4 Things to Watch For in 2019

<p>The start of the 2018-19 season was better than expected. Athletes have been putting up some big time numbers. Alabama high schools represented the state well in out of town tournaments, including Mountain Brook taking care of business against the IMG Academy. Tommy Murr continues to lead the nation in scoring.... again. With all excitement that has taken place, what else is there to look forward to?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>1. The race for Mr. Basketball: </strong>Right now, there are two names that stand out for Mr. Basketball. Trendon Watford and Kobe Brown. Both of these players have separated themselves from any other worthy contenders. Brown has been electric for Lee-Huntsville posting big time numbers with some highlight dunks. Watford has been a consistent force for Mountain Brook, and he has performed very well on the national stage. If the award was to be given today, Watford would be the winner. </p> <p><strong>2. The Emergence of Young Stars: </strong>The 2021 class is full of talent. Everyone knows about JD Davison, Trinity Bell, GaQuincy McKinstry, Riley Leonard, Tre Roberson, and Brody Peebles, but there are other kids putting their names on the map. Roc Taylor, Braden Ray, and Brandon Green have been key players early and often for their schools. Watch for these players to climb the state 2021 rankings. </p> <p><strong>3. College Commitments: </strong>There are kids all over the 2019 top 100 that have not made a college decision yet. The 2019 top prospect, Trendon Watford, is down to 4 schools (Memphis, Alabama, Indiana, and LSU). Justin Minter, Cameron Tucker, Malik Tyson, Kareem Thompson, Eddie Smith, and Indrek Sunelik are still weighing their options as well. College Coaches should be on the phone talking to these kids. There is a lot of talent available in 2019.</p> <p><strong>4. Area Upsets: </strong>The second half of the season is a focal point for area play. No team is safe. Every year there are upsets and battles to the end for area tournament seeding. Protecting home court and stealing wins on the road will be critical to winning the area and hosting the area tournaments. </p>