Mountain Valley ended a rare tournament drought and threw a minor scare into favored opponent and conference rival Madison in the Class C South preliminary round a year ago.
Thanks to the addition of a fifth class, the Falcons are back in their traditional Class B environment, a change that will challenge the promising but young talent in their lineup.
The Falcons will have to change their style, as well. After relying on the brawn of seniors Caleb Gauvin and Brad Marshall in 2014-15, Mountain Valley will become a more guard-oriented team in their absence. Expect the Falcons to rely on their athleticism, with veteran guards Ryley Flynn and Alex Ridley running the show.
With only five players returning, the Falcons’ deep freshman class is sure to see immediate playing time. Mountain Valley must avoid the usual pitfalls of that situation, limiting turnovers and playing sound, fundamental ball.
Defense will generate offense if the Falcons are successful. Mountain Valley will try to ramp up its pressure to create uncontested scoring opportunities. The Falcons also must find players to pick up the rebounding slack.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
