Boys basketball: Niagara’s short roster an obstacle for 2018-19
NIAGARA, Wis. — Limited roster numbers could play a role in Niagara’s boys basketball fortunes.
The Badgers show just seven varsity players among the seniors and juniors.
“Our numbers are really down this year,” said Niagara head coach Jim Hoogland, in his 15th season “We are going to have to rely on our senior leadership very heavily. Our chemistry should be better this year.”
Letter-winners back for the Badgers are seniors Landon Kaldor, Austin Tripp and Ethan Sweig along with junior Tristan DeJardin. A possible starting lineup for next Tuesday’s season opener at Florence could be Kaldor, Sweig, Tripp, senior Anthony Hansen and junior Josh Weber.
“Scoring is really going to be a concern along with our lack of height,” said Hoogland, his tallest player Hansen at 6-foot-2. “We are going have to block out really well and use our quickness on defense as a strength.”
All-M&O Conference honorable mention Alex Hagerty graduated from last year’s team that finished 7-16 overall and 2-14 conference.
The Badgers host Wausaukee on Tuesday, Dec. 4, to begin the conference schedule.
“Crivitz and Coleman should battle for the conference championship,” said Hoogland, assisted by Steve Derwinski. “The rest of the conference should be very competitive. Overall the conference is improved from last year. Every conference game should be a battle every night.”
This year’s roster:
SENIORS — Landen Kaldor, guard. 5-8; Austin Tripp, forward, 6-1; Ethan Sweig, guard, 5-8; Anthony Hansen, forward, 6-2
JUNIORS — Tristan DeJardin, guard, 5-7; Josh Weber, forward, 6-1; Logan Carlson, guard, 5-6
SOPHOMORES — Charlie Swanson, forward, 5-11; Logan Bath, guard, 5-10