Warrior hoopsters gear up for run at state title

WASILLA -- The word on the street is the expectations for the Wasilla boys' basketball team are as tall as the man that anchors their team.

You would not know that from talking with anyone affiliated with the Warrior basketball program.

While the Warriors bring a new meaning to the word modesty, the team has a right to be excited as they return several key components from last season's squad.

First and foremost is all-state center Ray Schafer. The 7-0 post player will tower over his opponents and be a likely candidate for the Alaska State Player of the Year Award.

Schafer is not only a prime example of the talent Wasilla will be able to put on the court, but a reason why character and chemistry will be strengths for the Warrior squad.

"He is a leader and a positive influence both on and off the court," Wasilla head coach Jason Marvel said. "If you know anything about Ray, you can attest to his character."

Schafer will not be alone in Wasilla's quest for the state title. Marvel also cited returning starter Cody Schierman and transfer Buddy Bailey as important pieces to the Warrior puzzle.

"Ray, Cody and Buddy will be our leaders," Marvel said.

Bailey transferred to Wasilla from Anchorage Christian School.

"I love it so far, it has been fun," Bailey said of his new surroundings. "It is not too much different. The level of competition is a little higher."

Bailey will be in charge of bringing the ball down the court for the Warriors.

Schierman is expected to be Bailey's mate in the backcourt and start at the shooting guard position.

Chemistry seems to be the attribute that the Warriors are most excited about.

"We are coming together as a team," Schierman said. "With the exception of Buddy we have been playing together all through high school."

"This is the closest we have been in four years," Schafer said.

Bailey is not the only one making his debut in Warrior red. Marvel is in his first year at the helm of the Wasilla program and will grace the Wasilla sidelines for the first time tonight at the annual Wasilla Jamberee.

Marvel will have big shoes to fill as he takes over for legendary coach Chuck Martin.

"I am excited. I think a coach would be lying if he didn't say he was up until 2 a.m. thinking of ways to win," Marvel said. "People will be looking at the new coach and see what he is doing."

Martin led Wasilla to not only the Region III title but a fifth place finish in the state tournament.

When asked if he feels his team can have a comparable finish to that of last year, Marvel's answer was modest to say the least.

"No prediction, but it is a possibility," Marvel said.