themambas Maryland Top 25 '09-10 week 12

[themamba]

Nice East Coast head-cracker. Hard do say with the layoff. ST. MICHAELS hasn't played in two weeks and the Queen and her court have been on holday as well. JENNY from the Bronx (O'NEILL, KENTUCKY) and co. have a bit of a size advantage and the CRUSADERS have home court advantage. The EAGLES dropped 3 straight in mid-Jan to BISHOP FORD and a pair in the JFK challenge to COLTS NECK and ST. JOHN VIANNEY and haven't totally got that taste out of their mouth. X, the 'Queen', the Saint, the Baptist, walk wit' me. Though one of the Queen's staunchest supporters, themamba goes with ST. MIKE'S.

The WCAC smackdown continues on a nightly basis where both assault, and battery charges, could be levied to both parties. B' MAC was the latest to get smacked, taking a 13 point 'l' to the CADETS last night. ST. JOHNS -HOLY CROSS is the remaining marquee game among a handful of crucial games with a GOOD COUNSEL win over B' MAC likely producing a 3-way tie at the finish.

In 4A, WISE moves to it's highest ranking ever (in themambas 5 year rankings) at #7 with 25 point win over BOWIE. ARUNDEL and MEADE could meet again in D-DAY part deaux with those EAGLES from NORTH POINT looking for it's first trip to the dance. The PANTHERS from PAINT BRANCH still lurk in 4A.

In 3A, the DOVES can change course and fly north, rather than south, with their first state title since '95, despite loss to DIGITAL. The DOVES will likely need to road wins over ABERDEEN and CATONSVILLE in the regionals. SENECA VALLEY flies undefeated from the West.

In 2A, DIGITAL and CITY should meet twice, in both the City Championship game and the Regional Championship with the winner the likely favorites who will have to stave off a persuit, round' the outside by FALLSTON who may be closing as fast as that philly at last years Derby. Both DIGITAL HARBOR and CITY are defending state champs, but haven't seen the City title during the DOVES reign.

1.) ST. FRANCES (18-3) >>> Look for it's 8th IAAM championship in 8 years.

2.) RIVERDALE BAPTIST (16-6) >>> Big showdown for nationally #75 ranked CRUSADERS versus the nationally #64 ranked ST. MICHEALS ACADEMY from Manhat'n (sic).

3.) BISHOP MACNAMARA (16-7) >>> Still atop the WCAC with 2 to play., GOOD COUNSEL and IRETON.

4.) HOLY CROSS (17-6) >>> Big one remains with ST. JOHNS.

5.) SPALDING (21-4) >>> In position to move up with championship berth.

6.) ELIZABETH SETON (18-6) >>> The ROADRUNNERS need some re-tread.

7.) WISE (19-1) >>> PUMAS scratch the BULLDOGS from BOWIE badly.

8.) ARUNDEL (18-2) >>> The CATS are clawing for the elusive state title.

9.) SETON KEOUGH (14-10) >>> Look to the Walsh to close out on positive note.

10.) GOOD COUNSEL (16-8) >>> The FALCONS will determine WCAC outcome with games remaining with B' MAC, HOLY CROSS and SETON.

11.) DIGITAL HARBOR (14-4) >>> Tune-up ? , tune up ? 83-1, really ?

12.) WESTERN (12-6) >>> A DOVE dropping to the 'Deen or the 'Ville will certainly make DOVES cry.

13.) SENECA VALLEY (20-0) >>> Survive 4 point win over CHURCHILL, which was their third game within 10 points.

14.) PAINT BRANCH (20-0) >>> Lookin' to make 'Bones' about something again this March.

15.) CITY COLLEGE (14-3) >>> The KNIGHTS first have POLY todat, then DIGITAL Wednesday at Morgan.

16.) MEADE (20-1) >>> The MUSTANGS have hit a wall. Just minor damage, but may need shop work. CHAMBLISS has scored 20 points in 1 of last 6 games after 10 in first 13 with BAILEY averaging 10.3 after 28 point performane against the CATS.

17.) MCDONOGH (16-6) >>> Mixed bag for MC'D. EAGLES score 24 point win over ROLAND PARK and 14 point loss to PANTHERS.

18.) LARGO (18-1) >>> Lions still rule PG3A.

19.) JOPPATOWNE (18-1) >>> Looks like MARINERS are Chesapeake champs and favorites in 1A.

20.) WESTLAKE (18-1) >>> SMAC-down with NORTH POINT on the 25th.

21.) NORTH POINT (15-3) >>> Like the DOVES, can right all wrongs with state championship.

22.) RIVER HILL (16-2) >>> HAWKS fly in from HOCO to the top 25.

23.) GAITHERSBURG (16-3) >>> TROJAN horse stubs it heels against WOOTON.

24.) BOWIE (16-4) >>> Any bark or bite left from BOWIE ?

25.) WHITMAN (16-3) >>> Travel to SENECA VALLEY on Tuesdfay for pop-quiz.

others; NORTHWESTERN (15-4), BLAKE (16-5), CATONSVILLE (17-1), ABERDEEN (16-2), FALLSTON (12-5) URBANA (17-3)

[themamba]

All hail the Queen.

Thank you.

RIVERDALE BAPTIST 59 ST. MICHAELS 57 >>> In what was a sure enough, Big East headcracker, the Queen and her court held off the 'Big Indian' and his EAGLES in a hard fought slugfest this evening in Upper Marlboro. The game featured 13 lead changes and 8 ties, including 5 lead changes in the final stanza. Jenny (O'NEILL) from the Bronx against Jenny (SIMS) from her block (greater Largo and Upper Marlboro proper). The CRUSADERS refused to fold and withstood many flurries from the nationally ranked EAGLES. The CRUSADERS trailed by 1 after 1 and lead by 1, 30-29, at intermission in a back and forth game that allowed only tough buckets. For the CRUSADERS it was ATIARA FRANKLIN, SIMMS, KI KI ATKINSON and TYONNA WILLIAMS who got the CRUSADERS their tough buckets and it was the All-American O'NEILL and STARR BREEDLOVE producing for the EAGLES. The lead never got bigger than 6 either way and for the majority of the game was a one posession contest. A couple of wild calls went each way, courtesy of our local IAABO, but no game changer. Great game between two very good teams. The 'Vet', FRANKLIN, led the way for the CRUSADERS, scoring 20 points and SIMMS added 11 while WILLIAMS and ATKINSON had 8 and 6 respectively. O'NEILL scored 22 and BREEDLOVE 12 for the EAGLES.

[themamba]

IAAM Championship >>> ST FRANCES 60 SPALDING 53

There was one last curtain call for three of the original members of the 'Ant Hill Mob' in Catonsville today as the trio methodically walked the SPALDING CAVALIERS down, 60-53. The difference in the game was experience and the CAVS couldn't muster up any with any pep talk or strategy session. SHATYRA HAWKES, BREANNA HUTCHEN and DEANNA HARMON knew they could beat the CAVS. The eight CAVALIERS did not know wether they could beat the PANTHERS and it showed the lack of certainty once again. The CAVS did know that they could jump on the PANTHERS as they did in game 1, 10-0 ,and game 2, 17-7. This time the CAVS extended it even further, both by score and time. The CAVS held a 18-12 first quarter lead behing 'Girlie' CURTIS getting putbacks and takes and MAGGIE MORRISON knocking down two jumpers. The PANTHERS like the earlier contest seemed sluggish but never wavered from their mission. That mission was to win it's 8th IAAM title in 10 years for the 'Wizard of East Side' Coach JEROME SHELTON and give this class it's third ring. This time the CAVS tested the PANTHERS mettle as well as it's ever had, starting the second quarter with an 9-3 run and a 27-15 lead with 4 to go in the half. The next 3 minutes is when the game turned and SHELTON had to re-insert HUTCHENS despite two fouls and two things happened. Actually several things happened. The CAVS advantage on the boards stopped. The buckets for SPALDING were harder to come by and the PANTHERS reminded themselves that they could beat this team by doing what they been doing. Causing havoc defensively, crashing, and running. The PANTHERS then scored the next 8 and closed to 27-23, then got a steal with an easy lay for HAWKES that went awry. No worries for the PANTHERS. That 3 minutes changed the momentum and attitude the rest of the way. CURTIS led the CAVS in the first half with 12 points as they held a 31-23 lead.

The PANTHERS came out as they finished the first half and cut it to 35-33 halfway through the third and stayed that way going into the fourth, a 2 point game. HAWKES, HUTCHENS and HARMON bared down as they've done for four years and left Chase Street knowing the IAAM trophy is in good hands and friendly and familiar surroundings. CURTIS finished with 18 points while MORRISON added 15 and SWINSON added 10. For the champs, HAWKES and HUTCHENS closed strong, finishing with 18 and 17 respectively and HARMON scored 12. HARMON kept the PANTHERS in the game as much as they were with HAWKES and HUTCHENS finding it slow going early. HARMON has done the dirty work, no matter the weather for 3 years. HUTCHENS and HAWKES remain amon 3 of the top 4 on POY standings with VAILS and just ahead of TAFT. Both CHELSEA DUKES and TYEASHA KING hit key buckets and JONELLE BRITT hit a pair of big ones as EVANS supplied minutes as well and finished her career on a high note at the IAAM jam. As Cosell needed his Ali, themamba needed his 'Ant Hill Mob' three years ago when themamba was in his early years of the blogosphere and just began his foray into cyber journalism. Thought about changing my name. Too bland, themamba. Na, can't do that, it was given and I have to show respect. Well, thanks to following the 'Big Ticket', aka KANDICE GREEN'S career at ST FRANCES, I stumbled across America's next Idol. Or at least 'Charm City's' next great storyline to come from the Eastside powerhouse thats with earshot or shouting distance from the 8 o'clock Chowder line. 'Lil Mama' stood 5'1 1/2 at the time with her cohorts BRISTOW, MCCLURKIN and HARMON at 5'4, 5'5 and 5'7. The 'Ant Hill Mob' had evolved and had their 2 year 5'10 post HUTCHENS post-humorously (sic, pi) inducted to start the '08-09 season. Well BRISTOW left and BONES is gone but the three remaining members of the original cast showed today that they can still put on one hell of performance when the lights are on. Congrats to the PANTHERS and the 'Wizard of East Side' and also congrats to the CAVALIERS on a very good season with better things to come. Just don't count the heart of a champion, therefore don't ever count out ST FRANCES.

[themamba]

The CADETS of ST JOHNS have regained form and along with PAUL VI are the hottest teams not only in the WCAC but the entire area. ST JOHNS is now tied for second with 'LIZ SETON, a game back of MCNAMARA. The CADETS have won 3 in a row against 3 top 10 opponents - GOOD COUNSEL by 4, B' MAC by 13 and yesterdays 57-53 win over HOLY CROSS. Not to be outdone, PAUL VI has won 5 in a row and 3 over top top 6 opponents in B' MAC, SETON and HOLY CROSS. B' MAC could have all but clinched the WCAC regular season with a win over ST JOHNS but were denied and kept the CADETS hopes alive after looking so distant 3 weeks ago. Free throws again doomed the TARTANS as the CADETS hit 29-41 and the CADET guards (ZIMMER, JONES, ALLEN ) hit 17-21 a week after the 3 MUSTANG (BROWN, BRYANT and STRICKLAND) guards hit 27-32. YOU. CAN'T. DO. THATTTT!!!! It'll kill you.

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All rise.

Thank you.

The Queen has spoken. And the CRUSADERS have spoken loudly with, despite what local naysayers have claimed, one of the most brutal schedules in the country and not only survived but thrived with a young bunch and a veteran. That's right the country. With a nice win over ST MICHAELS Saturday, the CRUSADERS have now played 7 nationally ranked teams and another pair with a pair of regionally ranked opponents to rank their schedule as tough as anyone's in the country.

The CRUSADERS have played #3 MATER DEI CAL, #20 MEMPHIS CENTRAL TN (twice), #48 SOUTH EUGENE ORE, #58 ST FRANCES MD, #67 CHRIST THE KING NY and #73 ST. MICHAELS NY. The CRUSADERS have also played BISHOP MCNAMARA and OVERTON TN who are both regionally ranked. MATER DEI will have to beat #2 BREA to win their Cali D-II title and MEMPHIS CENTRAL will have to hold off 3 other netionally ranked Volunteer state teams along with another handful of perennials including OVERTON while SOUTH EUGENE will battle with a pair of nationally ranked teams in OREGON CITY and SOUTHRIDGE for the Oregon 6A crown. ST MICHAELS and CHRIST THE KING will likely battle in the CHSAA for a shot with MURRY BERGTRAUM in the NY Federation. ST FRANCES, meanwhile, just won it's 8th IAAM championship in 10 years. All six (played #20 MEMPHIS CENTRAL twice and came away with a split) have strong pedigrees as does B' MAC and OVERTON.

Being a real estate agent themamba is always looking at comparibles. With 9 high quality games (7 against nationally ranked and a pair against regionally ranked), the CRUSADERS match up with the top quartet from Cali' almost identically as far as schedule strength and ahead of their cohorts in the Midwest, the Apple and those closer to home. MATER DEI's ratio is 6 and 1 (nationally and regionally ranked), ST MARYS is 8 and 1, BREA is top at 8 and 2 while POLY is 7 and 1. BREA hods a 1 game lead and ST MARYS a half game lead in the schedule strength department. Due to the elements, the CRUSADERS would be at the top with ST MARYS had not the Blizzo' of '010 hit the Eastern Seaboard. ST MICHAELS NY has played 2 nationally ranked teams and 4 other regionally ranked teams while MURRY BERGTRAUM numbers are 1 and 3 and CHRIST THE KING has played the most ambitious schedule of New York's finest having played 5 nationally ranked teams and 5 regionally ranked teams. MT LEBANON PA, is at 5 and 1 while the two titans to the Commonwealth to our South, LAKE TAYLOR and PRINCESS ANNE have 1 and 1 thanks to playing each other.

Here close to home; ST FRANCES 1 and 7, BISHOP MCNAMARA 4 and 7, HOLY CROSS 1 and 8 and SETON at 0 and 7. In addition to those 9 games for the CRUSADERS, they have played 10 of their remaining 13 games against top 30 teams in their jurisdiction, leaving just 3 of their 22 games against non-ranked opponenets. ST JOHN THE BAPTIST NY, who lost to HOLY CROSS by 8, is one as are PRINCETON DAY (not bad) and COOLIDGE (the second-best team in the DCIAA). Case closed, tough schedule.

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As for the Catholics, there were baptisms aplenty for ARCHBISHOP SPALDING as they rose to the IAAM title game for the first time since '02 and had three of their newcomers play a role in a handful of key games. CALHOUN and EPPS are going to be special as is ST FRANCES guard TYSHELL KING. SPALDING, on paper (and we know how much a paper is worth, especially these days), will be the pre-season front-runner with KEOUGH at 2 and (heaven forbid) ST FRANCES at 3 with a keen eye on the waiver wire and trading deadline. The hot-stove has already begun to burn and we haven't even finished this season yet. Get Mort and Sheckty on the phone, we need to know what the deal is on a thing or two 'bout a thing or two. What ? First they are covering the Spring/Summer acquisition deadline ? Interesting. Well, first things first. And remember after this season's bizarre opening week, things aren't always as they first appear.

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A look at the brackets. Thoughts ? Sure, I thought you'd never ask.

First things second. Ask ARUNDEL. No really, Im playin'. My thought process is that none of these point system or computer-generated rating sustem or coach's poll are ever directly on point and their may seem to be some injustices, but eventually you have to beat everybody anyway, relatively speaking. Certain matchups favors some as opposed to others and homecourt can give their particular team some needed energy but to be state champion you should be able to tackle any obstacle in your way unconditionally. As for the one's that missed the 4 seed and possible home-court, I would argue that none of these teams really warranted any special consideration otherwise. The reason for playing hard and improving down the stretch is to have some continuity going into the postseason rather than homecourt because at 4 you would have 2 games that you would need to win on the road anyway (provided 1 doesn't get beat by an 8. So if it's that big of deal, then strive very hard for fourth next year. Having said that, themamba looks at the pairings and a look at they would have otherwise differentiated had they went straight-up, no chaser.

In the 4A, the big winner is MEADE by gaining any advantage it could get with their rematch with ARUNDEL. No doubt easier to play at home as it is on the road, with BAILEY and especially CHAMBLISS relying on the long ball, the MUSTANGS at the least will have some sort of comfort zone. Until they go the paint, where VAILS resides. ARUNDEL will now battle NORTH POINT rather than OLD MILL and will have a nice challeng on their hands first before any D-DAY II talk. ARUNDEL, on the other hand, can't complain about home court. The CATS should be expected to beat MEADE, wether it is at home or on the road (look at it as home and home), if they are to get and deserve that Maryland 4A championship. What doesn't kill you only will make you stronger. And the winner will have to be that much stronger if they are to beat the PUMAS from WISE. BOWIE and NORTHWESTERN should battle in the semi for a shot at WISE after meeting yesterday for a prelude with BOWIE winning in overtime. PAINT BRANCH will encounter GAITHERSBURG one round earlier than anticipated with TROJANS loss to WOOTON while WHITMAN getas the 2 seed. The 4A, in all honesty, should be probably dissolved. Or taken over by the government and provided stimulus. Seems like a long time ago to where this region was relevant. Thanks IAAM.

In 3A, big story is WESTERN having to go on the road twice, first to the 'Ville, where, according to sources, are waiting to get some get-back on the DOVES. Good luck with that, COMETS. Then after dispatching the 'Ville, who, btw, are ranked 2nd in the entire state of Maryland among public schools on the new Recruit.something (thread on hs board), the DOVES (no seriously) will travel to the 'DEEN where the common theme is what happens in the 'Deen, stays in the 'Deen. However, if POLY is to knock off ABERDEEN in the semis, the ENGINEERS would not be required to stay in the 'Deen and would recieve a get out of jail free card and allowed to advance to Catonsville. In the East, RIVER HILL and Coach WATERS didn't recieve any party favors in their region with a semifinal match-up against arguably, one of the two best team in their region in CENTENNIAL and ATHOLTON. The winner of HEBRON- HOWARD has a good shot at a regional championship berth.

In 2A, it's DIGITAL's to lose. The RAMS will likely have to beat CITY a second time, which may be a bit easier than to have to have done it last year. FALLSTON should roll through the East and meet up with the DIGITAL- CITY winner in the semifinal game that will probably decide the champion. WALKERSVILLE is among a handful of teams that could win the West and GWYNN PARK along with a trio from HOCO, OAKLAND MILLS, HAMMOND and GLENELG will join CALVERT for a shot at the dance in the South.

In 1A, I think many are discounting JOPPATOWNE, my pick to win it all.

[themamba]

Just made a call out to the 702 for the early morning odds for Maryland's March Madness and talked to my man Sonny, who btw goes by 'Rredds' (yea, with 2 r's for some reason), who has a guy, let's just call him Jim, though most in the industry know him as 'Sammy the meat slicer', works with a friend of ours (all'a us), whose son JAMAAL works at the book and the odds are as follows. One last thing. JAMAAL relayed through Sammy, I mean Jim, who expressed this through Sonny aka Rredds or Double R as some call him to remind me that this is for entertainment purposes only. I assured him that it was and we left as though the conversation never existed. Anyway, here's the top 10 in each class according to Sonny, 'the Slicer and 'Mallie Mal'.

4A >>>

#1 SEEDS; WISE 3-1, PAINT BRANCH 5-1, MEADE 10-1, URBANA 30-1

others; ARUNDEL 3-1, NORTH POINT 8-1, GAITHERSBURG 15-1, BOWIE 20-1, NORTHWESTERN 25-1, WHITMAN 30-1

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3A >>>

#1 SEEDS; SENECA VALLEY 3-1, LARGO 5-1, RIVER HILL 8-1, CATONSVILLE 30-1

others; WESTERN 3-1, ABERDEEN 10-1, WESTLAKE 10-1, BLAKE 10-1, POLY 25-1, DAMASCUS 30-1

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2A >>>

#1 SEEDS; DIGITAL HARBOR 2-1, FALLSTON 3-1, WALKERSVILLE 10-1, GWYNN PARK 15-1

others; CITY 7-1, OAKLAND MILLS 25-1, GLENELG 25-1, NORTH CAROLINE 25-1, DUNDALK 30-1, NORTH CARROLL 40-1

* odds are on to win it all and of course for entertainment value only. Unless you'd like to make a wage.. Just playin'. Again. Big shout out to my Vegas crew for that early line. I owe ya'. I know, I know, but this time I plan on paying you back. See,.. there's a difference. Thanks.

[Inside Threat]

First things second. Ask ARUNDEL. No really, Im playin'. My thought process is that none of these point system or computer-generated rating sustem or coach's poll are ever directly on point and their may seem to be some injustices, but eventually you have to beat everybody anyway, relatively speaking. Certain matchups favors some as opposed to others and homecourt can give their particular team some needed energy but to be state champion you should be able to tackle any obstacle in your way unconditionally. As for the one's that missed the 4 seed and possible home-court, I would argue that none of these teams really warranted any special consideration otherwise. The reason for playing hard and improving down the stretch is to have some continuity going into the postseason rather than homecourt because at 4 you would have 2 games that you would need to win on the road anyway (provided 1 doesn't get beat by an 8. So if it's that big of deal, then strive very hard for fourth next year. Having said that, themamba looks at the pairings and a look at they would have otherwise differentiated had they went straight-up, no chaser.

In the 4A, the big winner is MEADE by gaining any advantage it could get with their rematch with ARUNDEL. No doubt easier to play at home as it is on the road, with BAILEY and especially CHAMBLISS relying on the long ball, the MUSTANGS at the least will have some sort of comfort zone. Until they go the paint, where VAILS resides. ARUNDEL will now battle NORTH POINT rather than OLD MILL and will have a nice challeng on their hands first before any D-DAY II talk. ARUNDEL, on the other hand, can't complain about home court. The CATS should be expected to beat MEADE, wether it is at home or on the road (look at it as home and home), if they are to get and deserve that Maryland 4A championship. What doesn't kill you only will make you stronger. And the winner will have to be that much stronger if they are to beat the PUMAS from WISE. BOWIE and NORTHWESTERN should battle in the semi for a shot at WISE after meeting yesterday for a prelude with BOWIE winning in overtime. PAINT BRANCH will encounter GAITHERSBURG one round earlier than anticipated with TROJANS loss to WOOTON while WHITMAN getas the 2 seed. The 4A, in all honesty, should be probably dissolved. Or taken over by the government and provided stimulus. Seems like a long time ago to where this region was relevant. Thanks IAAM.



No disrespect Mamba, but like what I've seen at Meade since they took that "L" from Arundel. They picked up and went right back to business of putting heads to bed. It's playoff time and I think Meade might stun some folks If they can contain the Vails and just slow Watson down( both easier said then done) they have a legit shot at slaying the Wildcats in the semi's.:eek: It should be a good one. I'll be there for sure.

[themamba]

CHRISTINE WEITHMAN and the BLAKE BENGALS hand BONES MOSELY and the PANTHERS from PAINT BRANCH their first l'ski, 74-59, tonight at PB.

[themamba]

BLAKE 74 PAINT BRANCH 59 >>> Significant win for the BLAKE BENGALS last night in their win over PAINT BRANCH albeit an otherwise meaningless regular season game. Not with PAINT BRANCH - BLAKE who've developed a nice rivalry the last few years. And not considering the PANTHERS last loss in MOCO was January 5, 2007, over 3 years ago to BCC and had a 78 game winning streak in the county snapped like a branch. That was the last regular season loss in the state of Maryland for the PANTHERS with the other 4 losses coming in last years 3A final, 07' state semifinal and a pair of games when they travelled to New York last year and dropped a pair to MURRY BERGTRAUM and SOUTH SHORE.

WEITHMAN scored 30 for the BENGALS as they recieved a nice contribution from GABI HALL who scored 16 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. NIKKI OSTROW added 14 for the BENGALS. MOSELY led the PANTHERS with 27 points and KENIA COLE scored 18 but the PANTHERS only managed 17 field goals as both teams hit 21-28 from the line. MOSELY leads the state in scoring at a 26.4 clip while WEITHMAN averages 23.9. WEITHMAN leads the state with 61 three-pointers made and has scored in double-digits in every game this season.

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WISE 73 NORTHWESTERN 38 >>> The PUMAS are on top of their game at the moment having beaten PG4A #2 BOWIE by 25 Saturday and following that up with a 35 point massacre of #3 PG4A NORTHWESTERN last night. LESLIE SLAYTON again led the way scoring 18 points and has averaged 15.4 over her last 8 games. SLAYTON began hitting on 16-26 over the first 7 games this season and has hit at a 80% mark over the last 15 games. Meanwhile she went from 3 made three-pointers (less than .5 a game) to 18 made over the last 15 games (1.2 a game). WISE is the hottest team in the state right now heading into the playoffs and now have beaten their two top opponents in their region by a total of 60 points in the last 5 days. Statement served.

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PAUL VI 78 CARROLL 40 >>> The PANTHERS are on a roll as well winning 7 in a row including 3 over the top 3 in the last 2 weeks. BLAIR KONISZEWSKI led the PANTHERS, htiing on 6 three-pointers and raising her total to 71 over 21 games. KONISZEWSKI averages 3.4 3's made a game and has 33 two-pointers to go with her 71 three's.

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CITY CHAMPIONSHIP >>> DIGITAL HARBOR (14-5) v CITY COLLEGE (14-4) @ MORGAN STATE 5:00 tonight

AACO v HOCO Championship >>> ARUNDEL (19-2) v RIVER HILL (17-2)

Regular season, prelude to possible 4A regional final >>> SENECA VALLEY (20-0) v WHITMAN (16-3)

[themamba]

CITY 54 DIGITAL HARBOR 51 >>> It was no doubt the LASHAY TAFT show this evening at Hill Field House. TAFT torched DIGITAL HARBOR for 27 points including four 3's including the back breaking three to put the KNIGHTS up 53-48 with 1:30 to play. The KNIGHTS led the entire game before the RAMS made a closing run to cut it to 2 and have a chance to tie at the buzzer before ASIA LOGAN's three fell short. The RAMS were bringing the kitchen sink at TAFT and she in turn took a sledgehammer to the stainless steel. In the 2 games I've seen her play on the Morgan gym I don't think she's hit the rim yet on 10 trifectas. Two games, 55 points and 10 trifectas. The first night at the Academy, which I didn't make she scored 33 and set a 2 day Mayors record this year. CLARISSA SHROPSHIRE and JUMANH GILES each hit three's and each added another jumper in the first half and finished with 5 at the half. DELORES BELL came up big with a pair of trifectas of her own and another foul line jumper and scored 8 points. KAYLA DILLARD and DOMINIQUE DAWSON were in foul trouble and the KNIGHTS got a nice boost from freshman TREASURE JEFFERSON in the post. DIGITAL HARBOR was led by LOGAN who scored 16 points and JANAY BRINKLEY who came on in the second half with 8 points including 6 in a row. The RAMS also got great defensive and rebounding effort from freshman ALEXIS HARRISON. But in the end it was 'SHAY and the Miracles' defeating the RAM senior class for a fourth time with the RAMS having never beaten the KNIGHTS. You can never say never especially when ever may be next week. Think about it, it's true.

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RIVER HILL 57 ARUNDEL 54 >>> HOCO over AACO for the District 5 Championship as CHANTREL OLIVER explodes for 27 points.

[themamba]

DISTRICT 5 CHAMPIONSHIP

RIVER HILL 54 ARUNDEL 51 >>> The HAWKS came out flying after intermission and outscored ARUNDEL 21-7 in the third quarter as CHANTREL OLIVER sliced and diced for 27 points and propel the HAWKS into the 3A playoffs. ALEISHA HENDERSON led the CATS with 15 points and TALEN WATSON and SHERRONE VAILS were limited to 21 points combined. The HAWKS can use this game for mojo while the CATS can use this game as a lesson knowing it's just not WISE that can beat them. Next up for the CATS, the Queen and her CRUSADERS, tomorrow night for a complete diagnostic check before hosting NORTH POINT and possibly heading to the Fort for D-DAY II.

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BALTIMORE COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP

CATONSVILLE 71 DUNDALK 45 >>> The COMETS came out sky-rocketing and controlled early and often as they took a commanding 37-22 halftime margin and cruised. The COMETS overcame a 36 point performance by themambas Baltimore County POY TRACY CARRINGTON who scored 36 of the OWLS 45 points. The COMETS, who have not lost a county game in 3 years since a 59-58 loss to DULANEY and PARKER, were led by ZOEY WHITTINGTON with 17 points leading 4 COMET double-digit performers (MAYA TORAIN 15, CANDACE MCCRAY 14, MADDY HUNT 14).

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Regular Season

JOPPATOWNE 85 ABERDEEN 78 >>> The MARINERS put away their rival, the ABERDEEN EAGLES for another time as they raced out to a 41-29 halftime lead and scored 44 second half points to seal the deal again. TEJHA PATTON-HILL and SHAKARA HEAD each scored 19, ZEMERIA JONES 18 and BRITTANY THORNTON 15 as the MARINERS submarined the EAGLES despite TIFFANY TAYLOR scoring her 1,000th point and finishing with 23.

SENECA VALLEY 41 WHITMAN 37 >>> The EAGLES remain the last undefeated Maryland team after the PAINT BRANCH PANTHERS lost to BLAKE Monday night. The EAGLES held off WHITMAN after surrendering a 15 point, 26-11, halftime lead to just 4. The EAGLES and WHITMAN are the top two seeds in the MOCO 4A and this could very well be a prelude to a regional final. KELSEY WOLFE led the EAGLES with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists.

Also of note, #3 seed in MOCO 3A, DAMASCUS, got dropped by NORTHWEST, 52-47, despite JESSE KAUFMAN scoring a career-high 38 points. MEGHAN MOELTNER led NORTHWEST with 17 points.

ST JOHNS beat IRETON by 28 to go to 12-4 in the WCAC while PAUL VI won their 8th in a row and go to 11-6 with 36 point win over O'CONNELL.

MEADE, WESTLAKE, NORTH POINT and PAINT BRANCH all won by 15 or better in light tune-ups.

---------------------------------

Tonight

PG CHAMPIONSHIP >>> WISE (20-1) v LARGO (19-2) 5:30

GOOD COUNSEL @ ELIZABETH SETON 7:45

[themamba]

The bridge is over, the bridge is over.

PG CHAMPIONSHIP

WISE 82 LARGO 72 >>> The WISE PUMAS won their first PG Championship, after a ELEANOR ROOSEVELT run interrupted up by LARGO in '07, as the PUMAS stood off LARGO, 82-72. The PUMAS jumped out to a 44-34 halftime lead behind the talented and deadly JANAY BORUM. The LIONS scratched back to cut it to 3, 62-59, going into the forth before the PUMAS ran away. Congrats to the WISE PUMAS, Coach WALTER CLARK and of course, Smoke.

[themamba]

One month ago today
I was happy as a lark
But now I go for walks
To the movies - maybe to the park

And have a seat on the same old bench
To watch the children play (huh)
You know, tomorrow is their future
But to me, just another day

They all gather around me
They seem to know my name
We laugh, tell a few jokes
But it still doesn't ease my pain

I know I can't hide from a memory
'Though day after day I've tried
I keep sayin' she'll be back
But today again I lied

Oh, I see her face everywhere I go
On the street, and even at the picture show
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Oh, I hear her voice as the cold winds blow
In the sweet music on my radio
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Why, oh, why
Did she have to leave and go away (oh, yeah)

Oh-oh-oh, I've been used to havin' someone to lean on
And I'm lost
Baby, I'm lost (Oh)

Oh, she left her kiss upon my lips
But left that break within my heart
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

Oh, I see her hand reaching out to me
Only she can set me free
Have you seen her?
Tell me, have you seen her?

[Spoken:]
As another day comes to an end
I'm lookin' for a letter or somethin'
Anything that she would send
With all the people I know
I'm still a lonely GIRL
You know, it's funny
I thought I had her in the palm of my hand

[Repeat to fade:]
Have you seen her
Tell me, have you seen her (tell me, have you seen her?)

---------------------------------

You know,... Big Mo ?

The ol' Chi-lites classic is now being sung by the CATS from ARUNDEL after two straight regular season losses to RIVER HILL and RIVERDALE BAPTIST. Two nights after surrendering a 9 point halftime lead and watch SHANTREL OLIVER score 27 points in the first 3 quarters, the CATS came out dazed last night, as if getting swatted into the fire place by a great dane, as the CRUSADERS marched out to a 20 point first half lead and cruised 55-44. TYONNA WILLIAMS led the crusade, scoring 22 points. KI KI ATKINSON added 12 and TIARA FRANKLIN scored 8 as the CRUSADERS hit on 15 of 16 free throws. SHERRONE VAILS and TALEN WATSON led the CATS in scoring with 12 apiece. What usually serves the CATS well, the annual RIVERDALE game, a game against one of the best, that doesn't count against any seedings, and usually brings the CATS down to earth after shredding AACO, this time could backfire and jolt the CATS confidence after this week. RIVERDALE BAPTIST 55 ARUNDEL 44 F

Singing background for the CATS in the ballad searching for Big Mo' are the ROADRUNNERS from SETON, at least a tentative agreement is in place, and now lined up for several solos are the PANTHERS from PAINT BRANCH, the RAMS from DIGITAL and the WOLVERINES of WESTLAKE. Oh yea, WESTLAKE. Hey Dj, play that song.

---------------------------------

Hello, it's me,
I've thought about us for a long, long time
Maybe I think too much but something's wrong
Something's here that doesn't last too long.
Maybe I shouldn't think of you as mine.
Seeing you,seeing anyone as much as I do you,
I take for granted that you're always there,
I take for granted that you just don't care.
Sometimes I can't help seeing all the way through,baby.

It's important to me
that you know you are free
Cause I never want to make you change for me, babe (don't change, don't change)
No, I wouldn't change you, change you for the world (don't change, don't change)
No, don't change, girl (don't change, don't change)
Stay as sweet as you are (don't change, don't change)
But one thing I want you to do is,

Think of me, think of me, yeah
You know I'd be with you if I could,
Come around and see you once in a while,
If you ever need a reason to smile,
I'd spend the night if you think I should.

It's important to me
that you know you are free
Cause I never want to make you change for me

And I'll come around and see you once in a while,
If you ever need a reason to smile,
I'd spend the night if you think I should.

Just don't change, girl (don't change, don't change)


------------------------------------

Taking over the Isley sisters, the EAGLES of NORTH POINT came through and hit such a high note they tore the roof off the mutha' (sic). The EAGLES handed WESTLAKE it's second loss of the season with a 62-44 Smac-down a month after the EAGLES dropped one to the WOLVES. ROBYN PARK scored half of the EAGLE points and finished with 31 points, 14 rebounds and 11 steals. One more on the wheels of steel.

------------------------------------


Called up the homies and I'm askin y'all
Which park, are y'all playin basketball?
Get me on the court and I'm trouble
Last week messed around and got a triple double
Freakin brothers everyway like M.J.
I can't believe, today was a good day


------------------------------------

Thanks, Cube. Also let me give some credit to the CADETS of ST JOHNS and the PANTHERS from PAUL VI coming in from the WCAC to collaborate with the Isley sisters on that earlier track as well as some background provided by the KNIGHTS from CITY COLLEGE and those harmonizing HAWKS from RIVER HILL.

Hold up. We may need to write a couple more verses, someone just rode in on a Harlee (sic).

[themamba]

Welcome to wicked Wednesday. Win and stay in. Lose and go home. Or if your ARUNDEL, CATONSVILLE or PAINT BRANCH or the like, then stay home. After a an exchange of pleasantries and preliminaries Monday, may the mayhem of March Madness begin this wicked Wednesday.

As far as themambas rankings, for the first time in 5 years, themamba is clueless as to how the mumbo-jumbo that is rankings from 3-17 shake out. And one thing to keep in mind, themamba is rarely clueless. ST FRANCES is 1 and RIVERDALE is 2. That's easy so far. B' MAC and SETON seem to have separated themselves from HOLY CROSS, though the TARTANS seen to own the RUNNERS. Thankfully ST JOHNS and PAUL VI aren't within our borders... Because then I'd really have a migraine. I got to see their finale' Sunday at PAUL VI and I agree that you don't want to see either one of these 2 teams right now. ST JOHNS has got it's groove back after foguring out life without BROCK where the PANTHERS from PAUL VI will fight you tooth and nails and one of those few teams that have the old fashioned lineup of specialists that do their job very well. The point, the shooter, a post that can step out, a young banger that works with the best of them and another versatile guard. ST JOHNS is deeper than any team in the area but lacks size. A great combination with the veteran ZIMMER and the youthful exuberance that ALLEN brings along with her talent. Nine or ten CADETS that just come at you. JOHNSON loss would be devastating to the TARTANS. BROWN is having an All-Met year at B' MAC and GOOD COUNSEL has shown it can beat the best. The Headbangers Ball begins in earnest tomorrow evening. The 4 WCAC's (SET, B MAC, HC and GC) along with SPALDING and KEOUGH, and WISE and undefeated SENECA VALLEY probably have earned top 10 staus as much as anyone. But those eight and the next eight are enough to drive you silly as far as who's better than who and who should be ranked over who. WESTERN, DIGITAL, CITY, ARUNDEL, NORTH POINT, RIVER HILL and MEADE will have decided most of this by the weekend with the final maneuvers coming next week.

-------------------------------------


A couple marquee matchups for the madness to begin in the semifinals.

WESTERN (15-6) @ CATONSVILLE (19-1) >>> WESTERN , the forgotten DOVES, go to newly minted #2, as ranked by TheRecruitMagazine.com, CATONSVILLE COMETS, and meet for a third straight year with the DOVES having won the previous 2 by 15 and 16. Look for more of the same. Speaking of looks, a bit of a new look with the DOVES playing without their 2 6'+ posts and J TUCKER, sloed by injury. The veteran, ASHLE CRAIG, scoring 20 in the opener and TANECIA SPENCE scoring 13. The DOVES have outscored their last 9 opponents, 640-130.

NORTH POINT (19-3) @ ARUNDEL (19-4) >>> The EAGLES are soaring, having won 13 in a row since, and wing ROBYN PARKS playing at the top of her game, having scored 57 points in the last 2 games and hitting 20-22 free throws. The EAGLES have the talented BUTLER sisters, with TIARA scoring 17 in round 1, CIARRA STRICKLAND and the consistent BAKER. The CATS look to catch their tailspin and grab it by the claws with seniors SHERRONE VAILS (19.1, 12.5, 4.7 BLK, 2.6 ST) and TALEN WATSON (14 a game) looking to lead the CATS to their 11th final four in 16 years. Game of the night.

GAITHERSBURG (20-3) @ PAINT BRANCH (22-1) >>> The trilogy ends tonight at the BRANCH. The PANTHERS won the first two, by 64-57 and 57-53 margins. By now, we know 'Bones' stirs the drinks, pours it, and drinks it for the PANTHERS. But KENIA COLE and BRIDGET OCRAN will have to continue to step up if the PANTHERS are to 3-peat to final four dance. The first two meetings, MOSELY scored 31 and 26 while COLES scored 19 and 14. The three TROJAN stars, the MARSHALL sisters and SARAH SEIPP scored 43 and 40 collectively, respectively. The TROJANS will need to raise those numbers a bit and limit COLE if they are to advance to their second final four since '92 (finalist in '06). KARA MARSHALL leads the bombing loving TROJANS with 48 3'S while sister COLLEEN and SEIPP each have made 25.

POLY (15-5) @ ABERDEEN (17-3) >>> POLY looks to continue it's roll it started with the win over the CITY COLLEGE KNIGHTS while ABERDEEN looks to build on freshman BRIANA JONES, who had a season-high 26 point, 21 rebound performance in the opening round. The 'DEEN, already has the perimeter game with TIFFANY TAYLOR and the 2 sophomores NIA ALLEYNE and LAKEIA HAYDEN, and will need JONES again to step up by the unheladed but deep ENGINEER bigs that played tough against DILLARD, DAWSON and JEFFERSON in the CITY game. JOHNSON and WILLIAMSON will be relied on heavy in this one.

CENTENNIAL (16-5) @ RIVER HILL (19-2) >>> Battle of #1 in HOCO and #2 in HOCO. The HAWKS are coming off an impressive win over ARUNDEL and look to make it's fouth trip to the dance in 6 years. The '09 runner-ups will rely on veteran guards SHANTREL OLIVER and ALICIA VEGA to lead them but will need NIKKI PIPER and the freshman posts that put in work against ARUNDEL to step up big if WATERS is to flow upstream to the 'RAC. OLIVER scored 27 in the first 3 quarters versus the CATS and VEGA scored 31 in the opening round. So either, or both, can kill you. CENTENNIAL, is less spectacular, but are disciplined and well coached like HAWKS. No EAGLE averages double-digits and 7 are just as likely to lead in scoring any particular game though it's mainly veteran forward JULIE BENJAMIN and wing KENITRA ALSTON who lead the charge. The HAWKS, beat the EAGLES twice, including a tough 5 point win two weeks ago.

FREDERICK (12-6) @ SENECA VALLEY (23-0) >>> The EAGLES are the mirror opposite of it's mens team is 4-18 and just got smashed by the CADETS from FREDERICK. All-Met KELSEY WOLFE leads the SCREAMIN' EAGLES and averages 18.8 a game and 5.2 rebounds for the tough as nails guard. The EAGLES are complimented with guard AUDREY CUNNINGHAM who averages 13.7 a game and has nailed 49 3's this season. KIANA MURPHY is the 6'1 post averaging 7.5 points and 7.2 rebounds and with senior, 5'10 ANDREA BASON, the EAGLES have a nice 6 with the addition of sophomores BRIDGET ROTHERT and SASHA ORR. The CADETYS lost leading scorer LYNASIA FRAZIER for the season but still have KASHAY BARNES, RACHEL JOHNSON and the TOLSON sisters, LAUREN and JAZMIN, transfers from MONTROSE.

EDGEWOOD @ FALLSTON >>> COUGARS have their HARLEE, who scored 17 in the opening round.

DUNDALK @ DIGITAL HARBOR >>> Too many angry RAMS for CARRINGTON and DUNDALK.

CROSSLAND @ WESTLAKE >>> Tale of two philosophies. CROSSLAND likes to go, having scored at least 50 in 20 of 22 games and have scorers, JEANNE MARIE WILSON (20.3) and DANIELLE DURRANT (14.3) leading the way. WESTLAKE coming off the NORTH POINT loss last week have kept 18 of their 22 opponents under 42 points. Something will have to give. WESTLAKE has a nice win over NORTH POINT while CROSSLAND was the first in PG3A to have beaten LARGO in a while.

OAKLAND MILLS @ GWYNN PARK >>> The SCORPS travel to GWYNN PARK, their fellow HOCOnian RIVER HILL's old nemisis, and look to capture the success they've had as of late. The YELLOWJACKETS have gotten a great season from freshman CIARA WASHINGTON who is averaging 15.32 points and 13.4 rebounds a game. GENISIS LUCAS averages 10.5 a game and the JACKETS have CHANNELL MACKEY out front. The SCORPS are led in scoring by sophomore JAS HILL (13.8) and her sister, senior NICOLE HILL, the versatile guard the SCORPS will need to step up. KARA HIGHT, the sophmore point, scored 20 in the opening roung and is averaging 15.8 over the last 4 games. BIANCA MILLER for GWYNN PARK is a threat from the three and scored 24 against LARGO.

Also, some league rematch-ups, if you will. MEADE hosts OLD MILL, having beaten the PATS by 11 and 22 previously this season. BLAKE, hosts DAMASCUS, who they beat, 63-56, earlier this year. And finally, the final act of the trilogy between BOWIE and NORTHWESTERN, with BOWIE having won the previous 2 though the second went to overtime 10 days ago.

[themamba]

What a wild whooly one in Gambrills. When both the CATS from ARUNDEL and the EAGLES from NORTH POINT were down to their respective eight counts, both rised to the occasion to create a furious fifteenth round that was only ended by the bell with the CATS escaping at home, 73-69.

After a feeling out period in the first quarter in which the CATS led, 11-10, ARIEL 'Boss' ROSS caught fire and nailed two of her three three-pointers in the period to give the CATS a 10-3 run and a 21-13 lead. ROSS and SHERRONE VAILS scored 17 of the CATS 23 points in the period and the CATS took a 34-24 halftime lead. The EAGLES were struggling aside from ROBYN PARKS who scored 12.

The CATS took their largest lead at 39-26 after a 'Shorty' HENDERSON three and the CATS looked in control. What a difference 5 minutes makes. Within one minute, VAILS recieved her fourth foul on a mystery call (she was 2 feet away from the play, wrong number, oh well) and PARKS just took over scoring 10 straight points and the EAGLES went on a stunning 23-2 run that shocked the CAT faithful and rocked the heavy EAGLE nation contingent into a frenzy. Before a timeout, a slowdown of any sort, hey, before what seemed like an eight word text a fifteen year old could produce, IT WENT FROM CATS UP 14 TO EAGLES UP 8 IN ABOUT 6 MINUTES OF REAL TIME AND 5 MINUTES OF GAME TIME. The EAGLES, 49-41, with VAILS on the bench with 4, and 2 minutes to go in the third. Then it was the veteran TALEN WATSON and her two long range colleagues, 'Boss' and 'Shorty', that got the CATS off the mat and into contention of another regional final. Those trifectas cut it to 2 and WATSON came up big with a pull-up to stem another run by PARKS, The CATS finally reclaimed the lead at 60-59, with a WATSON free throw. VAILS Mthen went coast-to-coast with a lay over PARKS to tie it up at 65 with 32 seconds to go. The EAGLES milked it to 10 seconds before going over to the roght side to BUTLER for the feed to PARKS who had a one-on-one on VAILS and was rejected to send it to over time. That was about all PARKS had rejected as she scored 36 points. VAILS had a block party the first 3 periods with 8 blocks and WATSON once again stepped up under the bright lights, but it was 'Boss' ROSS and 'Shorty' HENDERSON who came up huge for the CATS.

--------------------------------------

The BURG' over PAINT BRANCH, 51-48.

MEADE, easy, over OLD MILL.

DIGITAL over DUNDALK by 22. CARRINGTON scored 28 for DUNDALK.

POLY smacked the 'DEEN by 20.

JOPPATOWNE goes to familiar territory, the regionals, and look to get to unfamiliar territory, the RAC, when they meet CARVER A&T, Friday.

It's either CENTENNIAL or MT HEBRON coming out of the 3A WEST with the EAGLES slight shocker. The EAGLES led throughout after a brief 3-2 HAWK lead and KENITRA ALSTON had a tremendous defensive performance on All-Met SHANTREL OLIVER. Tough one for the HAWKS after the District 5 upset of ARUNDEL.

WESTERN and POLY meet in 3A NORTH after the ENGINEERS took out the 'DEEN and the DOVES dispatched of the COMETS.

BLAKE won as WITHMAN scored 27 over DAMASCUS and meets 24-0 SENECA VALLEY in the 3A WEST.

GWYNN PARK beat OAKLAND MILLS, 59-45.

So we got a POLY-WESTERN showdown, a SENECA VALLEY-BLAKE rematch, CITY-DIGITAL Pt.2 and oh yeah, World War II, at the Fort. Get your popcorn ready.