By Chris Parker
Thomas Jefferson boys basketball is looking to claim a third straight district title with first-team all-conference senior Jay Ball returning to lead the team.
Ball, who was also the district player of the year, averaged 17.2 points, 12.3 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game last season.
“He (Ball) is a hard-working kid that has developed into one of the best big men in this area,” said Thomas Jefferson head coach Chris Myers.
Fellow senior Tyler Brouhard will be looked to for more production this year. Thomas Jefferson graduated its second and third leading scorers from last season’s team. Brouhard was the fourth-leading scorer at 8.6 points per game. He also had 5.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2 steals per game.
“Tyler had some big games for us last year,” Myers said. “A big part of this year’s success will hinge on his ability to step up and fill more of a leadership role.”
Kip Atteberry and Levi Triplett are two more seniors who each played in most of last season’s varsity contests with Atteberry seeing action in 26 games and Triplett in 22.
CLICK HERE FOR LINKS TO ALL OF THE WINTER PREVIEWS
“Kip made some big plays for us at times last season. Like Tyler, he will be asked to fill a leadership role, taking over as point guard in some instances,” Myers said. “Levi stepped up big time for us last year, actually started in some big games for us. Hopefully, his confidence will continue to grow, and he can maximize his potential.”
Tony Touma (senior), Ethan Renger (sophomore) and Kohl Thurman (freshman) should all see varsity action. Touma played in 17 games as a junior. Renger saw action in four games.
While the paint is secure with Ball and his 6-foot-6 frame patrolling, Thomas Jefferson’s guard play will need to develop.
“Our inside game is and will continue to be a major strength for team,” Myers said. “Our guard play is a big question mark. We graduated three kids last year that played a majority of our guard minutes. How well our guards step up and handle pressure will be a major factor in our team success.”
Thomas Jefferson opens the season on Nov. 21 at Exeter.
“I think our team has developed a reputation for being a tough game on everyone’s schedule,” Myers said. “My hope is that this year’s group continues that tradition and works hard to be competitive every game.”
