Early SWBL Buckeye 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 4 teams are in the conference and the Top 5 players. Let’s look at the Southwestern Buckeye League Buckeye Division.
- Madison– The Mohawks now have a team very capable of making a deep postseason run come March. They return 4 starters plus added a top transfer from within the SWBL. Definitely a team to keep an eye on not just in the SWBL but in Division III as well.
- Preble Shawnee– The Arrows return 5 of their top 6 guys from last season and look poised for another successful season. They would have been my #1 team if Madison had not added a game-changing transfer.
- Carlisle– Although they may have the best player in the league on their team, the Indians need more help to move past the #3 spot. Only 2 starters return from a team that went 17-6 a year ago. 2017-18 may be more of a rebuilding phase for Carlisle, but they still will give several teams a good matchup.
- Waynesville– This is a tough call because it was either Waynesville or Northridge for this spot. I chose the Spartans because they return 5 of their 8 guys from last year while Northridge loses 6 seniors. Although Waynesville’s best scorers are gone, they still have more experience than the Polar Bears and Waynesville defeated Northridge both times they faced them last season.
Top 5 Players
Justin Flor (Carlisle)- Arguably the best player in the league; does everything for the Indians.
Joey Bates (Preble Shawnee)- Strong post player with great all around offensive skill.
Twon Hines (Northridge)- Talented guard who can score or sets up teammates to score.
Grant Whisman (Madison)- Incredible scorer who can score from anywhere on the floor.
Levi McMonigle (Madison)- Same league, new team; great defensive presence in the post.