After another strong campaign that saw the Velma-Alma Comets finish with a 26-4 record, longtime head coach Kenny Bare is preparing for a season of transition. Despite losing a large portion of last year’s production to graduation, Bare believes this new-look Comet squad has the potential to find its rhythm and make noise when it matters most.
“We return two with playing experience in Jackson Lohrer and Joe Zavala,” Bare said. “We’ll break in some new faces for the first month or so and then look to hit our stride late January and into the playoffs.”
That steady, veteran presence in the backcourt will be crucial early on. Jackson Lohrer (6-2, Sr.), one of Class A’s top players, returns after a standout junior season where he averaged 17 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds per game. A VYPE Top 100 selection, Lohrer hit the 1,000-point milestone last year and continues to impress with his all-around skill set. He’s a versatile scorer who can knock down shots efficiently from the perimeter or attack off the dribble, and he brings intensity and toughness to the defensive end.
Joe Zavala (5-9, Sr.) also brings valuable varsity experience to the floor. Averaging 7 points and 3 assists a game last year, Zavala is a steady, dependable guard who plays with confidence and energy. Together, Lohrer and Zavala form the leadership core of a team that will rely on chemistry and growth as the season progresses.
Around them, several new contributors are expected to step into bigger roles. Slade Strickland (6-1, Sr.), Conner Akers (5-10, Sr.), and Riley Hudman (5-9, Sr.) bring experience and maturity to the rotation, while Carson Beck (6-3, So.), Maddox Riffe (6-3, So.), Zander Riffe (6-6, Sr.), and Conner Bruce (6-1, Jr.) provide length, athleticism, and versatility in the paint and on the perimeter.
With Lohrer leading the way and a group eager to prove itself, the Comets have the foundation for another strong season. As the new lineup gains experience, Velma-Alma expects to once again be a dangerous postseason contender in Class A basketball.
