A new era begins for the Elgin Owls boys basketball program as Jeff Walker takes over the reins in his first year as head coach. The Owls, who went 15-11 last season and reached the Area Round in Class 5A, are dropping down to Class 4A this year, a change that brings both opportunity and new challenges.
Walker inherits a roster filled with athleticism, potential, and grit. Still, the transition won’t be easy, as many players will be joining the team late due to Elgin’s deep football playoff run. “With it being my first year taking over the program and getting a lot of guys late, the first half of the season will be a battle,” Walker said. “We’ll need to be gritty to scratch wins out, but if the boys work hard and stick with the process, we could be a team not many will want to face in the second half.”
The Owls return several key contributors who will anchor the lineup. John Lohman (5-9, Jr.), a steady point guard with a strong frame and high basketball IQ, will help run the offense. Brody Morrison (5-10, Sr.) brings experience and scoring ability as a streaky shooter who can light it up from three or attack the rim. In the paint, Lucas Young (6-6, Sr.) has added 15 pounds of muscle and is poised for a breakout season, while Donnie Jones (5-8, Sr.) provides speed, toughness, and on-ball defense at the guard position.
Several newcomers and underclassmen are also expected to make an immediate impact. Cordae Richie (5-10, Jr.), back from a knee injury, is an explosive slasher and potential lockdown defender. Dalvin Clark Jr. (6-3, Jr.) adds athleticism and size with his ability to play above the rim, while Brody Sellers (5-9, Jr.) and Shawn Hightower (5-11, Jr.) bring ball-handling and scoring depth.
Sophomores Jay Spores (5-9, So.), Keegan Hiliary (5-9, So.), Jake Croft (6-3, So.), Dominic Yackyonny (5-11, Sr.), and Zayden Bridges (6-0, So.) give the Owls promising depth for the future, while freshman Ondre Scott (6-1, Fr.) and junior Charlie Hough (5-10, Jr.) could also see key minutes.
With new leadership, a competitive edge, and a hungry group of athletes, the Owls aim to build chemistry early and finish strong, positioning themselves as a dangerous team once the postseason rolls around.
