By Chris Parker
Verona boys basketball returns three starters looking to bounce back from a five win season.
Leading the way is junior Jaiden Carrasquillo who earned first-team all-conference and all-district honors last year after he averaged 21.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3 steals and 2.5 assists per game.
“(He is) one the hardest working, most dedicated players I have ever coached,” Verona head coach Brad Stewart said. “(He) has not only put in countless hours playing and working on his skills, but also increased his athleticism thru the weight room. Jaiden is our leader and is helping our many young players grow.”
Fellow junior Colton Hillhouse averaged 5 points and 3 rebounds per game last year, and has taken his game to a new level according to Stewart.
“(He is) much more aggressive both on the boards and inside scoring. Colton is our most improved player,” Stewart said.
Senior wing Dillin Shrum improved throughout the year last year. He will be out until after Christmas this year due to injury.
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Newcomers to watch include: Sam Rees, Seth Freiburger, Lane Briscoe and Westin Shrum. Rees moves up from junior varsity. Freiburger returns after taking last year off. Briscoe is an excellent shooter and passer. Shrum is a skilled player that will provide backcourt depth.
Jacob Stellwagen, Anthony Martinez and Noah Freiburger are three freshmen that could all see starting time. Stellwagen averaged 25 points per game in eighth grade. Martinez is a strong scorer and rebounder. Freiburger was the biggest surprise of summer camp according to Stewart. He will either start or be a sixth-man.
Verona opens their season on Saturday, Nov. 21 against Everton in its home tournament.
“This group has a chance to really develop during the year,” Stewart said. “They have bought into our system and style of play. We played well this summer for the little time we had together.”
