Elizabeth Forward boys preview: Second-year coach Larry believes Warriors are better prepared
When Nolan Larry took over the Elizabeth Forward boys program a year ago, it was a learning process for himself, his staff, and the players.
Now, a year later, Larry thinks the program is in a much better place, and that includes how he is approaching things.
“I have developed an excellent rapport with the veteran leaders,” said Larry. “They now have a better understanding of my approach, techniques, and passion for the game.
“And, I have a better sense of ‘how’ to coach each one of them. I believe we are much more prepared entering this season than we were last year.”
A key for that preparation has been a full offseason.
“We played more games this offseason than we did last year,” Larry said. “We were able to run some offensive sets this past summer and fall which will pay big dividends moving forward.
“We also ramped up more quickly at open gyms. We had more and they were well attended.”
The lone returning starter from last year’s playoff team is Isaiah Turner. The senior guard averaged 15 points, six rebounds and three assists per game a season ago.
Other key returning players are junior forward Cy Herchelroath, senior forward Krystian Kennedy, and junior Justin Flournoy.
Herchelroath averaged six points and six rebounds per game last year, while Kennedy averaged three points and four rebounds per contest.
Three key newcomers will be a pair of freshmen in point guard Tyler Basic and freshman center James Giles, as well as sophomore guard Daniel Spence.
The Warriors are once again in Section 3-AAAA with Albert Gallatin, Belle Vernon, Laurel Highlands, Southmoreland and Uniontown.
When asked about the section, Larry didn’t hesitate to respond.
“Uniontown is the team to beat,” said Larry. “Everyone else will be very competitive.
“I believe everyone else can beat each other on any given night. I expect us to challenge for a playoff spot and see what happens from there.”
Larry didn’t hesitate what the Warriors will need to do for a return to the playoffs.
“We have to have a better shot selection on offense, which will allow us to be more efficient,” said Larry. “We have to be much better defensively this season. That is a primary focus.
“Everyone has to buy into their roles within the team and contribute accordingly.”