The Upperman Bees return to the basketball court eager to defend their first state title.
Upperman comes off their first state championship win in program history. Last March in Murfreesboro, Upperman captured the Gold Ball after defeating Hume-Fogg, Greeneville, and Tullahoma. Head Coach Bobby McWilliams said last season was a joy to be a part of.
“It was an incredible ride for us, an incredible ride for our program,” McWilliams said. “Just really proud of what we were able to get done at the end of the year last year.”
The Bees’ championship run was powered by a near-perfect team performance. With a 29-4 record, Upperman went undefeated in district play. During the three playoff games, the team averaged 58 points per game while allowing 47 points per game. McWilliams said he hopes to refine that this season.
Upperman returns most of its core players, including point guard Ty Cobb, whose performance earned him the distinction of becoming the first Mr. Basketball in program history. Senior leaders Jack Torrence and Connor Bush return, joined by junior Colton Johnson, who will join the team once football season concludes.
McWilliams said he feels good with how his team has developed during the off-season.
“We grew a little bit, got a little bigger, got a little stronger,” McWilliams said. “Biggest thing we need now is get some experience under our belt with all of our kids that are sophomores and up that didn’t get as much playing time last year.”
McWilliams said he looks to improve the defense this season. McWilliams said mental toughness and accountability have been emphasized, setting expectations for the Bees in early practices.
“I think that’s kind of how we play,” McWilliams said. “I think there’s a level of expectation on certain things that we really don’t waver on. I think playing with, not just physical toughness, I think the mental toughness aspect of it, I think that’s also important as well and we really try to encourage our kids and make sure they understand what we expect and holding themselves accountable.”
McWilliams said as long as the team gives their best effort every night, good things are going to happen. The Bees will begin their defense of the state crown November 18th at Brentwood.
