By NICHOLAS KIMBALL

Staff writer

Ranked No 1 in the state in Class 2A, Hillsboro’s boys basketball team returns only one starter but retains veteran coach.

Darrel Knoll enters his 35th year at the school this season with an overall record of 587-211.

Last year, Hillsboro finished 25-1 with a 9-1 league record and a second place league finish.

“We do expect to be very competitive this year,” Knoll said.

“We should be solid defensively and we have good potential offensively. Every year, we have the same goal: play up to our potential and be great teammates.”

Brekyn Ratzlaff is the only returning starter and is described as an excellent point guard who bolsters the play of everyone around him.

“Smart on both offense and defense, Brekyn is a tremendous passer, big shot maker, a tough defender, and a true competitor,” Knoll said.

“Brekyn has a great poise and basketball IQ. He has scored 1,044 career points, 13.7 points per game.”

Other varsity players making their return are Tyson Plenert, Dawson Boldt, and Wyatt Plenert.

Several younger players will battle for a spot on the varsity roster making practices competitive. They include Nick Smith (who didn’t play last season because of injury), Lincoln Wichert, Anders Weisbeck, Seth Driggers, Nash Dickinson, Noah Beavers, and Easton Shahan.

“Our schedule should prepare us for post-season play. The CKL always provides multiple tough matchups,” Knoll said.

The Trojans will open their season Friday at home against Sterling followed by a Tuesday game on the road against Inman.