The Inquirer TOP 10
PRESEASON BOYS' BASKETBALL
With last season's record, and final ranking in parentheses.
Team Record
1. Imhotep Charter (8) 25-6
The Panthers have four of the area's best players: swingman Ameen Tanksley, guard David Appolon, 6-foot-8 forward Erik Copes, and wing guard Khyree Wooten, a transfer from Strawberry Mansion.
2. Academy of the New Church (NR) 13-9
On paper, the Lions, with ample speed and a towering frontcourt, have the talent to bring the Friends Schools League championship trophy back to Bryn Athyn. Major success depends on the guard play.
3. Penn Wood (3) 27-4
The Patriots' bid to get to the Class AAAA state final for the third straight time is headed by Aaron Brown; 6-9, 250-pound force Shawn Oakman; and 6-8 swingman Darian Barnes.
4. Archbishop Carroll (5) 24-5
The Patriots' attempt to finish atop a wide-open Catholic League is headed by Juan'ya Green, Yosef Yacob, Tracy Peal (formerly at Malvern Prep), Shane Randall (ANC), and Rob Pittman (Chester).
5. Friends' Central (4) 24-2
Amile Jefferson, a 6-8 swingman, and wing guard Devin Coleman spark the attack. Malique Killing is a speedy point guard. Karonn Davis, a 6-1 combo guard, transferred in from Monsignor Bonner.
6. Plymouth Whitemarsh (2) 30-2
Yes, C.J. Aiken and Whis Grant are gone, but the defending Class AAAA state titlists welcome back 6-7 forward Jaylen Bond, wing guard Stephon Baker, point man Marcus Badger, and swingman Sam Pygatt.
7. Neumann-Goretti (1) 30-1
The Saints lost the likes of Tony Chennault and Tyreek Duren, but the cupboard isn't exactly bare at 10th and Moore. It's take-charge time for Lamin Fulton, a St. Peter's recruit, and Derrick Stewart.
8. Chester (NR) 16-11
Larry Yarbray's squad placed a disappointing eighth in the District 1 tournament. Expect more from the Clippers this year, with Maurice Nelson, Rondae Jefferson, and Lamon Church showing the way.
9. St. Joseph's Prep (NR) 17-8
The Hawks, with an always dangerous motion offense, bring back combo guards Steve Vasturia and Mike Fee, and 6-3 forward Gene Williams. Miles Overton, a sophomore guard, came over from ANC.
10. Council Rock North (NR) 22-6
Guard Aaron Morgan, 6-4 swingman Arron Goodman, and 6-6 forwards Charlie Anastasi and John Raymon are tested veterans for the defending Suburban One League National Conference champs.
Under consideration (listed alphabetically): Abington Friends (17-5), La Salle (20-6), Neshaminy (20-9), Roman Catholic (18-9), West Chester Rustin (23-5), Westtown Friends (17-8).
- Rick O'Brien