JV, freshmen boys continue to excel

The most exciting game of the day Saturday wasn’t either of the varsity contests, but rather the junior varsity boys game that went to overtime before the Buffs eked out a 72-64 win over Wyoming Indian.

Three players reached double figure scoring, with Briston Craft connecting for 19, Quin Coyne adding 16 to go with nine rebounds and Jax Miller contributing 14.

The win moved the JV’s record to 8-1, with its only loss being an overtime decision at 3A Glenrock.

The JV Buffs went 4-0 last month at the Foothills Classic, defeating Tongue River 74-39, Moorcroft 52-45, Big Horn 48-36 and Wright 38-21.   They added a 67-25 win over Wind River Friday in Pavillion. 

Coach James Armel’s team features a large freshman class of eight players along with two sophomores and two juniors.

“One of the biggest strengths of the team is that multiple players contribute to the scoring; This is great because we have different avenues to score when we need to start a run,” said Armel. “Three freshmen have been really solid for us: Briston Craft, Quin Coyne, and Jax Miller. All three of these players have shown a willingness to play defense and rebound. 

“William Harlow (a sophomore) has been a rock in the middle of our defense, and Landen Craft (a junior) has been shooting the ball well since coming back from Christmas break. 

“Anthony Chacon (junior) has increased his defensive pressure from last year, which helps keep the team’s intensity high. Freshman Grey Wipplinger, Alan Burgos, and Baron Eichelberger have been sparks off the bench in the JV games. All three have shown an ability to spark the team with timely 3’s and steals. 

“We also got Aaron Corral (sophomore) back from a football injury this last weekend for some extra depth to a team that is already clicking.”

The JV Buffs will be tested this weekend, playing Lovell, Powell, Worland and Wyoming Indian at the Big Horn Basin Hoops Classic, with games in Worland. 

Freshmen

Coach Daryl Shiplet has been guiding the freshmen, who have already notched wins over Riverside, 65-29, Burlington, 66-37, and Lovell, 45-40.

Jace Julson has averaged 7.5 points per game.

Quin Coyne has averaged 9.6 per game 

Grey Wipplinger is averaging 10 points per game and shooting 35% from 3-point range. “His character and attitude has been a great asset on the floor,” said Shiplet.

Briston Craft “has played tough on both the defense and offensive sides of the ball.” He is averaging 92% from the free-throw line.  

Baron Eichelberger “has been a leader on and off the court in the first month of the season.”

Jax Miller “has played outstanding every game. He is a tough, physical player that does all the dirty work in the paint and has added 12 points a game with 8 rebounds per..”