Greetings, salutations and whatever else means hello. Lots to talk about today, so let’s just dive in.

• Of all the boys basketball games on this week’s schedule, I’m most excited about this showdown tonight between No. 3 Cathedral and No. 4 Carmel. This is a true test for both the Irish and the Greyhounds, respectively. Each is undefeated (8-0). Each features versatile, balanced scoring. Each also uses a variety of defenses and each coach knows his personnel extremely well, maximizing talent. Carmel is coming off an 83-40 win over North Montgomery on Jan. 5, while Cathedral topped Muncie South 65-43 last Friday, so each team should be well-prepared and well-rested. And, Carmel and Cathedral have played some great games recently, most notably the 56-52 Cathedral win last year about this time. Tip-off is set for 7:30 at Cathedral.

• We’ve got a showcase story up on the main page of our Web site that discusses the Marion County boys basketball tournament, be sure to check that out. And, while you’re catching up on the MC tourney, if you haven’t read my colleague Dave McConnell’s brilliant comparison of the Marion County tourney to a baked potato (yes, you read that right), then click here to do so.

• In girls basketball, No. 4 North Central hosts No. 17 Center Grove tonight in a MIC showdown. Should be a good one. The Trojans’ have some big wins over ranked teams and are coming along, while North Central recently beat No. 2 Ben Davis, giving the Giants their first loss of the season.

• Turning to wrestling, what a big win for No. 4 Cathedral over No. 3 Perry Meridian last night. The Irish came away with a 28-24 team victory over one of the state’s top teams – and did it on the road in front of a packed house. The Falcons did see Brian Vest and Chico Adams continue to dominate, and this could be a preview of the state team finals in a little over a month.

Two final thoughts: (1) Here’s a feel-good, amazing story about a guy who fell 47 stories off a New York skyscraper and lived; (2) I’m headed downtown to meet with the selection committee of the National Football Foundation. The Central Indiana Chapter is sifting through nominations for this very prestigious award and I’m looking forward to being a part of the process. The winner will be announced at a banquet at the Colts Pavilion on Saturday, Feb. 23.