Prep Countdown: No. 5 St. Thomas More

Jere Quinn's team is always competitive at St. Thomas More - and this year will be no different. In fact, the veteran head man is more excited than usual with this group.

Jere Quinn likes the makeup of his team this year at St. Thomas More (Conn.) and while many of his players are virtual unknowns, that likely could spell trouble for opposing coaches in the NEPSAC.

``We have 14 players – and every one of them knows how to play,” Quinn said. “We can show a lot of looks. We have size, athleticism, guards and swingmen. We have the potential to be a team that’s awfully difficult to guard.”

It starts with a pair of returnees – forwards Antonio Pena (Villanova) and Edwin Ubiles (Siena). Neither are extremely verbal, so both will lead by example.

``This year’s team is quicker and more explosive than we were last season,” said the versatile Pena. “We also have a lot more shooters.”

The vocal leader will likely be none other than Quinn’s son, Michael, who is still working his way back to 100 percent after suffering a major knee injury a year ago that kept him on the sidelines for eight months.

The 6-foot-1, 175-pound Quinn, who can not only set up his teammates, but also knock down the perimeter shot with consistency, will likely start alongside Marquis Jones, a versatile guard from South Plainfield High (N.J.) who has signed with Rhode Island. Another New Jersey guard and Rams signee, Terence Grier, could also vie for a starting spot - or Quinn could opt for a three-guard lineup.

``I think all the guards are quick – except for me,” the younger Quinn joked.

If Quinn elects to go big, he’s got hard-working and rapidly developing 7-foot Canadian big man Max Craig at his disposal. Craig can score in the paint, runs the court well and carries his 260 pounds extremely well.

The depth will be provided by guys like forwards Kresimir Alilovic, Zack Garcia, Callum Jones and Shaun Tortatice – as well as guards Eugene Harris, John Brandt, P.J. Wilson and Kevin Wilson.

``Our objective is to play more up-tempo than in the past,” Quinn said. “And we’ve always been up-tempo. We’re hoping to extend the court.”

``The biggest thing with this group is patience,” Quinn added. “We’re going to play a dozen kids and the minutes will be shared. Not equally, but fairly.”