Hume goes to battle with roster of six

The Hume Hornets opened the 2016-17 basketball season with just five available players. With the new season upon us very little has changed for the Hornets, as head coach Justin Wehar’s club opened the 2017-18 campaign Tuesday night with a roster of six.

The Hornets are only two years removed from one of their best seasons in recent memory, finishing 15-10 overall. Hume, however, was hit hard by departing seniors at the conclusion of the 2015-16 season, and have been in rebuild-mode ever since.

“That was a three-year work-in-progress,” Wehar previously said of the 2015-16 Hornets, adding that the prior rebuild included a two-win campaign in 2013-14, followed by three victories for the 2014-15 season.

Hume struggled last season with its five-man roster, finishing 1-23 overall. The Hornets, however, have one thing they lacked a season ago — experience. Last season’s roster was comprised of two seniors, a pair of sophomores and a freshman, who collectively had very little experience playing the sport of basketball, according to Wehar.

The outlook is brighter this season, with juniors Austin and Coltin Shepherd, and sophomore sharpshooter Jonathan Kellhoffer returning. In addition Hume adds a trio of freshmen — Braxton Wikoff, Kuper Moore, and Harrison Wepener.

“(Kellhofer) has shown some major improvement from last season, and I’m looking to see goods things from him this season,” said Wehar. “Braxton, Kuper, and Harrison will give us size inside and help spread the floor offensively.”

Added Wehar: “I think we will be able to compete defensively inside the paint this season and not give up so many points (down low). We are very young and lacking in depth.”

Wehar said he is excited about his squad’s prospects for improvement this season.

“Everyone is working very hard in practice and keeping positive attitudes,” noted the fifth-year head coach. “We have good leadership on the team and some freshmen who are willing to work hard and learn.”