CANFIELD OH- In anticipation of another thrilling basketball season, South Range High School’s boys’ basketball head coach, Pat Carden, sat down with us to share his insights and expectations for the team. Despite the successes of his first year, Carden is not resting on his laurels as he prepares his squad for even greater achievements.

Reflecting on the previous season, Coach Carden mentions that his first year at the helm was a period of significant learning and adjustments. “It was a huge learning curve for me, but we got a full off-season to implement some changes,” he shared. The team experienced a minor setback when they narrowly missed out on the league title due to an unexpected loss to Lakeview. “We learned that any given night you can be beat, and you have to be ready to go,” he noted. This season, the team is again overlapping with South Range’s successful football program. Key players like Nate Lewis and several sophomores are still committed to football, leaving Carden to prepare with a limited roster. However, the team remains hopeful and determined.

Key returning players include senior Luke Rowan and point guard Nate Lewis, both critical to the team’s dynamics. Additionally, senior Graham Hiking has returned to the fold, bringing with him vitality and competitive edge. The coach also mentions promising juniors, along with a couple of exciting freshmen. During the interview, Coach Carden emphasized the importance of an upcoming preview scrimmage against Bristol, which will serve as a vital test for players with limited varsity experience. “It’s crucial for our guys to get as close to game situations as possible,” he said. Discussing their challenging conference and non-conference schedule, Coach Carden is optimistic. The team faces tough opponents right from the start, including West Branch, Louisville, and Boardman—matches that will undoubtedly prepare them for the high stakes of tournament play. “We get thrown into the fire right away. Those games will test us and see what we’re all about,” he remarked.

Expectations for the team remain high, with Carden pushing for a strong work ethic and defensive intensity. “We want to play hard and fast, especially on the defensive end,” Carden expressed. In year two, practices have begun to reflect his vision, with drills and team dynamics molding into a cohesive unit. Coach Carden also praised the foundational work put in at the junior high level, highlighting the robust coaching staff that aids in the program’s continuity. “We have great junior high programs and knowledgeable coaches that prepare our players for the next level.”

As the South Range boys’ basketball team embarks on their new season, Coach Carden’s vision is clear: dedication, high energy, and relentless effort. The team’s depth, bolstered by a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, promises another exciting chapter in South Range basketball.

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