Dongola hopes to surprise some opponents this year

Opponents of the Dongola High School boys basketball team might see a different team on the floor this season.

“I think we’re going to surprise teams with what we can do,” fourth year Dongola coach Russ Marsh said. “The attitude is great and they’ve been looking really good (in practice).”

Marsh will attempt to build a winning team around a pair of returning seniors from last year’s 11-17 squad. The duo includes 6-7 center Tyler Eddleman and 5-11 guard Brock Patterson.

“Tyler has a good supporting cast this season,” Marsh said.

Other seniors in the mix are 5-11 Darius Schauer and 6-2 forward Bradley Ralls.

The lone junior is 6-0 forward Eddie Gibson and 6-2 forward Tim Kissiar is the only sophomore.

“It will be my fastest team I’ve had at Dongola,” Marsh said. “The kids can play some defense.”

The Demons have several freshmen who could contribute, including 5-11 guard Kyle Cox, 5-8 forward Alex Zeschke, 5-7 guard Caleb Theis, 5-7 guard Galen Treat, 5-11 forward Dillon Gilliland and 5-4 guard Dylan Simmerman.

“We’ve got a good freshmen group coming in from a good junior high team,” Marsh said.

Dongola opens its season this week at the Crab Orchard Tournament.