Several high school boys basketball coaches in Cobb County are preparing for the 2025-26 season, discussing their teams’ strengths, challenges, and expectations as official practices get underway.
Chad Phillips of Allatoona High School emphasized the team’s tradition and the need to develop new leaders after graduating seven seniors. “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,” Phillips said.
He added: “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.”
Phillips outlined his definition of success: “For us, success is about growth and identity. If we can defend at a high level, play unselfishly, and execute offensively with purpose and spacing, we’ll give ourselves a chance in every game. A successful season will be one where we get better each week, compete with toughness, and put ourselves in position to make another deep playoff run.”
On Allatoona’s approach he noted: “Allatoona Basketball has always been built on defense, discipline, and team-first culture. We may look different this year, but the standard remains the same: play hard, play smart, and play together. I’m proud of this group and the way they’ve embraced the challenge of carrying on the tradition of Buccaneer Basketball.” Key returning players include Andre Dupree (Region Player of the Year), Carter Turnbow in the backcourt, Michael Watson for leadership qualities.
James Gwyn at Campbell looks ahead to strong competition in their region with many new faces getting opportunities: “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.” He highlighted Wesley Watson’s development as critical for postseason hopes: “A successful season needs to finish with a state tournament appearance. Much of our success will depend on the development of Wesley Watson (6-4 Junior Wing). Wesley is very athletic and has had a great off-season.” Team leaders include Xavier Hardy, Tyce Curtis, Amare Mack.
David Brock at Harrison expressed optimism about his young squad: “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 30 underclassmen among 37 players Brock cited experience as an obstacle but sees potential: “Our young guys are incredibly talented.” The program aims for further advancement after three consecutive state appearances; senior leaders are Josh Jacobs and RJ Cowser.
Hillgrove’s Gregory Moultrie pointed out team chemistry as central for improvement over time: “I’m really looking forward to seeing how this group grows together over the course of the season… Consistency is always a challenge at the high school level…” Bryson Jatta heads their list of key players.
At Kell High School Jermaine Sellers expects youthfulness but stresses standards: “I am looking forward to getting back to Kell Basketball… Youth and consistency will be our biggest challenges.” Success means maintaining defensive intensity; Chase Graham leads returners from their previous State Championship team.
Brian Fisher at Kennesaw Mountain wants his players focused defensively against tough opponents all year: “I am looking forward to seeing the intensity they play with on defense…” The Mustangs plan for top-four regional placement; returning all-region players include Justin Mallett (Senior) & Abu Jallow (Sophomore).
Lassiter’s Jay McAuley welcomes greater experience compared with last year’s young squad—this time hoping home-court advantage during regionals helps seniors excel further.
North Cobb coach Terry Gorsuch recognizes experience within his senior-heavy roster yet acknowledges tough regional matchups ahead; Jordan Simpson & Julian Dunn lead returning starters.
Pope coach Pat Abney notes four returning starters as key assets for improved teamwork while highlighting Drew Abney’s scoring abilities along with other experienced teammates like Stanton German & Thomas Williams.
Michael Marchese at Sprayberry focuses on integrating newcomers into established systems after recent playoff wins—with Nate McDaniel leading alongside Abel Trotman & Garrett Lynch.
Walton coach Bo Abney points out adjustments required after losing four starters but relies upon Adrian Falayi among others for leadership roles moving forward.
As games begin in November across Cobb County schools these teams aim for postseason qualification through disciplined preparation amid challenging schedules.
