Three boys, one girl in top 10
BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Martin County basketball is entering the 2025–26 season with high expectations after both the boys and girls teams earned top spots in the 15th Region Coaches Association preseason rankings.
Coach Jason JJ James’ boys team landed at No. 3 behind Johnson Central and Lawrence County. Paintsville and Pikeville rounded out the top 5 to place three 57th District teams at the top of the 15th Region.
Martin County is projected to be one of the region’s top contenders, boasting an impressive three players among the region’s top 10, more than any other school. That includes the No. 1-ranked Braxton Keathley, signaling high expectations for the state’s leading scorer heading into the season.
Teammates Bryson Dials and Devan Maynard rounded out the region’s elite list at ninth and 10th, respectively.
The trio’s recognition is a nod to the depth and talent within the Cardinal program as the team prepares for another deep postseason run.
“Having three players named among the region’s best says a lot about the hard work our kids have put in,” Martin County coach Jason “JJ” James. “We’ve got leadership, chemistry and the drive to compete at a high level. Our goal is to get to Rupp and we’ve got a great group of guys to do it.”
On the girls’ side, Coach Robin Newsome’s Lady Cardinals are No. 2 in team rankings just behind Johnson Central. Paintsville, Floyd Central and Pikeville complete the top 5.
Sophomore Maci Maynard, an All-15th Region selection last season, was voted the No. 5 player in the region in the preseason poll. At 6-foot-4, she will anchor the Lady Cards on both ends of the floor with her dominant inside presence.
“We’re young at some positions, but having a player like Maci sets the tone,” Martin County coach Robin Newsome said. “She’s a leader who makes everyone around her better.”
Fans can catch a glimpse of both Martin County teams, along with boys teams from Johnson Central and Lawrence County, Nov. 29 at the Zip Zone Express Tip Off Classic in Inez.