Favorite: Miami Christopher Columbus

The Explorers are gunning for a fifth consecutive title in the state’s largest classification, something that has never been done.  While the recent transfer of Jaxon Richardson stings, Columbus still has multiple D-I college talent on the roster.  Caleb Gaskins, a 6’9 senior and UM commit, is primed to be the man.  He is very close to being a reliable three-level scorer, is a savage rebounder, and has rim protection ability.  “Cello” Jackson, a 6’2 senior and Memphis commit and Felipe Quinones, a 6’5 senior and Florida Atlantic commit, operate the backcourt and will take turns running the offense.  Both score well from the perimeter, make good pass vs. shot decisions, and help out on the glass.  Jordan Fisher, a 6’6 sophomore from Canada will provide defensive and rebounding support.  Cayden Gaskins, a 6’8 freshman, has a chiseled frame, operates well inside, and will give balance to the offense.  This isn’t a deep team, so injuries and off-court issues need to be avoided on the road to Jacksonville.

Regional Favorites: Sanford Seminole (Region One); Orlando Olympia (Region Two); Sarasota (Region Three)

In a wide-open Region 1, we go to our fallback team which is Sanford Seminole.  The team has plenty of depth and athleticism to compete every night.  Olympia returns virtually intact with four very talented juniors and on paper look to be favorites in Region 2.  However, that Region is one of the more challenging in the state regardless of class.  Orlando Oak Ridge, Windermere, and Orlando Dr. Phillips are each capable of knocking Olympia from its perch and down south the likes of Wellington, Palm Beach Central, and Jupiter can beat anyone on any given day.  Expect Region 3 to once again come down to Sarasota and Kissimmee Osceola.  Sarasota returns enough to be given the nod this time around.

Best Player: Caleb Gaskins, Miami Christopher Columbus

The 6’8 Miami commit has been at the top of his class within the state for nearly all of his high school career.  He has always been tough to handle inside the arc as he shoots the ball well off the catch or dribble from mid-range, can score off short drives, and has reliable post moves.  His three-point shot continues to improve and he can go on binges from deep.  Gaskins defends both perimeter and post well, runs the floor, and actively pursues rebounds in and out of his area.

Pre-Season All-State: Gaskins; Cello Jackson (Miami Columbus); Donovan Williams (Orlando Oak Ridge); Kyler Theophile (Coral Springs Coral Glades); Johnny Lackaff (Sarasota)

Jackson is a catalyst at both ends of the floor.  He fearlessly attacks the basket, has a respectable shot from deep, and is a force on the defensive end.  Williams, a 6’3 senior, returns to Orlando from a year at Oak Hill in Virginia.  He’ll be given a green light at the offensive end but Williams is polished enough to realize the need to get his teammates involved.  He has been impressive as a point guard this fall.  Theophile, a 6’5 senior, had a breakout spring and summer.  With length, athleticism and skills, he can play, score, and defend multiple positions.  Lackaff, a 6’2 junior, is a tremendous shooter and was just short of shooting 50%+ from the field, 40%+ from three, and 90%+ from the foul line last season.  He seems to come up with big plays at just the right time in close games.

Better Than Advertised: Orlando Timber Creek

We caught the Wolves in the Fall and came away impressed with the inside/outside combo of 6’6 sophomore J.P. Wick and 6’4 senior Chase Hibbard.  There are some quality athletes and energy guys surrounding them.  Teams that take Timber Creek lightly this season will regret it.

Don’t Sleep On: Robert Sprigg, Fort Pierce Central

The 6’6 senior has a solid skill set, rebounds the ball in traffic, and can stretch the defense with his shot.  He’ll get a chance to be an early contributor on a non-D-I level.

PRE-SEASON TOP TEN

1.Miami Columbus

2.Orlando Olympia

3.Orlando Oak Ridge

4.Coral Springs Coral Glades

5.Sarasota HS

6.Miami Palmetto

7.Weston Cypress Bay

8.Orlando Dr. Phillips

9.Windermere

10.Wellington Palm Beach Central