Local talent is generally the preferred way for coaches to accumulate players for their given rosters.
Less travel time and state funding are solid reasons for this dynamic as well.
Oh and least we forget the kids got to be able to play.............
No problem here for Coach Don Rekoske and the Lions from Bryan College as they simply raided the East Tennessee landscape signing four player for next fall.
Tyler Yoder (Stone Memorial), Brice Cusick (Jefferson County), Luke Matthews (Stone Memorial) and Isaiah Campbell (Bearden) will all play their college hoops for the Dayton, Tennessee school.
Yoder, who played this summer with the Tennessee Chosen Few, is a 6'4 shooting wing with major upside. The Lions have welcomed several players from the Stone Memorial program into the fold including current player of the year candidate Brandon Cole and instant offense Robert Troino.
Yoder and Matthews can now concentrate on helping the Panthers advance back to the state tournament this season. Stone moved up to Class AAA this season.
Matthews, who also played with the Tennessee Chosen Few, is a hard nosed lead guard who will find playing time with his effort and determination.
Cusick is an improving post player who is adept at scoring on the baseline and is improving his body and skill level with a projected major senior season. He is the leader for an emerging Patriots squad that looks to bring JeffersonCounty back on the basketball map this season.
Campbell, who played with the Tennessee Velocity, is another lead guard who will provide depth and defense for the Lions.
