5A Preview: Arapahoe
2014: 7-17, 2-12 in Centennial League; lost in first round of Class 5A playoffs to Doherty
Top 100 players: Kyle Lukasiewicz (No. 23 in 2017); Brett Harmon (No. 87 in 2016); Ryan King (No. 90 in 2016).
Key Loss: Max Whitehead (9.7 points per game last season)
Key Returners: Lukasiewicz, Harmon, King, Jesse Giron, Joseph Kleeman
Outlook: The expectations have changed under second-year coach Brad Jansen.
As a young team last season, the Warriors faced some struggles as they worked to mesh under Jansen’s system. Chemistry, though, has begun to solidify, and a group of talented players, led by rising junior Kyle Lukasiewicz, is continuing to gel as unit.
Lukasiewicz’s length and ability to slash and get to the basket in one step opens up opportunities for a number of improving shooters on the Arapahoe squad — and he’s worked tirelessly to improve his 3-point shot.
Arapahoe demonstrated an ability to share the ball consistently during the June team camp period, and Jansen said this summer he was particularly pleased with the way his players were beginning to buy in to playing tough-nosed harassing defense.
Jansen has the core of his team back this season, and its one that seems to be improving regularly. Expect the Warriors to be a much tougher out for Centennial League foes this season.