The Edmond Santa Fe boys’ basketball team is coming off an incredible run to the state semifinals last season, but they have little to show for it. The Wolves were hit hard by graduation, and will turn things over to a cast of talented young players this year.
While the team may lack experience, head coach Shawn Schenk liked what he saw from the group in the offseason.
“We had a really good summer with these young guys, and they showed that they had the ability to be pretty good, but it’s totally different when you start playing games that matter,” Schenk said.
The Wolves lost several potent scorers from a year ago, but Schenk does not anticipate much of a drop-off on offense.
“Any one of our guys can go off, and I think if we’re unselfish, we can be dangerous,” Schenk said. “We have the ability to be a good shooting team.”
The team’s top returning players will be Drew Hall and Jordan Murell.
Hall saw time as a starter last year, and will be key piece this year. Schenk said he’s been impressed with the junior’s athleticism, and ability to lead.
“He just does everything for us,” Schenk said. “He’s an unbelievable leader, he gets guys in the right spots, leads by example and uses his voice when necessary. He’s just the total package.”
Murell should also find his way into the starting lineup. The senior is one of the team’s best shooter, and put in lot of work on his defense this offseason.
The Wolves’ most talented player may be guard Corey Martin.
“He’s probably our most athletic player and best offensive player,” Schenk said about the junior, who will miss the early part of the year. “He’s quick, he can jump out of the gym, he can shoot, he’s just been unstoppable in practice, and we’re looking forward to having him back.”
Down low the Wolves will look to senior Chris Jones and Jordan Crouch. While Jones (6-4) is a bit undersized in the post, he’s a very capable scorer and rebounder.
Schenk is also looking for big things from their sixth man, sophomore guard/forward, Josh Richardson.
“He’s athletic, can block shots, can really finish and he’s been shooting the ball from three as well,” Schenk said. “We haven’t had a big guard in a while, so he can fill that role for us.”
The Wolves open this season tonight when they host Stillwater. The girls are set to tip-off at 6 p.m., with the boys’ game to follow.
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