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
  

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