By Amanda Perkins (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Last season was one of rebuilding at Cabool after the Bulldogs graduated five veteran players the year before. Now they lose three more to graduation after a six-win season, but return battle-tested underclassmen to the floor.
“We struggled last year with injuries early and were forced to play several sophomores that were maybe not quite ready,” said Cabool head coach Brad Shockley, now in his seventh year in the role. “They improved throughout the year for us and I really look for them to contribute as juniors. We return almost all of our offense and rebounding in Zach Beller, Jacob Shockley, and Trevor Atkins.”
Beller is a 6’2” senior forward who was forced to play guard last year. “He is very athletic and gets to the bucket well,” said Shockley. “This summer, we were able to keep him around the basket and he did a nice job.”
Trevor Atkins is the most dangerous scorer, per his coach. He played point guard last year but will now be responsible for more offensive production. Jacob Shockley (6’3”) is a post player. “He has worked hard to play with his back to the basket,” said his coach. “He can also step out and shoot the three and will anchor our defense.”
Colin Emery is the defensive spark plug who plays hard and guards well. Hunter Sparks has the potential to push for playing time at the guard position.
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Logan Primazon is a junior who sat out last year and will make an immediate impact at point guard. Senior Brandon Vancil split time last year and also has an opportunity to contribute big.
Last season, the Bulldogs concentrated on a slower-paced game but will now move to a more up-tempo speed and push the ball more than in recent years.
“We want to really focus on becoming better defensively and to work to get better every game,” said Shockley. “They are a really good group of boys to be around. They work hard and give everything they have.”
The Cabool Bulldogs host Seymour in their season opener December 3.
