By Chris Parker
Bradleyville boys basketball was just two points away from upsetting eventual district champion Chadwick in the Class 1 District 4 semifinals last season. The Eagles lost 82-80 in overtime and finished 17-10.
The Eagles will try to get further in the district tournament led by lone senior Ethan Todd. Todd, who is a four-year letterman, will be the team leader this year after averaging 13 points and six rebounds per game on his way to all-conference honors last year.
The junior quartet of Chastin Curtis (guard), Owen Smith (forward), Wesley Jennings (guard) and Braxton Ham (center) also return. Curtis averaged 8 points, 3 assists and 2 steals per game last year. Jennings averaged 5 points per game last season. Smith brings back averages of 3 points and 4 rebounds per game.
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“I believe one of our strengths is our offensive transition. Our kids love to attack the basket in the open floor,” Bradleyville head coach Joshua Hume said. “We must continue to improve on the defensive side of the game. It’s a must for us to be defensive minded if we want to compete with our strength of schedule.”
New varsity players to watch include sophomore Sonny Guerin and freshman Kasey Lehmann.
Balance will be a key for success this year for the Eagles.
“We expect have a more balanced approach both offensively and defensively,” Hume said. “We look to compete with everyone this year and hopefully give our team a chance in the conference race.”
Bradleyville opens the season on Nov. 26 at home against Hartville.
