As we near the conclusion of the first month of the basketball season, it’s time to release our first Girls 15th Region Rankings. Several teams have already made strong statements, and early-season results are beginning to separate the contenders from the pack.
1) Johnson Central
We start right where we left off in our preseason rankings, as the Johnson Central Lady Eagles remain at the top of the region. Johnson Central is off to a strong 5–2 start, highlighted by three wins over 15th Region opponents, including a head-to-head victory over our No. 2 team, Floyd Central.
The Lady Eagles are led by sensational sophomore Karlea Stanley, who is averaging over 18 points per game. Stanley’s scoring ability, combined with Johnson Central’s depth and experience, makes them the early team to beat in the region.
2) Floyd Central
The Floyd Central Lady Jaguars enter Christmas break with a solid 6–3 record. Their only losses have come against quality competition—Johnson Central, Knox Central (a 13th Region power), and Leslie County (a 14th Region contender).
Floyd Central is led by a talented trio. Sophomores Maddy Engle and Ragen Lafferty lead the team in scoring, while senior Chloe Crase provides another scoring option and, more importantly, steady leadership as the floor general. With this combination of talent and experience, the Lady Jags have all the pieces needed to challenge Johnson Central for a regional title.
3) Paintsville
The Paintsville Lady Tigers slip one spot from our preseason poll following a loss to Floyd Central. However, don’t let the ranking fool you—Paintsville has been red-hot after an 0–3 start.
Led by Kylie Kinner, the Lady Tigers have gone on a tear. Kinner is putting together one of the most impressive stat lines in the region, averaging nearly 28 points and 7 rebounds per game. If Paintsville continues this momentum, they will be a serious threat come tournament time.
4) Martin County
Quietly flying under the radar is the Martin County Lady Cardinals, who have positioned themselves as one of the most dangerous teams in the region.
Martin County is led by arguably the best post player in the 15th Region, Maci Maynard, who is averaging 17 points and 15 rebounds per game. With Chloe May and Annaleigh Davis both now averaging over 12 points per game, the Lady Cardinals boast three reliable scoring options—making them a matchup nightmare as the season progresses.
5) Pikeville
The Pikeville Lady Panthers were on the bubble entering the preseason after graduating four starters over the past two seasons, all of whom went on to play college basketball. Despite those losses, Pikeville still has plenty of talent.
A senior-led backcourt featuring Kylie Alvin and Nicole Lin—both averaging 16 points per game—has the Lady Panthers sitting at 5–2. Their only losses have come to Boyd County and Ashland, two 16th Region powerhouses. With an experienced backcourt, Pikeville has the potential to make a deep postseason run.
Next Up: Prestonsburg & Betsy Layne
Just outside the top five are Prestonsburg and Betsy Layne, two 58th District teams loaded with experience and postseason potential.
Betsy Layne features one of the region’s top post players in Kinleigh Martin, who is averaging nearly 15 points and 8 rebounds per game. Alongside guard Jaden Pente, who averages almost 11 points and 7 rebounds, the Lady Bobcats are a team no one will want to face in March.
Prestonsburg is led by seniors Jade Fitzpatrick and Allison Howard. Fitzpatrick caught fire during the recent Lexington trip and is averaging nearly 14 points per game, while Howard has been a steady presence, contributing 11 points and 6 rebounds per contest.
Final Thoughts
The 15th Region is shaping up to be competitive once again. While Johnson Central currently holds our top spot, several teams are capable of making a run as the season continues. With district play and tournament time approaching, expect plenty of movement in future rankings.
Stay tuned—this region is just getting started. 🏀
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