By Mitch Silver
Boys’ Basketball
Head Coach: Steve Gage ( 3rd year)
Asst. Coaches: Brendan Barile and Jordan Griffith
2016 Record: 7-12
Returning Captains: Sam Berger and Allan Houston
Returning Starters: Billy O’Meara and Ben Pierce
<<What/Who Will a Successful Season Depend On?>> “RCDS returns a strong core ready to take the next step as a program. Our 6’7” senior Sam Berger has grown into his body and is poised to be a difference-maker this year. With an offseason of hard work. Sam has transformed himself into an inside/out threat on offense who can also defend on the perimeter and protect the rim. His presence is an X-factor for the team this year. He can change the game. Junior Allan Houston looks to become one of the top players in the region. He can score, is an elite defender, and has all of the intangibles to lead his team.
“The leaders are clear and will carry the team, but a deep bench means the Wildcats will have numerous options behind Houston and Berger. Returning starters Billy O’Meara and Ben Pierce move into leading roles this year and should thrive with the added responsibility.
“Seniors Cole Price and Austin Pager will compete with a strong new group of newcomers graduating from a successful JV team to round out a talented squad. Sophomore Shane Regan and juniors Brett Robinson and Nick Owens look like major contributors and will surprise those who have not seen them play.
<<What About the Competition?>> “With an ambitious schedule filled with the always-strong FAA league slate and non-conference games against top NYS public and private schools, the Wildcats will have to be ready to play at their highest level every game.”
Opening Game: December 1 against Fieldston in their tournament.
Wildcat captains Sam Berger, left, and Allan Houston.
