Basketball Preview 2023 by Mountain Times Publications

2023 Basketball Preview

A comprehensive look into basketball season in Cocke County.

Cocke County High School

Cosby High School

Edgemont • Centerview • Del Rio Smoky Mountain • Cosby • Grassy Fork Bridgeport • Parrottsville • Northwest Newport Grammar School

A Production Of

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK • www.newportplaintalk.com

2 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 2023

2023-24 Cocke County Fighting Cocks

Photos via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Cocke County Fighting Cocks, led by fourth-year coach Casey Ragan. Back row, left to right: Spencer Moore Jr., Jackson Williams, Waylon Fox, Maddox Holt, Kyler Hayes, Ethan Fine, Andrew McMahan, Colton Sane, Cade Harris, Tucker Hembree, manager Daniel Reece. Front row, left to right: Will Sutton, Cooper Chambers, Brady Calfee, Raeshon Palmer, Jerome Cofield, Oren Hazelwood, Devin Caldwell, Eli Roberts, Vincent Steinbacher, Maddux Carter. Not pictured: Alex Fine.

Fighting Cocks looking for ‘something special’ this season By Jake Nichols NEWPORT — Behind two sets of doors on the visitors’ side of the Cocke County gym, Casey Ragan has dreamed of what his Cocke County basketball team could be. But Ragan has sifted through those thoughts while remaining all too aware of this program’s history. Since 1969, Cocke County has only reached the sub-state round one time, as a 64-56 loss to Oak Ridge brought an end to the 1985-86 season. To that end, there is one round that has always eluded the Fighting Cocks: the state tournament in Murfreesboro. Entering his fourth season as head coach for his alma mater, Ragan is trying to change that. He is certainly coming off a successful season, having been named the Lakeway Boys Coach of the Year with an 18-13 campaign in 2022-23. And this season, with his team in a new district and region and his roster stacked with talent, Ragan is feeling more confident than ever before. The first aspect is a notable change, with Cocke County shifting from District 2-AAA — where it faced teams such as Greeneville, Grainger and Cherokee — to District 3-AAA, where CCHS is grouped with Knox Carter, Fulton, Northview Academy and Seymour. The Falcons are the defending state champions in Class 3A, while the Hornets advanced to the sub-state matchup last season before falling to Unicoi County. “It’s a great opportunity for us,” summarized Ragan, who compared the move to when Cocke County dropped down to Class 3A for the first time, citing the confidence he felt in playing schools of similar size for a change. “And it’s the same difference here,” he added. “We’re in a new conference, I like our region matchups, and I think

Casey Ragan enters his fourth year at the helm for the Cocke County boys basketball team, having been named the Lakeway Boys Basketball Coach of the Year last season. But Ragan has his eyes set on bigger sights this season, buoyed by the talent and depth at his disposal.

we’re in a great spot to maybe get to that point.” How, exactly? By using a roster stacked with experience through the junior and senior classes, led by two seniors in Andrew McMahan and Cade Harris. “We are junior and sophomore heavy, so we’ll see what we get and then go back at it again next year,” said Ragan. “But I would love to get there this year, especially for Andrew and Cade. They will be my first seniors all the way through, so I’d love for them to be part of something special.” Still, thinking of being part of it is one thing — but actually doing so is another matter entirely. Cocke County will attempt that feat using a bevy of factors, starting with an experienced group of juniors led by Kyler Hayes, Ethan Fine and Oren Hazelwood. Hayes was often the team’s leading scorer as a sophomore last season, using

his impressive frame to rack up rebounds and buckets down low. “With Kyler, we know he can score the basketball and play extremely hard,” summarized Ragan. “Unbelievable motor. But we need him to understand he’s got guys around him too, because he’s had to carry the load some nights — even as a freshman. Now, hopefully he sees he doesn’t have to do everything.” Meanwhile, Fine showed his range on a number of occasions last year, proving a “matchup nightmare,” as Ragan said, for opposing defenses. Finally, Hazelwood came off the bench last year to relieve point guard Brazen Stewart — one of several seniors who held starting roles. So this season, he will be one of several options to replace Stewart in bringing the ball up the floor. “I think probably early-on, we’ll do it point guard by committee and see what happens,” Ragan analyzed. “We’re tinkering with more of a dribble-drive

action with two point guards up top, so going to the rack, that would give us good options. But we’ll see who can run the show and go from there.” And whether Ragan looks to Hazelwood, fellow junior Jerome Cofield, sophomores Will Sutton or Maddox Carter or freshman Spencer Moore, one thing is clear: the aspects of trust and tempo are paramount for the Fighting Cocks’ floor general(s), especially since Ragan once played that spot for the Big Red. “We talked about it from day one: we’re a much faster team that can get up and down the floor,” said Ragan. “We’ll force tempo, and defensively, we feel like we’re capable of switching 1 through 5. “But those guys are in a battle to see who wants to take control of this team, so we’ll see.” Ragan alluded to the defensive aspect there, bringing up another role-filling question — who will fill the void left by Lakkin France, Cocke County’s inhouse defensive stalwart the past few seasons? “There are a couple that have really taken that step,” he said. “Raeshon Palmer is one, and we challenged him to be that. He does a great job with on-ball defense, but Jerome Cofield has too. When the ball is in front of him, there’s not many people who will get by. “And then Will Sutton, who’s being really vocal, saying and doing a lot of the right things. He’s kind of like the quarterback defensively, so I’m excited to see him take that next step.” In other words, there are a bevy of options no matter how you slice it. Every spot, every position, there is competition. There is fluidity. There is depth. See FIGHTING COCKS | 4

Wishing All Area Teams The Best Basketball Season EVER!!!!!

50 Years serving Cocke County!

Heating & Cooling ( 4 2 3 ) 6 0 8 - 070 07 0 0

Serving Newport and Surrounding Counties!

SERVICING ALL MAKES AND MODELS

�Industrial �Commercial �Residential FINANCING AVAILABLE

Accepting All Major Credit Cards

Local Deliveries

Johnny Williams EPA & ASE Certified Licensed & Insured

• Equipment Rental • Water Heaters & Plumbing Supplies • Full Electrical Department • Paint Supplies • Garden Tools • Propane Tanks • Electrical Service Poles

2022/2023

Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

303 Wilton Springs Road, Newport, TN 37821

www.wiltonspringshardware.com | (423) 623-9777

www.newportplaintalk.com • THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

2023 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 3

2023-24 Cocke County Lady Red

Photos via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Cocke County Lady Red, led by first-year coach Boddie Bible. Front row left to right: Mekiha Reed, Abby Niethammer, Shakyra Reed, Carsie Ellison, Ceegee Mcnealy, Halle Kitchen, Javen Campbell, Blake Clevenger, Adisen McNealy, Harley Taylor. Back row: Brooke Clevenger, Hailee Hartsell, Haylee Webber, Ellie Proffitt, Destiny Reese, Karmine Carmichael, Kirsten Moore, Kate Kickliter, Hayden Carter.

Lady Red look to bring A-game in Bible’s first season as head coach By Jake Nichols NEWPORT — When the Cocke County Lady Red walk out of their locker room, they must walk past a large red ‘X’ that is taped on the door door. The message there is simple and straightforward: there is a target on your back, so bring your A-game every time you step on the floor. The Lady Red will certainly need to do so to start this season, which comes after a long offseason since Boddie Bible replaced Chris Mintz as head coach. “It seems like just yesterday I got that phone call, and we got to work pretty quick,” said Bible. “A lot of preparing, a lot of new things in ordering gear — which, Coach Ragan has been a big help with that. “But now we’ve got all the fundraising and stuff finished, and it’s time to just play basketball.” And this season, that basketball will be difficult right out of the gate. “Three of our first five opponents were at the state tournament last year, which

Boddie Bible, pictured here inside the Cocke County gym, will look to lead the Lady Red to plenty of success in his first season as head coach.

is what we want,” explained Bible. “It’s going to be tough, but we think we’re ready.” Cocke County certainly grew in con-

fidence this preseason, defeating Knox Catholic — last year’s state champion in Division II-AAA — during a Play Day earlier this November.

But this team is also acutely aware of how it has finished the last two seasons — by losing in the regional semifinals against Greeneville. Last season’s loss was particularly hard to stomach for CCHS, as a desperation 3-pointer from then-freshman Blakelyn Clevenger tied the game to force overtime — only for the Greene Devils to pull away in the extra period. Bible, a Cocke County assistant last season, was on the bench to watch that shot. He saw the potential in Clevenger, who had “ice water in her veins” when she took the jumper. But he also felt the sting of losing personally — and he has an idea of what it will take to ensure that does not happen again. “We’ve got to figure out what it takes to get over the top,” he summarized. “We believe our defense, our ability to rebound, and our ability to minimize mistakes will make the difference in See LADY RED | 4

Cosby Real Estate, Inc. is proud to support our local basketball teams.

. Residential . Commercial . Lots/Land Full Time Agents Needed

Give Our Experienced, Award-Winning Team A Call.

423-487-2705

4871 Hooper Hwy. (Hwy 321 - Gatlinburg) • Cosby, Tennessee

sellingthesmokiesteam.com

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK • www.newportplaintalk.com

4 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 2023 From FIGHTNG COCKS | 2

It is all part of the “good problem” that Ragan has found himself in entering this season — one that has been frustrating in terms of tryouts, but one that could be gratifying on the road ahead. “At some point I’d like to get all those guys some

minutes, and I know that’s not the reality,” he said. “But you’d like to think that we can plug ‘em and just keep rolling.” And while Ragan and his team will enjoy this ride regardless of where it finishes, the Cocke County head coach has been clear about where this team’s potential lies. “I told our guys that’s

the goal,” he said, “to get through our region and see one of these teams that we’ve played the last two years. But the only way you do that is in a sub-state game.” “So that’s where we want to be,” he added, “and hopefully we get there and then see if we can get somewhere Cocke County has never been.“

Cocke County’s Ethan Fine (22) is one returning member of a core junior class. Fine in particular was labeled by head coach Casey Ragan as “a matchup nightmare” for opposing defenses, as his tall frame is unique for a shooting guard.

Cocke County’s Oren Hazelwood will likely see plenty of time at point guard this season, as he is one option for CCHS to use in replacing longtime floor general Brazen Stewart. Head coach Casey Ragan noted that Hazelwood brings a level-headedness to the floor, never getting too high or low, and that he does a good job of seeking out angles to dish the ball to teammates.

From LADY RED | 3

winning and going home disappointed. “The girls that were around last year, they still feel that, because they know we were one game, more than likely, from Murfreesboro. That’s this team’s goal, and they know they have to work for the opportunity to do that again.” But to reach that opportunity, the Lady Red must first find their way through a new district, as they will face Carter, Fulton, Northview and Seymour. “Our district is really stout, Northview is really good, and Fulton won their district last year as well, so our district is really strong,” said Bible. “If you look at our schedule, it’s tough every night. “There’s not one game you can circle and know it will be a win. Our girls realize that and that we have to show up to play

every night.” Aside from the new schedule, the Lady Red are also dealing with a new staff, with longtime Jefferson County coach Rick Sinard serving as Bible’s assistant this season. So far, Sinard has lent plenty of offensive expertise to a Lady Red team that will look to move with smooth, precise quickness this season. “He’s installing a motion system with some twists that I think will be really effective,” Bible summarized. “They have a lot of freedom in that, and it allows them to make plays, which we coach them to do. We don’t want them to be robotic out there, and we work at it every day, so hopefully it becomes like clockwork.” What does that offense entail, exactly? “More focused on passing up the floor,” said

Bible. “We want to go fast yet under control, and when we can score quick, it’s what we want to do. But we want to balance the floor to get into our offense — we don’t want to be reckless.“ That should complement a Cocke County team that will look for quick buckets off turnovers on the defensive side, per Bible’s instruction. But it should also pay dividends for a team that will look to replace the post production of Paige Niethammer, who is now playing at Southwest Virginia Community College. Freshman Karmine Carmichael will fill that spot “immediately,” Bible said, as she brings a speedier style than when Niethammer outmuscled teams in the paint. “She’s not as thick and strong, but she can probably outrun Paige

Cocke County’s Kyler Hayes will be a factor at multiple levels this season, bringing height, rebounding and a strong work ethic to his junior campaign in Newport.

Cocke County’s Blakelyn Clevenger will be an essential piece to the Lady Red this winter, as she put up almost 400 points during her freshman season last year.

down the floor,” said Bible. “We’re looking to hit her more in transition versus just overpowering people.” Clevenger’s speed will certainly help there as

Best Wishes 2023/2024

From Our #1 Team

Best Car Dealership

well, as the incoming sophomore has brought the ball up the floor on some occasions. Still, Cocke County’s point guard work starts with senior Halle Kitchen, whose leadership has proven paramount with the coaching transition this off-season. “Halle leads by example in everything she does,” said Bible. “From the way she lives her life as a person to how she is on the floor, she’s the first in every drill, never complains about anything, she’s very coachable, and she is the epitome of a coach’s dream. You couldn’t ask for a better kid.” Cocke County will certainly rely on Kitchen quite a bit, though it will also look to players such

as Shakyra Reed, Adisen and Ceegee McNealy, Abby Niethammer, and Kitchen’s senior counterparts, Destiny Reese and Kirsten Moore. Reed delivered two quick buckets during Cocke County’s preseason event, Big Red Madness, with the pace painting a picture of exactly how Bible wants his team to play. “These girls play so, so hard, and I’m lucky to be here with this group,” he said. ““It doesn’t matter who we’re playing — we’re going in with the mentality that we can guard anybody that we play. “So hopefully people will be pleased with their effort this season, and we’ll see what happens.”

"Work Hard, Stay in School, Achieve Your Dream.” L-R: Marc Stinnett - Owner, Scott Jackson - General Sales Manager, JoshYoung, Brandon Harbin - Finance Manager, Darrell Barbee, Shane Farley, Mark Hughes, Jimmy Srock, David Barnett, David Stinnett.

- LeBron James

Have A Great Season!

Maximize Your Tax Return with

1041 W. Hwy. 25/70, Newport, TN 423-623-3021

423-237-6652 • 731 Cosby Highway

www.newportplaintalk.com • THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

2023 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 5

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK • www.newportplaintalk.com

6 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 2023

Good Luck For A We’re Proud To Support The Athletic Programs Of All The Schools

K&. S .

Bookkeeping &Tax Service

Bookkeeping Quick Books Consulting Payroll Services

423-625-3110

134 Five Rivers Plaza Way | Newport, TN 37821

GREAT B asketball Season

G o Te a m s ! TOWN & COUNTRY DRUGS

Convenient Drive-Thru 771 Cosby Hwy. Newport, TN 37821 Monday - Friday 8-6 Saturday 8-3

423) 623-1500

www.newportplaintalk.com • THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

2023 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 7

2023-24 Cosby Eagles

Photos via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Cosby Eagles, led by second-year coach Brian Stewart. Back row, left to right: Brian Stewart, Cyler Davis, Mack Holt, Peyton Raines, Greycin Cobble, Christian Walsh, Oaklon Cameron, assistant Kurry Cody. Front row, left to right: Darius Marshall, Cruz Coggins, Devonte Wigfall, Trevor LaRue, Cooper Davis, Haiden McMahan.

Eagles ‘chasing greatness’ for Year 2 of Stewart era By Jake Nichols COSBY — When Brian Stewart walked through the doors of the Cosby gym for the first time, he had to stop and look around. Jerseys. Plaques. Nets. Silver balls. All of them were stacked together in a trophy case that reminds one of the standard that comes with playing — and coaching — the sport of basketball for a program that has seen nine state tournament appearances and two state runnerup finishes. It was all a little disarming for Stewart, who said he is “at his best” when he

“understands what’s ahead.” Except last season, he did not know what was ahead. Not just because of the new place and faces, but because no one at Cosby High School could have predicted how last season ultimately unfolded. In his first season at the helm, Stewart’s team lost senior starting point guard Hayden Green to a season-ending ATV accident just two games into the new era. It was a shot that would have blown most teams to smithereens for the rest of the year.

Brake Special

$89.95 Includes Pads & Labor 185/70R13....................$62.00 185/70R14....................$66.00 185/65R14....................$61.00 205/70R14....................$79.00 P205/70R15..................$77.00 205/65R15....................$72.00 205/70R15....................$82.00 P235/75R15..................$104.00 215/60R16.....................$83.00 225/60R16.....................$85.00 P265/75R16...................$133.00 31-10.50-15AT...............$128.00 P265/70R17...................$126.00 LT265/75R16.................$133.00

Still, the Eagles regrouped, finishing with a regular season district title and a 16-15 record that left them a couple games shy of Murfreesboro. Along the way, they found new pieces, such as freshman point guard Cruz Coggins. They leaned on one another, especially the tight-knit seniors of that year. And they found new perspective, as Coggins and other players have learned to appreciate each moment with their teammates. “You never know what can happen,” Coggins summarized recently, “because

life is not promised for any of us.” Their 2023 team slogan carries a similarly focused approach, as “Chasing Greatness” encourages each player to pursue glory in his daily habits. “For us, it’s about the journey,” said See EAGLES | 9

DR. KURT STEELE DR. EMILY EISENHOWER DR. GRAHAM TAYLOR DR. JACOB NORRIS Serving The Eye Care Needs Of Our Community For Over 72 Years. “You can’t always be the most talented person in the room. But you can be the most competitive.”

—Pat Summitt

Vision Source of Newport 1823 Crowe Lane • Newport, TN 37821

GENERAL PRACTICE OF OPTOMETRY 2023/2024

(423) 623-3875 visio ns o urceo fn ew po r t. com

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK • www.newportplaintalk.com

8 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 2023

2023-24 Cosby Lady Eagles

Photos via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Cosby Lady Eagles, led by seventh-year head coach Cody Lowe. Front row left to right: Jaylen Moore, Lakelynn Fowler, Ky Gibson, Alexis McGaha, Addy Woods, Madylyn Bible, Kassie Davis. Back row left to right: Chloe Hance, Mattie Rush, Destiny Odell, Kennedee Langford, Ariel Ottinger, Shylee Shelton, Allie Ottinger, Maddy Miller.

Lady Eagles ‘hungry’ entering Lowe’s seventh season By Jake Nichols COSBY — When Washburn beat Cosby on February 7, 2023, Lady Eagles coach Cody Lowe saw one of the most impressive streaks in Tennessee high school basketball come to an end. Not only did the loss snap Lowe’s 67game win streak in district play, but the 53-52 nail-biter left a bad taste in Lowe’s mouth going forward. 13 days after that moment happened, Lowe’s feeling only worsened when the Pirates beat his Lady Eagles again — this time 48-45 in the District 2-A champion-

ship game. So Lowe has kept both moments in his back pocket all off-season, letting them motivate him and his team entering his seventh year at the helm for Cosby girls basketball. “There’s no doubt that it’s driving us,” he said. “It’s made me extremely hungry as a coach, and it has worked for the girls too. Washburn was a good team last year, and they are this year. “But it has lit a fire under us, and the kids have been working so that that doesn’t happen again.”

TOM SEPTIC TANK SERVICE WHEN A FLUSH BEATS YOUR FULL HOUSE!

To provide further insurance, Cosby will feature a plethora of talent across the board. Junior Shylee Shelton enters the season within striking distance of the program’s all-time scoring record, having become the first person in Cosby hoops history to reach 1,000 points as a sophomore last year. Shelton was the Lady Eagles’ go-to playmaker last season, driving to the hoop and firing from deep throughout the season. But she was often face-guarded by

teams who knew that Cosby did not have many other answers offensively. But now, that has changed. The Lady Eagles have added point guard Ky Gibson, who comes to Cosby from Northview Academy. Gibson brings plenty of experience with Shelton, as the two play travel basketball together in the summer. Moreover, Gibson’s role as a floor general will provide stabilization for Cosby’s offense — something it missed last season after point guard Kinley Coggins went down with a season-ending See LADY EAGLES | 9

Practice Winning Every Day!

Call Tom at

423-608-9657

tommesser.septictankservice@gmail.com Serving Cocke and surrounding counties

Tom Messer Septic Tank Service

T ogether E veryone A chieves M ore Cocke County Recreation Department 466 Learning Way | Newport, TN 37821 Recreation Department Director: Scottie Thornton

344 West Broadway Newport, TN 37821

423.623.2800 | LowlandCU.org

Proud To Suppo t All Area Teams State Representative

Jeremy Faison

11th Legislative District

Cocke, Jefferson & Greene Counties

615-741-6871

www.newportplaintalk.com • THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

From LADY EAGLES | 8

ACL tear. “She’s a competitor and has played with some really good players,” said Lowe of Gibson. “They’ve got some great girls, Shylee and one of Bearden’s better players. “She plays with one of the premier teams in East Tennessee, and it shows up. She’s going to bring some valuable minutes to this team.” Senior post presence Ariel Ottinger offered similar analysis, describing how Gibson’s presence helps open up the Lady Eagles’ offense for this season. “We definitely needed a point guard, because it gives Shylee more looks on offense,” said Ottinger. “We’ve been putting in more plays so we can pass the ball around more. Then we don’t have to depend on one player, and that’s hard. “They would doubleand triple-team (Shelton) last season, and we really wouldn’t know what to do after that.“ But now, Cosby can divvy looks between several options: Shelton, Ottinger and Alexis McGaha — who is feeling fresh this season after returning last

season from her own ACL tear her freshman year — to name a few. But all that is without mentioning Maddy Miller, Kennedee Langford or Destiny Odell, all of whom will battle Ottinger for playing time down low. That post presence will be key for the inside-out effect Lowe hopes to utilize this season, creating more options on the perimeter through an offense that will be rooted in high-percentage shots. “We’ve got to coach to whatever benefits them the best, and I think we’re going to be a little more half-court defense, won’t press as much or shoot as many threes,” said Lowe. “We will be more methodical offensively. But we still have players that can shoot. Shylee Shelton, Alexis McGaha, Madylyn Bible, they can.” But the offense will primarily run through the middle, opening options on the outside. “They’ve got to respect your post play, and your shooters can fan out,” Lowe explained. “You’re shoot the ball so much better that way than just playing on the perimeter. I’ve noticed that in practice — (post players) catch it inside, they’re not

2023 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 9

selfish. They do a good job of getting it where it needs to go.” Cosby will hope for similar success in terms of where it wants to go as a team this season — one stop being the district championship, as Lowe won five straight before last season. But for the Lady Eagles to go further, they will also need the kind of depth that has made Lowe excited leading into this season. “This is the deepest team I’ve ever coached,” Lowe said. “We’ve got nine or 10 girls vying for playing time, so it’s going to be really competitive. Just excited to see who will step up and get minutes.” With that in mind, is there a set lineup Lowe has in store for the first few weeks? Absolutely not. “We don’t have a set starting lineup, we don’t even have a set rotation yet,” Lowe summarized recently. “The way I look at it, every day in practice is a competition. “If Maddy Miller beats out Ariel Ottinger or Allie Ottinger beats out Madylyn Bible, or if Chloe Hance beats out one of them, so be it. “Whoever has the best

Cosby point guard Cruz Coggins, pictured here in a matchup against Claiborne last season, stepped into the starting role after former point guard Hayden Green’s ATV accident last November. Coggins has since grown in leadership and in his skill on the floor, as he will be an essential piece for the Eagles this year.

From EAGLES | 7

Stewart. “Getting better every day, progressing.” But at some point, last season’s hardships aside, Stewart is also hopeful that the progression each player achieves will yield a team that is playing its “best basketball” at the right time. A team whose efforts can, at some point soon, be added to the blue banners on the wall near that trophy case at the front. “We want to hit our stride by late January, early February,” he said. “And understand that if we go about our business the right way, great things can happen.” He has certainly not backed down from that in practice this preseason, confronting his players head-on with their

potential. “You don’t understand how close you are to having that kind of season,” he told them. “It needs to be about cutting nets, chasing rings, and doing it for each other. And that is all we should be interested in.” Now, the big question: what makes him feel this confident — and how can they get there? The answer to both, if it works out well, is simple: the chemistry they have developed in the preseason. The Eagles have added transfers in Haiden McMahan and Darius Marshall to supplement a roster that, as mentioned, has already been through the fire together. “Haiden is super athletic,” evaluated Coggins, “and Darius moves off the

ball and can shoot well, and so can Haiden.” Those two could pair nicely with pieces such as Coggins, Cyler Davis, Peyton Raines and Mack Holt, each of whom has honed a unique part of his game this off-season. “Obviously we bring back several contributors from last year,” summarized Stewart, “and we’ve got some new faces that I’m excited to add. I don’t think there’s any question that this is the most fun I’ve ever had coaching a group.” “They work hard, they care about it, they do the things nobody wants to do, and they do it with little, if any, complaint,” he added. “That’s different. “All of our guys, but especially the ones that have been with us through

Teamwork is the fuel that allows common people to produce uncommon results. ERIC

I ON 61

570 or

week of practice, they’ll get rewarded with playing time. Competition breeds success, and I’d much rather have a deeper team.” And Lowe says that having experienced the alternative, too. “I’ve coached teams where I’ve coached five or six kids and felt like I was handcuffed because girls could take it easy and loaf,” he said. With that, he offered a stark warning. “But with this team, if you don’t bust your ass and get after it, you could see your minutes dwindle,” he said. “I’ve noticed that in practice, and the girls

Cosby’s Shylee Shelton became the first Cosby basketball player to reach the 1,000-point mark as a sophomore last year. Now, with new weapons beside her, Shelton will look to lead the Lady Eagles to new heights this season.

know that. That’s one thing about coaching high school kids: they understand what the pecking order is, and they want to

be in that. “Practice has been great so far, lot of energy, and I’m excited for the season.”

Cosby boys basketball coach Brian Stewart enters his second season with a clear goal in mind: to get this team back to the state tournament in Murfreesboro, where only a handful of Cosby teams have been before.

the summer and on into now — those guys have absolutely worked like you wouldn’t believe. I’m really excited for people to see the improvements our kids have made.” What are some of those improvements? Shot selection, shot improvement, defensive focus and overall leadership, to name a few snippets from player interviews. But the overall theme, the improvement everyone wants the most? To see more hardware in the trophy case and another year added to one of the banners Stewart referenced.

And he sees a roster that can reach those goals, with a motion-based, pick-filled offense, a hardnosed, pressing defense, and, most importantly, athletes that can fulfill those roles to Stewart’s liking — with the stamina and chemistry to match. “We’ve got enough skill, enough shooters, we have size in the right places,” he said. “The system that we’re playing lends itself to our skill level. We present a lot of issues to opponents.” Should all those things weave together in the right way, it would be a gratifying sequence for Stewart in just his second

season on The Hill. But it would also be another feather in the cap for a program, a community, and a packed-out gym whose members enter with great expectations each night — but leave with the same appreciation as Stewart, too. “I look at this place, and it’s so very special to me,” he said. “I want to give them a trip back to Murfreesboro, and I would do it every season if I could.” “But,” Stewart added, “the great thing is that it’s so much bigger than a single season or any one game, too. It’s a way of life — and I can’t wait for another season.”

Wishing You The Best Season Ever! Fred Naillon & Sons Se ti Tanks FREEE Estim s

SERVICE

Excavator • Dozer • Bobcat • Backhoe Licensed Septic System Installer • Footers, Waterlines & more INSURED/FREE ESTIMATES

Cosby Lady Eagles coach Cody Lowe enters his seventh season at the helm on The Hill. Lowe is excited about the depth his team features this season, with plenty of talent at multiple spots on the floor.

-1976

Call 423-625-3631 or 423-721-3570

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK • www.newportplaintalk.com

10 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 2023

2023-24 Edgemont Panthers

2023-24 Edgemont LADY Panthers

Picture via Chuck Cody

The 2023-24 Edgemont Panthers boys varsity basketball team. Front row from left: Tysen Lackey, Silas Chambers, Maximus Hall, Carter Smith, Jaxson Naillon, Harlan Bennett, Easton Robinson, Manager, Perry Keyes. Back row from left: Ethan Evans, Isaiah Reece, Gavin Langley, Channing Cobbs, Devin Neal, Dashaun Henderson, Lincoln Chambers, Aiden Shropshire, Jackson Moss

The 2023-24 Edgemont Lady Panthers varsity basketball team. Front row from left: Chloe Walker, Essence Biggs, Kailixx Stewart, Ariel South. Top row from left: Kennadie Meyers, Kiley McKinna, Lizzy Moss, Payton Williams, Lynkcon Haynes, Arianna Herrera, Stevie Thomas.

2023-24 Centerview Falcons

2023-24 Centerview Lady Falcons

Picture via Chuck Cody

Picture via Jessica Galler

The 2023-24 Centerview Falcons basketball team. Front row left to right: Joseph Perry, Shane Patterson, Peyton Phillips, Braxtyn Sams, Owen Turner. Back row, left to right: Levi Sutton, Drayden Shurley, Tanner Blazer, Ben Lewis, Kaleb Patterson, Haden Sanders, Ethan Helton, Chase Harris. Not pictured: Zaiden Buckner.

Bottom row left to right: Kaydence Penton, Charlie Collins, Josie Shaver, Madison Gee, Olivia Shaver, Jaylyn Southerland, Haidyn Penton. Top row left to right: Camie Crosby, Melanie Hall, Tenley Blazer, Emma Calfee, Vanessa Fox, Allie Rymer, Amelia Ellison.

2023-24 Cosby Eagles

2023-24 Cosby Lady Eagles

Picture via Jessica Galler

Picture via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Cosby Eagles elementary basketball team. Bottom row from left to right: Brantley Spann, Noah Saul, Kaden Yarborough, Cameron Brannon, Zion Guthrie, Cayden Grey, Kaiden Farley, Ethan Dunn. Top row from left to right: Colton Pinnell, Drake Woodson, Raylon Jenkins, Arian Hill, Rylee Gilliam, Gage McCarty, Jack Hall.

The 2023-24 Cosby Lady Eagles elementary basketball team. Bottom row, left to right: Zoey Grooms, Kobi Stuart, Haddlee Williams, Krisily Shepherd, Haddley Sweeten, Payton Southerland. Top row, left to right: Piper Whaley, Katey Moore, Zayli Spencer, Bella Zeunik, Lorelei Dennis, Arianna Mendez.

2023-24 Northwest Patriots

2023-24 Northwest LADY Patriots

Picture via Matthew Whaley

Picture via Korian Buckner

The 2023-24 Northwest Patriots. Back row left to right: Preston Ross, De’Marcus Stewart, Corbyn Pate, Kenneth Diaz, Bryson Mitchell, Josue Meija Benites, Brayden Eastman. Front row left to right: Mason Bolin, Malik Taylor, Christian Styles, Zander Proffitt, and TJ Ray.

The 2023-24 Northwest Lady Patriots. Bottom left: Ta’Shawna Ray, Natalee Boling, Kiya Schemel, Aubrey Schemel, Karma Massaros. Top left: head coach Korian Buckner, Mia Hernandez, Maya Jones, Kierra Coada, Amora Naillon, assistant coach Eric Osborne. Not pictured: Alivia McGraw, Abby Owens, and Alea Mahoney.

2023-24 Smoky Mountain Bears

2023-24 Smoky Mountain Lady Bears

Picture via Michael Johnson

Picture via Jessica Galler

GOOD LUCK AND HAVE A GREAT BASKETBALL SEASON! FROM MARK MCGAHA - COCKE COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS

Good Luck to all the teams!

www.newportplaintalk.com • THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

2023 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 11

2023-24 Bridgeport Rockets

Picture via Jake Nichols

2023-24 Bridgeport Lady Rockets

Picture via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Bridgeport Rockets. Front row left to right: Eli Smith, Nolan Gray, Rider Finchum, Zai Tinsley, Skylar Ricks, Marcus Paulette, Daegan Shelton. Back row left to right: Jordan Ball, Elijah Hill, Addy Pack, Hayden Scheffers, Gavin Gilliland.

The 2023-24 Bridgeport Lady Rockets. Front row left to right: Taylor Donley, Maddy Gray, Lexie Webber, Carleigh Posey, Mia McCarter. Back row left to right: Zoe Sexton, Savannah Ball, Jesslyn Ashby, Damara Brown, Emily Warren.

2023-24 Parrottsville Parrotts

2023-24 Parrottsville LADY Parrotts

Picture via Danny Hartsell

The 2023-24 Parrottsville Parrotts. Top row left to right: Hudson Hall, Logan Bowlin, Ari Cutter. Middle row left to right: Braelyn Talley, Draiden Sneed, Easton Whitlock. Bottom row left to right: Abe Kickliter, Daxton Sneed, Micah Williams.

The 2023-24 Parrottsville Lady Parrotts. Top row left to right: Georgia knight, Loretta Kickliter, Chloe Neithammer, Macy Nease, Ava Wheeler. Bottom row left to right: Ella Grace Roberts, Kinsley Nease, Ella Beth Kickliter, Addison Norman, Kaylan Ward. Not pictured: Molly Layman

2023-24 Del Rio Trojans

2023-24 Del Rio LADY Trojans

Picture via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Del Rio Trojans. Front row left to right: assistant head coach Mandi Tanner, Bentlee Jones, Kennith Turner, Phillip Sawyer, manager Connor Romines, Caiden Ramsey, and head coach Danny Shelton. Middle row left to right: Eskin Suchite, Colby Pierce, Levi Jones, Gonzola Garcia, Henry Freeman, and Leland Dockery. Third row left to right: Dylan Haney, Eli Sprouse, Rylan Tanner, Brody Clay, and Chase Burgin.

The 2023-24 Del Rio Lady Trojans. First row left to right: head coach Mandi Tanner, Brenda Douglas, Aubree Fine, Elizabeth Cooper, Skylar Mullins, Jacey Jones, and assistant head coach Danny Shelton. Middle row left to right: Sophie Collins, Lexi Orr, Ella Woody, and Scarlett Mullins. Third row left to right: Matticyn Tanner, Mackenna Howard, and Karigen Ellison.

2023-24 Grassy Fork Ravens

2023-24 Grassy Fork LADY Ravens

Picture via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Grassy Fork Ravens. Bottom row left to right: head coach Jared Young, Sterlin Clark, Tucker Faison, Jackson Young, Gracin Rathbone, and assistant coach Courtney Young. Middle row left to right: Benjamin Laws, Hudson Clark, Harrison McGaha, Tyson Cofield. Top row left to right: Parker Greene, Waylon Mcgaha, Chance Hayes, Tyler Cavanaugh.

Picture via Jake Nichols

The 2023-24 Grassy Fork Lady Ravens. Back row left to right: Stella Raines, Ripley Groat, Ava Woods, Kyleigh Wall, Kinnlea Norwood, head coach James Groat. Front row left to right: Paislee Clark, Bella Stanton, Mylee Messer, Emma Harman.

2023-24 Newport Grammar Warriors 2023-24 Newport Grammar LADY Warriors

Picture via Chuck Cody

The 2023-24 Newport Grammar Warriors. Front row left to right: Colton Oury, Ty Lewis, Rylan Parton, Cam Lewis, Robie Fish, Rylan Thornon, Eli Sisk. Second row left to right: Kolby Fine, Brody Holloway, Carter Lovin, Kason Stewart, Manan Patel, Julius Stone. Third row left to right: Spencer Reed, Ty Wines, Evan Provencal, Zachary Williams, Aiden Weeks, Bryson Ellison, Connor Burchette. Coaches: Kurt Brooks, Lauren Ford, and Jake Ottinger.

BURCHETTE EARTH WORKS

• Commercial & Resid dential Ser ices • TN N Licensed d Se tic Installer • Licensed d & Insured d • Excav vation Work • 25+ years Exp perience

Practice like you’ve never won. Play like you’ve never lost.

423-608-5287

“When you think you have done enough, do a little more, because someone out there is working harder than you.” Larry Bird

Carter Moore

Picture via Chuck Cody

The 2023-24 Newport Grammar Lady Warriors. Front row left to right: Jacelyn Green, Harper Graham, Bray Webb, Sidalee Nyman, McKenna Webb. Middle row left to right: Christina Rivera, Bentleigh Morris, Jaylee Lane, Matisse Bible, Pailyn Lane. Back row left to right: Cambree Clevenger, Bella Burke, Izzy Tomlinson, Brooke Broyles, Carlie Chiasson. Coaches: Ron Coffey, Kylie Hall, and Rhonda Williams.

Circuit Judge Part 1

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK • www.newportplaintalk.com

12 • BASKETBALL PREVIEW • 2023

Rural Medical Services, Inc. Proud To Be Part of This Community For 40 Years and Counting

Go Teams! Strive for Greatness!

Family Practice • Pediatrics Obstetrics & Gynecology Behavioral Health Diabetes Education Insurance Enrollment Family-Centered Maternity Care with on-site 3D Ultrasound. Continuity of care before, during, and after pregnancy with the same board-certified physician. Deliver close to home at the newlyrenovated Birthing Center at Newport Medical Center. GRASSY FORK CENTER

NEWPORT CENTER

4261 Big Creek Road • Hartford , TN • (423) 487-2249

229 Hedrick Drive• Newport, TN• (423) 623-1057

CHESTNUT HILL CENTER

PARROTTSVILLE CENTER

3222 Chestnut Hill School Road • Dandridge, TN (865) 509-6611

111 Mockingbird Ave.• Parrottsville, TN• (423) 625-1170

CORPORATE OFFICE

COSBY CENTER

207 Murray Drive • Newport, TN • (423) 613-3300

103 Wilton Springs Rd .• Newport, TN• (423) 487-2222