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2018-19 Boys Basketball Season Preview

The Wildcats are in an interesting position this year. Coming off a 16-12 season that ended in an early exit from the district tournament, they return 3 of their top 4 scorers from last year in hopes of capturing their first district title since 2015. And with the strong core and addition of some talented freshmen, the Cats have the depth and shooters to have a very successful season.

One of the main challenges for the Wildcats this year is that they are not a very big team. Outside of freshmen Sam Vestal and Austin Vick, (6’ 4 and 6’ 6), the Cat’s biggest player is Brennan Orf at a little over 6’ 2. But Orf is a beast inside, with the ability to fight through contact and finish at the rim.

The smaller team also allows the Wildcat’s to run a quick moving, 3-point heavy, offense. They can swing the ball until a quality shot opens up that the Cat’s sharpshooters will knock down. 

“We need to focus on controlling the ball,” said Coach Ribble, “if we are crisp with our passing, scoring lanes will open up, giving us a good opportunity to be successful on offense.”

Projected Starting 5:

PG – SR Luke Linam

Westminster has had some great point guards over the years, and Linam has some big shoes to fill. But after a strong junior season, he has shown that he’s ready to take over the offense. He was fourth on the team in points, averaging 7.4 a game, and second in assists.

C – JR Brennan Orf

Orf is going to be crucial if the Cats are going to have any success this season. As a sophomore last year, he led the team in points, rebounds and blocks averaging 11.5, 7, and 1.2 respectively. This year the offense will start with him. If he can finish in the paint, he will draw in defenders leaving other players open for shots.   

SG – SR Jerram Adams

Adams is another player returning after a good 2017-18 season. He was the best defensive player last year, leading the team in steals, and locking down whoever he guarded. Offensively, he was second on the team in points, averaging 10.1 ppg. He shot an impressive 42% from 3 point range last year, and looks to have a strong senior season.

F – SR Isaac Johnston 

Johnston has been a mainly a role player for the Wildcats over the years, filling in where needed and geting his job done. He plays strong, and physical down low and can draw contact from defending players. Johnston looks to become a regular starter this year on a solid team.

SG – SR Blake Jewell

Jewell is a quick, high energy player who seems to be a perfect fit with this years offense. His ball handleing and play making ability give him a strong chance of racking up some quality minutes this year and having a big impact on the Cats success.