Communication is the focus for the Franklin Tech boys basketball team heading into the new season.
After a down season last year, the Eagles are hyper-focused on improving that aspect of their game early on in the preseason. With players coming from different schools, the chemistry isn’t always there for the Eagles.
“We don’t communicate enough,” Franklin Tech coach George Gutierrez said. “They haven’t played enough with each other. It’s like they come in and they don’t have trust and don’t communicate with each other. We just don’t talk enough. If we can start talking on defense we will be fine.”
The ultra quick Nolyn Stafford plays the point for Franklin Tech.
“I like to set an example for the young kids,” Stafford said. “Helping my team with the plays and all that.”
Stafford pointed at something that the Eagles will not be lacking this season.
“The most hustling team,” Stafford said. “More energy than most teams. We are going to give it our all. We can improve talking and communication. More leadership from the older kids. Just putting more work into practice.”
Gutierrez lauded the skills of Stafford, who is quick with the ball and can score around the rim.
“He’s gonna be the leader,” Gutierrez said. “He’s an all-around player.”
Hunter Donahue and Brody Hicks do the dirty work for the team.
“They are my defenders,” Gutierrez said. “They will tip every pass and get every rebound.”
Both players get after loose balls and will do anything to secure a possession. The team can create offense on the defensive end.
“I can expect a lot of defense,” Donahue said. “Talking on defense. Playing really aggressive and using our defense to our advantage.”
Hicks and Donahue can do some scoring for the Eagles as well. Franklin Tech is working on chemistry.
“We know each other,” Donahue said. “We just try our best and do all we can to build chemistry.”
Cole and Mason Bassett provide much needed size on both ends of the floor for the Eagles.
“They are going to have to step up as sophomores,” Gutierrez said.
The Eagles went 5-15 last season and missed the playoffs. Franklin Tech plays in the Tri-County North league with Mohawk and Turners Falls.
Franklin Tech opens its season against St. Mary’s at home in the Holiday Classic on Thursday, Dec. 11.