The Glenbard West boys’ basketball team had a 19-13 record last season and went to the regional finals last season where they lost a nail biter to Geneva, and Coach Jason Opoka feels this team has the experience and talent to hit the 20 win mark this year.

“Expectations relate to growth over time,” said Coach Opoka. “We will see some early adversity due to youth but expect to compete for 20 wins."

Two years ago the Hilltoppers were 4A state champions and Glenbard West hopes there is some magic to get back to that status again. The Hilltoppers are led by senior Bennett Schwanke (5’11”, guard) and junior Dominic Seaney (6’5”, forward.)

“Bennett Schwanke is a senior leader who will play college basketball,” said Coach Opoka. “He will have to step up offensively to carry the load. Dominic Seaney is a junior with experience. He has developed into a high academic recruit who has the potential to play inside and out.”

Top newcomers to varsity are Danny Monahan (6’2”, senior, guard), Logan Glover (6’5”, center, junior), Michael O’Connell (center, 6’7”, 265 pounds, junior) and TJ Williams (6’3”, guard, sophomore.)

Each of these players has already been making waves in the early season during the recent District 87 Thanksgiving tournament. O’Connell has been the team’s top scorer at 11 ppg in the first three games. 

Opaka said while the team has plenty of depth and size, they are still very young and will need to learn quickly.

“Glenbard West will have to use its length and physicality to compete in the West Suburban Silver,” Coach Opoka said. “The Hilltoppers will be young and more athletic than past years.”

Glenbard West hosts Dekalb on Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. and has another home game on Dec. 1 against Proviso West at 7:30 p.m. for their first conference matchup.