With the All “A” Classic and 2A Tournaments taking place, the past week featured several marquee matchups. With that many high-level games, changes in the rankings were inevitable.
1) Martin County Cardinals (+1)
Martin County faced two tough tests this week against Paintsville and Belfry. The Cardinals defeated Paintsville by nine and needed overtime to escape Belfry on a walk-off three. On Monday, Martin County handled the Pikeville Panthers from start to finish, moving into the top spot in our voters’ eyes.
2) Johnson Central Golden Eagles (+1)
Many could argue that after the 2A Championship Game, the Golden Eagles deserved the number one ranking—and that’s a valid argument. For now, Johnson Central checks in at number two after defeating Floyd Central by 16 and Lawrence County by six. The Golden Eagles carry a seven-game winning streak into the week.
3) Pikeville Panthers (-2)
In the All “A,” Pikeville battled East Ridge before pulling away in the fourth quarter. The semifinals against Shelby Valley were a war, with the Panthers winning on a last-second shot in regulation. Pikeville fell to Martin County in the championship game, dropping them to third in this week’s poll. The Panthers face two tough district matchups in the next seven days.
4) Paintsville Tigers (NC)
The Tigers remain steady at number four. With their loss coming to the eventual All “A” Champion, Paintsville holds its position without much room to drop.
5) Lawrence County Bulldogs (NC)
Lawrence County impressed in the 2A Tournament, easily defeating Magoffin County and playing APSN’s top-ranked Johnson Central to within six points. After watching the Bulldogs against Shelby Valley last night, this is clearly a dangerous team heading into the remainder of the season.
🔜 Next Up
Belfry Pirates
Pirate fans are still replaying the final minutes of overtime against Martin County. Belfry showed everyone they belong among the 15th Region elite.
Shelby Valley Wildcats
Shelby Valley shares similar feelings after nearly knocking off Pikeville in the All “A.” A strong showing against Lawrence County proved they can beat anyone on any given night.
Floyd Central Jaguars
Another team loaded with potential, Floyd Central prepares for a huge matchup Friday against Lawrence County in Louisa.
We said it at the start of the season: any of these eight teams could string together a few wins and walk out as 15th Region Champions. Only time will tell.
