Jackson High boys will have to win with pressure and defense this winter
By Mike Moore
Staff Writer
Jackson – Unless there’s some unforeseen, or magical, growth spurts from now until next week, Dan Crowley is going to have one of his smallest, in height that is, teams ever.
And the Jackson High boys basketball coach is just fine with.
What other choice does he really have?
“We’re going to have to be a team that runs baseline to baseline,” Crowley said simply. “We’re going to press. We’re going to mix up the defense and put a lot of pressure on the ball.”
Keegan Davis, who transferred back to Jackson this school year from Florida after leaving two years ago, is the team’s tallest player at 6 feet, 3 inches.
Along with a lack of size, Crowley said his guys are still battling some injuries, as well.
Shonte Suddeth hadn’t had a full practice as of Nov. 28, and skipped the team’s scrimmage.
Rarshiem Owens injured his knee and was still being evaluated.
The Vikings do have plenty of talent, though.
When Suddeth and Owens are healthy, they’ll be joined by R’mand Brown.
“He can play anywhere on the floor, and with his size (6’1”) will have to help rebound and score,” Crowley said.
Sam Williams and Jaylon Johnson, among others, will also have to contribute.
“With some of the guys we have back, and the addition of Keegan, I think we can put some points on the board,” Crowley said. His Vikings averaged 58.6 points per game last winter while going 10-12. “Now it comes down to defending on the other end.”
It will have to be a group effort, especially considering the size other teams on the conference will possess inside.
“We’re going to have to play up-tempo, using a lot of guys, and the kids like playing that way,” Crowley said. “But the key is playing under control. Part of playing this system is paying well, playing together and playing with your head up. We have to be quick, but not in a hurry.”
Mike Moore is a play-by-play commentator and Sports Writer for JTV Sports. You can reach him atmjm12@albion.edu. He’s also the author of ‘Love, Defined; A Dedication to the Love, Sacrifice, and Magic of Motherhood.’
Love, Defined is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Tate Publishing or by contacting Mike directly.