By Josh Lashley 

   There are several components to factor in when considering the success that’s been realized by the West Morris Central High School boy’s basketball program this season. The Wolf Pack have solid coaching, an ample amount of depth and balance on the roster, an energetic fan base and support of family, friends.

   Add to that mix the leadership displayed by senior captain Dillon Olsen and it becomes clear to see why the Wolf Pack enjoyed many memorable victories on the court this winter.

   To make it even more noteworthy, this is the second straight year that Olsen earned the captainship role.

   “Dillon was actually chosen as a junior to be a captain by his teammates and the coaching staff,’’ West Morris Central head coach Mark Schartner said. “Dillon has been a three-year starter who is both a leader on the basketball court and in the school community. Dillon has the respect of his teammates and he has a great way of communicating with his teammates and other members of the program.’’ 

   Olsen is proving to be a complete basketball player for the Wolf Pack and he’s always looking for ways to get even better to benefit the team in general. His work in the classroom is commendable as well.

   “Dillon is key to our team defensively,’’ Schartner said. “He often covers the other team’s best guard. Dillon’s shooting has improved a lot from the start of the season. He has spent a lot of time working on his shot with the coaches and the work is really paying off. Dillon has twice been named All-Conference Honorable Mention-his junior and sophomore seasons. With a team with a lot of young players Dillon’s leadership is a key to our success.’’ 

   West Morris completed the regular season with an overall record of 23-3 and they were clear champions in the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference National Division with a league mark of 12-0. These achievements were made possible due to remarkable performances of several student-athletes on the roster.

   “Ryan Hillier was named by nj.com as one of the top juniors in the state,’’ Schartner said.

“Christian Cevis was named as one of the top sophomores in the state. The team has really matured a lot from last year to this year. We have had a great team atmosphere and chemistry which has helped us have a great season so far. Each night it seems like a different player is contributing to our wins in a different way.”

   “Junior Cameron Spady had a great night early in the year scoring 15 points to get us a road win versus Montville (64-51 on January 4). Ethan Stoute has stepped up huge with his scoring in wins versus Morristown-Beard, Montville and Roxbury. Jack Leloia has been a great settling force defensively and offensively. He always seems to make the right decision.’’ 

At the deadline for this story West Morris was still competing in the NJSIAA North 2 Group 3 Sectional Tournament. They entered the North 2 Group 3 bracket as the No. 3 seed and defeated 14 seeded Voorhees in the opening round.