Defending Kobe Tabor can present a choice with few easy answers. Put a smaller guard on him, and he can take the ball inside. Match him with size, and he can go off the dribble.
The senior point guard leads a Rattan team coming off a 26-6 season. Coach Michael Clay returns three starters and an experienced reserve, adds a transfer expected to contribute immediately and welcomes a promising freshman class.
Tabor (5-11, Sr.) averaged 20.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 3.7 steals last season. He is comfortable challenging bigger players. Clay values his toughness and decision-making, along with his willingness to put winning ahead of personal statistics. His understanding of the game helps him create opportunities for teammates.
Ayden Fowler (5-8, Sr.) returns in the backcourt after averaging 6.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.5 steals. Jaycus Hill (6-2, Sr.) returns at forward after averaging 4.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.0 assist and 1.0 steal.
Tryan Teague (6-4, Sr.) gives Rattan size inside after averaging 2.3 points and 2.8 rebounds. Cameron Jones (6-4, Sr.) is another center, while Luke Bohanan (5-8, Sr.) and Tanner Willis (5-9, Sr.) add senior guards.
Bradley Sam (5-8, Jr.), Landon Leathers (6-0, Jr.) and Tracer Rutledge (5-10, Jr.) give Clay further backcourt options as he determines his rotation.
The freshman class includes Kyston Winship, Luke Gorden, Jace Tabor, Korbin Hunter, Austin Davidson, Brayson Watts and Hunter Gurnick. Clay and assistant Terry Thurman will have an experienced senior group in place as those players adjust to high school basketball.
Clay believes Rattan can pursue a championship. Tabor gives him a point guard who can score or find a teammate, and the returning seniors offer experience at several positions. The freshmen will have veterans to learn from as they compete for their own place in the lineup.
