Prologue
Welcome to the kickoff of the 2011-12 Minnesota boys hoops season. My trip takes me to one of my favorite restaurants, I mean buildings, for White Bear Lake at Park Center. The Park Center Pizza on the menu and tough to turn down. But the Walking Taco is outstanding and I mixed it properly (an underappreciated part of the enjoyment and taste). It was pricey at $3.50 but Park Center is usually pricey and they won't be accused of being the most affluent school in the Osseo school district so I'm glad to contribute. As to the game its speed and guards for Park Center (Quinton Hooker and Treyton Daniels) vs the inside play of Zach Meyer for White Bear Lake. Will someone cut Samson's hair? I hope not. A teammate gave it a nice tug during the intros. A great opening course with the WBL JV opening up a 25 point halftime lead and then sitting 3 kids for the 2nd half (varsity and they were needed). Park Center came all the way back and had a chance to tie in the last minute before falling 68-62. 3rd Rock From the Sun Guy working both games and he was a major factor. I bring back the Song of the Day for this season and with it being opening night and me being a Phil Collins fan, In The Air Tonight would be fitting but since I'm trying to go with more modern selections this year (Wipe off that grin, I know where you've been, its all been a pack of lies). So with that insane logic out of the way and the fact that this was the 1st tune on the PA system tonight, without further delay, this is my jam, gonna watch games into the AM.
Song of the Day
Flo Rida - In The Ayer
Game Time
Park Center has added Coon Rapids transfer Isaac Matthews and that gives them a presence inside. Josh Tismer at the 2 for WBL with Nick Wieland mostly running the point. This game early was all about fouls. Meyer gets 2 in the first 38 seconds on the offensive end, both touchy as Lithgow is going nuts with the whistle. Daniels gets his 2nd only 98 seconds into the game. Both will sit and both coaches spend the half trying to buy guys time. The 3 JV kids for WBL who sat the 2nd half are almost immediately thrust into the action. Hooker gets off to a quick start making his first 4 shots for 9 points. His 3 gives the Pirates a 13-5 lead at the 14:50 mark. Eric Gebeke steps up big for WBL with Meyer in foul trouble. His play inside and on the glass (both ends). 3 putbacks for him in a 19-4 Bears run 24-17 WBL at the 7:35 mark. Hooker trying to take the game over with a pair of buckets and Gebeke keeping pace. 32-28 WBL with 4 minutes left in the half. 37-32 WBL as soph Isaiah McKay scores for PC. WBL would finish the half on a 7-1 spurt with a nice Beau Smit reverse layup and off a turnover, Tanner Hinck (1 of the 3 JV kids) buries a 3. 44-33 Bears at half. 25 fouls combined. White Bear Lake only 10-18 from the charity stripe.
The Bears continue the run in the 2nd half. Weiland for 3, Gebeke with an assist for a layup, Meyer on the post and a Tismer skip to Weiland for 3 more. Timeout Park Center after the 12-2 run (19-3 in about 4 minutes spanning halftime). 56-35 WBL with 15:30 left. Out of the timeout, a Pirates turnover for a Weiland layup and Hooker smacks the board and gets the T from Lithgow. WBL would miss both free throws and not score on the possession. Meyer with a putback at 14:25 to push the lead to 60-37 but he follows up with his 4th foul (all 4 tough calls) and sits. Hooker struggling with his shot in the 2nd half but Treyton Daniels playing well after the first half fouls. Pirates cut the lead to 18 before a Daniels jumper. 69-53 WBL with 7:10 left. Then in the span of about 2 minutes 3 different kids go down and stay down. Hooker gets helped off after a pretty reverse layup cut the lead to 14. Then another Park Center player is down. Finally Meyer gets a nice lob pass over the top on the SLOB, has an easy layup and goes down in a heap. The left knee buckles and early indications are that he'll miss some time as was helped off and didn't return. Huge loss for the Bears if he misses major time. Meanwhile, Daniels with a drive on the right baseline and the lefty finish going to the basket followed by a pair of freebies. 72-59 WBL with 5:33 and here comes Hooker back into the game. Then a Park Center steal for a basket and intentional foul with 3:18 left. The 2 free throws are no good and Hooker couldn't convert on the possession. WBL misses a front end and Hooker takes to the rack and scores to cut the lead to single digits. 72-63 with 3 minutes left. 19-5 Park Center run over 7:30 with Daniels doing damage. WBL scores the next 6 with free throws and a pair of layups to put it away. 5 late Hooker points don't impact. White Bear Lake wins 80-68.
Post Game
For the record, Mr. Lithgow is a very respected official and worked on an all-star crew last year at state. Its not that he called a bad game, yes he missed a few but overall the calls made sense. He was consistent on both ends calling it very very very tight (as tight as I've seen in a long time). My issue is 2 fold. First, the concept of advantage/disadvantage has to come into play. If there's contact that can be a foul but doesn't impact play, then calling a foul just disrupts the flow. I say play on. Bigger issue is that his partner was calling a very loose game. That just doesn't work well to have a crew that calls the game in totally different ways and it frustrates the heck out of everybody. I'd like to see officials associations or whoever is responsible for assigning do a better job of grouping officials who call similar games and who can work to make each other call the game as close to the same as possible whether that's tight or loose. As most coaches would tell you, just be consistent and then the players can adjust.
For Park Center, Quinton Hooker with 29 points and 9 rebounds on my officially unofficial stat sheet. 20 of those in the 1st half. No assists and 5 turnovers but he had at least 3 or 4 nice passes that could have gone for easy scores that weren't converted. I had him 12-26 shooting with the first 4 and last 2 makes. He had 2 or 3 chances lefty at the basket that just didn't fall. Treyton Daniels all 10 of his points in the 2nd half where he played very well. He's under the radar now but keep an eye on the junior wing. Isaiah McKay also with 10 points. The Pirates visit Columbia Heights in a battle of coaching pals on Tuesday.
For White Bear Lake, Zach Meyer 8 points and 5 boards despite foul trouble and the injury. Eric Gebeke with 18 of his 22 in the first half and he had to have double figure rebounds. Big step up performance from him and he'll need to keep that up. Beau Smit 13 points, Eric Weiland 11, Lucas 10 as the Bears end up with 4 in double figures. They'll be disappointed they didn't put away a 23 point lead with 10:40 to play. 18-34 from the foul line in a game with 45 total fouls (24 on PC) is something they'll look to improve on. Don't sleep on the guards for the Bears. Weiland and junior Alex Rost are a quality point guard duo. Josh Tismer is experienced and can play either guard spot. Smit can shoot and score. The Bears continue their difficult stretch of 5 of their 1st 6 on the road with trips to Lakeville South and Wayzata next week.
2011 Pulley Jamboree thoughts
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Reid Travis,
Tyus Jones
It was the return of the St. Thomas Jamboree but now out in Eagan at High Performance Academy. Having 3 pizza choices, including a 3 meat pizza, is definitely worth noting. Who am I to be unhappy when the Wisconsin/Penn State game was on the TV in the lobby? Good crowd on hand for the 8 sessions. Sessions were 2 10 minute halves with regular timing.
Session 1: Orono vs Rosemount
A hot start for Orono's Brady Wohler as he had 3 assists (2 for 3s) and a pair of buckets to be involved in the first 12 Orono points. Orono took a 17-13 lead midway through the first half but a pair of Rosemount bombs led an 11-3 run to end the half. 24-20 Rosemount at half. The Irish would score the first 6 of the second half to push the lead to 10. Orono made a furious comeback. A putback for a 3 point play cut the lead to 36-35 with 2 minutes left. Orono would get 3 more chances to take the lead and couldn't convert. Rosemount hung on for the 36-35 win. Brady Wohler 11 points for Orono.
Session 2: Minneapolis South vs Hill-Murray
Carnell Sheppard opened the game with a pair of 3s to lead South to a quick 10-2 lead. Hill-Murray would counter with a 7-0 lead to cut the lead to 1. Then the teams traded points for a 18-17 South lead at the half. Hill-Murray would tie the game at 21 and then go to the bench. South countered with a 7-0 run as the Pioneers would score again until 45 seconds left. 30-23 South wins. Carnell Sheppard 10 points for South. Dave Simmet 8 points for Hill-Murray.
Session 3: Braham vs St. Thomas Academy
This game was all about Braham's Tyler Vaughan (MN-Moorhead commit) and seeing some of THE WORLD'S WORST OFFENSE (with all due respect to coach Bob Vaughan). A bucket followed by a pair of 3s for Vaughan as Braham opened a 13-3 lead. 15-8 Bombers at the half. The Bombers hold St. Thomas star Thomas Sjoberg without a field goal and go on to win 32-25. Vaughan finishes with 5 3s and 19 points.
Session 4: DeLaSalle vs Holy Angels
Holy Angels played without their front line of Danny Sullivan and Mike Hudson in this one. 5 all midway thru the first half before a 15-4 run to take control. 22-16 DLS at the half. All Islanders in the second half as they pull away for a 47-25 win. Shawn Fitzgibbons very productive and Reid Travis showing a burst inside and quality play. 12 points for Travis on my sheet. Jordan Dembley 11 points for the Stars.
Session 5: Osseo vs Minnetonka
Behind the post play of Latrell Love, Minnetonka jumped out to a 10-4 lead. Bridge Tusler would counter with 5 in a row for Osseo in the last minute of the first half. 14-12 Minnetonka at the half. An overall run of 13-4 by Osseo across halftime would give them a 21-16 lead with 5 minutes left. Then both teams went deep into their benches, especially Osseo. Andrew Turnblad with a great hustle play for a bucket with 3:16 left would put Tonka back on top and they would pull away for a 31-25 win. 8 points for Latrell Love.
Session 6: Hopkins vs Apple Valley
No Harry Sonie for Apple Valley so a major piece missing for the Eagles. But Tyus Jones would control the half for Apple Valley. He had anywhere from 4 to 7 assists in the first half along with 6 points. Those passes not just for points, but mostly for layups. In the half court, in transitions, right handed, left handed, all the passes were there. 26-23 Apple Valley at the break. Apple Valley would extend the lead to 7 but Zach Stahl tried to bring Hopkins back. He makes a pair of layups and a free throw to cut the lead to 36-34 with 4:20 left. Totally looked like the Hopkins run to put them over the top but not to be. Apple Valley pulls away late and wins 52-38. Tyus Jones 13 points and anywhere from 8-12 assists. So as expected he was factor in a large majority of their points. 11 points for Zach Stahl and Siyani Chambers. Great day for the Apple Valley supporting cast who played extremely well.
Session 7: Park Center vs Tartan
Park Center played without star guard Quinton Hooker who was visiting family in Nebraska. That would make one think this would be a blowout. Not to be the case. Park Center's athletes were effective and overcame some moments from Darrion Strong to have the lead most of the way. Tartan would get a putback to take the lead for good with 2:37 left. A late Strong bucket pushed the lead to 4. Tartan hung on 40-38.
Session 8: Armstrong vs Columbia Heights
Ben Glover on the bench in street clothes for the game. Coach Greg Miller doesn't have much in the way of seniors so Armstrong will rely on juniors and youth. 3 freshman moved up to JV and 3 more to the sophomore squad in a class that the Falcons are very excited about. As you can tell, not much to mention from the game itself. 18-11 Heights at the half and they roll to a 34-21 win.
Session 1: Orono vs Rosemount
A hot start for Orono's Brady Wohler as he had 3 assists (2 for 3s) and a pair of buckets to be involved in the first 12 Orono points. Orono took a 17-13 lead midway through the first half but a pair of Rosemount bombs led an 11-3 run to end the half. 24-20 Rosemount at half. The Irish would score the first 6 of the second half to push the lead to 10. Orono made a furious comeback. A putback for a 3 point play cut the lead to 36-35 with 2 minutes left. Orono would get 3 more chances to take the lead and couldn't convert. Rosemount hung on for the 36-35 win. Brady Wohler 11 points for Orono.
Session 2: Minneapolis South vs Hill-Murray
Carnell Sheppard opened the game with a pair of 3s to lead South to a quick 10-2 lead. Hill-Murray would counter with a 7-0 lead to cut the lead to 1. Then the teams traded points for a 18-17 South lead at the half. Hill-Murray would tie the game at 21 and then go to the bench. South countered with a 7-0 run as the Pioneers would score again until 45 seconds left. 30-23 South wins. Carnell Sheppard 10 points for South. Dave Simmet 8 points for Hill-Murray.
Session 3: Braham vs St. Thomas Academy
This game was all about Braham's Tyler Vaughan (MN-Moorhead commit) and seeing some of THE WORLD'S WORST OFFENSE (with all due respect to coach Bob Vaughan). A bucket followed by a pair of 3s for Vaughan as Braham opened a 13-3 lead. 15-8 Bombers at the half. The Bombers hold St. Thomas star Thomas Sjoberg without a field goal and go on to win 32-25. Vaughan finishes with 5 3s and 19 points.
Session 4: DeLaSalle vs Holy Angels
Holy Angels played without their front line of Danny Sullivan and Mike Hudson in this one. 5 all midway thru the first half before a 15-4 run to take control. 22-16 DLS at the half. All Islanders in the second half as they pull away for a 47-25 win. Shawn Fitzgibbons very productive and Reid Travis showing a burst inside and quality play. 12 points for Travis on my sheet. Jordan Dembley 11 points for the Stars.
Session 5: Osseo vs Minnetonka
Behind the post play of Latrell Love, Minnetonka jumped out to a 10-4 lead. Bridge Tusler would counter with 5 in a row for Osseo in the last minute of the first half. 14-12 Minnetonka at the half. An overall run of 13-4 by Osseo across halftime would give them a 21-16 lead with 5 minutes left. Then both teams went deep into their benches, especially Osseo. Andrew Turnblad with a great hustle play for a bucket with 3:16 left would put Tonka back on top and they would pull away for a 31-25 win. 8 points for Latrell Love.
Session 6: Hopkins vs Apple Valley
No Harry Sonie for Apple Valley so a major piece missing for the Eagles. But Tyus Jones would control the half for Apple Valley. He had anywhere from 4 to 7 assists in the first half along with 6 points. Those passes not just for points, but mostly for layups. In the half court, in transitions, right handed, left handed, all the passes were there. 26-23 Apple Valley at the break. Apple Valley would extend the lead to 7 but Zach Stahl tried to bring Hopkins back. He makes a pair of layups and a free throw to cut the lead to 36-34 with 4:20 left. Totally looked like the Hopkins run to put them over the top but not to be. Apple Valley pulls away late and wins 52-38. Tyus Jones 13 points and anywhere from 8-12 assists. So as expected he was factor in a large majority of their points. 11 points for Zach Stahl and Siyani Chambers. Great day for the Apple Valley supporting cast who played extremely well.
Session 7: Park Center vs Tartan
Park Center played without star guard Quinton Hooker who was visiting family in Nebraska. That would make one think this would be a blowout. Not to be the case. Park Center's athletes were effective and overcame some moments from Darrion Strong to have the lead most of the way. Tartan would get a putback to take the lead for good with 2:37 left. A late Strong bucket pushed the lead to 4. Tartan hung on 40-38.
Session 8: Armstrong vs Columbia Heights
Ben Glover on the bench in street clothes for the game. Coach Greg Miller doesn't have much in the way of seniors so Armstrong will rely on juniors and youth. 3 freshman moved up to JV and 3 more to the sophomore squad in a class that the Falcons are very excited about. As you can tell, not much to mention from the game itself. 18-11 Heights at the half and they roll to a 34-21 win.
Watching a future Badger
Welcome to The Old Kingdom! It's The Czar's 2011-12 Season Opener at Green Bay Northeast Wisconsin Lutheran (GB or NEW for short). The Crown Prince and a cousin of mine and his wife join me for this one. Never a bad thing to be within shouting distance of The Frozen Tundra of Lambeau Field. Tonight's attraction is 6'7" F Sam Dekker of Sheboygan Lutheran. He's a top 40 kid nationally who will play at Wisconsin next season. He averaged 29 and 10 last season and Sheboygan Lutheran lost 4 starters so he's primed for a HUGE season (hint, foreshadowing). The game itself has plenty of meaning too. GB NEW comes into the season as the 2-time defending section champions and these 2 are in the same sub-section. Both are picked second preseason in their leagues so don't be surprised if they meet again in March. Had to duck into the game before halftime to make sure we all got a seat as a full house of 1 side of bleachers was on hand for this one. I had to get a picture of the GB NEW Lutheran Blazer mascot as it was one of the more unique ones I've seen in a while.
Upon arriving, we find that the school's cafeteria is used for concessions and that's never a bad thing. There's chili on the menu so I can't let that pass. A little thick but had some kick to it which isn't a bad thing. Add in a 24 oz Pepsi to wash it down and that's a good enough dinner for me. As to game fare, I didn't have the popcorn but the rest of my posse said it may have been the worst they've ever had. Big thumbs down to that from the peanut gallery.
Game Time
This was the season opener for both teams and the first quarter showed it. NEW gets the first 5 of the game and Dekker misses his first 2 free throws. Dekker would come back with a 3 point play off of a turnover. That was the only Sheboygan Lutheran field goal of the quarter. Dekker missed a pair of bunnies but was fouled to make a pair of free throws for a 7-5 lead at the 5:33 mark. Freshman Jacob Jurss with a pair of freebies at the 1:52 mark for Sheboygan Lutheran and we're tied at 9. Dekker's touches totally gone as there were a pair of instances where he was wide open and teammates didn't even look at him. Very surprising. Sheboygan Lutheran falls apart in the last 2 minutes with turnovers. NEW converts that into an 11-0 run to close the quarter. NEW's Travis Voigt with a pretty up and under to get it started and a bucket at the buzzer to end it. 20-9 GB NEW after the first quarter. Dekker 5 points and 4 rebounds (2 of them offensive boards on the same play).
Dekker comes out as a man on a mission to start the 2nd quarter. He drives from the high post against a NEW zone for 1 free throw and puts back the miss of the other. Then he scores on the post followed by a pullup for 3. He tips in a miss for a personal 10-0 run. After a NEW bucket, he gets out for a huge dunk at the 4:50 mark. 22-21 NEW. NEW not phased as they get a floater, a triple from Voigt and a putback for a 7-0 run. 29-21 NEW. Then a big swing as NEW missed a pair of bonus front ends that could have pushed the lead to 12. Dekker drives at the 1:20 mark for what was almost his 3rd charge of the night (his 2 charges in the half were very questionable). Jurss nails a 3 and converts a steal for 2 more in the last 30 seconds of the half. Those were the only field goals by somebody other than Dekker in the half. NEW gets the last hoop of the half and takes a 35-28 lead to halftime. Easily could have been double digits as Dekker got almost no help and NEW with great balance. Dekker's line at halftime 19 points and 9 rebounds.
To the 3rd quarter we go. Dekker inside on the post countered by a Voigt 3. 40-30 NEW at the 6:52 mark and they take the classic Momentum Killer timeout after the Voigt 3. Whatever was said got the rest of Dekker's teammates going. Dekker gets a continuation call at 5:47 for the And 1 to cut the lead to 42-35. Soph lefty Tyler Zastrow knocks down a 3. Dekker on the post and another Zastrow jumper. Add on 2 more Sheboygan Lutheran free throws and they're within 46-44 at the 2:21 mark. 14-6 spurt in 4:31 since the NEW timeout. Dekker with a putback and a coast to coast 3 point play around a Josh Wheeler 3 and that's a 4 point Sheboygan Lutheran lead (22-8 run since the timeout). Junior Tyler Schaut hits his 2nd 3 of the night for NEW just before the end of the quarter. 52-51 Sheboygan Lutheran going to the final stanza. Dekker's line after 3, 33 points and 13 boards.
Sophomore Dakota Zinser with a foul line jumper as NEW won't go away to start the 4th. 59-55 NEW with 5:40 remaining. Dekker 4 straight free throws, last 2 on an offensive board. Zinser for 3 and a turnover goes the other way for a Voigt layup. 64-59 NEW with 4:10 to go and Sheboygan Lutheran appears to be on the ropes. 66-62 NEW inside of 3 minutes when Zastrow comes up with a huge 3. NEW counters with a bucket and they get a stop with 2:30 to go up 68-65. Then a pair of costly turnovers for NEW and Jurss converts both with a jumper for 2 and then a pass from Dekker for a huge 3 with 1:40 left. 70-68 Sheboygan Lutheran. NEW fouled and they miss another front end with 1:35 left. Dekker fouled and makes 1 of 2 and NEW turns it over again. Sheboygan Lutheran takes a timeout inside a minute to just barely avoid a turnover of their own and Dekker converts it into a driving layup with 35 seconds left. Nathan Claflin buries a 3 for NEW with 27.7 left to cut the lead to 73-71. But to no avail. Dekker makes 2 more freebies and after a turnover adds a layup. Sheboygan Lutheran gets a hard fought road win 77-71. 12-3 run over the last 2:30 put the Crusaders over the top.
Post Game
For GB NEW, lefty Travis Voigt leads a balanced attack with 16 points. Tyler Schaut 14, Grant Glodoski 10, Dakota Zinser and Nathan Claflin 9 each. Their big senior center was in foul trouble for a large chunk of the night and wasn't a good matchup. That means most of the contributions were by non-seniors which is impressive. Take Dekker out of the Sheboygan Lutheran lineup and I thought top to bottom NEW had more talent. Nothing fancy from them on either end. Very interesting that they didn't really throw any bag of tricks at Dekker (e.g Box and 1). Definitely expect them to be a tough out come tourney time in D5. Playing in the larger school Packerland definitely helps too.
For Sheboygan Lutheran, Sam Dekker finishes with 45 points and 15 boards on my sheet (paper says 13 but I'll take my 15). Most of that damage was inside as his outside shot wasn't falling. I had him 1-6 from 3 point range, 14-26 overall. 16-21 from the charity stripe. Only 1 shot that I would say was forced and a very willing passer. Jacob Jurss 13 points. Tyler Zastrow 7 of his 9 points in the second half were big.
GB NEW Lutheran will definitely come away from this one feeling they let one slip away. Considering they had a 5 point lead with 4 minutes to go and had some costly turnovers and missed free throws, I would definitely love to see these 2 teams hook up again in March. I'd expect Sheboygan Lutheran's youth to show strides since this game and NEW to come out with something to at least try to slow Dekker down a tad while they lock down on the other guys.
More Czar ramblings on conference realignment
Starting next season, you've got New London-Spicer and Holy Family joining the Wright County to make 11 teams. Becker leaves the Mississippi 8 dropping that league to 6 teams. So I figured while teams are moving teams around I'd fix some other issues that are out there. Here are some realignment thoughts I had. These should be viewed through the prism of current situations and not overall ideals where the entire map could be redrawn. That said all of my proposed leagues have been checked for enrollments and the numbers do mostly make sense.
Thought 1A: It seems obvious that the Mississippi 8 won't exist for long as a 6 team league and has already talked to the St. Cloud area schools about joining. So that is the big elephant in the room that needs to be addressed first. Here's what I'd do for a new league.
Mississippi Lakes East - Cambridge-Isanti, Buffalo, STMA, Rogers, Elk River, St. Francis
Mississippi Lakes West - Rocori, Tech, Apollo, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, Willmar
The St. Cloud schools want in? I can oblige them. The league wants Elk River? I can do that too despite Elk River's past refusals. Teams would play 16 league games in a divisional schedule with home and home against your division and 1 game against the other division split 3 home and 3 away. This puts the 4A teams on 1 side and 3A teams on the other with Tech as the exception. Look at the rivalries in this league. CI vs St. Francis, Buffalo vs STMA, Rogers vs Elk River in a district game, Tech vs Apollo, Sartell vs Sauk Rapids. Even Rocori and Willmar. Those pairs of teams would be the "travel partners" for purposes of balancing out travel each year. That means you would have only 1 bad cross-division trip a year. i.e. West teams would travel to St. Francis or Cambridge-Isanti but not both. East teams would travel to Rocori or Willmar, but not both. The long travel games would be scheduled for Friday nights.
There are plenty of other benefits to this proposal as well and they impact the immediate metro.
North Central Lakes - Alexandria, Moorhead, Fergus Falls, Bemidji, Brainerd, Detroit Lakes, Grand Rapids
This gives 3 independents a place to play (Grand Rapids, Moorhead and Bemidji) with travel that isn't all that bad. Each team has 2 others that are close enough to play on a Tuesday night (Detroit Lakes to Bemidji is borderline though). So league play would be 4 Tuesday nights (2 in January and 2 in Feb against the 2 close schools) and the last 8 Fridays of the season for long trips. A 12 game league schedule and a holiday tournament means these teams only have to find 8 to 10 other games. Here are the pairings for the Tuesday games.
Alexandria - Brainerd & Fergus Falls
Bemidji - Grand Rapids & Detroit Lakes
Brainerd - Alexandria & Grand Rapids
Detroit Lakes - Moorhead & Bemidji
Fergus Falls - Moorhead & Alexandria
Moorhead - Detroit Lakes & Fergus Falls
Thought 1C: I didn't forget about Monticello and Big Lake from the Mississippi 8. The Wright County needs a 12th team so we'll add Monticello (largest school in the league) and put them in the east division with the other growing schools from the western fringes of the metro. That would make the Wright County look like this.
Wright County East - Holy Family, Delano, Orono, Waconia, Mound-Westonka, Monticello
Wright County West - New London-Spicer, Annandale, Litchfield, Glencoe-Silver Lake, Dassel-Cokato, Hutchinson
Thought 1D: Big Lake would go with neighbor Becker to the Granite Ridge. With Melrose likely being placed in the Granite Ridge by the MSHSL, that would put that league at 11 teams. Of course I can't allow that. Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it so from the history of the old Rum River Conference, I add Pine City from the Great River to make 12 teams. That would cut the Great River down to a perfect size of 8 teams. They'd split as follows with same scheduling rules as my new Mississippi Lakes Conference. Becker and Big Lake go west because of proximity to the interstate and to keep traditional Rum River rivalries in the east.
Granite Ridge East - Foley, Milaca, Mora, Princeton, Zimmerman, Pine City
Granite Ridge West - Little Falls, St. Cloud Cathedral, Albany, Melrose, Becker, Big Lake
Thought 1A: It seems obvious that the Mississippi 8 won't exist for long as a 6 team league and has already talked to the St. Cloud area schools about joining. So that is the big elephant in the room that needs to be addressed first. Here's what I'd do for a new league.
Mississippi Lakes East - Cambridge-Isanti, Buffalo, STMA, Rogers, Elk River, St. Francis
Mississippi Lakes West - Rocori, Tech, Apollo, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, Willmar
The St. Cloud schools want in? I can oblige them. The league wants Elk River? I can do that too despite Elk River's past refusals. Teams would play 16 league games in a divisional schedule with home and home against your division and 1 game against the other division split 3 home and 3 away. This puts the 4A teams on 1 side and 3A teams on the other with Tech as the exception. Look at the rivalries in this league. CI vs St. Francis, Buffalo vs STMA, Rogers vs Elk River in a district game, Tech vs Apollo, Sartell vs Sauk Rapids. Even Rocori and Willmar. Those pairs of teams would be the "travel partners" for purposes of balancing out travel each year. That means you would have only 1 bad cross-division trip a year. i.e. West teams would travel to St. Francis or Cambridge-Isanti but not both. East teams would travel to Rocori or Willmar, but not both. The long travel games would be scheduled for Friday nights.
There are plenty of other benefits to this proposal as well and they impact the immediate metro.
- It chops the North Suburban and Northwest Suburban down to a manageable 10 teams from the obnoxious number of 11.
- It takes away an outlying member to limit travel in those leagues that they're leaving.
- It would allow the North Suburban to go back to a balanced league schedule.
North Central Lakes - Alexandria, Moorhead, Fergus Falls, Bemidji, Brainerd, Detroit Lakes, Grand Rapids
This gives 3 independents a place to play (Grand Rapids, Moorhead and Bemidji) with travel that isn't all that bad. Each team has 2 others that are close enough to play on a Tuesday night (Detroit Lakes to Bemidji is borderline though). So league play would be 4 Tuesday nights (2 in January and 2 in Feb against the 2 close schools) and the last 8 Fridays of the season for long trips. A 12 game league schedule and a holiday tournament means these teams only have to find 8 to 10 other games. Here are the pairings for the Tuesday games.
Alexandria - Brainerd & Fergus Falls
Bemidji - Grand Rapids & Detroit Lakes
Brainerd - Alexandria & Grand Rapids
Detroit Lakes - Moorhead & Bemidji
Fergus Falls - Moorhead & Alexandria
Moorhead - Detroit Lakes & Fergus Falls
Thought 1C: I didn't forget about Monticello and Big Lake from the Mississippi 8. The Wright County needs a 12th team so we'll add Monticello (largest school in the league) and put them in the east division with the other growing schools from the western fringes of the metro. That would make the Wright County look like this.
Wright County East - Holy Family, Delano, Orono, Waconia, Mound-Westonka, Monticello
Wright County West - New London-Spicer, Annandale, Litchfield, Glencoe-Silver Lake, Dassel-Cokato, Hutchinson
Thought 1D: Big Lake would go with neighbor Becker to the Granite Ridge. With Melrose likely being placed in the Granite Ridge by the MSHSL, that would put that league at 11 teams. Of course I can't allow that. Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it so from the history of the old Rum River Conference, I add Pine City from the Great River to make 12 teams. That would cut the Great River down to a perfect size of 8 teams. They'd split as follows with same scheduling rules as my new Mississippi Lakes Conference. Becker and Big Lake go west because of proximity to the interstate and to keep traditional Rum River rivalries in the east.
Granite Ridge East - Foley, Milaca, Mora, Princeton, Zimmerman, Pine City
Granite Ridge West - Little Falls, St. Cloud Cathedral, Albany, Melrose, Becker, Big Lake
11-12 Sections 4A-4AA Preview
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11-12 Season Previews
This is the 23rd and final preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. We finish with a look at the little guys. Its time to preview sections 4AA and 4A.
For a list
of all
the season previews, click here.
Section 4AA
Defending Champion: Minnehaha
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Breck. Coach Matt McCollister has a group of 4 talented freshmen. They'll take some lumps early but with a year under their belt, come tourney time they will be a tough out.
Section Winner: Concordia. Post Cutler Finneman is too much inside and he'll have help.
Section 4A
Defending Champion: Maranatha
I won't bother with seeding predictions because you never know who will actually play come section time. 23 teams are listed but I'll be surprised if more than 19 actually play. Big story is the move of Minneapolis North into the section from 6AAAA. The 2 favorites have to be Maranatha and Prairie Seeds Academy. Garrison Gillard joins an already talented class at Maranatha and should have a big year. Gage Deis joins Prairie Seeds and will be the top post in the section. Heritage and Minnesota Transitions are 2 other teams I'm keeping an eye on. Heritage has plenty returning from a 19-9 squad. MTS won't be a juggernaut likes years past but will still have plenty to work with in forward David Wallendorf, wing Terrence Lofton and post Tevin Simms. North, Legacy, CHOF, West Lutheran, Four Directions, FAIR, PACT and St. Croix Prep should make up the best of the rest in no particular order. Ben Freeby (Legacy), Kyle Roy (Four Directions) and Tyler Strandlund (CHOF) are posts that will need to be prepared for.
Sleeper: Minnesota Transitions. I see most sleeping on the Wolves with a Noreen no longer on the roster.
Section Winner: Maranatha. I see too much talent and tradition there to pick against the Mustangs.
Section 4AA
Defending Champion: Minnehaha
Predicted Seeding
- Concordia
- Minnehaha
- Trinity
- St. Croix Lutheran
- St. Agnes
- Breck
- St. Paul Academy
- New Life Academy
- Minneapolis Edison
- St. Paul Humboldt
- Brooklyn Center
- Mounds Park Academy
- International School
- Great River
- Hmong Academy
Sleeper: Breck. Coach Matt McCollister has a group of 4 talented freshmen. They'll take some lumps early but with a year under their belt, come tourney time they will be a tough out.
Section Winner: Concordia. Post Cutler Finneman is too much inside and he'll have help.
Section 4A
Defending Champion: Maranatha
I won't bother with seeding predictions because you never know who will actually play come section time. 23 teams are listed but I'll be surprised if more than 19 actually play. Big story is the move of Minneapolis North into the section from 6AAAA. The 2 favorites have to be Maranatha and Prairie Seeds Academy. Garrison Gillard joins an already talented class at Maranatha and should have a big year. Gage Deis joins Prairie Seeds and will be the top post in the section. Heritage and Minnesota Transitions are 2 other teams I'm keeping an eye on. Heritage has plenty returning from a 19-9 squad. MTS won't be a juggernaut likes years past but will still have plenty to work with in forward David Wallendorf, wing Terrence Lofton and post Tevin Simms. North, Legacy, CHOF, West Lutheran, Four Directions, FAIR, PACT and St. Croix Prep should make up the best of the rest in no particular order. Ben Freeby (Legacy), Kyle Roy (Four Directions) and Tyler Strandlund (CHOF) are posts that will need to be prepared for.
Sleeper: Minnesota Transitions. I see most sleeping on the Wolves with a Noreen no longer on the roster.
Section Winner: Maranatha. I see too much talent and tradition there to pick against the Mustangs.
11-12 Section 3AAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 22nd preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. In this preview, we look at our final class AAA section. Its off to the north metro for a look at section 3. For a list
of all
the season previews, click here.
Defending Champion: Columbia Heights
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: St Anthony. Coach Dave Bratland gets his guys to play as hard as anyone and makes sure his top guys get the shots. Add in a goto scorer who can get points inside against a section that has very little size and I see a sleeper.
Section Winner: DeLaSalle. They come out of another tough game to win the section. But don't ignore the experience at Spring Lake Park. Columbia Heights is a serious threat with a big time scorer and a ton of athletic bodies. If they can force opponents to play their frenetic style, they'll have a great shot to return to state.
Defending Champion: Columbia Heights
Predicted Seeding
- DeLaSalle
- Spring Lake Park
- Columbia Heights
- Minneapolis Patrick Henry
- St. Anthony
- Totino-Grace
- St. Paul Como Park
- Fridley
Sleeper: St Anthony. Coach Dave Bratland gets his guys to play as hard as anyone and makes sure his top guys get the shots. Add in a goto scorer who can get points inside against a section that has very little size and I see a sleeper.
Section Winner: DeLaSalle. They come out of another tough game to win the section. But don't ignore the experience at Spring Lake Park. Columbia Heights is a serious threat with a big time scorer and a ton of athletic bodies. If they can force opponents to play their frenetic style, they'll have a great shot to return to state.
11-12 Section 4AAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 21st preview in my 2011-2012
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
Sleeper: Hill-Murray. I totally missed on Hill-Murray last year picking them 5th in league (went 16-0). Nobody in the section has a matchup for center Dave Simmet. Their 2-3 zone gives people fits and Dick Ghizoni is a very underrated coach. Beating good Tartan teams 4 straight times isn't to be ignored. Side Note: Johnson has knocked Hill-Murray out of the playoffs the last 4 years but at least 2 of those have been very good games. Could very likely happen again this season.
Section Winner: St. Paul Johnson. They've been there and done that with 3 straight titles. I think they're too athletic for the rest of the section.
Defending Champion: St. Paul Johnson
Predicted Seeding
- St. Paul Johnson
- St. Thomas Academy
- St. Paul Central
- Hill-Murray
- St. Paul Highland Park
- Simley
- St. Paul Harding
- South St. Paul
Sleeper: Hill-Murray. I totally missed on Hill-Murray last year picking them 5th in league (went 16-0). Nobody in the section has a matchup for center Dave Simmet. Their 2-3 zone gives people fits and Dick Ghizoni is a very underrated coach. Beating good Tartan teams 4 straight times isn't to be ignored. Side Note: Johnson has knocked Hill-Murray out of the playoffs the last 4 years but at least 2 of those have been very good games. Could very likely happen again this season.
Section Winner: St. Paul Johnson. They've been there and done that with 3 straight titles. I think they're too athletic for the rest of the section.
11-12 Section 6AAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 20th preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. In this preview, we move down a class and start looking at class AAA. We'll start with section 6. For a list of all
the season previews, click here.
Defending Champion: Waconia
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Blake. As mentioned, I think they would have been a real contender in 4AA. Junior forward Kebu Johnson is back for what seems like his 700th season as the goto guy. Soph point guard John Veil is under the radar now but won't be for long.
Section Winner: Benilde-St. Margaret's. I like the matchup against Washburn or Richfield so that's a part of it. Main reason is to make up for last year's loss in the section final. There's still 3 D1 kids there and they'll always be able to find quality role kids.
Defending Champion: Waconia
Predicted Seeding
- Benilde-St. Margaret's
- Washburn
- Richfield
- Holy Family
- Blake
- Chaska
- Holy Angels
- Roosevelt
Sleeper: Blake. As mentioned, I think they would have been a real contender in 4AA. Junior forward Kebu Johnson is back for what seems like his 700th season as the goto guy. Soph point guard John Veil is under the radar now but won't be for long.
Section Winner: Benilde-St. Margaret's. I like the matchup against Washburn or Richfield so that's a part of it. Main reason is to make up for last year's loss in the section final. There's still 3 D1 kids there and they'll always be able to find quality role kids.
11-12 Section 3AAAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews,
Joey King,
Tyus Jones
This is the 19th preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. In this preview, a look at section 3AAAA. For a list of all
the season previews, click here.
Defending Champion: Lakeville South
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: East Ridge. With shooter Justin Pahl and the development of freshman Sidney Tomes at the point there's enough here to pay attention to. Plus they have no games against the South Suburban which makes them a better sleeper than Rosemount (who would play those teams twice).
Section Winner: Eastview. I think they're too big across the front line and they have a star to ride in Joey King. Apple Valley is scary with Tyus Jones able to go off on any given night but come section final time, teams will make others beat them and I'm not sure the Eagles have enough other firepower to do that in a big time game.
Defending Champion: Lakeville South
Predicted Seeding
- Eastview
- Apple Valley
- Cretin-Derham Hall
- Eagan
- East Ridge
- Rosemount
- Henry Sibley
- Park
Sleeper: East Ridge. With shooter Justin Pahl and the development of freshman Sidney Tomes at the point there's enough here to pay attention to. Plus they have no games against the South Suburban which makes them a better sleeper than Rosemount (who would play those teams twice).
Section Winner: Eastview. I think they're too big across the front line and they have a star to ride in Joey King. Apple Valley is scary with Tyus Jones able to go off on any given night but come section final time, teams will make others beat them and I'm not sure the Eagles have enough other firepower to do that in a big time game.
11-12 Section 2AAAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 18th preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. In this preview, a look at section 2AAAA. For a list of all
the season previews, click here.
Defending Champion: Eden Prairie
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Prior Lake. They have a quality point guard in Jon Sobaski and a pair of twin towers in Carson Shanks and Jeff Probert to throw at you. Add in experience with Jack Harrison and an entire season of playing together and come tourney time I think they have a chance against anybody in the section.
Section Winner: Eden Prairie. The tradition rolls on and they're the most complete team. They defend, have quality guard play with Grant Schaeffer and Sander Mohn, and enough size and athletes to go with that to put together another state run.
Defending Champion: Eden Prairie
Predicted Seeding
- Eden Prairie
- Chanhassen
- Bloomington Kennedy
- Lakeville South
- Shakopee
- Prior Lake
- Bloomington Jefferson
- Burnsville
Sleeper: Prior Lake. They have a quality point guard in Jon Sobaski and a pair of twin towers in Carson Shanks and Jeff Probert to throw at you. Add in experience with Jack Harrison and an entire season of playing together and come tourney time I think they have a chance against anybody in the section.
Section Winner: Eden Prairie. The tradition rolls on and they're the most complete team. They defend, have quality guard play with Grant Schaeffer and Sander Mohn, and enough size and athletes to go with that to put together another state run.
11-12 Section 4AAAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 17th preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. In this preview, a look at section 4AAAA. For a list of all
the season previews, click here.
Defending Champion: Cretin-Derham Hall
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Woodbury. I had to pick them 4th here because of my conference selections but I'm already reconsidering that pick. I'm very high on the Royals. They have 4 top kids from last year returning plus a pair of transfers who can immediately contribute. They have plenty of offensive firepower and if they can get out and run where Ricky Suggs is a scorer, they'll be tough to handle.
Section Winner: Tartan. The Titans have lost heartbreakers to Cretin-Derham Hall the last 2 years and haven't made a state trip since 2005. With CDH out of the section and no post factor in the section besides Zach Meyer to exploit them inside, I see Tartan getting back to state.
Defending Champion: Cretin-Derham Hall
Predicted Seeding
- Tartan
- Roseville
- White Bear Lake
- Woodbury
- Stillwater
- North
- Mahtomedi
- Mounds View
Sleeper: Woodbury. I had to pick them 4th here because of my conference selections but I'm already reconsidering that pick. I'm very high on the Royals. They have 4 top kids from last year returning plus a pair of transfers who can immediately contribute. They have plenty of offensive firepower and if they can get out and run where Ricky Suggs is a scorer, they'll be tough to handle.
Section Winner: Tartan. The Titans have lost heartbreakers to Cretin-Derham Hall the last 2 years and haven't made a state trip since 2005. With CDH out of the section and no post factor in the section besides Zach Meyer to exploit them inside, I see Tartan getting back to state.
11-12 Section 5AAAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews,
Rashad Vaughn
This is the 16th preview in my 2011-2012
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
Sleeper: Centennial. Lots of teams who could surprise but who ever the 5 seed ends up being is very dangerous. Mitchell Kuck when hot can get 30 from deep. Jared Nelson returns to run the point and they have size. If its Cooper, Rashad Vaughn could put the team on his back. Champlin Park would be far more talented than the average 5 seed.
Section Winner: Osseo. Too much talent, experience and tradition. Ian Theisen and Bryan Gichaba inside. Bridge Tusler is a warrior on the wing. Michael Brush can knock down shots. DJ Hebert and Will Johnson from the football are tough.
Defending Champion: Osseo
Predicted Seeding
- Osseo
- Maple Grove
- Champlin Park
- Robbinsdale Cooper
- Centennial
- Park Center
- Irondale
- Coon Rapids
Sleeper: Centennial. Lots of teams who could surprise but who ever the 5 seed ends up being is very dangerous. Mitchell Kuck when hot can get 30 from deep. Jared Nelson returns to run the point and they have size. If its Cooper, Rashad Vaughn could put the team on his back. Champlin Park would be far more talented than the average 5 seed.
Section Winner: Osseo. Too much talent, experience and tradition. Ian Theisen and Bryan Gichaba inside. Bridge Tusler is a warrior on the wing. Michael Brush can knock down shots. DJ Hebert and Will Johnson from the football are tough.
11-12 Section 6AAAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 15th preview in my 2011-2012
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
Sleeper: St. Louis Park. With a no-brainer favorite, picking a sleeper is a bit crazy but if I have to pick one its the Orioles. With Kashif Hayes running the dribble drive and another scorer in DJ Pollard on the wing they can be a handful to defend. The other Lake teams are dangerous but too much familiarity to pick Wayzata or Edina as a sleeper.
Section Winner: Minneapolis Southwest. Who else is there? Of course Hopkins is the pick here. As the preseason favorite to repeat anything less than a return to defend their crown would be a disappointment. Too much firepower at the guard slots, too well coached and their intensity is just at another level.
Defending Champion: Hopkins
Predicted Seeding
- Hopkins
- Minnetonka
- Edina
- St. Louis Park
- Wayzata
- Armstrong
- Minneapolis South
- Minneapolis Southwest
Sleeper: St. Louis Park. With a no-brainer favorite, picking a sleeper is a bit crazy but if I have to pick one its the Orioles. With Kashif Hayes running the dribble drive and another scorer in DJ Pollard on the wing they can be a handful to defend. The other Lake teams are dangerous but too much familiarity to pick Wayzata or Edina as a sleeper.
Section Winner: Minneapolis Southwest. Who else is there? Of course Hopkins is the pick here. As the preseason favorite to repeat anything less than a return to defend their crown would be a disappointment. Too much firepower at the guard slots, too well coached and their intensity is just at another level.
11-12 Section 7AAAA Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 14th preview in my 2011-2012
season preview series. In this preview, I start my look at the metro area sections. For variety sake, we'll do these in reverse order starting with section 7AAAA. For a list of all
the season previews, click here.
Defending Champion: Duluth East
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Anoka. The Tornadoes as my 2 seed normally wouldn't qualify here but since Duluth East gets knocked down I'll make an exception. Quality guard play is never a bad thing come playoff time and Anoka has that. Malcolm Seals should have a breakout year and be able to run the offense. Marcus Tyus is talented enough to carry an offense so if he gets it going he could lead them through the section.
Section Winner: Duluth East. Assuming Johnny Woodard is healthy for the tournament, him and Taylor Stafford are the best duo in the section. Just too much for the rest of the section to handle. Add in 2 straight years in the section final and last year's win and I won't pick against the champs.
Defending Champion: Duluth East
Predicted Seeding
- Blaine
- Anoka
- Duluth East
- Forest Lake
- Andover
- Cambridge-Isanti
- St. Francis
Sleeper: Anoka. The Tornadoes as my 2 seed normally wouldn't qualify here but since Duluth East gets knocked down I'll make an exception. Quality guard play is never a bad thing come playoff time and Anoka has that. Malcolm Seals should have a breakout year and be able to run the offense. Marcus Tyus is talented enough to carry an offense so if he gets it going he could lead them through the section.
Section Winner: Duluth East. Assuming Johnny Woodard is healthy for the tournament, him and Taylor Stafford are the best duo in the section. Just too much for the rest of the section to handle. Add in 2 straight years in the section final and last year's win and I won't pick against the champs.
11-12 The Rest Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 13th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series. In
this preview, I conclude my look at the teams around the metro with a look at a couple of local independents and then some quick thoughts on the EMAC, Wright County and Mississippi 8. Did you miss any of the conference previews? For a
list of all the season previews, click here. Coming next week predictions for the metro area sections.
CHOF Lions (2010-11 season 5-17)
Senior center Tyler Strandlund remains one of the top 1 bands in the state. Last year he averaged 21 points and 15 boards a night. But he's the only person with any size on a tiny roster. Guard Adam Rohlf is gone but the rest of a short rotation returns. Shooting guard Tate Piepkorn put up 14 a night last season. Junior Kendall Strandlund missed time last year with an injured wrist but almost reached double figures in scoring. Soph Nate Johnston will run the point and his play will be a major barometer for the Lions.
Four Directions Wolves (2010-11 season 16-8)
They lose a couple of high scoring guards including 26.2 a night from James Red Eagle. But 6'9 big man Kyle Roy returns in the middle as a major double-double threat and soph guard Gus Christianson and Marcus McDade return.
Eastern Minnesota Athletic Conference Thoughts
Apologies to the EMAC as I don't have enough to go on to even begin to look at the little guys but 2 quick bits from the 1 league game I saw last year. International School does have 2 of their top 3 back including soph guard Ethan Forney. Loss of Omar Bushara will hurt but coach Shun Tillman figures to keep the Huskies in contention for the league crown along with Great River. Calvin Christian was 13-9 and in the middle of the EMAC pack. They return their top player center Ben Stephens.
Wright County Conference Thoughts
Big losses in the Wright County as Jordan Smith (Orono), Mike Yahnke (Delano) and Shelby Moats (Waconia) all moved up to the D1 level. Most of Orono's rotation except Brady Wohler is gone. Anthonie Tholey will play a much bigger role. Waconia has some nice pieces returning with Wylie Ferron, Alex Chandler, Tommy Gove, Matt Rachey and Alex Schmitt. Schmitt being the only senior in that group. Delano also returns a nice core despite losing Yahnke. Grayson Pulis is a big body in the middle. Junior Zach Checkal had a nice season for them last year along with Toby Hanson. Then you have the league's top player Nate Kratch (Santa Clara signee) returning at Watertown-Mayer as 3 of their top 5 scorers return. So I think that has to be the top group of teams. Annandale loses star forward James Fort but returns shooter Brett Ahsenmacher. Mound-Westonka needs to replace the duo of Matt Daoust and Dan Flesher but returns shooter Collin Host. Ethan Maass returns to lead Glencoe-Silver Lake. Zach Miner returns for Hutchinson but they lose their top 4 scorers including guards Adam Hjelter and Trent Kucera. Litchfield returns their top 3 scorers so they look to jump into the top half.
Mississippi 8 Conference Thoughts
The league takes a hit with state qualifier Zimmerman and Princeton leaving for the new Granite Ridge Conference. Defending champ Buffalo loses their top 2 scorers including sniper Andy Ortmann but junior Ethan Freer and Dominic Gilmer are 2 core pieces coming back along with Caleb Ruter. St. Michael-Albertville loses their star Joe Carpenter (top scorer and rebounder) and his sick athleticism. The starting guards Michael Wiese and Michael Mooney both return and center Herbert Tarpeh should give them productive minutes. Continuing down the road toward the metro, Rogers loses post Rory Donovan (16 a night), forwards Trevor Morlock and Trevor Berkley and point guard RJ Dean. Post Michael Schreiber will be the goto guy after a nice summer. Forward Josh Turnquist is a nice fit with him to stretch the defense. Austin Barbeln and Chase Cleveland will man guard spots. Big Lake loses their top 3 scorers including point guard Michael Stevens. Soph Austin Poe is the top returning scorer. The top 5 scorers at Monticello are gone including posts Kevin Flesch and Anthony Svaavedra. Junior guards Ryan Tuffs and Hayden Laimer will lead the way. Becker leaves for the Granite Ridge next year and looks to go out with a bang behind forward Damien Reinke and his 19 a night. But they lose a ton of people after him Ryan Rosenberg returns to lead Cambridge-Isanti. They lose shooter Ted Lutterman who was their only double figure scorer last season. Soph Matt Swanson saw action in over 20 games last year.
CHOF Lions (2010-11 season 5-17)
Senior center Tyler Strandlund remains one of the top 1 bands in the state. Last year he averaged 21 points and 15 boards a night. But he's the only person with any size on a tiny roster. Guard Adam Rohlf is gone but the rest of a short rotation returns. Shooting guard Tate Piepkorn put up 14 a night last season. Junior Kendall Strandlund missed time last year with an injured wrist but almost reached double figures in scoring. Soph Nate Johnston will run the point and his play will be a major barometer for the Lions.
Four Directions Wolves (2010-11 season 16-8)
They lose a couple of high scoring guards including 26.2 a night from James Red Eagle. But 6'9 big man Kyle Roy returns in the middle as a major double-double threat and soph guard Gus Christianson and Marcus McDade return.
Eastern Minnesota Athletic Conference Thoughts
Apologies to the EMAC as I don't have enough to go on to even begin to look at the little guys but 2 quick bits from the 1 league game I saw last year. International School does have 2 of their top 3 back including soph guard Ethan Forney. Loss of Omar Bushara will hurt but coach Shun Tillman figures to keep the Huskies in contention for the league crown along with Great River. Calvin Christian was 13-9 and in the middle of the EMAC pack. They return their top player center Ben Stephens.
Wright County Conference Thoughts
Big losses in the Wright County as Jordan Smith (Orono), Mike Yahnke (Delano) and Shelby Moats (Waconia) all moved up to the D1 level. Most of Orono's rotation except Brady Wohler is gone. Anthonie Tholey will play a much bigger role. Waconia has some nice pieces returning with Wylie Ferron, Alex Chandler, Tommy Gove, Matt Rachey and Alex Schmitt. Schmitt being the only senior in that group. Delano also returns a nice core despite losing Yahnke. Grayson Pulis is a big body in the middle. Junior Zach Checkal had a nice season for them last year along with Toby Hanson. Then you have the league's top player Nate Kratch (Santa Clara signee) returning at Watertown-Mayer as 3 of their top 5 scorers return. So I think that has to be the top group of teams. Annandale loses star forward James Fort but returns shooter Brett Ahsenmacher. Mound-Westonka needs to replace the duo of Matt Daoust and Dan Flesher but returns shooter Collin Host. Ethan Maass returns to lead Glencoe-Silver Lake. Zach Miner returns for Hutchinson but they lose their top 4 scorers including guards Adam Hjelter and Trent Kucera. Litchfield returns their top 3 scorers so they look to jump into the top half.
Mississippi 8 Conference Thoughts
The league takes a hit with state qualifier Zimmerman and Princeton leaving for the new Granite Ridge Conference. Defending champ Buffalo loses their top 2 scorers including sniper Andy Ortmann but junior Ethan Freer and Dominic Gilmer are 2 core pieces coming back along with Caleb Ruter. St. Michael-Albertville loses their star Joe Carpenter (top scorer and rebounder) and his sick athleticism. The starting guards Michael Wiese and Michael Mooney both return and center Herbert Tarpeh should give them productive minutes. Continuing down the road toward the metro, Rogers loses post Rory Donovan (16 a night), forwards Trevor Morlock and Trevor Berkley and point guard RJ Dean. Post Michael Schreiber will be the goto guy after a nice summer. Forward Josh Turnquist is a nice fit with him to stretch the defense. Austin Barbeln and Chase Cleveland will man guard spots. Big Lake loses their top 3 scorers including point guard Michael Stevens. Soph Austin Poe is the top returning scorer. The top 5 scorers at Monticello are gone including posts Kevin Flesch and Anthony Svaavedra. Junior guards Ryan Tuffs and Hayden Laimer will lead the way. Becker leaves for the Granite Ridge next year and looks to go out with a bang behind forward Damien Reinke and his 19 a night. But they lose a ton of people after him Ryan Rosenberg returns to lead Cambridge-Isanti. They lose shooter Ted Lutterman who was their only double figure scorer last season. Soph Matt Swanson saw action in over 20 games last year.
11-12 Tri-Metro Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews,
Reid Travis
This is the 12th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series. In
this preview, a look at the Tri-Metro Conference. For a list of all
the season previews, click here.
The league welcomes Providence Academy and can go back to the full divisional schedule. DeLaSalle has the talent but not the experience. Concordia is the favorite on the other side. Blake, Minnehaha, St. Agnes, St. Anthony, St. Croix Lutheran all have enough returning to beat most anybody in the league on any night.
Blake Bears (2010-11 season 19-9, 10-5 Conference, 2nd West)
Forward Tim Zellmer is the biggest loss but he sat out big minutes last year anyway due to injury. Junior forward Kebu Johnson returns for his 4th season on varsity (seems like 500). He led the team at 11.9 PPG last season. Soph point guard John Veil was the 2nd leading scorer. Paul Blake and Conner Kline return inside. Soph JR Bascom also saw major minutes last season.
Breck Mustangs (2010-11 season 11-16, 6-9 Conference, 4th West)
The Mustangs lose 4 of their top 5 scorers including 17+ a night from Jeff Lurie. But lots of youth saw big minutes last season. Junior point guard Tilyn Hollis, frosh forward Will Culliton and forward Michael Marzec all return after seeing big minutes last year. Keep an eye on the Mustangs freshman class as they have a group of 4 quality kids there to build around.
Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2010-11 season 3-24, 2-13 Conference, 6th West)
How long a year was it for the Centaurs? They gave up a 46-0 run to Tartan over the holidays. Expect another long season. Sophs Deandre Bell and DeAndre Shipp are 2 of the notable returnees.
Concordia Academy Beacons (2010-11 season 20-9, 11-3 Conference, Tied 1st East)
The Beacons lose scorers 2-5 but don't sleep on them. Sioux Falls commit Cutler Finneman returns to man the front line. He was the team scoring leader at 17 a night last year. 4 other players from the rotation including guard Christian Koehn return for a squad that has 9 seniors. 6'6' Junior forward Jared Schneidermann gives them another lanky athlete on the front line. Junior Charlie Kennelly should also see minutes.
DeLaSalle Islanders (2010-11 season 25-4, 15-0 Conference, 1st West)
The Islanders enter the season on a 27 game conference winning streak. With 6 seniors gone including beast Jonah Travis (Harvard) and the transfer of Riley Dearring to Minnetonka, this roster has very little varsity experience but is very talented. The point guard position will be shared between senior Tyler Moore (the 1 experienced returnee) and talented frosh Jarvis Johnson (one of the top 2015 kids in MN). Shooter Luke Scott and Shawn Fitzgibbons will see wing minutes. Soph Reid Travis will see inside and out minutes. Except for Moore this group will see a couple of years together so expect a huge year next year. As is usual at D, the freshman class is absolutely loaded with talent.
Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2010-11 season 17-14, 9-6 Conference, 3rd West)
One of disappointments of last year was not getting to one of my favorite buildings to see the Redhawks. They got hot late and won 8 out 9 to make a run through weak section 4AA before losing to Redwood Valley in the state quarters (big game from Mankato commit Mike Busack was the difference). They lose 1 of their 2 weapons Matt Prior (18 a night) but 19 a night from power guard Gerald McCarver returns. Junior guard John Prior figures to jump into double figures this season after just missing out last season. Junior Marcellous Hazzard also saw major minutes last season.
Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2010-11 season 3-21, 0-14 Conference, 5th East)
The Panthers are on a 53 game conference losing streak. Since the league went to the 2 division format in 2006-2007, their league record is 3-74. A shame too because recently built Lansing Center is a quality facility. Undersized forward Nate Burstein is the top returnee with guard Eddie Freier.
Providence Academy Lions (2010-11 season 11-13, 2-7 MCAA Conference, 9th)
The Lions move into the league from the MCAA and while its means some great girls games vs DeLaSalle. The boys program isn't at that level yet. 5 of the 7 members of the rotation are back and only 1 of them is a senior. Junior Jackson Canfield averaged over 17 a night last year. Joe Heck put up 14 a night.
St. Agnes Aggies (2010-11 season 13-16, 5-9 Conference, 4th East)
Now for the all saints portion of the preview. The Aggies lose wing Mario Franco and his 9.9 a night to Woodbury. The top 2 scorers Dakari Davison (15 PPG) and Antonio Hartfeld-McGhee (11 PPG) return. McGhee is an athletic power wing who can be a handful to defend and is willing to take over a game. Guards Nick Bennett, Charlie Turch and Jordan Delaney also return to the rotation.
St. Anthony Huskies (2010-11 season 18-9, 11-3 Conference, Tied 1st East)
Forward Anthony Brama was a major revelation last year averaging 21 a night. He's unorthodox but very effective. 3rd leading scorer Dustin Iannazzo also returns. Junior Nick Kampa will run the point after seeing big minutes last season. Jordan Wiggins and forward Mike Studer will see more minutes as well.
St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2010-11 season 16-12, 8-6 Conference, 3rd East)
Top scorer and interior player Kyle Prelgo is gone from his forward spot. The guard trio of power guard Wesley Tucker, point guard Cameron Cummings and lefty shooter Mark Lawrence all return after each averaged close to double figures. Guard Dominic Cambrice also saw significant time last season and returns. Size will be a major question mark.
St. Paul Academy Spartans (2010-11 season 7-21, 3-12 Conference, 5th West)
Leading scorer and post Sam Dicke departs but the next 4 scorers return. That includes the guard duo of point guard Spencer Egly and athletic wing Josh Gray. Post Andrew Bullard is also gone so the Spartans will have to find some size. Expect junior Steve Olson to fill that role. Story to follow is where 8th grade guard Dalante Payton fits in. He played with the freshmen last year and the Spartans are very high on him.
Predicted Order of Finish
West
Underclassmen to watch:
Roger Moore Jr - Concordia
John Veil, JR Bascom - Blake
Dalante Payton - St. Paul Academy
Will Culliton, Mo Lawal - Breck
Jarvis Johnson, Sacar Anim, Reid Travis, James Lawson, Drayton Carlburg, Wheeler Baker - DeLaSalle
Games that will determine the conference title
The league welcomes Providence Academy and can go back to the full divisional schedule. DeLaSalle has the talent but not the experience. Concordia is the favorite on the other side. Blake, Minnehaha, St. Agnes, St. Anthony, St. Croix Lutheran all have enough returning to beat most anybody in the league on any night.
Blake Bears (2010-11 season 19-9, 10-5 Conference, 2nd West)
Forward Tim Zellmer is the biggest loss but he sat out big minutes last year anyway due to injury. Junior forward Kebu Johnson returns for his 4th season on varsity (seems like 500). He led the team at 11.9 PPG last season. Soph point guard John Veil was the 2nd leading scorer. Paul Blake and Conner Kline return inside. Soph JR Bascom also saw major minutes last season.
Breck Mustangs (2010-11 season 11-16, 6-9 Conference, 4th West)
The Mustangs lose 4 of their top 5 scorers including 17+ a night from Jeff Lurie. But lots of youth saw big minutes last season. Junior point guard Tilyn Hollis, frosh forward Will Culliton and forward Michael Marzec all return after seeing big minutes last year. Keep an eye on the Mustangs freshman class as they have a group of 4 quality kids there to build around.
Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2010-11 season 3-24, 2-13 Conference, 6th West)
How long a year was it for the Centaurs? They gave up a 46-0 run to Tartan over the holidays. Expect another long season. Sophs Deandre Bell and DeAndre Shipp are 2 of the notable returnees.
Concordia Academy Beacons (2010-11 season 20-9, 11-3 Conference, Tied 1st East)
The Beacons lose scorers 2-5 but don't sleep on them. Sioux Falls commit Cutler Finneman returns to man the front line. He was the team scoring leader at 17 a night last year. 4 other players from the rotation including guard Christian Koehn return for a squad that has 9 seniors. 6'6' Junior forward Jared Schneidermann gives them another lanky athlete on the front line. Junior Charlie Kennelly should also see minutes.
DeLaSalle Islanders (2010-11 season 25-4, 15-0 Conference, 1st West)
The Islanders enter the season on a 27 game conference winning streak. With 6 seniors gone including beast Jonah Travis (Harvard) and the transfer of Riley Dearring to Minnetonka, this roster has very little varsity experience but is very talented. The point guard position will be shared between senior Tyler Moore (the 1 experienced returnee) and talented frosh Jarvis Johnson (one of the top 2015 kids in MN). Shooter Luke Scott and Shawn Fitzgibbons will see wing minutes. Soph Reid Travis will see inside and out minutes. Except for Moore this group will see a couple of years together so expect a huge year next year. As is usual at D, the freshman class is absolutely loaded with talent.
Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2010-11 season 17-14, 9-6 Conference, 3rd West)
One of disappointments of last year was not getting to one of my favorite buildings to see the Redhawks. They got hot late and won 8 out 9 to make a run through weak section 4AA before losing to Redwood Valley in the state quarters (big game from Mankato commit Mike Busack was the difference). They lose 1 of their 2 weapons Matt Prior (18 a night) but 19 a night from power guard Gerald McCarver returns. Junior guard John Prior figures to jump into double figures this season after just missing out last season. Junior Marcellous Hazzard also saw major minutes last season.
Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2010-11 season 3-21, 0-14 Conference, 5th East)
The Panthers are on a 53 game conference losing streak. Since the league went to the 2 division format in 2006-2007, their league record is 3-74. A shame too because recently built Lansing Center is a quality facility. Undersized forward Nate Burstein is the top returnee with guard Eddie Freier.
Providence Academy Lions (2010-11 season 11-13, 2-7 MCAA Conference, 9th)
The Lions move into the league from the MCAA and while its means some great girls games vs DeLaSalle. The boys program isn't at that level yet. 5 of the 7 members of the rotation are back and only 1 of them is a senior. Junior Jackson Canfield averaged over 17 a night last year. Joe Heck put up 14 a night.
St. Agnes Aggies (2010-11 season 13-16, 5-9 Conference, 4th East)
Now for the all saints portion of the preview. The Aggies lose wing Mario Franco and his 9.9 a night to Woodbury. The top 2 scorers Dakari Davison (15 PPG) and Antonio Hartfeld-McGhee (11 PPG) return. McGhee is an athletic power wing who can be a handful to defend and is willing to take over a game. Guards Nick Bennett, Charlie Turch and Jordan Delaney also return to the rotation.
St. Anthony Huskies (2010-11 season 18-9, 11-3 Conference, Tied 1st East)
Forward Anthony Brama was a major revelation last year averaging 21 a night. He's unorthodox but very effective. 3rd leading scorer Dustin Iannazzo also returns. Junior Nick Kampa will run the point after seeing big minutes last season. Jordan Wiggins and forward Mike Studer will see more minutes as well.
St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2010-11 season 16-12, 8-6 Conference, 3rd East)
Top scorer and interior player Kyle Prelgo is gone from his forward spot. The guard trio of power guard Wesley Tucker, point guard Cameron Cummings and lefty shooter Mark Lawrence all return after each averaged close to double figures. Guard Dominic Cambrice also saw significant time last season and returns. Size will be a major question mark.
St. Paul Academy Spartans (2010-11 season 7-21, 3-12 Conference, 5th West)
Leading scorer and post Sam Dicke departs but the next 4 scorers return. That includes the guard duo of point guard Spencer Egly and athletic wing Josh Gray. Post Andrew Bullard is also gone so the Spartans will have to find some size. Expect junior Steve Olson to fill that role. Story to follow is where 8th grade guard Dalante Payton fits in. He played with the freshmen last year and the Spartans are very high on him.
Predicted Order of Finish
West
- DeLaSalle
- Blake
- Minnehaha
- Breck
- Providence Academy
- Brooklyn Center
- Concordia Academy
- St. Anthony
- St. Croix Lutheran
- St. Agnes
- St. Paul Academy
- Mounds Park Academy
Underclassmen to watch:
Roger Moore Jr - Concordia
John Veil, JR Bascom - Blake
Dalante Payton - St. Paul Academy
Will Culliton, Mo Lawal - Breck
Jarvis Johnson, Sacar Anim, Reid Travis, James Lawson, Drayton Carlburg, Wheeler Baker - DeLaSalle
Games that will determine the conference title
- DeLaSalle at Blake - Dec 6th
- Concordia at St. Anthony - Dec 9th
- St. Anthony at Blake - Jan 19th
- DeLaSalle at Concordia - Jan 24th
- Blake at DeLaSalle - Feb 2nd
- St. Anthony at Concordia - Feb 17th
- Trinity at Concordia - Dec 2nd
- DeLaSalle vs Robbinsdale Cooper - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Concordia at St. Cloud Cathedral tournament - Dec 28-30
- DeLaSalle at Mike Miller Classic - Dec 29-30 (Mitchell, SD)
- DeLaSalle at Eden Prairie - Jan 17th
- DeLaSalle vs Waunakee, WI - Feb 4th (Border Battle at Sun Prairie, WI)
- Benilde-St. Margaret's at DeLaSalle - Feb 7th
- Blake at Holy Family - Feb 8th
- DeLaSalle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 18th
- Blake at Maranatha - Feb 21st
- Blake at Richfield - Feb 25th
- Moorhead at DeLaSalle - Mar 3rd
11-12 Suburban East Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 11th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series. In
this preview, a look at the Suburban East
Conference. For a list of all the season previews, click here.
A down year in the league as talent has departed over the last couple of years. CDH has to be the favorite but I wouldn't be shocked to see my next group of 3 challenge them. Stillwater and East Ridge are the next group thanks to what they have coming back (top scorers). I think the bottom 4 all struggle.
Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2010-11 season 23-9, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Raiders lose top scorer Raijon Kelly to Samford and also graduate post Connor Quicksell. But there's plenty returning. Point guard Cortez Tillman returns along with recent Wofford commit CJ Neumann up front. Glue guy Taylor Montero will return in January after suffering a knee injury this summer. Michael White, Kevin Miley and Luke Hamel will also see minutes up front. Look for Teddy Chapman to see some guard minutes. Keep an eye on their freshman class down the road as it is absolutely loaded. It includes one of the better 2015 prospects in the state, Sam Neumann.
East Ridge Raptors (2010-11 season 14-13, 8-10 Conference, 7th)
The Raptors improved from 6 wins to 14 in year 2 of the program and jumped 2 spots in standings. Leading scorer Justin Pahl is back as a premier shooter. The rest of the rotation is basically gone though including guard John Hietpas who was one of their top players the last 2 seasons. 6'7 lefty junior Conrad Sexe will see time in the middle. Guard Jared Morris figures to have a bigger role along with forward Nhamdi Nwokolo. Don't be shocked if frosh Sid Tomes sees significant point guard time this season as the Raptors build for future years.
Forest Lake Rangers (2010-11 season 17-11, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Rangers lose their top 4 of their top 5 scorers including bomber Phil Hegseth and Evan Johnson who combined for 29 a night last season. Guard Tyler Rosenberger is the top returner. 6'6 junior Noah Davis will provide inside play.
Hastings Raiders (2010-11 season 3-23, 2-16 Conference, 9th)
The Raiders return their top player Darius Wilkerson who averaged 11 a night last year. Ellis Williams and Josh Monjeau return at the guard spots. They were able to gain experience last year with plenty of returnees seeing time.
Mounds View Mustangs (2010-11 season 11-16, 9-9 Conference, 6th)
This will be the 45th and final year for legendary coach Ziggy Kauls. With 721 wins to date, he will be hard to replace. 5 of the top 6 scorers are gone including double figure scorers Jordan Van Eps and guard Blake Anderson who combined for 30 points per game. 6'3 Forward Mike Kerfeld is the top returnee at 6 points a night. Kevin Sharpe returns inside along with guard Chris Severson.
Park Wolfpack (2010-11 season 1-26, 0-18 Conference, 10th)
The Wolfpack come into the season with a 40 game conference losing streak. They were by far the lowest scoring team in all of AAAA basketball at 40.9 PPG and now they lose 6 of the top 8 scorers. Austen Kruzeski and Anthony Tola are the top returnees who saw time. Junior transfer Trocon Barclay sat out last year after coming over from Johnson and is expected to contribute.
Roseville Raiders (2010-11 season 22-6, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Raiders lose their top 2 scorers in wing Lucas Brown (off to Wofford) and point guard David Stanley. That's 33 a night that needs to be replaced. They also need to replace dirty work forward Connor Harlander who will be missed more than some may think and center Sam Peterson. 1 starter returns and that's athletic forward Emeche Wells who scored 12.7 a night and is a quality defender as well. He sprained a knee in football but should be ready for the season. 6'6" Soph Derek Magnuson is 1 of a very good group of sophomores to watch. He'll see minutes in the middle. Ben Farmer (also coming off injury), Logan Brown, frosh Kobe Critchley and sniper Mackenzie Johnson return at the guard slots
Stillwater Ponies (2010-11 season 15-13, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Ponies return their top scorer, junior forward Andrew Duxbury but the next 4 scorers are gone. That includes athletic Paxton Harvieux and forward Jake Malwitz. Junior guards Sam Lagus (shooter) and Austin Holmberg will see guard minutes. Lefty Josh Johnson can step out and shoot it a bit at 6'6. He'll see minutes in the middle. They revamped the system to go 5 out last year, we'll see if they stay with that look this season.
White Bear Lake Bears (2010-11 season 17-9, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
The world's finest hair resides at WBL with center Zach Meyer's mullet. He's the top returnee at 12.8 PPG. 13.2 PPG from guard Nate Sheldon needs to be replaced along with fellow guards Colton Smit and Vidal Vance. But I think the Bears will be just fine. Josh Tismer returns to run the point. Lucas Allen returns as another up front player and Eric Gebeke returns on the wing. Add in junior shooter Beau Smit and you have a nice group.
Woodbury Royals (2010-11 season 11-17, 7-11 Conference, 8th)
This team wasn't that far away last year with 12 of their 17 losses by 11 points or less. The top 4 scorers all return. That includes wing Ricky Suggs who fits their up and down style perfectly. (13.2 PPG only 5 3s in 150 FGs). Shooter Renard Suggs is back. Great stat note when looking him up. He had 52 3s and only 30 2s last year. I'm going to go out on a limb and say you might want to find him. Conner McKeen and Ryan Fritzke also return as double figure scorers.
Predicted Order of Finish
Underclassmen to watch:
A down year in the league as talent has departed over the last couple of years. CDH has to be the favorite but I wouldn't be shocked to see my next group of 3 challenge them. Stillwater and East Ridge are the next group thanks to what they have coming back (top scorers). I think the bottom 4 all struggle.
Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2010-11 season 23-9, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Raiders lose top scorer Raijon Kelly to Samford and also graduate post Connor Quicksell. But there's plenty returning. Point guard Cortez Tillman returns along with recent Wofford commit CJ Neumann up front. Glue guy Taylor Montero will return in January after suffering a knee injury this summer. Michael White, Kevin Miley and Luke Hamel will also see minutes up front. Look for Teddy Chapman to see some guard minutes. Keep an eye on their freshman class down the road as it is absolutely loaded. It includes one of the better 2015 prospects in the state, Sam Neumann.
East Ridge Raptors (2010-11 season 14-13, 8-10 Conference, 7th)
The Raptors improved from 6 wins to 14 in year 2 of the program and jumped 2 spots in standings. Leading scorer Justin Pahl is back as a premier shooter. The rest of the rotation is basically gone though including guard John Hietpas who was one of their top players the last 2 seasons. 6'7 lefty junior Conrad Sexe will see time in the middle. Guard Jared Morris figures to have a bigger role along with forward Nhamdi Nwokolo. Don't be shocked if frosh Sid Tomes sees significant point guard time this season as the Raptors build for future years.
Forest Lake Rangers (2010-11 season 17-11, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Rangers lose their top 4 of their top 5 scorers including bomber Phil Hegseth and Evan Johnson who combined for 29 a night last season. Guard Tyler Rosenberger is the top returner. 6'6 junior Noah Davis will provide inside play.
Hastings Raiders (2010-11 season 3-23, 2-16 Conference, 9th)
The Raiders return their top player Darius Wilkerson who averaged 11 a night last year. Ellis Williams and Josh Monjeau return at the guard spots. They were able to gain experience last year with plenty of returnees seeing time.
Mounds View Mustangs (2010-11 season 11-16, 9-9 Conference, 6th)
This will be the 45th and final year for legendary coach Ziggy Kauls. With 721 wins to date, he will be hard to replace. 5 of the top 6 scorers are gone including double figure scorers Jordan Van Eps and guard Blake Anderson who combined for 30 points per game. 6'3 Forward Mike Kerfeld is the top returnee at 6 points a night. Kevin Sharpe returns inside along with guard Chris Severson.
Park Wolfpack (2010-11 season 1-26, 0-18 Conference, 10th)
The Wolfpack come into the season with a 40 game conference losing streak. They were by far the lowest scoring team in all of AAAA basketball at 40.9 PPG and now they lose 6 of the top 8 scorers. Austen Kruzeski and Anthony Tola are the top returnees who saw time. Junior transfer Trocon Barclay sat out last year after coming over from Johnson and is expected to contribute.
Roseville Raiders (2010-11 season 22-6, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Raiders lose their top 2 scorers in wing Lucas Brown (off to Wofford) and point guard David Stanley. That's 33 a night that needs to be replaced. They also need to replace dirty work forward Connor Harlander who will be missed more than some may think and center Sam Peterson. 1 starter returns and that's athletic forward Emeche Wells who scored 12.7 a night and is a quality defender as well. He sprained a knee in football but should be ready for the season. 6'6" Soph Derek Magnuson is 1 of a very good group of sophomores to watch. He'll see minutes in the middle. Ben Farmer (also coming off injury), Logan Brown, frosh Kobe Critchley and sniper Mackenzie Johnson return at the guard slots
Stillwater Ponies (2010-11 season 15-13, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Ponies return their top scorer, junior forward Andrew Duxbury but the next 4 scorers are gone. That includes athletic Paxton Harvieux and forward Jake Malwitz. Junior guards Sam Lagus (shooter) and Austin Holmberg will see guard minutes. Lefty Josh Johnson can step out and shoot it a bit at 6'6. He'll see minutes in the middle. They revamped the system to go 5 out last year, we'll see if they stay with that look this season.
White Bear Lake Bears (2010-11 season 17-9, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
The world's finest hair resides at WBL with center Zach Meyer's mullet. He's the top returnee at 12.8 PPG. 13.2 PPG from guard Nate Sheldon needs to be replaced along with fellow guards Colton Smit and Vidal Vance. But I think the Bears will be just fine. Josh Tismer returns to run the point. Lucas Allen returns as another up front player and Eric Gebeke returns on the wing. Add in junior shooter Beau Smit and you have a nice group.
Woodbury Royals (2010-11 season 11-17, 7-11 Conference, 8th)
This team wasn't that far away last year with 12 of their 17 losses by 11 points or less. The top 4 scorers all return. That includes wing Ricky Suggs who fits their up and down style perfectly. (13.2 PPG only 5 3s in 150 FGs). Shooter Renard Suggs is back. Great stat note when looking him up. He had 52 3s and only 30 2s last year. I'm going to go out on a limb and say you might want to find him. Conner McKeen and Ryan Fritzke also return as double figure scorers.
Predicted Order of Finish
- Cretin-Derham Hall
- Roseville
- White Bear Lake
- Woodbury
- Stillwater
- East Ridge
- Forest Lake
- Mounds View
- Hastings
- Park
Underclassmen to watch:
- Sidney Tomes - East Ridge
- Kobe Critchley, Jacques Perra, Derek Magnuson - Roseville
- Sam Neumann, Kyler Briggity - Cretin-Derham Hall
- Matt Anderson - Stillwater
- Matt Ambriz- Woodbury
- Cretin-Derham Hall at Woodbury - Dec 16th
- Woodbury at Roseville - Dec 31st
- Roseville at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 6th
- White Bear Lake at Woodbury - Jan 10th
- Cretin-Derham Hall at White Bear Lake - Jan 17th
- White Bear Lake at Roseville - Jan 24th
- Woodbury at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 31st
- Cretin-Derham Hall at Roseville - Feb 10th
- Woodbury at White Bear Lake - Feb 14th
- White Bear Lake at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 21st
- Roseville at Woodbury - Feb 24th
- Roseville at White Bear Lake - Feb 28th
- Roseville vs Rocori- Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic)
- Cretin-Derham Hall vs Hopkins - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic)
- Minneapolis Washburn at Roseville - Dec 13th
- Champlin Park at White Bear Lake - Dec 17th
- Cretin-Derham Hall at St. Thomas Academy - Dec 17th
- St. Paul Johnson at Roseville - Dec 20th
- Woodbury at Lakeville North - Dec 22nd
- Roseville at Midwest Players Classic - Jan 14th (La Crosse, WI)
- Cretin-Derham Hall at Eden Prairie - Jan 14th
- Roseville vs St. John's Lutheran (FL) - Jan 21 (East Metro Showcase)
- DeLaSalle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 18th
11-12 South Suburban Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews,
Joey King,
Tyus Jones
We begin week 3 of my 2010-2011 season preview series with the 10th preview. In this
preview, a look at the South Suburban
Conference. For a list of all the season previews, click here.
A down year in the South Suburban but that's a relative term for what is still a very difficult league. I see 8 teams that can beat you on any given night. The top 3 stand alone with Apple Valley, Eastview and Lakeville North all making runs in the top 5 this season. The next group of 5 is very competitive and then Burnsville and Jefferson I think will struggle at the bottom.
Apple Valley Eagles (2010-11 season 19-10, 13-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Probably the most important loss in the league is 6'7 forward Tom Schalk who's off to William & Mary (not to be confused with Lois and Clark or Penn and Teller). But super soph Tyus Jones returns at the point to run the show. His athleticism has taken a step up in the offseason and now he can be a scoring force in addition to his already superior ability to run a team. Guards Dustin Fronk (shooter) and Harry Sonie (handler who will shoot) return for what will be a very small lineup. 6'3" Soph Dennis Austin is undersized but very active and figures to see lots of minutes up front. He'll replace the departed Josh Johnson and Gavin Bronson on the front line.
Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2010-11 season 4-21, 2-16 Conference, 10th)
Yes they're slowdown style is enough to cure insomnia and unwatchable but it keeps the Jags competitive. 4 wins by a total of 13 points but 8 very close losses. They lose leading scorer Marcus Alipate and post Reggie Lynch is now at Edina. Post Kevin Handt and wing Matt Hovila are also gone. Ryan Gilmer is the top returnee along with juniors Brian Fritzlar and Kevin Woebke.
Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2010-11 season 16-12, 10-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Leading scorer and top post Cullen Russo is off to Quakerdale Prep in Iowa. Guard DeShun Patterson was an athletic guard. Both depart as double figure scorers. But the Eagles will still be loaded with guard firepower. Point guard Darrian Pittman comes over from Maranatha. Darrian Johnson and Rico Gunn (9.9 PPG) also return. Jacob Kohner returns as an interior banger.
Burnsville Blaze (2010-11 season 12-14, 7-11 Conference, 7th)
The top 5 scorers are gone from a defensive minded squad that started well. Then won a pair of 1 point games before losing 8 in a row. Adam Lambrecht, Dan Motl and post Chase Roullier return from last year's rotation. But in this league you need returning stars so I expect the Blaze to struggle against the tough schedule.
Eagan Wildcats (2010-11 season 21-6, 14-4 Conference, 2nd)
Eagan does suffer some heavy losses with forward Matt Hentges and sharpshooter Jameson Parsons gone. Point guard Ben Sicoli is also gone. But plenty returns with big guard Nick Sabatke (9.3 PPG) and forward Shea Mandli. Guards Drew Bauer and AJ Bauer also return.
Eastview Lightning (2010-11 season 22-5, 15-3 Conference, 1st)
A talented group returns led by 6'8 F Joey King (Drake commit) at 17.6 a game. Most of the offense will run through him. The next 2 scorers were wings Frank Veldman and Shane McSparron. They will be missed, especially Veldman who was a stickem defender last season. The front line is loaded with King, Center Ben Oberfeld who is a double double threat and the return of Sam Burt (injured last season). Burt is an athletic piece who should fit in nicely. Point guard Darin Haugh returns to run the show as does shooter Chris Narum. Bodies were in short supply last year so keep an eye on the depth especially in the backcourt.
Lakeville North Panthers (2010-11 season 12-15, 10-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Another team like Eastview that was built for this season. Leading scorer Adam Petterson and point guard Al Erickson are gone but this roster is still stacked. South Dakota commit Tyler Flack leads the way as an athletic forward. Brett Rasmussen is the bruiser portion of the duo. There's also 6'3 Ryan Saarela. The guards are solid with Trey Heid, Devin Shockley and Grant Erickson. Shockley is a scoring threat but I'm told he'll sit out the first half of the regular season.
Lakeville South Cougars (2010-11 season 21-9, 13-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Down the street, the Cougars lose almost the entire rotation. The top 4 scorers (Alex Richter, Jon Christensen, Riley West and Spencer Pankonin) are off to the NSIC. Mitch Liedner will miss basketball to finish school early for football at Minnesota. Matt Heller is the only returnee and he just missed a football game due to concussion. But the JV squad last year was very good (pounding St. Paul City champ Johnson 60-34 on opening night). Ty Powell will take over at the point. Lefty Nick Sanborn will see minutes up front along with Nick Bachinski. Roster could surprise, but I see them as a year away. Think of them the way you may have looked at Lakeville North last year.
Prior Lake Lakers (2010-11 season 6-21, 3-15 Conference, Tied 8th)
Now a look at the finest southern resort town in The Kingdom (Not fair to call it Siberia, you'll read that in the next preview). The Lakers had already matched their 3 wins from 09-10 by New Years (3-4). Then point guard Jon Sobaski broke his wrist and South Suburban play started. That's a bad combination and the Lakers went 3-17 the rest of the way (including last 6 with Sobaski). A different team this year with 7 footer Carson Shanks eligible after sitting out last year (transfer from Eastview). 2 of the top 3 scorers are gone but you have a nucleus of Sobaski (soph), Shanks and 6'10 Jeff Probert (both juniors) to build on for 2 years. Add in forward Jack Harrison at 6'5 and you have one of the biggest potential front lines around. Harrison and Jack Kaiser provide a full year's worth of experience.
Rosemount Irish (2010-11 season 7-21, 3-15 Conference, Tied 8th)
MN-Moorhead commit Matt Nelson leads the way as the only double figure scorer coming back. Forward Brandon Forcier and guards Charlie Broback and Evan Mitchell also return. Soph guard Garrett Goetz may take over the point. Interior scorer of lefty Andrew Nelson will need to be replaced (9 PPG).
Predicted Order of Finish
Underclassmen to watch:
A down year in the South Suburban but that's a relative term for what is still a very difficult league. I see 8 teams that can beat you on any given night. The top 3 stand alone with Apple Valley, Eastview and Lakeville North all making runs in the top 5 this season. The next group of 5 is very competitive and then Burnsville and Jefferson I think will struggle at the bottom.
Apple Valley Eagles (2010-11 season 19-10, 13-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Probably the most important loss in the league is 6'7 forward Tom Schalk who's off to William & Mary (not to be confused with Lois and Clark or Penn and Teller). But super soph Tyus Jones returns at the point to run the show. His athleticism has taken a step up in the offseason and now he can be a scoring force in addition to his already superior ability to run a team. Guards Dustin Fronk (shooter) and Harry Sonie (handler who will shoot) return for what will be a very small lineup. 6'3" Soph Dennis Austin is undersized but very active and figures to see lots of minutes up front. He'll replace the departed Josh Johnson and Gavin Bronson on the front line.
Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2010-11 season 4-21, 2-16 Conference, 10th)
Yes they're slowdown style is enough to cure insomnia and unwatchable but it keeps the Jags competitive. 4 wins by a total of 13 points but 8 very close losses. They lose leading scorer Marcus Alipate and post Reggie Lynch is now at Edina. Post Kevin Handt and wing Matt Hovila are also gone. Ryan Gilmer is the top returnee along with juniors Brian Fritzlar and Kevin Woebke.
Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2010-11 season 16-12, 10-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Leading scorer and top post Cullen Russo is off to Quakerdale Prep in Iowa. Guard DeShun Patterson was an athletic guard. Both depart as double figure scorers. But the Eagles will still be loaded with guard firepower. Point guard Darrian Pittman comes over from Maranatha. Darrian Johnson and Rico Gunn (9.9 PPG) also return. Jacob Kohner returns as an interior banger.
Burnsville Blaze (2010-11 season 12-14, 7-11 Conference, 7th)
The top 5 scorers are gone from a defensive minded squad that started well. Then won a pair of 1 point games before losing 8 in a row. Adam Lambrecht, Dan Motl and post Chase Roullier return from last year's rotation. But in this league you need returning stars so I expect the Blaze to struggle against the tough schedule.
Eagan Wildcats (2010-11 season 21-6, 14-4 Conference, 2nd)
Eagan does suffer some heavy losses with forward Matt Hentges and sharpshooter Jameson Parsons gone. Point guard Ben Sicoli is also gone. But plenty returns with big guard Nick Sabatke (9.3 PPG) and forward Shea Mandli. Guards Drew Bauer and AJ Bauer also return.
Eastview Lightning (2010-11 season 22-5, 15-3 Conference, 1st)
A talented group returns led by 6'8 F Joey King (Drake commit) at 17.6 a game. Most of the offense will run through him. The next 2 scorers were wings Frank Veldman and Shane McSparron. They will be missed, especially Veldman who was a stickem defender last season. The front line is loaded with King, Center Ben Oberfeld who is a double double threat and the return of Sam Burt (injured last season). Burt is an athletic piece who should fit in nicely. Point guard Darin Haugh returns to run the show as does shooter Chris Narum. Bodies were in short supply last year so keep an eye on the depth especially in the backcourt.
Lakeville North Panthers (2010-11 season 12-15, 10-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Another team like Eastview that was built for this season. Leading scorer Adam Petterson and point guard Al Erickson are gone but this roster is still stacked. South Dakota commit Tyler Flack leads the way as an athletic forward. Brett Rasmussen is the bruiser portion of the duo. There's also 6'3 Ryan Saarela. The guards are solid with Trey Heid, Devin Shockley and Grant Erickson. Shockley is a scoring threat but I'm told he'll sit out the first half of the regular season.
Lakeville South Cougars (2010-11 season 21-9, 13-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Down the street, the Cougars lose almost the entire rotation. The top 4 scorers (Alex Richter, Jon Christensen, Riley West and Spencer Pankonin) are off to the NSIC. Mitch Liedner will miss basketball to finish school early for football at Minnesota. Matt Heller is the only returnee and he just missed a football game due to concussion. But the JV squad last year was very good (pounding St. Paul City champ Johnson 60-34 on opening night). Ty Powell will take over at the point. Lefty Nick Sanborn will see minutes up front along with Nick Bachinski. Roster could surprise, but I see them as a year away. Think of them the way you may have looked at Lakeville North last year.
Prior Lake Lakers (2010-11 season 6-21, 3-15 Conference, Tied 8th)
Now a look at the finest southern resort town in The Kingdom (Not fair to call it Siberia, you'll read that in the next preview). The Lakers had already matched their 3 wins from 09-10 by New Years (3-4). Then point guard Jon Sobaski broke his wrist and South Suburban play started. That's a bad combination and the Lakers went 3-17 the rest of the way (including last 6 with Sobaski). A different team this year with 7 footer Carson Shanks eligible after sitting out last year (transfer from Eastview). 2 of the top 3 scorers are gone but you have a nucleus of Sobaski (soph), Shanks and 6'10 Jeff Probert (both juniors) to build on for 2 years. Add in forward Jack Harrison at 6'5 and you have one of the biggest potential front lines around. Harrison and Jack Kaiser provide a full year's worth of experience.
Rosemount Irish (2010-11 season 7-21, 3-15 Conference, Tied 8th)
MN-Moorhead commit Matt Nelson leads the way as the only double figure scorer coming back. Forward Brandon Forcier and guards Charlie Broback and Evan Mitchell also return. Soph guard Garrett Goetz may take over the point. Interior scorer of lefty Andrew Nelson will need to be replaced (9 PPG).
Predicted Order of Finish
- Eastview
- Apple Valley
- Lakeville North
- Bloomington Kennedy
- Eagan
- Lakeville South
- Prior Lake
- Rosemount
- Bloomington Jefferson
- Burnsville
Underclassmen to watch:
- Tyus Jones, Dennis Austin - Apple Valley
- Jon Sobaski - Prior Lake
- JP Macura - Lakeville North
- GT Johnson - Eagan
- Tommy Gadtke - Bloomington Jefferson
- Brett Shepley - Burnsville
- Garrett Goetz - Rosemount
- Eastview at Lakeville North - Jan 10th
- Eastview at Apple Valley - Jan 13th
- Lakeville North at Apple Valley - Jan 24th
- Lakeville North at Eastview - Feb 10th
- Apple Valley at Eastview- Feb 14th
- Apple Valley at Lakeville North - Feb 24th
- Eden Prairie at Apple Valley - Dec 6th
- Lakeville North at Chanhassen - Dec 9th
- Lakeville North vs Champlin Park - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Prior Lake vs Osseo - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Eastview vs Benilde-St. Margaret's- Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Apple Valley vs Tartan - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Lakeville North at Eden Prairie - Dec 20th
- Eastview at Spring Lake Park - Dec 20th
- Moorhead at Eastview - Dec 23rd
- Prior Lake, Rosemount & Apple Valley at Granite City Classic - Dec 28/29 (St. Cloud)
- Lakeville North holiday tournament - Dec 28/29
- Apple Valley vs Onalaska, WI - Jan 7th (Timberwolves Shootout)
- Prior Lake vs Cedar Falls, IA - Jan 7th (Timberwolves Shootout)
- Eastview at Midwest Players Classic - Jan 14th (La Crosse, WI)
11-12 St. Paul City Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 9th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series. In
this preview, a look at the St. Paul City Conference. For a list of
all the season previews, click here.
There's Johnson and there's everybody else. Like Washburn on the Minneapolis side, Johnson swept all 3 titles last season so the future is bright. So you have them at the top. Then the 2 other programs that return some talent next. Then a down Como Park program and the annual bottom feeders in Humboldt and Harding bring up the rear.
Central Minutemen (2010-11 season 14-12, 7-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Minutemen lose their top scorer Martin Smith who manned the post for them last season. Point guard Will McDonough is back though he's more of an Allen Iverson clone than a true point guard. Montrell Williams gives them another scorer on the wing. More of a slasher but a good enough shooter to respect. Soph Marcus Taylor-Knighten is an athletic forward who was a key piece last season. Forward Jones Green also returns. Guard Diallo Powell transfered out.
Como Park Cougars (2010-11 season 11-12, 5-5 Conference, 4th)
The 6 of the top 7 scorers for the Cougars all depart, 4 to graduation and point guard Kaysh Shaw is now at Prairie Seeds. Von Pledger I'm told also won't be back. The top 4 scorers were all double figure scorers. Wyatt Johnson's role will expand. Kieron Sauer comes up from JV and will some forward minutes for a small lineup
Harding Knights (2010-11 season 7-18, 1-9 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Knights lose 4 starters which includes 4 of their top 5 scorers. Point guard Viseth Koumarn returns along with reserve guard David McClain. Forward Earnell Barner is a 6'4 jumping jack who will have a highlight dunk or 2 during the year. He had to play JV last year due to transfer rules.
Highland Park Scots (2010-11 season 17-10, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
Quick quiz, who led the league in scoring last year? Not a Johnson player believe it or not. Lefty guard Ty'Shaun Williams averaged 19.6 PPG in the 10 league games last year. A much improved shooter who flies under the radar. Point guard Dion Bradley returns along with forward Nate Anderson. Cordero Washington and Darrell Hill combined for 27 a night and will need to be replaced.
Humboldt Hawks (2010-11 season 8-16, 1-9 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Hawks lost most of their rotation. That includes double figure scores Julian Luster and Dashwan Wright. 2 rotation players return, Chase Luster and junior Dominique Khammarath. Both averaged 6+ points a game last season. The roster has no size so expect a very guard oriented system.
Johnson Governors (2010-11 season 25-4, 10-0 Conference, 1st)
The Govs come into the season with a 44 game conference winning streak. With 2 wins to open the league season that would give them the 2nd longest league winning streak in conference history. Wing Roosevelt Scott and point guard Estan Tyler are 2 major losses. Center Chris Smith-Bond and backup guard Anthony Lee also depart. Missouri St signee Marcus Marshall leads the way from his guard slot. He's averaged 16.5 PPG and should approach 20 this season. He's a really tough cover especially when his shot heats up. Quashingm Smith and Jalen Albritton return on the wings. Shelby Ashford is an inside banger and Waylon Johnson gives them a long athletic post who fits the style well.
Predicted Order of Finish
Underclassmen to watch:
There's Johnson and there's everybody else. Like Washburn on the Minneapolis side, Johnson swept all 3 titles last season so the future is bright. So you have them at the top. Then the 2 other programs that return some talent next. Then a down Como Park program and the annual bottom feeders in Humboldt and Harding bring up the rear.
Central Minutemen (2010-11 season 14-12, 7-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Minutemen lose their top scorer Martin Smith who manned the post for them last season. Point guard Will McDonough is back though he's more of an Allen Iverson clone than a true point guard. Montrell Williams gives them another scorer on the wing. More of a slasher but a good enough shooter to respect. Soph Marcus Taylor-Knighten is an athletic forward who was a key piece last season. Forward Jones Green also returns. Guard Diallo Powell transfered out.
Como Park Cougars (2010-11 season 11-12, 5-5 Conference, 4th)
The 6 of the top 7 scorers for the Cougars all depart, 4 to graduation and point guard Kaysh Shaw is now at Prairie Seeds. Von Pledger I'm told also won't be back. The top 4 scorers were all double figure scorers. Wyatt Johnson's role will expand. Kieron Sauer comes up from JV and will some forward minutes for a small lineup
Harding Knights (2010-11 season 7-18, 1-9 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Knights lose 4 starters which includes 4 of their top 5 scorers. Point guard Viseth Koumarn returns along with reserve guard David McClain. Forward Earnell Barner is a 6'4 jumping jack who will have a highlight dunk or 2 during the year. He had to play JV last year due to transfer rules.
Highland Park Scots (2010-11 season 17-10, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
Quick quiz, who led the league in scoring last year? Not a Johnson player believe it or not. Lefty guard Ty'Shaun Williams averaged 19.6 PPG in the 10 league games last year. A much improved shooter who flies under the radar. Point guard Dion Bradley returns along with forward Nate Anderson. Cordero Washington and Darrell Hill combined for 27 a night and will need to be replaced.
Humboldt Hawks (2010-11 season 8-16, 1-9 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Hawks lost most of their rotation. That includes double figure scores Julian Luster and Dashwan Wright. 2 rotation players return, Chase Luster and junior Dominique Khammarath. Both averaged 6+ points a game last season. The roster has no size so expect a very guard oriented system.
Johnson Governors (2010-11 season 25-4, 10-0 Conference, 1st)
The Govs come into the season with a 44 game conference winning streak. With 2 wins to open the league season that would give them the 2nd longest league winning streak in conference history. Wing Roosevelt Scott and point guard Estan Tyler are 2 major losses. Center Chris Smith-Bond and backup guard Anthony Lee also depart. Missouri St signee Marcus Marshall leads the way from his guard slot. He's averaged 16.5 PPG and should approach 20 this season. He's a really tough cover especially when his shot heats up. Quashingm Smith and Jalen Albritton return on the wings. Shelby Ashford is an inside banger and Waylon Johnson gives them a long athletic post who fits the style well.
Predicted Order of Finish
- Johnson
- Central
- Highland Park
- Como Park
- Humboldt
- Harding
Underclassmen to watch:
- Marcus Taylor-Knighten, Felix Taylor Jr - Central
- Victor Yusef, Isaiah Brower, Darius Schumann - Highland Park
- Malik Menifee, Peirre Contell - Johnson
- Johnson at Highland Park - Feb 6th
- Johnson at Central -Feb 21st
- Central at Woodbury - Dec 6th
- Tartan at Central - Dec 13th
- Johnson at Roseville- Dec 20th
- Johnson at Best Buy Holiday Classic (Augsburg) - Dec 28-30th
- Eden Prairie at Johnson - Jan 10th
- Johnson vs Whitefish Bay Dominican, WI - Jan 14th (Midwest Players Classic in La Crosse, WI)
- Hopkins at Johnson - Jan 20th (East Metro Showcase)
11-12 Northwest Suburban Preview
Labels:
11-12 Season Previews
This is the 8th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series. In this a preview, a look at the Northwest Suburban Conference. For a
list of all the season previews, click here.
Osseo has to be the big favorite again and then a couple of nice teams behind them in Maple Grove and Champlin Park. Centennial could jump into that mix or be with the next group of Blaine, Armstrong and Anoka who have major losses but some talent back too. Elk River and Andover might be better in other leagues, but hard to put them in front of the rest and Coon Rapids has some people back despite a rough year.
Andover Huskies (2010-11 season 11-16, 6-14 Conference, 9th)
Leading scorers Jake Wagner 15+ and Tyler Finnes 9 PPG are gone. Late in the year the Huskies went to some of their JV guys. Expect seniors Davis Johnson, Tyler Hartmann, Devon Fellerman and John Hennessey to be the core. Junior forward Cameron Wold is worth noting as well.
Anoka Tornadoes (2010-11 season 13-14, 9-11 Conference, 6th)
The Tornadoes lose 4 starters and 7 of the top 8 scorers but not a bare cupboard. Nebraska-Omaha commit Marcus Tyus averaged over 20 a night last season from his guard slot and I expect another big year. 6'5 Brandon Lindquist mans the middle. Junior guard Malcolm Seals flies under the radar but should see big minutes this year giving Tyus a chance to play off the ball more often.
Blaine Bengals (2010-11 season 19-10, 15-5 Conference, 3rd)
Big loss for the Bengals as star Zach Romashko and his 21.7 a night are gone. The next 3 scorers return with athletic wing Duke Anywanu and shooter Tanner Schumacher. Forward Alex Cappard was that 3rd scorer. Junior Joe Robel will take over the point from his brother Dan.
Centennial Cougars (2010-11 season 9-18, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
Josh Matheson and Payton Sanders were significant contributors last season as the 2nd and 3rd scorers and need to be replaced. The backcourt is solid with Jared Nelson back to run the point and shooter Mitchell Kuck returns after putting up over 19 a night last season. Junior forward Ben Walker returns and the Cougars have a couple of 6'7 or so bodies that can give them some minutes inside.
Champlin Park Rebels (2010-11 season 21-6, 16-4 Conference, 2nd)
Forward TJ Okafor and his 16 a night are gone with 3 other top scorers. Guards Michael Sales and 2nd leading scorer Anthony Hill return. They also have a couple of seniors who can provide some athleticism. A pair of sophs could make varsity contributions this year with Ian Smith at point and forward Matt Juneau.
Coon Rapids Cardinals (2010-11 season 4-24, 2-18 Conference, 11th)
The year was long but the top 3 scorers all return for the Cardinals. Each averaged double figures. That includes Edvonte Hibbler at a guard spot (12 a night) and Omot Okwan at 11.4 inside. Only 1 major contributor lost as they continue to rebuild.
Elk River Elks (2010-11 season 7-20, 4-16 Conference, 10th)
The Elks coming off a very down year by their standards. They lose their only double figure scorer Ben Erickson at 18+ a night. But they do return 6 players who saw big minutes last year. Guards Ryan Ness and Tucker Morrell combined for 18 a night. Soph Clay Elrod will see big minutes at a forward spot after averaging over 5 a night last year.
Maple Grove Crimson (2010-11 season 18-11, 11-9 Conference, 5th)
The Crimson more than quadrupled their win total last year jumping from 4-22 to 18-11 under new coach Nick Schroeder. Much of that thanks to 3 players who will be juniors this season. Point guard Bryce Wojta was the leader at 15+. Shooting guard James Morris was 2nd at 12 a night. Forward Jake Weineke was the 5th leading scorer. Add in 6'9 Bemidji State commit Dan Lochner in the middle and there's a nice group.
Osseo Orioles (2010-11 season 29-3, 19-1 Conference, 1st)
The Orioles lose their top 2 scorers in versatile forward Joey Sonnefeld and point guard Terez Van Pelt. Those were the double figure scorers and were worth 33 points a night. But plenty of talent still on hand. Soph Ian Theisen will man the middle along with Will Johnson. DJ Hebert and Michael Brush return on the wings. Junior Harrison Lucas also gives them scoring punch. Junior Bridge Tusler is a workhorse defending on the wing and can score as well. He hit one of the most memorable shots of last year in an epic 22 point comeback at Armstrong.
Park Center Pirates (2010-11 season 9-17, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
Post Kevin Handy reached the double figure mark and forward Bryan Blackhawk just missed it. Those 2 will have to be replaced with a bunch of other seniors but there's a nice core of 3 juniors that return. The leader is point guard Quinton Hooker who averaged almost 20 a night. Then a pair of athletes around him on the wings. Treyton Daniels and Darian Gates-Washington who were 10 and 9 point a game scorers. But where is the size?
Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2010-11 season 18-10, 12-8 Conference, 4th)
Big losses for the Falcons as the top 5 scorers are gone. That includes the high powered perimeter trio of Marquel Curtis, KJ Bluford and Levi Abercrombie who combined for over 55 a night. But there's a quality junior trio here too. Nick O'Hara will take over the point. Mitchell Biewen and Konner Goettsche are forwards who can step away and shoot it. Those will be the core for the next couple of years.
Predicted Order of Finish
Underclassmen to watch:
Osseo has to be the big favorite again and then a couple of nice teams behind them in Maple Grove and Champlin Park. Centennial could jump into that mix or be with the next group of Blaine, Armstrong and Anoka who have major losses but some talent back too. Elk River and Andover might be better in other leagues, but hard to put them in front of the rest and Coon Rapids has some people back despite a rough year.
Andover Huskies (2010-11 season 11-16, 6-14 Conference, 9th)
Leading scorers Jake Wagner 15+ and Tyler Finnes 9 PPG are gone. Late in the year the Huskies went to some of their JV guys. Expect seniors Davis Johnson, Tyler Hartmann, Devon Fellerman and John Hennessey to be the core. Junior forward Cameron Wold is worth noting as well.
Anoka Tornadoes (2010-11 season 13-14, 9-11 Conference, 6th)
The Tornadoes lose 4 starters and 7 of the top 8 scorers but not a bare cupboard. Nebraska-Omaha commit Marcus Tyus averaged over 20 a night last season from his guard slot and I expect another big year. 6'5 Brandon Lindquist mans the middle. Junior guard Malcolm Seals flies under the radar but should see big minutes this year giving Tyus a chance to play off the ball more often.
Blaine Bengals (2010-11 season 19-10, 15-5 Conference, 3rd)
Big loss for the Bengals as star Zach Romashko and his 21.7 a night are gone. The next 3 scorers return with athletic wing Duke Anywanu and shooter Tanner Schumacher. Forward Alex Cappard was that 3rd scorer. Junior Joe Robel will take over the point from his brother Dan.
Centennial Cougars (2010-11 season 9-18, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
Josh Matheson and Payton Sanders were significant contributors last season as the 2nd and 3rd scorers and need to be replaced. The backcourt is solid with Jared Nelson back to run the point and shooter Mitchell Kuck returns after putting up over 19 a night last season. Junior forward Ben Walker returns and the Cougars have a couple of 6'7 or so bodies that can give them some minutes inside.
Champlin Park Rebels (2010-11 season 21-6, 16-4 Conference, 2nd)
Forward TJ Okafor and his 16 a night are gone with 3 other top scorers. Guards Michael Sales and 2nd leading scorer Anthony Hill return. They also have a couple of seniors who can provide some athleticism. A pair of sophs could make varsity contributions this year with Ian Smith at point and forward Matt Juneau.
Coon Rapids Cardinals (2010-11 season 4-24, 2-18 Conference, 11th)
The year was long but the top 3 scorers all return for the Cardinals. Each averaged double figures. That includes Edvonte Hibbler at a guard spot (12 a night) and Omot Okwan at 11.4 inside. Only 1 major contributor lost as they continue to rebuild.
Elk River Elks (2010-11 season 7-20, 4-16 Conference, 10th)
The Elks coming off a very down year by their standards. They lose their only double figure scorer Ben Erickson at 18+ a night. But they do return 6 players who saw big minutes last year. Guards Ryan Ness and Tucker Morrell combined for 18 a night. Soph Clay Elrod will see big minutes at a forward spot after averaging over 5 a night last year.
Maple Grove Crimson (2010-11 season 18-11, 11-9 Conference, 5th)
The Crimson more than quadrupled their win total last year jumping from 4-22 to 18-11 under new coach Nick Schroeder. Much of that thanks to 3 players who will be juniors this season. Point guard Bryce Wojta was the leader at 15+. Shooting guard James Morris was 2nd at 12 a night. Forward Jake Weineke was the 5th leading scorer. Add in 6'9 Bemidji State commit Dan Lochner in the middle and there's a nice group.
Osseo Orioles (2010-11 season 29-3, 19-1 Conference, 1st)
The Orioles lose their top 2 scorers in versatile forward Joey Sonnefeld and point guard Terez Van Pelt. Those were the double figure scorers and were worth 33 points a night. But plenty of talent still on hand. Soph Ian Theisen will man the middle along with Will Johnson. DJ Hebert and Michael Brush return on the wings. Junior Harrison Lucas also gives them scoring punch. Junior Bridge Tusler is a workhorse defending on the wing and can score as well. He hit one of the most memorable shots of last year in an epic 22 point comeback at Armstrong.
Park Center Pirates (2010-11 season 9-17, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
Post Kevin Handy reached the double figure mark and forward Bryan Blackhawk just missed it. Those 2 will have to be replaced with a bunch of other seniors but there's a nice core of 3 juniors that return. The leader is point guard Quinton Hooker who averaged almost 20 a night. Then a pair of athletes around him on the wings. Treyton Daniels and Darian Gates-Washington who were 10 and 9 point a game scorers. But where is the size?
Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2010-11 season 18-10, 12-8 Conference, 4th)
Big losses for the Falcons as the top 5 scorers are gone. That includes the high powered perimeter trio of Marquel Curtis, KJ Bluford and Levi Abercrombie who combined for over 55 a night. But there's a quality junior trio here too. Nick O'Hara will take over the point. Mitchell Biewen and Konner Goettsche are forwards who can step away and shoot it. Those will be the core for the next couple of years.
Predicted Order of Finish
- Osseo
- Maple Grove
- Champlin Park
- Centennial
- Anoka
- Blaine
- Robbinsdale Armstrong
- Park Center
- Elk River
- Andover
- Coon Rapids
Underclassmen to watch:
- Jake McNallen - Andover
- Ian Theisen, DJ Scates - Osseo
- Ian Smith, Matt Juneau - Champlin Park
- Evan Nolan, Noble Fahnbulleh - Armstrong
- Clay Elrod - Elk River
- Champlin Park at Maple Grove - Dec 20th
- Osseo at Champlin Park - Jan 10th
- Maple Grove at Osseo - Jan 13th
- Maple Grove at Champlin Park - Feb 8th
- Osseo at Maple Grove - Feb 17th
- Champlin Park at Osseo - Feb 21st
- Buffalo at Maple Grove - Dec 3rd
- Osseo vs Prior Lake - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Lakeville North vs Champlin Park - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
- Buffalo at Osseo - Dec 15th
- Spring Lake Park at Champlin Park - Dec 16th
- Robbinsdale Cooper vs Champlin Park - Dec 29th (Bethel Tournament)
- Osseo at Hopkins - Jan 24th
- Cooper at Armstrong - Feb 9th
- Hopkins at Maple Grove - Feb 14th
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