Senior out. Sophomores in.

Oak Park's boys basketball team lost star senior forward Rodney Scales to an out-of-state transfer last week, however gained the services of a pair of sizzling sophomores in incoming transfers Jonathon Raines and Bobby Thompson, Jr.

Raines, an intriguing and athletically-gifted 6-foot-7 forward in the state's Class of 2017, and Thompson, Jr, a swift and steady guard, land in Oak Park from River Rouge, where Thompson Jr.'s dad, Bobby Thompson, Sr. was the head coach the last few years.

Under the guidance of second-year sideline general, Bryant Tipton, Oak Park's program has gained stability. He's one of the area's top young coaches, having come over to the OC from the PSL and his alma mater, Detroit Cody.

Last winter in Tipton's first year on the job, the Knights reeled off league and district championships before bowing to eventual Class A state-finalist Bloomfield Hills in the regionals.

Besides Raines and Thompson, Jr. Tipton & his club will also benefit from Southfield transplant Howard McInnis, an up-and-coming, gritty talent in the backcourt. McInnis started at Southfield last year as an underclassman.

Add that tantalizing trifecta to junior Kalvon Fuller, the county's No. 1 prospect at the power forward spot, and the Oak Park cage brigade is well-stocked for continued success and additional crownings over the next several seasons on the hardwood.

WAR TEAM TIPTON!!