Jags are going to pull out a few
Underdog Norwood has quick guard play and talent at post
2021-22 NORWOOD MIDDLE JAGUARS
“I have ZERO eighth-graders,” he said. “This year is going to be a learning process.”
One of his two eighth-graders is out for the year with an injury and the other one can’t play.
“I’ve got a few kids who’ve played before, but we still have a lot of work to do,” he said.
“I have a lot of blank canvases that I think we can mold into something this year.”
Miller said there will be a lot of kids getting playing time on junior varsity and varsity while he waits for the team to gel.
But he’s not too concerned.
“They’re working hard and they’re listening,” he said.
Two of those canvases are post player Damien Lane and transfer Angel Sanchez.
“They give us a little something,” Miller said. “They’ve both played ball before and they’re good kids.”
Another asset the coach will lean on is seventh-grader Chase Braden.
“He’s a great athlete and I expect him to step up into a leadership role,” he said.
“He may not want it,” the coach said, laughing. “He probably thought he would have a year to grow into it, but with the only two eighth-graders out, he’ll be looked to.”
Miller said he’s hoping his post play is strong enough to make opponents fear that aspect of the Jaguars’ game.
“Hopefully we can get the ball inside. … Then kick it out to an open shooter,” he said.
Guard play is going to be a strength for the Jags this year.
Miller said he thinks a lot of teams will overlook his Jags.
“I look at the schedule and I see some games we can really be competitive in,” he said. “And depending on how we come along, we’re going to surprise some people.
“It’s a tough district. It’s all over the place. I think people are going to underestimate us — they’re not going to expect a lot from us — and we’ll stun some people.”
Miller said the team will be growing throughout the season, but with his guards — “Very good, really quick guards” — the 2021-22 season could have some pleasant surprises.
“Our guards play smart and they play fast,” he said.
“And they play great defense. They’re good at guarding the passing lanes and we’re going to get steals. And they’re really good at back tapping the ball from behind.”
Whatever happens this season, Miller said the team is going to have fun.
They’re going to work hard, but the goal is to enjoy some benefits from the work.
“People aren’t going to expect a lot from us,” he said. “Well, we’re going to pull out a few.”
