Goldsboro's backcourt showing maturity

By Andrew Stevens
Published in Sports on December 26, 2013 1:47 PM

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astevens@newsargus.com

Russell Stephens' emotions have changed toward his backcourt tandem of Myron Carmon and Rasheen Artis during the past 12 months.

The second-year Goldsboro High head coach stressed the duo needed to grow up against pressure-oriented teams, and learn how to play in a halfcourt offense. Now, he sings the praises of the duo, which has gained experienced and helped guide the Cougars to a 6-3 record this season.

A sophomore point guard, Carmon has demonstrated the ability to beat defenders off the dribble and shoot consistently from the perimeter. He understands the importance of spacing and getting his teammates to the right spot on the floor.

Carmon averages 14 points and three assists per game, and has scored in double digits during eight contests.

"Myron does a good job of getting into space," Stephens said. "Being a sophomore, he's very skilled and he's also very knowledgeable of the game. He's a very good shooter, but he also penetrates and he can find an open man."

Artis' scoring output has more than doubled from last season. The junior guard leads the Cougars with 17 points a game and shoots an efficient 68 percent from the floor.

"They have advanced," Stephens said. "You take Myron Carmon and also Rasheen Artis who were on the varsity team last year. This year they've picked up that role in the back court. They're taking it to people and they want to let people know they're the best back court around.

"They're playing right that right now."

Goldsboro lacks a "go-to" player on its roster, but its greatest strength is its ability to score by committee. Four players average seven or more points and the Cougars have converted nearly 40 percent of their shots behind the 3-point line.

Stephens likes to play an up-tempo pace which leads to transition baskets and wears down an opponent over the course of four quarters.

"That's the way we have to play and that's just a good testament to the guys sharing the basketball," Stephens said. "Our back court is going to score points, we rely on them. But, our front court as well, they can finish at the basket or step out and hit 3's.

"We're doing a very good job right now of playing unselfish basketball."