What does a team do when it’s coming off a frustrating 7-13 season? It responds with excitement and energy – that’s what Lynn Classical boys basketball coach Marvin Avery is all about.
Despite remaining competitive in the majority of games last season, to which Avery said his Rams failed to overcome four quarter runs, he says he’s got a “good problem” now when it comes to his newcomers.
“I’ve got probably one of the best freshman classes in the state,” Avery said.
Avery’s been coaching for nearly 25 years, and said it’s one of the best first-year classes he’s seen since his Lynn Tech days. Despite the bumps and “learning process” he anticipates, his excitement remains unmatched.
“These kids are right in that league right now, if they just work hard and put the work in,” Avery said. “One game at a time, and we’re just gonna put our best foot forward. And we know we’ve got some weaknesses, but we’ll work on that throughout the year and I’m pretty confident, being an experienced, veteran coach – I’ll have these guys ready to play good basketball.”
Young, old, or in the middle, Avery said the opposition better be ready for a “well-prepared team.”
“We’re gonna press and we’re going to be coming at you hard,” Avery said.
When asked about his initial thoughts on tryouts and early-season practices, Avery stressed the team is “getting there.”
“I’m very happy with the team I have. I usually like to play all 12 guys I have on my bench, and I have that right now and that’s gonna make a difference,” Avery said.
Running the team’s offense will be freshman Marvin Avery Jr., coach’s son, who he describes as “a very talented point guard.” He’ll be alongside captain Brady Warren, who you might recognize from his golfing prowess this fall, who Avery admires for how he leads quietly, but effectively.
“Another really good athlete” Almani Gerardo and Kenaalii Cohen-Ellison, who Avery said can play any position with great athleticism, are present and accounted for as well.
“I think he’s [Cohen-Ellison] going to have a great senior year,” Avery said.
TJ Walsh will serve as the team’s sixth man, whom Avery believes will surprise people and “can do it all.” Davonte Taggart, a 6-3 stellar athlete, will also be leaned on.
Avery describes his team’s “MO” as one that presses, brings full-court tempo, and one that utilizes its bench a lot. His goals for the season are, of course, to make it to the state tournament, and also take things one game at a time.
All in all, the Rams are young, but move through the calendar with a strong mix of youthful energy and veteran leadership. Containing a few three-sport athletes, and some freshmen who are itching to take the hardwood, Classical is ready for battle.
When asked about his excitement level, Avery’s response was rapid-quick.
“Very high, very high,” Avery said.
