Now that we’ve reached June, the high school season is rapidly approaching. Between player movement, coaching changes, and realignments for public school classifications, this might be the most anticipated season since Covid. We’ve already seen several coaches take new jobs, but it feels like not enough people are talking about the magnitude of Darrion Holloway accepting the head coaching position at Gaston Day School.
For a guy who spent seven seasons at United Faith, won a state championship (and several runner-up finishes), and advanced countless players into the collegiate ranks, this is a big deal. The 1A classification simply isn’t as strong after United Faith shut down their program. However, Coach Holloway took it in stride and spent a season at Combine Academy/Blue Checks (OTE), which he describes as a “great experience at a high level.”
Fast-forward to now, and there’s a lot to be optimistic about. It’ll definitely take some time for Holloway to establish a culture and form a complete roster, but this team can compete right away. They might’ve lost a few pieces in the shuffle; however, they return the majority of their roster from last season. Coach Holloway reflects on the appeal of his new program, “Gaston Day is a special place. It blends academics, athletics, and real-world preparation in a way that really works for student-athletes.”
In looking at their main pieces, there are various guys for college coaches to target. Seniors Deshawn Coulter, Braylen Todd, and Griff Simpson return as three of their four most productive players from last season. Coulter is a knockdown shooter with the ability to play with or without the ball in his hands. He’s a capable initiating threat or spot-up option with the IQ, handle, and shooting to toggle between either guard spot. Todd is an incredibly steady two-way floor general who provides a reliable presence on both ends of the floor. He runs the team with poise and unselfishness, but can also efficiently pick his spots as a scorer. Todd is a great penetrator, passer, and defender at the point of attack. Rounding out the trio, Simpson is a new name for coaches to know. He’s a long, skilled, versatile wing with great polish and the size to create mismatches for opponents.
In addition to the seniors, Dyson Britt (2028) is the main foundational piece and next likely leader of this team. He’s a smart, strong floor general whose blend of skill, physical tools, and general upside make him as appealing as anyone. Britt is a quality penetrator who regularly gets downhill and plays through contact at the basket. He’s a capable shooter and pesky defender at the point of attack. Should he remain on his current trajectory, Britt could be a highly regarded prospect.
Ultimately, folks should be excited about what’s to come. The program has always been relevant, but Coach Holloway could potentially take them to new heights. He praises his new program, stating, “We see Gaston Day as a place where kids can grow long-term on and off the court. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, and we’re excited to keep showing people across North Carolina what it has to offer.” Contending is more than the goal; it’s the expectation. Only time will tell how things unfold, but Coach Holloway has more than solidified his legitimacy in the high school coaching ranks.