East Circuit Preview: Team United

November 9, 2023 by Travis Graf

And just like that, Year X of the Winter Circuit is around the corner. Here, I'll be taking an early look at the Red League teams in the East Coast Circuit. Today, we've got Team United.

Team United is certainly not going to be sneaking up on anyone this winter, as the program was crowned 8th Grade Finale champions earlier this year in the circuit's debut on the ESPN network. Coach Ed Cooke knows that teams will be gunning for them next month. “You know, we’ve kind of got a target on our back, so there’s not going to be any surprises,” he said.

What will set apart Team United from the rest of the pack this year? It won't be just one player, but a collective effort.  “Our team is going to separate themselves by just being a good team, being a solid team," he said. "We’re going to handle it like we handle everything else, take it one game at a time and do it together as a team. We’re not going to be leaning on any particular one player. The whole team will play a part.”

When looking through the Team United roster, there's a ton of talented pieces that will give them a chance to make a lot of noise on the circuit. Coach Cooke says that he's expecting a big jump from Paul Cauthen, as he brings defense, intensity, and a gritty, "dog" style of play. He also views Brayden Miles as an X-Factor, saying "he’s more of a power forward, we’re trying to transition him into more of a small forward, so different dynamics. He’s a bigger, stronger type of kid.”

Some other prospects to keep an eye on as long-term, high upside guys are Chase Smith, Mason Collins, and DJ Lindsey.