Winter Preview: Park Hill Boys Basketball

Park Hill boys basketball coach David Garrison only has two players returning with varsity experience from a team that went 7-19 last year, which ended on a high note with an unexpected run to the district title game. However, he does take comfort in knowing he’ll have a handful of seniors taking the next step up to lead his team who know what is expected of them.

“We’re young and have some older kids that don’t have varsity experience, but they’re kids who have been in the program,” Garrison said. “They know what we’re working on, it’s just up to them to go out, execute, and do it.”

After averaging eight points a game last season, senior point guard Keaton Anchors returns alongside junior guard Ricky Trammell as the only Trojans’ letter winners back for the 2012-2013 season. Garrison says he’ll look to Anchors to set the tone.

“Keaton started last year and improved as the season went on. You can tell he has the experience now,” Garrison said. “He’s going to be relied on to get the guys ready and provide some leadership.”

The Trojans could have up to 11 players seeing playing time this year. Seniors Erik Stratman, Devonte Thornton, and junior Kenny McConnell will present difficult matchups for opposing offenses with their athleticism. Seniors Seth Ell, Connor Samenus, and Austin Truvillion are in the mix as well to provide physical presence down-low. A handful of promising sophomores that will see playing time this year include Landry Shamet, Deionte Wilson, and Louis Reinmiller.

Garrison says the mix of raw potential and varying age levels will be something to watch as the season goes on.

“It’s going to be exciting to watch this team improve,” Garrison said. “When you’re inexperienced, you’re going to get better constantly every day. You can see it in practice.”

Garrison says the Trojans lack overwhelming size, so they will try to pick up the pace from time to time which could involve some four-guard sets. The key for Park Hill will be the development of their young shooters and the all-important fundamental of rebounding.

“We have to potential to be good shooters. We have some kids who can make shots, it’s just having the confidence once the game comes around to come through,” Garrison said. “The one thing we’ll have to do really well is doing a good job of rebounding since we aren’t that big.”

Park Hill will see early season action at the Blue Springs and William Jewell Tournaments in December.