By GREG MENGELT
Over the weekend, Corydon upset Brownstown to take kick off the season’s Mid-Southern Conference schedule.
The conference race begins in earnest this week with three big games. So today, we’re going to take a look ahead at what should be a very entertaining MSC race.
Of course, it all starts with Salem and Silver Creek, which appear to be the class of the league. The Dragons are the defending state champions. The two years prior, the Lions beat Silver Creek on their way to regional and semistate championships. The teams meet on Jan. 8 in Sellersburg and the race will almost certainly play a giant role in the MSC chase.
That game appears to be a tossup at this point. Many of the games in the MSC in 2021-22 are expected to be.
The MSC had the sixth-best record in the state last year and was probably the best mid-sized conference in Indiana. The league went a combined 85-46. Four of the nine teams (Silver Creek, Eastern, Austin and Scottsburg) have won state championship. Salem, North Harrison, Brownstown, Corydon and Charlestown have all won semistate championships.
For those of you counting, that’s every MSC team that has either played for a state championship or made a Final 4 multiple times. That’s impressive for any conference, much less one the size of the MSC.
There’s no reason to believe this year will be any different. There’s not a team in the league that doesn’t pose some danger every time it steps on the court. It’s probable only Salem and Silver Creek are serious state championship contenders — or probably even serious conference contenders — but there isn’t a single pushover in the league.
It appears that North Harrison, Charlestown and Eastern are the top threats to Salem and Silver Creek, but Austin and Corydon already have impressive wins early in the season. Austin opened with a win over Madison and the Panthers started their conference slate with a 50-43 triumph over Brownstown. Both have a chance to be in the mix.
North Harrison and Eastern have big games this week, as far as the conference race goes, including a showdown with each other on Friday. The Lady Cats will battle 1-0 Charlestown in the Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Week the following night. The night after facing North Harrison, Eastern travels to Austin for a matchup with the 1-1 Eagles.
Those three matchups are a primer for what should be an excellent, entertaining MSC race and could set the tone for the rest of the season.
NOTE: The Hoosier Hills Conference race gets fully underway next week when Jeffersonville goes to Bedford North Lawrence. We will preview the HHC race a week from today.
HOOSIER HILLS HOOPS
2021-22 MID-SOUTHERN CONFERENCE PREDICTIONS
1. Silver Creek
2. Salem
3. North Harrison
4. Charlestown
5. Eastern
6. Corydon
7. Brownstown
8. Austin
9. Scottsburg
THE WEEK AHEAD
Game Previews for Nov. 9-13 (for games from teams from Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott and Washington counties). NOTE: Girls’ game previews will appear on Hoosier Hills Hoops every Tuesday morning throughout the week. Boys’ previews will appear each Friday morning when the season begins Nov. 22.
GAME OF THE WEEK
NORTH HARRISON (1-1, 0-0 MSC) AT CHARLESTOWN (1-1, 0-0)
• Day/Time: Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Charlestown Sports Arena.
• Coaches:
North Harrison — Jamie Kolkmeier (13-7 in second season at North Harrison and overall).
Charlestown — Scott Matthews (67-53 in sixth season at Charlestown and overall).
• Rankings:
Charlestown — Receiving votes (IBCA).
• Last Week:
North Harrison — Lost at Jeffersonville 43-42 (Nov. 5).
Charlestown — Defeated Lawrenceburg 60-55 (Jennings County Lady Panther Tipoff, first round, Nov. 6); Lost at Jennings County 55-42 (Jennings County Lady Panther Tipoff, first round, Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: North Harrison 20-5. The Lady Cats have won eight of their last nine against Charlestown.
• Most recent meeting: At North Harrison 65, Charlestown 60.
• News and notes: Diana Burgher scored 24 points in the win over South Central and Ali Saunders scored half of the Lady Cats’ points in the loss to Jeffersonville. Saunders enters this week averaging 20 points per game. … It was a strong start for the Pirates last weekend. They opened the tipoff tournament at Jennings County with a win over a strong Lawrenceburg program before a 13-point loss to the host Panthers, who are expected to challenge for the HHC title.
• Outlook: It should be an interesting week for both teams. North Harrison gets Eastern and Charlestown this weekend in a couple games that are essentially elimination games.. Lose either one of any hope of competing for a conference title goes away. The Pirates get Southern Indiana power programs Floyd Central, North Harrison and Silver Creek. We’ll know a lot about both teams by the end of the week.
• Greg’s pick: North Harrison 58, Charlestown 54.
TUESDAY, NOV. 9
BORDEN (0-1) AT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (0-1)
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Location: Christian Academy, New Albany.
• Coaches:
Borden — Matt Vick (34-57 in fifth season at Borden and overall).
Christian Academy — Carson Casey (8-36 in third season at CAI and overall).
• Last Week:
Borden — Lost to Eastern 55-18 (Nov. 5).
Christian Academy — Lost to Shawe 30-27, OT (Nov. 4).
• Last 20 Years: Borden 21-2. The Braves have won the last four matchups with CAI.
• Most recent meeting: At Borden 53, Christian Academy 4 (Nov. 10, 2020).
• News and notes: Borden went 4-5 on the road last season, while the Warriors went winless at home. … The Braves held CAI to a season-low four points in last year’s season opener. … Emily Cissell was Borden’s leading scorer with eight points in the loss to Eastern. … Leah Stevens scored eight points, Lilly Yates had eight and Ashlin Owen six in the Warriors’ season opener. … CAI led Shawe 23-9 through three quarters before the Hliltoppers outscored the Warriors 16-2 in the fourth quarter and 5-2 in overtime.
• Outlook: Should be a win for Borden, but it’s really hard to tell with roster turnover in high school girls’ basketball.
• Greg’s pick: Borden 43, CAI 21.
PROVIDENCE (0-1) AT LANESVILLE (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Lanesville High School, Lanesville.
• Coaches:
Providence — Brad Burden (159-149 in 14th season at Providence and overall).
Lanesville — Angie Hinton (63-15 in fourth season at Lanesville, 236-88 in 15th
• Rankings:
Lanesville — No. 2 Class A (ICGSA).
• Last Week:
Providence — Lost to Oldenburg Academy 46-32 (Nov. 5).
Lanesville — Defeated Mitchell 49-42 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Providence 12-11. Lanesville has beaten the Pioneers three straight times.
• Most recent meeting: Lanesville 73, at Providence 14 (Nov. 10, 2020). Gracie Adams scored 20 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in the win.
• News and notes: Friday’s loss to Oldenburg Academy was Providence’s fourth straight loss to open a season. … The Pioneers scored 32 points in their opener, their exact average a year ago. … Grace Denis led Providence with 11 points against Oldenburg. … Juniors Linzie Wernert (18) and Morgan Sonner (17) combined for 35 of the Eagles’ 49 in the season-opening win over Mitchell. Wernert led Lanesville with 11 rebounds and four steals.
• Outlook: Never would’ve guessed this a few years ago, but Lanesville should continue domination in this series.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 58, Providence 31.
BROWNSTOWN (0-1) AT NEW ALBANY (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Doghouse, New Albany.
• Coaches:
Brownstown Central — Brandon Allman (45-12 in third season at Brownstown and overall).
New Albany — Shelby Gliebe (7-16 in second season at New Albany, 11-35 in third season overall).
• Last Week:
Brownstown — Lost to Corydon Central 50-43 (Nov. 6).
New Albany — Defeated Evansville Bosse 59-19 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Brownstown 3-2. The Braves have beaten New Albany the last three years.
• Most recent meeting: At Brownstown 65, New Albany 37 (Nov. 12, 2020).
• News and notes: New Albany has won its seven opener 11 years in a row. … The 19 points New Albany surrendered in its season opener was the fewest anyone has scored against the Bulldogs since a 51-14 win over Switzerland County on Jan. 9, 2007. … Brownstown was outscored 20-8 in the second quarter of its loss to Corydon. … The Braves lost their top player, Maddy Hackman, to graduation.
• Outlook: Based on early results, this should be a close one.
• Greg’s pick: New Albany 61, Brownstown 58.
AUSTIN (1-1) AT FLOYD CENTRAL (0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Floyd Central High School, Floyds Knobs.
• Coaches:
Austin — Jared Petersen (232-165 in 17th season at Austin and overall).
Floyd Central — Randy Gianfagna (20-48 in fourth season at Floyd Central and overall).
• Last Week:
Austin — Defeated Madison 45-38 (Nov. 3); Lost at South Ripley 45-35 (Nov. 5).
Floyd Central — Lost to Columbus East 57-48 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Austin 2-0.
• Most recent meeting: At Austin 46, Floyd Central 37 (Jan. 2).
• News and notes: Austin won at least eight games 15 consecutive seasons under Petersen. … The Highlanders’ last winning season came in 2016-17 when they went 13-11. … Floyd’s loss to East snapped a 3-game winning streak in season openers. … Austin held Madison to 26 percent shooting and forced 24 turnovers in the 7-point win.
• Outlook: The Highlanders’ strong showing against East is a cause for optimism, but Austin has looked good early in the season. Could go either way.
• Greg’s pick: Floyd Central 59, Austin 54.
NEW WASHINGTON (1-2) AT SCOTTSBURG (0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Charles E. Meyer Gymnasium, Scottsburg.
• Coaches:
New Washington — Kirsti Holloway (56-85 in seventh season at New Wash and overall).
Scottsburg — Carrie Daniels (8-16 in second season at Scottsburg, 111-72 in seventh season overall).
• Last Week:
New Washington — Lost to Corydon Central 59-30 (Nov. 2); Lost to North Decatur 61-60 (South Dearborn Tipoff Tournament,, first round, Nov. 6); Defeated Clarksville 69-31 (South Dearborn Tipoff Tournament, third-place game, Nov. 6).
Scottsburg — Lost to Jennings County 62-48 (Nov. 2).
• Last 20 Years: Scottsburg 15-2. The Warriorettes have won nine straight in the series.
• Most recent meeting: Scottsburg 67, at New Washington 49 (Nov. 10, 2020).
• News and notes: In the tournament at South Dearborn, the Mustangs scored at least 60 points in back-to-back games since last year’s 66-29 win over Henryville and an 87-39 win over Milan in late November. … Hannah Stutsman scored 20 points in Scottsburg’s loss to Jennings. Carrie Hiler finished with nine and Ellie Richardson and Abbey Martin had seven apiece.
• Outlook: The opening week was definitely a positive sign for New Washington against a tough early schedule. Scottsburg is another big challenge for the Mustangs.
• Greg’s pick: Scottsburg 59, New Washington 49.
ROCK CREEK (0-0) AT HENRYVILLE (1-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Furnish Gym, Henryville.
• Coaches:
Rock Creek — Sara Nord (2-9 in second season at Rock Creek and overall).
Henryville — Tuesday Guernsey (16-29 in third season at Henryville and overall).
• Last Week:
Rock Creek — First game of the season.
Henryville — Defeated Southwestern 36-30; Lost at Morristown 41-30 (Morristown Kooper Kettle Classic, first round, Nov. 6); Lost to Tri-Central 45-19 (Morristown Kooper Kettle Classic, third-place game, Nov. 6.).
• Last 20 years: Henryville 23-2. The Hornets have won 21 in a row against the Lions.
• Most recent meeting: Henryville 59, at Rock Creek 29 (Jan. 23).
• News and notes: Last year’s 2-win season was the first under Nord, a former Jeffersonville Miss Basketball. The Lions started 2-5 before dropping their final four games, including a 48-35 loss to Christian Academy in the opening round of the sectional. … Henryville jumped out to a 16-2 lead in its season-opening win over Southwestern.
• Outlook: Unless Rock Creek has added star players in the off-season, Henryville gets its first win of the season.
• Greg’s pick: Henryville 50, Rock Creek 25.
CRAWFORD COUNTY (0-2) AT SALEM (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Brooks Memorial Gymnasium, Salem.
• Coaches:
Crawford County — Christopher Broughton (111-84 in ninth season at Crawford County and overall).
Salem — Jerry Hickey (138-65 in 9th season at Salem and overall).
• Rankings:
Salem — No. 17 (IBCA); No. 5 Clas 3A (ICGSA).
• Last Week:
Crawford County — Lost to Heritage Hills 50-47 (Nov. 4); Lost to Eastern 41-28 (Nov. 6).
Salem — Defeated Seymour 70-47 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Eastern 20-8. The Musketeers have won 18 straight against Crawford County.
• Most recent meeting: Eastern 37, Crawford County 35 (sectional first round, Feb. 6).
• News and notes: Salem’s win over Seymour was its fourth straight to start a season. … Nat Noel scored 24 points, Macie Tomlinson finished with 20 and Abigail Ratts had a double-double of 11 points and 10 boards. … The Lions improved from No. 19 to No. 17 in the latest IBCA poll and from No. 6 to No. 5 in the Class 3A ICGSA poll. … Salem is 1-0 fo the fourth straight year. They’ve started no worse than 7-0 during that time.
• Outlook: Of course, Salem was expected to beat Seymour to start the season, but the way the Lions dominated appears to be a message to the rest of the state that they’re serious contenders are every level.
• Greg’s pick: Salem 66, Crawford County 39.
CROTHERSVILLE (0-0) AT CLARKSVILLE (0-3)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Clarksville High School Main Gymnasium.
• Coaches:
Crothersville — Kevin Hensley (113-159 in 13th season at Crothersville and overall).
Clarksville — Amanda Carmichael (8-19 in second season at Clarksville, 68-113 in ninth season overall).
• Last Week:
Crothersville — First game of the season.
Clarksville — Lost to West Washington 41-16 (Nov. 4); Lost to South Dearborn 42-25 (South Dearborn Tournament, first round, Nov. 6); Lost to New Washington 69-31 (South Dearborn Tournament, third-place game, Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Crothersville 9-1. The Generals snapped a 9-game losing streak against Crothersville last year.
• Most recent meeting: Clarksville 53, at Crothersville 49 (Dec. 7, 2020).
• News and notes: Dahja Gaines’ 8 points led Clarksville in its loss New Washington. … Clarksville is averaging 24 points through three games. Its high so far is 31 against New Washington. … This is the season opener for Crothersville, which won six games last year. Prior to that, they had won 23 combined in the prior two seasons.
• Outlook: Clarksville beat the Tigers on the road last season. I see no reason the Generals shouldn’t beat them again at home.
• Greg’s pick: Clarksville 48, Crothersville 44.
CORYDON (2-0) AT PERRY CENTRAL (1-1)
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Location: Perry Central High School, Leopold.
• Coaches:
Corydon Central — Josh Conrad (12-11 in second season at Corydon, 131-104 in 11th season overall).
Perry Central — R.T. Elliott (19-51 in fourth season at Perry Central and overall).
• Last Week:
Corydon Central — Defeated New Washington 59-30; Defeated Brownstown Central 50-43
Perry Central — Lost to Southridge 54-29 (Nov. 2); Defeated Wood Memorial 37-33 (Nov. 5).
• Last 20 years: Corydon 17-3. The Panthers have won six in a row against Perry Central.
• Most recent meeting: At Corydon Central 59, Perry Central 40 (Dec. 22, 2020).
• News and notes: Corydon outscored Brownstown 20-8 the decisive second quarter in Saturday’s win. … The Panthers are 2-0 for the first time since 2018. … Perry Central opened with a 54-29 loss to Southridge before picking up a win against Wood Memorial. … Perry Central trailed Wood Memorial 18-13 at halftime before outscoring the Trojans 24-15 in the second half of their win Friday. … The Commodores play their first five games at home.
• Outlook: Eye-opening start for Corydon. Expect the Panthers to continue their early winning ways.
• Greg’s pick: Corydon Central 56, Perry Central 29.
THURSDAY, NOV. 11
BORDEN (0-1) AT CLARKSVILLE (0-2)
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Location: Clarksville High School Main Gymnasium.
• Coaches:
Borden — Matt Vick (34-57 in fifth year at Borden and overall).
Clarksville — Amanda Carmichael (8-19 in second season at Clarksville, 68-113 in ninth season overall).
• Last Week:
Borden — Lost to Eastern 55-18 (Nov. 5).
Clarksville — Lost to West Washington 41-16 (Nov. 4); Lost to South Dearborn (South Dearborn Tournament, first round, Nov. 6); Lost to New Washington 69-31 (South Dearborn Tournament, third-place game, Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Borden 13-6. The Braves have beaten Clarksville three straight Imes.
• Most recent meeting: At Borden 37, Clarksville 28 (Nov. 12, 2020).
• News and notes: Borden began its season with a loss to rival Eastern for the third year in a row. … Last year, the Braves responded with five straight wins. … The 18 points the Braves scored in their opener was their fewest since last year’s 49-16 loss to Paoli on Jan. 9. … Clarksville’s 8-win season last year was its best since 2006-07 when the Generals went 10-13.
• Outlook: The Braves have five winnable games before hosting New Washington on Nov. 30.
• Greg’s pick: Borden 43, Clarksville 33.
FLOYD CENTRAL (0-1) AT CHARLESTOWN (1-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Charlestown Sports Arena.
• Coaches:
Floyd Central — Randy Gianfagna (20-48 in fourth season at Floyd Central and overall).
Charlestown — Scott Matthews (67-53 in sixth season at Charlestown and overall).
• Rankings:
Charlestown — Receiving votes IBCA.
• Last Week:
Floyd Central — Lost to Columbus East 57-48 (Nov. 6).
Charlestown — Defeated Lawrenceburg 60-55 (Jennings County Tournament, first round, Nov. 6); Lost to Jennings County 55-42 (Jennings County Tournament, championship game, Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Floyd Central 7-4. The teams have played the last 11 years with Floyd winning the first three and the two sides splitting the most recent eight matchups.
• Most recent meeting: At Charlestown 52, Floyd Central 46, OT (Dec. 16, 2020).
• News and notes: Columbus East went to the foul line 30 times in its win over Floyd. The Olympians made 24 of them. … The Highlanders trailed 33-25 at the half before outscoring East 18-11 in the third quarter in the loss. … Tatum McFarland led Charlestown with 29 points in Saturday’s 2-game Lady Panther Tipoff Tournament in North Vernon.
• Outlook: Charlestown’s first two results were pretty impressive. Even the loss was closely contested against a good team on the road. It’s still early, but the Pirates appear to be quite good.
• Greg’s pick: Charlestown 59, Floyd Central 55.
WEST WASHINGTON (1-1) AT SOUTH CENTRAL (0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: South Central High School Main Gymnasium, Elizabeth.
• Coaches:
West Washington — Matthew Myers (9-16 in second season at West Washington and overall).
South Central — Lynne Thomas (3-35 in third season at South Central and overall).
• Last Week:
West Washington — Won at Clarksville 41-16 (Nov. 4); Lost at Linton-Stockton 61-24 (Nov. 6).
South Central — Lost to North Harrison 65-17 (Nov. 3).
• Last 20 years: South Central 5-3. West Washington has won three in a row in the series.
• Most recent meeting: At West Washington 34, South Central 25 (Nov. 12, 2020).
• News and notes: West Washington defeated Clarksville for its first season opening win since the Senators started 2-0 and 7-1 in 2018-19. … The Senators were led by Macenzie Brown’s 11 points in the win at Clarksville. … North Harrison made 6 of its 14 3-point attempts and went 21 of 43 from 2-point range in the win over the Rebels.
• Outlook: The two teams played a close game early last season. Expect the same early this year.
• Greg’s pick: West Washington 44, South Central 33.
SALEM (1-0) AT JENNINGS COUNTY (3-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Charles Hurley Gymnasium, North Vernon.
• Coaches:
Salem — Jerry Hickey (138-65 in ninth season at Salem and overall).
Jennings County — Kristi Sigler (64-61 in sixth season at Jennings County and overall).
• Rankings:
Salem — No. 17 (IBCA); No. 5 Class 3A (ICGSA).
Jennings County — Receiving votes (IBCA).
• Last week:
Salem — Defeated Seymour 70-47 (Nov. 6).
Jennings County — Won at Scottsburg 62-48 (Nov. 2); Defeated Lafayette Jeff 61-21 (Jennings County Lady Panther Tipoff, first round); Defeated Charlestown 60-55; Jennings County Lady Panther Tipoff, championship).
• Last 20 years: Salem 3-0.
• Most recent meeting: At Salem 58, Jennings County 57 (Jan. 15).
• News and notes: Natalie Noel and Abigail Ratts were both named to Indiana Prep Hoops Class of 2022 “Watchlist” before the season. … Five different Panthers scored in double figures in Jennings’ win over Scottsburg. They were led by Alivia Elmore with 18 points. Juliann Woodard, Kali Thompson and Lily Ernstes scored 11 apiece and Megan Vogel added 10.
• Outlook: Jennings County is awfully good, but Salem is better. This was be the best game of the week between two really good teams.
• Greg’s pick: Salem 68, Jennings County 61.
PROVIDENCE (0-1) AT SHAWE (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Father Hilary Menny Gymnasium, Shawe Memorial High School, Madison.
• Coaches:
Providence — Brad Burden (159-149 in 14th season at Providence and overall).
Shawe — Terry King (16-42 in fourth season at Shawe, 79-93 in 10th season overall).
• Last Week:
Providence — Lost at Oldenburg Academy 46-32 (Nov. 5).
Shawe — Defeated Christian Academy 30-27, OT (Nov. 4).
• Last 20 years: Providence 13-0.
• Most recent meeting: At Providence 42, Shawe 24 (Jan. 30).
• News and notes: Providence outscored Oldenburg 18-0 from behind the 3-point arc, led by Grace Denis’ three 3s. … Shawe outscored Christian Academy 16-2 in the fourth quarter and 5-2 in overtime.
• Outlook: Providence goes on the road and picks up its first win.
• Greg’s pick: Providence 47, Shawe 33.
JEFFERSONVILLE (1-0) AT JASPER (0-0)
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Location: Jasper High School Main Gymnasium.
• Coaches:
Jeffersonville — Missy Voyles (7-12 in second season at Jeffersonville, 277-126 in 18th season overall).
Jasper — Jessica Mehring (43-42 in fifth season at Jasper and overall).
• Last Week:
Jeffersonville — Defeated North Harrison 43-42 (Nov. 5).
Jasper — Lost to Evansville North 59-40 in sectional semifinal (Feb. 5).
• Last 20 years: Jeffersonville 16-3.
• Most recent meeting: At Jasper 39, Jeffersonville 32 (Jan. 18, 2020).
• News and notes: Jeff led the entire game against North Harrison until the Lady Cats took the lead 42-41 with 9.4 seconds left. The Devils led by as many as 13 at 35-22 with 5:07 left in the third quarter. … The Red Devils held North Harrison to 7 of 32 from the floor in the field half Friday. … This game is the season opener for Jasper. … The Wildcats lost two of their top three players to graduation.
• Outlook: Jeff has a great chance for a 3-0 start.
• Greg’s pick: Jeffersonville 55, Jasper 40.
FRIDAY, NOV. 12
ROCK CREEK (0-0) AT CANNELTON (0-0)
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Location: Cannelton Community Center.
• Coaches:
Rock Creek — Sara Nord (2-9 in second season at Rock Creek and overall).
Cannelton — Brian Garrett (4-37 in third season at Cannelton and overall).
• Last Week:
Rock Creek — First game of the season.
Cannelton — First game of the season.
• Last 20 years: Rock Creek 15-14. The Lions have won nine of their last 10 against Cannelton.
• Most recent meeting: At Rock Creek 40, Cannelton 31 (Nov. 13, 2020).
• Outlook: If Nord can turn the Lions into winners, the local girls’ basketball landscape will be better for it.
• Greg’s pick: Rock Creek 40, Cannelton 36.
SOUTHRIDGE (1-1) AT CORYDON (2-0)
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Tournament: Battle of the First Capital, first round.
• Location: Corydon High School.
• Coaches:
Southridge — Greg Werner (210-104 in 15th season at Southridge, 314-199 in 24th season overall).
Corydon — Josh Conrad (12-11 in second season at Corydon, 131-104 in 11th season overall).
• Last Week:
Southridge — Won at Perry Central 54-29; Lost to Paoli 31-27 (Nov. 6).
Corydon Central — Defeated New Washington 59-30 (Nov. 2); Defeated Brownstown Central 50-43 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Corydon 1-0.
• Most recent meeting: At Corydon 46, Southridge 39 (Nov. 16, 2020).
• News and notes: Corydon will face either Crawford County or Greenwood Christian in the second round with either New Albany, Boonville, Evansville Reitz or Lanesville waiting in the final round. … Mikah Goeppner scored 20 points to lead the Raiders to their win over Perry Central. Paoli then held her to a single point. With star Myah Montgomery out after knee surgery, Goeppner is the Raiders’ only senior.
• Outlook: The Panthers have a very good chance of start the season 4-0 for the first time since 2005-06, when they went 22-2 and won a sectional title.
• Greg’s pick: Corydon Central 61, Southridge 53.
NORTH HARRISON (1-1, 0-0 MSC) AT EASTERN (2-0, 0-0 MSC)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Eastern High School, Pekin.
• Coaches:
North Harrison — Jamie Kolkmeier (13-7 in second season at Corydon and overall).
Eastern — Michael McBride (221-115 in 15th season at Eastern and overall).
• Rankings:
Eastern — No. 7 Class 2A (ICGSA).
• Last Week:
North Harrison — Won at South Central 65-17 (Nov. 3); Lost at Jeffersonville 43-42 (Nov. 5).
Eastern — Won at Borden 55-18; Defeated Crawford County 41-28.
• Last 20 years: North Harrison 18-2. The Lady Cats have beaten Eastern nine times in a row.
• Most recent meeting: At North Harrison 53, Eastern 50.
• News and notes: North Harrison made six of its 14 3-point attempts in the win over South Central. … The Lady Cats led nearly the entire game at Jeffersonville before Sophia Reese hit 2 of 3 free throws with 9 seconds left. … Ali Saunders scored eight of her game-high 21 points in the fourth quarter of the loss. … Eastern trailed by as many as 9 points but outscored Crawford County 24-13 in the second half of the 13-point victory. … The Musketeers have outscore their opponents 58-23 in the second half of their back-to-back wins to start the campaign.
• Outlook: It’s the Mid-Southern Conference opener for two teams that hope to challenge Silver Creek and Salem for the league championship … and it should be a good one.
• Greg’s pick: North Harrison 48, Eastern 47.
SEYMOUR (0-1) AT SILVER CREEK (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Silver Creek High School, Sellersburg.
• Coaches:
Seymour — Jason Longmeier (112-93 in 10th season at Seymour, 146-143 in 14th season overall).
Silver Creek — Scott Schoen (156-108 in 12th season at Silver Creek and overall).
• Rankings:
Silver Creek — No. 16 (IBCA); No. 3 Class 3A (ICGSA).
• Last Week:
Seymour — Lost at Salem 70-47 (Nov. 6).
Silver Creek — Won at Brown County 65-31 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Seymour 6-3. The Dragons have won the last two against Seymour.
• Most recent meeting: Silver Creek 56, at Seymour 30 (Nov. 13, 2020).
• News and notes: The Dragons were very balanced in their opener. Merideth Wilkinson was the only double-digit scorer with 10, but six Silver Creek scored at least five points. … Creek led Brown County 41-12 in the win … Seymour lost three players from last year’s 10-10 team. … The Owls haven’t won a sectional game since 2012.
• Outlook: Salem defeated Seymour 70-47. It will be interesting to see how Silver Creek fares against the Owls.
• Greg’s pick: Silver Creek 70, Seymour 51.
SCOTTSBURG (0-1) AT LAWRENCEBURG (1-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Lawrenceburg High School.
• Coaches:
Scottsburg — Carrie Daniels (8-16 in second season at Seymour, 111-72 in seventh season overall).
Lawrenceburg — Zane White (121-69 in ninth season at Lawrenceburg and overall).
• Last Week:
Scottsburg — Lost to Jennings County 62-48 (Nov. 2).
Lawrenceburg — Lost to Charlestown 60-55 (Jennings County Lady Panther Tipoff, first round, Nov. 6); Defeated Lafayette Jeff 64-24 (Jennings County Lady Panther Tipoff, third-place game, Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Series tied 2-2.
• Most recent meeting: At Scottsburg 54, Lawrenceburg 48, OT (Nov. 13, 2020).
• Outlook: In a game between two close competitions, a long road trip is often the difference.
• Greg’s pick: Lawerenceburg 58, Scottsburg 54.
LANESVILLE (1-0) vs. EVANSVILLE REITZ (3-0)
• Time: 8:15 p.m.
• Tournament: Battle of the First Capital, first round.
• Location: Corydon High School.
• Coaches:
Lanesville — Angie Hinton (63-15 in fourth season at Lanesville, 236-88 in 15th
Reitz — Gary Loveless (22-66 in fifth season at Reitz and overall).
• Rankings:
Lanesville — No. 2 Class A (ICGSA).
• Last Week:
Lanesville — Defeated Mitchell 49-42 (Nov. 6).
Reitz — Won at Mt. Vernon 38-30 (Nov. 2); Won at Pike Central 57-45 (Nov. 4); Won at Vincennes 57-45 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: Win or lose, Lanesville will face either New Albany or Boonville at 10 a.m. Saturday. In the final round, the Eagles will play Southridge, Crawford County, Greenwood Christian or the host Panthers. … Reitz is 3-0 for the first time in over 20 years. All three wins have been on the road. … Alyssa Haynes is the leading returning scorer for the Panthers after averaging 14.6 points per game as a junior last season.
• Outlook: Reitz is better than it has been any time in recent memory. It’ll be a nice test for the Eagles but expect them to pass it.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 60, Reitz 50.
NEW ALBANY (1-0) vs. BOONVILLE (0-0)
• Time: 8:15 p.m.
• Tournament: Battle of the First Capital, first round.
• Location: Corydon High School.
• Coaches:
New Albany — Shelby Gliebe (7-16 in second season at New Albany, 11-35 in third season overall).
Boonville — Jason Gansman (54-60 in sixth season at Boonville and overall).
• Last Week:
New Albany — Won at Bosse 59-19 (Nov. 6).
Boonville — Lost to Gibson Southern 43-29 in sectional first round (Feb. 2).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: In the tournament at Corydon, the Bulldogs will face either Reitz or Lanesville in the second round, win or lose, at 10 a.m. Saturday. They will battle Southridge, Crawford County, Greenwood Christian or the host Panthers in the final round or 5:30 or 7:30 Saturday evening. … Taylor Treat (16), Maleea Roland (15) and Journey Howard (10) combined for 41 of the Bulldogs’ 59 points in the win over Bosse. … New Albany led Bosse 41-7 at halftime. … Boonville senior Alaysha Brandenberger is one of the returning scorers in the state after averaging 24.1 points per game last season.
• Outlook: It will be an interesting day for the Bulldogs at Corydon … and it should be a successful day.
• Greg’s pick: New Albany 57, Boonville 51.
SATURDAY, NOV. 13
SOUTH SPENCER (1-0) AT SOUTH CENTRAL (0-1)
• Time: 1 p.m.
• Location: South Central Main Gymnasium, Elizabeth.
• Coaches:
South Spencer — Brent Mathew (26-44 in fourth season at South Spencer and overall).
South Central — Lynne Thomas (3-35 in third season at South Central and overall).
• Last Week:
South Spencer — Defeated Princeton 50-28 (Nov. 6).
South Central — Lost to North Harrison 65-17 (Nov. 3).
• Last 20 years: South Central 3-2. South Spencer has won the last two times the teams have met.
• Most recent meeting: At South Spencer 60, South Central 22 (Nov. 19, 2020).
• News and notes: South Central scored 17 points in back-to-back games spanning two years. The Rebels dropped a 52-17 decision to Borden in the sectional and began the 2021-22 season with a 65-17 loss to North Harrison. … South Spencer won its season opener for the first time since 2018. … Led by junior Trinity Britton, who averaged 13.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3 steals and 2.3 assists per game last year, everyone is back from last year’s 10-win South Spencer team. The Rebels had no seniors last year.
• Outlook: This should be the best South Spencer team since its sectional championship year in 2006.
• Greg’s pick: South Spencer 50, South Central 30.
FLOYD CENTRAL (0-1) AT EVANSVILLE HARRISON (1-1)
• Time: 2 p.m.
• Location: Warrior Arena, Harrison High School, Evansville.
• Coaches:
Floyd Central — Randy Gianfagna (20-48 in fourth season at Floyd and overall).
Harrison — Ashley Hawkins (5-57 in fourth season at Harrison and overall).
• Last Week:
Floyd Central — Lost at Columbus East 57-48 (Nov. 6).
Harrison — Lost at Northeast Dubois 66-30 (Nov. 1); Won at Mt. Vernon 30-20 (Nov. 5); Lost to Vincennes Rivet 70-17.
• Last 20 years: Floyd Central 17-4. The Highlanders have won seven straight in the series.
• Most recent meeting: At Floyd Central 63, Harrison 22 (Nov. 14, 2020).
• News and notes: Floyd Central had four double-figure scorers in the loss to East. Keegan Kaiser had 12 points, Samara Miller and Kennedy Emerson contributed 11 apiece and Kendall Brown finished with 10. … The Highlanders were outscored 13-5 in the fourth quarter at 20th-ranked East. … With a win at Mt. Vernon on Thursday, Harrison has won as many games as it did last season. … The Warriors’ first four games are on the road this season.
• Outlook: Looks like Harrison might be a little better but still not in the same league as the Highlanders.
• Greg’s pick: Floyd Central 52, Harrison 25.
BLOOMINGTON SOUTH (0-1) AT JEFFERSONVILLE (1-0)
• Time: 2:30 p.m.
• Location: Johnson Arena, Jeffersonville.
• Coaches:
Bloomington South — Larry Winters (313-176 in 23rd season at South and overall).
Jeffersonville — Missy Voyles (7-12 in second season at Jeff, 277-126 overall).
• Last Week:
Bloomington South — Lost to Pike 61-29 (Nov. 6).
Jeffersonville — Defeated North Harrison 43-42 (Nov. 5).
• Last 20 years: 4-4. The teams have alternated wins the last six seasons.
• Most recent meeting: Jeffersonville 43, Bloomington South 32 (Nov. 16, 2019).
• News and notes: It’s not often Voyles faces a coach with more wins and more experience than she has, but South’s Winters has accrued over 300 wins in more than 22 seasons in Bloomington. … Sophia Reese scored 16 points and made 2 of her 3 free throw attempts with 1.3 seconds left to give the Red Devils past North Harrison. …. Seven different Red Devils scored in the win. Elle Marble added seven, while Cadence Singleton and Brooklyn Carter added six apiece for Jeff. … South trailed Pike 41-18 after three quarters in their opening loss.
• Outlook: Looks like Jeff is on the right path to a significantly better season than last year’s 6-win campaign.
• Greg’s pick: Jeffersonville 55, Bloomington South 44.
EASTERN (2-0, 0-0 MSC) AT AUSTIN (1-1, 0-0 MSC)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Austin High School.
• Coaches:
Eastern — Michael McBride (221-115 in 15th season at Eastern and overall).
Austin — Jared Petersen (232-165 in 17th season at Austin and overall).
• Rankings:
Eastern — No. 7 Class 2A (ICGSA).
• Last Week:
Eastern — Won at Borden 55-18 (Nov. 5); Defeated Crawford County 41-28 (Nov. 6).
Austin — Defeated Madison 45-38 (Nov. 3); Lost at South Ripley 45-35 (Nov. 5).
• News and notes: The two head coaches have 453 wins and 32 years of experience combined. … This is the first conference game Austin; Eastern faces North Harrison the night before going to Austin. … Eastern junior Kyia McKinley has scored 51 points in the Musketeers’ first two games. … The Musketeers are 2-0 for the third straight season.
• Outlook: There’s still a lot to learn about both teams. It’s hard to tell just how good either team is at this point. Eastern has the best player, though.
• Greg’s pick: Eastern 48, Austin 46.
CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (0-1) AT NEW WASHINGTON (1-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Matthews Gymnasium, New Washington.
• Coaches:
Christian Academy — Carson Casey (8-36 in third season at CAI and overall).
New Washington — Kirsti Hollway (55-84 in seventh season at New Wash and overall).
• Last Week:
Christian Academy — Lost to Shawe 30-27, OT (Nov. 4).
New Washington — Lost at Corydon Central 59-30 (Nov. 2); Lost to North Decatur 61-60 (South Dearborn Tipoff Tournament, first round, Nov. 6); Defeated Clarksville 69-31 (South Dearborn Tipoff Tournament, third-place game, Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: New Washington 22-5. The Mustangs have beaten Christian Academy four times in a row.
• Most recent meeting: New Washington 74, Christian Academy 17 (Nov. 14, 2020).
• News and notes: Christian Academy is 0-1 for the fifth straight year. … The Warriors’ trip to New Wash is their first of three straight road games. … Haylie Spear (23), Kaidin James (19) and Macy Fields (16) combined for 58 of the Mustangs’ 69 points in their win over Clarksville.
• Outlook: It appears New Wash is the clear No. 2 team in its sectional behind Lanesville.
• Greg’s pick: New Washington 55, Clarksville 31.
WEST WASHINGTON (1-1) AT SOUTHWESTERN (0-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Delbert O. King Gymnasium, Hanover.
• Coaches:
West Washington — Matthew Myers (9-16 in second season at West Washington and overall).
Southwestern — Brian Crank (0-2 in first season at Southwestern and overall).
• Last Week:
West Washington — Won at Clarksville 41-16 (Nov. 4); Lost at Linton-Stockton 61-24 (Nov. 6).
Southwestern — Lost at Henryville 36-30 (Nov. 4); Lost at Rising Sun 49-41 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: Series tied 2-2.
• Most recent meeting: Southwestern 36, at West Washington 24 (Dec. 5, 2020).
• News and notes: This is the fourth of four straight games on the road to start the season for West Washington. The Senators finally play a home game next week when Christian Academy visits on Nov. 16. … This is also the home opener for Southwestern after starting the season at Henryville and Rising Sun.
• Outlook: The early results are a good sign for West Washington despite a loss to defending state champion Linton-Stockton. The Senators should win this game on the road.
• Greg’s pick: West Washington 42, Southwestern 35.
CLARKSVILLE (0-3) AT RISING SUN (1-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Rising Sun High School Main Gymnasium.
• Coaches:
Clarksville — Amanda Carmichael (8-19 in second season at Clarksville, 68-113 in ninth season overall).
Rising Sun — Abby Friend (29-86 in sixth season at Rising Sun and overall).
• Last Week:
Clarksville — Lost to West Washington 41-16; Lost at South Dearborn 42-25 (South Dearborn Tipoff Tournament, first round, Nov. 6); Lost to New Washington 69-31 (South Dearborn Tipoff Tournament, third-place game, Nov. 6).
Rising Sun — Lost at Franklin County 51-46 (Nov. 5); Defeated Southwestern 49-41 (Nov. 6).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: Clarksville is 0-3 for the third time in four years. … Rising Sun has won just 13 games the last three years. … Baylee Morris is the leader for the Shiners after averaging 11 points and 4.2 rebounds last season as a sophomore.
• Outlook: Neither program has been very good of late, but based on the results, this looks like the best Rising Sun team in a few years.
• Greg’s pick: Rising Sun 48, Clarksville 28.
HENRYVILLE (1-2) AT SWITZERLAND COUNTY (0-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Switzerland County High School, Vevay.
• Coaches:
Henryville — Tuesday Guernsey (16-29 in third season at Henryville and overall).
Switzerland County — Brooke Todd (0-0 in first season at Switzerland County and overall).
• Last Week:
Henryville — Defeated Southwestern 36-30 (Nov. 4); Lost to Morristown 41-30 (Morristown Kopper Kettle Classic, first round, Nov. 6); Lost to Tri-Central 45-19 (Morristown Kopper Kettle Classic, third-place game, Nov. 6).
Switzerland County — Lost to South Ripley 42-26 in sectional championship (Feb. 6).
• Last 20 years: Switzerland County 3-0.
• Most recent meeting: Switzerland County 48, Henryville 25 (Nov. 14, 2020).
• News and notes: Henryville won its opener against Southwestern. Last year, the Hornets didn’t want their first game until Dec. 8, which was their seventh game of the season. … Switzerland County begins its season Tuesday at South Dearborn. … The Pacers have won at least 12 games each of the past three seasons. … This will be the third game of the week for the Pacers. They’re the first three games under new head coach Todd.
• Outlook: Should be a home win for the Pacers.
• Greg’s pick: Switzerland County 51, Henryville 34.
PROVIDENCE CRISTO REY (0-2) AT PROVIDENCE (0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Larkin Center, Providence High School, Clarksville.
• Coaches:
PCR — Andrew Dishman (29-58 in fifth season at PCR and overall).
Providence — Brad Burden (159-149 in 14th season at Providence and overall).
• Last week:
PCR — Lost to Scecina 58-15 (Nov. 2); Lost at Indiana Math & Science 43-10 (Nov. 5).
Providence — Lost at Oldenburg Academy 46-32 (Nov. 5).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: This is the home opener for Providence, which is 0-4 in its last four home openers. … The Pioneers had 24 turnovers and shot 28 percent in the loss to Oldenburg Academy. … Providence had 11 steals against the Twisters, led by three from freshman Molly Richards and two apiece by Kate Simmons and Grace Denis … Providence Cristo Rey has never had a winning season in 12 years. The Wolves went 1-15 last season.
• Outlook: This should be an easy for win for Providence.
GREG’S PICKS SEASON RECORD: 12-5.
