Alma's Balancing Act

Alma's Stan Fleanor had three returning senior starters -a virtual security blanket for a coach - but made the unusual choice to change his philosophy. It was a stroke of genius. The returnees are all 5-foot-8 guards - Mason McSpadden, Grant Widders and Clayton Ogilvie - and they made Alma's transition a smooth one. "This style is perfect for us," said McSpadden, the lone three-year starter. "It's a good fit for our personnel." The Airedales switched to pressure defense and a fast-paced offense that produced an 11-1 start. Alma's first-rate gym hadn't seen such excitement since Fleanor coached the boys to the state championships in 2005 while his wife did the same for the girls' team. Alma boys haven't returned to the state tournament since but McSpadden hopes this is the year. "Coach has talked to us about the state tournament about every day," McSpadden said. The play of 6-5 senior Eli Ruth and emergence of sophomore standout Isaac McCoy make the Airedales dangerous, especially with their new style. "We're never out of a game playing like this," McSpadden said. "We've trailed by 14 twice and come back to win." Fleanor, in his 19th season as head coach, employs an eight-man rotation. "I really enjoy coaching this team," Fleanor said. "We've got some of the best 3-point shooters we've ever had. We're always putting five guys on the floor that can score. That presents a unique problem for the other team." The half-court offense emphasizes guards that penetrate and pitch out to perimeter shooters. The 3-point threats open holes inside for Ruth and 6-3 forwards Mikai Williams and Brandon Wilson, a tough defender who may lead the team in floor burns. Austin Putman is yet another quick, athletic 5-8 senior guard that can shoot. "Our seniors have done a really good job with their leadership role," Fleanor said. "They've shown some great qualities that will carry them through life." McSpadden, the youngest of three brothers, endured the death of his oldest brother, 23-year-old Mikell on Jan. 4, 2007. Mikell McSpadden helped coach Alma's football team and is being remembered by a handful of Airedales who have attached his initials to their basketball shoes. Mason McSpadden, whose father Mike is the school's athletic director, said the Airedales actually improved when he moved from point guard to the wing to make room for the 6-2 McCoy, who was emerging as the team's top talent. McCoy had 17 points and 14 rebounds in the opening 5A-West Conference win at Vilonia, where Alma trailed 22-7 as McSpadden suffered early foul trouble and went to the bench. "Isaac's a phenomenal athlete with an unbelievably high upside," Fleanor said. "Mason is our sparkplug. He and Clayton front our press and their quickness makes it tough on other teams. Garrett's a really good defender who was one of our leading scorers last year." Williams has blossomed since moving from New Orleans three years ago to escape Hurricane Katrina. "We're one of the smaller teams in the area," Fleanor said, "but our seniors really understand the game. They'll turn down a good shot for a better shot." Unselfish, athletic, full of heart and determination and they can shoot. No wonder Fleanor loves his team.