11/5/2009
One look at the 2009-10 Webster men’s basketball roster, and people familiar with the program will see a lot of change. Gone are seven seniors, including Ryan Turk, Webster’s sixth all-time leading scorer, and fellow starters Luke Niebrugge and Steve Hrdlicka, the team’s two best defenders. Head coach Chris Bunch, entering his ninth season with the Gorloks, isn’t as worried as one might think. “Although we lost several key players, we return a core of good players with a lot of experience as well,” Bunch said. “We also have three new players we believe will make a big impact immediately.”
Returning for the Gorloks are several part-time starters. Josue Whitcomb (7 ppg/5 rpg) and John Ortwerth (5 ppg/3 rpg) are the two seniors with the most experience. “Josue and John are our two best rebounders, and I expect them to be a significant part of our team this year,” Bunch said. Nick Jones (8 ppg/4 rpg), Scott Restoff (6 ppg/3 rpg), Robby Meeh (4 ppg/3 rpg) and Mat Tripett are juniors who saw extensive minutes for Webster last season. Bunch is especially fond of this group. “All four of these guys have good size for perimeter players, but can guard bigger players. They can all shoot and handle the basketball, and they are good rebounders and defenders. I expect this group to really improve this season.”
Two sophomores expected to provide the biggest impact are also the team’s two biggest players physically, Kevin Miller and Richard Ogunsalu. Miller started two games last season before breaking his foot in the third game, ending his season. “I expect both Kevin and Richard to provide us with scoring and rebounding while giving us a stronger presence inside,” Bunch said. Other returners vying for playing time are senior Justin Endo, junior Brad Cookson and sophomores Berton Wong and Ryan Fassler. Senior Josh Walker and sophomore Khris Washington return for the Gorloks as well.
Three newcomers from the community college ranks are expected to give the Gorloks a huge lift this year. Drew Moore (9 ppg/4.5 rpg, Meramec CC) is another strong, athletic player that can play both on the perimeter and inside. “Drew fits in very well with our other players,” notes Bunch. “He can do many different things well and can guard both smaller and bigger players. We are expecting a big season from him.” Jeremiah Garrett (12 ppg/5 rpg) and Jerry Strickland (12 ppg/3 apg) come to Webster from Florissant Valley Community College. “Jeremiah is an explosive player that can drive and finish around the basket and rebound,” said Bunch. “Jerry’s quickness and playmaking ability will really help us on the offensive end.” Mike Stolle (Meramec CC) is another transfer who could factor into the rotation for Webster.
There is a solid freshman class for the Gorloks, led by Derrell Lee (Flint, MI/Radford HS) and Cody Bradfisch (Grafton, IL/Jerseyville HS). Gabe Maichel (St. Louis/West County Home School), JaMarius Jelks (Decatur, IL/Eisenhower HS), Jurgen Rama (St. Louis/Mehlville HS) and Adis Kapic (St. Louis/Mehlville HS) round out the freshmen class for the Gorloks.