2024-25 Week 3 - What did we learn?

The 2nd full week of the 2024-25 season is in the books.  Teams starting to get in the flow of things as we prepare for the holiday break.  Here's what caught my eye this week.  By the way, if you're looking for the holiday schedules, I have a full set of them here.

Chaska Follow Up
I said last week we'd learn a lot about Chaska this week.  A tough 24 hours for them over the weekend as they lost to Prior Lake and Farmington.  Prior Lake junior wing Zach Christofferson 9th man in but came up huge with 14 points and 3 triples as the Lakers rallied from 8 down in the first half.  Chaska 2 turnovers in the last 1:04 of that game when it was a 1 possession game were very costly.

Forwards On Display
While most of the top prospects were at the Tip Off Classic last week, I had the chance this week to take in a couple 2026 bigs that weren't there.  Faribault and Ryan Kreager made the trip for a battle of green at Hill-Murray.  Kreager dominated early as the Falcons opened on a 10-0 run and won 66-44.  4 of his 5 blocks were early and kept the Pioneers at bay.  He finished with 23 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks on my sheet.

Then Friday night was the first boys game on Galvin Court as White Bear Lake moves operations to the North campus.  Let's hope Donatelli's pizza is still on the concession stand menu.. The court is named after longtime boys coach Jim Galvin who led the Bears during their dominance in 1984 and 1985 where they won 2 state titles and 52 straight games.  Nice pregame ceremony for that.  As to the game itself, the Bears jumped out to a 14-0 lead against a rebuilding Forest Lake squad and won 68-55.  Forest Lake would go 1-3-1 and keep it from getting completely out of hand.  Huge night for White Bear Lake big man Colin Piper against the small Rangers lineup.  He goes nuts for 30 points and 22 rebounds on my officially unofficial stat sheet.

Owen Wilcek with most of his 24 points in the 2nd half for Big Lake in a 81-73 loss at Hutchinson.  He knocked down a couple of 3s in that game.  Fellow senior forward Max Siegrist also productive with 18 points for the Hornets.

Two Rivers forward Julian Greer with 5 triples and 34 points in a nice road section win for the Warriors at St. Paul Highland Park.

In 2027, a couple of names caught my attention.  Forward Tyler Erickson came off the Woodbury bench and knocked down 4 triples to help lead the Royals to a 80-73 win at Roseville.  Gideon Horne wasn't in the Hope lineup when I saw them the 1st time but he came off the bench this week.  That was in a 71-44 blowout section win over New Life Academy.  New Life in major rebuild mode this season.

Southside Showcase
Simley was down 17 to Maranatha early in the 2nd half of the 1st game of Saturday's Southside Showcase at Benilde-St. Margaret's.  They would cut that margin down to 8 with 4:10 left.  Then coach Willie Braziel broke out a 1-2-2 zone and the Spartans went on a 12-0 run to end the game and steal a 70-66 victory.  That's my adjustment of the week.

Its a very very young Simley roster with 3 sophomores (1 starting), plus a starting freshman PG and the starting PF is an 8th grader.  Add in 2 junior starters and they setup nicely long term.  They're off to a 3-1 start with games this week at Highland Park, the Metro East opener at home vs Hill-Murray on Friday and Saturday's game vs West Lutheran.

More youth on hand as Moorhead stayed in town for a Friday/Saturday metro back to back.  The Spuds held off Rosemount 76-67.  A late 10-1 run in a 3 point game put it out of reach.  Moorhead starts 3 sophs and bring a frosh off the bench.  David Mack leads that talented group.  He had 16 in this game and 23 in the Friday loss to Buffalo.  But its senior PG Brian Zarazua that holds it all together.  He had 20 points and a handful of assists to lead the Spuds.  Moorhead with single digit losses to Buffalo and Fargo Davies to start the year.  Spuds won't be an easy out in 8AAAA.  I'd love to see North Dakota realign and include Moorhead in a version of the Eastern Dakota Conference with Wahpeton and the Fargo schools.  While the travel logistics make sense, playing in a non-Minnesota conference would be a nightmare seeding wise.

Rosemount got another solid game from Peyton Gholson with triples.  He also played well in the win over Jefferson earlier in the week.  Big man Jordan Vanwinkle with a productive 2nd half as Rosemount stayed close.

The Big Stage
Game 1: Maple Grove 54 Eden Prairie 52
Eden Prairie played without point guard Hamze Yusuf.  Max Lorenson 25 to try and make up the difference.  Maple Grove with a 16-2 2nd half run to go up 47-40 with 8:10 left.  But the Crimson would go on a offensive drought of almost 6 minutes which allowed this one to come right down to the wire. Eden Prairie with a 10-0 run during that time.  Eden Prairie trailing by 2 late and fouled on a 3 for 3 free throws with 6.7 left.  But they miss all 3 free throws.  Keegan Harney leads Maple Grove with 16 points, soph Baboucarr Ann adds 3 triples and 12 points.

Game 2: Edina 66 Lakeville South 63
Lakeville South with 4 3s early in the 2nd half as they opened a 15 point lead.  Edina holds Lakeville South to 1 single point in the last 5 minutes as they finish the game on a 9-1 run.  Edina sophomore forward Vincent Cronin injured early in this one and did not return.  Billy DeMars 21 points to lead all scorers.  Mason Mohs adds 13 critical points off the Hornets bench including the go ahead bucket in the last minute.  Keaton Ressler 20 points and 4 triples to again lead Lakeville South but nobody else in double figures.

Game 3: Minnetonka 67 Waconia 64
Waconia jumped out to a 13-2 lead.  Minnetonka would respond with a 25-9 spurt to take the lead.  They would keep that lead at 49-38 with about 10 min left.  Waconia came roaring back with 18-7 run to take the lead 56-55. Will Kirsch and Jacob Hudson went back and forth all day.  Kirsch with a bucket for the lead but Hudson immediately counters with a beautiful cut for a bucket to put Tonka back on top.  Waconia misses and Tonka closes it out with free throws.  Will Kirsch with 34 to lead Waconia.  Jacob Hudson with a breakout performance for Minnetonka with 30 points and 4 triples.  Caleb Francois another good game adding 18. Anthony Ortiz with 13 and the 2 final bonus freebies.  Tonka played without Isa El-Amin again and no Duke Richardson.

Game 4: #8AAAA St. Louis Park 90 Park Center 69
Close first half but St. Louis Park runs away in the 2nd half.  The Curtis twins go for 37 of their 59 points in the 2nd half.  Both dominant as Micah went for 32 and Marley went for 27.  Xavier Frelix leads Park Center with 20 poits.  No Abu Keita for Park Center and Emmanuel Jentzen played limited minutes.

Game 5: #2AAAA Hopkins 113 #8AAA Richfield 92
Hopkins turned Richfield over early and often in this one as they started on a 13-0 and 30-12 run.  CJ Armstrong with a monster day would pull the Spartans within 36-26 on a 3 point play at the 6:32 mark.  He had 22 of the 26 Richfield points at that mark.  Hopkins counters with a 23-5 run over the next 4 minutes and its over.  Anthony Smith with 34 points, JJ Semanko with 18 to lead Hopkins.  Once again they don't need a big game from Jayden Moore.  Now 3 impressive wins over some of the best of class AAA for Hopkins.  CJ Armstrong doesn't disappoint for Richfield. He goes for 26 in the first half and adds another 27 in the 2nd half to finish with 53 points.

Game 6: #4AAA Totino-Grace 77 #3AA Breck 58
A battle of last year's AA and AA champs.  TG bench outscores Breck 27-6 thanks to 12 points each from Tian Chatman (1st game back) and star frosh Daniel Zoa.  Chace Watley's 16 points leads 5 Eagles in double figures.  Breck gets 19 from Miles Newton.  8 of those were early and a couple were late.  He was largely quiet inbetween.  JP Musoke adds 15.  TG uses a 15-2 run late in the 1st half to take a 9 point halftime lead.  Then another 12-2 run midway thru the 2nd half to blow the game open.

Game 7: #1AAAA Cretin-Derham Hall 75 #1AAA Orono 65
Now from last year champs to top ranked this year.  7-0 CDH start but Brady Wooley counters with 3 hoops to quickly bring Orono back.  Nolan Groves with 18 of his 29 in the 1st half to keep it a 2 point CDH lead at the half.  JoJo Mitchell sat a large chunk of the 1st half with 2 fouls and CDH is a very different team with him sitting.  He scored all 13 of his points in the 2nd half.  A couple of those buckets helped push the lead to 14.  Orono did get 2 highlights in this game.  A monster post dunk from Wooley and a huge chasedown block by Groves.  Tommy Ahneman a solid double double and good passing from the post too.  He finishes with 17 points.  Soph star Ty Schlagel terrific with 20 points.  Monteff Dixon also very productive with 14 points.  Just too much CDH firepower.  Brady Wooley with 17 points for Orono.

Interesting note that the first 3 games between the non-ranked teams had a combined winning margin (8 pts) that was less than the winning margin in any of the final 4 games that involved the ranked teams and high-profile matchups.

Czar Viewing Stats Year To Date
Number of Varsity Games Watched: 50
Number of Teams Seen: 86
Pepsi Consumption at games: 56 ounces
Coke Consumption at games: 0 ounces
Hot Dogs Consumed: 1

2024-25 Week 2 - What did we learn?

The 1st complete week of the season included the 1st big event of the season.  My thoughts on the Tipoff Classic main court can be found here.   Here's what I noticed in the rest of the week.

Team that caught my eye
Chaska had a couple of good wins this week to start their season 2-0.  That included a win over Shakopee that was only a 5 point final but Chaska was up 20 late in that game.  Tray Lenzen with a couple of 20+ point performances to lead the Hawks.  This is great prep for a tough schedule over the rest of the month.  They get Prior Lake at home followed by tough trips to Farmington and Champlin Park.  Then Minnetonka at home before playing at East Ridge to start the holidays.  You have Lenzen on the front line, Jimmy Coddington on the wing and Tyler Forrest at the point. All are veteran starters returning in a down year in section 2AAAA.  Its a very wide open section right now and I have to believe Chaska is in the mix.

Adjustment of the week
I love the whiteboard and the X and O side of things.  Even better when its junk defense.  Props to coach John Towle at Liberty Classical. He broke out a box and 1 on Trinity's Nathan Adbebe which contributed to Trinity sitting their top guard for the last 10 minutes of a big section game.  Liberty gets a 3 with 30 seconds to get the 47-44 road win.  It was an important section win as these 2 teams are on the next in line list behind Heritage in section 4A.

Southside Showcase
I didn't see every game there online but I did take in a couple of the big school games.  Osseo having to replace everybody in their rotation except 1 reserve guard.  They get 1 FG in the last 6:55 in a 70-59 loss to Park of Cottage Grove at the Southside Showcase on Saturday.  Forward Nebil Mohammed was a new name inside for the Orioles and had a productive 12 point game.  The Park guards just too much quickness though.  Miskir Esayas and Anthony Giadyu have another gear off the bounce and vertical bounce to go with it.  The tough combo combined for 37 points in the win.

Eagan took down Spring Lake Park 65-59 in a battle of teams that have promising futures.  Spring Lake Park usually reloads with seniors but only 2 in this year's starting lineup.  Junior wing Nolan Myren with a very nice 17 point game knocking down 3 triples.  14 of those points in the 2nd half to keep the Panthers close.  Add in forward Aaron Jeppson who can play inside and out plus guards Colin Welch, Cal Spencer and Sawyer Thomsen.  That's a group I like for this season and next season.  Eagan junior Alex Schroepfer continues to play well as he led all scorers with 23 points.  Soph forward Donjae Knox makes for a nice combo with center Kevin Kemp in the middle.  Junior guard Mikey McKenzie 3 of his 5 triples in the second half for the Wildcats.  He's the kind of shooter who can fill it up in a hurry.

Tipoff Classic Court 2
I took in the 1st 2 games online from the Edina Community Center.  Good win for Champlin Park over Farmington in the opener.  I expected Farmington's size and toughness to give the Rebels problems and it really didn't.  Cole Wilcek was fantastic for Farmington with 26 points but the Tigers guard play didn't really contribute.  Tyler Wagner with his 3rd straight game of 30 points in the win.  The Rebels get it done without soph guard Kwa Silikpoh in the lineup.  He turned an ankle earlier in the week.  Preston Thielke held down due to first half foul trouble.

In a matchup of 2 of the winningest coaches in Minnesota history, Tartan took out Lakeville North 65-62.  Tartan doesn't really have a true big man but they run their 5 out stuff really well.  Lots of Princeton like screen/away reject action in the game.  But they'll also pass and cut or have their big man chase into ball screens.  With a couple of starting freshmen, they have a bright future.  But it was senior CJ Banks who stole the day with 21 points and 3 triples to lead the Titans to the win.  Lakeville North on the other hand once again has a huge lineup.  Junior Dane Danielson with 18 points, Drew Kolander with 14 inside as they were a problem all day.  Add in an experienced backcourt and the Panthers may not have a huge name, but as shown by their win over East Ridge during the week, they're still going to be a tough team to play against.

Books and Balls
Eagle Ridge hosted the 2nd annual Books and Balls tournament.  Nova Classical took home the title with wins over section rival Mounds Park Academy and the hosts.  Caleb Taylor huge opener with 30 points to lead the Knights to a win on Friday night.  That over came a big night from Wyatt Srsen of MPA. Srsen just passed the 1000 career points mark.  Nova also beat section foe Humboldt on Wednesday to win their last 3 games of the week.  3-1 start for coach John Carrier's crew.  Math & Science lost do everything star Josh Balami to graduation, but coach Jamey Strand may have a better team this season.  Center Adam Olaoye has developed into a nice player in the middle and frosh Elisee Voumadi.  Voumadi will be a nice player for them as they move from the EMAC to the MCAA next season.  They had a big win over New Life Academy earlier in the week.

Miscellaneous
I mentioned Mikey McKenzie above but want to get in another couple of hot shooting performances that I saw this week.  Cole Kruschke of Owatonna with 7 triples in a loss at Waconia.  Keaton Ressler absolutely flammable for Lakeville South with 37 points and 7 treys in a win over Chanhassen.  He also had 21 in the Tipoff Classic loss to Chaska and 16 in a win over Eden Prairie this week.  

Community of Peace was too much for North Lakes.  Soph big man Joey Myatt with 31 for the Tigers in that win.  He looks he'll be one of the top interior guys in the EMAC over the next couple of seasons.  Speaking of small school soph forwards, Hiawatha's King James with a nice game against Minneapolis North to begin the week.  12 points, 16 rebounds with most of that damage in the 1st half.  Sat a huge chunk of the 2nd half with fouls and then promptly fouled out when he returned.  North's small lineup stole one from the Wolves late.  I think Hiawatha wins if James doesn't foul out.  Kam Solomon tried to carry them in the 2nd half.  Good measuring stick game that even though it was a tough loss should give Hiawatha confidence that they can compete with anybody in section 5AA.

Czar Viewing Stats Year To Date

Number of Varsity Games Watched: 29
Number of Teams Seen: 55
Pepsi Consumption at games: 56 ounces

1 12 pack of Coke wasted on Ryan James thanks to Minnesota winning Paul Bunyan's Axe.

Thoughts from the 2024 Tipoff Classic

The Breakdown Tipoff Classic has established itself as the top event of the season.  As usual I took all the games on the main court. This year that was a single court at Hopkins with the 2nd court being at the Edina Community Center.  While that did lessen the atmosphere a bit, still a very fun day of games.  Here's a glimpse at the day's events.

Game 1: Minnetonka 73 East Ridge 64
Minnetonka got ahead and largely stayed ahead in this one.  East Ridge had the lead down to 6 with 4:29 left, but 3 straight triples and a couple of stops, game over as the lead went to 15.  I've been very down on Minnetonka to this point but this one changed my thinking.  The Bryce Tesdahl grit is showing up again in the squad.  Caleb Francois 23 points and 3 triples to lead the way.  Malachi Boadi adds 18.  This was also without Isa El-Amin who didn't play due to injury.  They hold Cedric Tomes to 7-18 shooting for his 23 points.  Bennett Skinner with 12 points and 3 triples for East Ridge. On the other side, not sure who had East Ridge at 0-2 at this point.  A couple of tough losses to start the year and not pretty at that.  Their 3 guards were the top 3 scorers but only 19 points from everybody else.

Game 2: #7AAAA Sauk Rapids-Rice 97 #2AA Breck 93 OT
This turned out to be the most exciting game of the day.  Sauk Rapids-Rice couldn't get anything going early.  Meanwhile Miles Newton was lighting it up with 24 in the 1st half for Breck.  He headlined a 9-0 run as Breck opened a 6 point lead.  But the Storm were only down 4 at the break.  In the 2nd half, the Sauk Rapids big 3 carried the offense.  That helped them rebound from an 8 point margin with 8 minutes left.  Hudson Omoke had the 1st 9 Storm points of the haulf.  Keller Hanson back to back buckets to start a 7-0 run.  Another 3 to keep the margin at 2.  Spencer Swenson 2 critical hoops.  Big 3 point play from Newton countered by another Swenson hoop in the last minute.  87 all at the end when Breck decided to play it out in a tie game but they couldn't get a great look.  Sauk Rapids with back to back triples from Hanson and Swenson to start the OT and they never looked back.   Spencer Swenson 28, Keller Hanson 27, Hudson Omoke 26 to lead Sauk Rapids.  Miles Newton with only 2 FG after halftime.  He still ends up with 36 and 4 triples.  DeAngelo Dungey with 14 of his 16 in the second half to make it up.

Game 3: #4AAA Orono 77 Fargo Davies 62
The matchup of star guards Mason Klabo (Illinois St commit for Fargo Davies, #1 player in North Dakota) and Nolan Groves didn't disappoint.  Klabo 3 triples a 3 point play as this one was tied with 3 minutes to go in the 1st half.  Then Orono went on a 12-0 run to end the half.  Davies didn't go away though.  Klabo a pair of 3s and a skip pass for a 3rd cut the Orono lead to 53-52 with 11:58 left.  But Orono's defense would lead them on an 18-4 run over the next 7:45 to put the game out of reach.  Nolan Groves with 19 of his 30 points in the 2nd half to lead the Spartans.  I had him with 9 rebounds and a handful of assist.  10-22 shooting from the field.  Mitchell Kauch 4 triples and 15 points.  Soph Grant Hansen 14 points and 4 triples to provide a great spark off the bench for Orono.  Mason Klabo finishes his day with 27 points and 9 rebounds on 9-20 shooting.

Game 4: #6AAA Benilde-St. Margaret's 85 #4AAAA Shakopee 59
This blowout result is surprising but not as surprising as you may think.  Shakopee highly regarded to start the year but they were down 20 late to Chaska in a loss earlier this week.  BSM threatened to blow the doors off early as they were up 26-12 midway thru the half.  Shakopee's transition defense non-existent.  But the Sabers were able to cut it to 8 at the half.  But only 2 FGs for Shakopee in the 1st 9+ of the 2nd half doomed them.  BSM ran away from there.  Jaleel Donley terrific with 27 points to lead all scorers.  Jalen Wilson 21 points and showing that he could hit a couple jumpers.  That would be a great development in his game.  Eli Schroeder led the late 1st half rally with 10 of his 13 points and a pair of triples. Isaac Cordes 14 and Luke Wherley added 11.  Shakopee 0-2 just like East Ridge is a significant surprise.

Game 5: #3AAA Hopkins 87 #2AAA Mankato East 75
Too much guard play from Hopkins in this one.  Mankato East tried to take the sting out of the attack with a 2-3 zone to no avail.  Hopkins never really put this one away until late but there was very limited danger after Mankato East scored 8 of the first 9 points of the game.  They hounded Brogan Madson into an off day of 15 points and 6-21 FG shooting.  Lucas Gustafson 19 points to lead the Cougars with 5 triples most of that in the 2nd half though when the game was double digits.  He shows a ton of range on the jumper though.  Braden Petzel with a nice 2nd half inside too.  Anthony Smith leads Hopkins with 29 points.  Jayden Moore adds 15 though he didn't have the big rebounding and assists numbers that he's shown in other games.

Game 6: #1AAAA Cretin-Derham Hall 77 #3AAA Alexandria 71
The much ballyhooed matchup between Mr Basketball contenders Tommy Ahneman and Chase Thompson had good moments in the 1st half.  Thompson 14 points, 5 boards and a couple of blocks and triples.  Ahneman with 10 points of his own.  CDH struggled against the vaunted Alexandria 1-2-2 early but a 13-2 run got them back in it.  Soph star Ty Schlagel picking up the offense with 12 1st half points thanks to JoJo Mitchell having foul trouble.  Alexandria with a 56-49 lead midway through the 2nd half when disaster struck.  Chase Thompson visibly showing an injured shoulder tried to play thru it for a couple possessions but with 8:53 left, he had to take himself out of the game.

But Alexandria persevered without their star.  Mason Witt with a triple to keep the lead. Schlagel with 2 post feeds and got it right back for layups.  Then a steal for 2 more but a questionable T with 1:24 left.  Mason Witt makes the 2 FTs and Alexandria would keep it.  But out of a timeout they can't get it in and its a 5 second call.  Ahneman makes them pay with 1 foot fadeaway ala Dirk Nowitzki from off the right block with 1 minute left.  Alexandria misses a 3 on the next possession and the rest is free throws.  Ty Schlagel 20 points, Tommy Ahneman 22 points and 13 boards on my officially unofficial sheet to lead the Raiders.  Chase Thompson 19 points, 9 boards, 4 assists and 4 blocks before leaving.  Mason Witt 21 points with 5 3s.

Game 7: #1AAA Totino-Grace 71 #2AAAA Wayzata 68
TG would get a strong start from Chace Watley and Malachi Hill to take a 33-20 lead.  But Isaac Olmstead would lead Wayzata back as they finished the half on a 10-0.  33-30 TG at the half.  Olmstead with half of those.  Wayzata starts the 2nd half strong with a couple of buckets for the lead and then Dothan Ijadimbola picks up his 4th with 13:01 left and has to sit.  He'll sit for almost 4 minutes as TG treads water to stay within 46-44 when he returns at the 9:21 mark.  Hill 2 FTs and a hoop.  Ijadimbola matches that.  Its a 15-4 TG run after he returns.  59-50.  Vince Jacob a free throw and a triple to keep the lead at 9.  Olmstead isn't done though.  He nails 2 triples and finds Wyatt McBeth to pull the Trojans within 2.  66-64 TG with 1:50 to play.  Totino-Grace with 2 late turnovers but Wayzata with 2 misses can't cash in.  TG finishes it at the line.  Malachi Hill 20 points leading the way from the point for TG.  Chace Watley adds 17.  3 triples and 10 critical points from Vince Jacob in the 2nd half.  Isaac Olmstead with 23 to lead Wayzata.  Nolen Anderson adds 16.  I had Wayzata 7-29 from 3.  More disturbing though was that this was the 3rd Wayzata straight game I've seen (last year's state title game and the 1st 2 this year) where their opponent was the tougher team. Defensively they gave up 39 FTA to Orono and 29 in this one.  While they only got 7 FTA of their own in this game.

Game 8: #5AAA DeLaSalle 72 Park Center 63
This one was a very herky jerky type of game.  DeLaSalle grinding out a win by making less mistakes.  Dorian Pruitt showing nice improvement in his game with a game high 18 points.  Jaeden Udean 3 triples and 17 points for the Islanders.  Emmanuel Jentzen and Temi Omotoyinbo with 15 each to lead Park Center.  For the Pirates, they started off trying to run dribble weave to get down hill.  But they're still looking to figure out their identity on that end.  With a lineup that is mostly new, that's not unexpected in week 1.

Czar's All Main Court Tipoff Classic Team

• Tommy Ahneman - Cretin-Derham Hall
• Jaleel Donley - Benilde-St. Margaret's
• Nolan Groves - Orono
• Malachi Hill - Totino-Grace
• Mason Klabo - Fargo Davies
• Miles Newton - Breck
• Ty Schlagel - Cretin-Derham Hall
• Anthony Smith - Hopkins
• Spencer Swenson - Sauk Rapids- Rice
• Chase Thompson - Alexandria

2024-25 Week 1: What did we learn?

Opening week of the 2024-25 season has completed.  3 days of games in the books. A few teams have played twice while most will open this week with the first big game night of the season being on Tuesday.  Here's what stuck out to me during the half-dozen games I watched this week.

2027 stars
I got to see Jack Thelen (St. Michael-Albertville) twice and Mustafa Mohamed (South St. Paul) play this week.  Thelen's size is definitely a factor keeping opponents away from the rim.  He had a handful of blocks in their 2 wins and much more influence beyond that.  Inside he finishes with nice touch as he scored 27 points this week.  Very effective going over the right shoulder.  Mohamed didn't see a ton of time in the Packers blowout win over Columbia Heights.  Handled the ball a lot more than expected including some possessions bringing the ball up.  I also got to see Wisconsin's top soph Dooney Johnson.  He had foul trouble all night but still put up 24 points in Milwaukee Juneau's loss to Madison Memorial.  Smooth game though but overall seemed quiet.  Rough week for Juneau as they also lost 3 games in a top holiday tourney in Illinois to be 0-4 1 week into the season.

Outstate guard play
Jack Battaglia (Cloquet) and Jaxon Boschee (Bemidji) both put on a show this week.  Boschee 24 points and 5 3s in a flammable 1st half against STMA.  Battaglia 27 points (21 1st half) in Cloquet's win.  Both showed they can handle it and really shoot it.  Cloquet with a 11-0 run in the last 4 minutes to win their section 7AAA matchup 95-88 against Chisago Lakes.  Chisago Lakes 7 misses and a turnover during that stretch.  Battaglia kept them tied in the 1st half to get them there.

Adjustment of the week
I mentioned Jaxon Boschee's first half but the second half was notable too as he was held to only 7 points.  Great adjustment by the STMA staff to face guard Boschee and use a bigger defender on him.  Jordan Holm and Gavin Edlund doing great work there.  Boschee had 9 FG in the 1st half.  In the 2nd half, he had only 2.  1 on a broken play and the other a give away layup at the end.  Everything was else was strongly challenged.

Eye Opener of the week
Monticello took down Delano 72-53.  Keep in mind Delano was ranked in both the MN Basketball News and MBCA coaches polls this week.  Yes, I know about polls, don't get me started on them.  Max Iversen and Jake Schultz with 48 total points is no surprise.  Only 2 field goals and 5 points from the rest of the Delano roster though is an eye opener.  Will be interesting to see how new coach Bridge Tusler and the new system address that.  Its not a deep roster as they only played 7.  Guards Brayden Dollard and Carson Deibele combine for 40 points and 7 triples for Monticello to go with a strong 18 point outing from Jackson Soroko on the front line.  The Magic definitely looking like a contender in the Mississippi 8.

2024 CDH Jamboree Thoughts

The 2024-25 Season is upon us.  As usual its the traditional Cretin-Derham Hall Jamboree to get it all started.  CDH with brand new fancy electronic scoreboards.  A very nice addition to Joe Mauer Field House.  The concession stand upgraded to electronic payment as well.  Though they didn't have hot dogs available tonight.  OUCH!  But Domino's pizza makes up for it (almost).  6 rounds of 2 10-minute halves on the docket.  Here are some quick hitters from what I saw.  Always difficult to figure out how much to draw from these.  Remember Minneapolis South looked great in this last year against De La Salle (much better than I thought in my previews) and turned that into a banner season.

Game 1: Osseo vs Columbia Heights
Both teams having to massively overhaul their rosters for this season.  Osseo dominated this one with more continuity.  Columbia Heights looks like a team that could struggle in the halfcourt.

Game 2: Mound-Westonka vs Minneapolis South
South also revamping the roster.  I liked how they were picking up full court.  They'll need to do that long term.  Mound-Westonka played without Max Kraay.  Cole Drill showed how the Whitehawks will get their offense thru him and Kraay as the season progresses.  One of the few teams that has their guys back down in the post vs mismatches.

Game 3: Minneapolis Washburn vs Waconia
After seeing a couple of rounds of what was scrimmage material, this had a much more regular season feel.  Fun to see defensive emphasis on both sides.  Waconia also knocked down shots and moved the ball well on their way to winning both halves.  Washburn adjusting to life without Kyle Jorgensen.

Game 4: De La Salle vs Minnehaha
De La Salle jumped on Minnehaha quick in the 1st half with hot shooting, but Minnehaha ended up winning the 2nd half.  Minnehaha still figuring out the system for new coach Jadee Jones is to be expected.  Frosh Taaj Whitlock looks like the real deal for De La Salle.  Poised beyond his age at the point guard spot.

Game 5: Totino-Grace vs Minnetonka
Totino-Grace played without Dothan Ijadimbola and Tian Chatman but had no issues here.  Guard Chace Watley impressed.  He scored the last 10 points for TG in the 2nd half.  2 triples and 2 pretty plays in the post bullying a smaller defender.  PG Malachi Hill showed a burst I wasn't familiar with.  Big drop for Minnetonka from last year's state champs.

Game 6: St Paul Johnson vs Cretin-Derham Hall
A showcase of the top 2 big men in St. Paul and 2 of the best in the metro.  Kenny Turner will be one of the most physical matchups that Tommy Ahneman sees all year.  Was surprised but a great move by CDH to go with a very effective diamond press.  Pressing so much easier with an eraser in the back.  Ahneman doing a fantastic job of rim running often being the 1st guy down the floor.  That is going to open up so much for him and the CDH perimeter talent.  Johnsonn did try to come after them a bit, but the pressure defense never really became a factor.

2024-25 Season In A Nutshell

The Czar's 2024-2025 Season Preview series concludes with the traditional Season In A Nutshell preview.  Its a higher level season overview for the casual fans who don't eat, sleep and breathe hoops like I do.  Its who and what you need to see and when and where to see it.  If you missed any of the conferences or the 154 teams covered in this preview series, the full list can be found here.

New Coaches

• Belle Plaine - Brady Wohler
• Big Lake - Lance Pettis
• Blaine - Bernie Ward
• Bloomington Kennedy - Troy Bell
• Columbia Heights - Dedrick Jenkins
• Delano - Bridge Tusler
• Holy Angels - Jimmy Mireri
• Hutchinson - Randy Starke
• Jordan - Yuriy Malashenko
• Minneapolis Edison - Frank Webster
• Minneapolis North - Ahmil Jihad
• Minnehaha Academy - Jadee Jones
• Mounds Park Academy - Brendan Connolly
• North Branch - Trevor Walton
• Park of Cottage Grove - Isaiah Walfred
  
• Prior Lake - Brian Jungwirth
• Rosemount - Quincy Caldwell
  
• St. Francis - Robbie Whitney
• St. Paul Academy - Ramon Bender (1 yr interim)
• St. Paul City -TBA
• St. Paul Highland Park - Zach Towle
• St. Paul Washington - Chris McCray
• Simley - Willie Braziel
• Two Rivers - Isaiah Robinson

10 Notable Local Events

• Tipoff Classic (Breakdown) - Dec 7th (Hopkins)
• Southside Showcase I - Dec 7th (Minnehaha)
• Big Stage (Breakdown)- Dec 14th (Totino-Grace) 
  
• Southside Showcase II - Dec 14th (Benilde-St. Margaret's)
• Hutton Winter Classic - Dec 20-21 (Hamline)
• CSP Holiday Classic - Dec 27-28 (Concordia-St. Paul)
• Southside Super Showcase - Jan 11th (Minnehaha)
  
• Dream Classic - Jan 20th (Minneapolis Roosevelt) 
• The Collision (Breakdown)- Jan 25th (Cretin-Derham Hall)
  
• Community Clash (Breakdown)- Feb 1st (STMA, Becker and Delano)

10 Non-Conference Games to Watch (single game events only)

• Hopkins at Orono - Nov 27th
• Wayzata at Orono - Dec 5th
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Breck - Dec 10th
• Totino-Grace at Farmington - Dec 10th
• Breck at Wayzata - Dec 19th
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at De La Salle - Dec 20th
• Wayzata at Shakopee - Dec 31st
• Totino-Grace at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 3rd
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 15th
• East Ridge at Wayzata - Feb 19th

10 Conference Games to Watch

• Mound-Westonka at SW Christian - Jan 30th
  
• Park Center at Totino-Grace - Feb 3rd
• De La Salle at Richfield - Feb 4th 
• Maranatha at St. Croix Lutheran - Feb 4th
  
• East Ridge at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 7th
• Farmington at Shakopee - Feb 7th
  
• Wayzata at Hopkins - Feb 13th
• Blake at Breck - Feb 21st
• MCAA Crossover championship - Feb 22nd (Site TBA)
  
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Orono - Feb 25th

10 Impact Transfers

• Tommy Ahneman - North Dakota to Cretin-Derham Hall
• Nolen Anderson - Eden Prairie to Wayzata
• Nigel Caldwell - Columbia Heights to Park Center
• Abu Keita - Benilde-St. Margaret's to Park Center
• Tyrel Pride - Tartan to St. Paul Johnson
• Tanner Rose - Benilde-St. Margaret's to St. Louis Park
• Ty Schlagel - Eden Prairie to Cretin-Derham Hall
• TJ Stuttley - Onalaska (WI)/Link Academy (MO) to Benilde-St. Margaret's
• Tyler Wagner - Totino-Grace to Champlin Park
• Daniel Zoa - Legacy Christian to Totino-Grace

10 Upperclassmen to Watch

• Tommy Ahneman - Cretin-Derham Hall (Notre Dame commit)
• CJ Armstrong - Richfield (Augustana commit)
  
• Nolan Groves - Orono (Yale commit)
  
• Dothan Ijadimbola - Totino-Grace 
• Jayden Moore - Hopkins
• JoJo Mitchell - Cretin-Derham Hall
  
• Cedric Tomes - East Ridge
  
• Tyler Wagner - Champlin Park
  
• Christian Wiggins - Wayzata
  
• Jalen Wilson - Benilde-St. Margaret's (Northern Iowa commit)
  

10 Underclassmen to Watch

• Baboucarr Ann - Maple Grove
• Vincent Cronin - Edina
• Tyler Forrest - Chaska
  
• Malachi Hill - Totino-Grace
• Mustafa Mohamed - South St. Paul
  
• Ty Schlagel - Cretin-Derham Hall 
• Kwa Silikpoh - Champlin Park
• Jack Thelen - St. Michael-Albertville
  
• Jaeden Udean - De La Salle
  
• Daniel Zoa - Totino-Grace
  

10 Local Teams to Watch

• Benilde-St. Margaret's
  
• Breck
• Cretin-Derham Hall
  
• East Ridge
• Hopkins
• Orono
  
• Park Center
  
• Shakopee
  
• Totino-Grace
  
• Wayzata

Active Streaks of 20 Games Or More In Conference Play
Tons of streaks for wins and losses were broken last season That included long winning streaks from Minneapolis North and Minnehaha.  Hill-Murray and Minneapolis Roosevelt snapped long losing streaks.

• Nova Classical Academy - 57 losses
• 0-57 all-time in 5 years of Skyline play
• 28 home losses. Last home win was 2/19/19 vs International School in TCAC play.
  
• 31 road losses.  Last road win was 1/25/19 at International School in TCAC play.
  
• Mounds Park Academy - 47 losses 
  
• 25 home losses -  Last home win was 2/9/18 vs St. Paul Academy
• 77 road losses including their years in the Tri-Metro.  Last road win was 2/1/08 at St. Paul Academy.
• 0-41 road record all-time in 10 years of IMAC play.
• St. Paul Washington - 24 losses
• Last win was 3/4/22 at St. Paul Humboldt

Section Winners

I gave thoughts on 16 conferences plus independents.  I'll match that here with predictions for the winners of 15 metro area sections.  That includes the 6 local A, AA and AAA sections and all 8 AAAA sections.

4A: Heritage with everyone back has to be the pick to repeat.  Sleeper pick here is Trinity with lots of their roster coming back.  The youth at Liberty Classical could also make a run.

4AA: St. Croix Lutheran was a 22 win team last year and returns most of the roster so they get my pick here.  Minnehaha has long ruled this section and still has enough to advance.  

5AA: Breck is once again my pick but its no cakewalk.  Southwest Christian and Blake are very dangerous with a ton coming back.  Minneapolis North is always a difficult opponent in this section.  Hiawatha with Kam Solomon could be a sleeper threat.

3AAA: This section had Minneapolis South as a great city story last year.  I'm going to pick a repeat this season but from St. Paul.  Give me Harding to learn from last year's first round upset and advance.
4AAA: De La Salle moves on again from this section.  Johnson is the main threat here.

5AAA: Totino-Grace continues their run without a ton of resistance.

6AAA: I'm going to pick Benilde-St. Margaret's to finally get it done in this super tough section.  Orono is the other major threat here.  Richfield, Mound-Westonka and Delano are no picnic here either.
1AAAA: Farmington is my pick to make a repeat trip.  Behind them its very wide open. Rochester John Marshall is the best option outside of the South Suburban in this group.

2AAAA: Shakopee loses their top guy but is still a heavy favorite with a deep lineup.  This normal section of death is way down this year.  Minnetonka, Chanhassen and Eden Prairie with heavy losses.  But a Isa El-Amin, Riley Johnson or Max Lorenson could decide to go for 45 and pull an upset.  Chaska could be a surprise here with their experience.

3AAAA: No star players or teams in the weakest AAAA section.  Like last year where 4-22 Eastview made a run to the final, chaos is likely again.  I'll take Apple Valley here to build on last season.

4AAAA: Cretin-Derham Hall is the favorite here with a loaded and deep lineup.  But East Ridge and Tartan are really good too and have the ability to knock them off.  The front line size for CDH is the major difference here.

5AAAA:  Park Center is my pick here.   Maple Grove and Champlin Park will look to make noise here too.

6AAAA: Wayzata moves on again after losing last year's state AAAA title game.  Hopkins is the usual opponent here to get out of section and with everybody back will be a very tough out.

7AAAA: This section I see coming down to a battle of rivals between Andover and Anoka.  Both have deep, talented and experienced guard play that will translate well to tourney time.  I took Anoka in my NW Suburban picks so I'll take them to win a 3rd meeting and advance to state.

8AAAA: Sauk Rapids-Rice is the favorite here with most of an 18 win roster coming back.  St. Michael-Albertville and Buffalo are the other contenders here. The tough Lake Conference schedule will be a major benefit for both of those teams prepping for tourney time.

Season Thoughts

Let's begin with the state tourney outlook. . I love the class AAA bracket this season.  Orono or Benilde-St. Margaret's out of section 6, Mankato East out of section 2, Totino-Grace out of section 5 and Alexandria out of section 8 makes for a potentially loaded final 4 at state.  So a TG 4 peat is going to be well-earned.  At the top of class AAAA, the discussion begins with Wayzata and Cretin-Derham Hall.  Hopkins and Shakopee both return a ton as well.  Breck is a favorite again in class AA.  Heritage looks to expand on last year's trip in the class A bracket.

The Mr Basketball race has 3 names that stick out to me to start the season. Chase Thompson at Alexandria, Tommy Ahneman at Cretin-Derham Hall (Notre Dame commit) and Nolan Groves at Orono.  Ahneman is on such a loaded CDH roster that it could hurt his cause.  CJ Armstrong is going to put up huge numbers for Richfield that will be hard to overlook.  Brogan Madson at Mankato East is going to show up on lists as well.  He also gets the benefit of folks looking for a non-metro vote.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the NFHS point of emphasis on flopping.  The infamous Tyus Jones head snap is specifically called out in this.  While in theory this is a good thing, in practice I'm wondering how much we'll actually see.  Also on the list is the new emphasis for making sure to give the ball to an official immediately.  None of this random throw up shots after the whistle stuff.  Also a good thing.  Penalty is a Delay of Game.  We also have the new uniform restriction where the numbers can't be the same color as the uniform.  This was long overdue and I'm all for it.  Those jerseys made games really hard to follow.

The time is now.  Go #ShockTheCzar.

2024-25 Lake Conference Preview

This is the 18th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  In this preview, I finish my look at my look at each of the metro area conferences with a look at the Lake Conference.  There's 1 more preview left.  That will include section predictions and what to watch.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Buffalo Bison (2023-24 season 13-15, 2-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
The Bison have to replace 4 starters, 2 of whom were double figure scorers.  But this group will have continuity as they played together as a group on the AAU circuit.  Mitchell Friesz (8.8 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  Ty Torgrimson is the top returning guard.  Jordy Sorenson joins him in the backcourt as a shooter. Trevor Kotilinek will be the size guy.

Eden Prairie Eagles (2023-24 season 9-18, 3-9 Conference, 5th)
Eden Prairie had a rough season last year.  Now 3 major pieces have transferred out taking almost 45 PPG with them.  That leaves senior guard Max Lorenson (17.2 PPG) poised for a monster season.  Hamze Yusuf (10.8 PPG) returns as a point guard.  Cam Riggins-Brown, Cooper Fahning and Colin Kirk are options for the front court.

Edina Hornets (2023-24 season 16-12, 8-4 Conference, 3rd)
Edina loses 4 starters including the early departure of Daniel Molhoek to college.  Wing Billy DeMars (9.1 PPG) is the lone returning starter.  He looks to replace Josiah Coleman's 15.3 PPG as a top option.  Soph Vince Cronin (5.2 PPG) should slot into Molhoek's inside/out forward slot.  Kyle Hustrulid is another big wing on the roster who should see an expanded role.  Junior Gus Carpenter should also see front court minutes.

Hopkins Royals (2023-24 season 23-6, 9-3 Conference, 2nd)
PG Jayden Moore (19.4 PPG), SG Anthony Smith (23 PPG) and wing JJ Semanko (16.6 PPG) return as one of the top perimeter trios in the state.  Davie Hart (12 PPG) also averaged double figures.  Tyson Moore provides returning depth.  Junior Julius Ellis gets minutes inside when the Royals want to play a big guy.

Minnetonka Skippers (2023-24 season 25-6, 7-5 Conference, 4th, AAAA State Champion)
After a defensive revival led the Skippers to a state title, now its a rebuilding year.  4 double figure scorers including 3 scholarship players need to be replaced.  Guard Isa El-Amin (9.1 PPG) should get all the shots he wants in a much expanded role.  Malachi Boadi returns on the wing.  Beyond that, no experience and not much to work with.  Will Steingas is a guard option.  Jaden Loeschen and Khalid Abdulkadir look for front court minutes.

St. Michael-Albertville Knights (2023-24 season 14-15, 2-10 Conference, tie 6th)
The Knights return most of last year's roster.  Wing Hudson Hochstedler (16.2 PPG), PG Jeremiah Johnson (16.1 PPG) and big shooter Jordan Holm (13.1 PPG) all return.  Senior Carter Arnlund and Layton Bottolfson provide depth behind them.  Soph Jack Thelen should be ready for bigger minutes manning the middle.  Maverick Maros will team up with him inside.

Wayzata Trojans (2023-24 season 27-4, 11-1 Conference, 1st, AAAA State Runner Up)
Wayzata looks to be one of the elite teams in the state again.  That's despite the loss of Mr Basketball winner Jackson McAndrew (23.6 PPG).  Wings Christian Wiggins (13 PPG) and Eden Prairie transfer Nolen Anderson combine with Isaac Olmstead (10.6 PPG) to form an elite outside trio.  Wyatt McBeth.(10.2 PPG) joins them on the front line.  Plus they have plenty of guys from last year's JV just waiting to fill in spots.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Wayzata
   
2. Hopkins
   
3. St. Michael-Albertville 
   
4. Eden Prairie
5. Buffalo  
   
6. Edina 
   
7. Minnetonka    
   

Conference Overview
Once again its Wayzata and Hopkins battling for supremacy.  STMA may have been 2-10 in the league but 7 of those games were decided by 3 points or less and they were 2-5 in those games.  That experience gives them a boost this season with most of the team returning.  Heavy losses for the teams behind them.  Eden Prairie is the most talented team left.  Buffalo has great chemistry.  Minnetonka has too much to replace in a tough league.

Conference MVP: Jayden Moore - Hopkins

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Vince Cronin - Edina
• Tre Moore - Hopkins
• Willie Wright - Minnetonka
  
• Jack Thelen - St. Michael-Albertville

Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Wayzata - Jan 21st
• Wayzata at Hopkins - Feb 13th

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Orono - Nov 27th
• Hopkins at Totino-Grace - Dec 4th
• Wayzata at Orono - Dec 5th
• Mankato East at Hopkins - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic)
  
• Wayzata vs Totino-Grace - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins)
• SW Christian at Hopkins - Dec 10th
• Hopkins vs Richfield - Dec 14th (Big Stage at Totino-Grace)
  
• Park Center at Hopkins - Dec 17th
• Breck at Wayzata - Dec 19th
• Wayzata at Shakopee - Dec 31st
• East Ridge at Wayzata - Feb 19th
• De La Salle at Wayzata - Feb 25th

2024-25 South Suburban Conference Preview

This is the 17th preview in my 2024-25 Season Preview Series.  In this preview, we head south for a look at the South Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Apple Valley Eagles (2023-24 season 14-14, 7-11 Conference, tie 6th)
The Eagles were a pleasant surprise last season.  Now they look to build on that with the return a trio of junior starters.  Leading scorer Camare Young (15.8 PPG) leads that group on the wing.  He's joined by guard Trey Parker and forward Ryan Christiansen.  Depth options will include Barry Simmons, Tylan Ward, Julian Carter and Zach Nhial.

Burnsville Blaze (2023-24 season 3-24, 1-17 Conference, 10th)
Burnsville returns their lone double figure scorer in guard Soren Leafblad (12.1 PPG).  Fellow seniors Charlie Pettis and Collin Heckmann flank him on the perimeter.  Leul Samuel will also be part of that perimeter team.  Yannick Amoye provides experienced size inside.  Tahir Peterson is another front line candidate

Eagan Wildcats (2023-24 season 19-13, 7-11 Conference, tie 6th)
Eagan made a nice run out of weak section 3AAAA last season.  Then they knocked off Park Center and Cretin-Derham Hall at state.  Now 4 starters and 5 of the top 6 scorers need to be replaced.  I expect the lineup to be largely juniors.  Junior wing Alex Schroepfer (12.4 PPG) is the top option and is coming off a strong AAU season.  Fellow juniors Leo Erickson and Kevin Kemp should step into starting front line roles.  Senior Kai Strunk looks to be the primary point guard. 

Eastview Lightning (2023-24 season 6-23, 3-15 Conference, 9th)
Eastview had a really rough year and then made it all the way to the section final.  All 3 double figure scorers have graduated including Colorado St recruit Jon Mekkonen (20.8 PPG).  Ben Schmitz and junior Erik Olson return at guard spots.  Tartan transfer JC Green will be a major boost to the backcourt.  Jack Frigstad (6.1 PPG) is a face up forward who is the top returning scorer.  Derek Thissen will be another offensive option.

Farmington Tigers (2023-24 season 24-8, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Tigers have to replace their top 2 scorers in forward Brandon Hrncir (19.5 PPG) and guard Tyler Beckwith (12.6 PPG).  But they'll still be big, tough and experienced.  Guard Ryan Beckwith (10 PPG) is the leading returning scorer.  Senior Jonah Ask is great fit as a defensive minded leader at the point guard spot.  Seniors Nik Domier (9.7 PPG) and Cole Wilcek (6.8 PPG) anchor that group with juniors Marshall Gordan and  Justin Stoneburg and a couple talented sophs right behind them.

Lakeville North Panthers (2023-24 season 23-6, 16-2 Conference, 1st)
Coach John Oxton has to replace 6 of his top 7 scorers including Wisconsin recruit Jack Robison (21.9 PPG).  James Fager (7.6 PPG) and Riley Grossman will be the guards.  Drew Kolander and junior Dane Danielson will be the main forwards.  Luke Sorensen will be part of the front line group as well.  Johanes Piscikas, Ben Weaver and Kade Bishop are depth options.

Lakeville South Cougars (2023-24 season 18-10, 12-6 Conference, 4th)
Lakeville South has to replace 4 starters and 5 rotation seniors.  That includes Ryan Johnson (14 PPG) and DaMarcus Burks (13.3 PPG) who are now in the NSIC.  Senior PG Keaton Ressler (12.8 PPG) leads this roster.  Senior Hudson Greene (8.1 PPG) now takes over as the top guy on the front line.  Junior Casey Fliehe will be the top wing.  Juniors Tyler Steffen and Ryker Sanders look to move up to significant varsity minutes.

Prior Lake Lakers (2023-24 season 12-16, 9-9 Conference, 5th)
Former Wayzata and Edina assistant Brian Jungwirth takes over the program.  He has the starting lineup coming back.  Forward Norbu Jenpa (16.4 PPG) can play inside or outside.  Luke Loehlein (11.6 PPG) and Brayden Thompson can both knock down shots on the wing.  Cade Wozney (11.2 PPG) runs the show.  Soph Kobby Sambrew is a strong wing who can put his head down to generate offense.  Alex Hulskotter also returns to the lineup.  Fellow sophs Trey Theis and Kolby Thompson provide solid depth.

Rosemount Irish (2023-24 season 10-18, 6-12 Conference, 8th)
Quincy Caldwell is the new head coach.  The Irish have to replace 4 of their top 5 scorers from a year ago.  Forward Jordon Vanwinkle (8.2 PPG) is the top returning scorer and front line player.  Junior Ja'khi Hollie and soph Peyton Gholson return as ball handlers.  Carson Schuetz returns to the rotation as well.  Jack Burke should see an expanded front court role.

Shakopee Sabers (2023-24 season 23-6, 15-3 Conference, 2nd)
Shakopee has to replace their star guard Jalen Langsy (22.8 PPG) plus Isaac Snell (11.7 PPG).  The Sabers still have guards for days though.  Isaac Cordes returns to be the primary point guard.  Eli Schroeder and Devin Pass are knock down shooters on the wings.  Luke Wherley is a face up 4 man committed to D2 Jamestown.  JP Kuchenbecker is a quality reserve coming back too.  Blake Betton and Luke Schroeder are a couple of talented sophs looking to break into the guard rotation too.  Add in the improvement of big man Tommy Auge as a option in the middle and the Sabers are still going to be dangerous.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Shakopee
   
2. Farmington 
   
3. Prior Lake 
   
4. Lakeville North
   
5. Lakeville South
   
6. Apple Valley
   
7. Eagan   
   
8. Eastview
   
9. Burnsville
   
10. Rosemount

Conference Overview:
Shakopee for me is the clear favorite.  Just too much guard play and depth from the Sabers.  But their matchups with a completely opposite Farmington squad will be very interesting.  Farmington's physical grind it out style and size I could see bothering Shakopee.  Prior Lake with everybody back is poised to be a spoiler.  Lakeville North doesn't have that elite guy of past years but their guards are experienced and a John Oxton team will always be sound.  The next group of 3 is a toss up.  I slightly like Lakeville South here just because of 2 solid guys coming back.  Eagan has a ton to replace but they'll always defend. Apple Valley could jump up and bite people again with a solid junior group.  Eastview, Burnsville and Rosemount figure to struggle

Conference MVP: Isaac Cordes- Shakopee

Underclassmen to watch:

• Briggs Sheridan, Tommy Schabert - Farmington
  
• Nolan Greene - Lakeville South
• Kobby Sambrew, Trey Theis, Kolby Thompson - Prior Lake
• Peyton Gholson - Rosemount
  
• Blake Betton, Luke Schroeder - Shakopee
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Shakopee at Prior Lake - Dec 20th
• Shakopee at Farmington - Jan 7th
• Prior Lake at Shakopee - Jan 30th
  
• Farmington at Shakopee - Feb 7th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Shakopee vs Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
• Farmington vs Champlin Park - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Totino-Grace at Farmington - Dec 10th
  
• Farmington vs Rochester John Marshall - Dec 28th (Capital City Classic at UNWSP)
• Wayzata at Shakopee - Dec 31st
• Farmington vs Park Center - Jan 25th (The Collision at Cretin-Derham Hall)

2024-25 Suburban East Conference Preview

This is the 16th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  In this preview, I continue my look at the local big schools with a look at the Suburban East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they were generated, click here.

Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2023-24 season 25-6, 17-1 Conference, 1st)
Coach Jerry Kline has one of the most talented rosters of his tenure.  Notre Dame commit Tommy Ahneman transfers in after being the Gatorade Player of the Year in North Dakota last year.  He had a great summer in the middle for Howard Pulley.  Monteff Dixon (13 PPG) provides additional size in the front court.  They are loaded below the senior level too.  Junior guard JoJo Mitchell (19 PPG) is the catalyst.  They also add the state's top soph Ty Schlagel from Eden Prairie.  Juniors Isaiah Thom and PG Jason Johnson saw big minutes last year.  Plus they'll have no fewer than 7 more underclassmen from last year who will compete for minutes.  That doesn't even include a couple of incoming freshmen.

East Ridge Raptors (2023-24 season 20-8, 16-2 Conference, 2nd)
The Raptors will be very strong in the backcourt.  Junior guard Cedric Tomes (19.1 PPG) can play on or off the ball.  James Martin is another ball handler who can hit open shots and Bennett Skinner can shoot it.  Add in frosh Ben Koch for depth and you have a very nice group.  Kyle Frendt will see a much expanded role up front with Charlie Theis and Charlie Bern graduating.  Graham Sanneh is another front line option.

Forest Lake Rangers (2023-24 season 16-13, 9-9 Conference, tie 5th)
Forest Lake has to replace all 5 starters and 6 of their top 7 scorers.  That includes star forward Owen Waldoch (22.2 PPG).  He's now at Concordia-St. Paul.  Junior guard Soph DJ Westman (6.1 PPG) is the top returnee.  Tommy Kari will join him in the backcourt.  Beyond that there's no experience.

Irondale Knights (2023-24 season 4-23, 2-16 Conference, 10th)
Irondale had a big drop off last year but they do return 2 productive pieces.  Senior guard Jake Dedominces (22.3 PPG) and junior forward Cameron Cramble (9.1 PPG) lead the roster.  Juniors Fisher Killins and Mason Broussard will compliment them.  Riley Albertson and Randall Dwuye will also see rotation time.

Mounds View Mustangs (2023-24 season 19-9, 11-7 Conference, tie 3rd)
The Mustangs have to replace the forward duo of Eli Roe and Joey Fretheim who combined for almost 30 PPG.  Senior wing Alex Kriauciunas (11.6) is the leading returning scorer and should step into the goto role nicely.  Guards Cody Loegering (9.1 PPG) and Jacob Sampson also return to the starting lineup.  Jack Dahl, Royce Kytola and Ben Arnold will be returning rotation guys.  Nate Edelman (5.2 PPG) will be the main size guy.

Park Wolfpack (2023-24 season 13-14, 11-7 Conference, tie 3rd)
Former Simley head coach Isaiah Walfred is the new leader of the pack.  He has to replace 3 of the 4 double figure scorers from last year's roster.  Perimeter Seniors Anthony Giadyu (13.1 PPG) and Miskir Esayas (7.2 PPG) are the top options.  Dom Batts and junior Brandon Bihm also return from last year's rotation.  Adrian Davis is another option.  Expect a short rotation of no more than 1 or 2 guys.

Roseville Raiders (2023-24 season 15-12, 9-9 Conference, tie 5th)
The Raiders have a strong guard rotation coming back with the return of Noah George (13.6 PPG), Kellen Little (10 PPG) and soph Micah Wiskus.  Tyler Thompson also returns with that group.  They'll miss the slashing of Ataa Mensah (10.3 PPG) to create points.  He's one of 7 graduated seniors from the rotation.  Dylan Hageman will be the main size option. 

Stillwater Ponies (2023-24 season 13-14, 7-11 Conference, 7th)
Leading scorer Henry Zollar (15.5 PPG) returns at a guard spot.  Joe Fredkove (6.8 PPG) is the other returning starter at a forward spot.  Soph AJ Taban (5.8 PPG) should jump into the starting lineup and be a double figure scorer.  Seniors Ryan Silbernagel and West Dell will likely see guard minutes.

White Bear Lake Bears (2023-24 season 3-24, 3-15 Conference, 9th)
Guards Rithy Sain (11.3 PPG) and Korey Raheem (5.6 PPG) lead the returning guard corps.  They have a group of other returning senior guards to play with them.  Junior forward Colin Piper (11.1 PPG) leads the front line.  No other notable size besides him on the roster though.

Woodbury Royals (2023-24 season 9-18, 5-13 Conference, 8th)
Senior guard Marquivion Beasley (13.6 PPG) has led the team in scoring in the last 2 seasons.  Forward Finn Norman (6.7 PPG) will be the other primary offensive option.  But the loss of 8 seniors will make the rest of the Royals roster very inexperienced.  Senior Gabe Rosinski looks to be one of those replacement guys on the front line.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Cretin-Derham Hall
   
2. East Ridge     
   
3. Mounds View
   
4. Stillwater 
   
5. Park 
   
6. Roseville
7. White Bear Lake  
   
8. Woodbury
   
9. Irondale   
10. Forest Lake   
    

Conference Overview:
Cretin-Derham Hall is the class of this group and they'll look to make a run for a state title.  East Ridge is the clear #2 here.  A notch behind them is Mounds View who I expect will reload as always and rack up a bunch of wins vs those behind them.  The rest of the league is very mediocre and had important losses but outside of Forest Lake everybody has a piece or 2.  Stillwater and Park will battle for that next spot.  Very interested to see how the trio of sophs for Stillwater develops.  White Bear Lake looks to make a jump with 3 pieces coming back.  Forest Lake having to replace just about everything puts them at the bottom.

Conference MVP: JoJo Mitchell - Cretin-Derham Hall

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Ty Schlagel, Judah Mitchell, Anthony Armstrong, Julian Smith, Dre Frierson-Hollie - Cretin-Derham Hall
  
• Ben Koch - East Ridge 
• Micah Wiskus - Roseville
  
• AJ Taban, Carter Zollar, Zack Krusemark - Stillwater
  
• Ethan Studer - Woodbury
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Cretin-Derham Hall at East Ridge - Dec 18th
• East Ridge at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 7th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Cretin-Derham Hall  vs Alexandria - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
• Cretin-Derham Hall vs Orono - Dec 14th (Big Stage at Totino-Grace)
  
• Totino-Grace at East Ridge - Dec 20th
• Totino-Grace at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 3rd
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 15th
  
• East Ridge at Wayzata - Feb 19th

2024-25 NW Suburban Conference Preview

This is the 15th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Its the final week of the preview series and that means its time for the metro big schools.  In this preview, a look at the Northwest Suburban Conference. For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Andover Huskies (2023-24 season 11-17, 4-9 Conference, 10th)
Andover will be one of the more entertaining teams to watch.  They return quite a bit from last season.  The returning senior guard trio of Alex Kopetzki (12.1 PPG), Cam Begalle (10.5 PPG) and Luke Fenton (13.5 PPG) is rock solid and they all shoot it.  Levi Strenge is another nice wing option.  Junior forward Eddie Miles (7.7 PPG) returns to be the primary guy inside. The versatility of Luke Dehnicke and his breakout year will be missed.

Anoka Tornadoes (2023-24 season 12-16, 5-8 Conference, 9th)
The story is much the same for Andover's arch-rival.  Senior guards Peyton Podany (18.6 PPG) and Trey Borchers (13.4 PPG) return after leading the team in scoring last season.  Junior Dre Ellis had a breakout year with 11.8 PPG and could make another jump this season.  Seniors Caleb Sherer, Dominic Bakhit and Afy Ibekwe provide depth there.  Junior Brody Lakanen will see plenty of time too.  Size is a question mark.

Blaine Bengals (2023-24 season 7-20, 3-10 Conference, tie 11th)
Bernie Ward comes over from the Andover staff to lead the program.  He needs to replace all 3 double figure scorers from last season including guard Alvin Payne and his 21.6 PPG.  Juniors Cade Neilson and Noah Tieden look to be primary front court options along with David Diamond.  Guards Nanno Gemta (7.5 PPG) and junior Lane Pettis (6.8 PPG) are the top 2 returning scorers.

Centennial Cougars (2023-24 season 8-19, 1-11 Conference, 14th)
Its another year of fun stretch 4 type players for the Cougars.  Jackson Driessen leads the returning cast with 15.2 PPG.  Jacob Hosfield and Zach Espinosa also fit that bill with experience.  They should be able to make up for the scoring punch lost by the graduation of leading scorer Ty Burgoon (15.5 PPG).  Jack Dagostino returns at the point.  Junior Tristan Hanson returns as a solid front court option

Champlin Park Rebels (2023-24 season 14-13, 7-6 Conference, 7th)
The Rebels look to take another step this season.  Wing Tyler Wagner is a big time shooter transferring in from Totino-Grace.  He'll more than make up for the loss of Amory Peterson.  Add him to Preston Thielke (18.3 PPG) and lightning quick soph PG Kwa Silikpoh (10.3 PPG) to give a trio that can match most anybody.  Soph Gavin Walter and senior Kyler Pust will also see plenty of perimeter minutes.  Senior Mo Jalloh is a quick undersized 4 man.  Simon Woodruff gives them length inside if needed.

Coon Rapids Cardinals (2023-24 season 16-15, 3-10 Conference, tie 11th)
Coon Rapids has to replace a big group of seniors after breaking thru section 7AAAA for a trip to state.  Coach Mike Ogorek can still build around leading scorer Jaxon Young (18.5 PPG) and Taigan Plowman-Tate on the outside.  Jeremy Otte will see point guard minutes again.  Armando Henry is another guard candidate.  Jadon Ekoue could become the primary big guy. 

Elk River Elks (2023-24 season 4-23, 2-11 Conference, 13th)
Elk River returns leading scorer Max Spanier (12.4 PPG) at a guard spot plus power forward Dominic Webster (8.2 PPG) as a nice duo to build around.  Junior guard Levi Harris coming back from injury is a big boost to the offense.  Juniors Chase Sheldon at guard and Jackson Boll at forward should see rotation minutes.

Maple Grove Crimson (2023-24 season 20-9, 11-2 Conference, 2nd)
Maple Grove loses leading scorer Henry Stang (19.7 PPG) from the point guard spot.  They'll be strong on the wing with leading returning scorer Keegan Harney (13.8 PPG) and star soph Baboucarr Ann (6.1 PPG).  Junior Kaden Harney joins them as another shooter.  Senior Bo Draheim provides wing depth.  Nathan Hromadka returns as the primary post player along with Michael Wagner.  My question mark is point guard play.

Osseo Orioles (2023-24 season 19-9, 9-4 Conference, 4th)
Its a rare year where you think this traditionally strong program is down but this is one of those seasons.  The Orioles have to replace the entire rotation except for reserve guard Willis Crudup (2.1 PPG).  So there's lots of question marks when you have to replace a guard trio of over 40 PPG and a front line of over 20 PPG.  I'll take it as a given that they find that role playing big man.  Guard play on the other hand I'll look to soph Owen Counce to have a chance at a major role this season.

Park Center Pirates (2023-24 season 27-4, 10-2 Conference, 3rd)
Coach James Ware has to replace 4 double figure scorers and a ton of talent.  Wing Temi Omotoyinbo (9.9 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  Forward Abu Keita transfers in from Benilde-St. Margaret's and should fit nicely into the Pirates style of play with his athleticism.  Emmanuel Jentzen had to play JV last year as a transfer but will be a major piece this season as a wing/forward.  Junior guard Xavier Frelix will be another significant piece.

Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2023-24 season 14-13, 8-5 Conference, Tie 5th)
The Falcons have to replace 4 of their top 5 scorers.  That includes versatile wing Seth Newbern who was the team's top scorer at 18.1 PPG.  Senior PG Desmond Ware (14.1 PPG) leads the offense.  Charles Scott returns on the wing.  Joel Saah is also a ball handler who provides the option to move Ware off the ball.  Legend Wright and Eli Kuempel provide depth on the wings as well.  How do they replace the size of Fitz Freeman inside?

Rogers Royals (2023-24 season 21-10, 6-7 Conference, 8th)
Rogers had the early season injury to guard Adam Broberg and still won 21 games in an impressive season.  2 double figure scorers plus Broberg need to be replaced.  Guard Trey Mix (11.4 PPG) and wing Colton Kazmierkoski (7.6 PPG) lead this year's team.  Dylan Bachmeier will be another member of the guard mix.  Almost zero experience on the roster after that.

Spring Lake Park Panthers (2023-24 season 15-12, 8-5 Conference, Tie 5th)
Its another year where Spring Lake Park has to replace their entire lineup.  That includes 26.6 PPG from forward Brock Remme and 2 other double figure wings.  Jason Eagle returns as a banger inside.  Colin Welch will be the primary guard.  Soph Cal Spencer looks to be a part of that guard rotation as well.  Experience will be an issue with only 2 reserves coming back from the main rotation.

Totino-Grace Eagles (2023-24 season 27-5, 13-0 Conference, 1st, AAA State Champion)
The 3 time defending AAA state champs are poised to make it 4.  That's despite the graduation of star Isaiah Johnson-Arigu and transfer of Tyler Wagner, last year's top 2 scorers.  Juniors Dothan Ijadimbola and Tian Chatman return to the lineup.  Senior guard Chace Watley (Wofford commit) had a fantastic summer and will be the leader of this group. Soph Malachi Hill is poised to get even more point guard minutes.  Vince Jacob and Josiah Young are seniors who should see minutes too.  Star frosh Daniel Zoa transfers in from Legacy Christian.  Not a ton of size here but lots of athletes to make up for it.  Reminds me of old Hopkins teams.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Totino-Grace
   
2. Park Center
   
3. Maple Grove
4. Champlin Park
5. Anoka
6. Andover
   
7. Robbinsdale Armstrong
   
8. Osseo
9. Elk River
10. Rogers  
11. Centennial
    
12. Spring Lake Park
13. Coon Rapids
    
14. Blaine 
    

Conference Overview:
Totino-Grace is the heavy favorite here as they look for 4 state titles in a row.  Park Center loses a ton but is still very talented so I'll leave them at 2nd.  Maple Grove should stay right in the mix too.  Then the next group may not guard anybody but Champlin Park, Anoka and Andover all have really good guard play.  Expect all 3 to score a ton.  Armstrong loses a little less than Osseo who loses everybody.  Only their tradition keeps the Orioles this high.  Elk River has the best pieces after this.  I like Centennial's wings but they've struggled in recent years.  The bottom 3 are all in rebuilding years.  The league stays with its single round-robin schedule.  Maple Grove will be playing its last year in the league before joining the Lake Conference next season.

Conference MVP: Dothan Ijadimbola - Totino-Grace

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Kwa Silikpoh, Gavin Walter - Champlin Park 
• Baboucarr Ann, Bennett Cizadlo - Maple Grove
• Owen Counce - Osseo
  
• Cal Spencer - Spring Lake Park
  
• Malachi Hill, Jaylan Hynes, Daniel Zoa - Totino-Grace
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Park Center at Totino-Grace - Feb 3rd
  
• Totino-Grace at Park Center - Feb 25th
• Maple Grove at Totino-Grace - Jan 21st
• Park Center at Maple Grove - Jan 28th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Totino-Grace - Dec 4th
• Totino-Grace vs Wayzata - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins) 
• Park Center vs De La Salle - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins) 
• Champlin Park vs Farmington - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Breck at Totino-Grace - Dec 14th (Breakdown - The Big Stage)
• Park Center at Hopkins - Dec 17th
  
• Totino-Grace at East Ridge - Dec 20th
• Totino-Grace at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 3rd
• Park Center vs Farmington - Jan 25th (The Collison at Cretin-Derham Hall)
  

2024-25 Outstate AAAA Preview

This is the 14th preview in the 2024-2025 season preview series.  We've covered all of the metro class A, AA and AAA leagues.  Now its time to dive headfirst into the AAAA schools.  I'll start with the 10 non-metro class AAAA schools.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Bemidji Lumberjacks (2023-24 season 11-15)
The Lumberjacks lose forward Braden Luksik and a couple of reserves.  The guard play is their strength with junior Jaxon Boschee (23.2 PPG) leading the team.  Fellow junior Austin Riewer is another top scoring option.  Senior guards Charles Zellmann and Kobe Brown return to the starting lineup as well.  Junior Jeron Huseby also was a rotation guy.

Brainerd Warriors (2023-24 season 17-10, 12-4 Conference, 2nd Central Lakes)
Brainerd has to replace 3 starters including wing Luke Diem (19.8 PPG) and PG Eli Hoelz (17.3 PPG).  Wing Korde Roseman (13.4 PPG) leads this year's lineup.  Garrett Gilbert (8.5 PPG) returns inside along with junior Grant Johnson.  Senior guards Eli Tautges and Trey Hendrickson will look to expand their roles this year.

Duluth East Greyhounds (2023-24 season 10-17)
Coach Rhett McDonald returns most of last year's rotation.  Guards Brennan Meyer and Ty Nyberg lead the roster as effective shooters.  Braden Bement, LaDainian Bowman and Xavier Johnson also return to the perimeter rotation.  Caleb Winkels returns as the main big man with soph Simon Winkels behind him.

Moorhead Spuds (2023-24 season 14-14)
Wings Dylan Zimmerman and DJ Smith were major threats last year on the wing but need to be replaced.  Seniors Brian Zarazua, Reign Battle and Owen Thielges are the returning starters.  Zarazua is a very effective passer as a big PG but is also the top returning scorer.  Thielges is the front line leader.  Deangelo Jones also returns to the rotation.

Owatonna Huskies (2023-24 season 17-10, 13-8 Conference, 5th Big 9)
The Huskies need to replace 4 starters. Biggest loss is guard Rielly Kleeberger.  He's now playing for new UW-Eau Claire coach Zach Malvik.  PG Nolan Ginskey leads the returning squad.  Cole Kruschke and Jackson Mottl join him in the backcourt.  There are questions up front.  Juniors William Halverson and Baron Dushek look to be answers to that.

Rochester Century Panthers (2023-24 season 20-8, 16-4 Conference, 2nd Big 9)
Star wing Shaun Wysocki and 3 other starters need to be replaced.  PG Ricky Wengert leads the roster.  He's undersized but very quick and shifty and fun to watch.  Markes Simpson, Michael Ruff and junior Dane Skime join him in the perimeter rotation.  There's no true big man.

Rochester John Marshall Rockets (2023-24 season 15-11, 14-7 Conference, 4th Big 9)
PG Chan Malith and wing Zech Ladu are the top losses for the roster.  Plenty of experienced seniors return.  Wings Brayson Sawyer and Eli Ladu return to starting lineup as top scoring options.  Soph Jackson Daly joins them in the rotation.  Up front there's senior Jordan Bell and center Deng Lueth.  The Rockets look to be a sleeper in the Big 9 and Section 1AAAA.

Rochester Mayo Spartans (2023-24 season 13-14, 10-9 Conference, 6th Big 9)
Guard Sawyer Markham's graduation leaves a big hole in the perimeter rotation.  Junior wing Isaac Peterson is the top returnee.  Fellow junior Will Gyarmaty joins him on the wing.  Forward Ethan Post returns inside with Logan Shimek.

Sartell Sabers (2023-24 season 6-22, 4-12 Conference, 8th Central Lakes
Seniors Brayden Simones and Andrew Nelson return to guard and forward spots in the starting lineup.  Their juniors lead with shooter Maddox Lewis, a stretch 4 type, and wing Bennett Bommersbach.  Guard Jalen Schumann is another experienced senior from last year's rotation.

Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm (2023-24 season 18-9, 11-5 Conference, tie 3rd Central Lakes)
The Storm return a ton as they look to challenge for the Central Lakes and section 8AAAA titles.  Combo guard Keller Hanson is a sniper who can play on or off the ball.  He'll play at Northern Michigan next year.  Wing Hudson Omoke can score and defend.  Spencer Swenson can play inside or out from his forward spot.  Soph forward Izayah Cook was impressive last year as a freshman.

Overview
Sauk Rapids looks to be the best of this bunch.  Rochester JM should match their win total of last year as well.  Duluth East and Sartell have plenty coming back as they look to take a step up from last season.  Moorhead and Bemidji should again be a fun competitive matchup.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Simon Winkels, Roman Durand - Duluth East
  
• Jett Feeney - Moorhead
• Jackson Daly - Rochester John Marshall
• Trevor Schlangen - Sartell
• Izayah Cook - Sauk Rapids-Rice
  

Games to Watch

• Sauk Rapids-Rice vs Breck - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins)
• Alexandria at Sauk Rapids-Rice - Dec 10th
• Champlin Park at Sauk Rapids-Rice - Dec 27th (Granite City Classic)
• Sauk Rapids-Rice at Alexandria - Jan 31st
  

2024-25 Metro West Conference Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Its now time for the big schools with the mostly class AAAA leagues are now on the list of previews.  In this preview, a look at the Metro West Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Benilde St. Margaret's Red Knights (2023-24 season 19-10, 13-1 Conference, 1st)
The Red Knights remain loaded for another attempt to make state.  Forward Jalen Wilson (18.7 PPG) is committed to Northern Iowa.  PG Jaleel Donley (14.7 PPG) also returns and can fill it up in a hurry.  They also add TJ Stuttley who was a top 5 kid in Wisconsin before playing at a prep school last season.  They'll need to replace guards Ron Lee and Tanner Rose (now at St. Louis Park) who provided defense and shooting.  Abu Keita departs from the front line for Park Center.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2023-24 season 5-22, 2-12 Conference, 7th)
The guards will be their strength with their top 3 scorers returning.  Senior Marcus Horton (18.5 PPG), soph Isaac Feller (12.8 PPG) and lefty Tommy Rowland are that core group.  Luke Thoenen will be one of their bigs.

Chanhassen Storm (2023-24 season 12-15, 8-6 Conference, tie 3rd)
Injuries to star PG Max Woods torpedoed what looked to be a promising season.  But that experience means that star wings Riley Johnson (23.8 PPG) and John Schmidt (11.5 PPG) have a large adjustment period already addressed by his absence.  Nobody else returning averaged more than 2.3 PPG.  Soph Bennet Barger looks to fill of those roles.  Tyler Jahraus should assume ball-handling duties.  Mikan Pelowski and Nathan Ramler are interior guys.  Expect them to play at a fast pace.

Chaska Hawks (2023-24 season 10-17, 6-8 Conference, 6th)
Chaska returns 3 of their top 4 scorers.  Jimmy Coddiington (13.3 PPG) returnss on the wing. Tray Lenzen (13.2 PPG) returns to lead the front line but he can step away from the basket too.  Soph Tyler Forrest (10.3 PPG) returns for his 3rd year starting at the point.  Soph Kalin Jochum and Noah Slinde were rotation guys too.  Hayden Virasami returns as another point guard.

New Prague Trojans (2023-24 season 5-22, 1-13 Conference, 8th)
The Trojans lose their entire rotation except for top wing Evan Weichert (18.6 PPG).  No other returnee averaged more than 3 PPG.  Toby Bleess, Justin Holden and Sam Gilles will be guards from last year's JV squad that step into important roles.  They'll have to find size for the lineup.

Orono Spartans (2023-24 season 19-12, 8-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Orono looks for a return to state with their 3 double figure scorers coming back.  Yale commit Nolan Groves (27 PPG, 8.3 PPG) had the thrilling hail mary buzzer beater to send the Spartans to state on BSM's home court in the section final.  Brady Wooley (14.2 PPG, 11.1 RPG) is a D1 talent leading the front line.  Guard Mitchell Kauch is the 3rd scorer coming back.  Nate Chavez, Dane Danwischer and Lucas Knudson are all seniors who saw rotation time.

St. Louis Park Orioles (2023-24 season 12-15, 7-7 Conference, 5th)
The Orioles were a pleasant surprise last year and may fly under the radar this season.  Wing/Forwards Micah and Marley Curtis are committed to North Dakota.  They combined for over 40 PPG and played really well this summer.  PG Rashaad Kimber returns along with Javaris Ellis, Noah Margolis and Josh Rickford.  Plus shooter Tanner Rose comes over from St. Louis Park

Waconia Wildcats (2023-24 season 22-6, 11-3 Conference, 2nd)
Coach Dan Rubishcko loses 4 starters but returns his top option in Will Kirsch.  The junior point guard will carry an even heavier load after leading the team with 20.1 PPG.  Jadan Ford and forward Soren Marker also return to the rotation. . Luke Hill and Bryce Buseman look to fill in front court spots..  beau Specken is a point guard who could help give Kirsch some minutes off the ball.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Benilde-St. Margaret's   
   
2. Orono
   
3. St. Louis Park  
   
4. Chaska 
   
5. Chanhassen    
6. Waconia
7. Bloomington Jefferson
   
8. New Prague
   

Conference Overview
Benilde-St. Margaret's and Orono are the class not just of the league but 2 of the best teams in a loaded AAA field this year.  BSM gets the vote because they've won it the last 2 years.  New Prague and Jefferson still figure to struggle at the bottom.  The middle will be a real toss up and I'm not fan of picking any of them 6th as any could just easily be 3rd.  St. Louis Park gets my vote with a deep backcourt and the Curtis twins up front.  Chaska's talented duo of Forrest and Lenzen can't be ignored.  Chanhassen's strong wing play will make them dangerous.  Waconia will have to find help for Will Kirsch.
 
Conference MVP: TJ Stuttley - Benilde-St. Margaret's

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Milton Nuahn - Benilde-St. Margaret
  
• Isaac Feller - Bloomington Jefferson
  
• Bennet Barger, Issac Johnson - Chanhassen 
• Tyler Forrest, Kalin Jochum - Chaska
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Orono at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Jan 30th
• Benilde St. Margaret's at Orono - Feb 25th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Orono - Nov 27th
  
• Richfield at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 5th
• Orono vs Fargo Davies - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
• Benilde-St. Margaret's vs Shakopee - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Wayzata at Orono - Dec 5th
  
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Breck - Dec 10th
• Orono vs Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 14th (Big Stage at Totino-Grace)
  
• Orono at Richfield - Dec 20th
• Orono vs Mankato East - Feb 1st (Breakdown Community Clash at Delano)

2024-25 Metro East Conference Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  This preview is for the Metro East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and an explanation of how the previews are generated, click here.

Hastings Raiders (2023-24 season 14-13, 9-7 Conference, 5th)
Hastings has to replace their top scorers including star wing Owen Bernatz (19.4 PPG).  The guard play will be their strength with seniors Kyan Esterby (10.5 PPG), Weston Schult (7.1 PPG) and junior Matthew Foss (10.3 PPG) returning to the starting lineup. Senior Lukas Foss returns along with soph Marlowe Strain up front.

Hill-Murray Pioneers (2023-24 season 11-16, 4-11 Conference, 8th)
The Pioneers made nice strides in the first year for coach Cam Jones.  Seniors Xavier Daniels (15.4 PPG) and Thomas Myers (13.2 PPG) are top options.  John Pietruszewski and Ben Myers also return to the lineup.  Soph Charlie Westerhaus and frosh Koa Fuller also look to contribute.

Mahtomedi Zephyrs (2023-24 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 2nd)
Mahtomedi had a brand new lineup last year and started 0-7.  Then they won 16 of their last 21 on their way to a surprising 2nd place league finish. Now the 3 top scorers have graduated.  Soph Willie Roelofs (9.2 PPG) should have a breakout season as the top option.  Senior Hank Roelofs also returns on the front line.  Ethan Felling, Mark Graff and Jacob Wilson return on the perimeter.

North Polars (2023-24 season 9-17, 6-10 Conference, tie 6th)
North St. Paul has to be replaced 2 double figure scorers including Brevin Conway (18 PPG) and Ryder Salinas (13.2 PPG).  A couple of talented juniors lead this year's squad.  That's Duke King (11.1 PPG) inside and Elijah Adzimahe (7.1 PPG) at the point.  Senior Jay'von Swift will contribute inside and out.  Seniors Alex Rodiguez and Wesley Tyus are depth options.

St. Thomas Academy Cadets (2023-24 season 18-11, 10-6 Conference, 3rd)
The Cadets lose their top 2 double figure scorers including shooting guard Luke Dobbs (19.4 PPG).  But they still return a couple other starters who averaged double figures.  Junior Lars Osteraas (11.2 PPG) and forward Andrew Nolde (10.9 PPG) will lead the way.  Junior guards Dominic Baez and Liam Kirchner return to the rotation.  Senior Chase Young will be another rotation guy.

Simley Spartans (2023-24 season 4-23, 0-16 Conference, 9th)
Willie Braziel moves over from Columbia Heights to replace Isaiah Walfred.  He will have some quality youth to build with.  Leading scorer Tre Lovelace (15.1 PPG) on the wing is only a sophomore.  Freshman point guard Andre Glass started in their section opener last season.  Juniors Conner Streiff and Lyric Groth averaged just short of 10 PPG last season.  Groth will be the main interior option with Streiff being the other wing scoring threat..  Sophs Justin Runge and Nathan Elachi are also guys to watch.

South St. Paul Packers (2023-24 season 13-15, 9-6 Conference, 4th)
All 3 double-figure scorers from last year's roster need to be replaced.  Junior guard Sincere Casarez-McCampbell (7.5 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  Seniors Caleb Marik and Jimmy Thomas provide experience on the perimeter.  Soph Marco London and and junior Donte Branch will see time there along with frosh Keli Mark.  Soph Mustafa Mohamed (4 PPG) was a backup last year inside but is a breakout candidate as the main inside guy this year.  Charles Duncan comes over from Robbinsdale Armstrong and should see time too.

Tartan Titans (2023-24 season 24-5, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
Forward Elijah Barrett (12.6 PPG) is a major loss as the top interior player in the league last year.  But the Titans just reload.  Guard CJ Banks (15.5 PPG) returns as the leading scorer from last season's roster.  Frosh PG KJ Wilson and senior Jakhi Richmond also figure to be perimeter starters. Jerror Borsay will factor in that rotation too.  So despite losing a couple of guard transfers, the perimeter play will be their strength.  Interior play is a major question mark.

Two Rivers Warriors (2023-24 season 10-17, 6-10 Conference, tie 6th)
Alum Isaiah Robinson takes over the program.  He has to replace his 2 top scorers.  The guard rotation is the strength.  Junior wing Lamont Michaels (11.3 PPG) is the leading returning scorer.  Seniors Ramzi Rislove and Mason Boyken come back to the starting lineup at the point and a hard working wing respectively.  Junior Julian Greer (9.1 PPG) will see an expanded role on the front line.    Keeon Parker and Rory Shuler provide rotation depth.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Tartan
   
2. St. Thomas Academy  
   
3. South St. Paul 
   
4. Mahtomedi    
5. Simley
6. Hastings
7. Hill-Murray
8. North  
9. Two Rivers 

Conference Overview
Heavy losses around the league mean a down year in the league.  I think its Tartan and everybody else.  Too much guard play from the Titans.  St. Thomas and South St. Paul go next by default.  South St. Paul is more talented but still lost a ton and underachieved last season.  After Mahtomedi's surprise last year, I'll keep them in the top half.  Lots of mediocre teams after this.  I also expect Simley to be much improved after a rough season so they'll fight for the top of the bottom half.  Hill-Murray looks to be trending up in the bottom half.  They split with North and Two Rivers last year so I'll put them ahead of both this season.  

Conference MVP: CJ Banks - Tartan

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Marlowe Strain, Liam Bernatz - Hastings 
• Charlie Westerhaus, John Omoyeni, Koa Fuller - Hill-Murray
• Willie Roelofs - Mahtomedi
  
• Maxwell Hayes, Jack Wills - St. Thomas Academy
• Tre Lovelace, Justin Runge, Nathan Elachi, Andre Glass - Simley
• Mustafa Mohamed, Marco London, Keli Mark - South St. Paul
• KJ Wilson, Emannuel Oyesanmi - Tartan
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Tartan at St. Thomas Academy - Dec 20th
  
• South St. Paul at Tartan - Jan 28th
• St. Thomas Academy at Tartan - Jan 30th
• Tartan at South St. Paul - Feb 28th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• St. Paul Harding at Tartan - Dec 3rd