Alma backups contribute to team’s on-court success
By Kevin Taylor
Alma Schools
When they score, they hear about it - not just from the fans but from stars like Israel Towns-Robinson, Camden Curd, and Miles Kendrick.
And, for the Alma junior varsity basketball team, beating White Hall or Parkview begins with players most opposing teams don't spend a lot of time getting to know.
Toby Allen, Kade Fagan, Owen McCoy, Boston Duschinsky, Jackson McMurray, Braden Kimes, and D'Camray Jones may not be household names, but they are essential when it comes to pre-game preparations.
"Those guys play a big part in what we do as far as preparation," Alma coach Dominic Lincoln said. "It's very important to have them simulate what we're going to see. We can't do anything without them. Toby is the closest thing we have to a point guard, and he gets in there and does exactly what we need."
The Airedales (21-9) face Parkview (16-14) Friday at 2:30 p.m. in the quarterfinal round of the 5A state tournament.
Scouting isn't just about watching film, it's about seeing it first-hand.
"It's awesome to be a part of this team and to have the great year that we've had," Allen said. "It's awesome to help them get ready and do the scout (team). It's been an all-around fun time making friends."
Allen moved to Alma last year from the Magazine area, he said.
Kimes, who was one of coach Eddie Corder's clutch 3-point shooters a year ago, has had a birdseye view of Alma's deep and talented junior class for as long as he can remember.
"They were one of the first (Alma) teams to win the conference in ninth grade, and now they're winning the (5A-West)," Kimes said. "The 10th graders and other players are helping them prepare for the scout team. It's been great.
"I'm glad to be a part of this team."