Early CBC Top 5
After spending the last few days previewing Dayton Divisions as a whole, now I will shift my focus to early conference previews. The goal here is to show you right now who the Top 5 teams are in the conference and the Top 5 players. Let’s look at the Central Buckeye Conference.
- Urbana– The Hillclimbers return 2, 1st Team All-CBC players from a team that dominated during CBC play. The big question moving forward will be can they compete against teams outside the conference? If so, Urbana will be the top team in the conference by far.
- Indian Lake– The Lakers return 3 starters, including 2 that were 1st Team all-CBC last year. This team had some great moments a year ago and knocked off a few talented teams. However, I am concerned as to whether they will be able to compete with schools outside the CBC as well.
- Bellefontaine– After winning an outright Kenton Division title, the Chieftans take a few steps back this season as they reload after losing their top player Dawsin Tillman. Bellefontaine has a strong core returning, but I’m unsure if they are ready to take out Urbana this season.
- Graham– After a below average season, the Falcons return with 4 starters and a real shot of downing Indian Lake for the CBC Mad River Division title. They have one of the top rebounders in the conference returning that will help them against a bigger Lakers team. I expect a jump from 10 wins to 14.
- Shawnee– The Braves won’t have many issues with ball handling as 2 of their returning 3 starters are guards. Where they will struggle is in the paint as Shawnee loses a big piece from last year in the post. Like other teams in the conference, Shawnee will have to show better results against non-CBC opponents as they went 4-8 against these opponents last season.
Top 5 Players
Levi Boettcher (Urbana)- Lengthy shooter with great range.
Jace Underwood (Urbana)- Quick ball handler who can score when needed.
Matt Goddard (Graham)- Big time shot blocker and with great rebounding skill.
Jack Clement (Bellefontaine)- Young PG with great vision and a nice shooting touch.
Clay Mastin (Tecumseh)- Physical guard with great defensive skill and sees the floor well.