Brandon Surles averaged 7.3 points and 4.7 assists as a sophomore.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)
Transition is an important element in basketball — offense to defense and vice-versa, but Triton’s varsity boys will be dealing with other transitional factors after going 19-10 last season and reaching the second round of the NCHSAA 3-A playoffs.
The Hawks are in the midst of a personnel transition as players who accounted for 65.6 percent of the scoring last season were in the graduation line.
Coach T.J. Morrison talked about offseason development.
“We practiced on four Thursday nights,” he said. “Played eight scrimmages.”
Triton hosted three scrimmages on Friday, beating Clinton and Hobbton, but losing to Cape Fear Christian.
“We saw a lot of positives along with a great deal of things we can learn and improve upon,” Morrison said. “We experimented with a few things. We’ll be searching to find our identity next season.
“We were just trying to do a little something to whet their appetite. I realize there are other things going on in summer: vacation, football, work, travel teams.
Former CFCA player Brandon Surles missed the matchup with the Eagles.
“I expect him to play and be our point guard,” Morrison said. ” … I want him to be a solid and steadying force.
“We’ll be young next year with only three returning seniors.” Morrison said. “I am excited about the kids we have to work with.”
The Class of 2026 includes Jamuary Taylor, Carter Morrison and Noah Bennett. Taylor projects as the top returner after averaging 13.2 points as a junior.
The Hawks will also transition to a new conference, the Carolina Pines 6-A, which will include Harnett Central, Lee County, South Johnston, Southern Lee, Union Pines, West Johnston and Western Harnett.
“I like the conference,” Morrison said. “It will be different. I’m sure it will be challenging, but the league with the Fayetteville teams and Overhills was tough.”
Demarboaz Devane (5) was among the talented seniors on the 2024-25 team.
(Dunn Area Sports Photo/Paul Burgett)
