The Randolph Rams are entering the upcoming basketball season with optimism, fueled by a mix of returning talent and emerging leaders. Junior captain Jack Leonard and senior captain Philip Zamloot will anchor the team as the Rams aim to surpass last year’s .500 finish.
“I want to be seen as someone my teammates can trust and rely on,” Zamloot said. “I hope we can make some serious noise in Morris County and show everyone what we’re capable of.”
The Rams face the challenge of replacing several key players, including Ryan Kress, the program’s all-time leading scorer, who graduated alongside fellow standouts Rocco Albano and Jake Miller. Last season, Randolph ended with a 14-14 record, scoring a combined 1,654 points.
Coach Nicholas Lavender expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt, citing the depth of talent among the returning players. “Replacing a 1,300-point scorer is a difficult task, but we have a ton of very solid shooters that can hopefully help stretch the floor and collectively contribute to the scoring category,” Lavender said. “Guys like Tristan Durkin, Phil Zamloot, Jack Leonard and Ryan Warner will play huge roles on that end of the floor.”
Leonard, the starting power forward, is expected to take on an expanded role as he steps into the void left by Albano. Other key returning players include seniors Zack Allen and Max Ezra alongside sophomores Andrei Nitulescu and Ricky Fleischer, who will have opportunities to make significant contributions.
“The best thing about our team this season is the chemistry we have with each other,” Leonard said. “My biggest influence as a player has been Ryan Kress. Watching how he conducted himself on and off the court showed me how to keep our team together and motivated.”
The Rams are determined to build a strong team identity as they adjust to the loss of key players. With new leaders stepping up, the focus is on fostering chemistry and trust among teammates. The coaching staff believe this unity will be crucial to their success.
“I see my role increasing a lot,” Warner said. “We always relied on Ryan Kress, whether it was pushing the ball up court or just getting an easy basket. My goal this season is to help my team win and not fall under pressure.”
The Rams hope to start strong as they embark on a season defined by new leadership and high expectations. Cheer on the Rams at their season opener on Dec. 14 at 4 p.m. against Roxbury.
