The upcoming boys basketball season will feature a team that’s full of experienced varsity players, and that bodes well for a possible return to the postseason.

Last year head coach Jeff Jones was tasked with replacing over 90-percent of his offense, and that proved to an uphill battle all season long. This season that percentage was significantly upgraded as a little over 75-percent of their offense returns.

The Zephyrs finished 6-16 last season and missed the district tournament. They only lost four players to graduation from that roster, with Jacob Lisicky’s departure a big void to fill. They also lost point guard Ethan Parvel, and that will free up more court time for their other point players.

They’ll fill spots using a roster that’s comprised of four seniors, eight juniors, and two sophomores.

That gives Jones plenty of options as he looks to insert players with varsity experience into the lineup.

“The one nice thing is that we have many guys who played meaningful minutes last year,” said Jones.

Among that group, senior Joe Herman returns. Herman is a returning starter who averaged six points per game last season. He’ll be one of their starting frontcourt players, and his athleticism will be a big asset down low for the Zephs.

Another senior with plenty of varsity experience is guard Rick Melosky. Melosky averaged three points per game last season, and will handle the point guard duties along with Aiden Hoderewski.

Jones said that Melosky and Dylan McGinley dedicated themselves to physically preparing for the season, becoming disciples of the weight room in the process.

Both Herman and Melosky will serve as this year’s co-captains, bringing leadership and a competitive edge to the floor.

Jones said that they’ve emerged as the unquestioned leaders, and their energy and drive will set the tone this season.

Jones also said that Melosky is playing with a lot of confidence and has raised his game another level.

“I’ve seen great strides from Rick,” Jones said.

Another senior who will make a major impact is Na’Mirr Boatwright. Boatwright logged a ton of varsity minutes last season, and is someone who can spot up for a jumper or drive to the hoop.

The Zephs senior class also features Hoderewski, a perimeter player who also saw plenty of action last season. Hoderewski is currently fighting an injury so his return to action will be delayed as they begin the new campaign.

McGinley will anchor the middle for the Zephs. He was the team’s leading scorer (9 ppg) last season, along with Parvel. His added muscle will help inside on both ends of the floor, and will give the Zephs a strong presence inside.

“I’m very impressed with him so far,” said Jones.

Also inside will be junior Jacob Gladish. Jones said that Gladish was recovering from an injury last season so his playing time was limited. This season he will be part of their rotation among their frontcourt players.

Juniors Lucas Souders and Wayne Tolson are also in that frontcourt mix. They’ll be vying for playing time inside and will give the Zephs interior depth.

Joe Lisicky is another returning player, and will be one of their off-guards. The junior is a solid perimeter player who can stretch the defense. Jones said that Lisicky is also on the mend, and his timetable for return is still uncertain. Jones said that they still have time to figure out their options if Lisicky isn’t able to go once the season begins on Dec. 7.

Another backcourt player with varsity experience is Tyler Holubowski. The junior is capable of taking his man off the dribble and getting to the rim, while also being versatile enough to hit the perimeter jumper.

Also vying for time in the backcourt will be juniors Alex Rummel and Marcus Hamscher, along with sophomores Shyhiem Foster and Luke Gilbert.

Jones said that no one player will bear the offense load. He doesn’t have a consistent 20-point scorer in the lineup. That means that once again they’ll spread the ball around and look to get the best look.

“We’re putting five guys out on the floor and see who can make plays and contribute on offense,” said Jones.

While they want to get out an run in transition, he said that they’ll need to stay disciplined and run their offense accordingly. He said that means staying patient and working for the best chance to score every possession.

“We’re going to play to our strengths,” said Jones.