Re-classification has made 5A the second-largest class and therefore more competitive than it has been in the past. We think that both Orlando Oak Ridge and Bartow, both out of Region 2, have a legitimate opportunity to land in the open division. Should one or both not do so, they instantly become the favorite to reach Jacksonville.
Favorite: Orlando Edgewater
The region is challenging, even without Oak Ridge and Bartow in the mix. Orlando East River has brought in some talent while Orlando Evans continues its resurgence. Auburndale could also be a problem. Edgewater will counter that with good guard play coming from 6’1 senior Terrance Walker, 6’4 senior Julian Fox, and 6’2 junior Amir Elmamoud. Walker pushes the pace and sets the table. Fox and Elmamoud can both shoot from deep or overpower defenders and get to the bucket for scores. Brice Benton, a 6’5 sophomore and Demetrick Smith a 6’5 junior, bring some size to battle on the inside and control the glass.
Regional Favorites: Ponte Vedra (Region 1); Naples Palmetto Ridge (Region Three); Pembroke Pines Charter (Region Four)
Ponte Vedra has had a run of success the past few seasons and that is expected to continue. No stars, just a willingness to compete and run their schemes to near perfection. In Southwest Florida, there is a lot to choose from but we think the inside/outside duo of 6’7 senior Judah Lopez and 6’3 junior E.J. McCray will get Palmetto Ridge of Naples past the likes of East Lake from Tarpon Springs and Punta Gorda Charlotte. Down in South Florida, it feels like Pembroke Pines Charter has reloaded. Ethan Mott, a 6’6 junior, just pulled up and freshman 6’0-point guard Michael Moreno plays well beyond his years. Defending champ St. Thomas Aquinas will certainly have something to say, as will the likes of Palm Beach Gardens Dwyer, Palm Beach Gardens, Coral Springs, Boyd Anderson, and Miami Southridge.
Best Player: K.J. Sandi, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas
It is his team to run now, as graduation and transfers leaves the 6’1 senior the primary holdover from the two-time state champion. Sandi has come a long way from being a stationary catch-and-shoot specialist to a player that scores creatively from all three levels. He puts in the required effort at the defensive end as well.
Pre-Season All-State: Sandi; Julian Fox (Orlando Edgewater); Johnas Maurice (Orlando Oak Ridge); James Ratteree (Bartow); Jahmar Smith (Orlando Oak Ridge)
Fox has an ability to put up big numbers every time he suits up. Maurice, a 6’1 junior, is a proven scorer and distributor. He played well in the EYBL 16 division this past spring and summer. Ratteree, a 6’0 junior, plays with great intensity and energy at both ends of the floor. He has greatly improved as a scorer over the summer. Smith, a 6’4 junior, is tough as nails, a guy that can score inside and out and is simply mentally and physically tougher than the vast majority of opponents.
Better Than Advertised: Punta Gorda Charlotte
Every year it seems like the Tarpons go out and play as difficult a schedule, wind up with an “unimpressive” yet winning record, then play lights-out come playoff time. We don’t expect that formula to change this season.
Don’t Sleep On: Judah Lopez, Naples Palmetto Ridge
The 6’7 senior is tough on the block, rebounds his area, and is a decent passer out of the post. As he continues to restructure his body, his athleticism will improve and recruiting profile should rise.
PRE-SEASON TOP TEN
1.Orlando Oak Ridge
2.Bartow
3.Orlando Edgewater
4.Pembroke Pines Charter
5.Orlando Evans
6.Naples Palmetto Ridge
7.Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas
8.Auburndale
9.Miami Southridge
10.Ponte Vedra