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All 50 teams are written up with explanations for why they were placed in these positions. Top-ranked Montverde Academy was the nation’s No. 1 team for three consecutive seasons (2013-2015) and won its fourth mythical FAB 50 national title last season. The Eagles begin as preseason No. 1 for the fifth time in program history, as they have won the FAB 50 title in each of the previous seasons in which they began No 1. Last season, Montverde Academy won its first wire-to-wire FAB 50 title after defeating preseason No. 21 University of Florida in the GEICO High School Nationals championship game. CLICK HERE to view the all-time list of mythical national champions.

RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (31-50) | Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20  | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20 | All-Time FAB 50 No. 1s | All-Time Preseason No. 1s

Does Any Program Besides Montverde Academy
Deserve To Begin The 2018-19 Season No. 1?

Every season there is plenty of change on the high school basketball landscape, as stars move on and new ones emerge. In recent years, the dominance of basketball academy-type programs has been profound, but the basketball programs at public and parochial schools around the country are still quite relevant, winning national-level games and impacting the FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com.

In fact, two public schools recently captured the mythical FAB 50 national championship in back-to-back seasons: Chino Hills (Calif.) in 2015-16 and Nathan Hale (Seattle, Wash.) in 2016-17.

Fueled by the play of Mr. Basketball USA honorees Lonzo Ball (UCLA/Lakers) of Chino Hills and Michael Porter Jr. (Missouri/Nuggets), both Chino Hills and Nathan Hale went undefeated. Both teams steadily rose in the rankings with big win after big win whereas recent preseason rankings have been dominated by two private academies known for basketball excellence: Montverde Academy of Florida and Oak Hill Academy of Virginia.

For the past six seasons, one of those two programs began as preseason FAB 50 national No. 1. Montverde Academy was preseason No. 1 for three consecutive seasons (2013-2015), Oak Hill started out No. 1 the next two years (2016-2017) with the Eagles gaining the No. 1 nod once again last season.

Since the advent of the FAB 50/National Prep Poll in the winter of 1987, Oak Hill Academy started out as preseason No. 1 a record nine times, but the past two times the Warriors couldn’t sustain that position, finishing No. 2 (45-1) and No. 11 (38-5), respectively. For Montverde Academy the preseason results have been a bit more to its liking. In each of the four seasons in which the Eagles started out No. 1, they finished as FAB 50 champions.

Which brings us to this season.

There is a tremendous amount of elite talent on the top academy programs, but it appears traditional schools playing for state titles have just as many game-changers doting their roster.

No program with a successful track record has a clear-cut talent advantage over the rest of the field, so it makes sense to begin the 2018-19 season with defending champion Montverde Academy as the preseason No. 1 team in the FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com over serious contenders Oak Hill Academy, DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) and IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.).

The Eagles’ talented roster, recent track record of success, and no other team clearly having more talent or that one game-changing player on its roster gives coach Kevin Boyle’s club the preseason No. 1 nod for the fifth time in the past seven seasons. Besides Oak Hill Academy and Montverde Academy, no other program has been national preseason No. 1 more than twice in the 32 years a version of this poll has been published.

This is a season where the race for No. 1 is wide open and as many as eight or nine programs are truly in the FAB 50 national title hunt. Another five believe with the right breaks they can be right there, too.

“It is a bit wide open this year and it should be interesting,” said Oak Hill Academy coach Steve Smith. “Montverde and IMG are going to be really good. I really don’t know who is No. 1, but it will all wash out in the end because all the top teams play strong enough schedules.”

We almost started the Warriors No. 1, but their candidacy was hurt when 6-foot-4 guard Jahmius Ramsey transferred out in late September after coming over from IMG Academy in the off-season. The talented combo guard is now at Duncanville High School in Texas (the 2007-08 preseason FAB 50 No. 1), which fields a potential FAB 50 team this season.

“Somebody is going to get Jahmius’ minutes and has to step up,” Smith said. “Because he played so hard, it hurts us a little. It hurts us defensively.”

As for Montverde, its coaching staff is confident this team has what it takes to bring home FAB 50 title No. 5, despite the graduation loss of 2017-18 Mr. Basketball USA R.J. Barrett (Duke).

“The standard remains the same…we think we can win every game,” said Montverde Academy Associate Head Coach Rae Miller. “I think this group is focused, together, has chemistry and incredible depth.”

Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 National
Team Rankings Powered by www.ebooksnet.com

By Ronnie Flores

(Final 2017-18 ranking in parentheses; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates forfeits and defaults not included; Look for preseason Region-By-Region Top 20 Rankings on Wednesday, November 7 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Monday, November 19.)

RELATED: Preseason 2017-18 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason 2017-18 FAB 50 (31-50)

1. (1) Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 36-0
Key Players: PF Precious Achiuwa 6-9 2019 (No. 5 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), C Balsa Koprivica 7-0 2019 (No. 28 Hoop Scoop, Florida St. commit), PF Omar Payne 6-9 2019 (No. 35 ESPN.com, Florida commit), SF Cade Cunningham 6-5 2020 (No. 9 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Moses Moody 6-5 2020 (No. 20 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American).
Why This Ranking: No other team possessing a clear-cut talent advantage over the Eagles is a big factor in awarding the defending FAB 50 champs preseason No. 1. The Eagles have won more head-to-head FAB 50-level matchups than any other program since the end of Kevin Boyle’s first season (2011-12) and that’s another key factor in this year’s preseason positioning. This year’s roster also features incredible depth and practice time will make the reserves ready in the big game. The frontline of Koprivica, Achiuwa and Payne could be America’s best, while Cunningham mans one backcourt spot with Moody (who has been slowed by a foot injury in the preseason) and Harlond Beverly (6-5, 2019) vying for the fifth starting position. Koprivica can stretch defenses to the 3-point line and Payne is a potential game-changer with his shot-blocking and intensity level. Miller thinks Montverde’s special freshman class that includes Caleb Houston (6-8, 2022), Ryan Nembhard (5-10, 2022) and Dariq Whitehead (6-2, 2022) will force its way into rotation minutes. Houston is a good shooter while Nembhard is every bit the prospect older brother Andrew (an All-American on the Eagles’ undefeated championship team last season and now at Florida) is. If his performance at the recent USA Basketball mini-camp is any indication, Whitehead might be the best freshman in the country. He’s got one of the best first steps you’ll see and is an explosive athlete, but on this team (as opposed to him playing on a state or regionally-ranked team), there will be much less pressure to produce. It’s the depth, coaching staff experience and expectation level for this program that makes them a deserving No. 1 to begin the season.
The Skinny: Without 2018 national player of the year R.J. Barrett, the Eagles’ roster doesn’t contain that one game-changing player capable of putting a team on his back and leading them to a mythical national championship. It will likely be a more collective team effort for this team to retain its rankings position, as championship level leadership is the only missing ingredient. “That leadership is going to fall to Precious,” Miller said. “He comes in with a lot behind his name (in terms of national acclaim). “Both Precious and Cade (Cunningham) have great leadership skill and can impose their will on teams.” “Practice is going great so far,” Cunningham said. “It’s a different level and the coaching staff will have us prepared.” There is no doubt if Boyle’s club enters GIECO Nationals with an unblemished record, it will enter the end-of-season tournament as the No. 1 ranked team in the country. With their daunting schedule, the Eagles could lose a game and still regain a foothold on the No. 1 ranking as their 2013-2015 teams did. Montverde will take on No. 17 Sunrise Christian Academy and No. 9 Paul VI at the ARS National Hoopfest in Washington D.C. (Dec. 7-8) and will travel to the Iolani Classic before Christmas before taking the post-Christmas event circuit off. The Eagles come back to play No. 11 Norcross and No. 6 La Lumiere at the Cancer Research Classic in West Virginia (Jan. 4-5) and face No. 8 Sierra Canyon and No. 7 Imhotep Charter at the Spalding Hoophall Classic in Massachusetts (Jan. 19-21). If they survive those games and their own Montverde Academy Invitational (Jan. 24-26), a potential No. 1 vs. No. 2 showdown with Oak Hill Academy awaits on Feb. 2 at the ARS Hoopfest in Tampa, Fla.

2. (3) Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) 44-2

Key Players: PG Cole Anthony 6-3 2019 (No. 2 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), C Kofi Cockburn 6-11 2019 (No. 30 Rivals.com), SF Christian Brown 6-6 2019 (No. 41 Hoop Scoop), C B.J. Mack 6-7 2019 (South Florida commit), SG Cam Thomas 6-3 2020 (No. 29 ESPN.com).
Why This Ranking: The Warriors are in good position to capture the program’s eighth FAB 50 crown because of a combination of depth and a potential Mr. Basketball USA on their roster. Veteran coach Steve Smith (1,108-72) will rely heavily on one player just as Montverde Academy did with R.J. Barrett (26.7 ppg at GEICO Nationals) last season. That player is Anthony, who could develop into the best player in the country under Smith’s tutelage and because of the excellent supporting cast around him. “Cole has never played with a bunch of D1 guys around him; he’s always had to score on the teams he’s been on,” Smith said. “The guys we have make him harder to guard and I think he’s by far the best guard in the country. He wants to be on a championship team.” Smith likes the makeup of his backcourt and the fact he can go with a big or small lineup with little drop off. The defection of Ramsey is eased by the addition of Brown, a big-time scoring threat and an elite defender who can play multiple positions. Evan Johnson (6-0, 2020) can relieve Anthony at the point guard and is a good long-range shooter. Smith obviously has roster turnover every year, so the fact Mack, Johnson and Darrick Jones Jr. (6-5, 2020) return off last year’s team gives him a high comfort level when trying different lineups. In the paint, Cockburn has a bit more offensive skill than David McCormack (Kansas) brought to the table last season, makes good decisions with the ball in his hands and the coaching staff is working hard to get him in top-notch shape. Dylan Cardwell (6-10, 2020) can effectively spell Cockburn and his play will be important because Smith felt not having a true back-up post player last season hurt the Warriors against top tier FAB 50 teams.

The Skinny: There is plenty to like about this team, and having a potential difference-maker in Anthony could turn into a great omen if recent rankings history is any indication. Having that player was the difference for Montverde Academy’s last three championship runs (Barrett last season and Ben Simmons in 2014-15), for Washington’s Nathan Hale (Michael Porter Jr.) in 2017 and California’s Chino Hills (Lonzo Ball) in 2016. The Warriors have a rugged schedule and a margin of error slightly smaller than Montverde Academy when it comes to dropping a regular season game and getting back near the top of the rankings heap. The Warriors face No. 4 IMG Academy on Jan. 20 at the Hoophall Classic and the Feb. 2 showdown with top-ranked Montverde Academy could be titanic, but in order to win the mythical national crown Oak Hill likely needs to defeat either of those two clubs more than once and IMG at least twice in three potential meetings. For the first time since the 1991-92 season, Smith’s club will enter bracket play at the prestigious City of Palms Classic in Florida (Dec. 17-22), where 10 other FAB 50 ranked teams await. The Warriors will likely face highly-regarded Mountain Brook in the second round and are on the same side of the bracket as No. 5 University School with IMG Academy and No. 9 Paul VI on the other side. Back in December of 1991, Oak Hill lost in the City of Palms semifinals (losing to Franklin Learning Center of Philadelphia) and finished that season 32-2 and ranked No. 2, with its only other loss to No. 1 Dunbar (Baltimore, Md.). Having 16 games under its belt heading into the COP is a definite advantage for Oak Hill over some of the other teams in the event. Since the advent of the FAB 50/National Prep Poll in 1987-88, the only time Oak Hill failed to appear in the final poll was that first season when the rankings went 20 teams deep. In that same time frame it has finished the season ranked No. 1 or No. 2 in the FAB 50 an amazing 15 times. Look for Oak Hill’s ranking streak to reach 31 seasons with a good opportunity to finish in the Top 2 for the 16th time provided it wins the City of Palms title, captures GEICO Nationals and at least splits with IMG and Montverde Academy.

3. (5) DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) 32-5
Key Players: SG Justin Moore 6-4 2019 (No. 27 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Villanova commit), SG Earl Timberlake Jr. 6-5 2020 (No. 26 Hoop Scoop), C Hunter Dickinson 7-1 2020 (No. 15 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Carsten Kogelnik 6-5 2019 (Brown commit), PF Paul Smith (6-8, 2020).
Why This Ranking: This legendary program has an excellent opportunity to capture its fifth mythical national title and first in the FAB 50 era. DeMatha last won a national crown in 1983-84 and since taking over for Naismith Hall of Fame coach Morgan Wootten in 2002-03, this is coach Mike Jones’ (436-112) best opportunity to join his high school coach and mentor as a national championship-winning coach. The tremendous opportunity exists because Jones returns all five starters and top seven players off a young team that exceeded preseason expectations (No. 38 in FAB 50) and closed strong. After returning from a torn ACL as a sophomore, Moore (16.6 ppg) led DeMatha to its first Washington Catholic Athletic Conference crown since 2011-12. Moore is a prototype Villanova guard in the mold of two-time NCAA champ Jalen Brunson: not too flashy, but a total winner who comes up big in the key moments. In order for the Stags to remain in FAB 50 title contention, Moore must play as he did last season and with a good start, will make a strong McDonald’s All-American push. Dickinson is a wide-bodied inside player who grinds teams down and not many programs on the schedule have a traditional post willing to bang and stay disciplined against him. Dickinson had a breakout sophomore campaign, as did Timberlake, who shined in last year’s post-season run. Smith (6-8, 2020) will need to step up in order to keep teams from collapsing on Dickinson and when Jones decides to play small ball. “We have a good mix of perimeter and post players that can play at a high level,” Jones said.
The Skinny: At the recent USA Basketball mini-camp, we joked with Jones about his team potentially beginning the season as FAB 50 No. 1. “We don’t want to be No. 1, it jinxed us the last two times,” Jones said. In 1998-99, the Stags opened up No. 1 in the final pre-FAB 50 related National Prep Poll and finished No. 8 at 28-4. Coming off a national championship season, the 1978-79 Stags had realistic hopes of a repeat, but finished 28-3 at No. 12. This club has the talent and pedigree to finish No. 1, but navigating a murderous WCAC schedule and national showcases won’t be easy. Last season, DeMatha pulled together at the right time, capturing the WCAC Tournament title, the Alhambra Catholic Invitational and the Maryland Private Schools title after losing regular season WCAC contests to Bishop O’Connell (Arlington, Va.), FAB 50-ranked Gonzaga and twice to No. 9 Paul VI. The Stags could drop a WCAC regular season game and still be in FAB 50 title contention, but they couldn’t afford to get swept again by Paul VI or anyone else. The rest of the regular season schedule includes No. 4 IMG Academy and highly-regarded Roman Catholic (Philadelphia) at the ARS National Hoopfest DeMatha will host and No. 15 Guyer at the ARS National Hoopfest in Dallas a week later (Dec. 15). After the New Year’s, the Stags face No. 11 Norcross at the Cancer Research Classic and No. 6 La Lumiere at the Hoophall Classic over MLK weekend.

4. (39) IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) 22-5
Key Players: C Armando Bacot 6-10 2019 (No. 7 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, North Carolina commit), SF Josh Green 6-6 2019 (No. 8 ESPN.com, Arizona commit), PF Jeremiah Robinson-Earl 6-9 2019 (No. 10 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Jaden Springer 6-4 2020 (No. 7 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Noah Farrakhan 6-2 2020 (No. 36 ESPN.com).
Why This Ranking: The Ascenders were part of the national rankings equation the past two seasons and this year’s team could surpass the exploits of the 2016-17 club. That Trevon Duval-led club was No. 8 in the final FAB 50 and advanced to Dick’s Nationals semifinals. Second-year coach Sean McAloon has blinding talent at his disposal and the team should have more continuity after some roster shuffling last season. This team is deep, and returning starters Green and Farrakhan should greatly benefit from last year’s experience. Green is an excellent scorer, while the latter is an instinctual point guard who can really get in a stance and defend. McAloon is a bit worried about his defense, especially since 7-foot-2 Chol Marial and 6-foot-4 Jahmius Ramsey checked out. The reality is Marial was injury-prone and appeared in only 17 games and Bacot is just what the doctor ordered inside. A physical specimen who uses his wide body to dominate on the boards and position himself for touches, Bacot is hungry to play in FAB 50 championship level games. Robinson-Earl led regionally ranked Bishop Miege (Shawnee Mission, Kan.) to the Kansas Class 4A state crown while averaging 21.9 ppg and 8.1 rpg. Bacot and Robinson-Earl were also USA Basketball teammates that won the FIBA Americas 18U title in Canada.
The Skinny: Last season we took a wait-and-see approach as McAloon was in his first season, beginning his team at No. 24, but IMG quickly proved to be one of the country’s best teams until Silvio De Sousa enrolled at Kansas at the semester break. IMG Academy played more at the level expected of them during the preseason following his mid-season departure, but this team should benefit from better continuity, the on-court leadership of Farrakhan and the dynamic between Bacot and Robinson-Earl. Not having Ramsey could hurt defensively in the big games, but the silver lining is he’s not on the roster of one of IMG’s chief competitors for the FAB 50 crown (Oak Hill Academy) and Springer could be as or more talented than anyone on the roster. IMG grapples with Oak Hill Academy on Jan. 20 at the Hoophall Classic and that could actually be its second meeting of the season, as the two programs are on opposite sides of the bracket at the City of Palms Classic in Florida in December. IMG likely will play highly-regarded Olive Branch or Wilson of Washington, D.C., in the tournament’s second round and actually plays Wilson Dec. 7 at the ARS Hoopfest at DeMatha Catholic. The next night, IMG has a monster date with No. 3 and host DeMatha.

5. (2) University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) 35-2
Key Players: PF Vernon Carey Jr. 6-10 2019 (No. 1 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife First Team All-American, Ballislife National Junior of the Year), SF Scottie Barnes 6-7 2020 (No. 2 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Logan Alters 6-0 2019 (CAL commit walk-on), SG Roger McFarlane 6-3 2020 (No. 141 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: It was a landmark 2017-18 season for the Sharks, as they won the FHSAA Class 5A state crown and advanced to GEICO Nationals, avenging their only regular season loss to Oak Hill Academy before falling to Montverde Academy in the title game (76-58). Had University School upset the eventual FAB 50 champs, it would have been the first ever FHSAA program to capture a national crown. Returning from that team are three starters in Alters, the point guard, and the best 1-2 punch in high school basketball: Carey and Barnes. Carey is the returning Florida Mr. Basketball, was the only underclassman named first five All-American and is the most productive forward in the country. Carey (26 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 4 bpg) completely overwhelmed teams without a serviceable big man and is highly motivated after scoring 12 points in the loss to Montverde Academy. Barnes, who netted 24 points in the loss to the Eagles, is best described as a Swiss Army Knife and is the most versatile among the country’s elite players. He can defend the post, defend the perimeter, rebound and run the break, handle point guard duties and overwhelm smaller defenders in the post.
The Skinny: It’s quite rare for a single high school team to have arguably the best player in both the senior and junior class on their roster, so why are the Sharks not ranked higher after finishing No. 2 in the FAB 50 last year? The main reasons are a coaching change from last season, as former long-time college assistant Jim Carr replaces Adrian Sosa Jr. (who coached the majority of the previous season’s contributors on the Nike Team Florida EYBL team), and the graduation of their backcourt. Trey Doomes (West Virginia) and Drue Drinnon (New Mexico) were underrated nationally and took plenty of offensive pressure off Barnes. “I think we’re good, but different than last year,” Carr said. Carr really likes what he sees so far in David Perez (6-1, 2020) and McFarland, a transfer from Tennessee from a military background who is just as smart and disciplined as he is physical. Jace Howard (6-6, 2020) will also make an impact and his younger brother Jett Howard (6-4, 2022) is one of the top freshman in the country. University School will compete at the Les Schwab Invitational in Oregon (Dec. 27-30), where it could face No. 8 Sierra Canyon in the tourney final, and will look to become the third program following L.A. Westchester (2000-01) and Montverde Academy (2012-13) to defend its City of Palms championship since it became a national level event in the mid-1980s. “I really like this group and to have two potential NBA lottery picks at forward is special,” Carr said.

6. (12) La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 23-4
Key Players: PF Isaiah Stewart 6-9 2019 (No. 3 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Paxson Wojcik 6-4 2019 (Loyola-Chicago commit), SF Keion Brooks Jr. 6-6 2019 (No. 12 247Sports.com), SF Gerald Drumgoogle 6-5 2019 (No. 139 Rivals.com), PG Desmond Polk 6-4 2020 (No. 132 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: This team has one of the best players in the country and a nice blend of returnees and talented newcomers that a fourth consecutive GEICO Nationals berth is highly probable. If University School’s Vernon Carey is the most productive player in the country, Stewart is right behind him. Stewart never takes plays off, loves to battle inside, doesn’t take bad shots and has a solid shooting touch. He averaged 20.2 ppg and 10.7 rpg and could develop into a serious Mr. Basketball USA candidate with a hot start. Wojcik (13.1 ppg), the other returning starter, is a deadly outside shooter (41 percent) and his big-game experience should help in crunch time. Four newcomers averaged 17.6 ppg or more at their old school, led by Brooks, a combo forward who combines quickness around the basket with an excellent mid-range shot. Obviously some of the transfers will have to adjust their roles, but look for Brooks (25.6 ppg, 11.4 rpg) to put up big numbers because of his versatility at both ends. “We have skilled players and will have the ability to really stretch the floor and make shots at a high level,” second-year coach Patrick Holmes said.
The Skinny: This independent power nearly won the end-of-season tournament in 2016 and captured it in 2017 when they finished No. 2 in the FAB 50, but last season slipped a bit and lost in the first round to Findlay Prep of Nevada. This group should get La Lumiere past the first round once again. Jakov Kukic (6-10, 2019, UCSB commit) gives La Lumiere that experienced piece in the middle the Lakers will need to beat the best teams on their schedule and put them in position to contend for the FAB 50 crown. Holmes is a bit concerned about breaking in eight newcomers, but the chemistry should be there because the coach has three key pieces that know his system. If the troops rally around Stewart and Brooks, and Kukic increases his production (6.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg), this team will be a dangerous out for other top-ranked teams. La Lumiere travels to Hawaii for the Iolani Classic (Dec. 17-21) where top-ranked Montverde Academy and No. 8 Sierra Canyon await. There will also be a key stretch in January where Holmes’ club takes on No. 14 Bishop Gorman and Montverde Academy at the Cancer Research Classic and No. 3 DeMatha Catholic at the Hoophall Classic.

7. (13) Imhotep Charter (Philadelphia, Pa.) 31-2
Key Players: SF Donta Scott 6-7 2019 (No. 72 Hoop Scoop, Maryland commit), SG Dahmir Bishop 6-4 2019 (No. 86 Hoop Scoop, Xavier commit), SF Chereef “Reefy” Knox 6-6 2019, PF Elijah Taylor 6-8 2020 (No. 64 Hoop Scoop), SF Jamil Riggins 6-6 2019.
Why This Ranking: Every respected national ranking will jump on the Imhotep bandwagon this season, but we’ve been far ahead of the curve when it comes to coach Andre Noble’s program. We started the Panthers No. 20 two years ago when it only lost one game on the court and finished No. 4 in the nation. Last season, the schedule was beefed up and despite losing three D1 seniors to graduation, Imhotep responded by finishing No. 13 in the FAB 50 after beginning at No. 10. With four returning starters, the Panthers begin the season with their highest ranking ever and with the coaching, experience, and personnel to meet expectations. This defensive oriented club is led by returning AAAA first team all-state choices Scott and Bishop with seven other returnees ready to step up when called upon. Scott, last year’s AAAA state player of the year, is a position-less monster who can slash and relishes in defending the opposition’s top offensive threat. Bishop can score coast-to-coast as well as anyone in the country and when he gets it going from the outside this club is nearly unstoppable.
The Skinny: Two years ago, there were some question marks up front, but Scott stepped up. Last year the backcourt was a potential weak spot, which Bishop filled. As if those two weren’t enough, Knox is a D1-bound wing and much is expected from transfer Cameron Roundtree (6-6, 2020). Bernard Lightsey (Lincoln University) is the lone starter lost to graduation, but Noble (344-77) feels good about handing the keys over to cat-quick Fatayn Wesley (5-8, 2019). The Panthers are overwhelming favorites to win a third consecutive 4A state crown, but in order to retain a high ranking there can be no letdown versus nemesis Roman Catholic on Dec. 16 in a battle of defending PIAA state champions. Imhotep is about as complete a public school team as you’ll find in the country, but its eyes are on more than just a state title and it starts with defense and unselfishness. After the Roman game, Noble’s club will enter the City of Palms Classic, with the University School (FL)-Vashon (MO) winner likely in the second round. In January, Imhotep faces highly-regarded Sunrise Christian Academy of Kansas, FAB 50 title contender McEachern of Georgia and top-ranked Montverde Academy.

8. (18) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 27-4
Key Players: PF K.J. Martin 6-7 2019 (No. 87 Hoop Scoop), PG Scotty Pippen Jr. 6-0 2019 (No. 237 247Sports.com), SG Cassius Stanley 6-5 2019 (No. 25 Hoop Scoop), SF Terren Frank 6-8 2020 (No. 31 ESPN.com), C Christian Koloko 7-0 2019 (No. 81 247Sports.com, Arizona commit).
Why This Ranking: For the first time in school history, the Trailblazers will open as the preseason No. 1 ranked team in California. Over the past five seasons, only one state No. 1, last season’s Mater Dei of Santa Ana club that started No. 6 in the FAB 50, did not go on to capture the CIF Open Division state crown. Mind you the Monarchs’ preseason ranking was published before Bol Bol (Oregon) left the team. Those statistics are a good omen for this year’s Sierra Canyon team, which bounced back from losing to Mater Dei in the CIF Southern Section Open Division final to win the CIF state open crown. With four returning starters and added depth, the goal of becoming the first ever back-to-back state champ in the CIF open format is definitely attainable. The improvement of Pippen (13.2 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 4.5 apg, 1.6 spg) over the second half of the season was key to the state title run and his presence is crucial against a difficult schedule. Stanley (16.8 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 3.1 apg, 1.9 spg) could explode this year after he was engrained into the lineup following a 30-day sit-out last season. L Simpson (6-1, 2019) can sub in at a variety of positions and provides a defensive spark while the playing time for Amari Bailey (6-2, 2022) may not be indicative of his talent level. No defending CIF open division champ brought back as much firepower as this club will.
The Skinny: Coach Andre Chevalier (who took over coaching the team in the playoffs two seasons ago when the Sacramento Kings’ Marvin Bagley was in the lineup) was a bit flabbergasted last year’s core didn’t receive more post-season national and state wide honors. The team sacrificed individual acclaim, particularly Frank and Stanley, for the ultimate prize and Chevalier again will have to reach into his bag to develop the chemistry on an even more talented unit. The graduation loss of Duane Washington (Ohio St.) will be felt because he was the most consistent perimeter performer and clutch in the big games, but the team’s leading scorer was actually Martin (17.8 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 1.2 bpg). The son of former NBA No. 1 pick Kenyon Martin plays big and now has Koloko to help ease his burden and keep him out of foul trouble against FAB 50 level opponents. During December, Sierra Canyon heads to the Iolani Classic and Les Schwab Tournaments with a big matchup looming versus top-ranked Montverde Academy at the Hoophall Classic Jan. 21. Sierra Canyon, which also plays CIF open title contender Rancho Christian during a regular-season showcase game, was literally a few possessions away from a double-digit loss or unbeaten 2017-18 season. In order for those close games to go the Trailblazers’ way in 2018-19, someone will have to step up and hit the big shots the way Washington did last year and continue to put individual accolades on the back-burner.

9. (7) Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.) 33-4
Key Players: SG Anthony Harris Jr. 6-3 2019 (No. 59 247Sports.com, Virginia Tech commit), PG Jeremy Roach 6-2 2020 (No. 11 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Josiah Freeman 6-3 2020 (No. 123 Rivals.com), SF Trevor Keels 6-4 2021 (No. 25 Hoop Scoop), PF Josh Oduro 6-8 2019 (George Mason commit).
Why This Ranking: There is plenty returning off a team that went unbeaten in the nation’s toughest basketball conference. Coach Glenn Farello (426-177) has basically his entire unit back that went 18-0 in Washington Catholic Athletic Conference play before being knocked off by then regionally-ranked Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.) in the WCAC tournament semifinals. Senior leader Brandon Slater (Villanova) actually missed the WCAC playoffs and part of the regular season with a broken bone in his hand, so the Panthers actually return five players with starting experience led by Roach (15.4 ppg). The returning all-Met point guard has a knack for the big play, is ultra-competitive and brings to this year’s team an improved outside shot. The talented Keels and Oduro were newcomers to the 2017-18 team who gained valuable experience while earning important roles. Oduro’s production will be key if the Panthers want anything near last year’s regular season performance because the WCAC is as tough as ever and other FAB 50 ranked teams in Paul VI’s range have more proven inside firepower.
The Skinny: The Panthers started No. 15 last season and finished even higher than forecasted even with Slater missing crucial games. Young players stepped up last season, but the intangibles Slater brought to the game will be missed. With seven of their top eight players back, however, there is no doubt the Panthers are FAB 50 title contenders and deserving of this ranking. For the sixth time in the past seven seasons, we place three WCAC teams in the preseason FAB 50 with DeMatha Catholic and Paul VI both cracking the Top 10. Paul VI is as much the conference favorite as the Stags, but from a national perspective, we rank DeMatha Catholic higher because it has a true big man in the middle for national level foes and fared better than the Panthers did versus quality, non-WCAC competition last season. We’ll see what Paul VI can bring against a top tier FAB 50 ranked team with size right away; the defending regular season WCAC and Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISAA) D1 champs take on top-ranked Montverde Academy at the ARC Hoopfest on Dec. 8. It faces highly-regarded Nicolet of Wisconsin the next night before entering the City of Palms field for the first time since 2013-14. The Panthers open with No. 37 Immaculate Conception (another talented team with major league size) and could meet FAB 50 title contender McEachern in the quarterfinals.

10. (41) Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) 24-2
Key Players: C Mady Sissoko 6-9 2020 (No. 38 247Sports.com), PF Bernardo Da Silva 6-8 2019, PG Michael Saunders 6-1 2020, SG Tre’ Williams 6-5 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Tigers have been a middle of the pack FAB 50 program in recent seasons, but they’re our hunch team for 2018-19. Sure they have a new coach, as former Lone Peak (Highland, Utah) mentor David Evans takes over for Curtis Condie, but their nice blend of returning talent, skilled newcomers and an infusion of enthusiasm should lead to a GEICO Nationals return. Leading the way is Sissoko, one of the most intense and team-first post players in the country. His motor and enthusiasm are contagious, and even the Tigers’ bench accountability was off the charts in Fall League games we evaluated. Wing Leonardo Colimerio (6-6, 2020), a native of Sau Paulo, Brazil, is the other returning junior who should have a jump in production this season. Williams is primed for a big season and Saunders is just what the doctor ordered at point guard.
The Skinny: Wasatch missed last year’s GEICO Nationals after earning back-to-back berths in 2016-17 and a beefed-up schedule should help this team prepare for a run at its third berth. Richie Saunders (6-3, 2020) is the knockdown shooter that will keep teams honest defensively and Sissoko and Da Silva must learn to avoid cheap fouls to stay on floor because this team will rely on its defense and athletes to match the other top shelf teams. “Playing up tempo and our defense is the strength of this team,” Evans said. Wasatch will take on regionally-ranked Meadowcreek (Norcross, Ga.) at the Holiday Hoopsgiving in Atlanta Nov. 24 and has a three-game Northern California swing in between two December holiday tournaments. January results versus regional-level foes Fairfax (Los Angeles) and Clark (Las Vegas, Nev.) will be a good indicator of where this clubs stands entering the Montverde Academy Invitational Jan. 24. That tournament will prepare Evans’ club for its games with No. 6 La Lumiere at The Bob Kirk Invitational in Cumberland, Md., Feb. 1 and No. 17 Sunrise Christian Academy at the Heartland Hoops Classic in Nebraska Feb. 2.

11. (29) Norcross (Norcross, Ga.) 28-4
Key Players: PG Kyle Sturdivant 6-3 2019 (No. 55 Hoop Scoop, USC commit), SG B.J. Boston 6-6 2020 (No. 8 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PF Issa Muhammad 6-9 2019 (No. 221 247Sports.com), PF Daniel Ramsey 6-8 2019 (No. 129 Rivals.com, Xavier commit).
Why This Ranking: The Blue Devils won their last state title in 2012-13 and were regionally-ranked, but not in the final FAB 50. That goes to show how much the profile of GHSA teams have risen over the past five years because if Norcross raises a banner at the end of this season it would assuredly mean a high FAB 50 ranking. The competition for the Class AAAAAAA state crown is fierce once again with major FAB 50 contender McEachern, regionally-ranked Meadowcreek of Norcross and Wheeler of Marietta major threats to the Blue Devils’ ultimate goal. There’s a lot to like with four starters and six lettermen returning, led by first team all-stater Sturdivant and second teamer Boston. Sturdivant, one of the nation’s top-rated point guards, can also play off the ball and averaged 17.5 ppg, 4.3 rpg, and 3.9 assists for the AAAAAAA runner-up. Boston had a fantastic summer and is rapidly developing into one of the nation’s best shooters and scorers regardless of class. Backcourt depth and excellent perimeter size is provided by Isaac Martin (6-5, 2019), Caleb Murphy (6-4, 2020) and Kevon Eskridge (6-3, 2020).
The Skinny: If there is any club motivated to erase the memory of last season, it’s the Blue Devils. They have fallen in the state title game the past two seasons, including last season’s 56-43 Meadowcreek heartbreaker after defeating their crosstown Region 7 rivals three times during the regular season. When Norcross knocked off McEachern in the state quarterfinals, that team was No. 4 in the FAB 50. The untimely loss does create a situation of extreme motivation meeting elite talent, but veteran coach Jesse McMillan (253-59) is still a bit concerned about replacing what JoJo Toppin (Georgia) brought to the table and depth in the post. The inside production of Muhammad will be key and some of McMillan’s concerns were eased by the October addition of Ramsey, who averaged 16 ppg and 7.9 rpg at Deerfield-Windsor of Albany, Ga. Norcross plays Wheeler Nov. 17 at the On the Radar Showcase and closes out the regular season Feb. 1 with archrival Meadowcreek. In between the Blue Devils had a national schedule which includes key games at the Cancer Research Classic versus top-ranked Montverde Academy and No. 3 DeMatha Catholic and enter the Chick-Fil-A Classic in South Carolina (Dec 27-29) against a field that includes FAB 50 contenders Memphis East, Sunrise Christian Academy, St. Frances Academy of Baltimore, Holy Spirit Prep of Georgia, Roman Catholic of Philadelphia and Independence of North Carolina.

12. (10) Warren Central (Indianapolis, Ind.) 32-0
Key Players: SG David Bell 6-2 2019, SF Jesse Bingham 6-6 2019, SF Jakobie Robinson 6-6 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Warriors return three starters off a historic team that captured the coveted IHSAA Class 4A state crown with an unblemished record. Warren Central was the first Indiana team to finish with an undefeated record in nine seasons. A repeat is within reach, as Criss Beyers’ program stresses balance and breeds unselfishness. Six players averaged between eight and 12 points last season, led by Bell and Bingham, who both averaged over 12 ppg. Bell, one of the top Grid-Hoop athletes in the country, was chosen to the A.P. all-state third team. Not only does Bell make clutch plays, none bigger than his bank runner to knock of New Albany in the state semifinals, his football background produces a ton of 50-50 plays that go in Warren Central’s favor and his defensive effort rubs off on teammates. Bingham is an athletic wing who had a breakout junior season and is adept at slashing to the basket or scoring from mid-range. Robinson is primed for a breakout season and even though he’ll play on the wing at the next level, he’s an athletic post presence that sacrifices his own perimeter game to give the Warriors necessary inside punch.
The Skinny: This team has the ingredients for another championship run and an Indiana Class 4A state champ that is undefeated or has one-loss deserves a high FAB 50 ranking. Because Indiana teams have travel restrictions, the Warriors won’t be able to test themselves against a team from outside the Midwest region so, from a national rankings perspective, it can’t afford more than one bad outing. Warren Central’s defense, passing and unselfishness won’t take a day off, but there’s no doubt the backcourt play of graduated Dean Tate and Antwaan Cushingberry will be missed. The play of Shawn Beeler II (5-9, 2019), a reserve last season, is key and so is developing some reliable bench play. Last season, the play of other Indiana teams (there were three FAB 50 ranked teams at the state Final Four) helped Warren Central’s cause and there is no guarantee the rest of the Hoosier State’s top teams will be as highly-regarded in 2018-19. Warren Central controls its own destiny and despite being one of the top football players in the country, Bell is expected to lace them up for his senior campaign.

13. (BB) Ranney School (Tinton Falls, N.J.) 28-5
Key Players: SF Scottie Lewis 6-6 2019 (No. 4 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Florida commit), SG Bryan Antoine 6-4 2019 (No. 11 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Villanova commit), SF Phillip Wheeler 6-8 2020.
Why This Ranking: With their returning talent and experienced-laden lineup, the Panthers are the preseason favorites to capture the coveted New Jersey Tournament of Champions after losing to last year’s eventual winner, FAB 50-ranked Roselle Catholic, in the NJSIAA Non-Public B title game. Roselle is formidable once again, with FAB 50 contender Immaculate Conception, Patrick School and Bergen Catholic also in contention. With four returning starters and two potential All-Americans, one has to like Ranney School’s chances. If University School’s Vernon Carey and Scottie Barnes isn’t the best 1-2 combo in high school basketball, Lewis and Antoine likely are. With his overall skill level and athleticism, Lewis is capable of stepping up against the FAB 50 foes on the rugged schedule. Last season, Lewis was a NJ.com first team all-state choice after averaging 16.4 ppg. With some big-time performances in the big games, Lewis could develop into a legitimate Mr. Basketball USA candidate. Antoine was second team all-state and though not quite as highly-regarded nationally, he’s actually been Ranney’s most consistent player the past two seasons. Antoine averaged 21.1 ppg and proved this summer he is capable of taking over high-level games.
The Skinny: This is far from a two-man team and how well the role players do will determine just how high the Panthers can climb in the FAB 50. Ahmadu Sarnor (6-2, 2019) is an experienced point guard with D1 offers who must knock down some big perimeter shots when the defense focuses on Lewis and Antoine. Chris Autino (6-6, 2019) has plenty of experience battling big players in the post and New Jersey had plenty of them last year and more this season. Coach Taj Holden is a bit concerned about Ranney’s interior defense and inside scoring punch, but Wheeler will help on the boards, can knock down the deep perimeter shot and won’t mind taking a back seat offensively, if necessary. The schedule includes a trip to the John Wall Invitational in Raleigh, N.C., Dec. 26-29, and a matchup with No. 31 Federal Way at the Hoophall Classic. Ranney and Roselle Catholic will tangle on Jan. 30 at the Jersey Shore Challenge and the Panthers get their crack at top-ranked Montverde Academy Feb. 8 at the Metro Classic.

14. (17) Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nev.) 29-4
Key Players: SG Noah Taitz 6-4 2020 (No. 30 Hoop Scoop), PG Zaon Collins 6-0 2021 (No. 26 Hoop Scoop), C Isaiah Cottrell 6-9 2020 (No. 44 ESPN.com), SG Will McClendon 6-4 2021.
Why This Ranking: The Gaels are an overwhelming favorite to capture their eighth consecutive NIAA state title and with this group should make noise on a national level. With an extremely young core last season, Gorman began the season ranked No. 48 in the FAB 50. The Gaels exceeded expectations, however, getting past a talented Clark of Las Vegas team (which was ranked higher in the preseason) four times en route to another state crown. State Player of the Year Jamal Bey (22.2 ppg, 8.1 rpg), now at Washington, will be missed but sophomore Noah Taitz (17.5 ppg) hit just as many key shots and will have no problem easing into the lead scoring role. Collins is the catalyst and head coach Grant Rice (446-94) was impressed by how his young core developed last season. “We had one D1 senior and it was his team, but the younger guys stepped up and our chemistry was real good.”
The Skinny: The Gaels were expected to be this highly-regarded in the preseason in 2019-20, but there is no reason they can’t compete for a FAB 50 crown a year early if the egos (which weren’t there last season) remain in check, the role players such as Chance Michels (6-2, 2019), Mwani Wilkinson (6-6, 2020) and Braden Lamar (6-4, 2020) do their job, McClendon develops consistency and Cottrell produces in the big games. He didn’t have to contribute much offensively last season, but Cottrell will be key against the top teams on a loaded schedule. This fall Gorman was lights out defensively when it captured the Ron Massey Memorial Fall Classic in Southern California and it will need similar type defensive efforts to capture the Tarkanian Classic for the second consecutive season against the likes of Rancho Christian and Sheldon of California, Whitney Young of Chicago and Federal Way of Washington. Gorman faces No. 15 Guyer and highly-regarded Gonzaga Prep of Washington at Hoophall West in Phoenix Dec. 7-8, takes on No. 6 La Lumiere and WCAC power Gonzaga of Washington, D.C. at the Cancer Research Classic with the annual showdown with Findlay Prep set for Jan. 19.

15. (31) Guyer (Denton, Texas) 25-6
Key Players: PG De’Vion Harmon 6-0 2019 (No. 24 247Sports.com, Oklahoma commit), SF Jalen Wilson 6-8 2019 (No. 30 247Sports.com, Michigan commit), PF JaKobe Coles (6-6, 2020), SG Tyler McGhie (6-3, 2020).
Why This Ranking: In last year's preseason rankings, we started the Wildcats No. 2 in Texas behind 2016-17 UIL Class 6A state champ Cy Falls, as Guyer didn’t fare well in the playoffs that season. Last year, coach Grant Long’s club was rolling along and got as high as No. 8 in the FAB 50, until falling in a UIL Class 6A regional final. This season, the Wildcats have enough firepower (three returning starters, eight lettermen) to warrant top billing, but we also seriously considered FAB 50 ranked South Garland with Katy Morton Ranch and re-loaded Duncanville other major Class 6A title contenders. Harmon and Wilson (who shared District 6-6A co-MVP honors in 2017-18) have been Guyer’s leading scorers the past two seasons and as seniors there is no reason to believe their production level and decision-making won’t be even better. Harmon (15.7 ppg, 5.2 apg, 1.7 spg) is a lefty combo guard who can attack the basket with a vengeance and plays with a competitive edge. Wilson (16.1 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 3.2 apg) is an excellent spot-up shooter who can run like a deer and is also an excellent defender. “We have good size, good skill and our players have a high basketball IQ,” Long said.
The Skinny: This is far from a two-man team and a tough schedule will have Guyer battle-tested in the program’s quest for its first state final four appearance. Coles (12.8 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 1.4 bpg), who was Guyer’s only sophomore starter last season, is an interior player with better skill than he gets credit for who must stay out of foul trouble in big games. McGhie is a sharp-shooter who can play both guard spots and gives Guyer versatility while newcomer C.J. Luster (6-4, 2021) eases some of Long’s concerns about backcourt quickness. Guyer plays loaded Sunrise Christian Academy of Kansas at the Thanksgiving Hoopfest (Nov. 24) in Duncanville, and has a tough three game stretch where it faces No. 14 Bishop Gorman and Hillcrest Prep of Phoenix at Hoophall West in Phoenix (Dec. 7-8) then No. 3 DeMatha Catholic at the ARS National Hoopfest in Waxahachie the following weekend (Dec. 15). Those are big tests from a national rankings perceptive, but it all boils down to being healthy and peaking during the UIL Class 6A state tournament, which is a battle of attrition where the team with the most steady guard play is likely to come out on top. The only thing surpassing Guyer’s confidence is its motivation after bitter playoffs losses the past two seasons.

RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (31-50) | Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20  | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20 | All-Time FAB 50 No. 1s | All-Time Preseason No. 1s

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

The post Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50: Top 15 Teams! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 19 years ago.

Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 National
Team Rankings Powered by www.ebooksnet.com

By Ronnie Flores

(Final 2017-18 ranking in parentheses; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates forfeits and defaults not included; Look for preseason Region-By-Region Top 20 Rankings on Wednesday, November 7 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Monday, November 19.)

RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (31-50) | Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20  | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20

16. (32) McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) 26-3
Key Players: SF Isaac Okoro 6-5 2019 (No. 31 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Auburn commit), PG Sharife Cooper 5-11 2020 (No. 3 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), C Jared Coleman-Jones 6-9 2019 (No. 132 247Sports.com, Northwestern commit).
Why This Ranking: The Indians’ preseason ranking is a perfect example of why what happens in prior seasons and a program’s pattern of success is relevant for the current team. McEachern had FAB 50 national title aspirations last season, but lost by 20 points to Norcross in the GHSA Class AAAAAAA quarterfinals. McEachern was No. 4 in the FAB 50 at that time and was No. 9 when it fell to Tift County in the 2016-17 state semifinals. The Indians have the talent and experience to be serious FAB 50 title contenders, but must start the season ranked behind the Norcross team it lost to with defending state champ Meadowcreek and Wheeler of Marietta other serious AAAAAAA contenders. Okoro and Cooper were two of the best underclass players in the nation and are more focused on the big prize. It’s their jobs to keep everyone on the same page and ready for a championship run. Regardless, the coaching staff is confident there is something different about this year’s team.
The Skinny: Had McEachern won the state crown last year, it would likely be a preseason top three FAB 50 team this season. For now, we’ll take a cautious ranking scenario for McEachern and let the Indians work up. This team has to replace the toughness and grit of graduated Brandon Suggs and took a rankings hit when it was revealed 6-foot-8 Auburn commit Babatunde Akingbola would not return to the team, forward Charles Smith IV transferred to Wheeler, and talented forward Christian Brown (6-6, 2019) left for Oak Hill Academy in late October. Needed depth is provided by Quinton Kight-McElroy (6-1, 2020) and Ayln Breed (6-3, 2020), an unsung shooting guard receiving D1 interest. McEachern gets a nice early test when it faces Anthony Edwards and FAB 50 ranked Holy Spirit Prep on Nov. 10. The Indians will play highly-regarded Findlay Prep and FAB 50 title contender Imhotep of Philadelphia at the Cancer Research Classic in West Virginia (Jan. 4-5), take on No. 24 Rancho Christian at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 21) and play at the prestigious City of Palms Classic (Dec. 17-22). We’re pretty sure a loss among one of those games won’t mean much provided the Indians win their last game of the season.

17. (NR) Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Air, Kan.) 23-2
Key Players: C N’Faly Dante 6-11 2020 (No. 7 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Grant Sherfield 6-2 2019 (No. 101 Rivals.com, UCLA commit), SF Jordan Turner 6-6 2019 (No. 240 247Sports.com, Baylor commit), PG Elijah Wood 6-5 2020 (No. 78 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: The Buffaloes have been on the FAB 50 radar for five years and last season broke through with the signature wins they needed to put the program on the national map. Coach Luke Barnwell’s program defeated FAB 50 powers La Lumiere of Indiana, Findlay Prep and Oak Hill Academy of Virginia, but was unable to participate in the end-of-season GEICO Nationals tournament. Coach Barnwell’s is confident his program can earn its first-ever nod by meeting the event’s eligibility guidelines and performing well on-court once again. It begins with Dante, one of the most talented players in the country, regardless of class. He’s blessed with great physical tools and mobility and played well in the big games last season, but was a bit inconsistent this summer. Not only does this team have five players over 6-foot-8 on the roster, coach Barnwell feels the strength of his team is actually its speed and skill level.
The Skinny: The Buffaloes come in as the No. 2 team from the Southwest Region, sandwiched in between the top two Texas teams: No. 27 South Garland and FAB 50 title contender Guyer of Denton. Sunrise actually plays Guyer at the Thanksgiving Hoopfest in Dallas Nov. 23. It’s part of the most ambitious schedule the program has ever played and with talents such as Wood and Sherfield transferring in, Barnwell is confident this club can compete for a mythical FAB 50 national title. We’ll take a cautious approach since the team only returns one starter and must jell rather quickly in order to move up in the rankings. The Buffaloes take on highly-regarded Huntington Prep of West Virginia at the Chicago Elite Classic on Dec. 1 then comes two big tests at the ARS Hoopfest in Washington, D.C. (Dec. 7-8) versus FAB 50 ranked Holy Spirit Prep and defending FAB 50 champion Montverde Academy of Florida. Sunrise will play Findlay Prep of Nevada and FAB 50 title contender Imhotep Charter of Philadelphia at the Cancer Research Classic in addition to playing in the Chick-Fil-A Classic in South Carolina (Dec. 27-29), the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions in Missouri (Jan. 17-19) and the St. James Invitational in Maryland (Jan. 31-Feb. 2) before taking on highly-regarded Wasatch Academy of Utah on Feb. 9 at the Heartland Hoops Classic in Nebraska.

18. (11) Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Ariz.) 25-2
Key Players: PG Jovan Blacksher 5-11 2019 (No. 235 247Sports.com, Grand Canyon commit), SG Jaelen House 6-2 2019 (No. 80 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Arizona St. commit), SF Shemar Morrow 6-5 2020, SF Jalen Williams 6-4 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Matadors have a nice blend of returning talent, in-state dominance and national level games on their schedule to warrant a high ranking. Shadow Mountain has won four AIA titles in the past five seasons and last lost to an in-state opponent in the 2014-15 Division II state semifinals. Coach Mike Bibby’s program is gunning for its fourth consecutive Class 4A state crown and could prove its Arizona’s best team right away with a matchup versus defending Class 6A state champ and regionally-ranked Pinnacle of Phoenix. The Matadors are one of the best defensive teams in the country and when they turn teams over, they are also one of the nation’s fastest in transition. It begins on the ball with Blacksher (15.9 ppg), who averaged 5.6 apg but actually came up with more steals (153, 5.7 spg) than assists and doesn’t back down from any defensive challenge. House (18.6 ppg, 5.3 apg) can hit the big shot, his in-game speed can’t be measured unless you see it live, and he actually came up with more steals (178, 6.6 spg) than his backcourt running mate. Third-leading returning scorer Antonio Reeves (13.3 ppg) moved back to Chicago after spending one year in the program, but there is plenty of returning talent, depth and newcomers to offset the missing production.
The Skinny: Shadow Mountain has appeared in the last two GEICO Nationals in New York and gained a measure of national respect when it battled FAB 50 power Montverde Academy tough in 2017. In last season’s tournament versus University Academy of Florida, it was evident the Matadors’ lack of elite-level size was a problem against the top-tier FAB 50 teams, as National Junior of the Year Vernon Carey made 9-of-10 field goals in a 75-63 University victory. Shadow Mountain began last season No. 12 in the FAB 50 and has potentially its deepest team this year, but we’ll start them a bit lower this time around until it can prove it can beat teams with elite level size. Against the schedule it’s playing, the continued improvement and development of lefty wings Morrow (10.6 ppg, 7.4 rpg) and Grid-Hoop standout Williams (6.7 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.0 spg) is key. Bibby’s club faces Simeon of Chicago (Reeves’ new team) on Dec. 8 at Hoophall West in Scottsdale, Ariz., play highly-regarded Paul VI of Virginia at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 21) and could potentially face more than one team with major size at the Bass Pro TOC in Missouri (Jan. 17-19), as No. 16 McEachern, No. 17 Sunrise Christian Academy, No. 22 Belleville West, No. 25 Memphis East and No. 38 Rainier Beach will also play in the eight-team bracket.

19. (35) Olive Branch (Olive Branch, Miss.) 26-4
Key Players: SF D.J. Jeffries 6-7 2019 (No. 12 Hoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Memphis commit), PF Cameron Matthews 6-7 2020 (No. 100 Hoop Scoop), PG Joe Cooper 6-0 2019.
Why This Ranking: When a championship team returns 13 of 14 on its roster, including one of the top players in the country, a high ranking is warranted. The Conquistadors came on towards the end of the season and the defending MHSAA Class 5A made national headlines with a win over Memphis East, which finished No. 4 in the FAB 50. The ringleader is Jeffries (20.8 ppg, 11.0 rpg), a big-time scorer who can beat teams on the block, in the mid-range or with the jump shot. Graduated guard Kelvin Allen (17.2 ppg) will be missed, but Cooper (8.7 ppg) is ready to shoulder a larger load while backcourt depth is provided by Josh Stephenson (6-3, 2019), Wes Taylor (6-0, 2020) and C.J. Owens (5-11, 2019).
The Skinny: There is plenty to like about this team and its schedule gives it the opportunity to move up. On the other hand, it has to be firing on all cylinders because navigating the schedule won’t be easy, as teams will try to slow down the Conquistadores’ frenetic pace. Matthews (7.5 ppg) is a bit undersized on the next level, but with his work ethic and team-first attitude has a chance to be a force on the Mississippi high school scene. When Cooper and Matthews are on their game, this team can be special even though coach Eric Rombaugh is a bit concerned about the frontcourt size against national level teams. Olive Branch will have an opportunity to show just how special against a schedule that includes No. 25 Memphis East (Nov. 20), No. 28 Mountain Brook at the Lighthouse Classic in Corinth, Miss. (Nov. 24), highly-regarded Scott County at the Marshall County Hoopfest (Dec. 1) and face FAB 50 ranked Wilson of Washington, D.C., to open the City of Palms Classic. The winner is likely to face IMG Academy in the second round and Olive Branch will face FAB 50 title contender DeMatha Catholic at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 19).

20. (23) Bishop Montgomery (Torrance, Calif.) 28-2
Key Players: PG Gianni Hunt 6-3 2019 (No. 148 Rivals.com, Oregon St. commit), PG Josh Vazquez 6-3 2019 (Montana commit), SF Isaiah Johnson 6-6 2020 (No. 98 Hoop Scoop), PF Bradley Ezewiro 6-7 2020 (No. 113 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: At first glance, it seems the Knights are too decimated by graduation to begin in the Top 25, but with their blend of returning talent, newcomers and knack for big-game preparation, this spot is warranted. Coach Doug Mitchell, whose club begins at No. 2 in California for the second consecutive season, is high on his backcourt and the balance this team possesses. Hunt has battled injuries, but he has big-game experience while Vazquez is one of the more underrated talents on the West Coast. Bishop Montgomery lost talented guard Oscar Lopez to an academy program, but he wasn’t always in the lineup last year and there is enough depth with the likes of all-leaguers Will Crawford (6-5, 2019) and Nick Schrader (6-5, 2019) to off set the loss. The 2016-2017 club surprised many when we started it No. 7 in the FAB 50 and finished No. 6 after winning CIF state and section open titles and this club has the ingredients to perhaps surprise local and national followers once again.
The Skinny: During their recent run of FAB 50 finishes, the Knights have been undersized but made up for it with incredible team defense and by peaking at the right time. Forward Fletcher Tynen (Boston University) and Davy Singleton (UCLA) and his 23.8 ppg will be missed, but the combination of Johnson and Ezewiro makes the guards even more dangerous and gives this team ingredients recent teams lacked. Johnson is an athletic wing capable of big plays on both ends and Ezewiro is a punishing forward who gives the Knights the inside matchup problem their opponents haven’t worried about in recent seasons. If Johnson buys in defensively and Ezewiro stays disciplined, this has the makings of a special unit. As we did last season, we’ll slow play the Knights in the rankings because their schedule is not overwhelming plus they have to figure out Sierra Canyon of Chatsworth (the defending CIF state open champs), which has beaten them three times during post-season play the past three seasons.

21. (37) St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, Md.) 36-7
Key Players: PG Adrian “Ace” Baldwin 6-0 2020 (No. 102 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SF Jordan Toles 6-3 2020, SG Rajeir Jones 6-3 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Panthers return three starters from a Baltimore Catholic League title team that recorded some key out-of-state wins. Baldwin, who averaged 14 ppg, 7 apg, and 3 spg, was one of the best players in the City as a tenth-grader. Coach Nicholas Myles expects an uptick in production from Baldwin and hopes he learned some of the leadership qualities and intangibles that graduated captain Elijah Epps brought to the table. Toles, a big-time football recruit, is expected to take on an increased scoring role while bringing his usual toughness and intensity. Regardless of whom coach Myles puts out on the floor, if the shots are not falling on some nights, he knows the talent level and defensive intensity will be there every night. “We play hard, compete hard and play D1 prospects on the floor at all times,” Myles said.
The Skinny: St. Frances Academy is the team to beat in the Baltimore Catholic League, but Mt. St. Joseph (a team it beat three times in four outings last season) and St. Maria Goretti of Hagerstown, Md., present major challenges. Many top DMV teams end up playing each other multiple times so consistency will be key. The Panthers received a boost when Jamal West (6-5, 2020), a second team all-Metro choice as sophomore, transferred over from Baltimore Dunbar. With the talent on deck, St. Frances can’t have a letdown at an inopportune time in order to move up from this spot in the rankings. “We know what it takes to win, but we have to get up every night and got to be prepared to play to our expected level,” Myles said. The Panthers will take on highly-regarded Paul VI of Virginia in the BCL/WCAC Challenge (Dec. 1) and also take on traditional Chicago power Simeon at home in the Charm City vs. Windy City Showcase.

22. (22) Belleville West (Belleville, Ill.) 32-2
Key Players: PF E.J. Liddell 6-8 2019 (No. 18 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Ohio St. commit), PF Keith Randolph 6-6 2019, PG Lawrence Brazil 5-11 2019.
Why This Ranking: While Whitney Young is a consensus No. 1 in Chicago to begin the season, the Maroons are undoubtedly the preseason No. 1 in the Land of Lincoln. Belleville West defeated the Dolphins, 60-56, in come-from-behind fashion to claim the IHSA Class 4A state crown and returns four starters off its championship team. Leading the charge is Liddell (21 ppg, 8 rpg, 6 bpg), the returning Gatorade State Player of the Year and Illinois Mr. Basketball. His 17 points, 10 rebounds and seven blocks led the comeback win and Brazil made the clutch backcourt steal and lay-in to seal it. Coach Joe Muniz was impressed with Brazil’s improvement and clutch play throughout the playoffs and hopes it carries over to this season.
The Skinny: Another reason the Maroons are a slam dunk No. 1 in Illinois is their unblemished mark versus in-state opposition last season. This year, Bellevue West faces increased out-of-state competition so Randolph, a prototypical defensive end-power forward Grid-Hoop standout who will play a full season on the hardwood, needs to play consistently to ease the pressure off of Liddell. If role players such as point guard Jaylin Mosby (6-2, 2019), transfer shooting guard William Shumpert (6-5, 2019) and athletic wing Tommie Williams (6-3, 2021), another transfer, find their roles and step up when called upon, it could be another memorable season for the Maroons. They’ll play highly regarded Callaway of Jackson, Miss., at the Marshall County Hoopfest and will participate in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions with the likes of No. 16 McEachern, No. 17 Sunrise Christian Academy, No. 18 Shadow Mountain, No. 25 Memphis East and No. 38 Rainier Beach.

23. (38) Carmel Christian (Matthews, N.C.) 24-4
Key Players: SG Donovan Gregory 6-5 2019 (No. 149 247Sports.com, Appalachian St. commit), SG Myles Pierre 6-2 2019 (Houston Baptist commit), PF Jake Boggs 6-7 2019 (UNC-Wilmington commit), SF DeAngelo Epps 6-5 2019 (College of Charleston commit), SF Martin Maide 6-4 2019 (Liberty commit), PG Ford Cooper 6-3 2020 (No. 182 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: The Cougars are coming off a historic season and are loaded for another championship run. Coach Joe Badgett has three returning starters and four rotation players back off a team that captured its first ever NCISAA crown in Class 2A. The team moves up to the Class 3A ranks and rates as the favorite. Carmel Christian could potentially put itself in position for a GEICO Nationals berth with a strong regular season and back-to-back state crowns. Gregory is a big-time scorer and his younger brother Jeremy Gregory (6-6, 2022) adds to the depth and talent. Pierre is a highly-regarded defensive player and came up big in the state championship overtime win with 28 points, seven rebounds, five assists and six steals while making the winning bucket. Cooper can distribute or knock down the outside shot and he also played well in the title game in place of an injured starter.
The Skinny: The Cougars defeated Greensboro Day and Independence (NCHSAA Class 4A champs) last season and are deeper in 2018-19. The program is going through a coaching change, as three-time state champ Byron Dinkins (165-20) is now at UNC-Charlotte. Badgett is going to run the same system and the veterans and talented newcomers such as transfer Myles Hunter (6-6, 2020) should help to smoothen the transition. Carmel Christian will participate in the Emerald Coast 16 Holiday Classic (Dec. 20-22) and the Arby’s Classic in Bristol, Tenn. (Dec. 26-29) before hitting the road to face Greensboro Day on Jan. 10. The Cougars host Independence at their own MLK Showcase on Jan. 19.

24. (NR) Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) 29-5
Key Players: PF Isaiah Mobley 6-9 2019 (No. 13 Hoop Scoop, USC commit), C Evan Mobley 7-0 2020 (No. 1 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SF Luke Turner 6-6 2021, PG Dominick Harris 6-4 2020 (No. 47 Rivals.com, Gonzaga commit).
Why This Ranking: The presence of the Mobley brothers makes the Eagles California’s glamour team for fans around the country, but they still have plenty to prove at a local and section level. There is a ton to like about this club, as coach Ray Barfield has primed for this season over the past couple of years, and it will have plenty of opportunity to move up. It begins with Isaiah Mobley, last year’s Riverside Press-Enterprise Player of the Year who had a terrific summer and will play in next year’s McDonald’s All-American Game. Mobley (19.9 ppg, 11.4 rpg, 2.4 bpg) has improved his overall approach, decision-making, and mobility, but it’s the production his younger brother Evan Mobley yields that ultimately will determine this team’s final ranking. His numbers last season were a bit more modest (14.3 ppg, 9.0 rpg, 3.2 apg), but with his size, coordination, and with his body finally catching up to his vast skill level, there is no telling what Evan Mobley is capable of this season. Many feel he’s the best long-term prospect in all of high school basketball and if Turner can knock down deep range shots with consistency, it should provide the Mobley brothers more operating room.
The Skinny: In order for this team to live up to expectations, the offense needs to consistently involve Evan Mobley and the point guards need to make winning plays in crunch time. Often times, Isaiah Mobley handles the ball and even though he’s a capable decision-maker, it takes away from the other things he does which affect the game’s outcome and leaves Rancho Christian vulnerable inside against other elite teams. Jordan Montgomery (5-11, 2020) has starting experience at the point, transfer Jayden Byers (5-11, 2021) will be called upon as well, but it’s Harris’ play that could really uplift this team. In order to move up towards the Top 15, Rancho Christian must prove it can win against familiar foes such as No. 32 St. John Bosco in the new pool play format of the CIF Southern Section Open Division playoffs and beat the top teams once again in the SoCal Open Regional. Barfield’s club has an ambitious schedule that includes must wins versus Simeon of Chicago and Pinnacle of Phoenix at Hoophall West, good tests at the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 17-22) and the Montverde Academy Invitational (Jan. 24-26), plus prime time matchups with No. 25 Memphis East (Jan. 11), No. 16 McEachern (Jan. 21) and defending CIF open champ Sierra Canyon (Feb. 2).

25. (4) Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.) 31-3
Key Players: PF James Wiseman 7-0 2019 (No. 1 247Sports.com, Ballislife First Team All-American), C Malcolm Dandridge 6-8 2019 (No. 114 Rivals.com, Memphis commit), PG Antonio Thomas 6-2 2019 (Bradley commit).
Why This Ranking: Last season it was a real close call between Montverde Academy and the Mustangs for preseason No. 1 honors. The Mustangs had the talent and experience to become Tennessee’s first ever FAB 50 champion, but we had a hunch the breaks wouldn’t go their way as they had the season prior when Penny Hardaway’s club twice downed Montverde Academy on buzzer-beaters. While many rankings pegged Memphis East No. 1, our hunch turned out to be right, as Montverde Academy went unbeaten, while the Mustangs lost three straight games during the middle of the season. This season, the expectations are a bit more tame, but Memphis East still has enough horses to win a fourth consecutive TSSAA Class AAA crown. It begins with Wiseman, a talented lefty who averaged a team-leading 18.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 2.8 bpg for the No. 4 team in the FAB 50. He’s only one of three returning players out of 20 to receive first team All-American acclaim and despite and up-and-down summer, he’s a leading Mr. Basketball USA candidate and some feel the best prospect in the country.
The Skinny: While Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway’s return to his alma mater has rejuvenated Memphis basketball, it has left the high school program he officially directed in flux. Not only do the Mustangs have a new coach in Jevonte Holmes, the program is dealing with the transfer losses of Ballislife Underclass All-American Chandler Lawson (6-9, 2019) and his younger brother Jonathan Lawson (6-6, 2021), not to mention the graduation of floor leader and catalyst Alex Lomax (Memphis). Thomas is a capable point guard and Dandridge is a force in his own right inside, but we’ll take a cautious approach with this club. Against a schedule that includes games with No. 19 Olive Branch (Nov. 20), Curie of Chicago at the Marshall County Hoopfest (Dec. 1), and FAB 50 ranked Holy Spirit Prep (Jan. 4 at the ARS National Hoopfest in Memphis), Wiseman has plenty of opportunity to show he’s the best player in the country while at the same time leading the Mustangs near the top of the FAB 50 once again.

26. (14) Roselle Catholic (Roselle, N.J.) 29-4
Key Players: SG Kahlil Whitney 6-6 2019 (No. 6 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Kentucky commit), PG Joshua Pierre-Louis 6-2 2019 (UNLV commit), SG Colby Rogers 6-5 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Lions were the preseason favorites to capture the coveted New Jersey Tournament of Champions crown in 2017-18 and lived up to expectations, winning their third TOC in six seasons. A fourth in seven in certainly not out of the question, but coach Dave Boff’s club must begin behind Ranney School of Tinton Falls in the Jersey pecking order because it lost tons of frontcourt firepower, while the Panthers return their team intact. Ballislife First Team All-American Naz Reid (LSU) is the big loss up front and his presence can’t be duplicated, but it’s the unsung work of Alanzo Frink (South Carolina) that this team could use in the big games. Whitney (13.6 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 53 % FGs) had modest numbers in a balanced lineup, but he’s primed for a big senior season and some feel he’s talented enough to be a Mr. Basketball USA candidate. If that transpires there is no reason why Roselle Catholic can’t win back-to-back TOC crowns.
The Skinny: The Lions were unbeaten in-state last year, but in order for that to happen in 2018-19, not only will Whitney need a monster season, Pierre-Louis and Rogers will have to step up in the backcourt. The duo is talented, but unproven playing starters’ minutes in the big games. Boff will have to find someone to step up on the boards because Cliff Omoruyi (6-11, 2020) transferred to No. 37 Immaculate Conception, which comes in at No. 3 in the New Jersey pecking order. The great thing about Garden State hoops is state rankings are often settled on the court, as the Lions will face Immaculate Conception on New Year’s Day 2019 and Ranney School Jan. 31 at the Jersey Shore Challenge. The Lions also face highly-regarded Norcross of Georgia at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 19) and defending FAB 50 champ Montverde Academy on Feb. 8 at the Metro Classic.

27. (44) South Garland (Garland, Texas) 36-4
Key Players: PG Tyrese Maxey 6-3 2019 (No. 7 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Kentucky commit), SG Chris Harris Jr. 6-3 2019 (No. 58 Hoop Scoop, Texas A & M commit), PG Keyon Craddock 6-0 2019, SF Jayden McGrew 6-3 2019.
Why This Ranking: Have to like a team coming off a UIL Class 6A Final Four appearance that returns four players with starting experience. The Colonels are one of two clear 6A favorites along with Guyer of Denton. Guyer had the stronger 2017-18 regular season, but some Lone Star insiders peg South Garland as the team to beat because of its guard play. It begins with Maxey (22.5 ppg, 7.0 rpg), one of the best players in the country who could garner some Mr. Basketball USA consideration with a strong November and December. Harris Jr. (19.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg) is a punishing scorer on all three levels who can also get in a stance and guard. Craddock is an above the rim performer and a true two-one combo who is invaluable come crunch time because he can carry the scoring load and make plays on the defensive end.
The Skinny: Not only is coach Dominique Parker’s club talented, it is highly-motivated after falling in the state semifinals to Tompkins of Katy by four points in overtime after beating the same club, 76-50, earlier in the season. South Garland has the guard play and good depth provided by the likes of McGrew, Khalil Davis (6-4, 2019) and Cruz Davis (5-11, 2022). When Dearon Tucker (6-8, 2019) left the Colonels’ program for a prep school, however, it left a void in the paint and probably cost the Colonels a Top 20 preseason placement. We’ll see how South Garland responds without Tucker, particularly since it has some key games early. The Colonels battle major Class 6A contender Duncanville at the Cowtown Tipoff (Nov. 10) and face defending Class 4A champ and FAB 50 bubble club Silsbee and No. 34 Vashon at the Thanksgiving Hoopfest (No. 23-24). South Garland then faces Class 5A contender Little Elm on Dec. 14 and No. 17 Sunrise Christian Academy of Kansas the following day.

28. (BB) Mountain Brook (Mountain Brook, Ala.) 34-5
Key Players: PF Trendon Watford 6-9 2019 (No. 9 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Paulie Stramaglia 6-1 2020, SG Colby Jones 6-4 2020 (No. 148 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: The two-time defending AHSAA Class 7A state champs have three starters back, a talented newcomer and the prime-time performer necessary to warrant this spot. Watford (23.1 ppg, 12.3 rpg, 2.9 apg, 2.2 bpg) is primed for a All-American season and the Spartans have enough talent where other ranked teams will have to play them fairly honest and not totally collapse on Alabama’s reigning Mr. Basketball. Coach Bucky McMillan expects increased production from Stramaglia (3.8 ppg, 5.8 apg) while guard Alex Washington (6-1, 2019) and forward Lior Berman (6-4, 2019) are both talented and experienced.
The Skinny: The Spartans were No. 50 in the preseason FAB 50 last season and played at that level, finishing just outside the national rankings. With a strong senior core and a rugged schedule, there is no reason why this club can’t inch towards the Top 25. The graduation loss of shooting guard Sean Elmore (10.1 ppg) hurts, but Jones is just what the doctor ordered for McMillan, as the all-state candidate is a big-time scorer and can help Watford on the boards. The Spartans will need to crash the boards and play disciplined basketball when they face the likes of Bearden of Knoxville, Tenn., and No. 19 Olive Branch at the Lighthouse Classic in Corinth, Miss. (Nov. 23-24). They also play FAB 50 power Memphis East on Jan. 26 at the Hot Bread Classic in Albany, Miss., and will once again participate in the City of Palms Classic, where they are likely to face FAB 50 title contender Oak Hill Academy in the second round.

29. (NR) Wilson (Washington, D.C.) 33-9
Key Players: PF Makhi Mitchell 6-10 2019 (No. 37 Hoop Scoop, Maryland commit), C Makhel Mitchell 6-9 2019 (No. 107 Rivals.com, Maryland commit), SG Jay Heath Jr. 6-3 2019 (No. 148 247Sports.com, Boston College commit), SG Domingus Stevens 6-5 2020 (No. 57 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: It was a historic run last season for the Tigers, who have enough returning firepower and talented newcomers to receive Top 25 consideration this year. Coach Angelo Hernandez’s club went unbeaten in D.C. Public League play and captured the DCSAA state crown. Last season, Heath received some all-Met acclaim and could turn out to be the City’s best guard this season. Stevens is an athletic shooting guard and makes a living in transition. “We have good size inside, will make a lot of shots and play fast,” Hernandez said. “My only concern is we might not be able to slow down and play a half court game.”
The Skinny: Even though the Tigers weren’t ranked in the final East Region Top 20 last season and Hernandez does have some reservations, they deserve to be in front of No. 30 Gonzaga after beating them in the DCSAA semifinals and beating another WCAC club (St. John’s of Washington, D.C.) in the title game. Wilson will miss Ayinde Hikim (who scored 21 points in championship game victory) and wing Ricardo Lindo, but the addition of Makhi Mitchell and his twin Makhel Mitchell (6-9, 2019) gives this team a whole other dimension. Makhi had a terrific summer in leading DC Premier to both the Under Armour Association and FAB 48 championships and is a load to handle with his size, strength and power around the basket. Makhel is not quite as highly-regarded, but he’s tough to handle at this level and it’s not often a talented program gets two transfers like the Mitchell twins, who played at Montverde Academy in Florida as juniors. Wilson will get to test it wares against national competition all season long, including at the St. James Invitational and City of Palms Tournament, where it opens with No. 19 Olive Branch with IMG Academy likely awaiting the winner.

30. (BB) Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.) 28-9
Key Players: PF Terrance Williams 6-7 2020 (No. 33 Hoop Scoop, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SF Myles Stute 6-5 2020 (No. 108 247Sports.com), SG Josh Watts 6-4 2019 (Brown commit), PG Chuck Harris 6-1 2020 (No. 84 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: The Eagles are in the running for the powerful Washington Catholic Athletic Conference title, as we’ll have at least three WCAC teams in the preseason FAB 50 for the sixth time in the past seven seasons. Paul VI and DeMatha Catholic rate as the early favorites, but veteran coach Stephen Turner is confident his team can capture their second WCAC crown in three years. After all, his battle-tested club returns four starters and nine lettermen. It starts with Williams (16.3 ppg, 8.7 rpg), who will be a four-year standout and should earn All-American acclaim as a senior. Stute (5.5 ppg, 3.6 rpg) hit double figure scoring in five games last season and it wouldn’t surprise us if that number tripled this season. Harris (8.0 ppg, 2.9 apg) had explosive outings last season replacing Prentiss Hubb (Notre Dame) while Watts (5.7 ppg, 1.8 apg) provides senior leadership and is a versatile performer.
The Skinny: We’ve been pretty good in our Eagles’ preseason forecasts in recent seasons, but the Purple Hoops’ faithful is hoping we’re off-target this time around. Three years ago, we had Gonzaga as the third WCAC in the FAB 50 and it finished in third place. Two years ago, we had the Eagles as the front-runner and they went on to win the conference title. Last season, we ranked them a close No. 2 behind Paul VI, and they finished one game behind FAB 50 title contender DeMatha Catholic in the WCAC standings. Our rankings came out before Hubb was lost for the season early with a torn ACL and that forced players such as Harris and Anwar Gill (6-3, 2019) to step up. That experience should pay off this year as Gonzaga looks to close the season strong. Gonzaga will host its own classic, play at the Slam Dunk To The Beach in Delaware after Christmas, take on highly-regarded Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas at the Cancer Research Classic (Jan. 5) and face Wheeler of Georgia at the Peachtree Corners Invitational (Jan. 26).

RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (31-50) | Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20  | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

The post Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50: Teams No. 16-30! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 19 years ago.

Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 National
Team Rankings Powered by www.ebooksnet.com

By Ronnie Flores

(Final 2017-18 ranking in parentheses; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates forfeits and defaults not included; Look for preseason Region-By-Region Top 20 Rankings on Wednesday, November 7 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Monday, November 19.)

RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (16-30) |Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20  | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20

31. (NR) Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 27-2
Key Players: SF Jaden McDaniels 6-10 2019 (No. 4 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Jalen Womack 6-0 2019, PG Pierre Crockwell 5-11 2019, PF Tari Eason 6-7 2020 (No. 104 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: The Eagles have a shot to be this season’s Nathan Hale of Seattle, a team with a potentially great player, and a strong supporting cast that wins the key games and moves up the ranking charts, In 2016-17, Hale began at No. 38, and Michael Porter Jr. (now in the NBA) posted a social media comment on how that ranking was too low, and he turned out to be correct as Hale went undefeated and claimed the FAB 50 crown. We’re not predicting a mythical national title for the Eagles, but McDaniels (21.3 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 4.6 apg, 3.3 bpg) is that game-changing, elite talent that could lead Federal Way to a memorable season. Big performances by McDaniels in key games and this team could rise and he could garner Mr. Basketball USA support. Womack is a returning all-leaguer and D1 prospect. “We are an athletic and cohesive bunch,” coach Jerome Collins said.
The Skinny: Not only does this team have the horses to move up in the rankings, it has plenty of motivation after losing in heart-breaking fashion to No. 42 Gonzaga Prep in the WIAA Class 4A state title game. Gonzaga Prep has plenty of talent returning, too, but we give Federal Way the nod this season because transfers Crockwell, Eason, and Graham could take this team to another level and the schedule will dictate if this team quickly moves up or falls behind the defending state champs. Both of Federal Way’s losses last season were in-state, so in order to move up it’ll have to fare well back East against Woodmere Academy at the Battle in the Big Apple (Dec. 9), versus FAB 50 tile contender Ranney School of New Jersey at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 21) and make noise at the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 18-22).

32. (NR) St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) 25-8
Key Players: SF Jonathan Salazar 6-6 2019 (No. 95 Hoop Scoop, Pacific commit), SG Josh Adoh 6-4 2019, SG Christian James 6-3 2019.
Why This Ranking: With their big-game experience and five returning starters, the Braves rate are one of the major contenders to capture the coveted CIF Open Division state title along with No. 48 and Trinity League rival Mater Dei, No. 41 Sheldon, talented Rancho Christian of Temecula and defending champion Sierra Canyon. Salazar (14 ppg, 10 rpg) gives traditional big men complete fits and is one of the most underrated players in the state. Adoh (14 ppg, 5 rpg) was named all-CIF Southern Section while James (10 ppg, 4 rpg, 3 apg) is much improved. Fernando Gomez (6-1, 2019) is one of the best outside shooters in SoCal and players such as Jalen Manson (6-6, 2019), Josh Camper (5-11, 2020) and Scotty Washington (6-4, 2021) provide excellent depth.
The Skinny: National high school hoops followers don’t know how good this team can potentially be, but local SoCal fans and coaches certainly do. An argument can be made the Braves deserve to be ranked higher than Rancho Christian (beat them three times last season) and they likely would be if not for losing a nine-point lead and being outscored 27-2 in the final period versus Chino Hills in the SoCal D1 regional final. This team relies on outside shooting (it went cold versus Chino Hills at the wrong time) and is going to have to not only prove it can overcome bigger teams in the playoffs once again, it must show it has what it takes to capture the rugged Trinity League title. The last time Mater Dei didn’t win a league crown was the same season the National Prep Poll (FAB 50 precursor) was created: 1987-88.

33. (26) Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.) 22-3
Key Players: C Esam Mostafa 6-9 2019, PG Andre Curbelo 6-0 2020 (No. 124 247Sports.com), SF Zed Key 6-8 2020 (No. 123 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: Simply put, it’s talent and motivation as the Crusaders have fallen in the New York Federation Class AA title game for two consecutive seasons. Last year’s loss came in hard-to-believe circumstances, as the Crusaders were assessed a technical foul for calling a timeout the scorer’s table and game officials believe they didn’t have (but later proved they did) in a tie ball game and with possession of the ball. The controversy is not why LuHi gets the nod over No. 39 Archbishop Stepinac (its championship foe); it’s because the team was only sounded defeated once (by FAB 50 champ Montverde Academy) all season long and has similar talent in 2018-19.
The Skinny: Coach John Buck, his staff and his players held a silent protest over the result of the semifinal game on the eve of the Feds title game, but the clerical error was not overturned. It’s a likely rallying cry for a team returning starters Curbelo, a standout on Puerto Rico’s 17U team, and Mostafa, the most experienced player on the team. Key impresses with his post scoring work and ability to stretch defenses, while transfer Jalen Celestine (6-5, 2020) is a big-time talent. There are at least four additional D1-bound players on the roster for LuHi, which plays No. 35 Holy Spirit Prep at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 20) and also competes at the Apparel Challenge, Metro Classic, Hoodie’s House Hoops Classic and Montverde Academy Invitational.

34. (NR) Vashon (St. Louis, Mo.) 21-6
Key Players: PG Mario McKinney 6-2 2019 (No. 125 Rivals.com, Missouri commit), SF Cam’Ron Fletcher 6-6 2020 (No. 34 ESPN.com), SG Kobe Clark 6-6 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Wolverines are talented with depth and would be ranked higher had they won their third consecutive MSHSAA Class 4A state crown last season. Coach Tony Irons has an excellent shot at his third in four seasons with talents such as McKinney (18 ppg, 6 rpg, 4 apg) and Fletcher (12 ppg, 8 rpg, 2 bpg) back in the fold. Clark (8 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg) can play both inside and at guard, while Phillip Russell (5-11, 2020) mans the controls and is capable of double-digit scoring (9 ppg, 5 apg). Donyae McCaskill (6-2, 2019) provides senior leadership and rounds out a balanced (11 ppg, 6 rpg) starting lineup while newcomer Akok Yor (6-9, 2019) provides a much-needed interior presence.
The Skinny: Vashon is quick, athletic and even though it doesn’t have overwhelming size, the Wolverines are tough on the boards. Coach Irons is a bit concerned about the outside shooting and the team will have to learn to effectively attack zone defenses. With the team back en masse, the schedule is a sink or swim affair, as Vashon will compete it six showcases or tournaments involving FAB 50 ranked teams, including the City of Palms Classic, where it opens against FAB 50 title contender University School of Florida, and the Montverde Academy Invitational, which includes highly-regarded Rancho Christian of California, and No. 33 Long Island Lutheran.

35. (NR) Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta, Ga.) 24-5
Key Players: SG Anthony Edwards 6-5 2020 (No. 2 Hoop Scoop), PF Ahmir Langlais 6-8 2019, PG Deandre Brown-Perry 6-2 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Cougars are two-time defending Georgia Independent School Association (GSHA) Class AAA champs, have a game-changer in their lineup and enough size and talent to make a FAB 50 impact. With Edwards, it’s quite possible coach Keith Evans has the country’s best player in his lineup. The returning all-state selection was MVP of the Under Armour Association this past summer and with his physicality, athleticism and sweet shooting touch he can absolutely dominate a high school game. Transfers Langlais and Brown-Perry will be difference-makers in the big game. Brown-Perry can nail the outside shot and play quality defense.
The Skinny: This team will get plenty of attention this winter, and plays a rugged national schedule. The supporting cast, including players such as Buka Peikrishvili (6-5, 2020), Miles Wallace (5-11, 2019) and Michaiah Jeremiah (6-1, 2019), will have to step up to take pressure off Edwards. The fact some of Edwards’ teammates, old and new, played travel ball together on Atlanta Express should help cohesiveness. That’s important because the Cougars open the season Nov. 10 with FAB 50 title contender McEachern and play GHSA power Wheeler on Nov. 23. They’ll also play in the Chick-Fil-A Classic, where six other FAB 50 ranked teams await, and have matchups with Memphis East, Long Island Lutheran of New York and IMG Academy of Florida after the New Year’s.

36. (BB) Whitney Young (Chicago, Ill.) 28-8
Key Players: PG D.J. Steward 6-1 2020 (No. 60 247Sports.com), PG Tyler Beard 6-0 2020 (No. 57 Rivals.com), SG Myles Baker 6-3 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Dolphins played their best basketball at the right time, knocking off FAB 50 ranked Simeon in the IHSA Class 4A state quarterfinals after losing to the Wolverines in the Chicago Public League semifinals. Whitney Young rates as the preseason team to beat in the CPL, but must begin the season ranked behind No. 34 Vashon (lost to that club in 2017-18) and Bellevue West, the club it fell to in the Class 4A state title game. Steward transfers over from Fenwick and the continuity he developed playing travel ball with Beard should pay dividends against a tough schedule. Baker can contribute up front or in the backcourt and coach Tyrone Slaughter has good depth at his disposal for another championship run.
The Skinny: It’s not an overwhelming year for teams in the CPL, so Whitney Young must keep the loss count lower than last year to move up in the rankings. With the newcomers and role players it shouldn’t be an issue. Grant Newell (6-6, 2021) is already attracting D1 college interest and has plenty of skill and mobility to help the Dolphins in the frontcourt. He knows his job is to crash the boards and be relentless on defense. Keenan Jones (6-4, 2019) is a good spot up shooter and can do a bit of everything for this club. According to Scott Burgess of PrepHoops.com, he could be Whitney Young’s X-factor as the Dolphins navigate a schedule that includes No. 48 Mater Dei at the Chicago Elite Classic and a trip out west to the Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas, where the Dolphins could potentially face No. 31 Federal Way, highly-regarded Rancho Christian of California and host Bishop Gorman.

37. (NR) Immaculate Conception (Montclair, N.J.) 20-9
Key Players: C Elijah Hutchins-Everett 6-10 2020 (No. 53 ESPN.com), C Clifford Omoruyi 6-11 2020 (No. 53 Hoop Scoop), SG Raejon Figures 6-2 2020 (No. 140 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: Similar to No. 36 Whitney Young, the Lions were unranked in the 2017-18 final FAB 50 behind the team it knocked out of the playoffs (in Immaculate Conceptions’ case Hudson Catholic), but deserve to be ranked in front of that team to begin 2018-19. Coach Jimmy Salmon’s club lost big to eventual New Jersey TOC champ Roselle Catholic in the NJISAA Non Public B semifinals and the Lions have enough returning that Immaculate Conception must begin the season behind that club and FAB 50 title contender Ranney School. Salmon returns a whopping ten lettermen and adds transfer Omoruyi from Roselle Catholic to give this club a towering presence underneath. “Immaculate Conception is big and talented,” said long-time New Jersey prep guru Jay Gomes of NJHoops.com.
The Skinny: The Lions are a deserving FAB 50 ranked club, but must prove they can get over the hump in the post-season. The team is fairly young and could take some lumps early, but as a talented backcourt that includes Figures and Zion Bethea (6-3, 2020) matures this club will be a tough out come February. The team will have to grow up and jell in a hurry in order to maintain a lofty ranking, as it opens the City of Palms Classic in Florida on Dec. 18 versus FAB 50 title contender Paul VI of Virginia. If Salmon’s club wins that game, it’s likely McEachern of Georgia in the second round.

38. (NR) Rainier Beach (Seattle, Wash.) 22-7
Key Players: PG Kenny Curtis 5-9 2019, SF Jamon Kemp 6-6 2019 (No. 141 247Sports.com), SF Marjon Beauchamp 6-6 2020 (No. 16 247Sports.com), SF Javion Garrett 6-6 2019.
Why This Ranking: With Jaden McDaniels in its lineup, No. 31 Federal Way will get plenty of national attention, but the Vikings may be top-to-bottom Washington’s most talented team. Some peg Rainier Beach as preseason No. 1 in the state, but we’ll see how the newcomers jell and how this club fares in some key matchups before rating it any higher. The Vikings lost in overtime to cross-town Garfield in an emotionally-charged Class 3A state title game, but added two of Garfield’s best players while Federal Way added two talented Garfield players of its own. “We are athletic, shoot it well and play good defense, but how quickly we come together will be key to our success,” veteran head coach Mike Bethea (552-137) said.
The Skinny: Whenever Rainier Beach has a nationally-ranked outfit, it usually has a plethora of 6-foot-5 to 6-foot-7 athletes that can run like deer and score in transition. This season is no different, as Beauchamp (who was on Nathan Hale’s 2017 FAB 50 No. 1 team) and Kemp bring big-game experience. As if that wasn’t enough, Garrett comes over from cross-town Franklin and fits the same mold. The key to Beach’s success, however, may be returning guard Curtis, who can keep defenses honest with his outside shooting and will be in charge of putting the ball in the correct spots as Trevante Anderson did last season and Kahlil Shabazz the year before. Bethea’s club travels to NorCal to take on No. 41 Sheldon and will participate in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions in Springfield, Mo. (Jan. 17-19) with the likes of FAB 50 ranked Shadow Mountain of Phoenix, Memphis East, McEachern of Georgia, Belleville West of Illinois and Sunrise Christian Academy of Kansas.

39. (24) Archbishop Stepinac (White Plains, N.Y.) 27-5
Key Players: SG Adrian Griffin Jr. 6-6 2021 (No. 9 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG R.J. Davis 5-11 2020, C Joel Soriano 6-10 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Crusaders return three starters and nine lettermen off a team that captured the state Federation Class AA TOC. Griffin (12.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg) was one of the nation’s best first-year players and could develop into a two-time All-American for coach Patrick Massaroni. Davis (20.8 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.0 apg, 1.7 spg) is a terrific all-around talent and can effectively play both guard spots. Eduard Minaya (5-11, 2020) averaged 9.7 ppg and is a perfect compliment to Davis in the backcourt, while Soriano (5.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg) does the dirty work inside.
The Skinny: This balanced team defeated No. 44 South Shore in the Feds title game and deserves to ranked ahead of that club. We didn’t put the Crusaders behind No. 33 LuHi because of the controversy surrounding their TOC semifinal game, but rather because the teams split games and that team has plenty of returning talent, too. We’ll never know how the final 8.3 seconds of that tied game would have played out without the unfortunate technical foul situation, but we do know the CHSAA champs control its own rankings destiny this year. The Crusaders participate in the Slam Dunk Tournament (Dec. 21-23) the Beach Ball Classic in South Carolina (Dec. 26-31) with the likes of No. 43 Scott County and No. 47 St. Edward, and play highly-regarded Roselle Catholic on Jan. 13 at the Empire Invitational.

40. (BB) Greensboro Day (Greensboro, N.C.) 27-7
Key Players: SG Carson McCorkle 6-3 2021 (No. 33 Hoop Scoop), PF Mike Fowler 6-9 2019, PF Josh Taylor 6-8 2020 (No. 127 247Sports.com), PG Cam Hayes 6-2 2021 (No. 20 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: With their blend of returning veterans and talented newcomers, the Bengals deserve to be preseason FAB 50 ranked for the fourth consecutive season. In that time span Greensboro Day hasn’t had that singular superstar talent; it wins with depth, discipline and coaching continuity and this year should be more of the same. McCorkle (10.7 ppg, 4 rpg) was an all-conference selection as a freshman and could develop into one of the nation’s best players in the 2021 class. In addition to three returning starters, the defending NCISAA Class 3A champs added three talented newcomers, including Hayes (11.4 ppg, 6.7 apg) and Taylor (12 ppg, 13 rpg). While the Bengals graduated two perimeter starters, they are strong inside with Mike Fowler (6-9, 2019) and Nicholas Evtimov (6-7, 2019).
The Skinny: After an up-and-down 2017-18 regular season, Greensboro Day defeated a talented Wesleyan Christian Academy team it lost to twice during the regular season in the NCISAA Class 3A title game. The program has won back-to-back state crowns (and three in four years) and this team has the ingredients to become the first in program history to win three consecutively. The Bengals are now in Class 4A and on paper it looks like Carmel Christian (which defeated the Bengals last season) is the team to beat in 3A. Veteran coach Freddy Johnson (1,019-290), now in his 42nd season at Greensboro Day, is confident this group could bring the program NCISAA title No. 11. The Bengals will participate at the Phenom Hoops Showcase (Nov. 16-17), will play at the HAECO Invitational after Christmas and meet Carmel Christian on Jan. 10.

41. (BB) Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) 29-6
Key Players: PG Xavion Brown 6-1 2020 (No. 143 247Sports.com), SG Kaito Williams 6-2 2019, SF Marcus Bagley 6-6 2020, C Josh Morgan 6-10 2019 (Long Beach St. commit).
Why This Ranking: The Huskies are the defending NorCal open division champions and could be better this year with added depth and plenty of big-game experience. The toughness and big-play ability of graduated Dale Currie will be missed, but Sheldon is not only deeper and bigger, it has better outside shooting than a year ago. Brown, who shined in the state title game versus FAB 50 title contender Sierra Canyon, is one of the most explosive guards nationally in his class and is primed for a breakout season. Justin Nguyen (5-10, 2019) always seems to spark Sheldon by making the right play at the right time. Williams (6-2, 2019) is another backcourt veteran that can get it done on both ends.
The Skinny: A bad fourth quarter (outscored 19-6) was the difference in the CIF state open title game versus Sierra Canyon; had Sheldon won that game it would likely be in the Top 20. Speaking to NorCal coaches, it’s a two-horse race in the region between the Huskies and Modesto Christian and a big drop-off after that. The Crusaders defeated Sheldon in the Sac Joaquin Section D1 title game, and in order to move up in the national rankings the Huskies can’t afford in-region losses. With Bagley, a terrific shooter and the brother of Sacramento Kings rookie Marcus Bagley III, and Morgan, a shot-blocker and rapidly improving player, joining the fold, this team looks to peak in the second half of the season. Sheldon will play in the Tarkanian Classic, Torrey Pines Holiday Classic, face No. 38 Rainier Beach at home Jan. 3 and take on highly-regarded Bishop Gorman at the Coronado MLK Showcase (Jan. 21).

42. (36) Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) 27-0
Key Players: SF Anton Watson 6-10 2019 (No. 32 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Gonzaga commit), SG Liam Lloyd 6-4 2020, SG Sheadon Byrd 6-2 2019.
Why This Ranking: Plenty of talent and experience returning off a WIAA Class 4A championship team secures this club a FAB 50 spot. With Watson and Lloyd back, coach Matty McIntyre loves his team’s repeat chances. All Watson did last season was earn league MVP honors for the second consecutive season, earn state tourney MVP honors after scoring 22 points in the title game versus No. 31 Federal Way and average 21.9 ppg and 8.2 rebounds. Lloyd is getting D1 attention and he too had a big state title game (15 points). The return of Byrd (who missed all of last season with an ACL injury) only adds to the athleticism and toughness required to once again keep Federal Way at bay in the state title chase.
The Skinny: The reason the Bullpups are ranked six spots lower than last season’s FAB 50 finish is because that spot was secured by virtue of an undefeated record and it won’t be easy to repeat that feat with the loaded schedule on tap. Should the Bullpups go unbeaten, they’ll finish plenty higher than No. 36. Their ranking will be put to the test when they face highly-regarded Modesto Christian and Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas at Hoophall West (Dec. 7-8). Gonzaga also participates in the Les Schwab Invitational in Oregon after Christmas against the likes of Sierra Canyon of California and University School of Florida. We also have a feeling this team and Federal Way will cross paths once again in the post-season.

43. (43) Scott County (Georgetown, Ky.) 37-2
Key Players: PF Michael Moreno 6-6 2019 (No. 227 247Sports.com), SG Bryce Long 6-2 2019, PG Diablo Stewart 5-10 2019, SG Glenn Covington 6-1 2019.
Why This Ranking: Returns four starters and 10 lettermen off a KHSAA Sweet 16 runner-up team. Moreno, the ringleader on last year’s team, has a great chance to be named all-state for the third time after averaging 20.2 ppg and 10.8 rpg as a junior. According to the Courier-Journal, Moreno enters 2018-19 with 2,073 career points and 1,122 rebounds. This team rallys around its star player and even though it doesn’t have multiple D1 recruits on the roster, the team is unselfish and the players have competed together over a long period of time. Simply put, the Cardinals will be tough to beat.
The Skinny: Scott County would love to move its record to 3-4 in Sweet 16 championship games and has the personnel to do it. The team will miss lone departed starter Cooper Robb (Charlotte), who hit many big post-season shots, but Stewart is ready to step into a bigger leadership role and Long is a deadly 3-pointer shooter. Covington is one of Kentucky’s best Grid-Hoopers and he brings great defensive instincts and toughness to this unit. Scott County’s ranking will be tested when it takes on highly-regarded Olive Branch of Mississippi at the Marshall County Hoopfest (Dec. 1).

44. (NR) South Shore (Brooklyn, N.Y.) 21-9
Key Players: SG Femi Odukale 6-4 2020, SF Kadary Richmond 6-5 2020, C Isaiah Richards 6-9 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Vikings return a host of talent off a team that advanced to the New York Federation Class AA final, where it fell to No. 39 Archbishop Stepinac, 88-76. Coach Shawn Marc only lost three seniors off last year’s roster and returns point guard Dwight Davis Jr. (6-1, 2019), who scored 17 points in the state title game. Odukale is a returning all-City performer and was named MVP of the Public School Athletic League (PSAL) AA title game with 18 points and six rebounds. “We have lots of talent, but cannot beat ourselves,” Marc said.
The Skinny: The defending PSAL champions are still a young unit, but extremely talented, and have an excellent chance to make a rankings splash this season. As Marc stated, this South Shore club must jell and find the right chemistry between the returnees and newcomers. Richards is a double-double waiting to happen, Richmond is another guard with excellent size and Marc is excited about newcomer Philipi Joseph (6-6, 2019), a transfer from CHSAA power Christ the King. The Royals also received FAB 50 consideration, and Jefferson of Brooklyn looks like the main threat to South Shore’s repeat title hopes in the PSAL.

45. (NR) Roman Catholic (Philadelphia, Pa.) 24-6
Key Players: SF Seth Lundy 6-6 2019 (No. 100 Hoop Scoop, Penn St. commit), SG Hakim Hart 6-5 2019 (St. Joseph’s commit), PG Lynn Greer III 6-2 2020 (No. 43 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American).
Why This Ranking: The Cahillites are defending PIAA Class 6A champs and are a more talented and experienced team this season. Third-year coach Matt Griffin welcomes back Lundy, who attacks the rim with a vengeance and brings versatility to the lineup, and Hart, who spends plenty of time inside but can also knock down the outside shot. Hart has tons of upside as a major college guard, but he can rebound and the presence of Jalen Duren (6-9, 2022) should free him up to become even more of a perimeter threat. In the recent USA Basketball Mini-camp is any indication, Duran could develop into the most productive freshman big man in the country.
The Skinny: The talent is in place to move up in the rankings, but we’ll take a cautious approach with the Cahillites because of recent roster changes and last season’s overall loss total. Greer, who averaged 15.3 ppg and scored 20 points in the state title game, left in the off-season for Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. This summer and fall, Roman was preparing and establishing a rotation without him. On October 18, Greer announced he was returning to Griffin’s program, which according to our most trusted Philadelphia insiders, has caused some uncertainty about returnees’ roles. There already is a player defection and it’s something we’ll monitor as the season gets underway. Roman Catholic will eventually settle its rotation and gain some continuity, but it cannot afford any dissention early, as it faces FAB 50 national title contender and defending Class AAAA state champ Imhotep Charter on Dec. 16.

46. (NR) Nicolet (Glendale, Wis.) 16-10
Key Players: PF Jamari Sibley 6-8 2020 (No. 108 Rivals.com), SF Jalen Johnson 6-8 2020 (No. 4 ESPN, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Kobe Johnson 6-1 2021.
Why This Ranking: Similar to No. 45 Roman Catholic, there is an abundance of talent on deck, but some uncertainty of just how the lineup will look during the meat of the schedule. The Knights were a WIAA D2 sectional finalist last season, but could take a big leap forward in 2018-19 if all the pieces come together. Sibley averaged 16.8 ppg and 10.1 rpg and could be even more dominant this year even with no uptick in statistical output. That’s because Jalen Johnson is one of the best juniors in the country and he’s moving over from Sun Prairie, which he led to its first ever WIAA state tourney appearance after averaging 18.6 ppg and 9.8 rpg. His younger brother Kobe Johnson is a talented lead guard and also made the move over to Nicolet, as did Jarrett Henderson (6-8, 2019) from Sheboygan South.
The Skinny: It looked like the Knights were also going to add talented junior guard Desmond Polk from New Berlin West, but he since decided to enroll at FAB 50 power La Lumiere in Indiana, where there isn’t any of the type of transfer eligibility issues that exist within WIAA member programs. The Johnsons can potentially take this team to the next level, but the coaching staff will rely on returnees Sonny Phinisee (5-10, 2019) and David Rosengarden (5-10, 2019) to provide leadership and execution from the backcourt positions. We’ll see how the roster has meshed when the Knights face WCAC powers St. John’s of Washington, D.C. and Paul VI of Virginia on back-to-back nights (Dec. 8-9) at the ARS Hoopfest in our nation’s capital.

47. (NR) St. Edward (Lakewood, Ohio) 26-4
Key Players: SG Grant Huffman 6-3 2020 (No. 166 247Sports.com), PG Montorie Foster 6-1 2020, PF Devontae Blanton 6-5 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Eagles are the final team from the Midwest Region in our rankings right after Nicolet. Veteran coach Eric Flannery (421-117), now in his 23rd season, has a great opportunity to capture state title No. 3 (1998, 2014) with this unit. Pickerington Central might have something to say about that and we also considered La Crosse Central of Wisconsin for this spot. Wingman Huffman should have a standout campaign after missing time with a broken ankle in 2017-18. Foster is the other guard who saw significant minutes as a freshman for Flannery two seasons ago and he’s capable of scoring 20 points or more any given night. Blanton is the important cog inside, but he’s skilled like a 3-man and can also handle the ball when called upon.
The Skinny: Whatever team emerges as Ohio D1 state champ is likely to be ranked higher than this spot in the FAB 50. Pick Central went further in the playoffs last season, but we have a hunch the Eagles can get over the hump this season. Two years ago, the core of this unit reached the OHSAA D1 semifinals with three freshmen and a sophomore in its lineup before falling in the regional semifinals last year. This team showed its potential when it knocked off FAB 50 ranked Solon during the 2017-18 regular season and there is great motivation because of the early playoff loss. The schedule is also a plus with stops at the Lima Tournament, the Beach Ball Classic in South Carolina and the Erie’s Burger King Classic over MLK weekend.

48. (BB) Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 23-7
Key Players: PG Devin Askew 6-4 2021 (No. 12 Hoop Scoop), C Wilhelm Breidenbach 6-9 2021 (No. 18 ESPN.com), PG Ryan Evans 6-1 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Monarchs are the depending CIF Southern Section Open Division champs and have enough talent, chemistry and veteran coaching to make another serious push at a section crown. This team is young and lost plenty of firepower, including CIFSS open POY Spencer Freedman (Harvard), but Askew is developing into a terrific guard is his own right and is one of the most dominant guards (so far) in the 2021 national class. Breidenbach was all-Trinity League as a freshman and his numbers will double this season as more of a focal point of the offense. “We play well together and have good overall size,” said coach Gary McKnight.
The Skinny: This will be one of the greatest challenges of McKnight’s career to get this team to play at a level good enough to win the Trinity League title, remain FAB 50 ranked and challenge for another section crown. McKnight had teams in the past not expected to win section or CIF state titles that ended up doing so, which makes the program’s track record of success another reason for this rankings spot. St. John Bosco of Bellflower is the early Trinity League favorite, and Orange Lutheran is much improved, but the transfer of Evans and Nick Davidson (6-9, 2020) weaken league member Santa Margarita. Since McKnight took over in 1982-83, his program has won a league crown every season since but one (1987-88), so it will be interesting to see how the league race affects the FAB 50.

49. (6) Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) 32-5
Key Players: SG P.J. Fuller 6-4 2019 (No. 35 Hoop Scoop, TCU commit), SF Zach Clemence 6-9 2021 (No. 32 Hoop Scoop), SG Sherif Kenney 6-5 2019.
Why This Ranking: Similar to the Pilots’ preseason ranking in 2016-17 when Paul Washington took over the program (No. 29), this team will begin the season lower than normally accustomed to. Findlay Prep is on its sixth coach in eight seasons, but it’s more the talent level than the coaching turnover that causes a low preseason ranking for this program’s standards. There is plenty of pressure on Fuller, who has tons of big-game experience, to score and have a big season offensively. Kenney could develop into the leader new coach Rodney Haddix (a former Findlay player) needs on the court during crunch time. The X-factor could be Clemence, a combo forward who is among the most skilled 2021 players we’ve evaluated around the country. If Raymond Hawkins (6-9, 2019) shows more than flashes and Canadian import Taryn Todd (6-2, 2019) can contribute, this team could quickly move up.
The Skinny: The Pilots have been ranked in the FAB 50 every season since their eligibility began in 2008-09, but this is the least talented roster in program history. Past rosters have often had multiple future NBA players, but that doesn’t necessarily mean this team will end up with its lowest FAB 50 ranking in program history. It means the Pilots will have their work cut out for them and Haddix actually relishes the challenge as he looks to build the program into one that resembles the one he played for under Mike Peck. “I think we’re going to surprise some people,” Haddix said. “We got to be the most collective Findlay team ever and be there for each other to be successful.”

50. (BB) Independence (Charlotte, N.C.) 31-1
Key Players: SF Matt Smith 6-6 2019 (Murray St. commit), PG A.J. McKee 6-3 2019 (Queens College commit).
Why This Ranking: The defending NCHSAA Class 4A state champs nab the final preseason spot as it returns four players with starting experience. Similar to other teams towards the bottom of the FAB 50, the Patriots don’t have overwhelming size or talent, but a group of good high school players who will play somewhere at the next level. Coach Preston Davis, who last season led his program to its first state crown since he was on the playing roster (1996-97), employs a deadly zone defense that suffocates opponents. This season that zone will be even better with the added maturity and experience. McKee had 20 points and two steals in the state title game and Raja Milton (5-11, 2019) is also known for his defense. Miles Pauldin (6-4, 2019) gets it done inside and is as dependable as he is versatile.
The Skinny: We could have went in a number of different directions for the final spot, but we like the Patriots’ blend of talent and gaudy record from a state that has produced quality basketball in recent seasons. We seriously considered Maria Goretti of Hagerstown, Md. (East), a plethora of Southeast teams including Bearden of Knoxville, Tenn., Chicago public league power Simeon (Midwest), Hall of Little Rock, Ark., (Southwest) and Olympus of Salt Lake City, Utah (West). Independence’s ranking will be tested against the loaded field at the Chick-Fil-A Holiday Tournament (Dec. 27-29) and will play FAB 50 ranked Carmel Christian, the only team it lost to last season, on Jan. 19.

RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20  | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

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Final 2017-18 FAB 50
Region-By-Region Rankings

(Through games played on Saturday, March 31; Preseason ranking in parentheses)

By Ronnie Flores

RELATED:?Final East Top 20?|? Final Southeast Top 20 | Final Midwest Top 20?| Final Southwest Top 20?| ?Final 2017-18 FAB 50 Rankings

WEST Region Top 20
(Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming)

1. (2) Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) 32-5
2. (3) Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Ariz.) 25-2
3. (11) Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nev.) 29-4
4. (9) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 27-4
5. (6) Bishop Montgomery (Torrance, Calif.) 28-2
6. (4) Garfield (Seattle, Wash.) 28-2
7. (NR) Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) 27-0
8. (10) Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) 24-2
9. (NR) Etiwanda (Etiwanda, Calif.) 30-4
10. (NR) Olympus (Salt Lake City, Utah) 27-0
11. (NR) Grandview (Aurora, Col.) 24-4
12. (NR) Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) 29-6
13. (NR) Westchester (Los Angeles, Calif.) 29-6**
14. (NR) Lone Peak (Highland, Utah) 23-4
15. (1) Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 23-7
16. (NR) Grant (Portland, Ore.) 24-4
17. (5) Jefferson (Portland, Ore.) 26-4
18. (NR) Salesian (Richmond, Calif.) 30-2
19. (13) Bishop O’Dowd (Oakland, Calif.) 27-6
20. (7) Clark (Las Vegas, Nev.) 22-7

*Indicates forfeit wins/losses not included.
**Indicates default wins/losses not included.

Note:?The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 18 years ago.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

The post Final 2017-18 West Region Top 20 Rankings appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

By Ronnie Flores

The big-time national showcase events are coming to a close and the main one last weekend caused movement in the latest edition of the FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com.

St. Benedict's Prep (Newark, N.J.), which is currently ineligible for the FAB 50 but consistently fields one of the nation's best independent school teams, was looking to win the Saint James Invitational in Hagerstown, Md. for the third consecutive season, but Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Air, Kan.) had other ideas. After defeating previous No. 7 Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.), 67-61, behind the play of 7-foot sophomore N’Faly Dante (19 points, 10 rebounds), Sunrise Christian Academy defeated the Bray Bees, 68-58, in the championship game. Junior Grid-Hoop star Blake Hinson led the way with 19 points in Sunrise Christian's big championship game victory.

What To Do With Sunrise?

The Buffaloes came into the St. James Invitational ranked No. 29 in the FAB 50, but shoot up 19 spots this week to No. 10 as a result of the head-to-head win over Findlay Prep and a then unbeaten St. Benedict's. We contemplated leaving the Buffaloes behind the Pilots because of two losses to unranked teams, but those came early in the season when Loyola-Chicago bound point guard and two-year starter Isaiah Bujdoso was out with injury. We decided to drop Findlay Prep four spots to No. 11.

"He's a very important player for us," Sunrise Christian Academy coach Luke Barnwell told Ballislife.

The only caveat in moving Findlay Prep down to No. 11 was its head-to-head win over No. 7 Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.). Findlay Prep had to remain in front of No. 13 DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.), which has a loss to Paul VI, and that key Pilots' victory will play a big factor if the Panthers continue to lead the way in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) and the Pilots close the regular season and Dick's Nationals strongly. If Paul VI comes back and wins the WCAC tourney, with an unbeaten slate in regular season WCAC play, it will have enough quality victories to maintain its ranking in front of Findlay Prep should the Pilots falter.

Paul VI travels to Gonzaga for a key game on February 9, as the Eagles look to avenge their only loss of the season so far, and The Panthers still have to play DeMatha a second time in WCAC play, too.

Sunrise Christian also owns a win over No. 12 La Lumiere (LaPorte, Ind.) and we made the call to keep Findlay Prep in front of the defending Dick's Nationals champions. Findlay Prep has more quality wins and lost to top-ranked Montverde Academy at the buzzer, while the Lakers were defeated by the No. 1 team in the FAB 50 by 22 points (77-55).

We'll find out more about Sunrise Christian and where it stands in the FAB 50 when it takes on No. 2 Oak Hill Academy at the Heartland Hoops Classic in Grand Island, Neb. February 10.

One of Sunrise Christian's losses is to bubble club South Garland (Garland, Texas), which bodes well for Guyer (Denton, Texas), which has a win over the only club it lost to (University Interscholastic League Class 5A No. 1 Waxahacie, Texas) and is top-ranked UIL Class 6A club. South Garland checks in at No. 5 in the latest TABC Poll. Guyer moved up five spots this week to No. 9.

Will Ballislife Weekly Showcase Impact FAB 50?

One of the newcomers this week is No. 49 North Mecklenburg (Huntersville, N.C.), which checks in with a 21-1 record, including handing 19-1 Gate City (Gate City, Va.) its lone loss of the season so far at the Arby's Classic in Bristol, Tenn.

Gate City, of course, is led by Georgetown-bound Mac McClung and last week he went over 40 points in each of the Blue Devils' three victories. He's now eyeing Allen Iverson's single-single VHSL scoring mark of 948 points set in 1992-93 during his junior campaign. Iverson did not play his senior season, but went on to Georgetown, where he developed into the No. 1 pick of the 1996 NBA Draft and a NBA Hall of Famer.

You can catch McClung on the Ballislife HS Basketball Weekly Showcase twice this week as fans look to see him continue the scoring onslaught. Gate City takes on Ridgeview (Clintwood, Va.) on Tuesday, February 6 at 7:45 pm (ET). On Wednesday night February 7 at 7:45 pm (ET), the Blue Devils take on Daniel Boone (Gray, Tenn.).

Will McClung keep his scoring up and will North Mecklenburg help Gate City eventually crack the FAB 50 if both programs keep up the winning ways?

RELATED: Ballislife HS Basketball Weekly Showcase | Gate City (VA) vs. Ridgeview (VA) Game Link | Gate City (VA) vs. Daniel Boone (TN) Game Link 

Updated FAB 50 National Team Rankings
Powered by www.ebooksnet.com

(Eighth poll of 2017-18 regular season; Through games played on Sunday, February 4; Previous ranking in parentheses; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates forfeits and defaults not included; ***Indicates foundation games not included)

Dropped Out: Previous No. 24 Riverside Academy (Reserve, La.), No. 38 Hazel Park (Hazel Park, Mich.), No. 50 Trinity Episcopal (Richmond, Va.).

Bubble Teams:  Belleville West (Belleville, Ill.) 20-2; Bishop Miege (Shawnee Mission, Kan.) 13-1; Broken Arrow (Broken Arrow, Okla.) 17-1; Camel Christian (Matthews, N.C.) 23-3; Canton (Canton, Miss.) 23-3; Chaminade (St. Louis, Mo.) 16-3; Christ the King (Middle Village, N.Y.) 16-4; Cypress Falls (Houston, Texas) 26-3; DeKaney (Houston, Texas) 28-3; Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 21-0; Gate City (Gate City, Va.) 19-1; Hazel Park (Hazel Park, Mich.) 13-1; Hazelwood Central (Florissant, Mo.) 20-1; Lake Taylor (Norfolk, Va.) 17-1; Las Cruces (Las Cruces, N.M.) 22-0; Lincoln (Tacoma, Wash.) 20-0; Loundon Valley (Purcellville, Va.) 19-1; Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 18-6; McPherson (McPherson, Kan.) 13-1; Memorial (Tulsa, Okla.) 19-1; Mills University Studies (Little Rock, Ark.) 19-2; Meridian (Meridian, Miss.) 25-1; Morgan County (Madison, Ga.) 24-1; Mountain Brook (Mountain Brook, Ala.) 27-5; Mt. Vernon (Mt. Vernon, N.Y.) 18-1; Newton (Covington, Ga.) 22-3; Norcross (Norcross, Ga.) 22-3; North Little Rock (North Little Rock, Ark.) 18-4; Northwest Classen (Oklahoma City, Okla.) 21-1; Olive Branch (Olive Branch, Miss.) 19-4; Olympus (Salt Lake City, Utah) 19-0; Osceola (Kissimmee, Fla.) 18-5; Oshkosh North (Oshkosh, Wis.) 17-1; Pickerington North (Pickerington, Ohio) 16-2; Rainier Beach (Seattle, Wash.) 17-3; Ranney School (Tinton Falls, N.J.) 16-4; Rayville (Rayville, La.) 27-0***; Richland (Richland, Wash.) 20-0; Riverside Academy (Reserve, La.) 25-1***; Rock Canyon (Highlands Ranch, Col.) 18-1; Skyline (Ann Arbor, Mich.) 13-0; Solon (Solon, Ohio) 15-0; South Central (Winterville, N.C.) 20-0; South Garland (Garland, Texas) 28-3; Southwind (Memphis, Tenn.) 24-1**; ThunderRidge (Highlands Ranch, Col.) 18-1; Trinity (Louisville, Ky.) 22-2; Trinity Episcopal (Richmond, Va.) 19-3; Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) 18-2; Webster Groves (Webster Groves, Mo.) 12-7.

Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 18 years ago.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

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Findlay Prep opened up No. 9 in the preseason FAB 50 National Team Rankings, but is starting to look like one of the very best teams in the nation with a balanced attack that's only going to get better when Wake Forest-bound guard Jamie Lewis and big man Bol Bol begin to play.

It was a balanced attack in the wire-to-wire victory over Hillcrest Prep, as Arkansas-bound Reggie Chaney had 16 points while Texas Tech-bound Kyler Edwards added 15 points and six assists. Jack Schweitz was once against excellent off the bench with 15 points while guard T.J. Moss added seven points and five assists.

Hillcrest Prep, which fell to 2-2, was led by Artest with 16 points while Walker finished with 13 points after not converting a field goal in the first half.

CLICK HERE to watch a replay of the full game broadcast.

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The Pilots took on AZ Compass Prep on Wednesday night (Bol Bol didn't play) and won the game, 102-84, behind 27 points from Vanover, a Memphis recruit. Findlay Prep is now 4-0 on the young season. With Vanover and Bol, how high can this team climb in the FAB 50?

You can check out the Pilots on Saturday, November 18 when we broadcast live Findlay Prep versus Hillcrest Prep of Phoenix, Ariz, which features top 2020 recruit Kyree Walker. The broadcast will begin at 10 pm (ET). CLICK HERE to watch it for FREE!

We will be broadcasting a total of 24 games throughout the 2017-18 season! Fans can add each game to their watchlist by following the Ballislife HS Basketball Weekly Showcase Show Page!

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By Ronnie Flores

After preseason No. 1 Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) fell 83-79 to California's top-ranked club, Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.), in a showcase game, it put preseason No. 2 La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) in position to take over the top spot in the FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com. When Sierra Canyon later fell in the championship of the Les Schwab Invitational to then No. 24 Nathan Hale (Seattle, Wash.), it made the decision that much easier.

La Lumiere has been dominant so far in its 14 wins and upcoming tests will test its ranking positioning. After winning the prestigious City of Palms Classic in Ft. Myers, Fla. with a 63-54 victory over No. 8 Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.), the Eagles were also considered for No. 1. They have four wins over FAB 50 ranked foes, including a 70-66 semifinal victory over No. 3 IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.), and field one of coach Kevin Boyle's finest defensive units ever.

We saw no need to make a switch or jump La Lumiere because the Lakers have been quite impressive both times we evaluated them and beat the Hamilton Heights Christian Academy (Chattanooga, Tenn.) team that defeated Memphis East handily (70-56). Montverde Academy actually will play Memphis East for the second time this season at the Penny Hardaway Hoopfest in Memphis on January 7.

La Lumiere takes on No. 5 Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) on the same day at the Cancer Research Classic in Wheeling, W. Va. and faces battle-tested Sierra Canyon on January 16 at the Hoophall Classic in Springfield, Mass. Sierra Canyon will be traveling from the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions in Springfield, Mo., in a tournament field that includes Montverde Academy, Findlay Prep, Memphis East and No. 23 Greenforest Christian Academy (Decatur, Ga.)

The real debate came at who should be slotted in the No. 3 position, and we decided to go with IMG Academy over Nathan Hale. IMG Academy was very competitive versus No. 2 Montverde Academy and has an impressive slate of victories, including ones over No. 10 Patrick School (Elizabeth, N.J.), No. 13 West Oaks Academy (Orlando, Fla.), No. 40 Pebblebrook (Mableton, Ga.), No. 43 Norcross (Norcross, Ga.) and No. 45 Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, Pa.). Hale nipped Sierra Canyon in the Les Schwab title game and had Oak Hill not dropped a second game after losing to Sierra Canyon, Hale likely would have check in at No. 3.

Sierra Canyon fell one spot in the rankings to make room for Findlay Prep, which not only takes on top-ranked La Lumiere this week but defeated Oak Hill Academy more convincingly. Sierra Canyon was in a dogfight, whereas the Pilots were in complete control and cruised to a 78-62 win over the Warriors in the title game of the Iolani Classic in Hawaii. Kentucky-bound P.J. Washington is having a standout season so far playing for his father Paul Washington Sr. As noted in the preseason, the coaching carousel, not the talent level, kept the Pilots low in the rankings but Washington Sr. has done an excellent job and built good chemistry in his first year at the helm.

Leading Mr. Basketball USA candidate Michael Porter Jr. of Nathan Hale averaged 32 point and 16.7 rebounds in four Les Schwab Invitational victories and is keeping word on his promise that the Raiders' preseason ranking was too low as well. Bound for the University of Washington after spending his underclass years at Father Tolton (Columbia, Mo.), Porter Jr. had 27 points 15 rebounds and four steals versus Sierra Canyon, while top-ranked junior Marvin Bagley III had 22 points for the one-loss Trailblazers.

Teams that play demanding schedules were not dropped from the FAB 50 for multiple losses if there were off-setting wins over ranked foes. Hamilton Heights Christian Academy is a good example. We also are in the stage of the season where we reward undefeated teams with a signature win.

We also didn't drop previous No. 6 Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, Pa.) out because All-American guard Quade Green got hurt during the team's first game of the City of Palms versus IMG Academy. When he was healthy, the Saints defeated No. 14 Imhotep Charter, which recently captured the Beach Ball Classic in Myrtle Beach, S.C., 78-76, over No. 46 Evanston (Evanston, Ill.).

According to coach Carl Arrigale, the Kentucky-bound Green has now recovered from his back and ankle injuries.

Updated FAB 50 National Team Rankings
Powered by www.ebooksnet.com

(Third poll of the 2016-17 regular season; Through games played on Sunday, January 1; Previous ranking in parentheses; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates forfeits and defaults not included)

Dropped Out: Previous No. 12 Curie (Chicago, Ill.), No. 26 Wagner (San Antonio, Texas), No. 28 Westlake (Atlanta, Ga.), No. 30 Cordova (Cordova, Tenn.), No. 32 Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.), No. 35 Rainier Beach (Seattle, Wash.), No. 38 Houston Math, Science & Tech (Houston, Texas), No. 41 Oldsmar Christian (Oldsmar, Fla.), No. 44 Meridian (Meridian, Miss.), No. 47 Corona Del Sol (Tempe, Ariz.), No. 50 Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park, Kan.).

Bubble Teams:  Apollo (Glendale, Ariz.) 14-3; Apple Valley (Apple Valley, Minn.) 5-1; Archbishop Moeller (Cincinnati, Ohio) 9-0; Baldwin (Baldwin, N.Y.) 4-0; Basha (Chandler, Ariz.) 17-0; Birmingham (Lake Balboa, Calif.) 11-3; Blackman (Murfreesboro, Tenn.) 10-2; Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park, Kan.) 3-1; Brandon (Brandon, Miss.) 15-1; Chaminade (St. Louis, Mo.) 10-1; Champlin Park (Champlin, Minn.) 8-0; Clark (Las Vegas, Nev.) 12-2; Desert Vista (Phoenix, Ariz.) 9-2; Edmond North (Edmond, Okla.) 8-1; Edwardsville (Edwardsville, Ill.) 11-1;Fairport (Buffalo, N.Y.) 7-0; Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 9-0; Fern Creek (Louisville, Ky.) 12-1; First Love Christian Academy (Washington, Pa.) 8-1; Foothills Christian (El Cajon, Calif.) 12-2; Grand Rapids Christian (Grand Rapids, Mich.) 3-0; Houston Math, Science & Tech (Houston, Texas) 22-1; Hudson Catholic (Jersey City, N.J.) 5-2; Lincoln (Brooklyn, N.Y.) 11-2; Linden (Linden, N.J.) 4-1; McCallie School (Chattanooga, Tenn.) 15-2; Meridian (Meridian, Miss.) 15-1; Minneapolis North (Minneapolis, Minn.) 8-1; Newton (Covington, Ga.) 13-0; Oak Ridge (Oak Ridge, Tenn.) 12-2; Omaha South (Omaha, Neb.) 6-0; Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.) 8-2; Pickerington Central (Pickerington, Ohio) 7-0; Pleasant Grove (Pleasant Grove, Utah) 10-1; Potomac (Dumfries, Va.) 9-1; Providence Day (Charlotte, N.C.) 12-5; Rainier Beach (Seattle, Wash.) 4-2; Rock Creek Christian (Upper Marlboro, Md.) 10-0; Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) 8-1; St. Mary's (Elizabeth, N.J.) 7-0; St. John's (Washington, D.C.) 10-3; Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.) 12-3; Trotwood-Madison (Trotwood, Ohio) 6-0; University Lab (Baton Rouge, La.) 15-2; University of Detroit Jesuit (Detroit, Mich.) 3-1; Vashon (St. Louis, Mo.) 9-2; Wagner (San Antonio, Texas) 18-1; Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) 14-2; Wayne (Huber Heights, Ohio) 6-1; Wing's Academy (Bronx, N.Y.) 10-1; Wise (Upper Marlboro, Md.) 10-0; Woodcreek (Roseville, Calif.) 13-2; Word of God Academy (Raleigh, N.C.) 13-4.

Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 17 years ago.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

The post FAB 50 Rings in the New Year With a NEW No. 1! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

LEADING SCORERS
PJ Washington-24Pts
Keonte Kennedy-30Pts
Lamine Diane-23PTs
Brock Cunningham-20Pts

Day1 of The Thanksgiving Hoopfest is in the books, with a surprise Overtime Game against Prep Powerhouse Findlay Prep. Austin Westlake is filled with Juniors, who let everyone in the gym know they're not scared of anyone...Also them boys can shoot! Here's the Raw Footage Game Recap.
 

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In part No. 3 of our "State of the Game" BIL exclusive, we sit down with Peck to discuss his unique perspective of the game as a former high school coach at an elite program (Findlay Prep), a former coach in the D-League (Idaho Stampede) and a current college assistant. Peck offers advice to high school coaches dealing with elite talent, offers advice to young players looking to make the cut in pro ball and what colleges look for in a recruit.?

RELATED: Part 1 - Lou Richie (HS Coach)?|??Part 2 - John Impleman (College Coach)?| Part 4 - Jerry Meyer (National Scout)?|?Part 5 - Joel Francisco (National Scout)?|?Part 6 - Justin Hawkins (Former Player)?|?Part 7 - Tony Dorado (Shoe Company Manager)?|?Part 8 - Clark Francis (National Scout)

In part No. 4 on January 26, we'll sit down and talk to 247Sports.com?National Recruiting Analyst Jerry Meyer.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

The post State of the Game: Michael Peck (College Coach) appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

All 50 teams are written up with explanations for why they were placed in these positions. Top-ranked Oak Hill Academy was the nation's No. 1 team in 1993, 1994, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2007 and 2012 and is seeking its eighth FAB 50 mythical national title. No. 2 Montverde Academy of Florida was the preseason No. 1 team for three consecutive seasons (2013-2015) and is looking to become the first team in high school basketball history to earn four consecutive mythical national titles. CLICK HERE to view the all-time list of preseason No. 1 ranked teams.

RELATED: Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50 (31-50) | FAB 50 Update: What Harry Giles' Injury Means | Preseason Regional Top 20 Rankings

Montverde Academy or Oak Hill Academy: Who's More Deserving To Begin The 2015-16 Season No. 1?

In recent seasons, two powerful programs have dominated the national rankings landscape and this season they will be the major influencers in determining the eventual 2015-16 mythical national champion.

Oak Hill Academy of Virginia earned its first national ranking in 1979-80 (No. 9 by Basketball Times) when it finished 36-0. The Warriors had talented teams in the early 1980s, but a renegade image. The program turned to Steve Smith for the 1985-86 season and he helped changed the famous board school's image and the program has been a staple of credible national rankings since.

Oak Hill Academy has captured seven FAB 50 national titles, the latest in 2011-12 when it finished 44-0. That same season, Montverde Academy of Florida was in the running for the mythical national title until it lost in the ESPN NHSI (now Dick's Sporting Goods High School National Tournament) to Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.), 86-83, in double overtime after the Eagles built a late 18-point lead. Montverde Academy used that as motivation going into the next season and is on a roll ever since.

Montverde Academy captured the Dick's Tournament and earned the FAB 50 title at the conclusion of the 2012-13 season after opening as preseason No. 1. The Eagles also were preseason No. 1 in the subsequent two seasons and both seasons earned the final No. 1 ranking after winning the Dick's Tournament in New York. Oak Hill Academy had Montverde Academy on the ropes in the opening round of the Dick's tournament in 2013 before falling in overtime, 77-71, and the Warriors lost to Kevin Boyle's Eagles in the last two championship games - 71-62 in 2014 and 70-61 last season.

Last season Montverde Academy joined the McClymonds (Oakland, Calif.) teams of 1958-60 as only the second program ever to capture three consecutive boys’ basketball mythical national titles. Boyle's program is the only to do it since the advent of weekly national rankings and considering the talent level of national programs, the increased attention and scrutiny of national rankings and the schedules elite teams play to be in position to compete for a mythical national title compared to its counterparts from 40 and 50 years ago, Montverde Academy's recent run is one of the most impressive team accomplishments in high school basketball history.

The Eagles’ recent success leads us to the question -- does Montverde Academy deserve to be ranked No. 1 nationally, regardless of its personnel changes, until somebody defeats them in a win-or-go-home contest?

To answer that question we looked at previous FAB 50 national rankings we compiled. At one point during the national record 151-game winning streak put together by the De La Salle (Concord, Calif.) football program between 1992 and 2003, we came to the executive decision the Spartans would be No. 1 until somebody beat them on the field. De La Salle earned four consecutive wire-to-wire national No. 1 finishes between 2000-03. After the 2001 season, it was an easy call.

_{Braxton Key (formerly known as Braxton Blackwell) is one of the high-profile transfers at Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.), which might have its deepest team in 12 years. Photo: Kelly Kline/adidas}

The Montverde Academy question is not as easy a call. The Eagles have lost regular season games during their remarkable three-year run, only to bounce back and win Dick's Nationals at the end of the season. In basketball (in comparison to football) one player can make a huge difference in a team's fortunes and while history and prior success comes into play with regards to the FAB 50 formula, the current personnel matters the most.

With those three factors in mind, the decision is to begin Oak Hill Academy as the preseason No. 1 team in the FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com. It's a close call, but we aren't going to over penalize the Warriors for losing to Montverde Academy in the past two Dick's Tournament title games -- just as we didn't over penalize Montverde Academy to open the 2012-13 season after losing the year before to Findlay Prep in heartbreaking fashion.

With 6-foot-10 power forward Harry Giles in the fold surrounded by a two-deep roster of future D1 players, Steve Smith has a club deserving of the No. 1 national ranking. The graduation of 2015 Mr. Basketball USA Ben Simmons (now at LSU) from Montverde Academy and the transfer of Giles, last season’s national junior player of the year at Wesleyan Christian Academy (High Point, N.C.), is enough to tip the scales in favor of the Warriors.

Make no mistake, Montverde Academy has a fine roster and when it's all said and done, it will challenge for national No. 1 honors. The difference is the Warriors are more senior-oriented and Montverde doesn't have an upperclassman the caliber of Oak Hill’s 2015-16 Mr. Basketball USA candidate originally from North Carolina.

“We're excited for this year because this is the deepest team we had maybe ever," said Smith, who enters the campaign with a 981-64 career mark. "Whether we have some injuries or get into serious foul trouble, we got good enough depth that it shouldn’t affect us much."

This is the seventh time Oak Hill Academy has been the preseason No. 1. The 2006-07 team was the last one to do it and the Warriors ended up 40-1 behind the stellar backcourt of Brandon Jennings, Nolan Smith and Alex Legion to capture the mythical national title.

Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50
National Team Rankings

Compiled by Ronnie Flores

(Final 2014-15 ranking in parenthesis; *Forfeit wins-losses not included; Look for preseason Region-By-Region Top 20 Rankings on Tuesday, November 10 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Monday, November 23.)

RELATED: Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50 (31-50)

1. (2) Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) 46-2*
Key Players: PF Harry Giles 6-10 2016 (No. 1 Hoop Scoop, Grassroots Hoops National Junior Player of the Year), SF Mario Kegler 6-7 2016 (No. 18 Hoop Scoop, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), SF Braxton Key 6-7 2016 (No. 33 Hoop Scoop), PG Matt Coleman 6-2 2017 (No. 23 Scout.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), SG Devontae Shuler 6-3 2017 (No. 22 247Sports.com), SF Montez Mathis 6-4 2018 (No. 49 247Sports.com).

Why This Ranking: The Warriors have the deepest team with a combination of size, experience and talent in the country and arguably the best player among ranked teams. Besides Giles, Smith has five other seniors on the roster including 6-foot-7, 275-pound Joe Hampton (Penn St.) and 7-foot, 250-pound Rodney Miller (Miami). Both are holdovers from last year’s club and give the Warriors the ability to go big to take some pressure off Giles’ defensive responsibilities or help wear smaller teams down. With Kegler and Key (previously known as Braxton Blackwell), Oak Hill has tremendous firepower on the wings and potentially three players that can take over high level games. Mathis is one of the leaders of the second unit and helps lift the play of Shuler, who Mathis has bonded with in his short time in the hills of Southwest Virginia. “I didn’t expect Devontae to be as good a player as he is,” Smith. “He’s a great defender who could start for us. It’s going to be hard to keep him off the floor.”

The Skinny: This is Oak Hill’s deepest team since its 2003-04 club and this Warriors’ edition could be their best team since Rajon Rondo and Josh Smith led that 38-0 club. Steve Smith could institute a two-platoon system (he may tinker with it but will eventually settle on a rotation) and practices will realistically be tougher than many of the games. Giles’ approach and the program’s motivation will be a hard combination for other teams to overcome. “Harry works as hard as anyone on the team,” Smith said. “Everyone on the team likes him and are not jealous of him. It makes it much easier for me to coach the team because they respect what a good player he is. Harry wants to win because he hasn’t won a high school championship on the national level.” Smith wants the team to improve defensively to be prepared for the meat of its schedule in December and January. Even if Oak Hill finishes the regular season unbeaten, success will be defined by how the Warriors close at a tournament they have a 8-6 all-time record at.

2. (1) Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 31-1
Key Players: PG Howard Washington 6-2 2016 (No. 120 Rivals.com, Butler commit), PF E.J. Montgomery 6-10 2018 (No. 3 ESPN.com), PF Silvio De Sousa 6-8 2018 (No. 2 Scout.com), C Micah Potter 6-10 2016 (No. 97 ESPN.com, Ohio State commit), PG Marcus Carr 6-2 2017 (No. 56 Scout.com), C Bruno Fernando 6-10 2016 (No. 100 Scout.com), PG Devonta Jordan 6-1 2016.
Why This Ranking: The Eagles are the three-time defending FAB 50 champions and despite graduation losses, have the talent, coaching and track record deserving of this spot. Coach Kevin Boyle has arguably the best collection of young talent in the country, but the path to success this season will be more of a collective team effort than the past three title-winning clubs. The 2013 and 2014 teams included a future No. 2 NBA Draft pick (D’Angelo Russell) and possibly the top pick in the 2016 draft in LSU freshman Ben Simmons. Last year’s team relied on Simmons heavily to facilitate and score and because this year’s team doesn’t have anyone capable of that production, Oak Hill Academy gets the nod. It doesn’t mean the Eagles can’t finish No. 1 four times in a row if a go-to frontcourt scorer emerges and the Eagles can improve their overall outside shooting. Washington, a regular last season, provides stability in the backcourt while Carr, a blur in the open court, is a capable defender and scorer. Fernando will man the middle and Potter gives the Eagles versatility defensively. “We can mix and match with any group in the country,” assistant coach Rae Miller said.
The Skinny: There might not be a longer team defensively in the country and if the offense catches up, this team could be every bit as good as last year. This team is more versatile and skilled than last year’s championship club and won’t be over reliant on a single player. Montgomery is a capable scorer from 15-feet in and De Sousa, a good shooter, gained valuable experience on Montverde’s prep team last year. The talent is there, but in order for the Eagles to be in position to seriously challenge for No. 1 Montgomery or De Sousa will have to step up in crutch time as so many of Boyle’s players have recently in the program’s big games. “We have a much younger look, but we have a veteran mentality, winning tradition and the chemistry has been there from day one,” Miller said.

3. (9) Roman Catholic (Philadelphia, Pa.) 29-2
Key Players: PG Tony Carr 6-4 2016 (No. 47 Rivals.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American, Penn St. commit), SG Nazeer Bostick 6-4 2016 (Penn St. commit), SF Lamar Stevens 6-7 2016 (No. 80 Rivals.com, Penn St. commit).
Why This Ranking: This storied parochial program has the talent, experience and size necessary to navigate through the tough Philadelphia Catholic League and compete with the nation’s best teams. Carr is a take-no-prisoners type and teams up with Bostick to form one of the nation’s finest backcourts. D’Andre Vilmar (6-4, 2016) gets it done on the wing and Paul Newman (6-8, 2016) is a hard-nosed big man with experience. The Cahillites ended the five-year reign of No. 9 Neumann Goretti as Catholic League champs and went on to make history by capturing the program’s first-ever state crown with a win over crosstown Martin Luther King in the PIAA Class AAAA title game. With four returning starters, coach Chris McNesby’s team was going to be terrific but the addition of Stevens should make Roman serious national title contenders.
The Skinny: We are going out on a limb a bit with the Cahillites in this spot, but they finished as a top 10 team last year and will be better in 2015-16. On the flip side, the expectations are also up with the addition of Stevens. It’s not as if the team will be thrown together, either, or a case of not enough basketballs to go around. Stevens has experience playing with Carr, Bostick and Newman on the Team Final club team and that should pay dividends for the team not slipping up against lesser foes. Roman Catholic cannot afford to lose any in-state contests as it did twice in league play last season in order to maintain its lofty ranking. If it holds court, Roman’s game versus No. 2 Montverde Academy at the Hoop Hall Classic on January 16 could be one of this season’s most important.

_{Markus Howard's clutch shooting and play-making should help Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) in its big games this season. Photo: USA Basketball}

4. (5) Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) 29-3
Key Players: PF P.J. Washington 6-8 2017 (No. 15 ESPN.com), SF O’Shae Brissett 6-8 2017 (No. 46 247Sports.com), SG Markus Howard 5-11 2017 (No. 10 Hoop Scoop, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), PG Skylar Mays 6-1 2016 (No. 105 Rivals.com, LSU commit).
Why This Ranking: The Pilots have been a staple in the FAB 50 since first becoming eligible for the 2008-09 season and have finished no lower than No. 14 in any of the last seven seasons.

They once again have the talent necessary to compete for a Dick’s Nationals championship and a FAB 50 No. 1 ranking. Washington will be the leader upfront for a group that includes only two seniors. One of the seniors is Mays, a talented and crafty guard who can excel as a scorer or distributor. Joining Mays in the backcourt is Howard, who this summer proved to be one of the nation’s best scorers and clutch performers. If some of the underclassmen off the bench step up, there is no reason why the Pilots won’t have a good chance of winning the last game of the 2015-16 season.

The Skinny: UNLV commit Justin Jackson transferring out of the program to one in Canada likely cost the Pilots a spot in these rankings. His loss will be felt, but if Brissett and Baylor commit Tristan Clark (6-7, 2017) take their game to the next level, Findlay Prep won’t miss a beat. Another key off-season occurrence was, for the first time in four years, the program won’t begin the season with a new head coach. Andy Johnson returns for his second season and that is a plus. It’s not as if the Pilots had a bad season in 2014-15, losing in the Dick’s Nationals semifinals to eventual champion Montverde Academy by four points. Findlay, which will play No. 35 St. Benedict’s, No. 25 High Point Christian and No. 39 Bishop Gorman in consecutive games in January, is 12-4 all-time in Dick’s Nationals games.

5. (23) DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) 33-4
Key Players: SG Markelle Fultz 6-4 2016 (No. 7 Scout.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American, Washington commit), SF D.J. Harvey 6-6 2017 (No. 5 247Sports.com), SG Nate Darling 6-4 2016 (UAB commit).

Why This Ranking: DeMatha has the firepower, winning tradition and plays the national schedule necessary to compete for the FAB 50 title. The Stags not only return nine lettermen, they return their top three scorers and five of their top six bucket-getters from a team that finished with the best regular season record in the ultra-competitive Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (14-2) only to fall to No. 47 Gonzaga in the WCAC title game. Fultz went from the J.V. club as a tenth-grader to WCAC Player of the Year as a junior and is now considered one of the nation’s best players. Harvey will be a rare four-year DeMatha starter and is one of the best underclass small forwards in the country. Darling and wing Kellon Taylor (6-5, 2017) don’t get the national accolades, but their production will be key as DeMatha navigates through the toughest league in the country and some key showcase games.
The Skinny: The storied Stags program could end up having their best season since coach Mike Jones took over for the legendary Morgan Wootten for the 2002-03 season -- if the chips fall into place. The last time DeMatha finished unbeaten (30-0 in 1990-91), Jones was a standout for the No. 5 team in the country. If DeMatha finishes unbeaten it will be in prime position to earn its fifth mythical national title (1962, 1965, 1978 and 1984). Even if the Stags drop a game, they won’t be as hurt as some of the other top-ranked FAB 50 teams because of the nature of the WCAC, but they’ll need to come out on top in games versus No. 7 Chaminade at the Hoop Hall Classic and No. 2 Montverde Academy at the Cancer Research Classic to have a realistic shot. If the Stags win the Les Schwab Invitational (which includes No. 1 Oak Hill Academy and No. 6 Garfield), the game versus Montverde Academy on January 2 could determine the top-ranked team going into the first rankings of 2016.

6. (32) Garfield (Seattle, Wash.) 27-2
Key Players: SG Jaylen Nowell 6-4 2017 (No. 38 247Sports.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), SF Alphonso Anderson 6-6 2016, PG Jayshaun Agosto 5-10 2016 (No. 49 Hoop Scoop), PG Terrell Brown Jr. 6-1 2016.
Why This Ranking: Just as Oak Hill Academy finished unbeaten in 1979-80, Garfield was undefeated that season (25-0) and this edition of the Bulldogs has a chance to go down as best in school history and as one of Washington’s best ever. There is that much blend of returning talent, newcomers and motivation. It begins with Nowell, who averaged 23 ppg and was named state tourney MVP after leading Garfield to the WIAA Class 3A state crown over cross-town Rainier Beach after winning the 4A crown in 2013-14. Anderson is a double-double machine and Agosto is one of the West Coast’s most underappreciated talents. Transfers Daejon Davis (6-4, 2017) and J’Raan Brooks (6-9, 2018) and newcomer PJ. Fuller (6-4, 2019) provide excellent depth. That trio and Curtis Walker (6-5, 2017) would star at nearly any other program in the country, but must make individual sacrifices for the greater team goal.
The Skinny: The goal for this team is to take one step at a time towards an unbeaten regular season, state crown and a berth in Dick’s Nationals. When Rainier Beach was invited to the prestigious end-of-season tournament in New York in 2014, it finished No. 6 as the highest-ranked team ever from the Apple State. That’s the spot Garfield opens up at and considering No. 5 DeMatha and No. 1 Oak Hill Academy will compete at the Les Schwab Invitational with the Bulldogs, they will have the opportunity to move up. “Rainier Beach playing in it motivates me a lot,” Nowell said. “If we go there, we can’t get exposed. We’re not just going for the state title, but the national one. Our defense is what will set us apart.” Coach Ed Haskins is cautiously optimistic, but he’s well aware of the opportunity this team has on a national scale. “If we compete, play together, work hard and have fun and don’t get satisfied we can be special.”

7. (NR) Chaminade (St. Louis, Mo.) 25-4
Key Players: SF Jayson Tatum 6-8 2016 (No. 2 ESPN.com, Grassroots Hoops Second Team All-American, Duke commit), PF Tyler Cook 6-9 2016 (No. 51 ESPN.com, Iowa commit), PG Mike Lewis 6-1 2016 (Duquense commit), SG Reggie Crawford 6-3 2017, C Will Gladson 6-10 2016.

Why This Ranking: The Red Devils have one of the nation’s best players and the size necessary to compete at the highest level of high school basketball. Tatum is a legitimate Mr. Basketball USA candidate after averaging 26 ppg, 11 rpg and 3 apg as a junior and his supporting cast is strong. Cook does a great job protecting Tatum inside with his rebounding and screening ability and doesn’t need offensive plays ran for him to make an impact. The production of Lewis, who can play both guard sports, and Gladson will be key in Chaminade’s big out-of-state tests, while Crawford is a grid-hoop stud who provides athleticism and toughness.
The Skinny: Chaminade is the first of many talented teams in this year’s FAB 50 that has redemption on its mind. Normally a third place finish in Missouri’s Class 5A state tournament (Chaminade was stunned by Park Hill South of Riverside 53-50 in the semifinals) would knock a team back a few notches in the preseason rankings, but we’re deviating from the norm a bit because of the Red Devils’ talent level and their schedule. The presence of Tatum allows Chaminade to play in prestigious events and right away it will be tested versus No. 1 Oak Hill Academy in a nationally-televised game on December 3 at the Marshall County Hoopfest. The Red Devils will also be tested at the City of Palms Classic in Ft. Myers, Fla., which includes No. 2 Montverde Academy, No. 11 Chino Hills, No. 16 The Patrick School, plus six other FAB 50 ranked teams.

_{Trevon Duval's arrival at Advanced International Prep (Dallas) has the Bulldogs thinking it has a realistic shot at winning Dick's Nationals. Photo: Kelly Kline/adidas}

8. (NR) Advanced Prep International (Dallas, Texas) 0-0
Key Players: PG Trevon Duval 6-2 2017 (No. 1 247Sports.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), PF Billy Preston 6-10 2017 (No. 5 Hoop Scoop), SG Terrance Ferguson 6-6 2016 (No. 10 ESPN.com, Alabama commit), SF Mark Vital 6-6 2016 (No. 55 247Sports.com, Baylor commit).
Why This Ranking: A.P.I. opened its doors to approximately 50 students in September and four of them just happen to be some of the best high school basketball players in the country. A.P.I is not affiliated with Prime Prep, the charter school co-founded by ex-NFL player Deion Sanders that closed its doors in January, but that’s where A.P.I.’s coach Ray Forsett coached for three years before getting a fresh start at a new program with four of his old players, including Preston and Ferguson.

Preston is one of the more versatile talents in the country, while Ferguson is an athletic wing with a pretty shooting stroke. Preston is ranked as high as top five nationally in his class, but he’s only the second best junior on the team because of the presence of Duval, who is ranked by more than one recruiting network as the top player in the 2017 class. He’s definitely one of the best players in the country regardless of class and his arrival from St. Benedict’s in New Jersey sends expectations through the roof and raises A.P.I.’s profile among curious outsiders.

The Skinny: The program is a member of the Texas Christian Athletic League (A.P.I. is eligible for the FAB 50 because it’s part of a league/conference and is sanctioned to play UIL schools in regular season games) and while it will compete for the TCAL state title, the program obviously has national goals. Nysier Brooks (6-9, 2016) will man the middle as the fifth starter; unless Forsett goes “small” then he’ll turn to Robert Brown (6-7, 2017) with Preston sliding to the post. A.P.I. has plenty of options and firepower, but Forsett acknowledges team chemistry has to develop for the team to meet expectations. On paper this team could be a spot or two higher, but there is no previous track record to accurately gauge and predict success outside the fact its personnel is superior to most of its scheduled opponents.

9. (10) Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, Pa.) 29-2
Key Players: PG Quade Green 5-11 2017 (No. 32 247Sports.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), PF Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree 6-9 2017 (No. 78 247Sports.com), SG Zane Martin 6-3 2016 (Towson commit).

Why This Ranking: The Saints are one of four talented District 12 teams that won a PIAA state title (AAA) last season. Coach Carl Arrigale’s club is one of two that returns four starters this season with the difference being two losses to No. 3 Roman Catholic by a total of eights points. Neumann-Goretti will look to capture its third consecutive AAA title behind Green, a gutsy quarterback who can also put up big scoring numbers. Martin is an underrated talent who netted 26 points in the state title game. Power forward Emil Moody (6-5, 2017) came off the bench last season and the grid-hoop standout will have an expanded role. Arrigale employed a four-guard attack with devastating results and though the Saints will be without graduated Lamarr Kimble (St. Joseph’s), they shouldn’t miss a beat because of their 3-point shooting prowess, team speed, depth and young talent moving up.
The Skinny: The Saints were one basket away from a FAB 50 title in 2009-10 and this club has the potential to be better. Goretti will need to get by Roman Catholic in the Philly Catholic League and needs some key results to go its way in order to be in the position the 2009-10 team was. Neumann-Goretti doesn’t have overwhelming size, so the development and production of Cosby-Roundtree will be key and he most avoid foul trouble in big games. If Neumann Goretti can neutralize the advantages taller teams have on the boards, or at least keep those advantages to a minimum, it could be in serious contention for a mythical national title for the second time in seven seasons – provided it gets by archrival Roman Catholic.

_{Brian "Tugs" Bowen of La Lumiere (LaPorte, Ind.) is expected to pick up some of the scoring slack left by the graduation of Jalen Coleman. Photo: Kelly Kline/Under Armour}

10. (34) La Lumiere (LaPorte, Ind.) 24-3
Key Players: PF Jeremiah Tilmon 6-11 2017 (No. 17 Scout.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), SF Brian Bowen 6-7 2017 (No. 20 ESPN.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American), C James Banks 6-10 2016 (No. 58 ESPN.com, Texas commit).
Why This Ranking: When the Lakers added Tilmon it turned a very good team into a juggernaut capable of competing for a FAB 50 national title. The broad-shouldered post player is a powerful finisher and opens up La Lumiere second year coach Shane Heirman’s options in how he wants to attack teams.

The Lakers already had a lot of length and size with Banks (the second of three all-state players to transfer in along with Bowen) and returnee Kevin Zhang (6-8, 2018) before Tilmon transferred in. Newcomers Joey St. Pierre (6-8, 2017) and Algevon Elchelberger (6-8, 2016) give the Lakers a near embarrassment of riches in the frontcourt. The backcourt is talented, too, with returnees Brandon Cyrus (6-4, 2016) and Isaiah Coleman-Lands (6-0, 2017).
The Skinny: Heirman’s go-to scorer (second team Grassroots Hoops All-American Jalen Coleman) graduated, but Bowen has that type of scoring ability. With the added size and depth, this team should be better than last year’s club that was passed over for a Dick’s Nationals berth. Heirman knows his club has the potential to be special if the newcomers and veterans can quickly jell. La Lumiere plays a tough enough schedule where one loss shouldn’t hurt its post-season chances. It will play in the Iolani Classic, at the Slam Dunk To The Beach versus No. 35 St. Benedict’s and against No. 16 Patrick School at the Hoop Hall Classic. Playing an independent schedule, the keys for the Lakers’ rankings fortunes will be avoiding a loss to a lesser team that carries fifth-year players, having a stinker loss it cannot overcome and peaking at the end of the year (the program is 0-3 all-time at Dick’s Nationals).

11. (NR) Chino Hills (Chino Hills, Calif.) 24-8*
Key Players: PG Lonzo Ball 6-6 2016 (No. 4 247Sports.com, Grassroots Hoops First Team All-American, Cal-Hi Sports State Junior Player of the Year, UCLA commit), SF Li’Angelo Ball 6-4 2017 (No. 74 247Sports.com, UCLA commit), SG La’Melo Ball 5-9 2019 (UCLA commit).

Why This Ranking: Similar to Chaminade, the Huskies have plenty of incentive heading into this season. Last year, they were stung by forfeits and an upset loss to San Ramon Valley (Danville, Calif.) in the CIF Division I state final. Coach Steve Baik has plenty of newcomers on this team, but is optimistic as long as he has the Ball brothers in the lineup, particularly senior Lonzo Ball, the CIF’s best returning player. Lonzo Ball averaged 24.3 ppg, 11.3 rpg, 9.1 apg, 4.5 spg and 3.5 bpg as a junior and is as unique a talent as there is in the country with his ability to rebound like a power forward and pass the ball from various angles and spots even other good high school players can’t. Li’Angelo Ball can score in bunches and incoming freshman La’Melo Ball is as flamboyant and fearless as a freshman can be. This team has an abundance of firepower and better athleticism than last season.
The Skinny: There are two teams clearly a notch above the rest in California – the Huskies and No. 13 Sierra Canyon. We debated long and hard between the two and decided to give Chino Hills the nod as preseason No. 1 from California. It wasn’t so much Chino Hills had an excellent summer, including beating Sierra Canyon in the Ron Massey Memorial Fall Hoops Classic after trailing by 13 late. It’s the fact while Sierra Canyon has the better overall personnel, none of its individual players have proven it can carry a team like Lonzo Ball has the ability to do. That’s what makes the Huskies’ ranking so precarious – the team is clearly not among the nation’s elite when he’s not on the floor and while the Huskies look like world-beaters at times, other times they take bad shot attempts and look average. The difference could be last year’s experience and the emergence of Elijah Scott (6-4, 2017) as a big-time player.

12. (NR) Oldsmar Christian (Oldsmar, Fla.) 32-6*
Key Players: SF Troy Baxter 6-7 2016 (No. 70 247Sports.com, South Florida commit), PG Eric Hester 6-4 2016 (No. 87 Rivals.com, Florida commit), SF L.J. Figueroa 6-5 2017 (No. 62 247Sports.com), PF Dontay Bassett 6-9 2016 (No. 246 247Sports.com, Florida commit).

Why This Ranking: This is a program with a boatload of talent eager to show it has what it takes to be considered among the nation’s best. Coach Jordan Fair has strong feelings that overall strength of schedule and league/conference strength should play a bigger factor than overall won-loss record and with his collection of talent, we’d be surprised if the Eagles’ loss total is not half of last year’s. With Hester leading the way, Oldsmar Christian’s backcourt has a lot of the toughness and intangibles of Neumann-Goretti’s and there is plenty of length and firepower on the wing. Baxter came into his own this summer and if Bassett has a big year, this team will be hard to stop.
The Skinny: Last year, the Sunshine Independent Athletic Association (SIAA) had two teams in the preseason Top 25, but they faltered so we are a bit hesitant to put Oldsmar Christian in the Top 10. This team has the talent to be that high and is the clear SIAA favorite with no consensus No. 2. The teams do tend to beat up one another, but regardless, Fair is looking for that signature win to catapult his club into the greater national conversation. With supporting talents such as combo guard Herman Williams (6-2, 2016) and Antwann Jones (6-6, 2018), the Eagles definitely have the ability to do just that. They will get their opportunity at events such as the Chick-Fil-A Classic (No. 1 Oak Hill Academy will participate), the Penny Hardaway Hoopfest and the UA Holiday Classic in San Diego, Calif.

13. (31) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 26-4
Key Players: PF Cody Riley 6-7 2017 (No. 14 Hoop Scoop, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American, Cal-Hi Sports State Sophomore of the Year), PG Devearl Ramsey 5-10 2016 (No. 81 247Sports.com, Nevada commit), PF Ira Lee 6-8 2017 (No. 25 247Sports.com), PG Remy Martin 5-10 2017 (No. 96 Rivals.com).

_{Ronnie and Frank touch upon Sierra Canyon}

Why This Ranking: As we were piecing together the FAB 50, we decided to begin the Trailblazers two slots behind California No. 1 Chino Hills. Ironically, as the list was finalized, we realized it was one spot higher than coach Ty Nichols’ club began last season. This club is big, fast in the open court and has tons of experience. Despite the fact Sierra Canyon rolled to the CIF Division V state title, the Trailblazers and Chino Hills both lost in the CIF Southern Section Open Division quarterfinals and still have plenty to prove locally. Riley is as productive as any forward in the country, Ramsey is a ball-hawk and a complete steal for Nevada, and Martin is as fast as any guard in California with the ball in his hands. The first eight players in the rotation are back and there isn’t a glaring weakness you can point to.
The Skinny: Lee is returning after missing last season with a shoulder injury and this is the season Nichols has been pointing to for two years. After all, the team went 3-1 at last year’s City of Palms Tournament and defeated No. 5 DeMatha with four sophomores in the starting lineup including Adam Sieko (6-3, 2017). If any team in the Top 15 is capable of moving up, it’s this club but it has to show overall improvement from last year. Nichols has to find out whom the go-to player is in crunch time at the Iolani Tournament, the Bass Pro TOC (whose field includes No. 1 Oak Hill Academy and No. 7 Chaminade) and against No. 2 Montverde Academy at the Hoop Hall Classic on national television.

14. (29) St. Anthony (Jersey City, N.J.) 28-2
Key Players: SG Jagan Mosely 6-3 2016 (No. 76 Hoop Scoop, Georgetown commit), SF Kaleb Bishop 6-7 2016, SG Idris Joyner 6-4 2016.
Why This Ranking: As has been the case in recent seasons, the Garden State has fine teams and two or three of them figure to be FAB 50 ranked throughout the season. Although Roselle Catholic beat the Friars three consecutive years for the Non-Public Group B title, we give the nod to St. Anthony as Jersey’s top-ranked preseason team over the Lions and The Patrick School because the Friars have a host of returnees off a team that only lost two games by a total of seven points. Mosely, who had 17 points in the title game loss, is one of the better shooting guards in the East and Bishop is an emerging wing who Naismith Hall of Fame coach Bob Hurley expects a big season from.
The Skinny: Had power forward Taurean Thompson decided not to transfer, St. Anthony would be pushing the Top 10. Coach Hurley does have some talented newcomers up front in Daniel Mading (6-9, 2017), Oscar Okeke (6-10, 2018), Savior Akuwovo (6-9, 2018) and Samson George (6-7, 2017), but they are going to need some time to develop and mesh with the veterans. The Friars will look to peak in February and will have to find a way to get past Roselle Catholic in order to maintain their lofty ranking. St. Anthony has won four FAB 50 titles under Hurley (1989, 1996, 2008, 2011), but must avoid any early letdowns for a shot at a fifth with this group.

15. (NR) Atascocita (Humble, Texas) 35-2
Key Players: PG Carsen Edwards 5-11 2016 (No. 127 247Sports.com, Grassroots Hoops Underclass All-American, Purdue commit), PG Greg Shead 5-11 2016 (Florida International commit), SG Brandon Loville 6-2 2016, SG Jerris Harris 6-1 2016, PF Matt Willrodt 6-4 2016.

Why This Ranking: You have to like a team that was nationally ranked a majority of last season which returns four starters and loses only three players off its roster. There are plenty of interchangeable parts on the perimeter, but the ringleader is Edwards, a clutch player with incredible shooting range. Loville is also capable of scoring in bunches and Shead brings a wealth of talent and experience. This is another one of those teams that is also extremely motivated by what happened in the past and the fact it's senior-oriented is a plus, too.
The Skinny: The Eagles were eyeing the UIL Class 6A state title until they were shocked in the Region II title game by Irving MacArthur, 79-74. It was the second consecutive year Atascocita fell in a regional final. Coach David Martinez knows he has a fine club and it deserves to be ranked high as the Class 6A state title favorites. The grueling nature of the UIL state tournament, however, means it can’t afford a late slip-up. Because this team is heavily perimeter-oriented, it relies on good outside shooting and that is always a risk as the Eagles found out against MacArthur. The key for this team is to develop some dependable interior scoring and that’s where Willrodt and other returning reserves come into play.

Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 16 years ago.

RELATED: Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason 2015-16 FAB 50 (31-50) | FAB 50 Update: What Harry Giles' Injury Means | Preseason Regional Top 20 Rankings

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

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