May 25, 2019 By Mark Peters / Chicago Sun Times Analyst, Est. 1982
Springfield, IL — Big changes are taking shape at Our Savior’s Lutheran as the school’s basketball program looks to build momentum heading into the highly anticipated 2019–20 LSA season.
On Saturday afternoon, head coach Phillip Heppe confirmed the addition of Bryce Thompson as a new assistant coach for the O.S. Eagles. Thompson, known well throughout the grassroots basketball circuit, previously served as an assistant in the AAU ranks for several of the returning Springfield players. His hiring represents a strategic move by Heppe—one aimed at bringing more chemistry, experience, and trust to a program with championship aspirations.
“Bryce knows these boys,” Heppe said. “He’s coached them, traveled with them, and seen them at their best and worst. To me, this was a no-brainer. You want guys on your staff who can command respect and connect with kids immediately. Bryce fits that mold.”
Thompson, a well-regarded voice on the AAU circuit, has built a reputation for structure and player development, particularly with guards. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment, with returning talent like Conor McCaffrey and Jace Easley expected to take the reins of a team hoping to return to LSA State contention.
However, Eagles fans will need to wait a little longer to see Easley back in action.
Heppe also announced that Jace Easley, the rising 8th grade standout and lightning-fast scorer, will not be participating in the O.S. summer league schedule. Instead, Easley is expected to focus exclusively on baseball this offseason, where he plays travel ball at a high level and is regarded as one of the premier two-sport athletes in the area.
“We fully support Jace’s decision,” Heppe said. “He’s got real potential on the baseball diamond and this summer is big for him. He’ll still be a captain for us this fall, but right now he needs to do what’s best for his long-term development.”
McCaffrey, who will return as point guard and floor general, is expected to participate in the summer league alongside key pieces like Jeremiah Perkins, Logan Allen, and Lucas Schmitt, giving Thompson an early opportunity to evaluate rotations and install new offensive sets.
Still, Easley’s absence leaves a noticeable hole in the summer lineup—a stretch that will include games against state contenders like Christ Lutheran and Peoria Concordia.
“It’ll give other guys a chance to step up,” Thompson added. “That’s what summer is for—figuring out who can play, who knows the system, and who’s ready to make the leap. Jace will be back in the fall, and we’ll be ready.”
With one of the most talented classes in O.S. history returning, and a reinforced coaching staff now in place, the 2019–20 season is already beginning to stir anticipation across the LSA landscape.
“This group has the pieces,” Heppe said. “Now it’s about chemistry, commitment, and execution. We’ve taken the first step.”