By GREG MENGELT

Here’s a look at Thursday’s local girls’ basketball action, including the Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Week, Lanesville (14-1) at Floyd Central (5-9).

In other action, New Albany (5-10) travels to Evansville to take on Class 3A No. 12 Memorial (10-3), Clarksville (3-12) goes to Perry Central (4-11) and New Washington (5-8) plays at Hauser (7-5).

TODAY’S GAMES
THURSDAY
GAME OF THE NIGHT
LANESVILLE (14-1) AT FLOYD CENTRAL (5-9)
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Location: Joe Hinton Court, Floyd Central H.S. (6575 Old Vincennes Rd., Floyds Knobs)
• Coaches:
Lanesville — Angie Hinton (76-16 in fourth season at Lanesville, 249-89 in 15th season overall)
Floyd Central — Randy Gianfagna (25-56 in fourth season at Floyd)
• Rankings:
Lanesville — No. 2 AP (Class A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Lanesville — No. 55, No. 2 Class A
Floyd Central — No. 108, No. 52 Class 4A
• Most recent game:
Lanesville — Defeated Henry County (Ky.) 43-11 (Dec. 29, Jeffersonville H.S.)
Floyd Central — Defeated Crawford County 49-28 (Dec. 23)
• Last 20 years: Lanesville 1-0.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 30, 2020 — At Lanesville 50, Floyd Central 20.
• News & notes: With a Lanesville win, Angie Hinton will have her 250th career coaching victory. … Floyd Central has won its last two games following a 5-game losing streak.
• John Harrell prediction: Lanesville 45, Floyd Central 35.
• Sagarin projection: Lanesville by 9.
• Outlook: This is a tough turnaround for Lanesville after playing Wednesday afternoon, but it won’t be a problem for the Eagles.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 55, Floyd Central 41.

NEW ALBANY (5-10) AT EVANSVILLE MEMORIAL (10-3)
• Time: 2 p.m.
• Location: Robert Kent Athletic Center, Memorial H.S. (1500 Lincoln Ave., Evansville)
• Coaches:
New Albany — Shelby Gliebe (11-26 in second season at New Albany, 15-45 in third season overall)
Memorial — Lee Auker (50-12 in third season at Memorial)
• Rankings:
Memorial — No. 12 AP (Class 3A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
New Albany — No. 143, No. 59 Class 4A
Memorial — No. 79, No. 20 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
New Albany — Lost at Salem 64-55 (Dec. 22)
Memorial — Defeated Lafayette Central Catholic 50-42 (Niehaus Lumber Classic, final round, Dec. 29)
• Last 20 years: Memorial 3-1. The Tigers have won the last two games against New Albany.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 2 — Evansville Memorial 68, at New Albany 42.
• News & notes: Junior Journey Howard leads New Albany at 8.4 rebounds per game. … The Tigers won the holiday tournament at Vincennes Rivet. They beat Jasper 47-35, Tecumseh 48-25 then Central Catholic in the championship game.
• John Harrell prediction: Memorial 57, New Albany 39.
• Sagarin projection: Memorial by 14.
• Outlook: Looks like the two-time defending sectional champion Tigers look to be at the same level this year.
• Greg’s pick: Memorial 60, New Albany 52.

CLARKSVILLE (3-12) AT PERRY CENTRAL (4-11)
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Location: Perry Central H.S. (18677 Old State Road 37, Leopold)
• Coaches:
Clarksville — Amanda Carmichael (11-28 in third season at Clarksville, 71-122 in ninth season overall)
Perry Central — R.T. Elliott (23-61 in fourth season at Perry Central)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Clarksville — No. 368, No. 95 Class 2A
Perry Central — No. 291, No. 74 Class 2A
• Most recent game:
Clarksville — Won at Cannelton 50-37 (Dec. 28)
Perry Central — Defeated Borden 50-49 (Dec. 21)
• Last 20 years: Perry Central 1-0.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 21 — Perry Central 45, at Clarksville 42 (OT).
• News & notes: Clarksville snapped a 6-game losing streak with its 13-point win at Cannelton on Tuesday. … Perry Central had an early 9-game losing streak but has won three of its last four games.
• John Harrell prediction: Perry Central 54, Clarksville 27.
• Sagarin projection: Perry Central by 26.
• Outlook: Perry Central has some quality wins, including its victory over Borden on Dec. 21.
• Greg’s pick: Perry Central 45, Clarksville 22.

NEW WASHINGTON (5-8) AT HAUSER (7-5)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Hauser Gymnasium, Hauser H.S. (9273 Indiana 9, Hope)
• Coaches:
New Washington — Kirsti Holloway (60-91 in seventh season at New Wash)
Hauser — Chad Evans (22-37 in third season at Hauser)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
New Washington — No. 236, No. 29 Class A
Hauser — No. 240, No. 30 Class A
• Most recent game:
New Washington — Lost to Lanesville 67-22 (Dec. 18)
Hauser — Lost at Brownstown 55-47 (Dec. 21)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• John Harrell prediction: Hauser 49, New Washington 48.
• Sagarin projection: Hauser by 4.
• Outlook: Hauser played within 8 points of Brownstown. That makes the Jets pretty good.
• Greg’s pick: Hauser 43, New Washington 40.

By GREG MENGELT

Tournament play continues all around Southern Indiana on Thursday, including the one-day Batesville Invitational.

Class 3A No. 9 North Harrison (4-1) will battle Jennings County (5-2) in the opening round at Batesville in the Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Day. That game starts at noon and follows the other Waldron (5-2) and the host Bulldogs (2-5). The Cougars are coming off their first loss, an overtime road defeat at Brownstown Central but haven’t played in almost two whole weeks.

Jennings County, which has also had two weeks off, is off to its best start in years. The Panthers have already had a 5-game winning streak.

In the day’s only non-tournament game, Borden (5-3) can improve to 3-0 in Southern Athletic Conference play with a win over visiting Crothersville (1-7).

Here’s a look at Thursday’s local slate:

GAME OF THE NIGHT
NORTH HARRISON (4-1) VS. JENNINGS COUNTY (5-2)
• Time: Noon.
• Events: Batesville Invitational, first round.
• Location: Batesville H.S. (1 Bulldog Blvd., Batesville)
• Coaches:
North Harrison — Lou Lefevre (40-11 in third season at North Harrison, 305-91 in 18th season overall)
Jennings County — Josh Land (57-71 in sixth season at Jennings)
• Rankings:
North Harrison — No. 9 AP (Class 3A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
North Harrison — No. 37, No. 7 Class 3A
Jennings County — No. 44, No. 30 Class 4A
• Most recent game:
North Harrison — Lost at Brownstown 63-62, OT (Dec. 17)
Jennings County — Lost at Seymour 72-53 (Dec. 18)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: This is a one-day tournament. Waldron (5-2) and host Batesville (2-5) will await the winner of North Harrison-Jennings County for the 6 p.m. championship. The losers will play at 4 p.m. in the consolation game.
• John Harrell prediction: Jennings County 57, North Harrison 54.
• Sagarin projection: North Harrison by 1.
• Outlook: It’s been a while since either team played. Rust and rest could make the difference in a game between two teams that appear to be so closely matched up.
• Greg’s pick: North Harrison 49, Jennings County 47.

SOUTH CENTRAL (2-6) VS. ORLEANS (7-2)
• Time: 5:30 p.m.
• Event: Baird Winter Classic, consolation game.
• Location: Memorial Gym (412 East 5th Street, Huntingburg)
• Coaches:
South Central — Greg Robinson (175-174 in 16th season at South Central, 197-237 in 20th season overall)
Orleans — Tom Bradley (347-193 in 23rd season at Orleans)
• Rankings:
Orleans — No. 10 AP (Class A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
South Central — No. 317, No. 56 Class A
Orleans — No. 152, No. 13 Class A
• Most recent game:
South Central — Lost to North Knox 52-37 (Baird Winter Classic, second round, Dec. 29)
Orleans — Lost to Evansville Christian 58-49 (Baird Winter Classic, second round, Dec. 29)
• Last 20 years: South Central 2-1.
• Most recent meeting: Feb. 6 — Orleans 57, South Central 42.
• News & notes: The Rebels and Bulldogs are both 1-1 in the tournament. On Tuesday, South Central beat host Southridge 45-43 before Wednesday’s 15-point loss to North Knox. Orleans lost to Evansville Christian on Wednesday after starting the tournament with a 51-36 win over Northeast Dubois. North Knox and Evansville Christian will play for the tournament title.
• John Harrell prediction: Orleans 59, South Central 42.
• Sagarin projection: Orleans by 21.
• Outlook: Overall, it’s been a good tournament for South Central. It’s become clear the Rebels are on the level — or they’re at least close — with any team in their sectional.
• Greg’s pick: Orleans 61, South Central 48.

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (5-4) AT SOUTHRIDGE (4-5)
• Time: 3:45 p.m.
• Event: Baird Winter Classic, fifth-place game.
• Location: Memorial Gym (412 East 5th Street, Huntingburg)
• Coaches:
CAI — Hayden Casey (14-21 in second season at CAI)
Southridge — Kyle Swafford (4-5 in first season at Southridge, 79-50 in sixth season overall)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
CAI — No. 263, No. 37 Class A
Southridge — No. 216, No. 41 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
CAI — Defeated Northeast Dubois 46-26 (Baird Winter Classic, second round, Dec. 29)
Southridge — Defeated Princeton 53-52 (Baird Winter Classic, second round, Dec. 29)
• Last 20 years: Southridge 2-0.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 4, 2019 — At Southridge 53, Christian Academy 42.
• News & notes: The Warriors and Raiders are 1-1 in the tournament, CAI suffered a 2-point loss to Evansville Central Tuesday before Wednesday’s 20-point win over Northeast Dubois. The host Raiders lost to South Central 45-43 in the first round before Wednesday’s 1-point win over Princeton.
• John Harrell prediction: Christian Academy 54, Southridge 50.
• Sagarin projection: Southridge by 6.
• Outlook: I’m guessing it will be close, but this is a game Christian Academy has a great chance for a quality road win.
• Greg’s pick: Christian Academy 62, Southridge 55.

ROCK CREEK (4-3) VS. SOUTH KNOX (4-4)
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Event: Daviess County Classic, seventh-place game.
• Location: Cougar Den, North Daviess H.S. (5494 E. State Road 58, Elnora)
• Coaches:
Rock Creek — Chris Brown (352-284 in 26th season at Rock Creek)
South Knox — David Burkett (47-34 in fourth season at South Knox)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Rock Creek — No. 187, No. 18 Class A
South Knox — No. 148, No. 26 Class 2A
• Most recent game:
Rock Creek — Lost to Paoli 62-54 (Daviess County Classic, second round, Dec. 29)
South Knox — Lost at North Daviess 33-29 (Daviess County Classic, second round, Dec. 29)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: The two teams that have beaten Rock Creek in the tournament at North Daviess are a combined 13-1. Wednesday’s opponent, Paoli, suffered its only loss Tuesday against Loogootee. … Brownstown Central will play defending Class 2A state champion Blackhawk Christian in the tournament championship Thursday.
• John Harrell prediction: South Knox 51, Rock Creek 43.
• Sagarin projection: South Knox by 5.
• Outlook: Few games this year will prepare Rock Creek for the postseason like this tournament has.
• Greg’s pick: Rock Creek 62, South Knox 60.

NEW WASHINGTON (2-6) VS. SOUTH RIPLEY (4-4)
• Time: 1 p.m.
• Event: Hoosier Shooting Academy Holiday Tournament, fifth-place game.
• Location: The Hive, Morristown H.S. (223 Patterson St., Morristown)
• Coaches:
New Washington — Kyle Brown (11-21 in second season at New Wash)
South Ripley — Tyler Theising (49-29 in fourth season at South Ripley)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
New Washington — No. 353, No. 67 Class A
South Ripley — No. 203, No. 38 Class 2A
• Most recent game:
New Washington — Lost to Morristown 43-39 (Hoosier Shooting Academy Holiday Tournament, second round, Dec. 29)
South Ripley — Defeated Randolph Southern 64-51 (Hoosier Shooting Academy Holiday Tournament, second round, Dec. 29)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: New Wash dropped a pair of games Wednesday. The Mustangs were beaten 66-38 by South Dearborn before their 4-point loss to the host Yellow Jackets. … South Dearborn and Covenant Christian will play for the tournament championship Thursday at 5 p.m.
• John Harrell prediction: South Ripley 69, New Washington 39.
• Sagarin projection: South Ripley by 21.
• Outlook: The Mustangs are going through some growing pains — against a really tough schedule — but they’ll be better for it.
• Greg’s pick: South Ripley 59, New Washington 42.

WEST WASHINGTON (2-6) VS. NORTH VERMILLION (3-7)
• Time: 4:30 p.m.
• Event: Clay City Invitational, fifth-place game.
• Location: Eel Dome, Clay City H.S. (601 Lankford St., Clay City)
• Coaches:
West Washington — Clayton Sullivan (41-42 in fourth season at West Washington)
North Vermillion — Cody Wright (7-44 in third season at North Vermillion)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
West Washington — No. 310, No. 54 Class A
North Vermillion — No. 334, No. 61 Class A
• Most recent game:
West Washington — Defeated Benton Central 57-55 (Clay City Invitational, second round, Dec. 29)
North Vermillion — Defeated Riverton Parke 51-46 (Clay City Invitational, second round, Dec. 29)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: The Senators are 1-1 in the tournament after a 13-point loss to Traders Point Christian and Wednesday’s 2-point win over Benton Central. They’ve won two of their last three after an 0-5 start. … Martinsville and Fort Wayne North will play for the tournament championship Thursday at 8 p.m. at Clay City.
• John Harrell prediction: West Washington 53, North Vermillion 47.
• Sagarin projection: West Washington by 3.
• Outlook: We’ve been saying all along West Washington was better than its record showed early in the season. The Senators are starting to prove it.
• Greg’s pick: West Washington 55, North Vermillion 48.

CROTHERSVILLE (1-7, 0-1 SAC) AT BORDEN (5-3, 2-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Borden Junior-Senior H.S. (301 West St., Borden)
• Coaches:
Crothersville — Bryant Layman (1-7 in first season at Crothersville)
Borden — Doc Nash (209-152 in 16th season at Borden)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Crothersville — No. 399, No. 98 Class A
Borden — No. 174, No. 15 Class A
• Most recent game:
Crothersville — Lost to Shawe 57-52, OT (Dec. 27)
Borden — Defeated Tecumseh 75-56 (Dec. 21)
• Last 20 years: Borden 18-4. The Braves have won their last two games vs. Crothersville.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 12, 2020 — Borden 65, at Crothersville 44.
• News & notes: Borden can improve to 3-0 in conference play. The Braves have SAC games left at New Washington (2-6, 1-0 SAC) on Jan. 7 and at Henryville (3-7, 1-0) on Jan. 22.
• John Harrell prediction: Borden 88, Crothersville 31.
• Sagarin projection: Borden by 51.
• Outlook: This one will be one-sided.
• Greg’s pick: Borden 76, Crothersville 44.

By GREG MENGELT

The 2-time defending Class 3A state champion Dragons have won the tournament five years in a row. Providence last won it in 2016.

Charlestown (3-5) will face Clarksville (2-5) in the consolation game after Silver Creek beat the Generals 76-54 and Providence held off the Pirates for a 55-49 victory in Wednesday’s semifinals.

Floyd Central (5-2) will face 2-6 Avon at the Paul Loggan Memorial Invitational at North Central in Indianapolis on Wednesday morning. The Highlanders took a tough 52-49 loss to Pike in Tuesday’s first round.

In other action, Corydon Central (4-5) will face Heritage Hills (5-3) for the PSC Holiday Tournament at South Spencer. The Panthers beat Perry Central 64-38 and Crawford County 61-47 on Tuesday to advance to the championship game.

South Central (2-5) is still alive in the championship bracket at the Baird Winter Classic at Southridge. The Rebels will play North Knox (7-2) in the second round there Wednesday.

New Washington (2-4) kicks off play at a tournament at Morristown. The Mustangs will face South Dearborn (4-2) in Wednesday’s opening round.

Here’s a look at all of Wednesday’s local action:

GAME OF THE NIGHT
PROVIDENCE (5-2) AT SILVER CREEK (5-5)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Events: Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, championship game.
• Location: Silver Creek H.S. (557 Renz Ave., Sellersburg)
• Coaches:
Providence — Ryan Miller (36-18 in third season at Providence)
Silver Creek — Brandon Hoffman (206-78 in 12th season at Silver Creek)
• Rankings:
Providence — No. 18 AP (Class 2A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Providence — No. 95, No. 13 Class 2A
Silver Creek — No. 146, No. 36 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
Providence — Defeated Charlestown 55-49 (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, first round, Dec. 28)
Silver Creek — Defeated Clarksville 76-54 (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: Silver Creek 17-16. The Dragons have won 8 in a row over Providence.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 29, 2020 — Silver Creek 62, Providence 41 (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, first round)
• News & notes: Silver Creek has won the last five holiday tournament titles. Providence’s last championship came in 2016.
• John Harrell prediction: Silver Creek 59, Providence 53.
• Sagarin projection: Providence by 5.
• Outlook: Pretty sure this is going to be a close one. As far as a winner, I’m less certain.
• Greg’s pick: Silver Creek 68, Providence 65.

CLARKSVILLE (2-5) VS. CHARLESTOWN (3-5)
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Events: Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, consolation game.
• Location: Silver Creek H.S. (557 Renz Ave., Sellersburg)
• Coaches:
Clarksville — Kyle Hankins (2-5 in first season at Clarksville)
Charlestown — Matt Lynch (3-5 in first season at Charlestown, 72-55 in sixth season overall)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Clarksville — No. 279, No. 67 Class 2A
Charlestown — No. 288, No. 77 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
Clarksville — Lost to Silver Creek 76-54 (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, first round, Dec. 28)
Charlestown — Lost to Providence 55-49 (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: Clarksville 20-13. The Generals have won three of the last four in the series.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 10 — At Charlestown 59, Clarksville 41.
• John Harrell prediction: Clarksville 55, Charlestown 52.
• Sagarin projection: Clarksville by 2.
• Outlook: This one should also be close, but I’ll take the Pirates in a squeaker.
• Greg’s pick: Charlestown 61, Clarksville 59.

FLOYD CENTRAL (5-2) VS. AVON (2-6)
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Events: Paul Loggan Memorial Invitational, second round.
• Location: North Central Gymnasium (1801 East 86th Street, Indianapolis)
• Coaches:
Floyd Central — Todd Sturgeon (127-42 in eighth season at Floyd)
Avon — Drew Schauss (2-6 in first season at Avon, 22-32 in third season overall)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Floyd Central — No. 22, No. 19 Class 4A
Avon — No. 153, No. 76 Class 4A
• Most recent game:
Floyd Central — Lost to Pike 52-49 (Paul Loggan Memorial Invitational, first round, Dec. 28)
Avon — Lost to Park Tudor 82-52 (Paul Loggan Memorial Invitational, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: This is the Highlanders’ final game of the 2-game tournament in Indy.
• John Harrell prediction: Floyd Central 62, Avon 51.
• Sagarin projection: Floyd by 15.
• Outlook: The Highlanders should pick up a deserved win after Tuesday’s tough loss.
• Greg’s pick: Floyd Central 62, Avon 44.

CORYDON CENTRAL (4-5) VS. HERITAGE HILLS (5-3)
• Time: 8:15 p.m.
• Events: PSC Holiday Tournament, championship game.
• Location: South Spencer H.S. (1142 N. Orchard Rd., Rockport)
• Coaches:
Corydon Central — Joseph Hinton (25-31 in third season at Corydon)
Heritage Hills — Nate Hawkins (103-25 in sixth season at Heritage Hills, 167-51 in 10th season overall)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Corydon Central — No. 181, No. 49 Class 3A
Heritage Hills — No. 124, No. 32 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
Corydon Central — Defeated Crawford County 61-47 (PSC Holiday Tournament, second round)
Heritage Hills — Defeated South Spencer 65-59 (PSC Holiday Tournament, second round)
• Last 20 years: Corydon Central 4-2.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 30, 2016 — Heritage Hills 64, Corydon 57.
• News & notes: The Panthers picked up two wins Tuesday. They beat Perry Central 64-38 to open the tournament in the morning then beat South Spencer by 6 points in the nightcap. … The Patriots are led by 6-foot-7 freshman Trent Sisley, who is averaging 18 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 1.2 assists per game. The 2025 forward is already being recruited by programs like Indiana, Purdue, Cincinnati and Notre Dame.
• John Harrell prediction: Heritage Hills 59, Corydon Central 53.
• Sagarin projection: Heritage Hills by 5.
• Outlook: I predicted the Panthers are about to go in a winning streak. So far, they’re making me look good.
• Greg’s pick: Corydon Central 68, Heritage Hills 59.

ROCK CREEK (4-2) VS. PAOLI (4-1)
• Time: 4:30 p.m.
• Events: Daviess County Classic, second round.
• Location: Cougar Den, North Daviess H.S. (5494 E. State Road 58, Elnora)
• Coaches:
Rock Creek — Chris Brown (352-283 in 26th season at Rock Creek)
Paoli — Dusty Cole (147-69 in 10th season at Paoli)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Rock Creek — No. 187, No. 18 Class A
Paoli — No. 169, No. 31 Class 2A
• Most recent game:
Rock Creek — Lost to Brownstown 58-42 (Daviess County Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
Paoli — Lost to Loogootee 59-35 (Daviess County Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: Rock Creek 2-0.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 28, 2012 — Rock Creek 66, Paoli 58.
• News & notes: The Lions will play either South Knox (4-3) or host North Daviess (9-1) in the final round Thursday. If Rock Creek wins Wednesday, it will play for fifth place Thursday at 4:30 p.m. With a loss, the Lions would play at 3 p.m. in the seventh-place game.
• John Harrell prediction: Rock Creek 51, Paoli 49.
• Sagarin projection: Paoli by 2.
• Outlook: This could be a statement win for Rock Creek.
• Greg’s pick: Rock Creek 57, Paoli 56.

SOUTH CENTRAL (2-5) VS. NORTH KNOX (7-2)
• Time: 4:45 p.m.
• Events: Baird Winter Classic, second round.
• Location: Memorial Gym (412 East 5th Street, Huntingburg)
• Coaches:
South Central — Greg Robinson (175-173 in 16th season at South Central, 197-236 in 20th season overall)
North Knox — Daniel Crabtree (28-28 in third season at North Knox)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
South Central — No. 317, No. 56 Class A
North Knox — No. 202, No. 37 Class 2A
• Most recent game:
South Central — Defeated Southridge 45-43 (Baird Winter Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
North Knox — Defeated Princeton 61-44 (Baird Winter Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: With a win Wednesday, South Central will play for the tournament championship against either Orleans (7-1) or Evansville Christian (5-3) on Thursday at 7:45 p.m. With a loss, the Rebels will play either the Bulldogs or Eagles in the consolation game at 5:30 p.m.
• John Harrell prediction: North Knox 52, South Central 41.
• Sagarin projection: North Knox by 15.
• Outlook: This is a pretty good Warrior team. South Central is going to have to play very well to advance to the title game.
• Greg’s pick: North Knox 56, South Central 43.

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (4-4) VS. NORTHEAST DUBOIS (2-5)
• Time: Noon.
• Events: Baird Winter Classic, second round.
• Location: Memorial Gym (412 East 5th Street, Huntingburg)
• Coaches:
CAI — Hayden Casey (13-21 in second season at CAI)
Northeast Dubois — Terry Friedman (178-183 in 16th season at Northeast Dubois)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
CAI — No. 263, No. 37 Class A
Northeast Dubois — No. 290, No. 46 Class A
• Most recent game:
CAI — Lost to Evansville Christian 74-72 (Baird Winter Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
Northeast Dubois — Lost to Orleans 51-36 (Baird Winter Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: The Warriors will face either Princeton (3-5) or host Southridge (3-5) in Thursday’s final round. With a win, CAI would play for fifth place at 3:45 p.m. With a loss, it will play in the seventh-place game at 2 p.m. Thursday.
• John Harrell prediction: Christian Academy 60, Northeast Dubois 51.
• Sagarin projection: CAI by 4.
• Outlook: The Warriors showed Tuesday that they can compete with a really good Class A team. They should win this one.
• Greg’s pick: Christian Academy 70, Northeast Dubois 61.

NEW WASHINGTON (2-4) VS. SOUTH DEARBORN (4-2)
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Events: Morristown Holiday Tournament, first round.
• Location: The Hive, Morristown H.S. (223 Patterson St., Morristown)
• Coaches:
New Washington — Kyle Brown (11-19 in second season at New Wash)
South Dearborn — Matt Colston (17-14 in second season at South Dearborn, 127-107 in ninth season overall)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
New Washington — No. 353, No. 67 Class A
South Dearborn — No. 236, No. 46 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
New Washington — Lost to Eastern 72-43 (Dec. 21)
South Dearborn — Lost to Connersville 45-33 (Dec. 17)
• Last 20 years: South Dearborn 1-0.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 29, 2020 — South Dearborn 52, New Washington 45.
• News & notes: The tournament at Morristown is a 7-team, 10-game tournament. If New Wash will face the host Yellow Jackets (0-6) either at 2:30 (with a loss) or 7 p.m. (with a win) on Wednesday. The final round is Thursday and will be played at 1 p.m. (fifth place), 3 p.m. (third place) or 5 p.m. (championship).
• John Harrell prediction: South Dearborn 67, New Washington 34.
• Sagarin projection: South Dearborn by 17.
• Outlook: The Mustangs are young. This tournament will be a learning experience.
• Greg’s pick: South Dearborn 68, New Washington 54.

LANESVILLE (1-9) VS. SOUTH PUTNAM (2-7)
• Time: 2 p.m.
• Events: Edinburgh Classic, final round.
• Location: Edinburgh H.S. (300 S. Keeley, Edinburgh)
• Coaches:
Lanesville — Mikel Miller (288-218 in 22nd season at Lanesville)
South Putnam — Matt Pickerill (2-7 in first season at South Putnam)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Lanesville — No. 311, No. 55 Class A
South Putnam — No. 335, No. 85 Class 2A
• Most recent game:
Lanesville — Lost to Hagerstown 67-60 (Edinburgh Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
South Putnam — Lost to Hauser 67-64 (Edinburgh Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: South Putnam and Lanesville, which lost twice Tuesday, including a 68-48 loss against the host Lancers, are playing for seventh place in the tournament.
• John Harrell prediction: Lanesville 56, South Putnam 51.
• Sagarin projection: Lanesville by 3.
• Outlook: Lanesville should get its second win of the season.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 63, South Putnam 52.

WEST WASHINGTON (1-6) VS. BENTON CENTRAL (6-3)
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Events: Clay City Invitational, second round.
• Location: Eel Dome, Clay City H.S. (601 Lankford St., Clay City)
• Coaches:
West Washington — Clayton Sullivan (40-42 in fourth season at West Washington)
Benton Central — Ben Lambeck (6-3 in first season at Benton Central)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
West Washington — No. 310, No. 54 Class A
Benton Central — No. 160, No. 42 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
West Washington — Lost to Traders Point Christian 56-43 (Clay City Invitational, first round, Dec. 28)
Benton Central — Lost to Fort Wayne North 72-60 (Clay City Invitational, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: The Senators will play Riverton Parke (4-3) or North Vermillion (2-7) in Thursday’s final round. With a win, West Washington will play for fifth place at 4:30 p.m. With a loss, it will play for seventh at 3 p.m.
• John Harrell prediction: Benton Central 65, West Washington 44.
• Sagarin projection: Benton Central by 23.
• Outlook: This is a tough opponent for a consolation bracket.
• Greg’s pick: Benton Central 66, West Washington 49.

By GREG MENGELT

Charlestown went 1-1 Tuesday but earned the tiebreaker and will face Class 4A No. 16 East Central (10-3) for the Donna Cheatham Classic championship Wednesday at 6 p.m.

The Pirates defeated Chatard 63-41 in the morning before suffering their second loss of the season to Lawrenceburg, 37-35 in the afternoon.

Scottsburg also went 1-1 Tuesday with 53-39 loss to East Central before a 48-39 triumph over Bloomington South. The host Warriorettes will play Chatard (6-7) in the consolation game at 4 p.m. Lawrenceburg (9-6) and Bloomington South (1-13) will meet in the fifth-place game at 2.

In other action, Class 3A No. 3 Silver Creek (13-1) will play in a 4-team tournament at Vincennes at noon. The Dragons play Franklin Central (3-9) in the opener and Pike (7-5) or host Vincennes (7-5) in the championship game. Creek appears to be the favorite.

Class A No. 2 Lanesville (13-1) and Henry County (Ky.) (4-6) will meet in a showcase at Jeffersonville at noon and MSC rivals Corydon Central (13-2) and Eastern (9-4) will play in the consolation bracket at Vincennes Rivet.

Here’s a look at all of Wednesday’s local action:

GAME OF THE NIGHT
CHARLESTOWN (10-4) VS. EAST CENTRAL (10-3)
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Event: Donna Cheatham Classic, championship game.
• Location: Charles E. Meyer Gymnasium (1 Jim Barley Way, Scottsburg)
• Coaches:
Charlestown — Scott Matthews (76-56 in sixth season at Charlestown)
East Central — Kevin Moore (209-86 in 13th season at East Central)
• Rankings:
Charlestown — No. 15 AP (Class 3A).
East Central — No. 17 IBCA (single class); No. 13 AP (Class 4A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Charlestown — No. 60, No. 13 Class 3A
East Central — No. 18, No. 16 Class 4A
• Most recent game:
Charlestown — Lost to Lawrenceburg 37-35 (Donna Cheatham Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
East Central — Defeated Bloomington South 47-29 (Donna Cheatham Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: All three teams in Charlestown’s pool went 1-1, but the Pirates advanced to the championship game via tiebreaker. Chatard is the 2 seed and Lawrenceburg, which beat the Pirates for the second time this season Tuesday, will play in the fifth-place game against Bloomington South. … All three of the Trojans’ losses have come against top 10 Class 4A teams.
• John Harrell prediction: East Central 53, Charlestown 40.
• Sagarin projection: East Central by 11.
• Outlook: Charlestown has some big wins this season, but the Trojans are probably on another level.
• Greg’s pick: East Central 43, Charlestown 32.

CHATARD (6-7) AT SCOTTSBURG (9-6)
• Time: 4 p.m.
• Event: Donna Cheatham Classic, consolation game.
• Location: Charles E. Meyer Gymnasium (1 Jim Barley Way, Scottsburg)
• Coaches:
Chatard — Dan Wagner (6-7 in first season at Chatard)
Scottsburg — Carrie Daniels (17-21 in second season at Scottsburg, 120-77 in seventh season overall)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Chatard — No. 126, No. 37 Class 3A
Scottsburg — No. 98, No. 25 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
Chatard — Defeated Lawrenceburg 53-40 (Donna Cheatham Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
Scottsburg — Defeated Bloomington South 48-39 (Donna Cheatham Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: The Warriorettes went 1-1 Tuesday with a win over Chatard and a 53-49 loss to Class 4A No. 13 East Central.
• John Harrell prediction: Scottsburg 52, Chatard 46.
• Sagarin projection: Scottsburg by 8.
• Outlook: No matter what happens, this tournament has been a great experience for the Warriorettes.
• Greg’s pick: Scottsburg 49, Chatard 47.

SILVER CREEK (13-1) VS. FRANKLIN CENTRAL (3-9)
• Time: Noon
• Event: Vincennes Invitational, first round.
• Location: Alice Arena, Vincennes Lincoln H.S. (1545 S. Hart St., Vincennes)
• Coaches:
Franklin Central — Vince Cerbone (25-54 in fourth season at Franklin Central, 258-202 in 21st season overall)
Silver Creek — Scott Schoen (168-109 in 12th season at Silver Creek)
• Rankings:
Silver Creek — No. 10 IBCA (single class); No. 3 AP (Class 3A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Franklin Central — No. 107, No. 51 Class 4A
Silver Creek — No. 19, No. 3 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
Franklin Central — Defeated Shelbyville 62-52 (Dec. 28)
Silver Creek — Defeated Brownstown Central 38-35 (Dec. 18)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: Silver Creek will face Pike (7-5) or Vincennes (7-5) in Wednesday evening’s final round. The Dragons will play at 8 p.m. if they beat Franklin Central, they’ll play at 8 p.m. in the championship game. With a loss, they’ll play at 6 p.m. in the consolation game.
• John Harrell prediction: Silver Creek 57, Franklin Central 37.
• Sagarin projection: Silver Creek by 21.
• Outlook: The Dragons should get a little better test in the evening, but they should win this 4-team tournament.
• Greg’s pick: Silver Creek 61, Franklin Central 46.

EASTERN (9-4) VS. CORYDON CENTRAL (13-2)
• Time: 2:45 p.m.
• Event: Niehaus Lumber Classic, fifth-place game.
• Location: Holscher Gymnasium (210 Barnett St., Vincennes)
• Coaches:
Eastern — Michael McBride (228-119 in 15th season at Eastern)
Corydon Central — Josh Conrad (23-13 in second season at Corydon, 142-106 in 11th season overall)
• Rankings:
Eastern — No. 15 AP (Class 2A).
Corydon Central — No. 10 AP (Class 3A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Eastern — No. 102, No. 17 Class 2A
Corydon Central — No. 53, No. 10 Class 3A
• Most recent game:
Eastern — Defeated Vincennes Rivet 38-29 (Niehaus Lumber Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
Corydon Central — Defeated Jasper 56-34 (Niehaus Lumber Classic, second round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: Eastern 10-9. The Musketeers have won six of the last seven games against Corydon.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 7 — At Corydon Central 42, Eastern 27.
• News & notes: Both teams went 1-1 Tuesday. Eastern dropped a 49-43 decision to Evansville Mater Dei then rebounded for a win over the host Patriots. Corydon lost its second game of the season — 59-51 to Class A No. 7 Tecumseh before its 22-point win over Jasper. … This is a rare non-conference game between the two Mid-Southern Conference programs. The Panthers and Musketeers play a conference game Jan. 6.
• John Harrell prediction: Corydon Central 48, Eastern 40.
• Sagarin projection: Corydon Central by 13.
• Outlook: Corydon should win but it won’t be easy.
• Greg’s pick: Corydon Central 56, Eastern 48.

LANESVILLE (13-1) VS. HENRY COUNTY (KY.) (4-6)
• Time: Noon.
• Event: Jeffersonville Showcase.
• Location: William S. Johnson Arena, Jeffersonville H.S. (2315 Allison Ln., Jeffersonville)
• Coaches:
Lanesville — Angie Hinton (76-15 in fourth season at Lanesville, 248-89 in 15th season overall)
Henry County — Jim Hook (Coaching record unavailable)
• Rankings:
Lanesville — No. 2 AP (Class A).
• Most recent game:
Lanesville — Won at New Washington 67-22 (Dec. 18)
Henry County — Defeated Lynn Camp 39-35 (Dec. 18)
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News & notes: Junior Lindsey Wernert is the focus of Lanesville’s opposing defense. Through 14 games, she’s averaging 16 points, 8.4 rebounds, 3.3 steals and 2.6 assists. … The Ladycats don’t have a single player who averages 10 points per game.
• Outlook: Lanesville should showcase its dominance at Jeff.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 66, Henry County 44.

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (4-9) VS. SOUTH CENTRAL (1-9)
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Event: Ray Zeller Christmas Classic, consolation game.
• Location: Whitefield Academy (7711 Fegenbush Ln., Louisville)
• Coaches:
CAI — Carson Casey (12-44 in third season at CAI)
South Central — Lynne Thomas (4-43 in third season at South Central)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
CAI — No. 355, No. 75 Class A 26
South Central — No. 375, No. 84 Class A
• Most recent game:
CAI — Lost to Prestonburg (Ky.) 61-28 (Ray Zeller Christmas Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
South Central — Lost at Whitefield Academy (Ky.) 77-23 (Ray Zeller Christmas Classic, first round, Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: South Central 13-1.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 18, 2020 — At South Central 68, CAI 18.
• News & notes: CAI and South Central were scheduled to play Dec. 17, but that game was postponed. There’s been no news whether that game will be made up later in the season. The Warriors and Rebels could meet in the sectional.
• John Harrell prediction: Christian Academy 45, South Central 35.
• Sagarin projection: CAI by 7.
• Outlook: South Central beat the Warriors by 50 last year. It would be impressive if CAI could erase that margin.
• Greg’s pick: CAI 41, South Central 39.

WEST WASHINGTON (9-4) AT CANNELTON (3-8)
• Time: Noon.
• Location: Cannelton Community Center (120 S. 4th St., Cannelton)
• Coaches:
West Washington — Matthew Myers (17-19 in second season at West Washington)
Cannelton — Brian Garrett (7-45 in third season at Cannelton)
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
West Washington — No. 263, No. 38 Class A
Cannelton — No. 385, No. 89 Class A
• Most recent game:
West Washington — Defeated Springs Valley 41-40 (Dec. 21)
Cannelton — Lost to Clarksville 50-37 (Dec. 28)
• Last 20 years: West Washignton 5-2. The Senators have a 5-game winning streak vs. Cannelton
• Most recent meeting: Nov. 19, 2020 — West Washington 43, at Cannelton 20.
• John Harrell prediction: West Washington 59, Cannelton 16.
• Sagarin projection: West Washington by 34.
• Outlook: The Senators will get to 10 wins before 2022 dawns.
• Greg’s pick: West Washington 58, Cannelton 21.

By GREG MENGELT

1. Floyd Central (5-1, Last week: 1). Wins over Providence and Bloomington South keeps the Highlanders at the top. This week: vs. Pike (North Central Classic, Tuesday), vs. Avon (North Central Classic, Tuesday), North Central Classic final round (Wednesday).

2. North Harrison (4-1, 2). The Cougars should be rested heading into a tournament at Batesville following a 13-day break. This week: vs. Jennings County (Batesville Holiday Tournament, Thursday), Batesville Holiday Tournament final round (Thursday).

3. Providence (5-2, 4). The Pioneers found a way to move up despite not playing last week. This week: vs. Charlestown (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), vs. Silver Creek or Clarksville (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, Wednesday).

4. Eastern (7-1, 5). The Musketeers have been dominant during their 6-game winning streak. This week: vs. Evansville Day (Eastern-Salem Classic, Tuesday), vs. Mt. Vernon (Posey) (Eastern-Salem Classic, Tuesday).

5. New Albany (3-4, 6). The Bulldogs will look for momentum following a 50-point win over Tell City. This week: Host Seymour (Tuesday).

6. Scottsburg (7-3, 3). The Warriors went 1-2 with a win over MSC-rival Silver Creek at the Jefferson County Invitational. This week: No games.

7. Borden (5-3, 9). The Braves are apparently legit. They’ve won 5 of their last 7 and nearly upset Eastern. This week: Host Crothersville (Thursday).

8. Silver Creek (4-5, 7). The Dragons know how to win and may have the area’s best player in the first month. They’ll be just fine. This week: vs. Clarksville (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament (Tuesday), vs. Providence or Charlestown (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, Wednesday).

9. Jeffersonville (2-5, 8). No more excuses for the Red Devils after Lovings-Watts and Grantz returned last week. This week: No games.

10. Rock Creek (4-1, 10). If Borden isn’t the best Class A team in the area, it could be the Lions. This week: vs. Brownstown (Daviess County Class, Tuesday), vs. Paoli or Loogootee (Daviess County Classic, Wednesday), Daviess County Classic final round (Thursday).

11. Christian Academy (4-3, 11). If Borden or Rock Creek aren’t the best local Class A team, it could be CAI. It’s going to be an interesting two months before the postseason. This week: vs. Evansville Christian (Southridge Winter Classic, Tuesday), vs. Orleans or Northeast Dubois (Southridge Winter Classic, Wednesday), Southridge Winter Classic final round, Thursday).

12. Corydon Central (2-5, 12). The Panthers have lost three in a row but they’re about to take off. This week: vs. Perry Central (PSC Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), vs. Crawford County or Tell City (PSC Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), PSC Holiday Tournament final round (Wednesday).

13. Charlestown (3-4, 13). The Pirates have a chance to move up with a strong performance at the Silver Creek Holiday Tournament. This week: vs. Providence (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), vs. Silver Creek or Clarksville (Silver Creek Holiday Tournament, Wednesday).

14. Austin (2-5, 14). The Eagles have 20 days off following their upset of Madison last week. This week: No games.

15. New Washington (2-4, 15). The Mustangs have several winning games upcoming. This week: vs. South Dearborn (Morristown Holiday Tournament, Wednesday), vs. Randolph Southern or Covenant Christian (Morristown Holliday Tournament, Wednesday), Morristown Holiday Tournament final round (Thursday).

NOTE: The Hoosier Hills Hoops Power Poll is not only based upon which teams beat which teams but is a combination of play on the floor, how teams match up with their current class and what expectations are for a team’s postseason run.

By GREG MENGELT

The Hoosier Hills Hoops Girls’ Power Poll is a weekly feature each Sunday, ranking the top girls’ teams in Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott and Washington counties.

1. Silver Creek (13-1, Last Week: No. 1). There’s no question who’s No. 1 at this point. This week: vs. Franklin Central (Vincennes Holiday Tournament, Wednesday), vs. Pike or Vincennes (Vincennes Holiday Tournament, Wednesday).
2. Corydon Central (12-1, 2). The Panthers’ only loss was to No.1 Silver Creek and they beat No. 3 Lanesville, so this spot is also an easy choice. This week: vs. Tecumseh (Vincennes Rivet Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), vs. Evansville Memorial or Jasper (Vincennes Rivet Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), Rivet Holiday Tournament final round (Wednesday).
3. Lanesville (13-1, 3). The Eagles have won nine straight by shutting down opposing offenses. This week: vs. Henry County (Ky.) at Jeffersonville (Wednesday), at Floyd Central (Thursday).
4. Charlestown (9-3, 4). The Pirates took a tough overtime loss to Corydon, so Charlestown is right there with the best teams in the area. This week: vs. Chatard (Donna Cheatham Classic, Tuesday), vs. Lawrenceburg (Donna Cheatham Classic, Tuesday), Donna Cheatham Classic final round (Wednesday).
5. Salem (8-4, 6). The Lions have rebounded from back-to-back losses with a pair of wins over 4A teams. This week: No games.
6. Eastern (8-3, 8). The Musketeers are quietly closing in on the top 5 of this poll. This week: vs. Evansville Memorial (Vincnnes Rivet Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), vs. Rivet or Lafayette Central Catholic (Rivet Holiday Tournament, Tuesday), Rivet Holiday Tournament, final round (Wednesday).
7. Jeffersonville (7-6, 7). The current 3-game losing streak is against teams with a combined 31-5 record. This week: Host Warren Central (Wednesday).
8. Scottsburg (8-5, 9). The young Warriorettes are beating the teams they should. This week: vs. East Central (Donna Cheatham Classic, Tuesday), vs. Bloomington South (Donna Cheatham Classic, Tuesday), Donna Cheatham Classic final round (Wednesday).
9. North Harrison (9-6, 5). The Lady Cats clearly won’t be the same team without their best player. This week: No games.
10. West Washington (9-4, 12). The Senators have won three in a row and 4 of 5. This week: At Shoals (Tuesday).
11. Floyd Central (5-9, 13). Wins over North Harrison and Crawford County were big … and needed. This week: Host Lanesville (Thursday).
12. Borden (9-5, 10). It’s been a nice year for the Braves but recent losses to Shoals and Perry Central drops them a couple spots. This week: Host Austin (Tuesday).
13. Austin (4-8, NR). The Eagles enter the poll after winning three of its last four. This week: At Borden (Tuesday).
14. Rock Creek (7-5, 15). The Lions enter 2022 with the most wins they’ve had in a long, long time. This week: No games.
15. New Albany (5-10, 11). The Bulldogs have lost 10 of 11 after a 4-1 start. This week: At Evansville Memorial (Thursday).

NOTE: The Hoosier Hills Hoops Power Poll is not only based upon which teams beat which teams but is a combination of play on the floor, how teams match up with their current class and what expectations are for a team’s postseason run.