Youth will be part of Hugo’s lineup this season, with coach Darnell Shanklin expecting to play as many as three sophomores together. Getting those players comfortable in different situations is a priority as the team prepares for basketball.
“We are young but hungry,” Shanklin said.
He sees potential in the group’s versatility and the teamwork developing in practice. He plans to use scrimmages to give younger players experience handling different game situations.
“I think this team will be able to play a variety of styles and multiple defensive styles,” Shanklin said.
Seniors Kamden Bostic (6-3) and KD Jones (6-2) return with different strengths. Bostic is a strong, athletic forward, while Jones brings shooting ability and a high basketball IQ.
Junior Payton McClain (6-2) gives Hugo another shooter who can also finish above the rim. Shanklin described McClain as a hard worker on the court and an A student in the classroom.
Sophomore Kyng Benson (6-5) gained some varsity experience as a freshman. An athletic post player, Benson will also spend time at guard, giving Shanklin flexibility in how he uses him.
JB Cochran and KJ Johnson have caught their coach’s attention with their improvement during the offseason.
“The work during the offseason has been paying off for both of them,” Shanklin said.
Leadership roles and team goals remain unsettled while Hugo waits for its football players to join the group. Shanklin wants to see the full roster together before making those decisions.
Away from basketball, players compete in other sports and participate in their communities and churches. Shanklin said they have also been working hard in the classroom, and he takes pride in coaching students who have developed within Hugo’s program.
“We have a great deal of support from our school and our community and everyone’s ready for some basketball,” Shanklin said.
