New coach Benson takes over Arcadia boys

ARCADIA – With just four seniors and no juniors on last year's roster, Arcadia relied on a lot of young players in 2021-22. New head coach Jordan Benson is hoping that youth movement pays off. Benson inherits a program that went 1-8 in the BVC and 3-19 overall. While he is the new name on the Arcadia roster, many of the players are not as five sophomores and a freshman saw varsity playing time a year ago. The graduation of Josh Cassell will create a significant hole in the Redskins' lineup. A third-team all-Blanchard Valley Conference selection, the 6-2 wing averaged 11.1 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.6 steals per game. Looking to fill that niche in the Arcadia offense will be Hunter Phlipot. The 5-11 junior has already shown he's capable of that role, averaging 10.5 points a game as a sophomore. A good outside shot, Phlipot knocked down 50 3-pointers. Brycen Lucius, who like Phlipot lettered as a freshman and sophomore, also returns. In addition to Cassell, Arcadia graduated Brayden Stoner, Aidan Clagg and Evan Berry. Phlipot and Lucius head up a solid junior class, however, that includes Adam Emerich, Grant Boes, and Koen Harris. Creed Kemenah also saw varsity time last season as a freshman.