Preview: Basketball vs. SM Northwest

Girls’ Preview by Taylor Norden

Tonight, the the girls’ varsity team will host the SM Northwest Cougars in one of the toughest games of the season for the Lancers. The Cougars have a comfortable lead in the Sunflower League with an impressive 10 wins and three losses (6-1 in conference play). On top of that, the Cougars currently hold the sixteenth spot in the Kansas 6A rankings.

Although they have only brought home a single win this season, the Lancers are a strong team packed with talent. SM East is a dangerous opponent. With veteran seniors, eager freshman and everything in between, the Lancers have shown a high-pressure offense complemented by a sturdy zone defense.

The Lancers are still missing sophomore Kyle Haverty (torn ACL), as well as junior Sam Schneider, who has been out almost all season. This team has had some difficulty adapting to these absences, and theirrecord has shown it. The Lancers are entering tonight’s game 1-14.

After a painful 37 point loss to SM Northwest in early December, the Lancers are reevaluating their strategies for tonight’s matchup. Coach Klumpe will have to place the emphasis on defense tonight, as his offensive opportunities have diminished since the first Northwest game.

The Lancers are hoping to turn around this season with a win tonight, but that’s easier said than done. With a roster consisting of four seniors and two juniors, and four girls over six feet tall, it’s no wonder why the Cougars are such a daunting foe. For a win tonight, the Lancers will have to play on their strengths of speed and physicality.

Boys’ Preview by Julia Poe

In comparison with the girls’ team for SM Northwest, the 3-13 boys’ squad is a much more even-handed matchup for the 8-7 Lancers. The Lancers are fresh off an exhilarating, last second 45-43 win over Olathe South on Tuesday. Tonight, the team will focus on continuing to improve their offensive rhythm after suffering from slow starts throughout the season.

Although Northwest’s schedule appears to reflect a weak team, a majority of the Cougars’ losses came in close games. Seven of the team’s losses were by less than eight points and an athletic roster. Northwest boasts five players over 6 foot 3 inches, providing a physical challenge for senior post Lucas Jones and sophomore post Zeb Vermillion.

Last week, the Lancers struggled against a physical Olathe North squad. When the team struggled with pressure in the paint, they switched tactics and began to attack from the outside with the guards. Seniors Gunnar Englund and Jack Flint will be critical in maintaining a well-balanced offensive attack throughout tonight’s game.

Tonight’s games take place at 5:30 and 7 p.m, and the theme is Valentine’s Day. Can’t make it to the game? Catch the broadcast here.