How they did last year: Century once again emerged from the GB-E to move on to the state tournament where they lost to eventual champion Twin Falls and consolation champion Skyview.
Conference out look this year: Century is again the favorite to take the conference and head to the state tournament. But in a three team conference and only one bid up for grabs, anything can happen. Pocatello should have more experience and Preston is undergoing a head coaching change.
Century – The Diamondbacks are returning 2 starters from last year’s District Championship Team. Ben Bopp, a 6-1 shooting guard, has worked on his game this off season (including traveling with Idaho Select) and will be looked on to score for the D-backs this year. Nate Wall, a physical 6-2 post, will also return and this will be his 3rd year starting for the D-backs. Century also has 3 other seniors that played last year so experience is something they will have coming into the season.
The D-backs aren’t particularly big this year, with their players being between 6’0 and 6’3. But Coach Shelley notes, “quickness and toughness will have to be our friends this year to battle through a long season against other bigger teams.”
*Pocatello – The Indians were starting from scratch last season after losing all their starters and only getting back one player with meaningful experience. This year, head coach Lee Ralphs should have several players that have been through his system and ready to compete for a spot at state.
*Preston – Tyler Jones takes over the coaching duties at Preston this year. The Indians will be led by Justin Hemmert, Brennyn Dunn and Derek Chatterley.
*I was not able to make contact with these head coaches