Lance Pettis is retruning to the Big Lake boys basketball team as head coach for his second year and he says he is thrilled for what’s ahead in the program.

“Before coming to Big Lake, I spent three years as the head coach at Blaine and 17 years as a high-school assistant, along with extensive experience in youth and developmental programs,” Pettis said. “I graduated from Owatonna High School and played college basketball at Gustavus Adolphus, experiences that deeply shaped my coaching foundation.”

Pettis says that coaching multiple sports at the varsity level—including basketball, baseball, and football—has given him a broad perspective on player development, skill training, and program coordination. 

“All of this has helped me create a comprehensive and student-centered approach to leading this program.” he continued.

Pettis says he is fortunate to be surrounded by an outstanding coaching staff including Andrew Linaman, who coached with Pettis at Blaine.

“(Linaman) brings a strong basketball mind and a tremendous ability to build meaningful relationships with players,” Pettis said. 

Another one of Pettis’ assistants is Chuck McConville, who has been part of the Big Lake staff under multiple head coaches and  adds invaluable experience and a unique perspective that elevates the program’s game planning and preparation. 

“Together, our staff is committed to supporting our athletes both on and off the floor,” Pettis said.

“As we head into the upcoming season, I’m energized by the growth this group has already shown and the competitiveness they display every day in practice,” said Pettis. “We have a strong mix of returning contributors and emerging young talent.” 

Seniors Lane Pettis and Trevor Stukenholtz, junior Leroy Hamrin, and senior Will Newland all return with significant varsity experience, as does sophomore Judd Layton, who made a major impact as a ninth-grader last year. 

“Lane and Judd were both honorable-mention all-conference selections last season, with Lane averaging 10 points and over 100 assists, while Judd averaged 11 points and led our guards in rebounding,” Big Lake’s head coach said. 

“Leroy’s ability to attack the rim and defend at a high level stands out, and Will and Trevor bring reliable perimeter shooting that stretches defenses.” 

Pettis also says he expects junior Eddie Reinert to make a big leap this year. 

“His strong culture was established in year one, and the buy-in from players has been outstanding.” 

Pettis says the players understand the importance of being true student-athletes—success in the classroom supports success on the court. Their commitment and work ethic gives Pettis tremendous confidence.

“One of my favorite aspects of coaching at this level is the opportunity to help young people grow,” he said. “Not just as basketball players, but as leaders and dependable teammates.” 

Pettis says it is incredibly rewarding to watch athletes build confidence, persevere through challenges, and support one another throughout the season. That development, he says, is what makes high school athletics special.

Pettis has named three ballplayers as captains including seniors Lane Pettis and Will Newland, along with sophomore Judd Layton.

“They have already shown strong leadership, maturity, and a steady presence within the program,”: he said. “Their example sets the tone for the team.”

Big Lake’s greatest potential this season lies in the team’s combination of speed, defensive intensity, versatility, and scoring depth. 

“We have athletes who excel in transition, can guard multiple positions, and create offense in a variety of ways,” Pettis says. “As our communication and consistency continue to strengthen, we have the pieces to become a well-rounded and highly competitive team.”

Fans attending Big Lake’s games this year can expect a team that plays with high energy, discipline, and togetherness. 

“We pride ourselves on competing on every possession, sharing the basketball, and playing a fast, exciting, and team-driven style,” said Pettis. “This group embodies what it means to represent Big Lake, and we look forward to putting a product on the floor that our community can be proud of.”

The varsity roster includes: Alton Ahamed, Carter Gerlach, John McCormack, Lane Pettis, Trevor Stukenholtz, Will Newland, Minhaj Bille, Caelin McConville, Maurice Yekeku, Leroy Hamrin, Eddie Reinert, Max Baron, Danny Rotz, Judd Layton, Walker Bleymeyer, Noah Walker, Bennett Thieke and Joseph Hillyard.