By Chris Parker
College Heights boys basketball has won back-to-back district titles. Last year’s district title came with a 24-5 record.
The Cougars must replace some key graduated players including a trio of all-conference selections.
One all-conference selection in Curtis Davenport does return. Davenport was named second-team all-conference as a junior after he averaged 11 points and 8 rebounds per game while shooting 62% from the field.
“He plays inside and out,” said College Heights head coach Eric Johnson. “He is a leader on court by his work ethic and dedication and commitment to CHCS and basketball.”
Junior Caleb Quade was the sixth man for College Heights last year. His role will expand this year.
Senior Ben Thomas can score inside and out. He is a good defender and can score inside and out. This year his role will expand.
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Noah Hipple and Bo Sitton are two more seniors who return with expanded roles this year. Hipple will be a rebounder and inside defender. Sitton is an aggressive player who can help on both ends of the floor.
Jayce Walker (sophomore), Ethan Ukena (junior), Zac Beatty (junior) and Colsen Dickens (junior) will be newcomers to the varsity lineup.
Johnson on Walker: “Looking for him to fill the role of a guard who can set up our offense, score and defend on the perimeter. Gaining experience will make him even better.”
Johnson on Ukena: “Needs to gain experience and can fill a role off the bench.”
Johnson on Beatty: “Looking for him to help at guard position off the bench.”
Johnson on Dickens: “Coming off a football injury. Hopefully he can be back quickly as he can help at the guard position. A good three-point shooter.”
Johnson expects the defensive end to be the team’s biggest strength.
“We feel our perimeter defense can be a strong point for us,” Johnson said. “We have players who can score. Contributions by all can make us more competitive.”
College Heights opens the regular season on Nov. 22 at home against Providence Academy.
