Top Team Preview: Heritage Christian

In just their eighth year of IHSAA level basketball, the northside private school, Heritage Christian, has quickly made a name for themselves. Winning three sectional titles and one regional crown in the past four years, Coach Cary Chandler has high hopes for this Eagles squad. After losing 69-63 in their regional matchup with Tyler Koch's (Wright State) Winchester team, the 2A #8 Eagles are looking to improve on last year's disappointing ending. The mantra for the 2008-2009 version of the Eagles is getting key defensive stops, something that haunted them in that regional game.

The Eagles lost two seniors from last years' Sectional winner, but there is a lot of firepower returning. They also welcome one highly touted newcomer. Gone are 6'6" shooter Daniel Metzelfeld (IU-East) and 6'7" shot blocker Clay Karns. The cupboard is far from bare, however. The Eagles hopes will rest on the 1-2 punch of 6'5" senior guard Tommy Eggleston (15.6 ppg) and 6'4" senior forward Morgan Cook (12 ppg). Eggleston has interest from several mid-low major teams, including Evansville, and with a solid senior campaign, he should garner offers. His length makes him a tremendous defender (when inspired), and he is a dynamic slasher who finishes above the rim. His outside shot is solid, but improving. Cook's future is in football, where he was the leading receiver for the Eagles 2A State Champion football team. He hauled in seven catches for 150 yards and a touchdown in the victory at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Eagles also return several experienced seniors from last years' team in point guard Durrel Davis, sharpshooter David Reynolds, and 6'4" springy athlete Cory Mayes. Also returning is 6'7" center Jake Browne, a post banger who should control the boards. The newcomer is 6'6" frehman guard/forward Joel Smith, ranked within the top 5-10 in the state in his age group. He is a tireless worker with an amazing attitude and great leadership for a ninth grader. He will likely start immediately for Chandler's squad and add a third scoring option, as well as size. The Eagles will have the option of starting five players 6'4" and over, a rarity for any 2A team. The Eagles play arguably the hardest schedule in all of the 2A class, including games against 4A powers Cathedral, Columbus East, and Indianapolis Tech and 3A squads Bishop Chatard and Brebeuf Jesuit. They also play in the Indianapolis City Tournament.

The season looks bright for Heritage Christian, looking to take the next step, getting those stops that could propel them to the top of 2A.