Open Gym Notebook: Center Grove
The month of September brings with it the beginning of open gym season. Over the next month-plus, we will be out on the road checking in on different high school programs from around the state. Here are our notes from our trip to Center Grove.
Last Season: This past season, Center Grove started to find their groove in the second half of the year. They were able to win their Sectional and were able to compete with New Albany in the Regional Semifinal. In Zach Hahn’s third year, he helped them to win 17 games, the program’s most since 2010-11.
Biggest Changes: The biggest change from last year isn’t the new blood but rather the development on the younger guys on this roster. Trayce Jackson-Davis obviously has really improved but so have guys like Joey Klaasen, Ben Nicoson, Spencer Piercefield, and Ben Greller. They have such a strong junior class now that they have two years to really dominate. They did lose some key role players and junior Tristan Bufkin transferred to Park Tudor so filling some of those spots will be a focus.
Player To Watch: Spencer Piercefield (Jr.) – The obvious name is Trayce Jackson-Davis in terms of best talent, however, Piercefield will be key as his shooting ability has become so valuable that you have to make him a priority. He is an exceptional shooter and plays a tick fast so it could really help to speed up the offense this year. While much will be made out of Trayce, they guard-play might end up being more pivotal in games this season.
New Face On Roster: Justin DeGraaf (So.) – As we talked about role players and who will have to fill those spots, DeGraaf could be a guy that steps up. His versatility can be useful as he plays inside and out with the ability rebound, shoot, pass, and do all those little things you need from a bench weapon. This team has plenty of offensive weapons this season so look for a younger player like DeGraaf to step in to give those extra minutes of dirty work.
Expectations: This season, expectations should be high. This group of juniors have finally become upperclassmen and developed enough to really start to be able to dominate in some games. The Indy area is down a bit but Center Grove is hitting their stride with a top player in the country and many other college level players on the roster. Great group that wouldn’t surprise if they made a run through Regionals.