By Angie Brushwood
A young team missing a key player to injury, the Willard Tigers finished 8-17 last season, losing their district semifinal game to Nixa, 55-21. Head coach Lamont Frazier looks forward to a more mature, experienced team going into his fifth season with the Tigers.
“With several key players back in the lineup, the versatility of this team will far outweigh the teams of the past,” said Frazier. “This is by far the deepest team of the last four years.”
The Tigers lost no one to graduation, and the lineup consists of 14 upperclassmen, including some big guys who return after being sidelined by injuries last season. The players who were pushed and tested last year come back this year prepared to compete.
Senior Houston Johnson was out most of last season with an injury and has worked hard to be ready for play. At 6’5” and 220 pounds, Johnson will be a game changer for the Tigers.
“Houston has worked really hard to prepare himself for this season,” said Frazier. “His physical play and inside presence will be a key ingredient towards team success.”
Newcomer Ethan Burson (jr.) comes off the football field to make a difference for the Tigers, after being sidelined last season by injury. At 6’4” and 220 pounds, Frazier looks for Burson to use his football skills on the hardwood.
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“Ethan’s physical presence will keep opponents honest,” said Frazier. “Being a football player, he has great hands and excellent feet for a guy his size.”
Junior Kenny Chambers (5’11”) earned COC-Large All-Conference Honorable Mention. Chambers averaged 14.9 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.4 steals per game.
“Kenny has proven that he can play multiple positions, which makes him a threat on both ends of the floor nightly,” said Frazier. “Consistency will be a vital part of his game this season.”
Junior Kobe Holloman (5’10”) averaged 8.0 ppg as a sophomore.
“With two years under his belt, Kobe will be looked upon for his leadership on both ends of the floor,” said Frazier. “Kobe is at his best when he is in the open court and able to use his skills to either get the ball to the basket or distribute to a teammate. His success will directly impact the team.”
A two-year letterman at Springfield Central, 6’2” junior Quintin Batson–”Q”–joins the Tigers this season.
The Tigers boast a deep group of senior players this season. Lefty Sam Bird (5’11”) averaged 7.6 ppg and 4.0 rpg for the Tigers. Jarett Fickbohm (6’1”), Stone Jackson (5’11”), Carter Anderson (5’10”), and Caiden Dalton (5’9”) all return with experience and confidence.
Junior Elijah Davis (5’10”) and sophomore Riley Young round out the Tigers’ lineup.
“Thrown into the fire as a freshman, Riley contributed significant minutes last season,” said Frazier. “Along with high basketball IQ, Riley sees the floor really well and keeps the defenders honest by being able to knock down open shots.”
Frazier looks forward to a competitive season, hopefully not marked by injuries.
“This season with the Willard Tigers should be one of great interest,” said Frazier. “With a host of returners and several key additions, the depth of this team could prove to be beneficial against some tough competition. More than just players, a key factor in the success of this year’s team will be their ability to stay healthy. This group has the potential to be fun to watch and fun to coach.”
