Great Crossing Team Preview

<!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Great Crossing enters the 2026–2027 season with championship experience, proven production, and a clear understanding of what head coach Steve Page expects. Coming off a 19–11 campaign, the Warhawks return four starters and welcome back [player_tooltip player_id='2091803' first='LJ' last='Holman'], the starting point guard from their 2025 state championship team. With [player_tooltip player_id='2454749' first='Brady' last='Orem'] anchoring the inside-out attack, [player_tooltip player_id='2241686' first='Graham' last='Swartz'] providing all-around production and perimeter shooting positioned around them, Great Crossing has pieces that can challenge opponents in multiple ways. Three consecutive regional championships have established a winning standard, but sustaining that success will begin where Coach Page insists it must: defending at a high level and playing together...</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Great Crossing High School Warhawks</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Head Coach:</strong> Steve Page</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Last Season's Record:</strong> 19–11 <em>(according to the MaxPreps information provided)</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Instagram:</strong> gcboysbball</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>X:</strong> @gcwarhawksbball</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Key Players</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2091803"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d8222883"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">LJ returns to Great Crossing for his senior season after spending last year at Hargrave, bringing familiarity with the program and experience directing a championship team. He played for the Warhawks as a freshman and sophomore and was their starting point guard during the 2025 state title run. That background gives Coach Page a lead guard who understands the expectations and responsibilities attached to running this team. His blend of leadership, scoring and athleticism adds an important dimension to the backcourt. He can help initiate the offense, push the action in transition, and provide a scoring threat that keeps defenders engaged. With [player_tooltip player_id='2454749' first='Brady' last='Orem'] presenting a significant interior target and shooters available around the perimeter, LJ's decision-making will be central to getting the Warhawks into productive possessions. His return gives the Warhawks an experienced floor leader whose impact can be measured through both his own production and how effectively he puts teammates in position to succeed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2454749"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d82228e6"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Brady gives Great Crossing a proven offensive centerpiece after averaging 21 points and 10 rebounds last season. At 6-foot-7, he brings positional size and an inside-out scoring package that provides Coach Page with flexibility in how the Warhawks attack. His interior scoring is a major part of the team's identity, giving them an option to play through when transition opportunities are unavailable. The pressure Brady creates inside can influence the entire floor. When opponents commit additional attention to him, Great Crossing's shooters become important outlets. When defenders stay attached to the perimeter, the Warhawks can continue to feed their interior threat. His ability to score away from the basket adds another layer, allowing him to contribute from different areas rather than remaining tied to one spot. His rebounding production is equally valuable. Averaging a double-double reflects an ability to influence possessions beyond scoring, and Great Crossing will need that presence to remain consistent. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2241686"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d8222932"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Graham brings an all-around game that helps connect Great Crossing's offensive pieces. His averages of 11 points, four rebounds, and four assists last season show a guard capable of contributing in several areas. He can provide scoring, help create opportunities for teammates, and support the rebounding effort from the perimeter. Coach Page's assessment that the team plays well when Graham plays well speaks to his importance. His contributions influence how smoothly the Warhawks function, particularly alongside a lead guard in [player_tooltip player_id='2091803' first='LJ' last='Holman'] and a featured scorer in [player_tooltip player_id='2454749' first='Brady' last='Orem']. Great Crossing needs Graham involved as a scoring option while also using his ability to distribute and keep possessions moving. At 6-foot-3, he gives the backcourt size and a versatile statistical profile. His senior-year responsibility will be to make that all-around impact dependable from game to game. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Key Role Players to Watch</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2381668"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d822297d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Colt returns as a starter with a skill that fits directly into Great Crossing's offensive plan: perimeter shooting. Coach Page describes him as one of the best shooters he has coached, a strong endorsement of the value he brings. With Brady commanding attention inside and LJ returning to direct the offense, Colt has an opportunity to benefit from the advantages those teammates create. His shooting also helps create those advantages. Defenders who remain attached to him have less freedom to crowd the paint, and opponents who help away from him risk giving up an open perimeter look. That makes him an important part of the Warhawks' spacing, even on possessions when he does not take the shot.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Ozzy Ismail","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2028","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'10u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"77244","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Great Crossing","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d8222a2b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Ozzy gives Great Crossing a returning starter whose value begins with how hard he competes. Coach Page highlights his effort and ability to make winning plays, identifying a player who contributes to the team's success without needing every possession to revolve around him. That approach fits a program built on defensive commitment and collective responsibility. Ozzy's importance will come through sustaining his activity, embracing his assignments and helping the Warhawks maintain their standard throughout a game. Players willing to invest in those responsibilities can give a lineup balance, particularly when surrounded by established scoring options. Great Crossing will need Ozzy to continue turning effort into effective possessions through disciplined decisions and consistent engagement. His willingness to do the work that supports his teammates makes him a valuable part of the returning core.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Returning Starters</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <li class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2454749' first='Brady' last='Orem'] — Forward | 2028</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <li class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2241686' first='Graham' last='Swartz'] — Guard | 2027</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <li class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2381668' first='Colt' last='Delimpo'] — 2028</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <li class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Ozzy Ismail — 2028</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">These four provide continuity from last season, while Holman's return adds another player with previous starting experience in the program. That familiarity gives Great Crossing a foundation for incorporating new contributors without having to establish every role from scratch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>New Additions</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2360945"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d8222a91"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Bray arrives with starting experience from his previous school, where he averaged seven points and five assists. At 6-foot-6, that distribution production makes him an intriguing addition. He brings size alongside evidence that he can help create opportunities for others, potentially giving Great Crossing another player who can keep the offense connected. His fit will depend on how those skills complement the established core. With interior scoring and perimeter shooting already available, Bray has an opportunity to contribute through sound decisions, ball movement, and taking the scoring chances the offense creates. His previous starting role gives him experience to draw upon as he learns Coach Page's expectations, particularly on the defensive end.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2554033"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ac27d8222adb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700","fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="text-gray-700 has-medium-font-size">Colmon joins the group as another option on the wing. His role will develop as Coach Page evaluates the rotation and determines which combinations best support the team's identity. Embracing defensive responsibilities and playing within the offense will be important steps toward earning trust and contributing alongside the experienced returners.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>What to Expect From the Warhawks</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Transition opportunities backed by an inside-out attack.</strong> Great Crossing wants to run when the opportunity is available, using its guard play to advance the ball and put pressure on an unsettled defense. When the game moves into the half court, [player_tooltip player_id='2454749' first='Brady' last='Orem'] gives the Warhawks a significant interior scoring option. That balance allows them to pursue early offense without depending on transition for every quality possession.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Shooters positioned around the primary threats.</strong> Coach Page wants multiple shooters on the floor, creating space for the offense to operate. [player_tooltip player_id='2381668' first='Colt' last='Delimpo']'s shooting is an important part of that approach. The Warhawks will look to make opponents choose between providing help inside and staying connected to the perimeter, with ball movement essential to capitalizing on those decisions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Defense as the nonnegotiable standard.</strong> Great Crossing will primarily play man-to-man, and Coach Page is clear that defense comes first. The effectiveness of that approach will depend on more than individual matchups. Communication, help positioning, controlled closeouts and rebounding must connect the effort of all five players. The Warhawks want their defense to provide a dependable foundation regardless of how well they are shooting.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>What Will It Take for the Warhawks to Win State?</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Great Crossing's championship pursuit begins with the priorities Coach Page identified: defend at a high level and play together. Three consecutive regional titles and the 2025 state championship give the program experience with postseason expectations, but this group must establish its own consistency.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">The offensive pieces offer a promising fit. Holman brings leadership at point guard, [player_tooltip player_id='2454749' first='Brady' last='Orem'] supplies proven scoring and rebounding, [player_tooltip player_id='2241686' first='Graham' last='Swartz'] contributes across the floor and [player_tooltip player_id='2381668' first='Colt' last='Delimpo'] provides valuable shooting. Ozzy Ismail's effort, [player_tooltip player_id='2360945' first='Bray' last='McNear']'s passing production, and the development of the remaining rotation can help support that core.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Turning those pieces into another title run will require discipline when opponents take away preferred options. The Warhawks must remain willing to share the ball, trust the next player and sustain their defensive effort through difficult stretches. If Great Crossing can combine its offensive versatility with connected defense and consistent rebounding, it has a foundation from which to pursue another deep postseason run.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->