Jackson County’s boys basketball team will defend its state championship with an entirely new starting lineup and a new head coach determined to build on the Blue Devils’ winning tradition.
Head Coach Brandon “BJ” Upchurch takes over after spending 11 years as an assistant with the program. Upchurch said the departure of all five starters has created an opportunity for younger players to establish their own identity while proving Jackson County remains a contender.
“We feel like we’re taking that underdog mentality and we’re approaching every day as we’ve got something to prove,” Upchurch said. “I’m working hard, the kids are working hard and that’s kind of been our thing.”
Upchurch said his approach centers on discipline, communication and consistent effort. He wants the Blue Devils to establish a reputation for outworking opponents as the inexperienced lineup develops chemistry and confidence.
“I want to be the hardest working team,” Upchurch said. “I want to play with effort, high energy. I want to be disciplined. That’s where we’re building our foundation on right there and a lot about communication.”
Upchurch said fans will also notice a different coaching presence on the sideline. He plans to bring an emotional, vocal approach that encourages players to match his enthusiasm during games.
“I’m real emotional on the sideline, which I think that’s going to be my little personal touch. I want the kids to feed off my energy,” Upchurch said.
Upchurch’s ties to Jackson County extend beyond his coaching career. His wife won a state championship at the school in 2008, and his daughter, niece and nephew have been involved in the basketball programs. Originally from Clarkrange, Upchurch said the community has become home.
“I love the community, I love the atmosphere that we have and the culture that we’ve built,” Upchurch said. “Jackson County feels like home to me now.”
Despite the roster turnover, Upchurch said the Blue Devils will continue preparing with the goal of competing for another state championship. He believes maintaining those expectations will help players develop both on and off the court.
“Even if we don’t make it there, we need to prepare and we come into every day with that goal in mind with that attitude and that mentality. It’s going to make us better basketball players but it should make us better humans outside of basketball as well,” Upchurch said.
