Expectations are high after a solid 2006-07 season that saw the Broncbusters make a strong charge at the Jayhawk West crown only to fall short in the last couple of weeks. Second year head coach Kris Baumann believes they are primed for a breakout season and a run at the West title.

The Busters finished with a 10-21 overall record due to an accidental clerical error that took away nine first semester victories. Their 9-5 conference record was good for fourth in the West and earned them a home playoff game and a trip to Wichita for the Region VI Championships.

Gone are key contributors from last season including Julian Allen (First Team NJCAA All-American), Yima Chia-Kur (First Team Region VI), Jeremy Baker and Sammie Fisher. Still, there is much optimism as the Busters return a strong core of performers who played well and contributed throughout last season.

BACKCOURT

              A combination of transfers and returners will anchor the Broncbuster backcourt this season. Transfer guards Jordan Ragan (Colorado Northwestern C.C.) and Corey Claitt (Jacksonville University) bring a wealth of experience and versatility in which both can run the team as well as score from the perimeter.

              Baumann will have plenty of options on the wing. Returning from last season and now playing his natural position at small forward, Tyrone Flemming will once again excite Buster fans with his high flying style of play. Sophomore Derrick Tarvin will also see increased minutes. A big versatile guard, Tarvin will see action at both wing positions.

              A host of freshmen will also compete for minutes in the backcourt. Red-shirt freshman Damian Young will be counted on to bring both offensive and defensive depth to the Buster wings. Both Colby Gantz and Jace McNabb will have opportunities to earn minutes over the course of the season while adjusting to the junior college tempo.

FRONTCOURT

              Garden City’s frontcourt is loaded with talented players who each possess a different skill set, giving Baumann plenty of viable options. Only Nic White returns form last season. A crowd favorite, White cracked the starting lineup late last season.

              Transfer Sterling Link should give the Broncbusters an immediate boost after an impact season with McCook C.C. He brings valuable experience and a reputation for changing the game in the paint.

              Four newcomers will all contend for playing time. After red-shirting last season, Tim Brown should provide the Busters with another solid option up front. Brown spent last season practicing in Baumann’s system and is ready to make an impact. Hard-playing freshman Blake Baird will also compete for playing time after red-shirting along with Brown.

              Freshman recruits Trevor Ottley and Chris Roquemore will be two of the more talented first-year big men in the Jayhawk West. Ottley led Thomas More Prep-Marian to the 4A State Championship while Roquemore comes to the Busters after a highly touted prep career in Houston. Both of them will have the chance to contribute to the Busters’ success in 2007-08.