Sports

When Hank Snow nasaled I’ve Been Everywhere sixty years ago, the country tune soon became a hit. The first line set the stage; “I was totin’ my pack along the dusty Winnemucca road,” drew the focus to where. While the Nevada town is closer to San Francisco than Las Vegas, it’s just one of many listed in the lyrics.

Off to a great start, No. 19 ranked Italy (12-3), won a key District game, 60-42, over visiting Rio Vista (13-8) last Tuesday. The Gladiators, who display a strong defense and apply considerable pressure on the ball. It has spurred a potent running game and a triumvirate of playmakers.

HC Desmond Guy relies on agile senior forward, 6’1, 195 Julius Williams (19 ppg, 12 rpg, 5 spg), 6-foot junior guard Jalyn Wallace (17 ppg, 8 apg, 5 spg) and senior sniper Colt Horn (13 ppg). He is ripping the nets at 43 percent from outside the key.

Judging this year’s strength of schedule on last year’s record can be a valid litmus test. While teams change players from year-to-year, coaching systems are more predictable.

Ennis opponents entering this fall had a 44-50 .468 record. Their itinerary turned out to be the easiest 10-games in the Big 5. Facing only four teams who made the playoffs did little to prepare them for the post-season.