The Exira-EHK Boys’ Basketball team is ready to kick off another season. However, this year will be a little different. After finishing second in the Rolling Valley Conference and making it to the regional semi-finals, Head Coach Tony Santistaben says the Spartans will have a bit of a new look.

Despite the loss of the seniors, Exira-EHK does have some promise in their returners. This includes senior Josh Nelson, who was third on the team in scoring last year (11.6 PPG) while being their most effective field goal shooter (58.8%) and the team’s best rebounder (7.5 RPG). In addition to stats on a scoresheet, Nelson along with Austin Rasmussen and Owen Juhl, have stepped up to help lead the younger players.

As with any young team, there will always be some kinks to iron out. From reads, shot selection, and pace of play, there are aspects of the game that one needs to see in order to better understand. However, Santistaben was pleased with what he saw during their jamboree on Tuesday.

Figuring out who you are as a team and what a particular group does well is almost always an important stepping stone to success for any team, but especially a young one. As the season is fast approaching the concept is near the top of Santistaben’s mind.

Exira-EHK will open up the season at home next Tuesday against the Woodbine Tigers.