In a promising turn of events for Greeley West High School’s basketball program, the arrival of the new head coach, Matthew Merriott, is generating waves of enthusiasm among players and supporters alike.
Daniel Sanavol, a seasoned player with a journey marked by persistence, shared his optimism about the team’s new direction. “Coach Matt focuses on the small things that matter — shooting, the basics that win games. He’s approachable, listens to our concerns, and has bonded well with everyone,” Sanavol expressed.
Sanoval emphasized the coach’s emphasis on doing the little things right, fostering a sense of responsibility among the players. Jacob Flores, whose basketball journey began in elementary school, praised Merriott’s experience and planning skills. “He knows his stuff and is super good with everyone. He doesn’t hold the truth from us, and he expects us to show up ready to work hard every day,” Flores shared.
In addition to skills, Merriott’s commitment to team bonding and his understanding of the players’ schedules were particularly noted by Flores.
Merriott is a product of the Longmont area and a former high school basketball player at Silver Creek. West basketball, known for a rich history, is now under the guidance of a coach whose journey intersects with that of an NBA talent. While at Legend High School, Merriott had the opportunity to coach Derrick White, so he is no stranger to guiding players toward success at the highest levels.
“I had the opportunity to coach Derrick White at Legend High School, and seeing him now in the NBA with the Boston Celtics is a proud accomplishment,” Merriott shared.
Merriott said the team’s cohesion and shared beliefs will make them successful. “We have a very good opportunity to compete,” Merriott said, acknowledging the challenges posed by formidable opponents like Windsor.
He emphasized the importance of building a strong team culture before focusing on year-round basketball. “Our bond has been really good, and we’ve been playing together since April,” Merriott added.
As Greeley West gears up for the basketball season, Merriott’s strategic approach, player-focused mindset, and dedication to building a winning culture have injected a renewed sense of hope and confidence into the team. The stage is set for an exciting chapter in Greeley West basketball history.
