Scott plans to utilize depth in first season at Jackson's helm

Under coach Mike Kiehne last season, the Jackson bench was one of the most utilized in the area.

Whether the games were close or blowouts, Jackson's reserves played key roles in the outcomes.

While the Indians have a new leader in former Notre Dame coach Darrin Scott, Indians fans again can expect to see a number of players hit the court.

"Our practices are very competitive. We have 12 guys that can compete and make each other better every day," Scott said.

Jack Puisis is the lone returning starter for the Indians. The 6-foot-1 senior guard averaged about 12 points per game last season.

"Jack is our only returning starter. He's proven quite a bit at the varsity level," Scott said.

Two players who likely will see plenty of time either starting or coming off the bench are centers Aaron Redecker, a 6-10 junior, and Ryan Mirly, a 6-7 senior.

Scott said he's pleased to have two solid big men and is impressed with the way Redecker's game is improving.

"He keeps getting better," Scott said. "The thing with Aaron, he has tremendous upside and tremendous potential to keep improving."

At the guard position, Jackson will have to rely on several of last year's reserves to step up into starting roles. A trio of seniors -- Tyler Beussink, Cody Cardwell and Adam Ross -- are competing for time at guard.

Adding to the depth will be senior forward Eric Poythress, a returning varsity player, and a host of players who starred for the junior varsity last season. Fighting for varsity minutes will be juniors Kyle Pridemore (6-1), Trey Stone (6-2), Ryan Leet (6-2), Drue McNeely (6-1) and Tyler Grantham (6-3).

"We have a lot of players that have a chance to be good varsity players," Scott said.

While the Indians will have plenty of lineup options to go with, finding some players to step up and become scoring threats will be key. Under Scott's philosophy, the Indians will likely have an attacking offense.

"The biggest thing for us is to try to get the guys to take what the defense gives you," Scott said.

Jackson will open its season in the Farmington Tournament on Monday.