Building back the Broncos was never going to be easy. Losing an icon from the program put Boyd basketball back to basics this season, but coach Chris Perry is starting to see some improvements as his young group grows together.

The Broncos are still looking for their first win after falling 71-46 at home to Franklin Christian Academy Tuesday, but things could be looking up soon. The Broncos are starting to flash their potential, albeit in short doses as the majority of its rotation finds its footing while playing varsity basketball.

“The biggest challenge for these young men has been adjusting to the speed and force of boys high school basketball. The ball pressure and the athleticism are more than most of these guys have seen, but I’ve been impressed with their attitudes and willingness to learn,” said Perry. “They want to be coached hard, and for the most part they try to do what we ask them to do. They have grown in their understanding of help-side defense, pace and floor spacing.”

With Christian Rogers – one of the school’s most prolific scorers ever after piling up over 2,000 points the last three years – no longer around to anchor the program, Boyd has been in search of a new offensive hub. It’s been a trial-and-error process, with youngsters starting to flash and Jordan Perry and Connor Andrews – the team’s lone returning players with varsity experience – growing quick.

“Watching Connor grow in offensive confidence, watching Jordan Perry develop into an athletic leader and seeing our young guys continue to grow - these things have been rewarding to me this year,” said coach Perry.

The animated coach showed his excitement during a second-half stretch where the Broncos pushed the pace and got the long ball to fall. Jack Rhoton, Andrews and Perry all hit triples late in the third, each greeted with an excited cheer from their coach on the sidelines. 

He knows that every shot swishing through will build his young group’s resolve as they try to find their way.

“Moving forward, I hope we can grow in confidence more than anything else. The goal is not necessarily to make no mistakes, but to make mistakes at full speed with confidence and aggressiveness.  Slowly, they are becoming less timid and more confident,” said Perry.

Tuesday’s effort showed some of the team’s promise. Perry finished with one of his better nights this season, scoring 14 points while grabbing eight boards and snatching five steals. Rhoton added 10 points, including knocking down two triples, and Andrews scored nine Thursday on three 3-pointers.

Big man Dylan Vandeever was saddled with foul trouble, but still managed to score seven points, pull down eight boards and swipe three steals.

Boyd was back in action Thursday at home against Franklin Road Christian, but the scores were unavailable at press time. The Broncos get back on the court next Monday, Jan. 16 at St. Andrews Sewanee. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.