Oxford varsity basketball Coach Paul Marfia likes what he has seen on the hardwood in the preseason and wants to see how the group can respond to the challenges ahead in the OAA Gold Division.
There are four returning seniors on the team, and Marfia said he expects Nathan Brubaker, Jacob Wysocki and Robert Norfolk to be among the team leaders.
The fourth senior Michael Censullo also will be part of the mix.
‘I like what I have seen this summer and in the fall,? Marfia said. ‘We may struggle at times to find our identity, but I am excited about our chances.?
Junior Alexander Hesse is expected to be big inside for the Wildcats.
Sophomore Connor Elzerman has shown some good offensive skills and Marfia hopes that he will contribute.
Team newcomers Tyler Scott and Paul Drohan are both juniors who can help provide some spark, Marfia said.
‘We still need to work on some fundamentals and at times we will play with speed but there is a need to improve,? Marfia said.
The team’s second game of the year on Dec. 7 and Marfia said it will be an opportunity for the squad to learn quickly.
‘I would think we would be one of the favorites in the OAA Gold but we will have to work hard. Our young guys will need to gel with our seniors to make it work,? Marfia said.