Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
Russell Conwell/River Radio Sports Central
BENTON — The Benton Shootout marks the end of the summer season for many area basketball teams. Getting better in the summer is a common goal, but that can look different from team to team.
The host Rangers had an incredible season last year finishing as the 2A state runner-up. With three starters graduated, this summer is about evaluating the roster. Benton head coach Ron Winemiller says he likes what he has seen so far this summer, especially from his veteran core.
Waltonville is another school coming off a great year. The Spartans are bringing back nearly the entire roster from a team that won 25 games and the school’s first regional title in 16 years.
This summer has been about continuing to improve. To help get better, Waltonville is looking to strengthen the schedule, including during the summer.
On day one of the Benton Shootout, the 1A Spartans played Breese Central and Pleasant Plains, both 2A schools, and Centralia, a 3A school.
