By JOHNNY PEPPO

Sports Editor

The defending champion Reserve Christian Eagles basketball team isn’t exactly starting from scratch. But without the Tweety Carter/ Kevin Branch duo, it may look like it on paper.

The small school in Class C has been used to dominating nearly everyone they have come across in the past four or five years in state, and looking even more impressive out of state in national tournaments. But with Carter’s graduation and Branch’s transfer out, the Eagles are in what can be called a rebuilding year..

In that manner, RCS is fielding a young squad. With only two seniors on the team, Justin Bernard and Chad Simmons, the Eagles will need productivity from juniro forward Eddren McCain and freshman Franklin Francois off of the bench. Freshmen Kyle McClue and Cedrick Jenkins round out the starters.

&#8220We’re real young this year,” said Eagles head coach Timmy Byrd. &#8220But we got an early start and we have a long way to go. By the time that we get there these guys won’t be young anymore. They’ll grow into it.”

With a record of 45-7 last season, it won’t be difficult for RCS fans to see some of the growing pains. But the Eagles have so far been productive on the early season schedule with wins over Louisiana New School and Istrouma.

&#8220We’ve got a long road ahead,” said Byrd. &#8220We’re ready to see where it leads.”