The RDC Kings roster is beginning to come together.
Basketball Kings head coach Clayton Pottinger has announced the addition of two top recruits in forward Brian Henry Prenosio and point guard Matt Johnson.
The six-foot-four, 200-pound Prenosio was born in Sherwood Park and played with Archbishop Jordan before moving to Whitehorse.
He played for the Northwest Territories at the 2011 U17 nationals in Toronto averaging 14 points per game and 10 rebounds and competed for Yukon in the 2012 Arctic Winter Games, averaging 27 points and 14 rebounds per game.
“We’re excited about both, they fit in with us and are locked in,” said Pottinger. “Brian will be a nice addition as we lost three of our top forwards from last year and he’s a versatile player with a great combination of skill and strength. He’s also an exceptional student.”
Rob Pierce, who was an all-star at the national championships, and Eric Bakker have indicated they won’t be returning, although there’s still a chance both could return. Bakker is expected to attend the University of Lethbridge, although he said he isn’t playing basketball. Pierce is looking to take some time off.
Also Sarain Soonias has graduated.
“That leaves a big hole up front,” said Pottinger, who has a line on several other big men, but nothing is confirmed yet.
“We don’t want to say anything until they’re for-sure,” he said.
Joel Carroll will be back up front along with Karl Hoehne.
The five-foot-eight Johnson will back up starter Lloyd Strickland at point guard.
“We were fortunate to have Matt joining our program,” said Pottinger.
“We feel he’s one of the premier high school point guards in the province. His skills and leadership should earn him plenty of minutes in our rotation.”
Johnson attended Bishop Grandin of Calgary, where he was captain of the 2011 city champions.
Jacob Cusumano and Tyler Flaherty are also returning at guard.
“We still have some things to work on, but I feel we have to jump on things compared to last year when I came in late and was flying by the seat of my pants,” said Pottinger, who hopes to have close to the final roster set by the end of June.
One recruit Pottinger hoped to add was Jordan Handel of Notre Dame, who has decided to accept a red shirt spot with the University of Calgary.
drode@www.reddeeradvocate.com