GROVE RIDGERUNNERS – Boys
Coach: GARRETTE MANTLE
2025-26 Record: 19-9
OUTLOOK
Grove boys basketball begins a new chapter under head coach Garrette Mantle, with one returning starter and a plan to play an energetic, full-court game.
Dax Collins (6-1, Jr.) is the lone returning starter and provides an established scoring presence at shooting guard. He averaged 12.0 points last season and earns particular praise for his ability to make shots from deep. Mantle expects Collins to be a prominent scorer in Class 4A as his responsibilities expand. Collins’ perimeter ability gives Grove a familiar offensive option during a season of transition. With most of the starting lineup changing, his experience provides continuity as teammates settle into new roles. His shooting will be an important part of the Ridgerunners’ effort to build an effective attack at their preferred pace.
Briggs Fink (5-9, Sr.) supplies another important presence at point guard. Mantle describes him as a throwback player who makes good decisions, controls his pace and gets teammates the ball in scoring positions. His competitiveness is the quality Mantle values most, giving Grove a senior guard expected to influence multiple areas of the game.
Naaman Niehaus (6-9, Jr.) provides size at forward and adds another important presence within the program. Mantle praises his selflessness and ability to bring people together. Those qualities give the Ridgerunners a teammate whose influence extends beyond the responsibilities associated with his position.
Aiden Knight (6-0, Jr.) and Grant Alexander (6-0, Jr.) provide additional options at shooting guard. Nathan O’Neal (5-10, So.) adds a younger point guard as the coaching staff develops the broader rotation. Their progress will help determine how effectively Grove can use the depth Mantle envisions.
Mantle is assisted by Jeremy Collins as the Ridgerunners establish their approach. With Collins supplying returning scoring, Fink helping direct the offense and Niehaus adding size, Grove has distinct pieces to build around. Developing the supporting group and sustaining an effective full-court pace will be central to turning those pieces into a connected team.
