2008 HTC features Star Power

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

Butler, Bob Jones, Austin, Lee, Madison Academy all ranked

December 24, 2008 – Featuring six ranked teams for the first time in tournament history, the 25th Annual Huntsville Times Classic promises to be the most exciting one yet.

Two-time defending champ Butler High (AL) is the favorite to repeat in this year’s tournament, but the field for the 2008 Huntsville Times Classic is stacked, so there’s no reason to believe the Rebels will cruise to the title. Area heavyweights Johnson, Sparkman, Bob Jones and Austin (all hailing from Hunstville, AL) are also participating, as well as out of town schools Huffman, Paul Bryant and Russellville.

Lee HS (AL) is led by Leo Davis, the engine that drives that team.

Butler comes in undefeated at 17-0 and the second-ranked team in 5A. More recently, they entered the ESPN Fab 50 High School Poll at #36. The Rebels also boast the states best guard, sophomore Trevor Lacy. Lacy leads a balanced attack with his ability to get to the basket and stroke the jumper. Like many of the Rebels, he excels in transition and spearheads Butler’s press on defense.

Sixth-ranked Austin (9-4) features the area’s best shooter in senior gunner Verkenio Mann and all-everything performer Jay Watkins. Mann can stroke it from anywhere, while using his size (6’3) and length to get to the hole. Watkins has scored 64 points in his last three games.

One team to keep and eye on is Bob Jones; The 6A eighth-ranked Patriots recently upset fifth-ranked Homewood and enter the HTC as one of the most athletic teams in the field. BJ features the length of sophomore 6’4 Levi Randolph and comes in battle tested having played Butler twice in the early season.

Belmont-commit Kerron Johnson leads top-ranked 3A Madison Academy winners of three consecutive state championships in their class. The Mustangs are also heavy hitters, having played a brutal schedule filled with teams in higher classes.

Surprisingly, Lee High comes into the tourney with an 8-3 mark and ranked (#6, 5A) for the first time in many years. Generals Coach Greg Brown always has his team ready to play and even though they traditionally lack size they make up for it with guard play and defense. This year’s Generals feature sharpshooting guard/forward Tyler Richardson and senior point guard Leo Davis. Davis is a big shot maker.

Perhaps the most intriguing team in the tournament is Huffman. The 6A Vikings are just 4-9 this season, but have the biggest team by far in this year’s event. Featuring seven players 6’4 or taller, Huffman can match up with anyone. 6’6 Forward’s Kenderrell Perry and Demetrius Harris bring scoring, defense and athleticism, while the backcourt is headed by combo guards Eddie Hardy and Jeremy Freeman.

“Jeremy and Eddie are quick and can fill it up,” says Coach Steve Ward.

“Kenderrell is probably my best player with his versatility and ability to handle and shoot.

“Demetrius may have the most upside of anybody. He’s hasn’t even reached his full potential yet,” exclaimed Ward, who is in his first season at Huffman.

The 2008 Huntsville Times Classic starts Friday, December 26 at Huntsville High School. The first game tips at 9:00 am. For more info see www.huntsvilletimesclassic.com.