COACH: Gerod Hall

Record: 8-17

OUTLOOK

The Sarcoxie Bears are entering the new season with a fresh identity under longtime head coach Gerod Hall, who begins his 18th year leading the program. After graduating three seniors who logged heavy minutes, the Bears shift into a new era built around depth, balance, and a group eager to carve out larger roles. “We will have a new look this year,” Hall said. “We graduated three seniors who played a ton of minutes last year. This year we have some guys who are ready to step up and show what they can do.”

Sarcoxie’s roster features a strong mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen who bring size, toughness, and versatility across multiple positions. Senior guard Gatlon Malotte (6-1, 170) will help anchor the backcourt with his leadership and physical presence on the perimeter. Joining him is senior forward Lane Everts (6-3, 180), who is unlikely to play this season due to an ACL injury suffered during football, but remains an important figure within the program for his leadership and impact.

The junior class brings significant size to the floor, including Grey Phelps (6-2, 240), Marshall Hall (6-4, 170), and Hunter Whitledge (6-0, 220) — a trio capable of providing interior physicality and defensive presence. In the backcourt, Gabe McLaughlin (5-10, 160) adds quickness and ball-handling to the rotation.

Sarcoxie’s sophomore group will also push for immediate contributions. Guards Landen Straw (5-8, 150) and Reily Barrios (5-10, 160) bring youthful energy and perimeter depth, while forward Kole Kellhofer (6-0, 200) adds strength and versatility inside.

While some teams enter the season behind a clear scoring leader, Hall emphasizes that the Bears’ identity lies in balance rather than individuals. “I’m not going to list any individuals,” he said. “We have a good group of solid players, but no standouts. We will play an unselfish brand of team basketball.”

That team-first mentality will define Sarcoxie’s approach as they navigate a challenging schedule and continue developing chemistry in their new roles. With size in the frontcourt, experience in the backcourt, and a roster committed to Hall’s unselfish style, the Bears aim to take another step forward and shape their new identity into a winning formula.