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UNCTarheels
11-12-2008, 12:59 PM
(The Following is a Talksback.com Exclusive put together by Bill Collmer with the help of the respective teams coaches)


Prattsburgh Vikings

League: Steuben County

Coach: Jim Burke (499-156)

Last Season: 21-2 Lost in Sectional Finals to Northstar Christian

Key Losses: Wade Fuller 15.0 PPG, finished career with 1,062 points shooting 45% from the Field, had 183 assists his senior year setting a new school record, also had 113 steals which is 2nd all time at Prattsburgh. All state class D 1st team, Birds Eye Foods Section V player of the year for Steuben County. Also lost 6’3 Forwards Doug Lewis & Marshell Stanley & reserve guards Phil Maciuska & Logan Wheeler

Key Returnees: All State 5th team Member Jr. F. Garrett Parker (6’3” 191 lbs)12 PPG 5 RPG , Sr.guard Ryan Caron (6’0” 165 lbs) 5.0 PPG, Jr. Guard Patrick Wightman (6’1” 155 lbs) 4.0 PPG, Sr. Guard Zach Burke (5’11 160 lbs) Sr F Brandon Smith (6’1” 160) Sr. F Dylon Dibble (5’10” 185) Sr. Guard Nick Digati (5’7” 155)

Top Newcomers: Jr. F Brandon Bulley (6’1” 170 lbs) (Transfer from Hammondsport), Jr. Guard Josh Sanford ( 5’8” 158 lbs) Jr. F Tim Baird ( 6’1” 145) Jr. C Dalton Drake ( 6’4” 195 lbs) Jr. F Elijah Hicks (5’11” 200 lbs)

Coach Burke’s thoughts on the season: “It's going to be tough replacing Wade, especially his leadership qualities. We will not replace his quickness. The kid had D-1 quickness and that's something you can't teach. I think team wise, we will be quicker overall. The one positive about losing Wade, is that we stood around to much last year, waiting for Wade to do it. This year, others have to step up and we have the players that will do that. We have Patrick Wightman and Josh Sanford taking over the point guard position. Patrick got a lot of experience going against Wade everyday in practice for the past two years. We also have to replace Doug Lewis and Marshall Stanley down low. Garrett Parker will play the 4 spot, as he's grown to 6'3. Nice thing about Garrett is that he can play down low and can go out and handle the ball and shoot the 3. Not many big kids can do that. Brandon Bulley, transfer from Hammondsport will play down low, along with Dylon Dibble, the hardest worker on the team. If he was 6'3 he'd be unstoppable at our level. Brandon Smith will be playing both the 2 and 3 spot. We have Post players, 6'4 Dalton Drake and “The bull“, Elijah Hicks coming off the bench.”

Strengths: “GREAT TEAM CHEMISTRY
Probably could pick from 10 players that could start
Team Quickness - Caron and Burke might have the quickest first step in the league.
Pretty good shooters in Wightman, Parker, Caron, Smith and the best shooter on the team, Nick Digati. We should be able to press a lot and run this year.”

Weaknesses: “Lack of a strong big man - we'll have to rely on boxing out and quickness.
Need to get much better on the defensive end.”

Outlook: “D's are going to be extremely tough this year. You have an off night in early rounds of Sectionals this year and you'll be out. Houghton & Andover have a lot coming back. Whitesville has Doug Vanskiver at the helm & he’ll have them ready. Rumor has it DeSales and C.G Finney have picked up a couple of players, so they'll be better.

In our league - Look out for Arkport, as always C-S has a ton of talent, C-G is a team that never quits and is always scrappy. J-T has Tom Price at the helm and that always makes them tough. They might have the league's best big man in Brennan Thurber. Also, Hammondsport has a lot of talent coming back and should be strong at the guard position. Bradford is a team on the rise, when they learn how to win, they'll be tough. A-A has some talent coming out this year that didn't play last year, so they'll be better.”

Games to Watch: 11/28 vs. Whitesville Coach Burke goes for #500 12/20 @ Batavia Notre-Dame 1/6 vs. Arkport 1/30 @ Campbell-Savona

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Canaseraga Indians

League Allegany County

Coach Steve Sleight 8 years (Record unavailable)

Last Season 6-15 Lost to Belfast in 1st round of sectionals

Key Losses: T.J Dunning 6’2” Guard 20.0 PPG

Top Returnees Sr. F Logan Spike (6’2” 185 lbs) 10.0 PPG 10.0 RPG 5.0 APG Sr. F Tyler Clancy (5’10” 185 lbs) Jr. Guard Forrest May (5’7” 165 lbs) Jr. Guard Danny Woodring (5’10” 150 lbs) Jr. F Mike Scott ( 5’10” 150 lbs) Jr. F David Lohmer (5’11”150 lbs)

Top Newcomers: None

Coach Sleights Thoughts on the season: “We have played a lot of basketball since the end of last year. I have opened the gym a lot. Not having a soccer season probably hurt us in conditioning a little, so we are somewhat behind. We have 11 guys out and we will probably play 7 or 8 guys quite a few minutes. Replacing T.J. will be tough - on the scoring end. He averaged 20 PPG. We have 9 juniors out of the 11 and they say the best thing about Sophomores is they become Juniors. They really need to play well for us to do anything.

Strengths: “One of our strengths should be our size. We don't have a 6'5' kid but we have some strong solid kids.”

Weaknesses : “Weaknesses could be our team speed over all. We are not quick so we really have to make sure we are in position offensively and defensively especially.”

Outlook: “We hope to be in double figure wins. A middle of the road seed for sectionals would be nice. I suspect Prattsburgh, Andover, and Houghton to all be very good come sectional time. Of course 2 out of the 3 are in our league and Andover is in our division in Allegany County. Switching leagues will be good for us especially on the mental end of things. We will be playing mostly D schools and that should help our confidence. That really was the main reason for switching. If you are playing schools your size there really isn't any excuse you can use - you should be able to compete.”

Games to watch:11/28 vs. J-T in Andover Tournament, 12/16 vs. Friendship 1/12 vs. Avoca 1/12 vs. Scio

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C.G Finney Falcons

League: Independent

Coach: Joe Marchand

Last Season: 8-14 Lost to Batavia Notre-Dame in 2nd round of DD

Key Losses: Mike Moody 6’0 Forward, Ethan Lovall 5’9” Forward, Sr. G Ed Marchand 10.3 PPG 4.2 assists He will be having surgery on November 17th for the third time. Ed has a problem on his lower back/upper rear, the first 2 surgery's did not solve the problem and they were minor surgery's, this surgery will be extensive and will keep him out 3-5 months. Ed has been bleeding every day since the end of his freshman year. He could hold off the surgery but does not want to miss the baseball season.

Top Returnees : Jr. G Joe Colosi (5’10” 170 lbs) 13.6 ppg, 2.8 assists, 8.4 rebounds.
Sr. F Tyshon Williams (5’11” 155 lbs) Jr. G Bill Attridge (5’8” 140 lbs) 5.4 PPG, Jr. G John Carpenter (6’0” 150 lbs) 3.1 PPG, So. Guard Tyrone Reaves ( 6’1” 175 lbs) 7.8 PPG 7.6 RPG, Sr. F Dan Husband ( 5’9” 150 lbs)

Top Newcomers: Jr. 5’9” Guard Jeremy Lagueras, Jr. 6’1” Jeremy Noyce, Jr. Justin Brown, 6’1” Soph. Luke Zuloff, 5’8” Jr. Chris Nash (Transfer from Webster Thomas) Soph 6’2” Joe Drummond (Transfer from McQuaid) Soph 6’0” Jamell Johnson (Transfer from Monroe)

Strengths: “This teams strength is their speed, athletic ability, tenacious defense, good perimeter shooting, this maybe my best team in paint.”

Weaknesses: “This teams weakness is they are young. (4 Sophomores, 3 starting) No seniors are starting or even in the top 10 of the rotation.”

Thoughts from Coach Marchand: On Losing Ed Marchand: “His leadership is what this young team will miss.” On returning Leading Scorer Joe Colosi: “Joe knows our system and will play a big role on this team.” On Senior Captain Tyshon Williams: “although he is the 11th man, he should see quality minutes. Tyshon is the man we are looking at to bring this team together, keep the players grounded and make sure everyone knows their roles.” On Juniors Bill Attridge and John Carpenter:” Both players understand the system and know their roles.” On Sophomore Tyrone Reaves: “His ability to score has improved a lot.” Up from the JV are Jeremy Lagueras and Jeremy Noyce: “Lagueras a 5-9 junior has a good jumper is listed as the 12th man right now.
Noyce a 6-1 junior has been improving every day. Noyce has already worked his way from 12th to 10th man and we think he will continue to improve and rise in the depth chart. Both Jeremy and Jeremy were good football players who have a tough personality.”

Thoughts on the Newcomers: “New comers are Junior Justin Brown a grandson of one of the original board members who is from the Dominican Republic, never has played organized ball, Justin is still learning our system. Luke Zuloff a 6-1 sophomore. Luke has been home schooled and has not played high school basketball. Luke is very talented and very aggressive. New comer Chris Nash 5-8 junior will run some point guard, and some 2 guard. Joe Drummond 6-2 Sophomore, can and will play all 5 positions. Joe is very athletic. Jamell Johnson 6-0 Sophomore, will be the point guard. Jamell is fast, can jump and is very athletic.”

Games To Watch: 12/15 vs. Houghton, 1/13 @ Arkport, 1/15 @ Fillmore

UNCTarheels
11-12-2008, 01:02 PM
Northstar Christian Knights

League: Independent

Coach: J.J Garwood 4th year (52-21)

Last Season: 21-6, Lost in State Finals to Chateaugay-X

Key Losses: 1st Team All State Jaanai Beckford 6’4” (21.5 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 5.2 BPG) Schools all time leader in points (1,761), rebounds (1,140) and blocks (312) Also All Greater Rochester 1st team selection. Also lost 5’11” Dave Valle 4th team all state (17.0 PPG) 5’10” Neal Patel (6.0 PPG) & 5’9” Patrick McDonald

Top Returnees: Soph. Guard Donald Harris (5’8” 150 lbs) 11.0 PPG, Fresh Jonathan Brado (5’7”) Jr. Daniel Boe (6’7” 190 lbs) Sr. Andrew Marsh (6’5” 180 lbs) Sr. Matt Drew (6’0” 155 lbs)

Top Newcomers: Jr. Chris Valenti (5’11”) Jr. Manny Mederois (6’1”) Jr. Ben Conley (5’11”)

Strengths: “A lot of talent coming up from a 12-2 JV team last year. We will be deeper than in past years. Our guard play will be very good this year.”

Weaknesses: “Inexperience. We graduated 4 starters from last years Class D state finalist team, including 1st team all-state Jaanai Beckford, who scored over 1,700 career points and Dave Valle-a 4th team all state selection”

Outlook:"I expect our guard play to be able to overcome some of the inexperience we have on our team this year (7 out of 12 players are first year varsity members). Although we have lost a lot of talent from last years team, the guys have displayed good chemistry so far. I believe that our team has the potential to surprise a lot of people this season."

Games To watch: 12/19 vs. Finney, 12/26 & 12/29 Keshequa Christmas Tournament


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Houghton Academy Panthers

League: Allegany

Coach: Phil Merrill

Last Season: 15-7 Lost to Northstar in Sectional Semi-Finals

Key Losses: Guard Trent Shatto 6’0, Derek Mastin 6’4”

Key Returnees Sr. F Greg Wright (6’0” 175 lbs) 14.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG 3.0 AP, Jr. Guard Jake Merrill (5’6” 140 lbs) Jr. Tyler Mastin (6’3” 170 lbs) Jr. G/F Jimmy Estruch (6’0” 175 lbs) Sr. Matt Conklin (6’3” 170 lbs)

Strengths: Depth & Experience, They can get points from a vareity of guys, The 4 top returnees all logged a lot of minutes last season so experience is on their side. Greg Wright is a Defensive Stopper “I count on him to do a lot, especially on the defensive end,” Merrill said. “He got some fire in his belly and the guys look up to him.”

Weaknesses: They’re not very deep at the Point Guard position or Center position, so if they have an injury that could pose a problem.

Outlook: They have the talent & experience to win a lot of games, they’ll get a good test non-league when Notre-Dame comes to town to close the season that in itself will be a good measuring stick to go by & prepare them for a long sectional run. They have a lot of expectations this season with all of the talent returning and the deep run they made last season.

Talksback.com Extra: Houghton Star Greg Wright is also a standout in Baseball & Soccer he maintains a 94 GPA and is part of the National Honor Society. His resume also includes being Vice president of the student senate, playing drums in the jazz band and tutors Spanish students “He’s your student-athlete,” Merrill said, “He’s just an all around kid.”

Games to Watch: 12/10 vs. Andover, 12/15 vs. C.G Finney, 2/19 vs. Batavia Notre-Dame

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Lima Christian Saints

League: Independent

Coach: Mike Maiorano

Last Season: 8-14 Lost to Houghton in 2nd round

Key Losses: Matt Lochner 5'10", John Little 6'2"

Key Returnees: Sr. Josh Arnold (6'3" 165 lbs) 13.0 PPG 5.0 RPG, Sr.Darious Cox (6'2" 180 LBS) 5.0 PPG 5.0 RPG, Sr. Steven Faistt (6'3" 150 LBs) Jr. Jake Pagano (5'10" 160 LBS) Jr. Trevor Maiorano (5'10" 170 LBS) 4.0 PPG 2.0 asst/turnover ratio, Sr. Andrew Polla (6'0" 165 LBS) Sr. Greg Thorpe (6'2" 180 LBS)

Top Newcomers: Jr. Jordan Linehan (6'2"), Sr. Jake Kocher (5'7") Sr. Danny Shipley (5'8")

Thoughts on Returning Players: Josh Arnold-"Josh is our most versatile player, he can play any position on the floor. He handles the ball well, finishes strong and can shoot the three. He started last year and averaged 13 pts and 5 rebounds as a junior. We anticipate a lot of scoring from Josh this season." Darius Cox-"Darius is our second most versatile and most athletic player. He can also play any position on the floor. He jumps well and is our best defender. He started and averaged 5 points and 5 rebounds per game last year as a junior." Steven Faistt-Steve is one of our best rebounders and lead the team in Blocked shots as a Junior while starting at the 5 position last season. He defends well and is an excellent finisher at the basket." Jake Pagano-Jake will handle the point guard duties this year. He has a high Basketball IQ, ball handles, passes and shoots the 3 very well . He is also a great defender. Jake got a lot of experience on the varsity last season." Trevor Maiorano-"This will be Trevor's third varsity season. He is an excellent shooter, good ball handler, sees the court well and has a very high basketball IQ. Last year he started at the point guard position and had a 2.0 assist to turnover ratio while scoring 4 points a game. He will be asked to score more this season at the two positon." Andrew Polla- Andrew is a tenacious rebounder and has a nose for the ball. He will be asked to play solid defense and help lead the team in rebounding. His intensity for the game is contagious. He played the 3 and 4 position on varsity last season." Greg Thorpe-Greg is a great athlete with quickness and leaping ability. He is a good defender and great rebounder. He played the 4 and 5 position last year on the varsity."

Thoughts on the Newcomers: Jordan Linehan- Jordan started on the JV last season. He is a great rebounder and has a high Basketball IQ. We look forward to watching him develop this year on varsity." Jake Kocher-This is Jake's first year playing Varsity Basketball. He is a well rounded athlete that will help us greatly off the bench this season." Danny Shipley-This is Dan's first varsity season. He is quick and plays with a lot of intensity. He will be a help off the bench this season."

Outlook: "The top contenders in Class D should be Andover, Houghton, LCS and Finney. Prattsburgh lost some seniors but they are always tough. We play in the DeSales Tournament during Thanksgiving Holiday. Finney is also in the tournament. We could possilbly face them 3-or-4 times this year. They are going to be very tough. They dropped down from DD this year. They have a couple of new transfers added to an existing group of good players."
"As usual we play a tough class D Schedule. We have Letchworth, Perry, Lyndonville and Notre-Dame on our schedule this season. We play in the Honeoye Christmas tournament with Honeoye, Gananda and Romulus. In addition we have Finney at least twice."

Games To Watch: 12/2 Houghton, 12/12 Finney, 1/30 @ Perry, 2/13 @ Notre-Dame

CAL12
11-13-2008, 09:24 AM
I found these previews very interesting and they help build the hype about the season. I used to enjoy reading the previews in the local papers, but they have gotten away from doing that the past couple of years. I think it would be nice to have this included in the Steuben county thread along with a rundown of the DD and C teams. It would spark great conversation! Just a thought. . .

UNCTarheels
11-13-2008, 10:12 AM
Whitesville Blue Jays

Coach: Doug VanSkiver

League: Allegany County

Last Season: 11-11 Lost to Andover in 2nd Round

Key Losses: Coley-Lewis Ellison 6’1” 9.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 4.0 APG, 3.0 SPG, Brett Stevens 6’0” 3.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 APG, Danny Allen 6’0 3.5 PPG, 1.5 RPG

Key Returnees: Jr. Dylan Lewis-Ellison (6’0” 162 lbs) 9.5 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 2.5 APG, Sr. Brad Stevens (6’1” 160 lbs) 12.0 PPG, 1.5 RPG 3.0 SPG, 2.0 APG, Sr. Todd Sherman (6’1” 190 lbs) 8.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 2.0 BPG, Sr. Aaron Potter (6’1” 196 lbs) 2.0 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 1.0 SPG, Sr. Brian Whitesell (6’1” 162 lbs) 3.5 PPG 2.0 RPG

Top Newcomers: Jr. Trevor Jeffers (6’3” 160 lbs), Jr. Robbie Ellison (5’8” 170 lbs) Soph. Darion Matteson (6’0” 170 lbs)

Weakenesses: “Our bench is short and the development/emergence of our bench players, a little luck in avoiding injury, eligibility, and foul trouble will be most important in our success.”

Outlook: “With a decent returning core, we hope to be competitive in the section and our league. The class of our league will be Houghton (although they are playing up in the DD division), and Andover (returning what was their starting line-up for most of last season). With a little luck, we could be in that mix along with Scio who returns a decent core, but had no JV program last year. Belfast returns a couple of good athletic kids with Dan Williams as coach. They too should compete. I know little of Canaseraga and Friendship continues to struggle with numbers (JV team on the verge of folding).
You already know we drew the short straw and get to go up against Coach Burke's Vikings in their quest for number 500 for him. I'd love to see him get it but not on Friday!!
I think the D's are going to be strong this year, but as always, the private schools near Rochester are a question mark -- all depends how the off season recruitment went. According to Coach Burke it went well, especially for DeSales and Finney. We'll take our home growns and compete as best we can.
DD's in Allegany County are, I think, down this year. Cuba-Rushford lost almost everyone -- including Jay Ronan who will play for Fillmore this year, Bolivar-Richburg is down from last year, GV returns most of last year's team with the exception of Brian Fanton, Fillmore improves with Ronan, but lost two great guards and a couple of role players. I'm not sure that Houghton will benefit from playing up, but that remains to be seen."

Games To Watch: 11/28 vs. Prattsburgh, 1/13 vs. Fillmore, 1/21 vs. Andover

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Friendship Eagles

League: Allegany County

Coach: Bill Horn

Last Season: 0-20 Lost in 1st round of sectionals

Key Losses: Ken Woodruff 5’8 Guard

Key Returnees: Jr. Kyle Blouvet (6’2” 190 lbs) Sr. Bryan Schaffer ( 6’0” 170 lbs) Sr. Brett Mastin (5’7” 140 lbs) Sr. Max Lewis ( 5’8” 157 lbs) Sr. Carl Green 5’9” 170)

Top Newcomers: Sam Stephens came back after sitting out last season due to injury.

Strengths: "Have four out of five starters back, Key is that all have gone to camp and been in the program."


Weaknesses: "Need to find a Legitimate scorer."

Outlook: No Comment
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Andover Panthers

(Coach Steve Allen did not return my request for information so I had to improvise)

League: Allegany County

Coach: Steve Allen

Last Season: 16-7 Lost to Prattsburgh in Sectional Semi-Finals

Key Losses: Cliff Carl 5’8” 9.2 PPG

Key Returnees: Sr. Seth Shay (5’10” 185 lbs) 14.3 PPG, 4.1 APG, Sr. Josh Brubaker (5’10” 185 lbs) 13.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.2 APG, Sr. Jesse McCutcheon (6’1” 180 lbs) 10.9 PPG, 9.5 RPG, Sr. Ron Schettine (5’8” 175 lbs) Jr. Greg Starks (6’3” 180 lbs)

Strengths: Very good team chemistry with 4-of-5 starters back from last season and the 5 guys back started quite a few games together at the beginning of the season. Great Guard play with Shay & Brubaker.

Outlook: Andover has all of the tools to reach their goal of a sectional title, playing a tougher schedule this year should help them prepare for sectionals.

DrewVT6
11-14-2008, 07:57 AM
Guy's we're going to keep this thread as Previews only!

UNCTarheels
11-14-2008, 10:21 AM
Bradford Braves

League: Steuben County

Coach: Don Dykes 2nd Year

Last Season: 3-15 Lost to Whitesville in 1st round of Sectionals

Key Losses: Mitchell Kelly 6’3”, Ben Larrison 6’7”, 6'4" Josh Gardner, Josh Sutton 5'7" (Moved Away)

Key Returnees: Sr. Ryan Dykes (5’8” 185 lbs) Sr. Phil Wytrwa (5’9” 135 lbs) Sr. Stephen Ellison (5’8” 140 lbs) Sr. Aaron Sanford (6’1” 187 lbs) Sr. Dylan Blencowe (6’0” 152 lbs) Sr. Jamie Kennedy (6’1” 215 lbs)

Top Newcomers: Sophomore Center Andy Robertson (6’6”), Sr, Andrew Wolverton, Jr Steven Buchanan, Jr Alex Waters

Strengths: Chemistry with 9 guys back from last season, Some Success at the J.V level, Speed will also be a strenght.

Weaknessess: No recent success at the Varsity level, have to learn how to win especially close games. Did not play in the Steuben County Summer or Fall League, Height after Robertson

Outlook: "We have 8 players returning from last year with the new comers consisting of 1 senior, 2 juniors and a sophomore. Looking at the team so far, we do miss the height, but hopefully will make it up with speed. My expectations for the year are definitely higher than last years' disappointing 3 - 16 record. Our school, being the smallest in our league, should still be competitive."


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(Belfast's coach could not be reached for comments)

Belfast Bulldogs

League: Allegany County

Coach: Don Worthington 1st Year

Last Season: 8-14 Lost to Prattsburgh in the 2nd Round of sectionals

Key Losses: Jordan Fuller (6’0”)

Top Returnees: Sr. Ryan Paulsen (6’5” 190 lbs) Sr. Robbie Taylor ( 6’2” 185 lbs) Jr. Aaron Worthington (5’9”) Sr. Robbie Beckett (6’0”) Sr Mark McCumisky (6’3”)

Top Newcomers: N/A

Strengths: Paulsen is a “horse” and will be one of the top big guys in the league this season, also have a decent back court.

Weaknesses: depth may hurt them this season, as well as yet another new Coach, there’s been no stability the last few years.

Outlook: If the success carries over from the soccer season it could be a good winter in Belfast, Paulsen is going to be tough to stop and if he gets solid contributions from the Backcourt Belfast could finish about .500 and get a decent seed in sectionals, the Role Players will be huge for them this season.

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Scio Tigers (Coach Graves has returned my request for information)

League: Allegany County

Coach: Thane Graves

Last Season: 7-15 Lost to Northstar in 2nd Round

Key Losses: Jonas Willson (6'2" 155 lbs) Mike Willson (5'11" 155 lbs) Andy Empson (5'10" 234 lbs)

Key Returnees: Sr. Kris Roberts (6'6" 195 lbs) Averaged Double-Double, Sr. Casey James (6'0" 153 lbs) Sr. Chris Lounsberry (5'10" 155 lbs) Sr. Skylor Saxton (6'0" 160 lbs) Jr. Brett Elliot (5'8" 150 lbs) Jr. Andrew Law (6'0" 195 lbs) Jr. Seth Cline (5'6" 130 lbs)

Top Newcomers: N/A

Strengths:Kris Roberts is a Powerful Big man who has the Ability to take over a game, In a one week stretch last season he posted 17 points & 19 Rebounds in a loss to Houghton, put up 18 points and 14 rebounds in a win over Lima Christian and poured in 30 points to go along with 12 rebounds in a win over Friendship earning Birds Eye Player of the Week.

Weakensses: N/A

Outlook: Roberts is a match up problem for most teams in Allegany County if Casey James puts up big numbers this year and becomes a Formidable Sidekick to Roberts Scio could emerge as a contender, but they'll need help from the Supporting cast in order to do so as most opponents will focus on shutting down Roberts. Veteran coach Thane Graves will get all he can out of this team. With Roberts & James finishing above .500 and pulling an upset in Sectionals is possible.

UNCTarheels
11-14-2008, 03:35 PM
Webster-Christian Warriors

League: Independent

Coach: Jim Cicotta (Did not return info request)

Last Season: 6-12 Lost to Scio in 1st round of Sectionals

Key Losses: Josiah Comeau (6'4") Leading Scorer & Rebounder, Micah Comeau (6'3") Vinny Gentile, Mike Cicotta

Top Returnees: Sr. John Satta, Sr. Kevin McAlpin

Top Newcomers: Jr. Derrick Holmes

Strengths: N/A

Weaknessess:N/A

Outlook: It'll be tough to replace the Big Guys and with only 6 players on their J.V squad last season i'm not sure how deep they'll be. I hope to have more if their coach Contacts me.
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Geneva DeSales Saints

League: Finger Lakes West

Coach: John Costello

Last Season: 4-17 lost in 1st Round to Lima Christian

Key Losses: Michael Fera 5'6", Michael Tickner 5'9"

Key Returnees: Sr. Brendan Costello (6'2" 195 lbs) Sr. Benen Karski (6'2)

Strenghths: N/A

Weaknesses: N/A

Outlook: N/A

boobiemiles
11-14-2008, 03:38 PM
Nice. This is a lot more information than you can find anywhere else. People around the state should be jealous that we can information like this!

We will be providing the previews for every classification, and they may be as in depth as your coaches are willing to provide. We have plenty in store for this basketball season!

GoCuse20
11-16-2008, 01:47 PM
Awsome job on all of these previews for what info that you got from coaches great job can't wait to read the rest of them for the other classes

UNCTarheels
11-17-2008, 09:36 AM
That's it for Class D, I'm still hoping the Coaches from DeSales, Belfast & Scio contact me, but for now I'm moving on to DD.

Hope everybody enjoys the previews..................

Retiredbballer
11-17-2008, 03:33 PM
Great job UNC maybe you could put together a girls preview

boobiemiles
11-17-2008, 11:47 PM
After doing all of the guys team previews, I don't think he'll have much time left.

UNCTarheels
11-18-2008, 09:55 AM
Great job UNC maybe you could put together a girls preview

We'll have to see about that but I may attempt some, not sure if I'll have time but we'll have to see about that, glad you like them

BIGnBAD5721
06-11-2009, 10:53 PM
Northstar Christian Knights

League: Independent

Coach: J.J Garwood 4th year (52-21)

Last Season: 21-6, Lost in State Finals to Chateaugay-X

Key Losses: 1st Team All State Jaanai Beckford 6’4” (21.5 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 5.2 BPG) Schools all time leader in points (1,761), rebounds (1,140) and blocks (312) Also All Greater Rochester 1st team selection. Also lost 5’11” Dave Valle 4th team all state (17.0 PPG) 5’10” Neal Patel (6.0 PPG) & 5’9” Patrick McDonald

Top Returnees: Soph. Guard Donald Harris (5’8” 150 lbs) 11.0 PPG, Fresh Jonathan Brado (5’7”) Jr. Daniel Boe (6’7” 190 lbs) Sr. Andrew Marsh (6’5” 180 lbs) Sr. Matt Drew (6’0” 155 lbs)

Top Newcomers: Jr. Chris Valenti (5’11”) Jr. Manny Mederois (6’1”) Jr. Ben Conley (5’11”)

Strengths: “A lot of talent coming up from a 12-2 JV team last year. We will be deeper than in past years. Our guard play will be very good this year.”

Weaknesses: “Inexperience. We graduated 4 starters from last years Class D state finalist team, including 1st team all-state Jaanai Beckford, who scored over 1,700 career points and Dave Valle-a 4th team all state selection”

Outlook:"I expect our guard play to be able to overcome some of the inexperience we have on our team this year (7 out of 12 players are first year varsity members). Although we have lost a lot of talent from last years team, the guys have displayed good chemistry so far. I believe that our team has the potential to surprise a lot of people this season."

Games To watch: 12/19 vs. Finney, 12/26 & 12/29 Keshequa Christmas Tournament


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Houghton Academy Panthers

League: Allegany

Coach: Phil Merrill

Last Season: 15-7 Lost to Northstar in Sectional Semi-Finals

Key Losses: Guard Trent Shatto 6’0, Derek Mastin 6’4”

Key Returnees Sr. F Greg Wright (6’0” 175 lbs) 14.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG 3.0 AP, Jr. Guard Jake Merrill (5’6” 140 lbs) Jr. Tyler Mastin (6’3” 170 lbs) Jr. G/F Jimmy Estruch (6’0” 175 lbs) Sr. Matt Conklin (6’3” 170 lbs)

Strengths: Depth & Experience, They can get points from a vareity of guys, The 4 top returnees all logged a lot of minutes last season so experience is on their side. Greg Wright is a Defensive Stopper “I count on him to do a lot, especially on the defensive end,” Merrill said. “He got some fire in his belly and the guys look up to him.”

Weaknesses: They’re not very deep at the Point Guard position or Center position, so if they have an injury that could pose a problem.

Outlook: They have the talent & experience to win a lot of games, they’ll get a good test non-league when Notre-Dame comes to town to close the season that in itself will be a good measuring stick to go by & prepare them for a long sectional run. They have a lot of expectations this season with all of the talent returning and the deep run they made last season.

Talksback.com Extra: Houghton Star Greg Wright is also a standout in Baseball & Soccer he maintains a 94 GPA and is part of the National Honor Society. His resume also includes being Vice president of the student senate, playing drums in the jazz band and tutors Spanish students “He’s your student-athlete,” Merrill said, “He’s just an all around kid.”

Games to Watch: 12/10 vs. Andover, 12/15 vs. C.G Finney, 2/19 vs. Batavia Notre-Dame

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Lima Christian Saints

League: Independent

Coach: Mike Maiorano

Last Season: 8-14 Lost to Houghton in 2nd round

Key Losses: Matt Lochner 5'10", John Little 6'2"

Key Returnees: Sr. Josh Arnold (6'3" 165 lbs) 13.0 PPG 5.0 RPG, Sr.Darious Cox (6'2" 180 LBS) 5.0 PPG 5.0 RPG, Sr. Steven Faistt (6'3" 150 LBs) Jr. Jake Pagano (5'10" 160 LBS) Jr. Trevor Maiorano (5'10" 170 LBS) 4.0 PPG 2.0 asst/turnover ratio, Sr. Andrew Polla (6'0" 165 LBS) Sr. Greg Thorpe (6'2" 180 LBS)

Top Newcomers: Jr. Jordan Linehan (6'2"), Sr. Jake Kocher (5'7") Sr. Danny Shipley (5'8")

Thoughts on Returning Players: Josh Arnold-"Josh is our most versatile player, he can play any position on the floor. He handles the ball well, finishes strong and can shoot the three. He started last year and averaged 13 pts and 5 rebounds as a junior. We anticipate a lot of scoring from Josh this season." Darius Cox-"Darius is our second most versatile and most athletic player. He can also play any position on the floor. He jumps well and is our best defender. He started and averaged 5 points and 5 rebounds per game last year as a junior." Steven Faistt-Steve is one of our best rebounders and lead the team in Blocked shots as a Junior while starting at the 5 position last season. He defends well and is an excellent finisher at the basket." Jake Pagano-Jake will handle the point guard duties this year. He has a high Basketball IQ, ball handles, passes and shoots the 3 very well . He is also a great defender. Jake got a lot of experience on the varsity last season." Trevor Maiorano-"This will be Trevor's third varsity season. He is an excellent shooter, good ball handler, sees the court well and has a very high basketball IQ. Last year he started at the point guard position and had a 2.0 assist to turnover ratio while scoring 4 points a game. He will be asked to score more this season at the two positon." Andrew Polla- Andrew is a tenacious rebounder and has a nose for the ball. He will be asked to play solid defense and help lead the team in rebounding. His intensity for the game is contagious. He played the 3 and 4 position on varsity last season." Greg Thorpe-Greg is a great athlete with quickness and leaping ability. He is a good defender and great rebounder. He played the 4 and 5 position last year on the varsity."

Thoughts on the Newcomers: Jordan Linehan- Jordan started on the JV last season. He is a great rebounder and has a high Basketball IQ. We look forward to watching him develop this year on varsity." Jake Kocher-This is Jake's first year playing Varsity Basketball. He is a well rounded athlete that will help us greatly off the bench this season." Danny Shipley-This is Dan's first varsity season. He is quick and plays with a lot of intensity. He will be a help off the bench this season."

Outlook: "The top contenders in Class D should be Andover, Houghton, LCS and Finney. Prattsburgh lost some seniors but they are always tough. We play in the DeSales Tournament during Thanksgiving Holiday. Finney is also in the tournament. We could possilbly face them 3-or-4 times this year. They are going to be very tough. They dropped down from DD this year. They have a couple of new transfers added to an existing group of good players."
"As usual we play a tough class D Schedule. We have Letchworth, Perry, Lyndonville and Notre-Dame on our schedule this season. We play in the Honeoye Christmas tournament with Honeoye, Gananda and Romulus. In addition we have Finney at least twice."

Games To Watch: 12/2 Houghton, 12/12 Finney, 1/30 @ Perry, 2/13 @ Notre-Dame

northstar got to the finals? wow!!!!!!!!!!!! that 6' 7" Kid was terrible. they barely squeaked thru DeSAles first round of sectionals last year. shout out to CG FINNEY: ya'll are sick!!