2024-25 Minneapolis City Conference Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  In this preview, its a look at the Minneapolis City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Camden Patriots (2023-24 season 6-18, 2-10 Conference, tie 5th)
This is the former Patrick Henry high school renamed in the offseason.  Senior PG Eban Moua leads the returning roster.  Seniors Wali Mosley and Tramere White return on the front line.

Edison Tommies (2023-24 season 8-20, 2-10 Conference, tie 5th)
Frank Webster takes over the program after a disappointing season. He's been at St. Agnes and Washburn in the past.  The 2 graduated seniors were the 2 double figure scorers last season.  Leading scorer Deidrick Taylor averaged over 29 PPG from his guard spot last season.  Senior Sam Young (8.7 PPG) is the top returnee on the wing.  Soph Nico Luitjens-Weatherspoon is another returning wing and top scoring option. Junior Ronald Williams returns at a guard spot.

North Polars (2023-24 season 17-11, 7-5 Conference, 4th)
Former Edison coach Ahmil Jihad is the late replacement for former Timberwolves guard Ricky Davis in the head coach chair.  Forward Zashon Rich (19.2 PPG) is off to Wyoming for football.  Soph guard Marcus Marshall is a dynamic scorer who will lead the way.  Senior Allen Hill will be a ball handler.  J'Marion Sanders was another guard returning to the rotation but he had surgery during football season.  They'll have to replace a bunch of interchangeable centers for the front line.  The JV team won the Twin Cities Game last season so there's help from there too.

Roosevelt Teddies (2023-24 season 13-14, 2-10 Conference, tie 5th)
The Teddies were much improved last season and snapped their long league losing streak.  The wing play is their strength with junior Calvin Peterson (15.9 PPG) and senior Obie Esparza (10.7 PPG) returning.  Senior PG Steven Hunter also returns after averaging double figures last season.  Junior forward Josiah Alexander will need to replace the play of Avery Wells on the front line.  Jason Wind also has front line experience.

South Tigers (2023-24 season 22-7, 9-3 Conference, 2nd)
The 2023-24 Tigers were one of the great feel good stories of the last few years as they made a run all the way to the state tournament.  Great to see success for coach Joe Hyser.  The entire starting lineup needs to be replaced including star guards Poet Davis (19.4 PPG) and Jumarion Weh (17.1 PPG).  Eugene Brown will be a top option inside to replace Romero Walker.  Guard Greg Johnson returns to run the point.  Lots of youth on last year's JV squad that could look to contribute.

Southwest Lakers (2023-24 season 16-11, 8-4 Conference, 3rd)
Southwest has to replace the entire starting lineup and 3 double figure scorers.  Wing Liam Farniok (25.6 PPG) was one of the top perimeter players in the league.  Wing DeJaun Jones would be the top returning scorer at 4.6 PPG but he's now at St. Paul Como Park.  Vansin Smith returns inside.  Henry Liestikow is an experienced guard.  Henry Wolfe and Finn George are a couple of seniors who could contribute.

Washburn Millers (2023-24 season 25-4, 12-0 Conference, 1st)
Washburn graduates a ton including star forward Kyle Jorgensen (22.3 PPG).  But with a 2nd place JV squad and a champion freshman squad, the future is still bright for the Millers.  Senior Cooper Carlson is a shooter on the wing who averaged 11.4 PPG last year.  Senior Armoni Dischinger-Harris can run the point.  Juniors Alex Young and Ryker Van Nostrand will see much bigger roles this season.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. North
   
2. Washburn    
   
3. Southwest 
   
4. Roosevelt
5. South 
   
6. Edison 
   
7. Camden
   

Conference Overview
After one of the best league seasons in recent memory, most of the league has heavy losses so expect a down year across the board.  Minneapolis North still looks to be the class of the league and be challenged by Washburn.  Roosevelt has most everything back, can they make a big jump?  Southwest has a ton to replace but has proven they can plug and play.  South, Edison and Camden are all rebuilding.

Conference MVP: Marcus Marshall - North

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Nico Luitjens-Weatherspoon - Edison
  
• Marcus Marshall - North
  
• Ramadan Ibrahim, Jumair Wright - South
  

Conference Games to Watch

• North at Washburn - Jan 13th
• Washburn at North - Feb 19th
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 1st (Minneapolis Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Park Center at Washburn - Dec 3rd
  
• South St. Paul at North - Dec 4th 
• North at De La Salle - Jan 10th 
• Breck at North - Feb 10th
• Hopkins at Washburn - Feb 15th
  
• North vs Cherry - Feb 25th (at Minnehaha Academy)
• Washburn at Breck - Mar 1st
  

2024-25 St. Paul City Conference Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Now its time to look at the city leagues and St. Paul goes first.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Central Minutemen (2023-24 season 20-7, 12-0 Conference, 1st)
Coach Scott Howell returns his top 2 scorers in a strong perimeter rotation.  Guard Allan Lankfard (19.1 PPG) is one of the league's top guards.  He'll play on and off the ball.  Junior Eli Moseman (14.9 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup on the wing.  Junior Finnegan Bloedel returns to man the front line.  Junior Etienne Reyes also returns to the guard rotation.  They'll be supplemented by a JV squad that lost only to Johnson in league play.

Como Park Cougars (2023-24 season 9-18, 5-7 Conference, tie 4th)
Forward Mason Aarness averaged 17.1 PPG as the lone double figure scorer.  3 of the top 4 scorers are gone.  Junior guard Contrell Jenkins (9 PPG) leads the remaining roster.  Hezekiah Bradshaw and Kavaughn Lissimore are 2 other juniors who should be major parts of the rotation as well.  Senior Dashawn Robinson (7.1 PPG) and Braylon Felton are the 2 seniors returning.  Wing DeJaun Jones transfers in from Minneapolis Southwest and should be a rotation factor as well.  Not much size for the roster.

Harding Knights (2023-24 season 18-7, 8-4 Conference, 3rd)
Senior PG Ai'jhon Douglas (21.3 PPG) is one of the better players people don't know about.  4 other rotation guys join him this year in a senior laden lineup.  Mahamadou Kamara, Nathaniel Chea, Julius Terrell and junior Salman Hussein form a strong perimeter group with Douglas.  Who does the dirty work for them inside?

Highland Park Scots (2023-24 season 7-18, 5-7 Conference, tie 5th)
Former Concordia Academy star Zach Towle returns home to take over the Scots program.  He's spent time coaching at the JUCO level.  Leading scorer Xavier May (19.6 PPG) and wing Quintice Combs (15.3 PPG) need to be replaced.  Senior PG Yared Yohannes (16.8 PPG) is the top option.  Soph Leo Clifford will play a much bigger role.  A couple other starters return too.  The freshman squad tied with Johnson for the league title so there is youth there.

Humboldt Hawks (2023-24 season 12-16, 2-10 Conference, 6th)
The Hawks have to replace their 3 top scorers including 20.5 PPG from guard Albert Wellington.  The sophomore class looks to build from here.  Guard Fadil Alabi and forward Taurean Williams were starters as freshmen last year.  They'll be the top scoring options this year.  A bunch of other sophs saw time last year and will need to develop into bigger roles.

Johnson Governors (2023-24 season 19-5, 10-2 Conference, 2nd)
The excellent guard duo of Dhimani Tucker and Jalani Mays plus forward Daejohn Smith-Pugh all need to be replaced.  But plenty returns and the Govs JV and Frosh squads won the city.  Junior power forward Kenny Turner (14.5 PPG) is the top big man in the league and the main threat for Johnson.  Junior guards Octavious Johnson and Guarino Kamp were rotation pieces last season.  They're part of a talented junior class.  Tyrel Pride comes over from Tartan to join that group.  Soph PG Colin Moore returns to the lineup to run the show.

Washington Eagles (2023-24 season 2-25, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
Former Maryland player Chris McCray takes over a program that has gone winless in league play the last 2 seasons.  The league's leading scorer Shawn Huberty (27.6 PPG in league play) gives the Eagles a piece to work with.  Guard Jonathan Santiago (14 PPG) needs to be replaced.  Not much firepower in the rest of the lineup as nobody else averaged more than 3.9 PPG in league play.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Johnson 
   
2. Central 
3. Harding  
4. Highland Park     
   
5. Como Park  
   
6. Humboldt 
7. Washington

Conference Overview:
For 20 straight years Central or Johnson has been the St. Paul representative in the Twin Cities Game.  I don't see that changing this season.  I like Johnson here as they have size that Central doesn't.  But its hard to argue against the defending champs with their top 2 guys coming back.  Harding took their east side rival Johnson to the wire twice last year.  Ditto that with 2 close losses to Central.  They have enough returning to break into that top 2.  It drops off significantly in the battle for the middle spot.  Washington gets the last spot by default.  I'll take Highland at the next spot.  Como out battles a very young and small Humboldt squad for the 5 spot.

Conference MVP: Allan Lankfard Jr - Central

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Leo Clifford - Highland Park
  
• Fadil Alabi, Taurean Williams, Luke Hobday, Char Davis - Humboldt
• Colin Moore, Amri Bobmanuel, Arsee Gabi, Aaron Howard - Johnson
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Harding at Johnson - Jan 10th
  
• Central at Johnson - Jan 22nd
• Central at Harding - Jan 24th
  
• Johnson at Harding - Feb 5th
  
• Johnson at Central - Feb 13th
  
• Harding at Central - Feb 19th
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 1st (Minneapolis Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Johnson at St. Croix Lutheran - Dec 3rd
• Harding at Tartan - Dec 3rd
  
• South St. Paul at Johnson - Dec 6th
  
• Johnson vs Maple Grove - Jan 11th (Southside Showcase II)
• River Falls at Central - Feb 24th
• Harding at Maple Grove - Feb 24th
  

2024-25 Tri-Metro Conference Preview

This is the 7th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Week 2 of this season's preview series begins with a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Academy of Holy Angels Stars (2023-24 season 6-21, 3-13 Conference, tie 7th)
Jimmy Mireri comes over from the Wayzata staff to take over the top chair.  He has to replace his lone double figure scorer and will have a relatively young lineup.  Junior wing Blake Nixon and senior forward Damian Devine are the top returnees.  3 juniors look to round out the lineup.  Anderson Stark returns at the point.  Daniel Devine and Dalton DeBoer are interior options.  Who becomes the go to option with no double figure scorer returning.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2023-24 season 4-23, 3-13 Conference, tie 7th)
Former AHA star Troy Bell leaves his alma mater after 1 season to take over at Kennedy.  The entire lineup returns including 4 senior starters.  Forward Malik Johnson (15.3 PPG) was the top scorer last year and only one in double figures.  Ryan Sheehan, Lamarrius Starr and Sonte Lajeunesse-Wood are other scoring options.  Junior Marlon Seahorn returns at the point.  Junior Girley James is the main size inside.

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2023-24 season 3-24, 1-15 Conference, 9th)
Coach Brandon Krona will continue to build the program in his 2nd year.  He'll have to replace a bunch of seniors from his starting lineup and rotation.  That includes top pieces like forward Steven Nzimi and guard Deshawn Pongsak.  Expect youth to be a major factor for them.

Columbia Heights Hylanders (2023-24 season 18-7, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
Long time assistant Dedrick Jenkins takes over for Willie Braziel who left to take the Simley job. He'll have to replace the top 5 scorers.  That includes the perimeter trio of Randy McClendon, Zy'lerre Stewart and Jency Davis who all averaged over 18 PPG.  McClendon put up 25 points a night on the wing.  Guard Julian Manjo and forward Camren Smith are the lone returnees to the lineup.  The rest of the rotation will be very inexperienced.

De La Salle Islanders (2023-24 season 22-10, 14-2 Conference, 1st)
The Islanders have to replace 2 important pieces in wing Jaden Morgan and forward Ray James but the top 2 scorers return.  That includes soph Jaeden Udean who's one of the top scorers in the class.  PG De'von Irvin returns to run the show.  Senior wings Dorian Pruitt, Andrew Apiagyei and Marcus Anderson all return to the lineup.  Junior Evan Miller will need to play a bigger role inside.

Fridley Tigers (2023-24 season 19-8, 11-5 Conference, 4th)
The Tigers totally blew my prediction out of the water last season with 19 wins.  Now they have to replace 4 starters.  Forward Gideon Cooper and PG Antwan Smith are 2 of the 4 double figure scorers that have graduated.  Trenton Woodall Jones looks to expand on his 12.3 PPG from last season.  Guard Brevon Robinson returns to the starting lineup.  Wayzata transfer Jamichael Ollie could join him.  Osuman Miller will also see rotation time.

Richfield Spartans (2023-24 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 3rd)
Richfield has to replace versatile wing/forward Zavier Hayes (17.3 PPG).  But they return one of the top scorers in the state in CJ Armstrong at 32 PPG.  He had a couple of 50+ point outbursts last season.  Sophs Dre Collins and Tyrece Hagler join him in the returning rotation along with junior Adin Inda.  Cristo Rey transfer Omar Whittaker joins the roster too.  They will get up and down and be very entertaining to watch.  Fun stat for the Spartans along those lines.  They lost 4 games last year where they scored over 90 points.

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2023-23 season 12-13, 8-8 Conference, 5th)
The Hawks have to replace both their double figure scorers.  One of those, Rylan McPipe is off to prep school so that's a critical loss.  Yusuf Hussein and Jahnial Jones are the top guys coming back.  Tae'shawn Cumber-Ficken, Emmanuel Karmo and Noah Lease return as well.  Senior David Daniels provides experience and size.

St. Anthony Huskies (2023-24 season 11-16, 7-9 Conference, 6th)
St. Anthony needs to replace 3 starters and 4 of their top 5 scorers.  Junior SG Brett Siroin returns after leading the team with 14.5 PPG.  Ethann Piekarski returns at a guard spot.  Junior Isaan Kitila should see an expanded role.  Tenzin Gyaltsen should also get rotation minutes.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. De La Salle 
   
2. Richfield 
3. Robbinsdale Cooper 
   
4. St. Anthony   
   
5. Columbia Heights     
   
6. Fridley 
7. Bloomington Kennedy 
   
8. Holy Angels 
   
9. Brooklyn Center    

Conference MVP: CJ Armstrong - Richfield

Conference Overview:
A third of the league will have a new head coach this season.  I see a 2 team race at the top with De La Salle and Richfield.  Can't pick against De La Salle with their tradition but Richfield did win both matchups last year and the style difference between the teams just adds to the entertainment.  After that a drop off to a down year for the rest of the league.  Heavy losses at Cooper, St. Anthony, Fridley and Columbia Heights drag the league down and the other 3 combined for only 13 wins.  Cooper by default gets the 3rd spot.  St. Anthony, Heights and Fridley battle in the middle.  Kennedy has enough returning to want to be in that group, but I need to see it first.  Holy Angels and Brooklyn Center are rebuilding.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Phillip Moita - Academy of Holy Angels
  
• Khalil Wertz-Copeland - Bloomington Kennedy 
• Jaeden Udean, Kamar Thomas - De La Salle
• Tyrone Washington - Fridley
  
• Dre Collins, Tyrece Hagler, Ben Heidgerken - Richfield
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Richfield at De LaSalle - Jan 3rd
  
• De La Salle at Richfield - Feb 4th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Richfield at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 5th
• De La Salle vs Park Center - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins)
• Richfield vs Hopkins - Dec 14th (Big Stage at Totino-Grace)
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at De La Salle - Dec 20th
• Orono at Richfield - Dec 20th
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 15th
• De La Salle at Wayzata - Feb 25th

2024-25 IMAC Preview

This is the 6th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Week 2 begins with this look at the Independent Metro Athletic Conference (IMAC).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Blake Bears (2023-24 season 19-10, 7-3 Conference, 2nd)
Guard Grayson Okonronkwo (24.8 PPG) is a major graduation loss as the catalyst of last year's squad.  But the rest of the roster returns.  Shooter Carson McMichael (13.7 PPG) is the top returning scorer. Noah Wagoner (10.2 PPG) and Aiden Wilson are just 2 of the other experienced guard returnees.  The front line is strong with Omar Kaba (13.6 PPG) and Ian Schnabel  (8 PPG) both returning to the lineup.

Breck Mustangs (2023-24 season 31-1, 9-0 Conference, 1st, AA State Champions)
The state AA champs need to replace Daniel Freitag (24.7 PPG) who is now at Wisconsin.  He was the piece that put them over the top last season.  Guard Hanif Muhammed (16.2 PPG) was another primary ball handler and scorer and needs to be replaced.  The wing rotation is loaded.  Miles Newton (13.2 PPG) leads that group.  JP Musoke (11.6 PPG) and DeAngelo Dungey (7.9 PPG) join him.  Mu Muhammed and Waleed Muhammed will be ball handling options.  Carter Steinbeck and Teddy Koch give them size and shooting.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2023-24 season 15-16, 4-4 Conference, 4th)
Jadee Jones replaces Lance Johnson who retired after 588 career wins.  Leading scorer Lorenzo Levy (17.7 PPG) needs to be replaced but there's a core that has played together that returns.  Forward George Norsman (15.7 PPG) is the top option.  Noah Hamburge provides shooting.  Fitta Jafar is an experienced ball handler.  Adnaan Said (12.5 PPG) transfers in from Mounds Park Academy as another offensive option

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2023-24 season 11-15, 0-8 Conference, 6th)
The school's all-time leading scorer Brendan Connolly takes over the program after spending time as an assistant on staff.  He'll need to replace 4 starters.  The Panthers do return top scorer Wyatt Srsen (21.8 PPG) on the wing. But with a lack of size, he'll need to be a rebounding factor as well.  Guards Noah Garbow and Alex Larson return to the rotation.  They look to replace the graduation losses of PG Jay Green and guard Micah Hudock (21.5 PPG)

Providence Academy Lions (2023-24 season 6-21, 2-8 Conference, 5th)
Providence has to replace 3 of their top 4 scorers with only 1 of those in double figures.  Wing George Jacobson will be the top option.  Soph point guard Leo Giwa was a bright spot last year and has a chance to break out this year.  Matt Hunter will be a front line option.  Magnus Hansen returns in the backcourt.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2023-24 season 22-7, 5-4 Conference, 3rd)
Assistant Ramon Bender will run the program this season while head coach Kevin Keto takes a year off. The top 3 scorers need to be replaced after combining for over 54 PPG.  Mikkel Rawdown (23 PPG) was the inside guy.  Tysen Hayes and Ethan Carter were top perimeter guys.  Wing Ezra Cunningham is the top returning scorer at 10.2 PPG.  Soph guard John Grimsrud will be a major part of that rotation too.  Junior Ben Sieben could expand into a role there too.  Forward Nathan Rock returns at the top interior player. 

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Breck
2. Blake 
   
3. Minnehaha
   
4. St. Paul Academy  
   
5. Providence   
6. Mounds Park Academy 

Conference Overview
Five teams lose their top scorer and the other loses everybody except their top scorer.  Despite all that, its another strong year in the top half of the league.  Breck is still strong enough to make a run to repeat their state title so they have to be the pick here.  Blake and Minnehaha aren't very far behind though in what should be 2 very good games for 2nd place.  All 3 teams have a notable loss or 2 but return most of what they had.  In the bottom half, SPA will have to replace their top 3 with an interim coach.  But they have the most coming back.  Providence has to replace most of what they had from a 6 win team.  Mounds Park also with a new coach and major losses to replace.

Conference MVP: Miles Newton- Breck

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Waleed Muhammed - Breck
• Kellen Troup - Minnehaha 
• Leo Giwa, Henry Willihnganz - Providence
  
• John Grimsrud - St. Paul Academy
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Breck at Blake - Jan 7th
  
• Blake at Breck - Feb 21st
  

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Benilde-St. Margaret’s at Breck - Dec 10th
• Breck at Totino-Grace - Dec 14th (Big Stage)
• Breck at Wayzata - Dec 19th
• Breck vs Hopkins - Dec 30th (Augsburg tourney)

2024-25 Skyline Conference Preview

This is the 5th preview in my 2024-25 season preview series.  Next on the list is the Skyline.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Concordia Academy Beacons (2023-24 season 10-18, 5-11 Conference, tie 6th)
The Beacons return 3 starters.  That includes their top duo of guard Gage Greene (14.1 PPG) and forward Noah Quiggle (13.5 PPG).  Guards Caleb Schutte, soph Marzae Huffman and Kurtis Persell also return to the lineup.  Andrew Sell will be another inside option.  Wings Kellen Quast and Luke Olson are 21 PPG of wing scoring that need to be replaced. 

Cristo Rey Jesuit Pumas (2023-24 season 6-21, 5-11 Conference, tie 6th)
Cristo Rey turns the page from a group that struggled the last couple of seasons.  All 3 double figure scorers have graduated including 16+ PPG from guard Corey Dotson and wing Patrick Akoussan.  Senior guards Xavier Kolpitcke and Julian Jones are the top returnees.  The rest of the roster is a question mark.

Maranatha Christian Academy Mustangs (2023-24 season 21-7, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
The 3 time defending league champs have to replace their 3 double figure scorers.  That guard trio of league MVP Datrell McCrimmon, Gresyn Rennie and Drew Balentine combined for almost 54 PPG last season.  They also caused havoc in being able to extend the defense.  Junior guard Daijor McCrimmon just missed out on double figures last year but should be the top option this season.  Eli Ahrends returns as a big body in the middle.  Sam Eibes will also return to the front line rotation.  JoJo Bartolomeos and Carson Moscoso return to the perimeter rotation.

New Life Academy Eagles (2023-24 season 14-14, 8-8 Conference, 4th)
4 of the top 5 scorers need to be replaced.  Wing/Forward Colter Stone (20.7 PPG) and shooter John Kirschling (15.9 PPG) are the biggest losses.  Noah Hahn averaged 18.8 PPG before missing the 2nd half of the season.  He'll be the top guy coming back.  Junior forward Gavin McColloch will be another option to pick up the offense.  Soph guard Evan Seaton will be another guard in the rotation.  Juniors Dylan Wall and Zeke Lindahl are other guard options.

Nova Classical Academy Knights (2023-24 season 10-18, 0-16 Conference, 9th)
Coach John Carrier has to replace 3 starters.  Center Silas Revenaugh and his 11 PPG will be very hard for the Knights to replace.  No other size options are available.  The guard play features senior Mason Engelking who averaged 13.3 PPG.  Junior Caleb Taylor (15.7 PPG) will be the other featured option after leading the team in scoring last season.

St. Agnes Aggies (2023-24 season 18-10, 13-3 Conference, 3rd)
The Aggies graduate 4 starters, all on the perimeter.  That includes the school's all-time scoring leader Andrew Weber, guards Cegan Flood and Elijah Simmons and wing Joe Skidmore.  Nolan Davis (12.4 PPG) returns for his 4th season in the middle.  Stephen Novak will see time on the front line too.  Guards Dan Plamann and Michael Gutzmann were rotation players last year who will have bigger roles this year.

St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2023-24 season 22-6, 14-2 Conference, 2nd)
St. Croix Lutheran was a great surprise last season.  Only 1 rotation loss in guard Elias Blumer (11.5 PPG).  The Crusaders very strong front line of Riccardo Marzetti (15.8 PPG) and Ole Skrien (13 PPG) leads the way.  Marzetti can play inside or out, Skrien is a sneaky athlete who rebounds and can block shots.  Guard Miguel Rafael returns as the top returning perimeter scorer.  Guards Matthew Beekman, Mateo Garcia and Issac Garcia also return.

St. Croix Prep Lions (2023-24 season 9-19, 5-11 Conference, tie 6th)
St. Croix Prep needs to replace their leading scorer Patrick Brown.  He averaged 15.2 PPG on the perimeter.  Forward William Weeldreyer (10 PPG) is the leading returning scorer as a physical presence inside.  Wing Brady Harbinson and junior Logan Eiselt also return to the starting lineup.  Soph Ali Akram is a youngster who looks for rotation minutes as well.

Trinity Tri-Hawks (2023-24 season 14-14, 7-9 Conference, 5th)
Trinity loses double figure scorer Justin Groppel (12.5 PPG) and forward Joseph Laughery.  Guard Nathan Adbebe (14.7 PPG) and wing Isaac Rudquist (13.9 PPG) are a potent senior duo on the wings. Josh Bormann and Zach Bowden are other wing options. Franklin Waldron is the lone returnee on the front line.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. St. Croix Lutheran  
   
2. Concordia
   
3. Maranatha
   
4. Trinity    
   
5. New Life 
   
6. St. Agnes 
   
7. St. Croix Prep
   
8. Cristo Rey 
9. Nova Classical

Conference Overview
Lots of important graduation losses across the league.  St. Croix Lutheran is the clear first pick as they return basically everything.  Building at Nova and Cristo Rey puts them in the bottom 2 spots.  Concordia, Maranatha and Trinity also have multiple quality pieces returning in the second tier.  Concordia has a ton of guards back plus Noah Quiggle inside, I like them next.  MCA's tradition gets the next spot here but Trinity at 3 wouldn't surprise me with their solid defensive style.  I think New Life has the most of the next group but St. Agnes always seems to exceed expectations.  St. Croix Prep looks to have another year where they could struggle to score.

Conference MVP: Riccardo Marzetti - St. Croix Lutheran

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Marzae Huffman, Logan Duis - Concordia
• Aaron Buchanan Jr - Cristo Rey
  
• Evan Seaton - New Life Academy
• Finn Penniman, Eli Taylor - Nova Classical Academy
• Ali Akram - St. Croix Prep
  

Conference Games to Watch

• St. Croix Lutheran at Maranatha - Jan 2nd
  
• Concordia at St. Croix Lutheran - Jan 6th
• Maranatha at St. Croix Lutheran - Feb 4th
  
• St. Croix Lutheran at Concordia - Feb 7th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• St. Paul Johnson at St. Croix Lutheran - Dec 3rd
  
• St. Croix Lutheran at Minnehaha - Dec 18th
• St. Croix Lutheran vs Blake - Dec 21st (Hutton Winter Classic at Hamline)
• St. Croix Lutheran at Southwest Christian - Feb 1st
  

2024-25 MCAA Preview

This is the 4th preview in my 2024-25 season preview series.  We continue the conference previews with a look at the Minnesota Classic Athletic Association (MCAA).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Eagle Ridge Academy Gryphons (2023-24 season 10-17, 6-8 Conference, 5th)
The Gryphons started a youth movement later in the season with PG Mo Massaquoi (8.3 PPG) and F King Davis (14.9 PPG).  They'll expand their roles to replace the scoring of guard Teddy Relan.  Oliver Kelash returns inside.  Guard Nils Johannson also returns to the rotation.

Heritage Christian Academy Eagles (2023-24 season 23-8, 10-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Eagles are looking to repeat as section 4A champs.  With all 5 starters and most of the roster coming back, I expect nothing less.  Lead guard Josh Sokeye (18.7 PPG) and Gopher football commit Abu Tarawallie (13.7 PPG) are a quality 1-2 punch.  Add in Owen Haag and Jonah Moulton as wings who can knock down shots.  They both averaged double figures last season too.   Soph Aaron Palmer provides front court depth.

Lakes International Language Academy Dragons (2023-24 season 13-15, 7-5 Conference, 4th)
LILA needs to replace 4 starters as they make the jump from the EMAC to the MCAA.  Star wing Connor Severson (29.8 PPG) and forward Carter Moore are the 2 double figures scorers that need to be replaced.  Undersized forward Maxwel Sandstrom (7.7 PPG) is the leading returning scorer.  Guards Joseph Dolphy and Mac Maring should step into starting roles after seeing rotation time last season.

Legacy Christian Academy Lions (2023-24 season 24-5, 13-1 Conference, 1st)
The Lions would like nothing better than to leave the league with another title.  They'll need to replace a good chunk of the lineup.  Shooter Micah Strand and wing slasher Dominic Zoa (20.1 PPG) have graduated.  Freshman star Daniel Zoa saw time last year but is now at Totino-Grace.  Senior guards Drew Mulvihill (12.1 PPG), Solomon Kardell, Carson Anderson and Evan Bovee all return to the rotation.  Juniors Hudson Strand, Max Liefker and Josh Held should see greatly expanded roles.  Size is the main question.

Mayer Lutheran Crusaders (2023-24 Season 9-18, 4-8 MN River Conference, 7th)
The Crusaders record is deceptive and I think they make a run in the league this season.  Nate and Ben Lindesmith are a quality guard duo.  Nolan Hoese joins them on the perimeter.  Josh Clark and Zach Robbins return at interior spots. Levi Hahn is a double figure scorer that needs to be replaced.

North Lakes Academy Huskies (2023-24 season 6-21, 0-14 Conference, 8th)
4 seniors need to be replaced in the starting lineup.  That includes double figure scoring guards Aidin Zenkic (13 PPG) and Marcus Dukuly (12.4 PPG).  Senior Damarion Dillard and junior Carlos Marquez are the top returning scorers and rebounders.  Guards Levi Molitor and Marquise Poncelet will see major guard minutes.

PACT Charter Panthers (2023-24 season 11-17, 3-11 Conference, tie 6th)
Coach Joel Hedberg also has to replace 4 starters.  Do everything guard Victor Nyabuto (19.7 PPG) is the biggest loss.  Tim Cherenkevich (10.2 PPG) is lone returning starter. Junior forward Jayden Busch and soph Bryce Gaustad (7 PPG) should jump right into the lineup after being top reserves last season.

Spectrum Sting (2023-24 season 24-5, 13-2 Conference, 2nd)
Coach Tom Terhaar needs to replace 4 starters in star guard Blake Femrite (20.9 PPG), forward Ethan Mielke (10.2 PPG) and PG Will Lawrence.  But the hive isn't empty.  Soph guard Cody Benson should be one of lead scoring options.  Junior guard Eli Miller also returns to the rotation.  Braden Nelson averaged 13.3 PPG off the bench as a front line guy.  Jordan Williams (11.5 PPG) also returns up front.

United Christian Academy Thunder (2023-24 season 11-16, 3-11 Conference, tie 6th)
Guard Braylon Kerr has graduated after leading the team in scoring the last 2 seasons.  But there are a couple pieces to build around.  Juniors Josiah Hendley (18.6 PPG) and Sam Rich look to be the main options this season.  Josiah Rich will be another guard piece.  Forward Ashton Trenz and guard Jeremiah McDougal are seniors that return to the starting lineup.

West Lutheran Warriors (2023-24 season 19-10, 9-5 Conference, 4th)
West Lutheran needs to replace 4 starters.  Wing Jack Nelson (10.6 PPG) and star guard Isaiah Ronning (20.5 PPG) are the major pieces to replace.  Forward Karsten Kromschroeder is the lone starter returning. Forward Brandon Knebel and guard Kolten Miller are juniors who should see expanded roles.  Jacob Pfotenhauer looks to take over the point guard spot.

Predicted Order of Finish

North Division

1. Legacy   
   
2. Spectrum 
   
3. PACT
4. Lakes International
   
5. North Lakes
   

South Division 

1. Heritage
   
2. Mayer Lutheran
   
3. Eagle Ridge 
   
4. United Christian
   
5. West Lutheran

Conference Overview
Its the start of turnover for the MCAA.  Mayer Lutheran joins the league after the Minnesota River Conference disbanded.  This will be Legacy's final year in the league before they move to the Skyline.  Lakes International is playing in the North division to balance schedules.  The schedule is also strange as the league will split into 5 team north and south divisions but those divisions won't play each other in league play except for 1 conference showcase day at the end of the season.

In the north, there's Legacy and Spectrum battling there but Legacy has too much coming back and Spectrum loses too much.  Then a massive dropoff to the bottom 3 who all have to replace most of their lineups and will likely struggle.  I'll give PACT a slight edge over Lakes International.  North Lakes losing a ton from a rough season has to stay in the last pick.

In the south, its a little more balanced.  Heritage is clearly the pick here with everybody coming back.  Mayer Lutheran and Eagle Ridge with their returning rosters are in the next spots.  Mayer Lutheran's guard play and experience is there so they get the nod.  United Christian has 2 major pieces coming back and West Lutheran has to replace 4 starters so they get the last 2 spots.

Conference MVP: Josh Sokeye - Heritage

Underclassmen to watch: 

• King Davis, Mo Massaquoi - Eagle Ridge
  
• Aaron Palmer - Heritage
  
• Ben Lindesmith - Mayer Lutheran
• Marquise Poncelet - North Lakes 
• Bryce Gaustad - PACT
  
• Cody Benson - Spectrum
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Legacy at Spectrum - Dec 10th
• Mayer Lutheran at Heritage - Jan 7th
  
• Spectrum at Legacy - Jan 25th
  
• Heritage at Mayer Lutheran - Jan 28th
  
• Conference Showcase Day - Feb 22nd (cross-division games)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Legacy vs Minnehaha - Jan 18th (West Metro Clash at Southwest Christian)
• Southwest Christian at Legacy - Feb 18th

2024-25 EMAC Preview

This is the 3rd preview in the 2024-2025 season preview series.  Note that it appears that Lakes International Language Academy is now playing with the MCAA.  They're playing a full MCAA schedule this season.  Therefore, they'll be part of the MCAA preview.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here. 

Czar's Editorial Note 10/24/24: After posting this, I found out that Twin Cities Academy is playing an EMAC schedule this season.  Their preview is part of the Independents preview.

Academy for Sciences and Agriculture Eagles (2023-24 season 2-9, 2-8 Conference, 6th)
Senior guard Tim Williams and almost the entire roster return for AFSA.  They did beat Hmong Academy in 2 out of 3 meetings last season.

Avail Academy Valor (2023-24 season 21-7, 10-0 Conference, 1st)
The Valor have to replace 3 starters including Zachariah Schaap, Justin Kroeze and Parker Borchardt.  That's over 35 PPG lost.  Senior wing Isaac Aune should have a big season as a 20+ PPG picking up that slack.  Jacob Ritzema will factor in that too as he also averaged double figures. Lincoln Bock will see more time after being a rotation guy last year.

Community of Peace Academy Tigers (2023-24 season 7-21, 3-7 Conference, 5th)
A couple of top guys transferred out just before the holidays last season and things spiraled downward from there.  Soph guard Pierre Glass-McCoy returns as the top scorer.  He leads a group of smallish guards.  Amir Hampton gives them size inside.  Junior Jonviere Moore is another option there.

Groves Academy Griffins (2023-24 season, No Team)
Did not field a team in 2023-24

Hmong Academy Warriors (2023-24 season 2-17, 1-9 Conference, 7th)
The Warriors went with mostly underclassmen last season.  Junior Kaleb Vang was the lone double figure scorer last season.  Not much size to work with here either.

Liberty Classical Academy Lions (2023-24 season 19-9, 7-3 Conference, 2nd)
Liberty was very young last year with only 3 juniors and no seniors for coach John Towle.  The guard trio of Sam Rupnow (18.9 PPG), Ethan Richter (15.8 PPG) and soph PG Cruz Triana (12 PPG) leads the way.  Senior Jens Christensen does the work up front with 11.2 PPG.  They can get beat up inside but could be a late season sleeper in section 4A.

Math and Science Academy Dragons (2023-24 season 13-12, 5-3 Conference, 3rd)
Do everything wing Josh Balami (29.3 PPG) is one of 3 starters that need to be replaced.  No double figure scorers return.  Guard Izzy Girma (7.6 PPG) and wing Tomi Taiwo (5.8 PPG) are the top guys coming back.  Michael Curtice will get time on the front line.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Liberty Classical
   
2. Avail
   
3. Math & Science
4. Community of Peace
   
5. AFSA
6. Hmong Academy
   
7. Groves
   

Conference Overview
The EMAC appears to be on its last legs with talk of other members following LILA to the MCAA.  That may be for the better as the top and bottom of the league continue become more and more separated.  Its a down year in the league with heavy losses at Avail and Math & Science.  Liberty definitely looks to take advantage after going young last year.  Avail will still be there with Isaac Aune filling it up.  Rest of the league is basically unchanged.

Conference MVP: Isaac Aune - Avail

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Cruz Triana - Liberty
  
• Pierre Glass-McCoy - Community of Peace
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Avail at Liberty - Jan 13th
  
• Liberty at Avail - Feb 7th
  
• EMAC Championship - Feb 14th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Spectrum at Liberty- Dec 5th
• Highland Park at Liberty - Dec 31st
  

2024-25 City Conference Preview

This is the 2nd preview in the 2024-2025 season preview series.  For the first conference on the list, I start with a look at the City Conference made of of small local charter schools.  Its not exactly clear who is in the league as there are different lists.  I'm using the Minnesota-Scores standings to split the independents from this list.  This group is not to be confused with the Minneapolis City Conference or the St. Paul City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

High School for Recording Arts Falcons (2023-24 season 4-9)
No information available

Lincoln International Eagles (2023-24 season 0-12)
No information available.

Metro Deaf School Cheetahs (2023-24 season 0-4)
No information available.

Metro Schools College Prep Lions (2023-24 season 9-10)
The Lions lose a couple of top guards including Siyad Dubow.  Junior Hamza Ahmed will be one of the top returnees.

Minnesota Transitions Wolves (2023-24 season 7-5)
MTS had a couple of perimeter guys who could score it last season.  One of them went for 40 in the game I saw against Prairie Seeds.  If they're back that means MTS could be one of the better teams in this group.

Prairie Seeds Academy Lycans (2023-24 season 9-15)
Most of the roster returns for the Lycans.  Senior Antonio McCrownsey returns to lead the inside play as an undersized power forward.  Frosh PG Maceo Moua was the leading scorer last season.

St. Paul City School Wolves (2023-24 season 10-12)
The Wolves continue to build the program.

Venture Academy Tigers (2023-24 season 1-7)
Exploration Explorers (2023-24 Season, 12-10)
These Minneapolis programs combine with the short trip down University Ave and across the U of M campus.  Lefty guard Amari Warren is the top player for this group.  There is young play behind that.  Not much size.

Overview
This is the weakest set of teams I'll preview.  Somebody like Metro Schools College Prep could inflate their record with games against the rest of this group.

2024-25 Independents Preview

Welcome to the 18th annual season previews!  This is the 1st preview in the 2024-2025 season preview series.  As per the tradition here, I'll start from the small class A schools and move all the way to the class AAAA schools in this series.  A couple of bonuses this year.  This year the previews will span 4 weeks leading right up to the start of practice rather than the 3 weeks of recent years.  Last year I added in the Wright County East, this year there are also additions.  The Wright County East stays and the Mississippi 8 will be added.  I'm also adding a separate preview for the 10 AAAA schools that don't play in the metro.  That means this will be the largest preview series I've ever done with over 150 teams included.  So let's get started with a look at the small local independents.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Christ's Household of Faith Lions (2023-24 season 13-7)
Guards Erro Harms and Henry Bluhm were the main offensive weapons and need to be replaced.  Evan Alleman returns as the main guard option to pick up some of that offense.  Junior forward Sawyer Okerstrom returns to the front line.  River Eckman and Connor Gustafson are other options who look to step into bigger perimeter roles.  Parker Harms will also see minutes for the Lions.

Hiawatha Colliegiate Wolves (2023-24 season 16-13)
Hiawatha will be an interesting team to watch.  Guard Domonick Watkins and his 20 PPG is a significant graduation loss but scoring won't be a problem for the Wolves.  They feature one of the top scorers in the metro in senior wing Kam Solomon (27 PPG).  He's capable of going off for 40 on any given night.  Soph forward King James returns as a double figure guy up front.  Junior Ludy Webster returns to run the show.  Liban Dima, Melvin Anderson and Dwon'ta Lowry also return to the rotation.

Higher Ground Academy Panthers (2023-24 season 20-9)
Higher Ground will need to replace a couple of top guards in Suhayb Abdi and Yasir Abdisabur.  They combined for over 31 points per game last year.  A couple of juniors will lead the way this year.  Abdiaziz Abdi is the top returnee at 17.7 PPG.  He can play inside or out but as the tallest player returning will see plenty of inside responsibility.  Guard Sakariya Admed should expand on his 13 PPG from last season.

Hope Academy Lions (2023-24 season 8-20)
3 starters have graduated so the Lions will start a major youth movement.  Brian Moss and his 18 PPG on the wing are the biggest loss.  Sophomores Gideon Horne (14.2 PPG) and Jordan Moss (6.9 PPG) will be the main options.  Frosh Tyriek Martin will see time at the point.  Soph Eli Samuel will see plenty of time as well.  Senior Guta Temesgen provides experience.

International School of Minnesota Huskies (2023-24 season 10-11)
Chesterton Academy Knights  (2023-24 season 5-20)
According to the MSHSL site, ISM and Chesterton have combined programs this season with ISM hosting.  Soph PG Emmitt Wuebben is the top Chesterton returnee.  Junior Ryan Cooley is another returning guard.  Forwards Spencer Tupper and Josh Robin also return to the program.  On the International School side, guards Ruhaan Singh, Rubaine Singh return with forward Derek Bush.  It will be a young group.

Parnassus Prep Olympians (2023-24 season 5-11)
Parnassus will need to replace at least a couple of starters.  Senior PG Ray Ogunti is undersized at the lead spot but don't be fooled.  He's the engine for this roster.  Junior Ayoub Komara is an acttve forward who can finish dump offs.  This is a junior laden roster with no real size.

Twin Cities Academy/Great River Tigers (2023-24 season 10-13)
Forward Gio Alonso is a significant loss from the roster but everybody else returns.  Junior Princeton Normil should step into that interior spot.  Wings Jamal Randle and Jacob Stiele return after leading the team in scoring last season.  They won't be very deep but will be able to score.

Ubah Medical Academy (2023-24 season 8-8)
No infomation available about this roster.  Last season they did have a little size and some athletes.  They did have 2 double figure wins over Prairie Seeds and a blowout win over ISM.

Overview
Hiawatha is the top team in this group but their game against Twin Cities Academy at the end of the year has the chance to change that.  CHOF is always respectable.  Hope's youngsters and their up and down style will make them fun to watch.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• King James - Hiawatha
  
• Gideon Horne, Jordan Moss - Hope
• Emmitt Wuebben - ISM/Chesterton
  

Games to Watch

• Hiawatha at St. Paul Central - Dec 12th
  
• Hiawatha vs St. Croix Lutheran - Dec 20th (Hutton Winter Classic at Hamline)
• Hiawatha vs St. Paul Johnson - Dec 21st (Hutton Winter Classic at Hamline) 
• Hiawatha at St. Paul Harding - Dec 27th (Harding Holiday Tournament)
• Spectrum at Hiawatha - Jan 16th
  
• Hiawatha at Blake - Jan 23rd
  
• Hiawatha at Twin Cities Academy - Feb 27th