Eagle boys prepare for first season in Wheat State League

These seniors will anchor the Canton-Galva boys’ basketball team this season: (from left) Hunter Pearson, Jordan Gagnebin, Reed Wiens.For the first time, the Canton-Galva boys’ basketball team will compete as members of the Wheat State League.

“Switching to a new league is exciting for the program,” said fifth-year coach Shane Duncan. “We will get the opportunity to play teams that haven’t been on our schedule the past few years.” 

The Eagles went 11-11 a year ago as members of the Heart of America league.

Having graduated six seniors, representing 80 percent of its scoring, the team will need to fill a number of voids this year.

Hunter Pearson is Can­ton-Galva’s sole returning starter. The 6-foot, 2-inch senior turned in per-game averages of five points and four rebounds a year ago.

Senior Reed Wiens (6-4) is a returning letter-winner who averaged 5.5 points and 3.1 rebounds per game.

“We will need Hunter and Reed to show senior leadership immediately,” Duncan said. “They are the only players returning who have extensive varsity experi­ence. I expect them to welcome the expectations and have productive seasons.”

Top newcomers include senior Jordan Gagnebin (6-2) and junior Jonah Sargent (5-10), both of whom Duncan expects to be key contributors this year.

Half of the Eagles’ 14-man roster are freshmen.

Duncan said he expects his starters’ size to be a strength of the team, while depth will need to be developed.

“Experience and depth could be an issue for us to start the season,” he said. “We will focus on developing both of those throughout the year.”

Canton-Galva will open the season Friday at Rural Vista. The Eagles will host Centre in their home-opener Dec. 16.

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