Boys basketball preview: A look at the Greater Middlesex Conference and southeast UCC
GREATER MIDDLESEX CONFERENCE
Red Division
COLONIA
Coach: Jose Rodriguez, sixth season
Last season: 22-9
Top lettermen lost: Noah Taylor (F), Anthony Gooden (G), Dylan Conklin (F).
Roster: Jaeden Jones (Sr., G, 5-11), James Curet (Sr., F, 6-4), Matthew McSorley (Sr., F, 6-4), Zachary Smith (Jr., G, 5-10), Nygel Hill (Jr., F, 6-1), Aiden Derkack (So., G, 6-6), Basheke Austin (Sr., G, 5-9), Charles Hommel (Sr., F, 6-3), Chris Dumas (Sr., G, 5-11), Isaiah Barber (Jr., G, 5-10), Derrick Pettus (Jr., F, 6-1), Dylan Chiera (So. G, 6-1), Colin Kroner (So., F, 6-1), RJ Wortman (So., F, 6-2).
Outlook: The Patriots were the final GMC team standing last year, and three starters from the squad that advanced to March and the State Group 3 semifinal round return. Jaeden Jones, who will attend Monmouth after starring for the Colonia football team, should do the same on the hardcourt between points and assists. Aiden Derkack played well beyond his years as a freshman last year and is already receiving D-1 interest. James Curet had some big moments in some big games and will try to replace the physical presence All-Area choice Noah Taylor, a four-year starter, provided a year ago.
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EAST BRUNSWICK
Coach: Mark Motusesky, 11th season
Last season: 12-17
Top lettermen lost: Jack Nelson (F), Mike Mikulka (F), Jake Sliwinski (F).
Roster: Cam Vick (So., G, 5-10), Matt Mikulka (So., G, 5-8), Mason Klausner (Jr., 6-1, F), Brian Hennessy (Sr., F, 6-5), Cam Martin (Sr., G, 5-9), Derrick Christie (Sr., F, 6-4), Jesse Beckman (Jr., F, 6-2), Will Wheeler (Jr., F, 6-0), Dylan Mclean (So., F, 6-0), Chad Schneider (Jr., G, 5-11), Tiger Tannura (Jr., G, 5-11), Alex Williams (Jr., G, 5-7).
Outlook: The Bears started 2-10 last year but finished by winning 10 of their last 17 and return a veteran backcourt, although two are just sophomores. One, Matt Mikulka, bagged a whopping 82 three-pointers in scoring 14 ppg last year. East Brunswick’s three-guard alignment boasts a twin-Cam engine with sophomore Cam Vick at the point and senior Cam Vick on a wing. Junior holdovers Mason Klausner and Derrick Christie move into the frontcourt.
J.P. STEVENS
Coach: Nick Sardone, first season
Last season: 13-14
Top lettermen lost: Elijah Peters (G), Aurko Sarkar (F), Aditya Thewarkar (F).
Roster: Anthony Hicks (Sr., G), Varun Panjeti (Sr., G), Ryan Lo (G), Leo Bunion (F), Kerem Ozdemir (C).
Outlook: Nick Sardone, who previously served as an assistant coach for the Hawks boys program and head varsity girls coach at Carteret, takes over the reins as head coach. Stevens graduated its frontcourt, including three-year starter Aditya Thewarkar, and lost leading scorer Elijah Peters, who transferred to Union Catholic after scoring 21.2 points as a junior. The Hawks will have to make up those points somewhere. Senior guards Anthony Hicks and Varun Panjeti will be counted on for leadership as Stevens navigates the rugged Red Division.
MONROE
Coach: Jeff Warner, 7th season
Last season: 5-18
Top lettermen lost: Riley Piscitelli (F), Aidan Lane (G), Zaahir Powell (G), Yash Kupani (F).
Roster: Myles Marabuto (Sr., G, 5-10), Brody Piscitelli (Sr., G, 6-0), Mark Laughery (Sr., G, 6-0), Nick Cicchetti (Sr., F, 6-1), Taran Singh (Jr., F, 6-3), Logan Fotiadis (Jr., F, 6-1), Joe Porpora (Jr., G, 5-10), Samir Moody (Sr., G, 5-10), Akshath Chauhan (Sr., G, 6-0), Ryan Bayoumy (Jr., F, 6-3), Anthony Barsa (Jr., G, 6-1), Joel Abraham (Jr., F, 6-2), Braeden Hoiberg (Jr., G, 6-0).
Outlook: The Falcons followed up a 22-win, 2021-22 campaign by losing 16 of their first 17 outings a year ago before winning four of their final six, beating some quality clubs in the process. All five starters from last year’s season-ending verdict over 17-win Spotswood return in seniors Myles Marabuto, Brody Piscitelli and Mark Laughery, along with juniors Taran Singh and Logan Fotiadis. Monroe will try to maintain its late-season momentum in the competitive Red Division.
OLD BRIDGE
Coach: Jim Macomber
Last season: 13-13, 13th season
Top lettermen lost: Adam Scire (G), Ryan Witte (G).
Roster: Krish Patel (Jr., G, 5-10), Brandon Medel (Jr., G, 5-10), Ehi Odion (Sr., F, 6-2), Noah Balbuena (Jr., F, 6-3), Jaylen Jones (So., G, 5-6), Mike Kvas (So., F, 6-3), Danny Singleton (Jr., F, 6-0), Jayden Colon (Jr., F, 5-10), Victor Przepiora (Fr., G/F, 6-0), Brady Meyer (Fr., G, 5-7), John Smith (Jr., F, 6-0), Christian Appel (So. F, 6-2), Eric McDonald (So., F, 5-10).
Outlook: Last year’s record is a little deceiving as the Knights closed by winning 10 of their final 15 contests. Junior Krish Patel (10.3), one of three guards who scored in double digits last year, returns in the backcourt, as does classmate Brandon Medel, who suffered a broken wrist last season. Sophomore Mike Kvas and senior Ehi Odion, who each made some starts last year, will return to the frontcourt. Sophomore Jaylen Jones, a part-time starter last year as well, will replace leading scorer Adam Scire (12.4) at the point. Look for a pair of freshmen, Victor Przepiora and Brady Meyer, to contribute as the season progresses.
PISCATAWAY
Coach: Darius Griffin, 10th season
Last season: 11-16
Top lettermen lost: Jalen Thomas (F), Jonathan Carman (F), Elijah Timberlake (G), Dante Dupiche (F), Khalid Brown (F), McKensi Mytil (C), Naim Mouzon (F), Evan Benson (G), Dylan Samuel (F).
Roster: Logan Smith (Sr., G, 6-0), Nate Davis (Jr., G, 5-10), Jayden Williams (Sr., G, 6-0), Elijah Young (Sr., F, 6-3), Vaughn Turner (Jr., F, 6-2), Khamari McAuley (Jr., F, 6-2), Donald Nwaigwe (Jr., F, 6-2), Jack Coomgs (Jr., C, 6-1), Isaiah Fowler (So., G, 6-0), Na Jay Best (So., G, 5-10), Joshua Lima (So., G, 6-0), Tyler West (So., G, 6-0), Karon Cherry (Sr., G, 6-1), Nate Pinheiro (Sr., C, 6-2).
Outlook: The Chiefs suffered major losses to graduation, including 80 percent of their starting lineup and several regular contributors off the bench. The lone returnee is senior point Logan Smith, who has been tasked with directing this raw, but talented, roster. Veterans Nate Davis and Jayden Williams will join Smith in the backcourt, while 6-2 juniors Vaughn Turner and Donald Nwaigwe will start up front. Piscataway will look to capitalize on its athleticism by applying pressure defense in an attempt to create turnovers.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK
Coach: Ben Badeen, first season
Last season: 20-7
Top lettermen lost: Kalani Antoine (G), Harmehar Chhabra (C), Arshvir Singh (G), Bruce Muniz (G), John Rappoccio (F).
Roster: Daniel Swirad (Sr., F/C, 6-3), Ayush Sankaran (Sr., G/F, 6-0) Logan Rodgers (Jr., G/F, 6-1), Anish Vankadhara (Jr., G, 5-5), Emanuel Rujano (Jr., G, 6-0), Oludamilare Osinowo (So., G/F, 6-2), Omar Amin (Jr., G, 6-0), Donovan Dempster (Sr., F/C, 6-4), Om Patel (Sr., C, 6-2), Bretton Lynch (Jr., F, 6-0), Kris Vikram (Sr., F, 5-11).
Outlook: New coach Ben Badeen jumps from East Brunswick Tech and the Gold Division to defending GMC runners-up South Brunswick and the vaunted Red. He’ll have his hands full as the Vikings graduated four of five starters and their valuable sixth man, including 1,000-point-scorer Kalani Antoine and multi-skilled big Harmehar Chhabra. Senior forward Daniel Swirad is the sole returning starter and he’ll be joined by a quartet of juniors, guards Omar Amin, Emanuel Rujano and Anish Vankadhara and swing Logan Rodgers, in the first unit.
ST. JOSEPH
Coach: Jan Cocozziello, fifth season
Last season: 19-9
Top lettermen lost: Josh Ingram (G), Anthony Williams (F), Tim Sullivan (G), Dan Bellavia (G), Dante Regan (G).
Roster: Jeremy Clayville (Sr., G, 5-10), David Caruso (Sr., G), Owen Griffin (Sr., G, 6-4), Daniel Jennings (So., G, 5-10), Alijah Murphy (So., G, 5-10), Jake Sokoloff (Jr., G, 6-2), Tyler DiGraci (Jr., G, 6-1), Brayden Danchek (Jr., G, 5-10), Will Phillips (G, 6-5), Askit Singh (G, 5-10), Arjun Nath (G, 5-10), Tahir Connor (G, 5-9).
Outlook: The Falcons graduated area Player of the Year Josh Ingram (22 ppg) and its best interior presence in Anthony Williams (13 ppg, 9 rpg). While St. Francis (Pa.) commit Jeremy Clayville, a three-point sniper, returns from the high-ankle sprain that sidelined him for the post-season, St. Joseph lost a gritty backcourt competitor in All-Area receiver Jeremy DeCaro, who suffered a torn labrum and is out for the season. Coach Jan Cocozziello lists every player on the roster as a guard but 6-4 Owen Griffin can be expected to fill Williams’ inside duties, as he did off the bench last year. David Caruso returns to orchestrate at the point.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Coach: Bob Turco
Last Season: 25-4
Top lettermen lost: Jalen Pichardo (F), Terrell Pitts (F), Jaden Kelly (G), Kamal Lee (G), Sherief Guinyard (F), Michael “Deuce” Jones (G), Samir Thomas (F), Jebron Harris (F).
Roster: Jayden Escobar (Sr., G, 6-0), Zacai Manigo (Sr., G, 6-1), Aidan Carter (Fr., G, 6-3), Kedar Scott (Jr, G, 5-10), Kiian Kirkwood (Jr., G, 5-10), Aidan Ur (Jr, G, 6-3), Greg Reyes (So., G/F, 6-4), Rion Ahmetaj (Sr., F, 6-6), Albion Ahmetaj (So., F, 6-6), Paris Papadatos (Sr., G/F, 6-4), Charlie Joyce (Jr., F, 6-5), Gavin Sansone (Sr., G, 5-11), Brett Carter (Jr., C, 6-8), Rinelson Dilone (Sr., C, 6-7), Davon Grant (Sr., G, 6-1).
Outlook: The defending GMC champs graduated six players and had four underclassmen transfer out but still figure to contend for division and conference honors despite maintaining a killer schedule that includes nine showcase events and two holiday tournaments. Coach Bob Turco, who did a masterful job molding last year’s uber-talented squad into a cohesive, often-dominant unit, will face a similar challenge this winter. He has settled on a lineup that will include freshman Aidan Carter in the backcourt alongside transfers Paris Papadatos (Greece), and Aidan Ur (St. John Vianney), with 6-7 Rinelson Dilone in the middle. The fifth starter will be determined whether the Trojans prefer to go big or small, with tremendous depth including six graduates from last year’s junior varsity.
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White Division
EDISON
Coach: Charlie Mohr
Last season: 8-14
Top lettermen lost: Selbin Sabio (G), Erminal Kapo (F), Jonathan Baio (G), Kevin Quezada (F), Spencer Walker (F), Robert Roma (F).
Roster: Ricky Harvey (Sr., G, 6-0), Dedrick Harvey (Jr., G, 5-7), Kamir McKay (Jr., G, 5-7), Gideon Osiemo (Sr., G, 5-10), Tori’ahn Rattray (Sr., F, 6-1), Kabir Kareem (Sr., C, 6-4), Joshua McQuillen (Jr., F, 6-3), Shamala Spencer (Jr., F, 6-3), Erick Espino (Jr., G, 5-9), Dominic Innocenti (So., G, 5-9), Dheeraj Samparaboyina (So., G, 6-0).
Outlook: The six departed players listed above collectively averaged 40 points per game last year and making those up will be a challenge. Top candidate is senior guard Ricky Harvey, a double-digit scorer a year ago who could be a breakout threat this year. Juniors Dedrick Harvey and Kamir McKay started in the backcourt as sophomores and will be counted on for leadership. Sophomore Dheeraj Samparaboyina will join them in a four-guard alignment with another newcomer, senior Tori’ahn Rattray, positioned up front.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Coach: Antoine Allen
Last season: 5-21
Top lettermen lost: Victor Adeyeri (F).
Roster: Chris Moronta (Jr., G, 5-11), Omari Williams (Sr., F, 6-2), Jaleen Soriano (Jr., G, 5-10), Quamir Thompson (Sr., G, 5-10), Xavier Stokes (So., G, 5-10), Jordan Shepherd (So., F, 6-1), Michai Coffee (So., G, 5-10).
Outlook: Turnout is up at New Brunswick, which is a good sign for a program that has struggled of late. Leadership for this young squad will be provided by its two returning starters, senior forward Omari Williams (8.8 ppg) and junior guard Chris Moronta (12.8). Another veteran, junior guard Jaleen Soriano, joins Moronta in the backcourt, with a pair of sophomores, guard Xavier Stokes and forward Jordan Shepherd, rounding out the starting unit. How quickly the sophomores can adapt to the varsity level will be critical for a team that figures to improve as the season progresses.
NORTH BRUNSWICK
Coach: Raheem Byrom, first season
Last season: 21-7
Top lettermen lost: Frank Garbolino (G), Alani Ajigbotosho (F), Jumire Jones (G), Andrew Koprowski (G), Richard Hill (G).
Roster: Brandon McCain (Sr., G, 6-3), Tommy Koroma (Jr., G, 5-10), Jack Garbolino (Jr, G, 6-2), Joshua Anudon (Jr., G, 5-8), Se’mir Tolbert (So., F/C, 6-4), Juwel Hoagland (Sr., G, 6-3), Daniel Breheney (Sr., G, 5-11), Zackary Cipot (So., G, 6-0), Bo Almeida (So., G, 6-3), Srijay Bandi (So., F/C, 6-5), Tyler O’Garro (Fr., G, 6-1), Deshawn Burgess (Fr., G, 5-8).
Outlook: Raheem Byrom, who served as point guard for the Raiders’ GMC champs in 1997 under Ed Breheney, now returns to his alma mater replacing the school’s venerable mentor. North Brunswick graduated two starters who were key contributors to a squad that started 20-3 in Frank Garbolino and Alani Ajigbotosho, an often dominating presence. Returning starters include senior Brandon McCain and juniors Tommy Koroma and Jack Garbolino. Sophomore Se’mir Tolbert (6-4) will handle the inside responsibilities with Juwel Hoagland in the backcourt and freshmen Deshawn Burgess and Tyler O’Garro are expected to contribute immediately as well.
NORTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: Derrick Canada
Last season: 10-14
Top lettermen lost: Vic Pena (G), Andrew Frias (G), Omari Brown (F), Patrick Adams (G), Kenyan Peterson (F).
Roster: Nfii Bannavti (Sr., G/F, 6-0), Joshua Strong (Sr., F, 6-7), Aaron Potts (Jr., G, 5-8), Isaiah Canada (Jr., G, 5-11), Quadir Williams (So., G, 5-10), Leiam Chester (So., G/F, 6-0), Joshua Kelly (Sr., G, 5-6), Deven Sampson (Sr., G, 5-8), Samuel Damonvil (Jr., F, 6-2), Elyjah Barnes (Jr., G, 5-10), Jake Zotollo (So., G, 5-10), Daniel Howard (So., G, 5-6), Duampiero Perez-Rivera (So., G, 5-10).
Outlook: The Canucks struggled at times in their inaugural GMC campaign last year but should be better acclimated with a solid core of veterans despite heavy losses to graduation, including leading scorer Patrick Adams (14.7). Seniors Nfii Bannavti and Joshua Strong, who averaged 18 points between them, will be asked to provide leadership as well. Juniors Aaron Potts and Isaiah Canada and sophomore Quadir Williams, who all saw action last year, complete the starting unit. Deven Sampson, who returns to the program after a two-year absence, and sophomore Leiam Chester, are wild cards.
PERTH AMBOY
Coach: Donald Reid III, second season
Last season: 11-12
Top lettermen lost: Lorenzo Perez (G), Zamire Booker (F), Aaron Rambajan (G).
Roster: Ariel Perez (Sr., G, 5-10), Angel Rosario (Jr., F, 6-4), Jadiel Manzueta (Jr., G, 5-10), Laivon Balthazar (Jr., F, 6-3), Orlando Manzueta (Jr., G, 5-8), Cherno Bah (Sr., F, 6-3), Emmanuel Rosario (So., G, 6-2), Kevin Santos (Sr., G, 6-0), Jeremy Olivares (Sr., G, 5-9), Kelvin Arnaud (Jr., G, 5-8), Yandel Susana (So., G, 6-1), Jonathan Tavera (So., F, 6-2), Justin Ramos (So., G, 5-8), Bryham Paulinho-Penya (So., G, 5-9).
Outlook: The Panthers graduated their leading scorer (Lorenzo Perez, 15 ppg) and rebounder (Zamire Booker, 11 rpg), but have a lot of experience back, led by senior point guard Ariel Perez. Juniors Jadiel and Orlando Manzueta join Perez in a three-headed backcourt that seeks to create opportunities in transition through ball pressure. Juniors Angel Rosario (6-4) and Laivon Balthazar (6-3) provide decent size up front and both saw considerable action as sophomores.
SAYREVILLE
Coach: John Wojcik
Last season: 6-21
Top lettermen lost: Sam Okeji (G).
Roster: Sam Jones (So., G, 6-0), Chidi Chukwurah (So., F, 6-2), Keithan Shuler (Jr., G, 6-4), Joe Santamaria (Jr., G, 6-2), Jayden Mele (Sr., G, 5-9), Mario Pinto (Sr., G, 6-1), Devon Mitchell (Sr., F, 6-6), Cristian Mele (Sr., G, 5-9), Moeez Dutt (Sr., G, 6-1), Noah Dubois (Jr., F, 6-4), Jayce Green (Sr., G, 5-10), Bryce White (So., G, 5-10).
Outlook: The Bombers took their lumps last season with two freshmen and a sophomore in the lineup on a team that only had one senior. One of those rising sophomores, Sam Jones (13 ppg), is a three-point weapon while the other, Chidi Chukwurah (10 ppg), is an athletic slasher who prefers to attack the rim and the offensive glass. Keithan Shuler (Jr., 6-4) averaged 9 ppg while starting as a sophomore and will be the tallest starter. Rounding out the first five are two more senior guards, Jayce Green and Jayden Mele.
SOUTH PLAINFIELD
Coach: John Greco, 7th season
Last season: 23-6
Top lettermen lost: Brandon Dean (G), Tareak Williams (G), Mikey Mendez (G), Steven Moench (F), Jason Greer (F), Jaden Lloyd (G), Zayd AbdulHakim (G).
Roster: Ikenna Ibeku (Sr., F, 6-5), Matt Nigro (Sr., F, 6-2), Abdul Adebule (Sr., F, 6-2), Jordan Jones (Jr, G, 5-11), Jayden Vaca (Sr., G, 5-10), Isiah Farrow (Sr., G, 5-10), Naim Mouzon (Sr., F, 6-1), Dante Dupiche (Sr., G, 5-11), AJ Perales (Jr., F, 6-1), Jayden Darling (Jr., G, 5-11), Stephanus Ahia-Armah (Jr., F, 6-3), David Wallace (Jr., F, 6-2), Boresa Jawula (Fr., F, 6-5).
Outlook: The Tigers graduated four starters and a key reserve, including leading scorers Brandon Dean (22 ppg) and Tareak Williams (14 ppg). Replacing those points is just one of the challenges facing coach John Greco. The lone returnee is forward Ikenna Ibeku, a rugged forward who contributes more in effort plays than the scoring column. Joining him in the lineup for now are senior forwards Matt Nigro and Abdul Adebule and guards Jordan Jones, a junior, and Jayden Vaca a senior. The lineup figures to be fluid as Greco has some transfers waiting to join the team.
WOODBRIDGE
Coach: Jonathan Toczynski, 3rd season
Last season: 14-12
Top lettermen lost: Kendall Pala (G), Aidan Castro (G), Jayce Green (G).
Roster: Micah Eason (Sr., G, 5-11), Nadino Joseph (Jr., F, 6-3), Bryan Anderson (Jr., G, 6-0), Derek Anderson (Jr., G, 6-0), Jordan Williams-Byron (Sr., G, 5-9), Izaiah Toliver (Jr., G/F, 6-2), Angel Valdes (Jr., F, 6-2), Ricardo Reyes (So., G, 5-9), Zayd Johnson (Sr., G, 5-11), Dean Elhossiani (So., G/F, 5-11), Justin Encarnacion (So., G, 5-10), Emmanuel Cruz (So., G, 5-11), Lucas McGorry (Sr., G, 6-2).
Outlook: The Barrons welcome the return of four key members from last year’s 14-12 squad, which suffered four losses in the final seconds. Topping the veterans is leading scorer Micah Eason (13.5), who has been challenged to take more of a leadership role this year. Rejoining him are juniors Bryan and Derek Anderson and Nadino Joseph, who all averaged around 7 or 8 ppg last year. Senior guard Jordan Williams-Byron will round out the starting unit for a team that figures to challenge for the division title.
Blue Division
CARTERET
Coach: Herman White, 1sixth season
Last season: 12-15
Top lettermen lost: Andre Diaz (G), CG Opara (C), Matthew Osifo (F).
Roster: Asi Powell (Sr., G, 5-8), Tyrese Parrott (Sr., G, 5-10), Abraham Lowman (Sr., G, 6-0), Sir Hezekiah Ragland (Sr., F, 6-2), Micheal Gomm (Sr., F, 6-1), Jordan Muniz (Sr., G, 5-8), Jamal Braswell (Jr., C, 6-6), Joshua Freire (Sr., G, 5-10), Ivan Motachwa (Sr., F, 6-1), Shane Castor (Jr., G, 6-1), Qorey Carter (So., G, 6-0), Jarius Serrano (So., G, 5-8).
Outlook: The Ramblers struggled early last year, dropping nine of their first 10 games, but rallied to an 11-6 finish that included a five-game winning streak. Six seniors return from that squad, including a trio of starting guards in point Asi Powell, Tyrese Parrott and Abraham Lowman. Sir Hezekiah Ragland returns at power forward and will be paired up front with 6-6 junior Jamal Braswell. The late-season success the veteran backcourt enjoyed should bode well for an improved campaign.
J.F. KENNEDY
Coach: Sebastiaan de Voogd, 8th season
Last season: 7-16
Top lettermen lost: Apurva Amin (F), Harsh Borkhetaria (G), Adrian Dyer (F), Abraham Louils (G), David Reyes (G).
Roster: Marcus Bullock (Jr., G, 6-0), Matthew Cook (Sr., G, 5-7), Abdullah Khokhar (Sr., G, 5-11), Grant Lorentzen (So., G, 6-1), Gurshan Nahal (Sr., G, 5-8), Mark Gardner (Jr., F, 6-2), Elias Pringle (Jr., G, 5-11), Jaden Jean (Sr., F, 6-0), Paul Mills (So., G, 5-10), Richie Trotman (So., G, 5-10), Kameron Roberts (So., G, 6-0), Furqan Tariq (So., F, 6-3), Steven Pimentel (Jr., F, 6-1).
Outlook: The Mustangs incurred two major losses before the season started when two of its three returning starters, senior Matthew Cook and junior Marcus Bullock, were each sidelined for four to six weeks. That leaves sophomore Grant Lorentzen, who worked his way into the lineup as a freshman, as the lone returning starter. Guards Elias Pringle and Gurshan Nadal and forwards Jaden Jean and Mark Gardner round out the starting unit. Best-case scenario, the newcomers hold down the fort and gain valuable experience until Bullock and Cook arrive for a late-season push.
METUCHEN
Coach: James Cardillo
Last season: 9-17
Top lettermen lost: Max Cohn (G).
Roster: Ben Santus (Sr., F, 6-3), Cody Cardillo (Sr., 6-1, F), Danny Galligan (Jr., G, 5-10), Danny Kuhne (Sr., G, 5-10), Jason Woods (Jr., F, 6-1), Matt Smith (So., G, 5-8), Cameron Hayes-Durina (So., G, 5-10), Leighton Emslie (So., F, 6-2).
Outlook: Metuchen will look to some veterans up front and some newcomers in the backcourt for success this winter. Ben Santos (8.8 ppg) returns for his third year starting in the front court while Cody Cardillo, the team’s leading rebounder last year, will come off the bench. Danny Galligan, who led the Bulldogs in 3s last year, will be joined by playmaking sophomores Matt Smith and Cameron Hayes-Durina in the backcourt. Junior Jason Woods, the leading scorer on the junior varsity last year, will round out the starting five.
MIDDLESEX
Coach: Jared Goldstein, 10th season
Last season: 16-12
Top lettermen lost: Jayden Pearyer (F), Max Lavornia (G), Nick Gould (G).
Roster: Sebastian Cano (Sr., G, 5-10), Jack Adamski (Sr., F, 6-2), Owen Reynolds (Jr., F, 6-4), Dom Parenti (Jr. G, 5-10), Richard Damiani (Jr., F, 6-1), Chris Kozak (So., G, 5-9), Jax Jarvis (Jr., G, 5-10), Marcus Lavornia (So., G/F, 5-11), Dorian Roundtree (So., F, 6-2), Julian Samuels (So., G, 5-10), Mark Melchiorre (So., G, 5-10), Daniel Carew (So., F, 6-0).
Outlook: The vertically-challenged Blue Jays will rely on their versatility to put an interchangeable lineup on the court in an effort to create advantageous matchups. Senior guard Sebastian Cano, the team’s second-leading scorer last year, will be tasked with providing leadership as well. Jack Adamski, the other senior on the roster, will provide an interior presence at both ends of the court. Chris Kozak, who saw ample minutes as a freshman, is one of six sophomores on the youthful squad.
SOUTH RIVER
Coach: Brandon Walsh
Last season: 26-4
Top lettermen lost: Laz Rodriguez (C), Roman Santos (F), Jeremy Grospe (G), Isaac Linares (F), Gavin Franco (G), Kobe Taylor (F), Nick Marzulli (G), Mikael Jaynes (G).
Roster: Nate Grospe (Sr., G, 5-8), Ethan Torres (Sr., C, 6-5), Pablo Melgarejo (Sr., G, 5-8), Alex Grospe (Jr., G, 5-9), Edward Herrera (Jr., F, 5-9), Brian Oganiaczyk (Sr., G, 5-10), Anthony Costa (So., G/F, 6-1), Tomas Mendes (So. G, 5-11), Michael Rivas (So., G, 6-1), Kahmori Cotto (Fr., G, 5-8), Quintin Hamilton (So., G, 6-0), Cole Teresky (So., G, 5-9)
Outlook: The Rams are still celebrating last year’s glorious 26-4 campaign in which they advanced to the GMC semifinals and state sectional finals and slew a horde of quality sides, most notably St. Joseph. Unfortunately, every key contributor to that success is gone save junior Alex Grospe, who orchestrated all from the point as a sophomore. Two less-experienced vets from last year are expected to join him in the first unit in guard Pablo Melgarejo and forward Edward Herrera. Ethan Torres (6-5) will try to replace Laz Rodriguez in the middle, with another sharp-shooting Grospe, Nate, joining his cousin in the backcourt.
SPOTSWOOD
Coach: Steve Mate, 29th season
Last season: 18-8
Top lettermen lost: Casey Cumiskey (G), Aiden Scher (G), Albion Ahmetaj (F).
Roster: Kiye Walker (Sr., F, 6-3), Daniel Yarus (Sr., F, 6-6), Joe Nardino (Jr., F, 6-2), Zeyed Elshazly (Jr, G, 6-0), Brayden Krahling (Jr., G, 5-10), Luc Acquaviva (Sr., C, 6-3), Kieran Barlow (Jr., F, 5-10), Stephen Spisso (Jr., G, 5-8), Maxwell Yee (Jr., F, 6-0), Mike Palumbo (So., G, 5-9), Gavin Romeo (So., G, 5-9), Leo Carrone (Fr., G, 5-10).
Outlook: The Chargers were the third-leading scoring school in the GMC last year, hitting for 60 or more points in 22 of 26 contest, and figures to do the same buoyed by the return of leading scorers Kiye Walker (18.3 ppg) and Daniel Yarus (13.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg). Both could break the 1,000-point mark this year. Junior Zeyed Elshazly will man the point with classmate Joe Nardino joining the dynamic duo up front. The fifth spot will be filled by junior guard Brayden Krahling or senior center Luc Acquaviva, depending on the matchup.
TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN
Coach: Dennis McNulty, fifth season
Last season: 14-13
Top lettermen lost: Brandon Johnson (F), Joel Sierra (G), Jeff Phillips (G).
Roster: Myles Dickerson (Jr., G, 6-3), Jalen Fleming (Jr., G, 6-4), Dylan Spivey (Sr., G, 6-0), Vincent Rouse (Jr., G, 5-9)), Matthew Amisal (Jr., G, 5-10), Jimmy McLaughlin (Jr., G, 6-0), Jacob Dyer (Sr., G, 5-9), Jonathan Walker (Sr., F, 5-11), Sam Stuhl (So., F, 6-2), Jack Peele (Jr., F, 6-4), Chukwudi Raphael Mamah (Jr., F/C, 6-7).
Outlook: The Tigers already boasted one of the better tandems in the GMC in juniors Jalen Fleming (23 ppg, 8 rpg) and Myles Dickerson (16 ppg). Now the Piscataway school has added some badly needed size in juniors Jack Peele (6-4) and Chukwudi Raphael Mamah (6-7), the latter from Enugu, Nigeria. At a minimum, they should add some rim protection and defensive rebounding, which will free Fleming and the much-improved Dickerson to wreak havoc in transition. Coach Dennis McNulty is looking for contributions from seniors Dylan Spivey and Jacob Dyer, junior Jimmy McLaughlin and sophomore Sam Stuhl. This team might be a year away from being something really special.
WARDLAW-HARTRIDGE
Coach: Cory Clemetson, first season
Last season: 1-15
Top lettermen lost: Harrison Kilpatrick (G), Gerard Gregorio (F).
Roster: Al Bell (Jr., F, 6-3), Daniel Zaidi (Jr., C, 6-5), Dylan Coleman (Sr., G/F, 5-10), Ethan Pierre (So., F, 5-11), Kevin Zhou (Jr., G/F, 6-2), Mason Clemetson (Jr., G, 6-2), Lucas Chu (Jr., G, 5-9), Cian Nicholls (Jr., F/C, 6-6), Zaid Afridi (So., G, 5-9), Ryan Maciorowski (So., F, 6-4), Max Ren (Sr., F, 6-3), Doug Bonner (So., F, 6-3), Ahmad Maiga (Sr., G, 5-10), Caleb Gutzmore (Fr., G, 5-11).
Outlook: Cory Clemetson takes over as coach after guiding a similar program to league and regional titles in Nevada last year. The Rams had as few as five players dress for games last year but the turnout is up and so is the talent level, despite the graduation of the GMC’s leading scorer in Harrison Kilpatrick (24.8). With such a small roster last year, those returning all saw much playing time, including projected starters Al Bell and Daniel Zaidi. Joining them in an all-junior lineup are newcomers Lucas Chu, Mason Clemetson and Cian Nicholls (6-6).
Gold Division
CALVARY CHRISTIAN
Coach: Jordan Koczman, first season
Last season: 17-9
Top lettermen lost: Jack Zink (G), Kevin Lincoln (F), Tim Cranga (6-2).
Roster: Robert Kauffman (Sr., G, 5-8), Kyle Durkin (Sr., C, 6-3), Joshua Stephens (Sr., G, 6-0), Hudson Gosselin (Sr., G, 6-1), Michael Schafer (Sr., F, 6-2), Jeremiah Cache (Sr., G, 5-10), AJ Mecke (So., G, 5-11), Jackson O’Connor (Jr., G, 6-0), Ben Dabrowski (Jr., F, 6-0), Tyler O’Connor (Fr., G, 6-0).
Outlook: Jayvee coach Jordan Koczman takes over the varsity replacing AD Mike Wilkerson, who piloted the Lions to a share of its first divisional crown last year. Three starters have graduated, including 1,000-point scorer Jack Zink. Senior Kyle Durkin, who looks and plays like ex-Laker Kurt Rambis, is a beast on the boards. Robert Kauffman, a transfer who became eligible at mid-season last year, figures to assume much of the scoring void left by Zink’s departure. Those two will be in the mix for the starting unit, along with senior forward Michael Schaefer and guards Joshua Stephenson, Hudson’s Gosselin, Jeremiah Cache and AJ Mecke.
DUNELLEN
Coach: Howie Horowitz, ninth season
Last season: 5-19
Top lettermen lost: Eric Greene (F), Tarquie Dorsey (F), Jordan Diaz (C), Justin Cascante (G).
Roster: Joel Cruz (Jr., G, 5-9), Ryan Hutchins (Jr., G, 6-1), Luke Pettersen (Jr., C, 6-2), Danny Watts (Jr., C, 6-3), Jamael Davis (So., F, 6-0), Vibert Reynolds (Fr., F, 6-1), William Ghanim (Fr., G, 5-10), Christian Perry (So., C, 6-6), Duran Zerhmouti (Fr., G, 5-9), Tyler Pettersen (Sr., C, 6-4).
Outlook: The Destroyers will rely on a trio of juniors who have already logged considerable action over the last two years in guards Ryan Hutchins (12.6 ppg) and Joel Cruz and center Luke Pettersen. Joining Pettersen up front are sophomore Jamael Davis and freshman Vibert Reynolds, meaning the entire starting five could return in 2024-25. Another freshman, William Ghanim, is expected to provide some much-needed depth in the backcourt, while junior Danny Watts will bolster the frontcourt.
EAST BRUNSWICK MAGNET
Coach: Kyle Fagan, first season
Last season: 10-13
Top lettermen lost: Scott Pede (G), Justin Noon (G), Joel Holmes-Smith (G).
Roster: Estevan Atanacio (Sr., G, 6-0), Tyrese Pompey (Sr., F, 6-2), Tyrique Pompey (Sr., F, 6-2), Jack Clements (So., G/F, 5-10), Sebastian Ortiz (So., G, 5-10), Adrian Brito (So., G/F, 5-10), Kevin Vilomar (Jr., G, 5-8), Jayden Ortiz (Jr., G, 5-7), Ramon Garcia (Jr., F, 6-1), Daniel Taveras (So., F, 6-1), Trevor Seig (So., G, 5-10).
Outlook: Kyle Fagan takes over as head coach replacing Ben Badeen, who now guides South Brunswick, and inherits a nice mix of experience and size to compete in this division. Senior Estevan Atanacio returns at the point and has established himself as the leader. Twins Tyrese and Tyrique Pompey are slated to man the forward slots with sophomores Jack Clements and Sebastian Ortiz joining Atanacio in the backcourt.
HIGHLAND PARK
Coach: Kambui Little, fifth season
Last season: 17-8
Top lettermen lost: Danny Starcevic (C), Phil Wilson (G), Evangelos Kambitsis (F).
Roster: Ethan Chen (Jr., G, 5-10), Evangelos Kambitsis (So., G, 5-8), Cooper Ballentine (So., F, 6-0), Jowuan Keyes (Sr., F, 6-2), Markos Hantsoulis (Jr., F, 6-3), Jared Matos (So., F, 6-1), Evan Brzozowski (So., G, 5-7), Kosta Hantsoulis (So., G, 5-9), Stamatis Hantsoulis (So., F, 6-1), Kareem Qualls (So., G, 5-9), Mohamed Kamel (Jr., F, 6-3), Oreimy Ramirez-Vicente (Fr., G, 5-8), Elijah Santiago (Sr., F, 6-2).
Outlook: The Owls lose three starters from last year’s co-divisional champs, most notably 6-8 Danny Starcevic (16 ppg, 11 rpg, 4 bpg), the division’s dominant big man. Two starters remain in junior forward Markos Hantsoulis and guard Jowuan Keyes, one of only two seniors on a roster that consists of three juniors, seven sophomores and one freshman. While Highland Park figures to be in the mix for another division title this year, it should be even better next season.
PERTH AMBOY MAGNET
Coach: Felix Romero, first season
Last season: 2-19
Top lettermen lost: Angel Cordero Ramos (G).
Roster: Anthony Vega (Jr., G, 5-8), Christian Torres (Jr., G, 5-10), Jeremy Valdez (Jr., 5-10, G), Dennis Feliciano (Jr., F, 6-1), John Kelly Jimenez (Sr., F, 6-0), Caleb Abram (Jr., F, 6-0), Donovan Escobar (So., G, 5-8), Justin Rodriguez (So., G, 5-8), Geovanny Feliz (So., G, 5-7), Nelson Concepcion (Sr., G, 5-11), Mateo Newkirk (So., F, 6-0).
Outlook: Felix Romero, who compiled a 54-39 record coaching at his alma mater from 2017-21, returns to guide the Patriots. Perth Amboy Magnet struggled mightily last season before winning two of its last three contests. Virtually everyone returns from that team and many are juniors who started or logged major minutes, including Christian Torres, Jeremy Valdez and Dennis Feliciano. John Kelly Jimenez returns up front as the lone senior starter, with another junior, Anthony Vega, joining the backcourt.
PISCATAWAY MAGNET
Coach: Lenny Reyes
Last season: 6-15
Top lettermen lost: Isiah Shepard (F), Stanley Velasco (G), Jamir Waites (G).
Roster: Taron Caldwell (Jr., G, 5-6), Joel Polynice (Jr., F, 6-4), Jacob Lyerly (Sr., G, 5-10), Kabir Mathews (G, 6-0), Matt Baez (Sr., C, 6-2), Caden Campbell (F, 6-4), Nate Carmen (Sr., G, 6-0), Jason Jonathan, Joseph Cardona, Francisco Pereira.
Outlook: The Raiders graduated two starters from last year and will rebuild around the three returning starters. Junior Taron Caldwell and senior Jacob Lyerly, while junior Joel Polynice (6-4) rejoins them up front. Caden Campbell (6-4) and Matt Baez (6-2) will accompany Polynice to form one of the division’s biggest frontcourts.
SOMERSET TECH
Coach: Joe Fantasia, first season
Last season: 12-12
Top lettermen lost: Bobby Pasquale (C), Hosman Martinez (F).
Roster: Richie Primus (Sr., G, 5-11), Kenny Ponteras (Jr., G, 5-8), Steven LaRosa (Sr., F, 6-0), Austin Schuster (Sr., C/F, 6-0), David Yacka (Sr., C/F, 6-1), Rahshun Wroten (Sr., C/F, 6-0), Thomas Polakiewicz (Sr., F, 6-3), Roy Wambugu (Sr., G, 5-8), Isaiah Aiyegbo (Jr., G, 6-1), Nate White (Fr., F, 5-9), Mithun Chigurupati (Fr., G, 5-9).
Outlook: Joe Fantasia takes over a squad that won 12 games last season after prevailing just four times the year before. The Jaguars graduated a pair of bigs who each averaged a double-double and most of the experience will be on the perimeter. Off-guard Richie Primus (11.6) is the leading returning scorer with junior Kenny Ponteras manning the point and senior Steven LaRosa stationed on a wing. Sophomore David Yacka (6-4) and senior Austin Schuster will try to compensate for the losses on the boards.
SOUTH AMBOY
Coach: Matthew Wiater, sixth season
Last season: 12-12
Top lettermen lost: Josiah Floyd (F), Angel Barillas (G), Jianny Caraballo (G).
Roster: Jake Eberle (Sr., G, 6-4), Gavin Pelkey (Sr., G, 6-0), Jaydius Jimenez (So., G, 5-9), Vaughn Pelkey (Jr., G, 5-11), Marques Garner (Sr., G, 5-10), Giro Castaldo (Sr., G, 5-9), Matt Gallant (Sr., G, 5-9), Jaden Eagan (Sr., G, 5-10), John Kelly (Fr., G, 5-11).
Outlook: Unlike most schools, the Governors return their two leading scorers in senior guards Jake Eberle (17.5 ppg) and Gavin Pelkey (14.5). The tandem contributes in other areas as well as Eberle averaged 7.1 rebounds while Pelkey chipped in 5 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.8 steals per game. Then again, as the only players standing 6-0 or taller, they have to. If you didn’t notice every player on the roster above is listed as a guard. Senior Jaeden Eagan, junior Vaughn Pelkey and freshman John Kelly are expected to join them in the five-guard alignment.
Other schools
LINDEN
Coach: Anthony Drejaj, sixth season
Last season: 24-7
Top lettermen lost: Jaylan Hodge (G), Elijah Motley (G).
Roster: Naz Robinson (Sr., G, 5-11), Hashim Nadir (Sr., F, 6-3), Elijah Butler (Sr., F, 6-6), Jekhi Burnam (So., F, 6-6), Jalil Turner (Sr., G, 6-0), Jaden Barnett (Sr., G, 6-0), Martin Drejaj (Jr., F, 6-3), Juan Areche (Jr., F, 6-7), Josniel “Jojo” Hernandez (Sr., F, 6-6), Isaiah Morrison (So., G, 5-10), Tequan Thomas (Sr., G, 6-0), Ashton Armstead (Sr., G, 5-11), Samir Skipworth (Sr., G, 5-11), Darnell Derosin (Sr., F, 6-7), Semaj Irving (Jr., G, 5-11).
Outlook: Linden returns four key veterans from a 24-7 squad that captured the North 2, Group 4 sectional crown before being done in by injuries and illness in a state semifinal loss to Paterson East Side. Leading the veterans is senior Naz Robinson (14.3 ppg), the lone returning All-Area selection and a four-year starter at point guard. Senior forwards Hashim Nadir and Elijah Butler, who averaged 16 points between them, return up front along with 6-6 sophomore Jekhi Burnam, who is equally adept from beyond the arc and protecting the rim. Jalil Turner, who was pressed into service in last year’s state semifinal contest, joins Robinson in the starting backcourt, while newcomers Juan Areche and Josniel “Jojo” Hernandez bolster the interior.
RAHWAY
Coach: Erik Podell, second season
Last season: 5-16
Top lettermen lost: Kyle Hall (G).
Roster: Craig West (Sr., G, 5-9), Christian Davis (Sr., G, 6-0), Isaiah Gurley (Sr., G, 6-2), Mikal Stevenson (Sr., F, 6-4), Eric McClain (Jr., G 6-4), James Downing (Jr., G, 6-0), Dmitri Dulorie (Jr., G, 6-2), Jaiden McDonald (Sr., G, 6-4), Al-Janai Best (Jr, G, 5-8), Taji Tucker (Jr., G, 5-8).
Outlook: Coach Erik Podell welcomes almost everybody back for his second season at the helm in Rahway. Guards Craig West and Christian Davis will serve as captains and Podell calls West his most-improved player. Look for Jaiden McDonald and James Downing to take on more of the scoring load. Podell expects to start five guards in McClain, Davis, Downing, West and either McDonald or Isaiah Gurley (10.9), the team’s leading returning scorer.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: NJ Boys basketball preview: A look at the GMC and southeast UCC
