CBC Kenton Division Preseason Preview
Photo Credit: Bellefontaine Examiner
The CBC looks a little different this year with the addition of Jonathan Alder, but the results should be the same as last year. Shawnee and Bellefontaine will finish near the top with new guys Alder making this conference tough near the top. Kenton Ridge and Tecumseh will battle it out near the bottom but either teams can compete with anyone on any given night.
Bellefontaine– The Chieftans had a very successful season last year, finishing 12-1 in CBC play. Jack Clement (2019) is the top returning guy from that team as well as Spencer George (2018). The Chieftans will face quite a task replacing 3 starting seniors and only returning 3 Varsity players from last year. If they can get their younger guys to step up, Bellefontaine could easily defend their conference title this upcoming season.
Jonathan Alder– The Pioneers enter their first season in the CBC. After playing in the MOAC for the last several seasons, Alder moves into an open CBC with multiple teams having potential to finish near the top of the division.
Kenton Ridge– The Cougars went through some growing pains last season, finishing 1-22 for the season. Good things are expected though as they finished with a big tournament win against Indian Lake and had a strong summer as well. Jameel Cosby (2018) will be a dark horse to watch and can compete for Player of the Year.
Shawnee- Last year was a partial disappointment for the Braves as 11-14 was their ending record. The good news is 3 all-conference players return, lead by Billy Lord (2018). The Braves will arguably have one of the best starting 5’s in the CBC and will be a dark horse in Division II next season.
Tecumseh- The Arrows got hit hard by graduation last season, but return Clay Mastin (2018) which gives them hope for a strong season this year. If someone else steps up and helps Mastin, the Arrows could make a deep run through the CBC and postseason come March.
Predictions
1. Shawnee– Too many big time players return and give the Braves a serious shot at contending.
2. Jonathan Alder– They may be new to the CBC, but time will tell if they can compete with the best.
3. Bellefontaine– Clement and George are key players, but need more guys to finish near the top.
4. Kenton Ridge– Will need another year to continue developing players, but should be #4 easily.
5. Tecumseh– Too many guys graduated for the Arrows to finish higher than #4/5.