With revamped roster, Freeport boys looking to develop identity

By: Jon Ramsey
Saturday, November 16, 2024 | 1:42 PM

Freeport boys basketball coach Rich Macura is looking to get a boost this season from some of his multi-sport athletes returning to the court.

“We’ve been working through summer league, and we’re still kind of developing our identity with the football players coming back this week,” said Macura. “I hope that the success can carry over into our season.”

The Freeport football team had a strong season, going 8-4 and making it to the WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinals after a first-round win over Mt. Pleasant.

On the court, the Yellowjackets went 7-15 overall and 3-7 in Section 1-4A last season. That was good enough for a fourth-place finish in the section, but their reward for making the playoffs was a first-round date with juggernaut Lincoln Park, which went on to win WPIAL and PIAA titles.

Guard Brady Sullivan, a second-team Valley News Dispatch All-Star, graduated, but Macura has a lot of returners, most of whom have not seen many varsity minutes. In addition, he has newcomers who are primed to make an impact at the varsity level.

“(Guards) Gavin Tola and Owen Westendorf are both newcomers who I can foresee having an impact at the varsity level,” said Macura.

“We are kind of in a little bit of an odd rebuilding mode. We’ve got another tough section this year that includes North Catholic and Deer Lakes, who are championship-level teams, as well as Highlands, who are going to be tough as well.”

Macura believes the Yellowjackets’ strong nonconference schedule will help get his team to where it needs to be before section play begins.

“Our nonconference schedule is Shady Side Academy, Butler, Plum and Hampton,” said Macura. “Playing some tough teams will allow us to prepare for our section matches later in the season.”

While the roster is being rebuilt, Macura is hoping to discover what his team’s identity is right away.

“We need to figure out who our leaders are and then figure out who our scorers are going to be,” he said. “There are a lot of opportunities for everyone, and it’s good to have that internal competition.

“We will look to wear teams down and do what it takes to win.”

Freeport boys at a glance

Coach: Rich Macura

Last year’s record: 7-15 (3-7 Section 1-4A)

Top returners: Dempsey Cowan (Sr., G), Sean Selinger (Sr., F), Carson Kane (Jr., G), Danny King (So., F), Bryson Pega (So., G), Mike Graczyk (So., F)

Top newcomers: Gavin Tola (So., G), Owen Westendorf (Fr., G)

Tags: Freeport