By Tom Nader

Publisher and Editor

HEAD COACH

Andrew Olesky

12th year

132-126 career record

THE TEAM

Coaching Staff: Tommy Bissler, varsity assistant; Matt Hill, junior varsity and varsity assistant.

2021-22 Record: 15-10 overall; 7-7 Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference, sectional champions.

Returning Lettermen (3): Jackson Sommer, sr.; Vinnie Grandizio sr.; Carter Bates, sr.

Lettermen Lost (4): Anthony Demma, Brody Swigonski, Kaidan Spade, Colin Lysiak.

SEASON OUTLOOK

Olesky’s offense is always predicated on ball and body movement.

This year’s roster presents a unique combination of players that bring a variety of skills.

“That will enable us to try to do many things on game nights based on matchups, defenses and even who is playing well that particular night,” Olesky said. “We are lucky to have a deep, versatile group that will hopefully hit the ground running as the season begins.”

The key, though, will be finding chemistry, too.

Playmakers Anthony Demma, Anthony Swigonski and Kaidan Spade were major offensive creators a year ago and they have since graduated.

“Despite the big turnover in players, we expect the current group of players to play well together. When we do things together offensive and defensively, we can be successful,” Olesky said.

GUARDS

Olesky will call on many players to make quality contributions and offer meaningful minutes in the backcourt.

Leading the group will be senior Jackson Sommer, who Olesky anticipates will make a big jump in not only production, but also leadership. Sommer can shoot and drive to the basket, while his length helps on defense.

Another senior, Max May, will play a key role for the G-Men, as well.

“Max’s leadership and guidance is very important to our team,” Olesky said.

Junior Leo Grandizio will make an impact on both ends of the court, but it will be his defense that should start as his biggest strength.

Sophomore guards Preston Gedeon, Aiden Hill and Nick Hooper provide depth in the backcourt.

“Preston is a feisty, tenacious player, who has a rapidly improving all-around game and can impact the game through shooting and penetration,” Olesky said.

“Aiden is also long and athletic. He can knock down open shots and also get out in transition.

“Nick has shown tremendous improvements that began with a very strong summer showing.”

FORWARDS

Senior Vinnie Grandizio spotlights the front court and is a player that can make consistent contributions without scoring.

“Vinnie and his relentless motor are a driving force behind our team,” Olesky said.

Another senior, Carter Bates, is a tough and physical defender, who can also run the floor and knock down open 3-point attempts.

Underclassman Cade Rock, who is a sophomore, will get the opportunity to earn varsity minutes.

“Cade has shown tremendous progress from his freshman year, to the summer, to the early parts of the preseason,” Olesky said. “He is a long and strong inside-out presence.”

Nick Edic is another sophomore that will see “quality minutes by providing contributions on both ends of the floor,” according to Olesky.

WHAT MAKES THIS YEAR’S TEAM SPECIAL

“As a coach, I am very excited for our team because of our work ethic, selfless attitude, commitment to basketball and each other — and the high ceiling that we possess,” Olesky said. “This team has a very high level of coach ability and they have a strong desire to get better.”

UNDERCLASSMEN TO WATCH

Damian Tourville, Brandyn Bogucki, Mike Huebner.

TEAM MOTTO

Together.

CAUSE FOR CONCERN

“Anytime you lose four valuable senior starters to graduation, there is a concern,” Olesky said. “Replacing that production, leadership, experience and the people themselves, will always be a cause for concern. However, we are very optimistic and excited that this year’s team will rise to the challenge.”

LEAGUE OUTLOOK

“Each and every team is a quality team, with a great coach,” Olesky said. “There are no easy nights in the MVAC.”