Gateway boys basketball looks to carry over the success of football team
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Sunday, December 3, 2017 | 11:00 PM
The Gateway community is engulfed in the excitement and success of the football team.
After winning its first WPIAL championship since 1986, the Gators prolonged their season by reaching the PIAA Class 5A championship set for Friday.
The extension of the football season also throws a wrench in the plans at the beginning of the boys basketball season.
A few players will cross over seasons, but none more important than junior Courtney Jackson. He is the top receiver for the Gators and one of the best in the WPIAL, but Jackson also will serve as starting point guard for the basketball team.
“He is a game-changer in basketball,” fourth-year coach Daryn Freedman said. “We are a different team with him out there. He is quick and has a good shot. He can go by anybody. He is a good passer and has a good feel for the game.
“I would rather have him healthy after football season. I am not putting any pressure on him.”
Fortunately for Freedman, he will have the luxury of depth and experience as most of the starters return from a team that won the section title last season.
Once again, a Kromka brother — senior John Paul — will be at the center of things. Kromka is on pace to score his 1,000th point early in the season and recently committed to Pitt-Johnstown.
“John Paul has had a really good career,” Freedman said. “He has been a starter since Day 1. He is a great player. He is the leader of the team.”
Kromka was injured in the first game last season, and his absence proved to be tough in nonsection play. The Gators started the season 0-5 and finished 11-13 even though they won the section.
“It was a strange season,” Freedman said. “We have built everything around John Paul, and he breaks his wrist three minutes into the first game. We are hoping for a much better start this season.”
Sophomore RJ Stevenson will start at point guard if Jackson is not ready and move to shooting guard once Jackson returns. Stevenson played a significant role as a freshman, which is common for a Freedman-coached team. This year's freshman who could make an immediate impact is Hunter Hicks, a post player who will join Kromka and junior Nate Roper in the frontcourt.
Seniors Mark Bozicevic and Trenell Scott also will start.
Gateway will begin its season against Plum on Friday in the Plum Tip-Off tournament.
Drew Karpen is a freelance writer.
Tags: Gateway
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