Sand Springs

2023 Sand Springs Sandites Boys Basketball Preview – Presented by Inkwell Printing

Published

November 27, 2023

SAND SPRINGS SANDITES
BOYS
Coach: Eric Savage
22-23 Record: 10-13
It’s hard to believe but coach Eric Savage has coached the Sandites of Charles Page High School for a decade. During that time, the Sandites have enjoyed a successful run, and coming into this season, coach Savage is optimistic about the team. “Excited about our team. We return most of our production players from last season. Playing in the new District format will allow for games against non-traditional opponents and create new rivalries,” said Savage. Deke Thompson (6-3, Jr.) returns as the team’s leading scorer after averaging 13.7 points a game with 5.3 rebounds last year. Thompson is one of the top players in the Tulsa area. Coach Savage calls him an “elite shooter but can score at all three levels.” Alijah Roper (5-9, Sr.) is back at point guard where he averaged 8.6 points, while shooting guard Kooper Kelly (5-10, Jr.) averaged 8.7 points a game. The combo of Roper and Kelly are tough to stop.

Blake Johnson (6-5, Jr.) and Khalil Allen (6-4, Jr.) are two forwards capable of big things this season. Johnson averaged 6.6 points and Allen averaged 5.8 points a game as sophomores. Other players expecting to get good minutes this season include Marcus Mitchell (5-6, Sr.), Zane Fueshko (6-4, Jr.), Kason Evans (6-5, Jr.), and Colin Shope (6-0, Sr.). Evans averaged 4.9 points a game last season and is another forward coach Savage has on the roster. Other players to watch include Micah Betchan (5-10, So.), Kruz Smith (5-11, So.), Teric Smith (5-10, So.), and Keegan Collins (6-3, Sr.). Betchan is an exciting player coach Savage is high on. “Micah had a great freshman season leading his team to a runner-up finish in the Frontier Conference. He’s a lefty who can run PG or play off guard. Above average shooter from 3 and can create his own shot off the bounce, mid-range or attacking the rim,” said Savage. Mitchell is another player with excellent experience at guard. He provides defensive intensity, often guarding the other teams best guard, according to coach Savage. Assisting coach Savage are Durrell Hawkins, Corey Haith, and Demetrius Thompson.