Franklin Basketball Squads Seeking a Fresh Start

After relatively disappointing 2010-2011 campaigns in which both the boys and girls squads were handed first round knockouts in the state tournament, Franklin basketball is seeking a fresh start this season.

And as is customary with any fresh start, expect some new faces to garner some major minutes on the court as both varsity head coaches toy with their lineups in search of the elusive element, better known as chemistry, that is vital to any successful squad.

BOYS

Last winter, head coach Kieran O’Connell struggled mightily to find a consistent contributor at the point guard position and the Indians were challenged repeatedly on offense as a result. Without a pure ball handler, Franklin struggled to break opposing presses and get into its half court sets. In fact, a phrase that O’Connell used to describe his offense, on multiple occasions: “helter skelter.”

The woes at the position led to a 7-15 overall record and a 40-point thrashing at the hands of Aberdeen in the postseason tournament’s opening round.

While O’Connell again anticipates a “point guard by committee” scenario, he does like how junior Reggie Ellis has taken the reigns as floor general and expects him to inherit the primary ball handling responsibilities.

Ellis has a familiar face to dish off to in his older brother, Marquis, who returns as the Indians leading scorer from last season. Marquis Ellis possesses the height to mix it up inside as well the ability to draw out larger defenders and knock down jumpers from the outside.

The Indians' muscle down low will come from All-County Football offensive lineman Cyril Nuworsoo, who should be the squad’s top rebounder and strongest presence in the post. A bench player for most of last year, senior Kevin Boles will also collect major minutes at forward this season.

Rounding out the Indians starting five is freshman swingman Isaiah Lamb, who, despite his youth, is one of the Indians top jump shooters from the perimeter.

Said O’Connell, “He’s a great kid with tremendous upside.”

GIRLS

While the lady Indians will also boast some new faces on their side of the court, unlike the boys’ team, head coach Denikwa James will not have to fret over the point guard position on her squad.

James possesses a true leader at the point in senior Ashley Reid whose speed and ball handling ability should help ease the transition for several underclassmen factoring in to the Indians game plan this year.

Already at Bluefield State next year, Reid, brings a fast-paced, attacking style of offense that puts pressure on opposing defenses and opens up good shot opportunities for her teammates. (Reid led Franklin in assists last year.)

The only question for the Indians is who will be the recipients of Reid’s award winning dishes.

The top candidate is junior forward Ariana Foote who brings loads of natural ability and size to the table. Most times last year, Foote converted her opportunities when delivered the ball down low. A bit raw as a sophomore last year, Foote made great strides on offense with a year of seasoning under her belt.

Defensively, she should again lead the Indians in rebounds and blocked shots and make opposing players think twice before driving the lane.  

James is also anticipating contributions from a talented duo of freshmen forwards in Nataya Evans and Mara Izzard, as well as returnees Kim Dorsey and Monique Welch in the backcourt.

“To be successful in 2011-12 we need to trust each other and work together,” James said. “We have a good team this year but being positive and staying focused will be the pieces to the puzzle.”