The Chester County Eagles continued their summer basketball schedule last week, taking on nine different opponents over three days at a team camp hosted by Trinity Christian Academy and Jackson Christian School.
While wins and losses take a backseat during the summer months, Head Coach Tarius Johnson has been focused on establishing the identity and culture he wants his team to embrace heading into the 2026-27 season.
After the team’s first week of summer competition, Johnson said he has already seen noticeable progress.
“The biggest improvement I would say is spacing on offense,” Johnson said. “We did a much better job with running our offense at times with pace and intention. We have miles to go, however, but it was a noticeable improvement.”
The camp also allowed the Eagles to build chemistry by competing against a variety of opponents over the three days. Johnson believes the team’s effort and energy are beginning to set the tone for continued growth.
“The more they play with the type of energy and effort that they did on day three of camp, they will improve daily,” Johnson said.
Johnson also highlighted several players who have stood out through the early portion of the summer.
“Jaden Weaver’s leadership was big,” Johnson said. “Elam Murphy will be more of a threat this year from more than one level of scoring with the development I have for him. Jay Brown’s energy is contagious.”
The Eagles’ younger players also made an impression during the camp.
“John Tae McNeal, Brodie Hysmith, Maddox Lewis, Payton Dickerson and Brett Wilson all did some big things that I was glad to see from our youth,” Johnson said.
Although Johnson is encouraged by the progress his team has made, he knows there is still plenty of work ahead before the regular season arrives.
“Proud of these boys,” Johnson said. “Lots of work to be had. The culture is the culture.”
As summer workouts continue, the Eagles will look to build on the improvements they’ve already shown while continuing to develop chemistry, leadership and the fast-paced style of play Johnson expects from his program.
