Rhoades Nearing Return To Court For Tigers
WARSAW – The Warsaw boys basketball roster is about to get longer and stronger.
The Tigers are close to welcoming senior Riley Rhoades back to the mix for the 2015-16 edition of the Tigers.
Rhoades, an athletic forward, has been sidelined so far this season due to a knee injury suffered during football season.
Rhoades was released by the doctor on Wednesday morning to resume full-scale action in practices. The three-sport standout practiced full go both Wednesday and Thursday with his team, according to coach Doug Ogle. Rhoades was limited to non-contact activity, like shooting drills and the like, prior to getting the go ahead Wednesday.
“We’re real happy to have Riley back,” said Ogle Thursday. “I wasn’t sure that he would be back this soon, but it’s good to have him back. He adds a dimension for us with his experience, leadership and athleticism.”
Rhoades, also a track standout, averaged 1.8 points-per-game a year ago. He played in all 23 games, making two starts, as the Tigers went 18-5 overall and won the Northern Lakes Conference title at 7-0. Rhoades also averaged almost two rebounds per game and had nine steals.
“Riley would have been a starter for us this season if he had not been injured,” noted Ogle. “I know that he was anxious to get back. We will see how we plays in practice and go from there, but he is going to play a lot for us.”
Rhoades suffered a knee injury while being tackled in a loss at Concord back on Oct. 16. The 6-4 receiver had a huge year prior to the injury as he had 74 receptions for 783 yards and eight touchdowns. He is still looking at his college options and is hoping to play Division I football somewhere next year.
“I feel good right now, just a little sore after the practices, but that’s to be expected,” said Rhoades Friday night prior to Warsaw’s home opener versus Homestead. “I just want to get back out there and play with my brother (sophomore Jack) and our other seniors (Paul Marandet and Evan Schmidt).
“It hit me hard when I was injured and it was very humbling too. It’s just a blessing that it wasn’t as bad as they first thought. It was real close to me being done for my senior year. The biggest thing I want to bring when I return to playing is leadership, intensity and a voice on defense for us.”
Warsaw, which improved to 3-0 with a 65-50 win over Homestead Friday night, hosts Huntington North Saturday night. The Tigers then play at Manchester Dec. 10 and at Lake Central on Dec. 11.
“I’m hopeful that Riley will be able to play next week in our game at Manchester,” concluded Ogle.