Backcourt The Panthers have brought in some key players to work with sophomores Nathan Kennedy and Jordan Eberline. Incoming freshmen 6’0” play maker Mike Candelaria (Waukesha, WI), 6’7” guard Damon Smith (Milwaukee, WI), 6’2” L.C. Doss (Omaha, NE), and 5’9” John Pratt (Philadelphia, PA) will be able to start the defense as well as add some scoring punch from behind the arc.

Swingmen The Panthers have returning players Dobong Puok of Des Moines Lincoln and 6’6” wing Edin Suljic of Des Moines Roosevelt, who started every game for the Panthers last season. Coach Muilenburg has added 6’6” Freshman Nick Wagner (Grinnell, IA), 6’5” Mason Gassmann (Cascade, IA) and the athletic 6’3” LaBryant Smith (Phoenix, AZ). This group of players should add quickness at the wing position, as well as add a another offensive weapon as they all can spread the floor as well as get to the basket off the dribble.

Frontline Returning from last year’s team are 6’7” David Trumblee and 6’8” Tom Boyle. Incoming freshmen 6’7” Nathan Muench (Jefferson, IA) and 6’7” All-City player Tony Lewis (Chicago, IL) will bring rebounding as well as an inside/outside threat from the frontline position. In addition the Panthers also signed 6’8” Australian Craig Martin, who will bring much needed size and quickness to the frontline.

Summary In most cases, having a team with so many new and young faces, you would think it would be a rebuilding year. Much will depend on how quickly they learn to play together on both ends of the floor. Just as important will be the team’s appreciation of things like rebounding and ball control. With all the new faces (along with a host of walk-ons) it will make for an interesting year to see if Coach Muilenburg can get Ellsworth basketball back to where it once was.

Head Coach: Troy Muilenburg
Phone: (641) 648-4611 or
toll-free 1-800-322-9235, Ext. 8693
E-mail: Troy.Muilenburg@iavalley.edu