By Steve Spiewak
MaxPreps.com
Experience and depth will be hallmarks of a St. Anthony (N.J.) team that's loaded with seasoned, Division I-bound seniors hungry for a state title.
Legendary coach Bob Hurley returns at the helm for the Friars, who finished last season with only one loss - to Tournament of Champions winner St. Patrick.
Returning for St. Anthony are seniors Mike Rosario, a 6-foot-3 sharp shooter committed to Rutgers, Jio Fontan, a quick floor leader committed to Fordham, Travon Woodall, a smooth point guard heading to Pittsburgh, and Tyshawn Taylor, a tall, athletic guard who will attend Marquette University.
Down low, the Friars will rely on 6-6 A.J. Rogers, a quick post player with nice range, and 6-8 Madut Bol, son of former NBA player Manute Bol.
Dom Cheek, a 6-6 junior, is perhaps the team's best collegiate prospect, having already received an offer from Roy Williams and the North Carolina Tar Heels. He excels on the wing, but can contribute around the basket as well. Like the rest of the Friars, he spent the summer in the weight room, to help match up better against stronger teams.
"Everyone returning is physically stronger. They all look different. Their game is way more physical," Hurley said.
St. Anthony will need the increased strength, as it faces a very difficult schedule this year, with games against John Carroll (Md.), Scott County (Ky.), and American Christian (Pa.).
Getting battled-tested during the regular season should have the Friars on course to once again challenge St. Patrick for the New Jersey Non-Public B state title.