Scouting DuPage County boys basketball teams
Addison Trail
Coach: Brendan Lyons (first year).
Last season: 1-24, 0-12 (seventh) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Marmion 60-58 in the Class AA Glenbard North regional quarterfinals.
Top players: G Vince Beachem, sr.; G Matt Davies, sr.; F Vince Noworyta, sr.; G Cade Whitaker, sr.; G Ian Horvath, jr.; F Alex Dimaris, so.
Outlook: Lyons takes the helm after coaching at York for seven years at various levels, including three years at the sophomore level. Anyone who's familiar with Brother Rice and longtime coach Pat Richardson will find some familiarities with Lyons, a 1996 Brother Rice graduate who plans to implement a similar motion offense and man-to-man defense. "I'm very excited about the opportunity," Lyons said. "It's a very hard-working group." Lyons inherits a program looking to rebuild from several years of struggling. The Blazers remain young and inexperienced, although a few key seniors return to help bring instant success into the program. Beachem is back at point guard after another strong football season. He returns nearly 10 points per game. Davies, who led the team with 23 3-pointers last year, adds more to the perimeter game to complement Noworyta, who, at 6-foot-3, plans to bring an inside punch. Through work ethic, smart play and team philosophy, Lyons believer Horvath, Dimaris and Whitaker will offer many positives on the court. "We're kind of at ground zero now," Lyons said. "We've got a lot of work to do."
Benet
Coach: Marty Gaughan (19th year, 237-230).
Last season: 14-11, 7-6 (fifth) in the East Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to Hinsdale South 43-41 in the Class AA Benet regional semifinals.
Top players: G Brian Gaughan, sr.; F Ryan Haggerty, sr.; F Alex Gasick, sr.; G Emmett Carrier, sr.; F Jono Davern, sr.; F Chris Blaney, sr.; C Joe Meyerhoff, jr.; G Phil Hayes, jr.
Outlook: In recent years injuries have been an unfortunate companion to the start of basketball season at Benet. This season is no different. Giancarlo Cecchini, a 6-foot-5 senior forward who played in all 25 games last season, is out until January with a torn ACL. Upon Cecchini's return, the Redwings will boast their biggest lineup in coach Gaughan's 19 years at the helm. Haggerty and Meyerhoff, both at 6-7, form a potent front court. Haggerty's a returning starter who averaged 8.3 points and 5.9 rebounds. Brian Gaughan, a third-year varsity member, is another returning starter. After averaging 7.6 points a year ago, he'll spend his time moving from the point to the off-guard depending on the situation. Carrier will be the main point guard. Gasick, a swing player, is the fourth experienced member of the team. "The experience factor is a positive for us," coach Gaughan said. Competing in the ESCC is never easy, but the Redwings should be near the top of a balanced pack -- especially if they're healthy for the stretch run. "There won't be many teams out there more experienced than we are," Gaughan said.
Downers Grove North
Coach: Jim Thomas (first year).
Last year: 5-23, 0-12 (seventh) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Neuqua Valley 55-43 in the Class AA Plainfield South regional semifinals.
Top players: G Rashad Alexander, jr.; G Terrence Budnik, sr.; G Wesley Love, sr.; F/C Cameron Norton, jr.; G Mark Perales, jr.; F James Sandifer, jr.; F Deon Thomas, sr.; F/C Drew Vogler, sr.
Outlook: Succeeding six-year coach Jim Haack, former Wheaton North player and sophomore coach Thomas was a three-time defensive MVP at Augustana. Thus, a focus on defensive stops, extended pressure, limiting second shots. "Defensively, my kids impress me," Thomas said. "They understand the principals." In the middle he likes the stance of returning starter Norton and WW South transfer Deon Thomas, who averaged 6 points and 3 rebounds last year. Offense will need a rebirth. Graduated post Nick Reicher scored nearly a third of the Trojans' 48.6 average in 2006-07. Three-year starter Love's 8.7-point clip tops the returnees, ahead of Norton's 8.1 plus 4.3 rebounds. Boosted by shooter Perales, Thomas sees a core rotation who could each supply between 8-15 points a game. The Trojans, who host eight of their first nine games, will be chasing several Silver teams. But after losing 15 straight games last season, laying defensive groundwork is a good start. "My kids didn't win a conference game last year," Thomas said. "We've got nothing but improvement to do. There's no pressure on us."
Downers Grove South
Coach: Paul Runyon (11th year, 184-108).
Last season: 17-10, 9-3 (tied for second) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Hinsdale Central 46-45 in the Class AA Romeoville regional semifinals.
Top players: G Billy Dillon, sr.; G Andrius Simulis, sr.; G Alex Gorniak, jr.; G Malcolm Herron, jr.; G Julius Staisiunas, jr.; G Seth Carson, jr.; F Bledi Dervishi, so.
Outlook: For the first time in 11 years at the helm, Runyon begins the season without a single returning starter. In fact Dillon and Simulis are the only seniors with any varsity experience whatsoever. Despite heaps of inexperience, though, Runyon believes this is a group that could thrive by the end of the season because of how well it plays as a unit. The team is very small and may spend a good chunk of games with five guards on the court. Dervishi, who is developing as a sophomore, will contribute in the post at 6-foot-4. Beyond him there isn't much height. The good news is the matchup problems the Mustangs will create on offense will a speedy lineup of shooters. While one player isn't likely to be a clear-cut scoring leader, expect to see several players pitch in -- especially from the perimeter. Rebounding is a huge question mark, as is general post defense. But if the Mustangs can keep up their patented stiff defense, they'll remain competitive in the Gold. "Our lack of size is a pretty big concern," Runyon said. "Hopefully, we'll get better as the season goes on."
Driscoll
Coach: Nick Latorre (ninth year, 147-84).
Last year: 21-7, 12-2 (tied for first) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to East Aurora 62-58 in the Class AA Batavia regional semifinals.
Top players: F Kevin Bain, sr.; G Austin Baker, jr.; G Joey Calabrese, jr.; G Justin Hejza, sr.; F Matt Kaban, jr.; F Jake Lindfors, sr.; G David Schwabe, sr.; G Steven Schwabe, jr.
Outlook: Versatile 6-foot-10 Lindfors, headed for Division I Albany, has improved his play across the board after averaging 17.6 points and 9.5 rebounds to earn All-Area and unanimous all-SCC honors as a junior. The Highlanders' offense must adapt depending on how opponents defend Lindfors. He'll draw his share of double-teams and zones, which will allow the 6-7 Kaban to improve on last year's 6.3 points a game. Always looking to run the floor, Driscoll -- now playing in Class 2A -- returns smart, dynamic floor general David Schwabe and will look to Baker as point guard. Baker's 6-4 height is a plus, and though inexperienced at the point he should bulk up last season's 2.3-point average in 12 games as a sophomore call-up. Bain and Hejza -- the third Hejza to play here -- are the outside shooters. Six players from the annual football playoff run may affect the early results, but when this group jells Driscoll will again vie for the SCC title. "Last year we won 21 games," Latorre said, "and a lot of that had to do with team chemistry."
Fenton
Coach: Dennis Cromer (eighth year overall at Fenton; 12th year as a coach, 181-155).
Last season: 16-12, 7-2 (tied for first) in the Metro Suburban Conference. Lost to Elgin 63-58 in the Class AA St. Charles East regional semifinals.
Top players: G/F Gozie Umeadi, sr.; F Damian Sieradzki, sr.; F Billy Gratzl, sr.; F Darek Potuszynski, sr.; F Tashawn Webber, sr.; G Peter Surma, jr.; G Emeka Umeadi, so.; G Justin Southward, jr.; G/F Corey Tangen, sr.
Outlook: Expectations remain high after the program's first conference title since 1948. Key graduation losses, however, create concerns with depth. Fourth-year varsity player Umeadi, an All-Area pick last year, is a clear leader who's garnering Division I college interest. Returning 16.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, the 6-foot-5 talent could play anywhere on the court -- and just might. Sieradzki, at 6-4, is another swing player adept at hitting outside shots. Without much team size, though, Sieradzki also will be counted on to play in the post. Gratzl has a nice perimeter shot as well. A broken fibula suffered during football season will keep Webber out until the holiday tournament, but his return promises to give the Bison a much-needed boost inside. "We were more of a known quantity last year," Cromer said, "but I think we can compete for a conference title."
Glenbard East
Coach: Scott Miller (eighth year at Glenbard East, 107-101; 12th year overall, 151-143).
Last season: 25-3, 13-1 (first) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Glenbard West 74-64 in the Class AA East Aurora sectional semifinals.
Top players: G Derak Stanback, sr.; F Tom Seagraves, sr.; G Ben Trefilek, sr.; F Jim Montgomery, sr.; G Chris Sanders, jr.; C Danzel Walker, so.; G Jack Merrithey, so.
Outlook: It's easy to focus on what the Rams will be missing this year -- namely two-time All-Area captain Mike Capocci, now at Northwestern. Four starters graduated from a team that won a third straight regional title and first DVC title since 1990. For the first time in a few years, though, the Rams will enjoy flying under the radar this season. Stanback's ready to take the leadership role after averaging 7.5 points last year, while the 6-foot-4 Seagraves is eager to assert himself in his third year on varsity. Another player set to emerge is Trefilek, who didn't play much last year but has shown dramatic improvement. He'll be a stopper on defense, can board and might add a scoring boost. Beyond that the Rams added a couple of key transfers. Sanders arrives from Proviso West while Walker transferred from Addison Trail. Both should be impact players. Everyone on the team is anxious to keep alive the Rams' streak of excellence the last few years. "It's a key year for us," Miller said. "We've established a tradition, and there's some excitement around the program."
Glenbard North
Coach: Erin Dwyer (second year).
Last season: 16-11, 7-7 (fifth) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Glenbard West 72-54 in the Class AA Glenbard North regional final.
Top players: G Reid Hulett, sr.; F Evan Watkins, jr.; G Matt Ng, sr.; G Carl Gerrick, sr.; G Marko Govedarica, jr.; F Ryan Gasiorowski, sr.; F Avery Smith, sr.; F Karaan Singh, sr.; F Jake Barry, sr.; G James Fleming, so.; F Steve Slobodecki, jr.; F Jon Bohn, jr.
Outlook: The Panthers' football success slowed down the pre-season basketball preparation, but Dwyer is confident the team will adjust quickly once the handful of players join the mix. "We made it downstate with some football guys in 2002," he said. Watkins, the football team's quarterback, played 15 varsity games as a sophomore after overcoming an early injury. At 6-foot-5 he'll be the main post presence for the Panthers after averaging 8.5 points per game last year. Reid Hulett, who earned a starting spot late last season, is the main man on the perimeter along with Govedarica, who also came up as a sophomore. The Panthers plan to be more effective defensively behind a trio of football players -- Watkins, Ng and Gerrick. Ng is especially adept at creating turnovers. In turn the Panthers hope to create points in transition. "Defense is the most consistent part of your game, so we'll lean on that on most nights," Dwyer said. "I think we'll be able to surprise some people with our personnel."
Glenbard South
Coach: Wade Hardtke (second year).
Last season: 5-22, 5-9 (sixth) in the Western Sun Conference. Lost to Willowbrook 57-55 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional quarterfinals.
Top players: C Andy Manson, sr.; F Wally Wiedner, sr.; G Brian Smith, sr.; G Louis Erkins, jr.; G Will Hill, sr.; F Dennis Bolton, jr.; G Jamal Harris, jr.; G Rolando Shumate, jr.; F Chris Kakavas, jr.
Outlook: The Raiders had trouble recovering last year after losing their first 13 games. Hoping to build on a solid finish to the season, though, the goal is to hit the ground running. Despite the graduation of two-time All-Area pick Jeff Dobie, the Raiders plan to improve greatly with a mix of experience and quality newcomers. The team has some size to work with between the 6-foot-6 Manson and the 6-4 Wiedner, who is slowed by a knee injury suffered in football. Erkins, a starter as a sophomore, is poised for a breakout year at the point guard spot. Hill also boosts the backcourt as the leading returning scorer with 9 points per game. Smith, who knocked down 20 3-pointers last year, should help take pressure off the post players. Tremendous depth at guard is obvious with Harris, an Oak Park transfer, and Shumate. Both players bring a bunch of defensive energy to the court. "We've definitely raised the bar from last year to this year," Hardtke said. "I'm anxious to see how much progress we've made."
Glenbard West
Coach: Tim Hoder (first year).
Last year: 22-8, 6-6 (tied for fourth) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Lockport 53-50 in the Class AA Northern Illinois University supersectional.
Top players: F Shane Bryant, sr.; F Chris Cochrane, jr.; F Brian Emmanuel, jr.; G Dave McCaffrey, jr.; C John Shurna, sr.; G Kevin Smith, jr.; G Bryant Venson, jr.; F Chris Watt; G J.T. Wiebe, sr.
Outlook: Former Hilltoppers freshman coach Hoder succeeds Lee Maciejewski, now Hinsdale Central's sophomore coach, with the unenviable task of following up Glenbard West's first sectional title since 1938. "The biggest thing is if I can get the kids to work as hard as the kids always did. I think the rest will take care of itself," he said. Floor burns are fine for football-mentality types like 270-pound Watt, point guard McCaffrey and Venson, who will support 6-foot-8, Northwestern-bound Shurna. Sleek yet unstoppable in the paint, Shurna averaged 19.2 points and 10.3 rebounds and twice scored 31 points. His ability to handle the ball, shoot from the outside and exploit mismatches will be utilized more as Hoder anticipates opponents throwing everything at the big man. The Hilltoppers will require contributions from the supporting cast, which after Venson and Watt are deep and competitive but green. "I think our guys … realize we're only going to be successful if the kids step up and play well," Hoder said, "because no team is going to let Johnny beat them."
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Ed Lynch (third year, 36-21).
Last year: 19-9, 7-5 (third) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Neuqua Valley 70-61 in the Class AA Lockport sectional semifinals.
Top players: F Richie Brennan, sr.; G/F Chris Chana, sr.; F Clay Foster, jr.; G John Whitelaw, so.; F Jordan Williams, jr.
Outlook: The way Lynch has quickly shifted a program from disarray to one seeking its third straight regional title is a great story. Despite the added coaching experience and scouting expertise of new assistant Lee Maciejewski, the road to a third regional will be tough after the Red Devils graduated eight seniors including two all-conference players and a three-year point guard. Three-year starter Chana assumes control, the sole returning starter who averaged 9 points, 2.5 assists and 2.2 rebounds last season. Lynch is fired up by Chana's improved defense. So many new faces equal trial by fire -- the coach said he might go 10 or 11 deep -- but prospective point guard Whitelaw has faced varsity competition as a football quarterback. A natural leader and athlete, Whitelaw played point last season on the Red Devils sophomore team that went 18-6. (The freshmen were 17-2 with classmates Whitelaw, Jason Rafferty and John Lyons starting up a level.) This may be a work in progress, but with Lynch's success the Red Devils may give teams fits down the stretch. "I don't care what our record is or what we do in November and December," he said. "It's how we finish."
Hinsdale South
Coach: Vince Doran (sixth year, 64-67).
Last season: 19-8, 9-3 (tied for second) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Waubonsie Valley 43-37 in the Class AA Benet regional final.
Top players: F Eric Travis, sr.; G Carl Fiebig, sr.; G Dan Miller, jr.; C Josh Ward, jr.; G Ryan McNally, sr.; G Karl Ploger, so.; G Connor Duckhorn, jr.; G Devin Smith, sr.
Outlook: The graduation of four-year starter Paul Riskus leaves a tremendous hole in the lineup, but another four-year varsity member appears poised to step up as Travis returns to bring a 6-foot-5 force to the post. He averaged 11 points and 8.5 rebounds last year, but Doran expects much bigger things for a player he believes to be one of the best in the Gold. "We'll need more scoring from him, but I think he's ready to do it," Doran said. "He's a tremendous leader on our team." Fiebig also has immense experience and leadership skills as a third-year starter at point guard. More of a set-up player in the past -- he averaged 5 assists last year -- Fiebig will figure more in the scoring column. The Hornets, though, will need many more scoring options. On the perimeter it could mean outside shots by Duckhorn and Smith. Ward, at 6-7, gives the offense another inside option. Matching last season's impressive second-place finish in the Gold won't be easy without three graduated starters, but Travis will be a great start toward that goal. "I think Eric and Carl are ready to lead us in a good direction," Doran said.
Immaculate Conception
Coach: Darren Howard (eighth year, 67-134).
Last year: 14-17, 5-9 (sixth) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to North Lawndale 89-46 in the Class A Lisle sectional final.
Top players: G Jack Dempsey, sr.; F Alex Jacobo, sr.; F Kevin Koch, sr.; C Matt Purdom, jr.; G Brendan Ryan, sr.; F Antonio Taylor, jr.
Outlook: Expectations are high. The Knights, coming out of their most competitive preseason camp ever, return starters Purdom, Ryan and Koch and other key figures from their first regional title since 1985 and their first sectional championship game ever -- and will compete in the Class 1A playoffs. Howard said this was IC's best summer in his tenure. A big reason was the improved strength, speed and skills of the 6-foot-5 Purdom, who led the Knights with 12.1 points and averaged 6.9 rebounds. He'll have the responsibility of being the No. 1 guy. Ryan isn't a true point guard, but his shot is sharper even after hitting 34 3s as a junior; Dempsey is a good running mate. Koch is out until Dec. 7 with a football injury, but IC also returns Jacobo and Taylor, a leaper who looked good in eight games after his promotion to varsity. Shooting could be better and IC can't lose six straight games like last season, but Howard thinks the Knights can make inroads in the SCC and in Class 1A. "This group can get up and down the floor, and we have more weapons than we've ever had," he said.
Lake Park
Coach: Cray Allen (first year).
Last year: 29-2, 10-0 (first) in the Upstate Eight Conference. Lost to Conant 48-39 in the Class AA Elgin sectional final.
Top players: G Danny Baylis, jr.; G Derrick Dunklin, sr.; C Dan Howard, sr.; F Charlie Johnson, jr.; C George Manos, sr.; G Trent Patterson, sr.; C Michael Pavone, sr.; G Pat Powers, jr.; F Evin Savikas, sr.; G Jason Sotira, jr.
Outlook: As former three-year Lancers sophomore coach Allen said, it's a new era. Varsity coach Dan Batka resigned amicably after 10 seasons, and Lake Park graduated three 3-year starters and three all-area players from the winningest team in program history. The combined 7.5 points per game of this year's top three returnees -- 6-foot-4 three-year post Manos, 6-5 Pavone and 6-2 Savikas -- would have ranked fourth on last year's team. Though Savikas is out until January with a football knee injury, those three will have to provide the leadership on this squad, ensure there's good chemistry with the hungry young players and, as Allen said, "take over some ballgames." Baylis, the top scorer from last year's sophomore team, could repeat that on this year's varsity, while Powers adds basketball IQ and Johnson adds hustle. Those last two aspects will have to come to the fore in a patient, defensive-based effort bridging two eras in Roselle. "I'll enjoy it this year -- it's not a matter of wins and losses -- as long as the kids go hard in practice every day and every night," Allen said.
Lisle
Coach: Mark LaScala (second year, 21-11).
Last year: 21-11, 7-4 (tied for fourth) in the Interstate Eight Conference. Lost to Westmont 62-44 in the Class A Westmont regional final.
Top players: F Lee Gorski, jr.; C Mike Gortowski, sr.; G Jay Osika, jr.; G Andrew Rapciak, sr.; F Cameron Wright, jr.
Outlook: This promises to be an interesting season for the Lions. LaScala forecasts an upper-half finish in the IEC, but due to an influx of newcomers it will be hard to predict the extent of Lisle's success. The 6-foot-4 Gortowski -- voted Lisle's most improved player last season -- is the only returning starter and he brings back just 2.6 points and 2.3 rebounds per game. Last season Dan Wenclawski and Derek Leonard fired away for 111 combined 3-pointers and more than half of Lisle's 56.6 points a game. With them graduated Rapciak will shoot some 3s, but results will be based more on defense and rebounding than on lighting it up. Gorski is a physical 6-2, while the quick, 6-2 Wright will ply the passing lanes for transition opportunities. All told, this is a balanced squad of battlers that will push each other on the practice floor, a competitive environment that with experience could show on the floor in terms of extended defense and blocking out under the basket. "I think we're going to have to be the best defensive team in the conference to win the conference," LaScala said. "I think we have the potential to be it."
Montini
Coach: Tom Sloan (seventh year, 72-99).
Last year: 16-13, 8-6 (tied for third) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to Glenbard North 62-46 in the Class AA Glenbard North regional semifinals.
Top players: G Alex Blashewski, sr.; G Anthony Blashewski, jr.; G/F Zach Brash, jr.; G Sean Cahill, sr.; G Dan Grace, jr.; F Mike Grant, sr.; F Dex Jones, sr.; C Sean Keeley, jr.; F Kevin Pope, sr.; G Jordan Werner, jr.
Outlook: Experience, scoring, improved shooting and defensive pressure are the things Montini has going for it as the Broncos vie with Driscoll and St. Francis for the SCC title and in Class 3A aim for their first regional crown since 1983. In Alex Blashewski and four-year varsity player Jones, Montini returns both top scorers from last year at 13.9 and 12.3 points per game, respectively. Alex Blashewski's adjustment to point from off-guard to succeed graduated program veteran Pete Cappetta will be watched, with backup point guard Werner ready. Jones, Alex Blashewski and scrappy younger brother Anthony Blashewski each had at least 45 steals last season; Sloan hopes they'll get the transition rolling in an uptempo game plan. They'll also need to share the ball well. Aside from the 6-foot-4 duo of Grant and Pope the Broncos don't have great size. Overall team balance, depth and defensive strength will counter that. "It's a better shooting team than we have had in the past," Sloan said. "Hopefully, that'll help us out a little bit."
Naperville Central
Coach: Pete Kramer (fifth year, 61-54).
Last season: 11-17, 7-7 (tied for fifth) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Hinsdale Central 68-59 in the Class AA Oswego East regional final.
Top players: G/F Drew Crawford, jr.; G Harrison Daniels, sr.; G Mike Schmitz, sr.; F Matt Neufeld, so.; F Matt Jones, sr.; F Matt Schmitz, sr.; G Dan Ondik, jr.; G Dave Mallett, jr.; G Nick Linne, so.; F Joe Rickert, jr.
Outlook: With two sophomores and a junior potentially starting, you might think this season will be a learning experience. The Redhawks, however, have more experience than it appears -- and they're ready to compete right now. They return one of the DVC's top players in Crawford, who averaged 13.8 points as a sophomore, grew to about 6-foot-4 and added 10 pounds of strength. He's the clear focal point who will play as many as four different positions. Daniels, a stellar shooter, and Mike Schmitz were both steady contributors as juniors. A big surprise at the end of last year was the 6-4 Neufeld, who scored 19 points in the regional final. He'll bring a scorer to the post, where there isn't much depth. Rebounding will be a team effort bolstered by Jones, a 6-3 linebacker in football. Additional shooting options come from Ondik and Mallett. The Redhawks may start another sophomore in Linne, a point guard. "A lot of our success will depend on how fast our younger guys get up to speed," Kramer said.
Naperville North
Coach: Mark Lindo (17th year at Naperville North, 267-169; 26th year overall, 403-280).
Last season: 8-19, 3-11 (seventh) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Hinsdale Central 68-49 in the Class AA Oswego East regional semifinals.
Top players: G/F Austin Weiss, sr.; G Jake Hasse, sr.; F/C Joe McNicholas, so.; G Dan Hess, sr.; F Tom Walsh, sr.; F Bryan Bailin, sr.; G Emerson Beck, jr.; F Casey Domek, jr.; F Colin Ball, jr.; C Dan Laughlin, jr.; G Dan Grimley, jr.
Outlook: Returning about 90 percent of their scoring from last year, the Huskies are aiming for vast improvement. Last year's growing pains should translate well for an experienced group headed by all-DVC returner Weiss, who led the team with 11 points per game. He and Hasse enter their third varsity season. Lindo believes the team has matured mentally and physically -- just by first sight the players look more prepared for varsity. "Most of our guys own razors now," Lindo joked. Expect additional offense from Walsh, who missed much of last season with a lingering football injury. Walsh, like many other players, enjoyed a fine summer of basketball. Offensive balance is epitomized by the return of 6-foot-7 McNicholas, a returning post presence, and Hess, who might be the Huskies' best perimeter threat. The DVC will be much deeper thanks to an improved and experienced Naperville North team. "We're way ahead of where we were last year," Lindo said.
Neuqua Valley
Coach: Todd Sutton (10th year, 174-85; 19th overall, 336-161).
Last year: 25-6, 8-2 (tied for second) in the Upstate Eight Conference. Lost to Lockport 58-51 in the Class AA Lockport sectional final.
Top players: G Matt Brown, sr.; G Nolan Brown, jr.; F Duane Evans, so.; G T.J. Jordan, sr.; G Brad Keeler, sr.; C Regi Miskel, sr.; C Danny Pawelski, sr.; F Derek Raridon, jr.; G Graham Smith, sr.; G Steve Waeghe, sr.; G Anton Wilkins, sr.
Outlook: Neuqua Valley doesn't rebuild. Neuqua Valley reloads. Sutton said he graduated his best senior class ever after last season -- with past players like Keelan Amelianovich and Bobby Catchings that's saying something -- but this year's seniors were 28-0 as sophomores, and for every position there's a good duo or solid backup. Injuries pushed early practices behind schedule, Sutton said, but after taking off the past couple Thanksgivings the Wildcats can work out kinks earlier than usual in their debut at the York tournament. Pawelski will vie for all-tourney honors as well as UEC MVP, a supple 6-foot-8 force inside who averaged 10.8 points on 68.9 percent shooting plus 6.2 rebounds. Jordan has high-level skills so varied he's earned the nickname "The Freak." Nolan Brown hit 54 percent of his 3s with last year's sophomores, and Smith, Keeler and Raridon can hit shots. As a whole the guards are quick; Sutton will ensure they're fundamentally sound and ready to defend in a rugged UEC. "They seem to be having fun," he said.
St. Francis
Coach: Shawn Healy (second year, 20-6).
Last year: 20-6, 12-2 (tied for first) in the Suburban Catholic Conference. Lost to West Aurora 48-45 in the Class AA Glenbard East regional semifinals.
Top players: G Jeff Howe, sr.; G Dan McCoy, sr.; F Brian McMahon, sr.; G Dave Palash, jr.; G Griffin Paulson, sr.; G Jack Purdom, sr.; G Ryan Snyder, sr.; G Dave Spahn, so.; C Bob Vonderhaar, sr.
Outlook: Having held at least a share of the last three SCC titles and four of the last five, there's usually a high level of expectation at St. Francis. This season, with the versatile McMahon as the Spartans' sole returning starter, Healy said there will be less margin for error. St. Francis has a few pieces in the right places. McMahon, who averaged 7.5 points and 6.0 rebounds last season, can post up, hit the jumper and provide fire. He was the soccer team's co-MVP. The 6-foot-6 Vonderhaar has the height, hops and agility to slip inside for putbacks and paint moves while exploiting matchup difficulties on the wing. McCoy will get the green light to improve on his 13 3-pointers last season. Healy still would like to solidify who's going to run the offense at the point, and much of St. Francis' success is traditionally dictated by how good its three-quarters trap is. The chemistry of this group is positive on and off the court, which will help form an identity. "I think we could be a decent team," Healy said. "It really depends on how we perform Monday through Thursday in the practice gym."
Timothy Christian
Coach: Jeff Powers (11th year, 184-97).
Last year: 15-14, 4-4 (tied for fourth) in the Private School League. Lost to Walther Lutheran 56-50 (2 OT) in the Class A Timothy Christian regional final.
Top players: G Daylan Anderson, sr.; G Jaaron Holmes, jr.; G Andrew Logan, sr.; F Rob Stein, so.; F Joel Sytsma, sr.; F Peter Tameling, jr.; G-F Andrew Temple, sr.; G/F Rob White, jr.; F Vince Williams, sr.
Outlook: Mark it down -- Powers will earn his 200th career win with a blend of height and quickness. Returning starters Holmes, 6-foot-5 Sytsma, 6-4 Tameling and 5-8 all-conference "Mighty Mouse" Logan provide speed, inside-outside options and, hopefully, better perimeter shooting than last year's model that made just 37.6 percent of its field goal tries. Sytsma and Tameling -- who leads the returnees with 8.0 points and 4.2 rebounds a game -- should provide more presence inside with another year's experience. They better bring their fastest sneakers because Holmes and the energetic Logan will be running the court, leading a variety of defenses and presses and, at least in Logan's case, bombing away from downtown. Kyle Lukianuk has graduated, but the core of this year's team went 12-6 after a 3-8 start to 2006-07. Should the Trojans improve their man defense, share the ball on offense and run foes ragged, Powers thinks a 20-win season and a PSL title may be in reach. "What we've got to look at," he said, "is finding our chemistry."
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Steve Weemer (third year, 33-25; fourth overall 51-68).
Last year: 20-10, 8-2 (tied for second) in the Upstate Eight Conference. Lost to Lockport 57-50 in the Class AA Lockport sectional semifinals.
Top players: F Tyler Castro, jr.; G Kendrick Crayton, jr.; G Josh Daniels, sr.; G Jelani Johnson, jr.; F Kyle Obendorf, sr.; G Justin Peaster, sr.; F Alex Stokowski, jr.; G Kevin VandenBerg, sr.
Outlook: Returning to the 20-win club and earning their first regional title since 2004, last season the Warriors had size, an all-area shooter in Belmont University freshman Jon Rice, quickness and experience. Graduation pared it to the last two facets -- returning guards Daniels, crafty assists leader VandenBerg and Peaster, top scorer at 8.8 points a game. Their speed, defensive abilities and leadership will go a long way to determine Waubonsie's success in the UEC. The 6-foot-3 Obendorf and 6-2 Castro -- a football quarterback, he's probably out till after Christmas with a knee injury -- offer most of Waubonsie's height. There's also the 6-4 Johnson, who with Stokowski played on a 20-7 sophomore team last season. After outrebounding opponents in 2006-07, blocking out will be more imperative. Weemer also seeks consistency that's eluded the team the prior two seasons, improved shooting and a "scoring by committee" approach. "The defense will have to create offense for us and we'll have to play uptempo," he said. "People will figure that out real quick."
West Chicago
Coach: Kevin Gimre (seventh year, 69-95).
Last season: 5-22, 1-13 (eighth) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Batavia 75-43 in the Class AA Batavia regional semifinals.
Top players: G Jon Reyes, sr.; F Clark Hudmon, jr.; G Chad Driscoll, so.; F Tyler Wrzesinski, jr.; G Tony Quarto, jr.; G Eli Asani, jr.; G Casey Camp, jr.; G Rhett Gunderson, jr.
Outlook: With very limited experience to work with, the Wildcats will rely on an influx of youth in hopes of improving. "We're going to make young mistakes," Gimre said, "but we have to learn from that." Reyes, who returns 3 points per game, is the only senior with significant experience. Hudmon, though, saw plenty of varsity time as a sophomore. The 6-foot-4 post player should give the Wildcats a solid scoring option inside. He'll be joined in the post by newcomer Wrzesinski, a 6-3 presence. The key for West Chicago will be Driscoll, a heady sophomore primed to run the show at point guard. His abilities will allow the Wildcats to play a more uptempo game. Driscoll is a main reason why the team will be more athletic this season. In terms of scoring, Gimre's hoping to see a boosted perimeter game from four junior guards -- Quarto, Asani, Camp and Gunderson. Combined with fastbreak points and inside points from Hudmon and Wrzesinski, the Wildcats aim to increase their 44-point-per-game average from a year ago. "It's a group that really plays well together," Gimre said.
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Paul Ferguson (second year, 12-14).
Last year: 12-14, 7-1 (tied for first) in the Private School League. Lost to Wheaton Warrenville South 61-42 in the Class AA Glenbard East regional quarterfinals.
Top players: G Eric Albaugh, jr.; F Jared Cochrum, sr.; G Ben Euler, sr.; F Marc Fernandez, jr.; G Quinn Gorski, so.; G Jason Roy, sr.; C Tim Rusthoven, so.; G Tim Streets, jr.; F Paul Werkema, sr.
Outlook: The Warriors may take their lumps in nonconference, but it usually pays off as it did last year in the PSL co-championship with Chicago Christian. All-conference bomber Euler and the 6-foot-8 Rusthoven, with a year under his belt, give Wheaton Academy a good chance to battle Walther Lutheran and Timothy Christian for a repeat. Euler, a three-year starter, played a lot of point guard last year. It's hoped returnee Albaugh or newcomer Gorski will run the offense and let Euler do what he does best -- shoot. Last year he averaged 14.9 points, hitting nearly as many 3-pointers (76) as he attempted 2-pointers. Rusthoven, who averaged 8.3 points and 4.8 rebounds as a freshman, added confidence, strength and defense, buffers against foul trouble that plagued him last season. Roy, Cochrum and the 6-4 Werkema all played in at least 18 games last season and should provide shooting, rebounding and leadership. "We've got enough talent to win, but really our hard work and chemistry is what will make or break us," Ferguson said.
Wheaton North
Coach: Jim Nazos (eighth year, 123-72).
Last season: 20-9, 9-5 (second) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to East Aurora 65-60 in the Class AA East Aurora sectional semifinals.
Top players: F John Bagge, sr.; G Dave Pilalis, sr.; F Tom Fitzpatrick, sr.; G Steve Pierotti, sr.; G Kristian Rosenberger, sr.; G/F Tim Bryant, jr.; G Chris Bradley, jr.; F Dan Kraakevik, sr.; F Zach Dungee, jr.; F Trey Martin, jr.
Outlook: What do you get when you have four returning starters coming off a 20-win season? For one, expectations for Wheaton North's first DVC title since 1986. A trio of third-year varsity members are in the fold headed by Hillsdale College-bound John Bagge, a 6-foot-8 All-Area pick who brings back 17.5 points and 8 rebounds. Joining Bagge in the post is 6-8 Fitzpatrick, an athletic inside man who added strength and a more-rounded offensive game in the off-season. The Falcons, though, still love life on the perimeter. Pilalis knocked down 64 3-pointers last year while Rosenberger made 29. Both players join Bagge as third-year varsity players. A key addition to the group is Bryant, a 6-3 junior who spent several games last year on varsity. A swing player with much potential, Nazos envisions his size helping the Falcons whether they need him inside or outside. With the DVC target on their backs, the Falcons appear primed for the challenge. "I think good things can happen for us, but we need to make them happen," Nazos said.
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: Mike Healy (sixth year, 79-60).
Last season: 12-16, 8-6 (tied for third) in the DuPage Valley Conference. Lost to Glenbard East 62-38 in the Class AA Glenbard East regional semifinals.
Top players: F Byron Given, sr.; C Kendrick Perry, sr.; G/F Derek Babb, so.; G Dan Phillip, jr.; G Dane Olson, sr.; F Sam Carlson, sr.; F Steve Mueller, sr.; G Ty Peterson, jr.; G Greg McAndrew, so.; G Robert Grabek, jr.
Outlook: With virtually no returning experience last year -- and after losing their first seven games -- the Tigers still managed a top-half finish in the DVC. Much of that team is back to bring even more success to the team. "They never caved in last year," Healy said. "Hopefully the kids will use that experience to their advantage." Given, who knocked down 60 3-pointers last year, is the leading returning scorer at 8.4 points per game. Right behind him is 6-foot-6 Perry, who averaged 7.1 points and 4.8 rebounds. He's one of seven football players whose basketball debut is being delayed by another deep playoff run. Phillip, up as a sophomore last year, will take over at point guard in hopes of adding a boost to the offense. The Tigers allowed a solid 50 points per game last year but averaged only 47 themselves. If both ends of the court improve for the more-experienced Tigers, they'll have many more wins to show for it. "Hopefully, we can make it easier on ourselves by scoring a little more," Healy said.
Willowbrook
Coach: Tim Lavorato (second year).
Last season: 11-17, 3-9 (sixth) in the West Suburban Gold. Lost to Wheaton North 75-47 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional semifinals.
Top players: F Milton Colbert, sr.; G Chris Smith, sr.; F Joe Flood, sr.; F/G Kyler Market, jr.; F Jamell Hunter, sr.; G Kevin Pohl, sr.; F Pearle Olatunji, sr.; G D'Wayne Ratliff, sr.; F Mike Carlini, sr.; G Phillip Reid, jr.
Outlook: Four returning starters -- including 6-foot-6 All-Area player Colbert -- add up to a leap in success. After getting mired in a 2-11 start last year the Warriors showed flashes of the future by finishing strong. Returning 11 points and 7 rebounds, Colbert's a force in the post who'll be tough to match. Market, a 6-4 third-year varsity player, also presents matchup problems because of his ability to play anywhere. Smith has a year under his belt playing point guard. After making 27 3-pointers last season, he'll be even more of a perimeter threat this year. Flood, a heady 6-3 forward, gives the Warriors another inside option. Injuries limited Hunter's contributions last year, but he's ready to step up. A rotation that goes nine to 10 players deep allows Lavorato tremendous flexibility, especially with Market playing so many positions. With scoring options at all five spots, don't be shocked to see the Warriors challenging Proviso East in the Gold. "We're a year older, and I know we believe we can win," Lavorato said.
York
Coach: Al Biancalana (third year, 38-19; 15th overall, 265-138).
Last year: 15-13, 4-8 (sixth) in the West Suburban Silver. Lost to Wheaton North 5-45 in the Class AA Wheaton North regional final.
Top players: G Rick Aleman, sr.; F Roger Coffin, sr.; G Evan Fendley, so.; G Jordan Gales, sr.; F Steve Ganser, sr.; G Tom Judge, jr.; F Joe Santiago, jr.; G Will Sullivan, fr.
Outlook: Expectations don't start high for a team that returns only Aleman with any starting experience, but this is a hard-working, solid-citizen group Biancalana feels will turn it on. The 6-foot-3 Aleman averaged 3.5 points with a high of 14 while starting 12 of the Dukes' 28 games last season. Gales returns 24 varsity games of work with Ganser, Coffin, Bretl and senior forward Anthony Clarke playing a sprinkling. At 6-8 Coffin is the sole true big man, which means York's offense shifts from the paint to more of a dribbling, shooting, spread-court "Princeton" style. Athletic 6-2 freshman Sullivan could benefit. Also a defensive stopper, Sullivan will be in a group that goes 10-12 deep to maximize defensive pressure. Saying this team has "a very high ceiling," Biancalana noted they absorb information "like sponges," play hard and play together. Breakout seasons by the seniors and intensity could add up to a surprise. "We need to have 15 kids to play like they're starving to death and we only put one steak on the plate," said an encouraged Biancalana. "That's the type of frenzy we need to play with."
-- David Oberhelman and Kevin Schmit