Head coach Joe Martino knows that patience is the key to success for Hammonton’s 2016-17 boys varsity basketball team. He also knows that being aware of strengths and weaknesses can help guide the team to success.

“We have some experience at each position and players who can score from different spots on the floor. We have some size which should allow us to score inside,” he said.

This translates to new strategies on the court. Instead of relying on shooting from the back, players will use their size to drive to the basket. Last year, many plays relied on the 3 point shooting skills of Class of 2016 graduate Peyton Mortellite, who averaged 17.2 points per game.

The versatility of some of the players on the floor allows the basketball team to try out different things on the floor, and can help make up for some of the players that graduated last year.

Even though the team lost some players, other players will be stepping up to play more varsity minutes. Patrick Costa, the junior starting point guard, will be playing a lot more than last year. He knows that the main focuses for the team this year are determination, and commitment.

“Unlike last year, we will be much more focused, and showing more energy,” he said.

He is also aware of the new talent that is going to be stepping up.

“We have kids stepping up like Noel Moya, and the sophomore sensation Devin Piro.”

The team lost to Glassboro at the season opener but beat Jackson Liberty on 12/18. Over break, the team will be at the Shore Basketball Tournament at Southern Regional High School on December 28.