The Wildcats came into this one hungry to prove they will be a force to be reckon with in 4A. LaPorte was coming in with 2 players injured in Malik Corley and Dylan Salisbury, and trying to figure out what they had.  Riley was ready and came out of the gates hot. Played swarming defense and cause 20 Slicer turnovers. They also had 4 players in double figures, led by Bethel commit Paton Baird who had 27. LaPorte will be a team that Riley has the chance to see again come sectional time, and we know will be improved by then. Should be a fun season for the Wildcats.

  • Led by senior Paton Baird, Riley set the tone early with their full court pressure, trapping, and solid D. They were also able to get fast break opportunities with the turnovers created. Outside shoots were falling for Baird (5), as well as for junior Brandon Williams who had 4 of his own. Riley will need the 3 ball to fall in key games later this season.
  • 6'1" LaPorte freshman Griffin Ott-Large comes from a line of former Slicer family standouts. Brothers Grant and Garrott donned the orange and white, as did cousin Gage. He was thrown right to the wolves in this one and didn't back down. Showed toughness and grit and that he can be a leader. Got his feet wet right away with his first varsity bucket. Would like to see him remain at the 1 when Corley returns. Finished with 9pts 5rebs and 6asts. Tons of upside.
  • Sophomore Nic Spence (6'4) and senior Rylan Kieszkowski (6'5) both also contributed for the Slicers. Spence had a double double and went 18 and 10. Kieszkowski was limited to 7 and 4 and was held in check by Riley senior Ayden Kent. LaPorte will need more from Kieszkowski this season for them to be successful.
  • The depth of Riley is what is going to help them the most this season. They can realistically go 5 deep on the bench and not have much of a drop off. They have solid guard play all around, and the athletes to get out and go. Senior Manny Hill (6'1) is looking to have a breakout season. Sophomore Teon Wadley and junior Marvin Schindler both look to contribute by getting to the basket and finishing or dishing off. Junior Jalen Barbara is also looking to make strides and become a leader. Look forward to seeing this team down the road as they continue to gel. The best part right now is their unselfishness and team play.

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