Raider boys continue to struggle

by John R. McNeil II

The Raiders travelled to White Swan last Friday for the season opener of the Central Washington 2B League against the Cougars.

It was close all the way, with the 0-8 Cougars leading by only four points most of the time on their home court.

But in the end, the Raiders’ low shooting percentage allowed White Swan to pick up their first win of the season, 49-39.

“We missed a lot of shots,” said Raider Head Coach Jeff Brisbois. “We could have won if we just made 50 percent of our shots.”

He noted the Raider defense and rebounding improved over the previous week, but the big thing that is still holding the Raiders back is “not making the open shots.”

Some roster shifts and new eligible players will bring changes for the Raider fans come Friday. Jacob Palmer and Theron Nault both were promoted from the JV to the varsity starting at White Swan.

Palmer was promoted for his rebounding and defensive abilities, and Brisbois likes that Palmer can score in the paint.

“Palmer is not afraid to mix it up in the paint,” he said.

Nault brings ball handling skills the coaches have been looking for and another point guard to lead the offense. Tommy Waters is now eligible and will be playing on JV this week. Brisbois like his skills and the extra body on the team that currently has only six.

The Raiders played at Manson last night, looking to rebound from the loss to White Swan.

This Friday the Raiders will take on the Kittitas Coyotes (1-0, 4-4) starting at 7:30 p.m. at LRHS’s Gailord Nelson Gym.