Despite having a winning record last season, the 40 and over San Quentin Kings basketball team looks to build on its talents, and further improve on the team’s structure. The plan is to develop a better attitude and work ethic.
Kings Assistant Head Coach Ismael Freelon said he is ecstatic about his newly discovered talent during his basketball tryouts.
“Although our team lost a few good players to success of their prison releases, we have the talent, (and) I really believe we will be a strong force to be reckoned with,” he said.
“It’s about whatever the coaches say. You have to believe into (the) system,” says returning point guard and team Captain Asey Brian. He said his role is to avoid player disagreements, and foster a positive attitude.
Coach Freelon said he wants to do more this year as a patient listener. He intends to focus more on helping his players work through their struggles, both on and off the court.
Freelon said he worked on “selection of supportive players who understands the love of life.”
He said tested returning players and potential recruits have equal opportunities to fill the 13 regular spots. Four others could play, depending on whether they succeed in going home under the amended Three Strikes Law.
“I anticipate making the team and being able to positively contribute my fair share of rebounds and viable communication (skills) to my teams’ victory this season,” said potential small forward “Thad” Fleeton.
Returning center “Detroit” Long said he desires to work on “developing personal growth and take it into an undefeated season.”
Long considers himself a “Big Man” on the court. He said he insists his veteran attitude is important for also helping the younger Warriors team grow.
Long said qualities he hopes to offer the league this season include “instilling some educational growth, personal inspiration, and assisting my team to become better men on and off the court.”
