Day 2 of the 18-19 season continues my 4 classes on the 1st 4 nights of the season tour. Last night it was AAA. Tonight its a 4AA matchup as St. Paul Academy makes a short trip east down Randolph Ave to Nova Classical Academy. Plenty of coaches on hand for this one. I see a limo on my way in and sure enough the joke is on me as St. Agnes coach Chris Hopkins makes an appearance. Concordia and New Life on hand as well. No concessions which is disappointing as I've had nice pulled pork at Nova in the past.
As to the game itself, not much to see hence the abbreviated writeup. St. Paul Academy playing without top forward Ryan Moore but no problems. Alex Hermann 3 trips and all 15 of his points in the 1st half as the Spartans opened up a 39-21 halftime lead. Soph guard Adam Holod with an outstanding night with 13 of his 18 in the 1st half. Only 2 Knights score in the 1st half including 14 of the 21 and the 1st 10 for Nova from guard Mathieu LaFrambois. St. Paul Academy extends the lead to 25 in the 2nd half and cruises to a 71-51 win. LaFrambois leads all scorers with 23 points. Holod 18, Hermann 15 to lead SPA. Shae Nelson adds 12 for Nova but was off all night which hurt the Nova offense. Nelson will be a key offensive piece for the Knights after being a double figure scorer last season. Next up for Nova is a trip to New Life on Tuesday while SPA will host Como Park.
An opening night Spartan rallying cry
Prologue
A quality start to the 2018-19 season as I take in a 6AAA battle between Minneapolis Roosevelt and Orono. Its the 1st game for new Roosevelt head coach Mike Walker. He comes out in style too with the bowtie on. Bowties never get old. Only fitting for a star night in the city that we get The Rev on duty for the game as well. Kevin Britt joins him. Solid hot dog at the concession stand to go with the metric edit of Sprite (500 ml). Concession stand was talking about how they should have had Walking Tacos. I could have stayed for the discussion all night. Quality PA music all night with Ah Ha and Nu Shooz representing the 1 hit wonders. But I'll go old school random for tonight's tune.
Song of the Day: Gimme Some Lovin - Spencer Davis Group
Number of Teams I've Seen: 2 (1 game, 1 day, 1 building, 0 online)
Beverage Ticker: 16.9 ounces (200 Calories)
High profile guys for each lineup start the game on the bench. That's Blake O'Connor for Orono and Deszi Sims for Roosevelt. Both would enter early and O'Connor started the 2nd half. Scoring at a premium as Orono isn't on the board until 2 O'Connor FTs at the 11:27 mark to trail 6-2. Orono not able to hit a thing. Then its a Sims steal for a 3 point play. O'Connor and Eli Sustacek have 2 fouls each for Orono. Roosevelt with the 14-2 lead before the 2nd foul on Sims at the 6:51 which sits him down. Finally the 11th guy for Orono, Tyler Nyquist hits a jumper at about the 4:30 mark for Orono's 1st FG. Roosevelt counters with a triple and Kalid Ahmed converts a turnover for a 21-4 Teddies lead. Orono would finally get their footing with an O'Connor 3 and a putback in a 7-0 run in the last 3:35 of the 1st half. 21-11 Roosevelt at the break in an ugly half. Orono with only 3 field goals.
Orono continues the momentum out of the locker room with the 1st 7 points of the 2nd half. Nick Prentice with a great tip pass out of the post that leads to a 3 and then a layup of his own. The Orono run is 14-0 as Roosevelt goes 8 minutes, 4 on each side of halftime, without a point. Orono from 17 down to within 3. Ahmed breaks the ice with a triple and TJ Williams converts a turnover to push the Roosevelt lead back to 26-18. Orono timeout with 12:49 left and coach Wohler not pleased with his team not taking care of the ball.
Orono once again slowly grinds their way back as Roosevelt just can't find any offense. O'Connor scores on a drive and then Mitchell Hirchberg makes both ends of the bonus and then is fouled with 6:40 left and goes to the line with a chance to tie but only makes 1. So Roosevelt with an 8 minute drought and then 2 buckets in 15 seconds to break it. But now another 8 minute drought. It looks bad as coming the other way Sims charges for his 4th foul with 6:16 left and Roosevelt clinging to the 1 point lead.
Coach Walker rolls the dice and leaves him in. On a turnover, he spins, big contact and somehow the ball goes in. Its The Rev on the whistle so what do we have? Theatric deal AAAAAANND....Its a block but its on the floor so no basket. The front end is no good but Roosevelt gets one of their many offense boards and it leads to a Sims triple. MoKiller timeout Roosevelt up 30-26 with 5:53 left.
Luke Barnes with great hustle to track down a long offensive board and he'll make 1 of 2 to push the lead back to 5. O'Connor counters with 2 freebies. Sims converts a turnover to keep the lead at 5 inside of 3 minutes. Forward Simon Rice with the open 3 that gets the high and soft members bounce to go in with 2:11 left to cut the Roosevelt lead to 2. Timeout Orono with 2:11 left trailing 33-31. They'll come out of the timeout in a 2-3 zone but coach Walker immediately pulls his guys back and Orono has to quickly go man. Prentice with great hustle to track down a loose ball and he's fouled going the other way. He has a chance to tie it with 1:31 left but for the 2nd time only 1 of 2 are good and the Spartans still can't get back to even. Roosevelt turns it over. Rice has a great look at a 3 that misses. O'Connor grabs that and can't finish the putback with a minute left. But Roosevelt turns it over again with 33.3 left. Timeout Orono down by 1 to get organized.
Orono draws up a set that has Hirschberg building a mansion under the rim he's so open. He gets the ball late but is able to convert a tough finish with 20 seconds left. That gives Orono their first and only lead of the night. Roosevelt takes time with 13.5 left and they'll go right wing iso for their star Sims. His drive banks too hard and a great look at a putback is no good. Ball out of bounds to Orono with 2.7 left. Roosevelt gets one last chance as Sustacek misses 2 free throws. Roosevelt uses a timeout to get the ball to half court and then draws up a final look with 1.5 left. Its Sims off 1 driible from the bottom of the center circle and its just off to the left. Orono wins an entertaining if not pretty affair 34-33.
Post Game
For Roosevelt, they fall to 0-1 and have the back to back at Humboldt. Then they visit Columbia Heights on Monday before playing New London-Spicer in the boys tipoff. That's all before a big home tilt in conference play on Dec 11th vs Henry. Deszi Sims and Kalid Ahmed lead the way with 9 points each for the Teddies. But definitely a quiet night by Sims standards. Their quickness definitely bothered Orono. I also liked the 5 out they ran with Luke Barnes being the top guy setting curl screens and popping. But that's a different way of getting Sims the ball vs the euro ball screen stuff they'll run.
Orono starts 1-0 despite an ice cold night of shooting. Many quality looks that not only didn't go in but many that even missed quite badly. That's unlike many of the Barry Wohler teams I've seen. But they found a way to steal one on the road which will help them long term. This win will loom large in 3 months at the section meeting where head to head is a big deal when you have 5 leagues all at the table. Orono goes on the road to Monticello and Hopkins before a big section tilt at home with Henry next Thursday. Tough games at St. Paul Central and hosting Marshall follow that.
A quality start to the 2018-19 season as I take in a 6AAA battle between Minneapolis Roosevelt and Orono. Its the 1st game for new Roosevelt head coach Mike Walker. He comes out in style too with the bowtie on. Bowties never get old. Only fitting for a star night in the city that we get The Rev on duty for the game as well. Kevin Britt joins him. Solid hot dog at the concession stand to go with the metric edit of Sprite (500 ml). Concession stand was talking about how they should have had Walking Tacos. I could have stayed for the discussion all night. Quality PA music all night with Ah Ha and Nu Shooz representing the 1 hit wonders. But I'll go old school random for tonight's tune.
Song of the Day: Gimme Some Lovin - Spencer Davis Group
Number of Teams I've Seen: 2 (1 game, 1 day, 1 building, 0 online)
Beverage Ticker: 16.9 ounces (200 Calories)
- Sprite: 16.9 ounces (200 calories)
- Hot Dogs:1
High profile guys for each lineup start the game on the bench. That's Blake O'Connor for Orono and Deszi Sims for Roosevelt. Both would enter early and O'Connor started the 2nd half. Scoring at a premium as Orono isn't on the board until 2 O'Connor FTs at the 11:27 mark to trail 6-2. Orono not able to hit a thing. Then its a Sims steal for a 3 point play. O'Connor and Eli Sustacek have 2 fouls each for Orono. Roosevelt with the 14-2 lead before the 2nd foul on Sims at the 6:51 which sits him down. Finally the 11th guy for Orono, Tyler Nyquist hits a jumper at about the 4:30 mark for Orono's 1st FG. Roosevelt counters with a triple and Kalid Ahmed converts a turnover for a 21-4 Teddies lead. Orono would finally get their footing with an O'Connor 3 and a putback in a 7-0 run in the last 3:35 of the 1st half. 21-11 Roosevelt at the break in an ugly half. Orono with only 3 field goals.
Orono continues the momentum out of the locker room with the 1st 7 points of the 2nd half. Nick Prentice with a great tip pass out of the post that leads to a 3 and then a layup of his own. The Orono run is 14-0 as Roosevelt goes 8 minutes, 4 on each side of halftime, without a point. Orono from 17 down to within 3. Ahmed breaks the ice with a triple and TJ Williams converts a turnover to push the Roosevelt lead back to 26-18. Orono timeout with 12:49 left and coach Wohler not pleased with his team not taking care of the ball.
Orono once again slowly grinds their way back as Roosevelt just can't find any offense. O'Connor scores on a drive and then Mitchell Hirchberg makes both ends of the bonus and then is fouled with 6:40 left and goes to the line with a chance to tie but only makes 1. So Roosevelt with an 8 minute drought and then 2 buckets in 15 seconds to break it. But now another 8 minute drought. It looks bad as coming the other way Sims charges for his 4th foul with 6:16 left and Roosevelt clinging to the 1 point lead.
Coach Walker rolls the dice and leaves him in. On a turnover, he spins, big contact and somehow the ball goes in. Its The Rev on the whistle so what do we have? Theatric deal AAAAAANND....Its a block but its on the floor so no basket. The front end is no good but Roosevelt gets one of their many offense boards and it leads to a Sims triple. MoKiller timeout Roosevelt up 30-26 with 5:53 left.
Luke Barnes with great hustle to track down a long offensive board and he'll make 1 of 2 to push the lead back to 5. O'Connor counters with 2 freebies. Sims converts a turnover to keep the lead at 5 inside of 3 minutes. Forward Simon Rice with the open 3 that gets the high and soft members bounce to go in with 2:11 left to cut the Roosevelt lead to 2. Timeout Orono with 2:11 left trailing 33-31. They'll come out of the timeout in a 2-3 zone but coach Walker immediately pulls his guys back and Orono has to quickly go man. Prentice with great hustle to track down a loose ball and he's fouled going the other way. He has a chance to tie it with 1:31 left but for the 2nd time only 1 of 2 are good and the Spartans still can't get back to even. Roosevelt turns it over. Rice has a great look at a 3 that misses. O'Connor grabs that and can't finish the putback with a minute left. But Roosevelt turns it over again with 33.3 left. Timeout Orono down by 1 to get organized.
Orono draws up a set that has Hirschberg building a mansion under the rim he's so open. He gets the ball late but is able to convert a tough finish with 20 seconds left. That gives Orono their first and only lead of the night. Roosevelt takes time with 13.5 left and they'll go right wing iso for their star Sims. His drive banks too hard and a great look at a putback is no good. Ball out of bounds to Orono with 2.7 left. Roosevelt gets one last chance as Sustacek misses 2 free throws. Roosevelt uses a timeout to get the ball to half court and then draws up a final look with 1.5 left. Its Sims off 1 driible from the bottom of the center circle and its just off to the left. Orono wins an entertaining if not pretty affair 34-33.
Post Game
For Roosevelt, they fall to 0-1 and have the back to back at Humboldt. Then they visit Columbia Heights on Monday before playing New London-Spicer in the boys tipoff. That's all before a big home tilt in conference play on Dec 11th vs Henry. Deszi Sims and Kalid Ahmed lead the way with 9 points each for the Teddies. But definitely a quiet night by Sims standards. Their quickness definitely bothered Orono. I also liked the 5 out they ran with Luke Barnes being the top guy setting curl screens and popping. But that's a different way of getting Sims the ball vs the euro ball screen stuff they'll run.
Orono starts 1-0 despite an ice cold night of shooting. Many quality looks that not only didn't go in but many that even missed quite badly. That's unlike many of the Barry Wohler teams I've seen. But they found a way to steal one on the road which will help them long term. This win will loom large in 3 months at the section meeting where head to head is a big deal when you have 5 leagues all at the table. Orono goes on the road to Monticello and Hopkins before a big section tilt at home with Henry next Thursday. Tough games at St. Paul Central and hosting Marshall follow that.
2018-19 Season in a Nutshell
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
The Czar's 2018-2019 Season Preview series concludes with the traditional season overview for the casual fan. This is a higher level preview for those who don't eat, sleep and breathe hoops like the rest of us. Its what and who you need to see and when and where to see it. If you missed any of the 121 team previews over 12 conferences or the 14 section previews, a full list of them can be found here.
10 Local Events
Hopkins vs St. Paul Central highlights the Super Showcase at Columbia Heights. Then the usual MLK events. Buffalo and Matt Willert playing St. Paul Central in the Totino-Grace event that day is a highlight. The Border Battle returns to Minnesota to end January. Both Brookfield (WI) teams will be a treat to see plus a battle of Northern Kentucky commit Marcus Domask vs the Madsen twins of Rochester Mayo. Trinity also hosts the renamed Between the Lines Classic on the same day.
10 Other Non-Conference Games to Watch
Park Center's top standalone non-conference game comes up next as they host Wayzata on a quiet January Wednesday night. Then the battle of titans that never happened as Hopkins visits the island to end January. Minnehaha visits the island on the final Saturday of the regular season. But that's right after their huge rematch with North.
10 Conference Games to Watch
Chaska and Cooper in their 2nd meeting should decide the Metro West title. Prior Lake gets a massive test and possible chance to steal the 1 seed in 2AAAA and win the South Suburban if they can win at Lakeville North. Hopkins not only has the Wayzata test but on the final Friday night of the season they have to visit Eden Prairie in their 2nd meeting. That could decide the Lake Conference winner and have a top seed on the line for both teams.
10 Local Players to Watch
11 Local Teams to Watch
Season Thoughts
Class AAAA looks to be very deep this season with no real clear cut favorite. Hopkins has a loaded starting 5 but questions and youth beyond that. Not to mention the black cloud of back to back section final losses to Wayzata hanging over them. Park Center and Eden Prairie each have a bunch of experienced, talented and versatile pieces for this year and next. East Ridge and Prior Lake boast big lineups and are ready to contend for the AAAA title as well. The battle of Mr Basketball contenders Tyler Wahl and Matt Hurt should be very interesting in section 1. But can Rochester John Marshall finally figure out Lakeville North after losing 6 straight section finals to the Panthers? How quickly does Cretin-Derham Hall and their new roster come together?
As to the other classes, does De La Salle return to the top in AAA? Certainly their road in section 6 won't be the meat grinder that it has been in recent years. Can anybody take the throne in AA from Minnehaha. Perham gets the 1st shot at that question on the 1st Saturday of the season in a dynamite AA matchup. Minneapolis North will also have a say late in the regular season.
Lastly, how much more conference realignment is in store for next season? We already know the moves for Rogers (NW Suburban), Richfield (Tri-Metro), Irondale (Suburban East) and the new Skyline Conference. Buffalo and St. Michael-Albertville were just added to the Lake Conference. Though I wish they would have gone to the NW Suburban so that league could finally split into 2 groups of 8. What happens with the 7 team Metro West and does that impact the Wright County East? The small schools get it too with the MCAA losing all its eastern members and its flagship program Maranatha to the Skyline. That league is now down to 7 and that includes Bethany who's playing as an independent this year. Is it the end of the league? How do changes there end up impacting the TCAC with that league also losing 2 top members to the Skyline. Kaleidoscope and Eagle Ridge will soon need homes, would the MCAA take them to stay alive?
10 Local Events
- Dec 1 - Breakdown Big 12 Classic at Cretin-Derham Hall
- Dec 8 - Breakdown Boys Tipoff Classic at Hopkins
- Dec 15 - Southside Showcase at Roseville
- Dec 21-22 - Above the Rim Classic at Minneapolis North
- Dec 29 - Augsburg Tournament Championship
- Jan 12 - Super Showcase at Columbia Heights
- Jan 21 - MLK events (Totino-Grace and Roosevelt)
- Jan 26 - Border Battle at East Ridge
- Jan 26 - Between the Lines Classic at Trinity
Hopkins vs St. Paul Central highlights the Super Showcase at Columbia Heights. Then the usual MLK events. Buffalo and Matt Willert playing St. Paul Central in the Totino-Grace event that day is a highlight. The Border Battle returns to Minnesota to end January. Both Brookfield (WI) teams will be a treat to see plus a battle of Northern Kentucky commit Marcus Domask vs the Madsen twins of Rochester Mayo. Trinity also hosts the renamed Between the Lines Classic on the same day.
10 Other Non-Conference Games to Watch
- Hopkins at Minnehaha - Dec 11th
- East Ridge at Eden Prairie - Dec 18th
- Eden Prairie at Lakeville North - Dec 21st
- Minnehaha at Eden Prairie - Jan 8th
- Minneapolis North at De La Salle - Jan 8th
- Caledonia at Minneapolis North - Jan 12th
- Wayzata at Park Center - Jan 16th
- Hopkins at De La Salle - Jan 29th
- Minnehaha at Minneapolis North - Feb 19th
- Minnehaha at De La Salle - Feb 23rd
Park Center's top standalone non-conference game comes up next as they host Wayzata on a quiet January Wednesday night. Then the battle of titans that never happened as Hopkins visits the island to end January. Minnehaha visits the island on the final Saturday of the regular season. But that's right after their huge rematch with North.
10 Conference Games to Watch
- Eden Prairie at Wayzata - Jan 11th
- Lakeville North at Prior Lake - Jan 22nd
- East Ridge at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 29th
- Mahtomedi at Tartan - Jan 31st
- Park Center at Champlin Park - Jan 31st
- Eden Prairie at Hopkins - Feb 8th
- Chaska at Robbinsdale Cooper - Feb 12th
- Prior Lake at Lakeville North - Feb 22nd
- Hopkins at Wayzata - Feb 22nd
- Hopkins at Eden Prairie - Mar 1st
Chaska and Cooper in their 2nd meeting should decide the Metro West title. Prior Lake gets a massive test and possible chance to steal the 1 seed in 2AAAA and win the South Suburban if they can win at Lakeville North. Hopkins not only has the Wayzata test but on the final Friday night of the season they have to visit Eden Prairie in their 2nd meeting. That could decide the Lake Conference winner and have a top seed on the line for both teams.
10 Local Players to Watch
- Ben Carlson - East Ridge
- Steven Crowl - Eastview
- Dain Dainja - Park Center
- Dawson Garcia - Prior Lake
- Zeke Nnaji - Hopkins
- David Roddy - Breck (Colorado St)
- Jalen Suggs - Minnehaha
- Tyrell Terry - De La Salle (Stanford)
- Tyler Wahl - Lakeville North (Wisconsin)
- Kerwin Walton - Hopkins
5 Underclassmen You Need to Know
- Prince Aligbe - Minnehaha
- Kendall Brown - East Ridge
- Tre Holloman - Cretin-Derham Hall
- Chet Holmgren - Minnehaha
- Riley Mahlman - Lakeville South
- Cretin-Derham Hall
- De La Salle
- East Ridge
- Eden Prairie
- Hopkins
- Lakeville North
- Minnehaha Academy
- Minneapolis North
- Park Center
- Prior Lake
- Wayzata
- De La Salle - 28 wins
- South St. Paul - 28 road losses
- Minneapolis North - 27 wins
- Minnehaha Academy - 26 wins (12 in a row overall)
- Park of Cottage Grove - 23 losses total and 19 in a row at home
- Cretin-Derham Hall - 18 wins
- Nova Classical Academy - 16 wins
- Apple Valley - 15 wins
- Hopkins - 14 wins
- Maranatha Christian Academy - 13 wins
- Champlin Park - 12 wins
- Legacy Christian Academy - 12 losses
- Math and Science Academy - 12 losses
- St. Paul Johnson - 12 wins
- St. Agnes - 11 losses
Season Thoughts
Class AAAA looks to be very deep this season with no real clear cut favorite. Hopkins has a loaded starting 5 but questions and youth beyond that. Not to mention the black cloud of back to back section final losses to Wayzata hanging over them. Park Center and Eden Prairie each have a bunch of experienced, talented and versatile pieces for this year and next. East Ridge and Prior Lake boast big lineups and are ready to contend for the AAAA title as well. The battle of Mr Basketball contenders Tyler Wahl and Matt Hurt should be very interesting in section 1. But can Rochester John Marshall finally figure out Lakeville North after losing 6 straight section finals to the Panthers? How quickly does Cretin-Derham Hall and their new roster come together?
As to the other classes, does De La Salle return to the top in AAA? Certainly their road in section 6 won't be the meat grinder that it has been in recent years. Can anybody take the throne in AA from Minnehaha. Perham gets the 1st shot at that question on the 1st Saturday of the season in a dynamite AA matchup. Minneapolis North will also have a say late in the regular season.
Lastly, how much more conference realignment is in store for next season? We already know the moves for Rogers (NW Suburban), Richfield (Tri-Metro), Irondale (Suburban East) and the new Skyline Conference. Buffalo and St. Michael-Albertville were just added to the Lake Conference. Though I wish they would have gone to the NW Suburban so that league could finally split into 2 groups of 8. What happens with the 7 team Metro West and does that impact the Wright County East? The small schools get it too with the MCAA losing all its eastern members and its flagship program Maranatha to the Skyline. That league is now down to 7 and that includes Bethany who's playing as an independent this year. Is it the end of the league? How do changes there end up impacting the TCAC with that league also losing 2 top members to the Skyline. Kaleidoscope and Eagle Ridge will soon need homes, would the MCAA take them to stay alive?
2018-19 Section 8AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 27th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. Its the final class AAAA preview, a look at section 8AAAA. Tomorrow the series wraps up with a season overview. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 8AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Maple Grove
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at St. Cloud State
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Neutral Site (based on teams)
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Moorhead. They've been young but were a bucket away from the section final a year ago. Harden is a monster athlete on the wing that will be tough to deal with and could lead the way thru the section.
Section Winner: Buffalo. Nobody circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bison! Sorry Chris Berman. They made an early step with their section final appearance last year. This year they get over the top. Matt Willert gets his proper introduction on the big stage.
Section 8AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Maple Grove
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at St. Cloud State
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Neutral Site (based on teams)
Predicted Seeding
- Buffalo
- Maple Grove
- Elk River
- Moorhead
- Rogers
- St. Cloud Tech
- St. Michael-Albertville
- Brainerd
Sleeper: Moorhead. They've been young but were a bucket away from the section final a year ago. Harden is a monster athlete on the wing that will be tough to deal with and could lead the way thru the section.
Section Winner: Buffalo. Nobody circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bison! Sorry Chris Berman. They made an early step with their section final appearance last year. This year they get over the top. Matt Willert gets his proper introduction on the big stage.
2018-19 Section 7AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 26th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. The class AAAA previews move on to section 7AAAA. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 7AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Forest Lake
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at Chisago Lakes
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Chisago Lakes
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Duluth East. The Greyhounds struggled last year but they do return everybody. They also had that shocking double figure win over Cambridge-Isanti in the final game of the regular season so potential is there.
Section Winner: Cambridge-Isanti. In a bad section anything can happen but I'll go with chalk here. They go on the road to visit a few of the Lake Conference teams which will be a big help come tourney time.
Section 7AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Forest Lake
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at Chisago Lakes
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Chisago Lakes
Predicted Seeding
- Cambridge-Isanti
- Blaine
- Coon Rapids
- Duluth East
- Forest Lake
- St. Francis
- Andover
- Anoka
Sleeper: Duluth East. The Greyhounds struggled last year but they do return everybody. They also had that shocking double figure win over Cambridge-Isanti in the final game of the regular season so potential is there.
Section Winner: Cambridge-Isanti. In a bad section anything can happen but I'll go with chalk here. They go on the road to visit a few of the Lake Conference teams which will be a big help come tourney time.
2018-19 Section 6AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 25th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. The class AAAA previews roll along with a look at section 6AAAA. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 6AAAA (7 teams)
Defending Champion: Wayzata
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Friday, March 8th at High Seed
Finals: Wednesday, March 13th at High Seed
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Robbinsdale Armstrong. New coach Jon Bryant has some young pieces to work with. By the time the tourney comes around they could gel into something above where they are now.
Section Winner: Hopkins. The starting 5 is big and as talented as any in the state. I've liked the size in the past and it hasn't paid off. A 3rd time upset in the section finals? That seems like too much to ask.
Section 6AAAA (7 teams)
Defending Champion: Wayzata
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Friday, March 8th at High Seed
Finals: Wednesday, March 13th at High Seed
Predicted Seeding
- Hopkins
- Wayzata
- St. Louis Park
- Robbinsdale Armstrong
- Minneapolis South
- Minneapolis Southwest
- Minneapolis Washburn
Sleeper: Robbinsdale Armstrong. New coach Jon Bryant has some young pieces to work with. By the time the tourney comes around they could gel into something above where they are now.
Section Winner: Hopkins. The starting 5 is big and as talented as any in the state. I've liked the size in the past and it hasn't paid off. A 3rd time upset in the section finals? That seems like too much to ask.
2018-19 Section 5AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
Happy Freshman tryout day. That means we're 1 week away from the start of the 2018-19 official practice season. This is the 24th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. In this final week of previews, I complete the class AAAA section previews and then finish up with the annual season overview on
Friday. Today its section 5AAAA. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 5AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Osseo
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at Coon Rapids
Finals: Friday, March 15th at Rogers
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Centennial. They lost a truckload of close games last year and have that experience coming back. They run quality offense and they have the ability to shoot you out of the gym.
Section Winner: Park Center. The Pirates look to get back to the big dance and make noise like they did in the Quentin Hooker days. Too deep and talented and Champlin Park and Osseo have too much to replace.
Section 5AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Osseo
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at Coon Rapids
Finals: Friday, March 15th at Rogers
Predicted Seeding
- Park Center
- Champlin Park
- Osseo
- Roseville
- Spring Lake Park
- Centennial
- Mounds View
- Irondale
Sleeper: Centennial. They lost a truckload of close games last year and have that experience coming back. They run quality offense and they have the ability to shoot you out of the gym.
Section Winner: Park Center. The Pirates look to get back to the big dance and make noise like they did in the Quentin Hooker days. Too deep and talented and Champlin Park and Osseo have too much to replace.
2018-19 Section 4AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 23rd preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. Continuing our look at the class AAAA sections, we move on to section 4. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 4AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Cretin-Derham Hall (defending AAAA state champion)
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at Hastings
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Hastings
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: White Bear Lake. They have a very good duo of Sam Schwartz and Jeremy Beckler that needs to be dealt with. Not a team you want to see in the 4 vs 5 game.
Section Winner: East Ridge. This is the start of what could be a big run for the Raptors. Their size and experience prevails here in a tough section.
Section 4AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Cretin-Derham Hall (defending AAAA state champion)
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at Hastings
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Hastings
Predicted Seeding
- East Ridge
- Cretin-Derham Hall
- Tartan
- St. Paul Central
- White Bear Lake
- North St. Paul
- Woodbury
- Stillwater
Sleeper: White Bear Lake. They have a very good duo of Sam Schwartz and Jeremy Beckler that needs to be dealt with. Not a team you want to see in the 4 vs 5 game.
Section Winner: East Ridge. This is the start of what could be a big run for the Raptors. Their size and experience prevails here in a tough section.
2018-19 Section 3AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 22nd preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. Continuing our look at the class AAAA sections, we move on to section 3. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 3AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Apple Valley
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Friday, March 8th at Farmington
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Farmington
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Burnsville. Its a new system for a new coach but Rob Mestas was very successful in a tough job at Roosevelt. Would not shock me to see them use the difficult South Suburban schedule as a springboard to tournament success.
Section Winner: Eastview. Too much from Steven Crowl and Tate Machacek on the front line to pick against them.
Section 3AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Apple Valley
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Friday, March 8th at Farmington
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Farmington
Predicted Seeding
- Eastview
- Hastings
- Park
- Henry Sibley
- Apple Valley
- Burnsville
- Eagan
- Rosemount
Sleeper: Burnsville. Its a new system for a new coach but Rob Mestas was very successful in a tough job at Roosevelt. Would not shock me to see them use the difficult South Suburban schedule as a springboard to tournament success.
Section Winner: Eastview. Too much from Steven Crowl and Tate Machacek on the front line to pick against them.
2018-19 Section 2AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 21st preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. Continuing our look at the class AAAA sections
we stay in the south metro with section 2AAAA. For a list of all the
season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 2AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Eden Prairie
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at High Seed
Finals: Friday, March 15th at High Seed
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Chanhassen. They have a talented duo in F Regan Tollefson and G Carson Hollowaty. Plus they're always solid defensively.
Section Winner: Eden Prairie. Too much firepower and experience but a matchup with Prior Lake would be very interesting. Prior Lake's size is a problem, but its perimeter oriented enough that it negates the offensive advantage. Plus its not a good matchup for chasing around Eden Prairie on the other end.
Section 2AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Eden Prairie
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at High Seed
Finals: Friday, March 15th at High Seed
Predicted Seeding
- Eden Prairie
- Prior Lake
- Chaska
- Shakopee
- Edina
- Chanhassen
- Minnetonka
- Bloomington Jefferson
Sleeper: Chanhassen. They have a talented duo in F Regan Tollefson and G Carson Hollowaty. Plus they're always solid defensively.
Section Winner: Eden Prairie. Too much firepower and experience but a matchup with Prior Lake would be very interesting. Prior Lake's size is a problem, but its perimeter oriented enough that it negates the offensive advantage. Plus its not a good matchup for chasing around Eden Prairie on the other end.
2018-19 Section 1AAAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 20th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. Now we begin our look at all of the class AAAA
sections going in numerical order. For a list of all the season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 1AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Lakeville North
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at Rochester Civic Arena
Finals: Friday, March 16th at Rochester Civic Auditorium
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Farmington. The Tigers were better than expected last year and they proved they could play with anybody. Thanks to a nasty 1-3-1 zone, I could see them pulling a suprise.
Section Winner: Lakeville North. The Panthers have been the roadblock for Rochester John Marshall for the last 6 years in this section. So I stay with them as the pick. Matt Hurt still gets his but Tyler Wahl gets more help.
Section 1AAAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Lakeville North
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at Rochester Civic Arena
Finals: Friday, March 16th at Rochester Civic Auditorium
Predicted Seeding
- Lakeville North
- Rochester John Marshall
- New Prague
- Rochester Mayo
- Lakeville South
- Farmington
- Owatonna
- Rochester Century
Sleeper: Farmington. The Tigers were better than expected last year and they proved they could play with anybody. Thanks to a nasty 1-3-1 zone, I could see them pulling a suprise.
Section Winner: Lakeville North. The Panthers have been the roadblock for Rochester John Marshall for the last 6 years in this section. So I stay with them as the pick. Matt Hurt still gets his but Tyler Wahl gets more help.
2018-19 Section 6AAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 19th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. The penultimate week of the season preview series begins with a
glance at the final metro area section in class AAA, section 6. For a list of all the season previews and how
they are
generated, click here.
Section 6AAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: De La Salle
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Chanhassen
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Orono. In a section that is very perimeter oriented shooting will be at a premium. Orono always seems to have shooters. Plus you have coach Wohler with time to prepare a team that is better than most 7 seeds. That gives them as good a chance as anybody to surprise.
Section Winner: De La Salle. The Islanders will be on a mission to get the AAA title back. The road still isn't easy but its not nearly as tough in past years and they still have 2 of the top players in the section.
Section 6AAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: De La Salle
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Chanhassen
Predicted Seeding
- De La Salle
- Robbinsdale Cooper
- Minneapolis Roosevelt
- Minneapolis Henry
- Waconia
- Benilde-St. Margaret's
- Orono
- Mound-Westonka
Sleeper: Orono. In a section that is very perimeter oriented shooting will be at a premium. Orono always seems to have shooters. Plus you have coach Wohler with time to prepare a team that is better than most 7 seeds. That gives them as good a chance as anybody to surprise.
Section Winner: De La Salle. The Islanders will be on a mission to get the AAA title back. The road still isn't easy but its not nearly as tough in past years and they still have 2 of the top players in the section.
2018-19 Section 4AAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 18th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. To end week 4 of this 6 week series, I take a
look at section 4AAA. For a list of all the season previews and
how they are
generated, click here.
Section 4AAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Columbia Heights (state runner-up)
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at St. Paul Washington
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at St. Paul Washington
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Totino-Grace. There is young talent for the Eagles that will be battle tested by the tough NW Suburban schedule.
Section Winner: Mahtomedi. The Zephyrs vs the hectic trapping of Johnson and being played in Johnson's backyard makes this an interesting matchup. Mahtomedi runs great stuff and if they don't turn it over they have to be the favorite. But Johnson can find ways to get to you.
Section 4AAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: Columbia Heights (state runner-up)
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Wednesday, March 6th
Semifinals: Saturday, March 9th at St. Paul Washington
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at St. Paul Washington
Predicted Seeding
- Mahtomedi
- St. Paul Johnson
- Fridley
- St. Anthony
- Columbia Heights
- Totino-Grace
- St. Paul Como Park
- Hill-Murray
Sleeper: Totino-Grace. There is young talent for the Eagles that will be battle tested by the tough NW Suburban schedule.
Section Winner: Mahtomedi. The Zephyrs vs the hectic trapping of Johnson and being played in Johnson's backyard makes this an interesting matchup. Mahtomedi runs great stuff and if they don't turn it over they have to be the favorite. But Johnson can find ways to get to you.
2018-19 Section 3AAA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 17th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. As week 4 of the 6 week preview series moves along, I start my look at the local
AAA sections with section 3AAA. For a list of all the season previews and how they are
generated, click here.
Section 3AAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: St. Thomas Academy
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Friday, March 8th at Bloomington Jefferson
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Bloomington Jefferson
Predicted Seeding
Staying with southeast AAA schools from the metro east, a note on Simley. Down in section 1AAA, they could battle for a 1st round home game. I'll say they get it and advance thanks to Isaiah Robinson. But they'll go out in the semis.
Sleeper: Holy Angels. With the Charles and Emmitt Johnson, that gives the Stars quality guard play which enough to beat many teams in this down section.
Section Winner: St. Thomas Academy. The Cadets and Jack Thompson make another trip to state out of a weak section.
Section 3AAA (8 teams)
Defending Champion: St. Thomas Academy
Tournament Schedule:
Quarterfinals: Tuesday, March 5th
Semifinals: Friday, March 8th at Bloomington Jefferson
Finals: Thursday, March 14th at Bloomington Jefferson
Predicted Seeding
- St. Thomas Academy
- St. Croix Lutheran
- St. Paul Harding
- Holy Angels
- South St. Paul
- St. Paul Highland Park
- Bloomington Kennedy
- Richfield
Staying with southeast AAA schools from the metro east, a note on Simley. Down in section 1AAA, they could battle for a 1st round home game. I'll say they get it and advance thanks to Isaiah Robinson. But they'll go out in the semis.
Sleeper: Holy Angels. With the Charles and Emmitt Johnson, that gives the Stars quality guard play which enough to beat many teams in this down section.
Section Winner: St. Thomas Academy. The Cadets and Jack Thompson make another trip to state out of a weak section.
2018-19 Section 5AA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 16th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. In this preview, a look at section 5AA. For a list of
all the season previews and how they are
generated, click here.
Section 5AA (14 teams)
Defending Champion: Brooklyn Center
Tournament Schedule:
Round of 16: Thursday, March 7th
Quarterfinals: Saturday, March 9th at St. Michael-Albertville
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at St. Michael-Albertville
Finals: Friday, March 15th 6 PM at St. Cloud State
Predicted Seeding
In 6AA, I see Spectrum winning a 1st round home game before bowing out.
Sleeper: Holy Family. Yes they lose a ton but playing in the tough Wright County East division always serves them well come tourney time. With Nick Hendler and Jacob Zay returning that gives them a couple experienced pieces in a very disciplined system.
Section Winner: Litchfield. Great tradition for the Dragons and tons of experience coming back with a go to guy in Boerema. David Roddy is a handful for Breck but how much help he gets is a question. North and Maranatha need to generate offense from the their defense and can be vulnerable in the halfcourt. Very balanced section where the quarterfinal round on could see anything happen. Therefore, I'll make another pick outside the predicted seedings
Section 5AA (14 teams)
Defending Champion: Brooklyn Center
Tournament Schedule:
Round of 16: Thursday, March 7th
Quarterfinals: Saturday, March 9th at St. Michael-Albertville
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at St. Michael-Albertville
Finals: Friday, March 15th 6 PM at St. Cloud State
Predicted Seeding
- Minneapolis North
- Maranatha
- Breck
- Litchfield
- Providence
- Rockford
- Blake
- Southwest Christian
- Holy Family
- Watertown-Mayer
- Brooklyn Center
- HLWW
- PACT
- International School
In 6AA, I see Spectrum winning a 1st round home game before bowing out.
Sleeper: Holy Family. Yes they lose a ton but playing in the tough Wright County East division always serves them well come tourney time. With Nick Hendler and Jacob Zay returning that gives them a couple experienced pieces in a very disciplined system.
Section Winner: Litchfield. Great tradition for the Dragons and tons of experience coming back with a go to guy in Boerema. David Roddy is a handful for Breck but how much help he gets is a question. North and Maranatha need to generate offense from the their defense and can be vulnerable in the halfcourt. Very balanced section where the quarterfinal round on could see anything happen. Therefore, I'll make another pick outside the predicted seedings
2018-19 Section 4AA Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 15th preview in my 2018-2019
season preview series. In this preview, a look at section 4AA. For a list of all the season previews and how they are
generated, click here.
Section 4AA (16 teams)
Defending Champion: Minnehaha Academy (2017 and 2018 State AA Champions)
Tournament Schedule:
Round 1: Tuesday, March 5th
Round 2: Thursday, March 7th
Quarterfinals: Saturday, March 9th
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at St. Paul Washington
Finals: Friday, March 15th at St. Paul Washington
Predicted Seeding
Sleeper: Twin Cities Academy/Great River. They will be young but after a full season they may be able to steal a game or 2 before running into the top seeds in the quarters.
Section Winner: Minnehaha. Its the same story of ridiculous talent. Anything less than a state title is a disappointment.
Section 4AA (16 teams)
Defending Champion: Minnehaha Academy (2017 and 2018 State AA Champions)
Tournament Schedule:
Round 1: Tuesday, March 5th
Round 2: Thursday, March 7th
Quarterfinals: Saturday, March 9th
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at St. Paul Washington
Finals: Friday, March 15th at St. Paul Washington
Predicted Seeding
- Minnehaha
- Cristo Rey
- St. Croix Prep
- Concordia Academy
- Trinity
- St. Paul Academy
- New Life Academy
- St. Paul Humboldt
- St. Paul Washington
- St. Agnes
- Minneapolis Edison
- Nova Classical
- Twin Cities Academy/Great River
- AFSA
- St. Paul Prep/HSRA
- Math and Science
Sleeper: Twin Cities Academy/Great River. They will be young but after a full season they may be able to steal a game or 2 before running into the top seeds in the quarters.
Section Winner: Minnehaha. Its the same story of ridiculous talent. Anything less than a state title is a disappointment.
2018-19 Section 4A Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 14th preview in the 2018-2019 season preview series. Phase 2 of the previews starts today and over the next 3 weeks I'll cover 14 sections, mostly metro based, including all 8 class AAAA sections. That will include looks at
some section teams that I haven't done yet plus some sprinkled comments
about local teams that aren't in the 14 sections being
previewed. Let's start with a look at
Section 4A. If you missed any of the conference previews during phase 1, I previewed 121
metro area teams from 12 conferences and independents. For
a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.
Section 4A (24 Teams)
Defending Champion: Heritage Christian Academy
Tournament Schedule:
Round 1: Monday, March 4th (number of games will be number of teams in section - 16)
Round 2: Tuesday, March 5th (16 teams left)
Round 3: Thursday, March 7th (12 teams left)
Quarterfinals: Saturday, March 9th
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Finals: Friday, March 15th at Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Predicted Seeding
Seeds 13-lower: Round 1
Seeds 9-12: Byes to Round 2 (play round 1 winners)
Seeds 5-8: Byes to Round 3 (play round 2 winners)
Seeds 1-4: Byes to the Quarterfinals (play round 3 winners)
As is always the case in this section of tiny charter schools, the full list of teams won't be playing in the bracket. With 20 teams the above structure still works. However, if there's a 21st team and it looks like there will be, then I'm guessing that the 12 seed would lose their bye and have to play the 21 seed in round 1.
As to the games themselves, this section was a total tossup last year with 6 seed Mounds Park Academy making a cinderella run to the section final with a third of their wins being in the tournament series. Not to mention 5 seed Heritage making state after not making their own conference tournament. I think Mounds Park Academy could once again use the tough IMAC schedule to their advantage come tourney time to make another run. Christian Life and CHOF will be tough outs with plenty coming back. But its the guard play of Prairie Seeds Academy that sticks out to me here. They're just so quick compared to everybody else in the section. But they're also the type of team that keeps the game interesting up 20 or down 20.
A couple other previewed class A teams to note here. MCAA member Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity is in section 2A. I'll stick with last year's finish. The Bulldogs win a 1st round home game but then go out in the subsection semis. TCAC member Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf, if they play the tournament series in section 1A, is likely looking at going out in a pigtail game.
Sleeper: Minnesota Transitions. The battle of the mangy coats is Dec 6th at Prairie Seeds Academy but it wouldn't be ridiculous to see these wolf creatures cross paths again come March. But with everybody coming back and a weak section, another run during tourney time would not be a major surprise.
Section Winner: CHOF. Prairie Seeds Academy is the pick on paper here. But that's been the case for the Lycans the last 2 or 3 years. I think CHOF's schedule will help them and in a wide open section, I'm going to go off the main path for the pick.
Section 4A (24 Teams)
Defending Champion: Heritage Christian Academy
Tournament Schedule:
Round 1: Monday, March 4th (number of games will be number of teams in section - 16)
Round 2: Tuesday, March 5th (16 teams left)
Round 3: Thursday, March 7th (12 teams left)
Quarterfinals: Saturday, March 9th
Semifinals: Tuesday, March 12th at Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Finals: Friday, March 15th at Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Predicted Seeding
- Prairie Seeds
- CHOF
- Christian Life
- Mounds Park Academy
- West Lutheran
- Hope Academy
- Minnesota Transitions
Seeds 13-lower: Round 1
Seeds 9-12: Byes to Round 2 (play round 1 winners)
Seeds 5-8: Byes to Round 3 (play round 2 winners)
Seeds 1-4: Byes to the Quarterfinals (play round 3 winners)
As is always the case in this section of tiny charter schools, the full list of teams won't be playing in the bracket. With 20 teams the above structure still works. However, if there's a 21st team and it looks like there will be, then I'm guessing that the 12 seed would lose their bye and have to play the 21 seed in round 1.
As to the games themselves, this section was a total tossup last year with 6 seed Mounds Park Academy making a cinderella run to the section final with a third of their wins being in the tournament series. Not to mention 5 seed Heritage making state after not making their own conference tournament. I think Mounds Park Academy could once again use the tough IMAC schedule to their advantage come tourney time to make another run. Christian Life and CHOF will be tough outs with plenty coming back. But its the guard play of Prairie Seeds Academy that sticks out to me here. They're just so quick compared to everybody else in the section. But they're also the type of team that keeps the game interesting up 20 or down 20.
A couple other previewed class A teams to note here. MCAA member Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity is in section 2A. I'll stick with last year's finish. The Bulldogs win a 1st round home game but then go out in the subsection semis. TCAC member Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf, if they play the tournament series in section 1A, is likely looking at going out in a pigtail game.
Sleeper: Minnesota Transitions. The battle of the mangy coats is Dec 6th at Prairie Seeds Academy but it wouldn't be ridiculous to see these wolf creatures cross paths again come March. But with everybody coming back and a weak section, another run during tourney time would not be a major surprise.
Section Winner: CHOF. Prairie Seeds Academy is the pick on paper here. But that's been the case for the Lycans the last 2 or 3 years. I think CHOF's schedule will help them and in a wide open section, I'm going to go off the main path for the pick.
2018-19 Suburban East Conference Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 13th preview in my 2018-2019 season preview series. In
this preview, we reach the mid-point of this 6 week series. The
conference previews end here with a look at the Suburban East
Conference. Next week, we start looking at the metro area sections.
For a list of all the season previews and how they were generated, click here.
Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2017-18 season 30-2, 16-0 Conference, 1st)
The defending champions lose most of their lineup. That includes 3 division 1 stars in Daniel Oturu (Minnesota), Ryan Larson (Wofford) and Sy Chatman (UMass). They combined for 47 PPG. SG Jaeden King returns with 14 PPG. They reload with transfers G Curtis Jones (Minneapolis South), F Karsten Broadley (Fosston) and frosh star PG Trejuan Holloman (Minneapolis North). Amari Carter, Lucas Ammons, Tristan Lee and Zion Guerra are others looking for rotation time.
East Ridge Raptors (2017-18 season 23-3, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Raptors look to be a state title contender with their top 4 scorers returning. That includes mismatch combo-forward Courtney Brown (21.5 PPG) and F Ben Carlson (18.8 PPG) on a terrific front line. The backcourt is solid with soph Kendall Brown (11.1 PPG) and senior Zach Zebrowski (8.4 PPG) both returning. They'll need to replace the toughness of guards TJ Kelly and Joey Arndt.
Forest Lake Rangers (2017-18 season 20-12, 8-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
Forest Lake needs to replace their top 4 scorers and most of the rotation including SG Manny Jingco (17.4 PPG). Face up 4 man Cooper Berg and Zach Hailey also graduated costing the Rangers their main size. Guard Hunter Damon (8.6 PPG) and F John Schrader (8.5 PPG) will be the top offensive options. Dorell Young also returns as a defensive minded guard.
Mounds View Mustangs (2017-18 season 5-22, 3-13 Conference, 7th)
After a down year, Mounds does have a couple of pieces to work with as their top 2 scorers return. G Josh Albers was the only double figure scorer at 11.5 PPG. Expect him to get the ball in set play situations. P Brendan Kauls more than doubled his scoring average to 8.4 PPG. Juniors Thomas Gebhardt and Jake Radabaugh should also see significant role increases.
Park Wolfpack (2017-18 season 6-21, 0-16 Conference, 9th)
Things looking up this year for the Pack with 5 of their top 6 scorers coming back. That includes UMD recruit Charlie Gorres (20.6 PPG) on the front line and guard Domenik Block (17.5 PPG). Marshaun Campbell provides another option. Joey Toth provides returning length inside. Soph guards Norman Smith and Kaiah Brady will benefit from the time they saw last season.
Roseville Raiders (2017-18 season 16-11, 9-7 Conference, 4th)
The Raiders return a very experienced perimeter group. That includes Jovan Hunter, Camryn Walker, Mario Dukes, Yohanes Gebeyehu, John Briggs and Camryn Walker. I can see Walker or Dukes having a breakout season. Spencer Nath will man the inside. Forward Daevonte Monson's 10.2 PPG will be missed.
Stillwater Ponies (2017-18 season 4-23, 3-13 Conference, Tie 7th)
The Ponies have to replace a large chunk of their rotation. Leading scorer Evan Parker (12.3 PPG) is the main loss. PG Nate Shikenjanski (11.6 PPG) is the main piece to build around. Forward Benjamin Recksiedler (6.6 PPG) is another top offensive option. Trenton Attwood (5.8 PPG) returns to the front line. Junior Matt Moore should see an expanded role at a guard spot.
White Bear Lake Bears (2017-18 season 15-12, 8-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
Coach Keith Lockwood has been building towards this season. He has a quality 1-2 punch in PF Jeremy Beckler (19.4 PPG) and G Sam Schwartz (16.7 PPG). They are part of the 4 returning starters. Only major rotation loss is F Blake Charles and 10.8 PPG.
Woodbury Royals (2017-18 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 3rd)
Woodbury has to replace all everything forward Michael Jones (25.7 PPG) and almost their entire rotation. Adam Mazur, McK Robertson and Shaheed Muhammed are options at the guard spots. Junior Drew Bramlett (3.6 PPG) should be the top scoring threat as he's the top returning scorer. Parker McMorrow is a front line option for a small and inexperienced lineup.
Predicted Order of Finish
Once again CDH and East Ridge should battle it out as 2 of the teams at the top of a very deep class AAAA this season. Roseville and White Bear Lake have a bunch coming back and should battle in the 2nd tier. After that a significant dropoff as Forest Lake and Woodbury have entire rotations to replace. Park could be a sleeper here if Gorres and Block stay healthy. Mounds View will be better but will have to grind it out every night. Stillwater continues to rebuild.
Conference MVP: Courtney Brown - East Ridge
Underclassmen to watch:
Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2017-18 season 30-2, 16-0 Conference, 1st)
The defending champions lose most of their lineup. That includes 3 division 1 stars in Daniel Oturu (Minnesota), Ryan Larson (Wofford) and Sy Chatman (UMass). They combined for 47 PPG. SG Jaeden King returns with 14 PPG. They reload with transfers G Curtis Jones (Minneapolis South), F Karsten Broadley (Fosston) and frosh star PG Trejuan Holloman (Minneapolis North). Amari Carter, Lucas Ammons, Tristan Lee and Zion Guerra are others looking for rotation time.
East Ridge Raptors (2017-18 season 23-3, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Raptors look to be a state title contender with their top 4 scorers returning. That includes mismatch combo-forward Courtney Brown (21.5 PPG) and F Ben Carlson (18.8 PPG) on a terrific front line. The backcourt is solid with soph Kendall Brown (11.1 PPG) and senior Zach Zebrowski (8.4 PPG) both returning. They'll need to replace the toughness of guards TJ Kelly and Joey Arndt.
Forest Lake Rangers (2017-18 season 20-12, 8-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
Forest Lake needs to replace their top 4 scorers and most of the rotation including SG Manny Jingco (17.4 PPG). Face up 4 man Cooper Berg and Zach Hailey also graduated costing the Rangers their main size. Guard Hunter Damon (8.6 PPG) and F John Schrader (8.5 PPG) will be the top offensive options. Dorell Young also returns as a defensive minded guard.
Mounds View Mustangs (2017-18 season 5-22, 3-13 Conference, 7th)
After a down year, Mounds does have a couple of pieces to work with as their top 2 scorers return. G Josh Albers was the only double figure scorer at 11.5 PPG. Expect him to get the ball in set play situations. P Brendan Kauls more than doubled his scoring average to 8.4 PPG. Juniors Thomas Gebhardt and Jake Radabaugh should also see significant role increases.
Park Wolfpack (2017-18 season 6-21, 0-16 Conference, 9th)
Things looking up this year for the Pack with 5 of their top 6 scorers coming back. That includes UMD recruit Charlie Gorres (20.6 PPG) on the front line and guard Domenik Block (17.5 PPG). Marshaun Campbell provides another option. Joey Toth provides returning length inside. Soph guards Norman Smith and Kaiah Brady will benefit from the time they saw last season.
Roseville Raiders (2017-18 season 16-11, 9-7 Conference, 4th)
The Raiders return a very experienced perimeter group. That includes Jovan Hunter, Camryn Walker, Mario Dukes, Yohanes Gebeyehu, John Briggs and Camryn Walker. I can see Walker or Dukes having a breakout season. Spencer Nath will man the inside. Forward Daevonte Monson's 10.2 PPG will be missed.
Stillwater Ponies (2017-18 season 4-23, 3-13 Conference, Tie 7th)
The Ponies have to replace a large chunk of their rotation. Leading scorer Evan Parker (12.3 PPG) is the main loss. PG Nate Shikenjanski (11.6 PPG) is the main piece to build around. Forward Benjamin Recksiedler (6.6 PPG) is another top offensive option. Trenton Attwood (5.8 PPG) returns to the front line. Junior Matt Moore should see an expanded role at a guard spot.
White Bear Lake Bears (2017-18 season 15-12, 8-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
Coach Keith Lockwood has been building towards this season. He has a quality 1-2 punch in PF Jeremy Beckler (19.4 PPG) and G Sam Schwartz (16.7 PPG). They are part of the 4 returning starters. Only major rotation loss is F Blake Charles and 10.8 PPG.
Woodbury Royals (2017-18 season 16-12, 12-4 Conference, 3rd)
Woodbury has to replace all everything forward Michael Jones (25.7 PPG) and almost their entire rotation. Adam Mazur, McK Robertson and Shaheed Muhammed are options at the guard spots. Junior Drew Bramlett (3.6 PPG) should be the top scoring threat as he's the top returning scorer. Parker McMorrow is a front line option for a small and inexperienced lineup.
Predicted Order of Finish
- East Ridge
- Cretin-Derham Hall
- Roseville
- White Bear Lake
- Forest Lake
- Woodbury
- Park
- Mounds View
- Stillwater
Once again CDH and East Ridge should battle it out as 2 of the teams at the top of a very deep class AAAA this season. Roseville and White Bear Lake have a bunch coming back and should battle in the 2nd tier. After that a significant dropoff as Forest Lake and Woodbury have entire rotations to replace. Park could be a sleeper here if Gorres and Block stay healthy. Mounds View will be better but will have to grind it out every night. Stillwater continues to rebuild.
Conference MVP: Courtney Brown - East Ridge
Underclassmen to watch:
- Trejuan Holloman, Tristan Lee - Cretin-Derham Hall
- Kendall Brown, Kendall Blue, Zac Thomas, Drew Adams - East Ridge
- Kaiah Brady, Norman Smith - Park
- Cretin-Derham Hall at East Ridge - Dec 14th
- East Ridge at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 29th
- East Ridge vs Hopkins - Dec 1st (Big 12 at Cretin-Derham Hall)
- Wayzata at Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 1st (Big 12)
- East Ridge vs Prior Lake - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
- Rochester John Marshall vs Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
- East Ridge at Eden Prairie - Dec 18th
- Brookfield Central (WI) at East Ridge - Jan 26th (Border Battle)
- Wayzata at East Ridge - Feb 6th
- Eden Prairie at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 14th
- Cretin-Derham Hall at De La Salle - Feb 16th
2018-19 South Suburban Conference Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 12th preview in my 2018-19 Season Preview Series. In this preview, we head south for 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 (2017-18 season 27-5, 17-1 Conference, 1st)
The 9 year Jones era is over after a record of 237-38. The top 9 scorers need to be replaced including Tre Jones (Duke) and Luke Martens (Winona St). Only Mark Possis (2.2 PPG) has any rotation time. The foundation has been built but with a lack of experience and a tough league, expect a major dropoff for the Eagles.
Burnsville Blaze (2017-18 season 6-22, 4-14 Conference, Tie 8th)
Rob Mestas comes over from Minneapolis Roosevelt to take the head job. He has a couple of pieces to work with on the wings in Marcus Shepley (14.6 PPG) and junior Josh Kamara (10 PPG). Charlie Krekelberg, Sam Bardwell and Hayden Johnson also saw lots of rotation time last year.
Eagan Wildcats (2017-18 season 6-22, 4-14 Conference, Tie 8th)
The rebuild continues for the Wildcats. PG Jaylen James was the only double figure scorer last year and he is now at Eastview. The memories of Joey King's transfer come to mind. Ben Kozemzak (8.6 PPG) and junior guard Kurt Ohlhues (8.4 PPG). Fellow junior guards Finn O'Malley and Cam House also return to the lineup.
Eastview Lightning (2017-18 season 12-17, 6-12 Conference, 7th)
Eastview is primed for a big jump this season. The junior front line of Steven Crowl (12.5 PPG) and Tate Machacek (10.9 PPG) leads the way. Adding junior PG Jaylen James from Eagan gives another ballhandler to go with Izaak Raspberry. Ryan Thissen and Caden Scales are also juniors who provide depth.
Farmington Tigers (2017-18 season 14-13, 7-11 Conference, 6th)
Farmington was a pleasant surprise thanks to a 1-3-1 zone last year. 2 double figures scorers including leading scorer Caden Freetly (12.2 PPG) need to be replaced. Adam Weed is the top scoring returnee at 10.2 PPG. Athletic forward Miles Mendes (8.3 PPG) is another quality option. PG Jameson Shrum and his 7.9 PPG return to run the show.
Lakeville North Panthers (2017-18 season 27-5, 16-2 Conference, 2nd)
Star forward Tyler Wahl (17.2 PPG) returns and at some point will fill every possible role. Guard Tommy Jenson (10.7 PPG) gives the Panthers another offensive option. They do lose a bunch of important pieces around them including 10.9 PPG from F Tyler Lewko. Tate Staloch should step into Lewko's role on the front line. The duo of Eli and Will Mosaert provides a physical presence up front as well. The guards will be inexperienced so expect Wahl to do a ton of ball-handling.
Lakeville South Cougars (2017-18 season 15-13, 11-7 Conference, 4th)
Lakeville South has to replace their top 3 scorers who all averaged double figures. That includes UW-Milwaukee recruit Shae Mitchell and his 15.2 PPG. Soph PF Riley Mahlman averaged 10.3 PPG last year and will be a primary option this season. SG Joe Bachinski and his 5.7 PPG should see a much expanded role as well. Soph Reid Patterson will also see plenty of time.
Prior Lake Lakers (2017-18 season 22-6, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Lakers have an absolutely huge front line with leading scorer 6'10" Dawson Garcia (21.7 PPG), shot-blocker 6'11" Robert Jones (13.5 PPG) and 6'9" Carson Schoeller. They've experimented with playing all 3 at once. Sharp shooting Sam Nissen returns to run the point with 11.6 PPG. Jackyse Jacox also returns to the starting lineup. They add Tyree Ihenacho on the wing as a transfer from Burnsville.
Rosemount Irish (2017-18 season 2-25, 1-17 Conference, 10th)
It was a long 1st year for coach Lance Walsten. Leading scorer Luke Siwek and 16.3 PPG graduated. 2 other double figure scorers do return. Guards Andrew Reuter (12.5 PPG) and Jacob Siwek (10.9 PPG) return to be the primary options on offense. Marcus Stephenson provides guard depth. Keaton Miller (4.5 PPG) is the primary option inside.
Shakopee Sabers (2017-18 season 14-13, 10-8 Conference, 5th)
Shakopee was one of the big stories of the off-season with the surprising firing of hall of fame coach Bruce Kugath. Wayzata assistant Jake Dammann takes over with a very good junior class to work with. That includes leading scorer Charlie Katona (19.1 PPG) at a forward spot. Guards Caleb Druvenga (15.9 PPG) and Will Cordes (10.7 PPG) are also part of that group. Fellow juniors Tanner Koenen and Brooks Allen also saw lots of time last year.
Predicted Order of Finish
With the Jones era over, the league opens up. Prior Lake is the favorite with most of their lineup returning and a ridiculous amount of size. Tyler Wahl will keep Lakeville North near the top. Eastview and Shakopee both return a ton and are poised to move up the standings. Farmington could be a sleeper to make a run there too. Lakeville South is young but has nice pieces. Apple Valley has nothing coming back so they fall far. Burnsville has pieces coming back but a new system to learn. Eagan and Rosemount continue to rebuild.
Conference MVP: Tyler Wahl - Lakeville North
Underclassmen to watch:
Apple Valley Eagles (2017-18 season 27-5, 17-1 Conference, 1st)
The 9 year Jones era is over after a record of 237-38. The top 9 scorers need to be replaced including Tre Jones (Duke) and Luke Martens (Winona St). Only Mark Possis (2.2 PPG) has any rotation time. The foundation has been built but with a lack of experience and a tough league, expect a major dropoff for the Eagles.
Burnsville Blaze (2017-18 season 6-22, 4-14 Conference, Tie 8th)
Rob Mestas comes over from Minneapolis Roosevelt to take the head job. He has a couple of pieces to work with on the wings in Marcus Shepley (14.6 PPG) and junior Josh Kamara (10 PPG). Charlie Krekelberg, Sam Bardwell and Hayden Johnson also saw lots of rotation time last year.
Eagan Wildcats (2017-18 season 6-22, 4-14 Conference, Tie 8th)
The rebuild continues for the Wildcats. PG Jaylen James was the only double figure scorer last year and he is now at Eastview. The memories of Joey King's transfer come to mind. Ben Kozemzak (8.6 PPG) and junior guard Kurt Ohlhues (8.4 PPG). Fellow junior guards Finn O'Malley and Cam House also return to the lineup.
Eastview Lightning (2017-18 season 12-17, 6-12 Conference, 7th)
Eastview is primed for a big jump this season. The junior front line of Steven Crowl (12.5 PPG) and Tate Machacek (10.9 PPG) leads the way. Adding junior PG Jaylen James from Eagan gives another ballhandler to go with Izaak Raspberry. Ryan Thissen and Caden Scales are also juniors who provide depth.
Farmington Tigers (2017-18 season 14-13, 7-11 Conference, 6th)
Farmington was a pleasant surprise thanks to a 1-3-1 zone last year. 2 double figures scorers including leading scorer Caden Freetly (12.2 PPG) need to be replaced. Adam Weed is the top scoring returnee at 10.2 PPG. Athletic forward Miles Mendes (8.3 PPG) is another quality option. PG Jameson Shrum and his 7.9 PPG return to run the show.
Lakeville North Panthers (2017-18 season 27-5, 16-2 Conference, 2nd)
Star forward Tyler Wahl (17.2 PPG) returns and at some point will fill every possible role. Guard Tommy Jenson (10.7 PPG) gives the Panthers another offensive option. They do lose a bunch of important pieces around them including 10.9 PPG from F Tyler Lewko. Tate Staloch should step into Lewko's role on the front line. The duo of Eli and Will Mosaert provides a physical presence up front as well. The guards will be inexperienced so expect Wahl to do a ton of ball-handling.
Lakeville South Cougars (2017-18 season 15-13, 11-7 Conference, 4th)
Lakeville South has to replace their top 3 scorers who all averaged double figures. That includes UW-Milwaukee recruit Shae Mitchell and his 15.2 PPG. Soph PF Riley Mahlman averaged 10.3 PPG last year and will be a primary option this season. SG Joe Bachinski and his 5.7 PPG should see a much expanded role as well. Soph Reid Patterson will also see plenty of time.
Prior Lake Lakers (2017-18 season 22-6, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
The Lakers have an absolutely huge front line with leading scorer 6'10" Dawson Garcia (21.7 PPG), shot-blocker 6'11" Robert Jones (13.5 PPG) and 6'9" Carson Schoeller. They've experimented with playing all 3 at once. Sharp shooting Sam Nissen returns to run the point with 11.6 PPG. Jackyse Jacox also returns to the starting lineup. They add Tyree Ihenacho on the wing as a transfer from Burnsville.
Rosemount Irish (2017-18 season 2-25, 1-17 Conference, 10th)
It was a long 1st year for coach Lance Walsten. Leading scorer Luke Siwek and 16.3 PPG graduated. 2 other double figure scorers do return. Guards Andrew Reuter (12.5 PPG) and Jacob Siwek (10.9 PPG) return to be the primary options on offense. Marcus Stephenson provides guard depth. Keaton Miller (4.5 PPG) is the primary option inside.
Shakopee Sabers (2017-18 season 14-13, 10-8 Conference, 5th)
Shakopee was one of the big stories of the off-season with the surprising firing of hall of fame coach Bruce Kugath. Wayzata assistant Jake Dammann takes over with a very good junior class to work with. That includes leading scorer Charlie Katona (19.1 PPG) at a forward spot. Guards Caleb Druvenga (15.9 PPG) and Will Cordes (10.7 PPG) are also part of that group. Fellow juniors Tanner Koenen and Brooks Allen also saw lots of time last year.
Predicted Order of Finish
- Prior Lake
- Lakeville North
- Eastview
- Shakopee
- Farmington
- Lakeville South
- Apple Valley
- Burnsville
- Eagan
- Rosemount
With the Jones era over, the league opens up. Prior Lake is the favorite with most of their lineup returning and a ridiculous amount of size. Tyler Wahl will keep Lakeville North near the top. Eastview and Shakopee both return a ton and are poised to move up the standings. Farmington could be a sleeper to make a run there too. Lakeville South is young but has nice pieces. Apple Valley has nothing coming back so they fall far. Burnsville has pieces coming back but a new system to learn. Eagan and Rosemount continue to rebuild.
Conference MVP: Tyler Wahl - Lakeville North
Underclassmen to watch:
- Noah Friedt - Apple Valley
- Nick Hughes - Burnsville
- Brock Mogensen - Farmington
- Riley Mahlman, Reid Patterson - Lakeville South
- Cade McGraw - Shakopee
- Lakeville North at Prior Lake - Jan 22nd
- Prior Lake at Lakeville North - Feb 22nd
- Prior Lake vs Park Center - Dec 1st (Big 12 at Cretin-Derham Hall)
- Lakeville North at Hopkins - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic)
- Prior Lake at Chaska - Dec 6th
- Prior Lake vs East Ridge - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
- Lakeville North at Chaska - Dec 13th
- Eden Prairie at Lakeville North - Dec 21st
- Wayzata at Lakeville North - Jan 5th
2018-19 NW Suburban Conference Preview
Labels:
18-19 Season Previews
This is the 11th preview in my 2018-2019 season preview series. In this
preview, a look at the Northwest Suburban Conference. For a
list of all the
season previews and how they are done, click here.
Andover Huskies (2017-18 season 13-14, 9-10 Conference, 3rd North)
The Huskies have to replace their top 6 scorers. That includes 2 double figure scorers in Conner Knoepfle and Mason Heath. They combined for over 30 PPG last seaon. Jake Mallett and Matt Brodeur are the main returnees but averaged under 4 PPG. Brady Garcia (3.9 PPG) also returns to the rotation.
Anoka Tornadoes (2017-18 season 12-15, 6-13 Conference, 5th North)
Both double figure scorers from last season need to be replaced. That includes main interior option Jake Phipps (16.6 PPG) and guard Addison Ostendorf (11.4 PPG). Soph Guard Amir Madyun left for Park Center after being a key rotation guy last year. Joseph Lombard is a big body inside (8 PPG). Micah Madyun gives them an attacking guard option. Code Lindenberg and Mac Wieczorek also return to the lineup.
Blaine Bengals (2017-18 season 18-11, 11-8 Conference, 2nd North)
Athletic wing Ray Mitchell and his 19.4 PPG is off to D1 Idaho. Forward Jason Kaul (9.9 PPG) is a nice inside out option that will be the focus of the offense. Tony and Tyler Strand also return to the rotation. Tony averaged 8.6 PPG last year, Tyler provides another option in the front court. Lucas Larson returns at a guard spot.
Centennial Cougars (2017-18 season 5-22, 3-16 Conference, 7th North)
The Cougars return a couple of double figure scorers. Carter Anderson (16.8 PPG) and Ricky Eason (12.9 PPG) are a sharp shooting duo. Riley Van Buskirk (8.3 PPG) returns as a point guard. Matt Wyffels provides another shooter on the wing. Not much size or punch on the front line though. 10.1 PPG from guard Andrew Metz is the biggest loss.
Champlin Park Rebels (2017-18 season 22-6, 17-2 Conference, 1st North)
Despite the loss of PG Josiah Strong (22.6 PPG), expect the Rebels to keep rolling. Wing Bennett Otto (16.5 PPG) leads the way. Alex John returns to man the post. Kato Seley also returns to a forward spot in the starting lineup along with shooter Jared Walter. Senior slasher Juwan Grant also comes back. Juniors TJ Moberg and Cooper Olson provide rotation options along with soph F Francis Nwaokorie.
Coon Rapids Cardinals (2017-18 season 12-16, 7-12 Conference, 4th North)
Captain Marshall Holland (12.4 PPG) is the top returnee for coach Mike Ogorek. Guard Shyron Sayers (7.8 PPG), Elijah McGrath (7 PPG) and Braden Farley (5 PPG) also come back. Jackson Aurelius and Reese Mahn saw rotation time as well. Leading scorer Marcel Winston (14.2 PPG) is the major loss.
Elk River Elks (2017-18 season 10-17, 5-14 Conference, 6th North)
Leading scorer Jack Burger and 14 PPG departs. Most of the rest of the lineup returns. Guard Dylan Fruth (13.8 PPG) leads the returnees. Brock Burdine is an experience guard in the lineup. Devon Roberts and Alex Eng provide experience on the front line. Beyond Fruth, they'll need to find scoring punch.
Irondale Knights (2017-18 season 4-23, 2-17 Conference, 7th West)
The Knights return 3 of their top 4 scorers. That includes 17.3 PPG from Aden Price and 11 PPG from Leighton Glodek. Iggy Ejiofor and 7 PPG also returns to the starting lineup. Carter Jorgenson and Carson Schicker also return to the rotation. Dylan Irvin and Marcus Schramm are the 2 starters lost to graduation.
Maple Grove Crimson (2017-18 season 21-10, 12-7 Conference, 3rd West)
Post Alex Battist (12.4 PPG) and versatile wing Jordan Stensland (11.4 PPG) are major losses from the lineup. PG Jared Rainey (13.1 PPG) returns after leading the team in scoring last year. Nate Adams returns as another highly capable shooter on the wing. Kyle Dreyer and Daniel Walljasper provide other wing options. Tyler Born could step into a front court role.
Osseo Orioles (2017-18 season 25-7, 15-4 Conference, 2nd West)
Osseo has to replace their entire starting lineup. That includes the high scoring guard duo of Zach Theisen (20.7 PPG) and Emmette Page (22.9). Page was an absolute revelation from nowhere last year. But this is Osseo where they just reload from the next level. The JV crew was 21-4 last year so don't feel too bad for the Orioles. Junior PG Cornell Richardson (5.9 PPG) should be their candidate this year to breakout. Elijah Barlue will be a front line factor. Terrance Waits, Tariq Henry and Montrell Stokes should also step into perimeter roles.
Park Center Pirates (2017-18 season 24-5, 17-2 Conference, 1st West)
High scoring guard Jarius Cook and DJ Purnell and their combined 30 PPG are major losses but the Pirates are still loaded. Guards Tommy Chatman (11.2 PPG) and Emmanuel Tamba are very experienced and solid. Khari Broadway (11.8 PPG) has been around forever on the wing. Then the big man Dain Dainja (13.6 PPG) is a monster inside. They have a bunch of depth behind that with juniors Detavious Frierson, Amir Whitlock, David Ijadimbola and Josh Lewis
Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2017-18 season 12-16, 10-9 Conference, 5th West)
Former Armstrong star and Wayzata assistant Jon Bryant takes over the program. He has to replace PG Isaiah Miller along with wings Ben Inniger and Nashiem Lozier. But there are pieces to work with. Leading scorer Jake Breitbach (10.7 PPG) returns to the lineup. Adam Biewen and Cole Priem provide shooting. Tyler Peterson is developing nicely on the front line. Cole Schlotthauer also provides size inside.
Spring Lake Park Panthers (2017-18 season 12-16, 8-11 Conference, 6th West)
The Panthers lose center Elijah Elkerton and 11.2 PPG. But they have a talented group of juniors to lead the way. Wings Blake Remme (17.9 PPG) and Gabe Myren (15.2 PPG) lead the way and are very capable shooters that must be found. Daydor Phillips provides an athletic driving option. Senior Mason Johnson provides size in the middle.
Totino-Grace Eagles (2017-18 season 15-13, 11-8 Conference, 4th West)
Interim coach Deon Richardson moves up from assistant role for the season. He has a big task in front of him having to replace the entire starting lineup and 5 of the top 6 scorers. Seniors Eric Krieger and Riley Burger are the top returnees. Then its the sophomore trio of Carter Weierke, Max Hofschulte-Beck and Devin Burger who will need to step up to bigger roles.
Predicted Order of Finish
North Division
In the west, Park Center is the class of the league once again. Maple Grove with their guard play gets the 2nd nod and I'll complete the district trio with Osseo staying 3rd. Spring Lake Park is the best of the rest as they look toward a big season next year. Armstrong has some nice pieces returning as well but a new system. Totino-Grace has a new coach and a new lineup so expect a drop. Irondale has a group of returnees that look to fight their way off the bottom. Overall, a much stronger division in the west than the north.
Champlin Park is the runaway favorite in another very weak year in the North division. Elk River jumps back up in the division after a down year last year. Blaine and Centennial should battle in the middle with solid players returning. Coon Rapids I see a notch below those teams but with Andover losing everybody and Anoka still rebuilding they stay out of the cellar.
Conference MVP: Dain Dainja - Park Center
Underclassmen to watch:
Andover Huskies (2017-18 season 13-14, 9-10 Conference, 3rd North)
The Huskies have to replace their top 6 scorers. That includes 2 double figure scorers in Conner Knoepfle and Mason Heath. They combined for over 30 PPG last seaon. Jake Mallett and Matt Brodeur are the main returnees but averaged under 4 PPG. Brady Garcia (3.9 PPG) also returns to the rotation.
Anoka Tornadoes (2017-18 season 12-15, 6-13 Conference, 5th North)
Both double figure scorers from last season need to be replaced. That includes main interior option Jake Phipps (16.6 PPG) and guard Addison Ostendorf (11.4 PPG). Soph Guard Amir Madyun left for Park Center after being a key rotation guy last year. Joseph Lombard is a big body inside (8 PPG). Micah Madyun gives them an attacking guard option. Code Lindenberg and Mac Wieczorek also return to the lineup.
Blaine Bengals (2017-18 season 18-11, 11-8 Conference, 2nd North)
Athletic wing Ray Mitchell and his 19.4 PPG is off to D1 Idaho. Forward Jason Kaul (9.9 PPG) is a nice inside out option that will be the focus of the offense. Tony and Tyler Strand also return to the rotation. Tony averaged 8.6 PPG last year, Tyler provides another option in the front court. Lucas Larson returns at a guard spot.
Centennial Cougars (2017-18 season 5-22, 3-16 Conference, 7th North)
The Cougars return a couple of double figure scorers. Carter Anderson (16.8 PPG) and Ricky Eason (12.9 PPG) are a sharp shooting duo. Riley Van Buskirk (8.3 PPG) returns as a point guard. Matt Wyffels provides another shooter on the wing. Not much size or punch on the front line though. 10.1 PPG from guard Andrew Metz is the biggest loss.
Champlin Park Rebels (2017-18 season 22-6, 17-2 Conference, 1st North)
Despite the loss of PG Josiah Strong (22.6 PPG), expect the Rebels to keep rolling. Wing Bennett Otto (16.5 PPG) leads the way. Alex John returns to man the post. Kato Seley also returns to a forward spot in the starting lineup along with shooter Jared Walter. Senior slasher Juwan Grant also comes back. Juniors TJ Moberg and Cooper Olson provide rotation options along with soph F Francis Nwaokorie.
Coon Rapids Cardinals (2017-18 season 12-16, 7-12 Conference, 4th North)
Captain Marshall Holland (12.4 PPG) is the top returnee for coach Mike Ogorek. Guard Shyron Sayers (7.8 PPG), Elijah McGrath (7 PPG) and Braden Farley (5 PPG) also come back. Jackson Aurelius and Reese Mahn saw rotation time as well. Leading scorer Marcel Winston (14.2 PPG) is the major loss.
Elk River Elks (2017-18 season 10-17, 5-14 Conference, 6th North)
Leading scorer Jack Burger and 14 PPG departs. Most of the rest of the lineup returns. Guard Dylan Fruth (13.8 PPG) leads the returnees. Brock Burdine is an experience guard in the lineup. Devon Roberts and Alex Eng provide experience on the front line. Beyond Fruth, they'll need to find scoring punch.
Irondale Knights (2017-18 season 4-23, 2-17 Conference, 7th West)
The Knights return 3 of their top 4 scorers. That includes 17.3 PPG from Aden Price and 11 PPG from Leighton Glodek. Iggy Ejiofor and 7 PPG also returns to the starting lineup. Carter Jorgenson and Carson Schicker also return to the rotation. Dylan Irvin and Marcus Schramm are the 2 starters lost to graduation.
Maple Grove Crimson (2017-18 season 21-10, 12-7 Conference, 3rd West)
Post Alex Battist (12.4 PPG) and versatile wing Jordan Stensland (11.4 PPG) are major losses from the lineup. PG Jared Rainey (13.1 PPG) returns after leading the team in scoring last year. Nate Adams returns as another highly capable shooter on the wing. Kyle Dreyer and Daniel Walljasper provide other wing options. Tyler Born could step into a front court role.
Osseo Orioles (2017-18 season 25-7, 15-4 Conference, 2nd West)
Osseo has to replace their entire starting lineup. That includes the high scoring guard duo of Zach Theisen (20.7 PPG) and Emmette Page (22.9). Page was an absolute revelation from nowhere last year. But this is Osseo where they just reload from the next level. The JV crew was 21-4 last year so don't feel too bad for the Orioles. Junior PG Cornell Richardson (5.9 PPG) should be their candidate this year to breakout. Elijah Barlue will be a front line factor. Terrance Waits, Tariq Henry and Montrell Stokes should also step into perimeter roles.
Park Center Pirates (2017-18 season 24-5, 17-2 Conference, 1st West)
High scoring guard Jarius Cook and DJ Purnell and their combined 30 PPG are major losses but the Pirates are still loaded. Guards Tommy Chatman (11.2 PPG) and Emmanuel Tamba are very experienced and solid. Khari Broadway (11.8 PPG) has been around forever on the wing. Then the big man Dain Dainja (13.6 PPG) is a monster inside. They have a bunch of depth behind that with juniors Detavious Frierson, Amir Whitlock, David Ijadimbola and Josh Lewis
Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2017-18 season 12-16, 10-9 Conference, 5th West)
Former Armstrong star and Wayzata assistant Jon Bryant takes over the program. He has to replace PG Isaiah Miller along with wings Ben Inniger and Nashiem Lozier. But there are pieces to work with. Leading scorer Jake Breitbach (10.7 PPG) returns to the lineup. Adam Biewen and Cole Priem provide shooting. Tyler Peterson is developing nicely on the front line. Cole Schlotthauer also provides size inside.
Spring Lake Park Panthers (2017-18 season 12-16, 8-11 Conference, 6th West)
The Panthers lose center Elijah Elkerton and 11.2 PPG. But they have a talented group of juniors to lead the way. Wings Blake Remme (17.9 PPG) and Gabe Myren (15.2 PPG) lead the way and are very capable shooters that must be found. Daydor Phillips provides an athletic driving option. Senior Mason Johnson provides size in the middle.
Totino-Grace Eagles (2017-18 season 15-13, 11-8 Conference, 4th West)
Interim coach Deon Richardson moves up from assistant role for the season. He has a big task in front of him having to replace the entire starting lineup and 5 of the top 6 scorers. Seniors Eric Krieger and Riley Burger are the top returnees. Then its the sophomore trio of Carter Weierke, Max Hofschulte-Beck and Devin Burger who will need to step up to bigger roles.
Predicted Order of Finish
North Division
- Champlin Park
- Elk River
- Blaine
- Centennial
- Coon Rapids
- Andover
- Anoka
- Park Center
- Maple Grove
- Osseo
- Spring Lake Park
- Robbinsdale Armstrong
- Totino-Grace
- Irondale
In the west, Park Center is the class of the league once again. Maple Grove with their guard play gets the 2nd nod and I'll complete the district trio with Osseo staying 3rd. Spring Lake Park is the best of the rest as they look toward a big season next year. Armstrong has some nice pieces returning as well but a new system. Totino-Grace has a new coach and a new lineup so expect a drop. Irondale has a group of returnees that look to fight their way off the bottom. Overall, a much stronger division in the west than the north.
Champlin Park is the runaway favorite in another very weak year in the North division. Elk River jumps back up in the division after a down year last year. Blaine and Centennial should battle in the middle with solid players returning. Coon Rapids I see a notch below those teams but with Andover losing everybody and Anoka still rebuilding they stay out of the cellar.
Conference MVP: Dain Dainja - Park Center
Underclassmen to watch:
- Francis Nwaokorie - Champlin Park
- Jatai Dillard, Terence Larmouth - Maple Grove
- Don Ferguson - Osseo
- Amir Maydun - Park Center
- Kaleb Skelly, Trey Johnston - Spring Lake Park
- Carter Weierke, Max Hofshulte-Beck, Devin Burger - Totino-Grace
- Park Center at Champlin Park - Jan 31st
- Park Center vs Prior Lake - Dec 1st (Big 12 at Cretin-Derham Hall)
- Park Center vs Eden Prairie- Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
- Champlin Park vs Minnehaha - Dec 8th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
- Wayzata at Champlin Park - Dec 13th
- Champlin Park at Hopkins - Jan 3rd
- Wayzata at Park Center - Jan 16th
- Champlin Park at Eden Prairie - Jan 17th
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