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CEDAR CREEK — The Cedar Creek boys varsity basketball team has shown flashes of promise this season but continues to battle inconsistency, posting an 8-10 overall record.
Defense has been the primary hurdle for the Eagles, who allow an average 62 points per game.
First-year head coach Chris Young views the struggles as growing pains that come with a new defensive system, though he sees signs of progress.
“We’re just now kind of hitting our stride and peaking at the right time,” Young said. “Guys are understanding where they need to be, and a lot of it comes down to effort — that’s what defense is all about.”
While the Eagles are still finding their footing defensively, their offense has been potent, averaging 61 points per game.
Senior guard/forward Kenji Franklin and forward Phineas Koplin have proven to be catalysts, leading the team with 25.2 and 16.8 points per contest, respectively.
“Kenji can create his own shot and create opportunities for others, and he does it at a high level,” Young said. “Koplin is a shooter with sneaky athleticism.”
Despite their uneven start, Young is optimistic about the team’s direction, pointing to an increased sense of unity among players.
“Our effort wasn’t consistent across the board early on,” Young said. “One game, a player might be doing everything right, but the next, he’s kind of spaced out. Effort is contagious — when you see your teammates diving on the floor and everyone hyping them up, it makes the whole team want to give their all.”
As Cedar Creek moves into the heart of its schedule, Young is confident that improved focus and buy-in will lead to sustained success, he said.
The Eagles face Anderson before heading to the Corpus Christi tournament Dec. 27-28.
