Preseason TABC Polls Have 14 Boys Basketball Teams From East Texas Ranked

The Texas Association of Basketball Coaches released its preseason boys polls on Monday, and 14 teams from East Texas are ranked to begin the season.

There is no area representation from Class 5A, 4A or 3A, but a trio of 2A teams are ranked in the preseason top 25. Defending Region III finalist Tatum leads the way at No. 5, followed by two-time defending state champion White Oak at No. 18 and No. 21 Crockett.

In 1A Division I and Division II, there are a combined 11 area teams that crack the preseason rankings.

Grapeland is No. 2 in 1A D-I, followed by No. 6 Tenaha, defending state semifinalist San Augustine at No. 9, No. 13 LaPoynor, No. 17 West Sabine and No. 21 Martin's Mill. In 1A D-II, Oakwood leads the way at No. 2. The Panthers are followed by No. 8 Laneville, defending state finalist Douglass at No. 11, No. 23 Avinger and No. 24 Saltillo.

East Texas Boys Basketball Teams in Preseason TABC Polls

Class 2A

• No. 5 Tatum
• No. 18 White Oak
• No. 21 Crockett

Class A Division I

• No. 2 Grapeland
• No. 6 Tenaha
• No. 9 San Augustine
• No. 13 LaPoynor
• No. 17 West Sabine
• No. 21 Martins' Mill

Class A Division II

• No. 2 Oakwood
• No. 8 Laneville
• No. 11 Douglass
• No. 23 Avinger
• No. 24 Saltillo