Beetdiggers are ready to roll

SANDY — Perhaps Jordan's basketball team can begin the season riding the momentum provided by its football team's stellar performance.

The basketball Beetdiggers are coming back after a down year with renewed optimism among players and coaches alike.

"I haven't been able to sleep lately," said coach Dave McConnell. "I am very excited."

He views this year as a "huge opportunity" to put together a team that reflects his style.

"We have the type of guys I want," he said. "I like a fast tempo game, and we have the guys that can do it this year."

One of those guys is Chase Richards. Last year he played shooting guard and averaged 17 points per game until he went down with an ankle injury and missed seven games. This year he will slide over to the point, where his 6-foot-2 frame will present a formidable challenge for opponents.

"I am quicker than most point guards," he said. "I can take players off the dribble and go all the way to the hoop, or I can stop and pop."

His goal is no less confident. "I want to be all-state," he said.

McConnell's optimism is filtering down to his players.

"We will surprise a lot of people this year," said Brigham Mero, a 6-foot-2 returning forward. "We have better chemistry, and we know the coaches and what they want from you."

And McConnell emphasized over and over what he wants: fast-break basketball. "We want to fast-break off of made baskets," he said. "We have the depth to rotate in seven or eight players and keep them fresh."

McConnell did point out one injury that will impact the depth of his team. That would be quarterback Sean Taylor, who is still recovering from a foot injury sustained in football. McConnell said, "He desperately wants to be on the team." It is not known how long he will be out, but the coach said, "He is officially on the team. Even if he isn't ready until the state tournament, he can still help this team."

His competitive attitude could be very instrumental in carrying over that momentum from football. However, with or without him the enthusiasm abounds.

Erik Soderborg, a 6-3 senior, is ready to play. "I can play at 1, 2 or 3," he said. He averaged in double figures last year and said his best strength is shooting. "But I will do whatever it takes to win," he said, "score points, play defense or whatever."