COACH: Zane Culp

Record: 8-19

OUTLOOK

After an 8-19 season a year ago, the Neosho Wildcats enter the new campaign with renewed energy and optimism under head coach Zane Culp, who believes his team is ready to turn the page and prove itself. “We are really excited for this upcoming season,” Culp said. “We are ready for a fresh start and a new page for Neosho Basketball.”

Neosho brings back a balanced mix of experience and youth, featuring seniors, juniors, and sophomores who have grown together through last season’s challenges. “We have a great mix of sophomores and juniors and seniors,” Culp said. “Last year was a learning step with lots of growth. The boys are out to prove they can compete with the top of the top in our area.” That growth will be leaned on heavily as the Wildcats look to establish consistency on both ends of the floor.

Leading the way is senior guard Kaiden Asberry (Sr.), the team’s returning leading scorer at 13 points per game while also averaging 4 assists per contest. Asberry will be a focal point of the offense once again. “He will be our returning leading scorer,” Culp said. “He has the potential to be one of the best all around players in the area and we are excited to see what he will bring this year.” Culp added that Asberry’s role will expand this season. “He will get the opportunity to play off the ball more this year which will give him more opportunities to score in a variety of ways.”

Joining him in the senior class are Jaiden Fisher and Oliver Martin, who averaged 10 points and 4 assists per game last season. Fisher is also Neosho’s Character Counts Athlete. “Jaiden Fisher is a great shooter and one of the best teammates on the floor,” Culp said. “He is a smart player that will work hard to make the right plays.”

The junior class features Zach Forsythe, who posted 10 points and 5 rebounds per game, along with Houston Branscum, Mason Apiva, Haven Plummer, and Houston Branscum. “Houston Branscum is going to be one of our main ballhandlers and have lots of time at the PG position,” Culp said. “He has a knack for putting the ball in the hole and getting others open.”

Also contributing to the Wildcats’ depth are sophomores Cohen Depoe and the rest of a roster that continues to develop. With experience gained and roles defined, Neosho enters the season determined to compete nightly and continue building toward the future.