Newport aims for improvement
Three starters return for Newport as the Greyhounds attempt to improve from a 4-20 mark in 2016-17. Brandon Gates’ debut Greyhound squad went winless in conference play. Newport plays in the 3A-2 Conference against Bald Knob, Barton, Cedar Ridge, Harding Academy, KIPP Delta, Marianna and Tuckerman; and the combined conference 3A-4A District 7. “We are looking to make progress from last year,” said Gates, 144-83 in his 11-year high school career. “We are already making strides to adapt to the controlled game. Our offensive execution should be better, and our defense should be better.” Returning starters are seniors Tydrell Friar, 6-0 wing, and Larry Nicholson, 5-11 wing; and junior Cristian Rucker, 6-1 guard/wing. “Tydrell Friar is a returning power player,” Gates said. “He is strong and athletic. We also have other post players who should see some playing time this year: 6-4 junior power forwards Dawson Vanwinkle and Jamarion Davis; and 6-5 sophomores Michael Riley (power forward) and Darnel Beard (center). Outside, Gates said Nicholson is a good shooter. Others expected to contribute from the perimeter are Rucker, 5-6 junior guard Lucky Loftis and 5-9 sophomore guard TJ Harris. Besides the three returning starters, Gates said, team strengths will include good numbers and good team chemistry. A weakness? “We don’t have a real ‘go-to’ player, so everything will have to be a team effort,” the coach said. He said every league game should be one to watch. “We are still playing in the 3A-4A split conference, so games against [Class 4A] Southside Batesville and Riverview should be tough,” Gates said. “Tuckerman will be tough competition. They finished [as Class 3A] state runner-up [to Episcopal Collegiate], and they didn’t lose much from last year.”