Way to Early Look at 2025-26 13[th] Region Basketball

 As we wrap up the 2024-25 high school basketball season, it's evident that it was a remarkable season full of unexpected twists. North Laurel, initially ranked No. 4 in preseason predictions, surprised everyone by defeating top-ranked South Laurel in the 13th Region title game. This victory marked the Jaguars' third championship in four years. Additionally, Harlan County's Maddox Huff was honored as Player of the Year, and Bell County's Brad Sizemore received Coach of the Year accolades.

Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, Jaguar fans have much to anticipate. North Laurel has solidified its position as the team to beat, aiming for its fourth region crown in five years. The Jaguars will feature the region's standout player, Reece Davidson, who is emerging as a leading contender for the 2026 Mr. Basketball award. However, the journey won't be easy, with Sizemore's Bobcats, along with strong competition from Corbin, Knox Central, and Whitley County, close on their heels.

Next season promises to be exhilarating. With that in mind, here are the projected rankings for the 13th Region from the 13[th] Regional Media and Darren Spencer:

1) North Laurel (23-11): Coach Nate Valentine has transformed North Laurel's basketball program into one of the state's best. With four starters returning and numerous talented underclassmen, the Jaguars have a strong chance of capturing their fourth 13th Region crown in five years. Reece Davidson, who delivered a stellar 41-point performance in the state tournament quarterfinals against Montgomery County, is one of the state's top players and a promising Division I prospect. The Jaguars will also return key players like Cooper Elza, Jordan Rawlings, RJ Noble, Cam Anderson, and Corey Cunagin.

2) Bell County (26-7): Despite falling short in the 13th Region Tournament against South Laurel, Coach Brad Sizemore's Bobcats remain a formidable team. With top duo Blake Burnett and Ethan Buell, along with Cayden Hiff, Jaxon Hiff, and freshman guard Braxton Furguson, Bell County will be tough to beat.

3) Corbin (19-11): Tony Pietrowski's Redhounds consistently rank high, and the 2025-26 season will be no exception. With Ryder Akins, Evan Ellis, Eli Pietrowski, Dawson Farmer, and Lucas Brittain returning, along with a solid group of young talent, Corbin is poised to challenge for the 13th Region crown.

4) Knox Central (22-8): The Panthers boast numerous talented players, led by sophomore Grayson Burton, who has established himself as one of the region's and state's best. He will be joined by Hayden Melton, Nathan Dunn, Evan Taylor, Christian Bargo, and Evan Hubbard. Knox Central could surprise everyone next season and cut down the nets at the Corbin Arena.

5)  Whitley County (19-11): Eric Swords did a fantastic job last season, and his Colonels will be strong contenders in the 2025-26 campaign. With Bryson Mahan, Riley Fuson, Dee Parker, Henry Bowling, Tucker Hale, Garrett Sharp, and Jase Meadors returning, Whitley County has a good shot at reaching the 13th Region Tournament for the first time since 2011 and winning their first district championship in over 40 years.

6) Clay County (21-8): Despite graduating three key players from last season's 21-win squad, the Tigers remain a threat in the 2025-26 campaign. They return Adon Grubb, Aiden Wagers, Brody Hooker, Jay Nicholson, and Isaiah Bundy.

7) Harlan County (25-9): The Black Bears will feel the impact of graduating some of the region's best players from the past two years but will still compete with an outside shot at being a 13th Region frontrunner. Reggie Cottrell, Tent Cole, Brady Smith, Brennan Blevins, Cole Cornett, Landon Brock, Brady Freeman, Bryson Bryant, Hayden Grace, Tucker Curtis, and Kaden Jones will all return.

8) South Laurel (25-9): The Cardinals will graduate many key players from last season's 25-win squad and will need to reload to compete for the 50th District title and remain a 13th Region contender. They possess young talent like Kaden Taylor, Landon Howard, Blaine Baker, Garrison Brown, and Kaiden McQueen, and will benefit from North Laurel transfer Joe Smith.

9) Oneida Baptist (15-14): The Mountaineers aim to make a run at the 13th Region All 'A' Classic championship and an appearance in the 13th Region Tournament, which they will host next winter. Coach Larry Gritton is excited about the returning talent, including Jacob Rogers, Skyler Roberts, Dennis Emmuede, Tommy Branstutter, Aden Gregory, Ryder Salmons, and Mason Lockhart.

10) Jackson County (11-18): Despite losing a lot of talent, new coach Parker Stewart is expected to have the Generals ready for next winter. Braxton Coyle, Tansen Truett, Wyatt Gray, Braylon Combs, and Tyler Sandlin will all return, helping the Generals make a push next season.