Both Coach Wimberley and Coach Matheny agree that the senior Lion is in for a big year . Coach Matheny said , “ He will be stepping up in a bigger role for us since we graduated a big part of our team . He has become more vocal over the summer and is leading his teammates .” Coach Matheny likes where the guard ’ s game is . “ His game speaks for itself . Offensively he can shoot , but I believe he is at his best finishing in the paint ,” he said . “ He is so long and uses that length to stretch out his finishes . Defensively , he is all over the floor getting deflections and steals which leads to his transition game .”
Coach Wimberley feels Kirk is ready . “ Luke is the ultimate competitor ,” the former coach said . “ He is always ready for a challenge and has been willing to step up in the biggest moments . Luke loves the game of basketball and loves being on the floor . I feel he can be a great leader for the team this year .”
Kirk averaged 9.5 points , 3.7 assists , 2.5 rebounds , and 1.7 steals last season earning All-Conference and All-State Tournament honors . However , to accomplish the goals Luke has set for himself and his team , he will need to expand his production , but more importantly , the lone Lion senior will have to expand his leadership role . With the confidence he has in himself , confidence he receives from his coaches , and the support of his family and community , Luke Kirk is set up to have a stellar season in hopes of defending that state title he was such a big part of .
Kurt Vaughn Monette , Arkansas 870-974-1161