Northeast Fl- We are half-way through the season and what an exciting season it has been so far. We have had some very competitive games thus far with teams scheduling tough opponents and participating in multiple tournaments. The top of our rankings has remained consistent but there has been some movement at the bottom. Let’s take a look.
- Bishop Kenny (12-2)
The Crusaders have remained the standard as their championship level defense continues to propel them to wins as they look to make a return trip to the Final Four. Their lone losses have come to two undefeated teams, DME and Sumter (SC).
- 2. Providence (14-2)
The Stallions have been a force this year and could have easily been in the number one spot. The edge went to Bishop Kenny because of strength of schedule but don’t be surprised if they take over that spot before the season is over. They are a very solid and well coached team.
- 3. Bolles (12-4)
The Bulldogs have also been gunning for that number one spot as they have already beaten four teams that have appeared in our top ten rankings. Their strength of schedule is very high with their losses coming against tough opponents, including one to Providence.
- 4. San Jose Prep (8-4)
The Storm have had a similar season as the three teams ahead of them in the rankings. They have played a tough slate of games within multiple tournaments. This will bode well for them as they get ready for their first time competing in the FHSAA Playoffs.
- 5. Ponte Vedra (8-4)
The Sharks are a veteran team looking to make a deep run in the playoffs. They have prepared themselves by playing a tough schedule so far. They have been a mainstay in our top team with their consistent play.
- 6. Ribault (9-2)
The Trojans have continued to get better and better as the season has progressed. After two early losses to San Jose Prep and Bishop Kenny, they have won six straight games. Don’t be surprised if they crack the top five soon. They are our pick to win the Gateway Conference Championship this year.
- 7. Orange Park (9-4)
The Raiders moved up a spot in the rankings after they have continued their solid play. Their schedule has gotten tougher, and they have experienced some losses to end 2023, including losses to Providence and Bolles but are still one of the top teams in Northeast Florida.
- 8. Ridgeview (8-4)
The Panthers have re-entered the top ten after a brutal start to the season. They have one of the top strength of schedules in Northeast Florida and it showed as they started 1-3 with losses to Providence, Ponte Vedra and Bishop Kenny at the beginning of the season. They have since gone 7-1 with the lone loss coming to Ribault. Look for them to stay in the rankings as they have a solid team led by their trio of sisters, Nia, Nacoya and Narissa Blocton.
- 9. Mandarin (8-4)
The Mustangs move up one spot in the rankings as they continue their solid play. Their only losses are to Ribault, Ridgeview and Bolles, all ranked opponents. They look to continue their strong start to the season as they get ready to defend their title as the reigning Gateway Conference Champions.
10. Beachside (12-3)
Entering the top ten for the first time is Beachside. They are a young team with loads of potential. The are led by their sharp-shooting Junior Kendal Kane. They look to continue to build on their strong start to the season.
Honorable Mention:
Atlantic Coast, Menedez, NFEI, Paxon, St. Augustine, St. Johns Country Day, Tocoi Creek, University Christian
