Times Indiana girls basketball final top 10

Final poll

(records through Wednesday's games; NR = previously unranked)

1. Merrillville (1) 19-0

The Pirates' push for perfection has put them in prime place to enter the postseason as not just a region team to beat, but one of the best in the state. That only makes this team more hungry.

2. Lowell (2) 16-3

Every single loss this season was felt by the Red Devils and they've learned from each one. Where they're at as they head into the sectional is at the top of their game.

3. Boone Grove (3) 17-2

The Wolves showed why they're the Porter County Conference's best as they made a roaring comeback to win the final conference game of their regular season against Hanover Central. This team doesn't know the word "quit."

4. West Side (4) 15-4

The Cougars battled through a tough stretch in their season, playing four games in five days and coming out on top of every one of them. That's what the postseason can start to feel like, too.

5. E.C. Central (7) 14-6

Heading into the playoffs on a winning note keeps the sweet taste of success in the Cardinals' teeth, as they'll have to wait through the first round to learn of their opponent.

6. Griffith (6) 14-6

The Panthers' can hang with the speed and quick-witted ability of a guard-heavy team, falling in a close game to West Side. Despite the loss, that's a billboard to the rest of the sectional that this team isn't to be trifled with.

7. Michigan City (5) 14-6

Losing a key member of the team has put the Wolves far behind the eight ball. Will they be too close to the final pocket when she returns in time for the postseason, or can they recover from her absence?

8. Bowman Academy (NR) 15-6

Now that the Eagles have finished their regular season without a loss in Class 2A and wins over seven 3A and 4A teams, Bowman leaves little doubt through which direction the win in the sectional must go.

9. Wheeler (8) 14-5

After a long week of big games, the Bearcats have to keep their composure for the postseason. All the tournament wins in the regular season won't mean much with a first-round loss.

10. Whiting (9) 15-5

The Oilers beat beat Hammond in back-to-back years for the first time since the turn of the century. A regular season win can only mean so much, but when the Oilers have the whole week to rest and ruminate, it could mean a whole lot.

On the bubble: Hanover Central (11-7), Roosevelt (11-5), Crown Point (12-7), LaPorte (12-7).