and Bayard Rustin. This is the first road test for the HM Clippers. The Reading Red Knights ranked 8th are 3-0 in state, their only loss to St Johns (DC) and have also beat McCaskey along with Williamsport & Overbrook. Unlike, Chester who needed a late game rally to pull off the win, Reading dominated the contest from the jump ball. Now throw all of that information out the window, when these two teams meet there are bound to be plenty of surprises. Reading is lead by ’21 Denim Adams (6-5), Jose “Choco” Brea, Joey Chapman, ’22 Daniel Alcantara (6-4), ’22 Ermil Fleurinvil (6-4), ’21 Moro Osumaro . The Clippers players to watch are ’21 Karell Watkins, Akeem Taylor, Zahmir Carroll (6-5), Rahmee Gilbert.

Eastern PA

Simon Gratz & St. Joe’s Prep

Phila. Public League

3:30

Simon Gratz Bulldogs

vs.

#13. Imhotep Panthers

Phila. Catholic League

3:45

HM. Archbishop Ryan Raiders

VS.

HM. St. Joe’s Prep Hawks

Simon Gratz is 6-0 and #13. Imhotep Charter is 2-2 with two out of state losses. Both schools have defeated William Penn Charter (Philadelphia). Imhotep by 13, 78-65 and Gratz by 3, 71-68. Imhotep is the crowned jewel of the Philadelphia Pub, a crown that Gratz held for years. Imhotep is led by Big man 6-7 Notre Dame Commit Elijah Taylor 22′ Khalif Crawley and Sami Wylie and a bunch of underclassman Ronny Raphael, Rahmir Barno & Justin Edwards Gratz is led by ‘20 5-11 Combo guard Yassir Stover 18 PPG and ‘20 6-5 Ross Carter 12 PPG and Eddie Harris.

At St Joe’s Prep, two PREP SCENE Honorable Mention teams will square off in an early season league contest with major implications. It is never two early to talk about the Palestra in the PCL, the leagues depth is unparalleled across the state and arguably across the nation. Archbishop Ryan (4-1) is lead by Division I recruit’s ‘21 Aaron Lemon-Warren who just tossed in 34 for the Raiders against HM Malvern Prep and 6-4 ‘20 Lithuanian Gediminas Mokseckas along with Dominic Vasquez,… The Hawks start the season 5-0 with thei last win against Palumbo by a score of 103-72, Mike Keenan had 24 points and Brian Geatens finished with 20 points. . SJP is led by 6’3 PG Trevor Wall and and 6-7 ’21 Chris Tomoasco.

Western PA

WPIAL AAAAAA

7:30

#8. Mt. Lebanon Blue Devils

VS.

#14. Butler Golden Tornados

Western PA is in for an early Christmas gift, when two of the best offensive scorers in the region square off tonight. 6-3 Jake Hoffman has led #8 Mt. Lebanon to a 4-0 start and he has produced exactly 30 in every contest. On the other side of the ball, you will have PREP SCENE’S preseason Player of the Year and Purdue commit, Ethan Morton leads #14 Butler. This is a must see game with WPIAL AAAAAA implications. Lebo topped 62-57 in the 2019 WPIAL AAAAA Championship game last season. We have a feeling a 2020 date for the title isn’t’ far fetched.

PENNSYLVANIA STATEWIDE RANKINGS

December 9, 2019 

PREP SCENE weekly rankings include the entire state of Pennsylvania: 5th year prep schools and high schools, regardless of governing body affiliations.

1.    Scotland Campus

The Knights have scored 100+ twice after a strong showing in The National Prep Showcase, 120, 144 respectively last week against Capital Christian, Bristol Prep (TN). 2020 looks like a two headed race at the top.

W-The Knights play at Mt. Zion (MD) against number #6 and climbing Perkiomen School before hosting Rocktop Academy-TH,

2.  First Love Christian Academy (Washington)

FLCA dropped two close games against elite HS teams at Dematha in the National HS Hoops Festival. 95-87 Rock Creek Christian, 63-60 National Christian (MD). Other’s Wins/Loss columns may look better but with this type of national schedule, First Love could reclaim the top spot on any given week.

Next weekend the Dragons travel to NY for two games and a flight to Nevada for the Tarkanian Classic, Dec 17-19. SAT-in Brooklyn vs Blair Academy (NJ) at the Big North Shootout. Then head to the PSA Cardinal event in the Bronx to take on Putnam Science Academy (CT) on SUN.

3.   Neumann-Goretti  (Philadelphia)

The Philadelphia Catholic League favorite absolutely handled #10. Westtown at the Fred Pickett Classic, leading by and eye opening 20 at one point, in their debut before crushing Lincoln 70-41 in the All City Classic. Did someone say two headed race at the top….hmmmm not so fast say’s South Philly!

The Saints are back in action SAT-at the Diane Mosco Shootout vs. HM Malvern Prep.

4.   Archbishop Wood (Warminster)

Diggins & Stinson combine for 50 in 2019-2020 debut, 71-63 loss to Cornerstone Christian (TX) at the National HS Hoops Festival.

The Philadelphia Catholic League heats up right away TH-as Wood hosts #5. McDevitt before SAT-hosting Virginia Powerhouse Paul VI at their very own The Diane Mosco Shootout.

5. Bishop McDevitt (Wyncote) 

 No longer the new kids on the block, Chavis’ senior laden group opens today against South Philly before SAT-traveling to Warmister for a key PCL match-up with #4. Archbishop Wood.

6.  Perkiomen School (Pennsburg)

The Panthers begin their season 5-0, winning their division at the Westtown/Phelps Tournament going 3-0 with wins over Covenant Prep 70-56, Mercersburg Academy 64-47, West Nottingham Academy 67-56, and then their first Great Atlantic Conference contest 70-59 over host Olympus Prep before taking down Sprinfield Chestnut Hill 68-40.

Perk takes on #1. Scotland Campus W-at Mt. Zion, in the GAC’s Session II of their triple-header series; A game with early, conference title implications.

7. Roman Catholic  (Philadelphia)

The defending Philadelphia Catholic League Champions understands the title usually runs through N’ Broad St. The Cahillites open up the season TH-Lansdale Catholic before participating SAT-in the Diane Mosco Shootout against #9. Methacton.

8.   Westtown (West Chester)

Still, has arguably best starting 5 in the state... but a signature win continues to elude this group after losses to then #1 First Love & #3 Neumann-Goretti. Their are rumblings this group is overvalued still being ranked in the top 10, we are not one of them.

The Moose travel to Peddie on W-and participate in the PSA Cardinal event on S-verse Brewster Academy (NH)

9. Methacton (Eagleville),

The Warriors defeated previously ranked Malvern Prep 69-60 in their opener.

They go on the road for three straight games this week vs. M-Boyertown, F-Spring-Ford, SAT– at Wood vs #7 Roman Catholic in the Diane Mosco Shootout.

10. McDowell (Erie)

The Trojans began the season 1-1, losing to 13x Ohio State Champ Benedictine HS before defeating Cleveland ISA 86-32, in the Marsha Marsh Roundball consolation game.

McDowell is back in action F & SAT, vs Erie High and Bethel Park.

11.   Imhotep Charter (Philadelphia)

The Panthers are Taylor-made to win the Philadelphia Public League again opening the season with a 45 point drubbing of Paul Robeson.

Tep takes the court again next F-in Virginia against St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes (VA).

12. Lincoln Park (Midland)

Lincoln Park is 2-0 after the first weekend with wins over Blackhawk 75-53 and Hickory 76-63.

Lincoln Park plays again W-at Riverside before F-taking on The Village Charter (FL) in the Elks Holiday Classic.

13. Cheltenham

Cheltenham leaves out of the opening weekend at 2-0, with wins over Northeast 106-57 and Executive Charter 75-63.

The Panthers are Home both games next week verse W-Penn Wood and F-Upper Moreland.

14. Reading

Champions of the Bearcat Classic defeating Williamsport and Overbrook

The Red Knights take on Lancaster McCaskey on W and will participate F-in the Hoop Group Classic at Albright College verses DC Catholic’s St. John’s College HS.

15. Mt. Lebanon (Pittsburgh)

Lebo sits at 2-0 defeating Obama 81-46, and Altoona 73-36 to win their own Tip-Off Tourney.

The Blue Devil’s first road test is T-at North Allegheny before returning home F.

16. Friends Central (Wynnewood),

The Phoenix opened their 2019-2020 campaign 3-0 with wins over Pennington School 68-57, Haverford 43-41, Episcopal Academy 54-31.

Friends Central is back in action T-against and Wat Church Farm before playing Math Civics & Sciences S in the Play By PLay Classic.

17. Hill School (Pottstown)

The Blues have 2 losses at Phelps 62-53 and to Olympus Prep (NJ) 66-57. They have defeated Redemption Academy 67-46, Episcopal Academy 79-37, and most recently William Penn Charter 72-63, popping all 5 starters into double figures. The defending PASIAA Champions, Haverford are at the Hill School on W.

18. Butler

Butler won its own Tip-Off Tourney besting Woodland Hills by 40, 73-33, and then Youngstowns Chaney (OH) 88-73 in the final.

The Tornadoes and PREP SCENE’s Pennsylvania Pre-Season Player of the Year remain home at T-against Plum, before TH-traveling to Youngstown to take on Canton McKinley (OH)

19. Milton Hershey

The Spartan’s pummeled Susquehanna Twp. 80-49 in their much anticipated opener.

They return to action T-verse Mid-Penn conference opponent Camp Hill before going a few miles down the road for the “Chocalate-town” rivalry game against Hershey on SAT.

20. Upper St. Clair

USC defeated Seneca Valley 77-52 before claiming their Tip-Off Championship easily beating a solid HM Allderdice team 74-61.

The Panthers host HM Pine-Richland-T, and then go on the road F-at Peters Township.

21. West Catholic

The Burrs defeats Constitution in convincing fashion 77-51, putting together a 54-18 second half.

Next up is another Philly Pub opponent in T– Sankofa

22. Penn Hills

The Indians took down HM Pine-Richland 66-55.

Penn Hills continues play with three games this week M-Perry Traditional Academy, TH-at Fox Chapel, before heading to New Castle S-for “Clash.” against HM Highlands

23. Coatesville

Scrimmages aside, a Brickus-Dupree backcourt will win you a lot of games. The Red Raiders begin the season with a pair of road games TH-at Bishop Shanahan and S-at Bensalem.

24. West Chester East,

The Vikings went into State College and won the Skip Coleman Classic with an overtime victory over North Catholic 76-68 and a 74-60 victory over the host.

East takes the court this week T-verse Bartrum and TH-at Downingtown East

25.   Kennedy Catholic (Hermitage)

After first look, Kennedy Catholic will have a lot of challengers gunning for their throne. Winning should hold true to form as the Golden Eagles win Marcino his 218th game 81-52 over Nicholas (NY) at the Kiski Showcase.

Kennedy travels to Ohio on W-to take on Spire Academy before returning back to PA for the PREP SCENE Games of the Day @ New Castle’s “Clash” verse HM Vencentian Academy.

Honorable Mentions:

Aliquippa, Allderdice, Allentown Central Catholic, Archbishop Carroll (Radnor), Archbishop Ryan (Philadelphia), Central York, Chambersburg, Executive Charter (Allentown) Freedom (Bethlehem) Highlands (Natrona Heights), Pennridge (Perkaise), Malvern Prep, Math Civic & Science (Philadelphia), Mercersburg Academy, New Castle, Phelps (Malvern), Pine-Richland (Gibsonia), St. Joe’s Prep (Philadelphia), Trinity (Camp Hill), Vincentian (Pittsburgh), ______________, ______________.

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On the SCENE…

Fred Pickett Classic: Lower Merion v. Abington

Scholastic Play By Play

Lower Merion Aces prevail

The Lower Merion Aces punched three player into double figures during their 66-55 victory at the Fred Pickett Classic. Freshman, Sam Brown (’23) tossed in a game high 18 points, James Simples – 12 points, Eli Rothman – 10 points. Nine of Brown’s points came in the, stage setting, 19-10 first quarter. Abington was paced by Robert Bell‘s 15. However, despite a 22 point 4th quarter, the Galloping Ghost could not overcome their dismal performance at the FT line, shooting just 9-20 for the game.

Players for your future lists:

Sam Brown ’23 – Lower Merion

Brown came out the gates electric, brought a real energy to the gym with the long ball. Cooled down, shooting 1-6 the next three quarters from deep. Good looks-they just did not fall. Sam showed poise and understanding late in 4th, in a two possession game… being crowded on the catch… making a skilled move out of the triple-threat, strong into the lane, finishing in traffic. Fundamentally sound and room to grow but the foundations have been laid for future success. #SCENE

Demetrius Lilley ’22 – Lower Merion

The 6-7 Lilley was active around the rim, he scored 4 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. The Sophomore’s sheer size makes tracking the young man’s progression obvious. He will need to work on foot speed and core strength to maximize his full potential. His rubber band has not even begun to stretch. How far it stretches will be determined by his work-ethic and commitment – Stay Tuned, the answer is closer than it appears. #SCENE

Robert Bell, ’21 Abington

Bell was consistent in each quarter running the team from the point guard position. His 15 point effort was work-man like. He defended, applies a lot of pressure on the ball for his team. He has the ability to force turnovers, strong finishing at the rim. Demonstrated ability to knock down the long ball. Worth tracking for small college.

Caleb Baker ’21 – Abington

Baker scored 9 in the second half. most impressive was his determination, leadership and winning mentality when faced with adversity. This kid is a winner regardless the outcome of yesterday’s event. Very solid athlete, defended and allowed the game to come to him. No wasted energy. If I am at a small college, I am inquiring about the 6-2/6-3 kid that did all the little things.

Coming up Monday:

Neumann-Goretti – Westtown

Methacton – Malvern Prep

Games of the Day 12/7

PLACE TO BE TODAY… #BESCENE

Central PA

LD Tip-Off

1:00 LD vs. Lampeter Strasburg

2:30 Central Dauphin vs. Warwick

&

Manheim Twp Tip-Off

6:00 Hazleton. vs. Elizabethtown

7:30 Manheim Twp. vs. Central York

Eastern PA

Fred Pickett Classic

Play by Play

12:00 Pennsbury – Archbishop Carroll

1:45 Abington – Lower Merion

3:30 Methacton – Malvern Prep

5:15 St. Benedict’s – Math, Civ. & Sciences

7:00 Westtown – Neumann-Goretti

8:30 Chester – Lancaster McCaskey

Western PA

Hempfield Tourney

12:30 McKeesport – Jeanette

2:00 Belle Vernon -Penn Trafford

3:30 Greensburg Salem – Franklin

5:00 North Allegheny – Hempfield

OR

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park Hall of Fame

2:00 Sto-Rox vs.  Sewickley Academy

3:30 Sharpsville vs.  Quaker Valley

5:00 Blackhawk vs. Beaver Falls

6:30 Pine-Richland vs. Penn Hills

8:00 Hickory vs. Lincoln Park

National High School Hoops Festival

1:45

Cornerstone Christian (TX)

Archbishop Wood

3:30

Bishop Walsh (MD)

First Love

Dematha Catholic, MD


1:45 PM – ARCHBISHOP WOOD (PA) VS CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN (TX)

Archbishop Wood is led by Coach John Mosco heading into their first game of the 2019-20 schedule on the national scene. They’ve got a number of Division I prospects in their rotation in 2021s guard Rahsool Diggins, guard Jaylen Stinson, wing Daeshon Shepherd, and forward Muneer Newton.  They’ve also got some All-State football players in the rotation in 2022 Andrew Mchugh (First Team) and 2021 Rob Jackson (Second Team). Diggins holds 17 offers from  Florida, VA Tech, Xavier, Penn State, Wake Forest, St Joes, Rutgers, DePaul, Saint Louis, St. Bonaventure, Lasalle +.  Stinson holds over 10 offers from programs at the next level. They’ll be a burden for Cornerstone Christian (TX) in this one.

Cornerstone Christian is led by 2022 four-star shooting guard Tre White who is already committed to Kansas. He’s a highly-skilled 6-foot-5 shooter with nice length that allows him to get to the rim with ease.  In the frontcourt  is five-star Junior big man Jerrell Colbert who is a double-double guy that can block shots at the rim at volume and projects as a future McDonald’s All American. 2020 forward Jordan Wood provides strength and rebounding alongside Colbert . Then they’ve got 2022s Austin Nunes and 6-foot-6 guard Christian Green, two other prospects being pursued by college programs already.


3:30 PM – FIRST LOVE ACADEMY (PA) VS ROCK CREEK CHRISTIAN (MD)

First Love Academy got a big performance from Penn State D.J. Gordon this past weekend at Holiday Hoopsgiving. He scored 19.5 points per game between both games and was an All-Tournament selection. Duquesne commit Jett Roesing is another scorer that can fill it up, especially from behind the arc.  He knocked down five 3-pointers this past weekend at Holiday Hoopsgiving. Isaiah Wilson is another guard in their backcourt headed to Richmond. 2020 forward Damanni Browne was a double-double machine at Holiday Hoopsgiving. Mason Manning is another name to watch for with his ability to knock down 3-pointers and set up teammates for baskets.

DeLonnie Hunt is a lead guard at Rock Creek Christian Academy due for a breakout season. He’s had a bit of change of scenery in his final two seasons but after playing in the WCAC, he’s adjusted well in a new conference. He can play above the rim with his growing athleticism and score in bunches from anywhere on the floor. Hunt and company won last year’s Capital Beltway Athletic Association and return as early favorites in 2019-20. He currently holds offers from Bryant, UMBC, Binghamton and South Alabama. James Gross Jr. is an electric small forward prospect that can play multiple roles on the floor. He’s a smooth operator off the catch-and-shoot 3 and is aggressive attacking the rim off the dribble. Willie Riveria is a star coming up the ranks in the 2022 class ranking in the top 10 shooting guards in DC-Maryland ranks.

Dimingus Stevens has already been a huge addition to Bishop Walsh School after spending time at Wilson High School in Washington D.C.. He’s a 6-foot-5 prospect that can find his rhythm on the 3-point line then blaze past the defense for a dunk above the rim. He does well to get his shot off, especially in the open floor, and is set to make waves at Seton Hall at the college level. 2020 forward Wilson Ramabu has emerged as a rebounding machine and shot-blocker in the early going. He’s a prospect to watch in the frontcourt.  (-excerpt from Big Shots Preview I)

Games of the Day 12/6

Michael Pilsitz

PLACE TO BE TONIGHT… #BESCENE

Central PA

6:00

Reading vs. Williamsport

7:30

York vs. Overbrook (PHL)

Eastern PA

7:00 PM

Constitution

vs.

West Catholic

Western PA

6:30


Chaney (OH) vs.  Knoch

8:00

Woodland Hills vs.  Butler

THIS WEEK IN WESTERN PA…

Michael Pilsitz

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23-30

WESTERN PA-Newspaper Roundup #BESCENE

THE ALMANAC: Defense critical to Chartiers Valley’s success -Eleanor Bailey

TRIBELIVE: Southmoreland boys basketball hopes depth translates to winsBill Beckner Jr.

TRIBELIVE: Pine-Richland boys reloaded, ready to run -Kevin Lohman

TRIBELIVE: With struggles behind them, Riverview boys again thinking playoffsMichael Love

TRIBELIVE: Shaler boys ready to take next logical stepJosh Rizzo

TRIBELIVE: North Hills, Norwin, Plum, Chartiers Valley, Bishop Canevin, Carlynton, Penn Hills, Hampton, North Allegheny, Leechburg, Mt. Pleasant, Monessen, Knoch, Latrobe, Kiski Area, Jeannette, Among others…

Bishop McDevitt Lancers

Will Chavis has quickly established the Lancers as PCL Powerhouse and with that comes National recognition.

Prospective Student-Athletes to Watch:

Robert Smith

2020G6-1

Athletic guard that scores the ball extremely well from all three levels. defends with a passion. The engine of the program, proven leader.

Jamil Manigo

2020Forward6-4

Proven inside scorer that dominates the glass. Undersized big, relentless warrior. Outworks bigger-bigs at both ends. The larger the games the bigger the performances.

Kevin Young

Michael Pilsitz

2020 Forward 6-4

Expanding game, solid slasher at present, finishes around the rim consistently. Always engaged on the defensive end. Defense equals offense.

Ahmir Harris

2020 PG 5-11

Extremely effective scorer. Skilled in the open floor or half-court. Deep Ball-check, Mid Range-Supacheck’, Rack Game-check.

Shamir Mosley

2020 Guard 6-3

Steal and a lay-up, steal and a dunk, steal and an assist. One things for sure… there is a theft and a bucket. Plays above the rim and excellent turning mistakes into points.

Alassane Amadou

2022Wing6-8

Shoots the ball extremely well, competes at both ends… capable of defending the rim and smaller guards on the perimeter. mobile, ball skills allow him to put it on the floor and attack from wing. Ability to impact game from inside or out. Huge upside!

Terrell Pitts

2023G/F6-4

Uber-athletic wing with the skills to beat you in a variety of ways. Elusive in the half court or transition. Finishes strong above the rim. Hugh Upside!

Full Roster Coming Soon… Stay Tuned

Just two of the many great Lancer games to check out!