Tanya Chilton | The News
East Surry Head Coach Jason Anderson emphasizes the importance of Cardinal players using verbal and nonverbal cues to communicate as a cornerstone of success.
Tanya Chilton | The News
Cardinals practice perimeter shots and position during practice under Head Coach Jason Anderson.
PILOT MOUNTAIN — The East Surry Cardinals boys varsity basketball season will begin Tuesday at home against Ashe County.
East Surry Head Coach Jason Anderson has coached at East Surry for 10 years, with this season being his seventh as varsity head coach.
The Cardinals return with seven seniors, four juniors and three sophomores on the court this year. They went 16-11 overall last season and finished 7-8 in the conference.
“The team this year reflects its experience despite the age differences,” said Anderson. He noted the “real good job of communication” they show on the court.
“Communication is key on both sides of the floor and is key to holding the team together as a unit. It is also the difference in turnovers,” he said.
Anderson characterized the team as having excellent junior and senior leadership, a good group of kids, and said they have a “high basketball IQ.”
Specifically, the Cardinals will look to Scott Meredith’s return as a junior starter and point guard. Senior Tyler Pardue will bring strength and toughness to the floor as a third-year varsity player. Senior Eli Gilbert is the slasher and a good post player on offense.
Gunter said, “We also have not had Seth Brim’s size at the post for a while. He has gotten stronger and developed into an all-around player.”
Senior Drew Alley is a tenacious defender capable of handling the ball and a scorer.
Austin Johnson in one word could be defined as “consistent,” and is scrappy, said Gunter. “He understands his role and does what it takes to win.”
“This conference is always tough from top to bottom. There is not a night off on anyone’s schedule,” Anderson said.
This year’s team includes Scott Meredith, Drew Alley, Austin Johnson, Carson Long, Ethan Nichols, Lamar Shuff, Bryan Banks, Tyler Pardue, Eli Gilbert, Madison Chilton, Jacob Bowman, Seth Brim, Garrett Vass and Devin Benton.
Reach Tanya Chilton at tchilton@heartlandpublications.com or at 719-1921.
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