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West Central Area Boys Basketball (Season Preview)

By Craig Olson, 11/24/19, 8:15PM CST

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The West Central Area Knights are looking for a successful boys’ basketball season as they return four starters and eight lettermen from a 15-10 team a year ago.

Returning starters are Gage Staples 6’5 Sr, Jack Van Kempen 6’5 Sr., Jacob Bright 5’8 Sr., and Grant Beuckens 5’11 Jr.  Other returning letterman are Blake Koloski 6’0 Sr, Tate Christenson 6’1 Jr., Brady Reeve 6’3 Jr. and Ryder Staples 6’4 Soph.  Other newcomers that could help are Xander Bontjes 6’0 Jr. and Braedon Blondeau 6’3 Jr.

"This team plans to compete with the top teams in both the Pheasant Conference and Section 6A," commented Head Coach Kraig Hunter.  "Keys to a successful season will be to stay healthy throughout the season.”

“Our expectation every year is to compete extremely hard night in and night out and to play unselfish team basketball. Our strengths will be our depth and versatility.”

Hunter feels the Section is good as always with a lot of quality teams and players.

“Brandon-Evansville returns all five of their starters and Parkers Prairie and Hancock will also be very strong with several returners.  Wheaton, Ortonville and Ashby will be led by three of the top players in Matt Thielen (Wheaton), Peter Treinen (Ortonville), and Jaden Norby (Ashby).  Battle Lake will also be very good and balanced.  Henning, Norman County East, Mahnomen-Waubun, and Park Christian should be the favorites in the north half.”

Hunter will be assisted by Brian Kjsebo, Jon Nelson, Brad Westrom and Devin Nelson.