Seniors slated to fill key roles for East Prairie

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

EAST PRAIRIE -- The East Prairie Eagles are looking to rebound from last season's four win campaign with a team full of seniors, including five of which saw varsity playing time.

East Prairie returns three starters and have seven seniors on the roster, which coach Casey Knight hopes will benefit the Eagles.

"We do have some experienced guys returning, but most of these guys are not accustomed to the role of a key player," Knight said. "All the returners have been good role players, but this year will have to step up and contribute on a greater level."

Gone from last year's team in Connor Scott, who averaged nearly 20 points a game. Looking to replace Scott's scoring and leadership will be Dalton Golightly, Shawn King, Logan Staggs, Phillip Latomondeer and Ryan Mathis.

Golightly will return as the team's primary ball handler and Knight expects him to be "improved and dependable."

Also on the team this year is Devin Cook and Nathan Maynard. Cook missed last season due to a football injury and Knight said the senior will step in this season and help with his ability to defend and score.

"Despite the fact we have some varsity returners we are going to be young," Knight said. "We have zero juniors which will allow for multiple sophomores and freshman to have an opportunity to step up and give some minutes on varsity."

While depending on sophomores and freshman for minutes may be a struggle at times, Knight said it will be an advantage to the future of the program.

One young player that will be depended on greatly is Damion Tipler, a 6-3 athletic sophomore.

"I expect us to be competitive and play extremely hard," Knight said. "We are physical and scrappy and will not give up. We are not measuring the success of the season in wins and losses, but are hungry to gain success through our hard work."

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