Following a lackluster 2023-24 season, the Winfield Warriors are counting on a more team-centric approach to push the team past the .500 mark while competing in the Gateway Athletic Conference.

Following a 12-15 season that included a firstround loss in the district playoffs and a 2-8 mark in the GAC North, Winfield coach Kollin Groves predicts conference will be even tougher with Holt joining the lineup.

“The GAC North is arguably the most competitive basketball conference in the GAC,” Groves stated. “We have our work cut out for us, but we are ready for the challenge.”

Groves will turn to three returning seniors and letterwinners, Conner Martin, Drew Hines and Maison Pruit. A pair of juniors who also saw varsity action last year, Brady Cappel and Camden Burk, also return for the Warriors.

Without a go-to scorer, Groves is hoping for a team-first approach. “Our strength this season will be our team work,” he said. “We don’t have the “star” player. But we will play great team basketball to help us have the best chance at succeeding.”

Groves hopes the lack of varsity playing time doesn’t hold the Warriors back.

“The team was very senior heavy last season,” Groves said. “Most of the team is getting their first taste of varsity minutes and the minutes are significant.”

Early results indicate the Warriors are up to the challenge, starting 3-1 including a win over Elsberry in the season opener and a fifth place finish in the Winfield Invitational.

Hines has led the offense with 10 points a game, adding three boards and a couple steals. Cappel meanwhile has added eight points and 9 boards while Burk from the point guard position is averaging 8 points, 5 assists and 3 steals.