Domenic Holland made his college commitment announcement on Twitter, like so many of his peers do. But he didn't commit to continue playing. He announced a commitment of a much different kind, as 5Star Preps writer Dave Link … [Read more...]
Best Heritage baseball team still looks to leave a bigger legacy
by Dave Link

By DAVE LINK Robbie Bennett might have his best team in 19 years as the Heritage baseball coach. The Mountaineers (9-1) can do it all. “This year we’ve got all three facets,” Bennett said Saturday. “We can win with our pitching, with our … [Read more...]
FISHING FOR A FUTURE: Anderson County students earn college scholarships through fishing competition
by Dave Link

By DAVE LINK Storm Cline was taking part in an Anderson County High School football practice late last July when his cell phone rang. The senior linebacker had asked one of the Mavericks’ assistant coaches to hold his phone, just in case Cline … [Read more...]
Coronavirus costing TSSAA spring sports teams opportunities, wins, trips, funds and possibly a season
by Dave Link

By DAVE LINK Carol Mitchell has seen just about everything in her 26 years as the Gibbs softball coach. Nothing prepared her for what’s happened the last couple of weeks. … [Read more...]
5Star Preps Boys Soccer Preview (2020)
by Dave Link

Soccer season is in full swing, and as usual, the 5Star Preps coverage area has several teams with potential to make state championship runs. Not to mention all-state players. So get out this spring and enjoy the action on the pitch. Here … [Read more...]
Freshman Tai Cates a cut above the rest Monday but Alcoa falls in Class AA state sectionals
by Dave Link

By JESSE SMITHEY ALCOA – Tai Cates got a nasty gash on his cheekbone that left him dizzy Monday night, but it likely paled to the pain he felt an hour or so later. Alcoa’s freshman guard scored 34 points during the Tornadoes’ 76-70 loss to … [Read more...]
Maryville Lady Rebels basketball heading back to state for first time since 1999
by Dave Link

By DAVE LINK MARYVILLE — There was little drama in the final minutes Saturday night when the Maryville girls’ basketball team clinched the program’s first state tournament berth since 1999. The Lady Rebels (30-4) led from start to finish – … [Read more...]
Maryville Lady Rebels win Region 2-AAA with late surge away from Bearden
by Dave Link

Denae Fritz remembers the long road trip for last year’s Class AAA state sectional game against Science Hill in Johnson City. And she hasn’t forgotten the long trip back after a three-point loss. Fritz won’t have to worry about hitting the road … [Read more...]
Fulton’s Edward Lacey, Alcoa’s Nick Roberts overcome injury and nerves for Region 2-AA semis wins
by Dave Link

By DAVE LINK Edward Lacey didn’t let a bum ankle slow him down Tuesday night. Fulton’s senior point guard scored 24 points during a 69-64 victory over visiting Scott in the Region 2-AA elimination semifinals. Lacey hurt his ankle during … [Read more...]
Bearden freshman Avery Treadwell helps eliminate Farragut; Maryville survives late charge by Oak Ridge
by Dave Link

Avery Treadwell sure isn’t playing like a freshman. More like a seasoned veteran. Bearden’s 6-foot-2 post player scored eight of her team-high 17 points in the fourth quarter Monday night as host Bearden beat rival Farragut 58-42 in the Region … [Read more...]