5 questions for the 2016-17 season in NEO: Division IV
As we look ahead to the 2016-17 season, here’s a quick preview of Division IV in Northeast Ohio: Offseason overview 1) Who will be the best local team in Division IV? This is probably the easiest question out there right…
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Continue ReadingAs we look ahead to the 2016-17 season, here’s a quick preview of Division IV in Northeast Ohio:
Offseason overview
1) Who will be the best local team in Division IV?
This is probably the easiest question out there right now, as Cornerstone Christian seems primed for a repeat run to a state title. The team’s best player, Mike Bothwell, is only entering his junior year, and inside presence Brandon McQueen is set to be a senior. Lutheran East will be a talented squad too, but the Patriots are the team to beat until proven otherwise.
2) Who will be the best player in Division IV?
Another no-brainer here, as the aforementioned Mike Bothwell is the reigning Division IV player of the year in Ohio. Bothwell took his game to another level as a sophomore, particularly in the postseason. He’s on track to have an all-time great high school career that could result in multiple state titles. Bothwell also figures to be one of the top scorers in the area.
3) Who will be the sleeper team in Division IV?
Perennial contender Richmond Heights went to a transition year in 2015-16, as the Spartans needed to rebuild after losing a strong senior class. That rebuild should pay off next season, as plenty of young players will have experience under their belts. This might not be a state tournament contender yet, but they’ll be a tough out in the postseason.
4) Who is the sleeper player in Division IV?
Lutheran East has loads of talent, and while most people know about Keandre Graves, another rising junior is about to make his mark. Alexander Heath is the team’s point guard and does a great job controlling the offense. He has experience and should see a boost in scoring next year. Keep an eye on him.
5) So who wins the local Division IV districts?
Another easy question here, as Cornerstone Christian and Lutheran East should win their respective districts in 2016-17. They appear to yet again be on a crash course for a regional final with the winner being the likely state title favorite.