Allderdice is searching for a fifth straight City League championship in boys basketball this winter.
The Dragons defeated Obama Academy, 59-53, to capture the title last season, and the rivals are expected to contend for the crown yet again after meeting in the finals the past three seasons.
Carrick and Westinghouse also qualified for the postseason a year ago, while Brashear was close behind in fifth place.
Here is a rundown of players to watch and top 3 teams in City League boys basketball this season.
Preseason Player of the Year
Lukas Stead, Allderdice
6-4, junior, forward
16.8 ppg last season
Players to watch
Landen Boykin, Perry Traditional Academy
6-0, Sr., G
Zion Conner, Obama Academy
6-5, Sr., F
Markus Kuhn, Allderdice
5-10, Sr., G
Naron Jackson II, Obama Academy
6-1, Jr., G
Trevon Roserio, Brashear
6-4, Sr. F
Preseason Top 3
1. Allderdice (15-10 last season)
Lukas Stead and Markus Kuhn return to lead Allderdice in its quest to remain atop the City League, though the Dragons were hit hard by graduation, notably starters Trey Schachter, Asher Schwartz and Ryan Zuckerbraun. They will be relying on a tall frontcourt of Anthony Abraham and Taahir Phillips, along with the 6-4 Stead, who averaged 16.8 points per game last season and was an All-City League selection. The Dragons have won 80 straight games against City League opponents in the regular season.
2. Obama Academy (11-10 last season)
Obama Academy returns its entire starting lineup after finishing as the City League runner-up in the regular season and playoff tournament last year. The Eagles went 8-2 in the City League during the regular season, with two losses to the Dragons. Naron Jackson II, the coach’s son, is back at point guard after averaging 18.3 ppg and earning All-City League honors last season. Also returning are center Zion Conner (6-5), guards Elijah Rawlings and Darnell Turner and power forward Sheikh Long. Senior guards Jaden Colbert and Stephon Malloy and junior center Judah Jackson should also make an impact.
3. Brashear (6-15 last season)
Brashear returns three starters — senior Nasir Thomas and sophomores Ryan White and Jahleel Anthony — after finishing fourth in the league last season. Senior Trevon Rosario (6-foot-4) and sophomore Mason Dick are also expected to be key contributors, as the Bulls rely on a balanced offensive attack and deep bench. Coach Carey White is entering his 15th season at Brashear after 10 years leading Oliver.