Scouting Grayslake Central Rams

Grayslake Central Rams

Coach Brian Moe (2nd season)

Last year 21-10, 7-3 Fox Valley Fox

Key players lost G Michael Brumm (St. Norbert), F Kevin O'Rourke, F Alex Anderson

Key players returning F Josh Rappaport, sr., F Andrew Sipes, sr., G Cameron Nelson, sr., G Matt Murphy, sr., G Darius Dacany, sr.

Key newcomers G Jordan Taylor, soph., C CJ Stempeck, jr.

Outlook Having played in the sectional championship game last year, the Rams are anxious to get back. Graduation claimed the glue of their team, starting point guard Michael Brumm, but they could still make a serious run. That's because Grayslake Central returns a player who could have been just a vital during last year's march through the tournament. Senior forward Andrew Sipes is back after missing all but three games of last season with a serious knee injury. He's was in the starting lineup as a freshman and sophomore and has been known as a dangerous slasher and rebounder. Add in the return of forward Josh Rappaport, who averaged 14 points and 7.3 rebounds last season, and the Rams should be solid up front, and in the locker room. "Those two are really good players and they'll also give us a lot of good leadership this season," Grayslake Central coach Brian Moe said. "We also have eight seniors back. A lot of them didn't get a lot of playing time last season, but they were around for the experience and I think that's going to mean a lot this season. I think they learned some things that will help them now."-What will also help the Rams is if they can find a point guard as consistent at Brumm. Senior Darius Dacany and sophomore Jordan Taylor will be competing for time there. The Rams will also use Cameron Nelson and Matt Murphy on the perimeter while 6-foot-6 junior CJ Stempeck will offer help inside.

Opener 730 p.m. Monday vs. Mundelein at Mundelein Thanksgiving tournament