(Records through Wednesday. Last week's rankings in parentheses; NR = previously unranked.)
1. Merrillville (2) 9-0
T’was a night full of hooping, when all through the gym,
The Pirates were practicing, for win after win;
The victories are hung on the record with care,
Those trying to challenge, should all be aware.
2. Lowell (3) 9-0
The Red Devils are nestled all snug with their wins,
With visions of put-backs and rebounds forcing a grin;
And a winter tournament already captured,
The schedule for January leaves none enraptured.
3. Michigan City (1) 8-1
When from north of Porter County arose such a clatter,
The Wolves are showing they’re not in tatters;
Away to South Bend, they’ll fly like a flash,
Coming out with a few wins will make a big splash.
4. West Side (4) 8-1
The Cougars aren’t as new as the freshly fallen snow,
Instead they’re on a roll, which they’re ready to show,
That the wondering eyes should come to see,
The post-holiday tournament, with its home in Gary.
5. Whiting (5) 10-0
With a little school, so lively and quick,
Many more ‘Ws’ will certainly stick,
On the record of the Oilers full of cheer,
Thanks to shooters who show no fear.
6. Hobart (7) 9-2
And then, with a twinkling heard from the East,
The Brickies prepare for Northridge Tourney wins on which to feast;
When the new year comes back around,
New tough challenges are bound to be found.
7. Hanover Central (9) 6-3
Their eyes -- how they twinkled when the captured the Kup!
The Wildcats are merry and on their way up;
Ready to win its own tournament,
Hanover Central’s defense is certainly not skint.
8. Kankakee Valley (8) 7-3
The stump of the NCC for ever so long,
The Kougars are showing how easy it is to be wrong;
Their smiles are broad each time they gain ground,
Amazement they’ll show when the sectional comes around.
9. Portage (6) 7-3
The Indians need few words as they go straight to work,
Returning to top DAC form is just a perk;
Leading past Trojans and L.C. will keep them in the hunt,
This team will be good, no need to be blunt.
10. Bishop Noll (NR) 9-1
As they spring from oblivion, give a little whistle,
The Warriors are solid, no fear of fizzle;
From conference to conference, girls basketball shines bright,
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
On the bubble: Griffith (7-3 ), Lake Central (6-5), Hebron (6-3), LaPorte (8-3), Rensselaer Central (8-3), Boone Grove (8-3).
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