Monday, November 03, 2008

Preseason Top 25: No. 20 Putnam City

20. Putnam City (Oklahoma City)
Coach: A.D. Burtschi (6-7 wins in 32 seasons)
2007-08 record: 25-2, Class 6A state quarterfinalist (Southwest No. 8 in final National Prep Poll)
Top players: G/F Xavier Henry (6-6), Sr.; F Kyle Hardrick (6-8), Sr.; G Garen Wright (6-2), Sr.; G Tyler Earls (6-2), Sr.
Team strength: Balance
Question mark: Staying healthy
Toughest games: Dec. 11 vs. Brooklyn (N.Y.) Lincoln; Dec. 18-22 Iolani Classic; Jan. 19 vs. St. Anthony (N.J.) at HoopHall Classic
Outlook: The Pirates have the talent and experience to challenge for their second state championship in four seasons. Leading the way again will be Henry, a starter since his freshman season. A year ago, Henry averaged 26 points and seven rebounds per game but was hampered by a wrist injury wrist when Putnam City was upset by Tulsa Memorial in the state tournament. Still uncommitted, Henry is rated the No. 1 shooting guard in the country by ESPN. Hardrick, an Oklahoma recruit who transferred from Norman, should have a big senior season after battling knee injuries early in his prep career. Additional experience will come from senior guards Wright and Earls, who were regular starters for the Pirates last season.

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