Wharton edges out Brandon by one single win and takes the top spot of the prestige rankings. Wharton's 29-2 season was enough to counteract Brandon's three consecutive 20+ win seasons and dismal 5-19 campaign in 2009. Newsome comes in at number three thanks to their 20-6 2009 season and trip to the state playoffs. Bloomingdale, ranked fourth, used an injury-plagued 19-8 2009 season and their surprising 2007 district title appearance to secure the number four spot. King is in fifth, edging out the top five, and although their season has not ended yet, the gap between fourth and fifth is too large; even if King were to win the state championship, they can not accumulate enough wins to jump up a spot.
The bottom two, Tampa Bay Tech and Freedom, are the only two programs who posted a losing record over the past four years. With a 21-72 record, maybe Freedom students and supporters should be on the market for a new head coach.
2009 PRESTIGE RANKINGS
1. Wharton 73-34 (.6822)
2009: 13-11
2008: 15-14
2007: 29-2
2006: 16-7
Notables: 1 District Title (2007), 3 District Title appearances (2006,2007,2008), 1 Regional Title appearance (2007), 3 State Playoff appearances (2006, 2007,2008).
Extra: Despite Wharton's last two mediocre seasons, the 'Cats have played in the most district title games in the past four seasons.
2. Brandon 72-35 (.6728)
2009: 5-19
2008: 24-5
2007: 23-6
2006: 20-5
Notables: 1 Regional Title(2008), 2 District Titles(2006,2008), 2 District Title appearances (2006,2008), 1 Final Four appearance (2008), 2 State Playoff appearances (2006,2008)
Extra: Brandon's horrid 5-19 season gave Wharton the number one spot. However, the Eagles' 3 consecutive 20 win seasons is not to be overlooked.
3. Newsome 62-37 (.6262)
2009: 20-6
2008: 16-8
2007: 15-11
2006: 11-12
Notables: 1 District Title appearance (2009), 1 State Playoff appearance (2009)
Extra: Newsome is coming off their most successful season in school history and although they don't have much hardware to date, Coach Mackey has posted 60 plus wins in four years.
4. Bloomingdale 63-41 (.6057)
2009: 19-8
2008: 11-13
2007: 17-11
2006: 16-9
Notables: 1 District Title appearance (2007), 1 State Playoff Appearance (2007)
Extra: Bloomingdale stunned everyone in 2007 with the upset of Brandon, spoiling the match up everyone wanted to see in the district final, but the Bulls have failed to make it back to the district title game since.
5. King 51-44 (.5368)
2009: 21-6*
2008: 15-8
2007: 12-14
2006: 3-16
Notables: 1 District Title (2009), 1 District Title appearance (2009), 1 State Playoff appearance (2009)*
Extra: A super-talented Lion squad is still in the state title hunt and face a major hurdle tonight against Ridgewood, but if it weren't for the forfeits King would be posting 24 wins to only 3 losses!
6. Armwood 50-45 (.5263)
2009: 9-14
2008: 15-10
2007: 12-13
2006: 14-8
Notables: None
Extra: Nobody ever doubts Armwood on the gridiron, but can the Hawks replicate the success of their football squad onto the hardwood?
7. Tampa Bay Tech 46-47 (.4946)
2009: 12-12
2008: 9-15
2007: 11-11
2006: 14-9
Notables: None
Extra: Although their record seems sub-par, TBT has always had an abundance of athletic, young players but lacked the direction to develop them into a successful team.
8. Freedom 21-72 (.2258)
2009: 5-19
2008: 11-16
2007: 2-19
2006: 3-18
Notables: None
Extra: Hard to find anything positive to say about the Pats and their woes, but I will dig deep down in my bag of cliches and say "There's always next year."
*King has not yet concluded their 2009 season.
**Prestige rankings are based on the winning percentages of the past four seasons win/loss records combined. The teams are members of 5A District 8. Every year, the current season will replace the last season in the four year span.
February 24, 2009
February 21, 2009
Banquet Date, Camp Weeks Announced
Wharton's Boys Basketball Banquet will be held on Wednesday March 25 in the Wharton Gymnasium. The rest of the winter sports programs will get together in the cafeteria for a multi-sport banquet and then the Wildcat Basketball team will head over to the gym for their own ceremonies.
Also, ex-Wildcat Head Coach and USF Director of Basketball Operations Tommy Tonelli will be hosting the annual Wildcat Basketball Camps this summer. The weeks of camp will be June 22-25, June 29-July 2 and July 6-10.
Also, ex-Wildcat Head Coach and USF Director of Basketball Operations Tommy Tonelli will be hosting the annual Wildcat Basketball Camps this summer. The weeks of camp will be June 22-25, June 29-July 2 and July 6-10.
February 13, 2009
Wharton to 6A Barring Any Appeal
As of the 2009-2010 school year the Wharton Wildcats Basketball team will be competing in the 6A classification. The Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA) released a tentative outline for boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, and volleyball for the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 seasons.
In the the The Tampa Tribune article by Nick Williams he states Wharton's move to 6A as a "notable change." The statement put out by the FHSAA states:
The dividing lines between the basic classifications for the 2009-2010 through 2010-2011 school years are as follows:
• Class 6A (103) – schools with 2193 or more students;
• Class 5A (104) – schools with 1779 to 2192 students;
• Class 4A (104) – schools with 1305 to 1778 students;
• Class 3A (104) – schools with 499 to 1304 students;
• Class 2A (104) – schools with 190 to 498 students; and
• Class 1A (103) – schools with 189 or less students.
With the new classification, the Wildcats now find themselves competing in a 5 team district opposed to the 8 team district they have competed in during their last handful of seasons. Wharton's new district consists of rival Brandon, Bloomingdale, Alonso, and Plant High School. With Brandon in a coaching transition, Bloomingdale graduating all of their marquee players, Alonso in a rebuilding stage, and Plant graduating all-county guard Sheldon Cooley, Wharton could make a serious run at consecutive district championships. Wharton is returning all three of their top scorers; Damian Dixon, Xavier Owens, and AJ Astroth. However, Wharton will need to find a replacement at point guard to quarterback the offense on the floor.
Christina Alvarez, a FHSAA spokesperson, stated schools were moved to counteract the recent raise/declines in student enrollment and the realignment helps balance things out. Any school's opposed to their realignment have until February 20 to appeal.
TAMPA TRIBUNE ARTICLE
FHSAA ARTICLE
In the the The Tampa Tribune article by Nick Williams he states Wharton's move to 6A as a "notable change." The statement put out by the FHSAA states:
The dividing lines between the basic classifications for the 2009-2010 through 2010-2011 school years are as follows:
• Class 6A (103) – schools with 2193 or more students;
• Class 5A (104) – schools with 1779 to 2192 students;
• Class 4A (104) – schools with 1305 to 1778 students;
• Class 3A (104) – schools with 499 to 1304 students;
• Class 2A (104) – schools with 190 to 498 students; and
• Class 1A (103) – schools with 189 or less students.
With the new classification, the Wildcats now find themselves competing in a 5 team district opposed to the 8 team district they have competed in during their last handful of seasons. Wharton's new district consists of rival Brandon, Bloomingdale, Alonso, and Plant High School. With Brandon in a coaching transition, Bloomingdale graduating all of their marquee players, Alonso in a rebuilding stage, and Plant graduating all-county guard Sheldon Cooley, Wharton could make a serious run at consecutive district championships. Wharton is returning all three of their top scorers; Damian Dixon, Xavier Owens, and AJ Astroth. However, Wharton will need to find a replacement at point guard to quarterback the offense on the floor.
Christina Alvarez, a FHSAA spokesperson, stated schools were moved to counteract the recent raise/declines in student enrollment and the realignment helps balance things out. Any school's opposed to their realignment have until February 20 to appeal.
TAMPA TRIBUNE ARTICLE
FHSAA ARTICLE
February 10, 2009
Districts: Wharton 39, Bloomingdale 43
Wharton falls as Bulls outlast their way to a win, 43-39. The Wildcats will head home early for the first time in 4 years after Bloomingdale eliminates Wharton from the 5A District 8 tournament.
The clock read 00.0 and the tears had already started to flow down the cheeks of the senior parents and players. Myself, throat dry, heart-sunk, and my head between my knees, will have to wait 9 more months to cheer for the navy blue and white again.
Wharton, whose season was plagued by miscues and slow starts, fought down to the very last tenth of a second.
Early in the contest it looked as if Wharton was about to be handed a lopsided defeat by way of the three-ball. A fate they were familiar to last time these two teams met in this very gym. However, this time the Wildcats were going to fight back and leave it all on the floor. Bloomingdale held a slim 15-11 lead at the end of the first. The Bulls relied solely on the three point shot. Sean Rooks hit 2 threes to get the offense going and added a couple of free throws to help his home court Bulls build the small lead.
Bloomingdale’s momentum in the first quarter was quickly washed away in the second by the hustle of the Wharton boys. Senior Stephen Simmons started the Wharton scoring charge with a three point shot early in the quarter. After a couple of Bloomingdale buckets, Senior Zachery Litton connected on a long jumper that snapped the net and cut the Bulls lead to just one. On the very next Wildcat possession, the ‘Cats passed the ball 21 times before Damian Dixon tickled the twine and gave Wharton the one point advantage. The lead would change 4 times in the second quarter but when the clock ran out in the period, we were deadlocked at 23.
Both teams would come out fired up in the third but Wharton capitalized on a few more attempts and stretched their lead to 33-28 with 4 minutes to go in the third. Bloomingdale would respond with a 6-0 run in the final four minutes of the third to take a one point lead heading into the fourth, 34-33.
Here it was… Eight minutes, the only guaranteed time the seniors on the team had left. All the articles in the tribune, times, gazette, chronicle, and whatever you want to read have written or haven’t written comes down to the final 8 minutes.
Damian Dixon’s jumper gave the ‘Cats a 35-34 lead with 6:58 left. Bloomingdale guard, Sean Hayes runner dropped and gave the lead back to the Bulls. A few possessions later Stephen Simmons was fouled on the way to the basket and sent to the line for the 1 and 1 and the senior hit both free throws and the advantage swung back to Wharton’s favor. On Bloomingdale’s next possession, the Bulls point guard was called for the hook and the ball was back into the ‘Cats hands with a one point lead and 2:37 left in the contest. Simmons was sent to the line again and sunk both to give Wharton a 3 point lead with 1:34 to go.
After a Bulls timeout, the Wildcats’ D broke down and Sean Hayes hit an uncontested three pointer from the baseline with ice water in his veins (maybe that explains why he was sporting the long sleeve undershirt). The trey-ball tied the game at 39 and Wharton was attempting to run out the clock for the final shot when Sophomore AJ Astroth lost the ball and Joe Raga drew the foul at the other end.
Wharton would fail to score in the final seconds and Raga would keep giving the ‘Cats a chance by missing his free throws. Dixon and Senior Mike Robinson would both miss tying free throw opportunities and Raga would finally hit a free throw to put the game out of reach with 11.9 remaining.
The loss puts a cap on a 13-11 season, Wharton’s twelfth consecutive winning season. Mind you the school has only been open for 12 years. The “winning seasons” streak falls on deaf ears, especially so shortly after the defeat.
You can copy my next statement and send it to any sports writer in the area.
This team underachieved. This team was loaded with talent and fell short. They weren’t inexperienced, they weren’t young, and they definitely weren’t overmatched. This team simply just underperformed. When this team played vintage-style Wildcat basketball, they would drop 60 on a team without breaking a sweat. Damian Dixon’s ability to score, Xavier Owens’ inside presence, Zachery Litton’s floor general skills, Mike Robinson’s hustle, AJ Astroth’s shooting stroke, Stephen Simmons leadership, and Garry Volcey’s heart all powered the Wildcat Machine accompanied by the work ethic of the bench players. But when it all comes down to performance, the Wildcats just didn’t execute. It was nothing more than that and I wouldn't trade any of them for anyone else in the world.
As for Bloomingdale and the rest of the 5A District 8 teams, all I ask is represent us well as you continue your seasons.
The clock read 00.0 and the tears had already started to flow down the cheeks of the senior parents and players. Myself, throat dry, heart-sunk, and my head between my knees, will have to wait 9 more months to cheer for the navy blue and white again.
Wharton, whose season was plagued by miscues and slow starts, fought down to the very last tenth of a second.
Early in the contest it looked as if Wharton was about to be handed a lopsided defeat by way of the three-ball. A fate they were familiar to last time these two teams met in this very gym. However, this time the Wildcats were going to fight back and leave it all on the floor. Bloomingdale held a slim 15-11 lead at the end of the first. The Bulls relied solely on the three point shot. Sean Rooks hit 2 threes to get the offense going and added a couple of free throws to help his home court Bulls build the small lead.
Bloomingdale’s momentum in the first quarter was quickly washed away in the second by the hustle of the Wharton boys. Senior Stephen Simmons started the Wharton scoring charge with a three point shot early in the quarter. After a couple of Bloomingdale buckets, Senior Zachery Litton connected on a long jumper that snapped the net and cut the Bulls lead to just one. On the very next Wildcat possession, the ‘Cats passed the ball 21 times before Damian Dixon tickled the twine and gave Wharton the one point advantage. The lead would change 4 times in the second quarter but when the clock ran out in the period, we were deadlocked at 23.
Both teams would come out fired up in the third but Wharton capitalized on a few more attempts and stretched their lead to 33-28 with 4 minutes to go in the third. Bloomingdale would respond with a 6-0 run in the final four minutes of the third to take a one point lead heading into the fourth, 34-33.
Here it was… Eight minutes, the only guaranteed time the seniors on the team had left. All the articles in the tribune, times, gazette, chronicle, and whatever you want to read have written or haven’t written comes down to the final 8 minutes.
Damian Dixon’s jumper gave the ‘Cats a 35-34 lead with 6:58 left. Bloomingdale guard, Sean Hayes runner dropped and gave the lead back to the Bulls. A few possessions later Stephen Simmons was fouled on the way to the basket and sent to the line for the 1 and 1 and the senior hit both free throws and the advantage swung back to Wharton’s favor. On Bloomingdale’s next possession, the Bulls point guard was called for the hook and the ball was back into the ‘Cats hands with a one point lead and 2:37 left in the contest. Simmons was sent to the line again and sunk both to give Wharton a 3 point lead with 1:34 to go.
After a Bulls timeout, the Wildcats’ D broke down and Sean Hayes hit an uncontested three pointer from the baseline with ice water in his veins (maybe that explains why he was sporting the long sleeve undershirt). The trey-ball tied the game at 39 and Wharton was attempting to run out the clock for the final shot when Sophomore AJ Astroth lost the ball and Joe Raga drew the foul at the other end.
Wharton would fail to score in the final seconds and Raga would keep giving the ‘Cats a chance by missing his free throws. Dixon and Senior Mike Robinson would both miss tying free throw opportunities and Raga would finally hit a free throw to put the game out of reach with 11.9 remaining.
The loss puts a cap on a 13-11 season, Wharton’s twelfth consecutive winning season. Mind you the school has only been open for 12 years. The “winning seasons” streak falls on deaf ears, especially so shortly after the defeat.
You can copy my next statement and send it to any sports writer in the area.
This team underachieved. This team was loaded with talent and fell short. They weren’t inexperienced, they weren’t young, and they definitely weren’t overmatched. This team simply just underperformed. When this team played vintage-style Wildcat basketball, they would drop 60 on a team without breaking a sweat. Damian Dixon’s ability to score, Xavier Owens’ inside presence, Zachery Litton’s floor general skills, Mike Robinson’s hustle, AJ Astroth’s shooting stroke, Stephen Simmons leadership, and Garry Volcey’s heart all powered the Wildcat Machine accompanied by the work ethic of the bench players. But when it all comes down to performance, the Wildcats just didn’t execute. It was nothing more than that and I wouldn't trade any of them for anyone else in the world.
As for Bloomingdale and the rest of the 5A District 8 teams, all I ask is represent us well as you continue your seasons.
February 9, 2009
Rubin: "Wharton Wildcats... a below-average team."
First of all, let me apologize for the lateness of this article. The article was just recently brought to my attention.
Friday, in the February 6, 2008 installment of the New Tampa Neighborhood News, Sports Writer Matt Rubin wrote an article entitled “Wharton & Freedom Boys Wrapping Up A Difficult Year." The article states, “neither the Wharton Wildcats nor the Freedom Patriots have been anything more than a below average team.” Rubin then goes on to talk about how Wharton is seeded sixth and isn’t “poised to make a serious run for the District title.”
“After going 29-2 and losing in the state regional final to eventual state champion Lake Howell only two years ago, and finishing 15-14 last year, the Wildcats are in their second year of rebuilding.”
What Rubin fails to mention is that last year’s Wildcat team also went through a coaching change, just as this years bunch is doing the same. Also, last year’s “rebuilding" squad had a winning streak of 10 games that spanned the entire month of January and included a dismantling of Final Four representative, Brandon High School and won 12 out of 13 before falling to Brandon by 4 points in the district championship.
If a 4 point loss in a district championship and a state playoff appearance are considered a rebuilding year then I would like to have one of those seasons every year.
In regards to the proclaimed mediocrity, after the conclusions of the final two seasons, Wharton has lost at least 3 starters as well as experienced a coaching change. After the 2007 dream season, Wharton graduated 4 seniors, Shawn Vanzant (Butler), Anthony Gomez (St. Leo), Adam Noble (Eckerd), and Leonard Simmons (Florida College). The 2007 squad also graduated sixth man and rebound extraordinaire Joshua Jones (Elon – Football) and seventh man Unzo Givens. After 2007, Wharton also lost Head Coach Tommy Tonelli to USF. Tonelli coached every Wharton season to date and accumulated 3 district championships, a regional championship appearance and coached a decades worth of winning seasons. Note, Tonelli departed after Wharton's 10th year of existence. Therefore, Wharton has never had a losing season in school history.
As for the 2008 squad, Wharton graduated Anthony Manuel (King College), Chris Jean-Louis, and jack-of-all-trades guard Derek Holmes Jr. Anyone with any type of basketball sense knows “rebuilding” comes after such a monumental season, a coaching change, and having a senior heavy squad. It generally goes without saying but the comparison to Wharton and Freedom is absolutely ridiculous.
Wharton (13-10) and Freedom (3-17) don’t and will not even come close to having similar seasons. In fact, if it wasn’t for King’s forfeits Wharton would have been 6-8 and in a 3 way tie for the 4th seed in the district. Wharton would then be behind King and Bloomingdale (two teams who are talent-heavy and top teams in the area) as well as Newsome, a team who has overachieved and is loaded with young players.
Rubin did try and save face by quoting Head Coach Dave Bastian and his hopes with the "young team" as well as stating the obvious success ahead for the Wharton Wildcats Basketball Program.
As for Rubin and the rest of the local news media, I look forward to seeing you all jump back on the bandwagon when the Wildcats return to glory, just as you all did two years ago…
Friday, in the February 6, 2008 installment of the New Tampa Neighborhood News, Sports Writer Matt Rubin wrote an article entitled “Wharton & Freedom Boys Wrapping Up A Difficult Year." The article states, “neither the Wharton Wildcats nor the Freedom Patriots have been anything more than a below average team.” Rubin then goes on to talk about how Wharton is seeded sixth and isn’t “poised to make a serious run for the District title.”
“After going 29-2 and losing in the state regional final to eventual state champion Lake Howell only two years ago, and finishing 15-14 last year, the Wildcats are in their second year of rebuilding.”
What Rubin fails to mention is that last year’s Wildcat team also went through a coaching change, just as this years bunch is doing the same. Also, last year’s “rebuilding" squad had a winning streak of 10 games that spanned the entire month of January and included a dismantling of Final Four representative, Brandon High School and won 12 out of 13 before falling to Brandon by 4 points in the district championship.
If a 4 point loss in a district championship and a state playoff appearance are considered a rebuilding year then I would like to have one of those seasons every year.
In regards to the proclaimed mediocrity, after the conclusions of the final two seasons, Wharton has lost at least 3 starters as well as experienced a coaching change. After the 2007 dream season, Wharton graduated 4 seniors, Shawn Vanzant (Butler), Anthony Gomez (St. Leo), Adam Noble (Eckerd), and Leonard Simmons (Florida College). The 2007 squad also graduated sixth man and rebound extraordinaire Joshua Jones (Elon – Football) and seventh man Unzo Givens. After 2007, Wharton also lost Head Coach Tommy Tonelli to USF. Tonelli coached every Wharton season to date and accumulated 3 district championships, a regional championship appearance and coached a decades worth of winning seasons. Note, Tonelli departed after Wharton's 10th year of existence. Therefore, Wharton has never had a losing season in school history.
As for the 2008 squad, Wharton graduated Anthony Manuel (King College), Chris Jean-Louis, and jack-of-all-trades guard Derek Holmes Jr. Anyone with any type of basketball sense knows “rebuilding” comes after such a monumental season, a coaching change, and having a senior heavy squad. It generally goes without saying but the comparison to Wharton and Freedom is absolutely ridiculous.
Wharton (13-10) and Freedom (3-17) don’t and will not even come close to having similar seasons. In fact, if it wasn’t for King’s forfeits Wharton would have been 6-8 and in a 3 way tie for the 4th seed in the district. Wharton would then be behind King and Bloomingdale (two teams who are talent-heavy and top teams in the area) as well as Newsome, a team who has overachieved and is loaded with young players.
Rubin did try and save face by quoting Head Coach Dave Bastian and his hopes with the "young team" as well as stating the obvious success ahead for the Wharton Wildcats Basketball Program.
As for Rubin and the rest of the local news media, I look forward to seeing you all jump back on the bandwagon when the Wildcats return to glory, just as you all did two years ago…
February 8, 2009
The Stage Is Set
(NOTE GAME DATE CHANGE: GAME MOVED TO TUESDAY, FEB 10, 2008 @ 8PM)
Over the past 4 years, Wharton has entered the tournament no lower than a 2 seed and in each of the past four seasons the Wildcats have been one of the last two dueling it out in the final. Last year, Wharton was riding a hot streak that made them winners of 14 out of 15 and fell to Brandon in the final. Prior to last year, the 2007 campaign, Wharton won each of its three games by more than 20 points on their way to an elite eight finish. In 2006 Wharton feel to Brandon in a classic overtime battle that left our 'Cats teary-eyed as they walked off the court.
However, this year is different. After two consecutive undefeated Januarys, Wharton has been on a roller coaster ride with its fair share of highs and lows. Players getting frustrated, Parents blaming coaches, and fans not caring just adds to the beaten path. But when Tuesday rolls around only one thing matters... getting it done on the court.
During last year's worst-to-first, single season turn around Wharton met a feisty Bloomingdale team in the second round of the district tournament. Wharton controlled the contest for most of the competition and held double digits leads multiple times throughout the game. Wharton held what looked like to be a season ending 10 point led with just under 4 minutes to play but behind the shooting ability of Callum Townsend and Sean Hayes Bloomingdale fought back and took a 3 point lead in the final seconds.
After leading the entire game our Wildcats were forced into the pressure spot and had to hit the game tieing shot to send the game into overtime. Senior Anthony Manuel hit the biggest shot of his career as the clock struck zero, silencing Bulls fans and awaking the Wildcat nation.
In the first overtime period both teams failed to score a single point in a virtual deadlock performance. Neither the inside game of the Wildcats nor the perimeter offense of the Bulls found away to score and we headed into a second overtime period.
The second overtime was owned by Wharton. Wharton ran off point after point and ended the game with a lethargic Andreas Shields dunk. The dunk put an exclamation point on the amazing run the Wildcats mounted to reach the final. Callum Townsend, Sean Hayes, Sean Rooks, and the rest of the Bloomingdale Bulls walked off the court with tears in their eyes, knowing they were just seconds away from clinching a playoff spot as well as a chance to play Brandon in the title game.
I can't say the loss was a positive experience for any of the Bloomingdale players but what it seemed to do was motivate the then junior-heavy squad to comeback with a vengeance in 2008-2009.
This year, Wharton will have to travel to the home of the team they have beaten the previous two years in tournament play. Bloomingdale shot in the high 60's earlier in the season against Wharton on their home floor.
The stage is set and the deck is stacked against the navy blue and white. I don't have to issue a statement to any of the parents. They have been supportive all year and have outshone the Blue Crew on many occasions. But to any student, alumni, or fan of the program who reads this blog... the time is now. Come support your boys as they attempt to climb the steep mountain they face ahead of them. The game is at 8 o'clock so get home, get your homework done, go to practice, and get you and five of your friends over to Bloomingdale for Tuesday night's game. Directions are posted below...
START: Wharton High School: 20150 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33647
Distance: 24 miles
Time: 30 minutes
- Start out going SOUTHWEST on BRUCE B DOWNS BLVD/CR-581 S toward REGENTS PARK DR.
- Merge onto I-75 S via the ramp on the LEFT toward NAPLES.
- Merge onto FL-60 E via EXIT 257 toward BRANDON.
- Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto S LITHIA PINECREST RD/CR-640.
- Turn RIGHT onto W BLOOMINGDALE AVE.
- End at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave Valrico, FL 33596
END: Bloomingdale Senior High School: 1700 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico, FL 33596, (813) 744-8018
February 5, 2009
Wharton 34, Chamberlain 39
Wharton falls to Chamberlain 39-34 despite a good defensive showing.
The Wildcats traveled down Busch Boulevard to square off with the Chamberlain Chiefs in an annual dual. Chamberlain and Wharton have met every year for the past couple seasons and have provided the audience with some very entertaining basketball.
Last year's contest was a down to the wire, last second outing where Wharton saw a 5 point loss disappear in the final minute as well as their 14 game winning streak. This year, Wharton wasn't on a tear but the final made it feel like deja-vu.
Both teams played a great defensive game. Wharton held the Chiefs to 39 points, most of which came from 6 foot 10 inch Matt Kendrick. Early in the contest the Wildcats struggled to find the basket due to the length of the big man. Kendrick posted 4 blocks in the first quarter alone. His wingspan provided Chamberlain with the defense that made it difficult for Wharton to score in the first quarter. Chambo held a 12-5 lead at the end of the first.
Every Wildcat fan knows that second quarter play has been sub par all year. Most of the Wildcat losses are triggered by their inability to match baskets, let alone score points in the second quarter. Tonight was different. Wharton began attacking the basket despite Kendrick's performance in the first quarter. Sophomore Xavier Owens struggled early and settled for long jump shots which just weren't falling. The X-Man elevated his play and started attacking the hoop with his crafty, bread-and-butter moves. Wharton started the second quarter on a 6-0 run and out hustled their way to a 19-16 lead at the half. Junior Damian Dixon and Sophomore AJ Astroth constantly forced turnover and capitalized on the easy buckets on the other end.
Wharton would start the second half off strong, scoring on their opening three possessions. Chambo would respond with a run of their own and would continue to chisel away from the 'Cats lead. There were a half-dozen lead changes in the final four minutes of the period and after the third, Chambo held a 30-26 lead.
During the duration of the final quarter, Wharton only managed four points in the final 8 minutes. Owens and company struggled from the field as well as the free throw line. Three of those eight points came off a Dixon desperation three with 6 seconds remaining. Dixon led all scorers with 17 points.
Four 2 players on the Wharton roster, this game marked the beginning and the end of their high school careers. Both Mike Robinson and Zachery Litton kicked their Wharton careers off on that very floor 4 years ago. Both Robinson and Litton concluded their regular season careers in the gym where they started it all.
Wharton trips to 13-10 and concluded regular season play. It all comes down to next Wednesday night when Bloomingdale hosts our Wildcats in the first round of the 5A District 8 Tournament at 8pm. The last time these two teams met in the district tournament it was one for the ages. Wharton fended off the long-ball Bloomingdale squad in double overtime in the semifinals of last years tournament. Neither team scored a single point in the first overtime and Wharton then ran off a 10-0 second overtime performance to end the Bulls' season and their playoff hopes.
The Wildcats traveled down Busch Boulevard to square off with the Chamberlain Chiefs in an annual dual. Chamberlain and Wharton have met every year for the past couple seasons and have provided the audience with some very entertaining basketball.
Last year's contest was a down to the wire, last second outing where Wharton saw a 5 point loss disappear in the final minute as well as their 14 game winning streak. This year, Wharton wasn't on a tear but the final made it feel like deja-vu.
Both teams played a great defensive game. Wharton held the Chiefs to 39 points, most of which came from 6 foot 10 inch Matt Kendrick. Early in the contest the Wildcats struggled to find the basket due to the length of the big man. Kendrick posted 4 blocks in the first quarter alone. His wingspan provided Chamberlain with the defense that made it difficult for Wharton to score in the first quarter. Chambo held a 12-5 lead at the end of the first.
Every Wildcat fan knows that second quarter play has been sub par all year. Most of the Wildcat losses are triggered by their inability to match baskets, let alone score points in the second quarter. Tonight was different. Wharton began attacking the basket despite Kendrick's performance in the first quarter. Sophomore Xavier Owens struggled early and settled for long jump shots which just weren't falling. The X-Man elevated his play and started attacking the hoop with his crafty, bread-and-butter moves. Wharton started the second quarter on a 6-0 run and out hustled their way to a 19-16 lead at the half. Junior Damian Dixon and Sophomore AJ Astroth constantly forced turnover and capitalized on the easy buckets on the other end.
Wharton would start the second half off strong, scoring on their opening three possessions. Chambo would respond with a run of their own and would continue to chisel away from the 'Cats lead. There were a half-dozen lead changes in the final four minutes of the period and after the third, Chambo held a 30-26 lead.
During the duration of the final quarter, Wharton only managed four points in the final 8 minutes. Owens and company struggled from the field as well as the free throw line. Three of those eight points came off a Dixon desperation three with 6 seconds remaining. Dixon led all scorers with 17 points.
Four 2 players on the Wharton roster, this game marked the beginning and the end of their high school careers. Both Mike Robinson and Zachery Litton kicked their Wharton careers off on that very floor 4 years ago. Both Robinson and Litton concluded their regular season careers in the gym where they started it all.
Wharton trips to 13-10 and concluded regular season play. It all comes down to next Wednesday night when Bloomingdale hosts our Wildcats in the first round of the 5A District 8 Tournament at 8pm. The last time these two teams met in the district tournament it was one for the ages. Wharton fended off the long-ball Bloomingdale squad in double overtime in the semifinals of last years tournament. Neither team scored a single point in the first overtime and Wharton then ran off a 10-0 second overtime performance to end the Bulls' season and their playoff hopes.
February 2, 2009
Senior Night: Wharton 64, Alonso 36
We have reached the final week of the 2008-2009 Wharton Basketball Season, which only means one thing... It's time to pay homage to those kids who have excelled on and off the court for 4 years in high school, our graduating '09 Seniors...
(POST-GAME ARTICLE BELOW)
Joe McElroy, Manager
Joseph Thomas McElroy was born on January 28th, 1990. He is being escorted by his parents, Roseanne and Norm. He has been a manager for the Wharton Basketball team for 5 years. Joseph wants to own his own Pizza Restaurant. His favorite player is Michael Jordan. Joseph’s favorite quote is, “What you put into life, is what you get out of it.” Joseph’s favorite basketball memory is when Wharton won the District Championship in 2007 with Coach Tonelli and in the locker room after the game Coach Tonelli was so happy he was dancing and crying at the same time. The people Joseph looks up to the most are his 2 sisters Jennifer and Janine beacause they are very easy to talk to and they accept him for who he is. His words of wisdom to any underclassmen who inspire to be a manager are, “It’s hard work, it’s a lot of fun, players treat you well but you have to give them 100%.”
Garry Volcy, # 11, Forward
Garry Jean-Joseph Volcy Jr. was born on September 25th, 1991. Garry is being escorted by his mother, Junie Jeudie-Cox. Garry is a 2 year player and a 1 year varsity lettermen. Garry plans to attend Nova South Eastern University and inspires to be a business owner. His favorite athlete is Carmelo Anthony. Garry’s favorite quote is “Giving up’s way harder than trying.” His favorite basketball memory is his first dunk. The people he looks up to the most are his cousin Jeff and his friend Danny Miller because they made him the type of person that never gives up, no matter what. His words of wisdom to his underclassmen teammates are, “No matter how hard it gets or if things don’t go your way stay positive and always try to improve yourself.”
Mike Robinson, # 32, Center
Michael Anthony Robinson Jr. was born on October 25th, 1990. Michael is being escorted by his mother Clara Robinson and his father Michael Robinson Sr. Michael is a 4 year player and a two year varsity lettermen. Michael is considering Allen University or Hillsborough Community College and inspires to be an electrician. His favorite athlete is Michael Jordan. Michael’s favorite quote is “If you put your mind to it you can achieve it. His favorite basketball memory is scoring a career high 15 points against rival Freedom High School. The person Michael looks up to the most is his father, Michael Robinson Sr. because he was the one who inspired him the most to be what he wanted to be. His words of wisdom to his underclassmen teammates are “Next year play hard and I want to see you all at states.”
Stephen Simmons, # 5, Guard
Stephen Emmanuel Simmons was born June 15th, 1991. He is being escorted by his parents Cas and Michelle Simmons and his younger brother Jonathan. Stephen is a three year player and a 2 year varsity lettermen. He is co-captain of this year’s 2008-2009 varsity squad. Stephen won the Junior Varsity Coach’s Award for the 2006-2007 season and the Varsity Basketball Academic Achievement Award for the 2007-2008 season. Stephen has a 4.5 grade point average and is the News Editor of the Wharton school newspaper, the Predator. He is considering Kent State, the University of Central Florida, and the University of South Carolina inspires to be a sports journalist. His favorite player is Michael Jordan. Stephen’s favorite quote is “In all labor there is profit.” His favorite basketball memory is scoring 28 points against a rival school during his 8th grade year. The people Stephen looks up to the most are his parents because of the morals and competitive attitude that they’ve helped to instill in him. His words of wisdom to his underclassmen teammates are “Continue to work hard and always strive to reach your full potential.”
(POST-GAME ARTICLE BELOW)
Joe McElroy, Manager
Joseph Thomas McElroy was born on January 28th, 1990. He is being escorted by his parents, Roseanne and Norm. He has been a manager for the Wharton Basketball team for 5 years. Joseph wants to own his own Pizza Restaurant. His favorite player is Michael Jordan. Joseph’s favorite quote is, “What you put into life, is what you get out of it.” Joseph’s favorite basketball memory is when Wharton won the District Championship in 2007 with Coach Tonelli and in the locker room after the game Coach Tonelli was so happy he was dancing and crying at the same time. The people Joseph looks up to the most are his 2 sisters Jennifer and Janine beacause they are very easy to talk to and they accept him for who he is. His words of wisdom to any underclassmen who inspire to be a manager are, “It’s hard work, it’s a lot of fun, players treat you well but you have to give them 100%.”
For Senior Night, Joseph will be an honorary varsity player. Joseph will be sitting on the bench with the rest of the players.
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Garry Volcy, # 11, Forward
Garry Jean-Joseph Volcy Jr. was born on September 25th, 1991. Garry is being escorted by his mother, Junie Jeudie-Cox. Garry is a 2 year player and a 1 year varsity lettermen. Garry plans to attend Nova South Eastern University and inspires to be a business owner. His favorite athlete is Carmelo Anthony. Garry’s favorite quote is “Giving up’s way harder than trying.” His favorite basketball memory is his first dunk. The people he looks up to the most are his cousin Jeff and his friend Danny Miller because they made him the type of person that never gives up, no matter what. His words of wisdom to his underclassmen teammates are, “No matter how hard it gets or if things don’t go your way stay positive and always try to improve yourself.”
“One of the hardest working, best kids I have ever coached, great attitude, great sense of humor, and tremendous teammate.”
- Head Coach, Dave Bastian
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Mike Robinson, # 32, Center
Michael Anthony Robinson Jr. was born on October 25th, 1990. Michael is being escorted by his mother Clara Robinson and his father Michael Robinson Sr. Michael is a 4 year player and a two year varsity lettermen. Michael is considering Allen University or Hillsborough Community College and inspires to be an electrician. His favorite athlete is Michael Jordan. Michael’s favorite quote is “If you put your mind to it you can achieve it. His favorite basketball memory is scoring a career high 15 points against rival Freedom High School. The person Michael looks up to the most is his father, Michael Robinson Sr. because he was the one who inspired him the most to be what he wanted to be. His words of wisdom to his underclassmen teammates are “Next year play hard and I want to see you all at states.”
“Hard worker and tremendous rebounder. Team leader in hustle plays.”
- Head Coach, Dave Bastian
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Stephen Simmons, # 5, Guard
Stephen Emmanuel Simmons was born June 15th, 1991. He is being escorted by his parents Cas and Michelle Simmons and his younger brother Jonathan. Stephen is a three year player and a 2 year varsity lettermen. He is co-captain of this year’s 2008-2009 varsity squad. Stephen won the Junior Varsity Coach’s Award for the 2006-2007 season and the Varsity Basketball Academic Achievement Award for the 2007-2008 season. Stephen has a 4.5 grade point average and is the News Editor of the Wharton school newspaper, the Predator. He is considering Kent State, the University of Central Florida, and the University of South Carolina inspires to be a sports journalist. His favorite player is Michael Jordan. Stephen’s favorite quote is “In all labor there is profit.” His favorite basketball memory is scoring 28 points against a rival school during his 8th grade year. The people Stephen looks up to the most are his parents because of the morals and competitive attitude that they’ve helped to instill in him. His words of wisdom to his underclassmen teammates are “Continue to work hard and always strive to reach your full potential.”
“I found it to be a pleasure to coach you as a sophomore to a senior. Steven, you have shown what leadership is all about. Leadership is patience and being very open minded. With these couple of tools shown me great quality in a young man. I also hope you pass on your great qualities as you received them. I have no doubt that you will be successful. My prayers are with you and your senior teammates.”
- Junior Varsity Head Coach, Comer Copeland
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Zachery Litton, # 4, Guard
James Zachery Scott Litton was born May 13th, 1991. He is being accompanied by his parents, Jeffery and Lisa Litton, and brothers Joshua and Chase. Zachery is a 4 year player and a 2 year varsity lettermen. He is co-captain of this year’s 2008-2009 varsity squad. Zachery won the Junior Varsity Coaches Award for the 2005-2006 season, the Junior Varsity Most Valuable Player Award for the 2006-2007 season, and the Varsity Basketball Coaches Award for the 2007-2008 season. He also led the team in assists during his Junior and Senior seasons. Zachery has a 5.1 grade point average and is the President of the Wharton’s school spirit club, the Blue Crew. He is also the Treasurer of the National Honors Society and is a member of BETA. Zachery plans to attend the University of Miami and inspires to be a Neurosurgeon. His favorite player is Kobe Bryant. Zachery’s favorite quote is “Make it happen.” His favorite basketball memory is dominating Freedom High school all four years in high school. The person Zachery looks up to the most is his mother because she has unintentionally taught him how to overcome any setback life throws his way by overcoming her medical hardships. His words of wisdom for his underclassmen teammates are “Listen to Coach Dave. He definitely knows what he’s talking about.”
James Zachery Scott Litton was born May 13th, 1991. He is being accompanied by his parents, Jeffery and Lisa Litton, and brothers Joshua and Chase. Zachery is a 4 year player and a 2 year varsity lettermen. He is co-captain of this year’s 2008-2009 varsity squad. Zachery won the Junior Varsity Coaches Award for the 2005-2006 season, the Junior Varsity Most Valuable Player Award for the 2006-2007 season, and the Varsity Basketball Coaches Award for the 2007-2008 season. He also led the team in assists during his Junior and Senior seasons. Zachery has a 5.1 grade point average and is the President of the Wharton’s school spirit club, the Blue Crew. He is also the Treasurer of the National Honors Society and is a member of BETA. Zachery plans to attend the University of Miami and inspires to be a Neurosurgeon. His favorite player is Kobe Bryant. Zachery’s favorite quote is “Make it happen.” His favorite basketball memory is dominating Freedom High school all four years in high school. The person Zachery looks up to the most is his mother because she has unintentionally taught him how to overcome any setback life throws his way by overcoming her medical hardships. His words of wisdom for his underclassmen teammates are “Listen to Coach Dave. He definitely knows what he’s talking about.”
“Myself having coached Zach here at Wharton High has found Zach to be a great person. I watched this young man make the adjustment to his new home, Wharton High. Zach is a person that will put others before himself which is very honorable. As I have coached you Zach, I compliment you on your character. I’m blessed to have coached you.”
- Junior Varsity Head Coach, Comer Copeland
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Wharton used a dominating second half to cruise to a 64-36 victory Tuesday night as the underclassmen and audience payed their respect to the graduating seniors for Senior Night.
Xavier Owens led Wharton with 20 followed by Damian Dixon’s 16 point performance to help lift the Wildcats and our seniors to victory in what looks to be the final home stand of the season.
Although the underclassmen stepped up big to make sure the elders walked off the Wharton court victorious one last time, each and every senior contributed for the ‘Cats. Senior co-captain Zachery Litton dropped 7 in the first half paved the way to for the Raven-drubbing . Senior Garry Volcy also added 6 points and helped counteract Alonso sharpshooter Williams’ three point ability. Volcy’s heart and hustle illuminated the building. On every play the he took part in, it was with 110% of his energy and truly left his heart on the court tonight. Stephen Simmons, senior co-captain, led the charge on the other end of the ball. His smothering defense was reflected on the offensive end with easy transition buckets. Mike Robinson’s hustle on the boards helped eliminate Hillsborough County “Player-to-Watch” Worth.
When it was all said and done, every senior on the Wharton roster walked off their covenant court with points and more importantly a win.
Wharton improves to 13-9 and will head down to Chamberlain High School for a rematch of last year’s nail-bitter. Wharton held a slim 5 point lead in the final minute but saw that lead disappear as quickly as they built it and fell to the Chiefs in the waning moments of the contest.
Although the underclassmen stepped up big to make sure the elders walked off the Wharton court victorious one last time, each and every senior contributed for the ‘Cats. Senior co-captain Zachery Litton dropped 7 in the first half paved the way to for the Raven-drubbing . Senior Garry Volcy also added 6 points and helped counteract Alonso sharpshooter Williams’ three point ability. Volcy’s heart and hustle illuminated the building. On every play the he took part in, it was with 110% of his energy and truly left his heart on the court tonight. Stephen Simmons, senior co-captain, led the charge on the other end of the ball. His smothering defense was reflected on the offensive end with easy transition buckets. Mike Robinson’s hustle on the boards helped eliminate Hillsborough County “Player-to-Watch” Worth.
When it was all said and done, every senior on the Wharton roster walked off their covenant court with points and more importantly a win.
Wharton improves to 13-9 and will head down to Chamberlain High School for a rematch of last year’s nail-bitter. Wharton held a slim 5 point lead in the final minute but saw that lead disappear as quickly as they built it and fell to the Chiefs in the waning moments of the contest.
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