A group of basketball players from Logan County—many of whom have played together for six years—have earned a berth in the 10th Grade national tournament in Kansas Aug. 4-7.
They qualified for nationals by winning the Kentucky 10th Grade Boys division.
“A local group of you men have been working hard for six years, traveling, long hours of basketball practice and it has paid off!” says Coach Jerry Epley. “Many of these players have been playing since fourth grade with a few players leaving and adding some along the way. The first couple of years were dedicated to developing skills, fundamentals and instilling attitude and effort.
“These boys developed and started competing in the seventh grade; however, the team really came together, pulling out a championship in all but three tournaments including come in third place in Indianapolis.
In the boys’ freshman year, the decision was made to add some sophomores and play up in the 10th Grade division. This team has gone 26-12, qualifying for National in Kansas by winning the Kentucky 10th Grade Boys division. The boys will be going to Kansas August 4-7.
“Scouts from all over including Division 1 through junior colleges will watch the boys perform,” Coach Epley continues. “This would not have been possible without the hard work of each player and supportive parents If you see out fundraising please stop and support us. We would like to give a big thanks to Renegade Performance Fuels and Lubricants along with partnership with Impact Ministries for all their support. Several other businesses have supported the team.
“If you are interested in supporting us on this trip to Nationals in Kansas, please contact us at 270-893-5477.”
Greg Powell is the assistant coach.
Shown in the photo, from left, are, back row, Caden McKinnis, Third Bell, Tommy Krohn and Reggie Powell; front row, Austin Rayno, Kelby Epley, D.J. Johnson, Sydney Johnson, Mykal Hampton and Alex Wilson. Not pictured are Elijah Kemp, Zack Fuller, John Mark Page and Jonathon Furlow.
Kemp is the only Russellville player on the team.
LeAnn Powell adds the following information: "Players and coaches from this team helped put on the first ever basketball camp for 50+ kids in Thomazeau, Haiti in June. The camp was sponsored by Impact International ministries and we were also able to install a new basketball goal in the 'village "park.' This team has had an exciting summer and we are proud of their efforts on and off the court."