New Arlee coach expects strong performance from Warriors

Jason Maki is taking over the reins of the Arlee Boys Basketball team this season after coaching the previous three seasons in Missoula and 25 seasons in Oregon.

“I am super excited about this group,” Maki said. “They are fun to be around, athletic, energetic, and I think they have a chance to be pretty special. Arlee has a great basketball tradition, and we are hoping to live up to the legacy set by all the players who played before the team.”

While brand new to the position, Maki is expecting to have a good season with a lot of returners and plenty of experience.

“Our strength is our depth,” Maki said. “We can legitimately go 10 deep pretty easily. We have some pretty skilled kids who can put the ball in the basket as well.”

Ben Harlow-Old Person returns to the squad after having big games for the Warriors last season, while Dallas Swab will be running the point.

“He is a super steady, smart and skilled kid,” Maki said.

Fresh off a successful football season, the three-headed monster of Jace Arca, Kendall O’Neill and Jake Knoll will bring their athleticism to the squad. Kaiden Ostby is also easing into basketball after a football knee injury.

Maki said that Ethan Fiddler can really shoot it for the Warriors, while Darius Tewawina can score with anyone. On the defensive end, Kenneth Manzanares can defend all over the court and be a slasher, while Tavin Lapahie has shot well in practice.

“Trent Rutherford leads the team in floor burns and hustle players, and Aden Swab is like his brother in that he is steady, smart and shoots it well, so we will see how our rotation shakes out,” Maki said.

Arlee has started the season 5-0 and is the highest scoring team in the Western 6B, averaging close to 75 points per game.