HUNTER COOKSTON
Writer
This first season for the South Pittsburg Youth basketball program was all about growth, learning the right ways to play the game, and developing strong character. For the 3rd-grade team, coached by Cameron Medrano and Coy Haggard, the season ended perfectly with a 9-0 record.
The team featured talented young players: Thatcher Henderson, Micah Greene, Axel McCord, Cain Henegar, Truett Coffee, Remington Carver, and Haarlem Benbow. The seven athletes worked exceptionally well together, grinding out close wins while also dominating opponents in some games.
The Pirates’ closest contest of the season was a one-point victory against Stevenson, while their largest margin of victory came in a commanding 13-point win over another Stevenson team. Henegar led the Pirates, averaging nine points per game, and Benbow contributed six points per game. On average, the team won by eight points and outscored their opponents 147-79 over the course of the season.
For this group of third graders, the season is an excellent foundation for the future. With these seven athletes, they have the potential to be a dominant force in middle school and high school. Over the next several years, they will continue to grow their chemistry, learn together, and build unbreakable bonds both on and off the court.
Not pictured: Jaxson Rollins and Zaylen Kennemore