BS:In what areas have you improved the most?
RH:Last year our team would suffer when Jaecee (Martin) or Ismail (Charles) got in foul trouble. Because we did not have a formidable back up PG or Center. So the acquisition of Azar Swain (PG) and DeAndre Leslie (C) gives us the opportunity to keep Jaecee and Ismail out of foul trouble, and it gives them fresher legs at the end of games. Also, Chaylyn (Martin) had to responsibility of being our slasher and wing scorer, but if he was off, there was no formidable substitute. Now Shyhiem Hicks and Keonte Lucas give us additional scoring from the wing. Kareem Harvin also gives us more toughness inside. So now we have a few options to offset what other teams like to do against us.
BS:What are your goals for this season?
RH:Well last year we had a great season. We won 9 of the 13 tournaments we participated in (including winning 4 of 5 tournaments in which we played up an age group). We also won our pool and won two playoff round games at Nationals. And I have my top 6 players returning from that team. So with the additions we have in place, I expect each one of those stats to improve this season. And hopefully we will finally get one of those elusive Basketball Spotlight crowns! But seriously, I just want to represent CT on a National level. Last year while we were at Nationals in Hampton, there were a handful of teams that everyone knew would be around all week...I want to be in that same conversation.
BS: Why the name "Money Team"?
RH: Jaecce's nickname "Mayweather" spreaded like wildfire and he was so instrumental in bringing in the other pieces we decided to go with the "Money Team".
BS:Any last words you want to say before we end?
RH:I think that we have set an example for other AAU programs around the region. We (coaches) have an obligation to the young men we serve to set a positive example. We shape their image of what manhood and leadership is suppose to be. So we have to put our egos aside and make decision that benefit our kids above our own agenda. And lastly...WATCH OUT FOR THE MONEY TEAM!!!
