Sixteenth Region Preview

Preseason Rankings...
1. Elliott County
2. Russell
3. Ashland Blazer
4. Rose Hill
5. Greenup County
6. Morgan County
7. Rowan County
8. Boyd County
9. East Carter
10. Raceland
11. Bath County
12. Fairview
13. West Carter
14. Menifee County
15. Lewis County
16. Fleming County

Three Things To Watch...
--Five regional champions the last five seasons: only the 1st region can claim that along with the 16th. In a region once dominanted by only Boyd County and Ashland, five different teams (Russell, Rowan County, Morgan County, Rose Hill, Ashland) have represented the 16th region in Rupp the last five seasons. This year, don't be surprised if it becomes six different teams for the last six seasons, as Elliott County, Greenup County and Boyd County all pose serious threats to the regional champion Russell's repeat quest.

--Once upon a time, a 8th grader by the name of O.J. Mayo led the Rose Hill Royals to the state tournament. But since that 2003, it's been nothing like roses for Rose Hill, but this season, hope seems to be on the way courtesy of two young freshman: guard Chad Jackson and forward Dakotah Euton. If Rose Hill can mature quickly, watch out for this team as they look to make a return trip to the Sweet 16 and stamp themselves as a regional contender for years to come.

--Ashland Blazer will have a new coach roaming the sidelines this season, as Mike Flynn stepped down after 10 seasons as coach. The new coach, Buddy Biggs, comes from Pendleton County and promises to let the Tomcats play more up-tempo. That should be good news for top players Drew McDavid and Matt Thomas, whose size and athleticism will be key in a faster-paced game. Perhaps the Tomcats have the most potential of any team in the region despite not reaching .500 only a season ago.

Five Early Games I'd See...
December 2nd: Rose Hill vs. Southwestern (at Somerset)
December 8th: Greenup County @ Russell
December 8th: Rowan County @ Raceland
December 12th: Elliott County @ Boyd County
December 12th: Ashland Blazer @ Mason County

Last Year...
Regional Champion: Russell
Regional Runner-Up: Elliott County
Regional Semifinalists: Greenup County, Fairview