2015-16 Suburban East Conference Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Suburban East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they were generated, click here.

Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2014-15 season 25-4, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
Cretin-Derham Hall loses their 3 division 1 guys in Sam Neumann, Joe Rosga and Donnell Gresham.  They combined for 52 PPG last year.  Plus starting center Frank Delaney also graduated.  But the Raiders are more ready to reload than anyone in the league.  Sophomore Daniel Oturu takes over in the middle.  They are loaded on the with Jalan Ousley-Brown, Chris Perry and Jordan Ammons.  Point guard play and outside shooting are question marks.

East Ridge Raptors (2014-15 season 21-7, 11-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
4 starters graduate including point guard Sid Tomes and 22 PPG.  Football star Seth Green transferred away so all starters need to be replaced.  Kyle Junker returns at center.  Tom Kelzenberg returns at a PF spot.  Luke Coquyt and junior Michael Virgin will see backcourt time.  Carter Dowdle and Sam Schiller should also see front court time.

Forest Lake Rangers (2014-15 season 11-16, 4-12 Conference, Tie 6th)
Forest Lake loses 6 members of their rotation.  That includes 19 PPG from wing Connor Knutson.  PG Noah Alm and 12 PPG returns to the lineup.  Forward Matt Wallner also returns to the starting lineup.  The rest of the rotation will be inexperienced.
   
Mounds View Mustangs (2014-15 season 19-8, 9-7 Conference, 5th)
4 starters including star forward Ryan Kaczynski need to be replaced.  Kaczynski had a big year averaging 23 PPG and 8 RPG.  Center Max Van De Werken averaged 13 PPG and his length will be missed.  Nate Albers averaged 14.7 PPG and is the lone returning starter.  Tyler Fairchild and Zeke Thompson return to the backcourt.  Luke Swenson will see time up front.  Juniors Nick McMillan and Brian Stone could also be contributors.

Park Wolfpack (2014-15 season 3-23, 2-14 Conference, 9th)
Leading scorer Anthony Juba needs to be replaced along with Bobby Winmill  Tolu Ogurinde and Brandon Alt provides returning scoring options.  Despite a down year in the league, hard to see the Wolfpack moving up.

Roseville Raiders (2014-15 season 24-6, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
Former St. Paul Academy head coach Kevin McKenzie takes over the program.  He has to replace the top 6 scorers including PG Kobe Critchley, SG Mitch Poss and F Jesper Horsted who combined for 48.5 PPG.  Henry Bensen is the only notable returnee and he'll run the show.  Junior Dre Schwantes takes over inside duties.

Stillwater Ponies (2014-15 season 18-10, 11-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Coach Randy Jordan has to replace his 3 headed monster of Connor Gamble, Matt Anderson and Kyle McKinley.  They were worth almost 48 PPG last year.  Wings Wyatt Blinkhorn  and Isaiah Dobson return to the starting lineup. Adam Bruggers and Andrew Warren should see time at guard spots.  Joe Haggard is an option in the middle.

White Bear Lake Bears (2014-15 season 10-17, 4-12 Conference, Tied 6th)
The Bears need to replace the entire rotation.  Shooter Andy Lockwood and Jacob Olson are double figure scorers that depart.  Matt LeMay and Kevin May are a couple of guards who figure to see time.  Kyle Kanipes and Carter Kaun are others who should see rotation time.

Woodbury Royals (2014-15 season 6-21, 3-13 Conference, 8th)
Woodbury went to a youth movement last year.  With only 1 notable loss and a couple of juniors leading the way, the Royals look to move back up in the next 2 years.  Wing Jeremiah Coddon and guards Jake West and Michael Carter are all juniors and averaged double figures last year.  Colin Flanigan provides some height.  Sophomore Michael Jones provides depth on the wing.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
Even more than the Metro East, the Suburban East was ravaged by graduation.  5 Division 1 players, 2 D1 football kids, a D2 football kid and 4 division 2 hoops players all left.  CDH has the most coming back so they have to still be the favorite.  After that, good luck figuring it out.  Mounds View's toughness I think serves them well.  Ditto that with Stillwater.  East Ridge and Roseville battle for the top half.  Woodbury has a lot coming back so they are better than the rest but can they jump into the top half?.  Forest Lake has more coming back than White Bear so put them up.  Park stays at the bottom as there's no compelling reason to move them up.

Conference MVP: Daniel Oturu - Cretin-Derham Hall

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Daniel Oturu - Cretin-Derham Hall
• Michael Jones - Woodbury 
• Sam Schwartz, Austin Schochet - White Bear Lake

Conference Games to Watch

• Mounds View at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 5th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Mounds View- Feb 9th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• St. Paul Johnson at Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 5th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Minnetonka - Dec 12th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic) 
• Eden Prairie vs Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 19th (at U of St. Thomas)
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Hopkins - Feb 3rd
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 13th

2015-16 South Suburban Conference Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2015-16 Season Preview Series.  In this preview, a look at the South Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Apple Valley Eagles (2014-15 season 30-2, 17-1 Conference, 1st, AAAA State Champion)
The defending class AAAA champions return all 5 starters.  That includes junior star wing Gary Trent who averaged 21 and 5 last year.  Soph star Tre Jones returns to run the point.  Senior Brock Bertram averaged 14 and 10 in the middle.  Add in athletic defender Cam Kirksey and the quickness of Jordan Bolton who both put up double figures and you have a loaded lineup.  They'll have to replace role players like Steve Christiansen and Riley Parham.  Aaron Ertz will fill a backup post role.

Burnsville Blaze (2014-15 season 10-17, 6-12 Conference, 7th)
The forward duo of Joe Morris and Brett Shepley were the top 2 scorers last year combining for 25+ PPG.  They need to be replaced.  Point guard Jake Ruffing also graduated.  Jason Gumm returns to the middle with 10 PPG.  Junior Jackson Martens should take over the point guard duties.  Tucker Shepley will slide into a forward spot.  No other experience returns.

Eagan Wildcats (2014-15 season 5-22, 2-16 Conference, 10th)
A season of high-expectations turned into injury riddled disappointment for the Wildcats last season.  The senior trio of Bryndan Matthews, Chase Seiberlich and GT Johnson has graduated.  Sam Schuburg is the top returning player at 8.7 PPG.  Daniel Stahlut, Collin Anderson, Jake Van Wyk and Nathan Kuhn are just a few of the guys who saw many minutes  off the bench last year that return.

Eastview Lightning (2014-15 season 18-9, 12-6 Conference, 3rd)
Sioux Falls recruit Drew Guebert and bull Keegan Dixon depart the front line.  They combined for almost 28 PPG last season.  Athletic forward Obi Ibeneme also graduated.  Plenty of experience returns in the backcourt.  Junior PG Jameson Bryan returns for a 3rd varsity year with 8.3 PPG.  Sean Ryan is the top returning scorer at 12.4 PPG.  Martin Mitchell returns as another guard.  All 3 are effective 3 point shooters.  Senior Connor Stevens provides depth for the small perimeter group.  Mason Carpenter is the only experienced size but he's only 6'3".

Farmington Tigers (2014-15 season 8-19, 5-13 Conference, Tie 8th)
4 starters and 3 of the top 4 scorers need to be replaced including breakout forward Wyatt Ferm (19.9 PPG) and PG Zach Speikers (10.8 PPG).  Forward Alex Hart is the 1 returning starter and he is the top returning scorer at 7.2 PPG.  Alex Zitzmann will join him on the front line.  Seniors Lucas Berg and Gavin Bassett along with junior Sam Wilson return to the backcourt rotation

Lakeville North Panthers (2014-15 season 19-13, 10-8 Conference, Tie 4th)
Oft injured Connor Flack didn't play at state but was the only regular season double figurer scorer at 18.4 PPG.  Forwards Isaac Brooks and Marquise Walker also graduated.  The lineup coming back is still very good though.  David Lindstrand and Cal Pesola are experienced guards.  Drew Stewart is a lefty wing who can score.  Then you have the super versatile forward duo of Carter Brooks and junior Nate Reuvers.  Both can play inside or out, shoot it well enough to guard them, but quick enough to beat you and post you.  Major matchup problems with those 2.  They'll have to find depth behind them.

Lakeville South Cougars (2014-15 season 12-15, 9-9 Conference, 6th)
This is another group that had injury issues last year.  Sophomore coach Nick Gruhlke takes over as head coach.  While the Cougars lose 19.8 PPG from forward Brenon Larson-Gulsvig, there is still plenty of talent on hand.  Junior PG Jack Sorenson returns with 3 years of experience and 19.9 PPG.  Sophomore forward Shae Mitchell is one of the top players in the class and averaged almost 10 PPG last year.  Blake Wacholz and Cade Carlson return to the backcourt rotation as well.  Kyle Martin, Jake Cuddigan and Jack Swanhorst return up front.

Prior Lake Lakers (2014-15 season 16-12, 10-8 Conference, Tie 4th)
Bob Schweim is the new Lakers leader.  He has to replace 6 of the top 7 scorers.  That includes PG Kevin McKiernan, forwards Connor Bair, Austin Heidecker and Sam Schulze.  Jack Kortes and junior Brian Sitzmann return on the perimeter.  Devin Mays will man the middle.  Look for Casey Gustina in the rotation too.  The junior class is talented so I can see the Lakers being better than people think.

Rosemount Irish (2014-15 season 9-19, 5-13 Conference, Tied 8th)
Rosemount loses 4 of their top 5 scorers.  That includes 13.1 PPG from their only double-figure scorer Logan Halvorsen.  Guard Jared Hanson is the top returning scorer at 8.8 PPG.  Defending guard Kelly Muir returns along with twins Luke and Alex Loehr as their size.

Shakopee Sabers (2014-15 season 24-8, 14-4 Conference, 2nd)
All everything forward Steffon Mitchell returns.  He averaged 24.8 PPG and 8.8 RPG.  Booker Coplin and Taylor Triplett provide a little more punch.  They are the type of tough player that Shakopee consistently produces.  The ball handling and shooting of guards Evan Hagen and Tevin Killeen will need to be replaced.  Senior Travis Larsen figures to be one of the main guys to do that.  Mitchell also figures to see plenty of time handling the ball.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
The top of the league is really good and you could see the top 3 all make it to state.  Apple Valley is the favorite to repeat as state champs in AAAA.  Gary Trent with all that help is just too much firepower to deal with.  Lakeville North and Shakopee are teams that should be ranked all year and they'll battle for 2nd.  Lakeville South is the most talented team and experienced remaining.  But they have a rookie head coach compared to 2 veteran head coaches for the teams behind them.  I expect them to battle Eastview and Prior Lake for a top half spot.  The rest of the league is trying to replace major losses.

Conference MVP: Steffon Mitchell - Shakopee

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Tre Jones, Luke Martens - Apple Valley
• Shae Mitchell - Lakeville South
• Garrett Mitchell - Shakopee

Conference Games to Watch

• Shakopee at Lakeville North - Jan 8th
• Lakeville North at Apple Valley - Jan 12th
• Apple Valley at Shakopee - Jan 15th
• Lakeville North at Shakopee - Feb 9th
• Shakopee at Apple Valley - Feb 11th
• Apple Valley at Lakeville North - Feb 16th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Wayzata at Lakeville North - Nov 28th
• Apple Valley at Chaska - Dec 1st 
• Chaska at Lakeville North - Dec 3rd
• Apple Valley vs Iowa City West (IA) -  Dec 5th (Girls Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Apple Valley, Lakeville South and Shakopee vs TBD - Dec 12th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)  
• Lakeville North at Eden Prairie - Dec 22nd
• Apple Valley vs Wayzata - Dec 28th (Granite City at St. Cloud Apollo)
• Apple Valley vs Maple Grove - Dec 29th (Granite City at St. Cloud State)
• Apple Valley vs Lausanne (TN) - Jan 2nd (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Eden Prairie at Shakopee - Jan 2nd

2015-16 Northwest Suburban Conference Preview

This is the 7th preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the expanded Northwest Suburban Conference. For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Andover Huskies (2014-15 season 16-13, 11-8 Conference, 3rd North)
All 5 starters and most of the rotation have graduated.  Leading scorer Jake McNallan's experience and team leading 14.2 PPG will be missed.  Corbin Johnson averaged 10.5 PPG last year and should be the top offensive threat.  Trevor Siebold is the only other rotation member coming back at 1.3 PPG.  Dylan Echtenkamp and Jeremy Neuman should join the rotation.

Anoka Tornadoes (2014-15 season 3-24, 3-16 Conference, 6th North)
Leading scorer Gunnar Ledin returns to the lineup with 13 PPG.  Jackson Sutton also returns to the starting lineup.  Guard Chase Thomas and junior Joey Lohse will be in the rotation.

Blaine Bengals (2014-15 season 11-16, 8-11 Conference, Tie 4th North)
Blaine again returns a huge lineup with UMD recruit Ben Scherer, Zach Baker, Nik Keller and Tim Leo.  Sam Gerrity, Dakota Neppl, Jared Kaul and soph Byron Bynum all return on the perimeter.  That means 8 of the top 9 for the Bengals are back.   They'll need to consistently make outside shots to take advantage of their size.

Centennial Cougars (2014-15 season 17-11, 14-5 Conference, 2nd North)
South Dakota recruit Tyler Peterson returns after averaging almost 23 PPG.  Expect another big year from him.  Junior Alex Facon put up over 13 PPG on the wing.  Theo Johnson's inside rebounding will be very valuable inside.  The rest of the lineup needs to be replaced.

Champlin Park Rebels (2014-15 season 31-1, 19-0 Conference, 1st North)
3 of the 4 double figure scorers, including Mr Basketball and their heart and soul JT Gibson graduated.  But the Rebels still have tons of talent.  Juniors McKinley Wright at PG and forward Theo John are high major prospects.  Aaron Kloeppner was a critical reserve in the short rotation and he also returns.  Eldridge Joyce provides another big body in the middle.  Brian Smith provides another ball handling option. 

Coon Rapids Cardinals (2014-15 season 2-25, 1-18 Conference, 7th North)
Double figure scorer Sam Carver returns to the lineup.  Timmy Nyugen and Payton Foy also averaged double figures and need to be replaced.   Tyree'on Johnson and Jacob Dujmovic are 2 other returnees who provide experience.

Elk River Elks (2014-15 season 13-15, 8-11 Conference, Tied 4th North)
Only 2 starters return but the Elks do have 3 of their top 4 scorers coming back.  Matt Keller is a major threat from 3.  Trent Pink is a solid player in the post.  They averaged 15 and 12 PPG respectively.  Zeke Delain, Wyatt Morrell and soph Jack Burger also return to the rotation.

Irondale Knights (2014-15 season 7-20, 5-14 Conference, 6th West)
Uwana Etuk-Akpan, Kevin Schramm and Sean Sutherlin all return as double figure scorers from last season.  Soph forward Brendan White returns after seeing lots of time last season.  So the same basic lineup returns.  Will that pay dividends?

Maple Grove Crimson (2014-15 season 23-4, 17-2 Conference, 1st West)
Role players Austin Mathison, Mitchell Rekstad and Timmy Bishop have graduated but all the main pieces return.  That includes all 5 starters in star point guard Brad Davison, guards Tywhon Pickford and Jack Hutchinson plus center Reed Nikko (just committed to Missouri) and forward Kayode Awosika.  Reserve forward Jared Martinson also returns as an alternate 4 for faster lineups.  Cooper transfer Taron Pickford (19 PPG last year), Noah Champion and Bubba Horton are others to provide depth.

Osseo Orioles (2014-15 season 13-13, 12-7 Conference, 3rd West)
Shooter Elliot Kane and 11.6 PPG has moved on to Upper Iowa.  But plenty of guard power remains.  Leading scorer Allen Anderson returns with 11.8 PPG to run the show.  Juniors Mar Mar Hughes and Kyle Williams also return on the outside.  Plus you have athletic Damario Armstrong transferring in from football partner Maranatha.  Kameron Bettie averaged 11.5 PPG out of the middle.  Soph Zach Theisen, Matt Bezdicek and Dontae Jones provide quality depth.  Matt Jenkins may be the guy to provide depth behind Bettie.

Park Center Pirates (2014-15 season 8-18, 6-13 Conference, 5th West)
James Ware takes over the helm of the Park Center program.  He walks into a nice situation with plenty of young talent in the pipeline.  Question mark is if Amani Hooker will play.  He averaged almost 17 a night.  Isaiah Simon returns.  Freshman Khari Broadway averaged almost 7 PPG last year.

Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2014-15 season 21-7, 16-3 Conference, 2nd West)
The Falcons lose 6 seniors from the rotation and 3 double figure guys in Sean Burns, Evan Nolan and Jerome Dixon.  For most teams that would mean a down year, but I see the Falcons reloading.  True Thompson and Jubie Alade return on the wings.  Soph Race Thompson has blown up in the last year and will man the middle.  Plus the Falcons add in guys like Isaiah Rollins and Chance Bowen, tough minded perimeter guys, along with 6'8 flyswatter Isaiah Chatman from an undefeated JV squad.

Spring Lake Park Panthers (2014-15 season 5-22, 4-15 Conference, 7th West)
The Panthers had an unusual down year last year.  But they return their top 4 guys this season  Junior forward Zach Ojile returns after leading the team with 11 PPG.  Shooters Aaron Flink and Mark Raihle combined for 16+ a night.  Jake LeVahn was good for almost 8 PPG in the middle.  Tim Retka will also see rotation time.

Totino-Grace Eagles (2014-15 season 10-17, 9-10 Conference, 4th West)
Minnetonka assistant Rob Ware is the new head coach.  Leading scorer Max Walker graduates but the next 3 scorers are returning.  That includes big 6'10" James Streeter in the middle.  He averaged 11.6 PPG.  Rocky Kreuser averaged 9.2 PPG on the wing.  Sophomore Charlie Jacob returns to run the point guard spot.

Predicted Order of Finish

North Division

1. Champlin Park 
2. Centennial    
3. Blaine    
4. Elk River 
5. Andover  
6. Coon Rapids  
7. Anoka  

West Division

1. Maple Grove   
2. Robbinsdale Armstrong 
3. Osseo
4. Totino-Grace
5. Spring Lake Park
6. Irondale
7. Park Center

Conference Overview:
In the west, Maple Grove is stacked and the no brainer favorite.  Armstrong and Osseo will battle for 2nd..  Totino-Grace played Armstrong and Osseo tough last year and has plenty coming back but I can't put them in front of those 2 teams.  Then it drops off to 3 teams who struggled last year.  Spring Lake Park has the most coming back so I'll take them, followed by Irondale.  Park Center is a wildcard as their athletes will give both of those teams trouble.

In the north, I think it goes very similar to last year.  I still like Champlin Park despite losing Gibson, Hill and Johnson.  Wright and John still make them really tough and they'll plug in pieces. Centennial followed by Blaine and Elk River still makes sense with all 3 basically being the same as last year.  Blaine beat Elk River in both meetings last year so they get the nod.  Andover drops since they have to replace everybody.  I'm still showing faith in Coon Rapids outdueling Anoka for the last spot.

Conference MVP: Tyler Peterson - Centennial

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Byron Bynum - Blaine
• Jack Burger - Elk River
• Brendan White - Irondale
• Zach Theisen - Osseo
• Khari Broadway - Park Center
• Race Thompson - Robbinsdale Armstrong
• Charlie Jacob, Sam Hanson, Tyler Kittleson - Totino-Grace

Conference Games to Watch

• Champlin Park at Armstrong - Dec 4th
• Champlin Park at Centennial - Dec 10th
• Maple Grove at Armstrong - Jan 12th
• Osseo at Maple Grove - Jan 15th
• Maple Grove at Centennial - Jan 29th
• Maple Grove at Champlin Park - Feb 2nd
• Centennial at Champlin Park - Feb 4th
• Armstrong at Maple Grove - Feb 12th 
• Armstrong at Centennial - Feb 16th
• Maple Grove at Osseo - Feb 19th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Robbinsdale Armstrong at Wayzata - Nov 24th
• Champlin Park, Maple Grove & Centennial vs TBD Dec 12th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)  
• Hopkins at Champlin Park - Dec 22nd
• Champlin Park vs Minneapolis North -  Dec 28th (Granite City at St. Cloud Apollo)
• Champlin Park vs Wayzata - Dec 29th (Granite City at St. Cloud State) 
• Maple Grove vs Apple Valley - Dec 29th (at St. Cloud State) 
• Champlin Park vs Council Bluffs Lincoln (IA) - Jan 2nd (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Maple Grove vs Iowa City West (IA) - Jan 2nd (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Champlin Park vs Stevens Point (WI) - Jan 16th (at La Crosse, WI) 
• Maple Grove vs Milwaukee Riverside (WI) - Jan 16th (at La Crosse, WI) 
• Eden Prairie at Robbinsdale Armstrong- Feb 3rd
• Eden Prairie at Champlin Park - Feb 10th

2015-16 Minneapolis City Preview

This is the 6th preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  Week 2 of the 6 week series starts with a look at the Minneapolis City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Edison Tommies (2014-15 season 3-23, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
Head coach Anthony Hines struggled thru his first year.  But you could see a definite culture change in the program.  There was definitely an extra enthusiasm that showed.  Andre Brown needs to be replaced.  But there are a few returning pieces to work with in Travis Moore, Ronald Britton and Joevon Abram.

North Polars (2014-15 season 24-7, 11-1 Conference, 1st)
The Polars lose in and out of the lineup post Randy Mathews and guard DJ Hunter (transfer to Champlin Park).  After 2 years of youth, most of the rotation is now upperclassmen and its state or bust.  Seniors Tyler Johnson and Jamil Jackson are 2 double figure scorers coming back.  Junior wing Isaac Johnson averaged 15.5 PPG. Soph post Odell Wilson returns for his 3rd varsity year and averaged 10.3 PPG and 6.7 RPG. Juniors Philip Scott and Jaquan Sanders-Smith provide great depth.  The talent is there but their mental state is the biggest question after losing most of their big games over the last 2 season.

Patrick Henry Patriots (2014-15 season 14-14, 6-6 Conference, 4th)
Henry returns a ton on the frontline.  Plus they add a couple of transfers in forwards Lamar Wood and Markest Brown (8.9 PPG at Richfield).  Julian Jackson leads that crew at 14.6 PPG coming back.  Demetrius Edwards-Brown is a shifty lefty who provides scoring punch at 14.4 PPG on the wing.  Junior Savion Scott is another capable wing scorer.  Starting PG Jacarius Ford averaged 15.2 PPG and Stephen Kennedy was a ballhandler and defender.  Replacing those 2 will go a long way in determining the Patriots season.

Roosevelt Teddies (2014-15 season 25-5, 9-3 Conference, 2nd)
What a season for the Teddies moving up to 25 wins before losing a heartbreaker in the 4AA section final.  Over 35 PPG from the guard tandem of Arione Farrar and London Cobbs needs to be replaced.  Elijah Hannah returns with 13.5 PPG and should be the top option.  Lefty Martez Rodgers will take over the point.  Devon Hannah moves up from JV to be the 3rd option.  Size will once again be an issue.

South Tigers (2014-15 season 12-16, 5-7 Conference, 5th)
Payton Bowdry returns to the lineup after leading the team in scoring at 14.4 PPG.  Michael Harris is the other returning starter.  Other double figure scorers Taron Myers and Kyle Lumbar need to be replaced.  Jarrod Beard, Elerson Smith and Cory Johnson should be other rotation options.

Southwest Lakers (2014-15 season 5-22, 3-9 Conference, 6th)
Greg Boone comes over from the sophomore job at Richfield to lead the Lakers program.  He has a ton to replace as the top 4 scorers, including 3 double figure guys, have graduated.  That accounted for 51+ PPG.  Junior forward Brennan Hawkins averaged 8 PPG and 5.8 RPG and should see a much expanded role this year.  Guard Johnny Sykes will be an option averaging 8.6 PPG.  Ash Mkali and Seydi Ba return to the rotation.

Washburn Millers (2014-15 season 20-9, 8-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Millers need to replace their 3 double figure scorers from last year.  That includes wings Evan Shepherd and JoBreil Powell along with PG Kevin Gleason.  They combined for 45 PPG last year.  Cortez Adams and Fortay Johnson return at a guard spots.  7 footer Charlie Irmiger returns in the middle along with power forward Noah Burke.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
North is loaded and again they are the clear favorite.  The will be for the near future too as the varsity and JV both won the league last year.  Roosevelt will have perimeter players, Henry will have bigs, Washburn has a couple pieces coming back.  I think they all battle for the rest of the spots in the top half.  Roosevelt played North the toughest last year.  I'll give them the nod for the 2 spot.  South gets the nod for 5 thanks to Payton Bowdry and Joe Hyser.  Southwest loses a ton but the current group of seniors did win the city as freshmen.  I would not be surprised if they gave South a run for 5th.  Edison is still rebuilding.

Conference MVP: Tyler Johnson - North

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Odell Wilson Jr, Tayler Johnson- North
• Krystian Toliver - South
• Christian Kelly, Isaac Lotz - Washburn

Conference Games to Watch

• Roosevelt at North - Dec 18th
• North at Henry - Jan 12th
• North at Roosevelt - Feb 1st 
• Twin Cities Game - Feb 20th (at St. Paul champion)

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Roosevelt vs St. Croix Lutheran - Dec 5th (Southside Showcase at MTS)
• St. Croix Lutheran at North - Dec 8th
• North vs TBD - Dec 12th (Breakdown Tipoff at Minnetonka)
• Roosevelt at Hopkins - Dec 15th
• North vs Pebblebrook (GA) - Dec 19th (at St. Paul Johnson Winter Showcase) 
• Tartan at Roosevelt - Dec 22nd
• North vs Champlin Park - Dec 29th (Granite City at St. Cloud Apollo)
• Minnehaha at North - Jan 16th
• Hopkins at North - Jan 19th
• Wayzata at North - Jan 25th 
• Roosevelt at Brooklyn Center - Jan 28th 
• Minnesota Transitions at Roosevelt - Feb 9th
• Roosevelt at Heritage - Feb 16th

2015-2016 MCAA Preview

This is the fifth preview in my 2015-16 season preview series.  Week 1 of the 6 week series concludes with a look at the Minnesota Christian Athletic Association (MCAA).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Bethany Academy Eagles (2014-15 season 4-24, 0-13 Conference, 5th South)
Four starters and 7 members of the rotation return for the Eagles.  The junior tandem of Sam Peterson and Sam LeVoir should lead the way.  Seniors AJ Lechtenberg and Ben Wedel also return to the starting lineup.  As of this writing, Bethany is still looking for a new head coach.

Heritage Christian Academy Eagles (2014-15 season 16-12, 7-6 Conference, 3rd North)
Coach Tim Herman returns 3 of his top 4 starters.  That includes 17 PPG and 8 RPG from junior wing CJ Woda.  He figures to be one of the top players in the league.  Junior Jack VanderTop was good for 8.9 PPG and 6.8 RPG from the middle last year.  Senior Tanner Scott returns at a guard spot.  Soph Ben Allen provides shooting from a guard spot.

Legacy Christian Academy Lions (2014-15 season 18-11, 9-4 Conference, 2nd North)
Legacy has to replace 18.4 and 8.4 from shooting guard Nate Bertsch and 11.5 PPG from guard Caleb Johnson.  The next 6 members of their rotation are back.  Juniors Lucas Nelson and Cole Bertsch return to the starting lineup on the perimeter with Michael Stelly in the middle.  Jack Yaeger, Josh Niessen and Jack Bertsch provide depth.

Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity Bulldogs (2014-15 season 8-20, 4-9 Conference, 4th South)
Former player Ben Machemehl takes over the program.  He has lots to replace.  The shooting of Josh Volness, inside play of Jordan Radtke and perimeter guys Jazz Baird all need to be replaced.  It was a senior laden roster so experience will be an issue.

Maranatha Christian Academy Mustangs (2014-15 season 29-3, 13-0 Conference, 1st North)
The end of the Hanson era is here as its the 1st time in 9 seasons of previews (and many years before that), that it won't be a Hanson leading the way.  I see it as the end of their MCAA domination (for now) as well.  With Damario Armstrong's transfer to Osseo, the entire rotation is gone.  Sophomore Wendell Smith takes over inside .  Elisha Coleman will play a wing.  Frosh Julian Cavin looks to see plenty of minutes.  Dyante Jordan, DeAngelo Purnell, Holden Baker and Tristan Rohwer are others who should see time for an inexperienced and small lineup.

New Life Academy Eagles (2014-15 season 16-12, 9-4 Conference, 2nd South)
Star forward Conrad Engstrom and 20 PPG have graduated.  7.4 PPG and 8 RPG from Luke Berger and Jake Wynia also depart the front line. Guard Sam Horner also needs to be replaced.  Energy guy Ebenezer Ketema returns to a wing spot.  He's the top returning scorer at 7.6 PPG.  Simon Killeen returns after putting up 5.5 PPG.  Brad Goulet also returns to the rotation.

PACT Charter Panthers (2014-15 season 15-11, 4-9 Conference, 4th North)
Leading scorer Drew Johnson returns.  The other double figure scorer Derek Stone graduated.  Senior Zach Hagen and Soph Cade Johnson return to the rotation.  Depth is a concern.

Southwest Christian Stars (2014-15 season 18-7, 10-3 Conference, 1st South)
The high powered backcourt of Jack Jenson (20 PPG, top returning scorer in the MCAA) and junior Trey Sandness (12.2 PPG) returns for coach Kit Avery.  Guards Kyle Meinke and Colin Provart also return to the starting lineup.  Drew Schwarz will need to be replaced in the middle.  Juniors Brady Bengston and Spencer Weiss also return to the rotation.  The Stars will play small so rebounding is a concern but they will be able to put up points.

Trinity Tri-Hawks (2014-15 season 11-16, 7-6 Conference, 3rd South)
Forward Jon Lotti departs after averaging 18.5 PPG.  Eddie Maruggi returns at a wing after putting up 15.8 PPG.  He averaged 18 PPG the year before that and I expect him to go for 20 something a night this season.  Everybody else returns.  Guard Josiah Summer is also a double figure returning scorer (10 PPG).  Eamon Naughton and Luke Lodeon are just 2 other members coming back.

West Lutheran Warriors (2014-15 season 9-17, 2-11 Conference, 5th North)
The top 2 scorers Zach Dwyer  (18 PPG) and Tyler Kimmons (7.8 PPG) have graduated.  Junior Ben Biese looks to take over as the top scoring option.  Garrett Anderson, James Ripley, Isaac Groom and Andrew Tolkinen are seniors who return to the rotation and provide experience.  Junior Griffin Ewing will join them.

Predicted Order of Finish

North Division

1. Heritage
2. Legacy  
3. Maranatha
4. West Lutheran   
5. PACT  

South Division

1. SW Christian   
2. Trinity    
3. New Life  
4. Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity   
5. Bethany

Conference Overview
Heritage, SW Christian and Trinity are all poised for very nice seasons with the best players in the league returning.  Heritage has to go to both SW Christian and Trinity for the single cross-division game in the regular season.  Maranatha has some nice young pieces with but no experience.  Combine that with what Heritage and Legacy have coming back and I don't see them any higher than 3rd.  They'll be mid-level with Legacy (most likely to move up), New Life and West Lutheran.  PACT, LP/HT and Bethany I think will struggle.

Conference MVP: CJ Woda - Heritage

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Ben Allen - Heritage
• Wendell Smith, Julian Cavin - Maranatha
• Cade Johnson - PACT
• Charlie Druffner - Trinity

Conference Games to Watch

• SW Christian at Trinity - Dec 8th 
• Heritage at Legacy - Dec 18th
• Legacy at Trinity - Jan 5th
• Heritage at SW Christian - Jan 14th
• SW Christian at Legacy - Jan 19th
• Heritage at Trinity - Jan 19th
• Trinity at SW Christian - Jan 28th
• Legacy at Heritage - Feb 2nd
• MCAA Tournament - Feb 11 and 13th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• SW Christian at MN Transitions - Dec 15th
• Trinity at MN Transitions - Feb 4th
• Minneapolis Roosevelt at Heritage - Feb 16th

2015-16 Metro West Conference Preview

This is the fourth preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  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 (2014-15 season 10-18, 6-8 Conference, Tie 4th)
Senior guard Jalen Floyd and his 11.8 PPG will be missed.  The rest of the main pieces are coming back.  Winona St recruit Sam Baker mans 1 wing after averaging over 15 PPG last year.  Junior sniper Derek Drees mans the other wing.  Guards Mat Lilienthal and Will Whitmore return as does center Eli Cave in the middle.  Cave had a very nice summer of improvement.  Soph forward Joe Dunn figures to see minutes as well.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2014-15 season 17-7, 11-3 Conference, 3rd)
All 5 starters graduate including Winona St recruit Tommy Gathje and his 17 and 7 per night.  There's a quality group of juniors waiting in the wings to replace them.  Jack Tillotson and Joe Hird came off the bench last year.  Tyler Riemersma and Peter Gathje appear poised to man the front line.  Senior guards Jake Murray and Cal Elander return as well.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2014-15 season 9-16, 4-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
Lefty shooter Tyson Chase was the top scorer last year at almost 15 a night.  He graduates but the next 2 scorers return.  Soph PG Markel Aune returns to run the show after averaging 13 PPG.  Forward Josh Bryant averaged 11.8 PPG.  Double figures from Darius Bell also need to be replaced.  Junior Andre Alexander will see time as a forward.

Chanhassen Storm (2014-15 season 17-11, 12-2 Conference, 2nd)
Its a rebuilding year after losing a strong senior class.  That class was highlighted by Mankato recruit Joey Witthus and his 22.9 PPG.  Point guard Ben Khwice and Chad Mapes are 2 other contributors that will be missed.  Sophomore Chris Wandling should take over the point guard duties.  Henry Weisman and Trey Prince are 2 juniors who should have major roles.

Chaska Hawks (2014-15 season 22-7, 13-1 Conference, 1st)
Point guard Jacob Hansen and 17.3 PPG will be sorely missed.  Junior Myles Hanson becomes the team's top option after putting up 15.7 PPG last year.  Alex Strazzanti provides quality defense.  Andrew Kallman can run the show and knock down shots.  Luke Hennen, Luke Roskam and Brandon Kraus provide depth.

Richfield Spartans (2014-15 season 2-25, 0-14 Conference, 8th)
Leading scorer Raphael Bilal graduated.  Front court athlete Markest Brown transferred to Minneapolis Henry.  3 players who started as sophomores last year plus senior Tommy Fallon return to the lineup.  Guard Junior Stone is the top returning scorer at 11.6 PPG.  They'll have limited size up front and a small but quick backcourt. 

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2014-15 season 7-19, 6-8 Conference, Tie 4th)
Leading scorer Taron Pickford and almost 19 points a game are gone due to transfer to Maple Grove.  Guard Jayson Edwards graduated after averaging 11.2 PPG.  Wing Melvin Newburn Jr  is the top returning player at 15.2 PPG.  The rest of the lineup featured lots of youth.  Sophs Beijan Newburn and Adam Cook will see plenty of time.  Junior guard Damien Gordon will also have a big role.
 
St. Louis Park Orioles (2014-15 season 9-18, 4-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
The Orioles improved from 1 win to 9 wins last season.  Senior Nick Kjos and 13 PPG is the most important departing starter.  Leading scorer Ray Whitlock and 16.5 PPG returns along with junior forward Mykal Howard.  Junior Ryan Domres and senior Aron Zheng make up the center tandem.  Juniors Josiah Morrow and Jack Lynch also were rotation members last year.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Benilde-St. Margaret's 
2. Chaska
3. Bloomington Jefferson 
4. St. Louis Park
5. Chanhassen
6. Robbinsdale Cooper  
7. Bloomington Kennedy
8. Richfield

Conference Overview
Benilde-St. Margaret's has too much coming back to not be the favorite.  Chaska may lose Jacob Hansen but I like what they have waiting in the wings so I'll keep them second.  Jefferson loses too much to be picked higher than 3rd but I think they'll be better than many expect.  St. Louis Park and Chanhassen battle for the last spot in the top half.  I expect that middle section 2-5 to be very competitive.  Cooper and Kennedy are very similar teams.  I think Cooper is a smidge more talented so they get that pick.  Richfield continues to rebuild.

Conference MVP: Sam Baker - Benilde-St. Margaret's

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Joe Dunn - Benilde-St. Margaret's
• Gavin Lyons - Bloomington Jefferson
• Markel Aune - Bloomington Kennedy
• Chris Wandling - Chanhassen
• Beijan Newburn, Adam Cook - Robbinsdale Cooper
• Cire Mayfield, Aidan Doherty - St. Louis Park

Conference Games to Watch

• Chaska at Benilde-St. Margaret's- Jan 5th
• Benilde-St.Margaret's at Bloomington Jefferson - Jan 8th
• Benilde-St.Margaret's at Chaska - Jan 26th
• Bloomington Jefferson at Benilde-St. Margaret's- Feb 4th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Apple Valley at Chaska - Dec 1st
• Chaska at Lakeville North - Dec 3rd
• Benilde St. Margaret's and Chaska vs TBD at Minnetonka- Dec 12th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic) 
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at De La Salle - Dec 23rd

2015-16 Metro East Conference Preview

This is the third preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  In this preview, I move to the east metro for a look at 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 (2014-15 season 21-6, 13-3 Conference, 1st)
After a banner season where the Raiders won the conference title, 4 starters need to be replaced.  Forwards Sam Skoyen and versatile Craig Nielsen combined for 33 a night.  Guards Christian Bronner and Joe Dittrich combined for almost 21.  A pair of reserve bigs also graduated.  Forward Brady Gullicks is the top returning player.  Guards Austin Bayne and Colin Kummer will take over in the backcourt.  After that, there's no experience.

Henry Sibley Warriors (2014-15 season 2-24, 1-15 Conference, Tie 8th)
From 18 wins 2 years ago, to 13 wins last year and down to rock bottom with only 2 wins last year.  That was in part due to a youth movement where the Warriors only had 1 senior.  Senior Zach Edwards averaged 9.4 PPG to lead the team.  He's 1 of 5 senior starters returning.  Soph PG Rieshaun Satar also returns.  He averaged 8.4 PPG.

Hill-Murray Pioneers (2014-15 season 21-8, 11-5 Conference, Tie 2nd)
The Pioneers have to replace all everything guard Marshawn Wilson (now at Northern Illinois).  He averaged 26 pts and a ridiculous 10.9 rebounds per game last year.  Double figure shooters Jack Fahey and Sam Westby also graduated.  Starting point guard Simeon Davis was the 2nd scorer last year at 11.2 PPG and 7.6 RPG.  Center Chris Moore also returns with 10 points and 6 boards per game.  Sam Carlson and Nathan Donatell also figure to see time for a guard dominated lineup.

Mahtomedi Zephyrs (2014-15 season 19-10, 10-6 Conference, Tie 5th)
The top 4 scorers including center Sean Hjelle's 15 and 10 are gone.  Hjelle is the hardest to replace of the group.  But more than the other depleted rosters in the league, the Zephyrs are equipped to reload.  That includes junior forwards Andy Voyen and Parker Fox up front.  Seniors Gus Farrell and Jacob Martin also provide frontcourt depth.  Senior lefty Joe Rock and junior Will Tuttle will step in to help replace the departed trio of Sam Muster, Jackson Bell and Sam Newman.  Leading returning scorer Lucas Buller averaged 7.4 PPG and will be a primary option on the wing.

North Polars (2014-15 season 6-21, 4-12 Conference, 7th)
The Polars took their lumps against a veteran league last year.  Now they return 6 of their top 7 scorers and appear poised to make a big jump.  Soph forward Goodnews Kpegeol is the only double figure scorer at 11.7 PPG.  Josh Steckler, Jake Weber, Thomas Acoqui, Adreon Wadlington and Termaine Daniels all return to the rotation.  Wadlington is a JT Gibson lookalike who has the ability to be a defensive stopper.  Steckler provides perimeter punch.  Playing many of the top teams in the league tough last year will prove valuable this season.
 
St. Thomas Academy Cadets (2014-15 season 19-9, 11-5 Conference, Tie 2nd)
New coach Tyler Biwan has to replace 4 starters.  He has forward Nate Chaffee and his 12.7 PPG to man the front line.  No one else averaged more than 5 PPG.  Joe Harvey, TJ Wright and John Myran figure to fill perimeter slots.  Nolan Sullivan should see time in the middle.

Simley Spartans (2014-15 season 19-9, 10-6 Conference, Tie 5th)
Guard Jack Stensgard and his team leading 16.6 PPG returns.  He can play both guard spots.  But the rest of the rotation will need to be replaced.  Andrew Leeder and Blake Scheffkneckt should man forward spots.  Soph Jake Binley should see plenty of time on the wing.  (Czar's Note: I've since been informed Scheffkneckt was a senior, oops)

South St. Paul Packers (2014-15 season 5-22, 1-15 Conference, Tie 8th)
South St. Paul broke a 72 game conference losing streak by winning at Sibley to start the new year.  That win gave them a split for last place.  Now they just have to break that 41 game conference losing streak at home.  4 starters and all but 2 members of the rotation are gone.  Senior forward Zach Taylor returns with 10.8 PPG.  But he may be best known as the uncle of Boo, The Mini Ref.  Guard Nate Totino is the 1 other member of the rotation returning.

Tartan Titans (2014-15 season 21-7, 11-5 Conference, Tie 2nd)
While everyone is trying to figure out how to fill out a lineup, Tartan is loaded.  They return 4 junior starters including their catalyst PG Jordan Horn (17.7 PPG).  Forward Joevon Walker also averaged double figures.  Kingston Myles returns in a defensive wing role along with forward Emanuel Humphrey.  Then as an added bonus star soph Jarvis Thomas will join the lineup.  Add in shooter Noah Wahlen from Ellsworth, WI and depth with DeNario Jackson, Jordan Thompson and Elijah Johnson.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
Both leagues in the east metro suburbs were ravaged by graduation.  Tartan is loaded but beyond that huge losses across the rest of last year's contending teams.  Mahtomedi has pieces they can plug in.  I'm going to pick North to make a big jump with their experience. Hill-Murray, St. Thomas Academy and Simley all have a couple of pieces to play with.  Sibley has everybody back so they have to go above South St. Paul for the last spot.  I could see Sibley's experience allowing them to battle Hastings for the spot above.

Conference MVP: Jordan Horn - Tartan

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Sawyer Levos - Hastings 
• Rieshaun Satar - Henry Sibley
• Goodnews Kpegeol, Bryce Phillips - North St. Paul  
• Jake Binley - Simley
• Jarvis Thomas - Tartan

Conference Games to Watch

• Mahtomedi at Tartan - Dec 18th
• Tartan at Mahtomedi - Jan 29th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Mahtomedi at Chisago Lakes - Nov 24th
• Tartan vs TBD - Dec 12th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Centennial at Tartan - Dec 30th (Projected Tartan tourney final)
• Edina at Tartan - Feb 19th

2015-16 Lake Conference Preview

This is the second preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Lake Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Eden Prairie Eagles (2014-15 season 24-5, 6-2 Lake Conference, Tie 1st)
Despite losing their top 3 scorers, Eden Prairie will rebound from a crushing loss to Hopkins in the section final.  The backcourt is loaded with seniors Brady Rudrud, Ryan Jacobus and Nick Geolat plus junior Owen Chose.  All 4 can knock down 3s and are very interchangeable.  They combined for almost 30 PPG last year and I expect them to do the bulk of the Eagles scoring this year.  The leadership and intangibles of Blake Cashman will be seriously missed.  Jake Ruppert and soph Kyler Kluge provide depth.  Look for Jack Vermedahl to provide size upfront.

Edina Hornets (2014-15 season 18-9, 2-6 Lake Conference, 5th)
Interior presence Max Lynch, wings Ben Boone and John Swanke all need to be replaced.  The high scoring perimeter duo of junior point guard Walt McGrory (17 PPG) and senior sharpshooter Will Moreton (14.2 PPG) returns.  Junior Jimmy Connell returns and soph Anders Nelson will join the rotation.  Size and depth are issues to address.

Hopkins Royals (2014-15 season 23-7, 6-2 Lake Conference, Tie 1st)
Hopkins struggled to find their way after Amir Coffey's injury last year, but once they figured out it, they were very dangerous.  Now Coffey returns to the lineup with a scholarship to Minnesota in hand and fits right into the spot John Warren vacated.  Everyone else returns so expect an even better season this year.  The perimeter play is the deepest in the state with Xavier Johnson, Ishmael El-Amin, Vinnie Shahid and Anthony Davis joining Simon Wright and Coffey.  Erik Davis will see time as a forward.  Its an explosive lineup with many matching parts.  Expect them to be a serious contender for another Gold Ball.

Minnetonka Skippers (2014-15 season 19-8, 3-5 Lake Conference, Tie 3rd)
Chris Carr takes over at the helm of the Skippers program after Tom Dasovich left to become the Watertown-Mayer athletic director.  He has a group that is very well suited to his dribble drive style. PG Amar Miller put up 21 a night and this style should be perfect for him.  It should also help wings Seth Coatta (NDSU recruit) and Cedric Boone who combined for 30 a night last year.  Both will have plenty of chances to knock down 3s or attack the rim.  The Skippers put up 85 a night last year so scoring won't be a problem.  The biggest question is defense.  They gave up 105 to Minneapolis South in an opening round section upset last year.  Size is also a question behind Max Cooper.

Wayzata Trojans (2014-15 season 21-8, 3-5 Lake Conference, Tie 3rd)
Here's one I got completely wrong last year.  The Trojans improved from 8 wins to 21 wins and did it without a single senior.  That means they return no fewer than 10 guys who saw meaningful minutes.  That includes leader Johnny Beeninga (17 PPG, MN-Moorhead recruit), sharpshooters Jack Sowada (14.2 PPG) and junior Ryan Lindberg along with Sioux Falls recruit Austin Slater (11.4 PPG) inside.  They're deep, experienced, and they have players for every position and role.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Hopkins
2. Wayzata
3. Eden Prairie
4. Minnetonka
5. Edina

Conference Overview
There's not a bad team in the league. Edina is no worse than a 500 team.  Minnetonka can outscore anybody on any given night.  The other 3 teams are all top 5 caliber teams.  I take Hopkins as the favorite with Wayzata and Eden Prairie not far behind.  Minnetonka has more coming back than Edina so I'll take the Skippers to stay out of the cellar.  Should be a really fun year to watch as all teams have at least 2 kids that are minimum D2 caliber.  High level play all around.

Conference MVP: Amir Coffey -  Hopkins

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Max Steensland, Kyler Kluge - Eden Prairie
• Anders Nelson- Edina
• Anthony Davis, Joe Hedstrom, Andrew Dahnke - Hopkins 

Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Wayzata - Dec 11th
• Wayzata at Eden Prairie - Jan 8th
• Hopkins at Eden Prairie - Jan 15th
• Wayzata at Hopkins - Jan 29th
• Eden Prairie at Wayzata - Feb 12th
• Eden Prairie at Hopkins - Feb 19th

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Robbinsdale Armstrong at Wayzata - Nov 24th
• Wayzata at Lakeville North - Nov 28th
• TBD at Hopkins - Dec 5th (Girls Tipoff Classic)
• All league members vs TBD at Minnetonka - Dec 12th (Boys Tipoff Classic)
• Lakeville North vs Eden Prairie - Dec 22nd
• Hopkins at Champlin Park - Dec 22nd
• Wayzata vs Apple Valley (at St. Cloud Apollo)- Dec 29th (Granite City)
• Wayzata vs Champlin Park (at SCSU) - Dec 30th (Granite City)
• Eden Prairie at Shakopee - Jan 2nd
• De La Salle at Eden Prairie - Jan 5th
• Hopkins at Minneapolis North - Jan 19th
• Eden Prairie vs Cretin-Derham Hall (at UST) - Jan 19th
• Wayzata at Minneapolis North - Jan 25th 
• Minnetonka vs Stevens Point (WI) at Onalaska (WI) - Jan 30th (Border Battle)
• Eden Prairie at Robbinsdale Armstrong - Feb 3rd
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Hopkins - Feb 3rd
• Eden Prairie at Champlin Park - Feb 10th

2015-16 Independent Metro Athletic Conference Preview

This is the first preview in my 2015-2016 season preview series.  We start the 6 week preview series with a 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 (2014-15 season 2-25, 2-8 Conference, 5th)
The Bears fell off hard from 22 wins to 2-25 last season.  Both wins were league wins over Mounds Park Academy.   Sophomore sniper point guard Jack Moe returns after leading the team with 14.8 PPG.  Most of the rest of the rotation graduated.  Charlie Levitt graduates after being one of the other offensive threats.  Expect another long season on top of the hill. 

Breck Mustangs (2014-15 season 20-9, 8-2 Conference, Tie 1st)
Former star PG Marcus Hill takes over the reins of his alma mater after 1 year as an assistant.  He has a ton to replace.  Guards Will Culliton and Mo Lawal with forward Henry Cousineau combined for over 51 PPG.  Those 3 plus athletic wing Kwaku Bodom all graduated.  6'8" Senior Justin Bergerson returns in the middle.  Senior Miles Olowu provides front court depth.  Junior Garrett Opperman should have a much expanded role.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2014-15 season 19-9, 8-2 Conference, Tie 1st)
Coach Lance Johnson returns his top 3 scorers.  Sophomore forward JaVonni Bickham averaged almost a double-double with 17.5 PPG and 9.7 RPG per game last year.  8th grader Jalen Suggs saw limited time due to injury but was still the 2nd scorer at 11 per night.  Plenty of guard depth returns with 10.9 PPG from Jake Richardson.  Toughness and defense from Benny Larry along with 7.1 PPG also return.  Reserve bigs behind Bickham are a question mark.

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2014-15 season 6-19, 0-10 Conference, 6th)
Dan Haase returns to the boys head coach seat after spending 3 years leading the Panthers girls program and a year off.  He previously led the program from 1999-2011.  The Panthers have currently lost 79 straight conference games since Feb 1, 2008.  Everybody returns so that means another year of junior Brendan Connolly (11.8 PPG) and senior Cole Montour (7.4 PPG) leading the way.

Providence Academy Lions (2014-15 season 16-12, 4-6 Conference, 4th)
The top 2 scorers, wing Matt Richelsen and PG Dominic Miller return for the Lions.   Bruising football prospect Gavin Blomberg will anchor the front line.  He'll replace Sebastian Brown up front.  Drew Lahr provides experience up front.  The bench will need to be more productive.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2014-15 season 19-10, 8-2 Conference, Tie 1st)
The Spartans won the obscure points allowed tiebreaker to win the conference title.  Seniors Dalante Peyton and Kent Hanson return as a potent 1-2 punch averaging almost 34 points a game.  Role playing guards Ryan Peacock, Emerson Egly  and Angel Smaller also return.  They will need to find replacements for the size of Abdul Osman (9 and 6 last year) and Sam Suzuki.  The defensive stopper role of Dean Isaacson took some burden off of Peyton last year, but won't be there this year.  Head coach Kevin McKenzie left to take the Roseville head job.  Macalester assistant Isaiah Walfred takes over the program.  He was previously a head coach at North St. Paul.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
The league splits into 3 clear tiers.  Minnehaha and SPA should battle for the conference title.  Providence looks to have the inside track for 3rd with Breck maybe jumping in there.  Blake and Mounds Park Academy are a notch below the 2nd tier and will battle each other to stay out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Dalante Peyton - St. Paul Academy

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Jack Moe - Blake
• Riley Burger- Breck
• JoVanni Bickham, Jalen Suggs - Minnehaha
• Nick Flottmeier, Braeden Mischke - Providence 

Conference Games to Watch

• St. Paul Academy at Minnehaha - Jan 19th
• Minnehaha at St. Paul Academy - Feb 5th

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Minnehaha at St. Croix Lutheran - Dec 1st
• St. Paul Academy at Cristo Rey - Dec 5th
• St. Croix Lutheran at St. Paul Academy - Dec 10th
• Minnehaha in Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka - Dec 12th
• St. Paul Academy vs Minneapolis Henry (at Hamline) - Dec 22nd
• Minnehaha at Minneapolis North - Jan 16th

Welcome to Czar Season 9

Its Labor Day weekend and that means its time to turn the page to the 2015-2016 season.  All of the 2014-15 pages can be found on the Previous Seasons archive page.  That has all the player signings, previews and pools from the previous seasons I've covered.

As to 2015-16, this is season number 9 online and I've passed the 1000 total games watched mark.  All of the pages you're used to seeing are back.  The notable leagues and camps of the 2015 fall season are on the Fall Ball page.  I'll be doing my usual 6 week long season preview series where I look at all of the metro area conferences and sections.  Team previews will be done in the 13 working days leading up to MEA.  After the MEA break, we'll take you right up until the start of practice with section previews and a wrap of games and events to see.  The full schedule for when those previews will be posted is on the Season Previews page.  With a handful of players from the class of 2016 already making their college choices, the Signings page has been flipped over to 2016 as well.  I also have a start on the local holiday tournament schedule on the Holiday Tourneys page.  I'll update that page as we approach the holidays with the actual schedules.

This year also marks a new set of section assignments and classifications.  As part of a 6 year cycle, not only were teams moved around based on class, the MSHSL did a full review of every team's section location across all sports.  That meant some rather major changes.  You can find all of those on the updated Section Maps and Section Assignment links.

The Rankings page has been updated with all of the latest national rankings from the end of the 2015 AAU season.  Players from the top 150 from the 4 major ranking services (Rivals, Scout, ESPN and 247Sports) are included.  For those of you who are Northstar Hoops Report subscribers, it also includes links for the Minnesota rankings in 2016-2018 as well as the 2019 watch list for incoming freshmen.  For you recruiting diehards, the fall recruiting period opens this week.  Links to the D1 and D2 recruiting calendars have been updated in the Recruiting Links menu.

While we're in the spirit of changes, here's a link to the NFHS rules changes for this season.  Biggest one is hand-checking which is going to be very interesting how consistently this is called over the course of the season.

Vegas Review 2015

The Czar's annual trip to Las Vegas for the July recruiting period has completed.  5 years of Vegas now in the books.  Here are some of the sights and sounds of my trip.

The Games
Probably the biggest theme for me for the trip was all of the point guard play.  Here's a list of no fewer than 10 high profile PGs I saw and its not necessarily all inclusive.  Lonzo Ball, Dennis Smith, Frank Jackson, Jaylen Fisher, Eric Hester, Kobi Simmons, Payton Pritchard, Jaquori McLaughlin, Trevon Duval (2017), Alex Barcello (2017), Jordan McCabe (2018).  McLaughin and Pritchard had Wisconsin following them and as a Badger fan I'd be very happy if Bucky got either one.  My 1st game featured Ball vs Smith.  Ball is a bigger Tyus Jones type (terrific passer).  His mom and pop team (literally his parents coaching his team with him and his 2 brothers playing with many of his high school teammates) played an old Loyola Marymount style with his youngest brother playing the Jeff Fryer role.  The entire team had the "if it feels like leather" green light.  Entertaining but not the greatest basketball and Ball's team ended up getting blown out.  Friday featured a bunch of fun close games in the Fab 48 in their top division.  Main player highlight there was Thon Maker in the 1st game of the day but also saw the Colorado Chaos cause major chaos with 2 late 3s before giving up a buzzer beater to Team Thad. 

As to Minnesota teams, a great showing.  12 teams in the Las Vegas Classic were a combined 39-23, 11 teams in the Fab 48 were 41-20.  D1s 3 teams in the Adidas Summer Championships were 14-4.  That's 94-47 (or 2 out of every 3) overall.  The D1 15s won their 15U bracket.  WOTN Nicols made the championship of the Gold Bracket at the Fab 48 but needed to make their flight.  That meant Select Altenhofen would finish 8-0 and win that title.  Fury Johnson 15s lost in the 2nd bracket championship in Bigfoot.  MN Warriors went 5-1 and lost by 1 in the quarters to the eventual champ of their bracket.  D1 16s lost in the quarters to the eventual runner up.   Big story line locally was Minnesota Fury Wilde taking out EYBL rep Meanstreets easily in the 1st round of championship bracket.  They saw a double digit lead cut to 3 before pulling away.   Heat Northwest, Heat Vang, Select Ohnstad, Select Altenhofen, Fury Johnson, Fury Wilde, D1 16s, D1 15s, MN Warrors, MN Lockdown 15s all won their pools.  Fury Zurn had a great late night matchup against Mac Irvin Fire that they couldn't finish late otherwise that would have been a signature win and pool title as well.  In the D1 16s bracket loss to Utah Prospects, Goanar Mar put on one of the best games I've seen him play as he tried to bring D1 back from double digits down but they ended up getting no closer than 2.  Other local players that played well when I saw them include (in no particular order) David Lindstrand, Austin Slater, Race Thompson, Zach Theisen, Charlie Irmiger, Matthew Hurt, Steffon Mitchell.  Over half of the NSIC was out in Vegas following the local kids too which is as many of those schools as I can recall seeing out there in my time.

The Grub and the Goons
Quality food at all the sites provided to the college coaches.  That's also good for the pocket book.  Quality chicken at Adidas.  Amazing cinnamon roll flavored mini cupcakes at the Fab 48.  The neighboring Irish Pub is always good for lunch on Wednesday before heading out to a week full of games.  As always, plenty of Pepsi consumed too.  The more I see of Vegas, the more shady it is.  Plenty of scary creatures on the streets (insert your own joke about me here) which make even me pay attention.  Did get a chance to saunter through The Fremont Street Experience on the way back to the airport on Saturday.   Think massive full time block party.  I do need to find time to do the zip line over the street sometime.

The Gambling
Always have to make time to hit the tables in Vegas.  After last year's huge losses, a basketball saying came to mind.  There comes a time when summer asks what you did all winter.  Czar put in his fair share of off-season work to make sure that disaster didn't happen again.  Night 1 wasn't anything special but I did walk away with fair gains.  Night 2 it all came thru as I made a big run.  Night 3 was the casino's night as they got all their losses back.  I tried to weather the storm figuring the bad stretch would pass but just never got thru it.  I entered Night 4 dead even and stepped up to higher stakes tables but with less decks so that changes the odds I had prepped with.  After a very rough start, I made the critical decision to switch tables (something I didn't do on night 3) and got back above water for a very tidy profit.  So Czar leaves victorious for the 2nd time in 3 years, always a good feeling.  But especially nice knowing the preparation paid off, literally and figuratively.  2 major differences in my play this year that helped.  Playing possible busts vs dealer non bust cards (e.g hit 16 vs a dealer 17) and soft hands (like double soft 15 vs a 6).  For those wondering, it was not my hot play that caused the Cosmopolitan to burst into flames on Saturday.  Just remember folks as we always say in honor of De La Salle coach Dave Thorson, #GrindersWinGamblersLose

Hit the road 2015

The 4th of July holiday is over and that means its time for our local grassroots teams to hit the road for most of the next 3 weeks.  The 1st period is always a very Midwest feel as teams mostly stay close to home.

Here's the list for the 1st open period starting on Wednesday.  Interesting that Heat Vang gets super pooled in Indy for the 2nd straight year.  They also have a strange split in the schedule where they will play Wednesday night, twice on Thursday and after their 6 PM game on Thursday, will not play again until Saturday morning.  The 1st 12 17U pools in Milwaukee have a Minnesota representative.  Iowa has many local 2nd teams.  Chicago also well represented with Minnesota teams.

Adidas Invitational (Indianapolis)
17s
MN Heat Vang (Super Pool, 5 of those pools)
MN Heat NW
MN Heat Schwarz
MN Heat Schumann

16s
MN Heat Nord
MN Magic Vatsaas

15s
MN Heat Reese

NY2LA Next Level Invitational (Milwaukee)
17s
tMBA
MN Comets Lewis
MN Comets Servaty
MN Phenom
MN Select Altenhofen
MN Select Ellis
MN Select Ohnstad
Net Gain Sports (see below)
Real Athletics - Jay
SW MN Stars
WOTN Nicols
WOTN Swedberg

16s
MN Heat Bui
MN Warriors
tMBA
MN Comets Stumpf
MN Flames
MN Phenom
MN Suns
SW MN Stars
WOTN Herber
WOTN Ewing

15s
Crossfire Swanson
MN Select
tMBA
MN Comets Schmidt
MN Comets North
SW MN Stars

Chicago Summer Jam (Fri-Sun)
17s
Howard Pulley

16s
Howard Pulley
MN Lockdown
MN PREP

15s
Howard Pulley (both)
MN Attack the Paint
MN Lockdown


Midwest Summer Slam (Ames, IA) (Fri-Sun)
17s
MN Select Moore
MN Swish
MN Fury Jordan

16s
MN Fury Jaryan
MN Comets DLR
MN Comets Kirchner
MN Select

15s
D1 Minnesota 2018 Prospects
MN Rise
MN Fury Davis
MN Fury Slick
MN Bulldogs

Also a handful of other Heat teams competing in this event as well.

Mullen's High Profile Tourney (St. Louis, Fri-Sun)

• MN Fury Johnson 15s
• MN Fury Zurn 16s
• MN Fury Wilde 17s

This has a very Sanford league feel with the Omaha Crusaders and Dakota Schoolers also there

OTHERS

• D1 Minnesota 16s and 17s will be at the Adidas Uprising finals in Atlanta.  The 17s are in the Silver bracket.  Those games are Wednesday through Friday.
• D1 Minnesota top 15s will be at Double Pump Summer Tip-Off in Los Angeles.
• Reed Nikko and Ishmael El-Amin of Net Gain Sports are listed on the rosters for the Rivals/Under Armour camp in Charlotte, NC.  They could be back with Net Gain in Milwaukee for weekend bracket play.
• Steffon Mitchell and Nate Reuvers will be representing Fury at the Hoop Group Elite Camp outside Philadelphia
• Crossfire has a 16U team in the Chicago Summer Challenge (different event than Chicago Summer Jam)

An Open Letter From a Referee

The following open letter was sent to me by an official.  I think it encapsulates much of the perspective that is often missing in today's game.  That's especially true at the grassroots level.  Considering recent events, including the 1 year suspensions of dance coaches at 4 schools for their 2015 state dance tournament conduct, it is also timely.  With permission, I'm publishing it here unedited.

An Open Letter to Club Directors, Coaches, Parents, and Referees from a Referee

This weekend, I was involved in a tournament where a referee was called a b***** and shoved by a coach who was upset with a call.  What’s frightening is this type of behavior continues to become more common.  I referee basketball because I think it’s the greatest game in the world and I am writing this letter out of my concern for the game I love. 

Club Directors – Your love for the game of basketball and the kids involved is unparalleled.  Your investment has paid dividends and made Minnesota a basketball hotbed over the past few years.  Protect your investment.  Start holding out of control parents and coaches responsible for their actions.  Stop asking the referees working for you to have thicker skin and start supporting them.  The parents who are thrown out of games are the same ones who complain to you about the team their kid was placed on. The coaches who are ejected are the same ones who give summer basketball a bad name.  You need to start holding parents and coaches accountable for their actions.  When a coach who makes malicious contact with a referee is knowingly allowed to coach in one of your events again you have failed the game, your athletes, and yourself.  

Coaches – I have a special admiration for what you do; my dad coached for 30+ years at a small school in Northern Minnesota.  I grew up watching my dad make countless sacrifices and invest many hours in the student athletes he coached on and off the court.  I know the majority of you are the same way, you live for the kids you coach.  Don’t ever forget that many of these kids live for you too.  They look up to you and will emulate what you do on and off the floor.  You have the ultimate responsibility of being good role model.  A great man who coached me had one rule for his teams – the Golden Rule.  If your biggest concern is winning the consolation bracket of the Club State Tournament, it’s time to reevaluate your approach.  Start with the Golden Rule. 

Parents – There’s no guarantee that your child will receive a scholarship or even want to play college basketball.  Enjoy the moment!  You’re lucky your child is able to participate in the greatest game in the world.  Cheer for them and forget about the officiating.  Many of the people working your child’s games are new to officiating.  $25 per game isn’t enough to get many of the top tier referees in the state to work.  New referees will make mistakes (a lot of mistakes).  If you continue to berate these new referees, the pool of referees will shrink and the officiating will get worse.  Also, if you think you can do a better job quit screaming and start officiating – the game needs more referees.

Referees – Put the game 1st, your partners 2nd, and yourself 3rd.  I’m going to hit you with a mind dump here…  Do the right thing, even if it’s the hard thing to do.  You can’t referee alone and you can’t referee forever – be a good partner and do whatever you can to help others be successful.  A mentor of mine used to say at referee camps “You only get to keep, what you give away.”  The game and your partners always comes before money and assignments.  Last thing, a veteran referee I know well, always says “You can’t be a good referee, if you’re not a good person.” 

The one thing we all have in common is our love for the game.  AAU Directors start supporting your referees.  Coaches remember you are a role model.  Parents enjoy the moment and stop worrying about the officiating (unless you are actually interested in becoming a referee).  Referees put the game 1st, your partners 2nd and yourself 3rd.  If we don’t all take some responsibility, we’ll lose the game we love as we know it.

2015 EYBL Session 4 Howard Pulley Preview

Memorial Day weekend is always a great weekend for local hoops with the EYBL circuit making its annual appearance.  As always its the 4th and final event of the spring on the EYBL circuit.  About 100 players that are ranked in the current 2016 or 2017 Rivals rankings are expected to be in attendance.  The last session saw 3 top 100 ringers from the Adidas Uprising circuit show up too.  This year the games move to the great Maple Grove Community Gyms facility.  8 sessions on Saturday and Sunday.  Then the EYBL regular season completes with 4 sessions early Monday.  So every team gets in 5 final games as they try to make a run to the top event in July, The Peach Jam.

Lots could be said here about all the different teams and players.  I'll limit my comments mostly to Howard Pulley and their 5 opponents.  

The Situation
Howard Pulley is currently 5-7 and tied with CIA Bounce for 7th in Division D.  Teams that finish in the top 5 in their division automatically qualify for The Peach Jam plus 4 wildcards.  3 teams in Division A are 7-5 and tied for 5th so I'd expect the 2 that don't make the top 5 to take 2 of the 4 wildcard spots.  Then there are 3 teams not in at 6-6 but only 2 spots for those teams.  2 others are 6-6 and win head-head tiebreakers for the 5th spot.  So its a steep climb for Pulley to get in.  The schedule doesn't do the Panthers any favors either as they'll play the top 4 teams in their division plus CIA Bounce.  In order to make The Peach Jam, Howard Pulley must win at least 3 games and most likely 4 out of 5.  In terms of tiebreakers, Pulley won head-head over Alabama Challenge and lost in the last game in Houston to NJ Playaz.  Those are the 2 teams directly in front of them.  Playaz also beat the Challenge.  So if you're Pulley you're hoping for 3 way tie or likely looking at a 2 game margin.

For Howard Pulley, its been the Gary Trent show.  He leads the EYBL in scoring at 23.9 PPG.  That included outbursts of 43 and 33 points in the last session in Houston 2 weeks ago.  The main issue for the Panthers has been finding him some help.  Nobody else averages more than 5.9 PPG.  That number comes from Amar Miller who gets that from his quickness that allows him to get into the lane.  But being undersized in the freakishly athletic EYBL takes away many of his interior chances.  Also keep an eye on the rebounding margin for Pulley as it was a problem in Houston.  They'll need to keep that close.


Game 1, 12:30 PM Saturday, Court 3 vs Team Takeover (9-3 Tied 1st Division D)
The brutal schedule starts with 1 of the 3 teams tied for 1st, this one from DC.  Wing VJ King is the leading scorer and rebounder at 15.3 PPG/5.7 RPG.  He's ranked #11 in the country.  2017 stud DJ Harvey is ranked #13 in the country.  He has Georgetown, Maryland, Louisville and Texas offers.  He's 2nd in both categories at 14 PPG/5 RPG.  6'9" forward Corey Manigault (#121) is committed to Pittsburg.  6'9" Mamadi Daikite is ranked #37 and holds an offer from Virginia.  Guard Aaron Thompson is ranked #69 and holds a Penn State offer.  The King vs Trent mano a mano battle is definitely one to watch.

Game 2, 9:30 PM Saturday, Court 3 vs Albany City Rocks (8-4 4th Division D)
Albany City Rocks is led by the guard tandem of 6'5" Kevin Huerter (#101 ranking) and 6'3" Howard Washington (#83 ranking).  Huerter has offers from Iowa, Notre Dame and Maryland just to name a few.    He leads the team in scoring at 12.3 PPG and assists at 3 APG.  Washington has offers from Ohio State and Boston College.  He averages 9.5 PPG and 2.7 APG.  On the front line, Anthony Lamb has a bunch of low D1 offers.  The 6'6" forward averages 11.6 PPG and is 7th in the EYBL with 8.4 rebounds per game.

Game 3, 2:00 PM Sunday, Court 5 vs E1T1 (9-3 Tied 1st Division D)
Guard Maverick Rowan leads the team at 18.4 PPG.  He's ranked #42 in the country and was once a commit to Pittsburgh.  6'9" forward Jonathan Isaac is ranked #45 and has interest from most of the SEC.  Ditto that for 6'10" center Tony Bradley (#35).  Bradley averages 12.6 PPG and 8.7 RPG.  Isaac averages 14.9 PPG and 5.6 RPG.  Guard Jordan Harris is ranked #92 and is committed to Georgia.  Point Guard Lamonte Turner averages 10.8 PPG and 4.9 APG and is committed to Tennessee.  He may have reclassified from 2016 to 2015 so we may not see him this weekend.

Game 4, 9:30 PM Sunday, Court 1 vs Georgia Stars (9-3 Tied 1st Division D)
Just when you thought the front line studs were too much, the Stars pull out a ridiculous front line.  Forward Udoka Azubuike is ranked #13 with Kansas and Georgetown on his list of offers.  6'10" Abdulhakim Ado is ranked #25.  Then you have 2017 F Wendall Carter ranked #8.  He averages 10.6 with 7.5 rbs.   Add in #82 Trent Forrest on the wing with a team high 13.9 PPG and Jared Harper at 13.8 for guard support.  They'll attend Florida State and Auburn respectively.  Too much size here for Pulley to deal with.

Game 5, 12:30 PM Monday, Court 3 vs CIA Bounce (5-7 Tied 7th Division D)
In theory, this could be a Peach Jam play in game for either team or both in the very last session of the regular season.  That would be drama.  The last weekend and day is always interesting because some teams may have spots locked up or have nothing to play for so you never know what you'll get.  Guard Koby McEwen is ranked #102 and has offers from Baylor and Ole Miss.  His 13.4 PPG is the only double figure scoring average for CIA Bounce.  Fellow wing Brandon Cyrus is ranked #110 and has offers from Boston College and San Diego State.  Forward Eddie Ekiyor is ranked #88.  His offer list includes Oregon, Miami and Virginia Tech.  He averages 9.7 PPG and 7.7 RPG.  Point Guard Nelson Kaputo is committed to St. Bonaventure. 

2015 Comets Shootout Thoughts

The Comets Shootout is always one of the most entertaining events of the season.  Its also hectic with the teams playing the games in a 2 day span.  Especially so for the 17U kids who take the ACT Saturday morning and then play up to 5 games in 24 hours after that.  Here are some of the sights and sounds from the weekend.

Saturday
The setup for the tourney was a scheduled play-in game to make the 1st game of the 16 team championship bracket on Saturday night.  That meant most of the day was mismatches.  In the 16U play-in games, Bomb Squad (IA) took out Heat Bui and Select Olafeso took out Fury Jaryan in a pair of upsets. Most notable game of the round of 16 was Lockdown taking on Fury Zurn.  Fury looked to have the game put away but Trae Berhow and Lockdown would make a late rally before just falling short 67-62.

Then it was on to 17U play-in games and a major upset here.  Select Ellis took out Real Athletics Jay 83-78.  Layup drill for the Select guys and Real Athletics didn't shoot the lights out like they're capable of.  In the round of 16, Select Ohnstad took out WOTN Nicols 53-42 in a battle.  Select Altenhofen also with a hard fought 73-67 win over Comets Servaty.  ECI Prospect knocked out Phenom.  Heat NW knocked out Select Ellis and Fury Wilde took out Heat Wayzata.  Heat Wayzata with Johnny Beeninga for the weekend and former Badger Jon Bryant coaching them up on the bench.

Sunday
Its all about donuts thanks to former Comets guard Christian Pekarek. And not mini-donuts either, I have a waistline to maintain.  More than enough to feed me from these full size donuts.  Magic and Comets would move on in the top half of the 16U bracket.  In the 17U quarters, WI Heat shot the lights out and had an 11 point lead late vs Comets Lewis.  But Jordan Bolton was able to get to the rim in the comeback and a late 4 point play from Bryce Irsfeld allowed the Comets to steal one 68-65.  Steal one they did, I have to show some love for the Wisconsin guys playing well this weekend.  They reminded me of some of the old Minnesota Warriors squads.  Heat Vang would take out Select Ohnstad 61-50 behind a clutch shooting 2nd half from Ryan Jacobus.

In the bottom half of the 17U bracket, Select Altenhofen by 10 over ECI Prospects.  Fury Wilde struggled with the trapping of Heat NW in the 1st half but handled it in the 2nd half.  Heat NW would see their offense leave them for the 1st 9 minutes of the 2nd half.  Fury Wilde would pull away for a surprisingly easy 67-43 win.

In the 16U semis, the Magic would take out the hosts Comets 61-50.  Fury Zurn took out Heat Nord 61-47.  Then off to the 17U semis.  Comets Lewis broke open a close one in the 2nd half to defeat Heat Vang 68-46.  The other semi was a Fury Wilde vs Select Altenhofen rematch from last week.  That was Select's only Sanford league loss last week in a 63-60 fistfight.  This one didn't disappoint either.  Right down to the end in this one too and Fury holds off Select 64-58.  Fury would try to run away and Select would make a comeback.  Great game.

Then we get tandem championship games in 15U and 16U.  15U game was a back and forth battle between Future Stars and Comets North.  Things got a little ugly with a scoring controversy in the 2nd half but that dust settled and the Future Stars would hang on for a 48-43 win after trailing by 6 at the half.  In the 16U title game, Magic would control the 1st half and take a 7 point lead to halftime.  Fury would come out on a 12-1 run to get the lead but never fully put the game away.  Fury would break a tie in the last minute and win 57-53.

Then its the 17U championship game.  This championship game may be the latest one we have on the circuit but it never seems to disappoint and this one didn't either.  Fury would jump out to a quick 11-2 lead but the Comets would battle back to tie.  Dalante Peyton with a 3 at the buzzer to send Fury to halftime up 36-33.  The Comets would look to put the game away but Fury with a Furious (sorry, had to go there) rally in the last minute.  Fury missed 3, Comets 2 free throws to go up 5.  Peyton another 3, Comets layup, Sean Ryan for 3 and the lead is 1.  Jordan Bolton makes 2 free throws to put the Comets back up by 3.  Comets intentionally foul Peyton as they don't want to give up a 3.  He makes the first, intentionally misses the 2nd and Ryan crashes in from the left slot, grabs the miss and hits a left baseline fadeaway at the buzzer to force overtime.  WOW! 

In the overtime, its a 1 point game late when Steffon Mitchell gets blocked and Ethan Novacinski scoops on the other end to put the Comets up 1 with 12.7 left.  Fury takes a timeout, Mitchell gets double-teamed.  Jubie Alade stripped as time runs out and the Comets win a thriller 79-78 in overtime. 

Notable Players
Odell Wilson - Future Stars 15U (Mpls North)
Jenson Beachy - Comets North 15U (Perham)
Mitchell Plombon - Comets North 15U (Perham)
Mykal Howard - Magic Vatsaas 16U (St. Louis Park)
Brian Sitzmann - Magic Vatsaas 16U (Prior Lake)
Kade Hart - Magic Vatsaas 16U (Fairbault)
Trae Berhow - Lockdown 16U (Watertown-Mayer)
Myles Hanson - Fury Zurn 16U (Chaska)
Owen Chose - Fury Zurn 16U (Eden Prairie)
Dalante Peyton - Fury Wilde 17U (St. Paul Academy)
Austin Slater - Fury Wilde 17U (Wayzata)
Sam Sustacek - Select Ohnstad 17U (Orono)
Jordan Bolton - Comets Lewis 17U (Apple Valley)
Kobe Boraas - Comets Lewis 17U (Sauk Rapids)

2015 Comets Shootout Predictions

Its time once again for the Comets Shootout, one of the great events of our local grassroots season.  No shoe company teams showing up except for the Net Gain 15s so the field is very wide open.  A shame that we don't get a chance to see D1 and Net Gain as we have in past years.  Its also a much bigger field than we've had.  There are 48 teams each in 17U and 16U divisions and 44 in 15U.  The tourney format is an opening round game to play into the 16 team Platinum championship bracket.  For the teams in the last handful of opening round games, sorry, no soup for you.  Say hello to the Gold bracket.   So with that in mind, many of the opening round games are mismatches so I'm going to skip ahead to my thoughts on bracket play.

15U Predictions
3 possible round of 16 games here stick out to me.  Let's start with apologies to 3 of my players from last year as I can't pick them in their opener vs Comets North.  My team was 0-2 vs Comets teams at the Comets last year, can't go against that here.  Comets North is a very nice team but they'll get a stiff challenge from the MN Eagles.  They are a group of Apple Valley kids who had great success this year.  Also in the bottom half, Fury Johnson looks like they take on Comets Little who had a great season last year.   Then the sleeper game and that's the Comets top group against Crossfire Swanson.  The Crossfire group was largely together with the Heat last year and have some extra pieces to go with it.  The Comets complete the sweep but the game looks to not be a pushover.

Comets Schmidt takes out Select Hermer in a Sanford League game in the quarters.  Future Stars vs Lockdown and Fury Johnson vs Net Gain should be high quality quarterfinal games.  Comets North is my pick to move thru the last quarter with North Hoops being a major sleeper here if its Minneapolis North kids.  Future Stars vs Comets Schmidt in 1 semifinal and Fury Johnson vs Comets North in the other.  Fury Johnson and Comets Schmidt move on to the final with Fury Johnson winning a grudge match.  Love the matchup of point guards in that game.

15U Players to watch:
Matt Todd - Fury Johnson
Jarvis Thomas - Lockdown
Cam Jackson - Comets Schmidt
Odell Wilson - Future Stars (or North Hoops?)

16U Predictions
Comets again get no favors for their top team as I see them drawing Real Athletics Robinson in the round of 16.  But I think the Comets are too deep and move on.  ECI Prospects move on over WOTN Ewing.  Heat Bui and Magic Vatsaas play a tight game with Heat barely moving on.  I'll take Fury Jaryan to advance over Heat Gardner to conclude the top half.  Heat Nord thru against the MN Swish.  Playmakers Streege move on as well.  Comets DLR gets the home court edge over WOTN Herber.  Then a dynamite game at the bottom with Lockdown and Fury Zurn.  Fury moves on in a stiff opening round test.

Comets Stumpf advances over ECI, Heat Bui moves on over Fury Jaryan.  Fury Zurn also advances over the Comets.  Heat Nord advances over the Playmakers.  No Heat vs Heat final as the Comets and Fury knock them out.  So again its a Comets vs Fury top team showdown for the title and again I'll take the Fury.

16U Players to watch:
Dedoch Chan, Myles Hanson, Owen Chose - Fury Zurn
Siman Sem - ECI Prospects
Trae Berhow, Mar Mar Hughes- Lockdown
Derek Thompson, Dillon Haider - Comets Stumpf
Kade Hart - Magic Vatsaas
Isaac Johnson - Real Athletics Robinson

17U Predictions
Long story short, don't leave before the late games.  The best 2 games here are in the 10 PM slot Saturday night.  Fury Wilde rums into Heat McKee (all Wayzata kids) and Heat Northwest has a war with Real Athletics Jay.  Heat Northwest big but if they can add Xavier Johnson this week, that would be huge to go against the guard strength of Real Athletics.  I'll take Real Athletics with their shooting.  Also in the bottom half, I'll take ECI Prospects over WI Playmakers Boll.  Select Altenhofen continues their nice run with a win over Comets Servaty.   In the top half, Comets Lewis over Fury Jordan.  Heat Schumann moves on over Red River Heat.  Select Ohnstad def WOTN Nicols and Heat Vang knocks off the MN Swish.

Comets Lewis no problem moving on to the semis over Heat Schumann.  Select Ohnstad knocks off Heat Vang in a tight one.  Select Altenhofen moves on over ECI.  Fury Wilde with another stiff test knocking out Real Athletics Jay.  They win a rematch with Select Altenhofen in the semis.  Select Ohnstad won a title last week and I'll take them to knock off the hosts in the semis.  Fury Wilde completes the Fury sweep with a win over Select Ohnstad in the final.

17U Players to watch:
Steffon Mitchell, Dalante Peyton - Fury Wilde
Seth Coatta, Chris Olson, Cedric Boone - Real Athletics Jay
Isaiah Wade, Lucas Walford - Heat Northwest
Ryan Lindberg,  Jack Sowada - Heat McKee
Brady Kuchinka - WOTN Nicols
Charlie Irmiger, Carter Brooks, Jack Stensgard - Select Ohnstad
Sam Baker, Nick Dufault - Select Altenhofen
Cole Dahl, Bryce Irsfeld, Ethan Novacinski - Comets Lewis
Samm Jones, Quenton Siebenahler - Heat Vang