The DeKalb County Tigers are entering the new basketball season with a refreshed mindset and a hunger to compete.
Head Coach Brandy Alley said the change in district alignment and a chance to reassess her roster has created a noticeable shift in the team’s approach.
“I’ve just learned how much they’re just ready for this new season,” Alley said. “They have a whole new outlook on everything. I think changing districts and having the opportunity to sit back and reevaluate some of my seniors has made a big difference in the way they’re approaching things.”
The Tigers finished last season with mixed results. DeKalb defeated teams in the Upper Cumberland such as their win against Warren County but also lost to several regional opponents such as White County and Stone Memorial. A new district awaits the Tigers this season, as they will face Watertown, Macon County, and Central Magnet in district play. Alley said the off-season has revealed a team that has bought into competing together and playing hard for one another.
“They’ve all given me all the effort they can and try to learn as much as they possibly can,” Alley said. “I’m anticipating having some freshmen on the court quite a bit.”
Seniors Chloe VanVranken and Allie Melton return to anchor the lineup, with a new freshman class joining the Tigers this season. Alley said she intentionally threw those younger players into the early scrimmages and workouts to help them adjust to the pace of high school basketball.
“This team is going to be getting up and down the court a lot better and ready for higher pressure situations,” Alley said. “[I expect to see] more physicality and getting after it.”
Alley said the biggest focus is continuing to grow the team’s chemistry and selflessness, which she believes will help set the tone in the Tigers’ new district.
