New Lexington Looking to Go Back-to-Back In Boys Basketball

NEW LEXINGTON, OH

As the new high school basketball season approaches, the boys at New Lexington are having to play catch-up after most of the team was a little late taking the court.

Two thirds of the roster had helmets and pads on not too long ago, and were calling themselves small school division champions on the football field. After advancing in the playoffs, the players needed a little time off before getting acclimated with the rest of the team.

“It has been a challenge, we’ve had three practices and two scrimmages since we got them started last Thursday (11/21)” said head coach Jeremy Duerr. “We gave them a few days off after football, and they all kind of needed that after a great football win in week 13.”

Duerr continued, “So far it’s been difficult. We’re trying to condense, talk to them about an accelerated growth plan. We’re trying to get all of our stuff put in. Thankfully, we’re not reinventing anything from last year’s team. They kind of know what we’re trying to do.

The Panthers are coming off a small school title in basketball as well last year, in what was the program’s first in 65 years. But it’s a new season and teh focus has to change on what lies ahead.

“We’re telling these guys that just because you did it last year, just because we return a lot of guys, it doesn’t mean a whole lot. We’re trying to emphasize that it’s in the work, the magic that we’re looking for is in the work that they are trying to avoid.

New Lexington looks to be ready for any challenge, as the Panthers get off and running in MVL play this season with reigning big school winner Tri-Valley at home, followed by state finalist Maysville on the road.

“We’re going to have to bring t every single night if we want to come out on top. So we have to make sure we emphasize that each day.”

The Panthers open up on Tuesday, December 3rd against Chillicothe before hosting Tri-Valley on Friday.