[Fanman]

AIT First Round Schedule (starts Friday Dec 27)

Ashland vs Walton-Verona
Harlan Co vs Lloyd Memorial
Danville Christian vs Russell
Highlands vs Fleming Co

Very solid field this year, top to bottom. I wouldn’t be too shocked to see half the field win their respective regions. HC/LM should be the best 1st round matchup, IMO. I had high hopes for Ashland’s state championship chances all off-season & leading up to the KOTB. And, they absolutely have a roster that is capable of a FF or championship run, IMO. But, I think they are severely lacking on the sidelines & that will be their downfall.

I have zero confidence that they can win close games against good teams. I don’t want to go in on a HS coach but I’m definitely nowhere near as impressed with him as most seem to be. Way too many “basketball 101” gaffes & highly questionable rotational decisions to be taken seriously when it matters. Seems to panic in clutch situations. And, it’s a shame bc this team is extremely talented & deep (at full strength) & could bring some real credibility back to the 16th region. I sincerely hope I’m proven wrong & he makes me look like a moron. But, I’m not holding my breath.

Poor Russell, I don't see this going well for them. Hope it makes them better at least