By Chris Parker
McAuley Catholic boys basketball will look to take a step forward with a strong core of players returning from last season’s seven-win team.
“We return a lot of experience with Rocco (Bazzano), Bradley (Wagner) and Michael (Parrigon). They have been the foundation for us for the past two seasons,” McAuley Catholic head coach Tony Witt said. “We also have some talented newcomers who will help us right away. We will probably have some growing pains early but if we can take care of the ball and defend like we are capable of, I like our chances.”
Bazzano was honorable mention all-conference last season when he averaged 8.8 points per game. Witt said he brings a good touch from the outside and in the midrange.
Wagner added in 5.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. He is a physical defender and rebounder who can play inside or out.
Parrigon enters his third season starting coming off a sophomore season where he averaged 6.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. He will run the point.
CLICK HERE FOR LINKS TO ALL OF THE WINTER PREVIEWS
Alex Bohachick, Tripp Miller and Connor Taffner round out the returning players. Bohachick led the group in scoring at 7.2 points per game.
Liam Buerge (sophomore), Max Anreder (sophomore), Brek Sickman (junior), Nic Svec (senior) and Chase Gardner (senior) were mentioned by Witt as newcomers to watch.
The Warriors will lean on their defense while looking for an improved offense.
“We held teams to 45.1 ppg last season. That was the best defensive team our program has had since 2008. Our overall team toughness, speed and length is better than a year ago. This year’s team has the potential to be better defensively,” Witt said. “We need to be better offensively. We turned the ball over 16 times a game last year and lost 11 games by 32 points total. If we can do a better job taking care of the ball that will give us a fighting chance.”
McAuley Catholic opens the season on Nov. 21 at Liberal.
