Keith Armstrong
Wakefield basketball — senior
Standing 6-foot-5, and built like a football tight end, Wakefield basketball player Keith Armstrong will be a force in the paint in the Cap-7 Conference this season. And with the departures of former Wolverines Darius Leonard (graduation) and his brother, Travion (transfer), Armstrong will be counted on heavily to provide a presence down low.
But the senior's got the shoulders to carry the load.
With two former running mates — Maurice Nash and Dominique McDonald — returning to the 2009 roster, Armstrong and the Wolverines look to do big things this year.
A few days before Wakefield's season opener against Clayton Armstrong spoke with NorthRaleighSports.com about this year's squad, his expectations and the Wolverines' commitment to defense.
What is the difference between this year's team and last season's?
We have more guards than we have big men this year. And to me, I think our defense is much better this year. Our intensity, our hustle, our hard work, I think every thing is better.
We are giving it 100 percent.
Having played under Coach Pat Kennedy last year, how much easier has it been having the same coach and the same system for two years in a row?
It has helped us tremendously. We know what Coach Kennedy wants, and we know how he acts in different situations.
Who is the biggest surprise on this team?
Dominique McDonald. He has helped our team a lot. I played with him over the summer a lot and it's great to have him back here. We have good chemistry together.
Editor's Note: McDonald played at Wakefield as a freshman and then transferred before the start of last season.
What is Dominique's biggest strength?
He is fast. He can dribble very well, and he knows how to get to the basket. Plus, he knows how to draw the foul.
Who has been the team's most consistent player?
Probably Maurice Nash and Dominique. And when Jake [Lenox] was with us during the summer, his defense was really good, and he gets a lot of rebounds.
What does it mean to have Maurice back?
It's good to have him back because he has good size and good strength. And he gives us an extra shooter. He has been working at [his shooting] since he was injured.
Editor's Note: Nash missed last season due to a serious knee injury.
Do you have any expectations for the conference?
The top four teams, I think, will be us, Broughton, Millbrook and Enloe. JR Owens and Prince Williams at Broughton are pretty good. And Enloe has some good players, too.
Your season opener is this week, are you ready to get your senior season started?
I'm pretty excited. I can't wait to get out there.
Are there any games on the schedule that you are looking forward to?
Every game.
Wakefield plays eight non-conference games before kicking off its league schedule with Sanderson Dec. 10.
