By Bill Nestor
The Lincoln boys’ basketball team returns several p;ayers from last year’s edition. They will be joined by a handful of talented hoopsters providing depth and decisions for Head Coach Jordan Toth. “We may have a different starting lineup every game, depending on what players are playing well and the match-ups,” explained Toth.
That versatility is an added commodity that few teams are fortunate to possess.
Senior A. J. Bart and junior Brody Barnes are the leading returnees, averaging double figures a year ago. Both are guards, with Bart running the show offensively from the point guard position. Senior Luke Joyce and sophomore Cole Vincent are also on the perimeter while senior Max Myers is a stretch forward. All of the players saw extensive time and are ready to make the move to the next level.
Senior guard Ty Morrill and former Liberty player, junior Johnathan Folmsbee look for time, while senior Cade Riley and juniors Connor Rice and Braiden Minor help to solidify the paint.
This roster is full of impressive players, but it is not the biggest team you will find. “We are undersized. I don’t know if we will ever have a size advantage,” mentioned Toth. “We have to rebound and limit second chance opportunities.”
The flip side of the size disadvantage is that opponents have to try to guard a group that can put the ball in from deep. “We shoot well. One through five can shoot threes.” That ability to hit from long range puts pressure on teams defensively and opens up “drill and drive” lanes.
Fans in Shinnston will have a fun team to watch this year as Toth looks to push the issue both offensively and defensively. “We have pretty good guard play and I am trusting them to make good decisions for us. We are going to press, get up and down, and play with a lot of pace.”
The Cougars had a big win over Nicholas County on a Cole Vincent buzzer-beater to provide momentum heading into 2026. Starting Jan 7 when Lincoln hosts East Fairmont, they will play seven of their first nine in Shinnston. There is no place like home, especially when you have a tremendous fan base like the Cougars have.
Look for an exciting New Year for the solid squad that is well-coached and ready for Big 10 play!
