All-American Conference (AAC) Preview

The AAC was once a 12 team conference that typically would produce 1-2 District qualifying teams. Last year we watched that number dwindle down to just 5 teams now remaining. Consisting of mainly Division I and II programs, the AAC only produced one District champion a year ago and now must shift their attention to rebounding in 2023. This conference might be the most graduation affected conference I’ve covered thus far. We could see some new faces leading among the 5 member schools.

1. Howland– The Tigers were the only team that was able to make a deep postseason run, getting to the District Finals in Division II before falling to Louisville. While they are losing their top 2 from that team and now moving to Division I, I have to give them my edge just knowing the success they had a year ago. With Boardman and Harding losing as much of their talent, it opens the door for a new team to jump ahead.
2. Austintown-Fitch– The Falcons weren’t the most impressive team a season ago but had some moments where they looked really good. Looking ahead into this year, they return the best athlete in the conference in DeShawn Vaughn (Jr) who also is a member of the Fitch football team. You could make a case for them being the top team having the best athlete, but I feel the Falcons will start behind Howland until they show in season they can beat them twice.
3. Boardman– Last year’s AAC champions, the Spartans took a hit losing their top 2 guys, including Trey DePietro from that group. Compared to Warren G Harding, the Spartans were more consistent last year which is why I have them at #3.
4. Warren G. Harding– Before transfers, this might have been the favorite to win the AAC. The Raiders were slated to return Duncan Moy Duncan Moy 6'4" | SG Joseph Badger | 2024 State OH , before he transferred back to Badger. His loss along with the loss of Tyriq Ivory is huge for Harding as they now must look to new faces to lead them.
5. Canfield– The Cardinals were in a 3-way tie for the 3rd place finish in the conference, but now will have to rebound as they lose their clear top guy from a season ago as well as their #2. Canfield is the only Division II team in the conference and could see playing Division I programs as a plus come tournament time, but will need to regroup and find their new go-to to move forward.