ATOKA WAMPUS CATS
COACH: Eric Hardison
Record: 2-21
OUTLOOK
After a challenging 2-21 campaign last season, the Atoka Wampus Cats boys’ basketball team enters the 2025-26 season with a fresh outlook and plenty of growth potential. Head Coach Eric Hardison is confident the young squad can develop into a competitive unit despite its inexperience.
“This year’s team is a young group with a huge freshman class,” Hardison said. “We have only one senior and will depend on some younger kids to step up and fill some vital spots in the roster. We had 90% of our scoring graduate last year and have kids without a lot of experience that will need to grow up fast. I am extremely excited about the kids we do have. They are learning how to work hard, and we are working on becoming more disciplined in what we do.”
With a roster anchored by one senior and a deep freshman presence, the Wampus Cats will lean on their developing talent. Senior forward Malachi Brooks (6-foot) leads a group that includes juniors Canyon Willoughby (6-1, forward), Logan Phillips (6-1, forward), and sophomores Rajon Brooks (6-0, guard) and Tayshawn Brooks (6-0, forward).
One standout player to watch is junior Canyon Willoughby. Coach Hardison praises Canyon’s attitude and work ethic as the cornerstone of the team’s culture.
“Canyon has been one of those players that comes to the gym every day, ready to work, has a great attitude, genuinely cares for his teammates and is a positive person. He always gives maximum effort even when it’s not easy. He never has a bad day and that is what I love about him. His work ethic shows. If everyone worked and acted like him, the world would be a better place. He is super respectful to his teammates, coaches and teachers. I am proud to have an example like this on our team.”
As the Wampus Cats navigate a rebuilding year, Hardison remains optimistic, emphasizing growth, effort, and discipline as keys to their success moving forward.
