Anthony White goes up for two in Lee’s win over Woodlawn on Monday. (Staff Photo)

Staff Report
(Dec. 29, 2009)

This time one year ago, the Robert E. Lee Generals were entering January with the ideas of making a run to Birmingham and the Final 48.

The senior-laden Generals came up one game short, losing to Sidney Lanier in the Class 6A Central Regional finals at the Alabama State Acadome. There were many reasons, some which coach Bryant Johnson did not shy away from pointing to when asked to compare this year’s version to last.

“We have athletes who can run,” he said. “We have real good chemistry. We have struggles at times but people are playing more zone against us because we are able to drive inside.”

On Monday, the Generals opened the Dwight Madison Roundball Classic with an impressive 66-47 win over Woodlawn at Faulkner University’s Tine Davis Gym. After a slow start, the Generals outscored the Colonels 24-6 in the final quarter to pull away for their eighth win of the season (8-2).

“We are playing the type of basketball that I like,” Johnson said. “Starting 8-2 is good for this team. We are young. We aren’t as big but we have good guard play. They can pass and drive to the basket. That’s what I like.”

The Generals are young and boast a first in school history – a freshman on the varsity roster in Torlof Thomas.

“He has been starting but he will be a big part of this program for years to come,” Johnson said. “He loves playing the game who just turned 15 right before Christmas. But this team gets along so well.”

Camaraderie may be the biggest plus factor heading into the meat of the regular-season schedule. While Lee had several top performers last year, this year’s group is more about team than individual performances.

“Last year, there was a lot more individualism,” said junior Brandon Witcher. “This year, we share the ball more. We come down court, pass it more instead of somebody just shooting the ball. Everybody wanted to talk about how many points they scored. This group plays together better.”

Johnson conceded that he allowed that attitude to blossom last year.

“When you are winning, it’s hard to take it out,” he said. “I knew it would eventually lead to our downfall. I admit there was a lot of finger pointing last year.  But it’s hard to tell them.”

Two guards led Lee in scoring on Monday with Shermaine Washington scoring 17 points and Caleb Hayes adding 10. Witcher had 13.

Witcher said it was a loss to Woodlawn during the summer that helped the team recognize the need to work together.

“We felt like we had to step up more,” he said. “I felt like we had to work more.

“We can win the state. We have the talent to go all the way.”

Johnson isn’t ready to talk state championships just yet. But he does believe his team can continue to improve – if they stay on the same page.

“I am enjoying this team,” he said. “They have potential. We are still waiting to see what they can do.”