Escambia County High School’s basketball team had a strong finish last season and new head coach Earlando Courtney has the same high expectations this season.

“I always expect to win it all,” Courtney said. “My goal is to always get to Birmingham. Talent-wise, I have a realistic shot, but so many features come into play. At the end of the year, you’ve got to win seven games in a row.”

When asked who his top players are, Courtney mentions versatile senior Tyrell Ford, point guard Tony McAroy, power forward Desmond Williams and center Melik McMillan. However, he is also quick to point out that every player on his team is critical to the team’s success.

“There isn’t a guy on the team that I cannot put in,” Courtney said. “Each guy has something to contribute.”

The team already has one road victory under their belt, as they beat Vigor last week. Courtney said he hopes his team does not get overconfident because the Vigor squad was likely hurt by not having a few players from their football team.

For the complete preview of this year’s ECHS basketball team, see the Saturday, Nov. 17 edition of The Atmore Advance.