21st MCRC Boys Previews: Warren DeLaSalle
- Written by Mal Parker
Taking a look at the pre-season top ranked teams participating in the 21st Annual Motor City Roundball Classic.
Team Page (Team info, Schedule, Results, Stats)
(15-10, Class A): Longtime coach Greg Esler is optimistic about De La Salle’s chances for a long postseason run after advancing to the Class A regional championship game last year, losing to Detroit Western. De La Salle returns multiple starters, including Central Michigan-bound Kevin McKay (20 points, 4 assists), a 6-4 senior, and 6-9 junior center Jack Ballantyne (8 points). Other top players include 6-5 sophomore guard Luke Pfromm, 6-4 senior Quinton Glaspie and sophomore point guard Justin Fischer. “I’m excited with this team since we have a player in Kevin McKay who can dominate and we have depth where we have a solid seven or eight players,” Esler said. - Detroit News
Outlook: Wing Kevin McKay (CMU) has improved his three-point shooting and is 271 points away from the school’s career scoring record, which is quite an achievement given the Pilots’ history. Junior Jack Ballantyne, 6-10, moves well for his size and needs to become more assertive rebounding and shot-blocking for the Pilots to become a force in the Central Division. Sophomore Luke Pfromm, 6-4, will help inside and on the perimeter. Sophomore Justin Fischer could become an exceptional point guard. Collin Roach is the defensive stopper. - Detroit Free Press
Warren De La Salle (15-10), A: Last season the Pilots won their 18th district title in the last 22 seasons before losing to eventual state champion Detroit Western is a regional final. Three starters return including one of the state’s top players, Kevin McKay (6-4). This is a young team but there is experience. Junior Jack Ballantyne (6-9) averaged eight points last season and coach Greg Esler said he expects his post player to be much improved. Sophomore Luke Pfromm is strong 6-4 wing who’s one of the team’s best shooters. Sophomore Justin Fischer (6-2) will play the point. Three are but three seniors on this team so it might take time to develop the proper chemistry. - State Champs
