basketball
night in southern mecklenburg
Winter 2014 – 15
Page 2 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
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basketball night
super seven Ardrey Kell 1. Providence Day
The Chargers spent the entire 2013-14 season perched atop our Super 7 rankings as they went through one of their best seasons in school history. This year, despite a brutal schedule that pits them against some national and regional powerhouses, the Chargers should dominate the CISAA and make a case that they’re the city’s best team – public or private. With Grant Williams, Josh Howard and Isaac Johnson inside, size and athleticism are huge strengths. Heady guard Chaz Raye is the consummate point man to run the up-tempo attacking offense, and they get after teams on defense with their length and quickness. If there are any questions surrounding this team, it’s how will they replace graduated guard Jordan Watkins, but if Matthew Lee or any number of other guys can step in, the Chargers won’t leave any doubt they’re the top team around.
3 myers park
With as much talent as the Mustangs lost it’s hard to believe they’ll actually jump up in the rankings, but they have contributors up and down their roster and a bona fide star in Zaqwuan Matthews to have them on the short list of the Southwestern 4A’s elite. All of the talk surrounding this team is centered around its cohesion and togetherness as most of these guys have played together since middle school and play with a team-first approach that should make them tough to defend. Matthews can carry a team by himself, but throw in steady guard Bill Robertson and athletic wing Jontavius Hall, and the Mustangs should at least challenge for a league title.
4. South Meck
What’s inside 20 To Treasure
A staple of the Carolina Weekly Newspapers, the 20 to Treasure is our first of two annual player rankings for the 2014-15 basketball season. These are the best individual players as we see it, but there’s plenty of time for players to move up and down the rankings during the year.
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CISAA Preview
Andrew Stark examines what to expect from the premier private-school basketball conference in the state. We offer a teamby-team look at the keys to Charlotte Christian, Charlotte Country Day, Charlotte Latin, Covenant Day and Providence Day and we give our staff’s projected order of finish for each team in the conference.
Pages 6-10
Big Man on Campus: Trey Phills
Charlotte Christian’s team leader is the next guy in line of a rich tradition of basketball excellence and has all of the tools to lead the Knights into the heated CISAA race.
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So. Meck 8 Preview
Andrew Stark breaks down the So. Meck 8, a conference that has become one of the state’s most competitive in just its second year of existence. We offer a team-by-team look at the keys to Ardrey Kell, Berry, Charlotte Catholic, Harding, Olympic, Providence, South Meck and West Meck and we give our staff’s projected order of finish for each team in the conference.
Pages 13-14 A behind-the-scenes look into four of the areas top players. We give the floor to Providence Day’s Chaz Raye, Charlotte Country Day’s Michael White, Providence’s Dalen Dotson and Ardrey www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
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Butler
Butler always seems to be in the mix, and this year is no different. Guards Orlando Robinson and RaeQuan Scott will push the tempo for first-year coach Myron Lowery and freshman Omega Stitt should make an immediate contribution. Athletic forwards Jay Gibbs and Arthur Labinowisz will have them rims rocking and the Bulldogs in contention for the Southwestern 4A title. If they can find another consistent scorer, they can make a serious run and build on last year.
6. Providence
Throw the last two seasons out the window, as this year’s Panther squad has the talent to change recent history. Senior point guard Dalen Dotson gets a lot of the notoriety, and deservingly so, but this team has the potential to not only turn around the recent fortunes, but challenge for the top few spots in the So. Meck 8 if not win the title outright. Drake Dotson, a talented freshman, could make an immediate impact, and Jack King and Drake Deluiis give the Panthers strength and toughness inside. Athletic 6-foot-6 Luis Mercado could be the difference maker in what will be a turnaround season for Providence.
7. Charlotte Latin
The Sabres had a down year last season, but this team is full of breakout star candidates. Steady post Grant Hedberg and guard Khayleb Connelly will get the Sabres attack going, but any combination of Nikidrien Bailey, Jalen Blakeney, Quadrian Jamison and Kamil Chapman could have the South Meck faithful turning the clock back to 2011-12 when they were conference champions and southern Mecklenburg’s best team.
Full Court Press
The Knights return four of five starters from last year’s team that won a school record 24 games and advanced to the fourth round of the playoffs. They have experience on their side, and 6-foot-4 Elon commit Steven Santa Ana can shoot the Knights into contention with anyone. If there’s any hesitation with the Knights, it’s playing in the So. Meck 8 which looks to be the premier Charlotte-area public school league. But with Santa Ana and the experience of Josh Freund, Rhyle Scott, Collin Cooper and a pair of newcomers ready to make their mark, the Knights could surpass even their own lofty standards.
Coach Chris Berger always finds a way to get the Hawks to compete in the CISAA and this year he has forwards Daniel Jones and Parker Julian to form the nucleus of a team that could surprise some people. Caleb Jordan, Anthony BIlas and David Hermann will form a solid backcourt, and if the combination of Miachel Gabbard, Sean Bonner and Bates Jones gives the Hawks a strong interior presence, these guys could finish the season much higher in our rankings.
Kell’s Collin Cooper to see what makes them tick.
Page 15
Big Man on Campus: Steven Santa Ana
Ardrey Kell’s Steven Santa Ana has transformed himself into one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the city. After leading the Knights to their best-ever season, he’s ready for an encore.
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Southwestern 4A Preview
Hannah Dockery takes you inside the Southwestern 4A conference, providing her take on what to expect from one of the state’s best public-school conferences. We offer a team-by-team look at the keys to Butler, East Meck, Garinger, Independence, Myers Park, Porter Ridge and Rocky River and we give our staff’s projected order of finish for each team in the conference.
Pages 18-19 Big Man on Campus: Zaqwaun Matthews
Myers Park’s Zaqwaun Matthews has played varsity for four years and had a breakout season last year. This year, he’s ready to take his game – and his teammates – to the next level.
Page 20 Basketball Schedule
We give fans a week-to-week look at where your favorite team will be playing. The whole season can be found in one spot.
Page 23 Team Previews Charlotte Christian Charlotte Country Day Charlotte Latin Covenant Day Providence Day Ardrey Kell Charlotte Catholic Providence South Meck
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Butler Independence Myers Park Rocky River Carmel Christian Grace Academy Queen’s Grant
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About this section
The 2014-15 Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg was planned and written by the Carolina Weekly Newspaper Groups Sports Staff consisting of Managing Editor Andrew Stark and Assistant Sports Editor Hannah Dockery, who also took all of the photographs. Liz Lanier designed and laid out the section, so a special thanks for her hard work and design expertise. CEO and Founder Alain Lillie assisted Charlotte Conway and Adrian Garson in selling advertising. Maria Hernandez designed ads for the section and Randi Trojan coordinated the advertising. Mike Kochy oversaw the distribution. We extend a special thanks to all for their hard work.
On the Cover
The 2014 Cover Boys are (standing, from left) Ardrey Kell’s Collin Cooper, Charlotte Country Day’s Michael White, Myers Park’s Zaqwuan Matthews, Charlotte Christian’s Trey Phills, Ardrey Kell’s Steven Santa Ana and (kneeling, from left) Providence’s Dalen Dotson and Providence Day’s Chaz Raye.
Special Thanks
In addition to all of the countless hours our staff put into making this section, we’d also like to extend a special thank you to Providence Day School and Chargers coach Brian Field who allowed us access to their gym for the photo shoot. Providence Day is home to the two-time defending conference champion Chargers and served as the perfect setting to get the majority of our team photos and our cover shot.
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 3
Feature
Twenty to Treasure
1. Steven Santa Ana
The gritty 6-foot-4 forward can do everything, and do it all well. The Elon commit made his name as a shooter, but he’s evolved his game into an all-around difference maker. Santa Ana’s sweet shot is a big key to how far the Knights go, and his leadership and court savvy have hopes high at Ardrey Kell.
2. Trey Phills
Last season Phills carried the Knights, leading them in nearly every statistical category while shooting north of 50 percent from the field for the second consecutive season. The Yale commit is a great student and brings his high IQ to the court. He’ll have to do a lot for the Knights to bounce back, but this playmaker is up to the challenge.
game. Hedberg can bang down low or stretch the floor from the outside, making it easy to see why he’s being heavily recruited.
dangerous in the open court where he can get to the basket with ease or find open teammates.
be inline to build upon those with an improved supporting cast.
11. Josh Howard
16. Jay Gibbs
The super-quick Panther averaged more than 15 points and three assists a season ago. He thrives in Providence’s up-tempo, pick-and-roll offense and this year, with help coming all over the roster, has the Panthers looking to make some noise in the So. Meck 8.
Howard gets lost in the shuffle a little among Providence Day’s talented roster, but opposing coaches know he can take over at any time. Howard always seems to be in the right place and makes his 11 points and six rebounds per game seem nearly effortless.
Gibbs is getting a lot of recruiting interest as linebacker on the Bulldogs football team, but he brings that toughness onto the basketball court. A relentless worker, Gibbs averaged 10 points and eight rebounds per game a season ago.
12. RaeQuan Scott
17. Sean Bryant
White carried Country Day last year, leading them in nearly every offensive statistical category. Despite being the main focus of opposing defenses, he still managed to average nearly 16 points per game and will be asked to carry much of the burden again.
Scott is small in stature, but is speedy and can flat shoot the ball. He averaged 13 points as a complimentary scorer on last year’s star-studded team, but this year he’ll get even more of a green light and should put up enormous numbers.
Bryant burst onto the scene last year and averaged 16.7 points while running the point for the Lions. This year, he’ll move more off of the ball to take advantage of his all-around game, and as the No. 1 option in a stacked conference, will get plenty of chances to score.
6. Dalen Dotson
7. Michael White
3. Zaqwuan Matthews 8. Chaz Raye The Mustangs are favored to win the Southwestern 4A, and the senior forward is a big reason why. The Chattanooga commit came on strong, posting 14 consecutive double-figure scoring games and four double-doubles down the stretch. He’s in line for an outstanding season.
Raye is the engine that runs Providence Day’s high-powered, uptempo offense. A smart point guard, Raye can score with his ball penetration or by knocking down outside shots, but is at his best directing the Chargers’ troops.
4. Grant Williams
9. Collin Cooper
The silky smooth 6-foot-7 Williams is beginning to draw tons of recruiting interest, and is the CISAA’s next huge star. He averaged 12.5 points and seven rebounds as a sophomore, but he’s the No. 1 option now and could easily up those numbers as the Chargers look to three-peat of conference champs.
Cooper was a big reason for Ardrey Kell’s best-ever season a year ago, and will have an even bigger role this year. Coach Mike Craft calls Cooper the X-factor, and when Cooper is hitting from the outside, the Knights are as tough as anyone to guard.
5. Grant Hedberg
The South Meck big man returns for his senior season after averaging a double-double in one of the state’s toughest conferences, with 13 points and 11.4 rebounds per
13. Wes Morgan
The 6-foot-6 Morgan hasn’t played a varsity game yet, but he’s already developed quite a recruiting following after starring for Team United and showing his skills at college camps this summer. A deadeye shooter, Morgan may move high up this list before the season is out.
14. Kamil Chapman
Another guy yet to play a varsity game, the 6-foot Chapman has been tearing up the recruiting trail and AAU circuit playing for the Charlotte Rivals. Chapman is in the classic point guard mold, but he can score in bunches and will have the Sabres faithful excited when he takes the court.
10. Khayleb Connely 15. Patrick Tapé Connely led the Sabres offense and was their leading scorer after averaging 13.8 points per game last year. He can stretch the floor with his 37 percent 3-point shooting, but is most
Page 4 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Tapé is getting plenty of interest from major college programs, but it seems the 6-foot-8 junior is just scratching the surface. Last year he averaged 12.8 points and 11.9 rebounds per game, but he should
18. Leito Holloway
Holloway takes his game to Rocky River after averaging 12 points and seven rebounds per game at Butler a year ago. The slashing Holloway can score in a variety of ways, and seems to keep getting better and better.
19. Parker Julian
Charlotte Latin’s offense will run through Julian, a 6-foot-6 post presence who is just starting to come into his own. Last year he was third on the team with 8.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, but expect a big spike in those numbers.
20. Justyn Hamilton
Hamilton scored just 13 points a season ago for the Patriots, but the athletic 6-foot-7 big man is due for a breakout season. He’s a high-volume rebounder, but has greatly improved inside and will be a huge key if the Patriots are to win a third consecutive conference title.
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Column
Breaking Down the CISAA by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
The Chargers are the heavy favorites to repeat again this season despite the loss of The balance of 1,000-point scorer and current Davidson power has shifted College freshman Jordan Watkins. in the Charlotte Despite losing one of the program’s allI n d e p e n d e n t timers, there’s plenty of ammunition up front Schools Athletic with Grant Williams, Isaac Johnson and Josh Association, as Howard all checking in at 6-foot-6 or taller. Providence Day Matthew Lee replaces Watkins and has risen to the top steady Chaz Raye makes it all go, running of the conference, the show. In addition, freshman Trey Wertz claiming the league has a chance to make an instant impact as title each of the a 3-point specialist, and football guys Julius past two seasons. Felder, Deonte Henderson will help in the backcourt while 6-foot-4 Elijah Brown is another big, physical presence for the Chargers’ cache of talented posts. Last year the Chargers were 8-0 in league play, winning games by an average of 21 points. They Andrew’s Projected Hannah’s Projected play a brutal non-conferorder of finish: order of finish: ence schedule and face four of their first five 1. Providence Day 1. Providence Day conference games 2. Charlotte Latin 2. Charlotte Latin on the road, but 3. Charlotte Christian 3. Charlotte Christian a repeat perfor4. Charlotte Country 4. cannon school mance is likely Day 5. Charlotte country in the cards 5. Cannon School day again this sea6. Covenant Day 6. covenant day son. Charlotte
Andrew Stark
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Latin won 18 games last year and finished tied for second in the league. They have to replace their own Davidson College freshman in Rusty Reigel, but have plenty left as well. Parker Julian is in line for a big year, as is senior forward Daniel Jones. Junior Caleb Jordan takes over the point and is more than capable, but in order to challenge the Chargers, the Hawks will need another post presence. Bates Jones will get a shot at that role, and if he produces and shooters Anthony Bilas and David Hermann hit open shots, it could be another good year for the Hawks, although at best probably a second-place finish. Charlotte Christian tied Latin for second in the conference last year, and has all-around star Trey Phills to lean on. Phills is probably the conference’s most complete player right now, but can’t do it all alone. Hayden Girard and Jaylon McClinton are complimentary guards who can score and defend, and along with newcomer Beau Snuggs will provide the Knights with a steady backcourt. Six-foot-five Collin Greig and 6-foot-4 Luke Turner are big and physical inside, but beyond that the Knights have little interior depth. Charlotte Country Day is another team
looking for depth. Guard Michael White will challenge for the league scoring title and runs the offense well for coach Dwayne Cherry. Forward Andy Salisbury returns with a lot more confidence and should have a big season scoring and rebounding. Guard Christien Williams showed flashes last year and can be a third scorer, but the Bucs may struggle as they need to find another couple of consistent scorers and a post presence to compliment Salisbury. Covenant Day is new to the league, and boasts steady guard Sean Bryant, another candidate to lead the league in scoring, and steady guys such as Noah BIggerstaff, Jack Shanahan, Garrett Mosley and Christian Vandevelde to form a good nucleus. But the first run in the CISAA may be a rough one for the Lions. Cannon won 17 games last year, but struggled in league play with just two wins, tying Country Day for last place. They will win a lot of games again this year, but won’t be a huge factor in the league standings. In the end, this is Providence Day’s conference. There could be a battle for the next couple spots, and there will be a lot of hardfought games this year, but the Chargers are too experienced, too big and, frankly, too good to not take home their third straight title.
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 5
team previews
Charlotte Christian
Guards Phills, an all-state selection, is well known in the Charlotte area for being the son of former NBA star Bobby Phills. But he’s made a big mark in his own right, averaging a team-high 18.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.8 steals last season. He can score from anywhere on the court and is hard to guard even when double-teamed. The Yale commit will undoubtedly be the vocal leader of this bunch, with high expectations for his senior season. Seniors Hayden Girard and Jaylon McClinton both return to man the other guard spot. McClinton averaged decent numbers last year with 6.2 points and they both have
Posts Collin Greig returns at forward and the 6-foot-5 senior is in line for a bigger year and will be counted on to provide interior toughness. Luke Turner is another guy that should make a quick impression. He’s 6-foot-4 and has a 37-inch vertical with good hands. He’s only played for two years, but is strong and athletic and should make an impact early.
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The Knights will lean on (from left) Collin Greig, Scottie Wallace, Trey Phills, Kale Mason and Hayden Girard to have them back in the hunt for a league title. Photo by Andrew Stark
Center of Attention Greig is one of the Knights few true post presences and will be one key to how their season goes. Last year in a reserve role, Greig showed flashes that he can carry the interior load. If he can, expect a better season from the guard-heavy Knights.
Photo by Andrew Stark
The Opening Tip
The Knights had a disappointing season last year, but return four of their five top contributors including star guard Trey Phills who’s in line for a big senior season. Coach Shonn Brown has tons of winning experience, and with all the returning talent, these guys should be a lot better.
a consistent floor game that give the Knights some depth at the guard spot. The backcourt on this team is deep; Scottie Wallace will join the roster as a transfer from Ardrey Kell and Beau Snuggs is a JV call up who led that squad to a CISAA title and is a great defender. Factor in 6-foot freshman Terelle Brown, who has a high basketball IQ with great court vision, and you’ve got a group of guards that are going to be a threat. Forwards Kale Mason will get the first look at the small forward spot, and he will be productive this season. The Knights are lacking tons of depth here, but can slide some guards or post guys to the forward spot if they need to.
– Hannah Dockery
Collin
Greig
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team previews
The Bucs have experience in (from left) Jack Vaughn, Emerson Pierce, Michael White and Christien Williams who will form the nucleus of coach Dwayne Cherry (center) and his young, but talented team . Photo by Hannah Dockery
Charlotte Country Day School The Opening Tip The Bucs have a pair of talented seniors to lead the way, but are in transition as they look for depth and a few scorers to emerge. Coach Dwayne Cherry will need some of his JV call ups and role players from a season ago to step up and help guard Michael White and post Andy Salisbury, but those two offer a solid base to build upon this year.
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Guards For the Bucs, it all starts with senior point guard Michael White. Last season, the 6-foot-1 junior led the team in most statistical categories including scoring (15. 7 points), assists (3.5) and steals (2.1) while making 65 3-pointers and running the offense. White is receiving a lot of interest from Patriot and Ivy League schools as well as some of the top Division III schools in the country. A lot of the Bucs’ success will ride on his shoulders. Christien Williams will see plenty of
Forwards Jack Vaughn and Emerson Pierce are penciled in to start the season at forward after both of them were spot starters and rotation players last year. Vaughn, a 6-foot-2 junior averaged 2.8 points and 2.6 rebounds, and will improve dramatically on those numbers, as will Pierce, who showed a nose for rebounding in limited time a season ago. Mike Dalton and Carter Loesch will add depth at forward and will be in the rotation. Posts Andy Salisbury, a 6-foot-5 senior, showed a lot of promise last season, and led the team with6.6 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game while averaging 5.2 points. He’s back and Cherry said he has improved confidence on the offensive end, but he’ll need to score more to help take pressure off White. Senior Jack Schulte is a 6-foot-5 banger inside who will spell Salisbury and offers another rebounder and shot
blocker for the Bucs. Center of Attention Williams had some flashes last year and led the Bucs to a pair of wins with double-figure scoring performances. Country Day is in desperate need of a consistent scoring threat, and if Williams can be that player, they have a chance to exceed expectations. – Andrew Stark
Christien Williams
Photo by Hannah Dockery
minutes at the other guard spot. Williams averaged 2.3 points as the sixth man last year, but showed flashes with a couple double-figure scoring performances. Ford Dunaway will add depth at guard, and Cherry is hoping one of the JV callups can become a rotation player.
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 7
team previews
Charlotte Latin Chris Berger said should have a good rookie year. Forwards The Hawks forwards are a big source of strength as key contributors Daniel Jones and Parker Julian both return. Jones, who’s drawing interest from Princeton, University of Connecticut, Harvard and Wake Forest for football, has a high basketball IQ and will be a vocal leader on this year’s team. Last season he averaged 7.5 points and 6.2 rebounds but he’s bigger and stronger now and in line for a big season.
Charlotte Latin is always well coached by Chris Berger, and with (from left) returning players in Daniel Jones, Anthony Bilas, Caleb Jordan, Parker Julian and (kneeling) David Hermann, will be competitive as usual. Photo by Hannah Dockery
The Opening Tip How well the Hawks do will depend on how they fill the shoes of current Davidson freshman Rusty Reigel and four-year starting point guard Joe Baynard. But with eight returning contributors and a solid nucleus of returning starters, these guys should be in the mix for a conference title.
Guards All eyes will be on Caleb Jordan as he takes over the lead guard spot this year. The 5-foot-11 junior played big minutes last season and averaged 6.7 points and 2.5 assists, but is in line for even more production this year. Anthony Bilas, son ESPN analyst Jay Bilas, will occupy the other guard spot. He’ll share time with sharpshooter David Herrmann and 6-foot newcomer Jackson Farr, who coach
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Posts He’ll have help in Parker Julian, an imposing presence at 6-foot-7. Julian, a junior, is receiving college interest and for good reason after he put up 8.2 points and five rebounds last year. He’s vocal, a good shooter and prolific rebounder and will be big for the Hawks this year. The Hawks have a good amount of size, beginning with 6-foot-5 Sean Bonner who returns at his post position for his junior season. He’s an athletic guy who’s physical and can rebound and will be joined by 6-foot-4 Michael Gabbard, and both guys who can take scoring pressure off the guards.
Add in 6-foot-5 sophomore Bates Jones who joins the varsity roster this year, and you’ve got a group of guys that combine varsity experience, veteran leadership and rookie talent for what could turn into one of the Hawks best seasons in a while. Center of Attention Julian will offer the Hawks an immediate post presence through which they can run their offense. He’s big, athletic and can bang inside, which could be just what they need to regain their grip on the CISAA’s top spot. He’ll improve on his production from last season, and the 6-7 Julian could average close to a double-double this year. – Hannah Dockery
Parker Julian Photo by Hannah Dockery
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team previews
Covenant Day
The Lions have a number of key guys back this season including (standing, from left) Garrett Moseley, Noah Biggerstaff, Chase Dixon, (kneeling) Jack Shanahan and Sean Bryant to give coach Wade Tapp (center) hope in their first year competing in the CISAA. Photo by Andrew Stark
The Opening Tip
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Forwards Jack Shanahan was a captain last season and is back for his third varsity season. Last year he averaged seven points per game, but has an improved outside shot and is attacking the rim better, coach Wade Tapp said. Noah Biggerstaff is a proficient rebounder and 3-point shooter. The 6-foot-4 junior should be in the starting rotation and make a big impact this ear. Likewise, 6-foot-3 wing Garrett Mosley has a very similar game to Biggerstaff and will be counted on to have a big year. Scott Gardner was a role player last year and will have a bigger role this season. Posts The Lions must replace the loss of Justus Melton, who graduated after leading the team with 21.3 points and 12.9 rebounds per game.
Center of Attention Bryant transferred from Butler before last season, and made an immediate impact in the Lions backcourt, averaging 16.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists a game last year. With more help at the point, he may move off the ball more, but if Covenant Day is going to have a good year, Bryant will need a huge senior season. – Andrew Stark
Sean Bryant
Photo by Andrew Stark
The Lions will have their hands full in their first year as a CISAA team, but have a talented senior guard and a host of underclassmen trying to make a name for themselves. If they can find a post presence, they could make some noise, but this may be a year more about building for what looks like a very bright future.
Guards Senior point guard Sean Bryant is back in the mix after averaging 16.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists a season ago. He’ll be asked to lead the team on the court and in the scoring department, but is more than capable. This year, he may play a little more off the ball, but will still see some time at the point. Hickory Grove transfer Percy Johnson averaged four points, three rebounds and two steals in limited action, and the 5-foot-6 sparkplug will have a prominent role with the Lions this year. Christian VandeVelde and Jay Glass are among 12 sophomores who played on JV and will vie for roster spots this year.
Chase Dixon started some games as a freshman and at 6-foot-4 and 200 pounds, the sophomore will be one of the Lions’ only true post players. He’s an improved low-post scorer, a good ball handler and passer and has range, so Dixon is in line for a big season.
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 9
team previews
The Opening Tip The Chargers were good last season – really good and they have almost everyone back this year. They have a traditionally rich basketball program and expect that trend to continue this season behind a stacked roster that can put up points, rebound, defend and is complete all over the court. Factor in their sheer size combined with raw talent and these guys will be tough to take down.
Guards The Chargers return sharp-shooting point guard Chaz Raye (7.2 points), who starts at that position for his fourth consecutive year. He’s a crafty ball handler and difficult to stay in front of, making him a huge weapon for the Charger offense, but he’s arguably an even better defender. The Chargers aren’t lacking in size. Six-foot-five senior Matthew Lee has a 6-9 wingspan but was overlooked last season behind current Davidson
The Chargers are loaded and are the favorite to win their third straight CISAA title with (from left) Josh Howard, Matthew Lee, Isaac Johnson, Chaz Raye and Grant Williams leading the way for coach Brian Field. Photo by Andrew Stark
Page 10 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Forwards All-conference selections Josh Howard (6-foot-5) and Grant Williams (6-foot-7) are two super-athletic guys who can attack the basket and are great shot blockers. Williams averaged 12.5 points and seven rebounds last season and is expected to up his production in both categories. Howard put up 11 points per game last year so both of those guys can score and will be expected to be vocal leaders on this senior-heavy team. Posts Howard and Williams are versatile enough to take their games out on the floor, but will spend plenty of time on the blocks, too. They’ll be joined by 6-foot-8 Isaac Johnson (5.8 points, six rebounds), who’s played at the varsity level since his freshman year and has will be counted on for big production underneath.
Center of Attention Forward Grant Williams is the key to Providence Day’s post game, which is among the best in the state. College coaches are taking notice of Williams’ 6-foot-7 collegeready frame, but it’s his skills that allows him to shoot from the outside, handle the ball and grab rebounds in traffic that key the Chargers quest for a third straight conference title. – Hannah Dockery
Grant Williams
Photo by Andrew Stark
Providence Day
freshman Jordan Watkins. Coach Brian Field said they’re expecting big things from the senior, who’s developed physically and mentally and can finish with either hand. Julius Felder and Deonte Henderson will return and see time at the guard spots after football season wraps up, and should make some contributions when Raye needs a break. Freshman Trey Wertz is a sharp-shooting guard who will see time ,and when teams try to double down on the posts, will light up the 3-point line.
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Big man on campus by Hannah Dockery hannah@thecharlotteweekly.com
The last season and a half have been atypical for the Charlotte Christian basketball team. A year after losing the 2012 state championship game by a heartbreaking two points, the Knights hit a midseason swoon, losing eight of their final nine games to close out 2013. Last season wasn’t much different as Charlotte Christian struggled with inexperience, a tough schedule and fell to 10-20, their second consecutive losing season for a proud and storied program filled with next-level players and a spattering of NBA guys. But there’s hope for this year as the next star player who falls right in line with the superstars to grace the Knights court is senior guard Trey Phills. He’s the last remaining member of the 2012 state runners-up, but a superstar whose game and off-court demeanor are as uncommon these days as the Knights recent downturn of success. Phills led the Knights in nearly every statistical category a season ago, and on the defensive side of the court, too. With so much on his plate – and playing with a torn meniscus he suffered before the season began, a fact he kept hidden all year – he delivered. The 6-foot-3 guard averaged team highs in points (19.1), rebounds (6.4), steals (2.8), assists (2.3) and blocks (nine), and his play was directly tied to all of the Knights’ success. “To be super honest, nobody really expected a lot from us,” Phills said. “We did struggle as far as the dominance of Charlotte Christian, but we exceeded ourselves. A lot of those guys don’t play yearround and don’t play AAU. I think we did good, and we got closer which was the
most important thing. “Nobody likes to lose and losing isn’t fun, but it’s not like we were losing off of selfishness or something. We had one of the toughest schedules – we played Ardrey Kell, Olympic, Greensboro Day, High Point, Trinity Christian who were all good teams. It wasn’t our best season, but it was an OK season and we had fun.” Watching Phills’ on-court game, it’s obvious that he’s having fun on the court despite the Knights’ sub-par record. But what really separates him from other teamcarrying superstars is how he goes about his business. Last season, in a guard-oriented time when most of his counterparts are hoisting 3-pointers at record paces, Phills attempted just 41 3-pointers. It’s not that he can’t make them – for he has great range and shot-making ability – it’s that he understands team play and shot selection enough that he shot 53 percent from the floor – the second season he’s made more than half of his attempts. “Naturally, I’m a facilitator,” Phills said. “I’m unselfish, I love getting guys involved, I love slashing to the basket and I can hit open shots. When the load goes on my shoulders offensively, I just try to do whatever I can to get a bucket, whatever that is. Usually I look to be a facilitator, but I’ll do
whatever I need to if I need to score it I can do that, too.” Phills can light up the stat sheet when he needs to. Last year against Charlotte Country Day, he scored a career-high 36 points – while going 11 for 15 from the field – and added 10 rebounds. In a game earlier in the year, Phills pulled down 20 rebounds, and in a game against Metrolina Christian he narrowly missed a quadruple double, posting 20 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and five steals. But it’s not in his nature to stay in the limelight. “For me, it’s just decision making and IQ on the court,” Phills said. “I feel like I know when to take shots, when it’s a good shot and knowing that bad shots will hurt the team more than anything. For me, it might not hurt, but if I can be as efficient as possible, it’s good for everyone. So, I think it’s just being conscious of that and about my shot selection and trying to be a good teammate.” When Phills isn’t making opposing defenses look bad or trying to get the most out of his teammates, he has an impressive off-thecourt resume as well. Last school year he boasted a 5.0 gradepoint average, although he said it may have slipped to a 4.9 or so due to not taking as
many AP classes. He was named the Outstanding Participant in the 2015 National Achievement Scholarship Program, which is conducted by the National Merit Scholars Corporation, and was on the senior Homecoming Court at Charlotte Christian. It’s well-rounded traits like that – coupled with his tremendous on-court skill – that had colleges courting his services across the country. Ultimately, Phills chose Yale over the hoards of schools interested in him, and he’s excited for that chapter of his life. “I went where I felt the most love,” Phills said. “I feel like I have a longer leash there than I would at other schools, so that gives me a chance to grow and develop as a player. Also, I feel like I have a chance to play early, so hopefully that works out.” First, Phills wants to help restore the past basketball glory at Charlotte Christian – a school that has produced NBA players including Stephen and Seth Curry, Todd Fuller, Akil Mithchell and a host of college players. Phills falls right into that line, but he isn’t ready to anoint himself in that category just yet. “It hasn’t hit me and I don’t think about that,” he said. “I’ve always been looking up to the guys before me and I always will be, so I’ve never looked in the mirror and said, ‘Dang, I might be up there on the board or records with Steph and Seth and everyone else.’ “Right now, I’m trying to win every game. We have a good group of guys and I want to get them back to the top. I’m looking forward to enjoying my senior year. The hard part’s over, my life-long goal so far was to get to college. Now that it’s there I have to find a new goal, so I’m going to enjoy this year, relax and have fun.”
A Knights Tale
Trey Phills Photo by Hannah Dockery
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Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 11
Column
Breaking Down the So. Meck 8 by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
Last year, Berry claimed the tightlycontested So. Meck 8 conference title after edging Ardrey Kell and Olympic, and all three teams come back loaded this year. Berry returns a host of dangerous threats in guards Quindon Cottman (10.1 points per game), Matthew Powell (9.8 points) and Chandler Murray (5.6 points), forwards Victor Harris (7.3 points, 5.5 rebounds) and Robert Fasion (3.7 points) and six-foot-six post Keondre’ Byers (5.8 points, 3.8 rebounds). All of those players scored in double figures at times last year, and will help ease the loss of seven seniors. The key may be Murray, who takes over the starting point guard role. If that transition is as seamless as it appears, the Cardinals are at least in the discussion of the league’s top two teams. Ardrey Kell won a school record 24 games, advanced to the fourth round of the Class 4A playoffs and return four starters, including Steven Santa Ana, an Elon commit who holds a bunch of the school records.
Andrew Stark
The Knights success will depend largely on him, but posts Josh Freund and Rhyle Scott and guards Collin Cooper and Seth Davis form a solid supporting cast. Losing guard Devin Cooper is a big blow, but there is hope transfer Luke Lawson and JV call up Wes Morgan can fill in his role. Olympic only graduated three seniors, but high-scoring guard C.J. Jackson will be tough to replace. Without Jackson, 6-foot-5 senior wing Malik Constantine will be the Trojans’ No. 1 option, but guards Quincy Eddy and Damari Parris will also see increased roles. The Trojans strength may lie inside where Constantine, 6-foot-7 Malik Brevard, 6-foot-5 Alex Fortoso and JaQuan Bagwell will form a talented bunch. Harding will be a tough out even with the loss of 20-point-per-game scorer Darryl White. Senior Teyon Henry and junior Tarrick Perry both averaged double figures and will keep the Rams in contention. Six-foot-five sophomore Karl Hankton had a good freshman season, and could be among the conference’s breakout stars. If he develops as coach Walt Aikens expects, the Rams will be tough to handle. Charlotte Catholic struggled last season, but went 4-2 down the stretch and could be in for a bounce-back year. The Cougars must replace Robbie Anderson and Matt Millovic, their two leading scorers, but steady point guard Josh Brodowicz will team with Joe Scibelli, Jack
Page 12 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Larkin, Xavier Smith, Chris Campione and will have the Panthers on the rise. Freshman Xander Gagnon to form a nice nucleus, but guard Devon Dotson, Dalen’s brother, helped they have to find a post presence to have much lead United Faith’s JV team to an undefeated of a shot at competing in the upper echelon of season and will contribute immediately. the league. West Meck only won a pair of games last year South Meck is another team that struggled and has talent, especially in guard Juwan Hood, last year, but has plenty of reasons for optimism but they won’t be able to compete on a nightly this year. Six-foot-six senior posts Grant Hed- basis in this league, which is quickly becoming berg (13 points, 11.4 rebounds per game) and one of the best in the state. Quadrian Jamison (4.7 rebounds) will team up In the end, Berry, Ardrey Kell and Olympic front with skilled JV call-up Bo Blight to form will again finish near the top, but Providence an inside presence that rivals anyone in the and South Meck are greatly improved and conference. could make a run toward relevancy. Night in The Sabres also boast point guard Khayleb and night out, the So. Meck 8 will offer some Connelly (13.8 points, three assists), Jalen of the best action in the state, and it’s going to Blakeney (8.3 points, 3.6 rebounds) and new- be fun to watch the cream rise to the top. comer Kamil Chapman who may be one of the league’s most pleasant surprises. The Sabres will be much better, but so, too, will Providence. The Panthers have struggled the last few Hannah’s Projected Andrew’s Projected years, but the tides are shiftorder of finish: order of finish: ing. Dalen Dotson is key at point guard, but he’s quick 1. Ardrey Kell 1. Ardrey Kell and heady and ready for 2. Olympic 2. Berry a huge season. 3. Berry 3. Olympic Newcomer Luiz 4. harding 4. South Meck Machado will team 5. south meck 5. Providence with Jack King, 6. Providence 6. Harding Drake Deiuliis to 7. Charlotte Catholic 7. Charlotte Catholic form a solid post 8. West Meck 8. West Meck presence that
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team previews Cooper has a steady floor game, as well, and should have a big year. Grace Academy transfer Luke Lawson averaged 18 points and nearly six rebounds as a junior last year, and is familiar with the Ardrey Kell system after playing on the JV team as a freshman.
Last year was a banner year for the Knights and with (back row, from left) Rhyle Scott, assistant coach Ryan Shinn, coach Mike Craft, Josh Freud and (front row) Seth Davis, Steven Santa Ana and Collin Cooper all returning, this year could be even better. Photo by Hannah Dockery
Ardrey Kell The Opening Tip
Posts The trio of post players the Knights posses is going to be another strength. Rhyle Scott is an athletic energy guy who can score and rebound at a high rate. Scott averaged 6.6 points and 4.8 rebounds a year ago, and shot higher than 60 percent. Josh Freund
Chris Campione (3.8 points per game) will take over guard duties and both have veteran experience but they’ll need to improve upon their ability to get to the basket and put up big numbers to fill Anderson’s shoes. Jack Larkin and Xavier Smith will see time at the guard spot, too, and will be counted on to score and handle the ball.
Charlotte Catholic’s (from left) Joe Scibelli, Christian Chapman and Chris Campione will key the Cougars season. Photo by Hannah Dockery
Charlotte Catholic The Opening Tip
Guards There’s no doubt Anderson’s presence will be immediately missed. Junior Josh Brodowicz (eight points per game) and senior www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
Posts The wildcards are Owen Winters, Sam Smith and Nick Zuhosky – three guys who are coming up from JV. The Cougars have returning experience but a lot of question marks after last year’s mediocre season and losing their go-to guy. They’re in the tough So. Meck 8 conference but if the returning guys can step up and the newcomers mesh into coach Michael King’s up-tempo system, they could win a few more games. Center of Attention Scibelli will help the Cougars alleviate the loss of their top two scorers and six seniors from last year’s team. Scibelli is the Cougars second-leading returning scorer and leading rebounder and shot blocker a season ago. He’ll be counted on to anchor the paint on both sides of the floor.
– Andrew Stark
Rhyle Scott Joe Scibelli
Photo by Hannah Dockery
The biggest challenge for the Cougars this year will be replacing sharp-shooting Robbie Anderson, who averaged 18 points per game last year. But with several starters returning and some height on the roster, they should improve from last year’s 9-16 record.
Forwards One advantage for the Cougars this year is their height – something they didn’t have a lot of last year. Six-foot-four, 200-pound junior Xander Gagnon averaged just 3.6 points and 3.6 rebounds last season, but is in line to up those numbers for a bigger year and will control more of the Cougars’ rebounding efforts. Add in 6-foot-3 Haverford College commit Joe Scibelli (eight points, 4.7 rebounds) and 6-foot-3 Christian Chapman and you’ve got three guys who are bigger, stronger and tougher than their prior years playing at the varsity level. The Cougars will be relying heavily on those three to take some of the scoring pressure off of the guards. With Anderson gone, expect more guys to step up and distribute the scoring effort more evenly.
Center of Attention Scott is a 6-foot-4 forward who can do a little bit of everything for coach Mike Craft. He’s the Knights thirdleading returning scorer and get can going on offense at any time, judging by his 60 percent field goal percentage. It’s his ability to guard at least three positions and his knack on the glass that separates him, though.
Photo by Hannah Dockery
Ardrey Kell won the most games in school history and advanced to the fourth round of the playoffs. With an experienced roster and Elon commit Steven Santa Ana back in the mix, the Knights appear destined to improve upon last year.
Guards The backcourt is a strength for the Knights. Heady senior point guard Seth Davis was a part-time starter a year ago, but was third on the team in assists and seems to always make the right decisions. Collin Cooper was the Knights’ third-leading scorer last season (8.6 points) and coach Mike Craft calls the senior combo guard the X-factor.
Forwards Santa Ana is the main guy on this team and for good reason – he averaged a team-high 17.5 points and 6.7 rebounds last year. The dead-eye shooter owns 11 school records, but has developed his game to be able to score from anywhere on the floor and is a true leader for this team. JV call-up Wes Morgan is a 6-foot-4 sophomore who can really shoot it. He’s in the same mold as Santa Ana, and is starting to make waves on the recruiting trail. He, too, should have a big rookie year on varsity.
is a little bigger and more physical, but showed similar touch, shooting over 60 percent while contributing five points and five rebounds a game. Both should see increased numbers as they’ll start down low. Junior Michael Crosby has a polished post game and gave the Knights big minutes as a role player. This year he’ll have an increased duty and his numbers should improve greatly.
– Hannah Dockery Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 13
team previews Sophomore Johnny Heidt averaged nearly three points last year and is in the rotation, and junior shooting guard Preston Lewis will stretch the floor and add depth to the Panthers’ deepest position.
The Panthers have had a couple of down year, but with (from left) Luiz Machado, Aaron Morris, Gray Taylor, Preston Lewis, Johnny Heidt, (crouching) Dalen Dotson, Devon Dotson, (standing) Jackson Perry, Zach Rabinowitz, Grady Moore, Tommy Jegier and Drake Deiuliis, this year may be a totally different story. Photo by Andrew Stark
Providence The Opening Tip
The Panthers are coming off a three-win season in coach Scott Taylor’s first year, but that is a distant memory. The Panthers are deep in the backcourt and bolstered by a pair of transfers set to make an impact.
Guards Point guard Dalen Dotson gets the Panthers offense going, and is back for his senior season after averaging 15 points and nearly four rebounds per game. Taylor hopes an improved supporting cast takes some of the scoring burden off Dotson, affording the super-quick guard more opportunities to distribute. He gets to the rim with ease, is a sound passer and is one of the best on-ball defenders for this team. Devon Dotson, Dalen’s brother, started on JV at United Faith where he averaged 16 points, and will contribute immediately for the Panthers.
Forwards Junior Jack King is a three-year starter, and the junior adds toughness, energy and can guard multiple positions. Last year he average 6.8 rebounds, 6.5 points and two assists per game, so he’s a key contributor all over the court. However, a football injury has him sidelined for at least a while and leaves the Panthers with a very large void to fill until he can return. Gray Taylor, a 6-foot-1 junior, is back after serving as a role player last year, and has looked good this summer, coach Taylor said. The wildcard of this bunch is Luiz Machado, a long and athletic 6-foot-6 wing who transferred from Construction High in Queens, N.Y. His brother, Scott, led the NCAA in assists in 2011-12, and coach Taylor said he isn’t sure where Machado will fit in, but he’s in line for a breakout season.
Center of Attention Deiuliis averaged seven points and 5.5 rebounds in his freshman season a year ago, but is due to up that production this year. A 6-foot-6 post player, he has enough skill to step outside and or take his man off the dribble, making him a matchup problem for anyone to guard. Expect Deiuliis to be right in the middle of the Panthers’ season of change. – Andrew Stark
Posts Machado and King can offer relief in the post, but the Panthers will rely heavily on 6-foot-6 sophomore Drake Deluliis. The smooth lefty is a finisher around the rim and averaged 9.1 points and 7.7 rebounds the last 11 games of the season last year. Deluliis is in line for a big season, and should be one of the top three scorers and a high-volume rebounder, giving the Panthers a solid post presence.
Drake
Deiuliis Photo by Andrew Stark
South Meck
The Opening Tip The Sabres finished with a measly 7-17 record last season and struggled during conference play despite showing moments of potential. The good news for Sabres’ fans is they return the bulk of that roster, including their top five contributors, so this could be a new chapter.
Forwards Grant Hedberg returns at post where the 6-foot-6, 210pound senior provided an imposing presence for the Sabres last season. The all-conference selection averaged 14 points, 12 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, and is in line for a big senior season. He’s being recruited by Washington & Lee and LeHigh University, but if he performs this year, more could follow. Posts Height underneath the basket isn’t an issue for these guys. Quadrian Jamison, a 6-foot-6 senior, averaged eight rebounds per game last year, but it was his first season playing organized basketball. He’s a natural shot blocker and will be a big help
Page 14 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
in the rebounding and defending efforts with talent that could surprise some people. Bo Blight is another 6-foot-6 guy who starred on the JV team last season. He’ll see big minutes this year and will be a good addition to the varsity team, adding depth at the post position.
Center of Attention Hedberg recorded 17 double-doubles last season, when the 6-foot-6 senior averaged 13 points and 11.4 rebounds. Although his game is suited for the low blocks, Hedberg is a deft passer, has range out to the 3-point line and is versatile enough to lead the break. With more talent around him, Hedberg should have an uptick in production and lead the Sabres out of their two-year slide. – hannah Dockery
Grant Hedberg
Photo by Andrew Stark
The Sabres will lean on (back row, from left) Grant Hedberg, Nikidrien Bailey, Jalen Blakeney, Quadrian Jamison and (bottom row) Kamil Chapman and Khayleb Connelly to have a bounce-back season. Photo by Andrew Stark
Guards The backcourt will be a big source of strength for this group. Khayleb Connelly returns at guard for his junior season after averaging 13 points and three assists as a sophomore. He started all 24 games at point last year, and is a sharp shooter with varsity experience controlling the offense, which will work to South Meck’s advantage. A huge advantage for the Sabres will be the return of Kamil Chapman, who didn’t play last season, but averaged 17 points per game on his AAU travel team. He’s a high-volume scorer and just as good defensively. With an offer on the table from Appalachian State, more could come if he has a big year. Returning guards Jared Patterson and Jalen Blakeney will share time with Connelly and Chapman at the guard spots. They both return with varsity experience and started about half of the Sabres games, but are in line for an improved season.
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basketball night
Full court press
Collin Cooper What should we expect from Ardrey Kell this season, especially with so many guys back from last year?
Four of southern Mecklenburg’s best guards, we take Providence Day’s Chaz Raye, Charlotte Country Day’s Michael White, Providence’s Dalen Dotson and Ardrey Kell’s Collin Cooper off the court for a series of quick-hitting questions to find out what makes them go. All photos by hannah Dockery Cooper was a key part of the Ardrey Kell success last year when the Knights won a school-record 24 games and advanced to the third round of the state playoffs. Cooper averaged 8.6 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists, but the 5-10 guard is in line for an even bigger senior season.
transferred to Northside Christian. That’s a big loss, but how will that affect your role? It’s a bigger role for me. Devin was a
We’re moving the ball more
big scoring threat, and so my role is to
and we’re moving it better. We’re
score more, play defense and just be a
working hard and we want to
leader, because Devin was a big leader
pick it up from last year. We came
for us.
up short in the Elite 8 to Lake Norman, but we are expecting noting less than a state championship this season.
Coach Mike Craft called you the X-factor. If you’re hitting your open shots from the outside, it opens it up for everyone. Is that an accurate description for you?
(Second leading scorer) Devin Cooper
Michael White
Coach tells me to be ready to shoot
the ball and be confident. If I’m missing,
to play the whole game and especially
he tells me to keep shooting because
be sure to capitalize in the fourth quarter.
that’s what good shooters do. If I keep my confidence up, the shots will fall.
You have a lot of guys back from last year, but what are the keys to how far you can go? What needs to go right for Ardrey Kell to have another great season? We need to be consistent. We fell
I know you said the goal is to win a state championship. How do you talk among yourselves of attaining that? Last year was a learning experience. Losing to Lake Norman was disappointing, but it had to happen so we had something to play for this year. All of our
short in the fourth quarter a lot, and
starters are all seniors, we have nothing
that’s how we lost many of our games.
to lose and that has to be our goal. We
We lot a lot of close games, so we have
can’t have anything less than that.
Last season Country Day relied on guard Michael White to do nearly everything, and he delivered. A skilled 3-point shooter, White averaged 15.7 points, 3.5 assists, three rebounds and two steals per game, led the Bucs in nearly every offensive category and is in line for a huge senior season. Shooting, ball handling and I like to read the floor. I
I try. I’m pretty involved in
used to that. but the kids at Country Day are a little differ-
It was still private school to private school so I was
miss it sometime, but I like to think of myself as a point
the community, too. I started a
ent, in a good way. It’s been a great switch and since then
guard and I like to see the open man and I take pride in
club called Breaks, which is a
Where did basketball start for you?
I’ve felt welcomed. Coach Cherry, it was his second year
finding him and getting the assists.
safe driving club and I’m proud
My dad coached me when I was 4 in a rec league.
by the time I got to high school. We connected well and
Ever since then, he coached me through eighth grade. He
I played varsity as a freshman. It’s been good. It’s been
Do you have plans for next year figured out yet?
stop distracted driving
taught me the game and the fundamentals. He’s been the
really fun.
No, not yet. I would like to go D-I to play in the Ivy
so it includes drunk
biggest influence. He played in high school, but got hurt
of that. It promotes people to
League or Patriot League. I have interest, but no offers. I
driving, texting and
his junior year but recovered from that and ending up
What’s been the best part of being on the Country Day team?
have to put in hard work every day. I’ve been in the gym
driving and drowsy
scoring 750 points by the time his senior year came. He
I’d say the best part is just the game of basketball. We
lifting every day but I think we’re going to have to wait
driving. I’m
have a pretty good team and good friendship and cama-
until the season starts and see that work pay off. After the
pretty proud
raderie but the best part is just getting to play, go out on
beginning of the season, if I can play the way I think I can,
of starting
the court and have fun.
I hope to get some more interest and offers.
that.
went to Lynchburg and played two years there.
You transferred from Providence Day to Country Day just before high school started. What was that transition like, and has it been a good one?
What are your strengths on the court?
Ivy League, you must be pretty good in the classroom?
Chaz Raye What’s been the best part of playing on the Providence Day team and the success you’ve had the last few years? The teammates. Even when we’re off the court, we sit together at lunch
Chaz Raye is the engine that makes the well-oiled Providence Day offense run. The speedy senior point guard is a deadly outside shooter and can get to the basket at will, especially in transition where he is most comfortable. Last year he averaged seven points, three rebounds and three assists per game, but his statistics wane in comparison to his importance to one of Charlotte’s best teams. you play on Friday.’ Those are some of the best moments for me. I love
Gosh, I think I’d have to say basketball. Yeah, definitely basketball.
being a part of that.
What are your expectations for senior year?
What’s your favorite NBA team and who’s your favorite player? Chicago Bulls and Derrick Rose. I
and we’re always laughing. It’s fun to
Just to have the best year that I
be around them. Also, because Provi-
can with my teammates and make it
sive he is. I love that. I’ve watched him
dence Day is a kindergarten through
as far as we can and compete for a
for years and when I play, I try to mir-
12 school so when the little kids come
championship. That’s the goal.
ror my game and my style after him.
Dalen Dotson was a huge bright spot for the Providence Panthers a season ago, leading the team with 15 points and 3.6 assists per game. This year, surrounded by a more talented roster, the lightning-quick 5-foot-9 senior hopes to erase the memories of the Panthers 4-46 record the past two seasons. The last couple years have been tough, but it seems you started to make strides last year and are on the right track. What’s the mindset going into this season? We have a new assistant coach and got
you in the halls and say, ‘Chaz, I saw
ing to change our program, and last year
You’re a star on the track as well. Do you prefer basketball or track?
court together?
You guys have a ton of returning talent coming back this year. What would it mean
my best friends, that would be great.
What are you into outside of basketball? That’s a tough one because really, probably just hanging out with my family and friends.
that comes with having so many guys back?
Chemistry. We’ve been playing
Oh yeah, definitely. It’s my second year,
together our whole life and it’s going to be
I got to know their game, what they want
the season went on, so hopefully this year
fun to play together and bond together as
and how to get them to have as much suc-
we can be good.
brothers and teammates.
cess as possible. With my brother and new
It’s going to be a lot of up-tempo running if you two are together. He has a similar game to yours?
transfer in Junior Luiz Machado – he’s like
First of all, I really like Coach Taylor and
ninth grade and to do it with some of
love how quick he is and how explo-
was a step toward that. We got better as
You were a big part of that and had a breakout season. What went right for you and how were you able to have such a good year?
wanted. I came to the program in
ball is life. When I’m not playing I’m
come back on Monday and talk to
coach Scott Taylor last year. We’re just try-
It would mean the world for me. Since I started playing, that’s all I really
out and watch you on Friday, they’ll
Dalen Dotson
to get to the state championship game?
6-6, can handle the ball and he can play. We’ll be better.
Yeah, it’s very similar. We put a lot of pressure on the defense, but we play that
his system – the pick and roll really fits my
way on defense, too. We love to press and
game and my talent.
take pride in our defense.
You get a unique opportunity to play with your brother this year (freshman guard Devon). What should we expect with you two on the
At times last year it seemed like you felt you had to do a lot on the court for your team to have a chance to win. Is there a sense of trust
To be one of the guys to help Providence and take the next step to get back to relevancy, how much would that mean in your senior year? It would mean a lot. I really want to
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change the program and get Providence back to being a basketball school.
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 15
King of the Court Big man on campus
steven santa ana by Hannah Dockery hannah@thecharlotteweekly.com
Senior guard Steven Santa Ana was good when he entered high school as a freshman, playing big minutes on varsity and finishing the season averaging 6.3 points per game. But that was only scratching the surface of what was to become one of the most explosive careers in Ardrey Kell history. As a sophomore, Santa Ana’s 18.4 points per game was a team-high, leading the Knights to a 23-6 record. Last season, he repeated as the Knights’ top contributor with 17.5 points and 6.7 rebounds per game while joining the elusive 1,000-point club. His talent is obvious as he holds 11 school records including points and rebounds. Watch him play on any given night and you’ll see he’s a natural. He’s quick, confident, explosive and can attack the rim and defend the wing. He’s a versatile jump shooter and, after three big seasons as a Knight and on his AAU travel team, Santa Ana has become known as one of the best shooters in the state, leading to his No. 9 state ranking according to ESPN. Santa Ana’s raw talent makes it look easy and effortless, but go into Ardrey Kell’s gym hours after practice has ended and everyone has left, and you’re likely to find Santa Ana still present, practicing free throws and working on his jump shot. He’s spent most of his high school career in the gym and the weight room, working relentlessly on improving his game – proving that becoming one of the best players in the state is anything but easy. “It’s been a ton of hard work,” Santa Ana said. “I decided in middle school that I wanted to be good and I’ve worked on becoming a better player since then. It’s been a lot of really hard work and dedication.” His dedication has paid off in big ways on the court and off it. Last year in the Knights 78-54 win against rival Providence, Santa Ana shot 85 percent from the floor for 32 points – and that’s just a snippet of performances that were the regular for the sharp-shooting guard. It’s no wonder that opposing defenses were keying on stopping him for the entire season. And with his senior year on the horizon, it’s going to be that much more physical for Santa Ana as he tries to get to the basket. “You have to learn that every time you have a target on your back, you have to come out emotionally and mentally ready to play as much as possible,” Santa Ana said. “That’s the biggest thing, when you know everyone is coming for you and gunning for you. You have to come out and when people are pushing and shoving and grabbing and clawing, you have to come out ready to go.” With the increased physicality as opposing defenses try to limit Santa Ana’s production, he’s had to transform from a once easilyfrustrated underclassman who would argue with referees’ calls and lose his focus to a vocal leader who learned how to remain calm and not let his head get in the way of his performance. It’s
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spilled over into his court production and team-first attitude in leading the Knights to the top of the So. Meck 8 competitive scene, despite all eyes being fixed on him. “I learned how to step up last year,” he said. “But I don’t feel any pressure or like I have to carry the weight of the team because I know I have five or six solid guys around me that can play and if I’m not there, they’ll pick me up. I know people expect me to be the big contributor, but I’ve got guys around me that can do a lot and pick up the team in the same way so I don’t feel any pressure and I think that’s helped me lead better.” Outsiders started to take note not only of Santa Ana’s big numbers but his increased leadership on the Ardrey Kell team and mental stability on the court. Offers started pouring in as Winthrop, Western Carolina, Radford, Tennessee Tech and Elon, among others, were all vying for the up-andcoming star. On Sept. 15, Santa Ana announced his commitment to Elon. “The process was fun,” Santa Ana said of his decision. “Getting the attention after a lot of hard work is great because I feel like I’m starting to see things pay off. With Elon, the atmosphere was right, the program was right and it was just a good fit. I’m excited about it.” But even with three wildly successful seasons, a transformation into a vocal leadership role and a college commitment already pinned down, Santa Ana is focused on making this the Knights’ best season to date. The Knights had a taste of that success last season after their school record 24-7 season carried them to the fourth round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association playoffs before falling to Lake Norman in a 45-43 heartbreaker. “My expectations are to win a state championship,” Santa Ana said. “There are a lot of good teams around and it’s not going to be the easiest thing, but we’re playing well right now and doing well and that’s our goal through the season.” And with Santa Ana teaming with Rhyle Scott, Michael Crosby and Collin Cooper, it’s well within reach. “We’ve had the same guys around for the most part of high school and the same coach, so it’s been like another family,” Santa Ana said. “As seniors, we want to make this the best run yet. We’ve had a lot of success and a lot of fun. I’ve really enjoyed it and I’m excited for this season.”
Photo by Hannah Dockery www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
Column
Breaking Down the Southwestern 4A by Hannah Dockery hannah@thecharlotteweekly.com
Despite being one of the premier publicschool football conferences in the state, the basketball powers of the Southwestern 4A struggled a bit last year compared to the So. Meck 8 and CISAA. A lot of the teams in this year’s Southwestern 4A are young and inexperienced, but have potential to make some noise. Let’s break down the schools and see what’s in store for this season. Myers Park finished 8-4 in conference play last season and return Zaqwuan Matthews – a 6-foot-4 forward who can do it all. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga com- mit had 14 consecutive doubleHannah’s projected figure order of finish:
Hannah Dockery
1. Myers Park 2. Butler 3. Independence 4. Porter Ridge 5. Rocky River 6. Garinger 7. East Meck
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scoring games last season with many of those being double-doubles. With him doing the bulk of the scoring, the Mustangs shouldn’t have a problem putting points on the board. Factor in senior guard Bill Robertson and wing Jontavius Hall, who averaged five points last year, and this group should be a complete team that finds themselves at the top of league play if they can put it all together. After an always-good football season, the Butler Bulldogs have the potential to make some noise on the basketball court as well. They’ve got a new coach in Myron Lowery after a 20-7 season last year and return a lot of those guys along with some new up-and-coming talent. RaeQuan Scott (13 ppg) and Orlando Robinson (seven ppg) will man the guard spots and have big shoes to fill after losing Matthew Fisher-Davis (Vanderbilt) and Giavonni Mack (Texas Southern) – a tall order but one they’re ready for. The Bulldogs also boast Providence transfer Jeremy Spencer and 6-foot-4 senior post Jay Gibbs, who averaged 10 points per game last year and knows how to attack the rim. Needless to say, the Bulldogs are deep all over the court and if they can gel with their new coach, will definitely be in the mix as a conference contender. What’s expected from last year’s conference champ? Independence finished 12-2 in conference play last season but lost Deion Lane, Tayon Gleaves and Workpeh Kofa – their three go-to guys. How well they do this year will depend largely on junior guard Marcus Thomas, who’s taking over the reins after averaging 7.2 points last year. He’s a sharp-shooter
and will be thrown into a leadership role, but has help in guys like 6-foot-5 sophomore Justyn Hamilton, 6-foot-8 Christian Taylor and 6-foot-2 Matthew Statile. Height isn’t a problem, but inexperience may be. They’ve got tons of potential though, so we’ll see what coach Preston Davis can make of this athletic bunch. Porter Ridge just might be the dark horse this season. They only won a measly five games last season but return the bulk of their roster, including their starting lineup and top six scorers. Be on the lookout for Caleb Homesley, a quick, talented guard who has no problem controlling the Pirates up-tempo offense and finding the basket. He’s coming off a junior season where he averaged 19 points and could up even those impressive numbers if all goes well. Homesley has help in 6-foot-5 forward D’Andre Dennis (13.6 ppg, 6.4 rpg), guard RJ Filio (11.3 ppg) and wing Dexter York (8.4 ppg) – all guys that are athletic and can score. They’ve got the potential to be a lot better this season so keep an eye out for this group. Rocky River, on the other hand, could struggle again this year after last year’s 1-11 run in league play. They’ve got some capable guys, but lack a ton of experience other than Butler transfer Leito Holloway who’ll be crucial to their success this season as they try to overcome their youth. If they can get some guys to step up and score, they could improve from last year’s rough run but if not, it’ll be another long season for the Ravens.
Finally, there’s East Meck and Garinger. The Eagles finished just above .500 last season, but lost seven of their 10 guys to graduation. Jaylen McManus, Reggie Smith and AJ Horne are the ones that do return, though, and those three all played big minutes on the varsity team last year. If they can get help in JV call-ups, the Eagles could overcome losing the bulk of their roster. Garinger returns guard Rayshawn Neal after his debut freshman season averaging 14 points per game. He’ll look to teammates Jaylan Long and Davion Gamble to help make a run in the Southwestern 4A, but they’ve gone 25-108 since 2008 so they’ve got a long road ahead of them in overcoming a program that’s been known to fizzle out early. In the end, it’s likely the Southwestern 4A will come down to Myers Park and Butler as those two teams boast experience talent and a deep roster that’ll keep them fighting all season for the league’s top spot. But with Independence and Porter Ridge in the mix as well, it’s anybody’s game.
Andrew’s Projected order of finish: 1. Myers Park 2. Butler 3. Porter Ridge 4. Rocky River 5. Independence 6. Garinger 7. East Meck
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 17
Butler
team previews
The Opening Tip First-year Butler coach Myron Lowery is a veteran who will mold the athletic but young Bulldogs into an up-tempo team who gets out and runs. Once they’re at full strength after the football guys return, the Bulldogs are going to make some noise in the wide-open Southwestern 4A.
Guards The Bulldogs lost Vanderbilt recruit Matthew Fisher-Davis and Texas Southern
signee Giavonni Mack, but return another pair of talented guards in junior sharpshooter RaeQuan Scott (13 points per game) and left-handed distributor Orlando Robinson (seven points, five assists). Both will be counted on for experience and leadership and will be one of the strengths of this year’s Bulldogs. Newcomer Austin Griffin is sound fundamentally and will be in the mix, as will sophomore Omega Stitt, the brother of former Bulldog and Clemson University star Demontez Stitt, who’s an athletic combo guard who will see lots of time at both guard spots. Freshman D.J. Little looked good over the summer and will contribute after coming
he’ll be a key contributor once he returns from the gridiron.
Forwards Providence transfer Jeremy Spencer started for Lowery when he coached the Panthers, and averaged five points and three rebounds a season ago. He’ll be joined by senior Arthur Labinowisz, a super-athletic 6-foot-3 slasher who can shoot and attack the basket. Labinowisz averaged eight points and eight rebounds as a reserve last year and should be in line for an uptick in production. Jah’lil Carter didn’t play last year, but the 6-foot-3 forward is a good rebounder and shot blocker and has impressed this summer. Fellow newcomer Tarique Stowe is a good energy guy and will be in the mix as he’s also one of Butler’s best defenders.
Center of Attention The Bulldogs will look to get out and run in coach Myron Lowery’s up-tempo offense, a system point guard Robinson should thrive in. The lefthander can score when he needs to, but when he gets out in transition and creates, Butler is a very dangerous team.
Posts Six-foot-four senior post Jay Gibbs returns for his fourth season on varsity. He’s a high-level football recruit who will provide toughness, and averaged 10 points and eight rebounds, so
Independence The two-time defending champion Patriots will need immediate production from (from left) Matthew Statile, Justyn Hamilton, Marcus Thomas, Kadeem Harry and Austin Bailey, but coach Preston Davis (center) will have them ready to compete. Photo by Hannah Dockery
The Opening Tip
They may not be the most experienced roster to come through Independence, but these guys are athletic and deep at each position. They lost three of their top five scorers from a season ago, but coach Preston Davis said they’re hoping to build off of last year’s 12-2 conference run despite losing some big names.
Guards Expect losing last year’s leading scorer Tayon Gleaves (18 points per game) to hurt the Patriots at the start of the season. Davis is counting on junior Marcus Thomas to now control the offense this season after averaging 7.2 points and 3.1 rebounds as a sophomore. He’s a sharp-shooter, but will be thrown into a much bigger leadership role and how well he adjusts will largely dictate the direction of the Patriots’ season. Thomas will have help in senior Kadeem Harry, who averaged three points and two rebounds per game last year at the other guard spot, as well as East Meck transfer Justin Boyce who’s made a big impact on his AAU travel team. Those three should share time at guard to give the Patriots more of an even scoring effort. Forward The Patriots will need to fill the big shoes of 6-foot-4 Deion Lane, who’s now a freshman playing at Belmont Abbey. They’ll look to 6-foot-5 sophomore Justyn Hamilton (1.1 rebound per game) and 6-foot-2 Matthew Statile (1.9 points per game) to make a bigger impact after spending time on varsity last season. Posts Christian Taylor suited up at the varsity level last season, but didn’t see much court time. Expect that to change this year as the 6-foot-8 senior will give
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– Andrew Stark
Photo by Hannah Dockery
The Bulldogs are always competitive in the Southwestern 4A, and despite having just two seniors will be again with (back row, from left) RaeQuan Scott, Jah’lil Carter, Austin Griffin and (kneeling) Orlando Robinson leading the way. Photo by Andrew Stark
from football and Tarique Stowe is a good on-ball defender who will see time as well.
Orlando Robinson
the Patriots some much-needed height under the basket. He only averaged one point per game and two rebounds last season but will be the Patriots a go-to big man this season as he’s both bigger and stronger than last season. He should have a big increase in production this year. Center of Attention The Patriots are inexperienced, but oozing with potential, and Hamilton is the perfect example of both of those qualities. As a 6-foot-5 freshman a season ago, Hamilton scored 13 points and grabbed 17 rebounds on the year, but he’s in line for a breakout season the Patriots hope will keep them atop the Southwestern 4A. – hannah Dockery
Justyn
Hamilton Photo by Hannah Dockery
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team previews
Myers Park The Opening Tip For the Mustangs, it all starts with smooth forward Zaqwuan Matthews, but there are a lot of options on this tight-knit, senior-laden team to have them excited to get the season underway.
Guards Heady guard Bill Robertson takes over the full-time starter role at the point this season, and always seems to take care of the ball and make the right decision. Jontavius Hall is a lightning-quick guard who uses
the finale.
– Andrew Stark
Forwards Matthews is a 6-foot-4 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga commit who seems to get better and better each season. He’s a slasher who can finish at the rim or step outside and shoot the 3-pointer with accuracy. James Dockery and Richey will see time at the other forward spot, though the Mustangs may run a lot of three-guard sets. Posts Six-foot-six Nick Goble will see some time on the interior, as will 6-4 John Flye. Both are big, physical players who will be asked to lockdown the paint and provide some scoring.
Bill Robertson
Center of Attention Robertson took over the offense midway through last year, and the team seemed to take to his ball-handling and decision-making skills. The final 13 games a year ago, he averaged seven assists per game and topped double figures twice – including a 14-assist showing in
Photo by Andrew Stark
The Mustangs have a ton of options this season, and will lean on (front row, from left) Jontavius Hall, Juwan Hood, Bill Robertson and (back row) Duncan Richey, Lee Houck, Zaqwuan Matthews, Ross Jeffries , James Dockery and John Flye to try to win their first conference title since 2007 under coach Wes Hepler. Photo by Hannah Dockery
his athleticism and football-field toughness to get to the rim and he can shoot it, too. Juwan Hood transferred from West Meck where he was a productive starter, and gives the Mustangs another scoring threat. Ross Jeffries, Lee Houck and Duncan Richy will be in the mix, too, and will be counted on for depth and senior experience.
Rocky River The Opening Tip
The Ravens were the bottom dwellers of the Southwestern 4A last season and have nowhere to go but up after a 1-11 conference record. With a key transfer in Leito Holloway and a new coach in former Kennedy Charter head man Oscar Walker, they could be able to do it, but only a few guys return from last year’s struggling team, so it could be another long season for the Ravens.
Guards Six-foot-three sophomore Jonathan Hicklin will resume control of the offense. He contributed some at the varsity level last season, so it’s a tempo he’s used to, but will be asked to fill a larger role. A lot of how well the Ravens do will depend on Hicklin’s ability to execute from the guard spot – a tall task for a sophomore. Sophomore JV call-up Anthony Salley and returning point man Tireq Marrow will both be counted on to handle the other guard spot and Coach Walker said he’s looking to those guys to step up and make big contributions quickly. www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
Forwards The Ravens got lucky with 6-foot-4 Butler transfer Holloway coming in for his senior season to finish up his career. He averaged 12 points and seven rebounds last season at Butler, and will be the go-to guy for the Ravens to put points on the board. And he’s capable, too, as Holloway is quick, explosive and improving his shot. He’ll be the main guy on this year’s team and will be expected to carry the bulk of the weight. Posts William Boyd will give the Ravens some height underneath the basket – something they were lacking last year. He’s 6-foot-8 and has an even longer wingspan but he’ll have to grow into his massive frame and adjust to his size first. If he can do that, he could develop into a proficient scorer and rebounder. Photo by Andrew Stark
The new-look Ravens are filled with promise and athleticism and with (from left) Anthony Morrow, Leito Holloway, Tyrek Haywood, Immanuel Wembi, Keyon Wesley, Jefferson Johnson, Jonathon Hicklin,Wendell Blue, Devin Nance and (front) DJ Ellison and Tireq Morrow, they could make some noise this year. Photo by Andrew Stark
Windell Blue is a returning contributor from last year’s team, but he’ll have to step up and be a vocal leader for this young group. He’s 6-foot but only averaged 1.4 points and 1.7 rebounds last year, so he’ll need to do more for his senior year if
the Ravens want to get some wins. Center of Attention Holloway was a key contributor to a very good Butler team a season ago, but will have to adjust to becoming the Ravens No. 1 option. He’s long, athletic and can get to the basket and if he develops a quick chemistry with his new teammates, the Ravens can make last’s years disastrous season a distant memory. – hannah Dockery
Leito Holloway
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 19
Big man on campus
Mustangs Main Man
Zaqwaun Matthews
by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
Photo by Hannah Dockery
If it seems like people have been talking about Myers Park forward Zaqwaun Matthews forever it’s because since he first stepped onto the court as a wide-eyed freshman oozing with potential, he’s been making a name for himself. During his first year, Matthews mostly sat and watched as guys like current N.C. State guard Patrick Wallace teamed with forwards Major Thomas and Clayton Massey to do much of the heavy lifting. As a sophomore Matthews’ role grew and his confidence level quickly followed, but it wasn’t until the last half of his junior season that he put everything together – a trend he’s carried into his summer AAU circuit and into his senior season. “People started talking about him a little bit during his sophomore year, but that was all just based on his athleticism and potential,” fourth-year coach Wes Hepler said. “Our last 10-12 games last year is when he took that big jump – especially scoring the basketball – and he carried that into his summer
AAU season where he played on the EYBL travel circuit on a highly-competitive team and had success with them and I started really hearing from coaches then.” And it’s easy to see why. Matthews possesses an athletic 6-foot-4 frame that allows him to play on the inside with the posts, but is too quick and athletic on the perimeter where he can just as easily stroke 3-pointers with the guards, creating a constant matchup problem. Out of necessity, Hepler had Matthews play the 5 position, matching up with the opposing team’s center and keeping his offensive production in or around the paint. But, when the team changed personnel and went to a different lineup, Matthews flourished. “Last year we had a lot of guys who could really score it,” Hepler said. “In the beginning of the year, he accepted a role that was a smaller role for him, but he did it because that’s what we needed him to.
A lot of times he was our 5 (center), but he’s not a 5 at all. He never Page 20 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
complained one time, he just got putbacks and dump off when guys drove it. When our dynamics changed, he moved into a bigger role and his confidence took off. The ability was there the whole time.” With Matthews getting a getting a green light and focusing more on his diverse offensive game, he flourished. On the season Matthews averaged 15.3 points and 6.7 rebounds, but once he took an even more active role in the offense, he averaged 19.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game during
the last 12 games when he scored in double figures each game and shot north of 55 percent from the field and 48 percent from the 3-point line. “I’ve been working hard,” Matthews said. “Coach pulled me aside and told me to work on my jump shot. He knew that if I improved my jump shot it would expand my game, and that’s what I did. I think that was one of the biggest differences last year. “During that stretch last year, my teammates were confident in me shooting the ball, that became my role and I tried to live up to it. I’m not trying to do anything differently. I want to come in, play hard and be a good teammate and I feel like if I do those three things we’ll be really good.”
The Mustangs’ offense will run through Matthews, but he has a group of familiar faces to help lead Myers Park’s bid for their first conference title since 2007. “I’ve known most of the guys since middle school, so it’s easy for me to relate to them,” Matthews said. “We all get along well and I take to the leadership role pretty easily. I’m going to be a leader, a field general and everything that I’m asked to do. I’m excited for the year and I think we’re going to be really good. “Our chemistry is so good this season that we just talk about playing as a team. If we play as a team, we can be the best team in the Southwestern 4A. I don’t feel like (my role is) going to change. I’m not going to force shots, scoring is going to come in the flow just like it has. We have a lot of guys who can play, so whatever I need to do is what I’ll do.” And having Matthews, who this summer committed to the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, leading the team is a good thing to Hepler and the peaking Mustangs. “He’s the guy who’s probably talked about, and everyone on the team understands the talent that he has, but this is a team,” Hepler said. “A lot of these guys have been together since middle school and are really good friends off the court, too. “We haven’t won a conference championship since 2007. We’re returning Zaqwaun’s scoring, but other than that we don’t return anyone who averaged more than four points per game, so while we have a lot of seniors and a lot of experience, we’re not the frontrunners, but these guys want to get that conference title that hasn’t been here for a while.” And with Matthews leading the way, that may be entirely possible. “He’s a mild-mannered kid, he’s very nice and very respectful,” Helpler said. “He’s loved by his teachers on campus and his peers, but every time he steps in the gym, he goes to work and he expects the same from his teammates. “He’s gradually gotten better. It wasn’t one year he made a huge jump, he’s gradually gotten better and improved his game. He puts the work in. He’s a tone setter for us this year, and has set the tone for the future of our program.” www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
team previews
Carmel Christian The Opening Tip Coach Joshua Coley takes over the Cougars, a team that went just 3-17 last season, but hopes are high at Carmel Christian. Coley has a history of turning around programs – he led Garinger to the playoffs for the first time in a decade and to their first playoff win in 25 years – and has an interesting mix of talent to work with this year, starting with a talented backcourt and center Mac Brydon.
Guards Senior Jonah Hood is a gritty point guard who averaged nine points and five assists last season at Hopewell. He’ll be inserted into the lead point guard role and is more than capable of leading a team. He’ll be joined by Remele Everett-Hicks, a 6-foot-2 Victory Christian transfer who averaged 11 points and seven assists a season ago. Rafael Jennings will see time as a freshman. Jenkins, a 5-foot-7 point
Forwards John Henry, a steady 6-foot-3 banger who can finish above the rim, is back at the wing after averaging 5.3 points and 4.7 rebounds as a freshman a season ago. He’ll be joined by 6-foot-5 eighth-grader Sam Wolfe, who moves up from the middle school team. Coley is high on Wolfe, saying he has a non-stop motor and a high basketball IQ and can stretch the floor, bang inside and get to the basket to create his own shots. Posts Brydon, an intimidating 6-foot-10 post presence, is the key, but if Coley can find another threat inside this team can take off. How well the Lions fare will rest largely in their hands – a tall task for two young guys with no varsity experience but coach George Baston, who returns to Grace Academy after coaching middle school and JV teams at Charlotte Christian and Covenant Day, said he had faith in them.
Grace Academy’s first-year coach George Batson will lean on (from left) Cameron White, Josh Davey, Shawn Morrison, Jaylen Thompson and (kneeling) Joshua Jones to make his first season a good one. Photo by Hannah Dockery
Grace Academy The Opening Tip This could be a long, hard season for Grace Academy. The Lions were 14-12 last year, but lost 11 of 12 players from that squad so expect a lot of young, inexperienced guys looking to fill those shoes.
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Guards The Lions are having to rebuild their entire team this season, and all eyes will be on sophomore call-up Jalon Clark who will start at point. He’s only 5-foot-6 but he’s fast and athletic. He’ll share time with 5-foot-10 sophomore Shawn Morrison.
Forwards Jaylen Thompson, the Lions’ only returning letterman, returns to his spot at forward where he spent some time last season averaging 3.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. They’ll need him to bring experience and leadership to the team despite his young age but he’s got budding talent to back it up and is improving his shot. He’ll have help from Cameron White, a 6-foot senior who’s returning to the court after missing a few seasons. He’ll be the team’s only senior and will need to be a leader on the floor. Posts The Lions don’t have a lot of height underneath the basket, so that will be an area of weakness for this young team. Josh Davey, a 6-foot-2 freshman, will start underneath the basket alongside Gleen O’Neal – both rookies who will need to step up and rebound at a high rate if
– Andrew Stark
mac
Brydon
Photo by Andrew Stark
Carmel Christian is a team on the rise with (from left) Jonah Hood, John Henry, Mac Brydon, Sam Wolfe, Remele Everett-Hicks and (kneeling) Rafael Jenkins, and first-year coach Joshua Coley (left) has a history of turning around programs. Photo by Andrew Stark
Center of Attention The strength of the Cougars is 6-foot-10, 270 pound junior Brydon, who led the Cougars with 13.8 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game a season ago. Brydon is already garnering interest from several Division-I programs and will be a force in the paint this season.
these guys want to get a few wins under their belts. Center of Attention As an eighth-grader, 6-foot-3 forward Thompson played a big role on the Lions experienced roster. He had season highs of 20 points and 16 rebounds, and averaged 3.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. This year, though still a freshman, Thompson will be counted on to lead a widely inexperienced bunch, so expect a huge season from him if he adjusts quickly. – Hannah Dockery
jaylen
thompson
Photo by Hannah Dockery
guard whose mother is Puerto Rican, is the No. 1-ranked freshman in Puerto Rico. He has spent summers playing for the Puerto Rican National Team and will fit nicely into Coley’s rotation. Six-foot Sophomore Heath McKay returns to the rotation after averaging 2.3 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.2 steals.
Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 21
team previews
Queen’s Grant transfer Demetry Leake. Leake is starting to get a lot of recruiting interest, and it’s easy to see why. He’s an athletically-built player who can equally finish inside with a dunk or stretch the floor by shooting 3-pointers. In addition, he’s a hard-nosed rebounder, a good defender and a welcome addition to Forsythe’s team. Jace Weir is back as a junior after starting last year, when he was third on the team 6.8 points per game and averaged more than three rebounds and three assists per game. He connected on 43 percent of his 3-pointers, so can stretch the floor. Sophomore Terron Dixon averaged six points and three rebounds as a freshman starter. Dixon can get to the basket and has a nice long-range stroke.
The Opening Tip Last season, Queen’s Grant strength was inside with sophomore post Patrick Tapé, who is a force in the paint and averaged a double-double. This year, he’s back as a junior with more skill and experience, but a pair of transfers and a strong supporting cast has coach Jay Forsythe excited for what 2014-15 can bring.
Guards Rocky River transfer Mike Green is a 5-foot-10 playmaker who will get a shot to start for the Stallions. He’s joined at the point be 5-foot-10 David Perry, a super-quick guard who sees the floor exceptionally well, but can get to the basket to set up teammates or score himself. Forwards The Stallions have a host of athletic wing players, beginning with 6-foot-4 Rocky River
Page 22 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Center of Attention Tapé averaged 13 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks a game last year and should improve upon those numbers this season for two reasons. One, Tapé is a bona fide Division I recruit who has improved from last year and, secondly, there is much more talent surrounding him. Expect a big season. – Andrew Stark
Patrick Tapé
Photo by Andrew Stark
The Stallions are led by (back row, from left) Terron Dixon, Demetry Leake, Patrick Tapé, Jace Weir and (front row) David Perry, coach Jay Forsythe and Mike Green.Photo by Andrew Stark
Posts The key to the season is Tapé, a 6-foot-9 forward/center. Opponents started throwing double teams at him last season, but Weir and Dixon’s shooting and the all-around play of Leake may make that tougher to do this year. Tapé averaged 13 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks a game last year, and has gotten significantly better, Forsythe said. Several Division I programs are taking notice, and if he has the type of season Forsythe is counting on, he’ll be a household name by the end of this season.
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Schedule
2014-15
Mark your calendar! Tuesday, Nov. 18
Hough at Providence North Gaston at Myers Park Marvin Ridge at Ardrey Kell Independence at South Meck Christ the King at Charlotte Christian Wesleyan Christian at Providence Day Hickory Grove at Charlotte Latin Charlotte Catholic at Charlotte Country Day Covenant Day at Greensboro Day
Wednesday, Nov. 19 Olympic at Rocky River
Thursday, Nov. 20
East Meck at Providence Mallard Creek at Butler
Friday, Nov. 21
Rocky River at South Meck Ardrey Kell at Myers Park Charlotte Christian at Community School of Davidson Greensboro Day at Charlotte Latin Queen’s Grant at Pine Lake Prep Covenant Day at Metrolina Christian
Saturday, Nov. 22
Greensboro Day at Charlotte Country Day
Monday, Nov. 24
Butler at West Charlotte West Meck at Rocky River Weddington at Ardrey Kell Charlotte Latin at SouthLake Christian
Tuesday, Nov. 25
Rocky River at Berry Myers Park at South Meck Queen’s Grant at Charlotte Christian Victory Christian at Charlotte Country Day SouthLake Christian at Covenant Day
Monday, Dec. 1
Rocky River at Providence
Tuesday, Dec. 2
Independence at Olympic South Meck at Myers Park Ardrey Kell at Rocky River South Meck at Butler Providence at Parkwood Charlotte Christian at Weddington Providence Day at Greensboro Day Westminster Catawba at Covenant Day Charlotte Catholic at Charlotte Latin
Wednesday, Dec. 3
Myers Park at Charlotte Catholic
Thursday, Dec. 4
Ardrey Kell at North Rowan Marvin Ridge at Providence Charlotte Christian at Metrolina Christian Durham Academy at Charlotte Latin Uwarhee Charter Academy at Queen’s Grant
Friday, Dec. 5
Butler at Charlotte Catholic Independence at West Meck SouthLake Christian at Charlotte Christian Ravenscroft at Providence Day www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
Carmel Christian at Queen’s Grant Covenant Day at North Raleigh Christian
Charlotte Latin at Davidson Day Queen’s Grant at Gray Stone Day
Saturday, Dec. 6
Monday, Jan. 6
Durham Academy at Providence Day Ravenscroft at Charlotte Latin Covenant Day at Wake Christian
Monday, Dec. 8
Rocky River at Harding East Meck at Ardrey Kell
Tuesday, Dec. 9
Sun Valley at Rocky River Hough at Independence Butler at Vance North Meck at Myers Park Porter Ridge at Providence Parkwood at Charlotte Christian SouthLake Christian at Providence Day Christ the King at Charlotte Latin Metrolina Christian at Charlotte Country Day South Davidson at Queen’s Grant
Wednesday, Dec. 10
Berry at Butler Weddington at Independence
Friday, Dec. 12
Charlotte Catholic at Berry Olympic at Providence Myers Park at Rocky River Independence at East Meck Butler at Garinger West Meck at Ardrey Kell Charlotte Christian at Christ the King Providence Day at Christ School Metrolina Christian at Charlotte Latin Charlotte Country Day at Hickory Grove Queen’s Grant at West Montgomery
Greensboro Day at Charlotte Christian Charlotte Latin at Forsyth Country Day Carmel Christian at Charlotte Country Day
Friday, Jan. 9
Olympic at South Meck Concord at Rocky River Berry at Ardrey Kell Myers Park at Independence Butler at Porter Ridge Charlotte Catholic at West Meck Walnut Grove at Charlotte Latin Providence at Harding Ravenscroft at Charlotte Christian Victory Christian at Providence Day Charlotte Country Day at Cary Academy Queen’s Grant at Albemarle Covenant Day at Rabun Gap
Saturday, Jan. 10
Charlotte Christian at Cary Academy High Point Christian at Providence Day Charlotte Country Day at Ravenscroft Covenant Day at Christ School
Tuesday, Jan. 13
Covenant Day at Charlotte Christian Providence Day at Cannon Charlotte Latin at Charlotte Country Day
Friday, Jan. 16
Carmel Christian at Covenant Day
Garinger at Myers Park Rocky River at Independence Ardrey Kell at Charlotte Catholic East Meck at Porter Ridge Providence at South Meck Charlotte Christian at Cannon Providence Day at Charlotte Latin Covenant Day at Charlotte Country Day
Tuesday, Dec. 16
Tuesday, Jan. 20
Saturday, Dec. 13
Berry at South Meck Rocky River at Garinger Ardrey Kell at Olympic East Meck at Butler Providence at West Meck Porter Ridge at Independence Queen’s Grant at North Stanly
Thursday, Dec. 18
Charlotte Catholic at Olympic Berry at Providence Butler at Myers Park Harding at Ardrey Kell East Meck at Rocky River West Meck at South Meck
Friday, Dec. 19
Providence at Forest Hills South Stanly at Queen’s Grant
Tuesday, Jan. 6
Rocky River at Butler Porter Ridge at Myers Park Ardrey Kell at Providence Independence at Garinger Rabun Gap at Charlotte Christian Providence Day at Forsyth Country Day
Porter Ridge at Rocky River Myers Park at East Meck South Meck at Ardrey Kell Charlotte Catholic at Providence Independence at Butler Charlotte Christian at Charlotte Latin Charlotte Country Day at Providence Day Union Academy at Queen’s Grant Cannon School at Covenant Day
Friday, Jan. 23
Berry at Charlotte Catholic Providence at Olympic Rocky River at Myers Park East Meck at Independence Ardrey Kell at West Meck Garinger at Butler Charlotte Christian at Charlotte Country Day Providence Day at Covenant Day Charlotte Latin at Cannon North Stanly at Queen’s Grant
Monday, Jan. 26
Providence at Myers Park
Tuesday, Jan. 27
South Meck at Berry
Basketball
Schedule Garinger at Rocky River Olympic at Ardrey Kell Butler at East Meck West Meck at Providence Independence at Porter Ridge Providence Day at Charlotte Christian Covenant Day at Charlotte Latin Cannon at Charlotte Country Day Queen’s Grant at South Stanly
S m tw t f s
Wednesday, Jan. 28
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Hopewell at Myers Park
Friday, Jan. 30
Olympic at Charlotte Catholic Providence at Berry Myers Park at Butler Ardrey Kell at Harding Rocky River at East Meck South Meck at West Meck Charlotte Christian at Covenant Day Cannon at Providence Day Charlotte Country Day at Charlotte Latin Gray Stone Day at Queen’s Grant
Monday, Feb. 2
Providence Day at Charlotte Country Day
Tuesday, Feb. 3
Butler at Rocky River Myers Park at Porter Ridge Providence at Ardrey Kell Garinger at Independence Charlotte Christian at Cannon Charlotte Latin at Providence Day Charlotte Country Day at Covenant Day Queen’s Grant at East Montgomery Covenant Day at Cannon
Friday, Feb. 6
South Meck at Olympic Ardrey Kell at Berry Independence at Myers Park Porter Ridge at Butler West Meck at Charlotte Catholic Harding at Providence Charlotte Latin at Charlotte Christian North Moore at Queen’s Grant
Tuesday, Feb. 10
Myers Park at Garinger Independence at Rocky River Charlotte Catholic at Ardrey Kell Porter Ridge at East Meck South Meck at Providence Charlotte Christian at Charlotte Country Day Covenant Day at Providence Day Cannon at Charlotte Latin Albemarle at Queen’s Grant
Thursday, Feb. 12
Charlotte Christian at Providence Day Charlotte Latin at Covenant Day
Friday, Feb. 13
Rocky River at Porter Ridge East Meck at Myers Park Ardrey Kell at South Meck Providence at Charlotte Catholic Butler at Independence Charlotte Country Day at Cannon Queen’s Grant at Union Academy
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Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg • Winter 2014-15 • Page 23
Page 24 • Winter 2014-15 • Basketball Night in Southern Mecklenburg
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