Melcher-Dallas’ boys’ basketball team finished with a first-round playoff exit, but they got productivity from three key players.

 

The most noteworthy accomplishment was Ryan Krpan, who finished with 1,019 career points, becoming the third Saint since 1999 to achieve 1,000 career points. A noteworthy second scoring option blossomed for Melcher-Dallas, who was Knoxville transfer Lane VanderLinden. VanderLinden averaged 13 points per game while shooting 42% from the field. Krpan’s twin brother, Steven, will finish with 747 career points. Steven averaged over eight points per game in 2020-21.

 

Melcher-Dallas will be graduating four starters, who are the Krpan Twins, VanderLinden, and Gabe Enfield. The Saints’ only returning starter will be Owen Suntken, who was the team’s leading rebounder in 2020-21. 

 

Melcher-Dallas will also be looking for a new coach, as Jim Wells announced his retirement after the Saints’ playoff loss at North Mahaska last Tuesday night.