Local News

On the opening day of the boys' high school basketball season, here are five story lines to track:

1. There is a buzz on Warrior Way. A seasoned cast at Wayne could make coach Travis Trice a first-year hit. The Warriors were

7-2 before fading last season. Trice is confident, and it stems from holdovers such as Charles Winkfield (14.1 points per game), Tyler Milligan (10.1), Dionjay Lenoir (9.0) and Jesse Solomon (8.1). "We'll pick up the pace and attack, attack full-court," Trice said. "It'll be an exciting brand of ball."

2. Tradition doesn't graduate. Centerville (19-4, 9-1 Greater Western Ohio Conference) figures to be a Division I tourney stalwart and tough to beat in the GWOC under Jim Staley (251-116). The three-time conference champs feature returnees Matt Kavanaugh, Andrew Kubaszewski and J.J. Mukhdomi. Size, starting with the imposing 6-foot-10 Kavanaugh, plus depth and tradition are key. Watch out for 6-3 Adam Replogle, who brings football toughness to the hardwood.

3. Can Dunbar deliver a third straight state title? The Wolverines face a tougher course to Columbus without the likes of Daequan Cook and Aaron Pogue, but return plenty of talent from the team that beat Upper Sandusky 87-85 for the 2006-07 Division II title. Josh Benson is the tough obstacle at 6-10. Keith Rakestraw and Harvey Stewart provide backcourt experience. Depth comes from an 18-1 freshman team.

4. Alter enjoyed a stellar season last year (21-3). Sweet-shooting Ryan Siggins ranks as a top player. The Knights expect a boost from Northmont transfer Jamarre White, an athletic 6-1 junior who reminds coach Joe Petrocelli of Paris Harris, last year's dynamo. The veteran coach likes his guards (Brian Dougherty, Nick Royer, Tony Boyle and White) and has size (6-6 twins Trevor and Ahtie Heitz and 6-8 juniors Mike Joseph and Max Plunkett).

5. The best small-ball is in Russia. The Raiders look to continue as a D-IV power with four starters from last season's 21-2 team. Talented inside-outside games of guard Brook Schafer (Shelby County League player of the year) and 6-6 post Andy Zumberger should help Russia avoid another sectional final upset.