Thursday's top H.S. game to see

Humboldt (16-5, 7-4) at TCA (20-2, 8-1) (Boys)

Last meeting: First meeting

Players to watch: Humboldt guard Nic McLilly; TCA guard William Hall

What to know: This is a prime non-district test for both of these squads. TCA is coming off its first district loss on Friday, and the Lions want to respond quickly and get back to winning. Humboldt will provide a tough test, and this game will foreshadow the type of teams TCA will have to beat to make runs in the district and region tournaments. Humboldt is playing much better than the Vikings did at the beginning of the season.

Tuesday's top H.S. basketball games to see (1/29)

USJ (20-3, 8-0) at St. George’s (15-5, 5-2) (Girls)

Last meeting: USJ won 58-43

Players to watch: USJ post Eliza Edwards

What to know: The Lady Bruins are on a 10-game winning streak, and this is one of two tough tests remaining on the path to a No. 1 seed in the region tournament. USJ won the first one at home, but now the Lady Bruins must travel to Collierville and play on the road. St. George’s is coming off of a bad loss at JCS, and the Gryphons are in a fight with JCS for the No. 2 spot in the district.

 

Middleton (15-6, 7-1) at Scotts Hill (16-5, 7-1) (Girls)

Last meeting: Middleton won 49-48

Players to watch: Middleton post Deja Fualkner; Scotts Hill post Chelsea Wyatt

What to know: This is an incredibly tough and decisive week for the Lady Tigers. Middleton plays Scotts Hill and then Madison on Friday. The Lady Tigers beat Scotts Hill in a tight game at home, but Scotts Hill is not an easy place to play at. The Lady Lions’ lone loss in district play is against Middleton, and Middleton’s came against TCA. The winner of this will hold sole possession of the No. 1 spot in District 15-A for the time being.

 

Gleason (18-4, 12-1) at Dresden (16-4, 11-2) (Girls)

Last meeting: Gleason won 62-42

Players to watch: Gleason post Briana Jones; Dresden guard Amy McAlpin

What to know: Gleason sits atop District 13-A with only one loss in District 13-A play. The Lady Bulldogs must win on the road at county-rival Dresden to stay on top. Dresden is just a game behind Gleason, and the Lady Lions still can win the No. 1 seed in the district tournament themselves. Gleason cruised to an early lead in the first meeting en route to the win. Dresden cannot allow that to happen this time around if the Lady Lions want to win.

 

McNairy Central (18-4, 8-2) at Lexington (10-10, 5-5) (Girls)

Last meeting: McNairy Central won 55-39

Players to watch: McNairy Central post Mallorie Sweat; Lexington post Kalee Goff

What to know: Lexington is coming off a strong week where the Lady Tigers beat Dirty Dozen teams Bolivar, Scotts Hill and Chester County before falling in overtime at South Side. McNairy Central is still in the race for first place in the district, so the Lady Bobcats can’t overlook a rejuvenated Lexington team. A win here for Lexington and the Lady Tigers can forget about the bad first half of the season and look forward at making a possible run in the postseason.

 

Dyersburg (15-8, 8-6) at Gibson County (15-7, 8-6) (Girls)

Last meeting: Dyersburg won 62-60

Players to watch: Gibson County guard Jasmine Whittemore; Dyersburg guard Chari Swift

What to know: These two teams come in tied for fourth place in District 13-AA after Dyersburg’s loss to Westview on Monday. Gibson County lost the lead in the fourth quarter in the first meeting, but this time the game is at home. The Lady Pioneers will be focused on finishing this time around. The winner of this game has the inside track at a home tournament game against the loser of the game, more than likely. Gibson County will look to play tough pressure defense to force turnovers and easy baskets.

 

Crockett County (17-6, 12-2) at Haywood (13-10, 8-5) (Boys)

Last meeting: Crockett County won 57-55

Players to watch: Crockett County guard Elijah Shaw; Haywood forward Sadarius Delk

What to know: Crockett County is riding a seven-game winning streak. The Cavaliers have their eyes set on a No. 2 seed in the District 13-AA tournament, so a win on the road at Haywood is a must. Crockett County pulled out the game at home, but winning on the road is a different monster. Haywood is on a two-game winning streak after losing three games in a row. The Tomcats are sitting in fourth place and looking for the opportunity to climb the standings in the late season.

 

Humboldt (15-5, 6-4) at Greenfield (14-5, 9-3) (Boys)

Last meeting: Greenfield won 57-45

Players to watch: Greenfield guard Hunter Crouse; Humboldt guard De’Sonta Bradford

What to know: With the regular season soon coming to a close, both of these teams are fighting for the No 2 slot in the standings behind Union City. Greenfield had a hot first half of the season and beat the Vikings in Humboldt. The Yellowjackets have lost a few games since the undefeated first half of the season, but a No. 2 seed in the tournament would be a good season. Greenfield will not want to lose on its home floor.

Monday's top games to see (1/28)

Westview (20-3, 12-1) at Dyersburg (15-7, 8-5) (Girls)

Last meeting: Westview won 52-34

Players to watch: Westview guard Tiffany Rechis; Dyersburg guard Myah Taylor

What to know: The Lady Chargers took their first district loss on the road on Friday, and here is another tough road test. Westview needs to win to stay on top of the district tied with Covington. Dyersburg ended a two-game losing skid with a win over Haywood on Friday. The Lady Trojans are fighting for a home playoff game in the District 13-AA tournament.

 

Trenton Peabody (6-15, 1-10) at West Carroll (13-9, 11-2) (Boys)

Last meeting: Peabody won 68-66

Players to watch: Peabody guard Tyler Gadlen; West Carroll guard Jamal Glenn

What to know: Trenton Peabody might be at the bottom of District 14-A, but the Golden Tide have a 5-4 record in non-district games. West Carroll has played well lately. Peabody won the first meeting by two points, and this one should be another close one. West Caroll is trying to gain momentum as they sit near the top of District 13-A with the tournament right around the corner.

Saturday's top games to see (1/26)

Lexington (10-9, 5-5) at Madison (15-8, 7-2) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Lexington won 59-49

Players to watch: Lexington post Andrea Moffitt; Madison post Dakota Smith

What to know: A third tough game for the Lady Tigers on the week, but this one is a non-district contest. Lexington has Chester County and South Side to start the week. The Lady Tigers pulled off the win at home, and Lexington would love to win this one on the road. Madison also has two district games in the early part of this week, and the Lady Mustangs are favored in both. This will be a good test to see if Madison can go on a winning streak in the latter part of the season.

 

Huntingdon (17-4, 11-2) at Bradford (7-14, 3-8) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Huntingdon won 50-33

Players to watch: Huntingdon guard Allee Maxwell; Bradford guard Morgan Martin

What to know: The Fillies have a shot at being on a 17-game winning streak going into this non-district contest. Huntingdon is definitely playing well since the middle part of December. Bradford is looking to pick up a non-district win and gain confidence as the district tournament looms right around the corner.

 

Union City (14-6, 8-1) at Liberty (13-7, 6-3) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Liberty won 58-57

Players to watch: Union City guard Malik Stocksdale; Liberty guard Daniel Hill

What to know: The earlier meeting this season was a one-point win by Liberty on the road. Union City now comes to Liberty. The Crusaders are playing well recently and have responded from early season struggles. Liberty holds a win over the No. 2 Class AA team in the state and a one-point loss. This will be another good test for the Crusaders.

 

Riverside (13-6, 6-1) at Camden (13-6, 3-3) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Camden won 77-73

Players to watch: Riverside guard Dylan Scott; Camden post Tanner Hudson

What to know: Camden picked up the win at Riverside, and the Lions want to try and pick up an 11^th non-district win this season. Riverside is playing better then the Panthers did in the first matchup, and coach Jim Hehe hopes the better play continues. Camden plays in a tough district, and the Lions have taken two district losses since Christmas.

Friday's top H.S. games to see (1/25

Chester County (13-7, 7-2) at McNairy Central (17-3, 7-1) (Girls)

Last year: McNairy Central won all three meetings (56-36, 48-47, 49-40 (Dist.)

Players to watch: Chester County post Iesha Sims; McNairy Central post Mallorie Sweat

What to know: The District 14-AA top spot is wide open. Bolivar and McNairy Central have one loss in district play, and Chester County is a game back with two losses.. This is the first matchup of the year between McNairy Central and Chester County, and this one should be a tight game throughout.

 

Westview (20-2, 12-0) at Covington (22-2, 12-1) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Westview won 54-40

Players to watch: Covington guard Precious Dyson; Westview guard Tiffany Rechis

What to know: Westview is unbeaten in District 13-AA action, but trying to win on the road in Covington is not easy. Westview will have to learn to win big games without starter Jasmine Howard, who could be out for the rest of the season after a right knee injury. Westview still has the team to win the district and this will be a big test toward reaching that goal.

 

Hardin County (13-5, 3-2) at Dyer County (13-7, 3-2) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Dyer County won 52-48

Players to watch: Hardin County guard Katie Terry; Dyer County guard Amber Webb

What to know: This is a big matchup in determining who will finish second in District 13-AAA for the regular season. Dyer County pulled out the win at Hardin County, and now the Lady Choctaws have a shot at sweeping the series at home. Hardin County’s guards are going to have to play well and handle the ball through Dyer County’s press.

 

Lexington (10-8, 5-4) at South Side (12-7, 5-4) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: South Side won 69-65

Players to watch: Lexington guard Adi Hale; South Side guard Ke’Shunan James

What to know: Lexington might have made the season turnaround it needed after beating Bolivar, Scotts Hill and Chester County in the Lady Tigers’ last three games to extend their winning streak to six games. The Lady Tigers are full of potential, but they didn’t play to that potential in the first half of the season. That has changed in the second half of the season. South Side lost to Bolivar on Tuesday and needs to get a the home district victory. The winner of this has the inside track at finishing in the top four of the district.

 

Munford (13-8, 3-2) at North Side (12-9, 2-3) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Munford won 45-40

Players to watch: Munford guard Jonathan Starks; North Side guard Storm Shivers

What to know: The loser of this game is more than likely playing Brighton in the play-in game of the district tournament. The winner has a shot at moving all the way up to second with a few more wins. North Side has won eight of its last nine games, and the lone loss was to Bolivar by one point. Munford is coming off a win over Dyer County, and the Cougars look to build off of that.

 

TCA (17-1, 6-0) at Middleton (11-9, 6-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: TCA won 57-55

Players to watch: TCA guard William Hall; Middleton guard Tyron Smith

What to know: Winning at Middleton will be the toughest task TCA will have in trying to finish undefeated in the district. Middleton is tough to beat on its home floor. The Tigers fell to TCA by two points in Jackson in December, but Middleton is still in the race for the district title. A win here is a necessity for the Tigers to try and earn the No. 1 seed in the tournament. The Lions are on a 13-game winning through Friday’s win.

Thursday's H.S. game to see (1/24)

Gleason (16-4, 10-1) at West Carroll (12-7, 8-3) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Gleason won 58-37

Players to watch: Gleason post Briana Jones; West Carroll forward Kenyatta Hillsman

What to know: The Lady Bulldogs are on a five-game winning streak since losing to Westview in the championship of the Martin Lions Club Christmas Tournament. West Carroll is in definite need of a win here if the Lady War Eagles want a shot at the top spot in the district. The Lady Bulldogs still have just one loss in district play to sit atop the district.

Tuesday's top H.S. basketball games to see (1/22)

Crockett County (8-10, 6-6) at South Gibson (10-8, 5-7) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Crockett County won 70-57

Players to watch: Crockett County post Libby Hart; South Gibson guard Anna Warren

What to know: Wins have been hard to come by for Crockett County girls basketball in recent years, but with a win here, the Lady Cavaliers would have their second three-game winning streak of the season. Crockett County won at home, but now the Lady Cavaliers have to try and win on the road. South Gibson picked up a district win Friday, and the Lady Hornets are looking to avenge the earlier loss.

 

Adamsville (9-8, 2-4) at Madison (13-8, 5-2) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Madison won 73-49

Players to watch: Adamsville guard Keatinez Lloyd; Madison guard Cayla Sheets

What to know: The Lady Mustangs dropped consecutive district games before picking up the win over Riverside on Friday. Madison is looking to continue winning to stay in the top three of the district. Adamsville has played well at times this season, and the Lady Cardinals will have to play well to have a chance to beat Madison.

 

South Side (14-1, 7-1) at Bolivar (12-7, 6-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: South Side won 87-83

Players to watch: South Side guard Jaylen Barford; Bolivar guard Chris Woods

What to know: The Hawks got the monkey off their back by finally beating Liberty. Now South Side will try to win at Bolivar and hold a three-game winning streak over the Tigers. Bolivar is not an easy place to play. South Side is on a seven-game winning streak, and the Hawks are looking to not lose another on the way to winning the gold ball. Bolivar is on a four-game winning streak.

 

Lake County (7-10, 4-5) at Humboldt (14-5, 5-4) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Lake County won 55-50

Players to watch: Lake County guard Zay Coleman; Humboldt guard De’Sonta Bradford

What to know: The loss to Union City on Friday ended a five-game winning streak by Humboldt. The Vikings are looking to go back to winning and avenge an earlier loss to Lake County with a win at home. Humboldt is looking to stay in third place in the district with a win and not fall into a tie with Lake County for fourth place. Lake County made the semifinals last season, but the Falcons are not the same team this year. Lake County is looking to win its second-straight district game.

 

South Fulton (8-8, 3-6) at Greenfield (13-4, 8-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: South Fulton won 58-45

Players to watch: South Fulton’s Harrison Hawks; Greenfield guard Hunter Crouse

What to know: The Red Devils opened the second half of the season with a win over Greenfield at home. Greenfield is looking to pay South Fulton back with a win at their home to stay a close second to Union City in the district standings. The Yellowjackets dropped their second district game of the season to Bradford last week.

 

McKenzie (16-5, 11-1) at Dresden (10-6, 8-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: McKenzie won 69-68

Players to watch: McKenzie guard Trevor Willis; Dresden post Austin Daniel

What to know: A win here would bring McKenzie close to a regular season district title with three district games to play. The Rebels are on a six-game winning streak since the Christmas break. But winning on the road in this district isn’t easy. Dresden has played inconsistent over the last three weeks. A win here though could correct a lot and give the Lions confidence moving forward.

Saturday's top games to see (1/19)

USJ (4-11, 1-3) at TCA (15-1, 5-0) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: USJ won 53-49

Players to watch: USJ guard Peyton Fendley; TCA guard William Hall

What to know: The lone loss for the Lions this season was to USJ at USJ. That was right about the time both schools let out for three days to try and contain the influenza virus. Both teams seem to be healthy now and looking for a big non-district win. TCA has won 11 straight games since that loss. USJ broke a six-game losing streak on Thursday.

 

Madison (12-8, 5-2) at Chester County (13-5, 7-1) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Chester County won 58-51

Players to watch: Madison post Taylor Davis; Chester County post Iesha Sims

What to know: A good non-district test for both teams. The Lady Mustangs lost two big district games this last week and must find a way to win again. Madison rebounded with a win over Riverside last night, and now the Lady Mustangs will look to win a second in two days.

 

Dresden (13-4, 8-2) at Huntingdon (15-3, 9-1) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Dresden won 47-33

Players to watch: Dresden guard Amy McAlpin; Huntingdon guard Allee Maxwell

What to know: Huntingdon’s lone loss in district play came against Dresden. The Fillies have a chance to avenge that loss and stay at the top of the district. Dresden has won 10 of its last 12 games with the two losses coming against Gibson County and Union City. Huntingdon brings a 14-game winning streak into the game with the last loss coming against Dresden.

Friday's top games to see (1/18)

South Side (11-6, 4-3) at Liberty (6-12, 2-5) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: South Side won 66-57

Players to watch: South Side post Stephanie Tipler; Liberty post Chelsea Jones

What to know: The Lady Hawks were on an eight-game winning streak heading into Friday night’s loss to Chester County. The Lady Hawks don’t want to drop two-straight district games. Liberty is on a four-game losing streak. The Lady Crusaders will also be looking for a win come Friday.

 

Adamsville (9-7, 2-3) at Middleton (10-6, 4-1) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Middleton won 46-37

Players to watch: Adamsville post Shakeema Dilworth; Middleton post Deja Faulkner

What to know: The Lady Tigers picked up the road district victory earlier in the season. This time the game is at home. According to Middleton coach James Burkley, you must win all of your home games if you want a chance at winning the district title. So this is one his Lady Tigers need. Adamsville would love to upset Middleton on their home court and pick up a big district win of its own.

 

Haywood (11-8, 6-4) at Westview (16-5, 8-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Westview won 72-69 in overtime

Players to watch: Haywood guard Kyler Douglas; Westview guard Jazell Baker

What to know: These two teams are battling for a spot in the top four of the district. Westview is currently third and Haywood is fourth, and this game will be a big determining factor of where these teams will be in the end of the regular season. Westview had the lead through most of regulation in the first meeting, but Haywood tied it up late. The Chargers pulled out the victory in overtime.

 

South Side (13-1, 6-1) at Liberty (12-6, 5-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Liberty won 69-63

Players to watch: South Side post Malik Hicks; Liberty post Rashad Crisp

What to know: The Crusaders are the only team to beat South Side so far this season. Liberty stayed close through the first three quarters and pulled out the win with a strong fourth quarter. The South Side seniors have never beaten Liberty, and the Hawks would love to earn that first win on Liberty’s home floor.

 

Humboldt (14-4, 5-3) at Union City (13-6, 7-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Union City won 66-64

Players to watch: Humboldt guard DeSonta Bradford; Union City guard Malik Stocksdale

What to know: Union City won the first matchup on Humboldt’s home floor, and the game was a close one throughout. Union City is in first place in the district. Humboldt is two games back in a tie for third. The Vikings need this win if they want a chance to earn the No. 1 seed in the district tournament.

Thursday's top games to see (1/17)

Huntingdon (8-9, 7-3) at Trenton Peabody (5-11, 1-7) (Boys)

Last season: Huntingdon swept the series (69-64, 59-55)

Players to watch: Huntingdon forward Dylan Poole; Trenton Peabody guard Tyler Gadlen

What to know: Both matchups were close last season between these teams. Expect the same this season. The Mustangs will have to find a way to slow down the hot shooting of Peabody guard Tyler Gadlen. Peabody has struggled with district games, but the Golden Tide have a .500 record outside of district play. Huntingdon is on a three-game winning streak.

 

Bradford (12-8, 1-7) at Greenfield (12-3, 7-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Greenfield won 68-50

Players to watch: Bradford guard Tyler McCartney; Greenfield guard Tony Robinson

What to know: The Yellowjackets are sitting atop District 14-A along with Union City. Bradford is near the bottom. The Red Devils need a district win badly if they want to climb up the standings. Bradford is 10-1 in non-district games, but the Red Devils need that success to carry over into district play. Greenfield is currently on a three-game winning streak and wants it to continue.

Wednesday's top game to see (1/16)

Ripley (8-6, 5-4) at Crockett County (12-6, 8-2) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Ripley won 67-62

Players to watch: Crockett County post William Edwards; Ripley guard Chad Culbreath

What to know: Crockett County fell to Ripley on the road. Now the Cavaliers have a chance to avenge that loss at home. Crockett County is playing well since the Christmas break with wins over Westview and Dyersburg. The Cavaliers are looking to pick up a win and stay in second place in the district.

Saturday's H.S. games to see (1/12)

Lake County (11-1, 7-1) at Middleton (10-6, 4-1) (Girls)

Last year: Lake County won 72-38

Players to watch: Lake County guard Tiana Gray; Middleton guard Averyale Joy

What to know:  These teams have met once a year for the past couple years and at least one of these teams have found their way to Murfreesboro in March in those couple years. Both teams are younger than they have been in the past. Middleton is in its second year of playing mostly freshmen and sophomores. Lake County lost some big-name talent off last year’s squad, but the Lady Falcons are still sitting with one loss at this point of the season.

 

Lake County (5-10, 3-5) at Middleton (8-8, 4-1) (Boys)

Last year: Lake County won 67-64

Players to watch: Lake County post Devon Jones; Middleton guard Cornelius Patterson

What to know: Always a good matchup when these two teams play. Lake County is trying to find players to step up after losing three starters from last year’s state semifinalist squad. The Tigers have played well at times like they did Thursday against South Side, but they have also and played inconsistent. The winner of this could be on the start of a momentum swing as postseason play gets closer.

 

Bolivar (10-7, 5-2) at North Side (9-8, 1-3) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Bolivar won 73-67 in overtime

Players to watch: Bolivar guard Jerrious Sain; North Side guard Storm Shivers

What to know: This game was close last time with North Side tying it up by the end of the fourth quarter before Bolivar pulled the game out in overtime. The Tigers have won their last two games, and they want to continue that. North Side had a strong showing over Christmas with two wins, and the Indians want to continue to find ways to win.

Friday's top games to see (1/11)

West Carroll (11-6, 7-2) at Dresden (11-4, 6-2) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: West Carroll won 50-45

Players to watch: West Carroll forward Kenyatta Hillsman; Dresden guard Amy McAlpin

What to know: These two teams are battling for position in District 13-A play, and these two are both in the top four of the district. Both teams are young and looking to mature each game to be mentally prepared for tough tests that await the rest of the season and in the postseason. The Lady War Eagles will look to limit the points by Dresden’s Carrie Hatchel and Amy McAplin.

 

McNairy Central (14-2, 5-0) at Bolivar (12-3, 6-0) (Girls)

Last year: McNairy Central won both meetings 55-53, 57-53

Players to watch: McNairy Central guard Brianna Phelps; Bolivar guard Tymeria Franklin

What to know: This will be Tymeria Franklin’s first chance to play her old team after sitting out last season. Bolivar managed a one-point win over Chester County, but this will be another big test to try and stay undefeated in 14-AA play. McNairy Central will try to establish a post game. Bolivar will try to control tempo with their quick guards.

 

Madison (11-7, 4-1) at Scotts Hill (12-4, 3-1) (Girls)

Last year: Madison won all three meetings (60-42, 79-54, 64-39 (Reg.))

Players to watch: Madison post Dakota Smith; Scotts Hill post Chelsea Wyatt

What to know: This is a big District 15-A as these are two of the three teams sitting with one loss at this point of the season in the district.. The Lady Mustangs boast two solid post players in Dakota Smith and Taylor Davis to complement three solid guards. Scotts Hill has two players of its own that can post up in Chelsea Wyatt and Chloe Roberts.

 

Riverside (11-5, 4-0) at TCA (13-1, 3-0) (Boys)

Last year: TCA swept the two meetings 67-58; 66-60

Players to watch: Riverside guard Payton Hehe; TCA guard William Hall

What to know: These are the two teams that are currently unbeaten in 15-A play. TCA’s one loss is to USJ. Riverside’s losses are to AA teams Lexington and Camden and Class A runner-up Perry County. The Panthers are looking to make a name for themselves this year with a shot at the district title. TCA had the breakthrough season last year and wants to back it up again this year.

 

West Carroll (9-8, 7-2) at Dresden (9-5, 7-1) (Boys)

Previous meeting: Dresden won 65-61

Players to watch: West Carroll guard Letrell Huff; Dresden guard Brock Dilday

What to know: This will be the third tough test for the Lions this week after starting the week with Bradford and Bruceton. West Carroll lost a close one to Dresden earlier this season at home, and the War Eagles would like to return the favor. This is another game this week that is a battle for position in 13-A.

 

Lake County (5-9, 3-4) at Greenfield (11-3, 6-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Greenfield won 66-62

Players to watch: Lake County guard Zay Coleman; Greenfield guard Tony Robinson

What to know: The Yellowjackets are looking for a season sweep of perennial powerhouse Lake County. Greenfield won on the road, so now it has to try and win at home. Tony Robinson had a hot first half of the season, and now he is looking to back it up in the second half. Greenfield will have to play tough defense to have a chance at winning.

 

Covington (15-3, 9-0) at Haywood (11-7, 6-3) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Covington won 82-72

Players to watch: Covington guard Tarecus Hughes; Haywood guard Kyler Douglas

What to know: Emotions are high between these two teams after Tarecus and Chevia Hughes transferred from Haywood to Covington over the summer. The first game was close at Covington, and Haywood would like nothing less than to give the Chargers their first district loss. The Tomcats have to play with composure and not take bad shots.

Thursday's game to see (1/10)

Middleton (10-5, 4-1) at South Side (10-5, 4-2) (Girls)

Last year: Split two meetings (Middleton won 54-43; South Side won 67-48)

Players to watch: Middleton post Deja Faulkner; South Side post Stephanie Tipler

What to know: This is a good non-district test for both of these teams in the midway part of the schedule. Middleton is playing tough defense, but the Lady Tigers are still a young team that can have lapses. South Side is trying to play some quality opponents to prepare for a run in the postseason.

Tuesday's top games to see (1/8)

Madison (11-6, 4-0) at Middleton (9-5, 3-1) (Girls)

Last year: Madison swept 52-39; 63-56

Players to watch: Madison guard Cayla Sheets; Middleton guard Averyale Joy

What to know: These are the top two teams in the district standings. Both teams have quickness and will try to use it to their ability. These teams could meet a couple more times this season and postseason. Madison is looking to find consistency game to game, and Middleton is looking to play solid defense.

 

Bolivar (11-3, 5-0) at Chester County (10-4, 4-0) (Girls)

Last year: Bolivar won all three meetings (50-47; 41-36; 55-50 (Dist.))

Players to watch: Bolivar guard Kelsey Kirk; Chester County guard Darby Miskelly

What to know: This is the first of two tough games this week for Bolivar. If Bolivar comes away with two victories this week over Chester County and McNairy Central, the Lady Tigers in the front seat to earn the No. 1 seed in the district tournament. Chester County is playing with confidence right now and win over Bolivar would be a big momentum boost for the second half of the season.

 

Greenfield (9-5, 4-3) at Gleason (12-4, 7-1) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Greenfield won 40-35

Players to watch: Greenfield forward Brittany Peoples; Gleason guard Jaclyn Montgomery

What to know: A big cross-county rivalry game. Greenfield took the earlier meeting by five points, but this one could go either way. Gleason is playing well lately with the only recent loss coming against Westview. Greenfield lost Friday against South Fulton and needs to get back to winning to compete in a tough District 14-A.

 

JCS (8-9, 2-1) at USJ (3-9, 1-2) (Boys)

Last year: USJ swept the series 52-41, 60-48

Players to watch: JCS post Lucas Pyron; USJ guard Trey Teel

What to know: Next year this matchup will no longer be a district contest so the teams will have to make the most of it this year. USJ has dominated the series in recent history behind the play of John Ross Glover. The Eagles are looking to get back to winning in the series. The Bruins have had a tough start to the season, but they have played some tough competition also. USJ would love to win and use this as a boost into the second half of the season.

 

Fayette-Ware (14-3, 5-0) at South Side (10-1, 4-1) (Boys)

Last year: South Side swept the season series

Players to watch: Fayette-Ware guard Carlos Hart; South Side guard Jaylen Barford

What to know: Fayette-Ware has had a renewal in the program this season and are off to a good start. All three of the Wildcats losses are to teams in Memphis. Fayette-Ware has already beaten Bolivar and Liberty this season. South Side opened the second half of the season with a win over JCM, and the Hawks want to continue to stay unbeaten in 14-AA play. The winner of this game will be the lone unbeaten in district play.

 

McKenzie (11-5, 7-1) at West Carroll (9-7, 7-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: West Carroll won 70-68

Players to watch: McKenzie guard Trevor Willis; West Carroll guard Jamal Glenn

What to know: These are the only two teams that are 7-1 in district play. Dresden is a half-game back at 6-1. West Carroll won the first meeting in a close one, but the War Eagles can’t expect McKenzie to just lay down this time. West Carroll will be coming off of a tough game the night before against TCA and will have to make sure they have their legs in the fourth quarter.

Monday's top games to see (1/7)

TCA (7-4, 1-1) at West Carroll (9-6, 6-2) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: TCA won 45-40

Players to watch: TCA guard Samantha VanCleave; West Carroll guard Tierra Williams

What to know: TCA hit free throws down the stretch in the first meeting, and West Carroll was unable to do so. The Lady Lions are looking to pick up a win to start a week where the team plays three games. West Carroll is coming off a loss of its own in district play to Huntingdon. The Lady War Eagles will look to rebound and revenge that earlier loss.

 

Bradford (10-7, 1-6) at Dresden (8-4, 6-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Bradford won 79-57

Players to watch: Bradford guard Tyler McCartney; Dresden guard Austin Maxey

What to know: The Bradford win earlier in the season ended a five-game skid for the Red Devils. Bradford followed that with three wins over quality competition including a win over Lake County. Dresden has suffered two tough losses recently, and now the Lions would like to find a rebound win.

Saturday's top games to see (11/5)

TCA (7-4, 1-1) at Madison (10-6, 3-0) (Girls)

Last year: Madison won both meetings (61-41, 56-48)

Players to watch:  TCA post Lacy Henson; Madison post Dakota Smith

What to know: Which Madison team will show up? The Lady Mustangs have beaten some solid teams, but have lost two of their last four games. This is the first of three straight games against tough District 15-A opponents. TCA has won four of its last five games with the loss coming against South Side. A win here for the Lady Lions could be a big momentum boost toward a postseason run. Madison has to find consistency on a nightly basis.

 

St. George’s (11-3, 2-0) at USJ (10-3, 3-0) (Girls)

Last year: Teams split two meetings last season

Players to watch: USJ post Eliza Edwards

What to know: These are the top two teams in the district, which means that the No. 1 seed is on the line tonight and when the two meet in Collierville later in the season. Both have beaten the defending district champion Fayette Academy. The Lady Bruins played well in the first half of the season with one loss coming before Christmas, but USJ will be tested by the Lady Gryphons.

 

Liberty (9-6, 3-2) at Union City (12-5, 6-1) (Boys)

Last year: Did not play

Players to watch:  Liberty guard Daniel Hill; Union City’s Malik Stocksdale

What to know: Liberty reached the championship game of the Poplar Bluff (Mo.) Showdown over the Christmas break before falling to Jonesboro (Ark.). Union City won the Murray Bank Laker Classic with a win over Calloway County. This will be a good non-district test for both teams. Liberty is looking to continue to find its identity after a Class AA semifinal finish last season. Union City is looking to find its way back to the Class A state tournament this season.

 

Adamsville (7-6, 1-2) at Hardin County (14-1, 3-1) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Hardin County won 69-31

Players to watch:  Adamsville forward Lane Burcham; Hardin County guard Kelby Wardlow

What to know: Hardin County is coming off a big district game the night before, but the Tigers will have to regroup quickly to play rival Adamsville. Adamsville will be playing a tough district opponent of its own the night before in Riverside. This one might come down to who has their legs in the fourth quarter and make some outside shots.

 

Greenfield (9-3, 6-1) at Gibson County (2-15, 0-8) (Boys)

Earlier meeting: Greenfield won 49-42

Players to watch: Greenfield guard Tony Robinson; Gibson County guard Colton Marcle

What to know: These two teams will be in the same district next year, so the Yellowjackets would like to pick up the season sweep this season to be ready. Tony Robinson has had a great first half of the season to position Greenfield on top of District 14-A. The Yellowjackets want to continue the success in the second half of the season. Gibson County picked up a win over JCM followed by taking Bradford to overtime over the Christmas break, and the Pioneers want to continue to build off of that.

Friday's top games to see (1/4)

Chester County (9-4, 3-0) at Liberty (5-10, 2-2) (Girls)

Last year: Chester County won both meetings (59-56, 64-32)

Players to watch:  Chester County post Iesha Sims; Liberty guard Rhaven Kemp

What to know: Chester County is one of three teams undefeated in District 14-AA play, and the Eaglettes are looking to keep it that way. Liberty is tied with South Side for the No. 4 spot currently. Chester County is on a two-game losing streak after falling to Dyersburg and DeSoto Central (Miss.) in the Dyersburg Christmas Invitational. Liberty went 2-2 in the Heritage Bank Hardwood Tournament, ending the tournament with a win over Memphis East. The Lady Crusaders need to open the second half of the season with a win because Union City and McNairy Central are the next two opponents.

 

Lexington (4-7, 1-3) at McNairy Central (12-2, 3-0) (Girls)

Last year: McNairy won two of the three meetings (McNairy won 56-52, 50-36; Lexington 54-47 (Dist.))

Players to watch: McNairy Central post Mallorie Sweat; Lexington post Kalee Goff

What to know: The first half of the season is not what the Lady Tigers expected as they sit 1-3 in District 14-AA play. A win over McNairy Central could be a big step in correcting the slow start. McNairy Central’s two losses have come to rivals that are close by in Hardin County and Adamsville. A key to this game will be which team can produce the best post presence because both teams have quality players in that department.

 

Scotts Hill (10-3, 2-0) at Middleton (8-5, 2-1) (Girls)

Last year: Middleton won two of the three meetings (Middleton won 60-44, 55-50; Scotts Hill 52-46 (Dist.))

Players to watch: Scotts Hill post Chelsea Wyatt; Middleton post Deja Faulkner

What to know: Middleton won six of its last seven games before the Christmas break, but the one loss was also a District 15-A loss to Trinity Christian Academy. Scotts Hill is one of two teams that are undefeated in district play so far. That Lady Lions are also on a two-game losing streak after falling to Chester County and Stewart County, so they are looking to get back to their winning ways of earlier in the season. This will be another game that will feature two quality post players.

 

West Carroll (9-5, 6-1) at Huntingdon (9-3, 5-1) (Girls)

Last year: The teams split two meetings last season (West Carroll won 53-49; Huntingdon won 77-38)

Players to watch: Huntingdon forward Allee Maxwell; West Carroll guard Tierra Williams

What to know: These are two of three teams sitting with one loss in District 13-A and in a tie for first place. The Fillies are on an eight-game winning streak dating back to Dec. 4. Huntingdon has beaten some quality opponents like Riverside, Gleason and Camden during the streak. West Carroll lost two of its last three games going into Thursday’s game against Trenton Peabody. The Lady War Eagles are looking to open the second half of the season with wins before a rematch with TCA that West Carroll lost by five.

 

Obion County (13-4, 6-0) at Westview (15-2, 7-0) (Girls)

Last year: Obion County won all three meetings (62-42, 42-29, 54-46 (Dist.))

Players to watch: Obion County post Brandi Goodman; Westview post Teddy Vincent

What to know: These have been two of the top three teams in this district for over five seasons now. These are also the only two teams undefeated in district play. The Lady Chargers’ two losses were both to Union City by a combined five points. Obion County went 5-3 in two different tournaments over the Christmas break. The Lady Rebels went 2-2 in the Heritage Bank Hardwood Tournament and reached the championship game of the Dragon Fire Invitational.

 

Adamsville (7-5, 1-1) at Riverside (9-4, 2-0) (Boys)

Last year: Teams split two meetings (Adamsville won 58-54; Riverside won 71-59)

Players to watch: Adamsville forward Tucker Campbell; Riverside guard Payton Hehe

What to know: Riverside has won seven of its last eight games and is one of two teams sitting 2-0 in district play. The Panthers are playing well behind the scoring of Dylan Scott and Payton Hehe. Adamsville is 1-1 in district play. The Cardinals are on a two-game losing streak after big losses to North Side and Goodpasture in the McNairy Central Banker’s Classic. Both teams want that district victory to open 2013.

 

Humboldt (11-4, 3-3) at Bradford (10-6, 1-5) (Boys)

Last year: Humboldt won two of the three meetings (Humboldt won 60-32, 75-57 (Dist.); Bradford 60-59)

Players to watch: Humboldt guard De’Sonta Bradford; Bradford guard Tyler McCartney

What to know: Bradford went through a five-game losing streak earlier in the season, but other than those losses the Red Devils’ lone loss is to Dyer County in the Martin Lions Club Christmas Tournament. Bradford is near the bottom of 14-A, but the Red Devils beat Lake County just before the Christmas break. Humboldt has won five of its last six games with the lone loss coming against Kenwood. The Vikings sit fourth in the district a half-game behind Halls.

 

Munford (10-6, 2-1) at Hardin County (13-1, 2-1) (Boys)

Last year: Munford won two of the three meetings (Munford won 60-46, 44-43; Hardin County won 53-49 (Dist.))

Players to watch:  Munford guard Jonathan Starks; Hardin County post Will Shelton

What to know: This is the big test for the Tigers this season. Hardin County’s lone loss was to Dyer County by 11 at home. If Hardin County wants a shot at playing for the district title, the season series against Munford is crucial. Expect the gym to by loud with Coach Brown’s Clowns in full attendance. Hardin County has won seven games since its loss to Dyer County.

Thursday's Games to see (1/3)

USJ (9-3, 2-0) at Fayette Academy (9-4, 1-1) (Girls)

Last year: Fayette Academy won all three meetings (43-40, 51-26, 39-37 (Reg.))

Players to watch: USJ post Katie Exum

What to know: The big question going into this game is the status of the four starters that sat out of the Martin Lions Club Christmas Tournament. If they are back, the Lady Bruins will look to stay undefeated in district play. If they are still out, the Lady Bruins will have to find consistency in playing farther down the bench. USJ played well at times without the four starters, but the Lady Bruins also struggled at other times.

 

Gleason (10-4, 6-1) at Bradford (5-9, 1-5) (Girls)

Earlier meeting: Gleason won 52-32

Players to watch: Gleason guard Jaclyn Montgomery; Bradford guard Morgan Martin

What to know: Gleason won the earlier meeting easily, but that was before Thanksgiving. Bradford is a different team from that game as the Lady Red Devils have won two of their last three games. Freshman Morgan Martin is playing well and scored 30 points in Bradford’s last two games. Gleason reached the championship of the Martin Lions Club Tournament with solid play from post Briana Jones.

 

West Carroll (8-5, 6-1) at Trenton Peabody (4-10, 1-6) (Boys)

Last year: Teams split two meetings (Peabody won 74-54; West Carroll won 63-42)

Players to watch:  Peabody senior Tyler Gadlen; West Carroll senior Jamal Glenn

What to know: Both of these teams are looking for good starts to the second half of the season. The War Eagles have lost two of their last three games, but both were to quality opponents in TCA and Lexington. Peabody entered into the Christmas break with a win, but that was preceded by three losses in district play. A non-district win would be big for either of these teams.