Several high school boys basketball teams in Cobb County are preparing for the 2025-26 season, with coaches expressing optimism and outlining the challenges their teams face.
Chad Phillips, head coach at Allatoona, spoke about his team’s efforts following the graduation of seven seniors and the loss of nearly 70% of last season’s scoring. “I can’t wait to see our boys compete. They’ve put in the work this offseason, and we’re ready to see how our group comes together. We’re a proud program that values effort, defense, and togetherness, and I’m excited to watch this team forge its own identity. Every season is a new chapter, and I’m looking forward to seeing who steps up and embraces the challenge,” said Phillips.
Phillips added that Allatoona will rely on returning players like Andre Dupree, Carter Turnbow, and Michael Watson as they rebuild: “We graduated seven seniors and lost nearly 70% of our scoring from last season from a team that went 22-6 and 14-0 in region play. That’s a big void to fill. Experience and leadership take time to develop, so our biggest challenge early on will be consistency and execution on both ends. We’ll lean heavily on our defense to keep us competitive while our offensive chemistry and spacing continue to grow.”
At Campbell High School, coach James Gwyn highlighted new opportunities for players in a competitive region: “We are looking forward to the tremendous competition that will be in our region. We have a new group of players who will have an opportunity to participate. We will have to play with low turnovers and play as a team on offense.” Gwyn noted Wesley Watson’s development as key for success.
David Brock at Harrison emphasized growth among younger players: “We are looking forward to just getting back on the court and the journey of the season. Basketball provides our guys with a lot of life experiences that they don’t get elsewhere.” With most of his roster made up of underclassmen, Brock sees advancing in the state tournament as an important goal.
Hillgrove coach Gregory Moultrie is interested in how his mix of returning athletes and newcomers develop chemistry: “I’m really looking forward to seeing how this group grows together over the course of the season… If we’re better at the end than we were at the start—regardless of record—that will be a successful year.”
Jermaine Sellers at Kell focused on maintaining standards despite challenges with youth: “I am looking forward to getting back to Kell Basketball. Our guys have been working hard, and their commitment to each other and the team is high. Youth and consistency will be our biggest challenges.”
Kennesaw Mountain’s Brian Fisher outlined tough schedules ahead but believes strong defense is critical: “I am looking forward to seeing the intensity they play with on defense and how well they come together as a team every night.”
Jay McAuley at Lassiter expects experience from last year’s young squad will pay off this season: “I am looking forward to coaching a group with some experience… This group of seniors has put in a lot of work.” Lassiter also plans several events including hosting its regional tournament.
North Cobb’s Terry Gorsuch pointed out his senior-laden squad’s potential: “This year’s team has a high level of basketball experience with seven seniors.”
Pope High School returns four starters; coach Pat Abney stressed teamwork as key for improvement: “Our success will be defined by becoming as good as we can and working together as a team.”
Sprayberry’s Michael Marchese said blending returning talent with newcomers would shape their approach: “It will be fun figuring out the best way for us to play.”
Walton coach Bo Abney mentioned adjustments after losing four starters but aims for continued progress built by previous teams’ foundations.
The regular season begins in November across Cobb County schools.
