By Delbert Peters

Staff writer

With 24 players reporting for early season boys basketball practice, Goessel coach Curtis Guhr has high expectations. “With large numbers once again, we look forward to competitive practices and finding the right people to fit into the roles vacated by graduation,” he said.

The Bluebirds will not have much height. The tallest letter winner from last year is 6-foot-3. But the Bluebirds should be quick as younger players step into roles left open by graduation.

Three seniors bring experience from last year. They are expected to give leadership.

Skyler Wuest, a 6-foot-1 senior, has the ability to score from long range and also drive to the basket. He averaged 12.5 points and collected 5.2 rebounds per game last season, scoring in double digits in 13 games.

Caiden Duerksen, a 6-foot-3 senior, was a force inside last year. He has a soft, left-handed shot from 15 feet and around the basket. He averaged 10.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals.

Jacob Schrag, a 5-foot-11 senior, started several games last year and regularly came off the bench. He averaged 2.1 points. Tough defense will be expected from him again this season.

Kacen Smith lettered last year. A 5-foot-7 junior with quickness and speed, he should help the Bluebirds’ fast break. Smith scored 1.5 points per game and registered an assist in nearly every game last year.

Last season, the Bluebirds finished 8-1 in the Wheat State League and had a 14-7 record overall. Goessel averaged 49 points per game but lost 45% of its scoring to graduation.

“Everyone will have to step up a notch scoring,” Caiden Duerksen said.

Although speed will be important so will half-court play.

“We will be ready to run the fast break, but much of our scoring will probably come from executing set plays,” Jacob Schrag said.

Speed may play a more important role on defense.

“Defensively, we will look to our speed to make up for the loss of height,” Guhr said.

Skyler Wuest agreed, “Speed and good ball movement should result in good shots,” he said.

If anything can compensate for lack of height; speed, accuracy, and good execution are good start.

Goessel’s season begins Friday at Marion. The Bluebird Classic will be on Dec. 7, 10, and 11 and will give Goessel fans a good look at the team’s potential.