BANGOR - With the 2012-2013 High School basketball season coming to a close in two-and-a-half weeks, fans and players of their respective communities will commence preparation for the annual tournament at the Bangor Auditorium. The Class B boys' tournament appear to be wide open, with no particular team showing proof that they are the definitive favorite like Jonesport-Beals has at the Class D level.
Presque Isle currently sits atop the standings with losses to Houlton twice and MDI, albeit without arguably their best player, Tyler Books against the Trojans. They have ideal balance on offense and the ability to pressure the basketball with Nickerson and Williams. Stephenson can shoot from outside and Shields's 6'8 frame down low provides an interior presence. As well as having a stud like Brooks in your lineup will always give you a chance to win.
MDI was heavily favored in the Big East but have not met expectations although they still sit near the top of the Eastern Maine Class B standings. Walls is the guy who makes everything run with his outside shooting and getting his big men where they need to be. Phelps is a talented point guard and Head Coach Justin Norwood will find a way to get his team going at the Auditorium.
Caribou was largely unknown heading into the season but are sitting 6th in the current Heal Points at a sparkling 10-4. Led by Sophomore guard Dayne Savage and big man Derek Richardson, Caribou exemplifies similar balance to that of the cross-town rival Presque Isle.
Old Town has the best player in Class B, which is Garrett Libby and his 24 points per game. He gives them a chance to win every single night with his scoring ability and opening up opportunities for his teammates Garvey Melmed, Eddie Gonnella, and Zach Bartlett. Melmed is a terrific combo guard who can get his own shot when he seeks it, but looks to set up his teammates first. Old Town is versatile defensively as well, playing zone and then man, making sure to keep the opposing team off balance. Look for them to give one of the higher seeds a tough pre-lim.
Hermon has a backcourt loaded with talent in Jake Rioux, Tyler Thayer, and Eric Hoogterp. All of them are snipers from long range. The only criticism of them is the lack of an interior presence. Defensively, Joey Martin is excellent since he knows how to use his body but he has to be able to grab more offensive rebounds and open up the perimeter for his shooters. If he can do that, expect Hermon to grab a spot at the Auditorium.
It's shaping up to be a great tournament, and the Big East and KVAC (Winslow, Medomak, Oceanside, Camden Hills, Waterville, etc.) will provide a fun and exciting time for the spectators and media.
