Southern Denton County high school boys basketball teams are entering the 2026‑27 season with renewed optimism. After a challenging year that left just three programs in the playoffs, each coach highlighted a mix of veteran leadership and promising young players as the foundation for a comeback.
Argyle Eagles focus on chemistry and experience
Argyle finished 20‑14 overall but went 3‑9 in district play, landing sixth and missing the postseason. Coach Russell Perkins warned that the squad will be even younger this year, but he believes a tough non‑district schedule will ready the Eagles for a demanding district slate. “We will play a very difficult non‑district schedule that we hope will prepare us for another tough district slate,” Perkins said.
Key players to watch include Brody Hunter, Gabe Guerrero, RC Nash, Aiden Gonzalez, Josh Kulle, Talon Stosich and Abram Burris‑Llamas. Perkins emphasized that developing team cohesion early will be crucial, noting the “steep learning curve” for a roster with limited varsity experience.
Liberty Christian Warriors build around core leaders
The Warriors ended last season 14‑21 overall and 2‑4 in district competition, finishing third in their district. Coach Jason Doan expressed excitement about the pieces in place for the upcoming year. “We are excited about the upcoming season and the pieces we have in place this year,” he said.
Returning standouts Malachi Mitchell, Cash McCoart and Patrick Jameson are expected to drive the team forward.
Denton Guyer Wildcats count on talent despite graduations
Guyer posted a 20‑13 overall record and a 7‑7 district mark, finishing third. Coach Grant Long noted the impact of recent graduations but remained confident in the talent pool, citing several future college prospects. “We will be young and talented,” Long said.
The Wildcats return a strong core including Marcellus Luster, Jevin Wilson, Kam Ijeh, Dylan Wilkinson, Dane Newton, Kyson Paa, Colten Freeman and Kingston Nguyen. Starting point guard David Mata is sidelined with a torn ACL, but Long believes the team can still contend for a district championship.
Flower Mound Jaguars look to rebound from a losing season
After a 14‑19 overall finish and a 4‑10 district record that placed them seventh, the Jaguars hope to improve with the help of co‑Newcomer of the Year Preston Hatcher. The team aims to climb the District 5‑6A standings.
Marcus Marauders emphasize youth development
Marcus ended 2025‑26 at 17‑16 overall with a 5‑9 district record. Coach Matthew Wright highlighted the youth and inexperience of his varsity squad, noting that only Hayes Mason returns from the previous year. Freshmen and sophomores will see significant minutes as the team works to develop chemistry.
Wright said, “To make the playoffs we’ll have to play team basketball and have everyone contributing,” stressing solid defense and inside post presence as keys to success.
Northwest Texans rebuild under new coach
Northwest endured a 1‑30 overall record and went winless in district play last season. First‑year head coach Tyler Hatch is confident the program will be more competitive, citing noticeable improvements since his arrival in the spring.
Players Trajan Duncan and Zion Pratt are expected to lead the charge as the Texans aim for a postseason berth.
Byron Nelson Bobcats target district title
Byron Nelson finished 19‑15 overall and secured the final playoff spot in its district. Coach Brad Montgomery believes the Bobcats are poised to contend for the District 4‑6A title, thanks to a bevy of returning starters and role players.
Returning leaders include Romejo Waits, Tucker Turner, Alex Jackson, Braylon Edwards, Calvin Nordstrom, Sam Stueart, Jonah Garcia, Godfrey Ogbeide and Cruz Garcia. Montgomery emphasized experience, leadership and defensive intensity as the pillars for another successful campaign.
Across southern Denton County, the common thread is a commitment to developing young talent, strengthening team chemistry, and restoring competitive balance in district play. Fans can look forward to a season where each program strives to improve its standing and bring excitement back to high school basketball courts.
Original reporting: Cross Timbers Gazette — read the source article.
