Way-Too-Early Preview: Rugby
The Rugby Panthers have been one of the five or so best teams in Class B each of the last two years. They were ranked in the top-three pretty much all year, and dominated the competition in the Region 6…
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Continue ReadingThe Rugby Panthers have been one of the five or so best teams in Class B each of the last two years. They were ranked in the top-three pretty much all year, and dominated the competition in the Region 6 Tournament on their way to a state tournament berth. A rebuilding season of sorts is on the horizon as they graduate three double-figure scorers including two college-level players. But there is still talent in place to keep the Panthers competitive.
Go-To Guy: Isaiah Bundy-Smith Isaiah Bundy-Smith 6'4" | PF Rugby | 2021 State ND
Bundy-Smith is heading into his third year as a starter and showed in doses last year what he’s capable of. He’s big, athletic and more skilled than he’s had the opportunity to showcase. He averaged about nine points, six rebounds and three assists in a backseat role for a loaded team. He’ll have a much larger load as a senior and he’s capable of putting up massive numbers on both ends of the court.
Breakout Candidate: Kory Vetsch
Vetsch saw limited minutes last year for a Panthers team that relied heavily on juniors and seniors but he’s one of several juniors that’ll be expected to step into a bigger role and produce. The frontcourt for the Panthers is well-stocked still, and with Warren Walker at point guard, Vetsch and fellow juniors Erik Foster and Gavin Schepp will have space to work on the wings and make plays.
Question: Are the Panthers Still the Favorite?
Rugby has been one of the most consistent programs in Class B for years now and while they are graduating three excellent players, the talent well hasn’t dried up. Region 6 should be stronger than it’s been with teams like Our Redeemer’s, Velva and Bishop Ryan all set to be competitive. But the Panthers have a good duo in the frontcourt with Bundy-Smith and Cole Slaubaugh plus Walker who should be one of best point guards in the region. The talent is there for them to contend.
Season Outlook
Rugby may not head into next season ranked in the top-five (or ranked at all), but the Panthers are positioned to be competitive and perhaps even state tournament caliber again. There’s enough holdover from last year’s dominant campaign for the team to be strong. The ceiling probably depends on how effective some of the newcomers can be – but there’s reason for optimism and belief that the Panthers can be a contender in Region 6.