Season wrap-up: Lincolnview Lancers

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

The 2017-2018  boys’ basketball season may be over for the Lincolnview Lancers, but it’s fair to say it was an exciting one for players and fans.

The season came to an end last Friday with a 60-52 loss to Wayne Trace in the Division IV sectional title game at Paulding High School. Lincolnview finished the season 16-8 (7-1 NWC), and head coach Brett Hammons said he enjoyed his time with this year’s squad.

“There are a lot of things I will remember from this season,” Hammons said. “Things that happened on the floor to our team meals. It is just a well-rounded group. The bond this team had will be something I remember. Not every team I have had has had that.”

“It is special and to see it day in and day out was awesome. They were a joy to be around and they made coaching enjoyable every day.”

Five seniors – Caden Ringwald, Chayten Overholt, Tristin Miller, Isiac Bowersock and Ethan Parsons – were a big part of Lincolnview’s success during the season. Ringwald and Overholt were All–NWC first team guards and the team’s leading scorers.

“They are a unbelievable group of young men,” Hammons said of his seniors. “This group will really hurt to lose. They put a lot of time in to make not only themselves better, but their teammates better too.”

“They all have great personalities and brought different things to the team,” Hammons added. “These guys will be very successful in the next stage of life because of their work ethic. These seniors left a positive influence on this program and they will be missed.”

With an eye on next season, Hammons explained that replacing players lost to graduation won’t be easy.

“With this senior class leaving we have some spots that need to be filled and guys will have to step up to the challenge,” Hammons stated. “It will not be an easy task, but we do have talent that can step in. Players from this year will have to change their roles for next year. How they adjust to those roles will help set the tone for the success we will have.”

Two returning players – juniors Ethan Kemler and Zane Miller – earned All-NWC honors this season.

“The players in our program have been working hard to be successful every year,” Hammons continued. “I have been pleased with the growth that has been made every year. I feel that our future is bright. Kids are buying in because the success we are having at every level. It is a nice thing to see.”

Hammons also saluted Lincolnview’s fans, who came to games in full force.

“Our fan support is unbelievable,” Hammons said. “It is the best in our area. There were away games we had more fans than the home team.”

“No matter where we play or the record we have they come out and support us,” Hammons added. “I couldn’t ask for better fans. I am lucky to be coaching at Lincolnview.”