Teays Valley Vikings 2024-25 Boys Basketball Preview
The Vikings are gearing up for the 2024-2025 season, and Coach Brian Barnett is optimistic about the team's prospects. Despite losing a few starters from last year's squad, the team has made significant strides during the offseason.
Replacing Last Year's Starters:
"We've had a great offseason," Coach Barnett said. "Our younger players have stepped up, and we've been working hard to put players in different positions and ask them to do different things. It will be an adjustment, but I'm confident we'll make it."
Early Impressions:
The Vikings have been competitive in scrimmages and early season workouts, showcasing attention to detail and a strong team dynamic. "Our guys are doing a great job of meshing together," Coach Barnett noted. "I look forward to a great season."
Preseason Focus:
Rebounding and defense are key focus areas for the Vikings during preseason training. "We a lot of rebounding from last season's team," Coach Barnett explained. "To compete in our new league, we need to defend better. We're also working on some new wrinkles on the offensive end."
Returning Players to Watch:
Brody Fields will carry a significant load on offense, while junior Kaden Purdon is expected to build on his strong finish from last season. Seniors Luke Burgett and Owen Hoffhines, who played significant varsity minutes, will provide leadership and stability.
Leadership Roles:
“We will rely on Owen Hoffhines and Luke Burgett to handle key responsibilities on the court, providing aggression at both ends while guiding younger players." Said Barnett
Crucial Non-Conference Games:
All non-conference games will prepare the Vikings for the Ohio Capital Conference (OCC). "We need to compete against these teams to prepare ourselves for our league," Coach Barnett emphasized.
New league, new rivalries:
While it may take time to form new rivalries, Coach Barnett anticipates that teams like Lancaster, Groveport, Canal Winchester, and Logan could become key rivals.
Takeovers from Last Season:
The Vikings learned valuable lessons from last season, particularly the importance of diligence on offense and trusting teammates to make plays.
New faces:
Senior Gideon Dixon brings size and strength to the lineup, while senior Hayden McCray provides additional depth. Junior Lane Struckman has impressed during the offseason and is poised to contribute. Sophomores Jayden Morrison, Tanner Smith, Karter Kozlowski, and Calvin Wolpert will also play significant roles.
New places:
The Vikings will participate in the Brad Morris Classic in December and the Battle in the 614 in January. “ We will be playing in the Brad Morris classic in December. We are thrilled to be a part of this remarkable event, which honors a great individual, and we are also looking forward to participating in the Battle in the 614 in January. The Vikings played Bishop Hartley last year in the 614 event.
Coach Barnett is enthusiastic about the season ahead, citing the team's skill, talent, and competitiveness. "We have some team goals that we want to accomplish this season," he said. "With the players and coaching staff we have, I'm looking forward to a great season of Viking Basketball."
First up:
The Vikings will open up in Obetz against familiar old MSL mates, the Hamilton Township Rangers 11/29, then turn around and play Olentangy on December 3rd.
The Vikings are gearing up for the 2024-2025 season, and Coach Brian Barnett is optimistic about the team's prospects. Despite losing a few starters from last year's squad, the team has made significant strides during the offseason.
Replacing Last Year's Starters:
"We've had a great offseason," Coach Barnett said. "Our younger players have stepped up, and we've been working hard to put players in different positions and ask them to do different things. It will be an adjustment, but I'm confident we'll make it."
Early Impressions:
The Vikings have been competitive in scrimmages and early season workouts, showcasing attention to detail and a strong team dynamic. "Our guys are doing a great job of meshing together," Coach Barnett noted. "I look forward to a great season."
Preseason Focus:
Rebounding and defense are key focus areas for the Vikings during preseason training. "We a lot of rebounding from last season's team," Coach Barnett explained. "To compete in our new league, we need to defend better. We're also working on some new wrinkles on the offensive end."
Returning Players to Watch:
Brody Fields will carry a significant load on offense, while junior Kaden Purdon is expected to build on his strong finish from last season. Seniors Luke Burgett and Owen Hoffhines, who played significant varsity minutes, will provide leadership and stability.
Leadership Roles:
“We will rely on Owen Hoffhines and Luke Burgett to handle key responsibilities on the court, providing aggression at both ends while guiding younger players." Said Barnett
Crucial Non-Conference Games:
All non-conference games will prepare the Vikings for the Ohio Capital Conference (OCC). "We need to compete against these teams to prepare ourselves for our league," Coach Barnett emphasized.
New league, new rivalries:
While it may take time to form new rivalries, Coach Barnett anticipates that teams like Lancaster, Groveport, Canal Winchester, and Logan could become key rivals.
Takeovers from Last Season:
The Vikings learned valuable lessons from last season, particularly the importance of diligence on offense and trusting teammates to make plays.
New faces:
Senior Gideon Dixon brings size and strength to the lineup, while senior Hayden McCray provides additional depth. Junior Lane Struckman has impressed during the offseason and is poised to contribute. Sophomores Jayden Morrison, Tanner Smith, Karter Kozlowski, and Calvin Wolpert will also play significant roles.
New places:
The Vikings will participate in the Brad Morris Classic in December and the Battle in the 614 in January. “ We will be playing in the Brad Morris classic in December. We are thrilled to be a part of this remarkable event, which honors a great individual, and we are also looking forward to participating in the Battle in the 614 in January. The Vikings played Bishop Hartley last year in the 614 event.
Coach Barnett is enthusiastic about the season ahead, citing the team's skill, talent, and competitiveness. "We have some team goals that we want to accomplish this season," he said. "With the players and coaching staff we have, I'm looking forward to a great season of Viking Basketball."
First up:
The Vikings will open up in Obetz against familiar old MSL mates, the Hamilton Township Rangers 11/29, then turn around and play Olentangy on December 3rd.