District and PIAA classification: 3-AA
Head coach: Dan Bowman (5th season, 27-56).
2012-13 record: 7-15 overall, 5-11 in the Tri-Valley League.
Players: Hunter Hilinski, 6-3 sr F
Chris Paul, 6-0 sr G
Koby Bowman, 5-10 so G
Dan Osenbach, 6-1 so F
Kenny Turner, 6-3 sr C
Stephen Berger, 5-9 jr G
Connor Schadel, 5-10 so G
Alex Scheib, 6-1 so F
Alex McMullen, 5-10 jr G
Jarrett Hoy, 5-9 jr G
Tyler Ashberry, 5-11 jr G
Nick Krakowski, 6-0 jr F
Zach Thompson, 6-3 so F/C
Back-door cuts: Although Bowman’s ballclub encountered some difficult times in 2012-13, a quick closing stretch and the return of several top offensive threats have the ‘Cats seriously thinking about a climb up the Tri-Valley League standings. With the bouncy Hilinski still on hand, Bowman’s bunch sports an athletic frontcourt player who can bounce to the mid-range and maintain his effectiveness. Presence of Koby Bowman and Osenbach, a pair of coaches’ kids who logged plenty of PT as freshmen, should add balance and smarts moving forward. A quick start would be a plus, since there’s still some lingering confidence issues that need to be erased.
Projected order of finish: 4th of 9.
First game: Saturday, Dec. 7 at Big Spring. 2:30 p.m. start.
First home game: Friday, Dec. 13 vs. Millersburg. 7:30 tip.