The RM boys basketball season for 2023-24 will be challenging to replicate. Achieving a regional championship and a spot in the state semifinals marked significant milestones for the program. However, despite losing all but one starter from the previous season, there are still high expectations for this squad. Here are five important insights following the […]
The RM boys basketball season for 2023-24 will be challenging to replicate. Achieving a regional championship and a spot in the state semifinals marked significant milestones for the program. However, despite losing all but one starter from the previous season, there are still high expectations for this squad. Here are five important insights following the Rockets’ 65-62 victory over Walter Johnson on Friday night, which maintained their 15-year winning streak against the Wildcats during the regular season,
1. Is RM becoming a renowned guard factory?
In recent years, the guard performance for the Rockets has been central to their offensive strategy. With junior Boogie Vaughan-Cooper, sophomore Joseph “JJ” Davis Jr., and senior Gedeon Mukuna, RM boasts another strong lineup of guards who can effectively stretch the court. Against WJ, Head Coach David Breslaw leveraged this strength to create mismatches on the outside, allowing his speedy guards to drive towards the hoop. The Rockets were also able to advance the ball in transition, and with a bench ten players deep, they could substitute fresh legs to uphold their tempo. The duration of RM’s season will depend on their guard contributions on both ends of the court.
2. The outcome of the season hinges on defense and free throws
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Given their smaller lineup, RM’s perimeter defense will be crucial this season. Nonetheless, the quick reflexes and dominant ball pressure displayed by the Rockets against the Wildcats were impressive. Their trademark full-court press was particularly effective on Friday, contributing to the Rockets’ separation in the second half. Mukuna logged several steals in the fourth quarter that were instrumental in securing the win for RM. Beyond generating turnovers defensively, RM must also be assertive and dedicated on the boards. They showed moderate effectiveness in this area last night, but against larger opponents, a stronger focus will be needed to avert second-chance opportunities.
On offense, free-throw shooting presented some challenges for the Rockets against WJ. With an emphasis on driving and attacking the rim, free throws will be a critical element of RM’s scoring strategy. In tighter contests later in the season, the Rockets won’t want to look back regretting missed opportunities from the free-throw line.
3. Boogie Vaughan-Cooper will need to adapt his role this year
Last season, ’24 graduate Dante Mayo drew the most attention from opposing defenses, granting Vaughan-Cooper more freedom beyond the arc. This year, Vaughan-Cooper will be the primary focus for teams like Churchill and Whitman attempting to limit his impact. Likely facing increased double teams and pressure, Vaughan-Cooper should aim to assume a more playmaking role this season, compelling defenses to collapse upon him and passing the ball out to teammates waiting at the three-point line. There were glimpses of this approach from Vaughan-Cooper against the Wildcats. However, when his shots don’t land, as seen in certain moments on Friday, his passing ability can keep the defense guessing.
4. The number three jersey may have unique significance
It remains unconfirmed whether Mayo’s choice of the number three was linked to his effectiveness from long range, but for Joseph Davis Jr., it seems applicable. Mayo was the leading three-point shooter for the Rockets last season, and in just one game thus far, Davis Jr. demonstrated his potential as a sharpshooter for RM this year. He executed a four-point play in the second half that widened the Rockets’ lead and added three successful shots throughout the game, proving to be a standout against the Wildcats. His capability and confidence in sinking shots will be vital for the RM offense, particularly in creating spacing for Vaughan-Cooper.
5. Rocket Nation has returned and is stronger than ever
After an unforgettable and historic season for the boys last year, Rocket Nation showed up at WJ bursting with enthusiasm for the first game of the 2024-25 season. Throughout the match, Rocket supporters regularly rallied behind their team while also exchanging words with the Wildcats. The backing from students and staff could serve as a significant advantage for the team, especially considering the capacity of RM’s gym. Could we witness a Sixth-Man-like influence for the Rockets? Only time will reveal the answer.
