West Central High School’s boys basketball program has quietly become one of the most talked‑about stories in the local sports scene this spring. After a modest start, the Heat have turned a corner, posting their best win total in half a decade.
Coach Doug Dennison, now in his third year as head coach, has guided the squad to ten victories this past winter, the most since the 2018‑2019 and 2019‑2020 seasons. The team’s progression has been steady, climbing from a single win two seasons ago to six wins last year and finally breaking the double‑digit barrier this year.
A season of growth
Dennison’s system emphasizes development, and the results show a clear upward trajectory. Four of the five starters from last season will return, giving the team continuity and chemistry heading into the next campaign.
The three leading scorers, including Sam Deverell and Graham Kelly, will be back on the roster. Kelly also topped the team in rebounds last season, adding a versatile presence in the paint.
Weekend showdown at Monmouth College
This weekend the Heat varsity will travel to the Monmouth College Shootout, where they are slated to play five games. Their first three matchups on Saturday will be against Burlington Notre Dame, Central Lee, and Elmwood. Sunday’s slate includes contests with BPC and West Burlington, rounding out a busy schedule.
The JV squad will also be in action, competing in a five‑game JV Shootout at Monmouth‑Roseville High School. The depth of the program suggests that both varsity and junior varsity players will gain valuable experience against a variety of opponents.
Looking ahead
With a core group returning and a full slate of games on the horizon, the Heat are poised to build on this momentum. Coach Dennison’s focus on steady improvement suggests that the program will continue to climb the leaderboards in the coming seasons.