By Chris Parker
Macks Creek finished 15-12 last year in coach Ron Duggan’s first season as head coach.
The Pirates are poised for another strong season led by senior Hunter Lane. The all-state selection was a force as a junior averaging 21.1 points, 15 rebounds, 3 blocks 2.4 steals and 2.0 assists per game in 2018-19. He had 26 double-doubles in 27 games.
“His biggest asset is his reach and ability to find the ball off the rim. He’s a great finisher inside,” Duggan said. “The expectations for him during his senior year will be more of the same, but as teams collapse on him, he’s a great passer.”
Cole Register returns for his second year of starting and third year on varsity at the point. Register averaged 8.1 points and 3.1 assists per game as a junior. Fellow senior Colton Walter returns for his third season starting as a guard/forward. He is the team’s second-leading returning scorer after averaging 8.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game as a junior.
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Trevor Haines (junior forward), Tanner Smith (junior forward) and Tristan Roberts (junior guard) are all returning lettermen with significant varsity experience.
Sophomores Mason Whitworth (guard) and Austin Brown (guard) along with freshman Chase Whitworth (guard) all will be new names to watch on the varsity level.
Depth will be a strength for Macks Creek, but the Pirates must limit turnovers to be successful.
“This year’s team will be able to defend the ball very well along with some very balanced shooting on offense. We will be able to run 10 deep, which will keep us in good shape all season,” Duggan said. “In order to have a good year, our team has to value the basketball and limit the turnovers. Keeping everyone healthy will also be a major emphasis.”
Macks Creek will look to post a better record against a tougher schedule this year.
“We are looking forward to expanding on our 15-12 season last year and with a much harder schedule this year, we hope to make it back to the district championship game,” Duggan said.
Macks Creek opens the season on Nov. 22 at Weaubleau.
