[Stardust]

EASTERN

Coach: Jason Couch (ninth year).

Last season: 33-3, lost to Christian County 46-43 in Sweet 16 semifinal.

Player to watch: Percy Blade, a 6-3 senior, will start at point guard but has the versatility to play all over. “We’ll find ways to post him, and he’s our best post defender so he’ll probably guard the other team’s big guy,” Couch said. Blade averaged 3 points and 2.3 rebounds last season.

Other top players: F Tyrell Corlew (6-3, Sr., 3.8 ppg, 1.3 rpg); G Chris Hill (6-0, Sr.); G Michael Davis (5-10, Sr.); F Tyler Huff (6-4, Sr.); G Montay Hassell (5-9, Jr.); F Jocari Beattie (6-2, Jr.); G Austin Howard (6-1, So.).

Outlook: Perhaps no team in the state suffered such graduation losses as Eastern, which must replace nine seniors. Among them were five starters who accounted for nearly 95 percent of the offensive production. Five seniors will start, led by Blade and Corlew. “When those two were on the floor last year, they were always our fourth or fifth option and it was easy for them to find open shots,” Couch said. “It’s completely different this year.” He said Davis is the team’s top perimeter shooter and Hill is a slasher who can get to the rim. Huff should provide production in the paint. The Eagles also are awaiting an eligibility ruling on junior Jordan Brangers, a transfer from North Hardin.