The Miller boys have a new head coach in James Kleine this season. He takes over a Cardinal program that finished 3-23 last season.
He will have a full roster back this season since the Cardinals did not have a single senior on the roster last year. This year the Cardinals will have just one senior and one junior on the roster.
“This team lost a lot of close games last year with four or five freshman on the court at a time. With another year of maturity under our belt, I expect us to take a step forward this season and be able to get over the hump and win some of those close games,” Kleine said.
Presten Richardson is the top returner for the Cardinals. As a freshman, he led the team averaging 13 points per game. Classmates Neilson Hadlock and Kaul Kleeman also so significant varsity minutes as freshmen. Hadlock, who attacks the basket well, scored 10 points per game. Kleeman averaged six points per game while providing strong defense.
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Junior Devon Demster added eight points per game. He provides a strong presence in the paint and rebounds well.
Depth and speed will be strengths this season with everyone returning.
“Our strength will be our team depth and overall team speed,” Kleine said. “I will be able to go four or five deep on the bench if needed, and not lose much as far as talent level goes.”
Freshmen Joel Kleeman and Jefferey Lung will see immediate time on varsity. Kleeman is athletic with a strong skillset. Lung handles the ball well and is a good passer.
“I expect these young kids to gain a lot of valuable experience this season. By the end of the season, We should be able to compete with most of the teams on our schedule,” Kleine said.
Miller opens the season Nov. 27-Dec. 2 at the Marionville Tournament.
