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Gators set to defend their title

Coach Kent Christian
The BGMR Boys Basketball Team is preparing to defend their Section 8A title as they opened up practice November 26th. Gone from last years team are; Jakob Heggedal, Dale Stauffenecker, and Nathan Thompson. Each was a key in the Gators unprecedented year and will be sorely missed. The Gators do however return 3 starters and one other who saw extensive playing time. Returning starters are all-conference players Jordan and Zac Creviston along with Tyler Aune.
Senior, Jordan Creviston will be looked at to pick up much of the leadership role. Jordan averaged 14.2 points per game last season and 4.3 rebounds. He is a talented offensive player and one of the players to watch in the area.
Junior, Zac Creviston led the Gators in scoring and rebounding last season (16.9 ppg and 7.2 rpg). Zac will also be a key to the Gators success and will need to take his game to the next level if the Gators hope to defend their title. He too is a gym rat and a player to watch in the area.
Senior, Tyler Aune had a nice summer and looks poised to have a breakout season. Aune has a lot of tools and will provide a tough match-up for most teams.
Junior, Allan Dostal will be counted on to provide some solid defensive play in the post. Dostal, who has a good shot, will also be looked at to provide some rugged play inside for the vertically challenged Gators.
Seniors Brandon Peterson and Carl Gaukerud are chomping at the bit to get some varsity time and will be relied on heavily should they rise to the challenge. Also returning from last seasons varsity team are juniors Jordan Holm and Nick Ellis and sophomore Adam Balstad. Each has strong areas and could see varsity action.
The Gator coaching staff anticipates some heavy competition for playing time at all levels. The basketball program had over 50 kids sign up in grades 7-12 and the coaches are looking forward to the intense practices that should come with that kind of turnout. All spots are open and those who work the hardest and show that they deserve to play will see the majority of the playing time.
Many of the sections throughout the state were realigned this past year and Section 8A has become a hotbed for basketball talent. Cass Lake (a team that took second in state last season) has moved into Section 8A and many have predicted them as the hands down favorite. The Gators subsection has become even more deep as perennial favorites Fertile and Grygla have now move from the east side to the west. With this realignment it looks like any one of 8 teams on the west side could make some noise come tournament time.
The Gators are looking forward to the challenge and it should make for another exciting year of high school boys basketball. The Gators will need any help they can get and would love to see the swamp packed on game nights. A great following on the road will also be appreciated as the Gators are playing their toughest schedule in years.

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