The Panthers led by longtime coach Rick Haberman were the Cinderella’s of Section 3AA last season losing in the sub-section finals to Redwood Valley as a #7 seed, but letting know those in the southwest part of the state that they’re a force to be reckoned with. Nine kids come back this year from that very young squad.

Of the 9 guys back, just one is a senior this season! Junior Josh Kirk brings back a lot of offense (18ppg) to the Panthers this season. Kirk lives in the gym and has spent a lot of his summers playing hoops any place he can. Sophomore Spencer Smith, made a name for himself last season and is a real nice ball player 6’4 and still growing. These two are just pieces of many that will be important to the team successes this year.

Brett Swenhaugen, another Junior, the HS QB, runs the show on the court as well. He’s a glue guy and a great leader. Riley Kirk is a kid who can score a ton of points or go blue collar for the betterment of the teams. Others returning who’ll be big pieces to the season include: Derek Larson, Tanner Phelps, Brady Lanoue, Hayden Sanders, and Nathan Wieme.

Camden Conference games are always good measuring sticks as the season goes on. Teams like MACCRAY, Lakeview, and RTR bring different looks that prepare you for the post season. Contenders out of the Camden this year look to be Dawson-Boyd and Central MN Christian in the North, while Canby and TMB battle for the South half.
Section Titles this season on 2AA will be very competitive. Teams like Montevideo, GFW, and Redwood Valley will be in the way in Subsection 3AA North. The South is stronger than ever with squads like Fairmont, Jackson Co Central, and Pipestone looking to be State Bound.

Coach Haberman has worked with this team since 9th grade where many were already varsity regulars. A team like this should be getting better and getting respect from their opponents. They’ll be better than their 15-13 record last year with no issues.

For more previews or high school basketball discussion, visit the MN Buckets Forum.