By Chris Parker
Spokane boys basketball will be young but balanced coming off a three-win campaign.
“Our biggest strength will be our balance and chemistry,” Spokane head coach Riley Simmons said. “We have multiple guys who can score, defend, and handle the ball. The group genuinely likes each other, and that shows in how they play and communicate.”
Carter Davidson (sophomore point guard), Logan Rollings (sophomore small forward), Coy Cutbirth (junior center) and Timothy Rantz (senior small forward) are the returning players.
Davidson averaged 5.5 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists per game.
“Carter Davidson is our floor general,” Simmons said. “(He) plays with confidence and leadership beyond his age. He controls tempo and sets the tone for how we compete.”
Rollings poured in 10.2 points per game with 3.7 rebounds and 2 assists per game.
“Logan Rollings is our most dynamic scorer and a tough matchup for anyone,” Simmons said. “He plays with energy on both ends and has grown into a leader.”
Cutbirth contributed 5.1 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assist per game.
“Coy Cutbirth is our anchor inside,” Simmons said. “He brings size, toughness, and consistency on the boards. Coy’s communication and motor are key for us.”
Rantz is a key leader.
“Timothy Rantz is a veteran voice and steady defender,” Simmons said. “He understands our system and provides maturity and leadership on and off the floor.”
Freshmen Jayden Melton (shooting guard), Gabe Jones (point guard), Gage Carroll (power forward) and Zoltan Perriman (center) along with sophomore Landon Dollarhide (shooting guard) are newcomers to watch.
This young group will need to focus on playing consistent basketball and being physical.
“We have to grow in consistency and physicality,” Simmons said. “Being a young team, we’ll need to learn how to sustain focus through runs, handle adversity, and stay locked in defensively for four quarters.”
Simmons is focused on building not only for this year, but for future years.
“We’re focused on changing the culture of Spokane Basketball, and building something our players, school, and community can be proud of,” Simmons said. “It’s not just about wins; it’s about doing things the right way every day.”
Spokane opens the regular season on Nov. 21 at home against Verona.
