We’re unveiling the most extensive and only prep school poll of its kind and we’ll take a look at Lawrence Academy (Mass.), which checks in at No. 24.
These guys are fairly unknown as a group on the national scene, but a couple of them have developed high profiles during the summer.
It all starts with San Bernadino, Calif., native Richard Roby, the half-brother of New Jersey Nets forward Kenyon Martin. Roby (6-5, 185) doesn’t have blazing speed, but he can flat-out shoot it from the perimeter and has already committed to Colorado.
Roby’s best friend, 6-9, 205-pound forward Sylvester Seay, gives the team one of the most athletic big guys in the country. Seay’s uncle played in the NFL and Sylvester is a pretty good wide receiver as well, but his future will likely be on the hardwood and he’ll also be re-classified to the Class of 2005.
``They’ve been playing together for four years so they are a heck of a tandem,” Lawrence coach Kevin Wiercinski said. “Sly is key for us because when he plays well, he can carry us.”
Wiercinski will also have 6-5, 190-pound senior wing Matt Smith to take the pressure off the California duo. Smith is a smart player from Littleton, Mass., who should be a low-major D-1 player.
Junior Kevin Ryan (5-10, 175) will hopefully give the team what it was lacking a year ago: A true point guard that makes sure Roby and Seay get easy looks.
The final starting spot will likely go to 5-10, 170-pound junior wing Chris Leon while 6-4, 210-point senior forward Trip Botsford and 5-11, 190-pound senior wing Will May should be the top reserves coming off the bench.
``I think on the offensive end, we can probably not practice and still score our share of points,” Wiercinski added. ``But I worry if we’re passionate enough on the defensive end. If they ever get that, we’ll be real good again.”