LOCATION: Minneapolis, MN

HEAD COACH: Antwan Harris 

2015 EYBL RECORD: 7-10

KEY RETURNEES: Gary Trent Jr., Theo John, Brad Davison

For the first time in program history, the Howard Pulley Panthers failed to qualify for the Peach Jam in 2015. Lacking multiple 'stars' for the first time on the circuit, Coach Harris and company failed to put together consistent performances. Harris is widely-considered one of the best head coaches in the EYBL, but his lineup was simply too young and inexperienced to compete at a high level. While they weren't pleased with the final result, one down year isn't anything to fret about for Minneapolis' Nike EYBL representative. 

Although they didn't see the postseason, 2015 wasn't a complete wash for the Panthers. Junior star Gary Trent Jr. exploded onto the national scene last season, becoming the first underclassmen to lead the EYBL in overall scoring. star running mate Amir Coffey (ESPN No. 32, committed to MN) was lost for the season before it began, so Trent Jr. had no choice but to be extremely aggressive on offense. It's no secret that Pulley's success in 2016 will be directly linked to Trent's performance, but they'll need a much-improved supporting cast against a loaded division.

The aforementioned Trent Jr. was among the best players in the EYBL last season, and will enter the season as a potential EYBL MVP candidate. The 6-foot-4 super scorer averaged 22.1 points & 4.3 rebounds while shooting just a touch under 46 percent from the field. While it will be difficult to improve on the gaudy 2015 numbers, we wouldn't put anything past Mr. Trent, who has improved constantly over his basketball career. Trent will be this team's leader this season, and as he goes so go the Panthers.

The Panthers will be a tad small in comparison to other frontcourts, but they should be just fine if sophomore Daniel Oturu keeps evolving. The 6-foot-9 paint-protector starred for St. Paul powerhouse Cretin-Derham Hall, leading the state of Minnesota in blocked-shots. He will likely back up the veteran forward Theo John, providing a different skillset than his Champlin Park counterpart. Oturu won't be expected to heavily contribute immediately, but his development will likely dictate Pulley's success level. Sophomore Gabe Kalscheur will see big minutes off the bench, and the talented 6-foot-4 State-Champion combo guard should provide a big scoring lift that was absent in 2015.

Brad Davison and John return for Pulley, giving them some experience throughout their rotation. Their floor general will be sophomore Tre Jones, the brother of 4-time EYBL veteran and current Minnesota Timberwolf Tyus Jones. Tre is talented, smart and has a basketball IQ that rivals any player in the EYBL, so immediate production should be expected from the Apple Valley native. DJ Hunter has stepped up big time in the early season, and the sharp-shooting guard will start in a three guard lineup for the Panthers. Fighting for minutes will be a chorus of physical guards, including football star Jeremiah Coddon.

As mentioned before, Pulley's depth is limited - especially in the frontcourt. The supporting cast is key, as they will face some of the nation's best during their 16-game schedule. It will be vital for them to effectively play small while developing Oturu. Their scoring, defense and discipline should be on point, but their ability to efficiently defend will be key in 2016. There's no doubt that Trent's encore season in 17U will be entertaining, but in order to win, this team will need production from their supporting cast.