A new era is set to unfold this season for a program that prides itself on balance, toughness, and championship aspirations. After graduating three major contributors, this group returns with a mix of experience and new talent that could make for one of the most physically imposing and versatile teams in the conference. With size, athleticism, and a handful of proven scorers, the expectation is to not only contend in the SAC but to make a serious run toward another sectional crown — and perhaps further down the tournament trail to Indianapolis.
Leading the way are senior standouts Carmani Davis and Ayle Taylor, two key veterans who bring scoring, leadership, and stability to both ends of the floor. Davis, a reliable shooting guard who averaged 7 points per game while shooting 42% from beyond the arc, has shown the ability to stretch defenses and provide offensive spark when needed as he has the most experience in this lineup. Taylor, a physical power forward, chipped in 8.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game, giving the team a steady interior presence and a matchup problem with his combination of strength and touch as he will be coming in off a solid season on the gridiron.
Surrounding those two are several more experienced returners ready to take on expanded roles. Keyon Crowe and Chuck McBride, both seniors, bring valuable minutes and veteran toughness, the kind of glue pieces that can make a balanced lineup work. Zen Szaferski, a promising sophomore point guard, showed flashes of maturity beyond his years last season and will be expected to orchestrate the offense with poise and pace. Meanwhile, Jayden Moore, another sophomore, offers size and versatility on the wing, contributing both on the boards and defensively. Both Szaferski and Moore are also coming off great summers of growth.
The program also adds two newcomers who could dramatically elevate the ceiling. Jonas Muya, a 6’9” senior center transfer from La Lumiere, provides a true interior anchor that few SAC teams can match. His presence in the paint could redefine how this group defends and controls tempo. Alongside him, TJ English, a 6’3” junior guard, adds athleticism and scoring potential — a player capable of attacking the rim or spacing the floor with perimeter shooting. English comes from Liberty Christian, where he averaged 12.7 points per game last season. Both could become difference-makers as the season develops.
Of course, the team must replace a trio of stars who were instrumental in recent success. The Truesdale brothers, Drelyn and Dereon, combined for nearly 28 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals per game, giving last year’s team its backcourt firepower. Their ability to control tempo and create offense will be missed. Additionally, Danny Kelly’s production in the paint — 9.5 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game — leaves a void in interior defense and rebounding that Muya and Taylor will now need to fill.
Despite those losses, optimism is high thanks to the overall balance and size across the roster. This team can play multiple styles — big and physical inside, or fast and skilled on the perimeter — depending on the matchup. With scoring threats at nearly every position, opponents will find it difficult to key in on one player, making this group a dangerous one to game plan against.
The biggest challenge early will be chemistry. Integrating new pieces while defining roles will take time. Luers will need to continue to emphasize the importance of players “buying into roles” and understanding each other’s strengths — a message that will determine whether the group can transform talent into cohesion. If the upperclassmen embrace leadership and the underclassmen continue to mature, this team’s potential is significant.
“These Knights are going to be a really fun group to watch on a nightly basis. We will play unselfish, fast and defend at a high level,” said coach Seth Coffing.
WHY #2?
Look at the size and stature of this team. They graduated their three best players, all on to player higher level basketball, but still are right in the thick of being the best team in the SAC and the area.
This team has competent ball handling, size inside, shooting prowess and a core of young guys that can step up and continue to keep Luers relevant far beyond this season. Bishop Luers have all of the pieces available this season to flex their muscles and it stands to reason that they are considered a top team in the preseason.
KEY GAME
December 19 at Homestead
The lead in the SAC will be on the line early in the season and it will allow the winner of this one to have the chance to play with that lead confidently as the season progresses.
The key for Luers here is that they have so many new and growing pieces that they have to dial in pretty well before this meeting. The winner of this legit has a great chance to win the conference, so expect Luers to do everything they can to be dialed in for this.
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