PANAMA RAZORBACKS
COACH: Wes Tackett
Record: 21-6
OUTLOOK
After a 21-6 season and an Area Tournament appearance, the Panama Razorbacks enter the new campaign with momentum, length, and a roster built for another deep postseason run. Head coach Wes Tackett likes what he sees from his returning core and new additions. “We will return two starters from last year’s 21-6 area qualifying team, they are Malachi Releford and Chance Dalmut,” Tackett said. “Roper Lovell moved to Panama this year. He should slide in nicely to the point guard position. We are long and athletic with a deep bench. I am expecting big things from the team.”
Senior leader Malachi Releford (Sr.) returns as the team’s leading scorer after averaging 10 points, 4 assists, and 2 rebounds. “Malachi is an all-around athlete,” Tackett said. “He is our leading returning scorer. He is a three-year starter. He has a lot of defensive energy. I am expecting a lot of big things from him this year.”
Alongside him is junior Chance Dalmut (Jr.), who brings consistency on both ends with 8 points and 4 rebounds per game.
A major addition to the Razorbacks’ lineup is senior Roper Lovell (Sr.), who averaged 10 points and 8 rebounds and is expected to take over point guard duties. His size and athleticism give Panama another strong presence on the perimeter and the glass.
Depth will be a defining strength for this year’s squad, and coach Tackett highlighted the impact of several key returners. “Aryn Seamans, Chris Gray, Hunter Bond-Covey, Dax Frye, and Ty Jordan are great assets to the team as well and should contribute positive things,” he said.
Junior Aryn Seamans (Jr.) adds scoring and rebounding presence after posting 3 points and 2 rebounds, while juniors Chris Gray (Jr.) and Hunter Covey (Jr.) bring length and athleticism to the rotation.
Sophomore Dax Frye (So.), the program’s Underclassman to Watch, has already impressed since arriving from Wisconsin. “Dax moved from Wisconsin. He has had a good fall camp,” Tackett said. “He is quick, handles the ball well, and gets to the rim well. He will be a good defender. I am looking forward to see what he will bring to the team.”
