Tekoa has six players returning from last season, which saw the Cougars reach the state finals before being defeated by School of the Woods 68-51.

Some of those players include sophomore Jailan Ardoin (6-3), junior Kaleab Broussard (5-10) and senior Darryl Prevost (5-10).

“We are a solid veteran team,” coach Landon Ardoin Sr. “Some of our guys are three-four year varsity players and have been in some battles along the way. Our speed and guard play will be our strength this year as well as our experience.”

What will be different for Tekoa this year is the loss of its bigs, which Ardoin said was a luxury that they enjoyed for the past two seasons.

“Our style of play will change from a half-court team to a run and gun,” he said.

In all, Ardoin is anticipating a good solid season. The Cougars will be playing more UIL schools than TCAL this year, which Ardoin expects will help test his team.

2018-19 record: 21-9, 6-2 in TCAL (state finalist)

Head coach: Landon Ardoin Sr., first year head coach after 3 years as assistant

First game: Home vs. Angleton Christian, 5:30 p.m. Nov. 8