Grind Region Preview: East Tennessee Kings
We may be in the middle of high school basketball season but it’s not too early to look ahead to what’s coming up on the AAU circuit. Over the next few months we will be taking a look at the teams that will be participating in the PrepHoops Circuit Grind Region and here’s a look at East Tennessee Kings.
East Tennessee Kings will have teams in the 17U and 15U divisions of the Grind Region and will be at the #GrindSzn Kickoff, Show Me Showdown, and Grind Region Finals.
Here’s a transcript of a conversation we had with head coach Jamichael Heathington.
Why did you start your program? How long have you been around?
East TN Kings is a 2nd year program that focuses only on unrecruited players. We wanted to start a program that created the opportunity for unseen athletes that nature the game of basketball in want to compete at the next level.
What is the goal of your program for 2019?
“Building my foundation” We preach the 4Bs Bible, Books, Ball, and Babes. Setting a good foundation heading into college is a key part of being a successful student-athlete to complete graduating. The 4Bs helps the guys keep priorities aligned.
What is your program’s mission each year?
Our mission each year is to mentor, train, and develop players preparing them for their next opportunity. Teaching them to stand on their own two feet not settling or seeking a crutch from society.
Do you know of any players that will be back in your program this year? Who should we have our eye on?
Out of 12 guys last year we had 9 return and added about 17 new guys and 10 girls for our East TN Queens team. You should keep you eye on a couple players but our standouts are:
Kelvean Smith-10th-Calvary Christian (Chattanooga)
Zephanian Philyaw-11th-Coosa High (Georgia)
Kenneth Steward-10th-Central High (Chattanooga)
Michael Wilson-9th-Howard High (Chattanooga)
Quell Marsh-7th-East Ridge Middle (Chattanooga)
Why did you choose the Prep Hoops Circuit?
We choice Prep Hoops circuit because of Andrew Force recommended it. He invited two of my players to Prep Hoops combine last year in has kept me in the loop. We trust Prep Hoops.