PREVIEW: Eagles' new coach to focus on defense

BOYS BASKETBALL

     New Midland boys basketball head coach Marty Marshall brings a defense-first philosophy to Wyoming as the Eagles prepare for the new season.

     “My coaching philosophy will be to focus on defense,” Marshall said. “I believe right now that the defense needs the most work. We will be trying to improve the defense every day.”

     Marshall has been an assistant men’s basketball coach at three colleges: the University of Dubuque, Hartwick College in New York, and Ashford University in Clinton.

     He will direct an Eagle team that has 22 total players, including six returning letter-winners.

     Two of those, seniors Alex Martens and Connor Harms, made the Tri-Rivers all-conference team last season; Martens, a forward, was on the first team and Harms, a guard, was on the second.

     Also back are senior forwards Trace Jensen and Skylar Mullins, senior guard Kyle Paulsen, and junior forward Fisher Bisinger.

     Two sophomores, Ethan Kaftan and Peyton Rupp, are expected to see plenty of playing time as well.

     “We have good senior leadership that helps keep everyone focused on the tasks at hand,” Marshall said. “The players have picked things up fast and are working hard.”

     Marshall said he believes Calamus-Wheatland is the likely favorite to win the Tri-Rivers East Division, with Easton Valley and Clinton Prince of Peace as potential tough opponents as well. Midland went 10-13 a year ago, including 3-7 in division play.

     “Our goals are to improve every day, enjoy playing and enjoy our teammates, win each possession, and play hard,” the coach said.

     He is assisted by Ryan Steines.