By Chris Parker
Ash Grove boys basketball has had a strong three-year run featuring 62 wins and a district title.
If that run is to continue, the Pirates must replace the production of a talented senior group that included three all-conference players led by Southwest Conference Player of the Year Brady Nicholson.
“That group definitely left a legacy of competitive success,” Ash Grove head coach Grant Williamson said. “They finished their careers with a district championship, two conference championships, and broke several records as individuals and as a team. Anytime you graduate a group like that you have to lean into that legacy and challenge the current players to strive for their own greatness.”
One starter from last year’s team in six-foot junior Kyler Reese returns.
“Kyler is our only returning starter from last season and is poised for a great season,” Williamson said. “He is a great competitor and tough on both ends of the floor. His skill on the offensive end allows him to play about every offensive position and can be a matchup problem for opponents. We can’t wait to see his continued growth.”
Seniors Dylan Gray and Colin Denney also return.
Gray saw action off the bench last season.
“Dylan came off the bench for the varsity team last year and always provided a spark of energy,” Williamson said. “He also competes every play and is a pesky defender. As one of our best athletes, he has a knack for getting to the basket and uses his creativity to finish.”
Denney brings good size at 6-foot-2.
“Colin is a true stretch four. He has the size to hold his own in the lane and is one our most consistent shooters,” Williamson said. “We are looking for him to play a big role on both ends of the floor.”
Sophomores Easton Rust and Jaden Hance along with junior Ty Messley will be newcomers to watch.
Williamson on Rust: “Easton has great ball skills and can get hot from the three-point line. He continues to develop his game and as he matures, he has a chance to become a really impactful player for us.”
Williamson on Hance: “Jaden has shown some of the most growth since last season. He has phenomenal hands and takes pride in little things like defense and rebounding. Jaden will play a big role for us this year in the lane.”
Williamson on Messley: “Ty continues to improve on the offensive end and has also put in work in the weight room. His growth has shown up in the offseason and his role continues to grow because of it.”
Ash Grove will bring versatility on offense.
“Our ability to attack teams from different directions will be a big strength of ours this year,” Williamson said. “We will have different leading scorers on any given night which will allow us to play with new concepts within our motion offense.”
The Pirates will look different at the end of the year compared to the beginning as the new players gain experience.
“This group lacks varsity experience and there will be some quick maturing that will have to take place,” Williamson said. “Valuing the basketball has been a huge part of our success the past several years so learning to balance aggressiveness with valuing possessions will be key.”
Ash Grove opens the regular season on Nov. 26 at Crane.
