2015-16 high school basketball preview

2015-16 HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PREVIEW

STAYING POWER Hosman, Miller, Murphy and Smithpeters have made huge impact on region’s hoops

SCOTT MEES THE SOUTHERN

L

ongevity and success at the same school seems to be something that is fading away when it comes to high school basketball coaches.

But Southern Illinois is fortunate to have four coaches who have accomplished both feats and continue to do so.

Joe Hosman, Jim Miller, Daryl Murphy, and Randy Smithpeters have all won more than 400 games, and each man has been the head coach at his current school for at least 18 years.

All four men have coached in a state championship game as well.

Joe Hosman (Massac County)

Hosman is beginning his 30th season as the head coach of the Massac County boys basketball team. At one time, he was a fireball on the sidelines, but nine kids and a wealth of experience later, today’s Hosman is a bit different.

“I’ve been very blessed and had a lot of good players and good assistant coaches,” Hosman said.

“This has been a great place to coach. There is no place I would rather have raised my family.

Hopefully, I’ve given this community as much as it has given me. I’m hoping I can hang in there a few more years.”

In 1986, Hosman began his run as the leader of the Patriots.

But he started his head coaching career at Eldorado in 1979.

Fast forward 37 years, and Hosman is just 21 wins away from 700 during his terrific career. But Hosman never makes it about himself; that’s just not who he is.

“I am coaching kids right now, and I coached their dads, too,” Hosman said. “I’ve also had their moms in school, and that is really neat. I’ve had kids that I’ve coached, and my son, Isaac, is on a team with their kids now. It’s been a lot of fun. The coaches that I’ve got right now are not only great coaches, but great friends. They’re all good role models in the community, and they’re people that you want your kids to be around.”

One of his proudest moments was coaching his sons, Zach and Andrew, when Massac County won its first sectional championship in 2000. But the team everyone remembers is the one from 2009, which finished as the Class 2A state runner-up.

“It’s one of those things where that can’t be the only reason you coach, but just to get there into the championship was really great,” Hosman said. “The support of our community and those players I had was tremendous.

We represented our community and Southern Illinois well. I was so proud to be a part of it. Those kids took us on a great ride.”

Jim Miller (Carbondale)

After growing up in Charleston, Miller spent nine years as head coach between Wilmington and Fairfield.

Miller didn’t have much success at Wilmington over the course of five seasons, but did win a pair of regional titles at Fairfield from 1994-98.

“Basketball was kind of secondary at Wilmington,” Miller said. “I thought I was locked in, and that I’d never get another job after Wilmington. It was a good experience, but basketball just wasn’t important to anybody there.”

A solid four-year run at Fairfield ultimately led to Miller

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTOS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Massac County head coach Joe Hosman watches his team during a 2013 game in Goreville. Murphysboro head coach Daryl Murphy encourages his team during a 2014 game against Carterville in Murphysboro. Harrisburg head coach Randy Smithpeters talks to his team during their 2013 state championship game against Seton Academy at Carver Arena in Peoria. Carbondale coach Jim Miller talks to his starters before a 2013 game against Marion at Carbondale.

getting the Carbondale job, which he credits to former CCHS athletic director Vicki King. Miller is beginning his 18th season as head coach of the Terriers.

“I had no idea this would last when I took the job, and 18 years at one school is really unheard of anymore because people don’t stay in one position that long,” Miller said. “It took a job like Carbondale to get me to leave Fairfield because that was a great position and community. People really cared about basketball, and that’s what I was looking for.

When the Carbondale position opened up, I knew people here cared about basketball and it was a priority.”

Miller enjoys Carbondale for what it has to offer, which is a lot.

The diversity among the people is something he really appreciates.

“This is our home, and I’ve spent more time here than I have anywhere else in my life,” Miller said. “This is my kids’ home.

Carbondale has given us everything that we could possibly want. Coming from Charleston, which is also a university town, I knew I wanted to get back in a university environment. It gives the kids so many things that a lot of towns don’t have.”

Miller has won 423 games in 26 years as a head coach. His 2004 Terriers finished fourth in the state and followed that as the state runner-up in 2005.

“One of my proudest years was when we got fourth place in the state,” Miller said. “I think during the Elite Eight it was the highest percentage of wins among all the teams in tournament history. We played two nationally ranked teams. I never entered any season thinking we had a state caliber team until we actually got to that point.”

Miller has raised four daughters, all of whom are good athletes. He appreciates the environment they’ve grown up in as well as the team-first motto that

most of his players have taken over the years.

“There is that myth that Carbondale is a rough town. But you know what, we have good kids that are committed and doing things for the right reason,” Miller said. “We’re thrilled with Carbondale as a town and thrilled with Carbondale High School. I really don’t want to be anywhere else. This has been a great place for me and my family.”

Daryl Murphy (Murphysboro)

When he first came to Southern Illinois in the early 1990s, Murphy never figured he’d be here for the long haul.

But a few decades later, the Murphysboro head coach has a cc u m u l a te d 4 13 v i c to r i e s between his current school and Century.

“My wife and I planned on this being a short stop and that we’d probably head back to the Springfield area,” Murphy said.

“But it just hasn’t worked out like that, and once my son, Daryl, got involved in things, here we are.

My son was born here before I even started my first season at Murphysboro.”

Murphy is about to start his 20th season as head coach of the Red Devils. He wins when he has great talent and also when he has rosters that aren’t imposing on paper or during pre-game warmups, which might be even more special.

“I don’t know if it means more because it’s hard to replace winning,” Murphy said. “But without question, last year’s conference championship team had to be one of our best accomplishments. But I’ve also had teams that have won 27 games in a row in the conference. That isn’t easy to do whether you’re really good or not.”

The Red Devils finished 22-7 last year, and won their conference championship by two games, despite being picked to finish near the bottom of the

conference in another publication.

Murphy is a fierce competitor and would probably run through walls himself if it meant winning more basketball games.

“We’ve built a system here,” Murphy said. “We lost a starter for the year, and I told the boys it was a plug and play system. We feel like we run a pretty dynamic system that is very hard to guard.

Several coaches in the conference have said we’re difficult to prepare for. Things have worked out really well for us.”

After losing in the super-sectional in 2010, Murphy’s excellent squad won 35 straight games before falling in the 2011 state championship game.

“I started four juniors the year before, and then we really got going in the summertime after that season,” Murphy said.

“When we got midway through that summer, I told those kids it was Peoria or bust. If we don’t make it to Peoria it would be a disappointing season.”

It was an amazing atmosphere in Peoria during March of 2011.

Red Devil fans were everywhere during a weekend to remember.

“The headline in the Peoria newspaper said, ‘Murphysboro takes Peoria by storm,’” Murphy said. “I think we had 3,000 people up there. It was an awesome experience. If I never get to go back, I’m more than happy because that was a goal of mine since I can remember. For the city of Murphysboro, it was incredible.”

Randy Smithpeters (Harrisburg)

school we can’t beat,” Smithpeters said. “I had a lot of good people that helped me out with the scouting report and personnel about Seton Academy. You get into the course of the game, and it’s just another game. We finally got the lead down the stretch, and that put a lot of pressure on Seton, and they weren’t really used to that.”

That was the greatest achievem e n t d u r i n g S m i t h p e te rs ’ 22-year run at Harrisburg. But he’s had plenty of other very good teams and has amassed 425 wins during his career.

“It flies by, and I’ve had some great talent,” Smithpeters said.

“I think any coach with longevity has had some really good talent. I’ve been very blessed here at Harrisburg. You don’t accomplish what all we have without a lot of talent.”

Even with six sectional titles and two trips to state, there were some lean years. The Bulldogs won just 28 games over a fouryear span in the early 2000s.

Smithpeters was able to get through those tough times.

“I’d never been through that before, and you feel like you need some therapy,” Smithpeters said. “Then you start to question everything. We always had a routine, and you’re sitting there in January with two wins, and you start to question whether we need to be doing this stuff that we’ve done for many years when it has always worked.”

Smithpeters has coached all five of his sons in basketball over the years. That can be a tricky situation to pull off at times.

“I think coaches do expect more out of their sons, and I did too, which is maybe not good for them,” Smithpeters said. “My kids had been in the gym since they were old enough to walk.

If I were a welder, then my kids would know more about welding than anything else. They should know more about basketball just because they’ve been here around it so much the whole time. I was probably harder on them that I was on other players.”

Unlike some current head coaches, Smithpeters spent more than a decade as an assistant coach before he got his shot at the top job. He learned a lot from David Lee and Curt Reed while at McLeansboro.

“I’d been in it long enough that I truly felt that I’d dealt with just about every situation,” Smithpeters said. “At McLeansboro with David and Curt, you were a team. You did everything together. As a freshmen coach, I scouted for the varsity and was at every practice. I had input with the scouting report and how you react to it. It really was a team effort as far the coaches go. That really prepared me for being a head coach.”

Defeating a loaded private school team in the state championship game is something multiple coaches haven’t been able to accomplish in Southern Illinois.

It’s something that Smithpeters still may not fully appreciate even a few years after the fact.

“It really doesn’t sink in until later when you truly realize what you’ve done,” Smithpeters said. “It was actually a big relief after the super-sectional because I knew we had a state trophy. Harrisburg had never gotten a state trophy in basketball before that. That was something I really wanted for our guys and our town.”

Smithpeters is the only coach of these four that actually won a state championship. His 2013 Bulldogs surprised a lot of people when they defeated Chicago’s Seton Academy in the Class 2A state title game. scott.mees@thesouthern.com “We went into that not think- 618-351-5086 ing, well here we go, this is a On Twitter: @SIprepsports

2A 2A

High School Basketball Preview

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

www.thesouthern.com

◗ SIRR OHIO DIVISION BOYS ‌BENTON

The Rangers have six players who started multiple games last year returning to the club this season.

The team won 17 games last year, but expectations are higher this time around with a good mix of talent and experience.

“Having that experience is certainly something we’re excited about going into the season,” said Benton coach Ron Winemiller.

“But that certainly puts a bull’s-eye on your back.”

B re n d a n R i tc h a s o n enjoyed a breakout year as a junior. Winemiller expects more good things from his top post player this season.

“He started some games a s a s o p h o m o re a n d became a full-time starter last year,” Winemiller said.

“He was an all-conference player last year, and hopefully he can build upon that.”

Derek Oxford exploded onto the scene as a freshman two years ago. He earned an All South selection last year, but Winemiller felt like he tried to do too much at times.

“We had a meeting with our guys and told them that nobody has to shoulder the load offensively,” Winemiller said. “Derek is a good player, but we’ve got a lot of guys that can put the ball in the hole.”

Kruz Hayes and Marc Torres will give the Rangers more options down low.

Chase Owens, Austin Wills and Timmy Henson will carry the bulk of the load at the other guard spots.

Coach: Ron Winemiller Seniors: CHASE OWENS, 5-10, g; KRUZ HAYES, 6-2, f; BRENDAN RITCHASON, 6-4, c; Marc Torres, 6-3, f.

Juniors: DEREK OXFORD, 6-2, g; AUSTIN WILLS, 6-2, g; TIMMY HENSON, 6-2, g.

Sophomores: Cade Thomas, 5-9, g; Gehrig Wynn, 5-10, g; Hamilton Page, 5-11, g; Parker Williams, 6-2, f; Blane Pankey, 6-0, f.

HARRISBURG

The last key contributor to the 2012 state championship team, Bahari Amaya, has graduated from Harrisburg. The Bulldogs will still be young, but have some pretty good talent.

“We’re still going to be a little bit inexperienced this year,” said Harrisburg coach Randy Smithpeters.

“We’ll get better as the season goes along.”

Isaiah Saulsberry and Blake Drew both started at guard as freshmen last year.

“Saulsberry is a basketball type kid, and he’s worked hard on his game,” Smithpeters said. “He is very skilled, but I think h e ’ l l g row p hys i ca l ly and mentally. Drew is a very skilled and athletic as well.”

Harrisburg’s big problem this year could be size because it really doesn’t have any.

“We’re just going to find out what we’ve got, and we’ve got to do a lot right to compete with people in our league,” Smithpeters said. “Our lack of size could be a problem, but we are pretty athletic.”

Anfernee Houston is a terrific athlete and the only senior returning starter.

But he’s battled injuries recently and may miss some time at the beginning of the season.

“We’ll have to figure out how to play together,” Smithpeters said. “We don’t have a Bahari that’s going to hit 25 a game.

We’ll really have to work as a team to get things done.”

Coach: Randy Smithpeters Seniors: ANFERNEE HOUSTON, 6-0, g; Patrick Bittle, 5-10, g.

Juniors: Noah Farrell, 6-2, f; Jordan Gould, 6-0, g; Sophomores: ISAIAH SAULSBERRY, 6-2, g; Jordan Bartok, 6-0, f; BLAKE DREW, 5-11, g; Hunter Smith, 5-11, g.

HERRIN

The Tigers lost quite a bit of talent from last year’s squad, but a talented junior class should help soften that blow a little bit.

“We have more of an athletic all around team than what we’ve had in the past,” said Herrin coach Irv Lukens. “That makes it exciting, and hopefully we can play some different ways and put some defense out there that can compete game in and game out.”

D.J. Spell, a 6-4 forward, is one of the best athletes in the region. Lukens hopes to see a big year out of him.

“He can impose a lot of different threats,” Lukens said. “He’s gotten better from the outside, but he’s more of a slashing forward type of player. He kind of has a knack for the ball, so we hope he can really help us out defensively, too.”

Jake Downen and Ty Downen, both of whom are 6-3 post players, are expected to be major contributors this season as well.

“They are both athletic, and they really know how to play inside for us,” Lukens said. “They can also shoot the ball from the perimeter.”

Savion Yarbrough will handle point guard duties.

The senior is a slick passer with good quickness.

“If people get open, he’s going to deliver the ball,” Lukens said. “He’s very unselfish and always looking for his teammates. But he’s improved his game as far as his shooting. He’s worked very hard in the offseason.”

Coach: Irv Lukens Seniors: Kiefer Bolen, 6-0, f; Savion Yarbrough, 5-8, g; Adam Salmo, 5-8, g.

Juniors: D.J. SPELL, 6-4, f; Jake Downen, 6-3, f; Ty Downen, 6-3, f; Dalton Bush, 6-0, g; Jake Hartline, 6-0, g; Parker McCormick, 6-3, f; Matthew Cagle, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Bronson Nesler, 5-10, g.

MASSAC COUNTY

The Patriots finished .500 last year, and J.T. We b e r w i l l b e re l i e d upon for quite a bit on this somewhat inexperienced squad.

Weber, a 6-2 guard, can do so many things well for Joe Hosman’s squad.

“J.T. did a lot of good things for us last year as a sophomore,” Hosman said. “He can play the point, the wing and maybe the post some. He has worked extremely hard on his body. He leads by his effort and how hard he goes at things.”

Jay Benard, a 6-1 forward, is injured and may not return until February, if at all. It was a big blow for this year’s team.

“Jay is one of the most enjoyable kids I’ve had the opportunity to coach, just because of the type of young man he is,” Hosman said. “He is a great leader.

Just his presence on the floor and in the locker room makes us a little bit better team.”

Hayes Lawson and Caleb Duckworth will both play point guard this year.

“Duckworth is a very hard-nosed defender, and he’ll get up and guard you,” Hosman said. “Hayes is a better shooter and more a of a finesse type of player for us. He’s a real good 3-point shooter.”

Isiah Thompson, a 6-6 sophomore forward, is expected to contribute major minutes this year as well. Noah Farmer is expected to start at the forward spot as well.

“We’re looking for big things from Isiah,” Hosman said. “He had a great summer in AAU ball. His athleticism and size should

Go Red devils

GIRLS really help us out.”

Coach: Joe Hosman Seniors: Jay Benard, 6-1, f; Hayes Lawson, 6-1, g; Brady Austin, 5-11, g; Ryan Schroeder, 6-0, f.

Juniors: J.T. WEBER, 6-2, g; Noah Farmer, 6-3, f; Darian Roundtree, 6-0, g; Graham Lawson, 6-0, g; Caleb Duckworth, 5-10, g; Andrew Rennie, 6-4, f.

Sophomores: Isiah Thompson, 6-6, f.

MURPHYSBORO

The Red Devils weren’t expected to light the world on fire last season, but when it was all said and done, Daryl Murphy’s squad won 22 games and the Ohio Division title.

“We won the conference by two games, and I was really proud of that group,” Murphy said. “We had a lot of good kids that just did what they were supposed to do. It was really that simple.”

Braden Miller and Noah Baird return at the guard spots. This year’s team is somewhat similar to last year, except it won’t have the explosive playmaking talent of Devante Jones.

“I’m happy with the group I have coming back, and I know that nobody is going to outwork us,” Murphy said. “We feel if some things can go our way again, and we have some luck, we should have a chance to be pretty good.”

Murphy is expecting big things from Miller, especially in the scoring department. Staci LaBranche, an undersized forward, played much bigger than he is last season.

“LaBranche just came out of nowhere last year,” Murphy said. “That kid just kept coming for us in the paint. The thing we need is for him to hit that 15-foot jump shot, and now he’s nailing it like crazy.”

Tim Marston is a solid post presence, and Mishont Gibbs can drain shots consistently from outside.

Coach: Daryl Murphy Seniors: BRADEN MILLER, 6-0, g; NOAH BAIRD, 5-10, g; STACI LABRANCHE, 6-0, f; Zack Easton, 6-3.

Juniors: TIM MARSTON, 6-2, f; Mishont Gibbs, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Jaron Gaston, 5-10, g; Jeremy House, 6-1, f; Demari Greenwood, 6-3, f.

WEST FRANKFORT

Kevin Toney returns to the sidelines for the Redbirds for the first time since 2010. Toney won four regional titles during his nine-year run for the program. He replaces Dan DeWerff, who stepped down after last season ended.

West Frankfort lost most of its talent from an 18-win squad last season. But Toney is looking forward to the challenge.

“I missed coaching a lot,” Toney said. “I knew I needed to get back in coaching. I learned a lot just by watching other teams practice.”

A whole lot of new guys will have to step up and claim key varsity roles this season.

“My wife and I would get to the JV games earlier and earlier last season,” Toney said. “That was mainly because they were fun to watch. They would hustle and scrap and dive after loose balls. But I didn’t have any idea during the season that Dan was going to be gone.”

Keegan Easley, a returning starter, is really the only known talent that is back.

The senior guard saw a lot of action last year.

“It seemed like every time they played this summer there was someone who could do something a little bit better than they did before,” Toney said. “It is really going to be entertaining to watch them improve throughout the year.”

Easley will be required to carry a leadership and scoring role this season.

“He can run and shoot it a little bit,” Toney said.

“He just plays his tail off.

He doesn’t know that he’s not 6-4 and 195 pounds.

He sticks his nose in there and drives to the bucket.”

Coach: Kevin Toney Seniors: KEEGAN EASLEY, 5-10, g; Brett Reiger, 6-3, f; Bryce Shadowens, 6-5, f.

Juniors: Noah Allen, 5-8, g; Austin Glodich, 6-4, f; Brandon Beery, 5-11, g; Jaryd Clark, 6-0, f; Ethan Riddle, 5-9, g; Andrew Sturgill, 6-0, g/f.

Sophomores: Bradlee Croslin, 6-5, c; Lucas Davis, 6-1, f; Brendan Russell, 5-8, g; Jacob Russell, 5-8, g; Keagan Thrash, 6-2, f; Lucas Wolfe, 5-7, g.

— Scott Mees‌

Bremer, 5-9, f; Mackenzie Cowgill, 5-6, g.

Juniors: Natalie Hosman, 5-5, g; Taylor Stoner, 5-6, g; Emilee Troutt, 5-6, g/f; Lucia Lacuesta, 5-8, g/f.

‌BENTON

The Rangerettes got off to a great start last year by winning the Marion Lady Wildcat Invitational against solid competition.

But it wasn’t until the team beat Nashville on the road that the club really opened some eyes.

“We rolled in there undefeated, but you had to ask yourself, with no disrespect to the teams we’d already played, have you been tested?” said Benton coach Andy Sloan. “When you can go in there and beat them on their home court then you’ve kind of got your kids believing.”

Benton returns three good starters in Marcy Mendez, Ally Gischer and Makala Abney.

“We are going to be defensive-minded this year,” Sloan said. “We lost a lot of offense from last year, but I feel like we’ve got some good players and a good nucleus back.”

Mendez is a lock down defender, and probably one of the best in the area.

Abney returns to the paint, and most teams had a difficult time defending her last year. The senior has a soft touch around the basket.

“She is one of the best post players around,” Sloan said of Abney. “She’s added a 15 to 18-footer to her game this year, too. We’re hoping that she does that and that teams have to go out there and honor it.”

Gischer had a solid sophomore season, and she’ll be expected to contribute in a major way once again this year.

MURPHYSBORO

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌

Ally Gischer of Benton pulls up in the lane during a game against West Frankfort this past season.

be the one that sets the tone for us,” Green said of LeQuatte. “She played pretty well this summer.

She can dominate when she really sets her mind to it.”

Groutage is tall, but can also do damage on the perimeter.

“Hannah is probably going to move out on the floor more this year,” Green said of Groutage. “She can get the ball to the bucket off the dribble, and we’re expecting big things out of her.”

If Herrin needs a shot drained from long distance, Emma Deaton is the person they’ll look for. “ E m m a i s t h e p u rest shooter on our team,” Green said of Deaton. “If she comes out and makes her first shot, she might make four or five. They are going to have to guard her.”

Coach: Andy Sloan Makayla Smothers has Seniors: MARCY MENDEZ, 5-7, g; been a multi-sport standTaylor Mosley, 5-8, g; Haley Ing, 5-6, g.

Juniors: ALLY GISCHER, 5-6, g; MAKALA out since her freshman ABNEY, 5-10, c; Alexis Abney, 6-1, c; Kaylee year. Now a junior, SmothPedigo, 5-11, f; Lauren Zinziletta, 5-6, g.

Sophomores: Ebriessa Casey, 5-1, g. ers will continue to run Freshmen: Ember Milby, 5-9, g; the team.

Lacey Jerkins, 5-5, g; Macie Cockrum, “She will have a lot on 5-9, f; Kelsey Wilcox, 5-10, f. her shoulders this year,” Green said of Smothers.

HARRISBURG The Lady Bulldogs were “She’s worked hard in the certainly rebuilding last weight room, and she could year, but still managed to probably go down and post people up this year.” finish above .500.

Bill Green Jake Stewart’s squad Coach: Seniors: MADISON LEQUATTE, 6-1, re t u r n s f ive s ta r te rs, c; Brooke Jarrell, 5-0, g; Bralon Mack, including four seniors 5-10, c; Aubunia Moore, 5-5, g.

Juniors: MAKAYLA SMOTHERS, 5-8, g; this season.

HANNAH GROUTAGE, 6-0, f; EMILY DEATON, 5-8, “We feel like we’ve got a f; Maggie Conner, 5-11, f; Chelsea Smith, 5-4, g.

Marissa Russell, lot of experience this year,” 5-8,Sophomores: f; Madison Russell, 5-8, g/f.

Stewart said. “We won 16 games last year and lost MASSAC COUNTY four more by two points This year should be interesting for the Lady or less.”

Matty Hawkins, a 6-2 Patriots mainly because the center who started as a Big Three graduated. freshman, has a chance to E m i l y H o a rd , G ra make a lot of noise in the cyn McBride, and Jessie Douglas did so much for paint this season.

“I expect her to take an the program over the past even bigger step forward four years, but now other this year,” Stewart said. “I players will have to step expect to see more points up in their absence. Masthis year. She had an amaz- sac County made it to the ing year with rebounds and Class 3A super-sectional blocks last year.” last year.

But it all starts with “It was such a great run Kelsey Hobbs, who earned for us last year,” said Masan All-South selection a sac County coach Keith Shelton. “A lot of people year ago.

“Kelsey and Alexa Burtis think we’re rebuilding this were both all-conference year. Maybe we are, but players, and we expect a I think we’ll get a good lot from them,” Stewart effort from our girls. I told said. “Both of them should them I knew they weren’t cross 1,000 career points last year’s team, but that this year. This will be the I wanted them to play like first time we have two kids last year’s team.” in the same class do that.”

Jessica Coakley and Lilee Robinson will run Alexxus Thompson should the point, and Hannah Bar- be a formidable duo in the tok returns as the off guard. paint, especially when “Hannah is our defensive they’re both on the floor at stopper, and she averaged the same time. four steals last year,” Stew“That’s a pretty good art said. “Lilee Robinson combination to have in is probably the smartest there in the post,” Shelplayer I’ve ever coached.” ton said. “The thing about Coach: Jake Stewart Coakley is, she’s the best Seniors: ALEXA BURTIS, 5-9, g; 3-point shooter I’ve got.

KELSEY HOBBS, 5-9, f; HANNAH BARTOK, 5-4, g; LILEE ROBINSON, 5-4, g; I’m going to run her inside Juniors: Toni Crisp, 5-8, f. and out.”

Sophomores: MATTY HAWKINS, 6-2, c; Lotte Miller, 5-6, g; Jenny Buchanan, 5-9, f.

Natalie Hosman will Freshmen: Karsyn Davis, 5-9, f; Madeline play point guard for the Rider, 5-8, f; Shianne Barker, 5-8, f. team, and Shelton believes HERRIN her experience as a sophoThe Tigers had a decent more last year should season a year ago, but with pay dividends. four returning starters and “By the end of the year, plenty of size the expecta- she wasn’t a starter, but she tions are high right now. was always on the floor in “Last year we knew it the fourth quarter,” Shelton was going to be tough, and said of Hosman. “She is like it was a rebuilding year,” her brothers, Andrew and said Herrin coach Bill Zach, in that she passes the Green. “We didn’t fare so ball well and sees the floor well in the conference last well. She knows where it year, but we should be a needs to go, and she’s a little better this year.” tough kid.”

Madison LeQuatte, HanShelton said he has nine nah Groutage, and Bralon players that he thinks will Mack give the Tigers a play a lot this season.

Keith Shelton size advantage in most of Coach: Seniors: JESSICA COAKLEY, 6-0, f; their games.

ALEXXUS THOMPSON, 6-0, c; Sydney “Madison will probably Boyd, 5-6, g; Emily Reed, 5-7, g; Courtney

Last year was tremendous for the Lady Red Devils as the squad set a school record for wins with 26.

Although the team lost its best scorer, Johnna Hines, and a solid defender, Rebecca Shields, to graduation, the cupboard is not bare.

“I think our full court press will give people fits, and we’re always trying to stay ahead of it,” said Murphysboro coach Jon Marston.

Unfortunately for Murphysboro, Heather Cross, a 6-foot post player, will miss the entire season after suffering a shoulder injury during her final volleyball match of the season.

But all is not lost. The Lady Red Devils will still win lots of games this year, primarily because of the team’s dynamic duo, Jasmine Frazier and Mikayla Brasel.

“When Jasmine is on her game, getting steals and taking the ball to the hoop, I think she’s one of the better guards around,” Marston said. “She needs 35 points to cross 1,000. She is quick, works hard and has improved her outside shot.”

As for Brasel, she may be small, but she packs a punch and has quite a bit of talent.

“She is a gamer, and if I was playing, I’d want her on my team,” Marston said of Brasel. “She just gets after it. She’s kind of like a bulldog, and she’ll do anything to win a game.”

Amber Reiman and Arie Ciganovich are expected to battle it out for significant playing time at the guard spot. Abby Vaughn and Kayla Walker will likely see major minutes in the post.

Coach: Jon Marston Seniors: JASMINE FRAZIER, 5-8, g; Amber Reiman, 5-6, g; Abby Vaughn, 5-9, f; Chelby Meade, 5-9, f; Sarah Sauerhage, 5-6, g.

Juniors: MIKAYLA BRASEL, 5-7, g.

Sophomores: Arie Ciganovich, 5-5, g; Kayla Walker, 5-8, g/f; Kelsey Stanton, 5-9, f; Celeste Provo, 5-10, f.

Freshmen: Madison LaBranche, 5-9, g; Maurnajah Simmons, 5-6, g.

WEST FRANKFORT

The Lady Redbirds bring back four starters from a 17-win squad a year ago, but the big problem is the loss of their excellent point guard, Kiarha Wilce, who graduated.

Matt Hampleman is in somewhat of a predicament as far as which player will handle the ball.

“It will be on an as needed basis, and if we need Morgan Griffith to handle the ball, then she’ll handle the ball,” Hampleman said. “But we think we have other people that can step up into that point guard position.”

Griffith, a shooting g u a rd /s m a l l fo r wa rd , was the area’s leading scorer last season. She also crossed 1,000 career points as a sophomore. She may need to average 30 points per game this year, and opposing defenses will obviously double team her.

“Morgan always has the green light, and there will be some times where she’ll have to put up some big numbers,” Hampleman said of Griffith. “But I would like for us to share the ball as much as possible and get good looks. It’s hard to win a game with one person.”

Te r r i l y n n S u m m e rs enjoyed a breakout season as junior. Hampleman will need quite a bit of production from her again this year.

“She had a great year for us,” Hampleman said of Summers. “If the Ohio hadn’t been so loaded last year, she had a season that was probably worthy of allconference.”

Hampleman is expecting solid post play from Hannah Melvin and Emily Stewart, both of whom can cause trouble for the opposing team in the paint.

Coach: Matt Hampleman Seniors: TERRILYNN SUMMERS, 5-8, g; EMILY STEWART, 5-10, f/c; HANNAH MELVIN, 6-1, c; Jaidon Saliliez, 5-10, f; Amanda Fry, 5-11, c.

Juniors: MORGAN GRIFFITH, 5-9, g/f; Kylie Prather, 5-8, g/f; Madison Freeman, 5-9, f.

Sophomores: Cali Wright, 5-8, g/f; Morgan Daniels, 5-7, f; Megan Beery, 5-5, g.

— Scott Mees

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

www.thesouthern.com

3A High School Basketball Preview 3A

◗ SIRR MISSISSIPPI DIVISION GIRLS

BOYS ‌ANNA-JONESBORO

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌

Anna-Jonesboro’s Zach Parr makes a pass through a gap in Nashville’s defense during a game this past season.

‌ANNA-JONESBORO

In his sixth year as Wildcats coach, Mike Chamness has two good building blocks. But it might be the performance of three new starters that determines if this team can contend for a championship.

Zach Parr (5-foot-8, senior) averaged 13.1 points, 4.6 assists and 3.4 steals per game last season, earning all-conference honors for a second straight season.

Dakota Earnhart (6-5, senior) contributed 7.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, and should see his numbers spike now that two double-figure scorers — guards Noah Fuller and Noah Prater — have graduated.

“Having our point guard back and an athletic post player is a good place to start,” Chamness said. “We just need to find the right pieces and put them in the right spots.”

O u t o f t h e ro s te r ’s remainder, Collin Prather (5-9, senior) is the only one who earned meaningful minutes last year, so he’ll probably join Parr in the lineup at season’s beginning. There are enough numbers on the roster that Chamness can play a big or quick lineup.

Regardless, Anna-Jonesboro’s season will come down to whether it can give Parr and Earnhart help.

If it finds a third scorer and other complementary parts, it will be a tough out.

If not, that spells bad news in this conference.

Coach: Mike Chamness Seniors: ZACH PARR, 5-8, g; DAKOTA EARNHART, 6-5, f; Ryan Stark, 5-9, g; Collin Prather, 5-9, g; Hunter Garver, 6-0, g; Logan Mattingly, 6-2, g; Garrett Nimmo, 5-11, g; Jake Stark, 6-2, f; Wyatt Smith, 6-8, c.

Juniors: Izzy Markovic, 6-5, f; Jade Gillis, 6-1, g; Ethan Friebel, 6-1, g.

Sophomores: Jake Parr, 6-1, f; Sheldon McGrath, 5-10, g.

CARTERVILLE

Most new coaches at least get an offseason to work with their team in summer camps, so they have a general idea of what their players can or can’t do.

T h e n t h e re ’s Dav i d Brown, who was appointed on Oct. 15 as the Lions’ new coach, meaning that when he talked about his team recently, he’d been running his program for all of four weeks.

“Still fresh, man,” he said, laughing.

H o we ve r, B ro w n i s enthusiastic about his first head coaching job.

A former assistant at SIU Edwardsville and Rend Lake, as well as Benton, Brown inherits two starters and a reserve from last season’s 25-5 squad which captured regional and sectional titles.

Au s t i n Swa l l s ( 6 -3, senior) is one of the area’s best multi-sport athletes and figures to be a go-to option offensively, while Taylor Heil (6-5, junior) offers good size in the lane.

Darian Miller (6-1, junior) should be a mainstay in the backcourt.

Aside from that trio, Brown said the battle for playing time should be ongoing into January as he tries to figure out what he has. Carterville is going to play an up-tempo game, so the best guess is that it will use a lot of players.

Coach: David Brown Seniors: AUSTIN SWALLS, 6-3, f.

Juniors: TAYLOR HEIL, 6-5, c; Darian Miller, 6-1, g.

DU QUOIN

In his first season as coach, Justin Barrington hopes to take the building process that Wendell

Wheeler initiated the last two seasons and convert it into tangible results in the win-loss column.

Wheeler’s two years in his second stint as coach weren’t successful by conventional standards, but he inherited a team with hardly any varsity experience and built from the ground up.

The top returnees are a couple of 6-1 guards, Tucker Kuhnert and Hank Stewart, as well as 6-3 junior forward Caleb Vogel. Kuhnert is a senior, while Stewart is a sophomore who earned starting assignments last year.

Vogel is one of the conference’s best athletes, go o d e n o u g h to s ta r t at quarterback for the school’s conference cochampions. He’s also one of 13 upperclassmen on the roster.

“Offensively, we’ll look to be balanced to get everyone involved and push the ball in transition when it is there,” Barrington said.

“The key to our success this year will be if we have the ability to get defensive stops and rebound the ball.”

With no one taller than 6-4, the Indians will have to do their work below the rim — a.k.a. boxing out — if they are to win the boards, and ultimately, win games.

Coach: Justin Barrington Seniors: TUCKER KUHNERT, 6-1, g; Cole Hopkins, 5-5, g; Brock Bullar, 5-10, g; Jacob Wright, 5-10, g; Chad Heatherly, 6-0, g; Trace Klein, 5-10, g; Hunter Behm, 5-11, f; Ryne O’Rourke, 6-3, f.

Juniors: CALEB VOGEL, 6-3, f; Devin Jones, 6-3, f; Braden Heape, 6-4, f; Michael Worthington, 6-1, f; Blaine Bradley, 6-0, g.

Sophomores: HANK STEWART, 6-1, g; Klayton Donoghue, 5-6, g; Eliot Gross, 5-10, g; Cullen Higgins, 6-2, f; Ashton Smith, 5-10, g; Donovan McBride, 5-8, g.

NASHVILLE

Their encore to a memorable triple OT loss in the Class 2A championship game wasn’t a bad one, but the Hornets’ 26-4 campaign contained an ill-timed glitch with a loss in the regional championship game.

Coach Brad Weathers has to do some serious retooling after losing four starters who combined to average more than 32 points per game. But the one returnee is one who any coach in Southern Illinois would slot into their lineup, sight unseen.

In 6-7, 260-pound senior center Royce Newman, who has verbally committed to play football at Missouri, Nashville returns 15 points and six rebounds per game.

More importantly, Newman commands multiple defenders on every touch, which should create a spate of clean looks for his teammates.

Point guard Brady Bultman (6-3, senior) averaged 6.1 points off the bench, wh i l e s h o o t i n g g u a rd Hayden Heggemeier (5-11, junior) chipped in 3.3 ppg as a reserve.

Other options include seniors Jaris Dalman (5-10), Riley Edwards (6-1), Ryan Kell (6-1) and Joe Kirchner (5-8), as well as juniors Ryan Brink (6-1) and Brogan Kemp (6-6).

Newman has scored more than 1,000 career points and his presence makes this team a conference favorite. How much of it he receives will decide how much sting these Hornets administer.

Coach: Brad Weathers Seniors: ROYCE NEWMAN, 6-7, c; Brady Bultman, 6-3, g; Jaris Dalman, 5-10, g; Riley Edwards, 6-1, f; Ryan Kell, 6-1, f; Joe Kirchner, 5-8, g.

Juniors: Hayden Heggemeier, 5-11, g; Ryan Brink, 6-1, f; Brogan Kemp, 6-6, f.

PINCKNEYVILLE

Entering his ninth season as the Panthers’ coach, Bob Waggoner has mostly kept up the school’s traditions, winning his third regional championship as well as another Benton Invitational.

But this might be a season where opponents exact some payback. P inckneyville graduated five seniors who combined with departed guard Tyler Rulevish to score 80 percent of the team’s points last year, leaving Waggoner searching for answers.

“The key to our season will be the development and maturation of our guard play,” he said. “This will be an inexperienced team.”

Jackson Brand (5-9, sr.) earned minutes off the bench last year, so it figures that he’ll open the season as a starter. Clayton Houghland (6-3, sr.) and Sam Simpson (6-5, sr.) started from time-to-time last year and will be counted on in the frontcourt.

The rest of the lineup and playing rotation could be a work in progress, with roles changing from game-togame or even from quarterto-quarter. It realistically could take until January before the Panthers carve out their identity.

Tradition and coaching are on Pinckneyville’s side, even if a lack of experience and proven players aren’t.

Coach: Bob Waggoner Seniors: Jackson Brand, 5-9, g; Clayton Houghland, 6-3, f; Sam Simpson, 6-5, c; Caulden Lazenby, 5-9, g; Cale Jausel, 5-6, g; Hayden Carter, 6-0, f.

Juniors: Alex Howard, 5-10, f.

SPARTA

In his fourth year as Bulldogs coach, Jeff Bowlby says this is the most athletic team he’s had. But a lack of height and proven scoring punch could make things difficult again when faced with conference opponents.

Both returning starters are guards. Devin Brown (6-1, senior) averaged 11 points per game last season and will be a three-year starter, while Drew Kordys (5-10, senior) contributed 8 ppg in his first season as a starter.

E t h a n Gw i n ( 6 -2 , senior), Gabe Yearian (6-1, senior), Aliza Nesbitt (5-9, senior) and Alex Bennett (5-10, senior) also picked up meaningful minutes off the bench last year. Nasseur Hobbs (6-2, junior) and Brian Lowery (5-10, junior) also figure into the mix.

“We’re going to be giving up two or three inches at every position,” Bowlby said. “We’ll have to lean on our athleticism, speed and quickness. I think we’re up for the challenge.”

Sparta won’t be able to outslug anyone in a halfcourt game, but will cause problems if it can make an opponent play 94 feet because of its quickness.

However, Bowlby admits this isn’t a great shooting club, so it will probably see its share of zones.

To improve on last year’s 5-17 mark that included just one SIRR Mississippi win, the Bulldogs will have to find a way to be more efficient offensively while taking teams out of their offensive rhythm with pressure defense.

Coach: Jeff Bowlby Seniors: DEVIN BROWN, 6-1, g; DREW KORDYS, 5-10, g; Ethan Gwin, 6-2, f; Gabe Yearian, 6-1, f; Aliza Nesbitt, 5-9, g; Alex Bennett, 5-10, g.

Juniors: Nasseur Hobbs, 6-2, f; Brian Lowery, 5-10, g.

— Bucky Dent‌

Year one of the Matt Denny regime went about as well as could realistically be expected for a program which squeaked out 12 wins in the two seasons prior to his appointment.

The Wildcats matched that total last year, and although they lost 17 games en route to a oneand-done in the regionals, made definite progress in Denny’s view.

“We’ve made strides,” he said. “We had five seniors who had one coach for four years and it was hard for them to change. I think we’ll be a lot more athletic and a much better defensive team.”

That being said, A-J still needs a little more offensive punch to go along with 5-11 junior Elle Basler, an all-conference pick who averaged 12.5 points and five rebounds per game despite missing late-season games with illness.

Connar Hadley (5-11, so.) joins Basler up front, with Lexa Sharp (5-6, jr.), Lexi Smith (5-7, so.), Angel Helm (5-9, fr.), Jasmine Foster (5-5, so.) and Caitlin Sawyer (5-6, jr.) also in the mix.

De p e n d i n g o n h ow quickly other players can give real help to Basler offensively, the Wildcats could contend for a tophalf finish in the conference. Regardless, with almost every key player ticketed to return next season, this program’s best basketball is ahead of it.

Coach: Matt Denny Juniors: ELLE BASLER, 5-11, f; Lexa Sharp, 5-6, g; Caitlin Sawyer, 5-6, f.

Sophomores: CONNAR HADLEY, 5-11, f; Lexi Smith, 5-7, g; Jasmine Foster, 5-5, g.

Freshmen: Angel Helm, 5-9, f.

CARTERVILLE

With their top six players back from a 21-10 team that won a regional championship, the Lions are certainly in position to become the first outright SIRR Mississippi champion not named Nashville since before the turn of the millenium.

Carterville took a major step in that direction late last season with a defeat of the Hornettes at home, a result which enabled it to share the conference title with Nashville. A similar ending in February might rank as somewhat of a disappointment.

“We want to contend for the conference championship,” Lions coach Matt Crain said. “We’re hoping to win the regional. If we get a couple of bounces, we’d like to think we can contend for a sectional.

But we’ve got a lot of steps to take first.”

Those steps will be taken with familiar faces.

Avery English (5-foot8, senior), averaged 16.5 points per game to lead the team. Maddi Meyer (5-foot-8, senior) averaged 10 points and five assists despite missing 10 games with injuries.

Megan Barrett (5-7, junior) chipped in nine points, joining English and Meyer on the allconference team. Shelby Leeper (5-9, senior) and Co ra G u e r r i e r i ( 6 - 0, senior) combined for 16.5 points and 13 rebounds per game.

Montana Taylor (5-10, sophomore) and Addi Bogard (5-5, senior) are the top reserves for a team that has the skill and experience to make their February last a while.

Coach: Matt Crain Seniors: AVERY ENGLISH, 5-8, g; MADDI MEYER, 5-8, g; SHELBY LEEPER, 5-9, f; CORA GUERRIERI, 6-0, c; Addi Bogard, 5-5, g.

Juniors: MEGAN BARRETT, 5-7, g.

Sophomores: Montana Taylor, 5-10, f.

DU QUOIN

Carterville isn’t the only place where familiar faces dot the landscape. Ninth-year Indians coach Shawn File also welcomes back all five starters, plus four reserves, two of which are coming off ACL tears in the offseason.

“This should be the best depth that I have had in my tenure,” File said. “We have a lot of competition for minutes and starting positions this year.”

Alaina Caldwell (5-7, senior), Kate Smith (5-7,

5-9, g; Sarah Breslin, 5-9, f; Emmalee Chaney, 5-7, f; Sophie Kelly, 5-6, f.

NASHVILLE

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌

Carterville’s Avery English gets in position to score in the fourth quarter during a game this past season against West Frankfort.

junior) and Tarynn Mays (5-4, junior) comprise a three-guard backcourt.

Jordyn Bullar (5-6, senior) and Sadie Day (5-10, junior) start in the post.

Caldwell and Smith earned all-conference mention last year.

Mackenzie Jackson (5-8, junior), Kat Robison (5-4, junior), Hannah Baxter (5-3, junior) and Grace Haney (6-0, junior) offer quality depth and could win starting spots as the season progresses.

Freshman guards Katie Smith (5-4), Chloe Hill (5-6) and Meryn Gross (5-4) fill out the roster for Du Quoin, which should improve its 10-22 record of a season ago but will need to up its scoring while maintaining its tenacity on defense.

Coach: Shawn File Seniors: ALAINA CALDWELL, 5-7, g; JORDYN BULLAR, 5-6, f.

Juniors: KATE SMITH, 5-7, g; TARYNN MAYS, 5-4, g; SADIE DAY, 5-10, c; Mackenzie Jackson, 5-8, f; Kat Robison, 5-4, g; Hannah Baxter, 5-3, g; Grace Haney, 6-0, c.

Freshmen: Katie Smith, 5-4, g; Chloe Hill, 5-6, g; Meryn Gross, 5-4, g.

PINCKNEYVILLE

Wi n n i n g ba s ke tba l l games is tough enough when your team is whole and healthy. Winning basketball games when your team is about a starting lineup shy of being whole and healthy is downright impossible.

Alan Engelhardt’s Panthers lived the latter last year, their best-laid plans scuttled by a laundry list of ailments which ruined any chance of cohesion and chemistry.

“Last year was a nightmare,” he said. “We need to be healthier if we are going to compete at a high level. We are just looking for improvement every day and to do things the right way.”

Six players with extensive experience return, led by Caitlyn Anderson (6-0, jr.), who averaged 5.8 points and 4.5 rebounds.

Sophie Keith (5-9, sr.) might be the team’s most versatile player, leading them in rebounds (8.8.), assists (2.3) and steals (1.1) last year while chipping in 5.3 ppg.

Andrea Morgan (5-4, sr.) tallied 4.9 ppg, while Raygan Yates (5-9, jr.) contributed 4.1 ppg and 2.6 rebounds. Taylor Smith (5-4, sr.) added 2.6 points and 2.2 rebounds, and Mayci Doerflein (5-6, jr.) scored just under 2 ppg.

The law of averages suggests Pinckneyville is due for good luck in terms of staying healthy. If one or two of the returnees can become a double-figure scorer, the Panthers have a chance to finish in the league’s top half.

Coach: Alan Engelhardt Seniors: SOPHIE KEITH, 5-9, f; ANDREA MORGAN, 5-4, g; TAYLOR SMITH, 5-4, g; Breanna Clardy, 5-4, g; Torrie Carter, 5-8, f.

Juniors: CAITLYN ANDERSON, 6-0, c; RAYGAN YATES, 5-9, f; Mayci Doerflein, 5-6, f-g; Gabby Bartnicki, 5-8, c.

Sophomores: Olivia Szczepanski, 5-4, g; Mariah Clark, 5-7, f.

Freshmen: Ashley McCurdy, 5-4, g; Kiya Hagene, 5-4, g; Megan Breslin,

How green are the Hornettes?

“We have 20 girls total in the program and one of them has a driver’s l i ce n se ,” coa c h Do u g Althoff said.

And that’s not even the biggest story with this proud program. That Althoff is running the show and not Wayne Harre, who left the sideline after 15 years, 412 wins and a Class 2A championship in 2012-13, makes this a potentially pressurepacked situation.

But Althoff, who was at Harre’s side for all 412 wins, said the transition should be easier than many think because he doesn’t plan to change much. And since what Harre was doing worked to the tune of an .843 winning percentage and 15 straight regional titles, why fix what isn’t broken?

Althoff only has four experienced players, none of whom averaged double figures. Karley Stanowski (5-9, sophomore) averaged around 7 points and nearly 7 rebounds per game. Guard Paige Kasten (5-5, sophomore) and MacKenzie McFeron (5-7, sophomore) also chipped in around 6 ppg.

Janie Holle (5-9, junior) also earned some starts last year, and Rachael Kell (5-8, sophomore) should contribute for Nashville.

How quickly the returnees grow into their roles will determine if this transition game scores or dribbles out of bounds.

Coach: Doug Althoff Juniors: Janie Holle, 5-9, f.

Sophomores: KARLEY STANOWSKI, 5-9, f; PAIGE KASTEN, 5-5, g; MACKENZIE MCFERON, 5-7, g; Rachael Kell, 5-8, f.

SPARTA

The Bulldogs took their lumps last year under coach Jim Jeffers, going only 2-24, but should be better in theory based on experience. They return five players with starting experience and three others who earned extensive action.

The top returning scorer is 6-2 junior center Kera Kiner, who scored 8.8 points per game and grabbed 8.1 rebounds but missed 12 games. Danielle Dodson (5-1, sophomore) averaged 6.2 points while also pacing the team in assists with 46 and steals with 31. Savannah Oliver (5-4, senior) contributed 5.7 ppg.

Nikki Kempfer (5-6, sophomore) tallied 4.2 points and was second on the team with 30 steals, while Ashley Brenning (5-6, senior) averaged 2.1 points.

Sparta’s biggest problem last year was shooting. It sank just 26.3 percent of its field goal attempts, hit only 55-of-251 on 3-pointers and missed more than half its free throws.

Kayla Cowell (5-7, sophomore), Brooke Craig (5-7, junior) and Olivia Beattie (6-2, senior) also figure to play key minutes off the bench.

“Our team has maybe struggled in the past with meshing well together,” assistant coach Grace Hernandez said, “but I think this group is more comfortable playing together and they gel well.”

Coach: Jim Jeffers Seniors: SAVANNAH OLIVER, 5-4, f; ASHLEY BRENNING, 5-6, g; Olivia Beattie 6-2, c.

Juniors: KERA KINER, 6-2, c; Cathleen Townley, 5-5, f; Lauren Weber, 5-6, f; Brooke Craig, 5-7, f.

Sophomores: DANIELLE DODSON, 5-1, g; NIKKI KEMPFER, 5-6, g; Sheri Douglas, 5-5, g; Kayla Cowell, 5-7, f; Daniela Sangurima, 5-1, g.

Freshmen: Maddie Ethington, 5-7, f; Amyia Henry, 5-5, g; Chyanne Haslett, 5-0, g; Shawna Smith, 5-1, g; Sissy Zepeda, 5-5, f; Ayanna Starnes, 5-7, f.

— Bucky Dent

Go thers!

Pan VWofMarion.com 618-551-5100

4A 4A

High School Basketball Preview

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

www.thesouthern.com

◗ SOUTH SEVEN CONFERENCE BOYS

GIRLS

‌ALTHOFF

Last year the Crusaders (31-4) missed winning its first state title by four points, won their second South Seven title (8-1) since 1999 and set a school record for wins.

Coach Greg Leib returns all five starters to make another run.

“We’re in a unique position of having all but two players back,” Leib said.

“Last year’s No. 1 attribute was sharing the ball.

Building upon that and improving our defense, we could have another successful year.”

Junior forward Jordan Goodwin led the team with 20 points and nine rebounds a game. Senior guard Tarkus Ferguson averaged 15 points and senior forward Brendon Gooch 14 points and eight rebounds.

Last year senior Keenen Young and junior C.J. Coldon split duties at point guard.

The top reserves should be junior forward Marvin Bateman and junior guard Edwyn Brown.

Coach: Greg Leib Seniors: KEENEN YOUNG, 6-1, g; TARKUS FERGUSON, 6-4, g; BRENDON GOOCH, 6-6, f; Ishaiah Williams, 5-4, g; Malik Easley, 5-7, g.

Juniors: C.J. COLDON 6-1, g; JORDAN GOODWIN, 6-3, f; Edwyn Brown, 6-5, g; Dante Ray, 6-4, f; Marvin Bateman, 6-5, f; Bryson Strong, 5-10, g; Ryder Goodwin, 5-8, g; D’Mond Salmond, 5-6, g.

Sophomores: Devyn Nash, 5-10, f; Melvin Brock, 5-10, g.

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌S

Carbondale’s Skylar Miller (24) breaks half court past Althoff’s Rachel Collins during a game this past season in Carbondale.

‌ALTHOFF

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌S

Darius Beane drives across midcourt during a game against Rockford East at the 2014 Carbondale SIH Holiday Tournament.

MARION

CAHOKIA

Two years removed from finishing second at state, the Comanches are in a rebuilding mode with only two returning starters from a team that went 15-17 and finished last in the South Seven Conference at 1-9.

“I have a great class of freshmen coming in and I’m not adverse to playing freshmen,” said coach Darian Nash. “We lost eight players, so it was important we had over 30 games during the summer to get our guys ready.”

Nash has senior Eugene Gully moving to point guard, and junior forward/ guard Thomas Bell to build around.

“I’m looking for a lot out of Bell,” Nash said. “He’s always around the ball and scores in the slash. Gully should have a smooth transition because he played a lot of point on the JV.” Senior Marvon Crumble is the favorite at shooting guard and junior Malik Johnson at power forward.

Senior Chris McRoberts is also in the mix at power forward.

Coach: Darian Nash Seniors: EUGENE GULLY, 5-11, g; Antonio Donald, 6-1, f; Marvon Crumble, 6-2, g; Chris McRoberts, 6-2, c/f.

Juniors: THOMAS BELL, 6-5, F/g; Jackorey Davis, 6-0, g; Damond Harrison, 6-0, g; Malik Johnson, 6-4, f/c.

CARBONDALE

The last two seasons, the Terriers have gone 48-10 and 15-5 in the South Seven.

Last year Carbondale finished second in the South Seven (7-3) and posted a 25-6 record, advancing to the sectional finals.

Coach Jim Miller lost seven seniors, with sophomore guard Darius Beane the lone returning starter.

“Darius started as a freshman on a senior-laden team and did his job,” Miller said. “He was our shooting guard, but will be moved to point because he’s a good enough athlete to take responsibility of our team.”

The top two reserves, seniors Sharere Lark and Unree Westley are expected to win starting jobs.

“Sharere will be responsible for the center/forward spot and Unree will be the shooting guard,” Miller said. “Junior Winslow

Marion’s Justin Shadowens drives past Madison Prep guard Casey Cody-Jackson during a game at the 2014 Carbondale SIH Holiday Tournament.

Martin is going to try to win a starting spot at wing or forward as is sophomore ZaNidrelle Johnson at shooting or wing guard.”

Also competing for spots are seniors Patrick Moore and Jordan Roseman and sophomore Kani Acree.

“Moore at 6-7 helps with our lack of size and Roseman, who plays bigger than he really is, will give us some depth in the post,” Miller said. “Acree was a versatile player at wing, forward and center.”

Coach: Jim Miller Seniors: Sharere Lark, 6-2, c/f; Unree Westley, 5-11, g; Patrick Moore, 6-7, f/c; Jordan Roseman, 6-0, c.

Juniors: Winslow Martin, 6-4, g/f.

Sophomores: DARIUS BEANE, 6-3, g; Kani Acree, 6-4, g/f; ZaNidrelle Johnson, 6-1, g.

CENTRALIA

The Orphans (23-6) are also coming off a good season, finishing third (6-4) in a very tough South Seven Conference and handing Belleville Althoff its only loss. Coach Lee Bennett has four returning starters to make a run for its first conference title since finishing second at state in 2011.

“Replacing Ryan Obermeier and all he did for us is going to be the great challenge,” Bennett said.

Returning starters are senior guard D’Aaron Owens, senior forwards Deven Toennies and Tyriq Billberry, and junior guard/ forward Dawson Berry The sixth man, senior guard Lundyn Waithe, also returns.

Coach: Lee Bennett Seniors: D’AARON OWENS, 5-9, g; DEVEN TOENNIES, 6-3, f; TYRIQ BILLBERRY, 6-2, f; Lundyn Waithe, 5-9, g; Jared Glenn, 6-3, F; TreVon McClain, 5-10, G. Juniors: DAWSON BERRY, 6-2, G/F; Gavin Cass, 5-9, g; Jachai Wester, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Jonathan Keeler, 6-1, g/f; Javon Williams, Jr., 6-2, g/f; Jordan Maines, 5-10, g.

W ILDCATS

Go ! s t a c d Wil THE BANK OF HERRIN bankofherrin.com

VWofMarion.com 618-551-5100

#NOTJUSTABANK it’s a relationship

Now located in Marion home of the Wildcats!

The Wildcats will be rebuilding this year after falling to 12-15 and finishing fifth in the South Seven Conference at 2-7.

“We don’t have a whole lot of experience,” said coach Shane Hawkins. “We don’t have great overall size, but we do have a lot of guys about the same size, which might make it a little bit harder to match up with us.”

Hawkins has to replace shooting guard Robby Dosier and center R.J. Manfredo, but has senior Adam Newman and junior Justin Shadowens back as starters. However, the other returning starter, sophomore power forward Cole Schafer, will begin the season on the sidelines following elbow surgery.

Shadowens led the team in scoring at 12 points a game and returns at wing, but he could also play shooting and point guard as times. Sophomores Justin Saddoris and Jaden Lacy will are in the mix at shooting guard.

“We don’t have a traditional low post player like we had in R.J. so we’ll handle his position by committee,” Hawkins said.

“Jacob Schmid, Hunter Dodson, Brody King and Terrell Henderson as he learns to play at the varsity level could be in that mix.”

Coach: Shane Hawkins Seniors: ADAM NEWMAN, 6-1, g; Braden Ziegler, 5-7, g; Brody King, 6-2, f; Hunter Dobson, 6-2, f; Noah Lerch, 5-11, f.

Juniors: JUSTIN SHADOWENS, 5-11, g; Sam Swinford, 6-1, g; Xavier Cambric, 5-11, f; Jacob Schmid, 6-1, f; Conner Pardee 6-2, f.

Sophomores: COLE SCHAFER, 6-5, f; Justin Saddoris, 6-2, g; Terrell Henderson, 6-4, f; Jaden Lacy, 6-2, g.

MOUNT VERNON

D o u g C r e e l ’s f i r s t year back as head coach resulted in the Rams winning its first regional title since he retired in 2008 and posting its best record (23-7) since the 199899 season.

“We won 23 games last year and only got fourth (5-5) in the conference,” Creel said. “That shows you how good our conference is.”

Repeating will be a challenge with senior guard Braden Fitzjerrells the lone returning starter. Senior Blake Jones is expected to start at either point guard or shooting guard.

“Braden does a little bit of everything,” Creel said.

“Blake can handle the ball and play defense. He’s a smart guy and a good complement to Braden.”

Battling for jobs are seniors Malcom Ruff, Chaquille Evans, RoiYell Nesbitt, Dylan Uhls and Bryton Bowers and junior Jake Jines.

Coach: Doug Creel Seniors: BRADEN FITZJERRELLS, 5-8, g; RoiYell Nesbitt, 6-8, c/f; Blake Jones, 5-11, g; Bryton Bowers, 5-11, f; Malcom Ruff, 6-6, c/f; Dylan Uhls, 6-2, f; Chaquille Evans, 6-1, f.

Juniors: Jake Jines, 6-4, f; Quinton Kujawa, 6-2, g; Walker Brockhouse, 6-3, f.

Sophomores: O’Shea Hardin, 6-0, f; Tymiir Trimble, 5-4, g.

— Geary Deniston‌

The Crusaders (13-15) finished in the middle of the South Seven Conference last year at 5-5 for the second straight season.

This year they will be starting over having lost their coach and seven players, including starting point guard Rachel Collins and four others who transferred to other schools.

Nick Knolhoff takes over the program after being athletic director and the boys and girls eighth grade coach at Wolf Branch Middle School.

“My philosophy is to get after it on defense,” Knolhoff said.

Knolhoff plans to start five juniors with returni n g s ta r te rs s h o o t i n g guard Kyleigh Vaught and forward/center Maggie Reimer joined by point guard Amanda Kaltwasser, power forward Emily Myatt and center Ellie Martz.

Senior Rachel Mertens would have been a starter at forward, but she suffered a knee injury over the summer and won’t back until mid-January.

“Having Rachel back will greatly improve our c h a n ce s h ea d i n g i n to regionals,” Knohoff said.

Coach: Nick Knolhoff Seniors: Rachel Mertens, 5-9, f; Krystin Stover, 5-6, g.

Juniors: MAGGIE REIMER, 6-0, f/c; KYLEIGH VAUGHT, 5-7, g; Amanda Kaltwasser, 5-6, g; Emily Myatt, 5-10, f; Ellie Martz, 6-0, c; Andersyn Watts, 5-8, g.

Sophomore: Addie Burris, 5-9, f/c.

Freshmen: Tiffani Siekmann, 5-6, g; Gabby Siekmann, 5-6, g.

CAHOKIA

The Comanches (6-15) have been going through a bad spell the last two seasons, finishing last in the South Seven Conference with consecutive 1-9 records.

Fred Dancy has three senior starters to build around in guards Raynes h a L ew i s a n d L i co l e Bursey and forward Joycelyn Brown. Lewis will be moving to point guard to replace Ja’Va Brock and Brown moves to center to replace Dominique Jennings with Bursey staying at shooting guard.

“This is probably my most athletic team I’ve had in a long time,” Dancy said.

“Most of the girls run track, so I’ve got a lot of speed.”

Two seniors—forward Tamia Samuels and guard Dasha Thomas—and two juniors—forward Lashaundre Scott and guard Taj-za Pratcher—will be battling for the two open spots.

Coach: Fred Dancy Seniors: JOYCELYN BROWN, 5-9, f; LICOLE BURSEY, 5-9, g; RAYNESHA LEWIS, 6-0, g; Tamia Samuels, 5-9, f; Dasha Thomas, 5-10, g; Cahje-e Rivers, 5-9, f.

Juniors: Lashaundre Scott, 5-9, f; Taj-za Pratcher, 5-9, g; Katelyn Clark, 6-1, c; Whitney Gines, 5-8, g.

Freshman: Myesha Jones, 5-6, g.

CARBONDALE

Carbondale (14-12, 9-1) won the South Seven Conference outright last year, after being co-champs with Mount Vernon the year before and co-champs with Belleville Althoff in 2006-07.

“Last year we lost in the first round of the playoffs to Murphysboro and I’m hoping that left a sour taste in my team’s mouth,” said coach Marialice Jenkins.

“We’re experienced at most positions, but we have to

at times. Alissa Ashlock should be one of the first guards off the bench.”

Coach: Roger Stieg Seniors: DAVIA BOYD, 5-5, g; BRANIQUEKA ENGELKINS, 5-4, g; REANNA HUTTON, 5-10, c; NIAYR MAINES, 5-4, g; Cortini Lockhart, 5-6, c/f; Annie Pas, 5-8, f/c.

Juniors: Alissa Ashlock, 5-8, g; Latavia Maines, 5-10, c; Brook Nossett, 5-2, g; Raven Wood, 5-6, f.

MARION

Carbondale’s Taja Dedecker goes up for a shot over Mount Vernon’s Lauren Heinzeman (2) during a game this past season in Carbondale.

improve on defense.”

Jenkins begins her 18th year at the helm of the Terriers with four senior starters returning. Back are point guard Skylar Miller, shooting guard Achsah Greer, forward Taja Dedecker and forward/ center Kandace Jones.

“I’m looking for junior McKynlee Schwartz to fill Kaili Bacon’s shoes at the fifth spot,” Jenkins said.

“She’s a lefty post player which is always an advantage. I also have a freshman Maddie Misner. I look for her to get quite a bit of playing time in the paint.”

Miller is a four-year starter at the point and Greer is coming off a broken foot. Senior Danielle Lorentz and sophomore Maddie Doan got playing time while Greer was out.

“Greer scored 24 points in our first game and then got hurt,” Jenkins said.

“Her injury threw us for a loop and we didn’t really get gelling until the middle part of January when she came back.”

Coach: Marialice Jenkins Seniors: TAJA DEDECKER, 5-7, f; SKYLAR MILLER, 5-8, g; ACHSAH GREER, 5-6, g; KANDACE JONES, 5-10, f/c; Chasytie Harris, 5-8, g; Danielle Lorentz, 5-7, g.

Juniors: McKynlee Schwartz, 5-11, c/f.

Sophomores: Atlexus Green, 5-8, g; Maddie Doan, 5-6, g; Arielle McIntyre, 5-6, f; Faith Goltz, 5-7, f.

Freshmen: Maddie Misner, 5-10, c/f.

CENTRALIA

The Annies (16-14) are coming off a second place finish in the South Seven (8-2) with five seniors, including four starters.

Coach Roger Stieg hopes to make a run for Centralia’s first conference title since 2011-12.

The returning starters are guards Davia Boyd, Braniqueka Engelkins and Niayr Maines and center Reanna Hutton.

“With seven girls that were pretty much interchangeable,I had different starting lineups last year, according to matchups,” Stieg said. “This year we’re going to try to put pressure on teams and use our athletic ability and quickness to create some offense off our defense.”

Engelkins, Maines and Boyd are going to be the main ball carriers with Hutton, senior Annie Pas and junior Latavia Maines in the paint.

“Hutton, Pas and (Latavia) Maines or two of them will play when we want to go with a bigger lineup,” Stieg said. “Cortini Lockhart will be our outside shooter and could move into the starting lineup

Last season, coach Chris Roberts saw the first signs of a turnaround, improving from 3-25 and 1-9 in the South Seven to 9-18 and fourth in the conference at 4-6. This season Roberts has two starters back to continue the progress.

“Last year was one our better years,” Roberts said.

“We moved up in the conference and weren’t the doormat anymore.”

The returning starters are sophomore Abby Bayer, who is moving from point to shooting guard, and junior Brook Hamilton going from power forward to small forward.

Junior center Nia Marshall is expected to move into the lineup.

“It’s seems we say we’re young every year and this year is no different,” Roberts said. “We’re going to rely on Bayer, Hamilton and Marshall and our seniors that have been around for a while.”

Senior forward Danye Faust and junior guard Orea Cosby are in the mix for playing time along with sophomore centers Demya Gunn and Cassandra Woods.

Coach: Chris Roberts Seniors: Danye Faust, 5-7, f; Sheyanne Stacy, 5-2, g; Kodi Bell, 5-7, g; Jesse Chandler, 5-8, f.

Juniors: BROOK HAMILTON, 5-9, f; Orea Cosby, 5-7, g; Nia Marshall, 5-11, c.

Sophomores: ABBY BAYER, 5-9, g; Jasa Bell, 6-0, c; Demya Gunn, 5-8, c; Cassandra Woods, 5-10, c.

Freshman: Lauryn Kadela, 5-8, g.

MOUNT VERNON

After having won or tied for the lead in the South Seven the previous two years, the Mount Vernon Rams lost seven seniors and four starters and dropped to 6-20 and fifth in the conference at 3-7 last year.

“We’re a little more athletic this year, so our dynamics have changed,” said coach Jeff Lonnon.

“We took a lot of lumps last year, but we lost a lot of games by single digits.”

Lonnon has three starters back in All-South point guard junior Lauren Heinzman, senior power forward Jazmine Hawkins and senior shooting guard Paetyn Hayes, who missed the middle of the season with an injury.

Sophomore Madeline Keele will start at center with six girls battling for the open wing/small forward spot.

“Madeline is very athletic and can run the floor,” Lonnon said. “She long and tall and pretty fluid with the ball in her hands. The battle for that last starting spot is a good thing because we won’t drop off as much on our bench as we have in the past.”

Coach: Jeff Lonnon Seniors: JAZMINE HAWKINS, 5-10, f; PAETYN HAYES, 5-10, g; Breanna George, 5-6, g.

Juniors: LAUREN HEINZMAN, 5-8, g; Kendal Ryan, 5-7, g; Kate Bushue, 5-8, g; Abby Henken, 5-7, g; Hannah Hill, 5-8, f; Bria Meyer, 5-9, f.

Sophomores: Madeline Keele, 6-0, c; Savannah Childers, 5-5, g.

— Geary Deniston

HigH ScHool BaSketBall Preview

Special Section • Friday, november 20, 2015

5A

5A

www.thesouthern.com

Special Section • Friday, november 20, 2015

◗ BLACK DIAMOND EAST CONFERENCE BOYS CARMI-WHITE COUNTY

Former hoops standout and JV coach Kevin Wolff steps into the head coaching role at Carmi-White County this season, looking to lead a senior-laden squad that ended 13-13 overall and 7-3 in the Black Diamond East last season.

Wolff, a 2004 grad, has coached the junior varsity squad the last four seasons and is looking forward to taking the reins this year.

“Senior through sophomore, I feel this is the most depth we have had since I have been back in Carmi, and it has really made our practices extremely competitive and productive,” said Wolff. “We have a great group of seniors that have been together since fifth grade and are really hungry to get the year started.

The Bulldogs lost three seniors in Jordan Large, Joe Matz and Clay Vaught to graduation, but return allconference player Tucker Gray. The 6-3 forward averaged 14 points-pergame last season.

Fe l l ow s e n i o r Z a c h Vaught will move from point guard to forward after sprouting up to 6-4 during the offseason. Other varsity contributors from last include a trio of senior guards that include Tyler Barbre, Drew Lucas and Josh Potter.

Juniors that logged varsity action last season include guards Matt Rice and Justice Stubblefield, as well as 6-3 forward Jake Simon.

“We also have an exciting group of sophomores this year and some of them could definitely see some varsity minutes,” added Wolff.

Coach: Kevin Wolff Seniors: TUCKER GRAY, 6-3, f; ZACH

VAUGHT, 6-4, f; Tyler Barbre, 5-11 g; Drew Lucas, 5-10 g; Josh Potter, 5-10, g.

Juniors: Matt Rice, 5-10, g; Justice Stubblefield, 5-8, g; Jake Simon, 6-3, f.

ELDORADO

With four returning starters and a couple of players that saw time in and out of the starting lineup second-year Eldorado coach Josh Bradley likes his team’s chances to have a successful season.

“I believe this year’s team has a chance to be a very tough draw come regional time,” Bradley said. “We have some size and depth, which is something we haven’t had in a while.

“Our guard play is going to be key. It was a weak spot last season with several underclassmen, but hopefully with a season under their belt we can turn that in to a strength.”

The Eagles lost leading scorer Nathan Burnett along with Richard Graceffa to graduation. But returning are senior starters Adam Ninness (5-10, g), Adam Partridge (6-4, f) and Clay Boulds (6-7, c), and junior Max Kaisar (6-3, g). Juniors Ethan Partridge (6-6, f) and Isaac Bethel (6-2, g) also started some games.

“I believe that everyone on our team is key from top to bottom and we need everyone to pull their weight,” said Bradley.

Bradley expects a tough fight in the Black Diamond East this season. Everyone is still chasing Fairfield, who has won or shared the conference title in each of the past five seasons.

“We want to come to practice every day and work hard and improve each day,” said Bradley.

“Wins and losses will take care of themselves as long as you put the effort in every day.”

Coach: Josh Bradley Seniors: ADAM NINNESS, 5-10, g; CLAY BOULDS, 6-7, c; ADAM PARTRIDGE, 6-4, f; Josh Pilkington, 6-1, g; Sam Coker, 6-6, c; Stanton Hathaway, 6-2, f.

Juniors: MAX KAISAR, 6-3, g; Ethan Partridge, 6-6, f; Isaac Bethel, 6-2, g; Payton Price, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Jacob Traxler, 6-4, c; John Meredith, 6-1, g; Kale Oglesby, 5-9, g; Braden Attebury, 6-3, f.

FAIRFIELD

When you talk about 2015-16 Fairfield basketball, you first have to talk about who will not be out on the court for coach Scott McElravy’s Mules.

Gone are 6-8 all-stater Nathaniel Lackey who netted over 1,500 career points, as well as guard Andrew Gifford, who was a 1,000-point career scorer.

Also absent from the roster are Dakota Young and Connor Scott, who were key contributors in the Mules going 21-8 overall and 10-0 in the Black Diamond East last season.

“We lost two very good Mules in Lackey and Gifford,” said McElravy, who is in his 11th season at Farifield. “We will not have near as much size this year so we will probably be playing a little faster. We have a good group of boys that are willing to work very hard to bring home another conference championship.”

The cupboard is not completely bare for the Mules, who return starters Sky Kollak, Colton Land and Wyatt Trover. A solid group of juniors in Brant McGill, Macklin Snyder, Wyatt Borah and Caleb Smothers will add depth to the Fairfield roster, as will sophomore Kobi Dagg.

Fairfield has won the BDC East for the past five seasons and McElravy feels like the league should see a lot of parity this year.

“Eldorado should be much improved this year

GIRLS CARMI-WHITE COUNTY

“We have some players that got some good experience last year and the way they have played over the summer and so far at practice we are looking to be better than we were last year,” he said.

Artman is hoping to build on a 16-13 record from last season, and with four seniors in the starting lineup, chances are good that the Eagles should do just that.

Eldorado lost its threepoint specialist Paige Zertuche to graduation, but seniors Caitlyn Stafford, Abby Steed and Jacqlyn Artman all started for the Eagles last season. Those three averaged doubledigit scoring last year and Steed and Artman were all-conference performers.

Add in senior guard Brooklynn Peavler, and Eldorado will send a lot of experience out onto the court.

Artman also has a solid corps of sophomores to plug into that fifth starter role, as well as add depth to the varsity lineup.

But Artman knows he will need all the help he can get if the Eagles want to compete for a piece of the conference title.

“If I had to pick a favorite I think it would be Carmi,” he said. “The Black Diamond had been good every year and it will be real tough again this season, but I think we can make a run if we can stay healthy and get a little luck along the way.”

Second-year CarmiWhite County coach Tracey Steed has high expectations for her Lady Bulldogs basketball team this season and she has good reason for it.

The team ended with a 13-17 record, but won nine of its final 14 games, i n c l u d i n g a s i x- ga m e win streak. Carmi-White County went 4-1 in the highly competitive Eldorado Mid-Winter Classic and ended up tied for second in the Black Diamond Conference East Division.

With virtually everyone returning that played a key role last season, it’s easy to see why Steed is optimistic.

“If we remain healthy and injury free, we should be competitive and have a good season,” she said.

“Our goals are to win 20-plus games, win the Black Diamond East Conference and advance in our postseason.”

The Lady Bulldogs will be led by all-conference guard Paige Winter. The senior will be joined by returning starters Morgan Combs, a 5-10 forward, and 6-0 center Lixi Wheeler, both juniors. Sophomore forward Abby Vaughn also returns to the starting lineup.

Junior guard Lexi Wheeler expects to contribute for Carmi-White County, as well as a solid c o r p s o f s o p h o m o re s and freshmen.

Scott Artman “I feel like the Black Coach: Seniors: CAITLYN STAFFORD, 5-6, g; Diamond East Conference ABBY STEED, 5-9, g/f; JACQLYN ARTMAN, is wide open, with us and 5-10, f/c; Brooklyn Peavler, 5-6, g.

Olivia Parker, 5-8, Johnston City not losing g/f;Sophomores: Rachel Stafford, 5-4, g; Madison anyone to graduation,” said Newton, 5-8, f; Zakiya Britton, 5-7, g; Takiya 5-8, f; Derian Corn, 5-9, f.

Steed. “Eldorado should Britton, Freshmen: Bethany Smith, 5-4, g; still be strong as well with Karley Mitchell, 5-5, g; Jade Heise, 5-7, f. two returning all-conference players.”

FAIRFIELD Coach: Tracey Steed W i t h t h re e re t u r n Seniors: PAIGE WINTER, 5-9, g; ing starters from an 18-12 Juniors: MORGAN COMBS, 5-10, f; LIXI WHEELER, 6-0, c; Lexi Wheeler, 5-9, g; effort last season, Fairfield Sophomores: ABBY VAUGHAN, 5-7, coach Tonya Conrad feels f; Janes Smith, 5-6, g; Autumn Schneider, 5-11, c; Shaelynn Perkins, 5-6, g. like her team can contend Freshmen: Macy Edwards, 5-6, for a conference title in the g; Julia Smith, 5-9, f; Carlee Hart, highly competitive Black 5-4, f; Bree Swanberg, 5-9, c.

Diamond East.

ELDORADO “We have some returnWith three returning ing experience and we will starters and a deep, tal- add some younger kids ented sophomore class, it’s into the mix,” said Conrad, easy to see why second- who is entering her sevyear head coach Scott Art- enth season. man is optimistic heading Fairfield lost its two leadinto the season. ing scorers to graduation

in Allison Tullis and Kendra Cessna, but the Lady Mules have a trio of seniors returning to lead the way in Christina Walker (5-6, g/f), Morgan Gregory (5-7, c/f) and Amber Shelton (5-2, g/f).

Senior guard August Martinez will help out along with juniors Lauren Vaughn, Lauren Simpson, Brooklyn Kemplen and Haylee Neuman. Sophomore Sarah T itzer and freshmen Mackenzie Conrad, Jevin Shreve and Chloe Newman round out the varsity roster. “ Jo h n s to n C i ty a n d Carmi will be very tough to beat as well as Eldorado and Vienna,” Conrad said.

“All teams in the BDC will be good, we just have to come ready every night and compete.”

Coach: Tonya Conrad Seniors: CHRISTINA WALKER, 5-6, g/f; MORGAN GREGORY, 5-7, c/f; AMBER SHELTON, 5-2, g/f; August Martinez, 5-3, g.

Juniors: Lauren Vaughn, 5-2, g; Lauren Simpson, 5-5, g; Brooklyn Kemplen, 5-7, f; Haylee Neuman, 5-9, c/f.

Sophomore: Sarah Titzer, 5-9, f/c.

Freshmen: Mackenzie Conrad, 5-6, g; Jevin Shreve, 5-6, g/f; Chloe Newman, 5-9, f/c.

HAMILTON COUNTY

The reigning Black Diamond East Conference Champion Lady Foxes are looking to reload after a regional championship and a 25-7 record last season.

“We are young with not a lot of varsity experience,” said coach Clint Winemiller, who is entering his ninth season as coach at Hamilton County. “But these kids are very competitive.”

Leading the way will be 5-foot-7 junior Adrienne Winemiller, a returni n g s ta r te r f ro m l a s t year’s squad.

“She has improved from last year and looks more a g g re ss ive ,” Wi n e m i ller said.

Emily Blades is a 5-8 junior that can play inside or out for the Lady Foxes and classmate Sydney Williams can shoot the ball from anywhere on the floor.

S o p h o m o r e Ta y l o r Thompson and freshman Kaleigh Dodson are both 5-10 and give Hamilton County some size.

Sophomores Katherine Drone, Ramsey Clark, See DIAMOND EAST / PaGe 8A

and Vienna brings back find as we gain experience.”

Jeremy Varner one of the best players Coach: Seniors: Chad Barnard, 6-0, f; Neal in the conference in the Coleclasure, 5-8, g; Derek Endicott 6-2, f.

(Zachryn) Moore kid, as Juniors: OAKLEY DIAL, 6-0, g; Ronnie 6-4, f; Ethan Rapp, 6-2, 5; Tyler Gray, does Carmi with Tucker Rexing, 5-7, g; Noah Rapp, 6-1, g; Austin Potter, 5-10, g.

Gray,” the coach said. “The Sophomores: Jake Whipple, 5-10, f; Matt conference should be very Rubenacker, 5-8, g; Kyle Van Abbema, 6-1, f. competitive this year.”

Coach: Scott McElravy Seniors: SKY KOLLAK, 6-1, f; COLTON LAND, 6-1, f; WYATT TROYER, 5-8, g.

Juniors: Brant McGill, 5-10, g; Macklin Snyder 5-10, g; Wyatt Borah, 5-10, g; Caleb Smothers, 5-8, g.

Sophomores: Kobi Dagg, 6-2, f.

HAMILTON COUNTY

Jeremy Varner moves up to head coach of Hamilton County this season and will inherit a 7-20 squad that returns one starter in all-conference junior guard Oakley Dial. “ T h e re we re s e ve n seniors lost to graduation that all played significant roles,” Varner said. “There are many other players that will need to step up to find a starting role or minutes behind the starters.

Varner will rely upon his juniors for the bulk of the playing time this season.

Ronnie Rexing, Noah Rapp, Austin Potter and Tyler Gray should all get some minutes, as well as sophomores Matt Rubenacker and Jake Whipple.

Chad Barnard is the only senior that has played for the Foxes over the last three years. Another newcomer, Ethan Rapp, will add front court depth.

“The Black Diamond East will be more balanced at the top this year, but I feel like all roads lead through Fairfield,” Varner said. “The Mules will be ready to defend their conference crown, but Carmi, Eldorado and Vienna will be tough to beat as well.

“We are definitely talented enough to compete, but to win takes something extra,” he added. “That is what we will be looking to

JOHNSTON CITY

After a 2-22 season, which included a 0-9 run in the Black Diamond East Conference, second-year Johnston City coach Jerry H a m p l e m a n i s p re t ty positive about the upcoming season. “ T h e tea m a n d t h e coaching staff believe we have nowhere to go but up,” he said. “Last year was a very humbling experience, but this year I feel we have size when we need to be physical and good ball handlers and speed if we need to go small.”

Senior Nathan Payne returns after sitting out last year with an knee injury from football. The 6-3 forward will lead a solid group of juniors that have both size and quickness.

Guards Gage Hall and E.J. Thompson will be asked to handle the bulk of the scoring duties this season as well as be shutdown defenders. “ B o t h p l aye rs h ave grown in size, strength, and skill since their sophomore year,” Hampleman said.

Max Edwards has good size at 6-6, as fellow juniors Caleb Holtzclaw (5-9) and Wyatt Rix (6-0) will see a lot of playing time for the Indians as well.

As far as the BDC East goes, Hampleman feels like the title is up for grabs this season.

“A lot of teams lost many key players to graduation,” he said. “Fairfield still has some rather good basketball players as does Carmi.

Eldorado will be large,

and Vienna still has some offensive weapons to contend with.”

Coach: Jerry Hampleman Seniors: Nathan Payne, 6-3, f.

Juniors: Max Edwards, 6-6, c; E.J. Thompson, 6-1, g; Gage Hall, 6-0, g; Caleb Holtzclaw, 5-9, g; Wyatt Rix, 6-0, g.

VIENNA

Fifth-year Vienna coach Cory Waters is optimistic that his squad can improve upon last year’s 16-10 record, finishing second in the conference with a mark of 6-3.

“Our goal is to improve on our accomplishments from last season,” Waters said. “Our side of the conference should be very competitive.”

The Eagles will have to replace the offense generated from all-conference performer Quinnton Bent, along with fellow alum Nathan Gearing, Wyatt Robinson and Kevin Penrod.

But Vienna can pin its hopes on senior Zachryn Moore. The 6-foot-2 guard was the Eagles’ leading scorer and leading rebounder last season, ending as a captain of the all-conference team.

Senior guard Jarrod Wiggs is also a returning starter, as classmates Jace Ennis (6-3) and Marcus Craig (6-2) look to contribute more this season.

The Eagles will add depth with a trio of junior guards in Brandon Casey, Lucas Strickland and Dalton Smith, as sophomore guards Nolan Dahncke, Ben Daine and Tecums e h M a r te n w i l l o n ly s t re n g t h e n t h e ros te r for Vienna.

Coach: Cory Waters Seniors: ZACHRYN MOORE, 6-2, g; JARROD WIGGS, 6-0, g; Ryan Bradley, 6-1, f; Jace Ennis, 6-3, f; Marcus Craig, 6-2, g.

Juniors: Brandon Casey, 6-2, g; Lucas Strickland, 5-9, g; Dalton Smith, 6-1, g.

Sophomores: Nolan Dahncke, 6-2, g; Ben Daine, 5-11, g; Tecumseh Marten, 6-1, g.

— Dennis Kellerman

thesouthern.com

Good Luck This season from SIU ATHLETICS NON TRADE; 3 x 10.5; Color; 20575676; 01AZ1; BASKETBALL SECTION

Visit us at www.siusalukis.com

6A 6A

High School Basketball Preview

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

www.thesouthern.com

◗ BLACK DIAMOND WEST CONFERENCE BOYS

GIRLS

Braden Webb of Goreville puts up a shot under pressure from Jake Turner and Colt Wilkey of Carterville during a game this past season at Carterville.

‌CHESTER

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌

‌CHESTER

Chester will look to improve on its 17-11 record from a year ago. Brad Norman begins his fifth season as the head coach, only losing two starters from last year’s squad.

Leading scorer Jason Schwartz (13 ppg) returns for his senior season and second leading scorer junior Jack Weir (11 ppg) is also returning.

“We want to play to our personnel,” said Norman.

“We want to use our speed to our advantage and be aggressive on the ball.”

The Yellow Jackets will be more experienced this year and will look to make smarter decisions to stay out of foul trouble. They are still trying to figure out who their role players will be this season.

“We have higher expectations this season,” added Norman. “We want to be as finely tuned as possible at the end of the year. Our plan is to be as competitive as possible and if we stay healthy there’s no reason we can’t compete in the conference.”

The team has been together for a few years and has set a tougher schedule this season to prepare them for the competition they will face in the postseason.

“We should be able to tell what we have by Christmas time,” said Norman.

and we are ready to get out and compete.”

If the Bearcats stay healthy, look for them to be in contention to bring home some hardware this year.

Coach: Eric Stallman Seniors: JOSH CALLONI, 6-3, f; HUNTER WHEELER, 5-9, g; Luke Winget, 6-0, f; Ricky Tochtrop, 6-4, f.

Juniors: ISAAC MCPHAIL, 6-1, g; Derek Mueller, 5-10, g; Kaleb Pedigo, 5-9, g; Gabe Schimpf, 5-9, g; Jared Curry, 6-3, g.

Sophomores: Bradley Young, 6-3, g/f.

GOREVILLE

Todd Tripp begins his 12th season at Goreville with nearly all of his team’s scoring returning. The Blackcats return their leading scorer, sophomore Braden Webb, who averaged 14 points per game last season. Tanner Dunn led the team in rebounding with six boards per contest and looks to play an even bigger role this season.

“We have high expectations for ourselves having all our guys back this season,” said Tripp. “We feel like our conference is going to be pretty good this season, but we look to compete for the conference title and a regional.”

Tripp hopes a deep bench will allow his team to pressure the ball and get up and down the court quickly. Keeping fresh legs in the game will be a key as will a solid mix of inside and outside scoring ability.

“We have a lot of kids who can shoot the outside Coach: Brad Norman shot and we also have some Seniors: JASON SCHWARTZ, 6-1, post play to counter that,” g; Austin Carpenter, 5-10, g.

Juniors: SAVION SMITH, 6-1, g; added Tripp. “We could JACK WEIR, 6-0, g/f; Jacob Golding, have a different leading 6-2, f; Demontae Martin, 5-11, g.

Sophomores: Jake Haberberger, 5-11, g; scorer each night.”

Josh Haberberger, 5-10, g; Nick Heffernan, 5-10, g.

Senior Kyle Kinder will be the Blackcats’ vocal leader this season, setting CHRISTOPHER Christopher looks to an example by always playbe the team to beat in the ing hard even in practice.

Todd Tripp Black Diamond West. Eric Coach: Seniors: KYLE KINDER, 6-1, g; Jared Vaughn, Stallman enters his sixth 5-9, g; Jonathan Troop, 6-0, g; Matt Miner, 6-2, g. season as the Bearcats Juniors: Brant Glidewell, 6-3, f; Davis Helton, f; Jacob Crews, 6-0, g; Blaine Dunning, 5-9, g. coach, coming off a 21-6 6-2,Sophomores: BRADEN WEBB, 5-9, g; PEYTON MASSEY, 5-10, g; Tanner Dunn, 6-3, campaign a year ago.

The Bearcats averaged f; Cole Tosh, 6-2, f; Mason Bishop, 5-10, g.

67 points last season and 62 of those return this year. SESSER-VALIER Seniors Hunter Wheeler Coach Shane Garner and Josh Calloni each aver- begins his third season aged nearly 13 points per at Sesser-Valier. The Red game last year. Both were Devils lost their top seven named to the all-confer- players to graduation ence team and Wheeler was including all five starters. an All-South selection.

Jake Styve is the lone “This is the deepest senior on the team and he team I’ve coached,” said missed most of last season Stallman. “We have a very with a knee injury but he is good backcourt that can the team’s captain this year. compete with anyone. We “Jake is an extremely could have a different lead- hard worker,” said Garing scorer each night.” ner. “He is our most vocal Christopher will look to player and he has a stanpush the ball and use their dard of how we go about high basketball IQ to make doing things.” good decisions. They will The Red Devils want play an aggressive man-to- to take advantage of their man defense. With a bench speed this season. Juniors that can stretch nine deep Jamie Lance, Zane Wilson without much falloff the and Charles Farmer have Bearcats won’t be worried some varsity experience about fatigue in tight end- and hope to contribute of-game situations. even more this season.

“Our community has “We have been worklofty goals for us this year,” ing on our strength in the added Stallman. “The last weight room and we want time we outright won the to focus on playing team conference was 1972. We basketball,” said Garner. are very hungry this season Sesser-Valier will use a

Roar Lions Roar!

Ike Honda Marion, IL

618-997-4000

www.ikehonda.com

motion offense with plenty of basket cuts this season.

They believe their mental edge will keep them in games and they are excited for their opportunity this season.

“We are young this year,” said Garner. “But there are no secrets in basketball — we just want to do things the best that we can.”

Coach: Shane Garner Seniors: Jake Styve, 6-2, f.

Juniors: Jamie Lance, 6-2, f; Zane Wilson, 6-1, g; Charles Farmer, 6-1, g; Addison Baxter, 6-0, f.

Sophomores: Preston Launius, 6-2, g; Payton Rock, 5-10, f; Lucas Gunter, 5-10 g.

TRICO

The Pioneers welcome Andrew Wilson as their new coach this year. Wilson previously coached at Wesclin for four seasons.

Trico brings back two starters in seniors Trent Koch and Grant Kelly, and they will look to improve their stats from a year ago.

Jared Meyerhoff is a 6-5 sophomore who brings some height and post play to the table.

“We are going to play off our height,” said Wilson.

“We will look to get the ball in the post and play off that.”

The Pioneers hope to make opponents uncomfortable and create turnovers for easy baskets. They will also be looking at their depth as an advantage.

“We will look to play up-tempo and rely on our depth,” added Wilson. “We want to speed up when we can and we have been working on our rebounding and playing as a team on the offensive end.”

Wilson said he always sets high goals and expects his team to win more games than they lose.

“This is a new team for me,” said Wilson. “I’m more excited and motivated for this team than any other.”

Coach: Andrew Wilson Seniors: GRANT KELLY, 5-8, g; TRENT KOCH, 6-2, g; Jake Compton, 6-0, f; Austin Jarett, 6-1,g.

Juniors: Josh Compton, 5-10, g; Alex Jines, 5-10, g; Noah Heiman, 6-3, c.

Sophomores: Jared Meyerhoff, 6-5, c; Gavin Thief, 6-0, g; Ryan Vogt, 6-3, f/c.

ZEIGLER-ROYALTON

The Tornadoes return the core of their team this season. Winning only one game a year ago, sixth-season head coach Matt Morgan believes the rebuilding season is behind him.

Brenden Whiting is a junior who averaged 16 points per game last season and looks to be the focal point of the offense again.

“I look for us to be much improved from last season,” said Morgan. “I’m looking for everyone to contribute. We have grown and matured as a team and we look to be competitive on a consistent basis.”

The Tornadoes had no varsity experienced players last season so they suffered some growing pains.

They will try to be more patient this year and grind games out.

“We have the scoring ability,” added Morgan.

“Our defense will be the key for our success this season. We will mix it up to try to give ourselves a chance to win some games. We are excited about the season and we are ready to take a step forward.”

Coach: Matt Morgan Seniors: CLAY HUMERICKHOUSE, 5-11, g; NIC ANDERSON, 5-11, f.

Juniors: STEVEN ANDERSON, 5-9, g; BRENDEN WHITING, 5-9, g; Nolan Domineck, 5-11, f; Cam Newton, 5-10, f; Austin Bollinger, 6-0, f.

Sophomores: Cole Sanders, 5-11, g.

— Shawn Anglin

Pa t K n owl e s b r i n gs years of head coaching experience as he takes the reins of the Chester girls’ program this season.

The Lady Jackets have no seniors this year but they do return plenty of experience. Juniors Logan Colvis, Kaitlyn Dillow and Haley Middendorf bring some of that experience and look to be key players this season.

“We have to improve on the defensive end,” said Knowles. “We are offensive-oriented so we have to learn to get some stops.”

Chester will look to play an up-tempo style starting with their defense. They want to put a lot of pressure on the ball and not let the other team dictate the pace of the game.

“I’m excited for the kids,” added Knowles.

“This is one of the best groups I’ve had and I’ve been involved with coaching since the 80’s. We want to improve every game and try to get as many wins as we can.”

Khortnee Kerkemeyer, 5-4, g.

Freshman: Courtney Hoppers, 5-9, f; Rebecca Henson, 5-8, g.

GOREVILLE

Coach Mike Helton has all eight of his players who played meaningful minutes returning this season at Goreville. The Blackcats coach is beginning his 23rd season and is looking to improve after last year’s team was relatively inexperienced.

With all of his starters having a whole season of experience and leading scorer Ashlyn Darnell (11.5 ppg, 4.4 rpg) back for her junior year Goreville looks to be returning to its winning ways.

“We still aren’t very big, but overall we will have a better idea of what we are doing,” said Helton. “We shouldn’t be as nervous or timid this season and we shouldn’t struggle as much when we are in a position to win a game.”

The Blackcats lone senior, Alexis Massey, had a shoulder injury last season and looks to return as one of the team’s leaders.

“She knows how to play Coach: Pat Knowles hard and she has a will do Juniors: Logan Colvis, 5-5, f; Kaitlyn attitude,” added Helton.

Dillow, 5-6, g/f; Haley Middendorf, 5-5, g; Britney Zahring, 5-9, f; Emily Tudor, 5-0, g; “We had a chance to win Alexis McMath, 5-9, f; Jackie Hopkins, 5-8, f. a regional last season and Sophomores: Kaityn Hoffman, 5-10, f; Maddie Hoffman, 5-10, f; Abby we couldn’t close the deal,” Myeer, 5-4, g; Jessica Kattenbraker, Helton said. “We want to 5-9, f; Taylor Dunning, 5-9, f. be aggressive and control Freshman: Courtney Weir, 5-8, f; Lauren Welge, 5-10, f. the tempo and if we can do that it won’t be unrealisCHRISTOPHER tic for us to surprise some Christopher begins their people this season.”

Mike Helton first season without their Coach: Seniors: ALEXIS MASSEY, 5-3, co-op with Ziegler-Roy- f; Madison Arnold, 5-9, f. alton. Seiger Shurtz also Juniors: ASHLYN DARNELL, 5-10, f; TRIPP, 5-7, g; SCHYLER MESSMER, 5-2, begins his first season as a BRENNIE g; NONA LUKE, 5-7, g; SUMMER ALBRIGHT, 5-4, f. varsity head coach for the Sophomores: Shayna Elms, 5-3, g; Kyla Pulley, 5-6, f; Madison Lady Cats.

Herren, 5-3, g; Tehya Payne, 5-9, c.

Senior Autumn Gunter Freshman: Brianna Stout, 5-9, g; is a returning starter from Paetin Arnold, 5-6, g; Jillian Helton, 5-6, f. last year’s team. She looks to be the go-to scorer this Sesser-Valierseason and one of the best Waltonville players in the conference.

The defending confer“She can really shoot ence champion Red Devthe ball well and she has a ils went undefeated in good handle,” said Shurtz. the Black Diamond West “She works hard every day last season, but lost three and we will rely on her to starters to graduation.

That void will need to be be a vocal leader.”

Juniors Maddie Gossett, filled but the expectaCallie Young and Megan tions are still high for Wilson will also look to Coach Rick Metcalf who play a key role on this enters his fourth season at year’s team. the helm.

The Lady Cats will look Metcalf has 25 years of to be guard oriented. They head coaching experience want a fast pace and will with 512 career wins. look to play lock down Senior sharpshooter m a n - to - m a n d e fe n s e Karson Severs will play a vital role in her final seaunder their new coach.

“The transition hasn’t son at Sesser. Severs made been too bad,” said Shurtz. over 100 three-point field “We are still fairly young goals last season includthough so we need to get ing 12 in a row in a game against Du Quoin. “Karsome exposure.”

The Lady Cats will be son will be our leader this looking to contend for the season,” said Metcalf. “She conference title in their is one of the best captains first year as a program.

I’ve had and she is always “Starting out a new trying to help our younger program we have to try to players out.” get an identity so there is The Red Devils will use a learning curve,” added their depth and a solid Shurtz. “We had a good man-to-man defense in summer and we are looking hopes of winning another forward to the daily grind.” conference title.

Coach: Seiger Shurtz “We feel like we will be Seniors: AUTUMN GUNTER, in the battle for a confer5-7, g; Brittney Snyder, 5-9, f.

Juniors: Maddie Gossett, 5-6, g; ence title again this seaCallie Young, 5-11, f/c; Megan Wilson, 5-4, son,” said Metcalf. “Luckg; Kelsey Hasty, 5-6, f; Taylor Hawkins, 6-0, f; Whitney Hoppers, 5-7, f. ily, we will be quicker Sophomores: Lexi DeLaval, this season and we hope 5-3, g; Madison Blain, 5-2, g; we can keep improving

day-to-day.”

Coach: Rick Metcalf Seniors: KARSON SEVERS, 5-6, g.

Juniors: JALEN HALEY, 5-7, f; HANNAH GARASCIA, 5-7, g; Taylor Frank, 5-9, c.

Sophomores: Paige Tucker, 5-8, g, Paulina Marlo, 5-8, f, Brooke Wildmarn, 5-9, f; Jade Hale, 5-5, g, Jaycee Garner, 5-8, f.

TRICO

Trico welcomes new head coach Dan King this season. The Lady Pioneers will look to improve this season with their strong sophomore class, as only Jessica Prange was lost to graduation, with four starters returning.

Senior Kelly Hamilton will be the team’s leader.

“We will build everything around her,” said King. “She is a good post player with some size but she can also step out and shoot the ball.”

King will also lean on Jaelin King and Tori King at the guard positions and Hailey Nagel in the post.

Trico will look to use a deeper bench this season.

They will look to press on the defensive end and move up the court quickly on offense.

“We have to keep our turnovers down and make better decisions this year,” added King. “Our goal is to compete for the conference championship and get to a regional final.”

King has been involved with coaching at Trico for 10 years and said he is looking forward to his opportunity to lead the program this season.

Coach: Dan King Seniors: KELLY HAMILTON, 6-0, c; TORI KING, 5-6, g.

Juniors: Alexis Rojek, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: Izzy Pierceall, 5-3, g; JAELIN KING, 5-3, g; Keeley Winters, 5-6, f; HAILEY NAGEL, 5-8, f/c; Juhle Prange, 5-7, f/c; Jade Kranawetter, 5-10, g.

ZEIGLER-ROYALTON

Jeremy May begins his 16th season as a head basketball coach and his 12th at the helm of the ZieglerRoyalton girls’ program.

Coming off a 15-win season, May sees this year more as a rebuilding season. This is the first season without having Christopher as a co-op school for the Tornadoes.

“With the loss of the co-op, we only have eight or nine girls who have came out and we lost all of our starters,” said May. “We will be starting over as program this year.”

The Tornadoes only have two seniors who h ave p l aye d a ny va rsity minutes this season in Brianna Bowlin and Tori Munaretto.

“We will have to slow down the pace and our defense will be the key to us winning ball games,” added May. In a tough Black Diamond West conference, Zeigler-Royalton will need to stay injury-free and rely on a fundamental style of play to be a contender.

Coach: Jeremy May Seniors: Brianna Bowlin, 6-0, c; Tori Munaretto, 5-5, g, Asia Sanders, 5-6, f.

Sophomores: Suzzy Munaretto, 5-4, g; Courtney Bailey, 5-3, g; Alex Knapp, 5-2, f.

Freshman: Hanna Leeper, 5-1, f.

— Shawn Anglin

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO‌

Kelly Hamilton of Trico pushes her way to the basket against Jessica Wyciskalla of S-V-W during a game this past season in Sesser.

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

7A Sports 7A

www.thesouthern.com

◗ SOUTH EGYPTIAN CONFERENCE BOYS ‌AGAPE CHRISTIAN

Agape Christian has a pair of senior starters returning from last year’s 19-11 team.

Will Keller, 6-foot-5, was the team’s leading scorer last year. Micah Moore, a 6-2, forward also returns.

“Will Keller is a player,” said Agape coach T im Weaver. “He’s 6-5, he can rebound, he can handle the ball and he’s an excellent 3-point shooter.’

Moore can also score from the perimeter, but gives Agape another outside threat.

Devin Chen, a 5-8 senior, will run the point. Drew Doty, a 5-10 senior, is also expected to be in the starting lineup.

The final starting spot could go to freshman Matt Keller, a 5-9 guard. He is Will’s younger brother.

Weaver said the younger Keller’s game belies his age.

Agape is also looking for contributions from Zach McDannel, a 6-1 senior, that was sidelined by injuries last year. Others in the playing rotation will be Garrett Worthen, a senior and sophomores Clayton Reed, Jordan Daly and Perry Tripp.

Coach: Tim Weaver Seniors: WILL KELLER, 6-5, f; MICAH MOORE, 6-2, f; Drew Doty, 5-10, g; David Chen, 5-8, g, Garrett Worthen, 5-10 g.

Juniors: Zach McDannel, 6-1, f.

Sophomores: Clayton Reed, 5-6, g; Jordan Daly, 5-8, g; Perry Tripp, 6-2, f.

Freshman: Matt Keller, 5-9, g.

CENTURY

Derek Williams is taking over a Century program that finished near the .500 mark. Williams had served as junior varsity coach at Ottawa Township High School the past four years.

Williams wasn’t hired until late summer, so he didn’t have the benefit of working with the team in the offseason.

“I had no idea about them before,” he said. “ We ’re yo u n g . We ’re a t h l e t i c . We ’ v e g o t some talent.”

The Centurions have three starters returning in seniors Adam Jones, 6-2, Aaron Jones, 6-0 and Dylan Lynn, 6-1. There are two other senior holdovers who saw action last year in Malik Hagler, 6-0 and Andrew Hubbard, 5-11.

Coach: Derek Williams Seniors: ADAM JONES, 6-2, f; AARON JONES, 6-0, g; DYLAN LYNN, 6-1, f; Malik Hagler, 6-0, g; Andrew Hubbard, 5-11, g.

COBDEN

The Cobden Appleknockers will be a veteran squad featuring state tournament experience in both baseball and soccer.

Rhett Barke has Logan Spalt and J.T. Moore, a pair of 6-0 seniors, who started last year, as did Austin Lewey, a 5-11 junior. John Russell, a 5-11 sophomore, started on a part-time basis.

“They’ve got leadership capabilities,” Barke said. “I think having gone through, even though it’s a different sport, going through the baseball aspect that will be a huge element for me.”

Others who will see considerable playing time this year are junior Dylan Duty and sophomores Jacob Furlow and Clayton Eck. Eck is the tallest player on the team at 6-3.

“We’re going to be short,” Barke said. “We have some good jumpers and we’ve got some quickness, but I can’t coach height.”

The Appleknockers will need balanced scoring to offset the loss of Parker Flamm. Flamm was a 1,000-point scorer.

Coach: Rhett Barke Seniors: LOGAN SPALT, 6-0, g; J.T. MOORE, 6-0, g, Jacob Furlow, 6-1, f.

Juniors: AUSTIN LEWEY, 5-11, g; Dylan Duty, 5-11, f.

Sophomores: JOHN RUSSELL, 5-11, g; Clayton Eck, 6-3, f.

DONGOLA

This is the season the Demons have been building toward.

Dongola finished 12-13 last year and returns five senior starters: Kyle Cox, Alex Zescke, Dillon Gilland, Caleb Theis and Dylon Simmermann. Simmermann and Theis are the shortest at 6-0, Gilland is the tallest at 6-3.

“We’re going to be quick,” said coach Kevin Cox. “We don’t have a whole lot of

height. Our biggest kid is 6-3. Our defense is going to be our strong point.”

Last year, the team depended heavily on Kyle Cox (28.8 ppg) and Zescke (19.8 ppg). Kevin Cox said both are good shooters who can put the ball on the floor and get to the rim.

And, although there are just 62 students in the school, the Demons have some depth. Four players, all seniors, expected to see playing time are Zane Dismore, Daylon Treet, Jacob Lipe and Garet Michael.

A talented group of freshmen will provide additional depth. There are 17 boys in the basketball program.

Coach: Kevin Cox Seniors: KYLE COX, 6-1, g; ALEX ZESCKE, 6-1, f; DILLON GILLAND, 6-3, f; CALEB THEIS, 6-0, g; DYLON SIMMERMAN, 6-0, g; Zane Dismore, 6-2, f; Daylon Treat, 6-0, g; Jacob Lipe, 6-0, g; Garet Michael, 5-10, g.

EGYPTIAN

Egyptian has a new coach in Allen Pearman.

The Pharaohs won just two games last year. The team will be young and small. But, Pearman has an air of optimism looking forward.

“I think we’re going to surprise some people,” he said. “I think we’ll compete.

We play a lot of big schools.

We have to rate ourselves against the schools we’ll see in postseason.”

Pearman has three starters returning from last year in Noah Dillingham, a 5-10 senior, Gavin ArnhartPowell, a 5-9, sophomore and D.J. Waddy, a 5-3 guard. Samuel Hale, a 5-11 junior, and Rocky Mays, a 6-0 sophomore, also saw playing time last year.

Dillingham has been a proven shooter while Waddy will hold the team together at the point.

“Arnhart-Powell, he’s probably going to be our best chance of getting to the rim and opening things up for other people off penetration,” Pearman said.

“He’s going to make some young player mistakes, but I think the trade off is pretty good in his favor.”

Justin Dover, a 6-2 junior, could also contribute.

Dover hasn’t been able to play due to illness the past two years.

Coach: Allen Pearman Seniors: NOAH DILLINGHAM, 5-10, g.

Juniors: D.J. WADDY, 5-3, g; Samuel Hale, 5-11, f; Cameryn Curtis, 5-8, g-f; Kamar Crockett, 5-8, g-f, Justin Dover, 6-2, f.

Sophomores: GAVIN ARNHARTPOWELL, 5-9, g; Rocky Mays, 6-0, f.

Freshman: Nick Mitchell, 6-3, f.

ELVERADO

After seven years as the seventh grade coach in Du Quoin, Jacob Emling will be taking over the Elverado program. Emling was able to hold several open gyms with the team during the summer.

“We’re going to be young,” he said. “We have a lot of juniors. We have one senior coming back.

“We’re going to win a lot of games with our defense.

That’s going to have to keep us in games this year.”

Two starters return for Emling, senior Alec Valerius and junior Sage Sarensen.

Two other players likely to see a lot of time are Drake Horn, a 6-2 senior, and Noah Barnes, a 5-10 junior. Horn is coming off knee surgery, but is likely to be ready when the season opens. Barnes injured his knee in football and should return in December.

Also being counted on are 6-2 junior Joe Ralph and Kevin Bruce, a 5-10 junior.

Coach: Jacob Emling Seniors: ALEC VALERIUS, 6-1, g; Drake Horn, 5-11, g.

Juniors: SAGE SARENSEN, 5-10, g; Noah Barnes, 5-10, g; Joe Ralph, 6-2, f; Kevin Bruce, 5-10, g.

Freshman: Aquntez Penn, 5-9, g.

JOPPA

There will be a fresh start at Joppa with Zach Essex taking over as coach.

The Rangers finished 6-19 last year.

“I’m a new coach here,” Essex said. “They know coming in they know they’ll have to earn everything.”

There are two starters returning in Trenton Lewis, a 5-8 senior, and Thomas Kendall, a 5-10, sophomore.

Matthew Sparks, a 6-2 senior, and Blake Helton, a 5-8 junior, also saw playing time last year.

Vying for playing time

GIRLS are juniors Hunter Johnson (6-2), Joey Smith (6-0) and Trenton Szachnitowsky (5-9) and sophomores Kaleb Cox (6-5), Zach Brown (6-2) and John Dry (5-10). In addition, Essex is high on a freshman group that includes Mason Stewart (6-2), Griffin Greer (5-11), Noah Holland (5-5), Jase Huchason (5-10) and Braxton Lewis (5-9).

Despite having just 62 kids in school, Essex has some depth. There are 21 kids in the program.

Coach: Zach Essex Seniors: TRENTON LEWIS, 5-8, g; Matthew Sparks, 6-2, f.

Juniors: Blake Helton, 5-8, g; Hunter Johnson, 6-2, f; Joey Smith, 6-0, f; Trenton Szachnitowsky, 5-9, g.

Sophomores: THOMAS KENDALL, 5-10, g; Kaleb Cox, 6-5, f; Zach Brown, 6-2, f; John Dry, 5-10, g.

Freshmen: Braxton Lewis, 5-9, g; Mason Stewart, 6-2, f; Jase Huchason, 5-10, g; Griffin Greer, 5-11, g; Noah Holland, 5-5, g.

MERIDIAN

What does Erik Griffin do for an encore?

Griffin’s Bobcats finished 27-8, won the South Egyptian Conference title and placed second in the Class A state tournament in his rookie season.

There are no starters returning. On the other hand, there is talent waiting in the wings.

Senior Daniel Valentine, a 6-2 guard, junor Byron Nesby, a 6-5 forward, and sophomores Darnell Lowe (6-5) and Damareon Nicholson (6-2) were all part of Griffin’s rotation last year.

“All of our kids coming back grew,” Griffin said.

“That’s very nice. We have a completely different look than last year. We won’t be as quick as last year, but we’ll be more athletic than last year up and down the roster.”

In addition to the more experienced players, Griffin will be leaning on Jabare Patrick, a 6-0 junior guard, Jerepp Sims, a 6-4 senior forward, and P.J. Nichols, a 6-3 junior guard.

“We have some guys that can put the ball in the basket, although I don’t know how good a shooting team we’ll be,” Griffin said.

The primary question mark is inexperience.

“We have inexperienced experience,” Griffin said.

“The top four guys that played the most minutes, when the playoffs started we shortened our rotation.

They got time, but they weren’t getting 10-15 minutes per game.”

Coach: Erik Griffin Seniors: Daniel Valentine, 6-2, g; Jerrepp Sims, 6-4, f.

Juniors: Byron Nesby, 6-5, f; Jabare Patrick, 6-0, g; P.J. Nichols, 6-3, g.

Sophomores: Darnell Lowe, 6-5, g; Damareon Nicholson, 6-2, f.

SHAWNEE

Shawnee finished 11-12 with a young team last year. It appeared as if the Redskins would have all five starters back, but fate intervened.

Dylan Boston and Nick Crane elected not to play in order to concentrate on baseball. Daniel Parris transferred.

That leaves first year coach Russ Marsh with two returning starters, Brady Reynolds, a 6-0 senior forward and Lucas Matlock, a 6-2 senior guard.

“I have some good underclassmen that I think are going to help us,” said Marsh. “I like what I see. It is a big hit, but at our team meeting I had 24 kids come.”

Marsh is somewhat new to the program himself. A former Dongola coach, he served as an assistant at Shawnee two years ago.

In addition to Reynolds and Matlock, juniors Hunter Smithey, Nick Baltzell and Tyler Parks saw varsity action last year.

And, Eli Baltzell, a 6-0 senior, is playing basketball this year. Trenton Matlock, a 6-0 sophomore, will also be in the rotation.

“I like their attitude and their hustle,” Marsh said.

“Reynolds and Parks are really good on the boards.

Brady is a scorer. They’re both defensively very good. With Lucas Matlock, he’s a good 3-point threat, good defense.”

Coach: Russ Marsh Seniors: BRADY REYNOLDS, 6-0, f; LUCAS MATLOCK, 6-2, g, Eli Baltzell, 6-0, g.

Juniors: Hunter Smithey, 5-9, g; Tyler Parks, 6-2, f; Nick Baltzell, 5-9, g.

Sophomore: Trenton Matlock, 6-0, g.

— Les Winkeler

‌CENTURY

In terms of raw numbers, things are looking up for the Century girls basketball team this year.

Last year there were times David Dexter’s team went into games with just six or seven players available. Numbers are better this year.

Three starters, Alysha Giltner, a 5-foot-8 senior, Natalie Taake, a 5-10 junior, and Kearia Mackins, a 5-5 sophomore, return from last year’s 6-14 squad.

“They’re going to be have to be the ones to carry the scoring load,” Dexter said.

“Taake is the best inside player. Last year she scored 8-9 points per game and about 11 rebounds. I’ll be happy if the points go up and she can get me 11 rebounds again.”

Mackins scored about 10 points per game last year.

Giltner was forced to play an inside position last year.

This season Dexter will move her back to a wing, a more natural position.

Two others players, Ammi Russell and Shadie Schwegman saw considerable action last year.

The Centurions will be bolstered by the addition of the Foote sisters, Calah, a 5-10 junior, and Robin, a 5-10 sophomore.

“The biggest thing is just to score,” Dexter said. “Last year, we struggled to score.

We need to get 40 a night out of the three returnees. I think they can do that.”

Since there were only eight players in the program last year, Dexter was forced to play zone last year. This year the team can afford to play some manto-man defense.

Coach: David Dexter Seniors: ALYSHA GILTNER, 5-8, g.

Juniors: NATALIE TAAKE, 5-10, f; Ammi Russell, 5-5, g; Shadie Schwegman, 5-6, g; Calah Foote, 5-10, f.

Sophomore: Robin Foote, 5-10, f.

Freshmen: Jayden Wood, 5-5, g; Tasia Houston, 5-10, f.

COBDEN

W i t h f o u r s t a r te r s returning from an 11-12 team, Cobden coach Richard Howell thinks the Appleknockers should contend for a spot atop the South Egyptian Conference standings.

“They learned a lot last year.” Howell said. “We were young last year. I’m looking forward to having them all back. Hopefully we can hit the ground running since they have a lot of experience.”

Returnees include senior post player Taylor Tomazzoli, junior guard Makynzie Peterman and sophomore forwards Meredith Flamm and Alaina Hartline.

Tomazzoli, Flamm and Hartline are all 5-9.

“I think we have a good mix,” Howell said. “They are tall enough to have a mismatch against some teams and quick enough.”

In addition to the returnees, Howell has Inna Kinsey, a junior, sophomores Brooke Bailey, Gregoria Rafael, Bridget Clark and Amber Clark as well as freshman Lexi Miller.

With the Appleknockers volleyball team advancing to sectionals, basketball got something of a late start.

“It (experience) makes a big difference with the success they had in volleyball, that gives us a short turnaround,” Howell said.

sophomore, Tiffanie Shirkey, a 6-0, junior returning.

“Those are the leading scorers returning from last season,” Shepard said.

“Prout is an all-around player. She got a lot of points from rebounding, driving and scoring.”

Shepard also has Delaney Cummins, a 5-10 junior, and Callie Mowery, a 5-8, senior returning. Cummins is a post player like Shirkey while Mowery is a slasher.

Dongola also gets a boost from the return of Karlie Eddleman, a 5-7 sophomore guard. A knee injury ended her season last year.

Barb Gorst, a junior, will run the point.

“She’s stepping up this year,” Shepard said. “I’m looking forward to her playing a whole lot better than she did. She has better determination this year.”

Coach: Rob Shepard Seniors: Callie Mowery, 5-8, f.

Juniors: TIFFANIE SHIRKEY, 6-0, c; Barb Gorst, 5-2, g.

Sophomores: KENZIE PROUT, 5-8 g; Karlie Eddleman, 5-7, g; Delaney Cummins, 5-10, c.

EGYPTIAN

Last year was a struggle for the Pharaohs.

Erin Jackson started the season with just six players last year. This year there are 12 players in the program.

“Last year was so difficult,” she said. “You couldn’t run practices the way you wanted to. It’s just nice to have some numbers.

It was a struggle.”

Three junior starters return from that team in Daneesha Carthell, Kacia Houston and Tyra Huff.

“Daneesha, I’m going to depend on her a lot,” Jackson said. “She was our leading rebounder with about 16 a game. She just finds a way to get in there.”

In addition to the returnees, Jackson has Valencia Holloway, a 5-8 senior.

Holloway started as a sophomore but elected not to play last year.

Another promising newcomer is Sarah Johnson, a 5-7, sophomore.

“I don’t know what to expect,” Jackson said.

“We’re going to have to really focus on defense and hopefully that will lead to offense.”

Coach: Erin Jackson Seniors: Valencia Holloway, 5-8, f.

Juniors: DANEESHA CARTHELL, 5-8, f; KACIA HOUSTON, 5-6, g; TYRA HUFF, 5-8, f.

Sophomore: Sarah Johnson, 5-7, f.

ELVERADO

Rasheeda Love and her Lady Falcons will be more at home in the SEC this season. Elverado moved to the SEC from the Black Diamond last year.

“It was a great experience to be honest with you,” Love said. “Coming from the Black Diamond, to actually be able to compete with schools our size, it was a lot better for us.”

Elverado finished 10-18 last year.

Two starters return in Emma Bigham, a junior, and Brooke Whittington, a senior.

“Emma, she brings us experience in the post,” Love said. “She’s learning the game. She worked on her shot through the summer. Hopefully she can step out a little bit and hit the 10-12 foot shot and open things up for us a little bit.

“Whittington is one of our purest shooters when she is on. She has played in my system the longest.”

Coach: Richard Howell Also in the rotation this Seniors: TAYLOR TOMAZZOLI, 5-9, c. year will be juniors Hope Juniors: MAKYNZIE PETERMAN, 5-4, g; Inna Kinsey, 5-9, f.

Porter and Gabby Jeschke, Sophomores: MEREDITH FLAMM, 5-9, f; sophomores Hannah ALAINA HARTLINE, 5-9, f; Brooke Bailey, 5-4, g; Bridget Clark, 5-4, g; Amber Clark, 5-6, g.

Alstat, Kennedy Kimmel Freshman: Lexi Miller, 5-7, f. and Tori Ehlers as well as freshmen Allie Whittington and Brianna Tuthill.

DONGOLA If hard work and deter- Alstat is expected to run mination lead to wins, this the point. could be a good season Coach: Rasheeda Love for Dongola.

“This group is determined to win,” said Dongola coach Rob Shepard.

“They hustle. They work a lot harder than some of the previous groups I’ve had.

They got a taste of the wins last year, and they want to keep going forward from it.

“Most of this group has come from winning in junior high. They have good Marion, IL body size. They’re going to fight until the end.”

The Demons were 11-12 last year and have two starters, Kenzie Prout, a 5-8

Ike Honda 618-997-4000

www.ikehonda.com

Seniors: BROOKE WHITTINGTON, 5-6, g.

Juniors: EMMA BIGHAM, 5-8, f; Hope Porter, 5-3, g; Gabby Jeschke, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: Hannah Alstat, 5-5, g; Tori Ehlers, 5-10, f; Kennedy Kimmel, 5-4, g.

Freshmen: Allie Whittington, 5-7, f; Brianna Tuthill, 5-9, f.

JOPPA

Hunter Kreuter has three starters returning from last year’s 9-11 squad.

One of those starters is 6-0 junior center Haley Kendall, the SEC’s reigning most valuable player.

“She’s a post kid, but she can also square up,” Krueter said. “I’m going to have her shoot some threes this year. She will do a little of everything for us.”

The other returning starters are senior guards Haley Martin and Gabby Wrey.

“I think we’ll do well penetrating,” Kreuter said, “Martin and Wrey are pretty good slashers. We won’t have much of an outside game this year. If I can get those three girls to the basket, we’ll have a chance.”

The Rangers have two players returning this year who were sidelined by injuries last year. Mikayla Lang was injured in volleyball last year and missed the entire season. Bree Meyer suffered a season-ending injury early last year.

Other players in the rotation will be Emma Arrison, a sophomore, and Kenzie Meyer, a freshman.

Depth will again be an issue this year.

“I played some games last year with five,” Krueter said. “Our practice is tough. You’re trying to explain plays, it’s like back when you’re a kid playing whiffle ball with a ghost man on second.”

Coach: Hunter Krueter Seniors: HALEY MARTIN, 5-7, g; GABBY WREY, 5-7, g; Mikayla Lang, 5-6, g.

Juniors: HALEY KENDALL, 6-0, c.

Sophomores: Bree Meyer, 5-7, g; Emma Arrison, 5-7, f.

Freshman: Kenzi Meyer, 5-7, g.

MERIDIAN

Small, young and quick, that’s the way to describe Jerry Johnson’s Bobcats.

“I have no seniors this year,” he said. “I’m returning a bunch of juniors and sophomores from last year.

They got a lot of experience from playing at that level last year.”

Three starters return, in juniors India Wade and Shakierra Childress and sophomore Alexxuss Crain.

Crain and Wade will run the team from the guard spots. Childress is Meridian’s primary threat, although she suffered a preseason hand injury.

Johnson expects her to be ready for the beginning of the season.

T h re e s o p h o m o re s , Rakyah Jeter, Rakeya Jeter a n d Cy m o n e B a l l a rd , will all see playing time.

Rakyah Jeter is the tallest player on the team at 5-10.

“It’s a little more height coming back,” Johnson said. “I’m just trying to get them to run the floor and handle ball.

Meridian will rely on its quickness to get to the rim on offense. Johnson said the team will be in the paint oriented.

Coach: Jerry Johnson Juniors: INDIA WADE, 5-6, g; SHAKIERRA CHILDRESS, 5-7, f.

Sophomores: ALEXXUSS CRAIN, 5-6, g; Rakyah Jeter, 5-10, f; Cymone Ballard, 5-6 g; Rakeya Jeter, 5-5, g.

SHAWNEE

Depth will again be an issue for Chad Pitts’ Shawnee squad. There are just eight girls in the program, which is actually two more than last year.

“The mininum is 10 you’re hoping for,” Pitts said. “With eight at least a couple coaches can get See SEC Girls / Page 8A

THE BANK OF HERRIN bankofherrin.com #NOTJUSTABANK it’s a relationship

A Proud Supporter of the Herrin Tigers

8A 8A

High School Basketball Preview

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

www.thesouthern.com

◗ GREATER EGYPTIAN CONFERENCE GIRLS

BOYS ‌CARRIER MILLS

Former Johnston City coach Keil Peebles (199802, 2004-05) came out of retirement to take over an 11-14 Wildcat squad that graduated seven seniors, including the entire starting unit.

“I just retired (from Ameren) in April and found out I still had the itch to get back into coaching,” Peebles said. “I don’t know anything about last season, so we’re going to start with a clean slate. The boys have been receptive to having a new coach and it’s going to be very competitive for starting spots.”

Peebles has only two seniors in Rahman Fann and Micah Childers, but he has six juniors to build his squad around.

Juniors Brody Walker, Dylan Schwartz and Christian Fuller are battling at point guard. Schwartz is also in the mix at shooting guard. Fann and Childers along with sophomores B i l ly L ew i s a n d N i c k Paris are competing for wing guard.

“Justice Hill is going be my big guy,” Peebles said.

“Whoever doesn’t get the wing spot will fill in at power forward.”

Coach: Keil Peebles Seniors: Rahman Fann, 6-0, G/F; Micah Childers, 6-2, G/F. Juniors: Justice Hill, 6-3, C/F; Brody Walker, 6-2, G; Dylan Schwartz, 6-0, G; Justin Austin, 6-3, G/F; Logan Shaw, 5-10, F; Christian Fuller, 5-9, G. Sophomores: Billy Lewis, 6-2, G; Andrew Lollis, 6-3, C/F; Nick Paris, 5-9, G. Freshmen: Hunter Fugate, 5-10, F/G; Michael Scott, 5-9, F; Trenton Winchester, 5-10, G; Keegen VanDyke, 5-11, G.

CRAB ORCHARD

Crab Orchard has been the class of the GEC, winning four of the last five championships and three of five regional titles. Last year, the Trojans swept the conference schedule, finishing with a 27-3 record. The season ended on a down note with a loss to Hardin County in the regional finals.

Gunnar Galloway, last year’s leading scorer, was the only player lost to graduation.

“We have five experienced players back, so we should be more balanced scoring this year,” said coach Jon Brown.

Brown has four returning starters in senior point guard Lane Hutson (10.3 ppg. and the team leader in steals), center (and leading rebounder) McKager Ferrell, off-guard Caleb Vaughn and forward Amos Beasley.

“Gunnar’s job is up for grabs,” Brown said. “It could be a forward or a guard.

Hudson can play off-guard and run the point. Vaughn can play guard or forward, so we’re not looking for a particular position.”

Junior Jaden Schell and sophomores Levi Vinson and Cameron Stephens are in the mix, with senior Ethan Anderson battling for minutes in the post.

Coach: Jon Brown Seniors: LANE HUTSON, 5-9, G; Ethan Anderson, 6-0, C. Juniors: CALEB VAUGHN, 6-1, G/F; MCKAGER FERRELL, 6-2, C; AMOS BEASLEY, 6-4, F; Jaden Schell, 5-11, F. Sophomores: Levi Vinson, 5-9, G; Cameron Stephens, 5-8, G.

GALATIA

from 13-15 and 3-4 in the conference to 23-7 and 5-1, before knocking off perennial champs Crab Orchard at the GEC tournament and winning their first regional title in 29 years.

“We had a chance to tie with Crab Orchard for the regular season title, but the last home game of the season against Crab was snowed out,” said coach Rodney Lane. “We did play them twice in tournaments during the season and beat them both times.

Cairo then beat us on a last second 3-point shot at the sectionals. I still remember that shot bouncing around before it fell in.”

Lane returns two starters in point guard Tyler Winters and forward/center Austin Seavers. He also has back junior shooting guard Cameron Shaw.

“Tyler and Austin carried us in postseason as sophomores,” Lane said. “Shaw played a lot of minutes late in the year and had a lot of big buckets. He’s a really good 3-point shooter.”

He also returns sophomore center Jamison Hicks and junior small forward Coach: Kendall Hankins Craig Hudson returns after Seniors: AUSTIN STRICKLAND, 6-1, F. sitting out last season.

Juniors: DEVYN BERBECK, 5-10, G; KODY MATHEWS, 5-8, G; LUKE LAWRENCE, “Hicks is a big body who 5-10, G; SEAN MONDINO, 6-0, F; ETHAN worked hard over the sumPATTERSON, 6-1, F; Hunter Talandis, 5-9, G. Sophomores: Austin Stevens, mer,” Lane said. “He didn’t 5-11, G; Ben Mitchell, 6-0, F; Will Pulliam, get a lot of playing time last 6-2, C/F; Austin Pritchett, 6-3, C. year, but will see a lot this GALLATIN COUNTY year. Hudson will also see a For the second year, in lot of varsity minutes.”

Rodney Lane a row Doug Miller has to Coach: Seniors: John Rose, 5-10, G. replace five seniors and at Juniors: TYLER WINTERS, 5-10, G; least three starters. Last AUSTIN SEAVERS, 6-2, F/G; Cameron 5-10, G; Craig Hudson, 6-3, F/C. year, in Miller’s first as head Shaw, Sophomores: Jamison Hicks, 6-5, C; coach, the Hawks fell from Hunter Cullum, 6-0, G; Trace Barnard, 5-9, G. Freshmen: Gabe Fowler, 6-0, 23-6 to 13-13, but still did F; Jaron Austin, 5-10, G. well in GEC play, going 6-4.

“Last year we lost all of NORRIS CITY-OMAHAour scorers, and this year ENFIELD we return just two players Former Dwight assistant who had any playing time coach Evan Wyllie takes at all, so we’re going as far over a Norris City-Omahaas our defense takes us,” Enfield Fighting Cardinals team coming off consecuMiller said.

Honorable mention all- tive second place finishes state guard Seth Ramsey in the GEC while posting returns after averaging 19 back-to-back 15 win seapoints a game as a sopho- sons. He has six seniors back more. Part-time starter to make a leap this season.

Pat Clark is moving from “This group of seniors small forward to the wing got state runner-up when they were in junior high, as a senior.

“Seth is our leader, so they had a taste of it at like he was last year as a a younger age,” Wyllie said. sophomore, and we have “We think we have the plan high expectations for him,” and personnel to win our Miller said. “Pat was more first regional since 1991.” of a role player last year Wyllie has two threeplaying the 2, 3 or 4 and year senior starters back in we expect him to be more shooting guard Chase Sutassertive as a scorer.” ton, who averaged 16 points S h o o t i n g g u a r d i s a game last year, and point between senior Logan guard Dakota Bond (7 ppg).

Lane and freshman Rob“We’re going to attack bie Prince. Wing is a battle both ends of the court,” between Clark, junior Wyllie said. “We’re going Hunter Walters and senior to try to play a lot of zone, Logan Birdwell with Bird- which I feel puts us at an well, freshman Audi Goebel advantage because most and juniors Luis Rubio and teams in Southern Illinois Brandon Rhodes at small don’t play zone.” forward and senior Brody He also has four other Watts and Rhodes at center. seniors back in forward Coach: Doug Miller Brantley Neal, forward MarSeniors: PAT CLARK, 6-1, F; Logan Lane, 5-6, cus Niehaus, center Jake G; Brody Watts, 6-2, C; Logan Birdwell, 6-0, F. Juniors: SETH RAMSEY, 5-10, G; Delap and guard Nolan SutHunter Walters, 5-10, F; Luis Rubio, ton, along with juniors Matt 6-0, F; Brandon Rhodes, 6-2, C. Freshmen: Audi Goebel, 6-1, Long and Cooper Wells.

Coach Kendall Hankins thinks that his Bearcats are poised for a jump, with five players that got starting time as sophomores on a 4-19 team.

“Last year we lost all five starters, so it was a year of the kids getting used to the expectations at this level,” Hankins said. “They had a good summer and come in hungry.”

Returning are three starters that averaged around 10 points a game in senior forward Austin Strickland, junior shooting guard Devin Berbeck and junior point guard Luke Lawrence. Also back is the leading rebounder, junior forward Sean Mondino.

“I hope to have four to five guys average double figures between Strickland, Berbeck, Lawrence and Kody Mathews, who when he gets hot can score a lot in a hurry, threepoint wise,” Hankins said.

“Sean averaged around six rebounds last year. Ethan Patterson has put on a lot of muscle, so he should be good for four or five rebounds this year.”

F; Robbie Prince, 5-10, G.

HARDIN COUNTY The Cougars made a big jump last season, going

Coach: Evan Wyllie Seniors: CHASE SUTTON, 6-0, G; DAKOTA BOND, 5-10, G; Brantley Neal, 6-2, F; Marcus Niehaus, 5-10, F; Jake Delap 6-4, C; Nolan Sutton, 5-9, G.

Juniors: Matt Long, 6-1, G; Cooper Wells, 6-3, F/C.

POPE COUNTY

The Pirates are coming off a rough two years where they won only seven of 54 games, including 5-23 last year. The bright spot is that Jim Simmons has three senior starters back and three good sophomores to build around.

“We were pretty young last year,” Simmons said.

“Even my two seniors I had didn’t have a lot of playing time. I’ve got a little more experience coming back this year and we could be a decent team if we pull together.”

Returning starters are point guard Cody Harris, shooting guard Zack Fasolo and wing guard Isaiah Bramlett.

“Right now all the positions are up for grabs,” Simmons said. “Whoever plays well together could earn a starting job.”

Also back are three sophomores forward Nick Walker, center Cale Blankenship and guard Colton Shires. In addition two brothers—junior center Jacob Floyd and sophomore center Josh Floyd—have transferred from Massac County.

Coach: Jim Simmons Seniors: CODY HARRIS, 6-2, G; ZACK FASOLO, 5-10, G; ISAIAH BRAMLETT, 5-10, G. Juniors: Jacob Floyd, 6-6, C. Sophomores: Nick Walker, 6-0, F; Cale Blankenship, 6-1, C; Colton Shires, 5-10, G; Josh Floyd, 6-4, C. Freshmen: Matthew Davis, 5-7, G; Sebastian Fasolo, 5-11, G; Jacob Rison, 6-0, F; Mason Harms, 5-10, G; Donavon Grider, 5-9, G.

THOMPSONVILLE

The only place the Tigers can go is up after going 0-25 last season. Pete Gordon has three starters back playing different positions to turn things around.

“All our kids had no varsity experience last year, so we’re hoping to build upon their playing time this year,” Gordon said. “Our eight freshmen were able to make the state tournament last year so our basketball IQ has increased.”

Senior forward Jesse Darnell will be moving to the post, with Jared Payne moving to shooting guard and junior Cory Wilce playing on the wing.

“We’re going to surround Jesse with four quick guards and implement a motion offense where we’re able to cut off of him or he can step out and shoot,” Gordon said.

Freshman Tyson Kessler has the upper hand on replacing Payne at point guard.

“We’re going to have some true competition to see who fills that fifth spot between another freshman James Compton and sophomore Zack Kirkman,” Gordon said.

Coach: Pete Gordon Seniors: JESSE DARNELL, 6-5, F. Juniors: JARED PAYNE, 6-1, G; CORY WILCE, 5-10, G; Austin Lunde, 5-11, F; Noah Summers, 6-0, F. Sophomores: Zack Kirkman, 5-10, F; Jacob Dixon, 6-4, F; Trenton Cardwell, 6-1, F. Freshmen: Tyson Kessler, 5-9, G; James Compton, 5-10, G; Anthoney Darge, 6-5, F; Reed Raubach, 6-1, F; Tyler Jones, 5-11, F; Trey Bybee, 5-9, G; Matt Lawrence, 5-9, G.

— Geary Deniston

‌GALATIATHOMPSONVILLE

It was a tale of two seasons during Drake Patton’s first year as head coach at Galatia-Thompsonville.

The Lady Bearcats lost their first 14 games, but finished strong, winning seven of their last eight, including the GEC tournament and the regional title.

Patton is the son of Gallatin County girls coach Robert “Radar” Patton and he beat his father in the tournament after losing twice during the regular season.

“Our momentum from the tournament carried to the regional final where we beat Wayne City, who had beat us twice during the season by 20 points both times,” Patton said. “Our goal this year is to win in the sectionals.”

Patton returns three starters in senior point guard Becky Gregory (12 ppg), junior Kassidy Rizor (8 ppg), who is moving from power forward to replace Elizabeth Sloan (18 ppg) at center, and sophomore shooting guard Kennedy Harris (6 ppg).

Sophomores Makayda I r v i n , M a l l o r y M ays and Maddy Murphy are expected to battle for the open wing position and to replace Shelby Beckman at small forward.

Coach: Drake Patton Seniors: BECKY GREGORY, 5-6, g.

Juniors: KASSIDY RIZOR, 5-10, c; Sara Simpson, 5-5, g; Reanna Gallamore, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: KENNEDY HARRIS, 5-5, g; Makayda Irvin, 5-10, f; Mallory Mays, 5-5, g; Maddy Murphy, 5-5, g.

GALLATIN COUNTY

Coach Robert “Radar” Patton’s homecoming to the Lady Hawks after six years as the boys coach was a total success. At 17-7, he turned a team that won just three games into conference co-champions with Pope County and regional champions for the first time since 2010.

Patton lost only center Shay Wood, and returns honorable mention allstate point guard Hailey Chubb. Chubb averaged 22 points a game as a freshman, but the availability of all-conference power forward junior Caitlyn Lynch, who averaged 12 points and eight rebounds a game, is in question.

“Caitlyn got hurt a few weeks ago, so we don’t know if she will be able to play this season,” Patton said. “Losing Caitlyn hurts, but this team has a lot of talent and athleticism.”

Injuries took their toll, with Patton down to just eight players by the end of the year. Returning parttime starters are senior forward Makaylyn Smith and three juniors: forward Harley Turner, wing guard Kayle McGuire and shooting guard Morgan Roderick. Patton is expecting 5-foot-11 sophomore Valarie Ahrens to replace Wood at center.

Coach: Robert “Radar” Patton Seniors: MAKAYLYN SMITH, 5-9, f.

Juniors: CAITLYN LYNCH, 5-9, f; HARLEY TURNER, 5-11, f; MORGAN RODERICK, 5-7, g;

KAYLE MCGUIRE, 5-6, g; Chassidy Graham, 5-7, f.

Sophomores: HAILEY CHUBB, 5-11, g; Valarie Ahrens, 5-11, c.

Freshmen: Amy Bourland, 5-7, G; Meg Oldham, 5-7, G; Raven Valdez 5-6, G.

HARDIN COUNTY

John Byers’ first year at the helm of the Lady Cougars was a tough one, going 0-11. However, he does have two returning starters in sophomore shooting guard Lydia Hicks and junior wing Jacey Winters.

“It was a pretty hard year for us, so it’s going to be a rebuilding year, obviously,” Byers said. “We have some good players coming back and some good newcomers, so we hope to win a few games this year.”

Hicks gained valuable experience, as did Winters and Tanner Owens. Byers will have some height this year at center and forward in seniors Lauren Smock (5-9), Debora Lane (5-9) and Evalee Mathews (5-10).

“Last year I had Lydia (at 5-4) playing in the low post position, but this year she moves outside,” Byers said. “Last year we couldn’t play the press, but I think with the experience they got we’ll be able to play defense better.”

Coach: John Byers Seniors: Lauren Smock, 5-9, c; Debora Lane, 5-9, c; Evalee Mathews 5-10, f.

Juniors: JACEY WINTERS, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: LYDIA HICKS, 5-4, g; Tanner Owens, 5-4, g.

Freshmen: Meshlia Meridith, 5-4, f.

POPE COUNTY

Former Massac County coach James Forthman takes over a Lady Pirate squad (16-10, 5-1) who we re co n fe re n ce co champions and took second at the GEC tournament. Forthman has two returning starters: senior forward/center Kirsten Tomes and junior point guard Cortney Vickery, as well as top reserve, junior shooting guard Madison Murphy.

Forthman (2002-07) coached the Lady Patriots for six seasons, posting five 20-plus win seasons, winning six regional and four sectional titles and qualifying for the state tournament in 2005.

“I’m a big defensive coach,” Forthman said. “We will press a lot and try to play a lot of man-to-man.

We will switch defenses a lot, I do like to run and push up-tempo.”

Forthman will also have sophomore center Katie Hall and newcomer senior wing Olivia Weaver to build around.

“I have a couple freshmen that will push kids for spots,” Forthman said. “Our practices are very competitive and we have high hopes for our freshmen class to add to our depth.”

Coach: James Forthman Seniors: KIRSTEN TOMES, 5-8, F/C; Olivia Weaver, 5-7, G. Juniors: CORTNEY VICKERY, 5-6, G; Madison Murphy, 5-6, G. Sophomores: Katie Hall, 5-8, C. Freshmen: Hannah Barger, 5-7, G; Abby Thompson, 5-4, G; Abby Clanton, 5-5, F; Natalie Bonnell, 5-7, F; Jeanna Robertson, 5-7, F; McKenzie Swinford, 5-6, G; Samantha Shales, 5-7, F; Mia Anderson, 5-7, G; Taylor Hall, 5-9, C.

— Geary Deniston

SEC GIRLS: Depth has improved, but still an issue, for Pitts, Shawnee girls FROM PAGE 7A

out there. It’s one of those things you have to play the cards you’re dealt.”

On the positive side, Pitts returns four starters from last year’s 2-15 squad.

Senior Alexis Charles started along with juniors

Drew McLane, Abbey Livesay and Madi Ellet.

“That’s one of the things were fortunate we’ve been really young,” he said. “It won’t be the deer in the headlights when they get on the floor.”

Shawnee will relay on perimeter shooting and

penetration to score.

“Last year we found out that Madi Ellet could extend the floor for us,” Pitts said. “Drew Mclane opens up quite a bit for us by driving. If we can stay healthy she’ll open everything up for us.”

The tallest player on the

team is 5-7 senior Morgan Stevens. Stevens was injured last year.

“We have really no height to begin with,” Pitts said.

“Our big girls are going to be 5-6, 5-7. We’ll try to get uptempo, get the game moving a little bit. We have to put bodies on people

and out-hustle them on can be competitive if they the boards.” stay healthy.

Chad Pitts In addition to the return- Coach: Seniors: ALEXIS CHARLES, ing starters and Stevens, 5-2, g; Morgan Stevens, 5-7, f.

Pitts will lean on Brittney Juniors: DREW MCLANE, 5-6, g; LIVESAY, 5-6, f; MADI ELLET, 5-3, Abercrombie, a junior, and ABBEY g; Brittney Abercrombie, 5-5, g. freshmen Autumn McMa- Freshmen: Autumn McMahan, 5-5, g; Katie Charles, 5-5, g. han and Katie Charles.

De s p i te t h e l a c k o f depth, Pitts said this group — Les Winkeler

DIAMOND EAST GIRLS: Upstart teams ready to compete with reloading Lady Foxes FROM PAGE 5A

Rylynn Coy and Taylie Payne give Winemiller some depth as each player can play on the post or around the perimeter.

A pair of freshmen, Anna Miller and Corrie Grubb, will play the guard position for the Lady Foxes.

“The Black Diamond Conference is very tough with many quality teams that are well-coached,” said Winemiller. “We will have to be ready every time we step out on the floor.”

Coach: Clint Winemiller Juniors: ADRIENNE WINEMILLER, 5-7, g; Emily Blades, 5-8, g/f; Sydney Williams, 5-7, g.

Sophomores: Taylor Thompson, 5-10,

g/f; Katherine Drone, 5-7, Rylynn Coy, 5-8, f; Ramsey Clark, 5-7, g/f; Taylie Payne, 5-8, g/f.

Freshmen: Kaleigh Dodson, 5-10, g/f; Anna Miller, 5-6, g; Corrie Grubb, 5-7, g.

JOHNSTON CITY

Second year head coach Lenny Clark has just about everyone back from a 14-16 campaign last season at Johnston City, and the Lady Indians are eagerly awaiting the upcoming season.

“We have and outstanding group of kids to work with this year,” Clark said.

“We are returning six players with significant varsity experience and we feel we have a pretty good mix of speed and size.”

Clark will be leaning on

four seniors and a couple of juniors to shoulder the bulk of the workload this season. The Lady Indians feature a pair of six-footers in the post with senior Paige Rich and Maggie Price, a junior. Seniors Bailee Pulley, Nicole Johnson and Bailey Mings, along with junior Alora Mouyard will see the bulk of the playing time for Johnston City.

Juniors Ashley Smiley and Jeana Devening will add depth to the Lady Indians varsity lineup, as will sophomore Allison Baker and freshmen Lexi King and Kenzie Nichols.

Clark feels like his team

season at Vienna and inherits an 8-23 squad that lost three starters to graduation.

G o n e a re C o u r t n e y Sanders, Meighan Smith and Becky Reeder, along with defensive specialist Megan McCuan.

Returning for the Lady Eagles is starting guard Alena Cowsert, a junior, Coach: Lenny Clark and senior post player Seniors: Paige Rich, 6-0, f; Bailee Pulley, 5-6, Natalie Keeling. They will g; Nicole Johnson, 5-8, f; Bailey Mings, 5-7, g.

Juniors: Maggie Price, 6-0, f; Alora Mouyard, be joined by seniors Audra 5-6, g; Ashley Smiley, 5-10, f; Jeana Devening, 5-5, g.

Bullock and Makayla Freshmen: Lexi King, 5-7, g.

Rice in the frontcourt, and junior point guard VIENNA Jamie Kerley moves up Rachel Kindhart. as head coach in his fifth “ We re t u r n a l i t t l e will have to play well in a balanced Black Diamond East if the Lady Indians want to compete for a conference crown.

“I think the conference is like it usually is with at least three or four teams that will compete for the title depending on who can stay healthy and who gets hot at the right time,” he said.

varsity experience from a big junior class, and the freshman and sophomore classes are solid and we look for some production out of them later in the year,” Kerley said. “We are young and don’t have a ton of experience, but if we can stay healthy and have some good leadership I think we can be competitive.”

Coach: Jamie Kerley Seniors: Audra Bullock, NATALIE KEELING, Makayla Rice.

Juniors: ALENA COWSERT, Rachel Kindhart, Adrienne Bullock, McKenzie Smith, Cati Green, Callie Clay.

Sophomores: Lindsey Holhubner.

Freshmen: Alyssa Jones, Haleigh Keeling.

— Dennis Kellerman

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015 Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

www.thesouthern.com

9A High School Basketball Preview 9A

◗ others BOYS ‌CAIRO

The Cairo boys basketball team has back-to-back regional championships, and has reached the state’s Sweet 16 in each of those seasons. Now, the Pilots want more.

And Cairo head coach Brian Brandtner thinks the Pilots can get more.

“I realy like this group,” Brandtner said. “They will compete really hard.

We’ve made to the sectional championship game the last two years and came up short.”

The Pilots start with senior Melvin Duncan.

Duncan, a 6-0 point guard, is the Pilots’ best athlete according to Brandtner. He sprained his ankle in last year’s regional championship, and re-injured the ankle in preseason practice.

But Taylor is expected to be near 100 percent by the time the season starts.

Duncan will get support from fellow senior, 6-1 post player Terrell Johnson and a talented sophomore class that includes 5-10 Jayden Hollis, 6-1 Malachi Brown and 5-9 Demarius Taylor, who Brandtner says may be the best shooter in the program.

Senior Ledarious Woodson and junior Trevon Bingham will also be contrutors.

“We’re battle tested,” Brandtner said. “Our record isn’t always 20-0 coming into the playoffs, but it’s really prepared us for the postseaon.”

Coach: Brian Brandtner Seniors: TERRELL JOHNSON, 6-1, f; LEDARIUS WOODSON, 5-7, g; MELVIN DUNCAN, 6-0, g; Tyrell Harris, 5-11, f; Jayden Hollis, 5-10, g; Darquan White, 6-3, f.

Juniors: DAVE TAYLOR, 6-0, g; Trevon Bigham, 6-5, f; Dave Ward, 5-8, g.

Sophomores: Malachi Brown,

6-1, f; Jordan Hollis, 6-4, f; Demarius Taylor, 5-9, g; Chris Lewis, 5-6, g.

Frederking along with forwards Drew Frederking and OKAWVILLE Kirklen Meier will also be It doesn’t take much key players.

Jon Kraus imagination to figure out Coach: Seniors: ALEC WISNESKI, 6-0, g; what the Okawville Rockets BRAD FURHOP, 6-0, g; Mason Drury, are looking for this basket- 5-11, g, BRENDAN KILLION, 6-1, f.

Juniors: Josh Madrid, 5-8, g; ball season.

Logan Riechmann, 5-9, g; SHANE GANZ, Coming off a 25-10 sea- 6-3, g; Drew Frederking, 6-0, f; NOAH 6-4, f; Kirklen Meier, 6-5, f. son that ended in the Class FREDERKING, Sophomores: Payten Harre, 5-8, g; Luke 1A Supersectional, and Hensler, 6-3, f; Caleb Frederking, 6-1, g. returning all but one of its players including first-team STEELEVILLE all-stater Noah Frederking There are several small (21 ppg), the Rockets legiti- schools in Southern Illinois mately set their sights on that return multiple starters the Class 1A State tourna- for the upcoming season.

Count the Steeleville Warment.

“Obviously any time you riors among those teams. lose the last game of the Steeleville returns seniors year it’s never a great feel- Nic Hagel, Parker Lutz and ing,” said Okawville coach Bryar Pim and junior Dusty Jon Kraus.

Sutton from an 8-21 team Along with Frederk- that ended its season in the ing, who is just a junior, Trico Regional. That short the Rockets will bring list puts a smile on the face back a pair of seniors that of head coach Bryce Bainter. have been on the varsity “We have a lot back from team since their freshman last year,” Bainter says. “We years, and will be third- have a good chunk of our nucleus back and our top year starters.

Guard Bradley Furhop is four scorers.” a good defensive player and The Warriors won’t be has improved his shooting very big. Their tallest starter touch according to Kraus. will likely be Hagel who is a Alec Wisneski is the point 6-3 guard. Lutz is 5-8 with guard, who Kraus said has Pim and Sutton both 5-9. got stronger and plays well “I think we have guys on both ends of the floor. who can score the ball but Add senior Mason Drury, we don’t have a lot of size,” who comes off the bench Bainter said. to provide the Rockets with “I think this year in practice we will be able to their best shooter.

Junior Shane Ganz brings put 10 guys on the floor to size and versatility, and was play each other that will the Rockets’ second-lead- make things competitive,” ing scorer a year ago. 6-1 Bainter added. senior Brendan Killion was Junior Reid Frederka part-time starter last year ing (6-3) and sophomore who isn’t afraid to mix it up. Nick Ebers (6-3) will add K ra u s e i s t h e m o s t a little size to the roster, excited about is the fact but along with Hagel are that he has even more con- the only players over 6-1. tributors. Guards Logan Seniors Lucas Axtell (6-1), Riechmann and Caleb Trey Lazenby (6-0) and

juniors R.J. Smith (6-1) and Andrew Grafton (5-11) will join freshman Owen Gross (6-0) in competing for playing time.

Despite the 8-21 season, the Warriors did finish second in the Cahokia Conference’s Kaskaskia Division with a 7-3 league mark.

Bainter counts a confrerence championship among the goals his team has, along with a 20-win season and a shot at a regional championship.

“I think this year along with the next several years there will be some high expectations here,” Bainter said.

Coach: Bryce Bainter Seniors: BRYAR PIM, 5-9, g; PARKER LUTZ, 5-8, g; NIC HAGEL, 6-3, g; Lucas Axtell, 6-1, f; Trey Lazenby, 6-0, f.

Juniors: DUSTY SUTTON, 5-9, g; Andrew Grafton, 5-11, f; R.J. Smith, 6-1, f; Reid Frederking, 6-3, f.

Sophomores: Nick Ebers, 6-3, f.

Freshmen: Owen Gross, 6-0, g.

WALTONVILLE

Experience and size are just a couple of reasons Waltonville boys basketball coach Tyler Mitchell is optimistic about the 201516 basketball season. The Spartans return three starters from last year’s team.

A pair of transfers including 6-4 sophomore Tanner Spilhlmann add the length that the Spartans hope to parlay into a successful season.

“We really went from being a guard oriented team to having a post oriented team this year,” said Mitchell. “It does kind of change our strategy a little bit.”

Back for the Spartans are point guard Dylan Miller, along with fellow senior Ryan Majewski and junior Dalton Banach.

“I would say Dylan was

probably our best player last year,” Mitchell said.

“He can do it all — handle the ball, shoot.”

But with Majewski and Banach returning, along with the newcomers in Spihlman and 6-0 sophomore Caleb Jourdan, the Spartans can put four players on the floor six feet tall or taller.

Mitchell also knows that the Spartans’ early season schedule will test his team.

Coach: Tyler Miller Seniors: Taylor Coggins, 5-10, g; Jacob Lewis, 5-11, g; RYAN MAJEWSKI, 6-3, f; DYLAN MILLER, 6-0, g.

Juniors: DALTON BANACH, 6-2, g; Cole Griffith, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Gage Berkemeyer, 5-11, g; Caleb Jourdan, 6-0, f; Tanner Spihlmann, 6-4, f.

Freshmen: Devan Grasser, 5-10, g; Hunter Jourdan, 5-2, g; Jayon Malone, 5-9, g; Wade Massie, 5-10, g; Grant Tobin, 5-9, g; Jacob Tucker, 5-10, g; Zack Webb, 6-3, f.

WOODLAWN

With four starters back from a 25-4 season a year ago, it’s easy to see why there is excitement in the Woodlawn Cardinals’ basketball camp. Having lost in the regional championship each of the last two seasons, it’s also easy to see why the Cardinals are focused this year.

“The last couple of seasons we got beat in the regional championship game,” said Woodlawn coach Shane Witzel. “We felt like we were good enough to make a run and we didn’t get it done and that was a disappointment.”

But Witzel noted that he still considered the seasons successful, because he saw his team improve. That’s the goal this year as well.

“Our schedule is good,” he said. “We’re playing quality teams. Our nonconference schedule is pretty good. We feel like

there’s some oportunity for us to get better.”

For the Cardinals, it will all start with senior point guard Ross Owens.

At 6-foot-5, Owens isn’t your typical small school point guard.

“Ross has good size and he’s been our point guard the last few years,” Witzel said. “He does a lot of things for us that don’t show up on the stat sheets.”

Owens does things that do show up on the stat sheets as well, leading the team last year in scoring, rebounding and assists.

His backcourt mate will be Blake Wollerman, a 5-9 junior.

“Wollerman is a true point guard so we have two point guards on the court at the same time,” said Witzel.

Across the front line, the Cardinals have seniors Brett Harris (6-5) and Austin Ballard (6-3) can not only play on the blocks but can face the basket and create mismatches on the perimeter. Senior Garrett Minks will be the fifth starter, and at 6-4 allows Harris and Ballard the flexibility to move outside when needed.

Witzel also points to his bench as a factor. Juniors Jordan Hoppa, Zach Ashby a n d s o p h o m o re T re y Isaac are key to a successful season.

Coach: Shane Witzel Seniors: BRETT HARRIS, 6-5, f; ROSS OWENS, 6-5, g; AUSTIN BALLARD, 6-3 f; Garrett Minks, 6-4, f.

Juniors: Beau Bennett, 5-7, g; BLAKE WOLLERMAN, 5-10, g; Jordan Hoppa, 6-2, f; Zach Ashby, 5-9, f.

Sophomores: Trey Isaac, 6-1, g; Hayden Brown, 6-1, g; Kaden Devore, 5-11, g.

Freshmen: Aaron Spangler, 5-9, g; Jackson Bennett, 5-10, g.

— Tim Petrowich

GIRLS ‌CAIRO CO-PILOTS

CAIRO — With just one starter back from a 15-9 team that has won threestraight regional championships, head coach Kelly Shepard knows this will be a rebuilding year. “ We a re d e f i n i te l y rebuilding,” said Shepard.

“We’re going to have to fins somebody that wants to score for us.”

That’s because Cairo’s top three scorers from last year graduated. The only returning starter is 5-4 senior guard Shakaela Jang.

“I think the girls are going to have to get some confidence built up, because none of the ones coming back are used to being the scorer,” Shepard said.

“That’s the difference this year. I’m hoping after four or five games we’re going to see who is going to step up and score for us.”

Shepard says along with Jang, there are four or five other girls that have some varsity playing experience. But Jang is the lone senior on a roster that only includes three juniors.

Shepard says one thing going for her is the fact that

this year’s schedule was easier to compile and contains several smaller schools.

“This year we are playing more schools our size,” Shepard said. “I’m looking forward to that.”

Coach: Kelly Shepard Seniors: SHAKAELA JANG, 5-4, g.

Juniors: Ukari Posey, 5-5, g; Datoryia Allen, 5-7, f; Taylor Lyas, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: Shamari Smith, 5-3, g; Siniaya Whitaker 6-2, c; Lanaya Nelson, 5-5, g; Arieal Collier, 5-8, f; Uniqua Vaughn, 5-6, f.

Freshmen: Shania Jang, 5-3, g; Makayla McAllister, 5-9, f; Romeshia Smith, 5-5, g; Shawntel Bronough, 5-6, g.

OKAWVILLE

Young and rebuilding.

Those have been the buzz words around Okawville girls basketball the last two years. And while the Lady Rockets will be relatively young again this year, coach Michelle Burianek believes this season could be a little more fun.

“We pretty much return all of our starters,” said Burianek. “I think we have a chance to keep getting a lot better.”

The Lady Rockets roster features a pair of seniors including guard Jessie Klasing, a returning starter, and Alyssa Thompson, who was a part-time starter.

Junior Mallory Unverfehrt

is another returning starter, as is 6-foot sophomore Audrey Jansen.

Jansen is one of four sophomores who saw action last year, along with Madylyn Tepe, Casean Tebbe and Madison Hackstadt.

“We will be running at least eight deep this year,” said Burianek. “In fact, I told them at practice there won’t be a pure starting five.”

Burianek believes that will help the Lady Rockets be more competitive as the season goes on.

As a player for the Lady Rockets when Okawville was a perennial power, Burianek knows how to make the Lady Rockets successful again. As an independent school against a solid schedule, she also knows it may take time.

“You have to keep that in perspective,” she said. “You have to tell them the things that they are doing right and build off that.”

Coach: Michelle Burianek Seniors: JESSIE KLASING, 5-6, g; ALYSSA THOMPSON, 5-3, g.

Juniors: Stephanie Friedrich, 5-6, f; MALORY UNVERFEHRT, 5-2, g; Laura Weber, 5-1, g.

Sophomores: Hope Bergkoetter, 6-0, c; Madison Hackstadt, 5-11, f; Audrey Jansen, 6-0, c; Casean Tebbe, 5-10, f; Madelyn Tepe, 5-8, f.

Eliminate your pain

STEELEVILLE

The Steeleville girls basketball team took a magical late-season ride all the way to the Class 1A Supersectional at Salem before bowing out of the postseason tournament.

This year first-year head coach John Antonacci hopes the Lady Warriors can renew some of that magic.

“I think they are excited,” said Antonacci of his team, which returns three starters from last year’s 14-16 team that used a five-game postseason winning streak to get to the Elite Eight.

Senior Chloe Gerlach will run the point for the Lady Warriors. Antonacci says she is about 70 points shy of 1,000 for her career, and will be a key part of a team that will try to boost the tempo in most of its games.

“We’ll be trying to get up and down the floor a little bit,” Antonacci said. “It will be a game to game adjustment though. If we feel like we need to slow it down we will, but we will rely on lots of movement.”

Bailey Gale and Mackenzie Pim are the other returning starters.

Coach: John Antonacci Seniors: Morgan Bockhorn, f; CHLOE GERLACH, g; BAILEY GALE, c.

Juniors: Sydnie Furman, g; Madalynn Gordon, f; Dani Parker, g; Kaylee Wagner, g.

Sophomores: Taylor Dagner, f; Sydney Hood, f; Mallory Moore, f; Lexi Middendorf, g; MACKENZIE PIM, f, Josie Raby, g.

Freshmen: Kylie Ernsting, g; Karley Koethe, c; Chloe Gordon, g; Julia Niepert, f.

WOODLAWN

The Woodlawn High School girls athletic program has had a run of recent success. The volleyball team is a year removed from a fourth place finish in the state volleyball tournament. The softball team has had a run of solid seasons. Now coach Matt Patterson thinks it’s time for the basketball team. “ We ’ v e h a d s o m e good record and a really good group of athletes,” said Patterson.

This year’s Lady Cardinals return three starters, two of which have been in the starting lineup since they were freshmen.

Senior Kerstie Harlow and juniors Kiara Lueking and Taytum Murdock come back from a team that finished 15-12 a year ago.

“They all have a lot of experience,” Patterson said.

Lueking and Murdock are also the leading scorers from

last year’s team.

“We will have a little offensive punch from last year and that will help us,” Paterson said.

The extra offensive punch will go along with what has become a trademark for the Lady Cardinals, stiff defense.

“We hang our hat on our defense,” said Patterson. “As long as we continue to play defense the way we have, we’ll be in some games with a chance to pile up some wins.”

Patterson said he is carrying a trio of sophomores that he expects to see significant playing time: 5-9 Hannah Estes, 5-8 Breanna Sanders and 5-6 Allyssa Doza.

“They all got some varsity experience last year,” Patterson said. “They had a good summer and put in some good work.”

Coach: Matt Patterson Seniors: Rebecca Newcomb, 5-9, f; KERSTIE HARLOW, 5-6, g.

Juniors: KIARA LUEKING, 5-7, f; TAYTUM MURDOCK, 5-4, g; Holli Buretta, 5-6, g; Ashton Palmer, 5-6, g; Ashton Palmer, 5-6, g; Makayla Crawford, 5-6, g.

Sophomores: Hannah Estes. 5-9, f; Breanna Sanders, 5-8, f; Alyssa Doza, 5-6, g.

Freshmen: Madison Tiemann, 5-7, f; Callie Lueking, 5-9, f; Bella Brumbaugh, 5-7, f.

— Tim Petrowich

Restoree your y mobility

Get back in the game

Marshall Browning Rehab 900 North Washington Street, Du Quoin, IL

618-542-1099

www.marshallbrowninghospital.com

10A

Special Section • Friday, November 20, 2015

This choice changes everything.

ScholarShip DeaDline January 15, 2016 aDmitteD StuDent open houSe February 4, 2016

Apply today! murraystate.edu

#MurrayState

Equal education and employment opportunities M/F/D, AA employer.

Murray State University supports a clean and healthy campus. Please refrain from personal tobacco use.