With cancellations and close matches, the Zion Chapel Rebels have struggled to find rhythm this season.

The Rebels have started the season with a 3-5 record after picking up wins against Ariton, Houston Academy and Kinston.

“The games we haven’t shot well are the games that we obviously didn’t do very well,” said Rebels head coach Robbie Brown. “We have had some kids step up for us.”

One of the players that has stepped up is Blake Cobb. Cobb began the year averaging double figures in scoring for the Rebels, and his play has led the Rebels all season long.

“I have been really hard on him the last few years, and this year I have kind of backed off and let him play,” Brown said. “He is one of those kids that have been shadowed by someone else. I have always known he was pretty good. I tried to get him to believe in himself like I do.”

The thing separating the Rebels from other teams in the area is the fact they struggle to score from inside the paint. Landon Carnley may be the answer they are looking for. The junior has posted impressive numbers over the last three games by putting up 20, 21 and 30 points.

“He is the kid that can dribble,” Brown said. “As a coach that’s great. But if you’re not going to use it to get the rim and get fouled, that’s what we need. That’s the type of coaching we are trying to get across to these guys.”

With area play looming, Brown is stressing mental preparedness and a winning expectation.

“The whole mindset when I first got to Zion Chapel was ‘we just play basketball,’” Brown said. “We did it to stay in shape for baseball. When I got there I instilled some things and the kids bought in. We are still dealing with those kids that went through that. We can beat the New Brockton and the Goshens.”

To Brown, the best evaluation of the season is whether or not the team continues to improve.

“I have never been a coach that cares solely on wins and losses,” Brown said. “A coach is going to win and a coach is going to lose. My success is determined by the growth of my kids. If I can see growth in them, then that’s success in my eyes.”

The Rebels begin area play Jan. 5 when they host New Brockton.