Last year, Long County’s boys basketball team came up just short of its goal of a Region 2-AA title. After finishing the season with an 18-7 record and defeating McIntosh County in a buzzer-beater to reach the championship, they fell to the Vidalia Indians, 64-53.
This year, head coach Deshon Brock says his goal is to make the finals again, but this time have a different outcome.
“I think if we take care of our business on the court,  everything will be OK. As long as we just do our jobs we should do better than last year,” Brock said.
The team earned a 14-2 record in 2-AA, having lost only to the Indians and the Buccaneers once during the season. This year, Region 2-AA has been re-aligned and there are two sub-regions. Vidalia is now in the 2A-AA sub-region. McIntosh County is still in the 2B-AA region with Long County. Also joining that bracket is the Benedictine Cadets. So taking the top spot in the sub-region won’t be easy.
Brock said he will depend on seniors Josh Berry, Jamaal Anderson and Chris LaRochester, who all saw substantial playing time last year. Other players, however will also be key this season.
“I am looking for (seniors) David Gilmore and Deonte’ Ellis to provide a spark off of the bench,” he coach said.
He said, in the past he has expected his teams to play with intensity, and that these expectation will continue. He also said he expects a good season with a lot of support from the fans.
“I just want to ask the local community to come out and support our kids, as they have always done, and to get ready for an exciting season.
“My goal for this team is to take every play of every game, and play like it is our last play. I think if we play with that mentality every game we will be back in the championship game. Only this time the outcome will be different.”
The Blue Tide will play in the Tattnall County Tip-Off Tournament this weekend. The first regular season game will be on Nov. 24 in Jesup against arch-rival, the Wayne County Yellow Jackets.

(Pick up a Sunday Coastal Courier to read a preview on the Lady Tide basketball team.)