In three years under the leadership of head coach Allen Whitehart, the Centennial Knights have reached unchartered waters. The boy’s varsity basketball team has racked up 77 wins during that span, including a region title and an appearance in the 2007 state championship game.

Year four poses a unique challenge to Whitehart and his squad. A handful of Knights players who helped provide the backbone of those successful recent teams have departed, leaving the program with some question marks.

But Whitehart contends this group is as talented as ever. And he emphasized that expectations will not be lowered, despite the loss of three starters from last season’s 25-win, Class-AAAAA Sweet 16 team.

“Overall, I feel we’re much more talented,” said Whitehart, a statement which may come as a shock to those who have watched Centennial hoops in recent years.

“We have five D1 kids on the roster. It’s still early in the season and we’re trying to find our identity, but I truly believe our guys are ready to step up and go to the next level.”

A pair of veteran returning starters will lead the way in guard Devonta White and forward Adrian Rodgers. White is “a jet” according to Whitehart, who has signed with Georgia State. Rodgers is a savvy letterman who has received college attention as well.

They are joined by a pair of key transfers in senior wing Jeremy Burgess (Athens Academy) and massive 6-foot-6 center Vincent Bailey (via Florida). Burgess has signed with Mercer.

Junior guard Nathan Harries, who has received 15 to 20 D1 offers per Whitehart, rounds out the starting five. Senior guard Tyler Gaskins provides a capable sixth man for the Knights.

“We’ll be a little more post-oriented, but we’ll still get out and run,” said Whitehart. “We’re hoping being a senior-dominated team leads to big success for us.”

The Knights debuted at No. 6 in the Preseason GACA Coaches Poll, and dropped their first contest of the season on Nov. 21 to No. 3 Westlake, 66-65. Centennial had a shot rim out at the buzzer in the defeat.

The team plays Kell tonight, and hosts defending state champ Wheeler in a huge Region 6AAAAA contest on Friday.

“I don’t expect any fall-off at all. In fact, we’re looking to push forward,” said Whitehart.

“I’ve been here three years as head coach, and we’ve averaged 25 wins per season. That’s kinda the expectation.”