What to watch for in the 2012-13 Season

The Czar's 2012-2013 Season Preview Series concludes after 5 weeks and 25 previews.  In this final preview let's condense everything for the casual fan.  Its who to see, what to see, when and where to see it.

10 Teams You Should Watch

1. Apple Valley
2. Hopkins
3. De La Salle
4. Osseo
5. Edina
6. Roseville
7. Park Center
8. Eden Prairie
9. Blake
10. Maranatha

Apple Valley and Hopkins are the top 2 teams in AAAA with a gap after them.  De La Salle is a landslide pick to repeat as champions in AAA.  Defending AAAA champs Osseo can't be discounted either.  They'll get a stiff run in the NW Suburban from a potent Park Center squad.  The Lake continues to be completely loaded with Edina and Eden Prairie expected to push for the top 5 all season.  Blake looks to make this their year and section 6AAA has opened up for them.  Roseville has a ton of pieces coming back as they look to get over the hump and reach state out of section 4AAAA.  Maranatha was upset last year but they're loaded as a top 10 team in class A and a yearly powerhouse in section 4.

10 Players You Should See

1. Tyus Jones (Apple Valley)
2. Rashad Vaughn (Cooper)
3. Reid Travis (De La Salle)
4. Anders Broman (Lakeview Christian)
5. Riley Dearring (Minnetonka)
6. Graham Woodward (Edina)
7. Reggie Lynch (Edina)
8. Quinton Hooker (Park Center)
9. Brock Bertram (Apple Valley)
10. Amir Coffey (Hopkins)

3 of the top 2014 players in the nation (Jones, Vaughn and Travis) top the list.  Next I'll include Anders Broman since he'll be making a few trips to the metro this year.  He's almost certain to have the state scoring record wrapped up by the end of the calendar year.  That means metro fans won't see the record breaker but they'll still get a treat in having multiple chances to see an outstate star.  A Wisconsin commit, yeah that's a no brainer for this list (Dearring).  The Edina duo of Graham Woodward and Reggie Lynch were 2 of the biggest stockraisers of the summer.  Hooker is a hard-nosed point guard who's a pleasure to watch.  The next big thing in Minnesota ends our list as freshmen stars Brock Bertram and Amir Coffey will see plenty of varsity time and are stars in the making.

10 Events You Should Attend (ordered by date)

1. Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka- Dec 8th
2. Hopkins at Apple Valley - Dec 18th
3. Park Center at De La Salle - Jan 3rd
4. Timberwolves Shootout - Jan 5th
5. Super 60 Showcase at Heritage- Jan 26th
6. Border Battle at Prior Lake- Feb 2nd
7. Park Center at Osseo  - Feb 5th
8. Maranatha at Heritage - Feb 15th  
9. Apple Valley at Prior Lake - Feb 26th
10. Tri-Metro Conference Tournament Championship - Mar 1st

The best event of the year is the Breakdown Tipoff Classic.  This year is no exception and a couple of Wisconsin teams are making the trip across the border to join in the fun.  The regular season's toughest ticket will be Hopkins at Apple Valley in a possible state championship preview.  Expect a jam packed raucous atmosphere for that one.  I love the contrast with the run and gun and quick lineup of Park Center having to go to the island jungle to face the defensive minded Islanders and Reid Travis.  Point guard play of Quinton Hooker vs 2015 star Jarvis Johnson on display there too.  There are few environments better than a full house for a big game on the island.  The Timberwolves shootout features the top 2014 players (Tyus vs Rashad is the showcase) but also features Iowa State recruit Matt Thomas vs Anders Broman along with Iowa commit Peter Jok and top 100 player Clayton Custer from Kansas.  Broman returns to the metro for the Super 60 showcase at the end of the month.  That also features St. Paul Johnson vs Edina in a major contrast of styles.

Then a jam packed last month of the season.  The Border Battle is stacked once again.  Apple Valley vs Madison Memorial is the showcase game but there's lots more than that.  I'll see Appleton West take on De Pere to open my season.  That's a pair of Wisconsin conference favorites who will test their luck here against De La Salle and Hopkins in the Border Battle.  Park Center at Osseo is a matchup that could finalize the NW Suburban championship.  When these 2 district rivals get together the intensity is at a higher level.  Unfortunately the 1st meeting at Park Center is the same night as Hopkins vs Apple Valley.  Then a pair of teams expected to be in the top 10 in class A.  Maranatha returns to the scene of last year's bounce out of the playoffs.  This one could have major implications.  The MCAA North Division title, top seed in the conference tourney and top seed in section 4A could all be on the line.  If Apple Valley gets knocked off in league play it might just be at Prior Lake on Feb 26th.  The Lakers gave Apple Valley all they wanted last year in both games.  The point guard and post matchups are enough to make a fan drool.  The inaugural Tri-Metro title game will likely feature a rematch of 2 of the best in class AAA, De La Salle and Blake.  They also meet at Blake on Feb 12th in a game that will almost certainly determine the regular season champion. 

12-13 Section 7AAAA Preview

This is the 24th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this 2nd to last preview in my 5 week long look at the metro area conferences and sections, I finish my look at sections with predictions in section 7AAAA.  Tomorrow's final preview will be a list of players, teams and games to watch this season.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Duluth East

Predicted Seeding

1. Duluth East
2. Forest Lake  
3. Anoka 
4. Blaine
5. St. Francis 
6. Andover
7. Cambridge-Isanti

There are teams and sections that have down years.  Then you have this section which has fallen off a cliff and will be the weakest in class 4A.  Based on my predictions this section includes 7th in the Suburban East, 8, 9 and 11 in the NW Suburban, 9th in the N Suburban and a possible last place finisher in the Mississippi 8.  At the top by default is Duluth East who lost 3 stars (Woodard, Stafford and Manyang) but still has enough to be my pick to win the section.  Guard Shaq Coleman and Forward Mat Lochner give new coach Rhett McDonald some punch.  Forest Lake returns sharp shooting center Noah Davis but has to find pieces around him.  Anoka, Blaine and Andover are all in rebuilding years as I think they are 3 of the bottom feeders in the NW Suburban.  Anoka returns guard Malcolm Seals which gives them the nod for the 3 seed.  St. Francis beat Andover and Cambridge-Isanti last year.  With the improved Jake Johnson back, I think they can stay off the bottom of this section.  Cambridge-Isanti has youth coming up but lost their top 2 scorers from a team that won only 3 games.  This section could provide the always difficult father vs son matchup if the Bluejackets can somehow draw Duluth East.

Sleeper: As down as this section is you could make a case for just about anybody, but I'm going to take St. Francis.  Jake Johnson inside gives them an advantage over most in the section.

Section Winner: Duluth East.  They have a couple of solid starters back from last year's club.  The rest of the section is down and the 1 seed gets a nice advantage with the bye.  At least the Greyhounds will have a chance to get some more fans to the section semis and finals.  Those games this year have been moved to North Branch.  That makes far more sense than the recent site Elk River did.

12-13 Section 6AAAA Preview

This is the 23rd preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 6AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Hopkins

Predicted Seeding

1. Hopkins
2. Edina 
3. Wayzata
4. Minnetonka
5. St. Louis Park
6. Armstrong
7. Minneapolis South
8. Minneapolis Southwest

This will be one of the tougher sections to seed during the season.  You have an Armstrong team who will finish better in the Northwest Suburban than the seed they get in section.  I have St. Louis Park picked for a road game but yet I think they'll win the North Suburban.  That's how deep the Lake is this year.  Hopkins and Edina are top flight teams in AAAA.  Hopkins doesn't have experience but they can throw plenty of athletic bodies at you.  Edina has a goto guy in Graham Woodward at the point and a big time game changer on defense in fly-swatting center Reggie Lynch.  If he stays out of foul trouble, the Hornets will be tough to deal with.  Wayzata has plenty of quality coming back from a squad that was 1-8 vs conference teams but 18-0 against everybody else.  They also beat St. Louis Park last year in the 1st round of the playoffs (revisit that game here).  Minnetonka has Wisconsin commit Riley Dearring back plus plenty of quality youth.  They also just knocked off Hopkins to close out the Minnetonka fall league.  Don't expect Hopkins to forget that.   South and Southwest will fight to stay out of the cellar.  Keep an eye on the Edina holiday tournament for seeding in this section as Edina opens with St. Louis Park with the winner to likely play Armstrong.  Armstrong also plays Wayzata in the tipoff classic in another game that could determine seeding.

Sleeper: Robbinsdale Armstrong.  They return a bus full of players from last year's squad.  They'll get good guard play from the likes of Nick O'Hara, Cyrus Moore-Brown, Evan Nolan etc.  Konner Goettsche is a 4 man that you have to go out on the floor and guard.  They also have athletes on the wing with players like Jerome Dixon.

Section Winner: Hopkins.  Until beaten the Royals are the pick here.  They'll be young but they still defend at entirely different level than everybody else.  They don't have much size but there's not a dominant offensive post player in the section.

12-13 Section 5AAAA Preview

This is the 22nd preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 5AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Osseo  

Predicted Seeding

1. Osseo
2. Park Center
3. Champlin Park
4. Centennial 
5. Robbinsdale Cooper
6. Maple Grove
7. Irondale
8. Coon Rapids

District rivals Osseo and Park Center take the top 2 spots.  Osseo gets 1 as the existing big dog.  Park Center jumped up on everybody last year.  That won't happen this year as the Pirates should have one of the most high powered offenses in the state.  North Dakota signee Quinton Hooker leads the way but with Isaiah McKay, Treyton Daniels and PSA transfer Devin Buckley on the perimeter with him, they'll be very dangerous.  Champlin Park and Centennial will both be solid.  Cooper is a wildcard.  Maple Grove has some nice pieces coming back with wing Jake Weineke, point guard Bryce Wojta and Eric Olson inside.  That would be interesting to see Champlin Park and Maple Grove in the 3 vs 6 game.  Irondale by default slots in at 7.  Coon Rapids may have another long year so they go 8th.

Sleeper: Robbinsdale Cooper.  Anytime you have a top 20 kid in the country in Rashad Vaughn, that means a team can be dangerous.  Cooper has plenty returning around him.  Remember that the Hawks knocked off Park Center on the road last year in the opening round 2 vs 7 game.  If this group puts it together, don't be shocked to see a run at tourney time.

Section Winner: Osseo.  The Orioles return leadership and clutch play from Bridge Tusler.  They have a quality post in Ian Theisen.  They'll have a scorer in Wheeler Baker.  Add in plenty of supporting pieces and the Orioles have to be the favorite until beaten.

12-13 Section 4AAAA Preview

This is the 21st preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  The final week of previews begins with a look at section 4AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Woodbury

Predicted Seeding

1. Roseville
2. Tartan
3. Woodbury
4. Stillwater
5. Mahtomedi
6. White Bear Lake
7. North
8. Mounds View

While section 3AAAA has contenders for the Classic Suburban and Suburban East titles, the favorites for those titles lie here in section 4AAAA. Roseville returns a ton of guard play.  They also return Jordan Burich and have the expected improvement of Derek Magnuson inside.  As the expected Classic Suburban winner, Tartan slides into the 2 seed.  Woodbury and Stillwater are the next 2 best teams as they both return major portions of their rosters.  Mahtomedi and White Bear Lake were hit hard by graduation losses.  I picked both teams 6th in their leagues but thanks to Zach Lindquist, I'll give the Zephyrs the nod.  That seed will force a very different 1st round matchup as Mahtomedi plays more Stillwater's style and White Bear's guards put them more with Woodbury's style.  Its possible Mahtomedi could make a case for the 4 with a win at Stillwater on December 14th.  North is young but has some returning experience.  That gives them the nod over a Mounds View squad that only has 1 returning player from their rotation.

Sleeper: Stillwater.  The Ponies return almost all of last year's roster.   Note that this crew knocked off Roseville in mid-February so they have the potential to beat anybody in this section on any given night.  They have strength up front with Andrew Duxbury and Matt Anderson.  That will be a difficult matchup for the rest of the section.

Section Winner: Roseville.  Heartbreak hotel last year for the Raiders as they lost an overtime thriller to Woodbury last year in the section final.  This year's squad may be even deeper. With depth at every position, I think they clear that hurdle this season.

12-13 Section 3AAAA Preview

This is the 20th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, we stay in the southern region of the metro to take a look at section 3AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Eastview

Predicted Seeding

1. Apple Valley
2. Henry Sibley
3. Cretin-Derham Hall
4. Eastview
5. East Ridge
6. Rosemount
7. Eagan
8. Park

Apple Valley is clearly 1 and Park is clearly 8.  CDH and Sibley as challenging teams in the Suburban East and Classic Suburban respectively will fight for the next 2 seeds.  CDH with the more guard oriented lineup while Sibley's size will be their strength.  Eastview has Ben Oberfeld inside and they'll defend so hard to move them down.  East Ridge is young but they have a nice core with point guard Sid Tomes leading the way.  Those 2 teams will battle for the last home game.  I think it would be a terrific 4 vs 5 battle in the first round.  Rosemount and Eagan have major losses from last season.  Rosemount's guards, specifically point guard Garrett Goetz, give them the nod over Eagan for the 6th slot.

Sleeper: East Ridge.  Once again I'll perch out on a limb and pick the Raptors.  I think this group is a year away but they have pieces that could make them dangerous late in the year.  Conrad Sexe gives them size against other bigs in the section.  Sid Tomes is a quality point guard.  Plus they have wing options to provide more offensive punch.

Section Winner: Apple Valley.  This is clearly the Eagles section to lose.  With the additions of freshman Brock Bertram and transfer Deidrick Hubbard on the frontline cure last year's lack of size problem.  They have all the pieces.  You have the best player in the section (and some vote in the nation for his class) in Tyus Jones with plenty of firepower around him.  Dustin Fronk, Harry Sonie and Dennis Austin give them scoring and experience.  In their league, they'll be plenty battle tested.

12-13 Section 2AAAA Preview

This is the 19th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  The final segment of my previews begins here as we finish with previews of 6 of the 8 sections in class AAAA.  In this preview, a look at section 2AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Eden Prairie

Predicted Seeding

1. Eden Prairie
2. Prior Lake
3. Shakopee
4. Chanhassen
5. Bloomington Kennedy  
6. Lakeville South
7. Bloomington Jefferson
8. Burnsville

Expect a strong top half of section 2AAAA.  Eden Prairie looks to repeat as section champs after last year's epic performance by Grant Shaeffer in the state quarters.  Shaeffer returns along with junior guard Andre Wallace to provide one of the best backcourts around.  Prior Lake has their own 1-2 punch with Jon Sobaski at the point and Utah State commit Carson Shanks in the middle.  Shakopee is also huge and they return everybody.  Chanhassen loses a ton but they'll have a better year than one may think.  Not to mention the sophomore class is loaded.  That includes Joey Witthus who's poised for a breakout season.  Kennedy will be very interesting to watch under new coach Reggie Perkins.  They have athletes in a section that generally is lacking them.  Lakeville South will be battle tested in the South Suburban but I just don't see how they move up here.  Jefferson could pull a first round upset just by boring their opponent to death.  Burnsville is still in rebuilding mode.  Overall, the teams here (outside of Kennedy) are slower paced grid it out defensive teams.

Sleeper: Bloomington Kennedy.  With Dejon Davis and Jumah'ri Turner on the wings and Travon Hearns to man the inside, the Eagles have some nice pieces.  Add in a coach who's been to the biggest stage and I wouldn't write them off.

Section Winner: Eden Prairie. Their guard duo of Grant Shaeffer and Andre Wallace is too much in this section.  They also have enough size to deal with the big lineups posed by Prior Lake and Shakopee.

12-13 Section 6AAA Preview

This is the 18th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, from the east side to the west side for a look at section 6AAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Minneapolis Washburn

Predicted Seeding

1. Blake
2. Holy Angels 
3. Washburn
4. Richfield
5. Chaska
6. Holy Family
7. Benilde-St. Margaret's
8. Roosevelt

Its another strong year in section 6AAA.  Blake is a top flight 3A team.  Holy Angels and Chaska both look to make runs at the Missota title.  Both have major returnees from last year.  Holy Angels with size (Sullivan and Koontz) along with a star point guard in Jordan Dembley.  They also are one of the top 3A teams in the state.  Minneapolis Washburn is young but talented.  They'll make a run in the Minneapolis City Conference.  Richfield has a beast in Deshawn Jones and a bunch of athletes around him.   Chaska has Eric West inside and a very good guard trio of Justin Arnold, Kolby Seiffert and Jacob Hansen.  Holy Family has plenty of size but struggled last year.  Benilde-St. Margaret's will fall way off this season.  They'll build around Armstrong transfer Jayson Edwards at the point.  Roosevelt will struggle against the rest of these teams.

Sleeper: Holy Family. The Fire was put out last year with only 1 win.  Don't sleep on Holy Family this season.  Their front line will be very good with junior forwards Joe Hanel and Joe Conroy.  Then soph center Justin Dahl is a potential beast.  You know they'll run a disciplined style.  With guard play they can be very dangerous.

Section Winner: Blake.  The Bears have a scorer in Kebu Johnson, length in players like JR Bascom and Blaine Crawford who are both underappreciated.  Add in a quality and experienced point guard in John Veil.  They'll also be battle tested by a very tough non-conference schedule.

12-13 Section 4AAA Preview

This is the 17th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, we look at section 4AAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: St. Paul Johnson

Predicted Seeding

1. St. Paul Johnson
2. Hill-Murray
3. St. Paul Central
4. St. Thomas Academy
5. St. Paul Highland Park
6. Simley
7. St. Paul Harding
8. South St. Paul

Johnson has won this section 4 consecutive years.  Last year the Govs were down and still won the section.  This year Central returns a talented group.  Hill-Murray has solid guards and adds Marshawn Wilson from Tartan.  Guard play is important against Johnson to handle their pressure defense.  I expect the section once again to see a repeat of recent classics between Hill-Murray and Johnson.  Johnson has gotten the upper hand in all of those.  I see this year as Johnson's biggest challenge to return.  St. Thomas Academy has shooters but not athletes.  Highland Park is solid but they too are a notch down.  Simley is improved but I can't put them above 6.  Harding loses a ton.  South St. Paul sees another year in the cellar.

Sleeper: St. Paul Central.  I said in my season preview that they have enough talent to challenge Johnson in the St. Paul City and I still believe that.  Markus Taylor-Knighten is talented enough to be the MVP of the section.  Malik Durant-Haines gives them a post presence that is hard to find.  Plus they have plenty of athletes.

Section Winner: St. Paul Johnson. I can't pick against the champs until beaten.  The winning tradition is in full force at Johnson and without a no-brainer better team, they have to be the team to beat.  Jalen Mobley and Quashingm Smith-Pugh give them a pair of standouts to lead the way,

2012-13 Section 3AAA Preview

This is the 16th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, we begin our look at the large school sections in the metro.  Its off to the north metro for a look at section 3AAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: De La Salle

Predicted Seeding

1. De La Salle
2. Spring Lake Park
3. Minneapolis Patrick Henry
4. Columbia Heights
5. Totino-Grace
6. St. Anthony
7. Fridley
8. St. Paul Como Park

De La Salle is a no brainer at 1.  Como Park and Fridley fill the last 2 slots.  Como Park will likely need to be Fridley in Fridley's holiday tournament to steal the 7th seed.  Spring Lake Park gets the nod from the North Suburban coaches here.  Henry can make that decision difficult if they win the Minneapolis City.  Slots 4-6 could go any direction.  Heights has guards and is athletic.  Totino-Grace has a couple of pieces to build around.  Those neighbors only place once at Heights in late January, winner likely to get the higher seed thanks to the unbalanced North Suburban schedule.

Sleeper: Minneapolis Henry.  They have a goto scorer in Darius Hill and they have athletes.  Those can go a long way in this section.

Section Winner: De La Salle.  With basically everything back from last year's state championship crew plus a player like Sacar Anim breaking into the rotation, they are the easy favorite. Not just here but to win state.

12-13 Section 4AA Preview

This is the 15th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  To end the 3rd week of previews, let's take a look at section 4AA. For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Section 4AA
Defending Champion: St. Croix Lutheran

Predicted Seeding

1. St. Croix Lutheran
2. Breck 
3. St. Paul Academy 
4. Minnehaha
5. New Life Academy
6. Concordia
7. Trinity
8. Brooklyn Center 
9. St. Agnes
10. Minneapolis Edison
11. St. Paul Humboldt
12. International School
13. Great River
14. St. Paul Washington
15. Hmong Academy
16. Cristo Rey

This section is once again one of the weakest around.  No standout team and a bunch of teams that are even.   St. Croix Lutheran has some pieces back from last year's state team.  Breck's sophomore class can be very competitive here.  Last year they were decimated by injury.  SPA has a nice group coming back.  Minnehaha has some athletes which is a rare commodity in the section.  New Life is well coached and has some talent.  Concordia has size and length.  The bottom half of this section is positively dreadful.  International School and Great River are annual EMAC powerhouses but haven't been competitive with the rest of the section.

Sleeper: New Life Academy.  I think they're as well coached as anybody in the section which is huge come tourney time.  They have some experience.  Conrad Engstrom can be a difficult wing matchup. That's enough to make a run in a weak section.

Section Winner: St. Paul Academy.   This section is way too up in the air and even to think about picking the top seed.  This section will be all about matchups.  Come tourney time have good guards is key.  For SPA, I like their guards with Spencer Egly at the point and Josh Gray on 1 wing.  Frosh Dalante Peyton can score on the other wing and Steven Olson gives them a body up front.

2012-13 Section 4A Preview

This is the 14th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In the first set of previews, we took a look at 12 metro area conferences and some independents.  In this second set of previews, its time to predict the 11 metro area sections.  We'll begin with a look at Section 4A.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Section 4A
Defending Champion: Prairie Seeds Academy

Predicted Seeding

1. Maranatha
2. Heritage
3. West Lutheran
4. St. Croix Prep

Charter schools have made a run in this section with the likes of Oh Day Aki, Minnesota Transitions and Prairie Seeds qualifying for state in recent years.  Maranatha has been the other section powerhouse.  Home court advantage in the section semis loomed large last year for Heritage.  They shot the lights out in the 2nd half to knock off Maranatha.  Expect those teams to rematch in the section final.  The next tier also has 2 teams.  I expect West Lutheran and St. Croix Prep will battle for the 3rd spot.  St. Croix Prep could have a conference title and better record but the Metro Charter will get no love from the MCAA coaches in the seeding meeting.  St. Croix Prep's non-conference games at St. Croix Lutheran (last year's 4AA qualifier) in December and Concordia in February will make or break their chances at that 3 seed.    I see those 4 teams at another level from the rest of the section.  Minnesota Transitions, Metro Tech and Four Directions will contend for first round home games.  Prairie Seeds and FAIR are wildcards as you never know who will show up.  The EMAC will get even less love in the seeding meeting.

Sleeper:  Metro Tech Academy.  Metro Tech is new on the scene but as a city school and with a couple of players from Prairie Seeds I think they can play with many in the section.  Their schedule of only 3 home games along with games at Minnetonka and Wayzata means they will take their lumps.  They'll get voted down in the seeding meeting but are a top candidate to pull at least 1 upset (at least in terms of seed).  They're as good a candidate as anybody to be that 5th best team.

Section Winner: Maranatha.  The Mustangs return plenty of experience and have tons of firepower.  Add in the best player in the section in Isaiah Hanson.  That's enough to be picked at the top.

12-13 Independents Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, I conclude my look at the teams around the metro with a look at the local independents.  For a list of all the season previews, click here. 

CHOF Lions (2011-12 season 11-13)
The Lions will have to replace all everything Tyler Strandlund in the middle.  He averaged a double double with 18 points a night.  His departure means a small lineup.  Guards Tate Piepkorn and Darian Warneke also need to be replaced.  Junior Nate Johnston returns to run the point.  Senior Kendall Strandlund is the top returning scorer at 12+ per game.  The Lions are high on their freshman class with Brauc Eckman, Kit Piepkorn, Anders Strandlund and Tim Rohlf. 

Four Directions Wolves (2011-12 season 14-9)
The Wolves lose their leading scorer Timothy Tallman who put up almost 21 a night.  That outside loss goes with the loss of center Kyle Roy and 14.5 PPG.  The Wolves do return 3 pieces in guard Andrew Bigsmoke and 15+ per game.  Forwards Richard King and Marcus McDade return to the front line.  Sophomore guards Nathan Eagletail and Dominique Thompson should see bigger roles.

Metro Tech Career Academy Warriors
This is the former Dunwoody Academy and they're based out of the building last known as Prestige Academy which was once Ascension Academy.  Got all that?  They'll be a quick later.  Last year's Prairie Seeds Academy head coach Jamil Jackson comes over and is the AD as well.  His 2 sons Dominick (senior) and Jamil (frosh) figure to be big parts of the program.  They're also in the backyard of Minneapolis North.  The schedule is absolutely brutal.  They have only 3 home games.  They travel far to places like Nicollet, Carlton and LeRoy-Ostrander to fill out the schedule.  They also play at Minnetonka and Wayzata.

12-13 Tri-Metro Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Blake Bears (2011-12 season 24-4, 15-1 Conference, Tied 1st West)
The Bears jumped up into the elite of class AAA last season.  This season all the stars return.  Wing Kebu Johnson is returns for his 5th season.  He was the top scorer at 16.7 per night.  JR Bascom is long and and elite defender on the other wing.  Junior point guard John Veil also averaged double figures.  Forward Blaine Crawford broke out late last season and will be a major inside factor.  But he's best known for his debate skills so you won't win that argument.

Breck Mustangs (2011-12 season 11-15, 6-10 Conference, 5th West)
The rebuilding process continues for coach Matt McCollister.  His sophomore class will once again play a major role.  Mo Lawal is a guard who can score in a hurry, he averaged 13 a game last year.  Wing Will Culliton averaged 12 a night.  Graydon Kulick is expected to return from a back injury.  The 4 member of that sophomore group Kwaku Bodom played in 25 games last year.  Senior Tilyn Hollis returns after leading the team with 13.7 points per game.

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2011-12 season 6-21, 3-13 Conference, 6th West)
The Centaurs have plenty of players back from last season with Deandre Bell, Jacob Catteledge and Travonte Marshall all returning.  That returns their top scorers.  The lineup always seems to change, can they add stability this season?

Concordia Academy Beacons (2011-12 season 16-14, 8-8 Conference, 3rd East)
Top scorer Zach Osmundson, forward Joshua Falk and guard Christan Koehn all need to be replaced.  Lanky Jared Schneidermann and David Paulson are a pair of seniors who will anchor the front line.  Guard Alex Galloway is the top returning guard.  Look for junior Austin Moldenhauer to step into the point guard role.

De La Salle Islanders (2011-12 season 26-5, 15-1 Conference, Tied 1st West)
The defending state AAA champion Islanders return one of the most talented lineups in the state.  Top 50 national forward Reid Travis averaged 20 a night and is a force inside.  Luke Scott is one of the state's best shooting guards.  Soph Jarvis Johnson returns to run the point full time.  James Lawson is another big body up front.  Shawn Fitzgibbons was a solid scorer early in the year before missing the last month or so of the season.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2011-12 season 15-13, 8-8 Conference, 3rd West)
The Redhawks were poised for a big season with all but 1 player returning, then came the news that almost 23 PPG from guard Gerald McCarver transfered to Coon Rapids.  Forward Kaharri Carter should see his 13+ a night go up.  Thomas Gedion is another front court option.  Guards Jesse Johnson and Evan Taddonio also return.  

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2011-12 season 2-24, 0-16 Conference, 6th East)
The Panthers will play a limited schedule this season and not be in conference play.  They will still participate in the end of season tourney (more on that below).

Providence Academy Lions (2011-12 season 13-14, 7-9 Conference, 4th West)
The Lions had a solid inaugural season in the Tri-Metro and won the most games in school history.  Only 1 piece departs from a team that had 4 double figure scorers.  Ben Ratliff was the leading scorer at 16.6 a game.  He returns up front with Eric Richelsen   Jackson Canfield and Joe Heck will anchor the perimeter play.  Freshman Matt Richelsen will see an increased role

St. Agnes Aggies (2011-12 season 9-19, 3-13 Conference, 5th East)
The Aggies will have to replace the athletic forward duo of Antonio McGhee and leading scorer Dakari Davison.  Junior guard Nick Turch averaged just under 12 PPG. Senior guards Jordan Delaney and Nick Bennett return after a combined 15 PPG last season.  Jack Fossand is the only returning size.

St. Anthony Huskies (2011-12 season 21-7, 13-3 Conference, 1st East)
Forward Anthony Brama averaged almost 23 a game.  Guard Dustin Iannazzo averaged just under 19 a game.  Those will be 2 difficult players to replace.  Point guard Nick Kampa is the top returning scorer at 7.8 PPG.  Tim Rubbelke is the other returnee of note.  Mike Studer will step into a spot on the front line. 

St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2011-12 season 24-7, 12-4 Conference, 2nd East)
The Crusaders coming off an impressive season that resulted in a trip to the state tournament.  5 players averaged double figures.  Leading scorer Cody Sticha returns with 13 points per game.  Guard Jackson Goplen averaged 12.4 PPG and will anchor the backcourt.  Wing Wesley Tucker, shooter Mark Lawrence and forward Mark Olson are double figure scorers that need to be replaced.  Tyler Wood and Lincoln Hochmuth should also see time.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2011-12 season 12-17, 6-10 Conference, 4th East)
The Spartans look to take a step forward this season.  They return their backcourt of Spencer Egly at the point and leading scorer Josh Gray at the 2.  Dalante Peyton is one of the top freshmen in the state.  He was the 2nd leading scorer at 10.7 a game last season.  Harrisen Egly and center Steve Olson also return to the lineup.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. DeLaSalle
2. Blake  
3. St. Croix Lutheran  
4. Providence Academy   
5. Breck  
6. St. Paul Academy 
7. St. Anthony
8. Minnehaha 
9. Concordia Academy
10. Brooklyn Center
11. St. Agnes  
    

Conference MVP: Reid Travis - De La Salle 

Conference Overview:
A year of change in the Tri-Metro.  The schedule moves from a divisional schedule to the old MCAA model.  Its a 1 game round robin with everybody, no divisions.  The top 8 will then play a 3 game tournament for bragging rights.  The bottom 3 + Mounds Park Academy will fill out their schedules with a round robin group of 3 friendship games.  The league is looking to move the championship day games to a local MIAC school in the near future.

De La Salle is absolutely stacked and the prohibitive favorite to repeat as the class AAA champions.  Blake will once again be a top 5 AAA team.  Brooklyn Center and St. Agnes will have long seasons.  The middle of the league from 3 to 9 is going to be a fight.  With only 1 chance against a team, every game has bigger meaning.  St. Croix Lutheran gets a nod based on last year's performance.  Providence beat Breck who beat SPA who played St. Anthony tough.  I can't drop a Dave Bratland team lower than 7.  Minnehaha is more talented than 8th but where do you put them?  Concordia is better than 9th but I can't find a reason to move them up.

Underclassmen to watch:  
Dalante Payton - St. Paul Academy
Will Culliton, Mo Lawal - Breck
Jarvis Johnson, Sacar Anim - DeLaSalle
Matt Richelsen - Providence
Roger Moore Jr - Concordia

Conference Games to Watch

• De La Salle at Blake - Feb 12th
• Tri-Metro Championship - Mar 1st

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Blake at Chaska - Dec 4th
• Blake vs Lakeview Christian - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Blake at Edina - Dec 14th
• Park Center at De La Salle - Jan 3rd
• De La Salle vs Blue Valley NW (KS) - Jan 5th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Holy Angels at Blake - Jan 8th
• Blake vs Hopkins - Jan 21st (MLK Day Classic at Minneapolis Henry)
• Eden Prairie at De La Salle - Jan 26th
• De La Salle vs Appleton West (WI) - Feb 2nd (Border Battle at Prior Lake)
• Cretin-Derham Hall at De La Salle - Feb 16th
• Richfield at Blake - Feb 16th

2012-13 Suburban East Preview

Week 3 of my my 2012-2013 season preview series begins with the 11th preview in the series.  In this preview, a look at the Suburban East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2011-12 season 19-9, 15-3 Conference, Tied 2nd)
CDH loses their standout trio of CJ Neumann, Taylor Montero and Cortez Tillman who were 3 year varsity stars inside and outside.  The sophomore class is absolutely loaded and 4 of them could start.  Donnell Gresham comes over from Tartan as a candidate to run the point.  Versatile Joe Rosga saw time late last season.  Football star Jashon Cornell is a brute who can play inside.  Sam Neumann was the 2nd leading scorer at over 14 points a game as a frosh.  Luke Hamel is a returning banger from last year.  Senior Teddy Chapman is also a point guard option.  Junior Steve Moman saw plenty of time last year as well.

East Ridge Raptors (2011-12 season 9-18, 6-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
The Raptors have to replace also 20 points a night from shooter Justin Pahl.  Nnamdi Nwokolo has to be replaced up front. There's a good core coming back.  Soph Sid Tomes returns to run the point.  The quality juniors also return.  That includes shooter Jake Knupp, forward Brian Ishola and Ryan Mathis.  Senior center Conrad Sexe is the top returning scorer at almost 9 per game.

Forest Lake Rangers (2011-12 season 12-16, 6-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
The Rangers return their top scorer in center Noah Davis at 14.8 PPG.  He's known most for his shooting ability.  Guard Tyler Rosenberger averaged double figures and needs to be replaced.  Forward Anthony Tyler also returns as a forward.  Junior guard Matt Degendorfer averaged 5.6 a game playing all season.
 

Hastings Raiders (2011-12 season 8-18, 3-15 Conference, 9th)
Over the last 2 years, Hastings has lost 31 of 32 to teams in the league other than Park.  The Raiders lose all 8 players who played more than 10 games last season.   No other player saw action in more than 6 varsity games last season.  Juniors Drew Pottinger and Zach Wiese should  join the rotation this season.  Senior Alex Wiese is the most experience returnee.  They will have to find size.

Mounds View Mustangs (2011-12 season 18-10, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Mustangs were the inspirational story of last season.  In hockey lingo, they stood on their heads and sent 45 year coach Ziggy Kauls out on a high note and almost knocked off Roseville (2 pt loss) in the section semis.  Assistant Dave Leiser takes over the program.  He'll have to replace the top 6 scorers.  Junior forward Tim Hanson averaged just under 5 points a game and is the only returning member of the rotation.

Park Wolfpack (2011-12 season 2-25, 0-18 Conference, 10th)
The Pack has lost 58 straight games and 63 of 64 in league play dating back to 2009.  There were no double figure scorers last year.  4 of the main 7 players depart.  Leading scorer Justin Myers will anchor the front line.  Junior guards Sully Brenke and Jordan Pinnix will anchor the backcourt.  If guard Trocon Barclay plays after sitting out last season, that would be a significant boost to the lineup. 

Roseville Raiders (2011-12 season 24-5, 16-2 Conference, 1st)
The Raiders won the league last year and are still loaded.  Wing Emeche Wells gave them a defender and athlete, Collin Johnson was a great glue guy.  Sniper Mack Johnson returns with 16.5 PPG.  Logan Brown and soph Kobe Critchley also return and can handle the ball.  Ben Farmer is a quality point guard who sat out all but 1 game last year due to injury.  Soph Kyler Briggity comes over from Cretin-Derham Hall and saw varsity time late in the year.  He's a lightning quick point guard.  Keep an eye on the chemistry with all those backcourt options.  Jordan Burich had a breakout year last year in the middle, he returns.  Juniors Derek Magnuson and Jake Geyen are other interior options.  Juniors Jacques Parra and Lance Gardner could also see time on the wing.

Stillwater Ponies (2011-12 season 13-14, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
Coach Randy Jordan loses shooter Aaron Nichols and a couple of front court pieces.  Leading scorer Andrew Duxbury returns with almost 14 points per game to lead the frontcourt along with soph forward Matt Anderson who was the 2nd leading scorer last year.  Those 2 will be difficult for league opponents to guard all year.  Junior Nick Ogren also returns up front.  Seniors Austin Holmberg and shooter Sam Lagus return to anchor the backcourt along with Aaron Romportl.

White Bear Lake Bears (2011-12 season 15-13, 9-9 Conference, 6th)
Heavy losses for the Bears.  Top post player Zach Meyer and his outstanding mullet, forward Lucas Allen, wings Nick Weiland and Eric Gebeke and guard Josh Tismer all graduated.  That's 5 of the top 6 scorers.  The perimeter play will still be strong though.  Leading scorer Beau Smit returns as a quality shooter.  Guards Alex Rost and Tanner Hinck will fill in there.  Junior Stevie Hjelmberg should pick up some scoring slack on the wing.  Pat Mulvaney gives them another returning forward.

Woodbury Royals (2011-12 season 24-6, 15-3 Conference, Tied 2nd)
The Royals have to replace 3 of their top 4 scorers in workers Ryan Fritze and Connor McKeen and slasher Ricky Suggs.  Ben Rexroth also needs to be replaced in the middle.  The Royals should be able to accomplish most of that.  Robert Claypool returns to run the point.  Explosive shooting guard Renard Suggs is also back.  Last year's transfers Diallo Powell and Mario Franco also figure into the rotation also with junior shooter Matt Ambriz.  This group is a good group to get out and run with but teams will try to slow them down.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
Roseville is the clear favorite with so much returning at all positions.  I'll go out on a limb and pick Park to break their league losing streak and finish in front of Hastings.  Mounds View loses so much they have to fall out of the middle of the pack.  Forest Lake should be about the same.  White Bear Lake has enough coming back to stay ahead of that group. Trying to pick 2-6 was difficult.  Woodbury is explosive enough and CDH is talented enough to stay up there but a year away.  Stillwater can beat any of them but I think they lack the athleticism that the teams ahead of them have.  Since they've finished 4th the last 2 years, I'll pick them 4th this season.  East Ridge lost to the Ponies twice last season by a total of 3 points so I take them 5th.  I still like their young nucleus.  With a point guard and big returning with their wings, they stay ahead of White Bear Lake.

Conference MVP: Renard Suggs - Woodbury

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Sidney Tomes - East Ridge
• Kobe Critchley, Kyler Briggity - Roseville
• Sam Neumann, Joe Rosga, Jashon Cornell, Donnell Gresham, Brian Lankford - Cretin-Derham Hall
• Matt Anderson - Stillwater

Conference Games to Watch

• Woodbury at Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 18th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Roseville - Jan 3rd
• Roseville at Woodbury - Jan 18th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Woodbury - Jan 29th
• Roseville at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 8th
• Woodbury at Roseville - Feb 22nd

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Woodbury vs Buffalo - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Roseville vs Holy Angels - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Roseville at Minneapolis Washburn - Dec 11th
• Edina at Woodbury - Dec 13th
• Roseville at St. Paul Johnson - Dec 14th
• Roseville vs West Des Moines Valley (IA) - Jan 5th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Eden Prairie at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 12th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at De La Salle - Feb 16th

2012-13 St. Paul City Preview

This is the 10th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  To end week 2 of the series, a look at the St. Paul City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Central Minutemen (2011-12 season 11-15, 7-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Minutemen have plenty of pieces back.  Junior Markus Taylor-Knighten returns for a 3rd varsity season.  He was the leading scorer at 14+ per game.  If he has a breakout season, Central has enough talent to be a threat to Johnson.  Senior Malik Durant-Haines returns as the top post in the league.  He also was a double-digit scorer last year.  Scoring wing Montrell Williams needs to be replaced.  Junior Felix Taylor looks to fill in there after seeing lots of time last season.  The JV squad was loaded last year and undefeated in the league.  Rayeon Williams is one of those who can contribute.  Markyce McAdory is a quality scorer.

Como Park Cougars (2011-12 season 3-20, 2-8 Conference, 5th)
The Cougars lose their leading scorer Andre Schowalter-Perry from a very down season.  The next 5 scorers return for what should be an improved squad.  Wings Keiron Sauer and Mikal Baschnagel lead the way with Wyatt Johnson running the point.  The group as a whole lacks size and athleticism.

Harding Knights (2011-12 season 10-15, 5-5 Conference, 4th)
Can't complain too much about Vern Simmons as coach of the year last year, but Knights head coach Dean Keenan made a great case last year.   Their backcourt of Viseth Kourmarn and David McClain made it go and will be missed.  Their athletic front line loses double figure scorers Earnell Barner and Khiry Moore.  Leading scorer Kenneth Reed returns up front with 14.6 PPG.  Wes Ulmer will fill a spot in the backcourt.

Highland Park Scots (2011-12 season 15-11, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Scots lose 3 of their top 4 scorers including 2 guard Ty'Shaun Williams, Elijah Jackson and forward Nate Anderson.  Point guard Dion Bradley topped the team with 18.8 PPG and returns. Guard Ahmed Musse also returns as a guard option.  Chase Johnson is an option up front.  This group also needs to find size.

Humboldt Hawks (2010-12 season 3-20, 0-10 Conference, 6th)
Khalil Withers and Malique Adams-Virning both return as double-figure scorers.  Dominique Khammarath also returns as a scoring option.  Raheem Thompson will need to be replaced.

Johnson Governors (2011-12 season 22-9, 10-0 Conference, 1st)
The Govs will be deep and loaded as always.  Player of the Year Marcus Marshall is off to Missouri St after averaging 21 points a game.  Quashingm Smith-Pugh had a great summer and is back.  Lanky Wayland Johnson II returns along with Bajuan Adams.  Soph Jalen Mobley will have a bigger role as well. 

Washington Eagles (2011-12 season no varsity program, 5-17 JV)
The school formerly known as Arlington officially returns to varsity play after a 2 year school transition to a technology magnet school.  Good to see that gym back on a full time slate.  Love the history display on the walls.  Senior center Kahnen Gbojeuh averaged a double double last year during the JV schedule.  He'll be the biggest threat.  Senior Al Libby will provide scoring on the wing. 

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
Johnson comes into the season on a 54 game conference winning streak.  The league record is 56 held by Central from 1983-1987.  In a case of outstanding scheduling, the Govs will get a chance to tie that record in the perfect place, at Central on Jan 22nd.  The last time a team other than Central beat Johnson in league play?  Valentine's Day 2006 at Highland Park.  Last conference home loss was to Central Jan 28, 2005.  The bottom 3 in the league are was down.  Central is talented once again but they underachieved last year.  Johnson doesn't have the elite D1 talent leading this season, but coach Simmons will still have plenty of resources.  Highland Park and Harding each have their top scorer back.  The bottom the league has 3 teams who will struggle.

Conference MVP: Quashingm Smith-Pugh - Johnson

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Jalen Mobley - Johnson
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Johnson at Central -Jan 22nd
• Central at Johnson - Feb 14th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Roseville at Johnson - Dec 14th
• Eden Prairie at Johnson - Jan 10th
• East Metro Showcase - Jan 18-19th (at Johnson) 
• Edina vs St. Paul Johnson - Jan 26th (Super 60 Showcase at Washburn)
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 2nd (Minneapolis Champion)

2012-13 South Suburban Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2012-13 Season Preview Series.  In this preview, a look at the South Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Apple Valley Eagles (2011-12 season 23-6, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
There are 3 players back from last year's all conference teams.  The Eagles have 2 of them in Dustin Fronk and some point guard named Tyus Jones who is supposed to be OK.  He averaged almost 29 a night, Fronk almost 16 a night.  Guard Harry Sonie, Forward Dennis Austin, quality shooters Robert Tobroxon and Chris Laymon all return.  They add Diedrick Hubbard from Eden Prairie and Frosh star Brock Bertram to the front line.  That gives them size to cure the last year's achilles' heel.  Definitely on the short list of state title contenders.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2011-12 season 5-21, 2-16 Conference, 9th)
6 of the top 8 scorers depart for the Jags.  Junior Matt Rosen and senior Brian Fritzlar are the top returnees.  Soph Tommy Gathje will likely move up and contribute inside.  Their unwatchable style will keep them in games but won't show up in the win column.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2011-12 season 11-17, 7-11 Conference, Tied 6th)
New coach Reggie Perkins takes over after a very successful run at Minneapolis Washburn.  He'll have an athletic squad to work with.  Double figure scorer Jumah'ri Turner is one of many wing pieces available.  Dejon Davis comes over from Washburn as a solid shooter and defender.  Travon Hearns provides length inside.  Guards Darrian Pittman and Rico Gunn need to be replaced.  Juniors CJ Lewis and Robert Parker could also see time in the rotation.

Burnsville Blaze (2011-12 season 1-25, 1-17 Conference, 10th)
4 of the top 5 scorers depart from the Blaze.  Guards Adam Saba and Eli Rogers look to step in along with soph forward Brett Shepley.  Still can't see them jumping out of the conference cellar.

Eagan Wildcats (2011-12 season 15-13, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Wildcats have to replace most of the roster.  Guard Nick Sabatke and post Shea Mandli are the biggest losses.  Forward Michael Gorder will lead the way.  Mark Woodcock gives a body inside.  Soph GT Johnson projects to be a factor in their rotation by end of the season.

Eastview Lightning (2011-12 season 28-2, 17-1 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Lightning lose all but 1 piece of the rotation.  That includes forward Joey King's 24 PPG and point guard Darin Haugh who was the glue.  Center Ben Oberfeld remains for another year before heading off to Bucknell.  He's the 3rd player back from the all-conference team and also made the all-defensive team.  All the offensive will go through him.  Mark Dwyer is another option.  Ryan Wessell will also join the rotation.  They'll be hard-nosed defensively as always but where will the points come from?

Lakeville North Panthers (2011-12 season 30-2, 17-1 Conference, Tied 1st)
Speaking of everything graduating, that also applies to Lakeville North.  Tyler Flack is off to South Dakota along with frontliners Brett Rasmussen and Ryan Saarela.  A ton of backcourt experience exits as well.  The backcourt will still be solid though with Grant Erickson and Kyrell Newell seeing lots of time last year.  Sharpshooter JP Macura would have played for most teams last year.  Expect him to lead the team in scoring this year.  Bronson Bruneau gives them a presence inside.

Lakeville South Cougars (2011-12 season 12-15, 7-11 Conference, Tied 6th)
The Cougars lose 4 of their top 5 scorers including double figure scoring from forwards Nick Sanborn and Matt Heller. Jordan Johnson averaged over 8 per game last year and should lead this season.  Guard Corey Larson is the other returnee of note.

Prior Lake Lakers (2011-12 season 15-13, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Lakers return their dynamic duo of 7 footer Carson Shanks and point guard Jon Sobaski.  Sobaski topped the team at 13 points a game last season.  The shooting of Evan Kotchevar will be missed.  Noah Scanlon provides another backcourt option.  The front court is deep with Jeff Probert and Nick Hart seeing lots of time last year.  

Rosemount Irish (2011-12 season 11-16, 5-13 Conference, 8th)
The Irish lose 4 of their top 6. That includes all conference forward Matt Nelson and 16+ points a night.  Brandon Forcier also is gone from the frontline.  The backcourt will be solid with point guard Garrett Goetz and Cole Northwick.  The 2 juniors are the top returning scorers.  They need to find front line help.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
Apple Valley looks like a machine right now and that goes all the way back to winning the Pacesetter in August.  They are my preseason #1.  Prior Lake gave them all they wanted last year in 2 losses.  With a star point guard and quality big, have to take them 2nd.   Jefferson and Burnsville take up the bottom spots.  Lakeville North has guard strength and a presence inside, I like them 3rd.  Kennedy's up and down style gives them a chance to be disruptive.  Eastview's defense keeps them in the middle.  That's also true of Rosemount's guards. The league isn't a juggernaut but still as good as any around.

Conference MVP: Tyus Jones - Apple Valley

Underclassmen to watch: 

• GT Johnson - Eagan
• Tommy Gathje - Bloomington Jefferson
• Brett Shepley - Burnsville
• Logan Halvorson - Rosemount

Conference Games to Watch

• Prior Lake at Apple Valley - Jan 25th 
• Apple Valley at Prior Lake - Feb 26th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Apple Valley at St. Louis Park - Dec 4th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Prior Lake - Dec 6th
• Apple Valley vs Park Center - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Waconia at Prior Lake - Dec 11th
• Eden Prairie at Prior Lake - Dec 14th
• Hopkins at Apple Valley  - Dec 18th
• Apple Valley vs Osseo - Dec 29th (Granite City Classic)
• Apple Valley vs Cooper - Jan 5th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Apple Valley vs Madison Memorial - Feb 2nd (Border Battle at Prior Lake)
• Rice Lake, WI at Prior Lake - Feb 2nd (Border Battle)

2012-13 Northwest Suburban Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this a preview, a look at the Northwest Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Andover Huskies (2011-12 season 5-22, 4-16 Conference, Tied 10th)
The Huskies return 3 pieces from last year's squad.  Seniors Kyle Kettler and Connor Wilkie provide experience.  Soph Jake McNallan averaged over 6 points a game last year.  Leading scorer Devon Fellerman needs to be replaced.

Anoka Tornadoes (2011-12 season 11-17, 9-11 Conference, 7th)
Former South St. Paul head man Matt Fletcher takes over for Paul Broberg.  Guard Marcus Tyus averaged almost 26 a night and is now at Nebraska-Omaha.  Senior center Brandon Lindquist also needs to be replaced.  Guard Malcolm Seals averaged double figures and will lead the team this season.

Blaine Bengals (2011-12 season 17-12, 11-9 Conference, 6th)
Huge losses for the Bengals as they lose the top 7 scorers.  That includes 4 double figure scorers.  Joe Robel will run the point.  Only 2 other returnees saw action in more than 3 varsity games. 

Centennial Cougars (2011-12 season 9-18, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
The starting backcourt of Jared Nelson and shooter Mitchell Kuck were the top 2 scorers last season.  33.5 PPG from them will need to be replaced.  Seniors Luke Thornquist and Josh DeWitt will also step into that void.  They also add Pierre Roddy to the backcourt.  He was the top scorer last year for Coon Rapids.  The frontline has plenty of size and experience.  Forward Dan Becken is the leading returning scorer and played well in the Comets Camp in September.  Expect a breakout year from him.  He provides shooting range to go with the big tandem of Quin Peterson and Ben Walker up front.  Christian Malinowski also returns.

Champlin Park Rebels (2011-12 season 18-11, 12-8 Conference, 5th)
Senior guard Anthony Hill was the only double figure scorer and has to be replaced.  The next 5 scorers all return.  They all averaged between 8 and 10 points a game.  Zach Johnson just missed double figures.  Wing Trevor Garrison can score and defend.  Juniors Matt Juneau and Brennan Witt gives them depth upfront.  Soph guard JT Gibson has the ability to score in bunches.  Junior point guard Ian Smith keeps it all running smoothly. 

Coon Rapids Cardinals (2011-12 season 7-20, 4-16 Conference, Tied 10th)
The Cardinals lose 2 starters and the previously Pierre Roddy.  Roddy averaged 14.5 PPG from a guard spot and Omot Okwan averaged almost 13 inside.  They both need to be replaced.  Guards EdDarie and EdVonte Hibbler both return after starting last season.  The Cardinals also pick up Gerald McCarver and his 22.9 PPG from Minnehaha.  They'll have a ton of guard play with questions inside.

Elk River Elks (2011-12 season 14-13, 12-8 Conference, 4th)
Junior Clay Elrod returns for his 3rd year of varsity play.  He averaged almost 18 a night.  Guard Porter Morell averaged double figures and also returns.  Guards Ryan Ness and Tucker Morrel need to be replaced.  Byran Edwards is the only other player with size besides Elrod.  They'll have plenty of guards and looks at 3s.  Their shooting will determine their destiny.

Maple Grove Crimson (2011-12 season 16-11, 13-7 Conference, Tied 2nd)
Leading scorer James Morris averaged over 15 a night.  He's now at league rival Armstrong.  Point guard Bryce Wojta and wing Jake Weinike are the top returnees.  The seniors combined for 24 points a game.  Big man Dan Lochner needs to be replaced along with 2 other starters from their final game.  Guard Grant Kaufman figures to step into a bigger role outside.  Bigs Erik Olson and Brian Fotso will battle for playing time in the middle.

Osseo Orioles (2011-12 season 30-2, 19-1 Conference, 1st)
The defending state champs lose a ton but the Orioles have been in reload not rebuild mode for a while now.  Center Ian Theisen returns after the epic buzzer beater to win state.  Bridge Tusler gives them just about everything from scoring to defense to intangibles to clutch plays.  Those were last year's top 2 scorers.  The rest of the rotation including wings DJ Hebert and Michael Brush along with frontcourt members Will Johnson, Cal Bloom and Bryan Gichaba all need to be replaced.  Junior wing Wheeler Baker will give a 3rd scoring option.  Coach Tim Theisen will plug in the rest of the spots with solid guys like Matt Miedtke

Park Center Pirates (2011-12 season 18-9, 13-7 Conference, Tied 2nd)
The Pirates broke out a year early and this year they look to make a big run.  There were no seniors on last year's roster.  They add scoring guard Devin Buckley from Prairie Seeds Academy to a super charged offense.  North Dakota commit Quinton Hooker makes it all go from the point with 26 PPG.  Wings Isaiah McKay and Treyton Daniels were around 15 points a game.  Josh and Issac Matthews give them an inside duo.  The top 6 are loaded but depth is a question.  That's especially true if there's front court foul trouble.  Keep an eye on that in the matchups vs Osseo and Ian Theisen.

Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2011-12 season 6-21, 5-15 Conference, 9th)
The Falcons had a surprising down year but return a truckload of players who saw time last year and they have a loaded sophomore class.  The top 3 scorers all return and provide senior leadership.  That's forwards Konner Goettsche and Mitchell Biewen along with point guard Nick O'Hara.   Cyrus Brown returns on the wing with surprising athleticism.  Soph Jerome Dixon gives them another athletic wing option at almost 7 PPG.  Fellow soph Evan Nolan will knock down shots.  That doesn't even mention transfer James Morris from Maple Grove (their leading scorer last year).  Inside expect junior Ryan Casperson and possibly soph Sean Burns to see minutes.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Osseo
2. Park Center 
3. Champlin Park
4. Robbinsdale Armstrong
5. Centennial  
6. Elk River  
7. Maple Grove
8. Anoka
9. Blaine  
10. Coon Rapids
11. Andover

Conference Overview:
I like the Northwest Suburban from 1-7 I think these are all teams that can beat each other up on a given night.  Osseo and Park Center are clearly the top 2.  I'd love to pick the Pirates with everybody back but Osseo's tradition is too much to ignore.  Expect a great atmosphere between the district rivals for their 2 meetings.  The next group of 3 is hard to pick with so much returning for each squad.  Elk River and Maple Grove are hard to move down with enough returning talent and last year's record but I don't see them with the same offensive firepower as the others.  But they play hard and defend so you better be ready against them.

Conference MVP: Quinton Hooker - Park Center

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Jake McNallen - Andover
• JT Gibson - Champlin Park
• Elliot Kane - Maple Grove
• Evan Nolan, Jerome Dixon, Sean Burns - Armstrong

Conference Games to Watch

• Osseo at Park Center - Dec 18th
• Park Center at Champlin Park - Jan 22nd
• Park Center at Armstrong - Jan 29th
• Park Center at Osseo - Feb 5th
• Osseo at Champlin Park - Feb 8th
• Osseo at Armstrong - Feb 12th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Park Center vs Apple Valley - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Osseo at Buffalo - Dec 13th
• Osseo vs Prior Lake - Dec 28th (Granite City Classic)
• Osseo vs Apple Valley - Dec 29 (Granite City Classic)
• Park Center at De La Salle - Jan 3rd

2012-13 North Suburban Preview

My 2012-2013 season preview series continues with the seventh preview in the series.  In this preview, we'll take a look at the North Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Benilde-St. Margaret's Red Knights (2011-12 season 27-2, 16-0 Conference, 1st)
The Red Knights lose 3 players to the D1 rankings including sharpshooting Isaiah Zierden (Creighton), versatile forward Sanjay Lumpkin (Northwestern) and forward Will Dunn (IPFW).  Seniors Isaiah Gray, Breion Creer, Danon Briggs and Joe Heck also depart.  The entire roster needs to be rebuilt.  Armstrong transfer Jayson Edwards is a lightning quick sophomore point guard that will lead the way.  Senior guard Sam Hafermann is the top returnee from last year.

Chisago Lakes Wildcats (2011-2012 season 6-22, 3-13 Conference, 9th)
Former Hill-Murray head man Chris Gargaro takes over the program.  He was most recently a Tartan and Henry Sibley assistant.  Leading scorer Per Gulbranson's 13 points a night need to be replaced.  Scorers 2, 3 and 4 return.  Vinnie Gorski's 8.6 points a game tops the returning players. 

Columbia Heights Hylanders (2011-12 season 12-13, 9-7 Conference, Tied 5th)
Top scorer and worker Jordan Mills departs with his almost 15 points per game.  The roster is full of perimeter players.  Deon Stanstad returns at 12.9 PPG.  Kalante Logan and Dominique Galloway also return. Long and bouncy Christian Esko will man the middle.

Fridley Tigers (2011-12 season 12-14, 6-10 Conference, 8th)
Guard Nate Geving and 15.3 points per game need to be replaced.  Fellow guard Michael Murray averaged double figures and should pick up a big chunk of that.  He's the only returning starter.  Amane Akane, Matt Duehn and Nathen Opare-Addo came off the bench last season and should jump into the starting lineup this year.

Irondale Knights (2011-12 season 14-13, 9-7 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Knights have to replace a trio of guards who all averaged double figures and combined for 35 points a night.  Leading scorer Jack Martinek returns after scoring 16.5 per night.  He'll get help up front from Ben Ojika.  3 others from the rotation also depart so plenty to replace for the Knights.

North Branch Vikings (2011-12 season 3-24, 0-16 Conference, 11th)
The Vikings lose Tom Kinsella who led the team in scoring at 10.7 a night.  Plenty of youth returns with double figure scorer Travis VanElsburg leading that list.  Fellow juniors Dylan Dahle and Brandon Thauwald also return.  Senior Cody Knobbe is the top senior returning. 

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2011-12 season 12-16, 7-9 Conference, 7th)
The Hawks lost 5 of their last 6 to end a disappointing regular season and fall all the way to the 7th seed.  But they went on the road and knocked off 2 seed Park Center to start the playoffs.  That was likely a large factor in coach Dave Johnson not being retained.  Assistant Steve Burton takes over this season.  Uber-talented Rashad Vaughn (a top 20 player in 2014 nationally) averaged just under 26 points a game last year.  But no one else averaged double figures and the team was below .500 to finish in the bottom half of the league.  Wing Eric Brown will be missed but most of the rest of the roster is back.  That includes guards Leroy Taylor and Billy Kellogg.  Transfer Troy May looks to join that rotation as well.  Forwards Lavar McCollough, Darrious Denson and Curtis Shelby all return.

St. Francis Saints (2011-12 season 9-18, 3-13 Conference, 10th)
Their only double figure scorer Andy Julkowski departs after scoring over 15 points per night.  Center Jake Johnson showed great improvement over the summer.  He just missed out on double figures last year.  That won't happen this year for the top returning big man in the league.

St. Louis Park Orioles (2011-12 season 14-13, 10-6 Conference, 4th)
The Orioles return everybody from last year's roster and they add Jeffrey Bonds from De La Salle.  Point guard Kashif Hayes is a perfect fit for their dribble drive offense.  He topped the scoring list at over 17 per night.  Wing DJ Pollard gives them scoring at 15+ and defense.  Mahki Moore also averaged double figures.  Zach Gilbert-Burke gives them production inside. 

Spring Lake Park Panthers (2011-12 season 23-6, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
Last year's star Sean Scott departs after averaging over 24 points a game and many highlights every night.  Guard Bryce Williams averaged almost 20 points a game.  That's a ton to be replaced.  The next 3 scorers do return.  Forward Robert Ben is an athletic front court presence.  Guard TC Robinson has the ability to score in bunches.  Guard Gary Cook and center Justin Axelson also figure to be in the rotation.

Totino-Grace Eagles (2011-12 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 3rd)
The conference schedule was impressive last year for coach Kevin Seim's Eagles.  This year all 5 starters need to be replaced.  That includes the inside out duo of 6'9 left tackle Nick Carr and shooting guard Sam Meyer.  Forward Andy Moritko also departs after averaging double figures.  Juniors Reggie Meyer on the wing and sniper Colin Fleming at the point figure to make big contributions.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. St. Louis Park
2. Robbinsdale Cooper  
3. Spring Lake Park 
4. Columbia Heights 
5. Totino-Grace
6. Benilde-St. Margaret's
7. Irondale
8. Fridley
9. St. Francis
10. Chisago Lakes 
11. North Branch

Conference Overview: 
Its the final year in the league for the northern tier of North Branch, Chisago Lakes and St. Francis.  They'll move to the east division of the Mississippi 8 next season.  In a rare feat of conference realignment, I see that as a positive for both parties.  Better competitive balance for the northern schools.  For the holdovers, its a nice 8 team league with all metro teams.  St. Louis Park and Cooper will be athletic and talented.  The teams combine to play 11 of their last 12 games of the season at home.  St. Louis Park only plays Spring Lake Park once which is a major help to their title hopes.  The rest of the league sees major losses so top to bottom I see a down year overall for the conference.

Conference MVP: Rashad Vaughn - Cooper

Underclassmen to watch:  
Jarrette Baptiste - Columbia Heights
Blake Moreno - St. Francis
Adam Buirge - Totino-Grace

Conference Games to Watch

• Spring Lake Park at St. Louis Park - Jan 18th
• St. Louis Park at Cooper - Feb 1st
• Cooper at Spring Lake Park - Feb 5th 
• Cooper at St. Louis Park - Feb 26th
• Spring Lake Park at Cooper - Mar 1st

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• St. Louis Park at Chaska - Nov 30th
• Apple Valley at St. Louis Park - Dec 4th
• St. Paul Central at St. Louis Park - Dec 11th
• Cooper at Maranatha - Dec 18th
• St. Louis Park at Edina tournament  - Dec 27-28th
• Cooper at Hopkins - Jan 4th 
• Cooper vs Apple Valley - Jan 5th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• St. Louis Park at Minneapolis Washburn - Jan 12th
• Minneapolis Henry at Cooper - Feb 8th

2012-13 Missota Preview

This is the sixth preview in my 2012-2013 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Missota Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Academy of Holy Angels Stars (2011-12 season 15-12, 8-6 Conference, Tied 3rd)
The Stars look to bounce back from a disappointing end to last season.  They were looking at a 2 seed and then lost their last 3 regular season games.  That forced a road game at Blake which was their 4th straight loss to end the year.  A surprising finish since coach Larry McKenzie's teams usually finish strong.  The roster is loaded with juniors Jordan Dembley and Delshon Strickland returning outside.  Senior Sam Keis also returns at a guard spot.  Firepower is back inside too with junior center Charlie Koontz and Danny Sullivan.  Those are the top 5 scorers.

Chaska Hawks (2011-12 season 14-13, 8-6 Conference, Tied 3rd)
The Hawks were a pleasant surprise last season still making .500 despite losing 2 star players.  They return 7 pieces returning from last year.   Post Eric West leads with 13.5 PPG.  The starting backcourt of soph Justin Arnold (PG) and junior Kolby Seiffert (SG) also returns.  Seiffert was the other double figure scorer at 11.5 PPG.  Junior forward Isaac Tewes and defending guard Chris Auer are experienced pieces.  Junior Matthew Witthus and soph Jacob Hansen will also contribute.

Chanhassen Storm (2011-12 season 23-6, 13-1 Conference, 1st)
The Storm suffer the heavy losses in the league.  Wing Kevin Jensen's 18 PPG are off to U of Mary.  Forwards Cole Otto and Steven Gitzen are gone along with shooter Joey Stark.  Slick passing point guard Brandon Arnold will be sorely missed.  The cupboard isn't completely bare though.  Jared Lea returns as a defender.   Jack Kozlowski is a front court workhorse.  Soph Joey Witthus is primed for a breakout season after an outstanding summer.

Farmington Tigers (2011-12 season 10-17, 6-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Injuries had a major impact on this squad last year.  Lost 7 of 11 to end the season with one of those wins being a 2 OT win over lowly Northfield and a loss at home to Red Wing.  But the Tigers won at Chaska and beat Holy Angels, Shakopee and New Prague at home.  The top 4 scorers return.  The top 3 are juniors Darren Beenken, center Nick Varner and wing McKinley Bassett who all averaged double figures.  Soph Zach Speikers also returns as the 4th scorer.

New Prague Trojans (2011-12 season 19-10, 9-5 Conference, 2nd)
The front court duo of Sergio Najera and Trevor O'Brien combined for almost 24 a night and needs to be replaced.  Forward Jake Meyer also departs as an inside banger.  Junior Paul Friendshuh was in that rotation last year too and should step right in and fill that gap.   Junior post Michael Soderlund will likely step into the front line as well.  The backcourt is solid with everybody back.  Joe Kneip, Nick Johnson and Luke Rynda make up a solid group that moves the ball well and can knock down shots.

Northfield Raiders (2011-12 season 5-21, 0-14 Conference, 8th)
Center and leading scorer Leif Olson needs to be replaced.  Guard Eric Shepley is the top returning scorer at 10.6 PPG.  Nothing significant in the pipeline that could improve the outlook.  Expect another long season.

Red Wing Wingers (2011-12 season 11-16, 6-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Wingers lose their top scorer Joel Newman who put up almost 18 points a night.  Ryan Parr needs to be replaced up front.  The 2nd through 5th scorers return and are young.  Junior Isaac Toivonen reached double figures at 10.7 a night.  Ty Buck averaged over 9 a game as a freshman.  Captain Ryan Boldt returns for leadership along with junior forward Jon Sevlie.

Shakopee Sabers (2011-12 season 10-17, 6-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Sabers went young last year as there were no seniors on the roster.  The line up is huge with 4 of the top 5 scorers from last year being 6'4 or taller.  That includes double figures scorers John Burlager and junior Tyler Weiss.  He'll play lots outside with his ability to handle and shoot it.  Jake Maiers is a strong inside body.  Soph Evan Hagen returns after running the point last year.  Look for outside shooting to be a key for this squad.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Holy Angels
2. Chaska 
3. Shakopee
4. Farmington 
5. New Prague 
6. Chanhassen 
7. Red Wing
8. Northfield

Conference Overview:
The Missota bounces back very strong this season.  Holy Angels, Chaska, Shakopee and Farmington all return most of their rotations.  Chanhassen's returnees will keep them solid but with all the losses they have to move down.  Red Wing returns 4 members of their rotation.  New Prague's guards are solid and if Paul Friendshuh breaks out they can be very dangerous.  I can see 6 teams all good enough to win at least 7 conference games.  That doesn't count Red Wing who normally would look to move up with 4 pieces coming back but there's too much in front of them.  The top 3 are pretty clear but can be in any order.  Ditto that for the next 3 teams who are all talented enough to make a dent in the conference race.  Particularly Farmington when teams come to their place.

Conference MVP: Jordan Dembley - Holy Angels

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Trenton McCarthy- Holy Angels
• Ty Buck - Red Wing
• Steffon Mitchell, Evan Hagen - Shakopee
• Joey Witthus - Chanhassen 
• Zach Speikers - Farmington

Conference Games to Watch

• Holy Angels at Chaska- Jan 11th 
• Chaska at Shakopee - Jan 22nd
• Holy Angels at Shakopee - Jan 29th
• Chaska at Holy Angels - Feb 8th
• Shakopee at Chaska - Feb 19th
• Shakopee at Holy Angels - Feb 26th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Blake at Chaska - Dec 4th
• Holy Angels vs Roseville - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Woodbury at Shakopee - Dec 11th
• Owatonna at Shakopee - Dec 13th
• Chaska at Waconia - Dec 21st
• Chaska at Eden Prairie tournament - Dec 27 and 29th
• Edina at Shakopee - Jan 4th
• Shakopee at Eden Prairie - Jan 8th
• Holy Angels at Blake - Jan 8th
• Shakopee at Waconia - Jan 26th
• Richfield at Holy Angels - Feb 2nd