Team Preview: Miller School
Classification: VISAA D2 Conference: Blue Ridge Head Coach: Danny Manuel Last Season: 8-18 (1-0 this season) Key Games: 12/5 – Wise (MD, DMV Elite Tip-off) 12/8 – @ Woodberry Forest 12/11 – vs. St. Anne's Belfield 12/27-12/28 – McDonogh (MD,…
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Continue ReadingThe Miller School of Albermarle Varsity Boys Basketball Team is quickly earning a reputation as one of the most improved teams in Virginia. Danny Manuel, a former State POY for Miller, returns to his Alma Mater for his first year as the head Varsity boss. He spent time last winter as the JV head coach following his GA position at Wheeling Jesuit.
The Mavericks lose four seniors, Connor Schroeder, Wynn Miller, Harrison Brown, and Lael Davis. Schroeder, who is currently a student athlete at the Citadel. Miller loses their leading scorer in Schroeder, but return their second and third leading scorers, Tyler Creammer and Ron Alston. Chance Sheffey, a 6'2 combo guard out of Staunton, also returns for his senior campaign. Also returning from last year's team is sophomore point guard Jaylin Reed. Miller's frontcourt is bolstered by newcomer Dajour Dickens, a 7-foot junior, who transferred from Bethel. Coach Manuel carries a cautiously optimistic approach to the season.
“I don't want to set the bar too high. I think the (Blue Ridge) league is pound for pound the best league in the country, between us, VES, Blue Ridge, and Carlisle,” Manuel stated. “My expecations are to get better every day and see where we're at in March. We want to compete for a state championship.”
Coach Manuel understands that his team's schedule isn't a cake-walk, but he wouldn't have it any other way. He is committed to the development of his players, and believes that playing the best competition will bring out the best in them. He approaches each game with the same mentality.
“I really want to win every game. Probably not realistic, but I think we can. I try to stress that to our guys. Nothing's better than competition,” he began. “Competition is what brings out the best in us. Every drill we do in practice, everything we do is a competition. I enjoy watching them mature, and develop as players. A goal of mine is to see their skill development progress.”
Senior Puerto Rico Native, Matteo Sanchez, a 6-foot-7 forward, will play a key reserve role for Manuel. 6-foot-3 Junior guard Josh leak out of New York City, is another who could have a chance to be an impact guy off the bench. Coach Manuel believes his team has all the tools for success. He points to two specific areas which are important if they want to improve.
“The talent is there. I think toughness and execution,” he began. “That's offensively and defensively. All of our guys know that I believe in them and so, they should hopefully be playing free, and loose.”
The Mavericks opened their season with a 72-26 win over Covenant. Their next game is Tuesday, December 1 @ Amelia Academy.