Johnson City Excited for a Thrilling Basketball Season Ahead
As the leaves start to change in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, basketball fans in Johnson City, Tennessee, are buzzing with excitement. It’s that time of year again, and we’re getting ready for another thrilling season of ETSU basketball. Last March, the East Tennessee State University Buccaneers experienced an exhilarating journey to the Southern Conference championship game, and though they fell to Samford, the sparks of that exciting run have lived on. In fact, if the Bucs had clinched the title, they would have made history by becoming the first SoCon team to win four games in four days since Clemson back in 1939.
A New Era with Coach Brooks Savage
This season marks a new chapter for the Bucs as they continue under the guidance of second-year head coach Brooks Savage. Few can forget how his mentor, Steve Forbes, turned ETSU’s fortunes around following a period of struggle under former head coach Murry Bartow. With Forbes at the helm, the Bucs not only made it to the SoCon Tournament title game in his first year but also reached the NCAA tournament in his second year—an inspiring timeline Savage aims to mirror.
Last week, the Bucs got their first chance to showcase what they’ve been working on this offseason in a charity exhibition against the High Point Panthers. Despite the score of 71-56 not reflecting the desired outcome, the experience served as a valuable lesson for Savage and his young squad.
Finding the Right Emotional Balance
Reflecting on his coaching style during last season, Savage noted, “Last season I was probably a little too excited at times, and I realized I need to be a bit calmer. It’s important that my players see me maintaining balance.” He intends to channel this calmness into a more natural flow of play, allowing his team to thrive without excessive pressure.
Building a Competitive Roster
This season, just like any other, comes with its share of challenges. The Bucs face the significant task of replacing two standout players, with Ebby Asamoah and Jadyn Parker moving on from the program. The latter notably left his mark by becoming the shot-blocking leader for ETSU, ending the season with an impressive 73 blocked shots. Nonetheless, Savage is optimistic, believing that the additions through the transfer portal have made the team stronger despite the losses.
With the departures of key players like Asamoah (16.3 PPG) and Parker (7.5 PPG, 6.5 RPG), Savage focused on “keeping things as simple as possible” while assessing his team. By being adaptable, he aims to cultivate an environment that reduces execution pressure and encourages players to play freely.
Welcoming New Talents
The influx of new talent this offseason brings fresh hope. With the return of seasoned players like Jaden Seymour (14.7 PPG, 6.1 RPG) and the arrival of new recruits such as Curt Lewis and John Buggs III, the Bucs look to elevate their play. Both players are recognized for their exceptional shooting ability, and Savage is excited about the range they bring to the team.
As the team retools its strategies for the upcoming season, newcomers 6-foot-11 Roosevelt Wheeler and 7-foot Davion Bradford are set to add formidable size to the lineup, presenting unique challenges for opponents. The combination of skill, athleticism, and height aims to provide the Bucs with a competitive edge in the low-post game.
Looking Ahead
The Bucs aren’t just rebuilding; they’re prepared to make serious strides in the Southern Conference. With a well-rounded roster and a focused coaching approach, fans can expect an enthusiastic and action-packed season. With the realistic goal of securing a postseason invite and possibly making strides toward the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the optimistic sentiment in Johnson City is palpable. Fans are eagerly anticipating the thrilling moments the season promises.
As Coach Savage said, “We’re committed to creating a team that not only competes but thrives.” Basketball is more than a game here; it’s about community, pride, and the thrill of being part of something bigger. Johnson City, it’s time to embrace the excitement of Bucs basketball this season!
