There’s plenty of reason for optimism as this group of seniors takes the floor one last time together coming off a share of the NE8 title. The team returns a loaded core led by four experienced starters who have been through battles and know what it takes to win. That foundation gives this squad a sense of confidence and continuity as they enter the new campaign with championship-level expectations.
At the top of that list is senior guard Owen Marshall, one of the most efficient players in the area. Marshall averaged 10.3 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting 46% from the field last season. His playmaking and consistency earned him First Team All-Conference honors and a spot among the Top 100 underclass players in the state. He’ll once again be the backcourt anchor—steady and capable of taking over when needed.
Joining him as a proven leader in the frontcourt is Landon Richmond, a physical 6’5” senior forward who was one of the area’s most reliable double-threats last season. Richmond averaged 13.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting nearly 60% from the field, an impressive mark that showcased his combination of strength and touch. His performance earned him First Team All-Conference, Top 100, and All-State Honorable Mention honors.
Trey Deckman and Josh Eberly round out the returning starting lineup, each bringing key complementary skills to the table. Deckman, a Second Team All-Conference selection, chipped in 4.2 points and 2.8 rebounds per game while serving as a steady interior presence and defensive contributor. Eberly brings long-range firepower to the backcourt after hitting 39% of his shots from beyond the arc last season, making him a vital floor-spacer for the Eagles’ offensive rhythm.
The senior depth doesn’t stop there. Veterans Camden Closson (3.5 PPG, 38% from three), Cal Miller, Braden Elkins, Tyler Waybright, and Troy Hartman give the team a deeper and cohesive rotation that has already played together for years. Their chemistry and understanding of the program’s expectations should allow the team to play fast, disciplined basketball from day one.
New faces will also make their presence felt. Ian St. John, a promising sophomore point guard, brings quickness and vision that can keep the offense flowing, while Manny Dittlinger, a junior guard, adds energy to the perimeter. Their integration into a veteran-heavy lineup will be key as the team looks to stay sharp throughout a long season.
Despite losing key graduates this year’s group believes its experience and leadership more than make up for those departures.
Offseason growth has been tangible, particularly in the weight room. The focus on building strength and toughness has paid off, giving this roster the physicality to handle pressure and compete with the state’s best. The coaching staff has praised the players’ commitment to development, both on and off the court.
“I am excited for our upcoming season because our community is going to see a special group of players that compete and that care for each other’s success. These kids have sacrificed a lot of time and put in a great amount of effort to become a great basketball team,” said coach Matt Schauss.
WHY #5?
Columbia City has outdone external expectations in each of the last two seasons and their play last year was highly impressive. Their ability to gain a conference co-crown was great but the fact that they beat their co-champion leans into the idea that they very well could be the best team in the NE8.
They have a couple of potential area stars at their disposal, but the Eagles’ depth has been able to help propel the team too. With a unique and diversified schedule, they have been able to make themselves built for every style of opponent. That is not only difficult to do, but rare in many instances.
Columbia City is ready to handle whatever is thrown at them.
KEY GAME
January 24 at DeKalb
Now on paper, this game may be a bit confusing as a key game, but the timing of it changes some of that. This game comes just 7 days before a New Haven rematch in one many think could decide the NE8. But you never want the game before that to be a conference game because you don’t want to risk overlooking.
DeKalb has the potential to be a surprise team in the NE8 this season, so going against a team who has some physicality and defends well is going to mean that the Eagles will have to be dialed in for this game that is snug between two of their toughest games of the season: Homestead and New Haven.
Its a focus game for the Eagles on January 24.
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