Way-Too-Early Team Preview: Fargo Shanley
Fargo Shanley went through a rebuilding season last year, playing a big chunk of sophomores and juniors in a collectively veteran-laden EDC. The results were predictable as the Deacons struggled, going 8-16 on the season. With a number of talented…
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Continue ReadingFargo Shanley went through a rebuilding season last year, playing a big chunk of sophomores and juniors in a collectively veteran-laden EDC. The results were predictable as the Deacons struggled, going 8-16 on the season. With a number of talented returners back in the fold, the Deacons could be much improved.
GO-TO GUY: Talon Hoffer
Hoffer is one of the best players in the EDC and could be a darkhorse candidate in the Player-of-the-Year mix. The 6-foot-2 swingman averaged 17 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists and if his play over the summer with Inspired Athletics is any indication, he could be even better as a senior. He’ll be the unquestioned man for the Deacons and afforded the reigns for the entire offense. If he can continue to be efficient and even improve on his 29 percent 3-point efficiency, he could lead the EDC in scoring.
BREAKOUT CANDIDATE: Emmet Kenney
Kenney averaged four points per game and knocked down 34 percent of his 3-pointers on limited attempts as a sophomore. He had a solid summer playing grassroots, showing his chops as a shot-creator and shooter. He’s got decent size and is a smart and skilled kid and with defenses tilted towards Hoffer and Braden DeKeyser, he’ll have an opportunity to put together some strong performances.
QUESTION: Can a third scorer emerge?
Hoffer and junior guard Braden DeKeyser are returning double figure scorers and could combine to average 35 or so points per game next winter. DeKeyser put up 11.4 last year and seems primed for a sophomore-to-junior jump. After those two though, there’s a lot of unknown when it comes to simply being able to score. Kenney is one guy who will be counted upon. Big man Roman Srejma might one of the most improved guys in the EDC, but his role will be to set picks, rebound, defend and do the dirty work more than produce a lot of points. Can the Deacons get enough complementary scoring to keep up with some of the more high-powered clubs?
OUTLOOK
Fargo Shanley isn’t going to be a favorite in the EDC or likely picked as a top-four team, but in the middle class, the Deacons have a chance to finish well. Hoffer is one of the five or so best players in the conference and there are some guys who should be improved after productive summers.