Speed, toughness to offset lack of size for Glenbard West

17.1
Points per game averaged in 2011-12 by Michael Mache, who left Glenbard West as the program’s all-time leading scorer after eclipsing John Shurna last year

WHAT TO WATCH
With just one holdover from last year’s starting line-up, Glenbard West has a much different look this season.

Gone is all-time leading scorer Michael Mache, along with twin brother Matthew and 6-foot-8 Patrick Mazza, among others.

In their place is a smaller but quicker roster that will look to grow as they gain varsity experience on the court.

“Quickness will definitely be a strength,” said coach Tim Hoder. “I’m concerned about our lack of experience and hopefully we make up for our lack of size with toughness.

“Summer games give you an idea but you take the summer for what it is. Playing three games in a day is not the same as playing on a Friday night.”

The Hilltoppers do bring back one major contributor in senior guard Jeff Levesque, who enters his third year on varsity. Junior Corey Davis also saw a little time last winter as Levesque’s back-up.

Seniors Dikiria Washington, Sean Jenner, Nathan Marcus and Kyle Bos are all expected to be contributors while sophomore guard Keith Hayes, a transfer from Arkansas, will step right in to a major role.

“In the past, we’ve had some individuals who could really handle a large load of our scoring,” the coach said. “I don’t know if we have any one individual who does that.

“I do think we will be able to guard the ball better. And I do think we have a lot of kids who will be competing to play.”