Our Lady of the Cross Boys Basketball ’25 – ’26 Season Outlook

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Head Coach: Jeff Hatzfeld – 3rd season

Key Returners: Jadison Shuey (Sr.), Owen Carl (Jr.), Chase Gill (So.), John Wuensche (So.)

Rising Contributors: Liam Hardebeck (So.), Darius Altland (Fr.), Cooper Hatzfeld (Fr.), Drew DeCristofaro (Fr.), Gavin Rios (Fr.)

’24–’25 Results: Second-year program; limited roster due to injuries and player loss; gained significant experience despite challenges

Our Lady of the Cross Boys Basketball Season Outlook

Our Lady of the Cross enters its third season looking to take a significant step forward after a challenging second year, one in which the Lions were forced to compete with a roster of just five players. While the lack of substitutions made nightly competition and practice difficult, the silver lining was invaluable experience gained by the core group returning this winter.

Leading the way is senior Jadison Shuey, last year’s top scorer, along with junior Owen Carl. Sophomores Chase Gill, who led the team in steals and set the tone defensively, and John Wuensche also return after heavy minutes and meaningful growth. Together, they form a more seasoned foundation than any previous OLC team has enjoyed.

The Lions also add much-needed depth. Sophomore Liam Hardebeck joins the program, bringing athleticism and versatility after transitioning from the soccer pitch. A promising freshman class—Darius Altland, Cooper Hatzfeld, Drew DeCristofaro, and Gavin Rios—infuses energy, length, and optimism for the future. Though young, this group will be asked to contribute early, accelerating their development and strengthening the team’s overall depth.

For the first time, OLC enters a season with the ability to grow from the previous year, returning continuity while welcoming an influx of youthful talent. Having subs for the first time is transformative, allowing the Lions to expand their offensive sets, vary defensive looks, and maintain fresh legs throughout games.

As a still-new program, scheduling has not been easy—many teams either did not know OLC or already had full schedules. But in year three, the Lions have secured a complete slate, giving them an opportunity to compete consistently and build identity.

Though young and still raw, this OLC team is determined, improving, and ready to compete more vigorously than ever before. With experienced returners and an exciting freshman class, the Lions are taking meaningful steps toward building a program the community can be proud of as they continue to lay the foundation on Grace Avenue.

Our Lady of the Cross Boys Basketball Roster: ’25-’26

Coaching Staff: Coaches: Jeff Hatzfeld (HC), John Shuey, Sam Heagy

’25-’26 Schedule