Class AA 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:
- Hawley
The Nuggets won 15 games and nearly upset Breckenridge in the section semifinals last year. That number should be even higher this winter as Jaden Carlisle and Noah Glad are both back. Hawley returns almost its entire core and the addition of Jacob Vetter who is back from a knee injury sustained during the previous football season make them a potential force to be reckoned with.
- Rochester Lourdes
Rochester Lourdes was solid last year with an entire roster of newcomers after graduating a big senior class from the previous season. Colin Meade is one of the top bigs in the Hiawatha Valley League and the backcourt tandem of Antewan Weber and Matthew Hayford is one of the best in the state.
- Sauk Centre
Sauk Centre won 14 games last year and graduated a solid forward in Cade Neubert. But Casey Schirmers and Jacob Jennison are both back, as is Steven Namvar. With one of the best defenses in the conference last year, the Mainstreeters should be even better this year.
- Mesabi East
The Giants won 14 games last year but should be even better this winter. Carson Becicka and Tyler Baribeau make up one of the best inside-outside combos in northern Minnesota and with them leading the way, the Giants have a chance to contend for an Iron Range Conference title.