Coupeville Sports

CHS coach David King plots out strategy with his players. (Amy King photos)

More strategy, this time outside.

And … yep, more strategy. The man likes his strategy.

The calendar says June, but we’re in hoops season.

Getting in some spring work, eight Coupeville High School basketball players laced up their sneakers and battled Sunday in La Conner, coming away with a two-game split.

The Wolves held off their hosts 22-21, then were edged 22-18 by a Nooksack Valley squad which was deadly at the free-throw line.

Both games gave CHS coaches David and Amy King a chance to work on new wrinkles.

In the opening game, La Conner played zone much of the way, while Nooksack went man-to-man. The Wolves were able to run new plays based on what style they were facing.

It was the first time in months these Wolves had been in the same gym.

“Defensively we communicated very well. In the zone we were able to get our hands on some passes, got some steals and we were able to get out and run for layups,” David King said. “Rebounding was a good team effort; however, we did struggle against the taller post players.

“Just need to get back to fundamentals and block out. But that will come with more practice and playing time.”

The other side of the game was a mixed bag, mainly due to time away and adjusting to new plays.

“At times we moved the ball well, made the correct pass,” King said. “Then we had periods when our offense went stagnant and we stood instead of moving without the ball. The great thing is, these are things we can correct.”

King was highly appreciative of the players who gave up a Sunday:

Tia Wurzrainer — “Answered the call just two days ago to come play with us. It was great having her there even though the plays are new to her. As the games went on she got a little more comfortable and confident. A good building block.”

Avalon Renninger — “Was rock-solid throughout. She is someone that can play multiple positions and is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team. She’s been working on her shooting and in our open gyms and today I saw the improvements I’m looking for.”

Scout Smith — “Played with a confidence that was great to see. She handled the ball well, drove at times and even hit a nice left-handed runner in the key and got fouled. And yes, she knocked down her free throw. Her shooting form is starting to transform into a more consistent shot.”

Maddy Hilkey — “Came out and played her steady game, but after a few encouraging words about playing stronger and increasing her aggressiveness, she did just that. She is so new to the game, but when she’s in the gym she wants to get better. What a great trait to have.”

Kalia Littlejohn — “As I’ve always said, picks us up defensively by her aggressive play. How she can disrupt the other team can be a game-changer at times. She had a couple of shots off the mark, but when she settled down, she nailed a three-ball.”

Lindsey Roberts — “Works so hard on both ends of the court; players like that are who you want on your team. Her defense is ahead of her offensive game, but we will be working this summer on getting her offense going. It’s going to help with her also playing on a select team.”

Kyla Briscoe —  “Like Avalon, can play multiple positions. Today we saw her be more aggressive on offense. She really looked to dribble drive and looked more for her shot. As a team, we need her to remain aggressive offensively. This summer we are going to work on playing with confidence and letting go of mistakes.”

Mikayla Elfrank — “Has been working hard on playing under control on her fast break drives and baseline drives. Today we saw glimpses of the work she’s been putting in. Her defense was stellar again. She is able to anticipate passes and either gets her hands on the pass or gets a steal.”

“It was great being in the gym and playing a couple of games. Amy and I are looking forward to a productive off-season with these players and the rest of their teammates.”

Read Full Post »