25-26 Conference Previews - Great River

BIG

Team Previews:

Aitkin Gobblers (2024-25 season: 10-17 overall, 8-6 conference, 4th)

Return one of the more promising 2026 prospects in Isaac Asmus, who is a UW-Superior commit. The 6'8" forward averaged 20.1 points and 14.6 rebounds per game as a junior. Asmus holds the Aitkin career and single season rebounding record. Senior Caleb Smith finished last season with an impressive 127 assists. He averaged 8.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. Noah Moss is a junior who had a good season last year, he averaged 11.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. New head coach this season, Landon Janzen.

Crosby-Ironton Rangers (2024-25 season: 11-16 overall, 7-6 conference, 5th)

Jack Kovatovich was an important piece for what the Rangers were able to do last season. He averaged 15.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists per game, while shooting 41.9% (68-162) from three.  Senior, Ethan Millsop will provide some size at 6'4" and did his share of scoring and rebounding last year. Millsop shot 42.3% (22-52) from three point range last season. Jacob English is a 6'4" sophomore, and should be the muscle that they need since he averaged 6.2 rebounds per game last year. English is one of the top football players in the 2028 class in Minnesota. New head coach this season, John Hoge.

Mora Mustangs (2024-25 season: 26-2 overall, 13-0 conference, 1st)

The loss of Gage Braiedy and Noah Oberfeld is huge for Mora, both are playing in college this season. Braiedy at UW-Superior and Oberfeld at Dakota Wesleyan. Senior Caleb Evenson is one of the few players who saw significant playing time last year with their deep senior class. The 6'0" guard will have to carry a heavy load for the team this year. Graham Balmer is a junior who does a little bit of everything. 

Pine City Dragons (2024-25 season: 9-18 overall, 5-11 conference, 8th)

Should be an interesting season as Kyle Allen has left to go coach at New Richmond (WI). He'd been at Pine City since 2011. Struggled to find any information on any of their players.

Rush City Tigers (2024-25 season: 6-20 overall, 5-10 conference, t-6th)

Lukas Diedrich is back after being very solid for Rush City during his junior season. Should have some other solid athletes returning to go with Diedrich. Couldn't find much information on returning players.

Projections:

1. Aitkin

2. Crosby-Ironton

3. Mora

4. Rush City

5. Pine City

Conference Overview:

It'll be an interesting season after Mora comes off a great season, but graduated a lot of talent. A few new coaches are added to the mix as well. Aitkin gets my nod having Asmus and a few surrounding players returning. Crosby-Ironton could overtake them, and Jack Kovatovich could make a case for Conference MVP. Mora appears to have enough talent back to keep them relevant. Rush City is above Pine City for the time being strictly because Pine City lost their head coach. Other than that, that is a blind guess.

Conference MVP: Isaac Asmus (Senior) - Aitkin

Other Players to Watch:

Jacob English (Sophomore) - Crosby-Ironton

Caleb Evenson (Senior) - Mora

Jack Kovatovich (Senior) - Crosby-Ironton

Noah Moss (Junior) - Aitkin

Caleb Smith (Senior) - Aitkin

SMALL

Team Previews:

Braham Bombers (2024-25 season: 22-7 overall, 12-3 conference, 3rd)

There were no seniors on the roster last season. It's a promising season when you look on paper for the Bombers. Tyler Eklund was named the Great Rivers Conference MVP last season after averaging 26.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 9.2 assists, and 5.6 steals per game. Fellow senior, Tanner Doble was an All-Conference selection last year after averaging 17.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Junior, Soren Lilly was the third All-Conference selection after averaging 16.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.

East Central Eagles (2024-25 season: 20-8 overall, 12-2 conference, 2nd)

Senior, Xavier LeTexier scored his 1000th career point last season. Add in another senior with 6'7" Ben Carlin, that should make them one of the early favorites in the Small side of the conference. Carlin also scored his 1000th career point in his junior season.

Hinckley-Finlayson Jaguars (2024-25 season: 6-21 overall, 5-10 conference, t-6th)

Seniors Grady Ausmus and Blake Bowers are back after a productive junior seasons. Both of them provide some height for the Jaguars; Ausmus at 6'4" and Bowers at 6'3". Ausmus had a record breaking night against Carlton/Wrenshall last season when he recorded 27 points and 27 rebounds. The 27 rebounds broke the school record.

Mille Lacs Raiders (2024-25 season: 8-19 overall, 4-10 conference, 9th)

Isle and Onamia combined a few years ago to form Mille Lacs. Josh Nickaboine is a senior guard who had a good season last year. He set the school record for threes make in a game against Ogilvie, making nine threes. Gabe Honek is another senior guard who has been a mainstay on varsity for a few years now. 

Ogilvie Lions (2024-25 season: 1-25 overall, 0-13 conference, 10th)

The good news is that they only graduated two seniors from last season. The bad news, height is going to be a huge concern for them this season. Johnny Hoffman is a junior now and had a solid season last year. 

Projections:

1. Braham

2. East Central

3. Hinckley-Finlayson

4. Mille Lacs

5. Ogilvie

Conference Overview:

Very top heavy in this side of the conference with Braham and East Central. Braham took the series between the two last season 2-1. Braham is going to get the nod for the conference title. East Central will make it interesting though. They have some size and scoring abilities to keep up with Braham. Hinckley-Finlayson and Mille Lacs could swap places, both of them seem to have enough pieces back that they could beat each other. Ogilvie appears to have some work to do in conference play.

Conference MVP: Tyler Eklund (Senior) - Braham

Other Players to Watch:

Grady Ausmus (Senior) - Hinckley-Finlayson

Ben Carlin (Senior) - East Central

Tanner Doble (Senior) - Braham

Xavier LeTexier (Senior) - East Central

Soren Lilly (Junior) - Braham

Games to Watch:

Crosby-Ironton @ Pequot Lakes (12/4/25)

East Central vs. Ely @ Duluth East (1/3/26)

East Central @ Braham (2/6/26)

Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin @ Aitkin (2/13/26)

Cherry @ Braham (2/19/26)

25-26 Conference Previews - Northland

Team Previews:

Blackduck Drakes (2024-25 season: 3-24 overall, 2-12 conference, 7th)

Coltyn Puffe was an Honorable Mention selection last season as a freshman. They do graduate Rock Cook who was a 1st-Team All-Conference selection. They were able to sweep Laporte last season.

Cass Lake-Bena Panthers (2024-25 season: 15-13 overall, 10-4 conference, 2nd)

Three returning All-Conference selections, and none of them are seniors this year. Sophomore Joseph Wind was a 1st-Team All-Conference selection last sesaon. Junior Adrik Fowler and sophomore Kenyon Goggleye were both Honorable Mention. They don't have a lot of height coming back this season, that might be their biggest weakness.

Laporte Wildcats (2024-25 season: 0-28 overall, 0-14 conference, 8th)

A tough season from the Wildcats last season. The positive outlook for this season is that Honorable Mention selection, Henry Weber is back for his junior season.

Nevis Tigers (2024-25 season: 27-6 overall, 14-0 conference, 1st)

Northland Conference opponents are probably glad to know that Alex Lester has graduated and they don't need to see him anymore. Graduated two other 1st-Team All-Conference selections in Isaac Bessler and Devan Lindow. The good news is three other All-Conference selections are back in senior AJ Bessler (1st-Team), junior Peyton Benson (HM), and senior Ethan Buckholtz (HM).

Northome/Kelliher Mustangs (2024-25 season: 15-13 overall, 5-9 conference, 6th)

Graduate two All-Conference players from last season; Billy Jack Schoenborn (1st-Team) and Kaanan Forseen (HM). Anthony Johnson is a returning senior and he scored his 1000th career point late last season. Johnson will have to be ready to score more of the load this season.

Pine River-Backus Tigers (2024-25 season: 15-13 overall, 7-7 conference, 5th)

Graduated Tate Norman, who was a 1st-Team All-Conference player as a senior. They do bring back their other 1st-Team All-Conference selection in Isaiah Aulie, who is now a senior. Junior Isaiah Downie was a Honorable Mention pick last season as well. Mason Nelson is a 6'8" senior that is capable of playing inside and outside. They do have a new head coach since Jordan Ackerman resigned this offseason.

Red Lake Warriors (2024-25 season: 13-13 overall, 9-5 conference, t-3rd)

Graduated two 1st-Team All-Conference picks in Tyrone Beaulieu and Andrew Roy. They do return junior Austin Perkins, who was a Honorable Mention selection last season. The Warriors have consistently been one of the better programs in the Northland Conference in the last ten season. Don't expect that to change just because of a few graduated players.

Walker-Hackensack-Akeley Wolves (2024-25 season: 20-7 overall, 9-5 conference, t-3rd)

Probably the biggest hit to any team comes for Walker-Hackensack-Akeley. Losing five All-Conference selections from a season ago. A very senior dominated team last year, with eight players who graduated, with three of them being over 6'5". Returning four varsity players from last year, only one of them is listed taller than 6'0".

Projections:

1. Cass Lake-Bena

2. Nevis

3. Pine River-Backus

4. Red Lake

5. Walker-Hackensack-Akeley

6. Northome-Kelliher

7. Blackduck

8. Laporte

Conference Overview:

Cass Lake-Bena and Nevis have had a strong hold on the Northland Conference over the last 10 years. I'm going to stick with those two as the top two in the conference, in that order. Pine River-Backus probably has the most returning, which makes them probably a safe pick on my end. Red Lake almost always remains in the conversation, always a younger player ready to step in. Walker-Hackensack-Akeley seems like a trap team as of right now. After graduating so much, it's hard to really know where they might finish. Northome-Kelliher seems like they should be better than Blackduck and Laporte on paper. I don't anticipate the 7th and 8th positions changing from last season.

Conference MVP: AJ Bessler (Senior) - Nevis

Other Players to Watch:

Isaiah Aulie (Senior) Pine River-Backus

Peyton Benson (Junior) - Nevis

Kenyon Goggleye (Sophomore) - Cass Lake-Bena

Austin Perkins (Junior) - Red Lake

Joseph Wind (Sophomore) - Cass Lake-Bena

Games to Watch:

Red Lake @ Mountain Iron-Buhl (12/3/25)

Mountain Iron-Buhl @ Cass Lake-Bena (12/11/25)

Braham @ Nevis (12/20/25)

Crosby-Ironton @ Pine River-Backus (1/13/26)

Cass Lake-Bena @ Red Lake County (2/27/26)

25-26 Conference Previews - Iron Range

Team Previews:

Chisholm Bluestreaks (2024-25 season: 9-18 overall, 4-3 conference, 4th)

Graduated all three of their All-Conference selections from last season, Ethan Lauzen (1st), Lawrence Oberg (1st), and Dom Pascuzzi (HM). Junior Michael Chambers had a solid season where he averaged 8.1 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.7 steals. 

Deer River Warriors (2024-25 season: 27-3 overall, 6-0 conference, 1st)

Graduated Nick Bakkedahl and Caiden Schjenken from last season, who were both 1st-Team All-Conference selections. Cale Jackson and Schjenken were the second and third leading scorers in the conference at 26.5 PPG and 25.8 PPG. Lawrence Bowstring is back after being Honorable Mention last season. The senior averaged 8.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game. Junior Kevin Doerr had a solid season last year, he averaged 7.4 points and 1.5 assists per game. 

Ely Timberwolves (2024-25 season: 17-11 overall, 4-4 conference, 5th)

Graduated Caid Chittum who was a 1st-Team All-Conference selection along with the leading scorer in the conference at 26.8 points per game. Two seniors are returning in Jack Davies and Drew Johnson, both were Honorable Mention selections last season. Davies averaged 21.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 2.7 steals per game. Johnson averaged 13.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game. Wyatt Tedrick is a junior and averaged 1.5 assists and 1.8 steals per game. 

Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin Titans (2024-25 season: 13-12 overall, 5-2 conference, 2nd)

The first year of Greenway and Nashwauk-Keewatin combining for the basketball season. Stephen McGee V is a 6'10" forward who is committed to play at Northern Michigan. Last season he averaged 19.8 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 4.2 blocks per game. Simeon Wells is another senior who put together a productive season last year. He averaged 7.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. Warren McLouden is a senior who was an All-Conference selection last season.

International Falls Broncos (2024-25 season: 2-24 overall, 0-9 conference, 7th)

Carter Line returns after being a 1st-Team All-Conference selection last season. Nick Schultz is a junior who was a Honorable Mention selection last season. Line was the teams leading scorer at 10.9 points per game. He also averaged 9.3 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game. Nik Anderson was the second leading scorer for the team at 8.3 points per game. Kingston Jean was their third leading scorer as a freshman averaging 5.8 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, while shooting 42.4% from the floor. 

Mesabi East Giants (2024-25 season: 7-20 overall, 3-6 conference, 6th)

Graduate two All-Conference selections, Cole Anderson (1st-Team) and Hayden Sampson (HM). They do have a junior class who saw a good amount of action as sophomores. DaJuan Edstrom will be back as a junior after being named Honorable Mention last season. Edstrom averaged 10.3 points and 10.0 rebounds per game, while shooting 53.5% from the floor. Juan Saucedo and Aydan Anderson are juniors to keep eyes on.

Two Harbors Agates (2024-25 season: 11-16 overall, 5-3 conference, 3rd)

Graduated two All-Conference selections; Jace Ruberg (1st-Team) and Tate Nelson (HM). Senior Jace Gomez is back after being a 1st-Team All-Conference selection as a junior. Carter Nelson was Honorable Mention as a junior. Gomez was their leading scorer at 17.5 points per game, along with 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. Sophomore Ziggy Hietala was second on the team in three pointers made last season. Tommy DeChantel and Noah Mecklin are two other seniors who provide some experience to the Agates.

Projections:

1. Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin

2. Ely-Northeast Range

3. Deer River

4. Two Harbors

5. Chisholm

6. Mesabi East

7. International Falls

Conference Overview:

Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin join together and bring back some nice players for the first year. Stephen McGee V should be the best player in the conference and should help them win a title. Ely-Northeast Range returns multiple players from last year who were important pieces. Deer River graduated a high percentage of their scoring, it should be tough to replace all of that. They always seem to have talent coming through, they could finish higher. Two Harbors seems like a team that could finish anywhere between 2-5. Chisholm and Mesabi East could be interchangeable, both have some players back but might not be enough to compete at the top. Mesabi East is mostly juniors, which should help them next season. International Falls returns their best players, but it doesn't seem like enough (on paper) to move them up in the conference.

Conference MVP: Stephen McGee V (Senior) - Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin

Other Players to Watch:

Lawrence Bowstring (Senior) - Deer River

Jack Davies (Senior) - Ely

DaJuan Edstrom (Junior) - Mesabi East

Jace Gomez (Senior) - Two Harbors

Simeon Wells (Senior) - Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin

Games to Watch:

Cass Lake-Bena @ Deer River (12/15/25)

Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin @ Cherry (12/16/25)

Littlefork-Big Falls @ Ely-Northeast Range (1/23/26)

Deer River @ East Central (2/10/26)

Aitkin @ Greenway/Nashwauk-Keewatin (2/13/26)

25-26 Conference Previews - Lake Superior

Team Previews:

Cloquet Lumberjacks (2024-25 season: 18-9 overall, 10-5 conference, 4th)

They did graduate a large senior class, including their top six scorers from last season. Juniors Evan Rothamel (5.2 PPG) and Max Jazdewski (1.4 PPG) are both going to have to take huge steps to keep Cloquet in the upper half of the conference. There always seems to be good athletes coming through Cloquet. They beat some of the teams in the Lake Superior Conference this summer in summer leagues. That doesn't mean much, but it looked like they were going to be good enough to stay in the middle of the conference. New head coach, Joe Seymour.

Duluth Denfeld Hunters (2024-25 season: 20-11 overall, 10-3 conference, 2nd)

The Hunters are coming off a MSHSL State Tournament appearance last season, but they also lost a very important piece in MarNaries Ferguson. Ferguson is currently a freshman on the basketball team at Center Lakes Community College. The good news is they bring back some players who saw a lot of minutes on that team. Lee Brooks (8.7 PPG) was one of the main guards last season and will be asked to do more as a senior. They have size with senior Antonio Brown (6'7") and junior Carter Brown (6'5"). Carter was the second leading scorer on the team last season at 13.4 points per game, Antonio was fifth at 7.9 points per game. An interesting freshman to watch will be Joseph DuPree, who was listed on the varsity roster as an 8th grader.

Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers (2024-25 season: 12-16 overall, 0-8 conference, 9th)

It looks on paper like its going to be a tough season for the Hilltoppers, mostly based on the fact that they lost their best player in Brooks Johnson. Johnson is a freshman on the basketball team at Minnesota-Duluth currently. Ricardo Marcel will be a senior this season, he was their second leading scorer last season at 10.8 points per game. They do return 5 of their top 7 scorers. The other four being Brody Carlson (7.2 PPG), Aaden Westerbur (6.3 PPG), Zach Johnson (2.6 PPG), and Hank Kettlehut (2.6 PPG).

Grand Rapids Thunderhawks (2024-25 season: 14-14 overall, 9-4 conference, 3rd)

Joey Sutherland and Brenden Sylvester should provide a solid foundation for Grand Rapids this season. A bigger senior class typically is a good thing for Lake Superior teams. Gavin Wegwerth should be a sophomore that is worth keeping an eye on for the Thunderhawks. Size might be a bit of an issue this season.

Hermantown Hawks (2024-25 season: 5-23 overall, 1-10 conference, 8th)

The Hawks only graduated two seniors from last season, and bring back a ton of players who were sophomores that saw lots of playing time. Sawyer Senst really made a name for himself after being named 2nd-Team All-Conference as a sophomore. Senst averaged 16 points and 10 rebounds per game, and finished the season with 13 double-doubles. Junior Ben Sundland had a good sophomore season for the Hawks. Sophomore Corbin Petcoff is an interesting prospect with good size (6'5") and the ability to play inside and out.

Hibbing Bluejackets (2024-25 season: 19-10 overall, 7-5 conference, 7-5)

Hibbing is one of the more interesting teams to me in Northern Minnesota, they had a good season last year and are only more experienced heading into this season. Juniors Ray Brau and Jack Bottoms are back as the two leading scorers from last season. Evan Bolden was their third leading scorer, who is back for his senior season. Senior Adam Reckmeyer and junior Grant Toewe bring some good experience as well. Size won't be a concern this year; Ray Brau (6'6"), Adam Reckmeyer (6'5"), Evan Bolden (6'4"), Braiden Elven (6'3"), and Grant Toewe (6'3").

Proctor Rails (2024-25 season: 11-16 overall, 2-6 conference, 7th)

Dallas Loftis and Wyatt Nelson are both back as seniors after having good seasons for the Rails last year. Both were among the leading scorers, with Loftis having multiple 30-point games. John Cordero is another senior returning that brings some good experience. They do lose two players in Tyler Berglund and Kooper King.

Rock Ridge Wolverines (2024-25 season: 8-19 overall, 3-9 conference, 6th)

They lost a lot of seniors from the year's roster, including Joey Aho, Eli Devich, Leo Johnson, and Will Kemp. Beau Akerson, Cooper Aune, Wyatt Canter, Owen Hallin, Riley Lambert, Jaxson Lamppa, and Keagan Wright are seniors this year that should all contribute. Aune, Canter, and Lamppa were among the most productive of the group last year.

Superior Spartans (2024-25 season: 14-11 overall, 9-1 conference, 1st)

The Spartans bring back all but one player from last season.Their best two players in Calvin Anderson and Drew Eisel are back for their senior seasons. Anderson is a Minnesota-Duluth commit, averaged 23 points and 8.5 rebounds per game last season. Eisel is one of the better utility players in the Northwoods, he's someone who is able to do a little bit of everything. Reid Charles, Beckam Lull, Jayce Rue and Colson Schumacher are some others who are going to provide good experience.

Projections:

1. Superior

2. Hibbing

3. Grand Rapids

4. Duluth Denfeld

5. Cloquet

6. Hermantown

7. Proctor

8. Rock Ridge

9. Duluth Marshall

Conference Overview:

The race for the conference title will be interesting between Superior and Hibbing. The two teams will only meet once during the regular season, so that will be a big game that could be a deciding factor. Grand Rapids and Duluth Denfeld will be an interesting battle to be in the top four of the conference. Both teams return some really important pieces. Cloquet graduated a lot of seniors, but should be athletic enough to remain in the middle. Hermantown should be ready to make a little jump in the conference. Rock Ridge and Proctor are somewhat toss up positions for me, they could switch, but finishing higher seems unlikely. Duluth Marshall should be expected to struggle unless a bigger name is coming in.

Conference MVP: Calvin Anderson (Senior) - Superior

Other Players to Watch:

Jack Bottoms (Junior) - Hibbing

Ray Brau (Junior) - Hibbing

Lee Brooks (Senior) - Duluth Denfeld

Carter Brown (Junior) - Duluth Denfeld

Drew Eisel (Senior) - Superior

Sawyer Senst (Junior) - Hermantown

Joey Sutherland (Senior) - Grand Rapids

Games to Watch:

Grand Rapids @ Pequot Lakes (12/11/25)

Duluth Denfeld vs. Chisago Lakes @ Minnesota-Duluth (12/30/25)

Hibbing @ Superior (1/8/26)

Bemidji @ Hibbing (1/13/26)

Duluth Denfeld @ Duluth East (1/15/26)

25-26 Conference Previews - Northern Lakes (WI)

Team Previews:

Crandon Cardinals (2024-25 season: 13-12 overall, 9-1 conference, t-1st)

Graduated three All-Conference picks from last season, including Conference POY Jaxon Keepers. Deegan Kircher is back for his junior season after being named 2nd-Team All-Conference. Kircher averaged 13.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. They do have some good pieces who saw time on varsity last season that are now juniors in Logan Jaeger (5.8 PPG) and Konner Gerow (4.5 PPG). Gerow gives some added depth at 6'5".

Elcho Hornets (2024-25 season: 0-18 overall, 0-10 conference, 6th)

I hope the Hornets can put something together this season. They lost their leading scorer from last season, their only double digit scorer. According to their roster from last season, they will return three players from the team (if everyone comes back). I could be missing a few players, but depth in general could be a concern for them.

Florence Bobcats (2024-25 season: 6-16 overall, 3-7 conference, t-4th)

One of the most interesting teams in the conference this season. Truth Setner is back after being named 1st-Team All-Conference as a junior and leading the team in scoring. Carson Chrisman was named Honorable Mention All-Conference as a freshman after being second on the team in scoring. Along with that they bring back three juniors in Caleb Baker, Mason Koski, and Bradly Steber, who all saw meaningful minutes a season ago.

Goodman-Pembine Patriots (2024-25 season: 7-19 overall, 3-7 conference, t-4th)

One returning All-Conference selection in Wailer Severson (2nd-Team). He was second on the team with 9.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Kalvin Jonas (7.4 PPG) and Vinnie Ipsa (6.0 PPG) both are juniors who shot the ball very well from three a season ago. Jonas shot 38.8% (26-67) and Ipsa shot 35.5% (22-62) from three.

Phelps Knights (2024-25 season: N/A overall, N/A conference, N/A)

Haven't fielded a varsity basketball team recently.

Three Lakes Bluejays (2024-25 season: 11-15 overall, 6-4 conference, 3rd)

Easton Lurvey is coming off a really good freshman season, and if the Bluejays win the conference this season I could see him being Conference POY. He averaged 16.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game last season, including 36.0% (67-186) from three point range. Owen Liebscher was named Honorable Mention All-Conference as a sophomore. Bring back some other experienced players in Levi Lurvey, Grayson Polcaster, and Zach Weavers.

Wabeno/Laona Rebels (2024-25 season: 15-12 overall, 9-1 conference, t-1st)

The two seniors that they graduated averaged a combined 3.3 points per game. Northern Lakes Defensive POY, Cooper Albrecht is back for his junior season. Two 1st-Team All-Conference selections return in Albrecht (15.4 PPG) and Canton Chrisman (18.9 PPG). Along with 2nd-Team All-Conference pick Walker Winkelman (12.8 PPG). The biggest concern I have for this team is their three point shooting depth.

Projections:

1. Wabeno/Laona

2. Three Lakes

3. Florence

4. Crandon

5. Goodman-Pembine

6. Elcho

7. Phelps

Conference Overview:

As of right now I think Wabeno/Laona is the odds on favorite to win the conference. They return the most, and their best players were young a season ago. Three Lakes is probably going to be their biggest competition, since I don't think they are too far behind when you talk about talent coming back. Florence is a team that if they play really well could win conference, but it doesn't seem likely to pass both of the previously named teams. I think Crandon graduated too much to be a team to beat, but middle of the road seems like the place for them. Goodman-Pembine graduated some size and experience, I just think this is going to be a bit of a reloading season. Elcho just has some work to do, never like to see teams struggle with roster sizes.

Conference MVP: Canton Chrisman (Junior) - Wabeno/Laona

Other Players to Watch:

Cooper Albrecht (Junior) - Wabeno-Laona

Carson Chrisman (Sophomore) - Florence

Deegan Kircher (Junior) - Crandon

Easton Lurvey (Sophomore) - Three Lakes

Truth Setner (Senior) - Florence

Wailer Severson (Senior) - Goodman-Pembine

Games to Watch:

Sheboygan Lutheran @ Florence (12/20/25)

Prentice @ Florence (1/20/26)

Wabeno/Laona @ Assumption (2/7/26)

Rhinelander @ Wabeno/Laona (2/17/26)

Three Lakes @ Mellen (2/23/26)

25-26 Conference Previews - Big Rivers

Team Previews:

Chippewa Falls Cardinals (2024-25 season: 0-25 overall, 0-14 conference, 8th)

Only graduated one senior from last season, their second leading scorer in Collin Nichols (7.4 PPG). Junior Owen Munson was the leading scorer last season at 10.2 points per game, and shot 37.9% (50-132) from three. An exciting name to keep an eye on is sophomore Kobe Twyman, who was the third leading scorer at 7.2 points per game and shot 40.5% (32-79) from three.

Eau Claire Memorial Old Abes (2024-25 season: 21-5 overall, 14-0 conference, 1st)

Graduated a big, and successful, senior class. Bryce Hedtke will return after being a Honorable Mention selection last season. During the 24-25 Hedtke averaged 6.6 points per game, while shooting 45.5% (40-88) from three point range. Ian Bauer is the only other returning player with significant playing time, he averaged 4.3 points per game and shot 48.9% (22-45) from three.

Eau Claire North Huskies (2024-25 season: 8-17 overall, 5-9 conference, 7th)

Elliott Bessen graduated after being a 2nd-Team All-Conference selection and being second in the conference in scoring (18.2 PPG). Tyler Barrows is back for his senior season after averaging 13.0 points per game and shooting 40.3% (56-139) from three point range. Gavin Wise brings some size at 6'5" and experience at 6.2 points per game. Zach Shipman is the other returning player who averaged over 5.0 PPG last season, 5.8 points per game.

Hudson Raiders (2024-25 season: 16-9 overall, 11-3 conference, 2nd)

Jace Mataczynski is back after being 2nd-Team All-Conference during his junior season. Mataczynski is one of the leading scorers returning for Hudson this year. Junior Alex Healy is the another returning player who averaged 5.5 points per game as a sophomore.

Menomonie Mustangs (2024-25 season: 14-12 overall, 6-8 conference, t-5th)

Graduated two All-Conference selections in Isaac Ellison (1st-Team) and Brody Thornton (2nd-Team). They do return Trevor Robert who was the Mustangs third leading scorer as a sophomore, at 9.8 points per game. The now 6'7" junior also averaged 6.9 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. Two senior guards are back in Tyler Nelson and Jake Rue. Nelson averaged 6.3 points per game last season. Rue shot 41.4% (29-70) from three point range.

New Richmond Tigers (2024-25 season: 15-13 overall, 7-7 conference, t-3rd)

Graduated a large senior class, after a very successful season (lost in Sectional Semi-Finals). Nick Stellrecht is the only player returning who was consistently in the rotation last season. He averaged 9.5 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. New head coach, Kyle Allen.

Rice Lake Warriors (2024-25 season: 15-10 overall, 6-8 conference, t-5th)

There isn't much returning experience coming back for the Warriors. Will Svendsen has the most experience coming back after averaging 14.3 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Svendsen was selected to Honorable Mention in the Big Rivers last year. Senior Grant Pacholke saw playing time as a junior. Junior Graden Sheplee provides a little bit of height (6'4"), but didn't see much playing time as a sophomore.

River Falls Wildcats (2024-25 season: 13-12 overall, 7-7 conference, t-3rd)

Leading scorer and Honorable Mention selection, Brody Graetz is back for his senior season. Graetz averaged 16.8 points and 5.0 assists per game, while shooting 42.6% (46-108) from three point range. Tanner Bottolfson (8.2 PPG), Cal DuMond (5.3 PPG), and Austin Stellrecht (4.6 PPG) are other returning players who saw consistent minutes. Senior Gavin Carufel and junior Cullen Johnson will both be looked upon to take bigger roles this season.

Projections:

1. River Falls

2. Hudson

3. Menomonie

4. Eau Claire Memorial

5. Chippewa Falls

6. Rice Lake

7. Eau Claire North

8. New Richmond

Conference Overview:

River Falls has the most experience returning, along with the Big Rivers third leading scorer last season (Brody Graetz). After River Falls, most of the teams have pieces returning, but also lost really important players from last year. Hudson has one of the better seniors back (Jace Mataczynski) and should be a tough out. The rest of the conference seems to be a bit of a toss up. Menomonie has Trevor Robert, an interesting prospect at 6'7", and a few senior guards coming back. Eau Claire Memorial graduated so much, but they have always seem to have younger guys ready to go. Chippewa Falls comes off a rough season where they were extremely young, but growing pains should pay off for them. Maybe 5th is too high, but expect them to be improved. Rice Lake finished tied for 5th last year, and graduated a lot of points and minutes. Eau Claire North should be in about the same position, moving up a position or two should be realistic for the Huskies. New Richmond lost their coach and almost all of their experience.

Conference MVP: Brody Graetz (Senior) - River Falls

Other Players to Watch:

Bryce Hedtke (Senior) - Eau Claire Memorial

Jace Mataczynski (Senior) - Hudson

Trevor Robert (Junior) - Menomonie

Will Svendsen (Senior) - Rice Lake

Kobe Twyman (Sophomore) - Chippewa Falls

Games to Watch:

Saint Croix Central @ Menomonie (12/5/25)

River Falls @ Marshfield (12/23/25)

River Falls @ Superior (12/29/25)

Eau Claire Memorial @ Eau Claire North (2/20/26)

Hudson @ Stevens Point (2/21/26)

25-26 Conference Previews - Lakeland-East & West

EAST

Team Previews:

Birchwood Bobcats (2024-25 season: 14-10 overall, 12-4 conference, t-2nd)

Lucas Gindt (1st-Team) graduated after averaging a double-double (21.9 points and 10.5 rebounds per game). 2nd-Team All-Conference selection, Chase Ewert is back for his senior season after averaging 18.4 points per game. Five of their eight top scorers are back, and luckily three of them are juniors and one is a sophomore. 

Bruce Red Raiders (2024-25 season: 10-14 overall, 9-7 conference, 4th)

Six players graduated from last year. Jace Sahlin is one of the better players returning for Bruce. They didn't have stats put up on their wissports account, so other information is limited.

Cornell Chiefs (2024-25 season: 1-23 overall, 1-15 conference, 9th)

In a year where Cornell struggled, they still managed to land two Honorable Mention All-Conference selections, Carson Stipek (SR) and Bryce DeJong (JR). Both players were both among their leading scorers last season.

Flambeau Falcons (2024-25 season: 18-7 overall, 12-4 conference, t-2nd)

Graduated one player from last year. Top two leading scorers from last season are back, Dominic Kopacz (18.6 PPG) and Chanse Ludescher (10.6 PPG). Returning scoring is spread out through all their classes. Isaac Brown (JR) averaged 8.8 PPG, Oliver Taylor (SR) averaged 6.0 PPG, and Sully Reich (SO) averaged 3.1 PPG.

Lake Holcombe Chieftains (2024-25 season: 10-15 overall, 6-10 conference, 7th)

One 1st-Team All-Conference selections graduated, Brian Strzok (17.8 PPG). The good news is they return their other 1st-Team selection in junior Emmit Johnson (20.6 PPG). Connor Kane (JR) is the next returning scorer at 8.8 points per game. Senior Brody Miller (5.0 PPG) and sophomore Kyle Heidtke (5.0 PPG) are also back. Johnson shot 32.4% from three (36-111) and Heidtks shot 34.3% from three (24-70).

New Auburn Trojans (2024-25 season: 19-7 overall, 14-2 conference, 1st)

Colten Lotts (1st-Team) is back, which is huge for the reigning Conference Champs, although they were upset by Frederic last season in the WIAA playoffs. They do return one other All-Conference selection in Sawyer Jones (2nd-Team). Graduating three others will create some space for newcomers to make a name for themselves.

Northwood Evergreens (2024-25 season: 7-18 overall, 4-14 conference, 8th)

Losing last season's Conference POY (Jared Schultz) should make things more difficult for the Evergreens. There is a chance it could open things up more, since teams focused on stopping Schultz so much last season. Three starters do return, Gunnar Golembiewski (4.3 PPG), Jaxson Link (3.3 PPG), and Ian Woodhull (5.5 PPG). 

Winter Warriors (2024-25 season: 2-23 overall, 2-14 conference, 8th)

Graduated a senior class that had a lot of success in recent seasons. It will be tough to replace Adam Bednorski, Dakota Holm, and Carter Petit. There isn't much for points returning off last season's varsity team.

Projections:

1. Flambeau

2. New Auburn

3. Birchwood

4. Northwood

5. Bruce

6. Cornell

7. Lake Holcombe

8. Winter

Conference Overview:

Flambeau and New Auburn appear to be the two teams with their best players from last season returning. It could be a tight race at the top of the conference. Birchwood graduated some talented players, but still have younger pieces back. Northwood loses the Conference POY and switches to the East, I think enough pieces to be competitive. Bruce will be a bit of a wild card. Cornell and Lake Holcombe should be improved and could both make their way to the middle of the conference. Winter graduated a good senior class, it appears like it's going to be a bit of a rebuilding season.

Conference MVP: Colten Lotts (Senior) - New Auburn

Other Players to Watch:

Chase Ewert (Senior) - Birchwood

Sawyer Jones (Senior) - New Auburn

Dominic Kopacz (Senior) - Flambeau

Chanse Ludescher (Senior) - Flambeau

Ryder Rodewald (Senior) - Bruce

WEST

Team Previews:

Clayton Bears (2024-25 season: 12-12 overall, 9-7 conference, 5th)

Prairie Farm (2024-25 season: 7-15 overall, 7-9 conference, 6th)

First year that Clayton and Prairie Farm are a co-op program. Returning last season's Conference POY (Dayne Mumm) should help them remain in the top half of the conference. Prairie Farm graduated two All-Conference selections in Jayce Nelson (2nd-Team) and Josh Quarders (HM). Cooper Berends is the returning scorer for Prairie Farm at 7.2 points per game. Karsten Johnson is one of the top returning players returning from Clayton, besides Mumm.

Frederic Vikings (2024-25 season: 8-19 overall, 3-15 conference, 9th)

Only lost two seniors from last season. Senior Carson Anderson is back after being named to 2nd-Team All-Conference. He led the Vikings in scoring (10.2 PPG) and rebounds (7.4 RPG). Brett Bartlett was second in points (9.4 PPG) and rebounds (5.6 RPG), also back for his senior year. Leif Lahti (8.7 PPG) and Royce Anderson (6.1 PPG) are their next returning top scorers. Royce Anderson also led the team in assists with 2.7 assists per game. 

Grantsburg Pirates (2024-25 season: 17-8 overall, 15-3 conference, 2nd)

Caleb Rombach should come into his junior season as one of the better players in the conference. Rombach was second on the team in scoring at 16.0 points and first in assists at 4.0 assists per game. Daxter Schultz was a Honorable Mention selection last season, who averaged 9.5 points per game. Some younger players will bring some scoring back as well, Lyle Lozier Jr. (6.7 PPG), Ryker Stelsel (4.5 PPG), and Dylan Seeger (4.0 PPG). 

Luck Cardinals (2024-25 season: 11-15 overall, 6-12 conference, 7th)

Graduated Ty Rhoem and Zak Walters, who were their leading scorers a year ago. Both are playing at Northwestern-St. Paul in college now. Blake Melin is back for his junior year after being their third leading scorer at 8.0 points and second in rebounds at 5.8 rebounds per game. Joe Tolan is the next highest points per game at 5.2 PPG.

Shell Lake Lakers (2024-25 season: 13-11 overall, 9-9 conference, 6th)

Alex Marcoux was Honorable Mention All-Conference last season. He's the only returning All-Conference selection for the Lakers after two others graduated (Conner Schrankel - 1st; Isaac Crosby - 2nd). Adam Fritz enters his senior season after being the 4th leading scorer last season, averaging 7.8 points per game. Two other juniors return, Nick McNulty (4.3 PPG) and Brennan Shafer (4.2 PPG).

Siren Dragons (2024-25 season: 4-21 overall, 0-18 conference, 10th)

Lose their top four scorers from last season, including 2nd-Team All-Conference pick Gannen Reynolds (15.4 PPG). Two sophomores who saw action as freshman are their returning scorers, Carmine Songetay (5.1 PPG) and Parker Fingerson (5.0 PPG). It might be a little bit of rebuild for the Dragons until getting more experience.

Turtle Lake Lakers (2024-25 season: 21-6 overall, 13-5 conference, 3rd)

Coming off a WIAA State Tournament appearance, the Lakers should remain one of the better teams in their sectional. Brandon Wagner (D2 football commit) should come into the season as the front runner for Conference POY. The 6'6" forward averaged 21.2 points and 14.4 rebounds per game last season. Only graduated two seniors. Brody Tarman was second on the team in scoring at 12.8 points per game and was 2nd-Team All-Conference last season. Third leading scorer is back as well, Cam Davis at 10.3 points per game. They have good size returning in their senior class.

Webster Tigers (2024-25 season: 15-12 overall, 10-8 conference, 5th)

Quinn Widiker returns as one of the better forwards in Northern Wisconsin. The 6'6" forward averaged an impressive double-double as a junior, 17.4 points and 16.1 rebounds per game. Hunter Sears comes into his junior year after averaging 9.0 points per game. Ronald Hatch is also back as a junior year, he averaged 5.7 points per game. Graduated their Honorable Mention selection in Cody McDowel, their second leading scorer.

Projections:

1. Turtle Lake

2. Grantsburg

3. Webster

4. Shell Lake

5. Frederic

6. Clayton/Prairie Farm

7. Luck

8. Siren

Conference Overview:

The conference gets a bit of a shake up with Clear Lake leaving for the Dunn-St. Croix Conference and Unity moving to the Heart O' North Conference. Turtle Lake coming off their first State Tournament appearance should have all the momentum heading into this season. If Grantsburg's junior class can keep improving, they should be top of the conference for the next two seasons. Webster has some talent and could make a run, but are also a little limited. Clayton/Prairie Farm, Frederic, Luck, and Shell Lake all have some pieces back, but should all be the middle of the road. Siren is just so young in an experienced league, it's going to be tough being competitive this season. 

Conference MVP: Brandon Wagner (Senior) - Turtle Lake

Other Players to Watch:

Carson Anderson (Senior) -Frederic

Alex Marcoux (Junior) - Shell Lake

Dayne Mumm (Clayton/Prairie Farm)

Caleb Rombach (Junior) - Grantsburg

Daxter Schultz (Junior) - Grantsburg

Brody Tarman (Junior) - Turtle Lake

Quinn Widiker (Senior) - Webster

Games to Watch:

Flambeau @ New Auburn (12/5/25)

Webster vs. Glenwood City @ Target Center (1/10/26)

Rib Lake @ Flambeau (1/23/26)

Turtle Lake @ Mellen (1/24/26)

Amery @ Grantsburg (2/23/26)