2014 Season Opener

Prologue

Its the 2014 Season Opener but in a strange place.  Its off to Mound-Westonka for a section 6AAA showdown between the Whitehawks and Holy Angels.  Its Jesse Foley's return to the bench for AHA and Tyler Biwan's debut on the Mound-Westonka bench.  20 oz of Red Powerade to go with a healthy slice of cheese pizza.  Blake's Sean Kruger in the building to watch his former assistant and get some section scouting in at the same time.  Only 1 side of bleachers and you could hear a pin drop on some home free throws which is a nice touch.

Game Time
Its a fast start for Mound-Westonka with the Swing Offense.  Ryan Rahn back to back bombs for 3 and the Whitehawks are up 9-2 just 2 minutes in.  Holy Angels comes right back with an 18-5 run of their own.  Taylor BonGiovanni with 8 points in the run including a steal and cold blooded pullup 3 on the break to close it.  20-14 Holy Angels takes the lead with 8:30 left in the half.  Charlie Koontz starts to dominate inside for Holy Angels and they stretch the lead to 9.  The hot shooting for Mound-Westonka continues with Rahn's 3rd triple.  28-25 Holy Angels at the 4:32 mark.  Koontz leads an 18-6 run to finish the half as he scores the last five in the final minute.  Rahn's arm must have gotten tired as he missed 2 or 3 good looks from deep short late in the half.  43-31 Holy Angels at half.

The 2nd half was all the story of Holy Angels appearing to pull away and then Mound-Westonka would make a play to hang around.  Tynan O'Hara with a big half for Mound-Westonka.  His 3 off a nice skip pass cuts the margin to 45-37 with 16:25 left.  Koontz with a putback to push the lead to 10 before a classic baseline cut and layup out of the Swing.  O'Hara on the block for a 3 point play and its still an 8 point game.  The lead gets to 12 before Rahn makes a pair of freebies and follows it with his 5th trip to the deep beyond.  Timeout Holy Angels up 59-52 with 9:13 left.  Gabe Wear makes both ends of the bonus to cut the lead to 5.  Then missed opportunities for the Whitehawks.  2 Stars turnovers and no points.  AHA stretches the lead back to 8 with 5:08 left.  Wear with a triple but then Mound-Westonka misses a layup after a Stars miss.  An offensive rebound and the Whitehawks miss the front end of the 1 and 1.

Despite all of that, an offensive rebound, kick out and wonderful extra pass finds Rahn for the 6 pack and its 63-61 Holy Angels with 2:50 left.  Mound-Westonka gets a stop and chance to tie but turns it over with 2 minutes left.  Evan Beeson with a drive and 3 point play with 1:38 left and that's a killer.  O'Hara inside earns 2 free throws to cut the lead to 3 with 1:10 left.  Mound-Westonka plays straight man defense coming out of the timeout but gives up an easy post flash and bucket to Koontz.  The Whitehawks can't score on the other end and that's as close as they'll get.  Holy Angels hangs on 69-63.

Post Game
For Holy Angels, Charlie Koontz leads the way with 27 points and 7 rebounds on the Czar's highly officially unoffiical stat sheet.  19 of those points in the 1st half and he didn't get enough touches in the 2nd half against single coverage that he destroyed all night.  Taylor BonGiovanni with 17 of his 19 in the 1st 20 minutes.   The Whitehawks student section got in his head the rest of the night with an "Airball" chant whenever he touched it.  Nobody else with more than 8 for the Stars.  They're a little depleted right now.  They have to be disappointed they didn't put away the game when they had a double digit lead.

For Mound-Westonka, it was all about the 3 ball.  Ryan Rahn with 6 of them on his way to a team high 24 points.  Good action out of the Swing to have him set the cross screen and then double down for him to the top for quality looks.  Tynan O'Hara stepped up big in the 2nd half on his way to 23 points and 3 triples.  He did some really good work battling inside against a bigger Stars lineup that bothered the Whitehawks.  Gabe Wear with 8 of his 11 in the 2nd half.  Mound-Westonka with 13 makes from deep and only 6 from inside the arc.  Definitely not what coach Biwan is looking for out of the Swing.  Plenty of missed chances when the game got close that kept the Whitehawks from getting the lead back.

2013 Minnehaha Jamboree Notes

Prologue
The marathon hoops crusade to March 15th begins tonight with Brian Sandifer's inaugural Minnehaha jamboree.  A perfect chance to see Brian's outstanding recruiting class of Joevon Walker, Simeon Davis (both 2017) and JaVonni Bickman (2018).  I had to try to come up with a game plan last year against Bickman in 13U ball and let's just say the kitchen sink wouldn't have helped us.  Minnetonka, Stillwater, St. Paul Central and East Ridge all on a quality schedule.  35 minute running time games.  Walking Taco on the menu which is a must try.  Czar's Eval: The beef was a bit dry and the dollup of sour cream on top never could get mixed in properly.  Needed a hit of salsa on it too.  1st 20 oz of beverage is in the books as well. We need a song as well, so in honor of the start of the season

Song of the Day:
Jump - Kris Kross

Notes
In the 2nd session, St. Paul Central pulled away from Stillwater 41-29.  Central's Kalu Abosi really played well.  Stillwater big Kyle McKinley showed flashes with a couple of shot blocks but his usually outstanding mobility wasn't on display and the offensive game is still improving.  Forward Matt Anderson did show some flashes as well.  In general a pretty dead performance from a Ponies squad that many think should surprise.  Soph Sam Gubbrud saw lots of time for a largely unrecognized Central lineup without coach Scott Howell.

East Ridge had no problems with Hill-Murray in their 47-18 win.  Marshawn Wilson did knock down 3 triples in an off night.  If I were the Pioneers, expect to see a ton of faceguarding, box and 1 and running double teams at Wilson to make anybody else beat them.  Could even go to the Megatron defense of Triangle and 2 just on Wilson.  That term comes from the double teams Calvin Johnson sees on the goal line.

I know Hill-Murray has been pounded by 2 very good teams in scrimmages but East Ridge is just flat out scary folks.  They defend like crazy,  they're crazy deep, have very good players at every position and plenty of scoring punch.  Expect their Kansas high low action with the Ryans (Keenan and Mathis) to be very effective for them.   Keenan's mobility running rim to rim is a pleasure to watch.  They have to get through Apple Valley in section which is a tall order, but how many teams can say they matchup as "well" with the Eagles?  That's why I picked that section final as 1 of my 10 events of the season.

Park Center walks in 10 minutes late for their scheduled scrimmage with Minnetonka so that means we end up with 2 big school vs AA school mismatches to end the night.  Careino Gurley back in the lineup for Minnetonka (sat out at the Pulley Jamboree on Saturday) but still no Delshon Strickland with the stitched up left hand.  Minnetonka's defensive pressure totally threw Minnehaha's youngsters for a loop.  That propelled the Skippers to 16-0 and 35-4 leads and allowed the JVs to coast home at the end.  Final score 62-27.  Minnehaha is very talented but their youngsters are making a big step up.  Expect some early season kinks there.

Park Center's athletic guards too much for St. Croix Prep to handle.  43-19 Pirates win.  Amani Hooker, Isaiah McKay and Arione Farrar make a nice 3 guard trio with Isaac Matthews inside.  SCPA needs to find help for Michael Gutierrez.

2013-14 What to Watch

This is the 25th and final preview in my 2013-14 Season Preview Series.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.  For those who don't sift through all the previews, here's a condensed version of the top teams, top players, where to find them and when to find them during the 2013-14 season.  These lists are in no particular order.

10 Metro Area Teams to Watch

• Apple Valley
• Osseo
• Hopkins
• De La Salle
• Lakeville North
• East Ridge
• Shakopee
• Champlin Park
• Roseville
• Cretin-Derham Hall

10 Metro Area Players to Watch

• Tyus Jones
• Reid Travis
• Jarvis Johnson
• JP Macura
• Amir Coffey
• Ryan Keenan
• Ian Theisen
• Wheeler Baker
• Delshon Strickland
• Jon Sobaski

10 Metro Area Events To Watch

• Anoka-Ramsey Classic - Nov 30th at Anoka-Ramsey
• Apple Valley vs De La Salle - Dec 7th at Hopkins (Girls Tip Off Classic )
• Apple Valley at Hopkins - Dec 10th
• Chicago Whitney Young at Apple Valley - Dec 12th (ESPN TV game)
• Breakdown Tip Off Classic (Boys) - Dec 14th at Minnetonka
• Timberwolves Shootout - Jan 4th at Target Center
• Hopkins at Osseo - Feb 11th
• Apple Valley at Lakeville North - Feb 18th
• Twin Cities Game - Feb 22nd (St. Paul Site)
• Section 3AAAA Final - March 6th at Farmington (Apple Valley vs East Ridge projected)

Road Trip of the Year
De La Salle vs Findlay Prep - Sat Dec 28th at Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD

Honorable Mention Road Trips
De La Salle vs Iowa City West (IA) - Jan 19th at La Crosse Center in La Crosse, WI
De La Salle vs View Park (CA) - Dec 21st in Waukesha, WI
Border Battle - Jan 25th in Kaukauna, WI

2013-14 Section 7AAAA Preview

This is the 24th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  The final week of previews winds down toward the end with a look at section 7AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Andover

Predicted Seeding

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

Jake Johnson leads the Saints to the top seed in another weak year in section 7.  The defending champs Andover return a ton led by football star Connor Wilkie and will be battle tested by the Northwest Suburban schedule.  Forest Lake and Duluth East both have to replace significant pieces, especially East.  Cambridge-Isanti has 3 top kids coming back including a pair of talented juniors (see Kyle McDonald).  Blaine, Coon Rapids and Anoka will struggle again.

Sleeper: Cambridge-Isanti.   They may be young and have taken some lumps but they will have experience and shooting.

Section Winner: Andover.  Another case where I don't want to pick the favorite.  I'll go with the defending champ with all the pieces they have coming back.

2013-14 Section 6AAAA Preview

This is the 23nd preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  This final week of previews continues with a look at section 6AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Edina

Predicted Seeding

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

A difficult section only gets tougher with Eden Prairie moving in.  They won section 2 last season.  Hopkins is the clear favorite with most of their roster coming back.  Minnetonka has firepower at the guard spots and a couple of bangers inside.  Eden Prairie has a goto guy in Andre Wallace.  Armstrong will be dangerous with the amount of talent they have returning.  After that its a dropoff.  Edina has to gain experience.  Southwest has lots back but they aren't at the same level as the top teams.  South and St. Louis Park bring up the tail end.

Sleeper: Robbinsdale Armstrong.   Point guard is a question for the Falcons but they can fill the other spots.  Ryan Casperson is a versatile 4 man.  Sean Burns can block shots and they have a shooter in Evan Nolan.

Section Winner: Hopkins.  After a significant down year but Royals standards, Hopkins makes their return to state.  Too athletic and intense on the defense end for most to handle.

2013-14 Section 5AAAA Preview

This is the 22nd preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  This final week of previews begins with a look at section 5AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

(11/4/13 Note: Fixing initial mistake of including Armstrong in this section instead of Maple Grove)

Defending Champion: Park Center

Predicted Seeding

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

Osseo is the clear favorite here with D1 signees Ian Theisen and Wheeler Baker returning.  Add in transfers Jordan Dembley and Elliot Kane with the usual assortment of role players and this is a deep squad that should be one of the best in the state.  Don't sleep on their neighbor Champlin Park.  Brennan Witt is underappreciated inside and the guard tandem of Ian Smith and JT Gibson is outstanding.  Park Center returns Isaiah McKay on the wing with a bunch of talented but fairly inexperienced guards.  Maple Grove has youngsters Reed Nikko and Brad Davison.  But they lose a ton as does the rest of the section so there's a dropoff after the top 3.

Sleeper: Park Center.   They have talent back from last year and their young guards have the ability to score in an up and down game.

Section Winner: Osseo.  All the right pieces and depth on top of it.  Can't pick against a team that will be a top 3-5 team all season.

2013-14 Section 4AAAA Preview

This is the 21st preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  The previews of class AAAA continue with a look at Section 4.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Woodbury

Predicted Seeding

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

A very balanced section.  Tartan and Roseville should battle it out all year for the top seed.  3-6 could go in any direction and will make for very good 4 vs 5 and 3 vs 6 1st round games.   Stillwater and Mahtomedi are definitely better than 4 and 5 seeds.  Stillwater will have the size and Mahtomedi will have the guard play.  Woodbury has the tradition.  Mounds View can jump in that discussion with their experience.  White Bear Lake has too much to replace to be any higher.  North continues to rebuild.

Sleeper: Mounds View.   They'll fly under the radar with no stand out player but they're experienced and sound.  They will be a difficult out in March.

Section Winner: Roseville.  I can't pick every #1 seed and Roseville is experienced and deep.  I think they win out over Tartan's youth.

2013-14 Section 3AAAA Preview

This is the 20th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  The previews of class AAAA continue with a look at Section 3.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Apple Valley (2013 State Champion)

Predicted Seeding

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

Discussion in this section begins and ends with Tyus Jones and Apple Valley.  Dustin Fronk needs to be replaced but Apple Valley is still loaded with talent throughout their program.  The rest of the section won't get the respect it deserves but it is very solid.  East Ridge has everyone back and could be a top 5 team in the state.  They are one of the few teams in the state who can say they can somewhat matchup with Apple Valley.  Cretin-Derham Hall is very talented but young with their junior class.  They need to establish that they can win big games after a disappointing year last season.  Eagan could easily take that 3 seed and Rosemount has a ton coming back.  New coach Paul Goetz at Eastview doesn't have the parts to work with that the others do but you can bet his team will be a tough out in March.  Henry Sibley and Park bring up the rear.

Sleeper: Rosemount.   Experienced with shooters and a quality leader in point guard Garrett Goetz.

Section Winner: Apple Valley.  Still way too talented and with the best player in the section playing his final year, no way I'm picking against the Eagles

2013-14 Section 2AAAA Preview

This is the 19th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In this preview, we continue our 2 week series of looking at all 8 sections in class AAAA with a look at section 2AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Eden Prairie

Predicted Seeding

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

With Eden Prairie moving to loaded section 6, there will be a new champion this season.  Shakopee returns everybody and has to be the favorite.  Chaska is very experienced and tough.  Prior Lake has the top player in the section in Jon Sobaski.  Chanhassen is a year away with their junior class but they're still very dangerous.  Lakeville South won't be a push over after being battle tested in the South Suburban.  Expect the race for 3 through 5 to be very competitive.  Kennedy's athletes and Jefferson's style will make them no fun to play but the talent level isn't there.  Burnsville's rebuilding continues.

Sleeper: Chanhassen.   The junior class is very talented and looking to make a run not just next season but this season as well.  Its a gritty group that won't be an easy out.

Section Winner: Shakopee.  Too big, experienced, physical and disciplined for the rest of the section.

2013-14 Section 1AAAA Preview

This is the 18th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In this preview, we begin a 2 week series of looking at all 8 sections in class AAAA.  It starts with section 1AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Lakeville North

Predicted Seeding

1. Lakeville North
2. Rochester John Marshall
3. Farmington
4. Owatonna 
5. Rochester Century
6. Hastings
7. Rochester Mayo
8. Northfield

Lakeville North being a favorite this season was expected but they were a year ahead of schedule in winning the section last season.  JP Macura gives the Panthers the top goto option in the section but they are all around solid.  Don't sleep on John Marshall.  Kirk Thompson did wonders there in year 1 and has the Rockets blazing with almost everyone back.  Ngor Barnaba in the middle can be an intimidating factor defensively.   The Hurt brothers (Michael and Matthew) are names you'll hear for the next few years as top kids in their classes.  Owatonna and Farmington should be a good battle for the 3 seed and could be decided head to head in the season opener at Farmington on Nov 22nd.  A common game vs Shakopee factors in that discussion too.  Century sticks in the middle.  Hastings, Northfield and Mayo are all coming off rough seasons.  But there's hope for all 3.  Hastings has a junior class to build around.  Luke Harris (Northfield) and Dan Jech (Mayo) are big men that their programs can build around.

Sleeper: Owatonna.  They're solid, they defend and are well coached.

Section Winner: Lakeville North.  Too much JP Macura for this section.

2013-14 Section 6AAA Preview

This is the 17th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In this preview, from the east side to the west side for a look at section 6AAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: Blake

Predicted Seeding

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

Waconia is back in the section after losing in the 2AAA title game last season.  This section is a major toss up.  Holy Family's huge front line of Justin Dahl, Joe Hanel and Joe Conroy returns.  That includes Brent Hentges as a double figure as a scorer too.  Washburn loses Nick Anderson but has plenty of talent returning as my pick to win the Minneapolis City.  Blake and Waconia have above .500 teams coming back and can play with most in AAA.  The other Nicollet Ave corridor teams have major rework to do.  Benilde St. Margaret's has a lot back after major struggles last year.  Tyler Biwan starts a rebuilding effort at Mound-Westonka

Sleeper: Waconia.  They lost a ton but forward Ryan Boll is vastly underrated as a jack of all trades.  Avery Talton gives them an athlete and Tommy Gove is experienced in the back court.  Pat Hayes is as good as any in the section on the bench.

Section Winner: Holy Family.  Too big and talented.  Matt Thuli returns to the bench as the coach who led them to their 1st state appearance.

2013-14 Section 4AAA Preview

This is the 16th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In this preview, we look at section 4AAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: St. Paul Johnson

Predicted Seeding

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

Johnson has won this section 5 consecutive years. Their tradition here is hard to ignore and they have a goto guy in Jalen Mobley.  Hill-Murray has explosive scorer Marshawn Wilson which always makes them scary plus they have shooters.  Central will be athletic and talented.  St. Thomas Academy is solid.  Highland Park's lack of size hurts but they'll play hard.  Simley is much improved and could fight for a home game.   Harding and South St. Paul will bring up the last 2 spots.

Sleeper: St. Thomas Academy.  They have a quality group of juniors and as they gel they'll get better as the season goes on.

Section Winner: St. Paul Johnson. 

2013-14 Section 3AAA Preview

This is the 15th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In this preview, we begin to look at the large school sections in the metro.  We'll begin with section 3AAA.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Defending Champion: De La Salle (2 time defending state champion)

Predicted Seeding

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

Can't imagine why I'd put De La Salle as the top pick here.  With my picks, I still like Totino-Grace at 2.  I'm going to go with instinct but against my conference picks and move Columbia Heights down.  Lots could happen in the middle with Fridley, Henry, Columbia Heights and Spring Lake Park.  Spring Lake Park gets my nod for consistency.  Fridley at Henry on Jan 20th could loom very large for seeding purposes.  St. Anthony and Como Park are the bottom 2.

Sleeper: Fridley.   Lots of guys back and Stevie Hjelmberg gives them a goto guy.

Section Winner: De La Salle.  Is there anything else to say here?

2013-14 Section 4AA/5AA Previews

This is the 14th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  We'll review the metro area AA teams in this preview with a look at section 4AA and the updated south half of section 5AA. For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Section 4AA
Defending Champion: Minnehaha (State Champion)

Predicted Seeding

1. Minnehaha 
2. St. Paul Academy   
3. Concordia
4. New Life Academy
5. St. Croix Lutheran 
6. St. Croix Prep
7. Trinity
8. St. Agnes
9. Minneapolis Roosevelt
10. St. Paul Humboldt
11. Mounds Park Academy
12. Great River 
13. FAIR
14. St. Paul Washington
15. Hmong Academy
16. St. Paul Prep

As as been recent history, this section doesn't exactly say strength.  Minnehaha loses almost everybody and I still have to pick them as the favorite.  I picked St. Paul Academy last year and that didn't work so well, so I can't go with them here.  A piece here or there for the next few teams and then a bunch of very bad teams in the bottom half.

Sleeper: New Life Academy.  I can use the same text that I wrote here last year or simply pick them by default.  That's the easier option.

Section Winner: Minnehaha.   Too many athletes and a hunger to get back to the big game.

Section 5AA South Sub-Section

1. Breck
2. Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted
3. Rockford
4. Watertown-Mayer 
5. Providence Academy
6. International School
7. Minneapolis Edison
8. Brooklyn Center

The west metro teams in AA move to the south half of section 5AA and will have the section final at Halenbeck Hall.  Breck with most of their guys back has to be the pick here.  Rockford has their top 3 kids returning and will represent Minnesota in the Border Battle in January.  HLWW returns plenty from their 20 win season.  Watertown-Mayer has a quality forward returning in Luke Sandquist.  Providence Academy will battle them for a home court game in the 1st round.   The bottom 3 make for blowout games in round 1.

Sleeper: Providence Academy.  With 2 solid bigs and a scorer on the wing coming back, the Lions could surprise.  They have a new coach who's been there.

Sub-Section Winner: Breck.   Too much firepower.  Solid enough to win here and then a high quality section final game against the likes of Braham or Annandale.  There's just something that makes it hard to wrap my head around them going to St. Cloud to play a section final when they're a hop skip and jump from Macalester.

2013-14 Section 4A Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In the first set of previews, we took a look at 11 metro area conferences and some independents.  In this second set of previews, its time for predictions in 13 metro area sections.  We'll begin with a look at Section 4A.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Section 4A
Defending Champion: Maranatha (2013 state runner up)

Predicted Seeding

1. Maranatha
2. Minneapolis North
3. Southwest Christian

I see it a down year in section 4A.  The top 3 teams from last year (MCA, West Lutheran and Heritage) lost a ton, the 4th lost a ton too and moved up to AA (St. Croix Prep) and Metro Tech at 5th has folded.  At 6, North's new infusion of talent and Larry McKenzie at the helm will propel them in to the section title discussion.  The bigger school schedule will prepare them too.  For 7 and 8 last year, CHOF is still young and MTS does have everybody back but neither team was very good last year.  Southwest Christian has plenty coming back and can be scary enough to play with anybody in the section.  They move in from section 2 as a team that can compete.  They played all the top teams in the section tough last year.

Sleeper:  Prairie Seeds Academy.  The Lycans may revert to human form and be rebuilding or revert to their werewolf form and jump up and bite people.  With the old guard back in place, I have them on the watch list.

Section Winner: Maranatha.  The Mustangs have to be the pick, despite all of their losses, until otherwise beaten.  North's youth and 1st year in the McKenzie system keeps them out of the top pick. 

2013-14 Rest of the Metro Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In this preview, I conclude my look at the teams around the metro with a look at the local independents and any other teams in The Kingdom that I haven't previewed yet and want to mention.  For a list of all the season previews and how they were generated, click here.   But we're only halfway done.  We'll take a break for MEA until next week and then start in with 13 section previews over the last 3 weeks leading up to the start of practice.

CHOF Lions (2012-13 season 5-14)
Guard Kendall Strandlund needs to be replaced.  But 2 other double figure scorers are back at the guard spots.  That includes Nate Johnston and sophomore shooter Kit Piepkorn who were the top scorers last season.   Sophomores Brauc Eckman, Tim Rohlf and Anders Strandlund will also be major contributors as the Lions build toward 2015-2016

Minnesota Transitions Wolves (2012-13 season 14-12)
Coach John Sherman went young last year and has everybody back.  The Wolves won't be big but they'll have some firepower.  Senior Willie Parrish put up almost 24 a night.  Soph Lewis McCaleb averaged over 11 points a game.

Prairie Seeds Academy Lycans (2011-12 season 23-3, no team in 2012-13)
Last year's program was shut down because of "academics".  I think its safe to say that's not quite the entire story considering all of the issues with athletics at PSA recently.  That's not only soccer.  Tim Williams returns to run the program.  Considering the intense scrutiny this program should/will be under from the MSHSL, I find it extremely strange that Williams returns to the bench after the numerous issues during his previous tenure at PSA.  That included playing games out of the 5 state area and 2 games against MSHSL opponents that were before the season was allowed to start in November of 2010.  I attended the 1st and Jarvis Johnson had his heart attack in the other on the following night.  Also note that not just anyone, but MN Transitions of all people, cancelled a game with PSA that year because of concerns with the program.  It will be interesting to watch what happens with this program.

St. Croix Prep Lions (2012-13 season 23-6)
The Lions built the program up and it led to a 23 win season and conference title.  Now a new era begins.  The senior laden lineup is gone, new coach Matt McCollister takes over and the Lions move up to class AA.  They will also leave the Metro Charter Conference and play an independent schedule.  Don't be shocked if the changes in the Tri-Metro ultimately see them join the eastern half schools like Concordia and St. Croix Lutheran in the near future.  Junior point guard Michael Gutierrez and wing Weston Berg return to the lineup.   Quinn Fisher looks to provide guard depth and Wade Krueger provides size. 

2013-14 Tri-Metro Preview

This is the 11th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  To begin week 3, a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Blake Bears (2012-13 season 22-8, 9-1 Conference, 2nd)
Blake loses their inside presence Blaine Crawford and his team leading 16+ points per night.  5 year wing Kebu Johnson also departs.  Forward JR Bascom and point guard John Veil remain and give the Bears almost 30 per night.  Both are D3 committed and steals for their programs (Bascom to a school in Connecticut, Veil to St. Thomas).  Guards John Augustine and John Curran return to the rotation.  The other post Alex Smith also graduates leaving the Bears to search for size.

Breck Mustangs (2012-13 season 19-11, 6-4 Conference, 4th)
Wayzata assistant Mike Anderson takes over for the departed Matt McCollister.  Another quality private school coach run out of town.  Double figure scorer Tilyn Hollis departs along with forward Michael Marzec.  The backcourt is still full of talent.  Will Culliton averaged 18+ as a shooter on 1 wing.  Mo Lawal averaged 15 a night on the other wing and can score in bunches.  Kevin Linehan returns to run the point.  Graydon Kulick gives them a body inside.  Kwaku Bodom gives them depth on the wing.  Most of that crew is juniors so plenty to build around.

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2012-13 season 16-12, 2-8 Conference, Tied 10th)
Brooklyn Center will have to replace most of their roster.  The top 3 scorers depart.  Sammie Watkins is a good athlete on the wing.  He's the top returning player.  Tyler Wilebski also returns to the starting lineup. 

Concordia Academy Beacons (2012-13 season 16-13, 5-5 Conference, 5th)
The top 3 scorers depart.  That includes the long Jared Schneidermann.  The lineup was balanced and returns junior point guard Roger Moore, Jr and his 10 points per game.  Austin Moldenhauer and Will Preble also return to the rotation.

De La Salle Islanders (2012-13 season 29-1, 10-0 Conference, 1st, AAA State Champion)
The two time defending state AAA champion Islanders are still loaded and the prohibitive favorite to win it all again.  Reid Travis is one of the top power forwards in the country.  Jarvis Johnson is a top 100 level talent at the point.  Sacar Anim is a lockdown defender and one of the top juniors in the state.  James Lawson returns up front as well.  Geno Crandall is a D1 talent who came off the bench last year because the Islanders were so deep.   Luke Scott's sharpshooting will be missed.  If the Islanders find consistent shooting to go with Travis inside they can play with just about anybody in the country.  They'll get a chance to find that out with a bunch of high-profile games against non-Minnesota teams.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2012-13 season 26-6, 8-2 Conference, 3rd, AA State Champion)
In a feat that will be hard to duplicate, last year I made what may be my worst prediction ever picking the Redhawks 8th in conference and 9th in section.  The Redhawks lose their top 5 scorers and a ton of athleticsm from their AA state championship squad.  But the cupboard isn't bare.  Jahleel Davis returns to a forward spot along with Dane Birkeland.   Trenton McCarthy and Thomas Ostrom also should see time.  They bring in a couple of talented freshmen as well.

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2012-13 season 4-16 Independent)
The Panthers once again will play an independent schedule this season and not be in conference play.  They will still participate in the end of season tourney.  The top 2 scorers are gone.  Guard Mark Miller is the top returning scorer.  Sophomore Cole Montour will also provide offense.

Providence Academy Lions (2012-13 season 12-12, 4-6 Conference, 6th)
Providence Academy brings in LaMar Detert to take over the program.  He returns to the bench after taking some time away.  He was previously the girls head coach at Rogers.  The guard duo of Joe Heck and Jackson Canfield were long time starters and double figures scorers but have now graduated.  There is size and interior scoring with seniors Ben Ratliff and Sean Healy both returning.  Soph wing Matt Richelsen returns after a full varsity season.   

St. Agnes Aggies (2012-13 season 10-17, 3-7 Conference, Tied 7th)
Double figure scorer Nick Bennett needs to be replaced.  Leading scorer Nick Turch returns at a wing slot after averaging 19 points a game.  Jack Fossand and Dante Davison give them some returning size.

St. Anthony Huskies (2012-13 season 12-16, 3-7 Conference, Tied 7th)
Longtime coach Dave Bratland stepped down in the offseason.  Chris Hergenrader takes over the reins of the program.  3 of the top 4 scorers depart.  That includes 19 points per game from point guard Nick Kampa.  Noah Bluth is the top returnee after averaging double digits last year.

St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2012-13 season 10-18, 2-8 Conference, Tied 10th)
A promising season took a quick downturn last season as the Crusaders finished 4-14 after the holidays.  All everything forward Cody Sticha and Jackson Goplen are 2 major pieces to replace though Goplen missed most of last season.  Soph Aage Rovney and Aaron Zoellner return to the lineup.  Josh Arndt and soph forward Trenton Krueger should also see time.  The sophomore class has 4 talented members that they'll build around for the future.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2012-13 season 9-19, 3-7 Conference, Tied 7th)
The Spartans lost 11 of 13 to end last season.  Leading scorer Josh Gray getting hurt was a big part of that.  Him and backcourt mate Spencer Egly have graduated.  They have a pair of quality sophomores to build around.  Dalante Peyton returns for his 3rd year on varsity and averaged double digits.  Forward Kent Hanson joins him as a potent offensive force.  His return off sets losing 2 big bodies inside.  Senior Harrison Egly is the top returning scorer at 11+ per game. 

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference MVP: Reid Travis - De La Salle 

Conference Overview:
The discussion begins and ends with De La Salle who's a nationally ranked level team.  Many of the other teams are a year or 2 away so I see this year as a relatively down year.  See Minnehaha, Breck, St. Paul Academy, St. Croix Lutheran.  I like what Breck has coming back to pick them 2nd but arch rival Blake will give them a serious run.  Minnehaha will need some experience but they'll have athletes which is dangerous in this league.  St. Paul Academy is in that middle mix with their sophomore duo.  Providence and Concordia and St. Croix Lutheran all have a single piece or 2 back but need help.  St. Anthony and St. Agnes hope to jump up and steal the final playoff spot.  Brooklyn Center will struggle.

Blake, Breck, SPA, MPA, Minnehaha and Providence are leaving after the season to form their own league.  Thanks to restructuring the league will add Holy Angels, Fridley and Columbia Heights after this season.  Their leagues are folding.  Wouldn't shock me if Brooklyn Center tried to move as well as the geography makes sense (old Metro Alliance) but I can't see them competing with the remaining group of AAA schools.  The schools that left are basically AA schools and that would be a better fit.

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Jack Moe - Blake 
• Ramaud Chiaokhiao-Bowman - Breck
• Samm Jones - De La Salle
• Joevon Walker, Simeon Davis - Minnehaha Academy
• Cole Montour - Mounds Park Academy
• Dominic Miller, Matt Richelsen - Providence Academy
• Aage Rovney, Trenton Krueger - St. Croix Lutheran
• Dalante Peyton, Kent Hanson - St. Paul Academy

Conference Games to Watch

• Blake at De La Salle - Dec 3rd
• De La Salle at Breck - Jan 16th
• Breck at Blake - Feb 4th
• Tri-Metro Championship - Feb 22nd

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Breck vs Perham - Nov 30th (Anoka Ramsey Classic)
• De La Salle vs Apple Valley- Dec 7th (Girls Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Breck vs Minnetonka - Dec 7th (Girls Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Annandale at Breck - Dec 10th
• Blake at Holy Family - Dec 12th
• De La Salle vs Osseo - Dec 14th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• De La Salle vs View Park (CA) - Dec 21st (Winter Classic Snow Jam, Waukesha, WI)
• De La Salle vs Findlay Prep (NV) - Dec 28th (Mike Miller Classic, Mitchell, SD)
• De La Salle vs Chicago St. Rita (IL) - Jan 4th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Blake at Eden Prairie - Jan 7th
• De La Salle at Eden Prairie - Jan 14th
• De La Salle vs Iowa City West (IA) - Jan 18th (Midwest Players Classic, La Crosse, WI)
• Breck at Hill-Murray - Jan 18th
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 8th

2013-14 St. Paul City Preview

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

Central Minutemen (2012-13 season 19-10, 10-2 Conference, 3rd)
Central had the most talented team in the league last season and that will be true this year as well.  That talent allowed them to break the 55 game conference win streak of Johnson.  3 All-Conference players from that team return.   Guard Felix Taylor Jr, high flying wing Rayeon Williams give the Minutemen a very talented backcourt.  Forward Markus Taylor-Knighten anchors the frontcourt.  Kalu Abosi is another one of the 6 players returning to the rotation.  Center Malik Durant-Haines will be missed inside.  The JV and Freshmen squads won the city last season.

Como Park Cougars (2012-13 season 6-20, 4-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Cougars lose 4 of their top 5 scorers.  Honorable mention performer Peter Schrader returns after averaging over 8 per game.  Ampa Garubanda and Bryon Shaw are guard options.

Harding Knights (2012-13 season 9-17, 4-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Knights have to replace one of the league's top scorers, Kenny Reed.  The 2 other double-figure scorers are gone as well  The trio combined for almost 50 points per night.  The team will be led by a group of juniors.  Guard Donovon Adesoro is the top returning scorer at just over 5 per game.  Malik Samuel, Raydell Greenhill and Ismael Kamara all return.  Size will be an issue.

Highland Park Scots (2012-13 season 17-11, 10-2 Conference, 2nd)
For the 2nd time in 3 years the Scots featured a lefty guard who led the league in scoring.  Dion Bradley's 28.3 PPG in league games was an all-time record for the conference.  That was much needed for a very small lineup.  That will be true again this year.  Isaiah Brower will lead the way.  Adrain Miller, Emanuel Murphy and Kwashon Collins-Westlund all return as well.

Humboldt Hawks (2012-13 season 13-15, 4-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
Leading scorer Leo Wade and 17 points night.  Also gone is Malique-Adams-Virnig and his double figures each night.  Darious Miller and Demond Dawson lead the way.  Junior Tyler Hayes also returns to the rotation.  Yet another team in the league desperate for size.

Johnson Governors (2012-13 season 22-9, 11-1 Conference, 1st)
Vern Simmons took his squad to another conference title and state appearance.  Dynamic junior Jalen Mobley returns as a goto scorer.  Peirre Conwell also averaged over 15 a game from his forward spot.  Both were all-conference performers.  Mitchell McDonald and Sedrick Clark return as well.  Expect the Govs to continue to play a ton of guys and find role players.  The intangibles of Quashingm Smith-Pugh will be missed.

Washington Eagles (2012-13 season 3-19, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
Center Kahnen Gbojueh is the only loss from last year but he was their top player.  Da'Vonte Adams leads the way.  Tau Hyatte and Robby Sanders also return to the rotation.  Soph Xavier Walden also comes back.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
Central is the most talented but talent hasn't translated into big game results there.   Until they prove they can win at Johnson, my pick is the Govs.  Highland Park is too well coached and has enough returning to be clearly above everybody else.  The bottom 4 will beat up on each other but otherwise struggle to find wins.

Conference MVP: Jalen Mobley - Johnson

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Sam Gubbrud, Jamal Galato - Central.
• Xavier Walden - Washington
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Central at Johnson - Jan 7th
• Johnson at Central -Jan 31st

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Central at Hill-Murray - Dec 3rd
• Johnson at Roseville - Dec 6th
• Totino-Grace at Central - Dec 10th
• Johnson at Eden Prairie - Dec 14th
• Twin Cities Game - Feb 22nd (St. Paul Champion)

2013-14 Suburban East Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2013-2014 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 (2012-13 season 14-14, 9-9 Conference, 6th)
The Raiders had a very down year by their standards last year but lose only 1 senior from that extremely young squad.  The junior class leads the way with double digit scorers Sam Neumann and Joe Rosga.  Rosga is a great glue guy, Neumann has deep range.  Donnell Gresham will run the point after sitting out last year.  Top football recruit Jashon Cornell provides much needed toughness in the frontcourt.  Soph Brian Lankford-Johnson saw time last year.  This group is very talented but underachieved last year.  Keep an eye on how they mesh this season.

East Ridge Raptors (2012-13 season 18-9, 11-7 Conference, 5th)
East Ridge returns a loaded roster with fast rising Ryan Keenan in the middle, athletic wing Brian Ishola and shooter Jake Knupp.  All are experienced seniors.  Junior point guard Sid Tomes is a 3 year veteran as well.  Center Conrad Sexe gets replaced by Keenan and everybody else from the rotation returns.   Forward Ryan Mathis adds toughness.  Expect the Raptors to contend for top 5 status in the polls this season.

Forest Lake Rangers (2012-13 season 12-17, 6-12 Conference, 8th)
Coach Dan Cremisino will have to replace forward Noah Davis and 20 points per night.  The next 2 scorers are back.  That's guard Matt Degendorfer and lefty forward Connor Knutson.  Soph Noah Alm should step up into a bigger role as well.  Junior Brent Kinder should provide size.
  
Hastings Raiders (2012-13 season 2-24, 1-17 Conference, Tied 9th)
Hastings rebuilding behind their junior class (see also Park).  All 5 starters return and the top 5 scorers are back.  Juniors Sam Skoyen, Craig Nielsen and Joe Dittrich lead the way.  Seniors Zach Wiese and Drew Pottinger provide experience.  Junior forward Jay Sorg gives them size.

Mounds View Mustangs (2012-13 season 12-15, 7-11 Conference, 7th)
Mounds View returns their top 4 scorers and is full of seniors.  Lefty forward Tim Hanson, forward Ryan Kaczynski, Ben Spencer and James Van Eps all return.  They aren't that athletic but they play hard and smart.  A team that you better be prepared to show up against come play off time.

Park Wolfpack (2012-13 season 3-23, 1-17 Conference, Tied 9th)
Park did break a 68 game conference losing streak last season.  Besides a split with Hastings (who beat them by 17 in the other meeting), they were largely overmatched in league play.  The lineup was very young with a large complement of sophomores.  Hopefully that leads to improvement over these next 2 seasons.  No double figure scorers return.

Roseville Raiders (2012-13 season 22-6, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
Roseville will have to replace 5 very productive seniors including their outstanding guard duo of Mack Johnson (Sioux Falls) and Logan Brown along with front court star Jordan Burich.  Those were the 3 double figure scorers.  Plenty of talent remains however.  Junior Kobe Critchley returns to run the point.  Fellow junior Kyler Briggity is now eligible after transferring in from CDH and provides a guard spark.  Jacques Perra and Lance Gardner are very good options on the wings.  Jake Geyen and Derek Magnuson give the Raiders big bodies.

Stillwater Ponies (2012-13 season 22-7, 13-5 Conference, 3rd)
The Ponies have to replace 7 members of their rotation.  The fastest riser of the summer, center Kyle McKinley will take over in the middle.  Junior forward Matt Anderson is the top returning scorer at 8.5 per game.  Juniors Jack Fahey and Connor Gamble should step into the guard spots.  The versatility of forward Andrew Duxbury (last year's leading scorer) will be missed.

White Bear Lake Bears (2012-13 season 17-10, 12-6 Conference, 4th)
White Bear did a nice job reloading last season after big losses.  This year, they'll have the same challenge.  They'll have to replace 4 starters and most of the rotation.  Guard Stevie Hjelmberg transferred to Fridley.  Tanner Hinck is the main returnee at 13 points a night.  Andy Lockwood and Connor Koll should step into guard spots.  Brett Pulczinski provides their 1 option for size.

Woodbury Royals (2012-13 season 25-5, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
Woodbury needs to replace 4 of their top 5 scorers.  That includes explosive guards Renard Suggs and Diallo Powell who provided 32 points a night.   Sniper Matt Ambriz returns with 12+ per game as the only double figure scorer left.  Guard Nick Yan, wing Isaiah Coddon return along with middle men Ben Meyer and Ben Rizzardi.  I look for Coddon to have a breakout year.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
East Ridge is deep and talented and has everyone back.  Roseville and CDH are very talented as well.  Flip a coin for those 2.  The next 3 all go together.  Mounds View did struggle the 2nd half of last season.  Stillwater has pieces but lacks experience.  Woodbury's tradition and returnees will keep them in the top half.  White Bear Lake and Forest Lake are a tossup.  Hastings and Park will be better but have lots of work to do to catch the rest.

Conference MVP: Brian Ishola- East Ridge

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Brian Lankford-Johnson, Chris Perry - Cretin-Derham Hall
• Adam Bruggers - Stillwater
• Seth Green - East Ridge (football star)
• Noah Alm - Forest Lake
• Henry Benson - Roseville

Conference Games to Watch

• East Ridge at Roseville - Jan 7th
• East Ridge at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 14th
• Roseville at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 17th
• Roseville at East Ridge - Feb 11th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at East Ridge - Feb 18th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Roseville - Feb 21st

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• East Ridge vs Shakopee - Nov 30th (at Anoka Ramsey CC Tournament)
• St. Paul Johnson at Roseville - Dec 6th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Minnetonka - Dec 14th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• East Ridge vs Eagan - Dec 27th (at Bethel Tournament)
• Roseville vs Apple Valley - Dec 27th (at St. Cloud Apollo, Granite City Classic)
• Roseville vs Champlin Park - Dec 28th (at St. Cloud Apollo, Granite City Classic)
• Cretin-Derham Hall vs Bettendorf (IA) - Jan 4th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Cretin-Derham Hall vs Grand Rapids - Jan 20th (MLK Classic at UMD)
• Washburn at Roseville - Feb 1st
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall  - Feb 8th

2013-14 South Suburban Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2013-14 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 (2012-13 season 31-1, 18-0 Conference, 1st, State Champions)
The nation's top point guard Tyus Jones returns for his 5th season.  He led the Eagles to a state championship last year avenging their only loss to Park Center in the state title game.  Dennis Austin is a matchup nightmare who can play the 1, 3 or 4.  Soph Brock Bertram returns to anchor the middle.  Shooter Dustin Fronk and 16 a night will be missed but Robert Tobroxen should step right into that role.  The program will be a favorite to win state again and is ridiculously loaded with youngsters for the future too.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2012-13 season 10-17, 5-13 Conference, Tied 7th)
Coach Jeff Evens is more exciting to watch with his 8th grade team.  That said he has forward Tommy Gathje returning.  Gathje is a highly underrated passer at 6'6-6'7 and can step outside and play.  Matt Rosen also returns to the starting lineup at 8+ per game.  Reserves Kyle Lynch and Brian Mariska also return to the rotation.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2012-13 season 9-18, 6-12 Conference, 6th)
First task for Kennedy is finding a new coach.  Reggie Perkins stayed 1 year and just left to return to Washburn as the AD.  Leading scorer Jumah'ri Turner is gone but 3 good pieces are back.  DJ Davis averaged 14 a night and is a lockdown caliber defender on the wing.  Connell Lewis Jr is a guard who saw time.  Travon Hearns will manage the interior.   Robert Parker provides more guard depth.

Burnsville Blaze (2012-13 season 3-23, 2-16 Conference, 10th)
After a very rough couple of season, the Blaze have their top 5 scorers back.  That includes 15+ a night from Zach Smith.  Juniors Jake Ruffing, Joe Morris and Brett Shepley all return to the lineup.

Eagan Wildcats (2012-13 season 16-9, 12-6 Conference, 4th)
Eagan featured a big lineup last year and will have to replace double digit scoring from Ryan Johnson and the strength of forward Mark Woodcock.  Forward Michael Gorder comes back after averaging 21+ per night last year.  He's unorthodox but very effective.  Forward GT Johnson plays multiple roles handling the ball or scoring.  Guard Jack Kelm returns to the rotation.  Guards Bryndan Matthews and Chase Sieberlich both had nice summers and should move up and contribute.

Eastview Lightning (2012-13 season 15-12, 10-8 Conference, 5th)
Former girls coach Paul Goetz takes over the Lightning program.  He took the girls to 4 state tournaments and won 5 league titles in 14 years.  Like predecessor Mark Gerber, expect him to run some of the best sets around.  His son Garrett plays at Rosemount.  Post Ben Oberfeld is off to Bucknell.  There are a pair of shooters to work with in Mark Dwyer and Drew Guebert.  Obi Ibeneme is an athletic wing.  Jordan Machacek is a long lean 6'11 body who could minutes in the middle.

Lakeville North Panthers (2012-13 season 23-7, 14-4 Conference, 2nd)
A great year for the Panthers last year after losing most of the roster.  Now they're poised for another state run behind Xavier signee JP Macura.  Macura is one of the elite shooters and scorers in the state.  His play this summer vaulted him into the top 100 in many national rankings.  After his 25 a night, a pair of guards who averaged double figures depart.  But junior Connor Flack and center Bronson Bruneau are 2 more options returning to the lineup.

Lakeville South Cougars (2012-13 season 10-18, 5-13 Conference, Tied 7th)
The Cougars lose leading scorer Corey Larson who was an athletic front court piece.  They lose 2 more top scorers with size as well.  But there is still very good talent left over.  Frosh Jack Sorenson will run the point once he returns from a shoulder injury.  Junior forward Brenon Larson-Gulsvig made a big jump onto the scene last year and can give them plenty of scoring punch.  Luke Iverson and Cody Kairis provide more guard depth.

Prior Lake Lakers (2012-13 season 19-8, 13-5 Conference, 3rd)
Former St. Thomas Academy head man Dan Rubischko takes over as Alex Focke has moved on to Hamline.  Their 2 huge centers Carson Shanks and Jeff Probert are off to Utah State and Northern State.  Point guard Jon Sobaski returns for a 4th year running the point and is their engine.   Junior Connor Bair will step in on the front line.  Kevin McKiernan will fill a guard spot.

Rosemount Irish (2012-12 season 9-20, 5-13 Conference, Tied 7th)
Rosemount returns a solid guard duo of Garrett Goetz at the point and shooter Cole Northwick.  They combined for 28 points a night last year.  Juniors Logan Halvorsen, Jack Kessler and Kyle Kaupa all saw major rotation minutes last year.  They aren't the most physical team but they can put a hurting on your from the 3 point line.
 
Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
The top 3 are pretty straight forward here I think.  The top 2 should be heavy favorites to return to state.  Eagan has talent left over and a very talented crop to add to it.  Rosemount has their rotation coming back.  There's not a clear bottom feeder here but Kennedy's coaching situation, Jefferson's scoring struggles and recent Burnsville history compel me to put them at the end of the list.

Conference MVP: Tyus Jones - Apple Valley

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Brock Bertram, Gary Trent Jr, Cameron Kirksey, Jordan Bolton,  Tre Jones - Apple Valley
• Jack Sorenson - Lakeville South
• Drew Stewart - Lakeville North

Conference Games to Watch

• Lakeville North at Eagan - Jan 3rd
• Apple Valley at Eagan- Jan 7th
• Lakeville North at Apple Valley - Jan 14th
• Eagan at Apple Valley - Feb 3rd
• Eagan at Lakeville North - Feb 7th
• Apple Valley at Lakeville North - Feb 18th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Minnetonka at Apple Valley - Nov 30th
• Lakeville North at Eden Prairie - Dec 5th
• Apple Valley vs De La Salle - Dec 7th (Girls Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Apple Valley at Hopkins - Dec 10th 
• Lakeville North at Farmington - Dec 10th
• Chicago Whitney Young at Apple Valley - Dec 12th (ESPN)
• Lakeville North vs Hopkins - Dec 14th (Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Apple Valley vs Roseville - Dec 27th (Granite City Classic at St. Cloud Apollo)
• Eagan at Bethel Tournament - Dec 27th and 28th
• Lakeville North at Lakeville Rotary Tournament - Dec 27th and 28th
• Lakeville North vs Stevens Point (WI) - Jan 25th (Border Battle at Kaukauna, WI)