WELCH WILDCATS
Coach: JEFF OXFORD
2024-25 Record: 12-11
OUTLOOK
There are many reasons the Wildcat faithful are looking forward to the upcoming season. Head coach Jeff Oxford said the team is building on the success of last season.
“Last year we had the most wins since the COVID year, it was also the most wins Welch has had in 15 years. With only one senior we are still expecting to have a big year. We are returning our top two scores from last season along with a strong freshman class that will make a big impact,” coach Oxford said.
Dakota Bidwell (6-3, Sr.) is a VYPE Top 100 selectee and a four-year starter for the Wildcats. Last season he averaged 11 points, 10 rebounds and 5.0 steals per game. Bidwell also guards the opponent’s best player and will likely lead the team in scoring this season. Joe Clinton (6-1, Jr.) is back after averaging 12 points and 3.0 assists per game as a sophomore. The combo of Bidwell and Clinton will be a tough duo to contain.
Thomas Ashworth (6-1, Jr.) will play forward with Devin Massey (5-10, Jr.) at guard, giving the Wildcats two players who run the court and play salty defense. Add Max Etzel (6-1, So.) to the mix and you have the building blocks for what could be their best season in recent memory.
A group of freshmen look to make their presence felt including Emery Schaper (6-2, Fr.) who is coming off a solid eighth grade season and is known for having an excellent outside shot. Also look for Grady Gleaves (6-2, Fr.) at forward, Ben Hitz (6-0, Fr.) at guard, Cannon Keith (6-1, Fr.), and Ulises Villa (5-10, Fr.0 at guard.
