2024-25 Metro West Conference Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Its now time for the big schools with the mostly class AAAA leagues are now on the list of previews.  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 (2023-24 season 19-10, 13-1 Conference, 1st)
The Red Knights remain loaded for another attempt to make state.  Forward Jalen Wilson (18.7 PPG) is committed to Northern Iowa.  PG Jaleel Donley (14.7 PPG) also returns and can fill it up in a hurry.  They also add TJ Stuttley who was a top 5 kid in Wisconsin before playing at a prep school last season.  They'll need to replace guards Ron Lee and Tanner Rose (now at St. Louis Park) who provided defense and shooting.  Abu Keita departs from the front line for Park Center.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2023-24 season 5-22, 2-12 Conference, 7th)
The guards will be their strength with their top 3 scorers returning.  Senior Marcus Horton (18.5 PPG), soph Isaac Feller (12.8 PPG) and lefty Tommy Rowland are that core group.  Luke Thoenen will be one of their bigs.

Chanhassen Storm (2023-24 season 12-15, 8-6 Conference, tie 3rd)
Injuries to star PG Max Woods torpedoed what looked to be a promising season.  But that experience means that star wings Riley Johnson (23.8 PPG) and John Schmidt (11.5 PPG) have a large adjustment period already addressed by his absence.  Nobody else returning averaged more than 2.3 PPG.  Soph Bennet Barger looks to fill of those roles.  Tyler Jahraus should assume ball-handling duties.  Mikan Pelowski and Nathan Ramler are interior guys.  Expect them to play at a fast pace.

Chaska Hawks (2023-24 season 10-17, 6-8 Conference, 6th)
Chaska returns 3 of their top 4 scorers.  Jimmy Coddiington (13.3 PPG) returnss on the wing. Tray Lenzen (13.2 PPG) returns to lead the front line but he can step away from the basket too.  Soph Tyler Forrest (10.3 PPG) returns for his 3rd year starting at the point.  Soph Kalin Jochum and Noah Slinde were rotation guys too.  Hayden Virasami returns as another point guard.

New Prague Trojans (2023-24 season 5-22, 1-13 Conference, 8th)
The Trojans lose their entire rotation except for top wing Evan Weichert (18.6 PPG).  No other returnee averaged more than 3 PPG.  Toby Bleess, Justin Holden and Sam Gilles will be guards from last year's JV squad that step into important roles.  They'll have to find size for the lineup.

Orono Spartans (2023-24 season 19-12, 8-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Orono looks for a return to state with their 3 double figure scorers coming back.  Yale commit Nolan Groves (27 PPG, 8.3 PPG) had the thrilling hail mary buzzer beater to send the Spartans to state on BSM's home court in the section final.  Brady Wooley (14.2 PPG, 11.1 RPG) is a D1 talent leading the front line.  Guard Mitchell Kauch is the 3rd scorer coming back.  Nate Chavez, Dane Danwischer and Lucas Knudson are all seniors who saw rotation time.

St. Louis Park Orioles (2023-24 season 12-15, 7-7 Conference, 5th)
The Orioles were a pleasant surprise last year and may fly under the radar this season.  Wing/Forwards Micah and Marley Curtis are committed to North Dakota.  They combined for over 40 PPG and played really well this summer.  PG Rashaad Kimber returns along with Javaris Ellis, Noah Margolis and Josh Rickford.  Plus shooter Tanner Rose comes over from St. Louis Park

Waconia Wildcats (2023-24 season 22-6, 11-3 Conference, 2nd)
Coach Dan Rubishcko loses 4 starters but returns his top option in Will Kirsch.  The junior point guard will carry an even heavier load after leading the team with 20.1 PPG.  Jadan Ford and forward Soren Marker also return to the rotation. . Luke Hill and Bryce Buseman look to fill in front court spots..  beau Specken is a point guard who could help give Kirsch some minutes off the ball.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
Benilde-St. Margaret's and Orono are the class not just of the league but 2 of the best teams in a loaded AAA field this year.  BSM gets the vote because they've won it the last 2 years.  New Prague and Jefferson still figure to struggle at the bottom.  The middle will be a real toss up and I'm not fan of picking any of them 6th as any could just easily be 3rd.  St. Louis Park gets my vote with a deep backcourt and the Curtis twins up front.  Chaska's talented duo of Forrest and Lenzen can't be ignored.  Chanhassen's strong wing play will make them dangerous.  Waconia will have to find help for Will Kirsch.
 
Conference MVP: TJ Stuttley - Benilde-St. Margaret's

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Milton Nuahn - Benilde-St. Margaret
  
• Isaac Feller - Bloomington Jefferson
  
• Bennet Barger, Issac Johnson - Chanhassen 
• Tyler Forrest, Kalin Jochum - Chaska
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Orono at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Jan 30th
• Benilde St. Margaret's at Orono - Feb 25th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Orono - Nov 27th
  
• Richfield at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 5th
• Orono vs Fargo Davies - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
• Benilde-St. Margaret's vs Shakopee - Dec 7th (Tip-off Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Wayzata at Orono - Dec 5th
  
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Breck - Dec 10th
• Orono vs Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 14th (Big Stage at Totino-Grace)
  
• Orono at Richfield - Dec 20th
• Orono vs Mankato East - Feb 1st (Breakdown Community Clash at Delano)

2024-25 Metro East Conference Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  This preview is for the Metro East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and an explanation of how the previews are generated, click here.

Hastings Raiders (2023-24 season 14-13, 9-7 Conference, 5th)
Hastings has to replace their top scorers including star wing Owen Bernatz (19.4 PPG).  The guard play will be their strength with seniors Kyan Esterby (10.5 PPG), Weston Schult (7.1 PPG) and junior Matthew Foss (10.3 PPG) returning to the starting lineup. Senior Lukas Foss returns along with soph Marlowe Strain up front.

Hill-Murray Pioneers (2023-24 season 11-16, 4-11 Conference, 8th)
The Pioneers made nice strides in the first year for coach Cam Jones.  Seniors Xavier Daniels (15.4 PPG) and Thomas Myers (13.2 PPG) are top options.  John Pietruszewski and Ben Myers also return to the lineup.  Soph Charlie Westerhaus and frosh Koa Fuller also look to contribute.

Mahtomedi Zephyrs (2023-24 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 2nd)
Mahtomedi had a brand new lineup last year and started 0-7.  Then they won 16 of their last 21 on their way to a surprising 2nd place league finish. Now the 3 top scorers have graduated.  Soph Willie Roelofs (9.2 PPG) should have a breakout season as the top option.  Senior Hank Roelofs also returns on the front line.  Ethan Felling, Mark Graff and Jacob Wilson return on the perimeter.

North Polars (2023-24 season 9-17, 6-10 Conference, tie 6th)
North St. Paul has to be replaced 2 double figure scorers including Brevin Conway (18 PPG) and Ryder Salinas (13.2 PPG).  A couple of talented juniors lead this year's squad.  That's Duke King (11.1 PPG) inside and Elijah Adzimahe (7.1 PPG) at the point.  Senior Jay'von Swift will contribute inside and out.  Seniors Alex Rodiguez and Wesley Tyus are depth options.

St. Thomas Academy Cadets (2023-24 season 18-11, 10-6 Conference, 3rd)
The Cadets lose their top 2 double figure scorers including shooting guard Luke Dobbs (19.4 PPG).  But they still return a couple other starters who averaged double figures.  Junior Lars Osteraas (11.2 PPG) and forward Andrew Nolde (10.9 PPG) will lead the way.  Junior guards Dominic Baez and Liam Kirchner return to the rotation.  Senior Chase Young will be another rotation guy.

Simley Spartans (2023-24 season 4-23, 0-16 Conference, 9th)
Willie Braziel moves over from Columbia Heights to replace Isaiah Walfred.  He will have some quality youth to build with.  Leading scorer Tre Lovelace (15.1 PPG) on the wing is only a sophomore.  Freshman point guard Andre Glass started in their section opener last season.  Juniors Conner Streiff and Lyric Groth averaged just short of 10 PPG last season.  Groth will be the main interior option with Streiff being the other wing scoring threat..  Sophs Justin Runge and Nathan Elachi are also guys to watch.

South St. Paul Packers (2023-24 season 13-15, 9-6 Conference, 4th)
All 3 double-figure scorers from last year's roster need to be replaced.  Junior guard Sincere Casarez-McCampbell (7.5 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  Seniors Caleb Marik and Jimmy Thomas provide experience on the perimeter.  Soph Marco London and and junior Donte Branch will see time there along with frosh Keli Mark.  Soph Mustafa Mohamed (4 PPG) was a backup last year inside but is a breakout candidate as the main inside guy this year.  Charles Duncan comes over from Robbinsdale Armstrong and should see time too.

Tartan Titans (2023-24 season 24-5, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
Forward Elijah Barrett (12.6 PPG) is a major loss as the top interior player in the league last year.  But the Titans just reload.  Guard CJ Banks (15.5 PPG) returns as the leading scorer from last season's roster.  Frosh PG KJ Wilson and senior Jakhi Richmond also figure to be perimeter starters. Jerror Borsay will factor in that rotation too.  So despite losing a couple of guard transfers, the perimeter play will be their strength.  Interior play is a major question mark.

Two Rivers Warriors (2023-24 season 10-17, 6-10 Conference, tie 6th)
Alum Isaiah Robinson takes over the program.  He has to replace his 2 top scorers.  The guard rotation is the strength.  Junior wing Lamont Michaels (11.3 PPG) is the leading returning scorer.  Seniors Ramzi Rislove and Mason Boyken come back to the starting lineup at the point and a hard working wing respectively.  Junior Julian Greer (9.1 PPG) will see an expanded role on the front line.    Keeon Parker and Rory Shuler provide rotation depth.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
Heavy losses around the league mean a down year in the league.  I think its Tartan and everybody else.  Too much guard play from the Titans.  St. Thomas and South St. Paul go next by default.  South St. Paul is more talented but still lost a ton and underachieved last season.  After Mahtomedi's surprise last year, I'll keep them in the top half.  Lots of mediocre teams after this.  I also expect Simley to be much improved after a rough season so they'll fight for the top of the bottom half.  Hill-Murray looks to be trending up in the bottom half.  They split with North and Two Rivers last year so I'll put them ahead of both this season.  

Conference MVP: CJ Banks - Tartan

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Marlowe Strain, Liam Bernatz - Hastings 
• Charlie Westerhaus, John Omoyeni, Koa Fuller - Hill-Murray
• Willie Roelofs - Mahtomedi
  
• Maxwell Hayes, Jack Wills - St. Thomas Academy
• Tre Lovelace, Justin Runge, Nathan Elachi, Andre Glass - Simley
• Mustafa Mohamed, Marco London, Keli Mark - South St. Paul
• KJ Wilson, Emannuel Oyesanmi - Tartan
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Tartan at St. Thomas Academy - Dec 20th
  
• South St. Paul at Tartan - Jan 28th
• St. Thomas Academy at Tartan - Jan 30th
• Tartan at South St. Paul - Feb 28th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• St. Paul Harding at Tartan - Dec 3rd
  

2024-25 Mississippi 8 Conference Preview

This is the 11th preview in my 2024-25 season preview series.  Now its time for a new preview with a look at the Mississippi 8.  Fun story of me trying to preview this league.  I see Cambridge-Isanti almost every year at the Spring Lake Park jamboree and have seen them at the Augsburg Holiday Tourney in recent years.  I see them struggle in those events and then they run thru the league.  Shows that I know absolutely nothing.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Becker Bulldogs (2023-24 season 14-14, 9-7 Conference, tie 3rd)
Leading scorer and rebounder Kyan Blomquist (19.1 PPG) has graduated along with a couple of reserves.  A strong junior class returns with 3 starters.  That group includes PG Sawyer Brown (14.6  PPG) plus wings Nathan Weiss (12.2 PPG) and Landon Peterson (10.6 PPG).  Senior Mitch Soltau and junior Bryce Paumen augment the rotation.

Big Lake Hornets (2023-24 season 14-14, 9-7 Conference, tie 3rd)
New head coach Lance Pettis comes over from Blaine to replace Ted Critchley Jr.  Junior forward Owen Wilczek (14.7 PPG) was last year's top scorer but the rest of the starting lineup is gone.  Senior Max Siegrist adds to their strong front line.  Senior Zach Mauch will see time up front too.  Frosh Judd Layton could be a major contributor at a guard spot.  Senior Preston Wesseh will see guard minutes too.

Cambridge-Isanti Bluejackets (2023-24 season 16-11, 12-4 Conference, 2nd)
Coach Mike McDonald has to replace his top guy in guard John Troolin (22.8 PPG).  But he still has lefty shooter Elias Dee (21 PPG) and forward Emerson Droubie (16.2 PPG) coming back.  Droubie reminds me a bit of former Roseville star James Ayers who was a big body that could step out and really shoot it.  Ethan Bergloff (8.5 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  They'll also return 2 or 3 seniors who saw rotation time.  Plus there's a group of sophomores chomping at the bit for minutes.

Czar's Note: I was informed that I made a mistake with Elias Dee.  He has graduated so I'm leaving the original but updating it below to reflect that. First time previewing a new league, always has to be something, lol.

Coach Mike McDonald has to replace 2 top shooters in John Troolin (22.8 PPG) and Elias Dee (21 PPG).  Forward Emerson Droubie (16.2 PPG) leads the returning lineup.  Droubie reminds me a bit of former Roseville star James Ayers who was a big body that could step out and really shoot it.  Ethan Bergloff (8.5 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup.  They'll also return 2 or 3 seniors who saw rotation time.  Plus there's a group of sophomores chomping at the bit for minutes.

Chisago Lakes Wildcats (2023-24 season 22-9, 13-3 Conference, 1st)
Four starters including do everything forward Patrick Rowe (29.8 PPG) need replacing from last year's conference and section 7AAA champions.  Senior guard Lucas O'Malley is the lone starter returning.  Seniors Blake Seifert and Riley Estes should be the primary front court options.  They have a trio of talented junior wings in Joe Couwenhoven, Cohen Underhill and Kellen Meissner.  Junior Colton Betts figures to see time as well.

Monticello Magic (2023-24 season 11-16, 8-8 Conference, tie 5th)
The Magic lose Patrick Shobe and his 13.2 PPG from their front line.  Jackson Soroko (13.9 PPG) is a big forward who can play in or out.  The perimeter play is experienced with Brayden Dollard, Rhys Nebben, Andrew Matuska plus sophs Hunter Miller and Carson Deibele.

North Branch Vikings (2023-24 season 14-14, 8-8 Conference, tie 5th)
Former St. Michael-Albertville assistant Trevor Walton is the new head coach.  Four starters and five seniors gone from the rotation mean a major overhaul for the lineup.  Leading scorer Tyler Minke (21.1 PPG) returns  as a versatile inside/out forward.  Junior forward Jacob Knoespel is another size guy.  James Weinkauf and Chazz Johnson return to perimeter spots.

Princeton Tigers (2023-24 season 4-23, 4-12 Conference, 8th)
Coach Brett Cloutier and his normally strong Tigers program fell on hard times last year starting 1-20 before a 3-3 finish.  Yes, I still need one of those orange short sleeve hoodie shooting shirts for my collection.  Leading scorer Noah Stencel (18.6 PPG) returns on the wing.  Seniors Harrison Lupkes and Deuce Zarletti will push the pace.  Wylan Iverson and frosh Matthew Hallberg are other perimeter guys coming back.. Junior Austin Ross is the main guy up front.

St. Francis Saints (2023-24 season 11-16, 7-9 Conference, 7th)
Robbie Whitney returns home to take over at his alma mater.  He was a Graduate Assistant at Augustana last year and previously took New Life Academy to the state tournament.  Lefty wing Connor Peterson (18.9 PPG) will be his go to guy.  Guard Tayler Hardie (10.3 PPG) is the other returning double figure scorer.  Owen Lamson also returns to the starting lineup.  Reserves Tanner Rothbauer and David Tupper once again provide depth.

Zimmerman Thunder (2022-23 season 6-21, 2-14 Conference, 9th)
Zimmerman returns 3 starters.  That includes their 2 top threats in junior wing Thomas McEachern (16 PPG) and senior PG Gianni-Arisensi-Skime (13.6 PPG).  McEachern is a jumping jack who's always a candidate for a highlight.  Junior guard Mason Spence will figure into that perimeter rotation.  Senior TJ Johnson returns to anchor the frontcourt.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
The league was acting much like the Metro West for a while last year where it seemed like nobody wanted to win it.  I expect the same this year.  My pick here is Cambridge-Isanti with 2 top guys and lots of depth returning.  Plus you can't help but love their offense with all the screening plus they'll push it.  Becker's junior class was 3rd last year, so I keep them up there this year.  Monticello's experience puts them 3rd but they could get a run from a youthful but talented Chisago Lakes squad or St. Francis.  I think Princeton bounces back after a tough year.  With a new coach and new help around Tyler Minke, I had to drop North Branch.  Big Lake is in a very similar spot.  Zimmerman has 2 top returnees that could help them jump out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Emerson Droubie - Cambridge-Isanti

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Isiah Boyer, Nathan Warhol, Tucker Becker - Becker
  
• Judd Layton - Big Lake
• Jameson Epple, Eddie Lundeen - Cambridge-Isanti
  
• Carson Deibele, Hunter Miller - Monticello
• Matthew Hallberg, Michael Kincaid - Princeton
  
• Hunter Olson - St. Francis
• Joe Larson, Luke Lemke - Zimmerman
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Cambridge-Isanti at Becker - Jan 14th
• Becker at Cambridge-Isanti - Feb 14th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Albany at Becker - Dec 10th
  
• Becker vs SW Christian - Dec 28th (Granite City at St. John's)

2024-25 Wright County East Preview

This is the 10th preview in my 2024-25 season preview series.  Week 2 ends with a look at the always tough Wright County East.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Delano Tigers (2023-24 season 22-6, 8-2 Conference, 2nd)
Former Osseo star Bridge Tusler takes over after the retirement of Terry Techam.  Despite losing star gaurd Will Strandemo (22.4 PPG), the lineup will still have plenty of perimeter firepower.  Junior Max Iverson averaged 21.9 PPG.  Senior Jake Schultz is a shooter who averaged 11.2 PPG.  I expect that to jump this season.  Senior JJ Longstreet also returns to the rotation.  Juniors Bjorn Stewart and Nate Nielsen look to see time as well.

Holy Family Fire (2023-24 season 18-10, 9-1 Conference, 1st)
Coach Joe Berger needs to replace all 3 of his double figure scorers.  That includes star guards Kole Hanson and Luke Graff who combined for over 44 PPG and top post Brayden Carlson (14.3 PPG).  Despite that, the wing play should still be solid.  Junior Drew Coleman (8.1 PPG) looks to be the goto guy this season.  Jackson Birchem also returns to the starting lineup.  Hayden Guggemos and Jackson Ryan are seniors who should see plenty of time.  Sophs Carson Kuchenbecker and Geno Ward also look to join the rotation.

Hutchinson Tigers (2023-24 season 17-11, 4-6 Conference, 4th)
The Tigers have to replace a strong senior class that comprised most of their lineup.  They do have a couple of pieces to build with.  Senior forward Nathan Johnson is a top option. Senior wing Brady Larson is another top scoring threat on the wing.  Colton Farrell and Alexander Flores will be guard options.  Landon Struck and Everett Conrad should see front line minutes.

Jordan Hubmen (2023-24 season 11-16, 0-10 Conference, 6th)
Jordan returns 2 of their 3 double figure scorers.  Forward Mitchell Schmidt (13.5 PPG) and SG Lexyn Grof (11 PPG) lead the way.  Both are juniors.  Senior wing Brayden Davis returns with them.  Sam Mahto will be a frontcourt option along with Noah Robinson.

Mound-Westonka Whitehawks (2023-24 season 11-16, 3-7 Conference, 5th)
Coach Andre Phillips needs to replace hard nosed PG Carter Reinbold and shooter Bryce Tappen. But the dynamic senior forward duo of Max Kraay (21.6 PPG) and Cole Drill (14.3 PPG) can make up for that.  Both can step out and shoot it or play inside vs a smaller mismatch.  Matthew Mobagi, Jacob Orenge, George Eberhart and Brendon Sexton are also experienced seniors returning to the rotation.

Southwest Christian Stars (2023-24 season 18-9, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Stars return most of a deep roster from last season.  Mason Wood (11.1 PPG) is the main loss.  But this lineup will look to make a deep tournament run.  Brayden Beckering (16.3 PPG) and Isaac Tollefson (13.7 PPG) can both shoot it on the wing.  Juniors Jack Burke and Drew Mertens are other skilled wing/forwards in the lineup.  Junior Adam Dye can be used for size.  Who becomes the primary ball handler is the main question.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
I see SW Christian and Mound-Westonka at the top of the league with a ton coming back for both rosters.  But with modified league scheduling in place, those teams will only play each other once.  The rest of the league drops off but there's no awful team in the group.  Delano with a new coach but a similar type system should still be an offensive factor.  Holy Family will be young and has a ton to replace.  Hutch has a couple nice pieces but also has a ton to replace. Jordan has a couple pieces back as they look to jump out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Max Kraay - Mound-Westonka

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Vinny Lucarelli - Delano
  
• Geno Ward, Carson Kuchenbecker, Levi Trout - Holy Family
• Mika James - Mound-Westonka
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Mound-Westonka at SW Christian - Jan 30th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Minnehaha at SW Christian - Jan 4th
• Mound-Westonka at Orono - Jan 7th
• Mound-Westonka at Richfield - Jan 28th
  
• St. Croix Lutheran at SW Christian - Feb 1st
• Mound-Westonka at Blake - Feb 18th
  
• Blake at SW Christian - Feb 26th
  

2024-25 Minneapolis City Conference Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  In this preview, its a look at the Minneapolis City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Camden Patriots (2023-24 season 6-18, 2-10 Conference, tie 5th)
This is the former Patrick Henry high school renamed in the offseason.  Senior PG Eban Moua leads the returning roster.  Seniors Wali Mosley and Tramere White return on the front line.

Edison Tommies (2023-24 season 8-20, 2-10 Conference, tie 5th)
Frank Webster takes over the program after a disappointing season. He's been at St. Agnes and Washburn in the past.  The 2 graduated seniors were the 2 double figure scorers last season.  Leading scorer Deidrick Taylor averaged over 29 PPG from his guard spot last season.  Senior Sam Young (8.7 PPG) is the top returnee on the wing.  Soph Nico Luitjens-Weatherspoon is another returning wing and top scoring option. Junior Ronald Williams returns at a guard spot.

North Polars (2023-24 season 17-11, 7-5 Conference, 4th)
Former Edison coach Ahmil Jihad is the late replacement for former Timberwolves guard Ricky Davis in the head coach chair.  Forward Zashon Rich (19.2 PPG) is off to Wyoming for football.  Soph guard Marcus Marshall is a dynamic scorer who will lead the way.  Senior Allen Hill will be a ball handler.  J'Marion Sanders was another guard returning to the rotation but he had surgery during football season.  They'll have to replace a bunch of interchangeable centers for the front line.  The JV team won the Twin Cities Game last season so there's help from there too.

Roosevelt Teddies (2023-24 season 13-14, 2-10 Conference, tie 5th)
The Teddies were much improved last season and snapped their long league losing streak.  The wing play is their strength with junior Calvin Peterson (15.9 PPG) and senior Obie Esparza (10.7 PPG) returning.  Senior PG Steven Hunter also returns after averaging double figures last season.  Junior forward Josiah Alexander will need to replace the play of Avery Wells on the front line.  Jason Wind also has front line experience.

South Tigers (2023-24 season 22-7, 9-3 Conference, 2nd)
The 2023-24 Tigers were one of the great feel good stories of the last few years as they made a run all the way to the state tournament.  Great to see success for coach Joe Hyser.  The entire starting lineup needs to be replaced including star guards Poet Davis (19.4 PPG) and Jumarion Weh (17.1 PPG).  Eugene Brown will be a top option inside to replace Romero Walker.  Guard Greg Johnson returns to run the point.  Lots of youth on last year's JV squad that could look to contribute.

Southwest Lakers (2023-24 season 16-11, 8-4 Conference, 3rd)
Southwest has to replace the entire starting lineup and 3 double figure scorers.  Wing Liam Farniok (25.6 PPG) was one of the top perimeter players in the league.  Wing DeJaun Jones would be the top returning scorer at 4.6 PPG but he's now at St. Paul Como Park.  Vansin Smith returns inside.  Henry Liestikow is an experienced guard.  Henry Wolfe and Finn George are a couple of seniors who could contribute.

Washburn Millers (2023-24 season 25-4, 12-0 Conference, 1st)
Washburn graduates a ton including star forward Kyle Jorgensen (22.3 PPG).  But with a 2nd place JV squad and a champion freshman squad, the future is still bright for the Millers.  Senior Cooper Carlson is a shooter on the wing who averaged 11.4 PPG last year.  Senior Armoni Dischinger-Harris can run the point.  Juniors Alex Young and Ryker Van Nostrand will see much bigger roles this season.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview
After one of the best league seasons in recent memory, most of the league has heavy losses so expect a down year across the board.  Minneapolis North still looks to be the class of the league and be challenged by Washburn.  Roosevelt has most everything back, can they make a big jump?  Southwest has a ton to replace but has proven they can plug and play.  South, Edison and Camden are all rebuilding.

Conference MVP: Marcus Marshall - North

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Nico Luitjens-Weatherspoon - Edison
  
• Marcus Marshall - North
  
• Ramadan Ibrahim, Jumair Wright - South
  

Conference Games to Watch

• North at Washburn - Jan 13th
• Washburn at North - Feb 19th
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 1st (Minneapolis Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Park Center at Washburn - Dec 3rd
  
• South St. Paul at North - Dec 4th 
• North at De La Salle - Jan 10th 
• Breck at North - Feb 10th
• Hopkins at Washburn - Feb 15th
  
• North vs Cherry - Feb 25th (at Minnehaha Academy)
• Washburn at Breck - Mar 1st
  

2024-25 St. Paul City Conference Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Now its time to look at the city leagues and St. Paul goes first.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Central Minutemen (2023-24 season 20-7, 12-0 Conference, 1st)
Coach Scott Howell returns his top 2 scorers in a strong perimeter rotation.  Guard Allan Lankfard (19.1 PPG) is one of the league's top guards.  He'll play on and off the ball.  Junior Eli Moseman (14.9 PPG) also returns to the starting lineup on the wing.  Junior Finnegan Bloedel returns to man the front line.  Junior Etienne Reyes also returns to the guard rotation.  They'll be supplemented by a JV squad that lost only to Johnson in league play.

Como Park Cougars (2023-24 season 9-18, 5-7 Conference, tie 4th)
Forward Mason Aarness averaged 17.1 PPG as the lone double figure scorer.  3 of the top 4 scorers are gone.  Junior guard Contrell Jenkins (9 PPG) leads the remaining roster.  Hezekiah Bradshaw and Kavaughn Lissimore are 2 other juniors who should be major parts of the rotation as well.  Senior Dashawn Robinson (7.1 PPG) and Braylon Felton are the 2 seniors returning.  Wing DeJaun Jones transfers in from Minneapolis Southwest and should be a rotation factor as well.  Not much size for the roster.

Harding Knights (2023-24 season 18-7, 8-4 Conference, 3rd)
Senior PG Ai'jhon Douglas (21.3 PPG) is one of the better players people don't know about.  4 other rotation guys join him this year in a senior laden lineup.  Mahamadou Kamara, Nathaniel Chea, Julius Terrell and junior Salman Hussein form a strong perimeter group with Douglas.  Who does the dirty work for them inside?

Highland Park Scots (2023-24 season 7-18, 5-7 Conference, tie 5th)
Former Concordia Academy star Zach Towle returns home to take over the Scots program.  He's spent time coaching at the JUCO level.  Leading scorer Xavier May (19.6 PPG) and wing Quintice Combs (15.3 PPG) need to be replaced.  Senior PG Yared Yohannes (16.8 PPG) is the top option.  Soph Leo Clifford will play a much bigger role.  A couple other starters return too.  The freshman squad tied with Johnson for the league title so there is youth there.

Humboldt Hawks (2023-24 season 12-16, 2-10 Conference, 6th)
The Hawks have to replace their 3 top scorers including 20.5 PPG from guard Albert Wellington.  The sophomore class looks to build from here.  Guard Fadil Alabi and forward Taurean Williams were starters as freshmen last year.  They'll be the top scoring options this year.  A bunch of other sophs saw time last year and will need to develop into bigger roles.

Johnson Governors (2023-24 season 19-5, 10-2 Conference, 2nd)
The excellent guard duo of Dhimani Tucker and Jalani Mays plus forward Daejohn Smith-Pugh all need to be replaced.  But plenty returns and the Govs JV and Frosh squads won the city.  Junior power forward Kenny Turner (14.5 PPG) is the top big man in the league and the main threat for Johnson.  Junior guards Octavious Johnson and Guarino Kamp were rotation pieces last season.  They're part of a talented junior class.  Tyrel Pride comes over from Tartan to join that group.  Soph PG Colin Moore returns to the lineup to run the show.

Washington Eagles (2023-24 season 2-25, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
Former Maryland player Chris McCray takes over a program that has gone winless in league play the last 2 seasons.  The league's leading scorer Shawn Huberty (27.6 PPG in league play) gives the Eagles a piece to work with.  Guard Jonathan Santiago (14 PPG) needs to be replaced.  Not much firepower in the rest of the lineup as nobody else averaged more than 3.9 PPG in league play.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference Overview:
For 20 straight years Central or Johnson has been the St. Paul representative in the Twin Cities Game.  I don't see that changing this season.  I like Johnson here as they have size that Central doesn't.  But its hard to argue against the defending champs with their top 2 guys coming back.  Harding took their east side rival Johnson to the wire twice last year.  Ditto that with 2 close losses to Central.  They have enough returning to break into that top 2.  It drops off significantly in the battle for the middle spot.  Washington gets the last spot by default.  I'll take Highland at the next spot.  Como out battles a very young and small Humboldt squad for the 5 spot.

Conference MVP: Allan Lankfard Jr - Central

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Leo Clifford - Highland Park
  
• Fadil Alabi, Taurean Williams, Luke Hobday, Char Davis - Humboldt
• Colin Moore, Amri Bobmanuel, Arsee Gabi, Aaron Howard - Johnson
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Harding at Johnson - Jan 10th
  
• Central at Johnson - Jan 22nd
• Central at Harding - Jan 24th
  
• Johnson at Harding - Feb 5th
  
• Johnson at Central - Feb 13th
  
• Harding at Central - Feb 19th
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 1st (Minneapolis Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Johnson at St. Croix Lutheran - Dec 3rd
• Harding at Tartan - Dec 3rd
  
• South St. Paul at Johnson - Dec 6th
  
• Johnson vs Maple Grove - Jan 11th (Southside Showcase II)
• River Falls at Central - Feb 24th
• Harding at Maple Grove - Feb 24th
  

2024-25 Tri-Metro Conference Preview

This is the 7th preview in my 2024-2025 season preview series.  Week 2 of this season's preview series begins with a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Academy of Holy Angels Stars (2023-24 season 6-21, 3-13 Conference, tie 7th)
Jimmy Mireri comes over from the Wayzata staff to take over the top chair.  He has to replace his lone double figure scorer and will have a relatively young lineup.  Junior wing Blake Nixon and senior forward Damian Devine are the top returnees.  3 juniors look to round out the lineup.  Anderson Stark returns at the point.  Daniel Devine and Dalton DeBoer are interior options.  Who becomes the go to option with no double figure scorer returning.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2023-24 season 4-23, 3-13 Conference, tie 7th)
Former AHA star Troy Bell leaves his alma mater after 1 season to take over at Kennedy.  The entire lineup returns including 4 senior starters.  Forward Malik Johnson (15.3 PPG) was the top scorer last year and only one in double figures.  Ryan Sheehan, Lamarrius Starr and Sonte Lajeunesse-Wood are other scoring options.  Junior Marlon Seahorn returns at the point.  Junior Girley James is the main size inside.

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2023-24 season 3-24, 1-15 Conference, 9th)
Coach Brandon Krona will continue to build the program in his 2nd year.  He'll have to replace a bunch of seniors from his starting lineup and rotation.  That includes top pieces like forward Steven Nzimi and guard Deshawn Pongsak.  Expect youth to be a major factor for them.

Columbia Heights Hylanders (2023-24 season 18-7, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
Long time assistant Dedrick Jenkins takes over for Willie Braziel who left to take the Simley job. He'll have to replace the top 5 scorers.  That includes the perimeter trio of Randy McClendon, Zy'lerre Stewart and Jency Davis who all averaged over 18 PPG.  McClendon put up 25 points a night on the wing.  Guard Julian Manjo and forward Camren Smith are the lone returnees to the lineup.  The rest of the rotation will be very inexperienced.

De La Salle Islanders (2023-24 season 22-10, 14-2 Conference, 1st)
The Islanders have to replace 2 important pieces in wing Jaden Morgan and forward Ray James but the top 2 scorers return.  That includes soph Jaeden Udean who's one of the top scorers in the class.  PG De'von Irvin returns to run the show.  Senior wings Dorian Pruitt, Andrew Apiagyei and Marcus Anderson all return to the lineup.  Junior Evan Miller will need to play a bigger role inside.

Fridley Tigers (2023-24 season 19-8, 11-5 Conference, 4th)
The Tigers totally blew my prediction out of the water last season with 19 wins.  Now they have to replace 4 starters.  Forward Gideon Cooper and PG Antwan Smith are 2 of the 4 double figure scorers that have graduated.  Trenton Woodall Jones looks to expand on his 12.3 PPG from last season.  Guard Brevon Robinson returns to the starting lineup.  Wayzata transfer Jamichael Ollie could join him.  Osuman Miller will also see rotation time.

Richfield Spartans (2023-24 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 3rd)
Richfield has to replace versatile wing/forward Zavier Hayes (17.3 PPG).  But they return one of the top scorers in the state in CJ Armstrong at 32 PPG.  He had a couple of 50+ point outbursts last season.  Sophs Dre Collins and Tyrece Hagler join him in the returning rotation along with junior Adin Inda.  Cristo Rey transfer Omar Whittaker joins the roster too.  They will get up and down and be very entertaining to watch.  Fun stat for the Spartans along those lines.  They lost 4 games last year where they scored over 90 points.

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2023-23 season 12-13, 8-8 Conference, 5th)
The Hawks have to replace both their double figure scorers.  One of those, Rylan McPipe is off to prep school so that's a critical loss.  Yusuf Hussein and Jahnial Jones are the top guys coming back.  Tae'shawn Cumber-Ficken, Emmanuel Karmo and Noah Lease return as well.  Senior David Daniels provides experience and size.

St. Anthony Huskies (2023-24 season 11-16, 7-9 Conference, 6th)
St. Anthony needs to replace 3 starters and 4 of their top 5 scorers.  Junior SG Brett Siroin returns after leading the team with 14.5 PPG.  Ethann Piekarski returns at a guard spot.  Junior Isaan Kitila should see an expanded role.  Tenzin Gyaltsen should also get rotation minutes.

Predicted Order of Finish

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

Conference MVP: CJ Armstrong - Richfield

Conference Overview:
A third of the league will have a new head coach this season.  I see a 2 team race at the top with De La Salle and Richfield.  Can't pick against De La Salle with their tradition but Richfield did win both matchups last year and the style difference between the teams just adds to the entertainment.  After that a drop off to a down year for the rest of the league.  Heavy losses at Cooper, St. Anthony, Fridley and Columbia Heights drag the league down and the other 3 combined for only 13 wins.  Cooper by default gets the 3rd spot.  St. Anthony, Heights and Fridley battle in the middle.  Kennedy has enough returning to want to be in that group, but I need to see it first.  Holy Angels and Brooklyn Center are rebuilding.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Phillip Moita - Academy of Holy Angels
  
• Khalil Wertz-Copeland - Bloomington Kennedy 
• Jaeden Udean, Kamar Thomas - De La Salle
• Tyrone Washington - Fridley
  
• Dre Collins, Tyrece Hagler, Ben Heidgerken - Richfield
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Richfield at De LaSalle - Jan 3rd
  
• De La Salle at Richfield - Feb 4th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Richfield at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 5th
• De La Salle vs Park Center - Dec 7th (Tip-Off Classic at Hopkins)
• Richfield vs Hopkins - Dec 14th (Big Stage at Totino-Grace)
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at De La Salle - Dec 20th
• Orono at Richfield - Dec 20th
• De La Salle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 15th
• De La Salle at Wayzata - Feb 25th