Coach: Sam Stephens
2021-22 Record: 11-15
Fourth year head coach for the Elk City Elks’ Sam Stephens is ready for the ‘22-23 season to get underway. “We have several key players returning and are hoping to have a successful season with a deep playoff run,” Stephens said. Kye Keyes (6-3) is a VYPE Top 100 nominee and is an excellent two-way player. Keyes is a versatile playmaker and perfectly fits into the new era of positionless basketball. He can lock down the frontcourt and backcourt with his speed and athleticism and has the explosiveness to drive into the lane and has a soft shooting touch from the outside.
Cooper Church (Sr.) impressed coaches last season and made a big leap from the previous year and took upon a leadership role within the team. “Cooper does so many positive things for our team,” Stephens said. “Be it constantly communicating, doing things right, and always competing at a high level.” The Elks will look for him to do the same again in his final year with Elk City and set the tone as a positive motivator who brings lots of energy.
Caden Dunlap (Jr.) can flat out score. Dunlap is versatile on the offensive end and can shoot the ball off the dribble, finish around the rim, and is accurate from behind the three point line. Cole Buie (So.) had an impressive freshman season controlling the offense from the point guard position and looks to do the same again this year, now a year older, and more experienced. After a summer of workouts coaches are expecting a breakout year from him.
Cooper Patton (Sr.) is a player every coach wants on their team. He picks up schemes and adapts without hesitation and has great instincts on the floor. Alex Cupp (Jr.) made contributions last year as an underclassman and worked hard to get time on the varsity squad. He has earned the respect of his coaches and teammates and is looking to play an even bigger role this year.
