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Scouting Christian Liberty

NORTHEASTERN ATHLETICChristian Liberty Academy

Last year: 6-21 overall, 4-5 NAC

Top returners: Mark Cabrera (Sr. G), Jimmy Cunningham (Sr., G/F), Jake Ringstrand (Sr. G/F), Brendan Munoz (Sr. G), Jesse Castro (Jr. G), Steve Ringstrand (Jr. C)

Outlook: The Chargers bring back most of the key members of last year's team, which was competitive in conference play. Coach Jed Bennett likes that but recognizes that the start of the season may pose some challenges as senior point guard Mark Cabrera awaits clearance to play in games following a minor knee surgery (meniscus). So far he's been limited to non-contact practices. "Mark's our floor general, so when we get the green light on him it should really help," Bennett said. The good news is that Christian Liberty had standout contributions from both junior guard Jesse Castro and junior center Steve Ringstrand last season. Seniors Jimmy Cunningham and Jake Ringstrand can play multiple positions and roles, and senior Brendan Munez will join Castro in stretching defenses from 3-point range. Munez was the team's sixth man last year but some breakout games, including a 29-point effort against Keith Country Day. "I think we have a good mix of capable guards and height," said Bennett. "And I think it helps that we've got a group that has been through this before." Expected to join the varsity rotation this season are seniors Michael Sullivan and Joel Roberts, who split time between varsity and JV last season. In conference play, Bennett expects Luther North and Harvest Christian to be especially tough. And he says his own group is looking forward to another version of the Christmas tournament the Chargers host, which brings together teams for a pair of two-games-in-a-day basketball feasts.

- Aaron Gabriel

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