MSM: Basketball preview...

By Robert Przybylo
BPrzybylo@opubco.com

Busy time trying to make sure pay enough attention to all the remaining football games while also turning the page to the winter sports season.

I’ll do my best to get all these previews up this week. Let’s go ahead and start with Mt. St. Mary’s, shall we?

Mt. St. Mary’s
Boys
Last year’s record: 24-4 (made state)
Outlook: Things look good for Lenny Hatchett’s bunch. Coming off a better-than-expected football season, there is a reason for confidence with the Rockets.

Familiar names like Aaron Smith (6-4) and Dalton Newsome (5-11) are expected to lead the way. MSM is returning four starters from last year’s club. Joining Smith in the frontcourt is senior Vincent Mason (6-4). The Rockets were undefeated in conference play last year.

Girls
Last year’s record: 10-13 (eliminated in regional play)
Outlook: If the young girls grow up, things can go very well. MSM is riding a wave after the team’s softball success. One of those leaders, sophomore Bryana Wade, will be expected to come up big this year.

Rory Hamilton’s girls are only returning one starter, but maybe more important, are only returning two players who had significant playing time.

Each MSM squad was able to post a victory Tuesday over Crooked Oak. Both Rocket teams will play at Lexington on Friday.