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 Crandle (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
  

2024-25 Mississippi 8 Conference Preview

This is the 11th preview in my 2024-25 season preview series.  Now its time for a new preview with a look at the Mississippi 8.  Fun story of me trying to preview this league.  I see Cambridge-Isanti almost every year at the Spring Lake Park jamboree and have seen them at the Augsburg Holiday Tourney in recent years.  I see them struggle in those events and then they run thru the league.  Shows that I know absolutely nothing.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Becker Bulldogs (2023-24 season 14-14, 9-7 Conference, tie 3rd)
Leading scorer and rebounder Kyan Blomquist (19.1 PPG) has graduated along with a couple of reserves.  A strong junior class returns with 3 starters.  That group includes PG Sawyer Brown (14.6  PPG) plus wings Nathan Weiss (12.2 PPG) and Landon Peterson (10.6 PPG).  Senior Mitch Soltau and junior Bryce Paumen augment the rotation.

Big Lake Hornets (2023-24 season 14-14, 9-7 Conference, tie 3rd)
New head coach Lance Pettis comes over from Blaine to replace Ted Critchley Jr.  Junior forward Owen Wilczek (14.7 PPG) was last year's top scorer but the rest of the starting lineup is gone.  Senior Max Siegrist adds to their strong front line.  Senior Zach Mauch will see time up front too.  Frosh Judd Layton could be a major contributor at a guard spot.  Senior Preston Wesseh will see guard minutes too.

Cambridge-Isanti Bluejackets (2023-24 season 16-11, 12-4 Conference, 2nd)
Coach Mike McDonald has to replace his top guy in guard John Troolin (22.8 PPG).  But he still has lefty shooter Elias Dee (21 PPG) and forward Emerson Droubie (16.2 PPG) coming back.  Droubie reminds me a bit of former Roseville star James Ayers who was a big body that could step out and really shoot it.  Ethan Bergloff (8.5 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  They'll also return 2 or 3 seniors who saw rotation time.  Plus there's a group of sophomores chomping at the bit for minutes.

Czar's Note: I was informed that I made a mistake with Elias Dee.  He has graduated so I'm leaving the original but updating it below to reflect that. First time previewing a new league, always has to be something, lol.

Coach Mike McDonald has to replace 2 top shooters in John Troolin (22.8 PPG) and Elias Dee (21 PPG).  Forward Emerson Droubie (16.2 PPG) leads the returning lineup.  Droubie reminds me a bit of former Roseville star James Ayers who was a big body that could step out and really shoot it.  Ethan Bergloff (8.5 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  They'll also return 2 or 3 seniors who saw rotation time.  Plus there's a group of sophomores chomping at the bit for minutes.

Chisago Lakes Wildcats (2023-24 season 22-9, 13-3 Conference, 1st)
Four starters including do everything forward Patrick Rowe (29.8 PPG) need replacing from last year's conference and section 7AAA champions.  Senior guard Lucas O'Malley is the lone starter returning.  Seniors Blake Seifert and Riley Estes should be the primary front court options.  They have a trio of talented junior wings in Joe Couwenhoven, Cohen Underhill and Kellen Meissner.  Junior Colton Betts figures to see time as well.

Monticello Magic (2023-24 season 11-16, 8-8 Conference, tie 5th)
The Magic lose Patrick Shobe and his 13.2 PPG from their front line.  Jackson Soroko (13.9 PPG) is a big forward who can play in or out.  The perimeter play is experienced with Brayden Dollard, Rhys Nebben, Andrew Matuska plus sophs Hunter Miller and Carson Deibele.

North Branch Vikings (2023-24 season 14-14, 8-8 Conference, tie 5th)
Former St. Michael-Albertville assistant Trevor Walton is the new head coach.  Four starters and five seniors gone from the rotation mean a major overhaul for the lineup.  Leading scorer Tyler Minke (21.1 PPG) returns  as a versatile inside/out forward.  Junior forward Jacob Knoespel is another size guy.  James Weinkauf and Chazz Johnson return to perimeter spots.

Princeton Tigers (2023-24 season 4-23, 4-12 Conference, 8th)
Coach Brett Cloutier and his normally strong Tigers program fell on hard times last year starting 1-20 before a 3-3 finish.  Yes, I still need one of those orange short sleeve hoodie shooting shirts for my collection.  Leading scorer Noah Stencel (18.6 PPG) returns on the wing.  Seniors Harrison Lupkes and Deuce Zarletti will push the pace.  Wylan Iverson and frosh Matthew Hallberg are other perimeter guys coming back.. Junior Austin Ross is the main guy up front.

St. Francis Saints (2023-24 season 11-16, 7-9 Conference, 7th)
Robbie Whitney returns home to take over at his alma mater.  He was a Graduate Assistant at Augustana last year and previously took New Life Academy to the state tournament.  Lefty wing Connor Peterson (18.9 PPG) will be his go to guy.  Guard Tayler Hardie (10.3 PPG) is the other returning double figure scorer.  Owen Lamson also returns to the starting lineup.  Reserves Tanner Rothbauer and David Tupper once again provide depth.

Zimmerman Thunder (2022-23 season 6-21, 2-14 Conference, 9th)
Zimmerman returns 3 starters.  That includes their 2 top threats in junior wing Thomas McEachern (16 PPG) and senior PG Gianni-Arisensi-Skime (13.6 PPG).  McEachern is a jumping jack who's always a candidate for a highlight.  Junior guard Mason Spence will figure into that perimeter rotation.  Senior TJ Johnson returns to anchor the frontcourt.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Cambridge-Isanti
   
2. Becker
   
3. Monticello
4. Chisago Lakes
   
5. St. Francis
6. Princeton
7. North Branch
8. Big Lake
   
9. Zimmerman
   

Conference Overview
The league was acting much like the Metro West for a while last year where it seemed like nobody wanted to win it.  I expect the same this year.  My pick here is Cambridge-Isanti with 2 top guys and lots of depth returning.  Plus you can't help but love their offense with all the screening plus they'll push it.  Becker's junior class was 3rd last year, so I keep them up there this year.  Monticello's experience puts them 3rd but they could get a run from a youthful but talented Chisago Lakes squad or St. Francis.  I think Princeton bounces back after a tough year.  With a new coach and new help around Tyler Minke, I had to drop North Branch.  Big Lake is in a very similar spot.  Zimmerman has 2 top returnees that could help them jump out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Emerson Droubie - Cambridge-Isanti

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Isiah Boyer, Nathan Warhol, Tucker Becker - Becker
  
• Judd Layton - Big Lake
• Jameson Epple, Eddie Lundeen - Cambridge-Isanti
  
• Carson Deibele, Hunter Miller - Monticello
• Matthew Hallberg, Michael Kincaid - Princeton
  
• Hunter Olson - St. Francis
• Joe Larson, Luke Lemke - Zimmerman
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Cambridge-Isanti at Becker - Jan 14th
• Becker at Cambridge-Isanti - Feb 14th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Albany at Becker - Dec 10th
  
• Becker vs SW Christian - Dec 28th (Granite City at St. John's)

2024-25 Wright County East Preview

This is the 10th preview in my 2024-25 season preview series.  Week 2 ends with a look at the always tough Wright County East.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Delano Tigers (2023-24 season 22-6, 8-2 Conference, 2nd)
Former Osseo star Bridge Tusler takes over after the retirement of Terry Techam.  Despite losing star gaurd Will Strandemo (22.4 PPG), the lineup will still have plenty of perimeter firepower.  Junior Max Iverson averaged 21.9 PPG.  Senior Jake Schultz is a shooter who averaged 11.2 PPG.  I expect that to jump this season.  Senior JJ Longstreet also returns to the rotation.  Juniors Bjorn Stewart and Nate Nielsen look to see time as well.

Holy Family Fire (2023-24 season 18-10, 9-1 Conference, 1st)
Coach Joe Berger needs to replace all 3 of his double figure scorers.  That includes star guards Kole Hanson and Luke Graff who combined for over 44 PPG and top post Brayden Carlson (14.3 PPG).  Despite that, the wing play should still be solid.  Junior Drew Coleman (8.1 PPG) looks to be the goto guy this season.  Jackson Birchem also returns to the starting lineup.  Hayden Guggemos and Jackson Ryan are seniors who should see plenty of time.  Sophs Carson Kuchenbecker and Geno Ward also look to join the rotation.

Hutchinson Tigers (2023-24 season 17-11, 4-6 Conference, 4th)
The Tigers have to replace a strong senior class that comprised most of their lineup.  They do have a couple of pieces to build with.  Senior forward Nathan Johnson is a top option. Senior wing Brady Larson is another top scoring threat on the wing.  Colton Farrell and Alexander Flores will be guard options.  Landon Struck and Everett Conrad should see front line minutes.

Jordan Hubmen (2023-24 season 11-16, 0-10 Conference, 6th)
Jordan returns 2 of their 3 double figure scorers.  Forward Mitchell Schmidt (13.5 PPG) and SG Lexyn Grof (11 PPG) lead the way.  Both are juniors.  Senior wing Brayden Davis returns with them.  Sam Mahto will be a frontcourt option along with Noah Robinson.

Mound-Westonka Whitehawks (2023-24 season 11-16, 3-7 Conference, 5th)
Coach Andre Phillips needs to replace hard nosed PG Carter Reinbold and shooter Bryce Tappen. But the dynamic senior forward duo of Max Kraay (21.6 PPG) and Cole Drill (14.3 PPG) can make up for that.  Both can step out and shoot it or play inside vs a smaller mismatch.  Matthew Mobagi, Jacob Orenge, George Eberhart and Brendon Sexton are also experienced seniors returning to the rotation.

Southwest Christian Stars (2023-24 season 18-9, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Stars return most of a deep roster from last season.  Mason Wood (11.1 PPG) is the main loss.  But this lineup will look to make a deep tournament run.  Brayden Beckering (16.3 PPG) and Isaac Tollefson (13.7 PPG) can both shoot it on the wing.  Juniors Jack Burke and Drew Mertens are other skilled wing/forwards in the lineup.  Junior Adam Dye can be used for size.  Who becomes the primary ball handler is the main question.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Southwest Christian
   
2. Mound-Westonka
   
3. Delano  
   
4. Holy Family
   
5. Hutchinson
   
6. Jordan
   

Conference Overview
I see SW Christian and Mound-Westonka at the top of the league with a ton coming back for both rosters.  But with modified league scheduling in place, those teams will only play each other once.  The rest of the league drops off but there's no awful team in the group.  Delano with a new coach but a similar type system should still be an offensive factor.  Holy Family will be young and has a ton to replace.  Hutch has a couple nice pieces but also has a ton to replace. Jordan has a couple pieces back as they look to jump out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Max Kraay - Mound-Westonka

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Vinny Lucarelli - Delano
  
• Geno Ward, Carson Kuchenbecker, Levi Trout - Holy Family
• Mika James - Mound-Westonka
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Mound-Westonka at SW Christian - Jan 30th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Minnehaha at SW Christian - Jan 4th
• Mound-Westonka at Orono - Jan 7th
• Mound-Westonka at Richfield - Jan 28th
  
• St. Croix Lutheran at SW Christian - Feb 1st
• Mound-Westonka at Blake - Feb 18th
  
• Blake at SW Christian - Feb 26th