Infographic: Boys basketball preview

Head coach: James Ellis (31st year, 484-287 career)

Assistants: Travis Fuller

2020-21: 12-12, 9-4 Skyline League (third). Lost in Skyline League playoffs. 

Top returners: Keith Gaskell, sr., wing; Landon Kruzic, sr., guard; Michael Jenks, sr., post.

Key losses: Greg Reedy, Matt Anderson.

Others to watch: Hayden Harris, sr., wing; James Buckner, sr., guard; Wyatt Geiger, jr., wing; Aiden Denson, soph., guard; Keegan Stufflebeam, soph., post. 

Top newcomers: Xane Hopkins, fr., guard; Camden Stufflebeam, fr., post; Trenton Ladd, fr., wing; Daniel Brown, fr., wing/post.

Key dates:

• First game: Friday, 3:45 p.m. vs. Illinois Valley at the Crosspoint Classic, Klamath Falls.
• Home opener: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 6 p.m. vs. Central Christian.
• Skyline League opener: Jan. 6 at Powers.
• Rivalry games: Jan. 24 at Elkton; Jan. 24 at Riddle; Feb. 10 at North Douglas.

Notes:

• The Wolves lost their 6-foot-5 posts to graduation. Look for a faster tempo and more outside shooting.
• Gaskell is a four-year starter. He and fellow seniors Kruzic and Jenks played on Days Creek’s 2021 team that made it to the unofficial 1A state tournament in Baker City.
• The Wolves will face each league opponent only once this season. Myrtle Point is new to the Skyline League.
• For the first time, the top four teams from each league in 1A advance to the state playoffs. Previously, the No. 2 and 3 teams faced each other in the first round with the winner advancing to face a league champion.