Team United is a program with a strong history of success in the North Carolina region where the team is well known. Their EYBL team consistently dresses a number of players who will go on to play varying levels of college basketball. Much of that success has been built by creating a grassroots program that develops players at a young age with their winning system. Team United's 2021 team is a part of that system. We were able to catch up with Coach Canty and Coach Gray and ask about their upcoming season and their prospects of winning a IndiHoops World Title.
HWI: What separates the Team United organization from the myriad of other AAU programs across the country?
Coach Canty: Our Mission at Team United is to promote a competitive basketball program, with the objective to teach life skills to youth interested in pursuing basketball as a means of getting a free education.
HWI: What is the back story on how the Team United Organization was created?
Coach Canty: Team United was formed in 2005 by combining two former Charlotte AAU programs that had the same focus in mind by helping the youth of the Charlotte basketball community.
HWI: Who are some notable players who have worn the Team United uniform?
Coach Canty:
HWI: For your 2021 team, do you expect to have much of your roster in tact from last year, what if any gaps are you looking to fill before next summer?
Coach Obe: The 2021 team has 7 players returning from last year's roster. We needed to add more size and skill in the interior and we managed to get that done this fall.
HWI: Describe the team's 2016 summer season and point out any significant tournament victories or games that stand out in your mind.
Coach Obe: The team made great progress month over month last year and the crescendo was winning the USBA National Championship.
HWI: What is your team's philosophy on offense and defense?
Coach Obe: Our philosophy on both ends [of the court] is that all 5 players on the court have trust and maintain a high level of engagement [while playing].
HWI: Who are some players to watch from your team next season?
Coach Obe: The team has several players with great upside. However, at this moment a couple of players to watch are 6'8 John Butler and 6'6 Josiah Dowd. Both players have high major size with great athleticism.
HWI: How many opportunities has your squad had to play west coast teams? How did you fair against those teams?
Coach Obe: We haven't played any west coast teams.
HWI: What was your record last year?
Coach Obe: We did not keep count.
HWI: What style of play is Team United Known for?
Coach Obe: We play High IQ basketball. We will trust each other defensively We will execute at a high level offensively.
HWI: What would it mean for your team to compete for a national championship next summer?
Coach Obe: Our goals is to improve month over month as a group and individually. If that nets us a championship game this summer, we'll be ready.
