“I feel we have a highly competitive, energetic group of kids. We also have some experience which is always a plus,” said North Platte High School Head Boys’ Basketball Coach Matt Kaminiski. He said the team has the most depth they’ve had during his tenure. They need to develop that depth and find chemistry. Kaminski is optimistic about the season, but is wary about the struggles that the team could face. “We have some size, but not by top tier Class A standards,” he said. “ We will have to make up for that collectively with our quickness.”

As the team looks forward to the season, Kaminski said every game this season is important in their challenging schedule. “We will have to earn wins and success every time we step on the court, and this group has the potential to do that every game.” He said he loves the enthusiasm and encouragement the kids bring everyday. “The character and work ethic of this group with lead to improvement throughout the year and reaching our potential,” he said, “We will be a team that gets every ones attention.”

The leadership and experience of the seniors will be valuable to the team according to Kaminski. “We have a good group of seniors to be our rock this year: Rashawn Bryant, Marcos Reyes, Kijana Owens, Ben Gosnell, Jace Barker, and Adam Engel. Each of their roles will be important to our team,” he said. “ Our key returners are juniors Ryan Letourneau, Will Phillips, and Dominic Martinez, with sophomores Kade Wroot and Bryson Krull as good additions to the team as well,” Kaminski said.

The team tipped off the season in an unofficial scrimmage against Gothenburg on Monday, the Dawgs took down the Swedes 41-38. The next game for the Dawgs will be against Lincoln High or Elkhorn tomorrow at 2:45 p.m.