Sectional Preview: 24
The coming high school season is almost upon us. With that, we are taking a look at each Sectional in the state. Starting with 64 and ending with 1. Today, we are previewing Sectional 24.
Blackford (1-22) – Lost 1st Rd. Sectional
Blackford was a really young team last year as they only lost two players who averaged a combined 2.0 points a game last year. With their leading scorer back this year as well as their other main players they should be improved this year. They won’t contend just because there isn’t that much talent, but they are building to the future now.
Delta (14-10) – Lost 2nd Rd. Sectional
If there is any team in the state that will be plagued by youth this year, it will be Delta. After losing 10 seniors a year ago to graduation, Delta only returns three players. Two of those player returning saw hardly any varsity time. This year will really be a struggle with two freshmen on the floor at any given time.
Hamilton Heights (11-13) – Lost Sectional Final
A team with only juniors and seniors last year, will be about the same this year with a ton of seniors and a host of underclassmen. Their top three scorers graduated this year, but they still do return some scoring. They will need their underclassmen to step up and produce some scoring or it could be a really long year for them. This sectional is not good meaning Hamilton Heights will still contend and should make it back to the final.
Muncie Burris (3-20) – Lost 1st Rd. Sectional
Muncie Burris really struggle last year and after losing their top two scorers, I am not sure that this year will be any different for them. A host of underclassmen return so this would be a good year for them to be able to see what they have for the future.
New Castle (17-7) – Lost Sectional Final
New Castle lost a few main contributors off of last year’s team but they do return their top two scorers from a year ago. They won’t be nearly as good as last year but they still should come out of this sectional with a championship. They have two really good junior guards who will lead them in Mason Gillis and Luke Bumbalough.
Yorktown (2-18) – Lost 2nd Rd. Sectional
They will be much improved this year as they return a ton of guys from last year and their top six scorers. While they won’t be a great team this year they will be pretty good. With a host of guys who are hungry for success I wouldn’t be surprised if they knocked off one of the contenders.
Contenders For 2017-18: Hamilton Heights, New Castle, Yorktown
Prediction: New Castle
Player to Watch: Mason Gillis (New Castle)