GWOC American North Preseason Preview
Last year, Sidney was the dynamic power in the GWOC North. This season will likely be the same as the Yellow Jackets bring back almost everyone from that talented team. Butler and Tippecanoe will attempt to compete for 2nd place, but it will be difficult with the athleticism of Sidney to compete. Here is a preview of the GWOC North.
Butler– The Aviators finished 13-11 last year but could easily have finished runner up in what was a tough North division. Michael Kreill (2019) is the top returning scorer and is one of 3 scorers returning for Butler. Miamisburg transfer Kort Justice (2018) will arrive and give Kreill help with the scoring. Inside play and rebounding with be the biggest issue.
Greenville- The Green Wave took a tough hit due to graduation last year. 0 starters are returning and only 3 guys come back that had significant minutes last year. Will Coomer (2018) leads the group returning as well as Marcus Wood (2020). The Wave may need this year to develop their younger players but can be competitive in the future.
Piqua– The Indians struggled in GWOC play last year only winning 5 games. Several guys will impact this team once football season ends. Ben Schmiesing (2017) leads the pack and will try and help the Indians compete near the top of the conference. Inside play will be the biggest issue as most of the returning talent are guards.
Sidney– The Yellow Jackets were one of the best teams last year and will be the favorite in the GWOC North this year. Andre Gordon (2019) is the top returning player to go along with the other 4 starters back. Ratez Roberts (2019) is one of the best under the radar prospects and will have an even bigger role this year. One of the biggest questions will be if Isaiah Bowser and Devan Rogers end up playing this year. Both have football scholarships and may not play basketball this year. We will have to wait until December to find out for sure.
Tippecanoe– Tipp’s first year in the GWOC wasn’t too bad at all. Finishing with an 11-13 record, the Red Devils return several key pieces, including Caiden Smith (2017) and Josh Wildermuth (2017). Both guys will need to show more offensive skill if they wish to compete with Sidney near the top of the league.
Troy– Last season was a rough year for the Trojans as they finished 4-11 in conference play. This year may be another struggle. 4 of their top 5 scorers graduated last year. Zach Reichelderfer (2018) is the lone returning scorer and has potential to be a 1st Team all GWOC player.
Predictions
- Sidney– Plenty of talent is back and gives the Yellow Jackets a real chance of winning the North division again.
- Butler– Bringing in Justice will add another strong scorer, but struggles in the frontcourt keep them below Sidney.
- Tippecanoe– Smith is bound to have a big year and Red Devils will improve in year two in the GWOC.
- Piqua– Schmiesing will have another big year, but needs help in order to move forward.
- Greenville– Too much talent is gone from last year, but a young team gives them a chance in the future.
- Troy– Reichelderfer won’t be able to lead the team alone and will need another dynamic player to help move forward.