by MERRICK PARNELL

Special to the Sounder

The Orcas Christian School Boys’ Basketball team returns to the WIAA’s Northwest 1B league for a second season; In hopes of building on last year’s campaign that garnered a 5-15 record. This year, the Saints will have Ryan Davis at the helm, as the head coach. Davis coached the Girl’s team last year to a 14-8 record and a playoff appearance. Davis has coached Basketball for 9 seasons, and before coming to Orcas Christian, he coached Horizon Science Academy in Dayton Ohio to five state championships.

Orcas Christian returns to the floor with their core of last year’s starters. Senior guard Michael Harris is poised to once again be a game manager and impact player at the guard position. Harris is joined on the court this year by juniors, Cameron Aragon and Chase Kantrud. Aragon contributed greatly to the Saint’s offense last season and was a top three point threat. Also, Nick Hodges brings his experience to the back court as the other returning senior. Hodges is battle tested and can play in a variety of roles. The Saints potent guard combo will be joined by a dynamic force underneath the basket. Juniors, Ryan Flint and Cyrus Amour had a break out season last year and emerged as one of the league’s top “big men.” Look for them to take control of the game with their solid rebounding and fierce post play that will add another layer to the Saint’s potent offense.

Joining the Saints for the upcoming season is a promising group of rookies and new players. Joey Fowler is an athletic and speedy senior who joins the Saints after transferring to Orcas Christian last year. Nico Pritchard is also new to the Saints squad and will look to make an impact. Joining Fowler and Pritchard are a promising group of 8th graders comprised of: Lucien Anderson and Corey Aragon.

“Our team is looking determined. We have seen tremendous growth in the last two weeks and are working hard every day,” said Davis. “We plan on working hard, playing team ball and seeing how far we can go.”

The Saints opened their season on Dec. 8 at grace Academy in Marysville. Their home opener was Dec. 10 versus the Lummi Nation.