Ohio Valley Conference Preview
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The Ohio Valley Conference is known for having a team every year that can make the deep postseason run outside the conference. 2022 is no different as there is no clear cut favorite, but instead 3-5 teams really capable of…
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Continue ReadingThe Ohio Valley Conference is known for having a team every year that can make the deep postseason run outside the conference. 2022 is no different as there is no clear cut favorite, but instead 3-5 teams really capable of being one of the better programs any night. The depth makes this conference an interesting one to watch as the season progresses.
Chesapeake- The Panthers are looking to bounce back from an 8-12 season by being more of a competitive team in 2022. Levi Blankenship Levi Blankenship 5'10" | PG Chesapeake | 2022 State OH (Sr) returns for his senior season as he’s been a crucial part of this team since he was an underclassman. He will have a solid underclassmen teammate in Caleb Schneider (So) back for another season as well.
Dawson-Bryant- The Hornets weren’t as competitive as they’d hoped in the OVC and found themselves under .500 as a result. They have some seniors back for another season but no doubtingly must be able to defend the perimeter within the conference to find success.
Fairland- The Dragons were one of the best teams in the OVC a season ago and advanced to the Regional Finals before losing to Division III State Runner-Up Worthington Christian. Fairland returns potential Player of the Year Aiden Porter Aiden Porter 6'1" | PG Fairland | 2022 State OH (Sr), who makes the Dragons a contender every time he steps on the floor. Ethan Taylor Ethan Taylor 6'3" | PF Fairland | 2022 WV (Sr) is a suitable sidekick for Porter. There’s no denying the amount of talent gone from last season is hard to replace, but the Dragons have a history of success and should still be okay to be a Top 3 team this year.
Gallia Academy- The Blue Devils surprised everyone with their run to the District Finals as a 14-seed. Gallia looks to build off that momentum with 2 of their top 3 returning. Isaac Clary (Jr) is a D1 football prospect and brings a tremendous frame to the table when he’s in the game. Brody Fellure (Jr) also returns and was instrumental in Gallia’s tournament run. Can this team continue the winning ways into conference play where the guard play is good?
Ironton- The Tigers are more known for their football success, but have shown to be a tough out on the basketball court too. 2 of the top 3 from last year are gone from a 10-6 team. Landen Wilson (Sr) is that lone returning player and will have some pressure on himself to lead this group. Ty Perkins (Jr) joins the team after transferring over from Lucasville Valley. His addition is a positive sign for Ironton as they look to add personnel to support Wilson.
Portsmouth- The Trojans are poised for a breakout year as they try to show they can compete in the OVC. Even though they lose their top guy in Miles Shipp from a season ago, there is still plenty of talent back for Portsmouth. Dariyonne Bryant (Sr) is one of the better athletes in the conference and has experience along with Donovan Carr (Sr). The Trojans also add Kenny Sunderlin (Jr) from Wheelersburg who impressed during the offseason.
Rock Hill- Rock Hill returns their two top guys from a team that failed to win a game in 2021. The pressure is on to improve this season as the conference as a whole seems competitive from top to bottom.
South Point- Pointers will be without 2 of their top 3, including Austin Webb Austin Webb 6'2" | SG Bellbrook | 2025 State OH from a year ago. Mason Kazee (Sr) does return and brings some confidence in the backcourt. Repeating last year’s success however will truly come down to whether they can defend against the quality guards in the conference.