Panthers shooting for a win this season

By Courtney Warren
With a new JV basketball coach this year, the Canton Academy (CA) Panthers are taking to the court with technique and excitement. 
During the pre-season, the team has had success against teams such as Central Holmes, Sylva Bay, and Victors. 
JD Kelly, eighth-grade post, said, “Coach Nash works us hard and really cares about the team. We’ve learned a lot of new plays since practice has begun, and I’m looking forward to playing towards that number one spot.”
Kelly, who also plays football and went all the way to the state championship with the Panthers, said he’s excited for a change of pace. 
“Basketball is so fast-paced. I’m excited to be back on the court. The proximity of the players to the fans makes everything more intense and exciting,” he said.
Coach Scott Nash previously coached at Raleigh High School in Smith County and has been coaching since 2005. 
He said he’s excited about his new team because “the number of athletic ninth graders we have is an advantage. I feel like they can lead us to some good victories.”
In reference to Kelly, Nash said, “Mr. Kelly has been pretty good so far as far as work ethic and trying to learn what we’re doing. If he continues to work hard and be a good teammate, I think his basketball floor is without a ceiling.”
Nash has enjoyed being a Panther this season and said, “So far, I’m loving being a Panther. I’ve known CA from being in the private school sector. Being here is different. Students, faculty and staff have been great. I’m really enjoying it.”
With the idea that attitude determines altitude, Panthers will continue to work hard on and off the court.