Team Spotlight-Timberline High Schol (Lacey, WA)

Going into his 7th season, Coach Allen Thomas has turned Timberline into a South Sound powerhouse that has went to state the last 6 seasons straight with the last two ending in 7th and 4th place trophies, respectively, at the Tacoma Dome. Coach Thomas has been a part of the Timberline boys basketball program in one capacity or another for a total of fifteen years. Add to that his time as an assistant coach at The Evergreen State College (with a trip to the NAIA nationals while at Evergreen State) and what you have is an experienced, high-level coach willing to share his knowledge with anyone who's willing to learn. Being a home-grown coach means a lot to the community and you see that pride in the program whenever Timberline takes the court. Expectations are a by product of any winning program and Coach Thomas will be the first one to tell you he welcomes those expectations. "I enjoy when alumni makes it a point to come to me in public and talk about Timberline because it always hasn't been that way. To see past players with their families showing up to support the current team is what any coach hopes happens at the school they're coaching at, the past supporting the present." In order for Timberline to continue their success, it's going to depend on how soon things come together for this team, which is senior heavy. "I do believe in order for us to be successful, it's going to have to start with our attitude on defense and developing that team chemistry" says Coach Thomas. "We can't control the referees or some of the different things that happens during the game but we can control our attitudes and our effort, particularly on defense. As long as we always come with proper effort and put our team first, we will have another successful year in my eyes." With the addition of Varsity Head Assistant Coach Jawanne Brown, a former assistant coach with Lincoln High School (Tacoma, WA) who's experienced numerous state tournament runs in his own right, this team has what it takes to have a good season. They will look to multiple players to step into different scoring roles after the graduation of Erik Stevenson (current Wichita State freshmen), last years leading scorer for Timberline who broke multiple tournament records . Instead of looking for just one or two players to step up, he will look to almost everyone to contribute on both ends of the court. Timberline currently sits at 6-2 overall, 3-0 in the South Sound Conference with a big away game tonight against Shelton High School, who currently sits at 5-0 overall, 3-0 in conference play. Let'smeet the players who will be taking on the task of making another deep state tournament run and keeping the tradition going. Starters: Hunter Campau-(6'1, Sr. Point Guard)-Hunter is a two-sport athlete who is coming of an incredible football season where he led Timberline to the 3A State Quarterfinals while also being named The Olympian All-Area player of the year as well as the South Sound Conference MVP. The attributes that made him a standout on the football field have been on display early in the basketball season.Coach Thomas describes Hunter as "a floor general and natural leader" who seems to make everyone around him better,especially in big games. He put his leadership and play making ability on display against Capital High School in an conference game on 12/7, making an acrobatic, euro-layup with 1.8 seconds left to give Timberline the victory. He's currently leading the team in scoring and is the coach on the court. He's also trying to become only the fourth basketball player in Timberline history to make it to state all four years of high school, cementing his legacy as an all-time Timberline great.     Kayden Lacy-(6'2, Sr. Wing)-Described by Coach Thomas as the best defensive player on the team, he uses his long, lean body to get into passing lanes defensively as well as finish at the rim with athleticism. He's worked hard on improving his shooting and is a constant hard worker.       Ross Jones-(6'4, Sr. Wing)-A lock down defender who brings some athleticism to the table. He's a versatile wing who can defend almost any position on the court as needed. Gets up and down the court well in transition and will finish above the rim when given the opportunity.       Alex Wright-(6'4, Jr. Post)- Alex is a hard working player who's willing to do the little things such as rebound in traffic and alter/block shots. He runs the floor very well and uses his athleticism to cause problems offensively, especially in transition.       Trevor Joubert-(6'5, Sr. Post)-Big man holds down the middle but has a very underrated game. He's capable of going inside and out offensively while still defending at a high level. He makes smart decision with the basketball and is willing to get his hand dirty with the little things such as rebounding, screening, etc.     Bench: Cole Hicks-(6'1, Sr. Guard)-Scoring guard who comes into the game putting pressure on the opponents immediately. Coach Thomas was happy with the amount of work he put in during the off-season and it has showed on the court with improved speed, agility, and lateral quickness. A dangerous scorer at all times who seems to excel in transition....could be a very good all-around player once he decides to. Will be a part-time starter as well. Izaiah Jerenz-(6'2, Sr. Guard)-Lock down defender who brings good leadership and energy of the bench. Combined with his athleticism, he effects the game without having the ball in his hands. Coach Thomas gives a defensive award after every game and he's received it the most so far this season. He is their stopper....... Nic Ledoux-(6', Sr. Guard)-High energy and effort player. Capable shooter but his calling card is hustle, hustle, hustle...... Payton Wood-(6'5, Sr. Post)-Solid player who can do different things on the court when called upon Logan Campau-(6'3, Jr. Guard)-Provides shooting and hustle off the bench Jeshua Hardie-(6'1, Fr. Guard)-Tough, lock down defender with a good shooting touch out to the 3-point line and beyond. The only freshman on Varsity.....coaching staff is very excited for his future.