Class A Breakout Teams
There are teams that get better every year. Some ascensions come out of nowhere. Some improvements are more predictable. Here are some teams that could enjoy improved seasons:
- Waterville-Elysian-Morristown
WEM underwent huge roster turnover from the previous year, graduating the school’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder along with two other college caliber players. The Buccaneers won 13 games and got better as the year went on and now with practically every key guy back in the fold, they should contend in the Gopher Conference and potentially a top seed in the section. Grand McBroom and Cole Kokoschke are guys to watch.
- Grand Meadow
The Superlarks won 12 games last year and were the No. 12 seed in Section 1A. They should make a significant jump this winter with Colt Landers, Austin Funk and Ethan Gilbert-Jahns all back from last season. Landers is one of the best players in the Southeast Conference and in the 2021 class.
- Mountain Iron-Buhl
The Rangers went 11-17 last year but return four key guys including Justin Holmes and Joe Buffetta which means they’ll have the talent and experience to compete for a much better mark in the Arrowhead Conference. They’ll play some really good teams including North Woods and Cromwell-Wright, but the Rangers should be in a much better position this year and push for 16-20 wins.
- Pine River-Backus
The Tigers won 15 games last year and should be even better this winter as they return four starters including double figure scorers in Brady Raph and Torry Hirschey. Louis Bueckers and Nathaniel Wosmek are both back as well.