Terek Crosby’s graduation begins rebuild, but Yough boys remain optimistic

By: Jon Ramsey
Monday, November 25, 2024 | 2:28 PM

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While amidst a rebuild, Yough boys basketball coach William Sherbondy has high hopes for his team to continue to have success.

“This offseason was phenomenal for all the kids we’ve had for a while,” Sherbondy said. “We’ve had some football players come out, so that’s going to be a little transition for them to get used to how we do things, but overall it’s been really good.”

Led by Terek Crosby, who averaged 25 points en route to becoming the program’s No. 2 all-time leading scorer with 2,036 career points, the Cougars went 19-7 overall and 11-1 in Section 4-3A last season. The Cougars captured a section title and made a trip to the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals.

Crosby is now playing as a freshman at Saint Vincent, however, and Sherbondy is only returning two varsity starters: Charlie Quinn (Sr., G) and Ryan Westerman (Jr., G).

As far as newcomers, Sherbondy has a few pieces he feels will round out his starting lineup.

He said junior guard/forward Jackson Pore and senior guard Jaden Dixon-Bretzel will make an impact this season, and junior center Theo Moore will also play a big role in the paint.

Improving on last season while losing Crosby and most of the starting lineup is challenging, but Sherbondy will be looking to approach this year with a positive mindset.

“We have to make the most competitive situation out of everything every day,” Sherbondy said.

He believes his team will benefit from the iron-sharpens-iron idea and only will get better as the season goes on.

Sherbondy noted another challenge for his team heading into the season.

“The lack of togetherness will be tough for us,” he said. “We have to get everything put together and get everyone on the same page.”

Team identity isn’t something Sherbondy has thought much about, but the simple approach he looks to implement should help his team figure it out sooner rather than later.

“We will look to defend, rebound and push the tempo on offense,” Sherbondy said. “We will see what games entail, and we will have to adjust game to game.”

Yough boys at a glance

Coach: William Sherbondy

Last year’s record: 19-7 (11-1 Section 4-3A)

Top returners: Charlie Quinn (Sr., G), Ryan Westerman (Jr., G)

Top newcomers: Jackson Pore (Jr., G/F), Jaden Dixon-Bretzel (Sr., G), Theo Moore (Jr., C)

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