LOCAL SPORTS

When looking at the history of Bethel basketball, it’s not hard to find out how much success they have enjoyed. Seven Cross County Conference championships has been won, and a state title back in 2001.

One of those members from that state championship team has returned home to take over the coaching reigns of the Bees, and knows that the tradition at Bethel is very high.

“A lot of first year coaches don’t come in with the expectations that I have,” said Brett Kopp, who is gearing his squad up for the start of the season. “A lot of people look at us and see a lot of young talent, what I see is a lot pf potential to do great things. We are working hard toward meeting those expectations.”

Bethel will have 10 players on the varsity roster this year, and Kopp has been working with them to utilize their individual ability, along with trying to get them to work together as a team.

“In the past, Bethel has been knows as a zone defense team,” he said. “Our kids are learning how to play man-to-man defense and it has taken all summer. They need to understand how I want it. Defense is all about effort and they are starting to understand the expectations.”

Two seniors return to lead the way for the Bees; Evan Hawthorn and Conner Hockett.

Hawthorn is a 6-foot-7 post with the potential according to Kopp, of becoming one of the top players in the league.

“He has great footwork and athleticism, and could be dominant in the league if he continues to develop,” Kopp said. “Conner is a player who is a very athletic kid who could contribute for us. He is a tough defender and will our guards some good minutes off the bench.”

Five juniors reside on the roster, including Ian Anderson, Tyler Terry, Nate Rimkus, Josh Wills and Christian White.

Anderson is a 6-foot-4 athletic player who is a long kid who works both ends of the court. According to Kopp, when he is at his best, we will be at our best.

Terry is a slashing 6-foot-3 guard who is long and athletic.

“He can do things that not many kids in our league can do,” Kopp said. “He can disrupt the other teams’ game plan.”

Rimkus is a solid 5-foot-11 shooter who should win some games for the Bees this year according to the coach.

Wills returns as a 6-foot versatile player who can play all five positions for the Bees.

“He is the most athletic kid we have,” Kopp said. “He can play all five positions and do it well. He should guard the best player and get to the rim. He will be a key to our defense.”

White also is a 6-foot player who can play most of the spots on the floor, and according to Kopp, has a motor that will not stop.

A trio of sophomores will all expect to be a big part if the Bees are going to compete for a league title.

Korry Hamlin is a 5-foot-9 guard who can hit the shots from the perimeter, and can guard the best outside threat.

Caleb South also returns after a productive freshman season. The 6-foot guard will be one of the top guards in the conference.

“He wants greatness and wants to reach his pinnacle,” Kopp said. “He wants to be greater than the greatest player ever at Bethel, and I am excited to see where he can go. He has great leadership qualities.”

Jake Evans is also a 6-foot-1 sophomore who had a solid football season, and Kopp expects him to work at both ends of the floor and knows he will put out maximum effort all the time.

Bethel opens the season at Northeastern next Tuesday night, then heads to Franklin Monroe on December 4 before their home opener December 11 against Bradford.

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