Houston boys ready to run

They are not tall, but they will be quick.

With a lack of size, the Houston Hawks will try to run away from their opponents this season.

"We are going to get out and run the floor with them," Houston head coach Thad Schumacher said.

The Hawks are light on forwards, but have a group of guards who are liable to wear down opposing defenses. Leading that class are senior guards Jesse Webb and Peter Clemens and junior guard Taylor Richey.

Clemens and Webb are two of only three seniors on the Houston squad. Add forward D.J. Sandidge to the mix and you have your Hawk leaders.

At 6-foot 1-inch, Sandidge stands as the tallest player on the Hawk roster. The senior forward will be handling the duties inside for Houston.

"For most teams he would be a two or a three, for us he's a five," Schumacher said.

The Hawks hope to have Clemens for a full season this year. Last year, Clemens missed most of the season due to a broken leg. Clemens sustained a compound fracture that needed not only surgery, but 13 screws to repair.

"It will help to have him back this year," Schumacher said of Clemens. "He is a four-year varsity player. He's a gamer and will take on a leadership role."

Clemens has already demonstrated his ability to thrive in the clutch, hitting a buzzer-beating three-pointer to help lead Houston past Service in the Wasilla Jamboree.

Webb returns after garnering all-region honors a year ago.

"He really came on last year," Schumacher said of Webb.

Also returning for the Hawks are Colton Conner and Vincent Vite.

"Colton really filled out. He came back much stronger," Schumacher said. "Vincint just plays everywhere. He is our third tallest guy and will play all the positions on the floor."

Elaezar Torino, a transfer from Cordova, is also expected to contribute for Houston.

"We are real small and not deep, but we will be quick and athletic," Schumacher said. "These guys have bought into our system and they listen. They work hard and are eager to please. They work well together."