by Mark Cheffey
Marion County R-II boys basketball coach Reed Plunkett is hoping for many happy returns this season.
The Mustangs return four of five starters from last season as well as the first and second players off the bench, giving Plunkett some valuable experience to work with.
The 2023-24 Marion County R-Ii boys basketball team, coached by Reed Plunkett (back, right) consists of (front, from left) Dylan Stephens, Mason Wood, Nathan Wright, Levi Wright, Elliot Dougherty, Colton Swisher, Wyatt Tuley, (back) Joey Lagemann, Wyatt Goldinger, Jackson Stewart, Gavin Handy, Tyler Schimming, Cadon Stotts and Porter Britt.
“We are for the first time in a long time an upper classmen heavy team,” Plunkett said. “We are looking forward to be competitive every night this winter.
The returners include the leading scorers from last year, Joey Lagemann, a junior, and Wyatt Goldinger, a senior.
“We will look for both of them to be consistent on the offensive end,” Plunkett said.
Back anchoring the defensive is senior, Jackson Stewart.
Juniors, Mason Wood and Porter Britt will fill out the starting by five with fellow junior, Caden Stotts, playing the key role of sixth man.
“We have a group of younger guys who are showing progress as well,” Plunkett said.
Filling out the roster are: junior, Levi Wright; sophomores Nathan Wright, Wyatt Tuley, Colton Swisher, Tyler Schimming and Gavin Handy; and freshmen, Dylan Stephens and Elliot Dougherty.
The Mustangs are coming off a 9-16 season, but are hopeful of improving on the record.
“Our goal is to compete for a district title this year,” Plunkett said.
The Mustangs opened the season at home this past Friday.
This week, they were scheduled to host North Shelby, Tuesday.
