A year ago, then-sophomore Rio Aguirre proved to be a solid third scoring option for the Ankeny boys’ basketball team.
Now, following the graduation of his brother Lio and all-state guard Carson Johnson, Aguirre will likely become the Hawks’ go-to player.
“I think Rio understands his role and the importance of having great teammates,” said Ankeny coach Brandt Carlson. “He is working on things as well that will be needed to handle the adversity we face every year in a tough league.”
Aguirre, a guard, helped the Hawks to an 18-7 record and a trip to the state tournament last season. He scored 18 points in his team’s 63-51 loss to Cedar Rapids Kennedy in the Class 4A semifinals.
Aguirre averaged 13.3 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists while leading the squad with 34 steals. He shot 42.2 percent from 3-point range, making 62-of-147 attempts.
Aguirre was named to the all-substate team after Ankeny qualified for state for the third time in five years. He was selected to the CIML Conference second team.
Multiple Division II schools are showing an interest in the junior sharpshooter.
“I believe Rio will receive a lot of attention, but what is great about him is that he has been mentored so well by our past seniors,” Carlson said.
Senior guards Luke Anderson and Dylan Gloviak are the team’s other top returnees. Anderson played in all 25 games and started five times as a junior, while Gloviak saw action in just four games due to an injury.
Anderson averaged 3.8 points and 1.7 rebounds. The Northwestern College football recruit shot 43.3 percent from behind the arc, making 29-of-67 attempts.
“Luke will be a key leader on our team,” Carlson said.
Gloviak, meanwhile, averaged 6.0 points. He made 6-of-12 3-pointers.
Gloviak is planning to play soccer in college.
“He’s a tremendous athlete and energy guy,” Carlson said.
Junior forwards Kael Roush and Drew Sorensen are also battling for playing time along with junior guard LaMarious Clark and sophomore guard Jasani Campbell. Clark started nine games for Cedar Rapids Prairie as a sophomore, averaging 6.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists while helping his team to an 11-12 record.
“Key contributors every year come down to guys who face their fear or uncertainties,” Carlson said. “We have a bunch of fast and tough players that really are committed to our core principles and expectations. Kael, Drew, LaMarious, Jasani and others will be crucial in helping our returners to be the best version of this Ankeny team.”
Anderson, Clark and Roush are among the players making the transition from the football field to the basketball court. They helped the Hawks reach the Class 5A quarterfinals on the gridiron.
“The preseason practices have been positive,” Carlson said. “We have a competitive group of guys that are wanting to succeed and continue the tradition we have here. We have a healthy group of guys which is great, and all of our fall sports athletes have been able to step in and provide toughness and accountability.”
Ankeny will open the season with five consecutive CIML Conference games, beginning with Tuesday’s trip to two-time defending Class 4A state champion Valley. The Hawks will then host crosstown rival Ankeny Centennial in their home opener on Dec. 6.
“I think every year brings great opportunities and great challenges,” Carlson said. “We play in a tremendous league, and our state is also very competitive. I have been blessed to be in a community where we do not have to teach work ethic. Ankeny athletes just work hard, are consistent in their behavior, and have great attitudes.
“This team just needs to remember to play this season and not try to recreate past successes. It is important to stay in the moment, trust the processes we go through here, enjoy the journey, and expect great things to occur at the end of the year. This team will be a tough out come tournament time, and with continued effort will make this a great season,” he added.
