The Griswold Tigers Boys Basketball are looking to excel and improve under new head coach Ryan Lockwood. After finishing with a 5-16 record a year ago, the Tigers are off to a better start this year. Griswold kicked off the season last week by taking two out of their first three games. Although they dropped Tuesday’s game to East Mills, they sit at 2-2 and 1-1 in the conference heading into Friday’s matchup. The Tiger’s schedule is riddled with conference opponents as three of their first five games come against conference foes. Lockwood says that starting against conference opponents like this is a great early test.

Under Lockwood Griswold’s philosophy will focus on teamwork, community, and playing a hard up-tempo style of basketball.

Last week the Tigers did just that. Griswold grabbed a season-opening 68-39 win over Fremont-Mills on Tuesday. Body Wyman had an excellent performance with 24 points and was 3-for-3 from long range. After dropping Thursday’s game to Southwest Valley, the Tigers rebounded with a hard-fought comeback 56-47 win against Heartland Christian. This time it was Peyton Cook’s turn to lead the way. He finished the contest with 18 points while shooting 57.1% from the field. They also allowed less than 50 points in two of their first three games which has been one of Lockwood’s biggest takeaways.

Lockwood has also been impressed with his team’s determination.

Lockwood also has a trio of talented seniors leading the way for him this season. Zane Johnson currently leads the offensive drive for the Tigers averaging 12.3 points per game and had an 18-point night against Fremont-Mills. Wyman and Cook aren’t far behind with Wyman averaging 12 per game and Cook averaging 10. Lockwood has been proud of not only them but the way the seniors as a whole have led the team. He also is happy with the way they have distributed the ball as a team.

Griswold will close out the week with another conference opponent by visiting Essex. Tipoff on Friday is scheduled for 7 pm.