Noble Classic Team Preview - Allen

The Allen Eagles are poised for a strong 2024-25 campaign as they continue to establish themselves as a competitive force in Texas 6A basketball. With a combination of upperclassmen leadership and emerging young talent, Allen enters the season with high expectations. Under head coach Clark Cipoletta, the Eagles are known for their disciplined style of play, defensive toughness, and ability to compete with any team in the state. This year's roster features a balanced mix of size, athleticism, and skill, setting the stage for a promising season.    [player_tooltip player_id='2273241' first='Deandre' last='Thomas'] is a versatile forward who will be a key presence in Allen's frontcourt. Standing at 6'7", Thomas is a strong rebounder and interior defender, using his size and athleticism to control the paint. Offensively, he is developing into a reliable post scorer while also working on his mid-range game. He has solid perimeter shooting skills and is capable of putting the ball on the floor when needed. Thomas' ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor will be crucial for Allen as they look to challenge some of the top teams in the state. His leadership and consistency will be essential in driving the Eagles' success this season.     [player_tooltip player_id='2355319' first='Antoine' last='Shannon'] is another versatile player for the Eagles, capable of playing multiple positions. At 6'4", Shannon combines size and athleticism with a high basketball IQ. He's effective in transition and can score at all three levels—finishing at the rim, hitting mid-range shots, and knocking down perimeter jumpers. On defense, Shannon's length allows him to guard both guards and forwards, making him a valuable asset in Allen's defensive schemes. Expect Shannon to be a major contributor on both ends of the floor this season.     [player_tooltip player_id='2355321' first='Antonio' last='Shannon'], the twin brother of Antoine, brings a similar skill set to the team. He's a strong, athletic guard/forward who excels in driving to the basket and finishing through contact. Antonio's defensive ability is also a standout, as he's able to guard multiple positions and provide pressure on the perimeter. With the Shannon brothers providing a dynamic duo on the wings, Allen will have the flexibility to adjust their lineups based on matchups, creating mismatches for opponents.     [player_tooltip player_id='1358646' first='Trenton' last='Pane'] will play a key role in Allen's backcourt this season. As a [player_tooltip player_id='2557630' first='6'0' last='']" guard, Pane is quick, smart, and excels in orchestrating the offense. His ability to handle the ball and make good decisions under pressure makes him a reliable floor general for the Eagles. Pane is also a strong perimeter shooter, which adds an additional layer to Allen's offensive attack. Defensively, he's capable of applying pressure on opposing guards, making him a valuable two-way player.     Though small in stature, [player_tooltip player_id='2610459' first='Nehemiah' last='Lawrence'] is a lightning-quick guard who plays with heart and hustle. At 5'6", Lawrence uses his speed and agility to get past defenders and create opportunities for his teammates. His court vision and ability to facilitate offense are impressive, and he's also a capable shooter from beyond the arc. Defensively, Lawrence's quickness allows him to disrupt opposing guards and force turnovers. As one of the younger players on the team, Lawrence has developed into a key playmaker for Allen.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Season Outlook:</h2>   Allen High School enters the 2024-25 season with high expectations and a roster full of talent that can compete at a high level in the 6A division. With the leadership of players like [player_tooltip player_id='2273241' first='Deandre' last='Thomas'] and the Shannon brothers, the Eagles have the size and athleticism to contend with some of the top teams in Texas. The development of younger players like [player_tooltip player_id='2610459' first='Nehemiah' last='Lawrence'] will also be crucial as the season progresses.   The Eagles are known for their defensive intensity, and this year's team will continue that tradition with athletic, versatile players capable of guarding multiple positions. Offensively, Allen has a balanced attack that can score in transition, work through the post, and hit shots from the perimeter.   Expect Allen to be a contender in district play and potentially make a deep run in the playoffs. The combination of experienced upperclassmen and promising underclassmen gives the Eagles the depth and versatility needed to compete at the highest level. If this team can continue to build chemistry and stay healthy, they have the potential to surprise many and make noise across the state. Allen will face Dynamic Prep and St. Francis at the Noble Classic on November 15th & 16th.

The Allen Eagles are poised for a strong 2024-25 campaign as they continue to establish themselves as a competitive force in Texas 6A basketball. With a combination of upperclassmen leadership and emerging young talent, Allen enters the season with high expectations. Under head coach Clark Cipoletta, the Eagles are known for their disciplined style of play, defensive toughness, and ability to compete with any team in the state. This year's roster features a balanced mix of size, athleticism, and skill, setting the stage for a promising season.