Riverton hoopsters shaping up
Winning is important, but so are life lessons, boys coach says
Heading into the 2006-07 season, both of the Silverwolves' basketball programs are vibrant and healthy. Whether either team contends for a state title remains to be seen, but in terms of the overall state of the programs, they're both in very good shape.
"We feel like we're trying to run a high-quality program that's more than just basketball," said boys coach Steve Galley. "We believe in winning, but we also place a high emphasis on life lessons."
It's the same story on the girls side.
Nearly a month into the new prep basketball season, the prospects for both squads seem bright. For now, they might not be mentioned at the very top of statewide prognostications, but each should contend for a Region 3 title and have a say down the road at state.
BOYS: This year's squad revolves around one player: University of Utah-bound senior Morgan Grim.
Of course, Riverton's success or failure will revolve around its ability to get other guys to play well. Nonetheless, Grim will be the anchor of everything the Silverwolves do.
In terms of actual on-court production, Galley largely knows what he's going to get from Grim. But that doesn't mean the Riverton coach doesn't worry about his star.
With Grim on the bench for a couple games due to a broken nose — an injury he sustained against Brighton in the Silverwolves' second contest — Riverton started out 1-3.
However, the Silverwolves lost to three of the tougher teams in the state — Hillcrest, Brighton and Pleasant Grove — and they've played well since then.
"I think we're right on track as far as going in the direction we wanna go with this team," said Galley.
Added Grim: "We've had some adversity, but we've really played through it."
Grim's short absence helped speed up the process of integrating new players into the varsity setup. Grim is the lone returning starter from last year's team, which lost to rival Bingham in the state final.
New starters like Steven Galley, Kace Cram and Brad Kraft have stepped up, but coach Galley said he's been most impressed with his squad's overall depth.
"I didn't think we'd be very deep, but I've been pleased with the work of our reserves," he said.
Many think Bingham and Riverton will slot into the top two spots in Region 3, leaving the other schools to fight for the league's final playoff position.
Asked whether he thinks that will be the case, Galley responded: "I hope it's true."
GIRLS: Like the boys squad, Riverton's girls team returns a first-team All-State post player.
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