By Amanda Perkins (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
The Houston Tigers have a new head coach in Daniel Narancich, who served as a varsity assistant for six seasons and looks for the team to improve on last year’s six-win record.
“I am excited for the season and to watch the boys play and turn heads,” said Narancich. “We have set some very high standards for the year and this team is very capable in reaching them.”
The Tigers lost two starters to graduation. Returning is the team’s engine, junior DJ Riley. “He will set the pace,” said Coach Narancich. “His ability to handle the ball and handle pressure is a big key for us.” As a sophomore, Riley added 9.8 points and 2.7 rebounds per game.
Letterman Owen Wells is a 6’2” senior who “will be a rebounding machine while also making hustle plays,” said his coach. Classmate Caden Guerra is also a returning letterman and a skilled shooter and passer.
Returning starter Brody Adkinson “is going to be a big presence inside for us,” said Narancich. The 6’5” senior has improved his shooting game on the outside and can score the ball.
Senior Jordan Arthur (6’1”) is a returning starter who averaged 12.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. “His vision and drive to get to the rim and score the ball is a big asset,” said Narancich. “His ability to play anywhere on the floor also makes him dangerous.”
Junior Gavyn Daily is a 6’5” returning letterman who will “rebound and stretch the defense with his ability to shoot outside,” said Narancich. “His length in our defense will play a big role.”
Senior Ezekiel Grange possesses “swiftness to get to the rim and finish, speed, and hustle to play defense on the best players,” said Coach Narancich. “This will be big for the team this year.”
Dylan Dzurick is a senior who will serve as a defender and an outside shooter.
“We are setting the Tiger standard back to hard work, discipline, and teamwork, where everything gets left on the court,” said Coach Narancich. “We are going to be in the running for the SCA title. These boys have been working hard and are ready to play. With this year’s district tournament, we are looking to make it out of the first round and take the title.”
Houston will compete in a jamboree at Mtn. Grove on November 19 with Mtn. Grove, Plato, and Eminence. They host Koshkonong for their season opener on December 2.
