OKEMAH PANTHERS
BOYS
Coach: Beau Custar
23-24 Record: 13-13
The Okemah Panthers enter the 2024 season with high expectations and a strong foundation of returning talent. After a competitive season last year, head coach Beau Custar is confident his team has the balance and skill to elevate their performance and compete as one of the top teams in Class 2A.
“We’re bringing back our top five scorers from last season,” Custar said. “This is a very balanced group, and we’re looking to take our game to the next level.”
Leading the charge for the Panthers is senior forward Owen Dunmire (6-1, Sr.), who averaged 13.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game last season while shooting an efficient 48 percent from the field. Dunmire, an All-Conference performer, is a versatile player who excels both offensively and defensively and makes smart decisions on the court. Joining him is senior guard/forward PJ Franks (6-1, Sr.), a dependable scorer and rebounder who posted 11.9 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, shooting 46 percent from the floor. Franks provides consistent production and leadership for the team.
Nash Smith (5-9, Sr.), the team’s point guard, is another key returner. Smith averaged 8.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists last season. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to facilitate the offense, Smith sets the tone for the Panthers on both ends of the court. Junior guard Kyran Berryhill (5-11, Jr.) is a dynamic player who contributes across the board, averaging 8.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. Berryhill’s versatility and nonstop work ethic make him a crucial piece of the team’s success. Sophomore guard Cole Dodson (6-0, So.) is another player to watch this season. Dodson, who averaged 5.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists as a freshman, has made strides in his game with improved athleticism and toughness.
Other contributors include junior guard Vincent Reilly (6-1, Jr.), forward Camron Swayze (6-0, Jr.), senior forward Charlie Berryhill (6-0, Sr.), junior guard Brandon Butler (5-9, Jr.), sophomore guard Kavon Jones (5-9, So.), sophomore forward Rhett Rogers (6-0, So.), and freshman point guard Keiton Thompson (5-5, Fr.). With their returning core and emerging young talent, the Panthers are set to build on their strong finish from last year and aim for a deep postseason run.
Roster:
Owen Dunmire (6-1, Sr.)
PJ Franks (6-1, Sr.)
Nash Smith (5-9, Sr.)
Kyran Berryhill (5-11, Jr.)
Cole Dodson (6-0, So.)
Vincent Reilly (6-1, Jr.)
Camron Swayze (6-0, Jr.)
Charlie Berryhill (6-0, Sr.)
Brandon Butler (5-9, Jr.)
Kavon Jones (5-9, So.)
Rhett Rogers (6-0, So.)
Keiton Thompson (5-5, Fr.)
