Entering the 2024-25 men's basketball season, the Linfield Wildcats are focused on reclaiming their status as a competitive force within the Northwest Conference. Finishing eighth in the standings last season, the team is eager to rise through the ranks and make a significant impact in the league. Led by second-year coach Levi Sieg, the Wildcats are banking on a talented roster filled with experienced upperclassmen and some exciting newcomers.
 
"We have a really good group of hard workers who have just been getting after it," said Sieg. "They've been working hard at practice and then they're getting in the gym on their own time, really putting in that extra work that you need."
 
The leadership and dedication demonstrated by the Wildcats is crucial as they aim to restore Linfield's winning tradition and contend in the NWC.
 
THE BACKCOURT
In the backcourt, the Wildcats are led by senior Jack Greenwood, who proved to be an invaluable asset last season when he topped the team in assists. His ability to facilitate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates is pivotal in driving Linfield's success.
 
Alongside Greenwood is junior Chase Bennett, who contributed an average of 9.9 points per game a year ago. Known for his sharpshooting, Bennett emerged as the team's best free throw shooter and demonstrated his three-point prowess with 40% accuracy from beyond the arc. His ability to score is essential to maintaining the Wildcats' competitiveness.
 
Sophomore Cade Collins enters his second year with the Wildcats after leading the team in scoring last season. Collins is eager to build on his successful freshman campaign and make an even bigger impact as he continues to develop.
 
Another key contributor in the backcourt is senior Josh Ryan from Rancho Cucamonga, California. Ryan has established himself as a strong defender, totaling 21 steals in 2024. His ability to disrupt opponents' offensive flow is important for the Wildcats' success on the defensive end.
 
Adding depth to the backcourt is sophomore Lucca Hart, who is expected to take on a larger role this season. Hart's potential as a young player makes him one to watch as he develops under the guidance of Sieg and the upperclassmen. The experience in the backcourt positions Linfield to make a run at an NWC Tournament postseason berth.
 
THE FRONTCOURT
In the frontcourt, sophomore Garrett Callsen anchors the Wildcats' efforts, having led the team with 29 blocks last season. Callsen's shot-blocking ability and defensive presence in the paint should help Linfield as it seeks to protect the rim and control the backboards.
 
Senior Jake Downing brings experience and leadership to the frontcourt. Known for his length and shooting ability, Downing aims to make a significant impact this season. His versatility allows him to stretch the floor, providing valuable scoring options both inside and outside. As a key leader on the team, Downing plays an integral role in setting the tone for the Wildcats.
 
Another vital piece of the frontcourt is senior Cayden Lowenbach from Prineville, Oregon. Lowenbach had an impressive shooting percentage of 70.4% last season, showcasing his efficiency. His ability to finish around the rim complements the team's overall offensive strategy and provides a reliable scoring option in the paint.
 
FRESHMEN
Sieg welcomes his second recruiting class into the fray with the hope that the newcomers can help make an immediate impact. Zach Luz comes in as a highly touted freshman out of Mount Rainier High School in Washington. Also making their collegiate debuts this season are Percy Whittaker III, Max Juhala, Gavin Perdue and Jack Treasure.
 
LOOKING AHEAD
Together, this season's roster brings a mix of experience, skill, and potential. With a strong blend of upperclassmen leadership and emerging young talent, the Wildcats are primed to make strides this season. The coaching staff is optimistic about the team's growth and development and points to culture as a strong point of this squad.
 
"The biggest strength of this group has got to be our culture. We have 17 guys who really get along," said Sieg. "They all like each other and hang out off the court. We have an unbelievable group of seniors and they've taken the freshmen under their wings."
 
In preparation for the upcoming campaign, it's clear the Wildcats have focused on both skill development and team chemistry during the offseason. The emphasis on culture is essential as they navigate the challenges of the season. As the players work not only in practice, but also on their own time to develop their talents, they also aim to build a strong team dynamic and put together a winning season.
 
The Wildcats look forward to getting the new season underway Friday at 7 p.m. against Claremont-Mudd-Scripps in their first of three games in California. Linfield plays its home opener in Ted Wilson Gymnasium November 26 against Redlands.