Much of the reason for higher expectations for the Melcher-Dallas Boys Basketball programs is everyone is back from last year and healthy, plus everyone has had a year of playing varsity. Coach John Suntken tells KNIA Sports it is a matter of his players executing the game plan, and that is one of many reasons he is excited to start the season.

Sutken: “I’ve known these kids since they were born. I’m excited and probably been this excited for basketball season for a while, and I told the kids it’s up to you now, so I’ll stay out of your way and not mess things up and see if we can get some things done.”

Melcher-Dallas will host Pleasantville on Tuesday at Southeast Warren to start the season.