IT WILL be another chance at another strong season when the Jackson County Panthers boys’ basketball team hits the court to open the season next week.
The Panthers will open with tournament play in the Warrior Classic at White County High School Nov. 23-25.
For the Panthers, it will be an opportunity to improve on last year’s 3-17 overall record, and a 0-9 region stint.
The Panthers had a busy and productive summer and have worked hard to regroup after sustaining several injuries last season.
Jusamar Harrison is back after ACL surgery last spring and will provide a much needed inside presence. Joseph Smith returns for his final season at Jackson County. He has led the Panthers in scoring the past two years and is one of the top free throw shooters in the region. Smith should hit the 1000-point mark early this season.
Alex Crawford will return as the Panthers point guard. He will continue to run a disciplined offense but will look to provide more on the scoring front.
The Panthers also look for Nick Oney and Jarvis Shaw to score from the perimeter. The Panthers have several new young players who bring a good amount of size and athleticism to the program.
“We will play fundamental, disciplined basketball and we will play as a team,” said coach Britt Beaver of his team’s strengths.
Beaver also pointed to his team’s primary weakness.
“We are still young, and not as athletic as many of our opponents,” he said.
Following next week’s tournament play, the Panthers will hold their home opener on Dec. 1 against Oglethorpe County before traveling to East Jackson to face the Eagles on Dec. 4. The Panthers will continue on the road on Dec. 5 as they travel to Habersham Central before returning home for their region opener on Dec. 8 against Eastside. Jackson County will face another region opponent Dec. 11 when they travel to Stephens County. Two more road games follow, first against non-region opponent Oglethorpe County on Dec. 12, then against region foe Morgan County on Dec. 15.
The Panthers will play host to East Jackson in their final game prior to the Christmas break. Jackson County will round out the 2009 portion of their schedule by hosting the Jingle Jam Tournament on Dec. 28 and 29.
