Concord First Assembly – Coach Frank Cantadore
Concord First Assembly enjoyed a banner year during the 2016-17 season. They finished with an overall record of 22-11 and 8-2 in the conference. Concord First Assembly lost a tough 69-66 game to Carmel Christian in the NCISAA 2A semifinals. 6’5 Stephen Edoka and 6’4 Strah Rajic are now seniors and will anchor down another run in the NCISAA 2A division. Coach Frank Cantadore has tremendous size and length and will be a problem to contend with this upcoming season. Concord First Assembly has added some intriguing pieces to the team and could be a serious threat to compete for the prestigious NCISAA 2A title.
6’5 ’18 Stephen Edoka
At the NC Top 80 held this past March, Stephen Edoka took his game to another level. We’re talking about an athletic wing forward that plays with poise and purpose, not to mention a high motor and full throttle approach to the game. In addition, Stephen is a tough hardnosed player that will constantly give you effort on each possession. Coach Cantadore stated, “Stephen is a really good athlete that can jump out of the gym. In transition, he tries to rip the rim off the backboard. Stephen rebounds the ball well on both ends of the court.
OTHERS TO WATCH
6’6 ’18 Bailey Benham
Bailey has transferred back to CFA after a year in Georgia where he averaged 25 PPG. Coach Cantadore stated, “Bailey has good length and excellent 3-point shooter and also a very strong finisher.”
6’6 ’18 Jimmy LeProvost
Jimmy is a transfer from Victory Christian. Coach Cantadore stated, “Jimmy is a big, stretch 4 (235 lbs.) who has a nice touch around the rim, but can also step out and hit the 3-point shot. He is surprisingly athletic and will finish above the rim.”
6’8 ’20 Cheick Traore
Cheick is a new student from the Ivory Coast. He has excellent size with a 7’0 wingspan. Coach Cantadore stated, “Cheick is strong around the rim (he has already broke one of our rims) and runs the floor as good if not better than any big I’ve had. He is an excellent rebounder and shot blocker.”
6’2 ’19 Ei Cupples
Ei is a transfer from Hickory Ridge High School. Coach Cantadore stated, “Ei is excellent getting to the rim and finishing with contact. Great 3-point thread and a kid that will fill up the stat book!”
