For a normal student, the summer time is for relaxation, reflection and a time to let loose. Athletes however, are constantly working harder for the upcoming season. Summer time for an athlete consists of workouts, camps and practices to gauge what improvements need to be made.

“Summer is the time to develop,” said Dellie Robinson, head coach of the Vicksburg High School boys’ basketball team.

The Vicksburg High School summer league hosted teams from the city and surrounding areas. Warren Central, Vicksburg, Crystal Springs and Clinton High School were among those participating in the exhibition.

Warren Central head coach Bruce Robinson said during this time coaches try and let the kids figure out the game themselves. He tries not to do a lot of coaching in the summer.

The first exhibition game saw the junior varsity teams of Clinton matched up against Warren Central.

Clinton put a lot of defensive pressure against Warren Central, which led to a slow start for the Vikings. The Vikings displayed nice passing in the post and eventually put points on the board to end an early 6-0 run by Clinton.

Warren Central had trouble initiating their offense and were trapped on the right side of the court several times forcing passes leading to turnovers. After 15 minutes of play, things for the Vikings remained the same.

In the second half, the Vikings began chipping away at Clinton’s lead, getting within eight points of a tie. The players began figuring out the game by playing better defense and protecting the rim.

Robinson said summer exhibitions gives players a chance to play and time to build team chemistry.

“We want to be ready for January and February,” Robinson said.

The varsity matchup against Clinton and Warren Central mirrored the way of the junior varsity game.

Warren Central’s varsity team was able to contain Clinton more easily putting pressure on Clinton’s offense. The Vikings gave Clinton a taste of their own strategy by trapping them after crossing half-court.

The Vikings looked tired and gassed at the end of the game, bobbling passes, falling on top of each other for loose balls and not holding on to the ball. Luckily, it’s just an exhibition.

Dellie Robinson sat on the sideline and watched his team as they played solid in the paint. He is recovering from knee replacement surgery and hopes to rejoin the team for the start of the season.

The Gators of Vicksburg High had active hands on the defensive end deflecting balls and recording steals. The big men of the Gators protected the rim as well as initiating fast breaks. The versatility of defense and the ability to bring the ball up the court is an asset for the Gators this season.

Vicksburg’s best players and leading scorers, Kenneth Murphy and Kirt Parker, are returning this season giving the Gators a good nucleus. The Gators are in good shape to get to the Jackson Coliseum.

“I see improvement. I want to see more team ball,” Dellie Robinson said. “The hustle is there. I’m looking forward to a pretty good season.