By Derek Shore
After a stretch of at least 15 wins per season from 2009-10 to 2013-14, the Southwest Trojans has seen a steady downturn in results since then, going 14-15 two years ago before posting a 10-16 overall record last year.
The 2015-16 Trojans graduated three players, including three starters in the form of post Orion Lawyer, guard Jacob Durrosette, and second team all-conference post Robbie Randal, who played four years of varsity and averaged 10 points or more with eight rebounds over the past two seasons.
In his fourth year as head coach, Rusty Roe said there will be several positions open for competition to replace the lost starters, but emphasized one key for this upcoming season that was a culprit last year.
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“We hope to keep everyone healthy this season,” Roe said. “In turn, it will allow the competition for open spots and playing time to dictate our approach to every day. There will be no excuse for us not to be a competitive team in all games and tournaments this season.”
Headlining the returning players will be First Team All-Ozark 7 Conference Player, Paton Clay. A 6-foot-3, senior, he is the leading returning scorer thanks to 13 points per game last year. He also registered seven boards a game with three assists and 1.5 steals as well.
“He has the ability to play inside and out,” Roe said.
One of the key returning starters, who suffered a separated shoulder and missed much of his junior season, is Devon Resz. Resz, a 5-foot-10, senior point guard, averaged 12 points per game with two rebounds and assists.
“His return to the point guard position and ability to score will be much relied upon this season,” Roe said.
The last remaining senior is Landon Wright. Wright, a 5-foot-11, post, scored three points per game while grabbing three rebounds.
“Very athletic player,” Roe said. “He is the best defender on the court and uses his size well. He will have to become more of a scorer this year than what he has been.”
Furthermore, juniors Tanner Leonhardt and Adam Ramirez are the other returning lettermen. Leonhardt, standing at 6-foot-2, averaged three points and two rebounds after missing ten games due to injury. Ramirez, a 5-foot-9, guard, also missed parts of last season thanks to injury but posted four points, two rebounds, three assists, and one steal over 16 games.
“Tanner is looking to be a very productive player for us this season,” Roe said. “His ability to play inside and out combined with his basketball IQ will undoubtedly give him a prominent role for us.
“Adam should make a push for the starting point guard position. A good player, who can score the ball, but is very unselfish on offense.”
Top newcomers include four juniors: Cody Brooks, John Durossette, Kenneth Durossette, and Tyler Troyer. Brooks played 12 varsity games last year but is one Roe said has the confidence to play at the varsity level and has grown. The Durossette brothers are both described as threats from the outside and are expected to see increased time this season.
Ultimately, Roe plans to battle with Purdy, Verona, and McAuley for an Ozark 7 Conference title. He relishes the challenge ahead with his group of players.
“I am excited to get to coach this year’s team,” Roe said. “We have a group of men that truly love playing the game of basketball. Perhaps, more importantly, they enjoy learning the game of basketball.”
