Summer Notebook: Vikings learning on the go; Kinston competes in the ECI
JACKSONVILLE—The Kinston Vikings unsurprisingly accepted their invited and competed in the annual East Coast Invitational basketball team camp. After finishing the tournament with a 4-2 record, Head Coach Perry Tyndall shared his optimism for the upcoming season, pointing out the potential the team has shown and the hard work they're putting in.
"We did some good things and were able to target several things we have to do better," Tyndall said. "We played hard and defended hard. We just have to defend smarter."
Even though the team had two key players, senior forward Marquez Graham and rising sophomore Tyreek Copper, sidelined due to injuries, the Vikings showcased their depth. Especially impressive was the debut of freshman Keyshawn Herring, who delivered a commendable performance that included a fast-break dunk, chase-down blocks, and solid shooting from behind the arc. Jamarion Washington, another rising freshman, also exhibited his defensive ability, court vision, and effortless ball handling.
Senior Tecarlo "Nun" Parker noticeably improved his on-ball defense, locking down his opponents at every opportunity. Khalid Sanders, another senior, particularly impressed with his leadership and craftiness in getting to the rim.
"Khalil and Khalid Sanders, and TeCarlo Parker did good things. All three of them kind of set the tone defensively," Tyndall praised. "We will lean on them being our senior leaders along with Marquez Graham, who tore his ACL last year and will be back by basketball season."
Tyndall's confidence in his team's potential is apparent as he looks ahead to a season filled with growth. "We have a solid group behind [the senior leaders] with youth that is going to get better and better with workouts and time together," he said.
Despite being an undersized team, the Vikings have demonstrated a toughness and resilience that bodes well for the future. This early showing at the East Coast Invitational reveals a team brimming with talent and drive.
"Overall, I love this group!" Tyndall exclaimed. "We have so much room for growth, and we will get better and better with the mixture of upperclassmen and the young talent we have!"
With their dedication and commitment, the Kinston Vikings are certainly a team to watch as they continue to develop their game and prepare for the upcoming season.
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