By Chris Parker
Ava head basketball coach is hoping to hit the ground running in the second season under head coach Riley Jenkins.
“The biggest difference (between last year and this year) is time together,” Jenkins said. “I have a better understanding of who they are as players and what they are best at. Obviously, this helps us put a better product on the floor come gameday, but it makes every practice more meaningful.”
The Bears return one all-conference player in Isaac Dalton. He was named second-team all-conference as a sophomore.
“Isaac’s able to score from multiple places on the floor. His ability to make different types of shots plus his long, lanky frame, makes him a tough matchup,” Jenkins said. “Isaac has learned to value each possession. He knows he needs to lead by example in this area and he has taken it to heart.”
Senior Roebe Henry (forward) along with juniors Bridger Wiedmeier (guard) and Peyton Merriet (forward) also return to the roster.
Henry is a highly coachable player who is always working hard. Wiedmeier brings good shooting and has improved his ball handling. Merriet is strong in the post and continues to improve as both a scorer and rebounder.
Newcomers to watch include: Frank Pesce (senior forward), Hunter Adams (junior forward) and Jaxon Donley (junior guard).
Pesce has limited playing experience but was a strong rebounder this summer. Adams, a star football player, brings a physical presence and a high motor, according to Jenkins. Donley is always in the right place doing the little things right to make the team better.
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“Our biggest strength will be that our guys know who each of their teammates are as players,” Jenkins said. “They have been and will do a good job of getting guys the ball where they are best with it. On defense, they are willing to help each other guard the ball and rotate in order to contest all shots. I am excited about how this group works together and look forward to seeing that progress as the year goes on.”
Jenkins will look for his team to take better care of the ball on offense this season.
“Decreasing the amount of turnovers and turning those into meaningful offensive possessions (will be important),” Jenkins said. “Not only does it make us better at scoring the basketball, it will have a big impact on our defensive efficiency.”
Ava opens the season Nov. 27-Dec. 2 at the Strafford Tournament.
“We will base success on our attitude, effort, and preparation,” Jenkins said. “We have to have to be at our best in those three areas on a daily basis. If we establish consistency in this way, I am excited about what we can accomplish.”
