You would think that a program that has put together winning season after winning season would continue to be a story each year. Yes, they do grab the attention of many but as far as the state of North Carolina, New Hanover has earned and deserves more.
Looking at their past records on MaxPreps, which goes back to 2005-2006, New Hanover has had a winning season every year and has gone 337-87 over that time. They also won titles in 2007 and 2012, so this program has been performing at a high level for quite some time.
And guess what, the Wildcats are doing it once again this season as they are off to a 6-0 start this season. So, let’s dive into what this year’s team has been able to do so far.
New Hanover has been able to win in many ways this season already, whether it is with their defense, in blowout fashion, or in a nail-bitter. The Wildcats have been able to be strong on the defensive end, limiting three of their opponents to under 40 points and with no opponent scoring more than 54 points in a game.
Offensively, they bring a balanced attack that can provide multiple bodies on the floor, with 10 players receiving minutes in every game so far this year (can go 12 deep). James Jones Jr. has been leading the charge scoring-wise, averaging 13 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while senior Quintell Waddell isn’t far behind at 12 points and junior Lenier Pocknett is averaging 10.8 points per game. This is a team that battles on the boards as a team as well, with nine players averaging two or more boards per game.
The Wildcats just understand one thing… winning. And head coach Kirk Angel and his staff continue to produce at a high level in North Carolina despite having new names come in each year. Even in a shortened season, New Hanover continues to rise up the rankings and has a chance to make school history, as they look to secure yet another state title.
Be on the lookout for the Wildcats this year once again!