By Chris Parker
The Verona boys basketball team will have a much different look on the court this year after graduating a program-defining senior class.
“The legacy of Caleb Hillhouse, Kolton Pinkly and Eddie Gutierrez along with Anthony Martinez and Austin Valdez is the dedication they gave to our program as the leaders for all four years,” said Verona head coach Brad Stewart, who is entering his 21st year at Verona.
Hillhouse was the Ozark 7 Player of the Year last year. He along with Pinkly and Gutierrez combined to score 4,913 points in their careers at Verona.
Jaiden Carrasquillo will have a much expanded role as a sophomore after the graduation of so much talent. He averaged 10 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists per game last year as a freshman.
“Jaiden has put in years of time and hard work into basketball and had already played at high levels in previous years. Jaiden will be our point guard and take on a leadership role,” Stewart said.
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Other returning players include: Riley Carey (6’0 senior wing), Jere Ruiz Diaz (5’9 senior guard), Kelson Guenther (6’2 sophomore post), Dillin Shrum (6’0 junior guard), Colton Hillhouse (6’0 sophomore guard) and Duece Francisco (5’10 sophomore guard).
“We have a group that has not played together at the varsity level. My expectations for the season is that we improve as much or more than any team in the area and lay the foundation for years to come. I am impressed with how hard our players are working,” Stewart said.
Verona opens the season Dec. 2-7 at the Pierce City Invitational.
