boogie123

Always great to hear the informative and positive comments from Gman. But your stats leave out a couple of the most dynamic kids to watch play - Austin Gee and Rob Marberry. These two guys are game-changers, no matter what the stats say. Oh, but I would guess their stats, for the entire season, aren't too shabby! Thanks Gman for your input!

Good point Asitis. Which brings me to mention the high scorer for FRA (23-4 overall, 8-1 in district), Kessler Bell. Bell's size alone is something any team would envy. You couple that with his consistent scoring, rebounding and amazing defense, and you have an additional consideration from the district leading Panthers from FRA. Kessler earned a spot on the 2011 State Championship All Tournament team. Since then, he has done nothing but get stronger and more skilled on both ends of the court. Kessler should definitely be a consideration for this award.

Rob Marberry. Sophomore 2 year starter for FRA, current leader in this division for East/Middle (23-4 overall, 8-1 in district). Long, lean and strong, a beast under the basket, and not afraid of contact. Rob is currently averaging 13 points, 8 boards and 3 blocks per game - season high 32 points in 1 game. He has a total of 70 blocks this season so far (60 last season as a Freshman). Is capable of highlight worthy dunks if given even just a sliver of daylight. But these numbers don't truly reflect his ability. FRA plays bench when leading by a large margin. Therefore Rob has had more time on the bench this year because the team has had huge leads in most of their games. He is also an unselfish player - dishing to the low post Kessler Bell (who is currently high scorer for FRA) and others. Last summer Rob was a major contributor for the 17U EYBL Tennessee Travelers who compete nationally (will join them again this summer). Rob is a team leader and a great all-around student.

This one will come down to Poythress winning and runner up being Hubbs. Jack Montague gets my vote for the 3rd entry. He is a fantastic point guard with the enviable ability to quarterback a game. He is a true leader with amazing skills. Such a shame that he is in such a tough division with Poythress and Hubbs - otherwise he would be a shoe-in for this award. Best of luck to Jack as he heads to Yale!

Craig Bradshaw - CPA - Senior. Hard working, fundamental player with leadership qualities.

Derica Wyatt - FRA . . . Hands Down. The most fundamental player I've seen. Consistent with text-book skills. Can shoot lights out. Work ethic like no other. Great girl. Yes, Derica for Miss Basketball 2012!

I happened to be at that game on Friday and it was much closer than the score reflects. Ezell came out strong and held the lead until midway into the 3rd quarter at which time Marberry was hit with a T for finishing off a dunk after a dead ball whistle (probably should have been given a warning on this one). From what I understand, FRA school rules are that any player hit with a T must sit out that quarter and the following quarter. That put Marberry out of the game. Ezell came within a few points in the 4th, but the size and length of FRA proved to be a little too much. Bell was strong as usual, along with big defense from Cannon, Bouldin, Bryant and T.Smith for FRA. Huge showing as always from Gee. Teague was strong in the paint, but the force behind the close game was Jenkins for Ezell. Great game - great crowd - absolutely NO domination by either team!

Here's how I'd list the top 5: Leron Black Jalen Lindsey Rob Marberry Jake Allsmiller Andy Schumpert Thomas Richard, before his injuries, was on pace to be in the top 3 for sure. Hope he gets well and strong again because he's awfully fun to watch. Thoughts, additions or deletions?

Don't forget about Andy Schumpert at Brentwood High. He's long and lean and can defend anyone - even Alex Poythress. Andy held Alex to his season low of 8 points (I believe) in BHS's win against Northeast!

I'll update the numbers a little bit since these boys have GROWN! Marberry 6'7" Bouldin 6'5" Bell 6'4" Glad I don't have to feed them all!!

Yes. But let's not forget Ted Bryant, the Senior starting point guard for FRA. He had large shoes to fill after Connor Maitland graduated last year, but is doing a FINE job! What is somewhat unexpected is his tight defense - he's having a great season so far.

#3 is Dalton Ponchilia - a Junior. He played last year and is a strong 6th man. When his shot is dropping, he can be dangerous. #23 is Tori Smith - a Sophomore. He played JV last year with very little varsity play, but has come on extremely strong this year as point guard. Both of these players can be lock-down defenders too.

USN takes on FRA tonight. Any thoughts on this matchup?

Agreed - Montegue should have been included. And what about the All-Star cast at Franklin Road Academy with not one individual mention. Marberry is nationally ranked and not even a nod. Guess it speaks well that the team was mentioned and not individual accomplishments. Good luck all!

Seriously!! This thread was set up for positive information - not someone sticking their nose into other folks' business and talking trash (BigENS aka Ensworth fan - REALLY???). And dgeeman, only a true fan recognizes hard work and great play . . . even at the expense of our own children! My guess is Austin Gee could compile a mighty lengthy highlight reel starring Austin Gee!!

Couldn't agree more!! So looking forward to the season starting! Any ideas of who looks strong this year?