Sectional Preview: 64
The coming high school season is almost upon us. With that, we are taking a look at each Sectional in the state. Starting with 64 and ending with 1. Today, we are previewing Sectional 64.
Cannelton (2-21) – Lost 1st Rd. Sectional
Cannelton really struggled last season to the tune of only two wins. However, they were built with only 3 upperclassmen and six freshman on the Varsity roster. They were young. They will still be young with mostly underclassmen making up the majority of the roster. It will still take time to develop so don’t expect a big jump this year.
Evansville Day (10-13) – Lost 1st Rd. Sectional
Evansville Day had a solid year but their best days are coming soon. They lose their top two scorers but they have a trio of sophomores this year that should be their core for the next few seasons with Alijah Stewart, Noah Hupmann, and Ethan Hancock. Plus, they bring back their second leading scorer in Max Lowery.
Northeast Dubois (13-12) – Lost Sectional Finals
Northeast Dubois had a pretty solid season as they were just over .500 but challenged Wood Memorial as the second best team in the Sectional. They return all but outgoing post Scott Betz. Building on their 13-win season should be doable this year.
Springs Valley (14-10) – Lost 1st Rd. Sectional
Springs Valley pulled in a 14-win season last year. That was the second most in the Sectional. They will bring back their leading scorer from last year in Braden Whitaker but will lose four seniors. They should still be competitive with another deep senior class.
Wood Memorial (22-6) – Sectional Champion, Lost Regional Semifinals
For Wood Memorial, they found success last season and were almost able to break through for a State Title run in 1A. This year, they return their Top 3 scorers and basically all of their size. Their core of Paxon Bartley, Lathan Falls, and Walker Nurrenbern will make for one of the best 1A teams in the State and potential State Finalist.
Contenders For 2017-18: Wood Memorial, Northeast Dubois, Springs Valley, Evansville Day
Prediction: Wood Memorial
Player to Watch: Paxon Bartley (Wood Memorial)