As we continue our search for next year’s IndiHoops World Champion, we had the opportunity to chat with Coach Cary Herer about his 2021 Boston Bobcats team’s expectations for next year. The Bobcats will return a core group and will add some pieces to an already loaded squad making them a contender for next year’s World Championship.
1. What separates the Bobcats organization from the myriad of other AAU programs across the country? Our formula is very simple we get in the gym and work on skills everyday from a very young age.
Coach Herer: Our core kids started with us at a very young age and have grow with the program. We prepare our kids for the future by challenging them everyday. We sacrifice winning in order to improve. Our philosophy is to play anyone, anywhere, at anytime. We love the challenge and are never afraid to lose a game.
2. What is the back story on how the Bobcats organization was created? The Bobcats saw a need for a skills development program in the Greater Boston area.
Coach Herer: We started with 2 teams, 4th and 5th grade in 2011 and has grown to about 50 teams this upcoming spring (boys and girls) of all age and skill levels. Our core boys group is now 8th and 9th graders and some of the top talent on the East coast. Here is more info on the program:
http://bostonbobcats.com/about/
3. Who are some notable players who have worn the Bobcat uniform?
Coach Herer: Because we decided to start at the younger ages and build from there, our most talented kids have just reached high school. We expect big things from this first group of student athletes.
4. 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 Herer: Our 2021 team has its core group back along with a few additions who have been practicing with us. We expect continued improvement from this group.
5. Describe the team’s 2016 summer season and point out any significant tournament victories or games that stand out in your mind.
Coach Herer: 2016 13u Massachusetts State Champions; 2016 7th grade Zero Gravity National Champions
6. What is your team’s philosophy on offense and defense? We are a high IQ, skilled team who plays a team brand of ball. We are a very good shooting team who relies on ball movement and team play.
Coach Herer: We are a solid defensive minded team. We are looking to get physically stronger as we mature.
7. Who are some players to watch from your team next season?
Coach Herer: Top players on this team:
Alex Karaban 2021 6’4″ G (Top 5, 8th grader in New England)
Ben Kaczmarek 2021 6’3″ G (Top 5, 8th grader in New England)
Max Poulton 2021 6’1″ G (Top 10, 8th grader in New England)
Cameron Tongue 6’5″ F (Top 10, 8th grader in New England)
Drew Herer 2022 5’6″ G (Top 10, 7th grader in New England)
Shyheim Odom 2022 6’3″ G (#1 7th grader in New England)
8. How many opportunities has your squad had to play west coast teams? How did you fair against those teams?
Coach Herer: At the 2016 Las Vegas Classic we played a couple of teams from the West coast. In the top playoff bracket we ran into the best team we played all year, in Seattle Select. Although we come out on the short end in this game, it showed us what we needed to work on to play at the highest level.
9. What was your record last year?
Coach Herer: Spring/Summer 2016, 40-4
10. Who are the top teams in Boston for 2021 and in general?
Coach Herer: 2021 Expressions Elite/Boston Bobcats are the top 2 teams in New England
11. What style of play is Boston known for?
Coach Herer: Defensive minded, smart team basketball.
12. What would it mean for your team to compete for a national championship next Summer?
Coach Herer: If we were fortunate enough to make it to the National Championship next summer, it be a nice reward for the kids hard work over the past five years. It would also be another great experience for these young men as they prepare for their high school and hopefully college careers.
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Great program - Always have solid groups