Random Thoughts: changes looming

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports    

The latest installment of Random Thoughts centers around a job well done, new basketball divisional assignments and LeBron James.

Well done

A tip of the cap goes to Eric McCracken and Kevin Price and everyone involved in the June 24 Lincoln Highway Classic, which was played at Russell Fisher Field in Van Wert.

The first annual event was a smashing success. Interest was high and it was very well attended. The idea didn’t come to fruition overnight – it took a great deal of time and planning.

It was well done and should become an annual staple of summer.

All-MAC final?

This is eight months away, but could we see an all-MAC Division VII boys basketball state championship game?

Maybe. Obviously, a lot of things have to happen, but it’s possible defending Division VII state champion Delphos St. John’s could face Division VI state runner-up Marion Local. The Flyers dropped down to Division VII for this coming season.

Yes, Cameron Elwer graduated but Delphos St. John’s still returns a stable full of great players. Marion Local should cause all sorts of matchup problems in Division VII.

So possible? Yes? Probable? We’ll see.

Another change

When basketball divisional assignments were announced last week, there were no changes in the Western Buckeye League. However, there could be a change that helps Van Wert, with an emphasis on could.

The team that defeated the Cougars in the Division IV regional semifinals – Jonathan Alder – will compete in Division III this season. That could help Van Wert, if the Cougars can return to the regionals. Again, a lot of things have to happen. Time will tell.

Yet another change

Wayne Trace is going from Division VI to Division VII. If you missed it, the Raiders will be the largest Division VII school in the state.

Eye opening change

Lima Sr., a top five team in Division II for much of the 2025-2026 boys basketball season and a D-II state semifinalist, is now in Division III. That doesn’t seem possible, but it’s happening. Look out Division III.

LeBron James

I have a theory. It very well may be off-base but here it is anyway – according to his agent, LeBron is in no rush to pick a new NBA team to presumably close out his career with. If you somehow missed it, LeBron is a free agent and can sign with any team. Obviously, his first choice is not a perpetual basement team. He wants to go to a championship contender.

Here’s my theory – teams aren’t exactly knocking down his door to sign him. Sure, he can still play. He’ll be 42 in December and still plays at a high level, which is incredible. He’d be a draw, no doubt. Despite that, I can’t shake the feeling that there’s interest, but not overwhelming interest. Due to the salary cap, some teams can pay more than others, but how many teams are going to cough up big cash for him?

My guess – the early speculation was he winds up with Golden State. I wouldn’t argue against that. Cleveland is possible too, but I’ll be a bit surprised if that happens.

As always, if you have thoughts or comments on any of the above subjects, feel free to email me at sports@thevwindependent.com.