Before I get into talking about the Cats, I would like to thank the Martin County Hall of Fame for their hard work and dedication. They have put together something truly special that will be around forever.

These athletes have been honored in a way that is touching for themselves and their families.

To see loved ones accepting the award on behalf of athletes who aren’t with us anymore is a humbling experience.

Another point of emphasis is to congratulate the Martin County High School football team on an outstanding season.

This team battled back in games that weren’t looking great for them in the first half. They dug deep and found the will to win.

This was a great group to cover this year, especially the seniors. This group of young men have bright futures ahead of them and are sure to make Martin County proud.

Speaking of being proud, doesn’t it feel satisfying to be a Cats fan? Basketball, that is.

Football is on the struggle bus, but we’ll support our boys through thick and thin.

Kentucky handily defeated Jackson State 108-59.

There weren’t freshmen mistakes to work through, getting a lead and taking our foot off the gas, or postgame remarks about how we’re just young and built for March.

It was just fun basketball and lots of made threes.

Koby Brea is shooting over 70% from behind the arc. If he can keep that up, we’re looking at a lot of games in the win column this year.

Even Almonor at the power forward position is knocking down long shots for us. Garrison finally got his timing down and blocked shots.

One thing is for certain: Mark Pope is a coach.

He studies the game. He’s watching tape. He can make adjustments.

We’re going to lose a few games. Live by the 3, die by the 3.

A team will catch us on a cold shooting night.

But if we can learn to adapt when we aren’t hitting the long ball, that’s when we will be truly dangerous.

This is building up to be a special season.

Let’s just stay along for the ride and enjoy this team through the ups and downs.

As always, go Cats.

Brittni McCoy is the Mountain Citizen sports editor.