4 Questions With Dr. Phillips Boys Basketball Coach Ben Witherspoon
We spoke to Dr. Phillips head boys basketball coach Ben Witherspoon about adjusting from playing to coaching, the Panthers star trio, and what it takes to go back-to-back in 2021-22 as 7A state champions.
Q: What have been the biggest adjustments for you transitioning from playing to coaching the high school game?
A: I played so long ago that the adjustment hasn’t been tough. But just learning that players all have different starting points and to meet them where they are.
Q: Your team returns a few notable players from last season’s 7A state championship winning team that include center Ernest Udeh Jr., as well as guards Riley Kugel and Denzel Aberdeen, each of whom are some of the top overall players in the state. What makes each of those three so impactful on the court?
A: 6’5 combo guard Riley Kugel is a special talent. He has great size and athleticism and is an elite playmaker because he sees things before they happen. Denzel Aberdeen is the best point guard in Florida because of his scoring and leadership abilities at 6’4. He has improved a lot as an athlete and passer since last year. Ernest Udeh Jr. is a physical specimen at 6’10 and moves like a high level wing. He is a dominant shot blocker and rebounder and a much improved offensive player.
Q: Who are some players that may-play a bigger role this season compared to a year ago?
A: 6’5 2024 wing Jordan Tillery has really grown since last year. He plays extremely hard, is a great finisher, impactful defender, and is knocking down open 3’s. We are also expecting our 2 returning senior guards, Jackson Slater and Mason Sheffield to step up into more minutes and production. Our 2 transfers, 2023 6’6 forward Jonathan Caicedo and 2024 6’6 forward Carter McDole will bring depth and versatility to the front court as both guys can play inside or out.
Q: What is the biggest key for this Panthers team to repeat as state champions in 2021-22?
A: The most important key for us is to stay in the moment and care about winning every day more than everything else. It’s not easy staying motivated for practice when you’re so far from the finish line but we can’t forget all of the preparation that made us champions a year ago. It’s a completely new year and you don’t get anything based on last year. Our seniors are going to have to step up and make sure we’re a player-led team.
Written by: Matt Melton
