Greensburg Salem boys look to rebound after tough season
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Saturday, November 25, 2017 | 8:21 PM
The Greensburg Salem boys basketball team hasn't had a winning season since 2012.
And the Golden Lions hit a low point last season with a young team by going 0-10 in a challenging Section 3-5A.
But Greensburg Salem coach Craig Mankins feels his still young team is ready to put that tough season behind them.
Despite graduating two seniors — Chet Palmer and Sam Sweeney — and sophomore guard A.J. Sharp transferring to Jeannette, the Golden Lions (7-15, 0-10) are poised to make some noise.
The team returns two starters, including senior leader scorer Marvel McGowan, and have numerous lettermen back.
“We competed in a lot games last season but weren't able to finish,” Mankins said. “We had a chance to steal a couple wins at home. We were never able to put four quarters together.”
Greensburg Salem competes in a section with Gateway, Franklin Regional, Highlands, Armstrong and Kiski Area.
“This group has played a lot of games this past offseason, and we took them to the city (Pittsburgh) to play tougher (competition) and prepare them for this season,” Mankins said. “If we're going to be successful, everyone has to play good defense and rebound.
“We'll have more depth this season. We shouldn't be intimidated by taller players. I can put five players on the court at one time who can stretch the floor and can shoot the 3s.”
Greensburg Salem doesn't return a tall team, but Mankins hopes their quickness makes up for the lack of height.
McGowan, who averaged 19.5 points, returns along with sophomore guard Jalen Page.
Sophomore Jeff Mankins, the coach's son, junior Jack Oberdorf, junior Tyler Williams, sophomore Dante Parsons, senior Isaac Winton and senior DeShaun Davidson also saw playing time last season.
Senior Rylan Crise (Burmoskey) transferred in from Jeannette.
“We're capable of playing multiple styles,” Mankins said. “We can slow it down, and we can play fast.
“Having Marvel is a matchup problem for opponents.”
Mankins said one of his concerns is finding other players who can score consistently.
Greensburg Salem started the 2016-17 season with wins against decent teams and this year's nonsection schedule is similar.
“The team has much higher expectations,” Craig Mankins said. “They're excited to get started.”
Paul Schofield is a Tribune-Review staff writer. Reach him at pschofield@tribweb.com or via Twitter @Schofield_Trib.
Tags: Greensburg Salem
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