Coach Wise and the Yates Lions have accomplished what they set out to do. To be named the top ranked team in the nation in all five polls. This was made possible due to in part that Northland of (Ohio) who was the top ranked team in three of the five polls fell to Gahanna Lincoln 71-45 in the regional championship game. The three polls are ESPN Rise Fab. 50, PrepNation and USA Today Super 25.
The Lions were ranked No. 1 in two polls which are MaxPreps Xcellent 25 and RivalsHigh 100.
The goal was set at the beginning of the season after winning their first state title since being apart of the UIL. With all five returning starters from last year, the Lions set out to be the best team in the land.
In other news, The Bellaire Cardinals start the season off ranked No. 1 in the country according to Baseball America. The Cardinals are no stranger to national rankings and are tied with South San Antonio for the most state titles in the state’s history.
Bush’s Basketball Coach Ronnie Courtney is undefeated in state competition with three titles coming from two different schools. The first two in 2000, 2001 with the Willowridge Eagles and this season with the Broncos of Bush High School.
In addition to a state championship and being selected as an McDonalds All-American, Cy-Fair’s Chiney Ogwumike’s has been named the Gatorade National Girls Player of the year, Naismith National Player of the year and Parade Magazine Player of the year.