Only one varsity player returns for Wahluke

MATTAWA - The Wahluke High basketball team struggled to a 5-15 record last year, and this year could be another struggle.

Only one player returns from last year. The good news is that he is 6-3 junior Collin Ahmann, who plays as well from the outside as from the inside.

Ahmann is capable of a 20-point scoring average. The task for coach Jeff Ahmann will to find a deft passer for point guard and some outside shooting.

"Collin should have a solid season for us," coach Ahmann said.

The Warriors will start the campaign on Dec. 5 against Warden and will play Kittitas on Dec. 9 and Cle Elum on Dec. 12.

Top new comers include:

Manny Hidalgo, a sophomore who was injured and did not play his freshman year.

Andrew Uribe, a senior who was injured last year and could not play.

Nathan Buck, a starter on junior varsity last season, extremely athletic and basketball smart.

Sam Cardoso, a junior, hardest worker on the team, has really improved his game.

Alex Chiprez, a senior, has a new injury from the last football game and is waiting for that to heal.

"Alex will be a major part of our team," coach Ahmann said.

There are lots of new varsity players, but almost all of them practiced and played all summer. They are hoping to learn fast so they can start off with a few home wins and gain some confidence going into league play.

"I really like the athletic talent we have," coach Ahmann said. "We are very fast and work really hard. The kids have great attitudes and want to do anything it takes to improve."