District Five Boys AA Rankings January 1.

           The High School Basketball season in under way, and here is a list of the top competitors in District 5  AA Boys Basketball. The AA field appears set with about three or four legitimate championship contenders.


1. Chestnut Ridge (7-1) Key Win- Ligonier Valley 52-50
The Proof-The record speaks for itself. The Lions have a solid team this year, and they think they can win  a title this year. Ridge has some good size, and good shooting team. Ben Pick is a reliable post player, as is Beau Bosch. Adam Wiley is a steady senior guard, and Tyler Wiley has been the team's sharp shooter with 16 3's on the season. Ridge is the top team now, but there a number of teams on their heels.

2. Northern Bedford (6-1) Key Win- Conemaugh Township 61-53
The Proof-The Panthers have size. Northern Bedford starts all five players 6-2 or taller. And all five of those players average double figures. It is a rare instance, not seen a lot in high school basketball. It can be a blessing and a curse, because some quicker teams may give them problems, but the rebounding edge should be there every game. Blake Over is the team's best shooting threat. Northern Bedford could very well be the best team in the district, we will have to see it play out.

3. Conemaugh Township (5-2) Key Win- Central Cambria 49-33
The Proof-The Indians are the defending champions, and they will not give up their title without a fight. They already have two losses, but at the hands of quality teams like Penn Cambria and Northern Bedford. Township does not have the great size like the other competitors, but guard play will be key. Dillon Boyer, Jeremy Sotosky, and Jeff Fisher are all good scoring threats. The Indians should be in the race for the WestPac and the District.


4. Tussey Mountain (4-3) Key Win- Southern Fulton 76-75
The Proof-Tussey is one of the more consistent teams around the area. Dave Bailey is the main reason why, as he is one of the best coaches in the area. He is entertaining to watch, and so are his teams. Eric Husick and Luke Zelanko are both 20 point scorers, and Mike Runk and Michael Mitchell  are also threats to make shots. Tussey Mountain always plays a strong brand of basketball highlighted by good defense. I expect this team to grow into a solid foe for the top three teams. They may not win the district, but don't count out coach Bailey just yet.

The Rest.......

5. Southern Fulton
6. Everett
7. Windber
8. North Star