NEW MARKET — Southmont boys basketball will be under the leadership of Michael Byrum this season as he takes over for Jake Turner. Byrum spent the six seasons at Northview where from 2020-2022 he guided the Knights to a 50-28 record and a sectional title. Southmont a year ago had a winning record for the third straight season with a mark of 15-8 which included a Sugar Creek Classic title.
This season South will look to replace their top three scorers in seniors Carson Chadd (11.5 ppg, 8.6 rebs, 2.9 asts), EJ Brewer (10.1 ppg, 4.8 rpg) and sharpshooting junior Trip Ward (9.8 ppg, 4.0 rpg).
The Mounties will feature senior big man Carter Hubble (7.5 ppg, 4.4 rpg), senior point guard Hayden Hess (4.1 ppg, 2.8 asts), sharpshooting junior Vince Reimondo (6.4 ppg), along with seniors Kyler McCandless and Aaron McMasters, and junior Lucas Oppy.
Byrum noted how it’s an exciting time for his team as practices have officially begun and a new season is officially here.
“It’s a great time of the year to be back in the gym,” he said. “It’s getting colder outside which means more people will be filling this gym up here very soon. I’m excited to see what we can make happen this season. We’ve had a really good offseason and this team is going to be very athletic, be tough minded and are just a group of big strong physical kids.”
The last two seasons Southmont has prided themselves on the defensive side of the ball allowing just 43 ppg in 21-22 and 45.5 last season. For Byrum he’s noticed the dedication of his players from the get go and with the tradition that the Mounties have of producing overall great athletes, that’s something that’s stuck out in during the off-season and in practice.
“When I was doing all of my research I found out that South is known for having great athletic programs and that’s something I wanted to be a part of,” Byrum said. “These guys have spent a lot of time in the weight room and then honing in their skills on the court. Their work ethic and will to get better is another thing that’s stood out for me so far. When I’ve been around great teams, that’s a quality that they’ve all had. Everyone of these guys has had a willingness to be bought in to what we’re trying to do. We’re wanting to do things a little different than what they’re used to, but they all have been accepting of that change and I’m anxious to see how we respond as we go through the long season.”
Due to Southmont football playing in the semi-state, that has forced the Mounties to be a little shorthanded early on in practice.
Their scheduled season opener vs North Putnam has been moved to a later date. Their second game of the season at Sheridan has also been canceled. As it stands right now the Mounties will open up their season on Dec. 1 when they travel to take on county rival North Montgomery.
