The basketball Braves lost two double figures scorers, a top defender and one of their leading rebounders to graduation after last season.
But the cupboard isn’t bare.
“We are excited for the upcoming season,” said Coach Derrick Dengler. “We had a good off-season and are excited to see how we have grown as we compete this winter.”
The Braves graduated scorer Masin Shearer (15.2 ppg.), Gavin Strong (14.3), and Owen Cook, who was the leading rebounder (5.3) and often drew the toughest defensive assignment for the Braves, who were 17-7.
“Returning this year, we have four key players who made significant contributions last season,” Dengler said. “Brady Boulton, Garrett Watts (both of whom started most games last year) Max Anderson, and Kohen Holland all bring experience and skill to the squad. Their presence provides a strong nucleus for the team, and we’re looking forward to seeing them take on even more significant roles this season.”
All four played in all 24 Montezuma games last winter. Watts led rebounders with 5.9 per game and scored 12.4 per outing.
Boulton, a freshman playing varsity, scored 14.8 ppg. And shot 80 percent from the free throw line and 34 percent on three-balls.
Anderson and Holland scored 3.5 and 2.2 points per game last year.
“As for the rest of the roster, we have a talented group of returnees who are poised to step up and make their mark,” Dengler said. “Garrett is joined by 3 other seniors, Alex Black Jack Erselius and Jayden Ross. We also have several players moving up from the JV level to varsity who will compete for roles as well.”
“In terms of the league, we know that every season in our league is highly competitive. Lynnville-Sully and Keota will probably start the seasons as favorites. Both won their respective sides of the conference last year. Keota brings back nearly the whole squad and L-S returns several key pieces,” the coach said.
“No jamboree on the schedule this year, we will have a scrimmage after Thanksgiving to prepare for the season,” Dengler said.
“We’re looking forward to an exciting and fun season for both the team and our fans. The players are enthusiastic, the coaching staff is committed, and we can’t wait to hit the court. We appreciate the support from our community, and we hope that this season will indeed be a fun and successful one for our team,” the coach added.
The Braves open regular season play on Tuesday, Nov. 28, at home against Lynnville-Sully.