The Benedictine Military School basketball team is having an incredible season. Starting 8-0, the Cadets have defeated opponents with a strong rotation, offensively and defensively. Cadet Head Coach Frank Williams shows no signs of slowing down as his team prepares for the Coca-Cola Classic at St. Pius in Atlanta.
A Perfect Start
The Cadets have rolled through their early schedule undefeated at 8-0 and outscoring opponents 520-341. Their latest victory came with a commanding 72-43 win over St. Andrew's, and Coach Wiliams stated that with this win, we might have changed the public's impression of Cadet Basketball.
"I mean, we hadn't really raised any eyebrows until we were able to defeat a really good ball club, St. Andrew's. Even though we played some good ball clubs before, I don't think people knew the caliber of teams that we have been playing against. So this time, you know the eyes are on us to see if we are for real, and so I'm hoping our boys will be prepared to play."
Benedictine's defense has been a cornerstone of their success this season, holding teams to an average of 42 points per game.
Key to Success
When asked about the undefeated streak, Coach Williams credited his team's assistant coaches, leadership, and work ethic.
"We have a strong leader in Caleb Jones, who is not only a phenomenal scorer but also sets the tone for the team by following the game plan," Williams said. "The coaching staff includes Otis Anderson, Keegan Richards, and Herb Baker, who also played a vital role in the our team's early success. They bring experience and attention to detail that keeps the players focused."
Tough Competition Ahead
Benedictine will face Archbishop Ryan from Philadelphia, PA, at the Coca-Cola Classic at St. Pius in Atlanta on December 27, 2024 p.m. According to Williams, this tournament features some of the best programs in the country, and it will be the Cadets' second year in a row competing at the event. Williams expressed that the team has been dedicated to improving the game's fundamentals while incorporating various nuances and details to ensure everyone is in the best position to score.
"Last year, we faced a nationally-ranked team from Ohio. This year, we're up against a strong program from Pennsylvania," Williams explained. "Our preparation has been about perfecting our shots, fine-tuning offensive schemes, and maintaining a strong defensive presence."
Cadets Stepping Up on the Court
While Caleb Jones remains the key player and catalyst, several other players have contributed significantly to the team's early success.
Williams said, "Senior John Lilly has been a force in the middle, providing strength and consistency. His presence on the court adds stability, and his improvement continues with each game. Junior Micah Williams, transitioning from football, has been a steady and experienced guard, bringing defensive tenacity and leadership to the team. The sophomore class has stepped up, Caron Hall and EJ Washington have contributed early in the season, with valuable minutes and showing strong potential. Also, sophomores Gage Copeland and Colin Dunn have add to our defensive and offensive schemes to keep the team competitive early in the season."
These players' contributions highlight Benedictine's tradition of developing well-rounded athletes who seamlessly transition from sport to sport, reinforcing the Cadets' winning athletic program culture according to Williams.
Staying Focused Over the Break
With the holiday break ending soon, the team has focused on maintaining their momentum as they enter a challenging new region. "Our goal is to improve and peak in January and February for the postseason," Williams said. "The challenge now is to stay grounded and keep working hard every day."
Williams draws inspiration from Benedictine's successful athletic program.
"Watching the football program compete at a high level every week, regardless of past success, sets a great example for our basketball team. We want to bring that same mentality to the court."
Upcoming Games
Beginning in January, after the holiday break, Benedictine will play Wayne County, Perry, Warner Robins, Ware County, and rival New Hampstead in region play. Fans can expect exciting games, and the Cadets continue the BC winning ways as they look to make a deep postseason run again as they have reached the GHSA Class 4A semi-finals two years in a row. With leadership from Jones and contributions across the board, the Benedictine Cadets are a team to watch this season.
PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy Benedicitne Military School Social Media pages
FOLLOW the Prep Sports Report on Twitter @PrepSav and Instagram savannahsportsreport. If you have any scores, information, or story ideas to share, please email kdemasi@prepsportsreport.com.
Optim Orthopedics: Championing Savannah's Prep Sports Scene!
From the gridiron to the hardwood, Optim Orthopedics stands tall as a dedicated supporter of high school athletes across Savannah. They're not just sponsors—they're game-changers, delivering top-notch medical care to nine standout schools:
- Dr. Don Aaron: Bryan County Middle/High School
- Dr. David Sedory: Benedictine Military, Bradwell Institute, Liberty County
- Dr. David Palmer: Calvary Day, Richmond Hill, South Effingham
- Dr. Thomas Alexander: Savannah Country Day, St. Vincent's
As Southeast leaders in fellowship-trained orthopedic care, Optim Orthopedics fuels Prep Sports Report's basketball and football coverage. Because when the game's on the line, Optim Orthopedics gets you back in it!
