It’s the most wonderful time of the year as the 13th Region girls’ basketball teams prepare to tip off their respective seasons.
As the season approaches, several questions linger: Will anyone unseat North Laurel as the reigning champions of the region? Is Knox Central poised to take the title? Are South Laurel and Corbin ready to make another strong run? Or could Harlan surprise everyone and capture a regional championship? These questions will soon be answered.
13th Region 2024-25 Preseason Rankings
1. Knox Central (23-10)
The Lady Panthers return the region’s top player, Halle Collins, and are expected to be even stronger this upcoming season. With the return of Hannah Melton, Timberly Fredrick, Zoey Hamilton, McKenzie Hensley, and Sydnee Hurst, and the addition of transfer Shelbie Mills, this could be the year Knox Central makes a run to Rupp Arena.
2. North Laurel (29-6)
The two-time defending 13th Region champions remain talented and are in contention for a three-peat. However, they will need to fill the void left by the graduation of Chloe McKnight.
The return of Murray State signee Brooke Nichelson, along with Haley Combs and Mariella Claybrook, combined with a talented roster of young players, will be a significant boost.
3. South Laurel (20-14)
The Lady Cardinals boast considerable talent with players such as Skeeter Mabe, and Maci Messer. Don’t overlook Aubrey Bundy and Janie Buenaventura, as this is a team to watch closely.
Also keep an eye on Mabe, she could turn in a season to remember.
4. Harlan (18-14)
The Lady Green Dragons feature one of the region’s best one-two punches in Aymanni Wynn and Kylie Noe. With the addition of Addison Jackson, Peyshaunce Wynn, and Addison Campbell, Harlan should be a team to keep an eye on.
5. Corbin (22-9)
While some predict the Lady Redhounds may take a step back after losing Kallie Housley, Darcie Anderson, and Bailey Stewart to graduation, we believe Corbin will still be a formidable contender for the 50th District and 13th Region titles. The return of Kylie Clem, one of the region’s standout players, along with Raegan and Izzy Walker, and Maekayla Williams, justifies placing the Lady Redhounds at the No. 4 spot.
6. Jackson County (19-12)
The return of Abby Gilbert makes the Lady Generals one of the top teams in the region. She is the most underrated players in the region, and is looking finish her career as a Lady General by leading Jackson County to a 13th Region crown.
7. Whitley County (16-14)
Mike Petrey’s Lady Colonels feature a strong core (Maddie Hopkins, Aubree Clemens, Jonna Rice, and Autumn Sawyers) that is talented enough to make a push for the 50th District crown.
8. Bell County (18-14)
While the Lady Bobcats will miss Gracie Jo Wilder, don’t count them out. Coach David Teague will bring back Kairi Lamb, Kylee Greer-Gan, Lauren McGeorge, and Neveah Allen, ensuring Bell County remains competitive in the 52nd District.
9. Clay County (11-20)
The Lady Tigers have faced tough seasons recently, but the return of leading scorers Madison Pendland and Anna Samples could lead to a surprising turnaround this year.
10. Pineville (20-10)
The graduation of Nadine Johnson will be felt, but the duo of Ava Arnett and Rachel Howard will keep the Lady Mountain Lions in contention for the 51st District title.
Best of the Rest
11. Middlesboro (9-19)
12. Harlan County (16-14)
13. Barbourville (15-15)
14. Williamsburg (6-23)
15. Lynn Camp (4-24)
16. Oneida Baptist (4-17)
17. Red Bird (0-2)
