The Washington Demon boys’ basketball team opened practice this week with several familiar faces from last year’s squad back on the court. Washington returns four seniors who played significant roles in last year’s 6-16 season.

Thomas Bump, a first team all-conference selection last season, returns as the Demons’ leader in several statistical categories. Bump was first on the team in points per game (12.8), field goals made (105), assists (58), and steals (32) a season ago.

Head coach Bryce Smeins believes Bump could be even better this season. “He’s bigger, stronger, has great shooting range, can dunk it very easily,” Smeins said, “He’s got a lot of good things going for him, and has a chance to have an outstanding season.”

Other Demon seniors returning this season include Daryn Sebelius as a starting post player for Washington. Sebelius, a returning all-conference honorable mention selection, led the Demons with 146 rebounds last season, 105 on the defensive end.

Gage Redlinger is another senior post player returning for Washington. Redlinger led the Demons in field goal percentage (50.6%), offensive rebounds (59), and was second in points per game (9.8).

Blake Wiedman rounds out the returning seniors with major playing experience.  Wiedman led the team in free throw percentage (73.3%).

Washington plays an exhibition basketball game tomorrow in Wayland against the WACO Warriors. The Demons’ regular season opener is Tuesday, December 2, against the Mid-Prairie Golden Hawks at Tim Grady Gymnasium in Wellman.