BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — The school year may have ended, but some sports are already gearing up for a new season. Martin County High School boys basketball team began summer play this last week. The Cardinals participated in some round-robin games in Hazard and went for a promising 6-3.

Coach Jason “JJ” James says his team had only practiced a couple of days before heading to Perry County.

“I thought we played pretty good,” James said. “I split my varsity into two teams to get some younger guys some experience.”

The Cards played games against Hazard, Perry Central, Buckhorn and the AAU team Griffin Elite.

James’ team has some big shoes to fill in losing Morehead State commit Brady Dingess.

James believes sharpshooter Luke Hale will provide a leadership role for the Cardinals.

Matthew Linville will also be suiting up for his senior campaign after hitting 20 shots from behind the arc last year.

Martin County is coming off a spectacular 24-8 season and is the defending 57th District champion.