Bulldogs can deliver some bite

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Hewlett has become perennial contenders in Nassau boys’ basketball and will be challenged by a competitive group of conference rivals that include a half-dozen of playoff regulars.

“We’re in a really strong conference and it’s going to be interesting with not a lot to gauge from last season,” head coach Bill Dubin said. “We only played four games after no preseason or intramurals. Our offseason was no different than usual so that’s a positive. I’m seeing a lot of hard work, unselfishness and enthusiasm.”

Dubin said he likes the Bulldogs’ balance, although he doesn’t see them peaking until “at least the middle of January.” Cutting down on turnovers is high on the list of goals, he noted, and senior point guards Mark Winkler and Ian Panzarella will have a big say in that regard. Depending on situations, both will be on the floor at the same time.

Junior shooting guard Ryan Weiss averaged 28 points per game last winter after pouring in 18 ppg as a freshman. He’s a four-year starter who makes everyone around him better, Dubin said. “Ryan could be the best shooter I’ve every coached,” he said. “He can rip it from outside and is also aggressive to the basket.”

The frontcourt group features returning senior starters Evan Greenberg at center and Nicky Morgan at small forward. Greenberg is one of the top athletes in the school, Dubin said, and runs the floor well in addition to his efforts in the paint. Morgan is an accurate shooter who plays with grit and defends well. Junior Jace Apter, up from JV, is strong in the half-court setting screens and is one of the team’s top rebounders.

“It’s going to be difficult to double any of our guys,” said Dubin, who expects senior Michael Paris, junior Matteo Preziosi and sophomore Luke Rochler to make significant contributions.