Summer shapes Anderson County basketball’s next chapter
The Anderson County Mavericks pause for a team photo during a summer basketball tournament in Nashville. The Mavericks wrapped up a busy summer schedule that included games against top competition from across the state as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. Coach Jordan Jeffers said the summer gave the team an opportunity to develop new players, define roles and build chemistry heading into the fall. (photo:Submitted )
Before the hiatus, however, the Mavericks wrapped up a busy summer schedule Friday that included a trip to Middle Tennessee, where they faced several strong opponents, including powerhouse Milan.
“We played some teams that we usually don’t get to see,” Anderson County Coach Jordan Jeffers said. “We played Milan, and they’re a good team from out west. They’re good in all of their sports.
“We saw some good teams, and we played Jellico. We didn’t really want to play each other because we play each other a lot, but we played anyway. We also played White County down there, and they’re always in the mix. We won more games than we lost, and that’s always good.”
Summer games and workouts are crucial for player development, and the Mavericks used the opportunity to evaluate a roster that will look different from last season.
“We use this time to figure out what kind of team we want to be,” Jeffers said earlier this month. “We’re going to be a different team than we were last year. Last year, we were a young team, and now we’re an old team.
“The kids are working hard, and they’re putting in the effort. I like this team. I really do.”
While winning, player development and teambuilding remain priorities, Jeffers said the trip provided something just as valuable: time together away from the court.
“The big thing for us was just being together and getting a chance to get away,” Jeffers said. “These kids really like each other, and that’s important.
“These kids won’t remember the wins and losses. The coaches will. But for the kids, it’s all about going out to eat, being in the pool and hanging out at the mall. That’s what they’ll always remember.”
