Coach Quenton Loving and the North Forrest men’s basketball team are known for their success as of late. Coming off a state championship appearance a season ago, the Eagles look to pick up where they left off.
With a 25-5 season last year, the Eagles return only two starters and lost seven seniors to graduation. In a rebuild year, Loving looks to key players to step up and continue the tradition.
“We lost a lot of players from a season ago,” Loving said. “Although we lost a lot of kids, we have some good talent filling in those roles. I think we will be a pretty good team this year.”
Although the Eagles have lost the majority of the team, they do return a three-year starter and the best player on their team – Joe Holloway. The junior is one of the best shooters in the area. Standing at 6’4”, the small forward/power forward can create match-up disadvantages for defenders as he can shoot from anywhere on the court. Holloway is a pure shooter and Loving looks for him to do big things and lead the way for the Eagles. Holloway is averaging 19 ppg and 12 rebounds per game.
“Joe has had a great summer,” Loving said. “He has really put himself on the map as far as junior colleges looking at him. He is a combination of a couple of positions. He can shoot from deep and can also put the ball on the court and create opportunities. He has added some muscle to him. I expect big things from him this year.”
Cleveland Williams and Darius Cowart can also ut up some points. Williams. who averages 17 per game. and Cowart, with 10 points per game and 3 steals per game, can relieve some of the offensive pressure from Holloway and can move up and down the court fast. Both are seniors and are expected to provide leadership on the court.
“Williams does a tremendous job at handling the ball and scoring,” Loving said. “Cowart is real aggressive on defense and sets the tone for us there. Both seniors are expected to step up and lead this young team that we have.”
