Lacey Emphasizes Culture and Identity as Trailblazers Prepare for Season

GODFREY, Ill. — As his third season begins, Lewis and Clark Community College men's basketball head coach, Kavon Lacey, is seeing signs of growth in his program.

With the season-opening at Midwest JUCO Jamboree set for Oct. 10 in Chesterfield, MO., Lacey said early workouts and open gym sessions have been competitive and spirited, a reflection of both returning leadership and new talent learning the ropes.

"You can tell the guys are starting to take ownership of what we're building," Lacey said. "In year three, we've got a mix of returners who understand the expectations and some new faces learning how we work. The energy's been strong, and while we still have a long way to go, the commitment level is definitely higher than in previous years."

That commitment is carrying over into chemistry. Lacey said trust and accountability are beginning to take hold during the team's daily work.

"It doesn't happen overnight, but you can see guys starting to trust each other, communicate more, and hold one another accountable," he said. "We've been intentional about pairing players in drills who don't usually play together, and it's forcing them to talk and build that connection. There's a shared hunger this year, and that's bringing the group together."

The Trailblazers will open their season Oct. 10 against Ellsworth Community College at the Midwest JUCO Jamboree. Lacey said the focus has been on fundamentals and mentality.

"We're approaching it like a business trip, focused, detailed, and with purpose," Lacey said. "We're installing our base offensive and defensive concepts, emphasizing spacing, tempo, and discipline. We've also been spending time on situational work and conditioning because we want to be sharp, not just physically, but mentally as well."

For Lacey, the Jamboree is less about results in the standings and more about setting the foundation for the season.

"It's about culture," he said. "Are we diving on the floor? Are we celebrating each other? Are we locked in defensively, even if shots aren't falling? That's what I'm looking for. We are playing seven games in three days; it will be exhausting but very beneficial."

Still, he believes the first test carries weight in shaping the Trailblazers' identity.

"This first test gives us a measuring stick: where we are, where we're strong, and where we need to grow," Lacey said. "We talk a lot about playing to a standard, not the scoreboard, and this first event is our chance to start proving that standard matters every time we step on the floor."

As the opener approaches, the emphasis remains on defensive toughness, rebounding, and transition play. Lacey said offensive spacing and pace will be key, but just as important is limiting mistakes.

Written by Alexandra Dunn, Athletics Social Media Coordinator