Northland No. 4 in USA Today

Columbus Northland is ranked No. 4 in USA Today’s initial Super 25 rankings.

The Vikings were (27-1) a year ago winning the Division I state championship behind Ohio State signees Jared Sullinger and James “JD” Weatherspoon.

Northland returns three starters including Penn State commit Trey Burke (5’10/Jr.).

With the addition of 6-foot-7 sophomore Jalen Robinson, who transferred from Westerville South, the Vikings should be deeper and more talented than last year.

Sophomores Jordan Potts (5’10) and KeChaun Lewis (6’3) earned valuable minutes during last year’s tournament run, which will certainly deepen the backcourt.

Look for 6-foot-2 junior Jakyl Cornley to have a breakout season as well.

Juniors LaVonte Justice and Roberto Pierre should round out the varsity squad. Also watch out for 6-7 sophomore Devon Scott.

The Vikings schedule has some national flavor with the likes of No. 2 Findley Prep (NV) and No. 3 Oak Hill Academy (VA) along with Bishop Luers (IN) and Detroit Country Day (MI).

In addition, Northland was rated the top team in the entire Midwest Region with Cincinnati Princeton checking in at No. 6.