Excitement is building as the CCHS boys basketball team prepares to hit the court for their first official practice of the season — this time under a brand-new coaching staff. Coaches Tommy Holder, Kobe Lewis , and Lafiet Mcdade are eager to begin the year with a mix of new and returning players, ready to build momentum and establish a winning culture at Carbondale Community High School.

After weeks of anticipation, new faces, returning players, and plenty of goals ahead, the Terriers are ready to put in the work. The gym buzzed with energy Monday, November 17th as the players laced up their shoes and began a new chapter filled with new faces, returning players, and plenty of goals ahead for the year.

Head Coach Holder wasted no time setting the tone for the season. The team’s first practice focused on conditioning drills, defensive and offensive sets, and shooting drills- all aiming at building chemistry and sharpening fundamentals. Coaches emphasized communication, effort and hustle on every play, challenging players to stay sharp and push their limits.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how the kids will adapt to the game and culture,” Holder said. 

Assistant Coaches Laf and Kobe said leadership will be a key factor this year — and they already have one player who stands out.

“We’ve got a great leader in Jaxon Marlow-Evans,” said Coach Laf. “He’s been here for four years now. He’s had his ups and downs, but this year he’s looking to make a big impact for our team.”

For returning players, the first practice felt like picking up right where they left off. Senior Jaxon Marlow-Evans said he’s thrilled to begin his final season and hopes to help set the tone for his teammates.

“I’m most excited for the culture to be brought back to Carbondale,” Marlow-Evans said. “I want to see my teammates build a connection and bond that’s going to allow us to win games.”

With a new coaching staff, fresh energy, and renewed focus, the CCHS boys basketball team is ready to turn hard work into results. The goals are clear — improve each day, grow together, and make a deep postseason run.

As the players push through their early practices, one thing is certain: a new era of CCHS basketball has officially begun.