Updated state-by-state rankings

February 8, 2010 New England Hoop News Staff

Updated rankings for all six states in New England are now on the website. Here's a quick look at each state as we begin to close in on tournament time.

Connecticut - One of the only undefeated teams still standing is Stratford HS (Hyde and Abbot Tech also). Led by 6'5 power forward Brandon Sherrod and a solid all-around senior-class, Stratford hopes this momentum carries into the post-season. The big question is have they been tested yet? New London boasts a 15-1 record and #9 state rankings as their biggest victim. Knocking on their door, though not in the state tournament, is Bridgeport Central, Hillhouse and Holy Cross. Don't overlook Hyde who continues to knock off team after team. Their big knock is their schedule.

Maine - For a state that is usually pretty predicatable, a lot has happened. First, South Portland's sniper Keegan Hyland, has a nagging (groin, hip, hamstring) injury is out a few games, which turns into 17 games. Then, Indiana Faithful gets ruled to ineligible for the remainder of the season. Now, Hyland is back on the court and leads South Portland to a 53-44 victory over Cheverus, scoring 18. That definitely makes the rankings interesting. Well, as Maine heads into their early tournament season, Westbrook seems to be clear favorite, lead by twin towers of Dominic Borelli and Nic Jobin, both 6'7. With a healthy Hyland, South Portland will be ready for anyone and Cheverus won't go quietly either.

Massachusetts - Central Catholic, Lynn English, Brockton, New Mission, East Longmeadow and the rest of the state have all lost now. Central Catholic though hasn't lost in state, so we give them the nod. Though, their loss to a weaker Hendricken (RI) team, shouldn't be excusable. New Mission and Madison Park have both been playing extremely well within the city. East Longmeadow lost on the road in Northampton, the one loss that people expected and Lynn English also lost on the road to a hungry Brockton team. St. John's Shrewsbury looks to repay Worcester North this Friday. Newton North is still a team to very weary of.

Rhode Island - Hendricken, though still the state's best, will have their work cut out for them this year. North Kingstown proved that on Wednesday last week, upsetting Hendricken. Portsmouth is putting together an impressive resume on the other side of the bay. They may have the state's best current prospect in Andrew Chrabascz.

Vermont - Surprisingly, Vermont is a much tighter race than many would realize. Most assume because Burlington has Holy Cross-commit, Joe O'Shea, they are the clear-cut favorites, but Essex, led by Demir Smajovic, has been very tough to beat. Rutland is also knocking on the door for top spot.

New Hampshire - Two Class M Schools, Conant and Winnisquam Regional are the state's only undefeated teams. Winnisquam matches up with 12-2 Berlin in a week, which should be a tough match-up. Merrimack is probably the state's best team though, led by 6'3 forward Eric Watson and freshman Demitri Floras.

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Updated state-by-state rankings

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