For Rockets Varsity boys basketball coach Nick Marcini, the last basketball season gave him his third PTC championship win as head coach, this new year might mean a new title.

“A MAC championship is certainly within their grasp,” Marcini said. “Sky’s the limit for these guys if we can all buy in and work hard.”

The expectations for the team are so high because the Rockets have nearly everyone returning from the championship team last year.

“We had three seniors last year — Krys Riley-Richardson, Andrew Douglas and Jawuan Jackson,” Marcini said. “Krys was a three-year starter for us and Biggie and Jawuan were hard workers every day in practice. All three were great leaders, so they will be hard to replace;  however, we have a lot of guys that are ready to step in and fill those spots.”

Seniors Mike Hall and Donny Washington-Perdue, along with juniors Bryce Vecchio and Sam Abbuhl, already have Varsity minutes under their belts and are ready to take the time and effort to replace Riley- Richardson and Douglas.

Also expected to step up and fill the open roles are returning players Deven Grabill and Alec Edgington, both seniors, and junior Ryan Thomson.

Marcini is also looking to play senior Mason Kamlowsky, juniors Maysun Klimak and Jake Smolik, and sophomore Brevyn Nobles. These guys, Marcini added, “join a backcourt that already has Zamar Harris, Colin Boldin, Chris Golson, Tyler Hall and Devin Reese, that played a bunch last year.”

The coaches and players are hopeful to have as normal a season as possible despite COVID-19 and the expected surge over the colder months.  

“It is probably unrealistic to believe it won’t affect us at all throughout the winter,” he said, “but we will do our best to try and stay safe.”

Now having to contend with COVID restrictions and threats in addition to opponents and the pressures of defending their PTC title, Marcini and his players will have to continue focusing on their moto: “The tougher team sets the rules so ‘Work Hard, Play Harder!’”