Media Day: Western Heights Jets

The Jets are turning things around, starting in the classroom and moving to the hardwood.

Thursday, July 28th 2011, 5:56 pm

By: News On 6

Originally Published: Nov 18, 2010 1:56 PM CDT

Stephany Speck
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- For head coach Tyrone Nash, success is not only found in stats.

“We always talk about success in not wins and losses,” Nash said. “Success is accomplished with small things.”

His team focuses their efforts on their studies, being good role models for their peers, showing good sportsmanship, then, they can focus on their game. The fifth-year head coach’s strategy must be working. He’s seemly turned the program and the community around. He helped start a children’s league basketball program in southwest corner of the metro. He recently had one of the league’s players come up to him at a Jets scrimmage, asking him when the next open gym would be.

“I’m liking the fact that kids are hungry to be successful,” Nash said.

He’s making the investments in the program’s future, while molding the young men on his team now. The team has reacted too, bouncing back from a six-win record two seasons ago, to a 21-6 record last year. Their quarterfinal run gave the roster the necessary confidence.

“For me, it was very life changing,” Nash said. “In my opinion, I still have yet to see the full potential, but I have seen a turnaround.”

This season, only two starters return, but the cast looks just as quick. Led by senior Alton Whittaker (13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds), the Jets will definitely look at making another run for the Gold Ball.

“We’ve got a lot to prove,” one of the Jets players said. “I think we can overcome it if we work hard and stay on track.”

The team won’t be sneaking up on anyone this year, as most realize they’re threat with which to be reckoned. With a bulls’ eye on their backs, they’ll have to focus on perfected their skill, perfecting those details that win games.

“I try not to worry about if we’re the underdog or the target,” Nash said. “I continue to focus on detail.”