CCC Men's Basketball Season Preview

            The Men’s Basketball Program begins the 2018-19 season on an optimistic note, due to the return of five players and having addressed last year’s height disadvantage. “We were undermanned in the post last year” stated Head Coach Kevin Daugherty. Region III teams were able to capitalize on that and as a result we struggled, this year’s roster will include four players 6’5 or taller. The increased size and some experienced battle tested athletes has the Cougar coaching staff looking forward to this season.

            Two starters return to the backcourt, Justin Shuyler (Miami, FL) and DaJuan Williamson (Fort Lauderdale, FL). Justin is a tireless worker who has improved his game tremendously in the offseason. Williamson was the Cougars’ leading scorer with 15 points per game last season. 6’6 Matt Smiley (Brooklyn, NY) returns after starting every game in the 16-17 season. Matt led the cougars in scoring and was among the Region leaders in rebounding and blocked shots. Manny Overo (Far Rockaway, NY) was the 2nd leading scorer in the 16-17 season. Nate Peters (Brooklyn, NY) at 6’2 is a hard-working returning post player.

            New Faces to the program are 6’3 Rijkaard Jean-Baptiste (Brooklyn, NY) who has great potential. Prentice Miller (Brooklyn, NY), Baptiste’s high school teammate is a big presence inside at 6’5. Lucas Aube (Charlotte, VT) is an aggressive 6’5 post player. Local product Kyle Cahoon (Chazy, NY) is another aggressive 6’5 post player, Cahoon recently joined the team after finishing his season with the CCC Men’s Soccer team.

CCC also adds a pair of fresh faces to the backcourt. Tahshon Moore (Brooklyn, NY) is a smooth ball handling point guard and one of the team’s best shooters. Felo Niclas (Rosedale, NY) is a well-rounded guard.

The Cougars started the season with an impressive performance against the #4 team in the Nation. The Herkimer Generals defeated Clinton 76-54, but the Cougars showed a lot of promise. CCC is on the road this weekend against Finger Lakes Community College, and Corning Community College.