Experience returns, scoring added for Wildcats looking to compete

Hopefully, we can use our quickness to overcome some size issues.” BEN FREEMAN HECTOR BOYS COACH

The 2016-2017 season saw the Hector Wildcats finish with an overall record of 14-7 while going 10-2 in conference play. This season, the Wildcats will return three starters in senior power forward Logan Smedley, 5-10, 160 pounds; senior point guard Jadon Graham, 5-11, 160 pounds; and senior center Jamie Burch, 6-1, 200 pounds. Among these players, second-year head coach Ben Freeman said, Smedley and Burch will likely be the team’s go-to option down low. “Both are smart, tough players around the rim,” he said. On the perimeter, the Wildcats will likely rely on Graham; Smedley; junior guard Cody Day, 5-10, 160 pounds; and sophomore guard Caleb Profitt, 5-10. “[These players] execute the offense very well and play together,” Freeman said. With Smedley having the ability to play inside and outside, Graham working hard in the gym to take his game to another level to develop into a college prospect and Burch joining the two as the third senior returning starter, the Hector Wildcats will see leadership and experience play a positive role throughout the upcoming season. “With three senior returning starters, I expect them to lead the younger, less experienced players,” Freeman said. “The goal every year is to make it to the state tournament and take it one game at a time from there.” Along with its leadership, Freeman said, the team added more skill players this year and will have more depth coming off the bench with guys who can score. What the Wildcats have gained in skill, they will lack in size. “We will be smaller than last year,” Freeman said. “Hopefully, we can use our quickness to overcome some size issues.” Freeman added that he hopes to build off the team’s returning starters with younger players who are ready to contribute more this year. He said the matchup against England at home will be a game to watch. Hector lost to England twice last year, dropping the first game on the road 66-31. The Wildcats showed improvement throughout the year and ended the season in a close-fought battle in the first round of the district tournament, losing 66-57. the coach said to watch for the experience and scoring ability of Hector to make this upcoming season’s game with England one to watch. Overall, Hector will be looking to get a berth in the state tournament while trying to frustrate teams with the Wildcats’ depth and scoring versatility.