North Duplin’s Thomas Morrisey, left, looks for an open teammate after chasing a rebound down in the corner against Jones Senior on Nov. 22.|(Rudy Coggins/mountolivetribune.com)
CALYPSO — After a season-ending loss in the Carolina 1A tournament semifinals last February, Jeff Byrd couldn’t help but envision what his North Duplin boys’ basketball team would like this winter.
All five starters were underclassmen.
Byrd felt this group could end the program’s 15-year absence from the postseason. He’s not abandoned that thought, but has learned to expect the unexpected.
The Rebels’ top two scorers transferred in the offseason. Their departures depleted at least half of the team’s offense.
Back are seniors Eli Morrisey, Cole Beavers and Levi George, who helped guide the team to 10 victories and a .500 finish in conference play. George averaged 6.5 points an outing, while the streaky-shooting Beavers tallied 3.9 points.
Morrisey chipped in three points.
All three played significant minutes in North Duplin’s season-opening romp over Jones Senior last Tuesday. The trio combined for 28 points.
“I know we lost some people, but I think we [this group] played together and I think we’re coming around,” Byrd said. “If we play consistent defense like we did tonight, I think that’s going to give us a chance to win some games.
“That’s the best we’ve played in a long time.”
All 13 players listed in the scorebook saw playing time against Jones Senior. Freshman Trashawn Ruffin and senior transfer Richard Noble each scratched for six points.
North Duplin dictated the tempo with its normal defensive pressure, particularly when it converted field goals and free throws.
Byrd liked the team’s unselfishness, communication and its ability to limit turnovers.
“I just want us to just compete each game, give ourselves an opportunity [to win],” Byrd said. “I don’t want to look up and if somebody is beating us, see we’re down and pouting about it.
“They just need to have a short memory.”
The Rebels (1-0 overall) entertain Lejeune today and visit Carolina 1A member Union for a non-conference game on Dec. 2. Also on the schedule are matchups with Spring Creek, Bear Grass Charter, county rival James Kenan and Eastern Wayne.
Conference play tips off Jan. 10, 2023.
