HANCEVILLE, Ala. — The Hanceville Bulldogs are coming off another special season. They finished 21-7, collected their first county title since 2016 and made a trip to the Sweet 16. Junior Noah Jones talked about that season, what he learned, and what it was like playing with this group of guys.
“I feel like last season went great and I learned a lot about team chemistry and gelling with the team,” Jones said. “It was so special playing with this group of guys. I learned about the brotherhood we had and how far we came together as a team and that is what made us go deep in the postseason is trusting one another, no matter who is on the floor at any point in the game.”
Noah has taken away some things while playing for head coach Stephen Chandler and he also talked about what all he learned from this year’s seniors.
“He is one of the best coaches and he has always held each one of us accountable for every little thing. Coach Chandler has not only taught me the ways of becoming a better basketball player, but he has also taught me how to be a respectful young man,” Jones said. “It was amazing playing with them. They’re very good people and I learned a lot from them. I’m grateful to have been able to play with such great talent. What I learned from them was hard work, determination, and to always keep working on your craft.”
Noah has learned so much from the other upperclassmen on the team and will work on some things to get ready for next season. He also talked about the goals for this upcoming season as well.
“I’ve learned to trust in each other and that they will always have my back no matter what. I have played with these guys since youth ball and we just grow closer and we gain each other’s trust more and more each season,” he said. “I will work on my ball handling and shooting. My goals are to win county again and to go even deeper in the postseason.”
Noah talked about what will make this team special to watch next season, one of his role models growing up and some the best advice that he’s been given. “This year is going to be even more special because this team is way more mature and grown; we’ve all played the game together and know every skill level of each player,” he said. “My dad is one of my biggest role models. The best advice that I ever got was do the right thing every time you do it. Always keep your head up and keep going forward, no matter what.”
