By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
Team: Roselle Catholic
Ranking: 3
Record Last season: 18-10, 4-4 in conference play
Key players: Naz Reid, senior (signed to LSU);Khalil Whitney, junior;Alanzo Frink, senior;Ithiel Horton, senior (signed to The University of Delaware)
Potential emerging stars: Cliff Omoruyi, sophomore;Jason Battle, senior
Team analysis: In the case of this off-season for Roselle Catholic, less turnover is more.
On paper, RC has one of the best rosters in the state. LSU commit Naz Reid is coming off a big summer and should be in for a big year for RC. While the team lost All-State guard Nate Pierre Louis to Temple, the team added rising U Del signee Ithiel Horton from St. Anthony’s. They have also added 6’10 sophomore Cliff Omoruyi from Queen of Peace. Horton has in the gym range and can heat up a room in a heartbeat. Cliff is a bit raw, but run the floor well and is a strong rim defender. Look for Omoruyi to showcase an improved set of moves down low this year. Outside of those two stellar additions, Roselle has played it close to the vest. Luckily for RC, this team is loaded with veteran leadership across the board. Senior forward Alanzo Frink possesses a refined skill set on offense and can hit the glass at a high level when needed. Senior Jason Battle is a stellar floor general who will keep the offense running smoothly all game.
RC plays a rigorous schedule and should be battle tested come state tourney time. In order for RC to win it all Naz Reid will have to dominate the game from the inside and showcase his skills on the perimeter.
All the talent is there, but can coach Boff make it work?
📸: @JohnnieTheShooter
Stat to know: Naz Reid signed with to play with LSU on the collegiate level