SOUTH RANGE BOYS BASKETBALL COACH S CORNER WITH PAT CARDEN 1 30 25
CANFIELD, OH- South Range Boys Basketball has experienced a significant resurgence under the leadership of Coach Pat Carden. Known for being one of the youngest and most talented coaches in the area, Carden has brought South Range back to prominence with his team standing undefeated at 8-0 in the Northeast 8 Conference.
The journey to the top hasn’t been easy, but Carden credits the success to the dedication and effort of his players. “When we came in last year, we were very fortunate. We got great players,” Carden reminisces, acknowledging the efforts of standout players like Landon, who set the single-season scoring record and accumulated the second-most points in boys’ history for the school.
Carden’s team includes seven seniors, with six having lettered last year. The return of Graham has also been a significant boost. The strong presence of multi-sport athletes, especially from the football team, has added a level of toughness and winning mentality to the basketball squad.
Early in the season, transitions were challenging, particularly for the football players adapting to basketball. “You would love to have that toughness with them,” Carden noted, explaining the adjustment period and the trust required to get these athletes into basketball shape.
DJ Yokley, the host who interviewed Carden, praised the coaching staff’s ability to strategize and adapt, even when early season shots weren’t falling. Carden explained, “We were able to kind of see that, but we’re to the point in the season where we have started to hit our stride.”
Furthermore, Carden’s comprehensive view includes building a strong foundational program from junior high all the way to varsity. He participates actively in youth practices and awaits upcoming talents with enthusiasm. He highlighted the contributions of freshmen like Nick Toy and Tommy Titus and expressed confidence in the potential evident in younger grades.
Beyond the court, Carden’s commitment extends to supporting other sports within the South Range community. His visible support at girls’ basketball games, football games, and other sports events has fostered a sense of unity and multi-sport participation among students.
Carden’s personal ties are deeply rooted, drawing inspiration and support from his father, a former athletic director. His family serves as a cornerstone of his dedication to coaching, with sacrifices made evident by his wife’s understanding during the demanding basketball season.
In summary, under Carden’s coaching, South Range boys’ basketball not only focuses on strategic wins but also on building a holistic, supportive sports community. As the postseason approaches, all eyes will be on South Range to see how far this revitalized team can go.
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