Ricardo Johnson picks up another offer

Just received a text from Rico saying the Western Michigan Broncos have offered as well. He stated that he didn't personally talk to them but that they had called his AAU coach earlier and told him the offer was on the table.

This makes the second offer that Ricardo has received today. Central Michigan offered this morning after his team advanced to the elite 8 of the championship bracket in the JR division at nationals. Ric now holds offers from Bradley, Ohio, Marshall, Central Michigan, and Western Michigan.

Western Michigan is a member of the MAC conference and finished last year with a 10-21 record, losing to Ohio U. in the first round of the MAC tournament. Despite the lack of success this past season, the Broncos have won 4 of the last 6 MAC West titles, including the past two. Don't expect this to be the last offer he receives if he continues to play the way he has.

When talking to him briefly tonight, he said things are going very well for him and he's playing well down at nationals.

Update: Kentucky Firebirds 17U

With a win over G.E.S.U.S Ball (60-38) this morning, the Kentucky Firebirds are now 5-0 and in the elite 8 in the 17U championship bracket at nationals. The Firebirds had defeated St. Paul Tornadoes yesterday afternoon 77-52 to reach this morning's game.

The Firebirds will play Vineyard Runnin Rebels out of Ohio tonight at 5:30 for a chance at the final 4.

Check back later for an update.

Update:

The Firebirds fell to Vineyard Running Rebels 57-55. Ricardo Johnson finished with around 10 points while his brother JJ finished with around 12.

The Firebirds will meet Minuteman White tomorrow morning at 11:30 in the Quarterfinals Consolation bracket.

Central Michigan offers Holmes' R. Johnson

Got a text from Ric about an hour ago letting me know that not only is his Kentucky Firebirds team in the elite 8 at nationals (5-0), but Central Michigan also offered this morning after his 8:30 game.

Central Michigan plays in the MAC conference and finished the season 13-19 last year, losing in the quarters of the MAC tournament. The Chippewas become the second MAC school to offer Rico. He now holds offers from Bradley, Ohio, Marshall, and Central Michigan.

Ric said he is playing very well down there but not hearing from any other schools. With how well he and his team are playing, don't be surprised if he leaves nationals with a few more offers. I'll have more tonight when I talk to him after their 5:30 game against Vineyard Running Rebels, out of Ohio.

Update: Chad Jackson, Donovan Gibbs, Mike Gabbard

Brett Blevins of Hoopsreport.com reported the following:

I also got a chance to check in on the Shining Star 17’s from Kentucky who are now a combined 45-6 throughout the AAU season. They are led by Miami (OH) commit Josh Sewell and unsigned 2010 6’4 PG Chad Jackson.



Chad Jackson (Scott Co) claims offers from a host of mid-majors including the most recent two James Madison and Tennessee-Chattanooga. He is also receiving interest from Virginia Tech and Oklahoma St.’s Travis Ford who obviously has the KY connection that he is taking full advantage of. Jackson had been offered by West Virginia and Xavier almost two years ago, and he still stays in contact with both schools but isn’t sure what the scholarship situation is. Chad will sit down with his mom and plan some visits come fall. Until then he will work on his floor leadership skills and his jumpshot. Look for Chad to get to that major D1 level if he can improve upon those two things.

6’7 Donovan Gibbs (Iroquois) also stopped by after the Shining Star win to talk about his recruitment. He is still sitting on offers from IUPUI, Lincoln Memorial, and Eastern KY. He is also receiving interest from Virginia Tech, VCU, Oklahoma St., Oregon St., and Mississippi St. Gibbs is just looking for the best fit and will not be rushing his decision any time soon. We spoke a little bit about the difference between playing inside for his AAU team and playing primarily the PG position at Iroquois High in Louisville. Gibbs is a team-oriented kid who just wants to play and do what the coaches ask of him. If that means playing on the block this summer that is what he will do. I see him as a 3 man at the next level, with room to improve his ball-handling to become more of a point-forward. I’ve had lots of coaches asking me about Gibbs so look for his list to grow.



I also got a chance to chat with one of the Northern KY area’s best point guards in Mikey Gabbard. Coaching in the same district as Gabbard’s Boone County Rebels, I have become a fan of his game. College attention for this young man has really picked up since a nice showing in Cincinnati at the Adidas Takes 5. Gabbard holds a Division II offer from Ashland (OH) and is receiving serious interest from the likes of Wofford, Navy, Air Force, and Morehead St. Gabbard, if he finishes the week strong and has a good senior season, should receive several D1 offers to choose from.

Link

AAU Nationals Update: 17U Firebirds

The NKY Firebirds are 2-0 in pool play.

They beat St Paul's USBC, out of Niagara District, 76-73 and they beat Tampa Bay Warriors, out of Florida, 50-38.

They have already secured themselves a spot in the championship bracket, but if they beat Tangi Select (Louisiana) today at 3:35, they'll receive a first round bye.

The Firebirds consists of the following NKY players:

6'5 Ricardo Johnson- Holmes
6'5 Jeremiah Johnson- Holmes
6'1 Conner Crowley (jr)- Highlands
6'4 Cory Dill- Highlands
6'1 Steven Gordon- Highlands
5'8 Zach Lother- Highlands
6'2 Cody Collins- Newport
6'4 Casey Mcdaniel- Newport
6'6 Jack Stewart -Highlands (JR)

Here is a link to follow the Shiningstar Sports teams as well.

Update: Kentucky Firebirds won their pool this afternoon with a 44-42 win over Tangi Select out of So. Louisiana.

They play again tomorrow at 3:35 against either Team Tampa or St. Paul Tornadoes, both out of Florida. Both teams finished second in pool play. The winner will advance to the quarters of that bracket.

The Ville 14U wins Adidas tourney in Vegas

The Ville 14U, the reigning Div 1 AAU State Champs, took their game out west to Vegas this past week and brought the title back to KY. This team is loaded with talented kids who will be entering their Freshman year next season. James Quick and Jason Hatcher are both going to Louisville Trinity and are not only excellent on the hardwood but also excel on the gridiron as well. Quick has exceptional quickness and Hatcher (photo) has been a man among boys in AAU over the past few years. I have not seen a kid rocked up like him in all my years of watching Youth basketball. The Ville also got great performances from Darryl Hicks who played varsity ball at Shelby Co last season as an 8th grader. Rumors are flying that he will attend North Oldham next season. Omar Prewitt who will be a Freshman at Montgomery Co next season had a great tournament offensively as well. Prewitt is a lanky kid who has a very nice shooting stroke and should be a force to be reckoned with in the 10th Region down the road.

The following is from Jody Demling's blog for the Courier Journal:
The Ville only had eight players and lost two pool-play games to finish third in their pool, but they reeled off four tournament games to claim the title.

NKY Countdown to Kickoff: Ludlow Panthers

Leading up to the start of the regular season, we will be doing a "countdown to kickoff" with teams and coaches from around Northern Kentucky. The segment continues today with the Class A Ludlow Panthers who finished last season with a 5-7 record and a district championship loss in the second round of the playoffs to the eventual state champion, Beechwood Tigers. The win in the first round over Eminence (35-20) marked the program's first playoff victory since 1999 when they defeated Nicholas County in the first round of the Class A state playoffs. The Panthers lost 11 seniors from last years team but will try to improve this upcoming season.

One of the first things Coach Rick Hornsby will try to do is replace the 904 yards rushing that his backfield of Josh Montooth and Ronnie Banks combined for. Both are gone now, but with dual threat QB Zach Stegemoller back under center this coming season, the Panthers should be able to do some things offensively. Stegmoller rushed for 318 yards last season while throwing for 690 yards. Gone are his two favorite targets, Brett Betz and Kyle Williamson, so Stegemoller will need some of his young receivers to step up. Senior TE Chris Mackay is the only receiver that returns who caught more than one pass last season.

When asked which players Hornsby thought would have a break out year that we didn't hear about last season, he replied "Jake Ashcraft and Matt Stolt." Ashcraft should be the featured back this year for the Panthers. He rushed for 135 yards last season on 22 carries for a 6 ypc average. Stolt on the other hand is a newcomer to the team that didn't play last year. Leading the way up front for the Panthers on both sides of the ball will be 6'1 233 lb Justin Carlotta and 6'1 205 lb Drew Rice who both return as starters from last season.

When I asked Coach Hornsby what were the keys to success for his team to be successful, he replied with the following:

"We are young and inexperienced. We need to cut down on mental
mistakes to be competitive."

It could be a long year for the Ludlow squad but only time will tell.

Schedule:
Aug 21, 09 Open home
Aug 28, 09 Taylor, OH home 7:30 PM
Sep 4, 09 Carroll County away 7:30 PM
Sep 11, 09 Bracken County away 7:30 PM
Sep 18, 09 Shawnee home 7:00 PM
Sep 25, 09 Bishop Brossart home 7:00 PM
Oct 2, 09 Dayton away 7:00 PM
Oct 9, 09 Beechwood away 7:30 PM
Oct 16, 09 Bellevue home 7:00 PM
Oct 23, 09 Walton-Verona home 7:00 PM
Oct 30, 09 Pendleton County away 7:30 PM

Update: Kevon Rice (Holmes)

Although we don't hear much about him when discussing the elite players in the c/o 2011, 6'6 junior to be Kevon Rice of Holmes is a legit prospect for the next level and has been putting up some big numbers on the AAU circuit this summer. Rice was a key contributor for the Bulldogs off the bench last year, averaging 4 ppg, and 2 rpg. Rice will be counted on this year to step in and replace some of the production of departed seniors Jamel Riley, Dom Johnson, and Brandon Housely. I recently had the chance to catch up with him and here is what he had to say:

What fundamentals have you been working on this summer to improve your game?

I've been working real hard on improving going to my right and also been shooting between 200-300 jumpers a day to get more consistent with my shot.


What goals do you have set for yourself this coming season?

My goal is to try to get back down state this coming season.

Where do you feel you've grown the most as a player since last year?

By working on my shot, my jumper has gotten better. I also feel I have a better attitude and play better defense now.

Which camps or AAU events have you attended over the summer and with who?

I played with the Queen City Prophets and Kingdom Elite out of Cincinnati and attended the Hoop Fest in Indiana and the Shoot Out in Louisville.

What's your take on Demetrius Avery transferring to Holmes and how do you feel he can help you guys this season?

To me, I think Demetrius Avery will give us some big help with rebounding and getting easy baskets.

Which schools are you currently hearing from?

I really haven't heard from any recently but I've gotten a couple letters from different schools.

Lastly, What are your expectations for you and your teammates this coming season?

Me and my team have a real big chance of winning state again. If we stay focused, no one can stop us in Northern Kentucky.

Notes:

-Although he didn't have many big games because of the role he played last year, Rice showed glimpses of just how talented he is in games against Highlands (14 points 4-6), Franklin Co (10 points, 5 rbs), Lexcath (8 points 3-5), Largo, MD (8 points 2-4), and Louisville Central (7 pts, 4 rbs).

- When I saw Kevon, he looked like he had gotten a little bigger since last year. He's a legit 6'6 now and looks like he's picked up a little muscle. Speaking of growing, I also had a chance to see and talk to Pierre Mayfield as well and he too has grown some since last year and slimmed down. Expect him to battle Avery for that 5th starting position.

- If Rice is more consistent with his shot this season, I'd expect his stock to rise very quick, with the schedule Holmes is playing. He'll have a lot of chances to showcase how much he's improved since this past season>

- Kevon also told me that he's been working out with his cousin and former Bulldog, Greg Rice (c/o 2007), a lot this summer to help improve his game. Greg recently signed to play with D2 Indianapolis University who plays in the GLVC with NKU.

-I'd expect Kevon to average around 8-12 ppg this season. He needs to improve his rebounding, but with him being inserted in to the starting lineup, don't be surprised if he puts up some big numbers. After this season, you'll see his name mentioned with the other elite players around the state...mark it down.

-BTW, forgot to originally post this, but I also heard from Kevon, Pierre Mayfield, and Chris Hayes that 6'2 junior to be Naire Jones (formerly of Newport before last season) has transferred back to Newport. Jones was a key contributor for the Holmes JV team last season.

- Lastly...although Ricardo and Jeremiah Johnson leave after this coming season, there may be a future brother combo that dominates on the court as well. Kevon has a younger brother, Dontel, who is in the 6'4-6'5 range as a sophomore to be and could see some varsity time this year as well.

Here's a few scouting reports on Kevon from this past season:

March 2009

January 2009

NKY Countdown to Kickoff: Beechwood Tigers

Our 2009 "Countdown to Kickoff" resumes today with the defending Class A state champion, Beechwood Tigers. The Tigers finished the season 14-1 last year but will have to replace stud running back Neico Teipel who amassed 2294 yards and 35 td's last season a senior. Teipel is now at Louisville. Other key losses included Joe Daniels, Alex Downton, and two D1 signee offensive linemen, Dominic Mainello (Central Michigan) and Matt Miller (Brown University). Despite the talent that the Tigers lost, they return plenty enough to repeat as state champs. I recently had the chance to speak with Coach Rash on his team and here is what he had to say:

1. Which players should we watch out for this season?

Joe Colosimo RB/OLB 5’ 11” 210 12

Matt Rigdon QB 6’1” 182 12

Jake Maricle OL 6’ 0” 232 12

Corey Schuler FB/Slot/DB 5’ 10” 180 12

Zac Larimore DE/TE 6’3” 190 11

2. Which players do you expect to have a break out year that we didn't hear about last season?

Austin Harvey OL/DL 6’ 1” 230 12

Joey Staten FB/LB 5’ 10” 182 10

Tyler Bragg OL/DL 5’ 10” 202 11

Cameron Vocke TB/FS 5’ 9” 154 10

3. What are the keys for your team to repeat as state champs and also have a successful season?

We have to remember the day to day grind, commitment and sacrifice it takes to staying on top is far greater than getting to the top. Our young men in the trenches on both sides of the ball are crucial to this success. “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” This must resonate with our players.

4. What are you doing as a coach to help prepare your team for the upcoming season?

We start with the basics. Let’s do stances and starts. And we’ll start to install, but very little. We basically start back over from square one.

Notes:

- Beechwood loses 4 D1 players from last year:
Dominic Mainello- Central Michigan
Neico Teipel- Louisville
Matt Miller- Brown University
Brady Slusher- UC (preferred walk on)

- Offensively, the Tigers will try to replace the 2294 yards that Teipel put up this past season in the backfield, but they return someone plenty good enough in Joe Colosimo to carry the load. Colosimo rushed for 591 yards this past season but will be helped out by dual threat Qb, Matt Rigdon (photo), who completed 55 percent of his passes last season for 1,300 yards and had 876 yards rushing. There has been talks about Rigdon possibly seeing some carries in the backfield as well which would likely put 6'1 junior, Michael Colosimo, under center."Matt has great athleticism and he's a heckuva a runner, we want to find more ways for him to carry the rock," said Rash, who added that Rigdon might even play tailback. "The option has been discussed, especially with the idea of getting Matt and Joe on the perimeter." Up front the Tigers return just one starter in 6'0 senior Jake Maricle, but 6'2 Josh Genal and 5'10 Jackson Adams both return with some experience on the line along with 6'3 TE Zac Larimore who started last year as a sophomore.

- Defensively, the Tigers should be solid as usual. Cory Schuler and Kody Klug will be counted on to shut down the opposing teams passing game. 5'10 Klug led the Tigers last season with 5 int. Josh Genal, Jackson Adams, and Zac Larimore will anchor the Tigers traditional 5-3 base defense. The strength of the defense will be their linebackers. Joe Colosimo and 6'1 Michael Porco both return and should be even better this coming season.

Outlook: The Tigers are one of the favorites to win the state championship this year, but it will be a little tougher than this past season. I'd expect them to finish anywhere from 7-3 to 9-1 during the regular season and make a deep playoff run as the #1 seed in the NKY district. Don't be surprised if they start the season 0-2 though. Dixie will be considerably stronger this season and Highlands is absolutely loaded. As usual, the Tigers schedule will have them battle tested come playoff time.

Schedule:

Aug 29, 09	Dixie Heights	at Nippert Stadium				12:00 PM
Sep 4, 09	Highlands	home				7:30 PM
Sep 11, 09	Holy Cross (Covington)	home				7:30 PM
Sep 19, 09	Covington Catholic	away				1:00 PM
Sep 25, 09	Dayton	home				7:30 PM
Oct 3, 09	Walton-Verona	away				1:00 PM
Oct 9, 09	Ludlow	home				7:30 PM
Oct 16, 09	Bishop Brossart	away				7:00 PM
Oct 23, 09	Bellevue	away				7:00 PM
Oct 30, 09	Newport Central Catholic	home

Kentucky Elite 14 U

I just received the roster for the KY Elite team who will be entering the 14U National Tournament being played the first week in August. This team is loaded with talent from the top to the bottom. The guard position will be very strong led by PC's Mason Monroe, a strong lefthander with great ball skills who definitely knows how to get to the paint. South Laurel's Blake Sanders (formerly with the Ville) has been one of the best guards in the state over the past 4 yrs and Scott Co's Quin Richardson has great handles and is a true general on the court. Campbell County's Nate McGovney is having a great Spring/Summer and is a true Warrior on the court with great slashing moves. Probable starters could be Monroe/Sanders/Richardson/McGovney and either Willis or Davis. The depth is unbelievable though with McClendon out of Holmes who may be one of the best rebounders in the state and Daulton Cornette, a 6'6 250lb true Freshman to be taking up space in the lane. Derek Willis out of Male is a very nice perimeter player and goes 6'6 while Jackson Davis, the 6'5 kid out of Lexington Lafayette is most known for dunking a basketball during a 6th grade AAU game 2 yrs ago. We wish the KY Elite the best in their quest for a National Title.

14U KY ELITE Roster for nationals
3 Christian McClendon 6’1 Covington Holmes
10 Isaiah Jones 6’1 New Albany IN
13 Blake Sanders 5’9 South Laurel
14 Dontez Byrd 5’6 Louisville Ballard
17 Jackson Davis 6’5 Lexington Lafayette
22 Quin Richardson 5’10 Scott County
23 Cameron Lewis 6’2 Louisville Eastern
24 Mason Monroe 5’8 Pendleton County
25 Daulton Cornett 6’6 Perry County Central
32 Derek Willis 6’6 Louisville Male
43 Nate McGovney 6’1 Campbell County

Here is a summary from the Addidas May Classic.

It was the Kentucky Elite 14 & under team and the seven players on that team that won the 14& under Division at the adidas May Classic.

Campbell County's Nate McGovney led the way in that tournament by averaging 23 points a game, while South Laurel's Blake Sanders and Eastern's Cameron Lewis averaged about 15 a game and Pendleton County's Mason Monroe and Male's Derek Willis chipped in 12 a game.

New Albany's (Ind.) Isaiah Jones and Ballard's Dontez Byrd were also playing that weekend, while Paul Dunbar's Braxton McFarland and Scott County's Dylan Portwood and Quin Richardson are all on the team but were not present that weekend.

Demetrius Avery officially enrolls at Holmes

Received word on this earlier, but just now got around to have a chance to post on it.

6'3 G Demetrius Avery, formerly of Conner, has officially enrolled at Holmes High School. Avery averaged 11 ppg, 5 rpg, shot 43% from the field, 42% from beyond the arc, and was a 66% free throw shooter as a junior for the Cougars. Avery joins an already stacked Holmes team that includes current AAU teammates Ricardo Johnson, Jeremiah Johnson, Elijah Pittman, and Willie Slusher.

Notes:
- Adding Avery makes Holmes one of the heavy favorites to repeat as state champs and almost a sure thing to win the 9th region.

- Personally, I think this is a great move for the young man. No disrespect to the Conner program, but playing along side his new teammates will benefit him greatly as far as getting exposure and playing college ball...just ask Brandon Housely who landed at Cincinnati State after this past season.

- Obviously the Holmes coaching staff has to submit a transfer waiver to have him ruled eligible, but considering there was a bonafide change of residence and knowing his circumstances, he should be eligible this coming season.

-Lastly, when was the last time a NKY team had a starting lineup as big as Holmes will be next year?

6'3 Avery, 6'5 R. Johnson, 6'5 J. Johnson, 6'6 Rice, 6'7 Pittman

Holmes will be a match up nightmare for A LOT of teams around the state.

Adidas Super 64: Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the place to be during the NCAA open evaluation period -- and the adidas Super 64 is the nation's premier summer hoops event.

This July 22-26, the nation's most touted travel basketball teams will compete for the tournament crown on a nationally televised broadcast originating from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas' prestigious Thomas and Mack Center.

The adidas Super 64 is a five-day tournament with a four-game guarantee for each participant. Initially, teams will be divided into 16 pools comprised of four teams. Following pool play, teams will be placed into a single elimination bracket based on their rankings from pool play. The following local AAU teams will be participating in the event:

U17:
Derek Smith All Stars

Also in their pool is Florida Rams who have 7'0 267 lb big man Fab Melo who is rated one of the top prospects in the country for the class of 2010.

U16:
Derek Smith All Stars
(George Fant, Jordan Shanklin, Timmy Knipp, Remy Abell, Arman Marks, Robbie Stenzel)

Also in their pool are the D Harris Superstars which features several big time prospects in the midwest including 6'7 F Darnell Harris and 6'5 F Elgin Cook. Both are extremely athletic and great in transition.

U15:
Derek Smith All Stars

I'll give updates when I receive them.

NKY Countdown to Kickoff

Over the next few weeks, I will doing a "Countdown to kickoff" Q&A with all of the NKY football coaches in 1A, 2A, 4A, 5A, and 6A. With 4 teams making it to the state championship last year from the area, and 2 of them bringing home the title (Highlands, Beechwood), expectations have been raised for many teams this coming season.

We start off in 1A with the Bellevue Tigers who are coming off of a 7-4 season. The Tigers were upset last year in the first round of the playoffs at home by Gallatin Co (33-28), but with several key returners back, the Tigers are poised to get back to the playoffs and make a run. I recently had the chance to get in touch with Coach Dave Eckstein and here is what he had to say:

1. Which key returners do you expect to have the biggest impact?

Ricky Buckler RB,DB

Richard Wills QB

Travis Lyvers LB

Opal Decker OL,DL

Tad Dougherty OL,DL

2. Which players do you expect to have a break out year that we didn't hear about last season?

Rick Allen OL/DL

Marcus Reynolds OL/DL

DJ Slater RB/LB

Nick Evans WR/LB

Austin Lay WR/LB

3. What are the keys for your team to have a successful season?

Develop outstanding chemistry, stay healthy, and develop more balance offensively. We also need to see improvement in the kicking game and more consistency on defense.

4. What are you doing as a coach to help prepare your team for the upcoming season?

We are working hard on the passing game both offensively and defensively as well as the kicking game.

5. Lastly, what are your expectations for the 2009 season?

We should be a strong contender for the playoffs and with some luck possibly a home playoff game or two.

Notes:
- With Ricky Buckler returning in the backfield, expect the Tigers traditional running game to be very good, as usual. The senior to be rushed for 1375 yards on 218 carries last year while also scoring 21 td's and rushing over 200 yards three times (including a 218 yd performance on 28 carries against Paris). Not bad for a kid that is probably only around 5'7 and 155 lbs. He plays with tremendous heart and will be looked upon as the leader of this team.

- Bellevue will also return senior Richard Wills under center who will be making his second year as the starter. Wills passed for 511 yards last year as a junior. While being somewhat inconsistent last year, you can tell that the talent is there. Needs to work on some of his decision making, but he will be a huge asset to the Tigers offense this season.

- If the Tigers can develop a passing game, they could be a legit contender with the Tigers from Fort Mitchell. Last year the first half was a tightly contested game before the Bellevue squad just eventually got worn down in the second half and ended up losing 48-0.

Outlook: I'd expect the Tigers to finish anywhere from 5-5 to 7-3 next season. Coach Eckstein has upgraded the schedule some with Holmes, Scott, and Holy Cross, so they should be battle tested come playoff time. Look for the Tigers to finish 3-1 in the district and get the #2 seed.

Schedule:

Aug 21, 09	Holy Cross (Covington)	away				7:00 PM
Aug 29, 09	Newport	away				7:00 PM
Sep 4, 09	Holmes	home				7:00 PM
Sep 11, 09	Scott	home				7:00 PM
Sep 18, 09	Open	home
Sep 25, 09	Walton-Verona	home				7:00 PM
Oct 2, 09	Bishop Brossart	home				7:00 PM
Oct 9, 09	Dayton	away				7:00 PM
Oct 16, 09	Ludlow	away				7:00 PM
Oct 23, 09	Beechwood	home				7:00 PM
Oct 30, 09	Lloyd Memorial	home				7:00 PM

Update: Donovan Gibbs (Iroquois)

Jody Demling of the Courier Journal recently did an update on Iroquois' 6'6 big man, Donovan Gibbs:

Donovan Gibbs is becoming a popular name. The Iroquois High School senior-to-be has turned into one of the prized prospects from the Louisville-area, getting a lot of interest from colleges this summer.

"I am just trying to get to know different coaches and different staffs," Gibbs said. "I am looking around at everything and tying to keep all of my options open."

The 6-foot-6 Gibbs said he's had a lot of recent interest from a number of schools and now holds three firm scholarship offers - Eastern Kentucky, IUPUI and Bellarmine.

"It's like wherever the scholarship money is," Gibbs said. "I am keeping my options open in case some other schools get involved later this summer."

Gibbs averaged 15.6 points and 8.5 rebounds a game as a junior.

Notes:
- Gibbs and his Iroquois team will be playing in the King of the Bluegrass December 17th-22nd. It will be interesting to see how he does against not only some of the best in state talent, but also some very talented out of state teams. I'd really like to see him against Pittman (Holmes) , Zollo (GRC), or Fant (Warren Central), all of whom will be there as well.

2009 Lloyd Invitational Holiday Tournament

Just emailed new Lloyd Athletic Director, Mike Key, and the following teams will be in this year's Lloyd Invitatonal Holiday Tournament:

Lloyd Memorial, Newport, Cooper, Holmes, Deming, Bellevue, Campbell Co, Conner, Villa Madonna, Pendleton Co, Holy Cross, South Oldham, Henderson Co, Whitley Co, East Jessamine, and Western Hills

Holmes defeated Henderson Co in the championship last year 55-42. The brackets haven't been finalized yet, but I'll post them when Coach Key sends them to me.

Some of the better players to watch in the tournament from each team:

Donnie Cheatum- Lloyd
Casey Mcdaniel- Newport
Tyler Ramey- Cooper
Ricardo Johnson, Jeremiah Johnson, Elijah Pittman- Holmes
Kyle and Luke King- Deming
Mike Young- Bellevue
Brady Jolly- Campbell Co
Tyler Hodges- Conner
Blake Bryan- Villa Madona
Mason Monroe- Pendleton Co
Keith Egan- Holy Cross
Casey Jackson- South Oldham
Brock Stone, DJ Holmes- Henderson Co
Jamie Lebanion - Whitley Co
Jordan Redd - East Jessamine
J.T Riddle- Western Hills

Holmes will probably be the heavy favorite to win the tournament for the third straight year, but it should be a very competitive tournament and provide for some great action.

Johnson picks up another offer

After receiving an offer from Ohio U Friday night, Holmes' Ricardo Johnson has received another offer from the Marshall Thundering Herd. Rico confirmed this in a phone call earlier tonight.

Johnson now holds offers from Marshall, Bradley, and Ohio U. It comes as no surprise that these teams are now starting to offer after the performance he had in the Adidas It Takes 5ive Classic last week in Cincy. He was very impressive and the best player on the court in both the semi's and finals of the gold bracket.

Marshall plays in Conference USA and finished last season with a 15-17 record, losing in the first round of the C-USA tournament. Expect several other offers to come over the next few weeks with nationals coming up in Orlando.

23rd Annual East/West All Star Game Results

The West girls took control in the first half to win the Kentucky High School Coaches Association East/West Junior All-Star basketball game 71-51, while the East boys needed a second-half rally to win 118-106 Saturday night at Bellarmine University.

Boys:

Behind 21 points from Eastern's Delquan Thomas (photo) and 20 points from Ballard's Ian Chiles, the East rallied to knock off the West squad 118-106.

The West squad was led by Cedrick Vaughn of Hart County who poured in 19 points while Iroquois' 6'7 center, Donovan Gibbs, chipped in 15 points.

Notes:
East scoring:
Casey Sorrell (Simon Kenton) - 14 points
Alexander Nikolic (Manual) - 14 points
Josh Sewell (Trinity)- 13 points


Girls:

West :
Destiny Bramblett (North Hardin) - 19 points
Wenisha Mack (Fairdale) - 14 points
Kayla Thacker (Bullitt East) - 10 points
Qualeatha Bennett (Bullitt Central) - 10 points

East:
Therese Montano (Mercy) - 8 points
Autumn Miller (Sacred Heart) - 8 points
Jackie Hafele (Sacred Heart) - 8 points

23rd Annual East/West All Star Game

Some of the top players from regions 5 through 8 will be in action Saturday night in the 23rd annual Kentucky High School Coaches Association East/West All Star game that features players from the class of 2010.

The East squad will consist of players from the 7th and 8th region, while the West will feature players from the 5th and 6th region. Headlining the 7th region squad is Josh Sewell (photo) of Louisville Trinity who recently committed to Miami (OH) University.

Tipoffs are set for 6p.m. (girls) and 8 (boys) at Bellarmine University's Knights Hall. Tickets are $5, and preschoolers will be admitted for free.

The rosters:

GIRLS

West ‚ Samantha Drake, Lacy Hagan, Emily Hogan (Nelson County); Jennifer Smiley, Destiny Bramblett (North Hardin); Chelsea Beard (Adair County); Whitney Reed (Butler); Victoria Brown (Iroquois); Wenisha Mack (Fairdale); Kayla Thacker, Shelby Romine (Bullitt East); Qualeatha Bennett (Bullitt Central). Coaches: Kelly Wood (Nelson County), Bryan Bates (Bullitt Central).

East ‚ Nicole Heitz (Ballard); Zakiyah Martin (Manual); Autumn Miller, Jackie Hafele (Sacred Heart); Therese Montano (Mercy); Camila Calderon (Jeffersontown); Emily Lape (Oldham County); Jordan McGuffin (South Oldham); Taylor Shaw (Shelby County); Eko Kemper (Owen County); Macy Mitchell (Trimble County); Dawn Puckett (Grant County). Coaches: John Kyser (Jeffersontown), Larry Just (Butler).

BOYS

West , Bryton Taylor (Campbellsville); Chris Ulls (Elizabethtown); James Berry (North Hardin); Kyle Sandusky (Adair County); Cedric Vaughn (Hart County); Dustin Curry (Green County); Donovan Gibbs (Iroquois); Chris Richard (Southern); Quintrell Morris (Fairdale); Jamal Stephenson (Pleasure Ridge Park); Thomas Blakemore (Butler); Adam Troutman (Holy Cross). Coaches: Troy Lee Thomas (Green County), Mike Durham (Holy Cross).

East ‚ Aleksandar Nikolic (Manual); Josh Sewell (Trinity); Ian Chiles, Keisten Jones (Ballard); Thomas Jackson (Jeffersontown); Delquan Thomas (Eastern); Donovan Johnson, Norris Beckley Jr. (Shelby County); Alex Foley (North Oldham); Zac Jones (Gallatin County); Casey Sorrell (Simon Kenton); Jacob Russell (Anderson County). Coaches: Steve Sergeant (Seneca), Trent Steiner (Simon Kenton).

Holmes 2009/2010 Schedule

The 2009 State Champs will make appearances in the following events and tournaments:

December 5th- Marshall Co Hoopfest
Holmes v Gary (Ind.) Bowman Academy @ Marshall Co High School 6:30

December 17-22nd- King of the Bluegrass
Teams- Holmes, L'ville Eastern, Clark County, Warren Central, L'ville Ballard, L'ville Trinity, L'ville Iroquois, L'ville Fairdale, L'ville Seneca, Shelby County, Tates Creek, Knott County Central, Huntsville (AL) J. O. Johnson (Josh Langford), Scottsdale (AZ) Chaparral (Zeke Chapman), Powder Springs (GA) McEachern (Trae Golden), and Memphis (TN) Central.

January 2nd- US Bank Classic
Holmes @ Mason Co

January 6th
Holmes v Princeton, OH @ Holmes

January 16th (?)- Joe B Hall Kentucky Preps Classic
Holmes v Christian Co @ Montgomery County

Kentucky- Tennessee Shootout @ Warren Central
Holmes vs. TBD (Memphis, TN)

Lloyd Memorial Holiday Tournament

Q&A: Ricardo Johnson

Since leading his team to a state championship back in March, Ricardo Johnson has been busy in the off season putting in countless hours working on his game and improving. Johnson is considered by several scouting services to be the best player in the deep class of 2010 here in Kentucky and hasn't disappointed throughout the summer. I had the chance to talk to Ric recently about his Holmes team as well as him and here is what he had to say:

How are some of the younger guys looking? Do you see any of them being able to contribute off the bench?

Ricardo: Yea I see some. They're just small right now. They are learning though just like everyone else.

What do you see that you guys need to improve on as a team and what would you say are the strengths of next year's team?

Ricardo: I would say our team DEFENSE. Defense is the key to the game. It can help you when your offense is off. So I believe that defense will be the key.

Do you think this year's team has the potential to be better than last year's?

Ricardo: To me, no. I say that just because of experience we had. But we have a chance to be good.

Obviously you want to win state and repeat as state champs, but what are some of your personal goals as far as next season goes?

Ricardo: Improve on my game and go somewhere where I can play.

What do you feel you can bring to a college program? Is there any particular style that you prefer to play in?

Ricardo: I feel that I can bring toughness, character, and heart to a program and I know how to win.

I prefer the running style.

Do any of the schools recruiting you right now stick out above the others?

Ricardo: I'm just open to everyone right now. When I know where I wanna go, that's when everyone else will know.

Do you feel it'd be beneficial for you to wait until your senior season is completed to make a decision, so you can fully weigh all of your options?

Yea, I'm going to wait when the season is over. As of now I gotta finish my senior year out with a bang.

Holmes' Johnson picks up second offer

Holmes' standout, Ricardo Johnson, picked up his second Division I scholarship offer Friday night from Ohio University.

Johnson, a 6'5 wing, played so well at the Adidas It Takes 5ive Classic in Cincinnati last week, the Bobcat coaching staff felt it was time to extend an offer. Said one coach, "He's good...I mean really good. I'm surprised the big boys aren't after him."

Ohio and Bradley University are currently Johnson's only offers, but I wouldn't expect it to stay like that very long. Akron is rumored to be the next school that will end up offering.

Johnson said he plans on making visits to both Bradley and Ohio U at the end of August.

Ricardo will be playing with the Kentucky Firebirds in Orlando at Nationals. Don't be surprised if more offers come after that.