Betsy Layne’s run last year at the State All “A” Championship, though improbable, found a way to win.  The first game against Bishop Brossart… the Bobcats used timely shooting to advance in to the second round.

In the second game against West Carter, a Nathan Martin Block on Aaron Rayburn, who scored 24 points against Betsy Layne, helped defeat the Comets…. Around 12:30a.m.  Jr. Newsome’s ballclub then had to turn around just 12 hours later to face Danville, with a spot in the title game on the line.

What’d they do?  They shoot 60% in the first half and drub the Admirals 60-53, but it really wasn’t that close.

And then in the title game, a 44-41 victory over DeSales, a team that was just a three pointer away with seconds left to take the lead and end the dream run of a State Championship.

That team is long gone.  Nathan Martin, Derek Tackett, Dylan Maldanado, Casey Adkins have graduated.  Only one starter remains from that State Championship Squad, Andrew Roberts.

Many might think Betsy Layne would not have the chance to defend their state All “A” Championship… but they’re wrong.

Betsy Layne defeated Shelby Valley 49-44 on Monday, to punch their ticket to Frankfort (The All “A” State Tournament moves from Richmond to Frankfort). 

This team is MUCH different obviously.

New Additions in Dylan Meade (16.0ppg), Landon Hale (8.6ppg) have made up for some numbers, while Roberts is averaging 12.5ppg, to be that leader the Bobcats need.

And now we find out Dylan Hamilton has been cleared to play after breaking his leg during football season.  That is yet another weapon for the Bobcats.

Also, players have stepped up.  Peyton Case, a freshman who only averaged a point last season, is third on the team in scoring at 10.5ppg.

So I pose the question… Can Betsy Layne recreate the magic of last year and pull a Shelby Valley and repeat as All “A” State Champs?

The Bobcats are matched up with Region 1, which means they’ll likely play St. Mary or Mayfield.  I’m not a Western Kentucky guy, but I like their chances to win their first game.

Some think Covington Holy Cross is the favorite to win the All “A” State Tournament this year.  If that’s the case, the only way Betsy Layne can meet up with the Indians is if they make the State Title Game.  DeSales, was considered the favorite last year.

“There will be more.  Floyd County will get more, I promise you that.”  This was a direct quote from Newsome after the victory over DeSales.

It’s a different team.  A different look.  But it’s like déjà vu all over again.

New Packaging… Same Product.