For many, music is a push factor against the demons of anxiety and nervousness before a competition. For others, a pre-game playlist is a "Secret sauce" used to stir up and release whatever is channeled within them in an effort to lead their team to victory. 

Today we begin a new series titled "Gameday Playlist Vibes," which feature must-play pre-game songs from rising basketball stars in New Jersey. Next up is Saddle River Day wing Jaida Patrick. Jaida had a big game last week, logging a Quadruple-Double in 3 quarters of play! That’s right: 17 points, 15 rebs, 11 steals and 10 assists! Enjoy the jams from the junior wing below. 

As told to by Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop

Take a look below to view the changes to this week's ranking – which includes an extension from top 10 to now top 15. The ranking is based on games played through Tuesday, January 23rd.

By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop

15- Trenton Catholic  (12-1, 4-0 in conference play) 

Key wins: Rancocas Valley

Key losses: Woodbridge (VA) 

Analysis: Trenton Catholic has been one of the best surprises in the state this year. Defensively, they are one of the most aggressive teams in the state. This team has quickly emerged as a contender in South Jersey, Non-Public B. 

In basketball, much attention is paid to the players, and rightfully so. But watching a good coaching duel develop can be like watching a work of art being created in front of you.

TheDribbleDrop has always appreciated all facets of the game and will be linking with a distinguished high school basketball coaches every week to discuss the ins and outs of the game and what happens in-between the lines.

This week, Ramapo High head coach Joe Sandberg discusses the his offensive philosophy, preaching toughness, his thoughts on the shot clock more.

By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop on IG and Twitter

The two most powerful warriors ever are named patience and time.

When Brendan Thiele first stepped onto the court at a freshman, his game clearly showed potential, but a couple flaws. Luckily for Thiele, he had a coach like Alex Mirabel who made it a priority to push him to another level.

While many young players crumble under the pressure of playing varsity basketball so early in their career, Thiele rose. Once lanky, he became strong. Once labeled just “the shooter,” Thiele  worked tirelessly to develop a complete overall game. Last year was a breakthrough season for Thiele. St.Peter’s Prep had a sensational season and showed he could handle being one of the focal points of the offense. The talented swingman possessed all the tools of a division one player, he just needed to show consistency on the AAU circuit.

The hard work paid off, as Thiele committed this November to play for Army in the Patriot League. While his future is set in stone, nothing has changed in regards to Thieles’ approach to the game. He gives his all everyday in practices and games. He sets a good example for underclassman. “The hard work he’s put into the process of becoming a better athlete is pretty amazing,” said coach Mirabel.“Seeing him as a freshman, you may not have been able to envision him being a division one player. He had potential though. He came to the gym, he put in the work and he didn’t miss anything. Brendan got his offer but he hasn’t slowed down down. He’s still working hard to prepare himself to contribute to that team immediately on the next level."

The sensational senior now tells everyone the secret coach Mirabel told him years ago to achieve success on the court: Work hard and trust trust the process.

For many, music is a push factor against the demons of anxiety and nervousness before a competition. For others, a pre-game playlist is a "Secret sauce" used to stir up and release whatever is channeled within them in an effort to lead their team to victory. 

Today we begin a new series titled "Gameday Playlist Vibes," which feature must-play pre-game songs from rising basketball stars in New Jersey. Next up is Bergen Catholic forward Zachary Freemantle. The sensational sophomore is off to an amazing start this year, averaging 20 points per game thus far. Enjoy the jams from the sophomore manchild below. 

For many, music is a push factor against the demons of anxiety and nervousness before a competition. For others, a pre-game playlist is a "Secret sauce" used to stir up and release whatever is channeled within them in an effort to lead their team to victory. 

Today we begin a new series titled "Gameday Playlist Vibes," which feature must-play pre-game songs from rising basketball stars in New Jersey.  Next up is Seton Hall Prep guard Ashton Miller. Ashton had a big game last night against Montclair Immaculate, tallying 24 points en route to a 67-65 win.Enjoy the jams from the junior guard  below. 

As told to by Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop

For many, music is a push factor against the demons of anxiety and nervousness before a competition. For others, a pre-game playlist is a "Secret sauce" used to stir up and release whatever is channeled within them in an effort to lead their team to victory. 

Today we begin a new series titled "Gameday Playlist Vibes," which feature must-play pre-game songs from rising basketball stars in New Jersey. Next up is Cherokee guard Ava Therien. Enjoy the jams from the sensational sophomore guard below. 

As told to Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop

“Do It All” Paul Mulcahy was sensational his sophomore year. While many expected Gil St. Bernards to drop off the map due to the losses of 2016 NJ Freshmen of the year Jake Betlow to Montverde (and now St. Benedict's Prep,)   and Adam Mitola to George Washington, Gil took steps forward in 2017. One of the major reasons Gil was able to take such large steps forward despite the loss of so many key pieces was due to the stellar play of Mulcahy.

Paul may not be the biggest, fastest or strongest, but he has one of the best foundations in the NJ. Paul has an extremely high basketball IQ and keeps teams honest by using all players and sections of the floor each game.

It's only right that we paid homage by selecting Mulcahy as a diarist for us this year.  Check back throughout the season as Paul gives us an insider look at the life of a star student athlete playing basketball on the highest level in New Jersey.

As told to Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop on Instagram and Twitter

In basketball, much attention is paid to the players, and rightfully so. But watching a good coaching duel develop can be like watching a work of art being created in front of you.

TheDribbleDrop has always appreciated all facets of the game and will be linking with a distinguished high school basketball coaches every week to discuss the ins and outs of the game and what happens in-between the lines.

This week, Newark Tech Girls basketball head coach Keith Jefferson discusses the importance of details in basketball, skill development, “trusting the process,” and more.

By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop on IG and Twitter

It's all about the fit. 

Less than a year ago, Alexander Rice had the perfect fit in regards to his basketball career on a high school level. The lethal shooter was the starting shooting guard for a nationally recognized program in St. Anthony's in Jersey City. Under the tutelage of Hall of Fame Coach Hurley, Rice was being groomed to play on the division one level. 

Then during one said day in April, St. Anthony's announced it closing. From a basketball standpoint, the perfect situation for Alexander Rice was undone.