2025-26 Outstate AAAA Preview

This is the 14th preview in the 2024-2025 season preview series.  Week 3 of the series ends with a look at the 9 non-metro class AAAA schools.  That means the AAAA schools that aren't otherwise included in the previews.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Alexandria Cardinals (2024-25 season 29-3, 17-1 Conference, 1st Central Lakes, AAA State Champions)
The 2024-25 Class AAA state champs make the jump up to class AAAA.  Losing Mr Basketball winner Chase Thompson is huge.  But the Cardinals still look to return to the state tourney with most of the rest of the roster.  They have top notch perimeter play with guards Mason Witt and Talan Witt and wing Gavin Roderick.  Myles Gray and Grady Starzl also return.  Thomas Hinrichs is a worker that fits them very well.

Bemidji Lumberjacks (2024-25 season 15-12)
Bemidji returns 4 starters from last year.  High scoring combo guard Jaxon Boschee (26.7 PPG) and forward Austin Riewer (14.6 PPG) are a solid inside out duo.  Jeron Huseby (9.3 PPG) and Rhys Sneide also return to the starting lineup as guards.  Beyond that, they'll need to figure out the depth options since the rest of the returning experience is very limited.

Brainerd Warriors (2024-25 season 14-14, 8-8 Conference, 5th Central Lakes)
The Warriors return wing Korde Roseman (17.2 PPG) and wing Grant Johnson (7.5 PPG)  to their starting lineup.  They are 2 of the taller players on the roster but aren't interior guys so what they do there will be a question mark.  Guard Eli Tautges (14 PPG) and forward Garrett Gilbert (9.3 PPG) are the main pieces that need to be replaced.  Junior Blake Fenstad and soph Luke Merseth will also be in the guard rotation.

Duluth East Greyhounds (2024-25 season 10-17)
The Greyhounds return 3 nice pieces.  Guard Ty Nyberg and LaDanian Bowman join junior forward Simon Winkels.  Bowman was a breakout player last year.  Roman Durand is another front line option.  Soph wing Ty Schingen will see an expanded role.

Moorhead Spuds (2024-25 season 24-8, AAAA 5th place)
Moorhead has to replace their top 2 scorers in wing Reign Battle (20.8 PPG) and PG Brian Zarazua (16.7 PPG).  Zarazua's leadership was a key piece for them.  Juniors David Mack (16.1 PPG) and Jett Feeney (7.6 PPG) are football standouts but can hoop too.  Soph Romeo Kromah had a very nice grassroots season. Those 3 make up another good perimeter group.  Junior Austin Dryburgh returns inside along with Edmund Wotoe.

Owatonna Huskies (2024-25 season 14-14, 10-10 Conference, 6th Big 9)
Coach Josh Williams needs to replace all 5 starters.  Guard Gavin Burmeister is the top returnee along with forward William Halverson..  Junior Brendan Klecker will also see interior time.  Junior point guard Willie Moore will see plenty of ball handling time.

Rochester Century Panthers (2024-25 season 7-20, 6-13 Conference, 9th Big 9)
Wing/Forward Nate Long (13.1 PPG) is the lone double figure scorer returning for the Panthers.  Aguek Aguek returns inside.  A full backcourt of SG Sabir Ahmed (16.9 PPG), PG Ricky Wengert (11.9 PPG) and wing Dane Skime (6.5 PPG, now at Orono) needs to be replaced.  Junior Adam Borgmeier is an option to replace them.

Rochester John Marshall Rockets (2024-25 season 26-6, 19-2 Conference, 2nd Big 9)
The Rockets wouldn't let John Oxton retire without getting a section final win against him.  Now the top 7 scorers need to be replaced.  Guards Jackson Daly and Savy Vath lead this year's team.  Carson Guidinger returns on the front line.  Experience will be limited so expect the Rockets to grind out possessions.

Rochester Mayo Spartans (2024-25 season 18-9, 14-5 Conference, 3rd Big 9)
Mayo looks to contend for a Big 9 title with their entire starting lineup coming back.  Bruising PF Reggie Parker had a outstanding summer.  He'll lead the interior with Logan Shimek who can play inside but has a little range too.  Isaac Peterson and Will Gymarty return as a solid wing pair.  Junior Elliot Myszkowski returns as the point guard.

Overview
The northern half (read non Big 9) has all their top guys coming back outside of Chase Thompson and look to have really good seasons.  Section 8AAAA will once again be very fun.  In the south, section 1AAAA looks like rebuild seasons except for Mayo.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Ty Miller - Alexandria 
• Luke Merseth, Brady Oseland, Dewayne Sims - Brainerd 
• Ty Schingen, Isaac Emerson, Tristan Latimore - Duluth East 
• Romeo Kromah- Moorhead
• Cooper Routh - Owatonna
• Will Ruzek - Rochetser John Marshall 
• Aguer Akech - Rochester Mayo 

Games to Watch

• Rochester Mayo vs Apple Valley- Dec 13th (Tipoff Classic at Edina) 
• Alexandria vs Tartan - Dec 13th (Tipoff Classic at Edina) 
• Maple Grove at Alexandria - Dec 16th
• Moorhead at Alexandria - Jan 6th
• Brainerd at Alexandria - Jan 13th
• Moorhead at Bemidji - Jan 15th
• Eagan at Duluth East - Jan 17th 
• Alexandria at Bemidji - Jan 22nd 
• Moorhead at Brainerd - Jan 24th 
• Brainerd at Duluth East - Jan 27th 
• Bemidji at Moorhead - Jan 29th 
• Alexandria at Brainerd - Feb 19th 
• Moorhead at DeLaSalle - Feb 21st 
• Totino-Grace at Alexandria - Feb 26th 

 

2025-26 Metro West Conference Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2025-2026 season preview series.  Now its time for class AAAA as we have only 3 powerhouse AAA schools left.  In this preview, a look at the Metro West Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Benilde St. Margaret's Red Knights (2024-25 season 26-3, 14-0 Conference, 1st)
Coach Damien Johnson has a down year in front of him.  3 stars have graduated including UNI commit Jalen Wilson (20.9 PPG).  Guard Kobbe Willis injured a knee in the offseason.  He was looking at a monster season.  Point guard Conner Watts (3.4 PPG) and wing Milton Nuahn (4.8 PPG) are top returnees.  Seniors Jaidyn Garibaldi and Cameron Best are candidates for minutes.  Braylon Kelly-Taylor comes in from league rival Jefferson after averaging 8.1 PPG.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2024-25 season 6-20, 2-12 Conference, 7th)
The Jags lost their top scorer midway thru the season.  Another top scorer graduates.  Then 2 more top scorers have transferred.  In addition to Braylon Kelly-Taylor, Isaac Feller (16.7 PPG) is now at Cretin-Derham Hall.  So what's left.  Latif Squires is the lone returning starter (5.4 PPG).  Carson Christensen and Gus Vollmuth return as guards.

Chanhassen Storm (2024-25 season 11-16, 7-7 Conference, 4th)
Chanhassen has to replace their high powered wing duo of Riley Johnson (23.9 PPG) and John Schmidt (18 PPG).  Junior wing Bennett Barger (11.2 PPG) should see his production dramatically increase as the top returnee.  Senior  Kolby Christl (7 PPG) joins him on the wing.  Nathan Ramler (6 PPG) had a productive summer and will be the top inside guy along with Matthew Daly

Chaska Hawks (2024-25 season 10-18, 6-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
Juniors Tyler Forrest (10.5 PPG) and Kalin Jochum (7.4 PPG) are the top guys coming back.  Forrest will be running the point for his 4th season.  Evan Atkinson (7.2 PPG) and Mayer Lutheran transfer Chase Maetzold will man the wings.  Eli Herzog is a shooter in the rotation.  Marquis Connell will see lots of time handling the ball with Forrest.  Jochum will be a primary front court option.

New Prague Trojans (2024-25 season 3-24, 1-13 Conference, 8th)
The top 2 scorers have graduated from a roster that was offensively challenged.  Guard Andrew King (10.6 PPG) and forward Alex Meyer (8.3 PPG) lead this year's roster.  Forward Myles Tietz and point guard Adam Lee return to the starting lineup.  Spencer Bahn will also see time in the guard rotation.

Orono Spartans (2024-25 season 24-8, 12-2 Conference, 2nd)
Orono has to replace all world guard Nolan Groves (34.2 PPG), forward Brady Wooley (18.7 PPG) and wing Mitchell Kauch (9.5 PPG).  Shooter Grant Hansen and wing Gavin McGuirk return to the starting lineup.  Brennan Doherty, Griffin Mauer and Dane Kanwischer return on the wings.  Wing Dane Skime transfers in from Rochester Century and will be a major lineup contributor.

St. Louis Park Orioles (2024-25 season 14-14, 6-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
The Orioles suffer the loss of the Curtis twins to North Dakota.  They combined for 52 PPG last season.  They lose a bunch of other seniors from the rotation too.  Forward Matthew Johnson (9.3 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  Shooting guard Tanner Rose will be a big boost to the lineup after sitting out last year due to a transfer from Benilde-St. Margaret's.  Josh Rickford returns to the lineup and will be the guy running the point.

Waconia Wildcats (2024-25 season 13-14, 8-6 Conference, 3rd)
Former Concordia-St. Paul assistant Nick Perrin takes over the program.  He'll build around star point guard Will Kirsch (23.4 PPG).  Secondary scoring options include Jaxen Holmlund (6 PPG), Henry Wisniewski (6.2 PPG) and Colton Henke (5.5 PPG).  Nickolas Theis and Luke Hill will man the front line.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Chaska
2. Waconia 
3. Orono  
4. Chanhassen 
5. St. Louis Park  
6. Benilde-St. Margaret's
7. Bloomington Jefferson
   
8. New Prague
   

Conference Overview
The Metro West takes the biggest hit of any league in terms of graduation losses.  I think Jefferson and New Prague battle to stay out of the cellar as the clear bottom 2.  The top is a jumble and I see another year where we may see results that indicate nobody wants to win it.  A bunch of mediocrity here.  Chaska has experience and talented inside, outside and on the wing.  Waconia with my pick for MVP goes second.  Orono and Chanhassen battle for the next spot.  St. Louis Park could easily jump into that mix.  BSM is a wildcard with everything they lost.
 
Conference MVP: Will Kirsch - Waconia

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Meech Williams - Benilde-St. Margaret
  
• Isaac Johnson - Chanhassen
• Chase Maetzold - Chaska 

Conference Games to Watch

• Chaska at Orono - Jan 20th 
• Waconia at Chaska - Jan 29th
• Chaska at Waconia - Feb 24th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Waconia vs Minneapolis Washburn - Dec 6th (Big Stage at Hopkins)
• Waconia at Prior Lake - Dec 9th 
• Chaska at Wayzata - Dec 16th
• Chaska vs Prior Lake - Dec 29th (Shakopee holiday tournament)

2025-26 Metro East Conference Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2025-2026 season preview series.  This preview is for the Metro East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and an explanation of how the previews are generated, click here.

Hastings Raiders (2024-25 season 20-8, 11-5 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Point guard Weston Schult (11.6 PPG) and forward Lukas Foss (11.4 PPG) are a valuable inside out duo that need to be replaced.  Guard Matthew Foss (15.2 PPG) returns after leading the team in scoring last season.  Junior wing/forward Marlowe Strain (10.4 PPG) figures to have another big burst of production.  Soph guard Brady Hendrickson (7.9 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  Carter Lundstrom, Liam Burnatz and Caleb Gudissa also will see guard time.  Landon Miska will see minutes inside.  

Hill-Murray Pioneers (2024-25 season 8-19, 3-13 Conference, 8th)
Dustin Hayes takes over as Cam Jones took the St. Paul Central job.  He spent many years on the White Bear Lake staff and was a head coach at St. Croix Central just across the river.  He'll have to replace most of the lineup.  Soph Koa Fuller leads the returning squad.  Soph Jacob Dornan and Noah VanWychen return at guard spots.  Alex Reid and John Omoyeniwill be the primary interior players.  A youthful roster looking toward the future.

Mahtomedi Zephyrs (2024-25 season 18-10, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Zephyrs should be poised for another strong season.  They return 3 of their top 4 scorers.  That includes the duo of combo guard Mark Graff (19.2 PPG) and junior forward Willie Roelofs (16.5 PPG).  Wing Noah Carlson (7.2 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  Andrew Russell will see more minutes inside.  Joe Sevenich returns to the guard rotation.

North Polars (2024-25 season 12-12, 6-10 Conference, Tie 5th)
Three seniors graduating and a pair of transfers to district rival Tartan mean a rebuilding year.  Leading scorer Duke King (16 PPG) and soph forward Kenny Brown are those transfers.  The duo of Terrence Horton (10.3 PPG) and point guard Elijah Ernwein (8.1 PPG) leads the way.  Zach Evgen, Montaeo Jarvis and AJ Scarver join them in the guard rotation.  Junior Elijah Benepe mans the middle.

St. Thomas Academy Cadets (2024-25 season 19-10, 11-5 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Pat Sjoberg takes over the Cadets program.  Forward Andrew Nolde (19.7 PPG) will be a major loss inside.  Senior Lars Osteraas (13.3 PPG) will be the do everything guy for the Cadets with the rest of the starters graduating.  Guard Dominic Baez is defensive minded.  Senior wings George Anderson and Todd Rogalski (5.1 PPG) also return to the rotation.  Junior guard Max Hayes looks to have a bigger role.

Simley Spartans (2024-25 season 6-20, 1-15 Conference, 9th)
Simley returns most of their lineup.  But they lose star freshman forward Justus Dayee to Tartan.  Soph Andre Glass is a 3rd year point guard.  Christian Urbina will also handle it a ton.  Junior Tre Lovelace and senior Connor Streiff lead the offense from the wings.  Senior Lyric Groth provides a ton of experience with them.  Kaynen Zein and Nathan Elachi are the main inside options.

South St. Paul Packers (2024-25 season 11-16, 5-11 Conference, 7th)
Star forward Mustafa Mohamed (14.7 PPG) is another top guy transferring.  He's off to Texas.  Lots returning to the lineup though.  Junior wing Dante Branch (13.5 PPG) had a breakout season and is poised for big numbers this season.  Marco London, Keishon Jarmon and Sincere Casarez-McCampbell and soph Keli Marik are all experienced guards coming back.  Forward Addison Tereau (10.6 PPG) returns to his interior dump off guy role.

Tartan Titans (2024-25 season 27-1, 16-0 Conference, 1st)
Coach Mark Klingsporn looks to have another elite group.  He has Duke King and Kenny Brown coming in from North St. Paul and Justus Dayee from Simley.  Tyrel Pride returns after a year at Johnson.  Not to mention he returns 2 of the top sophs in Minnesota and 2 other rotation guys.  KJ Wilson (16.8 PPG) runs the point and Emmanuel Oyesanmi (10.6 PPG) can move out to the wing with Duke King.  Pride will fit right in at the 2 with King at the 3.  Dayee can slot in at the 5.  That's a lineup that can make some real noise.  Jaylen Goergen is a veteran who knows how to play within the system.

Two Rivers Warriors (2024-25 season 12-16, 6-10 Conference, Tie 5th)
The Warriors return most of their lineup and will be a senior laden group.  Ramzi Rizlove (13.6 PPG) leaves after a career running the point.  Guards Lamont Michaels (14.2 PPG) and Martevious Allen (9.3 PPG) provide some scoring punch.  Rory Schuler (7.8 PPG) joins them on the wing.  Forward Julian Greer (13.6 PPG) plays inside and out with the ability to fill it up in a hurry.  Frosh Jaylen Greer will see plenty of minutes too.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Tartan
   
2. Mahtomedi     
3. Hastings 
4. St. Thomas Academy  
   
5. Two Rivers  
6. South St. Paul 
   
7. Simley 
8. North  
9. Hill-Murray 

Conference Overview
Tartan is far ahead of the pack here with their additions.  Mahtomedi returns a most of a 2nd place roster and I think they stand out above everybody else.  The bottom 3 of Simley, North and Hill-Murray are their own group with Simley being the most talented but they also have really struggled to put it together the last 3 seasons.  South St. Paul is too talented to be 6th but losing Mustafa Mohamed is a ton to ask for a roster that underacheived last season.  Two Rivers with a ton back will give rival St. Thomas Academy a run.  But I think Lars Osteraas builds on a great summer and puts the Cadets on his back.  Hastings was a pleasant surprise last year and has 2 nice pieces coming back.  I'll take them for the 3rd spot.

Conference MVP: KJ Wilson - Tartan

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Brady Hendrickson - Hastings 
• Koa Fuller, Jacob Dornan - Hill-Murray
• D'Wayne Gibson, AJ Scarver, DJ Walton - North St. Paul
• Andre Glass - Simley
• Keli Mark - South St. Paul
• KJ Wilson, Emannuel Oyesanmi, Justus Dayee, Kenny Brown - Tartan
• Jaylen Greer, Sol Mogelson - Two Rivers

Conference Games to Watch

• Tartan at Mahtomedi - Dec 22nd
• Mahtomedi at Tartan - Feb 4th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Mahtomedi vs Hudson (WI) - Dec 2nd
• Tartan at Hopkins - Dec 6th (Big Stage)
• Tartan vs Alexandria - Dec 13th (Tipoff Classic at Edina) 
• Mahtomedi at Orono - Dec 17th
• Tartan vs Maple Grove - Dec 27th (Capitol City Classic at Bethel) 
• Brainerd at Tartan - Dec 30th 
• Mahtomedi vs Anoka - Jan 10th (Southside Super Showcase at Minnehaha)

2025-26 Mississippi 8 Conference Preview

This is the 11th preview in my 2025-26 season preview series.  Week 3 moves on with a look at the Mississippi 8.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Becker Bulldogs (2024-25 season 17-11, 12-4 Conference, 2nd)
This is the year the Bulldogs have built up to.  They return all 5 starters including 3 double figure scorers.  Forward Bryce Paumen (18 PPG, 11.8 RPG) leads the roster.  Adam Wipper looks to be a depth option with him on the front line.  Sawyer Brown (17.5 PPG) and Nathan Weiss (13.7 PPG) lead the guards. Landon Peterson, Troy Nuest and junior Isiah Boyer also return to that perimeter rotation.

Big Lake Hornets (2024-25 season 9-18, 7-9 Conference, Tie 5th)
Forward Max Siegrist is a major loss at a post spot.  Forward Owen Wilczek is a Cincinnati baseball commit.  He could have a big year as the main post threat.  He was a double figure scorer last year.  The guard trio of Lane Pettis and soph Judd Layton with Trevor Stuckenholtz also returns.  Junior Leroy Hamrin and senior William Newland also return to that perimeter rotation.  Senior Dylan Kunz is a depth option inside.

Cambridge-Isanti Bluejackets (2024-25 season 12-15, 10-6 Conference, 4th)
Cambridge-Isanti has to replace 4 starters.  That includes double figure scorers Emerson Droubie (25.2 PPG, 10.1 PPG) and guard Ethan Bergloff (16.9 PPG).  A group of juniors will look to lead the way.  Guards Jameson Epple (13.8 PPG) and Eddie Lundeen (5.2 PPG) are the top returning scorers.  Peyton Coplan will join them in the rotation.  Lane Nelson returns to the rotation as the best option to replace Droubie's size and rebounding.

Chisago Lakes Wildcats (2024-25 season 3-24, 1-15 Conference, 9th)
After going first to worst in a very disappointing season, former Spectrum head coach Tom Terhaar takes over.  He'll need to implement a Get Back coach.  But this one will be for getting back on defense as the Wildcats gave up a ton of points last year.  He'll have a pair of solid wings to work with in Joe Couwenhoven (16.9 PPG) and Cohen Underhill (13.9 PPG).  Colton Betts (8.1 PPG) and Jack Storlie return to the lineup as well.  Juniors Will Pearson and Charles Boarman are top post options.  

Monticello Magic (2024-25 season 24-5, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
Monticello has to replace 3 starters from last year's league champs.  That includes forward Jackson Soroko (17 PPG).  Wings Rhys Nebben (13.7 PPG) and junior Carson Deibele (12.4 PPG) form a nice returning duo. Juniors Hunter Miller (6 PPG) and Ty Disch (4.7 PPG) return with expanded duties.  David Engel is a returning front line option.

North Branch Vikings (2024-25 season 3-24, 2-14 Conference, 8th)
Rob Johnson is the 3rd head coach in 3 years for the Vikings. He comes from their travel program.  He'll have 2 double figure scorers to work with.  Big wing Ethan Thorsen (15.3 PPG) returns.  Jacob Knoespel (15.6 PPG) returns to lead the interior.  Vinny Dufeck is a returning starter on the other wing.  Kingston Droz and Andrew Karnes saw rotation time last year.

Princeton Tigers (2024-25 season 12-15, 7-9 Conference, Tie 5th)
The Tigers return 3 starters.  Wing Noah Stencel (21 PPG) can fill it up in a hurry in their up and down style.  Soph Matthew Hallberg and senior Cody Durham are guards that will also score it.  Senior Jaxson Olson mans in the side.  Logan Wagner, Austin Ross and Michael Kincaid are depth options

St. Francis Saints (2024-25 season 9-18, 7-9 Conference, Tie 5th)
The top 3 scorers including wing Connor Peterson (23 PPG) need to be replaced.  Junior wing Hunter Olson (6.2 PPG) is the top returning player.  Guard Leyton Manners (2.4 PPG) is the other returnee to the starting lineup.  Seniors Tanner Rothbauer, Alex Cristan and Beckham Shiepnev are all returning to the rotation.

Zimmerman Thunder (2024-25 season 17-10, 11-5 Conference, 3rd)
Zimmerman had a breakout season last season.  They look to continue that with leading scorer Thomas McEachern returning.  The explosive wing averaged 17.8 PPG last season.  Lucas Lemke and Mason Spence return to the starting lineup too.  Junior Joe Larson will take over the point guard duties.  Senior forward Jakobey Giffen will see minutes inside.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
Becker with most everything back is the default pick to win here.  Monticello and Cambridge-Isanti lose major pieces but also have plenty remaining.  I see those 2 battling for the 2nd spot.  Zimmerman and Princeton each have a very good wing scorer with returning pieces around that so I see them fighting for the top half.  Big Lake has enough to be the best of the rest and maybe jump into the top half.  Chisago Lakes will need to clean up their defense but talent wise they get the next slot.  St. Francis has a down year ahead.  North Branch is still rebuilding.  League could go down to the final night when Monticello visits Becker.

Conference MVP: Bryce Paumen - Becker

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Nathan Warhol, Tucker Becker - Becker
• Judd Layton - Big Lake 
• Luke Leadhom, Logan Ford, Carter Anderson - Chisago Lakes 
• Johnny Moore, Gibson Voll, Alec Deah - Monticello
• Dhaylen Bachrodt, Henry Christensen, Reid Sjodahl, Adam Bartkey - North Branch 
• Matthew Hallberg - Princeton 

Conference Games to Watch

• Becker at Cambridge-Isanti - Jan 13th 
• Becker at Monticello - Jan 30th
• Cambridge-Isanti at Becker - Feb 13th
• Monticello at Becker - Feb 27th 

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Legacy Christian at Becker - Dec 2nd

2025-26 Wright County East Preview

This is the 10th preview in my 2025-26 season preview series.  We've reached the halfway point of the series.  Let's begin week 3 with the Wright County East.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Delano Tigers (2024-25 season 12-15, 4-3 Conference, 3rd)
Chance Veasey takes over the program.  He comes from Minneapolis Southwest.  He'll need to replace the high scoring guard duo of Max Iversen (23.2 PPG) and Jake Schultz (19.8 PPG).  Schultz graduaed and Iversen is now at Maple Grove.  Nate Nielsen (10.8 PPG), Vinny Luccarelli (5 PPG), Brady Schultz and Elijah Engesser are top perimeter returnees.  Ben Tellers and Bjorn Stewart return on the front line.  How they adjust to a brand new style will be a storyline to watch.  

Holy Family Fire (2024-25 season 12-16, 4-6 Conference, 4th)
A pair of double figure scorers graduate and a couple remain.  Wing Drew Coleman (12.7 PPG) and sharpshooting point guard Geno Ward (10.5 PPG) return to the starting lineup.  The Fire get a major addition in shooter Lexyn Grof (21 PPG) from Jordan to go on the other wing.  Carson Kuchenbecker (6.7 PPG) is another big wing in the rotation.  Cooper Strezo will also see inside minutes.  This should be a fun team to watch on the offensive end with the shooters and skilled wings that they have.

Hutchinson Tigers (2024-25 season 7-20, 1-9 Conference, 6th)
The Tigers have to replace the firepower of forward Nathan Johnson and guard Brady Larson.  Landon Teetzel and Nathan Schumann return to the starting lineup.  Isaac Scott and William DeMeyer join them on the perimeter.  Junior forward Matthew Ortloff will be the main interior threat.

Jordan Hubmen (2024-25 season 16-12, 3-5 Conference, 5th)
Matt Cordes takes over the program.  He had a 170-42 record (80.2%) and took 4 teams to state during his time at New London-Spicer.  He has a tall task in front of him.  Forward Mitchell Schmidt (15.8 PPG) will need to carry the offense, especially now with Lexyn Grof gone.  Guard Graham Helgerson (6.6 PPG) returns to the lineup and will see an expanded role.  Senior Owen Halvorson should see point guard minutes.

Southwest Christian Stars (2024-25 season 18-10, 8-0 Conference, 1st)
Coach David Flom has to replace 9 seniors.  That includes 4 starters and 3 double-figure scorers.  They'll still be strong on the wing with Jack Burke (9.7 PPG) and Jed Streed (7.2 PPG) leading the returning players.  Adam Dye gives them a big body for the interior.  Soph guard Talbot Jones and junior wing Jameson McCarthy provide good depth.

Westonka Whitehawks (2024-25 season 19-9, 5-2 Conference, 2nd)
Don't call us Mound anymore!  The Whitehawks have to replace 10 seniors.  That includes star forwards Max Kraay and Cole Drill who combined for almost 40 points a night.  Kraay leaves as the school's all-time leading scorer.  Junior guard Mika James (8.4 PPG) is the only rotation guy coming back.  Expect him to have a big year.  Seniors Ben Pruitt and Osvaldo Rodriguez are guard options with Alexander Stevens inside.  They could also go young with frosh Marcus Lessor and soph Reese Otto.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
Its a down year in this usually difficult league.  SW Christian loses a bunch of seniors.  Delano and Hutch lose multiple important pieces.  Jordan loses top guy to league rival and Westonka loses everybody.  That leaves Holy Family as they actually return and add guys.  So the Fire is the pick here.  Southwest Christian still plenty to work with.  They should be the clear top 2.  Delano and Jordan will have to figure out new systems and replace their top guys.  That will be the battle for 3rd.  Mound Westonka has to replace everybody and Hutchinson has much to replace too.  That will be the battle to stay out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Drew Coleman - Holy Family

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Griffen Pohlen - Delano 
• Dylan Baker - Holy Family 
• Ari Langheim, Sullivan Maresch - Jordan
• Talbot Jones - Southwest Christian
• Reese Otto, Marcus Lessor -  Westonka

Conference Games to Watch

• Holy Family at SW Christian - Jan 27th
• SW Christian at Holy Family - Feb 20th 

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Belle Plaine at SW Christian - Dec 9th 
• Blake at Holy Family - Dec 9th 
• SW Christian vs Hiawatha - Dec 18th (Hutton Winter Classic at Hamline) 
• SW Christian vs Maranatha - Dec 27th (Capitol City Classic at Bethel) 
• Minneapolis North at Holy Family - Jan 20th 
• Holy Family at Hiawatha - Feb 17th 
• SW Christian at Minnehaha - Feb 18th
• SW Christian at Blake - Feb 24th 

2025-26 Minneapolis City Conference Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2025-2026 season preview series.  Week 2 ends with a look at the Minneapolis City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Camden Patriots (2024-25 season 8-19, 5-7 Conference, 6th)
The front line will be strong with the freshman duo of Lamar McBride and Malik Martin.  McBride was the starting big man last year and Martin played up with the Howard Pulley top 15s this spring as a top 2029 prospect.  Juniors Vincent Burks, Karlin Thomas and Lavon Jordan all saw time at guard spots last season so there's plenty of experience there.  

Edison Tommies (2024-25 season 4-21, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
Junior wing Nico Luitjens-Weatherspoon was primed to be a top option but he's now at Columbia Heights.  Top scorer Sam Young (8.3 PPG) has graduated.  Wing Jashawn Scott (8.2 PPG) will be the top option.  Walter Lish and PG Malakai Fernades return to the starting lineup as well.  Another year where the Tommies will struggle to find a league win.

North Polars (2024-25 season 18-10, 9-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Polars need to replace 3 senior starters and leading scorer Marcus Marshall who is now at Maranatha.  Senior guards J'Marion Sanders (17.1 PPG) and Cordae Williams (10.5 PPG) return as double figure scorers.  Seniors Ronell Willis, Quantayvious Roberts and Jeremiah Johnson all saw perimeter rotation time last year.  Senior forward Cortez Wright will be the interior guy with junior Elijah Harvey being another option with him.

Roosevelt Teddies (2024-25 season 16-10, 6-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Roosevelt finished over the 500 mark for the 1st time since 2017-18.  Leading scorer Calvin Peterson (18 PPG) returns on the wing.  Senior Kieran Quinlan joins him as as returning perimeter starter.  Guards Steven Hunter and Obie Esparza (17.2 PPG) along with forward Jason Wind are starters that need to be replaced.  Josiah Alexander returns inside. 

South Tigers (2024-25 season 11-16, 6-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
South has to replace leading scorer Eugene Brown (16.5 PPG).  The perimeter play will be a strength with the next 4 scorers coming back.  Guards Jumair Wright (14.7 PPG) and Ramadan Ibrahim (11.7 PPG) lead the offense.  Senior Ridwan Ibrahim (8.7 PPG) joins them in the starting lineup.  The leadership of graduated Greg Johnson at the point will be missed.

Southwest Lakers (2024-25 season 10-16, 6-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
The Lakers played about as big a rotation as anyone last season.  They lose their only double figure scorer, Henry Wolfe (10.1 PPG) but return plenty of experience and will again be balanced.  Forward Dashiell Erickson is a top threat.  They have a nice junior group to go with him.  Riley Kelley returns at the the point.  Niko Case, Owen Boarman and Leif Kranz are all good experienced fits in their 5 out look.

Washburn Millers (2024-25 season 13-15, 10-2 Conference, 1st)
The 2-time defending Minneapolis champs have to replace both double figure scorers from last season.  Guards Cooper Carlson (17.9 PPG) and Armoni Dischinger-Harris (15.6 PPG) are significant losses.  The front line will be this year's strength with forwards Brayden Gorton (9.3 PPG) and Ryker Van Nostrand (5.7 PPG) being this year's go-to players.  Both can step out and shoot it as well as work inside.  Finley Carlson and Alexander Young are the top returning guards.  Freshman Quianny Christian should see minutes as a shooter.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
I see Washburn being the class of the league again.  North losing Marcus Marshall is huge but they have enough guard play to stay above the rest.  The middle will be a jumble again with the next 4 being easily set in any order.  Camden loses quite a bit and was 6th last year so I leave them there but adding Malik Martin is a big deal.  Southwest and South return more than Roosevelt so I'll give them the nod.  Edison will again struggle.

Conference MVP: Brayden Gorton - Washburn

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Malik Martin, Lamar McBride - Camden
• Landen Knox, Lucas Larsen - Roosevelt
• Jumair Wright - South 
• Quianny Christian, Morris Matthews - Washburn 

Conference Games to Watch

• North at Washburn - Jan 13th
• Washburn at North - Feb 19th
• Twin Cities Game - Feb 28th (St. Paul Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Hiawatha at North - Dec 4th 
• Wayzata at Washburn - Dec 5th
• Washburn vs Waconia - Dec 6th (Big Stage at Hopkins) 
• St. Paul Central at Minneapolis North - Jan 17th 
• North at Maranatha - Jan 29th 
• Minnehaha at Washburn - Feb 17th

2025-26 St. Paul City Conference Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2025-2026 season preview series.  Now its time to look at the city leagues and St. Paul goes first.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Central Minutemen (2024-25 season 21-7, 11-1 Conference, 1st)
New coach Cam Jones comes in from Hill-Murray.  He replaces the Scott Howell who finishes his run at Central with 238 City wins.  That's 2nd all time trailing only Dan Brink.  The Minutemen lose guard Allan Lankfard (16.2 PPG) who graduated as the all time leading scorer in St. Paul City Conference history with 1885 career points.  The rest of a senior laden rotation returns.  SG Eli Moseman (18.1 PPG) leads the way with wings Sefi Whittington (13.4 PPG) and Tesfa Sturm (11.3 PPG).  Finnegan Bloedel (7.0 PPG) is an experienced banger inside.  Etienne Reyes and Kaidyn Blakey also return.  Finding someone to replace Lankfard as a ball handler will be key.  Moseman will definitely handle it some, but you'd like to see him get loose off the ball as a shooter.

Como Park Cougars (2024-25 season 11-15, 5-7 Conference, 5th)
Former Tartan and Iowa State standout Jake Sullivan takes over the Cougars program.  He has to replace all 3 double figure scorers at almost 49 PPG from last year.  That includes forwards Ja'Hari Hill and DeJuan Jones.  Senior guards Contrell Jenkins, Hezekiah Bradshaw, Jereiah Ranson and Jonas Tetevi will lead the offense.  Jenkins led all returnees with 8.8 PPG last season.  Size will be a question mark.

Harding Knights (2024-25 season 18-12, 7-5 Conference, 3rd)
The Knights parlayed their first postseason win since 2003 into their first ever trip to state.  Now they lose 13 seniors and the 2 main returnees have both transferred.  That's soph David Addai to Johnson and senior wing Salman Hussein (10.1 PPG) to East Ridge.  A JV squad that went 9-3 in the league last year will need to develop quickly.

Highland Park Scots (2024-25 season 12-15, 6-6 Conference, 4th)
Highland Park has to replace their double figure wing duo of Yared Yohannes and Isaac Hooper.  Junior Isaiah Davis is the top returnee at just under 10 a night and leads the forwards.  But he'll need to stay out of foul trouble.  Otahl Webb (8.7 PPG) returns to the lineup at a guard spot.  Teagan Miller will join him in the backcourt.

Humboldt Hawks (2024-25 season 14-15, 3-9 Conference, 6th)
The Hawks have to replace 22 PPG from PG Pharroh Holliman.  Senior wing Jakar Rice is poised for a big year after breaking out with 17.1 PPG last season.  The junior inside out duo of SG Fadil Alabi (12.7 PPG) and forward Taurean Williams  (7.9 PPG) will carry the scoring with Rice.  Juniors Luke Hobday and Keith Whitlow also return to the rotation after seeing major time last season.

Johnson Governors (2024-25 season 20-7, 10-2 Conference, 2nd)
Tyrel Pride and his team high 15.4 PPG returns to Tartan.  But the Govs return everybody else as they look for another 20 win season and the league crown.  Kenny Turner (11.3 PPG) anchors the interior.  D'Mari McMillan will spell him inside.  Junior Colin Moore (8.4 PPG) will run the show again.  They have a ton of experienced perimeter pieces that they can mix and match.  Whether its smaller guards in Tavi Johnson and Kaiden Elphage or bigger wing types like Jermaine Curtis, Garnino Kamp or Paris Pollard, they all get after you in the classic Johnson pressure style.

Washington Eagles (2024-25 season 11-17, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
Washington has gone winless the last 3 seasons in league play.  They have to replace the league's top scorer in guard Shawn Huberty (25.2 PPG) along with wing Leon Andrewin.  Senior Jimale Ahmed (8.3 PPG) returns at the point.  Fellow senior Aburahman Hassan joins him in the backcourt as another scoring option.  Juniors Noah Rieger and Lesean Andrewin return on the front line.  Not much depth or offensive punch for this roster.  Defensively they'll need to improve as they had 10 losses where they gave up more than 80 points.  

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
For 21 straight years Central or Johnson has been the St. Paul representative in the Twin Cities Game.  The more things change, the more they stay the same.  Johnson is loaded as they lose only 1 guard from a deep guard corps.  Add in Kenny Turner in the middle and the Govs are too much.  Central with a ton back isn't far behind.  In the next tier, Highland Park and Como Park will battle it out for the rest of the top half.  I suggest any ties be broken by a 3 point shooting contest between the two head coaches since they combined for over 5500 career points in their local high school playing days.  Humboldt will look to jump into that group with more returning, but Harding had a much better JV last year.  Washington still trying to find a league win.

Conference MVP: Eli Moseman - Central

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Tyler Mortellaro - Central
• David Addai - Johnson 
• Styleson Vang - Washington 

Conference Games to Watch

• Johnson at Central - Jan 15th
• Central at Johnson - Feb 10th
• Twin Cities Game - Feb 28th (St. Paul Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Johnson vs Mankato East - Dec 13th (Tipoff Classic at Edina) 
• Central at Minnehaha - Dec 19th
• Johnson vs Alexandria - Dec 27th (Concordia-St. Paul holiday tourney)
• Central at Minneapolis North - Jan 17th
• St Paul Johnson hosting MLK Showcase - Jan 19th 
• Johnson vs Orono - Jan 24th (The Collision at Cretin-Derham Hall) 

2025-26 Tri-Metro Conference Preview

This is the 7th preview in my 2025-2026 season preview series.  Week 2 of the previews continues with a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Academy of Holy Angels Stars (2024-25 season 12-15, 10-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
The Stars return a pair of double figure scoring wings led by Blake Nixon (20.1 PPG) and shooter Arjun Jain (11.2 PPG).  Kenzo Lee (9.1 PPG) returns as a ballhandler.  Danny Kelly also returns to that perimeter rotation.  Daniel Devine and Jake Winston are forward options.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2024-25 season 7-20, 5-11 Conference, 7th)
The Eagles have to replace 4 significant scorers.  Delannie Bush and Keymarey Jackson will provide the scoring punch this season.  They'll also get a boost from soph transfer Judah Mitchell.  He comes in from Cretin-Derham Hall and should get plenty of opportunity to be the point guard.  Junior Aaron Buchanan should expand his role on the frontline.

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2024-25 season 4-23, 1-15 Conference, 9th)
The Centaurs went with a young lineup last year.  Looks like they lost 2029 PG Rashad Smith (12.6 PPG) to DeLaSalle.  Senior guard Alan Moore (14.2 PPG) is now at Columbia Heights.  That leaves Key'shon Alexander (10.4 PPG) as the top returner.  Aloysius Vah (6.4 PPG) will see minutes as a forward but he's undersized there.

Columbia Heights Hylanders (2024-25 season 6-21, 3-13 Conference, 8th)
A pair of double figure scorers need to be replaced.  Senior guard Kahlil Mkali (12.6 PPG) leads the returning lineup.  Seniors Judah Caine (8.4 PPG) and Dair Armstrong also return to the starting lineup.  Nico Luitjens Weatherspoon (8.3 PPG) comes over from Edison after being a key piece for the Tommies last season.

DeLaSalle Islanders (2024-25 season 24-7, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
The Islanders look to once again be one of the teams in AAA with 3 double figure scorers returning.  The wing play of juniors Jaeden Udean (17.9 PPG) and Kamar Thomas (14.3 PPG) is dynamic.  Forward Evan Miller (10.4 PPG) gives them ability to stretch the floor.  Junior Deon Wallace-Johnson is a classic DLS role guy who will defend and move the ball.  Sophomores Ichima Idoko and Taaj Whitlock are 2 of the top players in 2028.

Fridley Tigers (2024-25 season 13-14, 10-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Fridley needs to replace the high-powered backcourt duo of Trenton Woodall Jones (25.1 PPG) and PG Jamichael Breauxsaus-Ollie (21.2 PPG).  Senior wing Brevon Robinson (8.4 PPG) is the top returnee and should be the breakout lead scorer for the Tigers.  Junior Jenovic Kadindula  (5.8 PPG) is the top returning forward.  Alex Johnson will join him there.

Richfield Spartans (2024-25 season 22-6, 14-2 Conference, 2nd)
Richfield has to replace one of the top scorers in the state in CJ Armstrong at 31.4 PPG.  Normally that would be a major problem but the Spartans are still loaded.  Juniors Dre Collins (16.6 PPG) and Tyrece Hagler (15.1 PPG) return to the starting lineup.  Guard Adin India provides experience with them.  Transfers Waleed Muhammed of Breck and Gideon Horne of Hope Academy add to a stacked lineup.  Horne should be their main interior guy. He'll be a great guy to run and finish with their talented guards.

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2024-25 season 7-17, 6-10 Conference, 6th)
Ron Howard takes over the program.  He has previously spent time at Anoka-Ramsey and 1 year leading the Westonka girls program.  Forward Jahnail Jones is a major piece to return inside.  Forwards Tavorian Thompson and Anthony Byrd will be top options.  Senior Ajavion-Wiley-Hunt leads the guard group.

St. Anthony Huskies (2024-25 season 12-15, 8-8 Conference, 5th)
Coach Josh Pratt returns his 2 double figure scorers from last season.  Wing Brett Siroin (21.2 PPG) provides shooting while Isaan Kitila (13.6 PPG) works inside.  The other 3 starters need to be replaced.  Juniors Galatan Kitila (9.5 PPG) and Logan Buck return to the rotation.  Junior Ahmed Ahmod looks to be the next point guard.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference MVP: Jaeden Udean - DeLaSalle

Conference Overview:
DeLaSalle and Richfield will be 2 of the best teams in AAA this season and a level above the rest of the league.  Richfield has given the Islanders fits recently by winning 3 of the last 4 meetings.  DeLaSalle is the champ until beaten though. Holy Angels with Blake Nixon is the best of the rest.  Fridley and St. Anthony should be the rest of the top half.  Then a drop off to the bottom 4 who all won 7 games or less last season and are rebuilding.  Columbia Heights guards give them my nod for the top of that group.  Brooklyn Center goes to the bottom with the other 3 being in any order.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Tristan Duggan, Keegan Spence, Bishop Froehle - Academy of Holy Angels
  
• Judah Mitchell - Bloomington Kennedy
• Ichima Idoko, Taaj Whitlock - DeLaSalle 
• Keshawn Bartuah - Fridley 
• Eric Buhl - Richfield 

Conference Games to Watch

• DeLaSalle at Richfield - Jan 3rd 
• Richfield at DeLaSalle - Feb 4th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• DeLaSalle vs Maple Grove - Dec 6th (Big Stage at Hopkins) 
• Richfield at Orono - Dec 11th 
• Richfield vs St. Paul Johnson - Dec 26th (Capitol City Classic at Hamline)
• Richfield vs Minnehaha - Dec 27th (Capitol City Classic at Hamline)
• Richfield at St. Paul Johnson MLK Event - Jan 19th 
• Cretin-Derham Hall at DeLaSalle - Jan 31st 
• DeLaSalle vs Superior (WI) - Feb 7th (Border Battle at Hamline) 
• Hopkins at DeLaSalle - Feb 24th  

2025-26 IMAC Preview

This is the 6th preview in my 2025-2026 season preview series.  Week 2 begins with this look at the Independent Metro Athletic Conference (IMAC).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Blake Bears (2024-25 season 22-5, 7-2 Conference, 2nd)
Coach Tyler Biwan has to replace his forward duo of Omar Kaba and Ian Schnabel.  They combined for over 34 PPG.  The offense will focus around senior guards Carson McMichael (18.6 PPG) and Aiden Wilson (8.2 PPG).  McMichael is one of the top shooters in the metro while Wilson returns at the point guard spot.  Juniors Micah Wagoner and Benji Dillon will see bigger rotation roles.  Particularly Dillon as he'll be the replacement up front.  Caden Johnson will join Wagoner in the perimeter rotation.

Breck Mustangs (2024-25 season 21-11, 8-0 Conference, 1st)
The Mustangs have won 17 league games in a row and are the 2 time defending champs.  They'll be hard pressed to repeat that with only 2 of their top 12 scorers returning.  League MVP Miles Newton (20.9 PPG) has graduated.  Fellow wing DeAngelo Dungey (14.1 PPG) would have been the top guy but he's now at Totino-Grace.  Guards Waleed Muhammed (8.8 PPG) and Ayden Green (7.1 PPG) have also transferred out.  PG Mu Muhammed (10.6 PPG) and forward JP Musoke (10.3 PPG).  Edina transfer Oliver Flick figures to contribute up front as well.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2024-25 season 20-11, 5-4 Conference, 3rd)
Minnehaha loses 5 of their top 6 scorers from a senior heavy lineup.  Their 4 graduated double-figure scorers combined for almost 52 PPG.  The Redhawks have impressive youth though and should reload.  8th grader Carter Cupito can run the show and shoot it.  Senior Malachi Snell (3.2 PPG) and Ayden Green from Breck join him in an experienced backcourt.  Junior forward Kellen Troup (9.8 PPG) is a breakout candidate.  Freshman Mekhi Abner transfers in from Osseo and should see plenty of frontcourt minutes.

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2024-25 season 5-22, 1-6 Conference, 6th)
Coach Brendan Connolly has to replace top guard Wyatt Srsen (21.5 PPG).  Srsen surpassed Connolly as the school's all-time leading scorer.  Junior guard Omar Said averaged 13.7 PPG and will lead this season's offense.  They'll need to figure out who helps him on that end.  Its a small lineup with guard experience.  Senior guards Alex Larson, Soren Springer and Ethan Simonson all return to the starting lineup.

Providence Academy Lions (2024-25 season 7-20, 2-7 Conference, 5th)
Providence has to replace 3 of their top 4 scorers with only 1 of those in double figures.  Wing George Jacobson (13.8 PPG) is the top option that needs to be replaced.  Juniors Matthew Schaffer (10.5 PPG) and Noah Boro (8.2 PPG) return as perimeter starters.  Getting junior PG Leo Giwa back from injury (DNP in 24-25) would be a huge boost there too.  Junior forward Henry Willihganz (4.4 PPG) will lead the front line.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2024-25 season 10-17, 3-7 Conference, 4th)
Head coach Kevin Keto returns to the bench after a 1 year leave of absence. Forward Nathan Rock (11.4 PPG) has graduated and leaves a hole up front.  The perimeter play will be a strength.  Wing Ezra Cunningham (19.4 PPG) is the league's top returning scorer.  The guard trio of senior Ben Sieben (11 PPG) with juniors Miles Vogenthaler (10.1 PPG) and John Grimsrud (9.9 PPG) is solid.  3 other role guys from last season also return so there's plenty of experience.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
Significant losses around the league.  Minnehaha reloads and battles Blake for the top spot.  Breck loses too much and SPA has the league's top scorer coming back in a battle for 3rd.  Providence clearly next.  Mounds Park broke a league road losing streak in conference games that dated back to 2008 and their days in the Tri-Metro.  But losing their all-time leading scorer is too much to overcome.

Conference MVP: Carson McMichael - Blake

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Garrick Bennett - Blake
• Max Munsell - Breck
• Carter Cupito, Mekhi Abner - Minnehaha 
• Zamin Ali - Mounds Park Academy 
• Colton Perrill - Providence 
• Margarsaa Mullataa - St. Paul Academy 

Conference Games to Watch

• Blake at Minnehaha- Jan 9th
  
• Minnehaha at Blake - Feb 3rd

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Minnehaha at Orono - Dec 2nd
• Blake at Annandale - Dec 5th 
• Blake at Holy Family - Dec 9th
• Holy Family at Minnehaha - Dec 12th 
• Minnehaha vs Jackson County Central - Dec 13th (Tipoff Classic at Edina)
• St. Paul Central at Minnehaha - Dec 19th
• Minnehaha vs Richfield - Dec 27th (Capitol City Classic at Hamline)
• Central Minnesota Christian at Minnehaha - Jan 10th (Southside Super Showcase)
• Belle Plaine at Blake - Feb 5th
• Minnehaha vs Manitowoc Roncalli (WI) - Feb 7th (Border Battle at Hamline) 
• Blake at Maranatha - Feb 10th
• Minnehaha at Minneapolis Washburn - Feb 17th
• SW Christian at Minnehaha - Feb 18th 
• St. Paul Johnson at Minnehaha - Feb 23rd
• SW Christian at Blake - Feb 24th

2025-26 Skyline Conference Preview

This is the 5th preview in my 2025-26 season preview series.  Week 1 concludes with a look at the Skyline Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Concordia Academy Beacons (2024-25 season 16-11, 11-5 Conference, 3rd)
The best dressed coach in the metro has downgraded his wardrobe much to my disappointment.  He also has to replace 4 of his top 5 scorers.  That includes guard Gage Green and forward Noah Quiggle who both averaged over 14 PPG.  Junior guard Logan Duis is the top returning scorer 9 PPG.  He's joined in the backcourt by junior Langston Huffman (7 PPG) and junior Jake Smith (4.1 PPG).  Soph forward Zeid Ndiaye is a breakout candidate with significant upside.  Judah Shepp (5.5 PPG) will join him on the frontline trying to replace Quiggle's production.

Legacy Christian Academy Lions (2024-25 season 17-10, 7-1 MCAA, Tie 1st North)
Coach Nate Bellefeuille moves his Lions to the Skyline from the MCAA.  He loses top scorer Andrew Mulvihill (14.6 PPG) but returns 3 other double figure starters.  Hudson Strand (14.3 PPG) and Ty Nelson (12.8 PPG) provide returning perimeter firepower.  Forward Max Leifker (10.9 PPG) is the main big man but on offense plays as a stretch 5.  Junior guard Ryan Wald joins those 3 seniors as main rotation guys coming back.  

Maranatha Christian Academy Mustangs (2024-25 season 14-14, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
Al Harris takes over the program.  He has to replace leading scorer JoJo Bartolomeos (17.3 PPG) and 2 other role guys but still has a ton coming back.  Junior guard Marcus Marshall (22.1 PPG) transfers in from Minneapolis North so that will easily replace the scoring.  He's joined in the backcourt by Daijor McCrimmon (14 PPG), Jaidyn Rennie (8.2 PPG), Nate Williams (4.8 PPG) and Chris Daniel (2.9 PPG).  Eli Ahrends (10 PPG) and Teni Phillips (9.2 PPG) are experienced inside.  Its a roster that fits coach Harris and his style very well.  Expect them to play a high intensity defensive style with fast pace.

New Life Academy Eagles (2024-25 season 9-18, 4-12 Conference, 7th)
The Eagles return everybody except 1 senior.  Guards Grant Clausen (13.1 PPG) and Evan Seaton (12.7 PPG) lead the offense.  Seaton is one of the better shooters in the league.  Senior point guard Ezekiel Lindahl returns to run the offense.  Seniors Dylan Wall and Joshua Greene join them in the perimeter rotation.  Senior Cameron Karasek mans the front line along with juniors James Hudson and Kaden Place.

Nova Classical Academy Knights (2024-25 season 11-16, 3-13 Conference, 8th)
The Knights broke thru and got their first Skyline win ever last season.  Can they make another jump this season?  The 16.8 PPG from guard Mason Engelking will be hard to replace.  But they do return leading scorer Caleb Taylor at 18.5 PPG.  Kincaid Gerber (5.4 PPG) and Abe Brady (4.2 PPG) will look to pick up some of the lost scoring on the wings.  Finn Penniman, Cole Rydberg and frosh Elias Taylor all return at guard spots as well.  Size is a problem for them.

St. Agnes Aggies (2024-25 season 13-14, 10-6 Conference, 4th)
Former head coach Chris Pierce took an assistant job at North St. Paul.  Former Cooper coach Bo Powell temporarily had the job.  Now Malique McCoy comes in from St. Paul Academy to be the new head coach.   He has a major task ahead of him.  The Aggies will have to replace 10 seniors and that included their entire rotation.  Undersized junior guard Thomas Plasch (1.3 PPG) is the only player with any varsity experience.

St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2024-25 season 25-4, 16-0 Conference, 1st)
The Crusaders have to replace their entire starting lineup and top reserve forward after making the section final last year.  That includes league MVP Riccardo Marzetti (21.1 PPG) and 2 other double figure scorers.  The backcourt will still be solid and undersized with seniors Colin Avery, Isaac Garcia and Thomas Hermann joining junior Noah Little.  All saw a ton of time off the bench.  Who mans the front court is a huge question as there's no experienced candidate.  But the Crusaders do seem to just reload every season.

St. Croix Prep Lions (2024-25 season 17-12, 9-7 Conference, 5th)
Leading scorer William Weeldreyer (12.3 PPG) needs to be replaced after anchoring the interior for the last 2 seasons.  Logan Eiselt (11.7 PPG) paired with him up front last season and should lead the Lions offense this season.  Junior wing Ali Akram (11.2 PPG) returns to lead the perimeter offense.  Cooper Beckmann returns with him in the backcourt.  Patrick McGurran, Henry Canfield and Linden Taylor will be JV options from last year looking for bigger roles.

Trinity Tri-Hawks (2024-25 season 13-15, 6-10 Conference, 6th)
Athletic director Pat Buchanan stays home as the new head coach.  He's bounced around from Mayer Lutheran, Apple Valley and Kennedy in the past.  He has to replace all 5 starters.  Senior guard Tobias Berge (4.8 PPG) is the most experienced returnee.  Brian Maloy returns on the wing.  A group of sophomores who started on JV last year will look to step into bigger roles.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
The league membership change looks like soccer relegation.  Legacy moves up from the MCAA.  Cristo Rey departs for the EMAC.  Maranatha is the heavy favorite here with most everybody back and adding Marcus Marshall.  Legacy also has plenty coming back so I'll pick them to make a push for the next spot in their inaugural season in the league.  After that, most everybody has major pieces to replace.  Concordia and St. Croix Lutheran should battle for the 3rd spot.  St. Croix Prep is the best of the rest and it drops off after that.  Nova, Trinity and New Life should be a fun battle for 6th.  I'll give New Life the nod here as they return the most.  Trinity and St. Agnes have entire lineups to replace.

Conference MVP: Marcus Marshall Jr - Maranatha

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Zeid Ndiaye, Jake Smith - Concordia
• Silas Kardell - Legacy 
• Colin Michaelis, Jeremiah Rupp - New Life
• Elias Taylor - Nova 
• Henry Canfield - St. Croix Prep 
• Jacob Bowden, Declan Cudd, Samuel Ekholm - Trinity

Conference Games to Watch

• Legacy at Maranatha - Dec 19th
• Maranatha at Concordia - Jan 26th 
• Maranatha at Legacy - Feb 3rd 

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Legacy at Becker - Dec 2nd  
• Maranatha at Lake City - Dec 6th 
• Maranatha vs Twin Cities Academy - Dec 26th (Capitol City Classic at UNW-SP) 
• Maranatha vs SW Christian - Dec 27th (Capitol City Classic at Bethel) 
• Minneapolis North at Maranatha - Jan 29th
• Blake at Maranatha - Feb 10th 
• Legacy at Spectrum - Feb 12th 
• Breck at Maranatha - Feb 24th 
• St. Paul Highland Park at Concordia - Feb 24th (Concordia all-time leading scorer Zach Towle returns home as Highland Park coach)

2025-26 MCAA Preview

This is the 4th preview in my 2025-26 season preview series.  We continue the conference previews with a look at the Minnesota Classic Athletic Association (MCAA).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Christ's Household of Faith Lions (2024-25 season 11-17, Independent)
CHOF moves into the MCAA for basketball only after being an independent.  4 seniors need to be replaced.  They will return Sawyer Okerstrom inside.  Guard Elias Bratzel also returns to the starting lineup.  Soph guard Nolan Sarbacker is poised to have a breakout season.  8th grade guard Chase Sarbacker should also see plenty of minutes.

Eagle Ridge Academy Gryphons (2024-25 season 13-14, 4-4 Conference, Tie 2nd South)
The Gryphons program has a new leader this year in Kalvin O'Neal.  Leading scorer Nils Johansson (16.8 PPG) is the biggest lost.  The junior guard duo of King Davis and Mo Moassaquoi combined for over 25 PPG last season and will be the catalyst this season.  Seniors Andrew Brakel and Braxton Ray return to the perimeter rotation as well.  Forwards Evan Hansen and Oliver Kelash will have to be replaced inside.  Seniors Hamza Said (5.3 PPG) and Chris Asuma (5.4 PPG) are the main options there.

Heritage Christian Academy Eagles (2024-25 season 25-7, 8-0 Conference, 1st South)
Heritage's outstanding 2025 class carried them all the way to the state tournament where they lost in the quarters to state champion Dawson-Boyd.  It was only the 2nd class ever to have 4 1000 point scorers.  Now coach Tim Herman has to replace 6 seniors and rebuild the roster.  Wing Griffin Booms (5 PPG) is the only returning starter.  Junior forward Aaron Palmer averaged 11 PPG last season backing up Minnesota football recruit Abu Tarawallie inside.  He'll be the top option this season.  Senior wing Jesper Synstelien will also see a much expanded role.

Lakes International Language Academy Dragons (2024-25 season 0-26, 0-8 Conference, 5th North)
Soph PG Jackson Dowd (9.9 PPG) returns to lead a roster that took its lumps last season.  Senior guard Matthew Deimer joins him in the backcourt.  Soph Zakariya Ndiaye and Henry Selby lead the front line.

Liberty Classical Academy Lions (2024-25 season 25-4, 8-1 EMAC, 2nd)
The Lions move into the MCAA after back to back trips to the EMAC championship game.  Coach John Towle returns his entire roster and looks to make a big run in the north division.  That includes EMAC MVP Sam Rupnow (26.6 PPG) and Ethan Richter (20.5 PPG) on the wing.  Those seniors combine with junior PG Cruz Triana (11.1 PPG) to form a formidable perimeter trio.  William Gilbert and Eric Kneen are the top front line options.

Math and Science Academy Dragons (2024-25 season 11-15, 3-8 EMAC, 5th)
Rich Berkley takes over the program.  He was previously on the Eagle Ridge Academy staff.  Math and Science also moves to the MCAA from the EMAC.  They'll join CHOF in the south division.  It'll be a transition year with a new coach and 4 new starters.  The front line of Tomi Taiwo and Adam Olaoye has graduated along with guards David Musherure and Noah Gebe.  The top 2 scorers do return though.  Junior Jacob Balami (9.7 PPG) and soph Elisee Voumadi (8.8 PPG) are a guard duo that the Dragons can build around.

Mayer Lutheran Crusaders (2024-25 Season 13-14, 4-4 Conference, Tie 2nd South)
Mayer Lutheran has to replace a big chunk of their rotation.  They lose leading scorer Nate Lindesmith along with 5 other seniors.  They also lose soph star Chase Maetzold who has transferred to Chaska.  Junior guard Ben Lindesmith and soph wing Carter Neitzel are the top returnees.  Size will be a question mark. Frosh guard Dylan Sunde could move up from JV and contribute.

North Lakes Academy Huskies (2024-25 season 7-20, 2-6 Conference, 4th North)
New head coach Brian Schlief lost the last game of last season at Maple Lake to North Lakes.  If you can't beat them, join them! I kid, I kid.  (Czar's Correction: Maple Lake actually won that game)  He has to replace the top 2 scorers including 13.4 PPG from lone double figure scorer DJ Dillard.  Senior guards Levi Molitor (7.5 PPG, top returning scorer) and Micah Schlock will be top options.  Very little scoring punch or size to go with them.

PACT Charter Panthers (2024-25 season 14-13, 4-4 Conference, 3rd North)
The Panthers lose leading scorer Tim Cherenkevich (15.2 PPG) but have a nice duo to build around.  Soph guard Fred Onyinkwa (12.1 PPG) and senior forward Jayden Busch (11.5 PPG) will be their inside/out duo.  Wing Caleb Engelhart (7.6 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  Depth will need to step up as the entire bench rotation graduated.  That could come from soph forward Lucas Novitsky who averaged 3.9 PPG last season.

Spectrum Sting (2024-25 season 22-8, 7-1 Conference, Tie 1st North)
Assistant CJ Maternoski takes over the program after Tom Terhaar took the Chisago Lakes job.  In an innovative move (expected from a UW guy), my sources tell me that he's also added a "Get Back" coach to the staff to make sure no game winners are called off.  Spectrum graduates 2 starters from a roster where all 5 starters averaged double figures.  The Sting also lose star forward Bryce Gaustad (16 PPG) who is now at Anoka.  Guards Eli Miller (10.3 PPG) and Cody Benson (12.9 PPG) return in the starting lineup.  This is another roster where the bench was all seniors so the depth will not be experienced.  Big question on how they retool the front court.

United Christian Academy Thunder (2024-25 season 16-12, 2-6 Conference, Tie 4th South)
2013 Bethany Academy grad Roy Mould returns to his alma mater as new head coach.  Senior guards Josiah Hendley and Sam Rich will be the top offensive options.  Weston Trenz, Thomas Serafin and Andrew Rich join them in the backcourt.  They'll need to find an option to replace forward Ashton Trenz on the front line.

West Lutheran Warriors (2024-25 season 8-21, 2-6 Conference, Tie 4th South)
Leading scorer Brandon Knebel (15.7 PPG) returns to lead the Warriors.  Junior forward Bennett DeRoiser returns with him on the front line.  Three other double figure scorers need to be replaced. Seniors Micah Schroeder, Seth Pfotenhauer, Brady Klatt, Jack Nelson and Magnus Nelson all saw time last season with Schroeder being the main rotation guy of those.

Predicted Order of Finish

North Division 

1. Liberty Classical 
2. Spectrum  
3. Heritage Christian
4. PACT
5. North Lakes
6. Lakes International

South Division 

1. Mayer Lutheran
2. CHOF
3. West Lutheran 
4. Eagle Ridge 
5. United Christian
6. Math & Science 

Conference Overview
Legacy Christian departs for the Skyline.  The league adds CHOF (basketball only), Math & Science and Liberty Classical.  The league will stay with North and South Divisions.  CHOF and Math & Science join the south division while Liberty will play in the north division.  Defending champion Heritage will flip from the south to north to make up the 2 divisions of 6 teams each.  Once again there are no league crossover games until the 1 day conference showcase in late February.

As to the divisions, the north is the much stronger division with 2 heavyweights at the top in Spectrum and Liberty.  Spectrum is the defending champ which is hard to ignore. However, they have a new coach and lost their bench and top forward.  Liberty beat them in last year's season opener and has everybody back.  Give me the new kids on the block to win it.  Heritage and PACT will battle for the 3rd spot.  North Lakes and LILA are both rebuilding.

In the south, I think its really balanced with no team that sticks out at the top or bottom.  Mayer Lutheran has a couple nice pieces returning.  CHOF has the best balance but plenty to replace.  United Christian and East Ridge are strong at the guard spots.  West Lutheran's front line may be the best.  Math & Science may take a year to adjust to the league but their guard play is solid.  

Conference MVP: Sam Rupnow - Liberty Classical

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Chase Sarbacker, Nolan Sarbacker - CHOF 
• Max Voelker - Heritage Christian 
• Gunner Hegseth, Jude Brennan - Liberty Classical 
• Elisee Voumadi - Math & Science
• Carter Neitzel, Dylan Sunde - Mayer Lutheran 
• Micah Molitor - North Lakes 
• Fred Onyinkwa, Lucas Novitsky - PACT 
• Thomas Serafin, Andrew Rich - United Christian 

Conference Games to Watch

• Liberty at Spectrum - Jan 6th
• Spectrum at Liberty - Jan 27th 
• Conference Showcase Day - Feb 21st (cross-division games)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Spectrum at Blake - Dec 2nd
• Liberty Classical vs Madelia - Dec 13th (Tipoff Classic at Edina) 
• Western Christian (IA) at Spectrum - Jan 2nd
• Hiawatha at Spectrum - Feb 5th
• Legacy Christian at Spectrum - Feb 12th 

2025-26 EMAC Preview

This is the 3rd preview in the 2025-2026 season preview series.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Academy for Sciences and Agriculture Eagles (2024-25 season 2-13, 2-8 Conference, 6th)
Guard Tim Williams has graduated leaving a major hole in the lineup.  Junior center Dakota Bergerson and junior guard James Aung return to the starting lineup.  Soph guard Jordan Thao also returns to the starting lineup.

Avail Academy Valor (2024-25 season 20-5, 11-1 Conference, 1st)
It looks like a rebuilding season at The Crash Pad.  5 seniors graduate from the rotation.  Junior wings Carsten Bruin and Elijah Brockmeier look to the guys to build around.  Seniors Noah Bandstra and Carter Gray look to man inside and guard spots respectively.

Community of Peace Academy Tigers (2024-25 season 7-18, 4-6 Conference, 4th)
Youth will lead the Tigers this season.  Juniors Kahriel Taylor (10.1 PPG) and Pierre Glass-McCoy (8.5 PPG) join soph Zachary Dimmick-Shaw (7.2 PPG) as a guard trio that will lead them.  Junior center Joey Myatt is a big body inside that is tough to guard.  Only 2 seniors return so this group will continue to be the main guys.

Cristo Rey Jesuit Pumas (2025-25 season 2-25, 0-16 Skyline, 9th)
Former Twin Cities Academy head coach Darrell Moffit takes over the Pumas program.  He'll return most of last year's roster.  Lefty guard Genric Lenoir leads the guard returnees.  Junior forward DeAaron Garner returns as the top option up front.

Groves Academy Griffins (2024-25 season, No Team)
Appears they played a JV only schedule last season. This season it looks like they will do the same.

Hmong Academy Warriors (2024-25 season 3-14, 0-5 Conference, 7th)
The record is misleading as the Warriors found out midway thru the season that they had to forfeit games due to an ineligible player.  Insert your own punish Cleveland St because Kentucky cheated joke here.  They'll have plenty of experience with a handful of seniors returning.  Minimal size though.  Guard Kaleb Vang will be one of the leaders of the offense.

Twin Cities Academy/Great River Tigers (2024-25 season 12-14, 6-5 Conference, 3rd)
Guard Jamal Randle has graduated leaving a 27.6 PPG hole in the lineup.  Wing Harper O'Dowd also needs to be replaced in the starting lineup.  Senior guard Jacob Stiele (23.8 PPG) is poised for a monster sesaon and on the short list of league MVP candidates.  Seniors Kingston Normil and Princeton Normil return at the center spot.  Juniors Jamarrion Atkins (8.3 PPG) and Jahlil Martin (5.3 PPG) are the top guys to replace Randle's scoring.  Soph wing Randy Carter also returns to the starting lineup.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Twin Cities Academy
2. Avail Academy
3. Cristo Rey Jesuit
4. Community of Peace Academy
5. Hmong Academy
6. AFSA

Conference Overview
More changes in the EMAC this season.  League champion Liberty Classical Academy and Math & Science Academy have departed for the MCAA.  Cristo Rey moves in from the Skyline.  Looks like Hope Academy, Prairie Seeds and The International School of Minnesota/Chesterton co-op may be members now too but not sure of that so I left them out for now.  All of them would be in the top half of the league.  Hiawatha has been a member but has also played a independent schedule the last couple of years so I'm leaving them out but they'd be right at the top if included. 

I think there's a definite divide between the top half and bottom half of the league.  Twin Cities Academy becomes the favorite with a ton coming back.  Cristo Rey and Community of Peace also have a lot back but struggled.  Avail is a league powerhouse but they have so much to replace.  So the race for 2-4 should be very interesting.  Hmong Academy is definitely the best of the rest.  AFSA still building.  Groves not ranked as they appear to be JV only again.

Conference MVP: Jacob Stiele - Twin Cities Academy

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Jordan Thao - AFSA
• Ezra Aune, Andon Vande Glind - Avail Academy
• Zachary Dimmick-Shaw, Lucky Yang, Antuan Garcia - Community of Peace Academy 
• Randy Carter - Twin Cities Academy

Conference Games to Watch

• Twin Cities Academy vs Avail (no date available)
• EMAC Conference Championship (TBD) 

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Twin Cities Academy vs Maranatha - Dec 26th (Capitol City Classic at UNW-SP) 
• Twin Cities Academy at Hiawatha - Jan 22nd

2025-26 City Conference Preview

This is the 2nd preview in the 2025-2026 season preview series.  For the first conference on the list, I start with a look at the City Conference made of of small local charter schools.  Its not exactly clear who is in the league as there are different lists.  I'm using the Minnesota-Scores standings to split the independents from this list.  This group is not to be confused with the Minneapolis City Conference or the St. Paul City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Exploration Explorers (2024-25 Season, 8-9)
A new era begins for the Explorers as they have to replace long time top scorer Amari Warren at the point.  Plenty of other pieces to replace too.

High School for Recording Arts Falcons (2024-25 season 1-11)
No information available

Lincoln International Eagles (2024-25 season 0-14)
The Eagles were blown out against everyone except Hmong Academy last season.  No idea who returns but pressure really bothered them last season with a lack of skill.

Metro Deaf School Cheetahs (2024-25 season 1-4)
No information available.

Metro Schools College Prep Lions (2024-25 season 10-8)
Senior Wing Hamza Ahmed is the top returning scorer..  He'll lead a handful of returnees.  The Lions move down to Section 4A this season from 5AA last year which is a huge benefit.

Minnesota Transitions Wolves (2024-25 season 9-12)
MTS was a thin roster last year with only 6 guys when I saw them.  Point guard play was their strength.  Unknown what they'll return.

Prairie Seeds Academy Lycans (2024-25 season 12-11)
Possible they've joined the EMAC this season but I can't confirm so I'll leave them here.  Antonio McCrownsey will be missed on the front line.  Soph PG Maceo Moua returns as the leading scorer during the last 2 seasons.  He averaged 11.2 PPG last season as the only double figure scorer.  Jeremy Mannah, Reed Thanadabout and Charles Anderson return to the wings.  Though Anderson may have to play inside because this roster may not have anybody else over 6 feet tall.

St. Paul City School Wolves (2024-25 season 3-7)
Coach Nick Brock is in his 2nd year leading the Wolves.  I tried 3 different times to see them at their place last season and no luck.  Looks like their season basically ended after first semester.

Venture Academy Tigers (2024-25 season 4-3)
No information available    

Overview
As usual not much to go on here as these schools are the hardest to find any information on for anything.  Most of these schools will be the near the bottom of class A and be playing on the first couple of days of the Section 4A tourney.  HSRA often doesn't play the Section 4AA playoffs.

2025-26 Independents Preview

Welcome to the 19th annual season preview series!  This is the 1st preview in the 2025-2026 season preview series.  As usual, I'll start from the small class A schools and move all the way up to the class AAAA schools.  The previews will once again span 4 weeks leading right up to the start of practice.  Let's get started with a look at the small local independents.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Aim Academy Arctic (New Program) 
This south Minneapolis charter school is new to the local hoops scene and will be in Section 4A.  They're within shouting distance of Hope Academy just off of the Midtown Greenway.  A fun small gym that I've seen a game in and a great blue/green/orange color scheme and logo.  Think Legacy Christian's orange with Blake's blue and green.

Community School of Excellence Mighty Ones (New Program)
Speaking of new programs with great logos/mascots.  We also have a new program on the St. Paul side of the metro.  This new charter school is right next to St. Paul Arlington Washington.  The mascot is an outstanding elephant.  Fear The Pachyderm!   

Hiawatha Colliegiate Wolves (2024-25 season 16-13)
The Wolves have to replace 25.5 PPG from star wing Kam Solomon and 10.9 PPG from Melvin Anderson.  They do return uber athletic forward King James on the front line as their star piece.  He's double double guy every night and a highlight reel waiting to happen.  Staying out of foul trouble will be a key to his success.  Junior Myshaun Washington returns in the backcourt.  Cole Finn and Kristian Ward also return to the lineup

Higher Ground Academy Panthers (2024-25 season 17-10)
Higher Ground returns the entire roster including 9 seniors.  Wing Abdiaziz Abdi (19.2 PPG) and PG Sakariya Ahmed (17.9 PPG) lead the Panthers offense.  Ismail Mohamud averaged 11.4 PPG as the main front line threat. Besides Mohamud and Abdi, its a small roster.  Offensively they like to play fast and shoot the 3.

Hope Academy Lions (2024-25 season 17-9)
Hope Academy returns 3 of their top 4 scorers as they look to be a section 4A sleeper.  But the loss of junior forward Gideon Horne (19.9 PPG, 12 RPG) to Richfield costs Hope their top player.  Junior wing Jordan Moss (10.7 PPG) returns to lead the Lions.  He could very easily double his scoring output this season.  Junior shooter Braylon Peterson and soph PG Tyriek Martin also return to the starting lineup to form a solid perimeter trio.  Phil Johnson and forward Eli Samuel also return to the rotation.

International School of Minnesota/Chesterton Academy Huskies (2024-25 season 9-17)
ISM loses their top scorer in wing Ruhaan Singh (11.4 PPG).  Forward Greg Hovey leads the returning roster with 9.8 PPG and 8 RPG.  Spencer Tupper and Derek Busch are other front line option.  Junior Emmitt Wuebben (8.6 PPG) and Ryan Cooley return as point guards.  Peter Miller adds backcourt depth.

Parnassus Prep Olympians (2024-25 season 12-10)
Leader and point guard Ray Ogunti is a major loss for the Olympians.  Igor Chernyak also needs to be replaced inside.  Wings Abdulai Komara and Ayoub Komara are the top returnees  Frosh Mohamed Komara could be a breakout player on the wing.  They return plenty of undersized guards but they have no size.

Ubah Medical Academy (2024-25 season 15-10)
Ubah played a ton of guys last season.  Senior wing Mohamed Mohamoud (13.6 PPG) returns after leading the team in scoring.  Junior Abdullahi Mohamed (11 PPG) looks to take over the point guard duties.  Forward Leeban Addow needs to be replaced after averaging 13.5 PPG.  Abdirahman Noor returns at a combo forward spot after averaging 8 PPG. 

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

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Kenny Armstrong - Hiawatha
• Ali Said, Aqeel Liban - Higher Ground
• Tyriek Martin - Hope Academy 
• Blaise Nelson - ISM/Chesterton 
• Mohamed Komara, Alexander Kochendorfer - Parnassus 

Games to Watch

• Hiawatha at Minneapolis North - Dec 4th
• Hiawatha vs Southwest Christian - Dec 18th (at Hutton Winter Classic)
• Hiawatha vs Minnehaha - Dec 26th (at Hamline, Capitol City Classic) 
• Hiawatha vs Caledonia - Jan 24th (at St. Paul Humboldt) 
• Hiawatha at Spectrum - Feb 5th 
• Holy Family at Hiawatha - Feb 17th 
• Minneapolis Camden at Hiawatha - Feb 20th 
• St. Paul Johnson at Hiawatha - Feb 26th
  
  

Welcome to Czar Season 19

Welcome to Czar Season 19!  Another new school year means another season in cyberspace.  That includes a bunch of standard updates to flip the site forward.

The usual list of fall leagues and camps is now posted on the Fall Hoops page.  If I missed yours, please pass it along.

I will be once again doing my annual season previews (see the schedule here).  Once again I'll preview every team in class AAAA along with the extended metro area conferences.  So yes Mississippi 8 and Wright County East you are still included.  Those will kick off on October 20th right after MEA and lead into the start of practice on November 17th.

The list of class of 2026 players that have committed is now its own page.  That list can be found here.

The annual holiday tournament schedule is also posted.  Here's a list of the ones I know about currently.  Schedules will be added as we get closer to the games themselves.

I've updated the current national recruiting rankings from all the major services.  See that on my Players page.

Once the college and NBA seasons get started, I'll be filling out the pages for Minnesotans that are playing D1 or in the NBA.  I did this last year for the first time and it was a fun project as I don't get to follow the next level very much.  Those links will be added to the menus once created.

I've also added in a link to the section maps page on the MSHSL website.  That can be found in the Minnesota Hoops menu on the left side and the Links page.

For those of you reading on a phone (and you know who you are!), don't forget about the Links page.  Its always the 1st option in the menus.  You can find links to anything and everything you may want to know about Minnesota hoops during the high school or grassroots seasons.  It includes national recruiting sites, recruiting calendars, signing dates, records and award winners just to name a few of the useful things that can be found there.  It also has historical links to previous seasons of my writings including old season previews, CzarPI values and polls.

2025 Spring AAU 17U Stockrisers

This weekend, the annual MBCA Showcase rings in the summer portion of the 2025 AAU schedule  With that in mind, let's reflect on the spring portion of the schedule and who we should keep an eye on in this 2nd half of the AAU season.  Based on my in person and video viewing of all of our top 17U teams, here's an alphabetical list of players that I feel stuck out during the spring period.

Nolen Anderson - Wayzata/D1 Minnesota
While playing on a loaded roster and spending time coming off the bench, he broke past that.  He scorched the nets from 3 all spring and worked his way into being a major starting factor.  Great size for a wing and starting to see some big time interest.  Expect him to be a very hot name in July as shooting is always at a premium.

Dane Danielson - Lakeville North/Minnesota Select Ohnstad
Another one in the long list of versatile front court players to come out of the Lakeville North program. He's come up clutch at the end of multiple games this spring.  He's also added 3 point range to his game and can handle it which makes him and inside and outside threat.

Lucas Gustafson - Mankato East/Minnesota Fury Antl
Fury Antl had a significant roster retooling but they've still kept winning.  Gustafson has stepped right into the alpha dog role and been a major key to their success.  Expect more of that in the winter too with Brogan Madson's graduation.  In addition to his well-known in the building shooting range, its his passing that has really opened eyes this spring. 

Stephen McGee - Greenway/Minnesota Comets Lewis
In today's game, mobility from bigs is at a premium and McGee brings that.  Able to run the floor, finish and block shots, he's had a nice spring.  He should have plenty of eyes on him this weekend and at the Great Plains Alliance next week.

Lars Osteraas - St. Thomas Academy/Minnesota Fury Reyes 
Lars has been able to flourish as a go to guy for a Fury Reyes squad that has been able to compete with everybody this spring.  That included a big win over Select Ohnstad during bracket play at the Comets Shootout.  It was Osteraas that led that effort with his lefty shooting and clutch play.

Honorable mentions 

• JC Green -Eastview/Team FSA 
• Ryan Kreager - Faribault/D1 Minnesota
• Ethan Martin - Belle Plaine/Minnesota Swish 
• Mustafa Mohamed - South St. Paul/Howard Pulley 17s
• Mu Muhammad - Breck/Real Phenom Nick
• Reggie Parker - Rochester Mayo/Minnesota Lace Up 
• Hamze Yusuf - Eden Prairie/Hoop Habits Elite

Previewing the 2025 AAAA Section Finals

The madness is here!  The 8 section championship games are set in classes AAA and AAAA.  Only 1 team that's not a top 2 seed made their section title game in the top 2 classes.  That was 3 seed Centennial in section 7AAAA.  Great for them, bad for #ShockTheCzar selections when it goes this close to chalk.  I prefer chaos!  Now let's take a quick look at the 8 section final games in class AAAA.

Section 1: (1) Rochester John Marshall vs (2) Lakeville North (Fri 8 PM, Mayo Arena, gametimemn.com)
Rochester John Marshall has steamrolled thru the first 2 rounds with 2 easy wins.  They dominated the paint in the Farmington game which is impressive against a lineup with that size.  42-16 points in the paint and 14-1 2nd chance points.  That's also a good fit in this matchup.  James Fager had 26 points from his guard spot in Lakeville North's semifinal win over Owatonna.  The Panthers will need more guard production like that to keep pace.  The irony of all the Matt/Michael Hurt teams that lost to Lakeville North but this JM team would make it is not lost on me.  Their dad is still on the JM staff.

Section 2: (2) Prior Lake at (1) Shakopee (Wed 7 PM, ShakopeeSabers.com/live)
Shakopee lost at Prior Lake by 4 and then won the rematch at home by 10.  Shakopee hit 9 first half threes to jump out to a double digit lead and not look back.  Zach Christofferson didn't play for Prior Lake in that 2nd meeting.  Prior Lake's size with Colten Gunderson inside is a problem.  Big rivalry game here, expect this one to be a close game in a packed house.

Section 3: (2) Eagan at (1) Apple Valley (Th 7 PM, NFHS or NSPN)
Another all South Suburban final where the teams split, but this was on the road.  Eagan won the first one by 4 but Apple Valley replied with a 25 pt win a month ago.  Eagan had enough good looks that didn't go in but the Apple Valley defensive pressure really took them out of their offense in that 2nd game.  Mikey McKenzie with 26 for Eagan in the win, 3 in the loss.  McKenzie and Alex Schroepfer both have to carry a heavy load in this one for the Eagan offense to keep up.  Apple Valley's big 3 of Camare Young, Trey Parker and Justin Cowan have all gotten theirs in both meetings.  Young was terrific in the last meeting with 23 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists.  Trey Parker added 5 3s.

Section 4: (2) Tartan at (1) Cretin-Derham Hall (Th 7 PM, NSPN)
Tartan went to a 2 man zone (1 high at nail, 1 at the basket) vs East Ridge in the 2nd half to totally change that game.  After a couple of hoops against it, East Ridge went something like 2-19 with 5 turnovers in an 11 min or so stretch.  Do they decide to try something similar against Jason Johnson, Monteff Dixon and the CDH bench?  Jerry Kline was in the building to see it so no surprises.  I think Dixon's ability to crash the offensive glass makes him a real X-Factor in this game.  Tommy Ahneman is obviously a major problem as Tartan doesn't really have a true big.  Though Kaden Ekereka was terrific in that role for them in the semis.  Ahneman's rim-running and ability to not just get easy buckets but to get early position before Tartan can set whatever defense they want to try is something I'll be watching.  But all of this could leave star soph Ty Schlagel to blow up the entire Tartan defensive strategy.  The tactical choices will be fun to watch.

Section 5: (2) Maple Grove at (1) Champlin Park (Wed 7 PM, CCX Sports)
This is an all NW Suburban final.  Maple Grove won the league game to share the league crown with Totino-Grace but Champlin Park easily won the rematch by 21.  Tyler Wagner with 28 of his 40 in the 1st half of that one.  That can't happen again for Maple Grove to succeed.  Maple Grove would love to follow the slow template that Mounds View used in the semis to keep a lead for a large chunk game against Champlin.  Be physical, patient and pound the glass.  Of course, picking up 3 fouls on Wagner helped that cause too.  Anything above 65 points favors Champlin Park.

Section 6: (2) Wayzata at (1) Hopkins (Tues 7 PM, StarTribune.com/live, sold out)
Tickets for this one sold out in minutes.  This is the most anticipated boys hoops game in the metro since Minnehaha played Sierra Canyon (CA) in front of 17,000 at the Target Center 5 years ago.  This all Lake Conference final was also a split with each team winning at home.  Wayzata has played in the state title game 4 straight years (2-2) and beaten Hopkins in this game the last 2 years. Last year was a 29 point behind the woodshed beating.  The other was a comeback from 13 down with 8 minutes left.  Then you add in all the shenanigans in the last meeting at Hopkins.  No love lost here and Hopkins hasn't played at state since 2019.  This will easily be the highest scoring game of the entire AAAA section finals.  Both teams with scorers for days.  Turnovers and clutch plays will be major keys.

Section 7: (3) Centennial at (1) Anoka (Th 7 PM, QCTV)
Anoka won the regular season meeting by 10 at Centennial.  Trey Borchers and Dre Ellis held to a combined 12 points for Anoka.  Jackson Driessen with 26 for Centennial in the loss.  Centennial's size is better but Anoka's perimeter play more than makes up the difference with the 3 headed monster of Ellis, Borchers and Peyton Podany running the show.

Section 8: (1) St. Michael-Albertville vs (2) Moorhead (Th 7 PM, Sartell, Sartell Hudl)
Moorhead lost the regular season meeting by 6 at STMA.  Moorhead had 4 guards in double figures in that game.  Jeremiah Johnson had 25 points in that first meeting for STMA and their size with Jack Thelen and Jordan Holm is a major factor.  I think the STMA experience factor against a young Moorhead rotation that includes 3 sophs and a freshman plays into this as well.  Great for Moorhead long term, but the first learning experience is often the toughest.