The Starting Five

We’ve just about reached the mid-point of the basketball season so let’s take a look at the boys in Washington County.
MVAL ANTIETAM: South Hagerstown is in control of its own destiny in the Antietam, as I expected they would be. Smithsburg is 1-game behind the Rebels in the MVAL standings, that loss was a 22-pointer to South.
SOUTH: Devonte Morel has been the top scorer for the Rebels and we’re still waiting for the real Devon King to step up to his potential. If everything comes together the Rebels could get through 3A and back to Comcast.

SMITHSBURG: Too bad the Leopards don’t have any real height. They’d be trouble in the 1A if they did, might still be, but it would ease the efforts of Eric Gerber’s team. They’re hustlers, but at times the shooting can be suspect.
WILLIAMSPORT: The Wildcats have had to rely on defense. The offense just hasn’t been there although the addition to the lineup of young Sterling Christy should help in the second half. Alex Aleshire and Tyler Wise have been doing all the scoring.
NORTH HAGERSTOWN: Kevin Hartman would like to have a period of time where his roster is filled out and everyone is healthy. The Hubs have dressed 8 players at times with sickness, injuries and personnel decisions coming into factor. When clicking, the Hubs could snip at anyone.
CLEAR SPRING: The Blazers started 7-0 and are now 7-5. Ryan Grabill is looking to restore the early-season magic but the competition is cathing up with Clear Spring.
BOONSBORO: The Warriors continue to struggle with only 2 wins in the Everett Holiday. They just don’t have any studs right now as the program hopes to build itself up.
HANCOCK: The Panthers could use some big boys also. Another team looking to develop itself, Hancock has produced just two wins thus far.
GORETTI: The Gaels have come alive with three Baltimore Catholic League wins on the heels of stopping a 47-game losing streak. Don’t get any thoughts in your head that the Gaels won’t lose again, but at least there are smiles on Oak Hill Ave. these days. Geben, Zanfack, Rajahpillay et all are getting in stride.
SAINT JAMES: Some really good players, including the Enechionyia boys, for the Saints and I’m guessing they’ll be contenders all year long for the MAC title. I like what new coach Paul Easton has brough to the table.
MASON DIXON CHRISTIAN CONF: Broadfording Christian plays a murder non-conference schedule and when it comes to league play, they are battle tested and this year is no different. The Lions are 8-0 and hold a 2-game lead.